Discover how traditional Saudi arranged marriages resemble modern Tinder matchmaking in surprising ways
Jul 23, 2024
Learn about the complexities of Mujamalah, the cultural practice in Saudi Arabia that balances kindness with honesty in communication, influenced by misunderstood Islamic teachings on respect and politeness.
Jul 16, 2024
Saudi Arabia’s recent directive mandating traditional attire for officials, including the bisht for men and the abaya for women, is a thoughtful approach to blending heritage with modern governance. This initiative underscores the symbolic value of these garments, reflecting the kingdom’s dedication to preserving cultural identity while adapting to contemporary challenges.
Jul 3, 2024
Investing in Saudi people is the path to the future. As Saudi Arabia undergoes significant cultural and educational reforms, the focus on its people is more crucial than ever. From educational exchanges to global cultural engagements, Saudi Arabia is building a brighter future through its most valuable asset – its people.
Jun 28, 2024
In a bold and creative move, Saudi lawyer Nasreen Alissa has developed an innovative app aimed to educate women about their rights under Islamic law (Sharia). This app serves as a crucial tool in a society where women's rights have often been overshadowed by strict guardianship rules. Alissa's initiative is not just about informing women but also about reshaping the narrative around women's rights in Saudi Arabia, emphasing protection over control as dictated by Sharia.
May 21, 2024
Explore societal changes on Saudi national identity and the cultural landscape. Join us to preserve and develop Saudi heritage amidst modernization.
May 15, 2024
Until now, there were significant challenges in understanding how Islamic Law (Sharia) is applied in Saudi Arabia. One main issue was the tendency to interpret the law out of context or ignore relevant circumstances, leading to blind adherence without considering the specific situation. This lack of contextualization resulted in situations where individuals felt bound by rigid interpretations, even when they didn’t align with the intended spirit of Sharia. This has been changed now.
Jul 9, 2023
Saudi Arabia's recent release of population statistics, marking a significant departure from past practices, sheds light on a nation in demographic transition. With a population of 36.33 million and a median age of 32.4 years, the Kingdom faces both challenges and opportunities in its youthful demographic landscape. This shift, underscored by digital transformation, prompts reflection on why accurate data has only now come to the forefront after years of perceived indifference.
Jun 14, 2023
Read about the complexities of Saudi Arabia, guided by the expertise of Islamic, Middle East and terrorism researcher Guido Steinberg.
Feb 25, 2023
In recent years, Saudi Arabia has witnessed a significant rise in divorce rates, signalling a shift in social dynamics and the empowerment of women. Once socially stigmatised, divorce is now increasingly accepted as women are regaining their rights. This article investigates the factors contributing to this change and examines how modern Saudi society is redefining marriage and personal independence.
Feb 4, 2023
Tribes have always been a cornerstone of Arab society, especially in the Gulf region. Their enduring influence, shapes the political and social landscapes across GCC countries as explained in the book "Tribal Dynamics in the Gulf: Past and Present."
Jul 6, 2022
Dr. Mark Thompson explores in his interview with SaudiTimes the evolving roles and identities of young Saudi men in his new book, "Being Young Male and Saudi: Identity and Politics in a Globalized Kingdom.'' Amidst significant socio-economic changes driven by Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030, Thompson explores into how these transformations impact the lives and perceptions of Saudi men.
May 26, 2022
Angeles Espinosa, Spanish journalist for the Arab world, recently embarked on a journey to Saudi Arabia. With over 40 visits to the country, this was Espinosa first tourism-focused trip, offering her a new lens through which to examine the country's ongoing reforms and cultural transformations. Amidst discussions on societal change and historical treasures like Mada'n Saleh Saleh, she shares her insights on Saudi's path to towards modernity and the challenges it faces.
Jun 1, 2020
Meet Elizabeth Frost, affectionately known as Bizzie, whose life story reads like a captivating novel traversing continents and cultures. From her idyllic childhood in Kenya's tea-growing district to her unexpected journey to Saudi Arabia, Bizzie's narrative is a tapestry woven with adventure, resilience, and transformation.
May 5, 2020
In a dynamic interview with Lucas Skrobot, founder and host of OWN THE FUTURE, I had the opportunity to explain the changes and developments of cultural values in Saudi Arabia.
Apr 19, 2020
I came across Gudrun Harrer for the first time on Twitter. Reading her articles was smooth like reading prose rather than a political analysis. This was not due only to the Austrian charm and irony in her writing, but her deep knowledge and vision of things that make it easy to understand and learn. Despite a few points here and there that I would say are a Western mentality, I would agree with much of what she writes.
Oct 13, 2019
An interview published on Deutsche Welle discusses the introduction of cinemas in Saudi Arabia and their significance for society. This marks a significant step towards cultural openness and modernization, with varied reactions within the Saudi community.
Apr 21, 2018
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