Also known as Jabal Ikmah, the site lies near the ancient city of Dadan and has long been regarded as one of AlUla’s most significant archaeological landmarks, preserving hundreds of inscriptions carved into sandstone canyon walls thousands of years ago.

Now activated as part of AlUla’s winter cultural season, Ikmah is being reimagined after sunset, allowing visitors to explore its heritage in an atmospheric setting illuminated by candlelight and guided narratives.

Often described as an open-air library, the mountain hosts inscriptions written primarily in Dadanitic and Lihyanite scripts, offering rare insight into the social, religious, and political life of early Arabian kingdoms.

These ancient carvings once recorded religious offerings, laws, names of rulers, and moments of daily life, reflecting AlUla’s role as a major crossroads for trade, belief, and culture long before the Nabataean era.

The nighttime experience introduces guests to the world of ancient scribes, welcoming them with traditional hospitality before guiding them through a carefully curated journey across the gorge.

Visitors are divided into small groups, allowing some to explore the canyon while others learn how ancient inscriptions were carved, using replicas of traditional tools on stone blocks they can take home.

The elevated gorge pathway is softly lit with candles, creating a contemplative atmosphere that encourages visitors to slow down and absorb the surroundings while learning about the people who once passed through this valley.

Guides dressed in historical attire narrate stories in poetic language, explaining how Ikmah once served as a resting point for travelers who brought their animals, shared stories, and found water along ancient routes.

Storytelling emerges as a central theme of the experience, reflecting how oral tradition and written expression worked together to preserve knowledge and identity over generations.

As the two groups reunite, guests are invited to gather, rest, and enjoy dates, tea, and light refreshments, echoing the communal traditions that once defined life in this region.

Though the format is modern, the essence of the experience is deeply rooted in ancient customs, emphasizing human connection, shared history, and cultural continuity.

Local guides play a vital role in bringing Ikmah’s past to life, bridging generations by sharing stories that were nearly forgotten until archaeological discoveries brought them back into public awareness.

For many guides, the project is also a personal journey of rediscovery, offering an opportunity to reconnect with ancestral heritage and pass that knowledge on to visitors from around the world.

Learning about the ancient history of AlUla has been transformative for those involved, revealing layers of identity and belonging that extend far beyond contemporary narratives.

The experience reflects a broader effort to preserve and present Saudi Arabia’s pre-Islamic history in ways that are respectful, immersive, and accessible to global audiences.

Ikmah After Dark demonstrates how heritage sites can be activated without disturbing their integrity, using light, storytelling, and education rather than heavy infrastructure.

As AlUla continues to position itself as a global cultural destination, initiatives like this highlight the region’s commitment to safeguarding history while inviting meaningful engagement.

The ancient scripts of Ikmah, once silent on canyon walls, are now speaking again, reminding visitors that history is not only something to observe, but something to experience.

Issued by Saudi Post, the SR3 stamp reflects national pride in preserving history and honoring a site that represents thousands of years of human settlement and cultural exchange.

Al-Faw’s recognition as the Kingdom’s eighth UNESCO World Heritage Site reinforces Saudi Arabia’s growing global role in safeguarding ancient civilizations and shared human heritage.

Situated south of Riyadh, Al-Faw occupies a strategic location between the vast plains of Wadi Ad-Dawasir and the dramatic Tuwaiq mountain range.

This geographical position placed the site at the heart of historic trade routes linking southern Arabia with central and eastern regions of the peninsula.

For centuries, merchants, travelers, and settlers passed through Al-Faw, contributing to its emergence as a vibrant center of commerce, culture, and social life.

Archaeological evidence shows that the area contains nearly 12,000 remains, revealing a continuous pattern of human habitation spanning more than 6,000 years.

These remains document how successive communities adapted to their environment, managing resources and building settlements that thrived in challenging desert conditions.

Over time, the landscape of Al-Faw was shaped by human interaction with water sources, trade networks, and surrounding natural features.

The site was eventually abandoned around the fifth century AD, largely due to the depletion of water resources that once sustained its population.

Despite this abandonment, Al-Faw has remained remarkably preserved, offering archaeologists and historians invaluable insights into pre-Islamic Arabian societies.

Discoveries at the site span prehistoric periods through the late pre-Islamic era, highlighting the presence of three distinct populations over different eras.

Among the most notable features are paleolithic and neolithic tools, cairns, circular stone constructions, and tapered architectural forms.

The sacred mountain of Khashm Qaryah stands as a spiritual and cultural landmark, complemented by rock carvings that reflect belief systems and artistic expression.

Equally significant is the ancient water management system, which demonstrates advanced knowledge of hydrology and environmental adaptation.

The remains of the city of Qaryat Al-Faw further illustrate urban planning, trade organization, and social structure in ancient Arabia.

By issuing a commemorative stamp, Saudi Post highlights the importance of cultural heritage as part of national identity and global dialogue.

Such stamps serve not only as postal instruments but also as educational artifacts treasured by collectors, researchers, and heritage enthusiasts worldwide.

They capture defining moments in Saudi history, ensuring that achievements in preservation and cultural recognition reach a broad international audience.

Al-Faw now joins other renowned Saudi heritage sites on the UNESCO list, reflecting the Kingdom’s diverse historical landscape.

These include Al-Hijr, At-Turaif in Diriyah, Historic Jeddah, the rock art of Hail, Al-Ahsa Oasis, the Hima Cultural Area, and the Uruq Bani Maarid protected reserve.

Together, these sites tell a powerful story of human creativity, resilience, and continuity across millennia.

The recognition of Al-Faw and its commemoration through a national stamp symbolize Saudi Arabia’s long-term commitment to heritage conservation and cultural diplomacy.

As global interest in archaeology and cultural tourism grows, Al-Faw stands as a bridge between ancient civilizations and contemporary appreciation.

Through thoughtful preservation and international recognition, the Kingdom continues to present its rich past as a source of pride, learning, and inspiration for future generations.

This festival provides visitors with an immersive cultural experience, showcasing Saudi food as a key element of national identity while highlighting the diversity and authenticity of local cuisine across different regions of the country.

Live cooking stations allow skilled chefs to prepare traditional dishes in front of attendees, offering both an educational and sensory experience that emphasizes the artistry and heritage embedded in Saudi culinary practices.

The event features six thematic pavilions, each designed to highlight the unique flavors, ingredients, and culinary techniques representative of Saudi Arabia’s diverse geographical and cultural landscapes.

Visitors can explore a variety of foods and beverages made from locally sourced ingredients, demonstrating the Kingdom’s commitment to sustainable gastronomy while promoting regional specialties and traditional recipes.

A dedicated children’s pavilion engages younger audiences with interactive cooking activities and educational demonstrations, encouraging a deeper appreciation for the cultural and nutritional significance of Saudi cuisine.

Tasting spaces throughout the festival allow attendees to experience an array of flavors, from savory main courses to innovative desserts, blending traditional and modern culinary styles in an inviting and festive environment.

Innovative beverage experiences inspired by local products provide additional layers to the festival, offering visitors unique insights into Saudi ingredients such as dates, herbs, spices, and fruits transformed into refreshing drinks and creative refreshments.

The festival emphasizes the role of food as both an artistic and knowledge-based experience, encouraging visitors to engage with culinary practices, cooking techniques, and the cultural stories behind each dish.

Chefs and culinary experts participate in workshops and demonstrations, sharing techniques, flavor combinations, and insights into the historical and cultural significance of traditional Saudi recipes.

Through these interactive experiences, the festival fosters community engagement, strengthens cultural pride, and highlights the importance of preserving and promoting Saudi culinary heritage for future generations.

The event also reflects broader efforts by the Kingdom to elevate its cultural tourism sector, positioning food and gastronomy as central pillars in promoting Saudi Arabia as a global destination for cultural and culinary excellence.

By combining traditional flavors with modern presentation and innovative cooking methods, the festival demonstrates how Saudi culinary arts can evolve while maintaining strong ties to history, regional identity, and national pride.

Visitors gain an understanding of the Kingdom’s regional diversity through cuisine, learning how geography, climate, and local resources influence the unique flavors, preparation methods, and dining traditions across Saudi Arabia.

The festival’s programming integrates cultural storytelling, music, and visual arts, enhancing the overall visitor experience and creating a holistic celebration of Saudi heritage through multiple sensory channels.

Al-Qatif Street Food Festival serves as a platform for local culinary entrepreneurs, artisans, and small businesses to showcase their products, connect with a broader audience, and contribute to the growth of the Saudi food economy.

By highlighting sustainability, local sourcing, and creative gastronomy, the festival aligns with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 objectives to promote culture, heritage, tourism, and entrepreneurship while strengthening national identity.

The event also encourages visitors to experiment with flavors, learn new recipes, and appreciate the creativity and dedication of Saudi chefs, reinforcing food as an essential medium of cultural expression and community connection.

These engravings offer a rare visual window into the lives of early communities that once traversed and settled across western Arabia, preserving moments of human experience across generations.

The markings stand as compelling evidence of sustained human presence in the region, reflecting how multiple civilizations interacted with the landscape over long periods of time.

Etched into stone surfaces shaped by nature, the rock art reveals scenes that speak of survival, movement, belief systems, and daily activities rooted in close harmony with the environment.

Researchers describe the site as a living archive, where each carving contributes to a broader narrative of environmental change, social organization, and economic adaptation.

The engravings suggest that Al-Sail Al-Sagheer functioned as a strategic corridor for ancient populations, connecting routes used for migration, trade, and seasonal settlement.

Its location offered access to natural resources, water sources, and protective rock formations, making it an attractive destination for both temporary and permanent habitation.

Historians note that such corridors played a critical role in shaping early Arabian societies, facilitating cultural exchange and continuity across vast landscapes.

The rock art also provides insight into how early inhabitants interpreted their surroundings, translating lived experience into enduring symbols carved directly into stone.

Animal figures, abstract forms, and symbolic markings highlight evolving relationships between humans, wildlife, and the land that sustained them.

Scholars emphasize that these engravings are not isolated artistic expressions but part of a wider network of archaeological sites that define Taif’s historical importance.

The governorate has increasingly gained recognition among heritage specialists for its rich concentration of sites that span different historical eras.

Experts describe the rock art as a cornerstone of national cultural heritage, representing a shared identity rooted in deep historical continuity.

Preserving these engravings is seen as essential to maintaining a tangible link between modern society and the lives of those who shaped the region thousands of years ago.

Cultural specialists stress that the protection of such sites supports broader efforts to safeguard heritage while promoting responsible cultural tourism.

The rock art of Al-Sail Al-Sagheer holds significant educational value, offering opportunities for research, academic study, and public engagement.

By documenting these carvings through scientific methods, researchers can ensure their stories are preserved for future generations.

Such documentation also enhances understanding of how early Arabian communities responded creatively to environmental challenges and shifting social realities.

The engravings reinforce the idea that Arabia was not a peripheral landscape but a dynamic center of human movement and cultural development.

Preservation initiatives align closely with national strategies focused on celebrating heritage as a source of pride, learning, and sustainable development.

Authorities and scholars alike highlight the need for protective measures to prevent natural erosion, vandalism, or unregulated access from threatening the site.

Awareness campaigns are seen as equally important, helping local communities and visitors recognize the value of safeguarding these ancient expressions.

The rock art also plays a role in strengthening cultural tourism, attracting visitors interested in history, archaeology, and authentic cultural experiences.

Such tourism supports local economies while encouraging respectful engagement with heritage landscapes.

The engravings remind observers that human creativity and storytelling long predate written language.

They demonstrate how early societies used visual symbols to record identity, memory, and connection to place.

In an era of rapid modernization, these ancient carvings offer a grounding perspective on humanity’s enduring relationship with land and culture.

They invite reflection on how the past continues to inform present identities and future aspirations.

Taif’s Al-Sail Al-Sagheer stands today not only as an archaeological site but as a bridge between eras.

Its rock art quietly affirms that the stories of early Arabian life remain etched into the landscape, waiting to be understood and preserved.

Set against a backdrop of mountains and open landscapes, Hail’s moderate climate has played a key role in attracting domestic and international travelers. Visitors are increasingly drawn to its balance of natural beauty and historical significance.

Heritage tourism has been a major driver of this momentum. Ancient rock art, archaeological landmarks, and preserved cultural sites continue to position Hail as a gateway to Saudi Arabia’s deep-rooted history.

UNESCO-recognized locations such as Jabal Umm Sinman in Jubbah and the Shuwaymis rock carvings have gained global attention. These sites offer insight into early human civilization and artistic expression across centuries.

Festivals and cultural events have further boosted visitor numbers. Carefully curated programs celebrating local traditions, crafts, and cuisine have strengthened Hail’s reputation as a living heritage destination.

Strategic investment has supported this expansion. Local authorities have signed agreements worth hundreds of millions of riyals to develop rural lodges, eco-friendly resorts, and integrated tourism facilities.

Projects such as the Aja Hill development are designed to blend hospitality with nature. Planned hotels and resorts aim to enhance visitor experiences while preserving the region’s environmental character.

Tourism planners are also focusing on connectivity. New initiatives promote curated tourist routes that link heritage sites, landscapes, and cultural centers into cohesive travel experiences.

International promotion has become a priority as well. By highlighting its unique terrain and history, Hail is positioning itself as a distinctive stop on the global cultural tourism map.

Beyond tourism, the region remains an important agricultural hub. Thousands of farms across vast agricultural land contribute to food security and rural livelihoods, adding another dimension to Hail’s economy.

This agricultural strength complements tourism by supporting farm-based experiences and local produce markets. Visitors are increasingly seeking authentic rural interactions alongside traditional sightseeing.

Infrastructure development has kept pace with growth. A well-developed road network and recent upgrades have improved access to key sites, enhancing safety and convenience for residents and visitors alike.

Logistics and transport improvements also strengthen Hail’s role as a regional connector. Efficient mobility supports tourism while benefiting trade, agriculture, and industrial activity.

Environmental sustainability remains central to regional planning. Programs focused on vegetation protection, wildlife conservation, and responsible resource management aim to preserve natural assets for future generations.

Sustainable tourism practices are being integrated into new projects. Eco-conscious design and conservation measures ensure development aligns with environmental priorities.

These combined efforts reflect a broader vision of balanced growth. Tourism, agriculture, infrastructure, and sustainability are advancing together rather than in isolation.

Hail’s progress supports national diversification goals. By expanding non-oil economic sectors, the region contributes meaningfully to long-term economic resilience.

Cultural pride has also grown alongside tourism. Local communities are increasingly engaged as partners in showcasing traditions, crafts, and heritage narratives.

As visitor numbers continue to rise, Hail stands out as a model of thoughtful regional development. Its blend of history, nature, and modern planning offers a compelling destination experience.

Looking ahead, continued investment and global outreach are expected to further elevate Hail’s profile. The region’s success demonstrates how heritage-led tourism can drive inclusive and sustainable growth.

The Kingdom’s renewed focus on astronomy and cultural tourism is helping preserve centuries-old knowledge while creating modern opportunities for exploration.

Within living memory, desert travelers and sailors depended on star patterns to navigate Arabia’s wide landscapes.

Today, that heritage is being revived as stargazing becomes central to the Kingdom’s cultural revival and its ambition to offer world-class tourism experiences rooted in science, nature, and history.

The region once inspired great astronomical innovation during the Golden Age of Islam, when scholars mapped the heavens and named many stars still recognized worldwide.

Arabic-origin terms such as azimuth, nadir, Aldebaran, and Altair reflect this enduring legacy and illustrate the deep historical bond between Arabia and the night sky.

In northwestern Saudi Arabia, this ancient fascination is being brought back to life through the development of AlUla Manara, an upcoming landmark designed to blend celestial heritage with cutting-edge science.

Planned near the archaeological wonders of Hegra, it will provide a gateway where visitors can explore astronomical research, interactive exhibits, high-tech telescopes, and atmospheric stargazing zones.

The facility is envisioned as a space where the mysteries of the universe unfold in a setting shaped by desert silence and sweeping rock formations.

With immersive workshops and sky observation platforms, AlUla Manara aims to transform stargazing into a cultural and educational journey.

AlUla’s natural conditions already make it a coveted destination for astrotourism, with its surrounding reserves recently designated as an International Dark Sky Park.

This recognition highlights the region’s exceptional clarity, environmental protection measures, and long-term conservation efforts to safeguard naturally dark skies.

Covering more than 2,300 sq. km, these skies allow travelers to witness stars as vividly as ancient caravans once did, free from modern light pollution.

Visitors experience panoramas where the Milky Way stretches across the horizon and constellations glow with remarkable intensity.

The expansion of astrotourism has also strengthened appreciation for land-based heritage, from Nabataean archaeological sites to towering sandstone formations.

These landscapes create a dual experience where Earth’s history and cosmic views complement each other in harmonious balance.

Tourists are already arriving for guided night outings where Bedouin storytelling blends with astronomy lessons under the desert sky.

These experiences celebrate cultural traditions while introducing newcomers to celestial navigation and desert folklore.

Saudi astronomer Nawal Al-Anazi, a pioneer in the field, has expressed excitement about the merging of astronomy and tourism.

She notes that the Kingdom’s deserts offer some of the clearest skies in the world, ideal for both telescopic observation and naked-eye stargazing.

Her passion for the stars began in childhood desert trips, where learning constellations was part of family outings.

Today she encourages new stargazers to travel at least 100 kilometers away from cities to escape light pollution and fully enjoy the celestial view.

Winter months from October to March provide the best stargazing conditions due to cooler temperatures and clear air.

Mobile apps such as Stellarium or Skyview help visitors identify stars, planets, and passing satellites as they explore the heavens.

As AlUla Manara develops, excitement continues to grow around Saudi Arabia’s role as a rising destination for cultural astronomy.

The Kingdom’s combination of natural beauty, historical heritage, and scientific innovation is creating a new global hub for sky enthusiasts.

The event promises to be a vibrant celebration of traditional and contemporary handicrafts, highlighting the Kingdom’s commitment to cultural preservation, economic empowerment, and international collaboration.

The gathering will welcome participation from more than 40 countries, showcasing a diverse array of artistic and craft traditions.

Alongside international exhibitors, over 400 local craftspeople and 20 partners will take part, reflecting Saudi Arabia’s dedication to supporting domestic artisans and promoting local entrepreneurship.

By offering a global platform, the event allows craftspeople to display their creativity, connect with buyers, and enhance their market presence.

Part of the Year of Handicrafts 2025, Banan emphasizes the value of artisanal work, celebrating skills passed down through generations while providing opportunities for innovation.

The event is designed to empower local businesspeople, enabling them to leverage their talents and explore new commercial avenues. For many participants, it represents a chance to grow professionally, build networks, and gain recognition on a global stage.

This year, China will be the guest of honor, bringing its rich heritage of handicrafts to Riyadh. Visitors will have the opportunity to explore traditional Chinese arts, including textiles, ceramics, and decorative crafts, fostering cultural exchange and global appreciation for craftsmanship.

The participation of Syria, marking its first appearance, will add another layer of richness to the event, with the nation showcasing its unique artistic traditions and handmade products.

The House of Artisans, a key initiative supporting craftspeople across Saudi Arabia, will also be highlighted during the week. This platform provides artisans with training, marketing support, and guidance on quality standards, ensuring that Saudi handicrafts continue to thrive in both local and international markets.

By spotlighting the House of Artisans, Banan emphasizes the Kingdom’s dedication to nurturing talent and preserving cultural heritage while creating sustainable economic opportunities.

Under the leadership of Prince Bader, who serves as both Culture Minister and chairman of the Saudi Heritage Commission, the event reflects Saudi Arabia’s broader vision to celebrate creativity and heritage.

Through Banan, the Kingdom showcases its commitment to integrating culture into economic development, empowering local artisans while building bridges with the international craft community.

The Saudi International Handicrafts Week is more than an exhibition; it is a platform for innovation, collaboration, and cultural dialogue. Visitors will enjoy live demonstrations, workshops, and interactive displays, offering a hands-on experience of traditional techniques and modern adaptations.

The event provides a unique opportunity for young entrepreneurs and aspiring artisans to learn from experts, exchange ideas, and gain inspiration for their own creative ventures.

In addition to boosting local craft businesses, the event strengthens Saudi Arabia’s position as a hub for cultural tourism and heritage promotion.

By attracting international participants and visitors, Banan encourages cross-cultural understanding, highlights the Kingdom’s rich traditions, and promotes sustainable economic growth through the creative sector.

The Week also reflects Saudi Arabia’s efforts to preserve intangible cultural heritage while adapting it for contemporary markets.

By celebrating the skills of local and international artisans, the event ensures that traditional crafts remain relevant, appreciated, and economically viable.

Participants gain exposure to global trends, business opportunities, and professional development, reinforcing the importance of craftsmanship in modern society.

With its combination of cultural richness, economic empowerment, and international collaboration, the Saudi International Handicrafts Week promises to be a landmark event in the Kingdom’s cultural calendar.

From showcasing centuries-old traditions to inspiring the next generation of artisans, Banan exemplifies Saudi Arabia’s vision of promoting heritage, creativity, and entrepreneurship on a global stage.

This year’s edition is expected to leave a lasting impact, highlighting the beauty, diversity, and potential of artisanal work while fostering an environment where local and international craftspeople can thrive together. The Kingdom continues to reaffirm its role as a leader in celebrating and supporting global craftsmanship.

The stamp, unveiled through a partnership between the Saudi Ministry of Interior’s General Directorate of Passports and the Saudi Falcons Club, celebrates one of the Kingdom’s most iconic traditions while promoting global engagement and tourism.

The International Saudi Falcons and Hunting Exhibition is taking place at the Saudi Falcons Club headquarters in Malham, north of Riyadh, from October 2 to October 11, 2025.

Recognized as a premier event for falconry enthusiasts and cultural aficionados worldwide, the exhibition brings together over 1,300 exhibitors and brands from more than 45 countries, highlighting Saudi Arabia’s role as a hub for both traditional heritage and modern innovation in wildlife conservation and cultural celebration.

The launch of the special stamp adds a unique and tangible symbol of the Kingdom’s dedication to preserving its cultural legacy. Available to travelers arriving through King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh, King Fahd International Airport in Dammam, King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah, and the land border crossings in the Eastern Province, the stamp serves as both a memento and a recognition of Saudi Arabia’s vibrant traditions and international outreach.

This initiative underscores the Kingdom’s commitment to cultural tourism and the promotion of Saudi heritage globally. By offering the commemorative stamp, the Ministry of Interior and Saudi Falcons Club provide visitors and participants with a memorable keepsake, connecting them personally to the rich history of falconry in the Arabian Peninsula.

Falconry, a centuries-old tradition in Saudi Arabia, is not only a symbol of skill and prestige but also an emblem of the nation’s dedication to wildlife preservation and ecological sustainability.

The exhibition itself offers a dynamic platform for international cooperation and knowledge sharing. Visitors can explore innovative falconry equipment, sustainable hunting practices, wildlife conservation initiatives, and traditional Arabian heritage displays. With participants from dozens of countries, the event fosters cross-cultural dialogue and professional exchange among falconry experts, enthusiasts, conservationists, and cultural organizations, solidifying Saudi Arabia’s leadership in promoting heritage and sustainable practices worldwide.

Officials from the Saudi Ministry of Interior and Saudi Falcons Club expressed their enthusiasm for the exhibition and the commemorative stamp, highlighting the event’s role in strengthening international ties and showcasing Saudi Arabia as a destination for cultural tourism. By celebrating falconry through such initiatives, the Kingdom continues to honor its traditions while inviting global audiences to experience and appreciate its unique heritage.

The International Saudi Falcons and Hunting Exhibition 2025 promises to be an unforgettable celebration of culture, tradition, and international collaboration. Visitors will have the opportunity to witness the grace and skill of falcons, engage with exhibitors from around the world, and take home a piece of Saudi Arabia’s legacy through the special stamp—a symbol of pride, unity, and cultural preservation.

As the Kingdom continues to promote initiatives that highlight both heritage and innovation, the exhibition and commemorative stamp reflect Saudi Arabia’s vision for a future where tradition and modernity coexist, fostering global connections and inspiring admiration for the country’s rich cultural landscape.