Latest news with #Aseer

Associated Press
4 days ago
- Entertainment
- Associated Press
Film Commission Unveils Third Film Criticism Conference
RIYADH, SAUDI ARABIA, July 27, 2025 / / -- The Film Commission announced the launch of the third annual Film Criticism Conference and its accompanying events, held under the theme 'Cinema: the Art of Place.' This year's conference will take place in three cultural hubs: Aseer in August, followed by Qatif in October, and concluding in Riyadh in November. The conference reflects the commission's commitment to building a critical landscape that transcends traditional event concepts, establishing an interactive knowledge framework that brings together critics, researchers, filmmakers, and emerging Saudi talents. The comprehensive program includes informative sessions, practical workshops, and specialized art exhibitions. This year's edition will open avenues for dialogue about the reciprocal relationship between cinema and place, viewing it as a means of identity establishment, narrative representation, and visual contemplation, enriching each other historically. It will explore the embodiment of place in cinema as both a symbol and a mirror of reality, or a window into imagination, thereby inviting diverse critical and philosophical approaches. The conference continues to strengthen its unique position, serving as a platform that celebrates the cinematic criticism movement in the region. Last year's edition attracted over 10,000 visitors from more than 30 countries, with participation from over 35 local and international entities, alongside prominent critics, directors, and film researchers. Ibraheem Habtar Benchmark email us here Legal Disclaimer: EIN Presswire provides this news content 'as is' without warranty of any kind. We do not accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright issues related to this article, kindly contact the author above.


Leaders
22-07-2025
- Business
- Leaders
Abha Airport Launches New Shipping Procedures to Boost Ghee, Honey Exports
The Aseer Development Authority, in partnership with Cluster2 company, has introduced updated shipping procedures at Abha Airport to facilitate the transport of local ghee and honey products. Under the new guidelines, these items can now be included in checked baggage through a streamlined and officially approved process developed in collaboration with the airport's operating company. This initiative, launched under the direction of Prince Turki bin Talal bin Abdulaziz, Governor of the Aseer Region and Chairman of the Aseer Development Authority, also has the full backing of Abdulaziz Al-Duailej, President of the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA). The goal is to enhance the marketing and nationwide distribution of Aseer's signature products by leveraging major logistics channels. Known for their high quality and deep cultural roots, Aseer's traditional ghee and natural honey are highly valued by consumers for their taste, nutritional benefits, and authenticity. These improved shipping procedures are expected to simplify the transportation of ghee and honey, boost their national competitiveness, and contribute to the region's broader sustainable economic development goals. The move also supports local cottage industries and entrepreneurs while strengthening the connection between Aseer's unique local products and its growing tourism sector. Related Topics Saudi Transport and Logistics Minister Opens SMIC 2023; 4 Agreements Signed King Abdul Aziz Public Transport Project: Unique Step to Improve Transportation in KSA Saudi Railways: Hydrogen Train First Trials to Start in Kingdom Short link :


UAE Moments
22-07-2025
- UAE Moments
Find Out Why Aseer Is a Top Mountain Escape This Summer
If you've already soaked in Salalah's cool, misty vibes and find yourself craving more mountain air, lush greenery, and an escape from the summer heat... We've got just the place for you. Join our FREE WhatsApp channel to dive into a world of real-time engagement! Say hello to Aseer, a breathtaking mountain region in southwestern Saudi Arabia that combines fog-draped peaks, waterfalls, and centuries of culture into one unforgettable summer getaway. And with Aseer Season running until August 31, now's the perfect time to pack your bags! What Makes Aseer Ideal in Summer? Unlike most of the Gulf, Aseer boasts a cooler climate year-round, thanks to its mountainous terrain. Its capital, Abha, sits at over 2,200 metres above sea level, making it one of the coolest cities in Saudi Arabia during summer. From June to August, temperatures typically range between 24°C and 29°C, with misty mornings, afternoon showers, and refreshing winds. It's a welcome break from the scorching heat elsewhere, ideal for outdoor adventures, nature walks, and even just chilling with a view. While it can touch 30°C midday, mornings are cool and foggy, perfect for exploring. Top Places to Visit in Aseer Aseer will completely change your idea of Saudi Arabia as just desert. Here are a few magical spots to add to your itinerary: 1. Soudah Mountain (Jebel Sawda) At 3,015 metres, it's Saudi Arabia's highest peak. Expect sweeping views, often surrounded by clouds, and summer temperatures around 20–25°C. 2. Green Mountain (Jabal Thera) This hill lights up green at night and offers incredible views of Abha. Take the cable car for jaw-dropping vistas of Lake Sadd and the valleys below. 3. Rijal Almaa Heritage Village A UNESCO-nominated gem, this 700-year-old village is built from basalt stone and white quartz. Wander its narrow alleys, see cultural performances, and pick up traditional crafts. 4. Jurf Reedah Reserve A paradise for wildlife lovers, home to ancient juniper forests, Arabian wolves, lynxes, and rare birds like the Aseeri magpie. 5. Al Habala Ride the cable car into dramatic highlands dotted with waterfalls, cliffs, and untouched nature. Things to Do in Aseer Adventure: Paragliding, hiking, climbing, and even coastal activities like surfing and diving. Culture: Visit ancient forts, museums, and palaces to get a taste of the region's rich heritage. Nature: Hike forest trails, picnic in valleys, and enjoy local cuisine amid lush greenery. If you're not sure where to start, you can book guided tours through Visit Saudi. A 4-day guided trip costs about SAR 4,500 (Dh4,400) including a guide, transport, breakfast, and activities. How to Get to Aseer Getting there from the UAE is easy. flydubai has daily direct flights from Dubai to Abha. Air Arabia flies from Sharjah to Abha. Saudi carriers like flynas and Saudia also operate on this route. The flight takes around two hours, making it a perfect weekend or short break. Getting Around Once in Abha, getting around is hassle-free. Use ride-hailing apps like Uber, Careem, or Bolt. Or rent a car, just make sure you have an International Driving Permit if you're a foreign national. Visa Information For UAE residents, visiting Aseer is simple. Expatriates can apply for an eVisa under the GCC resident category at Many nationalities can also get a visa on arrival at Saudi airports. Why Aseer Is Perfect for UAE Residents If you loved Salalah for its cool weather and green mountains, Aseer offers all that plus a dash of Saudi charm and culture. From scenic peaks to historic villages and serene waterfalls, it's the ideal summer escape without the crowds. So what are you waiting for? This summer, trade the heat for misty mornings, cool breezes, and unforgettable memories in Aseer.


Arab News
20-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Arab News
Saudi Arabia's Beit Hail festival draws 65,000 visitors since launch
RIYADH: A heritage festival in Hail, northwestern Saudi Arabia, has attracted more than 65,000 visitors since it launched on June 28 from various Saudi cities as well as Gulf and international destinations. The 30-day Beit Hail Festival at Aja Park offers a vibrant mix of cultural, artistic and heritage experiences, operating daily from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. The festival will continue until July 27, offering an immersive celebration of cultural heritage that includes handicrafts, traditional dishes and Thamudic inscriptions. Beit Hail features an art pavilion showcasing notable artists, a resin art exhibit, a folk theater, residential models inspired by heritage and performances highlighting the culture of Aseer province. Several government leaders have visited the festival, praising its activities for recalling memories of traditional life and showcasing conventional methods of meeting daily needs, the Saudi Press Agency reported.


Arab News
18-07-2025
- Arab News
Aseer's blooming bounty: How rare flowers turn southern region into a year-round honey hub
RIYADH: Each summer, as Aseer's highland peaks erupt in fragrant blossoms, local beekeepers begin harvesting some of Saudi Arabia's most coveted honey. Each variety is tied to a rare native plant and a fleeting blooming season. According to the Saudi Press Agency, this botanical diversity is what sets the region apart. Aseer accounts for 20 percent of the Kingdom's total honey production, according to the Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture, and is home to more than 5,000 active beekeepers. Backed by SR54 million ($14.4 million) in government support, the sector has become a cornerstone of Aseer's ecotourism and agricultural economy. At the heart of this flourishing industry lies a simple equation: flower plus season equals flavor. In his book 'Honey Atlas,' researcher Dr. Ibrahim Al-Arifi documents the region's key varieties, from thick white Majra honey harvested off the slopes to golden Katad from valley-floor Acacia trees. Each one tells a story of soil, altitude, and survival. Majra honey, extracted from the blooms of Teucrium polium in late summer, is among the rarest in the Kingdom. It is prized for its immediate crystallization, pale color, and intense sweetness, all traits linked to the plant's short blooming cycle and climate sensitivity. It grows only in the upper elevations of Aseer. Majra honey, extracted from the blooms of Teucrium polium in late summer, is among the rarest in the Kingdom. Katad honey, gleaned from Acacia hamulosa flowers between June and August, is known for its golden shine and moderate density. The drought-resistant thorny plant thrives in the region's valleys and produces honey credited with boosting immunity and energy. By early fall, another Aseer staple makes its appearance. Salam honey is dark red and comes from bees feeding on the golden blooms of the Acacia ehrenbergiana tree, which grows in rocky, arid environments. The famed Sidr honey, widely known across the Kingdom, is extracted between August and October. Its source, the Sidr tree, blooms in the valleys and plains of Tihama, Rijal Almaa, and Sarat Abidah. Dark golden, highly nutritious, and medicinal, Sidr is among the most expensive types of honey in the Saudi market due to its limited supply and high quality. Further west, along the banks of valley streams, the bright yellow blossoms of the seyal tree produce a fall honey noted for its spicy aroma and dark amber color. Even some winter-blooming trees, like Al-Samar, begin flowering early in warm parts of Aseer. This allows early harvests of a rich, red honey with a deep, earthy flavor. This steady cycle of flowering, foraging, and flavor has made Aseer a year-round producer of artisanal honey. From mountains to valleys, each bloom supports not just bees, but families, farmers, and the region's growing reputation as a hub for nature-based industries. As demand rises for rare and organic honey, Aseer's deep-rooted knowledge and climate-resilient crops are helping to secure the future of beekeeping in the Kingdom, one blossom at a time.