AlUla to host second Arab auditors conference

RIYADH: A Saudi Arabia-Brazil cultural event, under the Eltiqa program, was launched on Thursday at the King Fahad Cultural Center in Riyadh.

The event, which ends Feb. 1, was organized by the Royal Institute of Traditional Arts under the patronage of Prince Badr bin Abdullah bin Farhan, minister of culture and chair of the institute’s board of trustees.

The program features five traditional Saudi performances and five Brazilian performances, culminating in a dance that integrates artistic elements from both nations, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

Following the success of the inaugural Eltiqa event with South Korea in 2023, this second edition reaffirms the royal institute’s commitment to fostering international cultural dialogue.

On display is a collaborative artwork titled “Harmony,” created by two female artists, from Saudi Arabia and Brazil. More than 15 cultural activities and specialized workshops have been planned.

The event contributes to promoting and expanding traditional arts, aligning with the goals of Saudi Vision 2030.

RIYADH: The Saudi Ministry of Education announced on Friday a new policy requiring secondary school students in public and private institutions to adhere to the national dress code.

The policy comes in line with the directives of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

The decision, which aims to reinforce national identity and instill pride in Saudi heritage, mandates that Saudi students wear the traditional thobe along with a ghutra or shemagh, while non-Saudi students are required to wear the thobe, SPA added.

The policy does not apply to students enrolled at foreign schools.

The move reflects the crown prince’s commitment to strengthening the connection between younger generations and Saudi Arabia’s cultural heritage, SPA reported.

The ministry also emphasized that the initiative aligned with national efforts to instill values, deepen students’ sense of belonging and reinforce their loyalty to the country’s leadership.

National dress is a key element of identity and reflects the rich traditions of Saudi society and is part of the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 to preserve and celebrate cultural heritage while preparing future generations for leadership and progress, the ministry said.

To ensure a smooth transition, the ministry has planned awareness campaigns and educational programs for students and parents to highlight the significance of the national dress in fostering cultural pride and maintaining a unified national image within the school environment.