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Saudi Summer Adventures: VIP Tours, Theme Park, Diving, Sightseeing & Beyond

Imagine an unforgettable summer filled with exhilarating adventures in the diverse playground of Saudi Arabia. From the pristine beaches of the Red Sea coast to the majestic mountains of Asir, and the captivating deserts that stretch as far as the eye can see, Saudi Arabia offers an unparalleled range of experiences that will ignite your sense of wonder and leave you craving for more. Whether you seek thrilling water sports, cultural festivals, hiking trails, or exploring ancient ruins, this summer promises to be a captivating journey of diversity, where every moment is a chance to create cherished memories that will last a lifetime.

Summer VIP Adventure: Visit Al Ward Farm and More

Embark on a VIP summer adventure in Al Ahsa, where magnificent landscapes, delicious local cuisine, refreshing agricultural farms, the famous Al Ahsa Oasis, and a bustling market await, ensuring an unforgettable experience.

Price starts from 1,500 SAR.

2. Al Shallal Theme Park: Roller Coaster, Ice Rink, Boat Ride & More

Unleash endless fun at Al Shallal Theme Park, Jeddah’s ultimate destination for thrilling rides, ice skating, scenic boat rides, and a delightful culinary experience.

Price starts from 25 SAR.

3. Taybeen Museum: Enjoy a Tour Through Time

Step into a nostalgic journey through time as you explore the captivating museum in the heart of the historical city, immersing yourself in the vibrant memories and cherished artifacts from the golden era of Saudi Arabia, where 10,000 original items of food, drinks, appliances, games, advertisements, and utensils from the 1970s-1990s bring the beautiful nostalgia of a bygone era to life.

Price starts from 18 SAR.

4. Horse Riding, Hiking & More: Rural Life at Mishaal Farm

Experience the perfect rural getaway at Mishaal Farm, nestled in the scenic Shafa mountains, offering charming accommodations, a delightful café, a horse stable, and a variety of activities, surrounded by beautiful animals and breathtaking views.

Price starts from 479 SAR.

5. Summer Adventure: Mount Al-Qarah & More at Al Ahsa City

Unleash the spirit of adventure this summer with Kashtah’s extraordinary Al Ahsa city tour, where you’ll tantalize your taste buds with a scrumptious traditional feast, conquer the majestic sand dunes on an adrenaline-fueled bike safari, unravel the captivating tales of Al-Qarah Mountain’s past, and wander through the vibrant artisan market, discovering treasures to cherish forever.

Price starts from 600 SAR.

6. Visit the Water Village in Taif for a Memorable Adventure

Plunge into a world of refreshing excitement at Taif’s Water Village, where you can make a splash in their thrilling water slides, ride the waves in the enchanting pool, and indulge in a range of exhilarating activities like go-karting and cable car rides, ensuring an unforgettable adventure for all ages.

Price starts from 250 SAR.

7. FunXtreme: High-Speed Go Karting

Gear up for non-stop adrenaline at FunXtreme, the ultimate karting destination with a 1500m racetrack, catering to all ages and genders, for an unforgettable outdoor adventure.

Price starts from 90 SAR.

8. Al Haddad Scuba: Learn the Basics of Snorkeling

Dive into the depths and become a true sea explorer with Al Haddad SCUBA’s immersive snorkeling course, where you’ll unlock the secrets of the deep blue sea and emerge as a certified snorkeling pro.

Price starts from 390 SAR.

9. Go Laser Strike: Laser Tag Experience

Step onto the battlefield and experience the thrill of laser tag, where teamwork and courage are put to the test, and one laser hit could determine victory or defeat, making it an exhilarating group activity that guarantees action, laughter, and endless fun for all ages.

Price starts from 19 SAR.

10. Unknown Escape Room: Museum Heist

Mastermind the perfect heist, navigating through A-list guards and a complex security system, as you aim to snatch the world’s most valuable diamond from The Spanish Rankel Museum in a thrilling 60-minute escape room challenge.

Price starts from 299.2 SAR.

11. Explore Asir

Experience the best of Asir and Al Soudah this summer with expert-guided trips, where you’ll discover stunning landscapes, thrilling activities, and a rich cultural heritage.

Price starts from 3,335 SAR.

12. Live the Thrill of Adventure: Hiking, Rock Climbing, Archery, Air Rifle Shooting & Much More

Indulge your inner adventurer in an unparalleled experience of rugged mountain hikes, thrilling rope climbing, group games, archery rifle shooting, pulsating beats from a DJ, and a magical dinner under the starry sky, creating cherished memories to treasure.

Price starts from 288 SAR.

13. Three Remarkable Days in Al Ahsa Oasis: Safari Trip, Tourist Attractions, Explore Nature & Much More

Experience the captivating beauty and rich heritage of Al Ahsa Oasis, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, as you explore its lush palm groves, historic landmarks, and exciting attractions on a three-day adventure.

Price starts from 850 SAR.

14. An Unforgettable Adventure in Taif: Cable Car, Rose Farm, Traditional Market, Breathtaking Scenery & More

Discover the allure of Taif, a mountainous city embedded in the clouds, with its breathtaking views, encounters with baboons, rose farm exploration, exhilarating cable car ride, and vibrant shopping in the traditional Al Balad market.

Price starts from 2,720 SAR.

15. A Breathtaking Adventure in Al Baha: Historical Markets, Villages, Souks, Forests & Much More

Discover the wonders of Al Baha, a mountainous city filled with history, lush forests, and breathtaking landscapes, as you explore the vibrant Saturday Market Baljurashi, immerse yourself in the serenity of Raghadan Forest Park, indulge in a delicious local lunch, delve into the cultural heritage of Al Muld Village, and marvel at the natural beauty of Khairah Forest Park and Dhee Ayn village.

Price starts from 2,415 SAR.

Make the most of summer with these thrilling adventures. Let Saudi Arabia be your playground, where endless possibilities await.

Discover Jeddah: Fun Adventures for the Whole Family

Welcome to the enchanting city of Jeddah!

Located on the coast of the Red Sea in Saudi Arabia, Jeddah is a city with rich history, culture, and excitement. From its bustling markets to its stunning waterfront, Jeddah offers a variety of activities and memorable experiences for international travelers and locals alike.

Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, an adventure seeker, or simply looking to soak up the vibrant atmosphere, Jeddah has something for everyone. Join us as we embark on a journey to discover the hidden gems, breathtaking sights, and thrilling adventures that await you in this cosmopolitan city.

We’ve put together a boredom-defying list of things to do while you’re in Jeddah.

Al Shallal Theme Park: Roller Coaster, Ice Rink, Boat Ride & More

Located on the Jeddah Corniche, Al Shallal Theme Park spans across 60,000 square meters and offers endless fun for families and thrill-seekers alike. With thrilling rides like a slingshot and roller coasters, ice skating at their rink, boat rides, and themed restaurants, this exciting amusement park has something for everyone to enjoy, making it an ideal destination for a fun-filled day of entertainment.

Price starts from 30 SAR.

2. Fakieh Aquarium: More than 200 Marine Species, Dolphin & Sea Lion Show & More

Dive into the wonders of the underwater world at Fakieh Aquarium, the only public aquarium in Saudi Arabia. With over 200 species of fish and sea creatures, including sharks, groupers, stingrays, sea horses, and more, as well as exciting dolphin and sea lion shows, this aquarium offers both education and entertainment for the whole family. Located in a beautiful setting near the sea, Fakieh Aquarium is the perfect destination for a fun-filled family outing, with play areas and restaurants on-site, and numerous activities to enjoy.

Price starts from 60 SAR.

3. Hiking, Motocross, Horseback Riding, and More at Yazen Ranch

Embark on an unforgettable adventure at Yazen Ranch, a sprawling recreational and development project spanning over one million square meters in Jeddah, where you can enjoy an array of exciting activities, from camel riding and horseback tours to hiking, motocross, archery, and aquaculture, promising an experience that blends entertainment, tranquility, and natural food production.

Price starts from 215 SAR.

4. KAEC 3 DAYS

Escape to King Abdullah Economic City (KAEC), a haven where luxury and leisure seamlessly intertwine, offering a captivating destination that promises an exquisite blend of indulgence and relaxation. Immerse yourself in a world of endless possibilities, from basking in the sun on pristine beaches and indulging in upscale shopping experiences, and savoring delectable cuisine at gourmet restaurants. Whether it’s strolling along picturesque waterfronts, exploring vibrant cultural events, or engaging in exhilarating water sports, KAEC ensures an unforgettable escape where every moment is filled with excitement, tranquility, and the epitome of refined living.

Price starts from 4,370 SAR.

5. Experience the Rich Culture Of Jeddah: Visit a Hijazi Home & Learn About Traditional Saudi Clothing

Embark on an Enriching Journey into the Heart of Jeddah’s Culture: Step into the private abode of a knowledgeable guide, where a treasure trove of traditional Saudi clothing awaits your discovery. Immerse yourself in authenticity as you adorn these magnificent garments, capturing timeless moments through a captivating photo session. Indulge in the warmth of Saudi hospitality, savoring the delicate flavors of traditional Hijazi sweets, as this immersive experience unveils the vibrant tapestry of Jeddah’s cultural heritage.

Price starts from 399 SAR.

6. Biking Adventure: Discover Historic Jeddah and the Corniche

Immerse yourself in an exhilarating biking adventure through the bustling streets of Jeddah’s historic neighborhood, Al Balad, where culture, unique architecture, and diverse people combine, unveiling a rich tapestry of hidden gems and historical wonders, culminating in awe-inspiring vistas of the Red Sea along the Jeddah Corniche.

Price starts from 133 SAR.

7. Diving Adventure: Discover the Beauty of a Shipwreck in the Red Sea

Dive into the depths of the Red Sea and explore the haunting beauty of a forgotten world. This extraordinary diving experience will plunge you beneath the surface to explore a majestic shipwreck adorned with coral and diverse marine life, so get ready to discover the mysteries of the deep blue sea.

Price starts from 920 SAR.

8. Heal Your Mind, Body and Soul with a Meditative Breathing Session

Immerse yourself in a transformative journey of self-discovery and inner peace, as the uplifting embrace of a women’s healing circle ignites the power of unity and infuses healing vibes, nurturing your soul and guiding you towards a profound connection with your true essence, all across four empowering sessions.

Price starts from 250 SAR.

9. Set Sail on an Adventure in the Red Sea: Boat Trip, Snorkeling, Fishing, Games, Lunch & More

Set sail into the wonders of the Red Sea on a breathtaking adventure, enjoying majestic views, indulging in a delicious lunch, exploring the underwater world through snorkeling, trying your luck with fishing, playing exciting games, and igniting the spirit of adventure within you.

Price starts at 4,244 SAR.

10. Set Off on A New Experience with Jeddah’s Summer Activities

Surrender to the allure of Jeddah, a spellbinding port city where history meets contemporary vibrancy, beckoning you to embrace sun-kissed beaches, admire captivating waterfront sculptures, explore the charm of Al Balad’s ancient coral-built houses, and embark on an exhilarating journey through a variety of attractions that will ignite your wanderlust.

Price starts at 5,515 SAR.

The fun never stops in Jeddah! So grab your loved ones, try these exciting experiences and make lasting memories.

2020 is the Year of Arabic Calligraphy

2020 is the Year of Arabic Calligraphy. Learn the calligraphic scripts to celebrate the culture of calligraphy

In the Year of Arabic Calligraphy learn the calligraphic scripts to celebrate the culture of calligraphy.

The art of calligraphy is an ancient form of expression. The soul reflects the fonts while the spirit takes the shape of words.

It’s spiritual writing, a talent that is mastered by few. Calligraphy started as Arab culture, but the beauty of the art is recognized around the globe.

With the spread of Islam, the Arabic language, script, and calligraphy also crossed borders. From the 14th century onward, other styles of calligraphy also took root in other regions of the world, such as Persia, Turkey, and China.

The culture of calligraphy is too deep-rooted in the Arab community to fade away anytime soon. The love for art still exists at every level in Arabic culture.

To celebrate ancient art, Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Culture prince bin Abdullah bin Farhan announced that 2020 will the “Year of Arabic Calligraphy”. The celebrations will focus on its aesthetics, history, and its importance in expressing the full depth of the Arabic calligraphy.

To celebrate the culture, let’s take a look at the most ancient Arabic calligraphy scripts.

Kufic Calligraphy

The Kufic script is the oldest form of the Arabic script. It appears to be a modified form of the Nabataean script (1st century BC -1st century CE).

The style emphasizes rigid and angular strokes. The ancient script consisted of 17 letters without diacritic dots or accents. The diacritical markings were added during the 7th century to help non-Arab readers with the pronunciation of the Qur’an and other Arabic scripts. In this process, the number of letters was increased to 28.

The style later developed into several varieties. The Kufic fonts include floral, foliated, plaited, interlaced, bordered and squared styles.

The inscriptions on ornamentals and stone carving exist mostly in Kufic font. Also, the inscription in the dome of the rock is in the Kufic Script.

Naskh Calligraphy

With the spread of Islam, Kufic script evolved into Naskh in the 10th century. This font is widely used in the Quran, official decrees, and private correspondences.

Ibn Muqla is regarded as the inventor of the Naskh script. Within a short span of time, the font became so popular that it was used as the regular Arabic print.

Naskh is written with short horizontal stems and vertical depth above and below the medial line. The curves are full and deep, the uprights are drawn straight and words are generally well-spaced.

There are 03 variations of the font:

- Thuluth: The font was established in the 10th century by Ahmad Tayyib Shah. The script is used for the inscriptions, titles, headings, and emblem in books. Thuluth means “third” in reference to the x-height, which is one-third of the Alif
- Reqa: The handwriting style is derived from the Naskh and thuluth scripts. The font is simple with short strokes and small flourishes. The curves are densely structured and the letter Alif is never written with barbed heads
- Muhaqqaq: It’s considered the most beautiful and difficult script. It is largely restricted to short ayahs and phrases

Diwani Script

Diwani is a cursive style of Arabic calligraphy. The script gained its popularity during the reign of Suleyman I The magnificent (1520-1566) in the Ottoman Empire. A Diwani text represented the authority of the Sultan and the Ottoman state.

Spaces between the letters are narrow and lines ascend upward from right to left. There are no vocalization marks in Diwani.

It was generally used in the diwan and council, or in the writings of all the royals decrees, endowments, and resolutions.

There are two subdivisions of the Diwani script.

Riq’a Diwani: This script is written without any decorations. The lines drawn are straight and the lower parts are curved
Jeli Diwani: Also known as the clear style, the handwriting is distinguished by the intertwining of its straight line from top to bottom. It’s decorated to appear as one piece. Since the script of Jeli Diwani is difficult to write, hence it’s difficult to master

Modern Calligraphy

In the mid 20th century, the Middle East and North Africa started a movement to transform Arabic art into modern art. The movement was named as Hurufiyyah Movement, derived from the word ‘huruf’– the letters of the alphabet.

It was an aesthetic movement to keep the spirit of Arabic calligraphy alive in modern times. By combining ancient and modern art, the calligraphers developed an Arabic visual language. This kept the sense of national identity and coherence alive.

Modern calligraphy exists in many forms.

- Calligraffiti. Modern calligraphy was also highly influenced by Western art. This resulted in the form of calligraffiti. Calligraphers used Calligraffiti on the public buildings to convey politico-social messages
- Zoomorphism. Zoomorphism is a Greek word meaning ‘animal’. In Zoomorphic calligraphy, animals are used as the visual motif. This style allows artists to stylize animal forms and designs

2020 will be the celebration of the culture of calligraphy in Arabian and Saudi history. In order to celebrate the Year of Calligraphy, the Ministry of Culture will organize a number of events and activities to promote Arabic calligraphy.

It’ll encourage the interest in calligraphy at the public and private levels. Also, these efforts aim to inspire aspiring calligraphers.

Celebrate the year of Arabic calligraphy. To stay updated with the calligraphy events and much more, download the Hala Yalla app on Android or iOS