From Dunes to Rivers — and Back Again?

A wide view of Al-Asfar Lake (Yellow Lake) near Al-Ahsa in eastern Saudi Arabia, surrounded by desert terrain and sparse vegetation, showing the contrast between water and arid land.

by Dahlia Rahaimy | 8th May 2025

Culture

Black and yellow Keram coins line the corner of a wooden board, suggesting a momentary break in a game that blends strategy with subtle skill.

What Saudis Are Playing Again

Long before screens dominated social life, Saudis gathered around game boards. Now, a new generation is rediscovering the quiet joy of playing face to face.

May 2, 2025

A large pile of freshly picked pink Taif roses in front of burlap sacks filled with more roses, set outdoors in soft natural light.

Perfume and Persistence in the City of Roses

While Saudi Arabia charges ahead with bold reforms and towering skylines, a quieter story unfolds each spring in Taif, where millions of Damask roses bloom. For the farmers who rise before dawn to harvest them, these roses are more than flowers—they are a way of life, a source of pride, and now, a fragile tradition facing the growing pressures of climate and change.

Apr 23, 2025

Elegant Arabic calligraphy with lantern decorations, celebrating Eid al-Fitr in Saudi Arabia, symbolizing warmth, family, and tradition.

Eid in Saudi Arabia: A Festival of Faith and Family

Eid in Saudi Arabia is more than just a holiday; it’s a vivid celebration of faith and family. As the crescent moon signals the end of Ramadan, streets come alive with festive decorations, families rush to prepare, and the nation unites in prayer and generosity. From communal gatherings to cherished traditions, Eid al-Fitr is a time of renewal, reflection, and joy.

Mar 27, 2025

A film crew sets up equipment in AlUla, Saudi Arabia, surrounded by traditional mudbrick buildings and dramatic rock formations. The scene highlights the Kingdom's growing film industry and its use of historic landscapes as cinematic backdrops.

Saudi Arabia’s Film Industry Reclaims Its Narrative

For decades, Saudi Arabia’s image was defined by oil, geopolitics, and external narratives. Now, film is changing that—giving Saudis the platform to tell their own stories and reshape global perceptions.

Mar 18, 2025

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

Shada Mountain blends ancient history and natural beauty in Saudi Arabia's Al-Baha region.

Shada Mountain: A Window into Saudi Arabia’s Prehistoric Past

Towering over the Al-Baha region, Shada Mountain is a majestic natural landmark that preserves traces of Saudi Arabia’s prehistoric past. Its ancient caves, adorned with carvings and drawings, reveal a fascinating glimpse into early human life in the Arabian Peninsula.

Sep 15, 2024

Al Baik: Jeddah's Iconic Fried Chicken and Saudi Cultural Phenomenon

In the bustling streets of Jeddah, where the serene Corniche meets the spirit of football, one name reigns supreme: Al Baik. More than a fast-food joint, Al Baik is a beloved tradition that offers a taste of Saudi culture and comfort. As Saudi Arabia transforms, this iconic chain remains a cherished symbol of consistency, quality, and community.

Sep 2, 2024

An AI-generated image blending Saudi cultural identity, merging past memories with future possibilities.

How AI is Transforming Saudi Art

In June 2024, the Arab Gulf States Institute in Washington highlighted Saudi multimedia installation artist Daniah Alsaleh’s innovative use of AI to evoke emotional reactions and reshape historical narratives. Alsaleh’s deepfake-generated portraits challenge the certainty of memory, reflecting on the impact of media and AI in shaping perceptions.

Aug 20, 2024

A date palm tree in Saudi Arabia, symbolizing the growth of date cultivation through modern farming techniques and government support.

Dates: A Sweet Engine for Saudi Arabia's Economy

If the idea of a date carnival sounds like a niche cultural event, the scale of the Buraidah Dates Carnival in Qassim tells a different story. With 3.5 million kilograms of dates delivered and week-one sales exceeding SAR 28 million, the event highlights how Saudi Arabia has turned its iconic fruit into a driver of economic growth.

Aug 12, 2024

Changing the Kiswa, the ceremonial covering of the Kaaba, takes place annually on the 9th of Dhu al-Hijjah, marking the eve of Hajj.

Clothing the Kaaba and Preserving an Enduring Tradition

The Kiswa, the sacred covering of the Kaaba, symbolizes the unity of faith and tradition, reflecting Saudi Arabia's role as a custodian of Islamic heritage.

Jun 25, 2023