Aerial view of a highway intersection in Riyadh’s desert, symbolizing the Gulf’s transformation from tradition to modernity..

Palaces, Deserts, and a Thousand Years of Gulf Identity

The Gulf is often seen through narrow stereotypes, but its identity is far richer. Hadi Al-Anizi highlights the historical, cultural, and economic forces that have shaped Gulf societies, where Bedouin heritage and modern urban life intertwine.

by Dahlia Rahaimy | 5th Nov 2024

Conversations

A map of Saudi Arabia showing its geographical borders and location in the Middle East.

Francesco Schiavi on Saudi Arabia’s Path: Balancing Ambition and Change

Francesco Salesio Schiavi shares his insights on how Saudi Arabia is shaping its global presence through ambitious mega-projects and strategic investments in sports, culture, and tourism, amidst regional competition.

Oct 16, 2024

A professional office setting featuring a man in a suit and a woman in traditional Saudi attire engaged in a dialogue. The background showcases a panoramic view of Riyadh's skyline, including the iconic Kingdom Tower. (Source: DALL-E)

Sebastian Sons: Bridging Perspectives on Saudi Arabia

In an era of growing polarization, Sebastian Sons emphasizes the power of healthy dialogue in bridging cultural gaps, particularly in the context of Saudi Arabia's social development and Vision 2030.

Aug 27, 2024

Désirée Kaiser discusses Saudi Arabia's socio-economic transformations and changing German perspectives.

Inside Saudi Arabia's Transformation: Insights from Middle East Consultant Désirée Kaiser

Désirée Kaiser, an expert in international politics and socio-economic research, offers insights into Saudi Arabia’s modernization and empowerment, highlighting women’s roles and the Kingdom’s ambitious transformation.

Jul 13, 2024

A farming field in Saudi Arabia, reflecting the country’s focus on food security through advanced agriculture and water management.

Saudi Arabia’s Agricultural Shift: A Necessity of Survival

Farming was once an unlikely profession in Saudi Arabia, but climate change and rising food prices are driving a cultural shift. From cucumbers to grapes, locally grown produce is gaining traction, reflecting the Kingdom’s push for food self-sufficiency and sustainable growth.

May 24, 2024

A theater curtain symbolizing the growth of Saudi Arabia's theater industry and cultural development.

Soha Khan: Leading Saudi Arabia’s Theatre Revolution

Soha Khan is at the forefront of Saudi Arabia’s emerging theatre scene. As the founder of Falla Factory, the first dedicated theatre production company in the Kingdom, she reflects on her journey, her passion for theatre, and her vision for building a thriving creative industry.

May 22, 2024

Map of Saudi Arabia and the world, with Guido Steinberg discussing Middle Eastern politics, Gulf tensions, and the internationalization of Islamist terrorism. (Source: Pexels)

Guido Steinberg on Understanding Islamist Terrorism

Read about the complexities of Saudi Arabia, guided by the expertise of Islamic, Middle East and terrorism researcher Guido Steinberg.

Feb 25, 2023

A group of tribal men sitting together, symbolizing the continued influence of tribes in shaping Gulf societies and politics, preserving traditions while impacting modern governance.

Tribal Dynamics in the Gulf: A Legacy of Influence

Tribes have long shaped the Gulf's political and social fabric, serving as a powerful force in Arab society and continuing to influence modern relations within the GCC.

Jul 6, 2022

Book cover of Dr. Mark C. Thompson’s exploration of Saudi Arabia’s societal changes, focusing on shifting gender roles.

Dr. Mark C Thompson Explores Saudi Arabia’s Transition and Shifting Gender Roles

British academic Dr. Mark C Thompson delves into Saudi Arabia’s rapid societal changes, focusing on the overlooked role of young men amid the nation’s shift in gender dynamics, socio-economic pressures, and evolving cultural identity.

May 26, 2022

Jeddah's historic architecture, showcasing its role as a cultural melting pot shaped by centuries of migration and trade along the Red Sea.

Jeddah’s Historic Role: Lessons in Integration from Ulrike Freitag’s "A History of Jeddah"

German historian Professor Ulrike Freitag, director of the Leibniz-Zentrum Moderner Orient in Berlin, spoke to SaudiTimes in her latest book “A History of Jeddah: The Gate to Mecca in the Nineteenth and Twentieth Centuries’’ published in February 2020. Speaking about a historical melting pot like Jeddah in days, when immigration, tolerance, and togetherness are more than ever central issues in worldwide discussions beyond countries’ borders and people’s mind, is of special significance.

Dec 29, 2020

Angeles Espinosa speaking at a podium, highlighting her decades of reporting on the Arab world and her recognition for impactful work. (Source: nuevecuatrouno)

Angeles Espinosa Explores Saudi Arabia’s Tourism and Social Change

Spanish journalist Angeles Espinosa, a seasoned correspondent for El País, reflects on her experiences covering the Middle East and her first touristic visit to Saudi Arabia, exploring the kingdom's transformative social reforms and the breathtaking site of Mada’in Saleh.

Jun 1, 2020

A nostalgic depiction of 1970s expatriate life in Saudi Arabia, featuring traditional compounds, vintage cars, Arabic patterns, and desert surroundings.

Elizabeth Frost’s Memoir on Expat Life in Saudi Arabia

Elizabeth Frost’s memoir unravels the complexities of expat life in Saudi Arabia, offering a rich blend of personal stories, cultural insights, and reflections on a rapidly evolving society.

May 5, 2020

Lucas Skrobot interviewing Dahlia Rahaimy about the transformation of Saudi Arabia's education and culture.

In Conversation with Lucas Skrobot on Education and Culture in Saudi Arabia’s Future

What role do education and culture play in Saudi Arabia’s transformation? Lucas Skrobot shares his insights in this compelling interview.

Apr 19, 2020