Turaif Governorate Adorned in Green in Preparation for Saudi National Day
Turaif Governorate in Northern Borders Region has been adorned in green in preparation for Saudi National Day.
The municipality showcased its preparations by decorating the streets with flags and green lighting, SPA reported.
The governorate is also hosting a diverse array of national, cultural, and artistic events, combining patriotic performances and entertainment programs with activities tailored for families and children.
Saudi Arabia Strengthens Role in International Water Efforts Ahead of Riyadh World Water Forum 2027
Saudi Arabia affirmed that hosting the 11th World Water Forum in Riyadh in 2027 represents an important milestone in strengthening joint international action and accelerating the transition from commitments and initiatives to practical solutions that contribute to water security and sustainability.
This came during the participation of Deputy Minister for Water at the Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture Dr. Abdulaziz Al-Shaibani in a dialogue session held today as part of the Euro-Mediterranean Water Forum in Rome, with the participation of several ministers, senior officials, and international experts in the water sector, SPA reported.
Al-Shaibani said that the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is preparing to host the 11th World Water Forum from March 21 to 25, 2027, noting that the forum aims to enhance international partnerships, support actionable solutions, and link global commitments to clear programs whose impact can be measured and results monitored.
He highlighted that the World Water Forum in Riyadh will address six main themes and more than 30 topics, including water security, water finance, water for humans and nature, water governance and diplomacy, innovation for water, and the value of water. More than 20,000 participants from over 150 countries are expected to attend.
Al-Shaibani stressed that the Kingdom is working to ensure an inclusive preparatory process involving various stakeholders and reflecting the needs of different regions and countries, while enhancing the participation of youth, academic institutions, the private sector, international organizations, and river basin organizations.
He also called on the international community to actively contribute to preparations for the forum and provide initiatives, expertise, and partnerships that support practical and sustainable outcomes. He reiterated that the Kingdom looks forward to the forum serving as a platform that brings the world together for joint action toward a more water-secure and sustainable future.
10 AlUla Hotels and Restaurants Featured in 2026 MICHELIN Guide
AlUla’s standing as a world-class center for luxury hospitality and culinary excellence received renewed acclaim, with 10 hotels and restaurants featured in the 2026 MICHELIN Guide for Saudi Arabia.
This latest MICHELIN Guide recognition celebrates the exceptional quality, distinctiveness, and authenticity of AlUla’s hospitality offerings, with each reflecting the destination’s sense of place and deep cultural roots.
The renowned Dar Tantora The House Hotel was awarded One MICHELIN Key, a testament to its opulent offering rooted in heritage. Situated in AlUla Old Town and built from carefully restored historic mudbrick dwellings, the eco-boutique hotel provides guests with an authentic sanctuary in the heart of the historic area.
The Chedi Hegra was also awarded One MICHELIN Key, recognized for its location within Saudi Arabia’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site. The property preserves historic structures, ancient fort walls and the former AlUla railway station, weaving centuries of heritage into a modern luxury experience.
Banyan Tree AlUla maintained its coveted One MICHELIN Key, a prestigious mark of distinction recognizing remarkable hotel experiences. Set within the sandstone canyons of Ashar Valley, the resort pairs minimalist luxury with sustainable design, offering a secluded retreat rooted in nature.
Also featured in the hotel selection are Our Habitas AlUla, recognized for its wellness-led, environmentally conscious approach to desert hospitality, and Caravan by Habitas AlUla, which offers a vibrant, adventure-inspired stay under the stars.
In the dining selection, new addition Tofareya earned a Bib Gourmand for its outstanding Saudi cuisine. Situated in a traditional village house in AlUla Old Town, Tofareya highlights local ingredients, including AlUla oranges and dates harvested from the ancient oasis. It joins returning Bib Gourmand awardee Joontos at Dar Tantora The House Hotel, which is praised for its contemporary and inventive spin on traditional Saudi dishes.
Entering the guide for the first time was Somewhere, set within the AlUla Oasis and serving Middle Eastern dishes with creative contemporary twists amidst lush palm groves.
The 2026 selection also includes returning MICHELIN-selected destinations such as Harrat at Banyan Tree AlUla, recognized for its pan-Arabic cuisine, and Tama at Our Habitas AlUla, celebrated for its farm-to-table approach and locally sourced, seasonal menus.
With 10 venues featured in the MICHELIN Guide, AlUla has a high concentration of MICHELIN-recognized hospitality venues in the region, reinforcing its position as a leading hospitality and culinary destination in the Kingdom.
Together, these recognitions underline the destination’s growth as a global hub for luxury and culinary discovery, where visitors can enjoy world-class hospitality amid ancient landscapes.
AlUla Skies 2026 Returns with Exceptional Celestial Experiences
