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RIYADH: In recent years, young Saudis have been increasingly drawn to astrology and crystals.

Arab News spoke to several Saudis who explained how this trend reflects a deeper desire for self-exploration and healing, particularly among the younger generation, who are navigating an era of rapid change and seeking guidance beyond traditional frameworks.

Young Saudis say that astrology — a system linking the position of planets to personality traits — as well as crystals, which some believe aid in personal healing, have provided avenues for them to explore their identities, face their anxieties and find meaning.

Mawadda Al-Surehi, owner of AGAPE & Co., a store in ��������Ƶ, described her journey as a response to a society that she believes often overlooks the well-being of the soul.

“We’re in an era where people are becoming more materialistic, focusing on possessions and forgetting their souls,” she said.

Al-Surehi’s products purportedly support meditation, inner peace and calmness. “Crystals are often underrated and seen only as pretty or aesthetic, but they actually carry a lot of energy and frequency,” she said. “I believe they’re part of our spiritual journey and have been for centuries.”

“Crystals work like lemon and honey for the flu,” Al-Surehi said. “They’re for healing the spiritual side of you.”

She predicted that crystals will become a staple in the lives of many Saudis, and are not just a passing trend.

Salsabil Al-Shajiri spoke about how her initial interest in astrology stemmed from curiosity. “I was interested in learning how these practices had captivated so many people,” she said. While she does not view astrology as an absolute truth, Salsabil appreciates its potential to help people reflect on their characteristics and tendencies, providing insight into relationships and behaviors.

She believes that the popularity of astrology among young Saudis is largely due to a desire for self-exploration. “They seek a way to discover their true selves,” she said, explaining how studying astrology has improved her mental health and perspective on life, helping her progress through personal development with a more positive outlook.

We’re in an era where people are becoming more materialistic, focusing on possessions and forgetting their souls.

Mawadda Al-Surehi, AGAPE & Co. owner

Abeer Ahmed shares a similar sentiment. “At the age of 27, astrology fits naturally and intuitively into my life,” she said. For Ahmed, astrology provides insight into daily life, although she approaches it with a balanced perspective. “I’ve learned through the years to take everything with a grain of salt,” she added, highlighting how she views astrology as a supportive tool rather than a definitive guide.

Ahmed believes that young Saudis are drawn to astrology because of its fun and mysterious nature. “The idea that we each have a birth chart, unique to us, and can gain insight through studying constellations — that’s so fun,” she said. Younger generations, Abeer said, are more open to exploring unconventional topics. At various points in her life, astrology has provided her with confidence and a sense of direction. However, she cautioned against allowing it to dominate one’s life, highlighting that nothing should replace one’s own inner compass.

For Jomanah Nawaf, an interest in astrology and crystals began in 2018 when she discovered her placement — an aspect of astrology that attributes personality characteristics related to the time of a person’s birth.

Her particular placement of Sagittarius and Jupiter is said to represent a drive for personal freedom, truth and understanding — qualities that Jomanah found “ironically fitting.”

What started as a casual interest on social media quickly became a daily ritual. “Not a day goes by where I don’t use my astrology knowledge for personal reasons,” Nawaf said, adding that she incorporates astrology into everything from salon appointments to medical decisions.

Nawaf said that social media played a significant role in spreading these practices, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic when people spent more time online. She likens astrology to a personality test that offers labels to help people understand their experiences. “Astrology helps you understand what’s going on in your life and brings some relief,” she said. For Jomanah, astrology provides a sense of clarity and control in an unpredictable world, helping her navigate challenges with a calm perspective.

Wedad Bughararah was initially drawn to crystals because of their beauty, not necessarily because she believed they held energy. “Just having them around brought a sense of calm,” she said. This sense of peace led her to explore spirituality more deeply, discovering a world that felt both comforting and enlightening.

Bughararah commented on the generational draw to age-old practices. “Most of generation Z is struggling with depression because we don’t see a lot of hope for the future,” she said, adding that these practices provide a beacon of hope in an otherwise unpredictable life.

For some, like Al-Surehi, spirituality is a holistic journey that encompasses mind, body and soul. For others, like Ahmed and Nawaf, astrology serves as a tool for navigating life’s complexities.

In a time of rapid change, uncertainty and global challenges, astrology and crystals promise young Saudis a sense of control, comfort and connection. As Al-Surehi, eloquently puts it: “At the end of the day, you’re a soul inside a body.”

For this generation, spirituality presents itself as both a medicine for the soul and a guide to navigating the complexities of modern life.

Otium Concept is located in Fayfa Avenue Mall on Prince Sultan Road in Jeddah. It is a lifestyle store and restaurant/cafe inspired by the glamour of art deco salons.

The cafe offers a thoughtfully crafted menu that combines international comfort foods with artisanal ingredients. Breakfast options include classics such as eggs Benedict on brioche and the cafe’s signature Beirut breakfast, featuring foul, labneh, and halloumi.

For lighter options, there are wholesome choices like Greek yogurt bowls with granola and honey, or acai bowls topped with fresh berries.

Starters, including burrata with pesto and tomato caviar, and beetroot carpaccio with hazelnuts and goat cheese, are well-presented, while from the main courses, the grilled pistachio salmon is a highlight, offering a delicate-yet-rich flavor profile, while the honey mustard chicken provides a savory-sweet experience with a tender, juicy texture.

The dessert selection continues the theme of indulgence with offerings including rose lokum cheesecake adorned with fresh petals, and an apple tarte fine served with vanilla ice cream.

The menu also features hearty salads and sourdough open sandwiches including spicy chicken or lobster, offering a comforting and satisfying meal on the go, as well as fresh pasta dishes such as lemon spaghetti and penne arrabbiata.

With its sophisticated-but-inviting atmosphere, Otium promises a dining experience that is both comforting and refined, making it a great choice for any occasion. Otium also offers catering services.

The boutique provides a distinct shopping experience, showcasing handpicked pieces from celebrated European designers. The space feels like a curated gallery, with brands including Forte Forte, Jamin Puech, and Yavi offering clothing, accessories, shoes, bags, and even decorative home items.

Otium also embraces its cultural side with an impressive collection of art and antiques, curated by architect Ibrahim Radwan. The gallery space features an eclectic mix of sculptures and paintings, blending history with modernity. Notable pieces include a Napoleon III-era mantel clock, an antique bronze statue of a German soldier, and vintage French candelabras.

Check @otiumconcept on Instagram for more details.