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Saudi Broadcasting Corporation partners with director Timothy Baker for reality show ‘Ozoom’

Saudi Broadcasting Corporation partners with director Timothy Baker for reality show ‘Ozoom’
The Saudi Broadcasting Corporation has announced its collaboration with acclaimed director Timothy Baker, best known for his work with Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson. (Supplied)
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Updated 02 January 2025

Saudi Broadcasting Corporation partners with director Timothy Baker for reality show ‘Ozoom’

Saudi Broadcasting Corporation partners with director Timothy Baker for reality show ‘Ozoom’
  • Baker, known for work with The Rock, praises Saudi crew
  • ‘I am directing this show like I would in the United States’

RIYADH: The Saudi Broadcasting Corporation has announced its collaboration with acclaimed director Timothy Baker, best known for his work with Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson.

Baker will apply his expertise to the Saudi version of “Ozoom,” a reality show that helps people to overcome their fears, which is currently being broadcast by the SBC.

The director has worked on high-level projects including the American adaptation of the reality show “Wake Up Call” featuring Johnson.

In an interview with Arab News, Baker said: “‘Ozoom’ focuses on changing a person’s life for the better, and we are trying to capture genuine emotion and lifestyle changes with our camera coverage.  I am directing this show like I would in the United States.”

He was full of praise for the local team, saying: “The local crew is a talented group of people. Many make movies, scripted TV shows, and commercials. The crew has excellent professional knowledge of cinematography and audio. 

“What is different with ‘Ozoom’ is we are making a reality show. Reality TV is unstructured, and the story can change on the fly. I am helping people be more flexible in camera coverage and adapting to a changing environment when working with cases.

“I see the Saudi production world growing immensely in the future, so working in different genres of showbusiness is essential in a growing market.”

“Ozoom” is a pioneering series hosted by Saudi artist Ahmed Al-Bayed, featuring individuals who, with determination and the program’s support, work to overcome challenges and achieve their dreams. 

The show aims to inspire viewers by highlighting the power of resilience, determination, and community support. The SBC is committed to collaborating with international talent to advance the production sector and develop local expertise.

Mohammed Al-Hamid, supervisor of “Ozoom,” noted that the partnership aligns with the vision of CEO Mohammed Al-Harthi and Ibrahim Al-Farhan, supervisor of programs and content. 

He said that the initiative seeks to merge international expertise with local production, creating relatable content that empowers and develops the skills of Saudi professionals.

“Ozoom” is broadcast weekly every Wednesday on SBC.


Riyadh to host Saudi orchestra concert

Ƶ’s Music Commission is to host the “Marvels of Saudi Orchestra” concert in Riyadh for the first time. (Supplied)
Ƶ’s Music Commission is to host the “Marvels of Saudi Orchestra” concert in Riyadh for the first time. (Supplied)
Updated 5 sec ago

Riyadh to host Saudi orchestra concert

Ƶ’s Music Commission is to host the “Marvels of Saudi Orchestra” concert in Riyadh for the first time. (Supplied)
  • Starting on Jan. 16 at the King Fahd Cultural Center, the three-day event is part of efforts to promote Saudi music to local audiences
  • Concert marks the sixth stop on the Saudi National Orchestra and Choir’s global tour

RIYADH: Ƶ’s Music Commission is to host the “Marvels of Saudi Orchestra” concert in Riyadh for the first time.

Starting on Jan. 16 at the King Fahd Cultural Center, the three-day event is part of efforts to promote Saudi music to local audiences.

It will be held under the patronage of Culture Minister and Music Commission Chairman Prince Badr bin Abdullah bin Farhan.

The concert marks the sixth stop on the Saudi National Orchestra and Choir’s global tour, reports the Saudi Press Agency.

The orchestra and choir have brought Saudi heritage to prestigious stages worldwide, beginning in Paris at the Theatre du Chatelet and followed by performances at the National Theatre in Mexico, New York’s Metropolitan Opera House, Central Hall Westminster in London, and Tokyo Opera City Concert Hall.

The Riyadh concert promises a captivating musical experience, with timeless melodies that guide the audience through the Kingdom’s heritage and highlight its cultural legacy and artistic depth.


Historic exhibit in Makkah spotlights Prophet Muhammad’s journey

Hira Cultural District in Makkah is alive with activities as part of the Hira Winter events.
Hira Cultural District in Makkah is alive with activities as part of the Hira Winter events.
Updated 7 min 5 sec ago

Historic exhibit in Makkah spotlights Prophet Muhammad’s journey

Hira Cultural District in Makkah is alive with activities as part of the Hira Winter events.
  • At the heart of these events is the Revelation Exhibition, which tells the powerful story of the honorable prophets, from Adam to Prophet Muhammad

RIYADH: The Hira Cultural District in Makkah is alive with activities as part of the Hira Winter events, coinciding with the mid-year vacation.

A variety of attractions and services are being offered to visitors until Jan. 10, according to the Saudi Press Agency.

At the heart of these events is the Revelation Exhibition, which tells the powerful story of the honorable prophets, from Adam to Prophet Muhammad.

The exhibition focuses on the first revelation to Prophet Muhammad, immersing visitors in the pivotal moment of his life, the SPA added.

Guests can explore the revelation story, the Cave of Hira and learn about Khadija bint Khuwaylid, the Mother of Believers, and the angel Gabriel through interactive museum displays.

Using cutting-edge technology like interactive screens and realistic simulations, the exhibition offers an immersive experience for visitors.

Historical artifacts are also on display, including a photocopy of the Qur’an attributed to Uthman bin Affan, one of the oldest surviving mushafs, highlighting Muslims’ dedication to preserving the holy book.

The exhibition also showcases ancient stone inscriptions with Qur’anic verses, reflecting Muslim efforts to safeguard sacred texts.

The district also offers a unique shopping experience, with handicrafts and traditional products. It is located near the Cave of Hira and the iconic Jabal Al-Nour.


Oud, sandalwood planting initiative launched in Madinah

Madinah Gov. Prince Salman bin Sultan has launched a project to cultivate agarwood and sandalwood trees across the region. (SPA)
Madinah Gov. Prince Salman bin Sultan has launched a project to cultivate agarwood and sandalwood trees across the region. (SPA)
Updated 18 min 58 sec ago

Oud, sandalwood planting initiative launched in Madinah

Madinah Gov. Prince Salman bin Sultan has launched a project to cultivate agarwood and sandalwood trees across the region. (SPA)
  • Project aims to cultivate environmentally and economically valuable tree species like coffee and sandalwood

RIYADH: Madinah Gov. Prince Salman bin Sultan has launched a project to cultivate agarwood and sandalwood trees across the region, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

The event was attended by Dhafer Al-Fahad, CEO of the Jazan Mountainous Development Authority, and featured a presentation highlighting the authority’s work, achievements, and partnerships.

Prince Salman emphasized the initiative’s strategic role in promoting environmental sustainability and enhancing the region’s vegetation.

The project aims to cultivate environmentally and economically valuable tree species like coffee and sandalwood, support the local economy, and raise awareness about biodiversity conservation in the Madinah region, aligning with the environmental goals of Saudi Vision 2030 and the Saudi Green Initiative.

The green initiative, launched by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in March 2021, plans to plant 450 million trees by 2030 and rehabilitate 8 million hectares of degraded land by 2030, which would cut about 200 million tonnes of carbon emissions per year.


Saudi cabinet praises results of Syrian delegation talks in Riyadh

Saudi cabinet praises results of Syrian delegation talks in Riyadh
Updated 40 min 1 sec ago

Saudi cabinet praises results of Syrian delegation talks in Riyadh

Saudi cabinet praises results of Syrian delegation talks in Riyadh

The Saudi Cabinet, chaired by King Salman, praised on Tuesday the outcomes of recent talks held between senior Saudi officials and a high-ranking delegation from Syria's new administration.

The cabinet reaffirmed Ƶ's commitment to supporting Syria's security and stability, as well as continuing its humanitarian and relief assistance to the Syrian people.

In a statement following the session, Minister of Media Salman bin Yousef Al-Dosari highlighted the Kingdom's rejection and condemnation of Israeli crimes against Palestinians in Gaza, emphasizing Ƶ's stance on international law and humanitarian principles.

Domestically, the cabinet reviewed the progress of development programs aimed at enhancing services for citizens and diversifying the economy, alongside updates on various agenda topics, including those coordinated with the Shura Council and other government bodies.


New deal to provide disability support in Yemen

New deal to provide disability support in Yemen
Updated 07 January 2025

New deal to provide disability support in Yemen

New deal to provide disability support in Yemen

RIYADH: The Children with Disability Association and the Saudi Development and Reconstruction Program for Yemen signed a cooperation agreement to support Yemenis with disabilities and improve the skills of workers in the field.

Prince Sultan bin Salman, special adviser to King Salman and chairman of the association, and Mohammed Al-Jaber, the program’s general supervisor, signed the agreement in Riyadh.

Prince Sultan said that the memorandum builds on the association’s efforts to address disability-related challenges.

It aims to provide advisory services for launching medical rehabilitation centers for people with different disabilities, according to the Saudi Press Agency.

Prince Sultan acknowledged King Salman’s support for the association, which has helped it expand services across the Kingdom.

The agreement also aims to share expertise, promote partnerships and organize activities to improve community integration for children with disabilities, the SPA reported.

The collaboration is part of the program’s broader efforts to support individuals with disabilities and other groups in Yemen.