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Al-Wadi and Al-Jabal: embracing Ramadan’s cherished traditions

Al-Wadi and Al-Jabal: embracing Ramadan’s cherished traditions
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Al-Wadi and Al-Jabal village, Taif Governorate, exemplifies the enduring power of cherished traditions during Ramadan. (SPA)
Al-Wadi and Al-Jabal: embracing Ramadan’s cherished traditions
2 / 2
Al-Wadi and Al-Jabal village, Taif Governorate, exemplifies the enduring power of cherished traditions during Ramadan. (SPA)
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Updated 20 March 2025

Al-Wadi and Al-Jabal: embracing Ramadan’s cherished traditions

Al-Wadi and Al-Jabal: embracing Ramadan’s cherished traditions
  • Villagers, with unwavering devotion, pass down their customs, fostering a strong sense of community and shared experience
  • Kitchens come alive with the aromas of local dishes — recipes passed down through generations — prepared with fresh ingredients from their own farms

RIYADH: Al-Wadi and Al-Jabal village in the Taif governorate in the western part of ֱ exemplifies the enduring power of cherished traditions during the holy month of Ramadan.

The villagers, with unwavering devotion, pass down their customs, fostering a strong sense of community and shared experience.

Throughout the holy month, the village displays a rich tapestry of noble practices, interwoven with the villagers’ daily agricultural work.

At dawn they tend to their fields, harvesting fruit and flowers, maintaining water channels for their ancient trees and livestock, and completing essential tasks such as wall construction and material transport.

Families in Al-Wadi and Al-Jabal village observe Ramadan traditions by thoroughly cleaning their homes, encouraging children to fast, and celebrating the first day with gifts.

Their kitchens come alive with the aromas of local dishes — recipes passed down through generations — prepared with fresh ingredients from their own farms.

Speaking to the Saudi Press Agency, farmer Khalaf Al-Nemri explained how fasting provides a sense of focus for daily tasks.

“My father and I continue the cultural practices passed down from our ancestors, including the tradition of sharing iftar in our rural community,” Al-Nemri said.

“Our village traditions emphasize love and unity with family and friends after Isha and Taraweeh prayers, often held in traditional Ramadan tents,” Al-Nemri added.

“These enduring bonds strengthen solidarity, family unity and neighborly ties, positively influencing children’s behavior during Ramadan.”


What We Are Buying Today: Thaqeb, a Saudi brand

What We Are Buying Today: Thaqeb, a Saudi brand
Updated 12 sec ago

What We Are Buying Today: Thaqeb, a Saudi brand

What We Are Buying Today: Thaqeb, a Saudi brand

As the Kingdom celebrates the Year of Handicrafts, Thaqeb, a Saudi brand from the Eastern Province, is bringing locally inspired products into the spotlight.

Founded in 2020 by four design graduates from Imam Abdulrahman bin Faisal University — Aseel Alhussaini, Sarah Alghamdi, Raghad Sendi and Farah Aldossery — the brand fills a gap in the market for contemporary, sustainable Saudi souvenirs that blend tradition with modern, eco-conscious design.

All Thaqeb products are sourced and made locally, supporting Saudi artisans while keeping environmental impact low through short supply chains.

From Thaqeb Studio, the all-women team turned a university project into a purpose-driven business. Three of the founders still work in the Eastern Province, while one has moved to Riyadh. The brand is growing, welcoming new designers and launching fresh collections.

At the Ithra Winter Festival, held alongside Khobar Season, Thaqeb’s popup booth drew attention with its elegant, locally inspired display.

Their Asir Mountain tote bags, made in Riyadh, come in three designs — one in blue and two with subtle color variations — priced at SR125 ($33). The canvas totes feature vegan leather straps and roomy interiors, combining practicality with local design.

Thaqeb is also known for its cups, which were available at the booth. In 2022, the brand won an award for its cup design, further boosting its reputation in the local design scene.

Another hit is the Arabian Leopard collection of bag accessories, created to mark the birth of leopard cubs in AlUla — a milestone in conservation efforts. The collection features vibrant editions, including Leopard Green for Saudi National Day and a pink version for Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

The brand regularly takes part in Ithra events, including Eid celebrations. At the Ithra Winter Souq, their booth accepts cash or certain digital payments, but not Apple Pay, so it is best to have Ithra WiFi or reliable data if going cashless.

Check their Instagram @thaqeb.products for more details and products.