Category: Travel

LEBANON : Arab mountaineer Nelly Attar on breaking records and breaking barriers

Nelly Attar has made history by becoming the first Lebanese person to summit the five tallest mountains on Earth, including Everest and the notoriously deadly K2. She has completed over 40 climbs across five continents. A two-time Guinness World Record holder, extreme sports athlete, and former psychotherapist, Nelly blends athletic grit with a community-driven mission: to get people moving, especially across the Middle East.

From founding Saudi Arabia’s first dance studio to training for high-altitude ascents in desert heat, Nelly’s journey is as much about resilience and purpose as it is about summits. Cosmopolitan Middle East sits down with her to reflect on the climbs that changed her, the lessons learned at the edge of endurance, and her vision for making movement and adventure more accessible to all.

CosmoME: What first drew you to mountaineering?

Nelly: My dad took me on my first multi day hike when I was 17. I was going to university soon, so I was moving countries, and we were living in Kenya at the time. Mount Kenya is the second highest peak in Africa. We didn’t know what it was gonna entail. We actually didn’t summit the mountain. My dad got hypothermia, but there was something about the climb or the hike, and just being in nature for two or three days that I was like, this is just amazing. I want to do this when I’m older. I also want to do sports because I was raised in Saudi, and we didn’t really have access to outdoor sports.

CosmoME: Did you feel a calling towards the mountains?

Nelly: No, I felt a pull. A calling is more gentle. It sits at the back of your mind; a pull may feel like swimming against the current, but you can’t let go of the pull. I think I don’t want to do this anymore. It has very high risk and opportunity costs. But then, I feel this same pull, and then I find myself up in the mountain area.

CosmoME: Could you share some details about the mountains you have climbed?

Nelly: When I was 25, I had the summer off, so I went to Mount Kilimanjaro. I fell in love with hiking and climbing. K2 is the second most dangerous. It’s a lot steeper, so avalanches do happen, but not that severe as Annapurna. There is a 33% chance you won’t come back from that mountain. I went to clean up a lot of the waste and we cleaned up about 400 KGs of waste. Annapurna has a very high risk of avalanche. So no matter where you are on the mountain, you’re constantly hearing avalanches break out around you. It’s because of the angle of the mountain, where it sits in a position where just a bit of snow accumulates, and then it slides off. Apart from the altitude, you also have this added layer of constantly being so scared. We don’t know if we’re going to die up there; it just feels like a Russian roulette.

CosmoME: How do you navigate making high pressure decisions in extreme conditions?

Nelly: We were 500 meters away from the summit of Annapurna after being there for one month, and we turned around. I made the call because I was with the team of eight men and most of the guys were from the production team. We got to a point where there was little rope left, not enough for all of us. I was like, if we all made it up together to this point, it doesn’t make sense for three of us to continue and the five to turn around. We either all turn around together, or we all climb up together. It would be another four or five hours to the summit with little or no rope. So if anyone slips, they will slip to their death. And if you’re in doubt, if there’s this much risk on a mountain, you turn around. Climbing is considered the noble art of retreat. You have to know when to turn around. If you want to stay in this game, you have to know when to turn around. My whole team made it down alive and this is what counts.

CosmoME: Which was harder—training your body for extreme altitudes or training your mind to endure the isolation and risk?

Nelly: When you’re training your body, you train your mind. I don’t see them as individuals. I train even when it’s 40 degrees with a heavy pack and that’s a lot of mental training. That discipline and mind/body go hand in hand. The times that I want to give up and I don’t give up is when I train my mind to grow stronger. I always try remind myself that I have so much within me.

CosmoME: Does climbing bring you closer to a sense of God, nature, or something beyond yourself?

Nelly: I think it always makes me feel stronger to God, because it’s almost like I’m stripped away from civilisation. No comfortable beds or showers. I’m left with connecting with my family every now and then through a satellite device, but then it’s just Allah. There’s so much uncertainty. We don’t know what the day is gonna look like. We don’t know who from the team might get hurt. We don’t know who’s not going to come back. I don’t even know if I will come back. God forbid. What keeps me calm is feeling that God is always with me. God is always protecting us. God always chooses what’s best for us. And if we don’t get the summit, that’s God protecting us. If we get to summit, God made that accessible to us. During the times that I’m really really scared, the only thing that gives me calm or peace is thinking: we’re in the safety of Allah. It’s like a mantra I keep repeating. And honestly, it keeps me so calm.

My dad took me on my first hike and he passed away almost five years ago. Climbing connects me to him. When I’m on a mountain, my grief is amplified. I have days on a mountain where I wake up and I start crying uncontrollably.

CosmoME: How does it feel to carry your country’s name on summits?

Nelly: I was born and raised in Saudi, but I started to feel more and more connected to Lebanon when I started to make history around these climbs. Beyond Lebanon, I feel very proud of my Arab heritage. I’ve always been happy about my identity, but I think even more so now, because I have this responsibility to show what Arab woman can do anything. When I started to see how people responded and starting to see how it inspired Arab woman and Muslim woman, I want to continue. I want to pave the way for other Arab women in sports.

CosmoME: What would you like to say to Arab girls and to our readers?

Nelly: I want people to see that if I can, they can too. I’ve done things that were unconventional, creating a job, a career, and a life that are so different from the standard. I managed to excel in it and inspire others. I never imagined I’d make it onto the cover of a magazine for climbing K2. Most people here don’t even know what K2 is. But you have to believe in your dream so strongly that others start to believe in it too. Then it’s no longer just your dream—it becomes everyone’s success.

If I can do this in a career as niche as mountaineering, a sport dominated by men and barely recognized in our region, then they can too. I hope I inspire girls to take the unconventional road, to follow the path that makes sense to them. They will face challenges, resistance from others, and doubt from themselves. But those obstacles will make them stronger. The ups and downs are what make the journey meaningful. When you persevere, lean into your gifts, and live your purpose, that’s when you make the greatest contribution to the world.

CosmoME: Could you share more about the business side of mountaineering?

Nelly: Initially, it was all self-funded. But as it started to take up more of my time and energy, I thought—why not turn this into a job? I was already creating content, so whenever I worked with brands, I’d try to merge it with my climbs. Instead of doing a standard campaign here, I’d say, ‘Why not make it unique and create the campaign up there?’

Over the years, through sponsorships, I’ve partnered with a range of brands—from apparel companies to climbing operators to even medication brands. After a decade, the variety is wide, but sponsorships are what make this possible. Sometimes, it’s still my own savings. Even now, I pay for some climbs myself, funding them through other work and setting money aside for the mountains.

CosmoME: Mountaineering has long been a male-dominated space. What challenges did you face as a woman in that world?

Nelly: I was often the least technically experienced climber on the team. I didn’t grow up with snow, and I didn’t have a climbing background. There was a lot to catch up on. Gear was another challenge. Being petite, I could never find equipment that fit—everything from summit suits to sleeping bags would swallow me whole.

Thankfully, as more women have joined the sport, more brands have started catering to women’s sizes. Now, I don’t see my size or the fact that I’m an Arab woman as a challenge. It’s my strength. I love it when people are surprised and say ‘Oh, you’re a climber?’ and I get to let my performance speak for itself. Training in the extreme heat back home has given me an edge.

CosmoME: What is recovery like? How does coming back to everyday life feel after climbing?

Nelly: It usually takes me two weeks (sometimes a month) to feel like myself again after a climb. My nervous system, my sleep, my training… everything needs time to reset before my body feels strong again. I ease my way back into everything. I don’t like to stop training entirely, but I’m gentle with myself and very aware I’m still recovering.

Even my concentration takes a hit. That first week, I find it hard to focus at work, so I give myself that two-week buffer to slowly re-engage. Psychologically, there’s often a dip too. After so much adrenaline and constant movement in nature with my team, coming back to the noise and overstimulation of the city can feel jarring. That adjustment period, both physically and mentally, is part of the process.

CosmoME: You’ve made history. What is next for you?

Nelly: I’d love to keep climbing, but there’s so much more to life than just summits. For me, sports have always been about community—that’s why I started in the first place. It feels good to be back, training with friends and moving alongside others.

Over the next six months, my focus is on enabling as many people as possible to get active. My background is in therapy, and when I began, sports weren’t widely accessible to women in Saudi. Creating spaces for women to move together changed my life, and I saw firsthand how it transformed theirs. I want to return to that mission.

I have a few adventurous trips planned across the region, coaching sessions, speaking engagements, and an initiative in the works aimed at making movement more accessible to everyone. That’s my goal for now. Then, maybe in six or seven months, I’ll be ready to climb again.

source/content: cosmopolitanme.com (cosmopolitan middle east). (headline edited)

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LEBANON

EGYPT : A world spectacle for history – Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM) inaugration November 01st, 2025

After more than 20 years in the making.

In an evening that blended history, culture and global celebration, President Abdel-Fattah Al-Sisi and First Lady Entissar Al-Sisi presided over the official inauguration of the Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM) on Saturday, marking a milestone in the modern cultural landscape of Egypt and the world. The ceremony was attended by nearly 80 high-level delegations, including kings, presidents, princes, heads of government, and representatives of regional and international organisations.

Among them was German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier, Dutch Prime Minister Dick Schoof, Spain’s King Felipe VI, Queen Rania of Jordan, Prince Albert II of Monaco, and Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis. Also present were Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas, Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Culture Badr bin Abdullah, and the crown princes of Oman and Bahrain.

Held at the GEM’s open-air court overlooking the Giza Plateau, the celebration unfolded as a multisensory homage to Egypt’s timeless civilisation. Performances combining music, light, laser projection, and drone choreography traced the evolution of Egyptian architectural genius, from the Giza Pyramids to the modern era, and highlighted the message that civilisations thrive in times of peace.

The façade of the museum became a canvas for immersive light and projection displays, with vast screens illuminating Egypt’s ancient monuments and artistic heritage. Dancers in Pharaonic-inspired costumes, adorned with gold crowns and sceptres, performed to a live international orchestra, while fireworks and synchronised drone formations traced the silhouettes of ancient deities across the night sky.

President Al-Sisi welcomed the distinguished guests and emphasised that the GEM, now the largest museum in the world dedicated to a single civilisation, stands not merely as a showcase of ancient treasures, but as a testament to the creative spirit and enduring legacy of the Egyptian people.

He also described the museum as a new chapter in Egypt’s cultural story, affirming that it stands as a testament to the creativity and legacy of the Egyptian people and as a space for dialogue, knowledge, and exchange.

The ceremony began with the performance “The World Plays One Melody”. The programme featured a laser and drone show illustrating the Orion Belt alignment and its symbolic connection between the museum and the Giza Pyramids, followed by a performance titled “A Journey of Peace in the Land of Peace”.

The sequence highlighted the evolution of Egyptian architectural ingenuity, from the Step Pyramid of Djoser to modern Egyptian design, accompanied by a Coptic hymn of Sufi spiritual singing, and a drone message reading: “Civilisations Flourish in Times of Peace.”

The evening’s performances brought together some of Egypt’s most celebrated voices. Soprano Fatma Said and tenor Ragaaeddin delivered stirring pieces composed by Hisham Nazih, whose music blends contemporary orchestration with the tonal motifs of ancient Egypt, a style previously showcased during the Golden Mummies parade.

Sisters Amira and Mariam Abu Zahra, granddaughters of renowned Egyptian actor Abdel-Rahman Abu Zahra, appeared in stylised Pharaonic attire, performing a violin duet accompanied by the Cairo Opera House Orchestra and international ensemble players under the baton of maestro Nayer Nagui.

The celebration also highlighted Egypt’s cultural diversity. Nubian singer Ahmed Ismail performed in the Nubian language, while Haneen Al-Shater sang in Arabic from a floating stage overlooking the Nile, symbolising Egypt’s enduring identity as a crossroads of civilisations.

Iconic Egyptian actress Sherihan delivered an evocative spoken tribute to ancient Egypt’s artistic legacy, set against sky projections of the Pyramids. She was followed by Sherine Ahmed, the first actress of Egyptian descent to play Eliza Doolittle on Broadway, who gave a powerful musical performance before Islamic chanter Ehab Younis offered a spiritual finale.

On giant screens above, scenes from celebrations in countries all over the world played out against the backdrop of Egypt’s ancient monuments.

Dozens of performers dressed in elaborate white costumes, as a symbol of peace, their foreheads crowned with golden wreaths and sceptres in hand, played traditional tunes as a laser show depicting the Pharaohs and fireworks lit up the night sky above the museum.

As the night drew to a close, a drone light show mapped the sky with hieroglyphs, Pharaonic figures, and the golden mask of Tutankhamun, shimmering above the Giza Plateau, an image that captured both the grandeur of the past and the cultural confidence of the present.

Among the many moments that captured global attention during the GEM’s opening ceremony was the appearance of 12-year-old Asser Ahmed Hamdi, whose poised and expressive performance resonated with viewers across Egypt and beyond. The young performer quickly became one of the most talked about faces of the event, representing a new generation engaging with the country’s cultural narrative.

Asser described his participation in the ceremony as a defining moment in his life. “I was very happy to be there, and proud that my effort represented Egypt in front of the world,” he said, explaining that his preparation for the role involved months of rehearsals and that he had been training in performance and acting for seven years. “When the opportunity came, I felt like a dream had been achieved.”

Performing before President Al-Sisi and dozens of world leaders brought initial nerves, he admitted, but the atmosphere on stage quickly shifted those feelings. “I was nervous backstage, but once I stepped onto the stage, I felt calm,” he said. After the performance, he exchanged a few words with the president, who praised his portrayal linked to the story of Tutankhamun.

Asser spoke with pride about standing before the golden mask of Tutankhamun and the monumental statue of Ramses II inside the museum. “I had seen them only in books and on TV, but standing in front of them at the GEM was something completely different,” he said. “I felt proud to be representing Egypt.”

Reflecting on the journey, he said, “All the effort in rehearsals was worth it. I’m grateful I could present something worthy of Egypt. I will always be proud that I was part of the opening of the GEM.”

Among the creative figures behind the opening night spectacle was Ahmed Essam, the artist and designer responsible for the fireworks and pyrotechnic displays that illuminated the GEM during the ceremony. Speaking about the experience, Essam described it as one of the defining moments of his career, noting that the preparations took several months of planning, rehearsal and technical coordination.

“It was an honour to be part of an event of this scale,” he said, explaining that the ceremony’s postponements provided valuable time to refine the visual narrative and ensure that the display matched the cultural weight of the occasion. Essam highlighted that working in a field he is passionate about has been central to his development. “I travel constantly to learn and experiment with new ideas. When you love what you do, you invest your whole self into it.”

Creating the fireworks show for the GEM opening, he noted, required an approach tailored to the museum’s identity as a celebration of ancient Egyptian civilisation. Colours, rhythms, and sequences were chosen to complement the architectural setting and underscore the narrative themes of heritage and renewal.

He was also quick to highlight the scale of teamwork behind the scenes. “What viewers saw was the result of a coordinated effort involving more than 150 people, from designers and technicians to support staff. Everyone worked with passion and commitment to present Egypt in the best possible light.

“The opening of the GEM is a landmark in Egypt’s cultural journey. The presence of President Abdel-Fattah Al-Sisi and world leaders underscored its importance. We are proud to have contributed to an event that showcased Egypt’s ability to inspire and captivate the world,” Essam added.

Soprano Said, who took the stage as one of the evening’s principal performers, revealed that the concert marked a deeply personal milestone for her as it was her first since becoming a mother.

“I recently gave birth to twins,” she said, “and I wasn’t sure I would be able to perform because the concert came so soon after the delivery. I was a little anxious. But my children gave me the strength and energy to take part in this extraordinary occasion.”

Her appearance added an intimate emotional layer to the celebration, reflecting both the resilience of artists and the symbolic continuity between generations that the museum itself seeks to embody.

Most of the international state leaders expressed their enthusiasm over the grand opening. In a diplomatic gesture that blended cultural appreciation with a touch of modern creativity, Danish Foreign Minister Lars Løkke Rasmussen presented Egypt’s Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty with a LEGO replica of the Great Pyramid of Khufu, a symbolic gesture marking Denmark’s participation in the GEM’s opening and celebrating Egypt’s architectural heritage.

Zambian Minister of Tourism Rodney Sikumba noted his country’s appreciation for the commemorative gift presented to Zambia on the occasion of the GEM’s opening, a piece representing part of the GEM’s architectural model. He pointed out that the artefact will be placed on a temporary display in one of Zambia’s national museums, accompanied by an explanatory panel narrating its significance. The gesture, he said, reflects Zambia’s pride in taking part in this historic cultural moment and serves as a testament to the growing cultural ties between the two nations.

As with any major cultural event, public reaction to the GEM’s opening ceremony was not uniform. Such occasions naturally invite a spectrum of opinions, shaped by personal taste, expectations, and aesthetic preferences. While some critics viewed the event as more modest than anticipated, others praised its scale and artistic ambition, seeing in it a carefully curated blend of ancient symbolism and modern cultural expression. Supporters argue that the ceremony succeeded in presenting Egypt as both a guardian of a timeless civilisation and a dynamic cultural force in the present day — a duality at the heart of the museum’s identity.

* A version of this article appears in print in the 6 November, 2025 edition of Al-Ahram Weekly

source/content: english.ahram.org.eg (headline edited)

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EGYPT

SAUDI ARABIA : Madinah wins new WHO ‘healthy city’ accreditation

Middle East’s second-largest ‘healthy city’ after Jeddah

15 other cities in Saudi Arabia included in WHO list

The World Health Organization has renewed its accreditation of Madinah as a “healthy city,” with Islam’s second-holiest location scoring an impressive 80 points, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

Prince Salman bin Sultan, governor of Madinah region, received the WHO accreditation certificate from Minister of Health Fahad AlJalajel during a ceremony on Thursday.

Prince Salman said Madinah’s renewed accreditation exemplifies the leadership’s dedication to enhancing quality of life for the Kingdom’s people in urban centers.

He emphasized Madinah’s ongoing transformation as a leading development model regionally and internationally, aligning with the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 goals.

Madinah has solidified its position as the second-largest healthy city in the Middle East, after Jeddah, the SPA reported.

To win the WHO’s nod, an entrant must meet 80 criteria, including parks, walking areas, and the promotion of health through primary care centers and schools.

The WHO has also recognized 14 other healthy cities in Saudi Arabia. These include Taif, Tabuk, Ad-Diriyah, Unaizah, Jalajel, Al-Mandaq, Al-Jumum, Riyadh Al-Khubra and Sharurah, according to Leaders MENA Magazine.

source/content: arabnews.com (headline edited)

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With the new accreditation, Madinah has solidified its position as the second-largest healthy city in the Middle East, next to Jeddah. (SPA photo)

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SAUDI ARABIA

ALGERIAN Connection in the U.S : Small American Town, Big Algerian Legacy

Until last year, 17-year-old Victoria Miller admits she would have had to search online to learn where Algeria is , let alone describe the exploits of one of its most famous heroes.

Pictorial Press / ALAMY / Abd el-Kader’s name lives on in Elkader, Iowa, pop. 1,300,  the only US town named after an Arab.

.“I was really taken by Amir Abd el-Kader’s character and how he handled the multiple challenges he faced, including when some of his own people didn’t believe in him,” says Miller, who lives in the northeastern Iowa town of Decorah. On September 19 she was recognized as one of seven winning essayists in the 2016 Abdelkader Global Leadership Prize.

After reading diplomat John W. Kiser’s biography, Commander of the Faithful: The Life and Times of Emir Abd el-Kader (Monkfish, 2008), for a class in human geography at Decorah High School, Miller now says she regards him as an international role model. Her new understandings, she adds, help her feel more comfortable talking to Muslims.

“Abd el-Kader’s legacy deserves to be remembered along with Nelson Mandela, Gandhi and Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s,” Miller enthuses, “because they were all pursuing the same dream: to reach peace.”

ABDELKADER EDUCATION PROJECT / Abdelkader Education Project co-founder and executive director Kathy Garms opened the group’s seventh annual forum on September 19 in Cedar Rapids. Students competed for scholar-ships in the Abdelkader Global Leadership Prize, and educators explored the legacy of Algerian freedom fighter and peacemaker Amir (Prince) Abd el-Kader.

Indeed, the Algerian prince (amir or emir in Arabic) united tribes in North Africa and fought for independence; later, during the 1860 Mount Lebanon civil war, he helped save thousands of Maronite Christians from massacre—an act for which President Abraham Lincoln lauded him. When the amir passed away in 1883, The New York Times eulogized him as “one of the few great men of the century. The nobility of his character won him the admiration of the world.”

Even decades earlier, in 1846, so widely admired was he that Iowa farmers named their new town after him, and today Elkader, Iowa, is the only us town named for an Arab. Since 2008 it has been reviving his legacy, thanks largely to the eight-year-old nonprofit Abdelkader Education Project (aep).

Kathy Garms, executive director and cofounder with Kiser of the Elkader-based aep, furthers Miller’s sentiment, explaining that the story of the amir “inspires civility, tolerance and understanding” and offers “models of ethical leadership, moral courage and humanitarian conduct.” The aep, Garms continues, works to “shape the minds, hearts, values of the next generation.” And this is where aep’s Abdelkader Global Leadership Prize essay competition comes in.

John W. Kiser, author of Commander of the Faithful: The Life and Times of Emir Abd el-Kader, and forum participant said the students stereotypes have been challenged.

Its award ceremony was held this year about 130 kilometers south of Elkader in Cedar Rapids, where it was nearly cancelled due to rising floodwaters on the Cedar River. But the student writers and their families braved the threats of high water to meet Kiser as well as teachers and leaders of civil-society groups from around the country.

Kiser says he is pleased with the results so far.

“The students’ stereotypes about Muslims and Arabs have been challenged, and their minds opened to the diversity of the Muslim world,” he observes. As a role model, he says, Abd el-Kader “is a unifier … [whose] probing intellect, ethical courage, compassion, depth of knowledge … impress all who learn about him.”

And his advice to the winners was simple: “Treat others as they would want to be treated … and resist stereotyping.”

    Garms affirms the broadening of students’ horizons. “We started this with an essay contest for students, but we’d like to expand our programs and create additional tools to reach a wider audience of police, military and businesses to promote better intercultural understanding,” she says.

After the awards program, the winners and family members toured the Cedar Rapids Islamic Center and visited one of the city’s historic sites: the oldest standing mosque in the United States, built in 1934.

“Abd El-Kader’s legacy deserves to be remembered along with Nelson Mandela, Gandhi and Dr. Martin Luther King Jr’s because they were all pursuing the same dream : To Reach Peace

‘ – Victoria Miller, Iowa High School Division Winner’

Elkader Mayor Josh Pope hopes the aep inspires young people “to carry on the values of the amir.” In addition to hosting the aep, Elkader is a sister city to Mascara, in northwestern Algeria, where Abd el-Kader was born in 1808. Today Mascara’s population of 150,000 dwarfs Elkader’s 1,300 residents. “Abd el-Kader serves as a great example about how people of different cultures can live together in peace and understanding,” he says

In early September Pope traveled at the invitation of the Algerian government to speak at its own Emir Abd el-Kader Award ceremony, which recognized organizations in the Mediterranean region for work in economic cooperation and interfaith relations.

The interfaith aspect of Abd el-Kader’s life impresses Miller deeply.

“I’m a Christian, and I’ve had my own difficulties—though certainly on a different level—but I know it’s important to stay positive and hopeful,” she says.

Now, she wants to add study of comparative religions and “the psychology of how we learn and react to stereotypes” to her aspirations for a career in medicine.

“Victoria grew a lot in the process of reading about el-Kader and writing her essay,” says Miller’s mother, Yvette Powers, noting diplomatically that her daughter was not always supported by some members of her extended family.

“I believe people need to accept all races and creeds,” she declares. “I hope she was able to open some eyes.”

Brian Miller, Victoria’s father, says he and his daughter talked about the life of Abd el-Kader when she was writing her essay.

“It opened up quite a discussion,” he says. “I believe there are good Muslims and bad Muslims, just like all people.”

Forum attendees received a tour of the “Mother Mosque of America,” built in 1934 in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, by immigrants from what is now Syria and Lebanon. Although not the first mosque built in the US, it is the oldest standing mosque; its proximity to Elkader, 130 kilometers away, is coincidental.

Abd el-Kader, he says, “was a good guy,” adding that he hadn’t ever really thought much before about why the town was called “Elkader.”

National high school division winner Daud Shad lives far from Iowa, more than 1,600 kilometers east, in New Jersey. He says his elder brother encouraged him to read Kiser’s biography and enter the contest.

“I’d never heard of el-Kader, ‘the George Washington of Algeria,’” says the 17-year-old, whose parents were born in Pakistan. “There need to be more leaders on all sides like el-Kader because he embodied the best of religion and humanity.”

Samantha Wiedner, 18, grew up in Elkader, and she won the high school competition for her town.

“I knew Elkader was named after the emir, and I knew where Algeria was, but that was about it,” says Wiedner, now a freshman studying Russian and international relations at the University of Iowa.

University of Iowa freshman and winner in the contest’s Elkader High School Division, Samantha Wiedner, right, talks with Jefferson High School tenth grader Lena Osman outside of the Islamic Center of Cedar Rapids. “Being intolerant to other cultures and religions isn’t going to get us anywhere,” Wiedner says. “Despite all our differences, we should be able to co-exist.”

She says she learned that “being intolerant to other cultures and religions isn’t going to get us anywhere. Despite all our differences, we should be able to coexist.”

Noureen Choudhary, 20 and a student at Villanova University, learned about the essay contest from her mother, who was born in Algeria.

“I first heard the name Abd el-Kader in a song popularized by Algerian musicians Khaled, Faudel and Rachid Taha,” says Choudhary, who was born and raised in Philadelphia. Though she was only four, she says the memorable tune and appealing lyrics made her wonder who it was about.

“My mother told me he was an Algerian hero,” she continues. “I now realize he is a figure widely heralded as an ideal Muslim, humanitarian, warrior, leader and source of Algerian national pride of the 19th century.”

Choudhary initially thought Abd el-Kader was “too obscure for Westerners to know about.” She was stunned to learn that a small town in Iowa was named for him, and that there is a group devoted to the study and promotion of his life and work.

“Not many people achieve great things like he did,” she says. “He practiced his faith in an exemplary manner.”

source/content: aramcoworld.com (headline edited) / Brian E. Clark

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pix: elkader-iowa.com

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U. S. A.

OMAN: Ministry of Culture, Sports and Youth (MCSY) steps up oral history preservation efforts

Ministry of Culture, Sports and Youth (MCSY) is intensifying efforts to document and publish the country’s oral history as part of a strategy to preserve intangible cultural heritage and reinforce national identity. The initiative aligns with Oman Vision 2040 and aims to promote Omani culture in global forums.

Fahd bin Mahmoud al Rahbi, Head of Oral History Department at the ministry’s Literary Forum, said the initiative reflects Oman’s commitment to protect its oral traditions and cultural expressions. These include stories, biographies, folk tales, customs, performing arts, traditional crafts and the knowledge systems associated with these.

“Oral history forms an integral part of Oman’s intangible cultural heritage. It is a crucial source of historical knowledge, especially in areas not captured by written records,” Rahbi said. “Our aim is to preserve this history through research, documentation and publication, as well as through public engagement and international cooperation.”

According to Rahbi, Oman’s geographical location has historically made it a crossroads of civilisations. This has contributed to the country’s rich and diverse cultural heritage. Several elements of Oman’s intangible heritage are already inscribed with Unesco, highlighting the global relevance of these preservation efforts.

Since 2006, MCSY has undertaken multiple field projects to record oral history across the governorates and wilayats. Local researchers have worked with elders, artisans and tradition bearers to document narratives, customs and knowledge passed down through generations.

The ministry has published several books as part of this initiative. Notable among these is Omani Traditional Musical Instruments, which documents the styles of Omani music, and Omani Traditional Musical Arts, a comprehensive reference on music and performance arts. Together, these publications offer a detailed record of Omani musical traditions.

Newer works include The Diving Craft in the Popular Traditions of the Batinah Coastal Community by Saeed Abdullah Mubarak al Farsi, which explores the oral traditions associated with coastal livelihoods, and The Craft of Tabsil in South Batinah by Wadha bint Mohammed al Shukaili, which chronicles the history and cultural significance of the palm-based food preservation craft.

MCSY has also supported research on frankincense traditions, culminating in the publication Frankincense and Cultural History, a collaborative project involving multiple Omani scholars.

Another recent work, Radio in the Interior of Oman, by Rana bint Nasser al Abri, explores the development of radio broadcasting in Dakhliyah from the 1940s to the 1980s, viewed through oral narratives. The Bahla Wall: The Wristband of Civilisation by Saeed bin Abdullah al Shaqsi examines the architectural and historical relevance of one of Oman’s iconic defensive structures.

 “Preserving our oral history is not just about protecting the past,” Rahbi said. “It is about shaping national identity, supporting cultural diplomacy and preparing for a future that values heritage.”

source/content: muscatdaily.com (headline edited)

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OMAN

ARAB ARTS FESTIVAL (LAAF) : The UK’s longest-running Arab arts festival returns

The Liverpool Arab Arts Festival, or LAAF, the UK’s longest-running annual celebration of Arab arts and culture, returns this month with a theme that feels both timely and timeless: “Nostalgia.”

Now two decades in, the festival has grown from grassroots beginnings into an internationally recognized celebration.

Running through to July 20, this year’s program explores how memory, heritage and longing shape artistic expression across the Arab world and its diasporas. 

The dynamic, bilingual line-up spans film, music, literature, performance, food and family activities — all underscored by deeper reflections on identity, loss and cultural continuity.

Arab News spoke with Taher Qassim, originally from Yemen, who founded LAAF in 1998 as a community-led effort to foster cultural pride and preserve Arab identity in Liverpool.

“The theme of ‘nostalgia’ is a reflection of both how far we’ve come and where we began,” Qassim said. “Twenty-three years ago, we set out on a path that was uncertain but filled with excitement and purpose. We knew we wanted to create something that represented the Yemeni and Arab presence in Liverpool, but we didn’t yet know how to express it.”

What began as a handful of cultural activations has since evolved into a platform for Arab artists. “From those humble beginnings … the festival began to blossom,” he said. “Today, we proudly offer a platform to artists from across the Arab world, Europe, the US, and beyond — something we could only have dreamed of.”

Two events stand out for him: ‘Arabs Are Not Funny’ and ‘The Book of Sanaa.’ The former, he says, “directly challenges the long-held stereotype that Arabs lack a sense of humor. It’s refreshing, bold and liberating — exactly what the festival stands for.”

The latter brings together literature, poetry, food, and a model of Yemen’s historic capital.

“The richness of this event would’ve felt like a fantasy to us two decades ago. Now, it’s a reality — something we’ve made possible through years of dedication and community.”

Qassim, who was awarded an MBE (Member of the Order of the British Empire) in 2008 for services to community cohesion, handed over the festival’s leadership to his daughter, Afrah, who now steers LAAF with the same vision and care.

Today, LAAF is no longer seen solely as a festival for the Arab community. “That perception has shifted dramatically,” Qassim said. “People from all backgrounds and ages attend and engage. The festival has become a space for dialogue, curiosity and connection.” As he put it, “Conversations happen naturally — before, during and after events.”

One event he hopes visitors will not miss is the now-iconic “Family Day” at the Palm House in Sefton Park. “It’s become the signature event of the Liverpool Arab Arts Festival — our legacy day,” he said. “Families travel from across the UK, Europe, and even further afield to be part of it. The atmosphere is joyful, welcoming, and truly inclusive … a vibrant, heartwarming celebration of Arab culture at its best.”

Some events require tickets, but “Family Day” — an afternoon of music, crafts, performances and community — is the grand finale and free to all.

source/content: arabnews.com (headline edited)

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pix: arabartsfestival.com

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ARAB ARTS FESTIVAL – UK

SAUDI ARABIA : Exhibitions at Prophet’s Mosque bring Islamic heritage to life

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)

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SAUDI ARABIA

SAUDI ARABIA : Expert sheds light on historic mosques in Makkah that remain unknown to many

Al-Dahas highlighted the significance of Namirah Mosque in Arafat, where the Prophet delivered his sermon during the Farewell Pilgrimage.

In Makkah, the holiest city in Islam, spiritual significance extends far beyond the Grand Mosque. Scattered throughout the city are historic mosques that witnessed pivotal moments in Islamic history.

Yet, amid the dense crowds and the rapid pace of modern development, many pilgrims and Umrah performers remain unaware of these sacred sites, quietly tucked away within the city’s expanding urban landscape.

Fawaz Al-Dahas, professor of history at Umm Al-Qura University, said that Makkah is home to several mosques of profound historical and religious value, yet they remain largely overlooked, receiving neither the media attention nor the organized religious visits they merit.

Al-Dahas highlighted the significance of Namirah Mosque in Arafat, where the Prophet delivered his sermon during the Farewell Pilgrimage. He said that this mosque was not merely a physical structure, but a sacred site where the foundational principles of Islam were proclaimed. He also referenced the Bay’ah Mosque in Mina, which commemorates the pivotal moment when the Ansar pledged allegiance to the Prophet, paving the way for the Hijrah and the establishment of the Islamic state.

According to Al-Dahas, the importance of these mosques transcends their geographic locations, reflecting their profound political and religious significance in Islamic history.

Al-Dahas shed light on Al-Rayah Mosque: “Located in the Jarwal neighborhood, where the Prophet’s banner was raised on the day of the Conquest of Makkah, a powerful symbol of victory tempered by forgiveness.”

He also drew attention to Al-Hudaibiya Mosque, situated west of Makkah, where the historic Bay’at Al-Ridwan pledge took place, an event referenced in the Holy Qur’an. He said that while the mosque still stands on the original site of the Treaty of Hudaibiya, it remains largely unknown, with few visitors aware of its exact location.

Mohammed Al-Joud, a Hajj and Umrah specialist, said that these mosques were not merely historical structures, but vital educational landmarks that enrich a pilgrim’s understanding of the deeper spiritual dimensions of Hajj. He pointed to Al-Khayf Mosque in Mina, where the Prophet and prophets before him are believed to have prayed, as a powerful symbol of the continuity of prophethood: “Yet, many pilgrims remain unaware of its significance outside the Hajj season.”

Al-Joud also highlighted Al-Mashar Al-Haram Mosque in Muzdalifah, which is mentioned in the Holy Qur’an, emphasizing that awareness of such sacred sites bridges the rituals of Hajj with their Qur’anic and historical roots, enhancing the spiritual journey.

Al-Joud also drew attention to Al-Kabsh Mosque in Mina, linked to the story of the sacrifice of Ismail. He explained that the mosque symbolizes the values of sacrifice and obedience, yet remains largely overlooked in media coverage and excluded from most pilgrimage programs. He described it as an essential part of a broader, interconnected network of sacred sites that trace the prophetic journey — from revelation to migration, and from peace to conquest.

Al-Dahas underscored the importance of launching awareness initiatives to shed light on these mosques and restore their rightful standing. He said that safeguarding Makkah’s Islamic heritage was not limited to preserving its prominent landmarks, but also required reviving these historically significant mosques, which once stood as pivotal markers along the journey of the prophetic message.

He said that reconnecting pilgrims with these sacred sites revived the educational and historical depth of Hajj, enriching the journey with a more profound, informed, and spiritually immersive experience.

source/content: arabnews.com (headline edited)

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Scattered throughout the city are historic mosques that witnessed pivotal moments in Islamic history. (SPA)

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SAUDI ARABIA

SAUDI ARABIA : Exploring the hidden gems of Saudi Arabia’s sacred heritage

In the holy city of Makkah, pilgrims visit Jabal Al-Nour, whose name means “Mountain of Light”.

 As pilgrims complete the sacred rites of Hajj, many embark on a deeper spiritual journey by exploring historic Islamic sites across Saudi Arabia to connect with the roots of their faith.

In the holy city of Makkah, pilgrims visit Jabal Al-Nour, whose name means “Mountain of Light.” At its peak lies the Cave of Hira, where the first verses of the Qur’an were revealed through the Angel Jibreel.

The mountain’s distinctive camel-hump shape makes it a striking landmark, especially with the nearby Hira Cultural District, where the Revelation Gallery offers pilgrims to learn the story of divine revelation and history.

Ahmed Khan, a private tour guide said: “There’s something unexplainable about standing where it all began. When I take pilgrims to Jabal al-Nour, many of them are moved to tears it’s not just a climb, but it’s a spiritual awakening.”

To the south lies Jabal Thawr, the mountain that cradled the Prophet and his companion Abu Bakr as-Siddiq in its cave during their migration to Madinah. The story of divine protection, where a spider’s web and a dove’s nest concealed their presence from their pursuers, resonates deeply with pilgrims.

Another frequently visited site is Jabal Abu Qubays, believed in some traditions to be the first mountain placed on Earth. As the closest peak to the Grand Mosque, it resonates with the early public da’wah and the great spiritual responsibility.

FAST FACTS

• Al-Qiblatain Mosque, where revelation changed the direction of prayer from Jerusalem to Makkah, remains a must-visit site for pilgrims. 

• Programs like ‘Hala,’ launched by Al-Bait Guests Co., are curating journeys for pilgrims to explore with knowledgeable guides. 

Nearby, the modest yet historically significant Al-Bay’ah Mosque marks the location of the Pledge of Aqabah, where the Ansar of Madinah pledged allegiance to the Prophet Muhammad.

Built during the Abbasid era, it symbolizes early Muslim unity and commitment to the new faith. A short distance away in Al-Hajun district is Jabal Al-Sayyidah, at the base of which lies the revered Al-Ma’la Cemetery, resting place of Khadijah, the Prophet’s beloved wife. Her grave remains a focal point of deep reverence.

“Pilgrims love visiting these places and it helps them to understand the sacrifices of the people who shaped Islam,” Khan added.

Madinah has its own timeless legacy. Al-Qiblatain Mosque, where revelation changed the direction of prayer from Jerusalem to Makkah and marked a defining shift in Muslim identity and remains a must-visit site for pilgrims.

Hussain Rauff, regional director of Madinah Hotels at Elaf Al-Taqwa, said: “We’re planning to organize guided tours across Madinah to help pilgrims explore the city’s rich Islamic heritage. It’s a meaningful way to extend their spiritual journey beyond the rituals of Hajj.”

Further west of the Prophet’s Mosque lies the cluster known as the Seven Mosques, each linked to events from the Battle of the Trench. Among them are Al-Fath Mosque and those named after figures such as Fatimah, Ali ibn Abi Talib, and Salman Al-Farsi. These mosques are rich in historical memory and serve as reminders of hardship during one of Islam’s critical battles.

Mount Uhud rises just north of Madinah city, its slopes reminds of the Battle of Uhud and the place where the Prophet’s uncle, Hamza ibn Abdul Muttalib, and 70 companions were martyred. Today, pilgrims pause at the Uhud Martyrs Cemetery indicating the modesty found in victory and the strength drawn from loss.

Equally powerful is a visit to Baqi’ Al-Gharqad Cemetery, the resting place of many of the Prophet’s family members and companions. Located near the Prophet’s Mosque, the cemetery has long served as a site for prayer and remembrance, offering pilgrims a moment of intimate connection with those who stood beside the Prophet during Islam’s formative years.

Beyond the holy cities, other destinations continue to attract pilgrims in search of spiritual enrichment. Northwest of Madinah lies Khaybar, the site of a pivotal military campaign that showcases both the strategic and ethical dimensions of the Prophet’s leadership. Its volcanic terrain and ancient fortifications tell stories etched in stone.

Fatima Al-Mutairi, a pilgrim from Kuwait: “I am planning to visit these places in Jeddah and Taif after my Hajj. I am planning to visit the Tomb of Hawa in Jeddah and in Taif, I look forward to visiting Masjid Abdullah ibn Abbas, to pay tribute to one of the great scholars whose work in Qur’anic interpretation and Hadith continues to inspire many seekers of knowledge.”

Recognizing the growing desire for such experiences, programs like “Hala,” launched by Al-Bait Guests Co., are curating immersive journeys for pilgrims to explore these sacred sites with knowledgeable guides and spiritual context.

Mohammed Al-Shahrani, experience officer in Hajj and Umrah sector said: “Our aim is to enrich the post-Hajj experience. We want pilgrims to understand that the journey of faith continues, and Saudi Arabia is opening its heritage for those who wish to walk in the footsteps of the Prophet.”

source/content: arabnews.com (headline edited)

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Beyond the holy cities, other sacred destinations continue to attract pilgrims in search of spiritual enrichment. (Supplied/File photo)

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SAUDI ARABIA

MIDDLE EAST airlines to lead global profit margins in 2025, IATA says 

Global airlines are projected to record a net profit of $36 billion, with total industry revenue reaching $979 billion

Saudi Arabia and the UAE continue to bolster the industry as part of their economic diversification efforts

Middle East airlines are forecast to post the world’s highest net profit margin in 2025 of 8.7 percent, outpacing global peers, according to the latest industry report. 

The forecast, released by the International Air Transport Association during its 81st Annual General Meeting in New Delhi, also projects that airlines operating in the Middle East will generate a net profit of $6.2 billion this year — slightly up from $6.1 billion in 2024. The region is also expected to earn $27.20 per passenger.

Globally, airlines are projected to record a net profit of $36 billion, with total industry revenue reaching $979 billion — below IATA’s earlier $1 trillion estimate, due in part to macroeconomic uncertainties and supply constraints. 

The growth of the aviation sector in the Middle East reflects broader regional expansion, as countries such as Saudi Arabia and the UAE continue to bolster the industry as part of their economic diversification efforts. 

source/content: arabnews.com (headline edited)

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MIDDLE EAST