Reconnect with ‘Harry Potter,’ ‘The Batman’ and more at Jeddah’s new entertainment destination

The Warner Bros. Discovery entertainment zone is open until Aug. 16, featuring interactive, family-friendly attractions  and live entertainment. (Instagram/jed.calendar)
The Warner Bros. Discovery entertainment zone is open until Aug. 16, featuring interactive, family-friendly attractions and live entertainment. (Instagram/jed.calendar)
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Updated 01 July 2024
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Reconnect with ‘Harry Potter,’ ‘The Batman’ and more at Jeddah’s new entertainment destination

Reconnect with ‘Harry Potter,’ ‘The Batman’ and more at Jeddah’s new entertainment destination
  • Comic book displays, virtual and augmented reality games
  • Several visitors hail venue as ideal for both adults, children

JEDDAH: Warner Bros. Discovery’s new indoor entertainment destination in Jeddah is showcasing six concept zones inspired by some of cinema’s most iconic stories.

The venue includes “Batman,” “Tom and Jerry” and “Harry Potter” zones, alongside areas for shoppers.

Enthusiasts will be able to delve into Batman’s storied history and evolution with comic book displays, as well as interactive virtual and augmented reality games.




The Warner Bros. Discovery entertainment zone is open until Aug. 16, featuring interactive, family-friendly attractions and live entertainment. (Instagram/jed.calendar)

The zone featuring Harry Potter’s Magical World zone resembles Hogwarts from the movies. It includes interactive games inspired by the films, including a broomstick ball-throwing contest, and a store replicating the experience of Harry Potter buying his first wand.

Walid Jabbour, managing director of EventBox, said: “The ‘Warner Brothers Discovery Celebration’ is a unique event that brings together the best of Warner Bros. — from 100 years of history encompassing animation studios, ‘Harry Potter,’ movies, and superheroes — all in one place here in Jeddah.”

FASTFACT

The Warner Bros. Discovery entertainment destination includes ‘Batman,’ ‘Tom and Jerry’ and ‘Harry Potter’ zones, alongside areas for shoppers.

He added: “What makes it truly special is that it’s the first time such a comprehensive gathering of Warner’s iconic properties is taking place in Jeddah.

“Bringing this grand spectacle to our audience underscores our commitment, and the enthusiastic response from visitors affirms that having ‘Batman,’ ‘Harry Potter,’ and more all in one location is truly extraordinary.”




Harry Potter’s Magical World includes interactive games inspired by the fictional wizarding world. (AN photos)

Young visitors will also have the opportunity to meet their favorite heroes and characters from Warner Bros. Discovery, including Batman, Superman, Wonder Woman, The Flash from the “Justice League,” as well as Tom, Jerry, and the Scooby-Doo gang.

Julene Muller, event art director, told Arab News: “The energy and excitement from the crowd have been phenomenal, making this event a vibrant celebration for all ages.”

She added: “There’s always something new to discover, with various experiences, walkthroughs, and plenty of photo opportunities available. And of course, the Batmobile remains a favorite among visitors.”

Aleksandar Radulovic, a crew member of the Tom and Jerry Mini Orchestra, explained: “We are aiming to bring the music of the classic cartoons to life. These are the cartoons we grew up with, and now we want to share them with the younger generation.”

Their ensemble consists of a drummer, trombonist, pianist, bassist, and percussionist who plays the xylophone and produces other effects.

“Everything is meticulously organized, and we’re thrilled to be here. We originally collaborated on these ‘Tom and Jerry’ projects with Warner Bros., starting two years ago in Riyadh,” he added.

Fahad Nazer, a father of three, said: “The fully air-conditioned indoor entertainment area is a lifesaver this summer. My kids explored all the concept zones and had a fantastic time.

“The staff was extremely helpful and supportive, especially with the games, so I didn’t have to worry about my children getting lost.”

He said the crowd control was “impressive with five different time slots for booking tickets, which manages the flow very well and ensures kids can enjoy interactive games with shorter lines.”

Another visitor, Mohammed Harbi, said: “My son was thrilled to train with Superman and Batman. It’s amazing that Jeddah now has such a unique entertainment venue; having Warner Bros. here was a pleasant surprise.

“Experiencing it not only brought joy to our children but also allowed us to reminisce about our own childhood days with the ‘Tom and Jerry’ show. I never imagined we’d have such attractions in the city, and the tickets are affordable.

“However, it was challenging for me with a 9-month-old baby since they don’t allow strollers.”

The entertainment zone is open until Aug. 16.

Highlights and attractions

The “Celebrate Every Story” event features four shows across three stages. On the main stage, there is “Looney Tunes: Get in the Game,” an interactive sports-themed show where Bugs Bunny and Daffy Duck compete to become the new team captain of Team Looney Tunes.

The “Tom and Jerry Mini Orchestra Performance” displays classic animations of the iconic cat and mouse duo on a large screen with a live orchestra playing their memorable tunes and sound effects.

The “Justice League Training Show,” allows guests to train alongside Justice League members and assist in saving the day during a live stage event. At the “Scooby-Doo: Mystery at the Mall” show visitors can help Scooby and the gang solve a mysterious case.

At the “Batman: Legends of the Dark Knight Experience” zone visitors can explore the iconic Batmobile from the movie “Batman Returns,” the Keaton Mobile and impressive life-sized figures of Batman, The Joker, Harley Quinn, and Catwoman.

The Animation Zone is a must-visit for cartoon lovers. It brings to life the worlds of “Looney Tunes" and “Scooby-Doo,” with interactive games and mystery-solving adventures.

The Celebration Zone allows visitors to take photographs and relive pivotal moments from the history of Warner Bros.

 


KSrelief distributes food, dates in Bangladesh, Pakistan, Mali and Malaysia

KSrelief distributes food, dates in Bangladesh, Pakistan, Mali and Malaysia
Updated 08 February 2025
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KSrelief distributes food, dates in Bangladesh, Pakistan, Mali and Malaysia

KSrelief distributes food, dates in Bangladesh, Pakistan, Mali and Malaysia

RIYADH: The King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Center (KSrelief) recently distributed food and dates for residents in Bangladesh, Pakistan, Mali and Malaysia, state news agency SPA reported.

In Bangladesh, KSrelief handed out 595 food parcels in several regions to residents affected by floods and cyclones. The recent initiative benefited 2,975 individuals.

In the Upper Chitral District of Pakistan’s Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, the Saudi aid agency gave out 492 food boxes, which benefited 3,546 individuals mostly affected by recent floods.

KSrelief also gifted 25 tonnes of dates to Malaysia and another 50 tonnes to Mali as part of the Kingdom’s support to ‘brotherly and friendly nations in various fields.’

In the southern Gaza Strip, KSrelief delivered 25 truckloads medical supplies to hospitals and health centers to enhance their capacities amid the difficult humanitarian conditions facing the sector.

The Saudi Center for Culture and Heritage, KSrelief's executive partner in Gaza, received the supplies and has begun distributing them.


Seasonal rains transform Saudi Arabia’s Rafha and Hanakiyah governorates into verdant pastures

Seasonal rains transform Saudi Arabia’s Rafha and Hanakiyah governorates into verdant pastures
Updated 08 February 2025
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Seasonal rains transform Saudi Arabia’s Rafha and Hanakiyah governorates into verdant pastures

Seasonal rains transform Saudi Arabia’s Rafha and Hanakiyah governorates into verdant pastures
  • Scenes of camel herds grazing provide a picturesque natural spectacle, showcasing the region's serene beauty

RIYADH: Seasonal rains have turned some of Saudi Arabia’s otherwise dry lands into lush green expanses, providing breeders with forage for their livestock and attracting tourists seeking a scenic escape.

Among these places is Al-Hanakiyah governorate in the western region of Madinah, where the mountains and plains have blossomed into vibrant green scenery, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

Scenes of camel herds grazing provide a picturesque natural spectacle. (SPA)

“These rejuvenated landscapes provide perfect spots for visitors to unwind and engage in a variety of outdoor activities and hobbies,” the SPA said in one report.

Scenes of camel herds grazing provide a picturesque natural spectacle in a show of the region’s serene beauty.

Another such site is Zubala, south of Rafha governorate in the Northern Borders region, which is currently teeming with sheep grazing against the backdrop of the town’s historical landmarks.

A view of the grazing grounds of Zubala. (SPA)

Zubala, an important stop on the ancient Zubaydah Trail, has features of historical significance and natural beauty. 

Aside from providing grazing grounds for sheep farmers, the flourishing pastures also attract families and hikers seeking to enjoy the rural scenery. 

The village itself, with its preserved monuments, offers a glimpse into its past as a vital station on the Zubaydah pilgrimage trail. 


How Saudi Arabia is advancing clean combustion while meeting global energy demand

How Saudi Arabia is advancing clean combustion while meeting global energy demand
Updated 08 February 2025
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How Saudi Arabia is advancing clean combustion while meeting global energy demand

How Saudi Arabia is advancing clean combustion while meeting global energy demand
  • Kingdom’s carbon capture initiatives are cutting emissions and boosting oil recovery, paving the way for a sustainable energy future
  • KAUST has partnered with major stakeholders like SEC, the Ministry of Energy, and NEOM to develop innovative carbon capture solutions

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s oil and gas industry is increasingly adopting carbon capture technologies to reduce industrial emissions while enhancing oil recovery. This approach addresses environmental concerns while supporting global demand for cleaner, more reliable energy.

Carbon capture technologies are methods to trap and store carbon dioxide — or CO2 — emissions before they reach the atmosphere, helping to reduce greenhouse gases from industrial processes, power plants and other sources.

As a leading oil producer, Saudi Arabia acknowledges its responsibility to combat climate change while maintaining energy security. Its efforts align with Vision 2030, which prioritizes economic diversification and reducing reliance on oil, paving the way to net-zero emissions by 2060.

And in line with this target, the Kingdom aims to reach 44 million tonnes per annum of carbon capture, use and storage capacity by 2035.

To this end, institutions such as the King Abdullah University of Science and Technology are making significant advancs in carbon capture and storage, driving innovation in sustainable energy solutions.

“Saudi Arabia’s investment in carbon capture technologies is driven by its Vision 2030 strategy, which aims to diversify its economy and reduce its reliance on oil,” William L. Roberts, a professor of mechanical engineering at KAUST and director of the Clean Combustion Research Center, told Arab News.

“Carbon capture enables Saudi Arabia to reduce emissions from its hydrocarbon sector while supporting global demand for cleaner, affordable, reliable energy.”

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KAUST has partnered with major industry stakeholders, including the Saudi Electricity Company, the Ministry of Energy and NEOM, to develop innovative carbon capture solutions, including a 30-tonne-per-day CO2 capture initiative at the Duba power plant.

The pilot project, launched in 2022, aims to capture 30 tonnes of CO2 daily from SEC’s Green Duba Integrated Solar Combined Cycle power plant at NEOM.

The integration of captured CO2 for enhanced oil recovery offers an important opportunity for the oil and gas sector. In this process, supercritical CO2 is injected into reservoirs, changing the physical properties of residual oil and making extraction easier.

This not only boosts production efficiency but also supports a more sustainable approach to energy extraction.

The Carbon Dioxide Enhanced Oil Recovery Demonstration Project at the Uthmaniyah oil field is a prime example of this technique. Located in the Eastern Province, the large-scale project captures and stores about 800,000 tonnes of CO2 annually from a natural gas production facility, with CO2 transported via a 85-km pipeline to the injection site.

Saudi Aramco's project at the Uthmaniyah oil field in Al-Ahsa captures and stores about 800,000 tonnes of CO2 annually from a natural gas production facility. (Aramco photo)

Roberts of KAUST stressed the importance of careful management in these projects. “Monitoring CO2 injection to prevent leakage and optimizing injection rates is crucial for balancing production efficiency with environmental safety,” he said.

And although the potential benefits of carbon capture are clear, the industry faces significant challenges, including high costs and scalability.

A 2025 study published in the Carbon Capture Science and Technology journal shows that the average CO2 capture cost is $69 per tonne, with significant variability across industries. Ammonia production is the most cost-efficient, at $11 per tonne, due to its high CO2 concentration, while smaller-scale operations can face costs as high as $189 per tonne.

Emphasizing the need for a collective effort to overcome challenges, Roberts said that “collaborative research and pilot projects help to drive innovation and enable scalable, economically viable solutions for industrial carbon capture applications.”

Looking ahead, further advances in carbon capture technologies are on the horizon.

KAUST’s cryogenic carbon capture project is a promising technology that removes CO2 at low temperatures, offering high efficiency and scalability. (KAUST photos)

KAUST’s research group is actively exploring cryogenic carbon capture, a promising technology that removes CO2 at low temperatures, offering high efficiency and scalability.

Roberts said that relying on a single technology would not be enough to meet ambitious environmental goals.

“A diverse portfolio of solutions — including cryogenic capture, direct air capture, advanced membranes and chemical absorption — will be necessary to address emissions across various sectors,” he said.

This approach will lead to more flexible, cost-effective and sustainable carbon capture solutions, significantly reducing CO2 emissions.

KAUST plays a crucial role in educating the next generation of engineers and scientists to advance carbon capture technologies. The university offers specialized programs in sustainability and carbon capture, equipping students with the skills needed to address key challenges in CO2 capture, storage and use.

DID YOU KNOW?

• Industrial sources are responsible for nearly 30 percent of global greenhouse gas emissions.

• Carbon capture can reduce up to 90 percent of CO2 emissions from industrial sources.

•. Saudi Arabia aims for 44 million tonnes of carbon capture, use and storage capacity a year by 2035.

Roberts said that a holistic approach was key to fostering innovation and ensuring the successful implementation of carbon capture solutions.

“While carbon capture is essential for reducing industrial emissions, it must be part of a broader, multi-technology strategy to meet global emissions reduction targets,” he said.

Roberts advises policymakers and industry leaders to “focus on a technology-driven approach that prioritizes scalability, efficiency and cost-effectiveness.”

As a leading oil producer, Saudi Arabia acknowledges its responsibility to combat climate change while maintaining energy security. (Aramco photo)

He also emphasized the need for investment in experimentation and predictive modeling to avoid potential pitfalls at large scale and called for continued support for research into innovative CO2 capture methods.

“There isn’t one answer, and we need to identify as many solutions as possible,” he said.

Roberts advocates using pilot projects as platforms to optimize technologies before large-scale implementation.

He stressed the need for collaboration between research institutions, industry and government to align policies with technological advancements.

In addition, he said that establishing clear regulatory frameworks that incentivized carbon capture deployment was crucial to making these technologies economically viable and integrating them into industrial practices.


 

 


Indian diaspora provides key link between India and Saudi Arabia, says former foreign minister

Indian diaspora provides key link between India and Saudi Arabia, says former foreign minister
Updated 08 February 2025
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Indian diaspora provides key link between India and Saudi Arabia, says former foreign minister

Indian diaspora provides key link between India and Saudi Arabia, says former foreign minister
  • Salman Khurshid, president of the India Islamic Cultural Center, visits Riyadh to discuss with Indian expatriates their experiences of living and working in the Kingdom
  • Akhtarul Iman, of the Bihar Legislative Assembly, says authorities in India have failed to address the concerns of Indian Muslims in an appropriate manner

RIYADH: Salman Khurshid, president of the India Islamic Cultural Center and his country’s former foreign minister, said Indians living and working in Saudi Arabia play a key role in relations between the two countries.

He added that he and his team are working on implementing changes and reforms at the cultural center to improve the support and services it provides for all Indians, not only in India but in other countries.

Khurshid, who was elected president of the center in August last year, was visiting Riyadh for an event on Friday during which he discussed with Indian expatriates their experiences of living and working in the Kingdom.

Former Indian Foreign Minister and president of the India Islamic Cultural Center Salman Khurshid during media interaction in Riyadh on Friday. (Supplied)

“I am in here to interact with the Indian community and discuss the ground realities,” he said. “They are keen to know about the developments in India.

“I am very pleased that the IICC is in focus, people are looking at what possibilities there are, and how much we can develop the organization as a hub that links different parts in the world and connects with how important it is for that dimension of the Indian culture and the Indian society to be understood in the world.

“The Indian diaspora in Saudi Arabia can provide an important bridge between the people of India and the people of Saudi Arabia, and this has been an important aspect for successive governments in India.

“We will brainstorm on key issues and ground realities, we will talk about those issues and what positive contribution can be made by people who have left their homes and families to come out into the world and make a mark with their presence here in the Kingdom.”

Prime Minister Indira Gandhi laid the foundation stone of the center’s headquarters in New Delhi on Aug. 24, 1984. The aim of the organization was to promote understanding among people of different religions and aid the cause of national integration. It was inaugurated by Congress party president Sonia Gandhi on June 12, 2006.

Regarding possible changes and development of the organization, Khurshid said there are plans to establish branches in states across India, and beyond, to support the decentralization and democratization of the center.

“It’s not just about chapters in different parts of India but also in other countries, as IICC overseas chapters, (for example) in Saudi Arabia,” he added.

“My view is that there should be chapters and we should support those chapters, but if people want fully fledged centers to be set up in states, I would say they should be affiliated centers supported by local members. Members from Delhi cannot control centers in the states, it must be truly democratic.”

Former Indian Foreign Minister and president of the India Islamic Cultural Center Salman Khurshid, AIMIM Bihar president Akhtarul Iman in Riyadh for an interaction with the Indian diaspora. (Supplied)

Khurshid was joined at Friday’s event by Akhtarul Iman, president of the All India Majlis-e-Ittehad-ul-Muslimeen party, who represents the constituency of Amour in the Bihar Legislative Assembly. He said it is the responsibility of the government and state authorities to protect the lives, property, honor and safety of all Indian citizens, yet Muslims have increasingly been targeted by those who wish to spread fear among them.

In the past decade, he added, there has been an increase in cases of injustice and atrocities committed against Muslims under the rule of Bharatiya Janata Party-led central and state governments, and the leaderships of both the Rashtriya Janata Dal and the Janata Dal (United) parties have also failed to address these issues in an appropriate manner.

“They ask Muslims for support but fail to address their concerns,” Iman said, adding that his party is committed to ensuring that the grievances of all Indian Muslims who have faced problems since 2014 are addressed.
 


Renowned Ramsi tomatoes still a staple on Saudi tables

Farmer Saeed Sulail is pictured here at a Ramsi tomato farm in Qatif. (AN photo by Hind Alkhunaizi)
Farmer Saeed Sulail is pictured here at a Ramsi tomato farm in Qatif. (AN photo by Hind Alkhunaizi)
Updated 07 February 2025
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Renowned Ramsi tomatoes still a staple on Saudi tables

Farmer Saeed Sulail is pictured here at a Ramsi tomato farm in Qatif. (AN photo by Hind Alkhunaizi)
  • Local farmers have been growing the crop for centuries
  • Used in salads, stews, sauces, and the famous Kabsa dish

DHAHRAN: Nestled in the Eastern Province of the Kingdom, Qatif is celebrated for its fertile soil, inviting climate, and rich agricultural heritage.

One of the region’s most prized crops is the Ramsi tomato, which is native to Saudi Arabia.

It is also the main product of Mohammad Al-Ghawy’s Ramsi Tomato Farm, which spans 45,000 sq. meters in Al-Awamiyah and produces other seasonal delights including local watermelon and cantaloupe.

Ramsi tomatoes have been a staple in Qatif for centuries due to the region’s significant role as a major agricultural producer. (AN photo by Hind Alkhunaizi)

The succulent tomatoes are celebrated nationwide for their vibrant color, firm texture, and sweet-tangy flavor.

They are grown using traditional farming methods, which involve careful nurturing and attention to detail.

Saeed Sulail, a farmer from Qatif, told Arab News: “In terms of the harvest, the growing season lasts for more than three months, from December to the beginning of April.”

FASTFACTS

• The succulent tomatoes are celebrated nationwide for their vibrant color, firm texture, and sweet-tangy flavor.

• Despite their popularity, production faces challenges, including climate change, desertification, water scarcity, and soil degradation.

He added: “If we add the duration of planting seeds and nurseries (the greenhouses), it is approximately eight months. The soil in Qatif is enriched with nutrients and minerals that foster robust growth.”

He highlighted the importance of proper fertilization. “These are the industrial fertilizers that trees and plants need to grow well, but they must be in specific ratios for each stage of the plant’s life.”

The result of this labor of love is a delicious product packed with nutrients and antioxidants.

Ramsi tomatoes have been a staple in Qatif for centuries due to the region’s significant role as a major agricultural producer. Their popularity has spread throughout the Kingdom, making them a staple in many Saudi households.

Today, Qatif remains the primary producer of Ramsi tomatoes, with many local farms dedicating their land to their cultivation. Ramsi tomatoes hold a special place in Saudi culture, particularly during the summer months when they are in season.

They are often served as a refreshing side dish, sliced and dressed with olive oil, salt and pepper.

In many households, Ramsi tomatoes are used in traditional dishes including salads, stews and sauces, as well as the famous Saudi Arabia dish, Kabsa, which consists of meat, spices and vegetables.

Despite their popularity, production faces challenges, including climate change, desertification, water scarcity, and soil degradation.

Local farmers and authorities are working together to implement sustainable farming practices, such as drip irrigation and crop rotation.