Towering 2,342 meters above sea level, Al-Daqal Castle once stood as a silent sentinel over Abha’s rugged mountain passes. Now, following a comprehensive restoration by the Heritage Commission of the Ministry of Culture, the historic fortress has regained its place as one of the Asir region’s most striking cultural landmarks.

The restoration project emphasizes both the architectural authenticity and historical importance of the site, transforming it into a key destination for heritage tourism in southern Saudi Arabia.

Located in northwestern Abha, the castle dates back more than 110 years, believed to have been built in 1334 AH (circa 1916 CE). Researchers, including Dr. Ghaithan Grace of King Khalid University, have noted its strategic placement and enduring architectural value.

Preservation efforts involved rebuilding damaged sections with original local stone, restoring interior corridors and chambers, and preparing the site for public access. The castle’s design — a rectangular layout measuring 43.6 by 16 meters with a semi-circular northern façade — adapts seamlessly to the mountainous terrain.

Historical studies, such as The Fortifications of the City of Abha (2006) by Dr. Mahfouz Al-Zahrani, reveal that the name “Al-Daqal” originates from an Arabic term meaning “elevation” and also evokes the central mast of a sailboat — a poetic reflection of its commanding height.

Constructed from erosion-resistant granite and juniper wood, the fortress incorporates local craftsmanship techniques that combine durability with aesthetic finesse. Its roof, layered with reeds, mud, and straw, provides natural insulation against rain. Inside, traditional elements such as a stone oven, grain storage chamber, and a dedicated space for preparing haneeth — a signature Asiri dish — reflect the self-sufficient lifestyle of its former inhabitants.

Divided into command, residential, and service sections, Al-Daqal Castle once served as a vital stronghold for soldiers guarding mountain routes. Its natural rocky slopes enhanced its defensive capabilities, while its interior design mirrored the region’s practical and cultural traditions.

As the site prepares to open to the public in the next development phase, Al-Daqal Castle is poised to become a focal point of Abha’s cultural tourism — a living testament to the architectural ingenuity and enduring heritage of the Asir highlands.

Saudi Entertainment Ventures (SEVEN), a wholly owned subsidiary of Qiddiya Investment Company (QIC), has announced the opening of SEVEN Tabuk, expanding its entertainment network and supporting the Kingdom’s quality-of-life and regional development goals under Saudi Vision 2030.

SEVEN Chairman Abdullah Al Dawood said the opening represents another step in the company’s strategy to develop accessible entertainment destinations that are closely connected to the communities they serve.

SEVEN Tabuk is the company’s second entertainment destination, following SEVEN Abha, as SEVEN continues its plans to establish destinations across Saudi Arabia.

Located within Tabuk city, the fully indoor, all-weather destination is designed for everyday entertainment, offering residents and visitors a wide range of activities without requiring long-distance travel.

The destination operates from 4:00 p.m. to 1:00 a.m. on weekends and from 4:00 p.m. to midnight on weekdays, while Scene Cinemas operates daily from 4:00 p.m. until 3:30 a.m.

SEVEN Tabuk combines international attractions with locally developed concepts. Key offerings include Discovery Adventures, featuring immersive exploration-themed environments, and Hot Wheels E-Karting, an interactive karting experience inspired by the global brand.

The destination also features SEVEN’s homegrown concepts, including Kawaken, Kawaken Junior, GolFi, Cyber Bowling and Scene Cinemas, providing entertainment options for families, young people and a broad range of visitors.

Beyond entertainment, SEVEN Tabuk is expected to contribute to the city’s wider development by supporting local employment and strengthening partnerships with local businesses.

The opening further reinforces Tabuk’s position as an emerging leisure destination in northern Saudi Arabia while expanding access to entertainment experiences across the Kingdom.

Source: SPA

Green spaces and public parks across Makkah are playing an important role in improving the city’s urban environment and creating more comfortable spaces for residents, visitors and pilgrims.

The city has 290 public parks, many of which feature landscaped green areas, safe pedestrian walkways, sports facilities, courtyards, shaded seating areas, service amenities and playgrounds.

These spaces help provide shade, reduce heat absorption from urban surfaces and offer areas for movement, recreation and rest.

The development and maintenance of parks are particularly important in Makkah, which welcomes millions of pilgrims, Umrah performers and visitors throughout the year.

Expanding landscaping, shaded areas and open pedestrian spaces forms part of broader efforts to improve the pilgrim experience by creating a more comfortable and accessible urban environment.

The parks also complement Makkah’s wider network of services and facilities, supporting the city’s efforts to enhance quality of life while accommodating the needs of its residents and millions of visitors.

Source: SPA

Irqah Village, one of the oldest settlements in Riyadh Region, is showcasing more than 1,000 years of history through its traditional architecture, heritage sites and cultural experiences.

Once a thriving agricultural center, the village developed around mud-brick homes, historic mosques, farms and water sources, creating a distinctive architectural and social identity.

At the heart of the historic village, Bayt Isa recreates aspects of traditional Najdi life through its majlis, cafés, heritage pathways, courtyards and rooftops. The heritage house offers visitors an immersive experience reflecting the architectural style and social traditions of the Najdi environment.

Handicrafts further enrich the experience, with workshops helping revive traditional skills passed down through generations. Local outlets also provide artisans with opportunities to display and sell their work, linking cultural heritage with its social and economic roots.

Since opening, Irqah Village has welcomed more than 15,000 visitors, supported over 50 cottage-industry families and hosted filming by more than 20 production companies.

The village has also generated more than three million digital views and interactions, highlighting its growing popularity and the potential of its heritage spaces for tourism, culture and creative activities.

Source: SPA