An old Saudi Arabian one-riyal banknote displaying Arabic text, an intricate border, and a detailed architectural illustration of a government building. The banknote includes handwritten serial numbers and official signatures.

From Coins to Clicks: Saudi Arabia’s Payroll Shift

For much of the 20th century, salaries in Saudi Arabia were a tangible affair—literally. Workers at Aramco once received their wages in sacks of silver riyals, a practice now preserved in the Aramco Community Heritage Exhibition. These archival images capture a time when financial transactions were physical, and payroll was a manual process, reflecting the Kingdom’s economic transformation.

by Dahlia Rahaimy | 21st Feb 2025

Society

A woman in a dark hijab, wearing gold and gemstone jewelry, holds a black perfume bottle. The image highlights the intersection of modern luxury and traditional style.

Fashion’s New Front Row: Will the Middle East Take a Seat?

Fashion Trust Arabia is redefining Middle Eastern fashion by championing emerging designers. While talents like Mohammed Ashi gain global attention, breaking into luxury markets remains a challenge. Can Arab couture claim its place on the world stage?

Feb 18, 2025

The Unseen Battleground of Middle Eastern Fashion

Feb 18, 2025

An abstract illustration showing the shift in mental health awareness in Saudi Arabia, contrasting traditional support through family and faith with modern therapy and digital tools.

Mental Health in Saudi Arabia: Breaking the Tabo

For much of Saudi Arabia’s history, mental health was not an individual matter—it was a family concern, often addressed by elders or religious figures. Therapy, if considered at all, was a last resort, viewed with skepticism. But as the country modernizes, younger Saudis are rewriting the narrative. Social media movements, digital therapy platforms, and evolving government policies are reshaping perceptions, making mental health a topic of open discussion rather than quiet struggle.

Feb 10, 2025

Entertainment

Image of Asghar Farhadi, the acclaimed Iranian director, known for his films A Separation and The Salesman, which explore complex human emotions and societal issues. (Source: Shutterstock)

Iranian Movies At Red Sea Festival: A Cultural Bridge in the Making

The inclusion of Iranian films at Saudi Arabia’s Red Sea International Film Festival marks a powerful moment of cultural diplomacy, showcasing how cinema can transcend political divides. This step highlights a growing cultural exchange between two historically estranged nations, opening new pathways for understanding and dialogue.

Nov 19, 2024

Maraya, a mirrored concert hall in Ashar Valley, Al-Ula, reflecting the desert landscape and hosting cultural events in Saudi Arabia.

Saudi Arabia Hits a High Note: Opera Finds Its Stage in the Kingdom

Opera is striking a new chord in Saudi Arabia, where the genre—once unfamiliar—is now making its debut with ambitious projects like the Diriyah Opera House and trailblazers like Sawsan Al-Bahiti. But will Saudis embrace this high-drama art form in their rapidly evolving music scene?

Sep 10, 2024

Saudi Arabia is emerging as a notable destination for the film industry, with locations like AlUla offering cultural and historical significance for productions.i

Saudi Cinema: Spotlighting a Cultural Revival

Saudi Arabia's film industry has grown into a thriving cultural force, gaining local and global recognition. What’s next for this promising sector?

Aug 5, 2024

Culture

A tranquil oasis surrounded by sand dunes in the Empty Quarter desert under a clear sky.

Crossing the Empty Quarter: A Saudi Rediscovery

Badr Al-Shaibani’s trek across the Empty Quarter is more than an adventure—it’s a powerful symbol of Saudi Arabia’s rediscovery of its rich heritage. As the Kingdom embraces modernity, journeys like his remind us of the profound stories buried within its vast landscapes.

Dec 18, 2024

A modern Saudi Arabian restaurant blending traditional architecture with contemporary design. The scene includes elegantly plated Saudi dishes like jareesh and seafood, with soft lighting, Arabic calligraphy, and a view of Riyadh's historic Diriyah distri

How Saudi Cuisine Got a Modern Makeover

Saudi cuisine is taking center stage on the global culinary map, serving as a flavorful ambassador of a nation reconnecting with its heritage while embracing the future. Restaurants like Takya in Riyadh are not just redefining traditional dishes but also reshaping how the world sees Saudi Arabia—one plate at a time.

Dec 17, 2024

A rare winter scene in Saudi Arabia with snow-covered desert landscapes transformed by unexpected snowfall.

An Icy Mirage in the Arabian Desert: Rare Snow Sparks Climate Questions

Snow in the Arabian desert? Saudi Arabia's Al-Jawf region saw a rare and stunning snowfall, transforming its arid landscape into a winter scene. This unexpected event has sparked discussions about climate change and its impact on Saudi society. As the Kingdom modernizes, how will shifting weather patterns shape its future and sustainability efforts?

Nov 9, 2024