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Elevated above ground and connected to Riyadh’s metro, the skywalks help workers, visitors, and residents move easily.
The King Abdullah Financial District in Riyadh was awarded a Guinness World Record on Sunday for the world’s largest continuous pedestrian skyway network.
The network spans 15.46 km, linking 95 buildings through 42 climate-controlled skywalks, allowing year-round pedestrian access.
Elevated above ground and connected to Riyadh’s metro, the skywalks help workers, visitors, and residents move easily through the district while avoiding traffic and weather.
Built with 30,000 sq. meters of glass and more than 3,000 tonnes of steel, the project required more than 5 million safe work hours from 1,200 personnel.
The skywalks connect offices, homes, shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues, making it easier to walk between work, home, and leisure.
“This recognition by Guinness World Records affirms KAFD as a platform for urban development,” said Faddy AlAql, chief asset delivery officer at KAFD Development and Management Co.
“The skywalk network reflects a mobility strategy that connects assets, enhances walkability, and supports our goal of delivering a smart city experience.”
Mbali Nkosi, official adjudicator for Guinness World Records, said: “First set in Minneapolis in 2016, this record has now been redefined by KAFD. In an era where sustainability drives innovation, KAFD’s skyway network sets a new benchmark for walkable urban design.”
The district hosts more than 90 international and local companies and 19 regional headquarters, including Goldman Sachs, Bain & Company, and PepsiCo.
source/content: arabnews.com (headline edited)
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Mbali Nkosi, official adjudicator for Guinness World Records, presents the award to Faddy AlAql, chief asset delivery officer at KAFD Development and Management Co. (SPA)
Unveiled during a ceremony in Damascus on Thursday
New emblem reimagines iconic Syrian golden eagle with symbolic elements representing country’s history, geography and post-conflict aspirations
The Syrian Arab Republic has launched a new national visual identity featuring a redesigned golden eagle emblem, in what officials described as a break from the legacy of authoritarianism and a step toward a state defined by service, unity and popular legitimacy.
Unveiled during a ceremony in Damascus on Thursday, the new emblem reimagines the iconic Syrian golden eagle with symbolic elements representing the country’s history, geography and post-conflict aspirations, the Syrian Arab News Agency reported.
The redesign forms the centerpiece of a wider national branding effort aimed at redefining Syria’s image at home and abroad.
The eagle has long held significance in Syrian history, appearing in early Islamic military symbolism, notably in the 7th-century Battle of Thaniyat Al-Uqab, and later as part of the 1945 emblem of Syria.
The new design retains this historic continuity but shifts its meaning, and the combative shield clutched by previous iterations of the eagle has been removed.
Instead, the emblem now features the eagle topped by three stars representing the people symbolically placed above the state.
The redesigned wings are outstretched, balanced rather than aggressive, with seven feathers each to represent Syria’s 14 governorates.
The tail carries five feathers symbolizing the country’s major geographical regions: north, south, east, west, and central Syria — a nod to national unity and inclusivity, SANA reported.
Officials described the design as a “visual political covenant,” aimed at linking the unity of land with the unity of national decision-making.
“The people, whose ambitions embrace the stars of the sky, are now guarded by a state that protects and enables them,” said a statement accompanying the launch. “In return, their survival and participation ensure the renaissance of the state.”
The emblem is designed to signal historical continuity with the original post-independence design of 1945, while also representing the vision of a modern Syrian state born from the will of its people, SANA said.
Officials said the elevation of the stars above the eagle was intended to reflect the empowerment and liberation of the people, and the transition from a combative state to a more civic-minded one.
The symbolism also reinforces Syria’s territorial integrity, with all regions and governorates represented equally. The design, they said, reflects a new national pact, one that defines the relationship between the state and its citizens based on mutual responsibility and shared aspirations.
The new emblem is also intended as a symbolic end to Syria’s past as a security-driven state, replacing a legacy of repression with one of reconstruction and citizen empowerment.
President Ahmad Al-Sharaa, who has positioned his administration as one of reform and renewal, described the change as emblematic of “a government emanating from the people and serving them.”
The visual identity was developed entirely by Syrian artists and designers, including visual artist Khaled Al-Asali, in a deliberate effort to ground the new identity in local heritage and creativity.
Officials said that the process was intended not only as a rebranding exercise but as a reflection of Syria’s cultural and civilizational legacy — and its future potential.
Foreign Minister Asaad Al-Shaibani, speaking at the event, framed the launch as part of a broader transformation in Syrian governance and diplomacy.
“In every encounter, we carried a new face of Syria,” he said. “Our efforts brought Syria back to the international stage — not as a delayed hope, but as a present reality.”
He said the country was now rejecting the “deteriorated reality” inherited from decades of authoritarian rule, and described the new emblem as a symbol of Syria’s emergence as a state that “guards” and empowers its people, rather than controlling them.
Al-Shaibani concluded his remarks by calling the moment “a cultural death” for the former regime’s narrative.
“What we need today is a national spirit that reclaims the scattered pieces of our Syrian identity, that is the starting point for building the future.”
source/content: arabnews.com (headline edited)
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The Syrian Arab Republic has launched a new national visual identity featuring a redesigned golden eagle emblem, in what officials described as a break from the legacy of authoritarianism and a step toward a state defined by service, unity and popular legitimacy. (SANA)
The UAE leads the global market in mobile shopping, according to the results of the Global Digital Shopping Index 2025, a joint study by PYMNTS Intelligence and commissioned by Visa Acceptance Solutions.
The study, which surveyed 1,679 consumers and 329 merchants in the country, showed that 67% of UAE consumers used their smartphones for their most recent purchase, a 23% increase compared to 2022.
The UAE also recorded the highest rate of mobile shopping at 37%, ahead of Singapore, the UK, and Brazil.
The country also recorded an advanced global rate of biometric authentication use (32%) when making online purchases, surpassing the global average of 17%. Fifty-three percent of consumers expressed a desire to shop across multiple channels, while 75% preferred rewards programs, 73% preferred free shipping, and 70% preferred price matching.
The report also indicated that 38% of shoppers in the UAE made their recent purchases using a mobile phone or computer, with the option of home delivery.
The results confirmed that consumers in the UAE are increasingly adopting a “mobile first” lifestyle, particularly among millennials, with a usage rate of 73%.
Commenting on the study results, Salima Joteva, Vice President and General Manager, Visa UAE, said, “The UAE’s approach reflects the great potential that can be achieved by uniting efforts to build the future of commerce. At Visa, we are working in partnership with the government and private sectors to offer innovative solutions such as Click to Pay to provide secure and seamless digital payment experiences.
These indicators reflect the country’s advanced regulatory environment and its continued support for the digital business ecosystem, enabling retailers to enhance customer experiences and achieve sales growth by offering flexible and secure payment options.
The Global Digital Shopping Index is based on a survey of 18,468 consumers and 3,464 merchants across eight countries, including the UAE, Saudi Arabia, the United States, the United Kingdom, Singapore, Australia, Mexico, and Brazil, during the period from October to December 2024.
For over two decades, Gabriel Sayegh has worked to keep Arab culture alive in spaces throughout the city of São Paulo.
Born in the southern region of São Paulo city, Gabriel Sayegh, 65, is proud of his Arab heritage. The ancient culture, which comes from both sides of his family and has been part of his life since the beginning, became an essential part of his routine in 1999.
“Since I was a child, I used to go to Esporte Clube Sírio and take part in its cultural activities, and when I was 39, I was invited to become the club’s cultural director. I didn’t think twice and accepted the offer,” says Sayegh.
“It’s very important to keep Arab culture alive because we’re our ancestors. We come from a place that has its own culture, language, and cuisine, and many people don’t know about it. That’s why it’s so important to preserve our culture and make sure others learn about our origins.”
Because of his professional choices, Sayegh would never have been close to Arab culture, but his desire to keep the tradition alive spoke louder. “I always liked math, so I graduated in civil engineering and worked in the field for many years. But I always had the desire to promote the culture of my parents and grandparents, which is why I still work as the cultural director of the club today,” says the engineer.
With a full schedule all month long, the club offers different types of free classes, including Arabic language, belly dancing, and music classes that use traditional Syrian instruments. And at least once a month, there is a lecture given by an important spokesperson from the community.
“We’ve already had writers, politicians, businesspeople, and even the president of the Institute for Arab Culture (ICArabe) here. We also organize sessions to screen Arab films,” says the cultural director of Esporte Clube Sírio.
Despite the effort, the Syrian descendant says he finds it difficult to spread Arab culture among the younger generations. “Culture is no longer as much a part of the younger generations as it was during my youth. Today, there are many things that distract them.”
In addition to working at Esporte Clube Sírio, Gabriel is also involved in two other organizations: the State Parliamentary Council of Communities of Foreign Roots and Cultures (CONSCRE) of the Legislative Assembly of the State of São Paulo (Alesp) and ICArabe.
At CONSCRE, he arrived in 2019, served as president for two terms, and is currently vice president. The São Paulo native has been part of ICArabe since its inception in the early 2000s. He has held several positions within the institute, including vice president, and currently works as financial director.
“In all these places, my work is done voluntarily to help my community. At Alesp, where the space was created to bring together Arab descendants living in São Paulo, we have political ties and try in some way to highlight the culture of my country. At the Institute, the effort is greater. We hold cultural events at different times of the year. The next one will be the Arab film festival to take place in August.”
Very proud of his journey as a promoter of Arab culture, Sayegh is happy to be able to share the richness of his ancestors’ country. “For many years, Arab culture was neglected and ignored by the West, so people still don’t know much about it.”
Culture from the beginning
His mother, Ivete Abdelmalack Sayegh, came to Brazil at the age of 18 with her parents and siblings. His father, Jorge Gabriel Sayegh, is the son of Syrians and lived in São Paulo, where he met Ivete. The family grew when Gabriel’s sister was born and was completed years later when he and his twin brother arrived.
“My parents spoke Arabic when they wanted to say something so we wouldn’t understand, since my maternal grandmother only spoke Arabic. She never really learned to speak Portuguese. Because of that, I ended up speaking Arabic to talk with her,” Sayegh recalls.
Besides the language, Arab food has been and still is part of Sayegh’s and his children’s lives. “I have a daughter from my first marriage and twin sons from my second marriage who love my mother’s cooking; the tradition of Arab food is part of their daily routine. But the culture is more difficult,” Sayegh explains.
“My first wife, who is my cousin, still passed on our heritage to my daughter—however, these younger generations are drifting away from their origins. That’s why I keep stressing how important it is to know your roots. It’s only this way that you can better understand yourself as a human being and learn to respect others.”
The opening ceremony concluded with a musical performance by Lebanese artist Ragheb Alama, with proceeds dedicated to supporting the people of Palestine.
Abdelrahim Suleiman, Director General of the Arab States Broadcasting Union (ASBU) and Mohammed bin Fahd Al-Harthi, President of ASBU and CEO of Saudi Broadcasting Authority (SBA), presented the awards to the winners of the 24th Arab Radio and Television Festival that was held in Tunis from June 26 to 29.
Part of the Text is Missing, a Kuwaiti TV show won the award for Best Arab TV Programme at the festival.
Saudi Broadcasting Authority (SBA) secured four radio and TV awards, including the second prize in the health programmes category for “Mental Health: Violence in Schools.” In the TV category, Saudi Arabia won three awards, including the second prize in the news category for talk shows, honouring the Saudi street programme on its episode about Vision 2030. Heritage in the Maqam of Hijaz took first prize in the general documentary films and programmes category, while the Saudi social drama series Al-Arbaji 2 secured second place in the social series category.
Additionally, the SBA received the second prize in the 2024 news exchange competition and also, the second prize in the 2024 programme exchange competition. The festival also honoured the judging panels for its radio and television competitions and distributed the exchange awards.
Qatar Media Corporation won three awards. Qatar TV took first prize for the documentary film Museums in Qatar, showcasing the distinctive museums of the country, and secured the second prize for Programme Exchanges of 2023 within the festival’s Arab Radio and Television competition in Tunisia. Qatar Radio won second prize in the “Notable Arab Figures” category.
The Ministry of Information, represented by the Sultanate of Oman Radio and the Sultanate of Oman Television, along with the private media institution Al Wisal, bagged 10 awards. Sultanate of Oman TV won four awards, including the Arab Joint Television Production Award for the documentary Holding Breaths, produced by the Ministry of Information and directed by Issa al Subhi.
Meanwhile, the Palestine Public Broadcasting Corporation (PBC) secured six awards. The radio programme Psychological Counseling in Times of War claimed first prize, while Radio Flash on school violence also earned top honours. Additionally, PBC received first prizes for radio news exchanges and a television report dedicated to the late journalist Mohammad Abu Hattab, a correspondent for Palestine TV killed by Israeli troops in Gaza. Furthermore, PBC was awarded second prize for the cultural programme Sadanat al-Riwaya and another award for the film Noura, produced by Palestine TV.
A powerful portrait of compassion under fire, ‘The Man Who Feeds Gaza’s Children’ takes home one of journalism’s highest honors.
‘The Man Who Feeds Gaza’s Children,’ a short documentary following Gazan food blogger and humanitarian Hamada Shaqoura, has won a News & Documentary Emmy Award in New York, honoring its remarkable storytelling and emotional depth.
The film captures Shaqoura’s decision to set aside his food blog and cook for thousands of children and displaced families during the war in Gaza. He turned his kitchen into a frontline of resistance—preparing familiar comfort foods like chicken wings, tacos, croissants, and popsicles, often while bombs fell nearby.
“I cooked under bombs not for recognition, but because hunger doesn’t wait,” Shaqoura said following the win. “Gaza deserves to be seen.”
Led by Reem Makhoul, Senior Managing Producer at Business Insider, the film is part of a growing body of work that centers the human experience in conflict zones. By focusing on daily acts of care, the documentary invites viewers to see Gaza not only through the lens of tragedy, but also through the enduring power of resilience.
“This award is for every child who stood in line for a plate of food, to every family who shared it with love, and to every voice that refused to be silenced,” Shaqoura shared. “To the people of Gaza—you are the story. And now, finally, the world is listening.”
Also a James Beard Award nominee, the documentary’s recognition by the Television Academy underscores the strength of its message, a simple yet radical truth: feeding people is a form of dignity, and storytelling can be an act of survival.
Pioneering Saudi filmmaker Haifaa Al-Mansour has been appointed to the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences’ Board of Governors, the Red Sea Film Foundation announced on Instagram.
“As one of three newly named governors-at-large, Al-Mansour will represent the Directors Branch and bring her singular voice, vision, and global perspective to the Academy’s leadership for the 2025–2026 term and beyond,” they captioned the post.
“An incredible milestone for one of Saudi Arabia’s most celebrated filmmakers. We’re proud to see her continue shaping the future of cinema on a global stage.” In 2012, Al-Mansour made history as she released her first feature film “Wadjda.” It was the first feature film shot entirely in the Kingdom and the first feature-length film made by a female Saudi director.
Over the years, Al-Mansour has also become one of the most in-demand television directors in Hollywood, helming episodes of hit series including “Archive 81,” “City of Fire,” “Tales of the Walking Dead,” and “Bosch: Legacy.”
In 2019, Al-Mansour’s feature film “The Perfect Candidate” was submitted as Saudi Arabia’s official entry for the International Feature Film Award at the 92nd Academy Awards, but it was not nominated.
The Rare Manuscripts exhibition in annex 204 of the southern courtyards, which is open from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m., showcases “historical manuscripts, documents, and inscriptions that trace the evolution of Islamic writing”
The corridors and courtyards of the Prophet’s Mosque feature “unique sites and exhibitions that enrich the visitor experience, offering historical and cultural insights that reflect Islamic heritage and Madinah’s hospitality,” according to an article published by the Saudi Press Agency on Saturday.
A key attraction is the Architectural Evolution of the Prophet’s Mosque exhibition, located on the southern courtyard opposite exits 308 and 309, which uses interactive displays to highlight the mosque’s architectural development. It is open daily from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m.
Opposite exits 306 and 307 is the International Exhibition of the Prophet’s Biography. Open from 4:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. daily, it offers “a contemporary presentation of Prophet Muhammad’s life and teachings.”
The Rare Manuscripts exhibition in annex 204 of the southern courtyards, which is open from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m., showcases “historical manuscripts, documents, and inscriptions that trace the evolution of Islamic writing.”
The mosque’s library, at gate 10 on the western side, is open 24 hours a day and includes sections on manuscripts, rare books, audio archives, and art collections.
Near Uthman Gate, the Manuscripts and Rare Books Department serves researchers and enthusiasts. It houses more than 4,000 original manuscripts, nearly 60,000 digital copies, 4,600 photocopies, and 450 different editions of the Qur’an. It operates in two shifts: 8 a.m.–noon and 4–8 p.m.
“Together, these exhibitions and centers enhance the cultural and educational value of visiting the Prophet’s Mosque, offering pilgrims a more enriching experience,” the SPA stated.
source/content: arabnews.com (headline edited)
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The exhibitions enrich the visitor experience with historical and cultural insights reflecting Islamic heritage. (SPA)
Rumaih bin Mohammed Al-Rumaih was selected in a vote during the International Association of Public Transport’s summit in Hamburg
Al-Rumaih was selected for his expertise in developing modern transport systems, leading national projects and representing Saudi Arabia in international forums
The acting president of Saudi Arabia’s Public Transport Authority has been elected president of the International Association of Public Transport for the MENA region.
Rumaih bin Mohammed Al-Rumaih was selected in a vote during the association’s summit in Hamburg, Germany, this week. He will occupy the role until 2028.
Al-Rumaih was selected for his expertise in developing modern transport systems, leading national projects and representing Saudi Arabia in international forums, the Saudi Press Agency reported.
Having previously served as CEO of the Saudi Railway Company and president of the Transport General Authority, Al-Rumaih has a track record of working to improve the sustainability and quality of transport in urban settings.
“I am delighted to be with you today, and to start this new phase of work with a distinguished team that brings together a number of leaders and professionals,” he said during the conference.
“I believe that public transport is not just about infrastructure, but about experience, justice, accessibility, and sustainability.
Al-Rumaih highlighted the success of the Riyadh Metro system, which became fully operational earlier this year.
He said that the metro is witnessing high rates of usage and is changing commuter behavior in the capital.
“When we provide appropriate transportation services that are clean, safe, accessible, and reliable, people respond to and adapt to them,” he said.
Al-Rumaih also spoke about how building sustainable and people-centered transport systems requires collaboration between governments, operators, the private sector, and civil society.
“The International Association of Public Transport has always been a driver of this collaboration and will grow in importance in the years to come.”
Al-Rumaih also highlighted the findings of the MENA Transport Report 2025, which assessed trends in the industry in 40 cities across 14 countries in the region.
source/content: arabnews.com (headline edited)
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Vice Minister of Transport and Logistic Services Rumaih bin Mohammed Al-Rumaih. (Screengrab)
Sultan bin Sulayem: PCFC is a key contributor to Dubai’s knowledge and innovation-based economy, in line with the Dubai Economic Agenda D33
Samuel Nartey George: This partnership will position Ghana as a regional hub for technological advancement in Africa
The Ports, Customs and Free Zone Corporation (PCFC) and Government of Ghana have signed a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to establish Ghana’s first economic zone and digital incubator in Accra. The initiative aims to accelerate the country’s transformation into a regional technology powerhouse, attracting investment into West Africa.
The MoU was signed by H.E. Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem, Chairman of PCFC, and Hon. Samuel Nartey George, Ghana’s Minister for Communication, Digital Technology and Innovation.
Under the agreement, a 25 square kilometer area in Accra will be allocated to PCFC for the development of the economic zone. PCFC will lead the zone’s operations and attract global technology firms, facilitating investment and business expansion. The MoU also includes joint efforts to establish digital infrastructure and property development within the zone.
H.E. Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem affirmed that PCFC’s commitment to supporting the UAE’s global outreach and sharing Dubai’s pioneering experience in innovation and economic development. “This initiative underscores our strategic relationships worldwide and reinforces PCFC’s role as a key contributor to Dubai’s knowledge and innovation-based economy. We are focused on launching cutting-edge projects that promote sustainable growth, invest in human capital and advanced technology, to cement Dubai’s status as a global hub for smart technologies and digital transformation”.
He also expressed his appreciation for the Government of Ghana’s trust in PCFC’s expertise and its warm reception of the initiative. “This smart economic zone, combining innovation, technology, and logistics, will foster commercial growth and strengthen Ghana’s industrial and technological infrastructure”.
Hon. Samuel Nartey George stated that the partnership will significantly bolster Ghana’s economic position, transforming it into a regional technology hub in Africa. “This initiative aligns with Ghana’s vision for digital transformation and sustainable economic growth. The zone will play a pivotal role in attracting global businesses and talent, positioning Accra as a destination of choice on the international stage.”
PCFC will implement and manage the advanced digital infrastructure in the zone to support the growth of local and regional businesses across Africa. The project will provide a robust platform for innovation, investment opportunities that empower global and local expansion.
Dedicated teams from both countries specializing in AI and investment will manage the zone, fostering innovation, business growth and regional connectivity. The collaboration aims to empower local communities, traders, and investors, driving inclusive and sustainable economic progress across the continent.
The partnership marks a major milestone in fostering international partnerships that advance technology and economic development, positioning Ghana at the forefront of Africa’s digital future.
