Latest news with #RoyalCommissionforAlUla
Leaders
19 hours ago
- Science
- Leaders
AlUla Deploys Advanced SHIMM System to Advance Astronomy, Boost Tourism
The Royal Commission for AlUla has launched the state of the art SHIMM astronomical monitoring system at the AlUla Manara site near the Gharameel Nature Reserve. This initiative is designed to evaluate the site's suitability for hosting cutting-edge astronomical research and activities, while reinforcing AlUla's status as a leading destination for both scientific exploration and astro-tourism. The SHIMM system implemented in AlUla ranks among the most advanced globally. Engineered to endure extreme environmental conditions—ranging from intense sandstorms to dramatic temperature shifts—it is equipped with artificial intelligence capabilities that enable continuous, automated monitoring. Moreover, the system ensures high-precision data collection by detecting and alerting to any variables that could affect the quality of astronomical observations. Over a 12-month period, SHIMM will gather and analyze atmospheric and weather-related data to assess visibility and image clarity. Finally, this project aligns with the commission's broader vision to support the future development of AlUla's astronomical infrastructure and solidify its role in global space science and tourism. Related Topics: AlUla Manara Unveils Stellar Experience at AlUla Skies Festival 2025 Eid Al-Fitr 2025: Enjoy Unmissable Experiences in AlUla AlUla Skies Festival 2025: Spectacular Celebration of Celestial Heritage, Discovery Play Qiddiya City Joins the World Travel, Tourism Council Short link : Post Views: 29 Related Stories
CairoScene
2 days ago
- Business
- CairoScene
Saudi Arabia & France Launch Cultural Hegra Villa Project in AlUla
This marks the latest collaboration between the Royal Commission for AlUla (RCU) and the French Agency for AlUla Development. During French President Emmanuel Macron's visit to AlUla, Saudi Arabia and France launched the Hegra Villa project, a cultural initiative aimed at strengthening the Saudi-French partnership. This marks the latest collaboration between the Royal Commission for AlUla (RCU) and the French Agency for AlUla Development, focusing on enhancing cultural diplomacy and creativity. Hegra Villa will serve as the first Saudi-French cultural institution in Saudi Arabia, designed to promote joint cultural initiatives and foster global creativity. The project is part of a broader effort to empower communities, support cultural dialogue, and introduce sustainable development practices. During the visit, President Macron toured the Saudi-French Partnership Exhibition, held at Maraya Hall in AlUla, which showcased models of several projects, including the preservation of AlUla's heritage. The exhibition highlighted the strategic areas of partnership between the two nations, focusing on cultural heritage, sustainable agriculture, filmmaking, tourism, and more. The exhibition also focused on ongoing developments in AlUla, including the Sharaan Resort and International Summit Centre, which are being designed by renowned French architect Jean Nouvel. These projects aim to blend innovation with environmental and cultural considerations, incorporating cutting-edge design and technology. Furthermore, the academic collaboration between the Royal Commission for AlUla and Paris 1 Panthéon-Sorbonne University was showcased, offering new opportunities for young people in AlUla in fields like tourism management, archaeology, and cultural heritage.
Leaders
30-05-2025
- Leaders
Qurh: AlUla's Historic Stop for Pilgrim, Trade Caravans
Nestled about 20 km south of AlUla's old town, near the village of Mughayra, Qurh was a vital hub for pilgrims and traders throughout the ages, according to the Saudi Press Agency. As one of the Royal Commission for AlUla's archaeological sites, Qurh features prominent architectural structures. Qurh's ruins boast remnants of architectural structures, marketplaces, streets, and palaces which perfectly highlight the city's once-thriving economic and urban life. Interestingly, those architectural features which date back to the early Islamic periods indicate that settlement and cultural growth were in progress even after the advent of Islam. The historian Hisham bin Al-Kalbi noted that Qurh was the capital of Wadi Al-Qura and a center for Arab markets. Al-Kalbi also described it as a commercial and cultural center and a cradle of the arts. Meanwhile, Abdulrahman Alsuhaibani, the RCA's Vice President for Culture stated that the excavations in Qurh serve as a living proof 'that there was some interaction with China at the beginning of the Islamic period.' 'Evidence exists of interactions and trade extending as far as China,' he said in an interview produced by FT Longitude in partnership with the RCA. 'With China, for example, (there were) merchants who brought porcelain, medicines and silk to Arabia with incense for sure, ivory, while other valuables travelled in the opposite directions,' Alsuhaibani added. Related Topics: AlUla, UNESCO Inaugurate 'Deep Surfaces' Exhibition in Venice AlUla Launches 'Arch Rock and Stargazing' to Promote Environmental Awareness Arabian Warrior AlUla: Challenging Obstacle Races amid Breathtaking Landscapes Short link : Post Views: 14
Leaders
17-05-2025
- Science
- Leaders
AlUla Fosters Cultural Heritage with Smithsonian's National Museum of Asian Art
The Royal Commission for AlUla has signed an agreement with the Smithsonian Institution's National Museum of Asian Art to boost knowledge exchange, according to the Saudi Press Agency. The partnership seeks to spread global awareness of the cultural heritage and ancient civilizations of the northern Arabian Peninsula. Importantly, the agreement features joint research projects in art conservation, history, archaeology, and scientific studies. According to the deal, both entities will collaborate in organizing joint exhibitions, exchanging artifacts, launching programs and exhibition design, museum research, storytelling, and museum management. In the light of this, the deal aligns with the commission's strategy to position AlUla as a global center for heritage and culture. Related Topics: AlUla, UNESCO Inaugurate 'Deep Surfaces' Exhibition in Venice AlUla Fosters Global Presence with Five New Partnerships Arabian Warrior AlUla: Challenging Obstacle Races amid Breathtaking Landscapes Short link : Post Views: 25 Related Stories
Leaders
11-05-2025
- General
- Leaders
AlUla, UNESCO Inaugurate 'Deep Surfaces' Exhibition in Venice
In collaboration with UNESCO, the Royal Commission for AlUla has inaugurated the 'Deep Surfaces: Architecture to Enhance the Visitor Experience of UNESCO Sites' exhibition in Venice, Italy, according to the Saudi Press Agency. As part of the Venice Biennale Architecture 2025, the exhibition will run until November 23, at Palazzo Zorzi in Venice. The exhibition features more than 50 projects located in UNESCO-designated sites, such as World Heritage Sites, Biosphere Reserves, and Global Geoparks. Promisingly, the event represents a valuable platform for visitors to explore the role of architecture in boosting visitor experiences, protecting cultural heritage and connecting narratives to people and place. Furthermore, the exhibition offers glimpses into the role of architecture in supporting local economies and promoting social inclusion. In response to complex contemporary challenges, the exhibition also promotes the role of these sites as learning spaces for sustainable development and global citizenship. Interestingly, the event will also highlight the ancient city of Hegra in AlUla as the first Saudi site inscribed on UNESCO's World Heritage List. The exhibition also showcases various initiatives designed to encourage public engagement and preserving the site. As part of a broader partnership for heritage preservation and sustainable development, the occasion highlights the joint efforts of the Royal Commission for AlUla and UNESCO to establish a reference model for best practices. Related Topics: AlUla Fosters Global Presence with Five New Partnerships Eid Al-Fitr 2025: Enjoy Unmissable Experiences in AlUla Al-Ahsa Hosts UNESCO Creative Cities Forum 2025 Short link : Post Views: 13
