Immediate response from the Egyptian authorities

In a widely appreciated humanitarian gesture, Professor Rasha Abdel Aal, Head of the Egyptian Tax Authority, announced the immediate lifting of the tax lien on the bank accounts of the esteemed artist Abdel Rahman Abu Zahra. This swift decision came in response to a humanitarian appeal from the artist's son and in recognition of Abu Zahra's distinguished artistic career spanning more than six decades, which has profoundly impacted the hearts of Egyptian and Arab audiences.

Background to the crisis and the son's appeal

The story began when Ahmed Abdel Rahman Abu Zahra, the artist's son, posted a heartfelt message on his Facebook account, revealing that the tax authorities had seized his father's meager pension. He explained that this action had halted the pension payments, which were insufficient even to cover his father's medication and treatment costs as he faced critical health conditions. The son emphasized that his father, who dedicated his life to serving art and his country, had never been late in paying his taxes, and he appealed to officials to intervene and lift the seizure, granting his father the right to spend his final days in peace and tranquility.

A tribute to a prolific artistic career

The artist Abdel Rahman Abu Zahra is considered one of the most prominent figures in art in Egypt and the Arab world. His artistic career spans more than 60 years, during which he presented hundreds of timeless works in theater, cinema, television, and radio. His voice and performance are associated with unforgettable iconic characters, such as "Teacher Sardina" in the series "I Will Not Live in My Father's Robe," his historical role in the series "Omar Ibn Abdel Aziz," and his distinctive voice in dubbing international animated films, such as the character "Scar" in "The Lion King." This rich artistic history has made him an integral part of the cultural memory of society, which prompted the authorities to act swiftly in recognition of this great artistic value.

The importance and impact of the decision

The Tax Authority's decision carries implications beyond the financial aspect; it represents a clear message of appreciation from the state for its artistic and cultural icons. The head of the Authority affirmed in her official statement that this measure stems from "a belief in the vital role that art and artists play in elevating thought and culture." She also announced that she would personally oversee the artist's tax file to ensure the resolution of any problems and facilitate his affairs, reflecting a new approach aimed at building a partnership and trust between the Authority and society, especially with national figures who have contributed to shaping Egyptian identity. Domestically, the decision was met with widespread public and media acclaim, with many considering it a victory for human values ​​and a well-deserved tribute to a prominent artist. It also highlights the necessity of mechanisms to support and nurture leading artists and creative individuals.

The Janadriyah Village is preparing to open its doors next Friday, welcoming visitors to the third edition of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Camel Festival. It will offer an immersive cultural and entertainment experience suitable for all family members. The village will be open daily from 1:00 PM to 10:00 PM, coinciding with the start of the exciting races at the historic Janadriyah Camel Racecourse in Riyadh.

With its rich cultural heritage and historical background,
camel racing is an integral part of the cultural heritage of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the Arabian Peninsula. Historically, it has been linked to nomadic life and movement, and has been a symbol of strength and authenticity. The Janadriyah Camel Racing Track is one of the oldest and most renowned tracks, having hosted numerous major races over the years, bringing together camel owners from across the Kingdom and the Gulf region. This festival is an extension of this rich heritage, preserving it and passing it on to new generations in a modern style that blends the past and present.

The festival's significance and anticipated impact:
The festival, held under the patronage of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, will commence on Friday, January 23rd and continue for ten days, boasting prize money exceeding 75 million riyals, making it one of the largest and most important camel festivals in the world. The event's importance extends beyond the purely sporting aspect, encompassing economic, tourism, and cultural dimensions. Locally, the festival reinforces the value of national heritage and encourages investment in the camel racing sector. Regionally and internationally, it highlights the Kingdom's rich culture and attracts tourists and enthusiasts from around the globe, contributing to strengthening Saudi Arabia's position as a leading global tourist destination.

A complete experience awaits at Al Janadriyah Village.
Spanning a vast area of ​​15,000 square meters, Al Janadriyah Village is designed to offer visitors a comprehensive experience. It houses over 60 diverse pavilions, including a selection of restaurants and cafes serving delicious traditional and modern cuisine, as well as shops showcasing heritage products, handicrafts, and contemporary goods to suit all tastes. The village is an ideal destination for families and tourists wishing to explore the culture of camel racing firsthand.

A rich array of artistic and entertainment activities
enhances the visitor experience. The village features an events theater offering continuous artistic and cultural performances throughout the day, including Samri performances that celebrate authentic Saudi folk arts. The village also provides visitors with a unique opportunity to experience camel riding firsthand, bringing them closer to this animal that holds a special place in Saudi culture. These events are organized under the auspices of the Saudi Camel Racing Federation, reflecting its unwavering commitment to solidifying this national heritage and transforming it into a global tourism and economic platform, in line with the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030 in the culture and entertainment sectors.