The distance between Florida and Riyadh, the capital of Saudi Arabia, did not hinder the deepening friendship between young Saudi Musallat Al-Otaibi and American investor Chris Atwell over the course of five years. This human connection evolved into a unique cultural bridge, culminating in an exceptional meeting that reflected the highest ideals of human harmony and cultural exchange between peoples.

Vision 2030: A dazzling vision that transcends the numbers

Chris Attwell arrived in Riyadh to participate in the “Future Real Estate Forum,” bringing with him his experience as an investor seeking promising opportunities. But what he witnessed on the ground exceeded his expectations; he described the speed of implementation of the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 projects as “astonishing and impressive.” Attwell affirmed that the Saudi real estate and housing sector has become a major attraction for global investments, not only because of the economic opportunities but also because of the strong will and ambitious goals driving this historic transformation.

Background of the event: The Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Camel Festival

The Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Camel Festival, held annually, is one of the Kingdom's most prominent cultural and sporting events. It is more than just a race; it is a grand celebration of authentic Saudi heritage, where camels hold a deep historical and symbolic place in the culture of the Arabian Peninsula. Attracting camel owners from across the Kingdom and the Gulf region, the festival aims to preserve and promote this rich heritage as an integral part of national identity, in line with the goals of Vision 2030, which seeks to enrich the cultural experience for both residents and visitors.

From wish to lived experience

Despite his busy schedule, Chris harbored a long-held wish he had often shared with his friend Musallat: “I want to experience Saudi culture at its source.” Musallat readily granted this wish, taking him on a trip to the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Camel Festival in Janadriyah. There, amidst the excitement of the crowds and the scent of the desert, Chris experienced a profound cultural immersion. He commented, “In the camel races, the food, and the traditional clothing, I found deep meaning in the Saudis’ commitment to their heritage and traditions.”.

The Saudi people: the true treasure

Chris Atwell's fascination wasn't limited to the architectural projects or heritage events; it extended to the very essence of the experience: the Saudi people. He described them as a "hidden treasure," praising the warm welcome and generous hospitality that made him feel like he was among family. This deep emotional connection transformed Chris into an unofficial ambassador for Saudi culture in his country. He makes a point of greeting everyone with the Islamic greeting "As-salamu alaykum" in America and spreading the values ​​of generosity and joy he experienced in the Kingdom.

The global impact of cultural exchange

Such individual experiences are of paramount importance both regionally and internationally. They represent effective tools of soft power, contributing to correcting stereotypes and presenting a true image of Saudi society as open and hospitable. The impressions of investors and visitors like Chris Attwell, upon returning home, create a positive impact that extends beyond commercial deals. They encourage tourism, strengthen diplomatic and people-to-people ties, and affirm that cultural diversity is not an obstacle, but rather a source of richness and beauty that opens endless horizons for cooperation and understanding between nations.

Regarding his constant use of the Saudi greeting, Chris explained, “The Saudi people have given me so much, and if I can bring a smile to their day, that makes me happy. The greeting costs me nothing, while they have given me so much.” Chris believes that Saudis in America are also a “hidden treasure,” maintaining their generosity and hospitality. He emphasized that the relationship has transcended friendship to become familial ties, as he and his family in Florida make a point of hosting Saudi families to reciprocate and strengthen this exceptional relationship that began with the word “peace” and culminated in a meeting in the heart of Saudi Arabia.

Funeral procession for the artist Huda Shaarawi in Damascus

The head of the Syrian Artists Syndicate, Mohsen Ghazi, announced the death of the esteemed Syrian actress Huda Shaarawi at the age of 85, after a long and distinguished career spanning decades, during which she left an indelible mark on the memory of the Arab public. He confirmed that the funeral procession for the late actress will depart after noon prayers from the Lala Pasha Mosque in Damascus, and she will be laid to rest in the family cemetery, thus concluding an important chapter in the history of Syrian art.

An artistic journey from radio to television

Huda Shaarawi was born in the historic Shaghour neighborhood of Damascus on October 28, 1938, and her passion for art began at a young age. Her true breakthrough came through the airwaves of Damascus Radio in the 1950s, where she participated in numerous radio programs that honed her talent and vocal expression. With the launch of Syrian Arab Television in 1960, Shaarawi was one of the founding names who transitioned to the small screen, becoming a familiar face to Syrian and Arab households. Her roles spanned both theater and television, and she performed in comedic and tragic works that demonstrated her exceptional artistic abilities.

“Umm Zaki”... the character who captured the hearts of millions

Despite her long and illustrious career, the character of "Umm Zaki" in the popular series "Bab Al-Hara" remains the iconic role synonymous with Huda Shaarawi. She portrayed the role of the "daya" (midwife) and traditional herbalist in the old Damascene quarter with unparalleled skill, transforming the character into a cultural symbol that transcended the series' boundaries. With her authentic Damascene accent, her folk wisdom, and her interventions in the affairs of the neighborhood's residents, "Umm Zaki" became an integral part of the collective memory of the Arab viewer. This role not only brought her widespread fame but also cemented her status as an artist capable of embodying the most subtle nuances of the traditional Damascene character.

Artistic legacy and lasting influence

Huda Shaarawi's career wasn't limited to "Bab Al-Hara"; it encompassed dozens of prominent television, theatrical, and cinematic works, including the series "Yawmiyat Mudir Aam" (General Manager's Diaries), "A'ilat Khams Nujoum" (Five-Star Family), and "Maraya" (Mirrors). Her death came as a shock to the artistic community in Syria and the Arab world, with her fellow artists and artistic institutions rushing to mourn her, praising her talent, character, and dedication to her work. Her passing is considered a great loss to Syrian drama, which has lost one of its cornerstones and a part of its living memory. Huda Shaarawi will remain in the hearts of her fans as a genuine artist who managed to enter every Arab home and leave an indelible mark.