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A journey through time: Saudi woman transforms century-old house into a heritage hotel, offering a unique cultural and spiritual experience

A journey through time: Saudi woman transforms century-old house into a heritage hotel, offering a unique cultural and spiritual experience
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Anarat Boutique represents a unique model in showcasing the heritage identity of Ƶ, especially amid the prevalence of modern glass-designed buildings. (Supplied)
A journey through time: Saudi woman transforms century-old house into a heritage hotel, offering a unique cultural and spiritual experience
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Anarat Boutique represents a unique model in showcasing the heritage identity of Ƶ, especially amid the prevalence of modern glass-designed buildings. (Supplied)
A journey through time: Saudi woman transforms century-old house into a heritage hotel, offering a unique cultural and spiritual experience
3 / 5
Anarat Boutique represents a unique model in showcasing the heritage identity of Ƶ, especially amid the prevalence of modern glass-designed buildings. (Supplied)
A journey through time: Saudi woman transforms century-old house into a heritage hotel, offering a unique cultural and spiritual experience
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Anarat Boutique represents a unique model in showcasing the heritage identity of Ƶ, especially amid the prevalence of modern glass-designed buildings. (Supplied)
A journey through time: Saudi woman transforms century-old house into a heritage hotel, offering a unique cultural and spiritual experience
5 / 5
Anarat Boutique represents a unique model in showcasing the heritage identity of Ƶ, especially amid the prevalence of modern glass-designed buildings. (Supplied)
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Updated 01 December 2024

A journey through time: Saudi woman transforms century-old house into a heritage hotel, offering a unique cultural and spiritual experience

A journey through time: Saudi woman transforms century-old house into a heritage hotel, offering a unique cultural and spiritual experience
  • Locatedjust a few kilometers away from the Prophet’s Mosque, the Anarat Boutique blendsthe authenticity and charm of heritage and culture with the spirit of modernity

MAKKAH: A heritage hotel in Madinah located in the city’s historic Al-Mughaisilah neighborhood is attracting scores of people from around the world.

The Anarat Boutique is just a few kilometers away from the Prophet’s Mosque, blending the authenticity and charm of heritage and culture with the spirit of modernity to offer visitors a one-of-a-kind cultural and spiritual experience.

May Al-Musallam, the project’s founder who transformed the century-old house into the heritage hotel, said: “Anarat Boutique represents a unique model in showcasing the heritage identity of Ƶ, especially amid the prevalence of modern glass-designed buildings. Instead of focusing on modern architectural features, the project highlights the beauty of heritage through furniture and intricate artistic details.”




Anarat Boutique represents a unique model in showcasing the heritage identity of Ƶ, especially amid the prevalence of modern glass-designed buildings. (Supplied)

She highlighted continuous efforts to promote the boutique concept and expand its visibility across the Kingdom, introducing visitors to the beauty of Saudi culture through heritage and historical buildings.

“The building was restored using basalt stone, the same material originally used in its construction, along with traditional materials from the past. Very subtle touches were added to preserve its authenticity. The design and restoration process was led by a specialized team from Tech Design in collaboration with consultants to ensure the highest standards of durability and safety,” she told Arab News.

“Although it was a bold and unique idea, its success was expected due to the strong belief in the concept and meticulous planning. With the support of the Madinah Municipality and collaboration with consultancy entities, the project was executed to meet the highest quality standards.”

The feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, with visitors expressing admiration for the intricate heritage details and the unique lodging experience.

“Anarat Boutique has been opened to welcome guests from all over the world, offering exceptional services that include a personal concierge and a certified tour guide to introduce visitors to the key landmarks of Madinah,” Al-Musallam said.




Anarat Boutique represents a unique model in showcasing the heritage identity of Ƶ, especially amid the prevalence of modern glass-designed buildings. (Supplied)

To book a tour, visit the boutique’s Instagram account or connect through Airbnb.

Al-Musallam added: “The boutique has seen a significant influx of visitors seeking a distinct tourist experience. What sets Anarat Boutique apart is its authentic Madinah-style details, presented to guests in a warm and welcoming atmosphere.

“Anarat Boutique is not just a tourist destination, but also a bridge connecting the past and present, offering a window into the authentic spirit of Saudi heritage in its most beautiful form.”




Anarat Boutique represents a unique model in showcasing the heritage identity of Ƶ, especially amid the prevalence of modern glass-designed buildings. (Supplied)

The project’s marketing manager, Ghina Al-Hakari, described the tour experience as “a journey through the rituals of the people of Madinah in the past, teaching visitors about the culture, traditions and customs of the place. The building and the surrounding areas are steeped in history, and we have provided a tour guide with each room to narrate the story of the past.”

She added: “This location is the first branch of Anarat in Madinah and represents the first of 13 planned regions, God willing. Each region will have its own unique details and character, making every experience distinct.

“This experience targets explorers and history enthusiasts, telling the story of the past. As we say in Anarat’s motto: ‘Live the history, live Anarat’.”




Anarat Boutique represents a unique model in showcasing the heritage identity of Ƶ, especially amid the prevalence of modern glass-designed buildings. (Supplied)

Al-Hakari added that many regions in Ƶ are rich in heritage that must be highlighted.

“We provide a wide range of services in the neighborhood, including guided tours of the city and transportation to the Prophet’s Mosque. Through our partners, we also offer a variety of dishes.

“During Ramadan, God willing, the courtyard will transform into a vibrant hub of activities, making the area a remarkable experience for visitors.”

She added: “The heritage home experience is a unique journey through time, allowing visitors to live the rituals of the people of Madinah and explore the culture, customs and traditions of the place.

“This type of experience is distinguished by its historical immersion, as the buildings and surrounding areas are deeply rooted in history, giving visitors a chance to engage directly with the past.”

Decoder

Not Just a Boutique

Despite its name, Anarat Boutique is not just a boutique. Located just a few km away from the Prophet’s Mosque in Madinah, Anarat Boutique is a heritage hotel that was transformed from a century-old house. Project founder May Al-Musallam says her project is "not just a tourist destination, but also a bridge connecting the past and present, offering a window into the authentic spirit of Saudi heritage in its most beautiful form.”


Saudi crown prince, French president discuss bilateral relations, regional developments

Saudi crown prince, French president discuss bilateral relations, regional developments
Updated 8 sec ago

Saudi crown prince, French president discuss bilateral relations, regional developments

Saudi crown prince, French president discuss bilateral relations, regional developments

RIYADH: Ƶ’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman received a call from French President Emmanuel Macron, the Saudi Press Agency said.


Madinah deputy governor receives Indian minister

Madinah deputy governor receives Indian minister
Updated 9 min 8 sec ago

Madinah deputy governor receives Indian minister

Madinah deputy governor receives Indian minister

Madinah Region Deputy Gov. Prince Saud bin Khalid bin Faisal recently met Indian Union Minister for Minority Affairs and Parliamentary Affairs Shri Kiren Rijiju during his official visit to the Kingdom.

During the meeting, the two sides discussed arrangements for Indian Hajj pilgrims during their stay in Madinah, India’s Ministry of Minority Affairs said in an official statement.

Rijiju also visited the Hajj Terminals at the Jeddah and Madinah airports, and reviewed the facilities available for the arrival and departure of pilgrims as well as baggage handling.


International conference celebrates the camel as a pillar of Arab culture

International conference celebrates the camel as a pillar of Arab culture
Updated 16 January 2025

International conference celebrates the camel as a pillar of Arab culture

International conference celebrates the camel as a pillar of Arab culture
  • Scholars highlight the camel’s role in Arab history and the Arabic language
  • Experts from Ƶ and abroad gather in Riyadh

RIYADH: Scholars at a Riyadh conference this week underscored the fundamental role the camel has played in shaping Arab heritage, emphasizing the profound link between camels and the Arabic language.

King Saud University, in partnership with the King Salman Global Academy for Arabic Language, is hosting the Fifth International Conference, titled “Camels in Arab Culture,” which ends on Thursday.

Prominent scholars and specialists from Ƶ and abroad are participating in the conference, which is exploring key topics related to camels, including heritage, history and geography, and archaeological findings.

Hajed Al-Harbi, conference chairman, said: “Honoring camels is a tribute to our deep-rooted values and rich heritage, reflecting our pride in our origins and historical legacy.”

Ibrahim Al-Furaih, conference secretary, told Arab News how the conference underscores the central role camels have played in shaping Arabic literature and intellectual thought throughout history.

“Camels are a fundamental element of our national identity and Arab culture, with a significant presence in our heritage.

“Whether through literature, poetry, inscriptions, or the daily life of early Arabs, they have left an indelible mark. Their influence endures, continuing to shape the lives of Arabs to this day,” Al-Furaih said.

Bedoor Al-Fassam, chair of the public relations committee for the conference, said organizers spent months preparing for the event.

Dr. Al-Fassam, who is also an assistant professor of literature and criticism in the Arabic language department at the university, confirmed that conference participation requests exceeded 300, from which 40 research papers were selected. The submitted papers covered a wide range of fields, including literary, linguistic, historical, and social studies, in addition to anthropology research.

Alongside participants from Saudi universities, the conference features academics from Kuwait, Qatar, Oman, Syria, Lebanon, Egypt, Algeria, Morocco and Canada.

The attendees discussed the definition of camels in language and lexicography, as well as their effect on cultural and national identity.

Additionally, they explored the role of camels in Arabic poetry, narrative storytelling and biographies, highlighting their significance in other literatures and cultures.

The conference further delved into the role of camels in the national economy, addressing sectors such as investment, tourism, and entertainment, in addition to camel festivals, sports and racing events.


Saudi ministry records 7,521 tourism violations

Saudi ministry records 7,521 tourism violations
Updated 15 January 2025

Saudi ministry records 7,521 tourism violations

Saudi ministry records 7,521 tourism violations

RIYADH: Ƶ’s Ministry of Tourism revealed the results of its third-quarter 2024 inspections, involving 9,655 checks on hospitality facilities and tourism activities across the Kingdom.

During the period, 7,521 violations were identified and 11,494 complaints were addressed, according to the Saudi Press Agency.

Common violations included operating without a license, poor cleanliness, failure to meet licensing conditions and non-compliance by facility representatives.

Makkah had the highest number of inspections with more than 3,600, followed by Riyadh with more than 1,350, Madinah with over 1,100 and the Eastern Province with more than 1,070. The remaining regions accounted for more than 2,500 inspections.

These efforts aim to enhance the tourism sector’s sustainability, ensure compliance with regulations, improve service quality and boost visitor experiences.


Ƶ welcomes ceasefire agreement in Gaza

Palestinians react to news on a ceasefire deal with Israel, in Khan Younis in the southern Gaza Strip, January 15, 2025.Reuters
Palestinians react to news on a ceasefire deal with Israel, in Khan Younis in the southern Gaza Strip, January 15, 2025.Reuters
Updated 16 January 2025

Ƶ welcomes ceasefire agreement in Gaza

Palestinians react to news on a ceasefire deal with Israel, in Khan Younis in the southern Gaza Strip, January 15, 2025.Reuters
  • Kingdom stresses need for adherence to the deal, end to aggression against Gaza, and withdrawal of all Israeli forces from the occupied territories

RIYADH: Saudi authorities welcomed the announcement of a Gaza ceasefire agreement on Wednesday and expressed the Kingdom’s appreciation for the efforts of mediators from Qatar, Egypt and the US.

The Kingdom stressed the need for adherence to the deal, an end to Israel’s aggression against Gaza, and the complete withdrawal of Israeli forces from the territory and all other occupied Palestinian and Arab lands.

It also highlighted the importance of building on the agreement by addressing the underlying reasons for the conflict and enabling the Palestinian people to secure their rights, the foremost of which is the establishment of an independent Palestinian state based on 1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as its capital.

Ƶ expressed hope that the ceasefire deal would mark a permanent end to a brutal Israeli war that claimed the lives of more than 45,000 Palestinians and wounded more than 100,000.