1st September 2019
A diplomatic delegation, with 60 diplomats and their families, visited Souk Okaz, accompanied by the director of the protocol department at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Makkah, Hani bin Abdul Wahab Kashif, and other ministry employees.
The diplomatic visit to Souk Okaz, which gives insights into the history and heritage of the country of the Two Holy Mosques and the Arabian Peninisula, is part of a series organized by the Ministry to introduce diplomats to Saudi Arabia’s cultural and human heritage.
The visit included a tour of Okaz Avenue, where they witnessed various events, including camel caravans, displays by the Okaz Knights, and presentations of poems, and also saw examples of a range of handicrafts and folk arts.
The delegation was also briefed on the “Arab Quarter,” which features 11 Arab countries, showcasing their cultural and social heritage, with live performances, museums, art exhibitions, a library, a cultural arena, workshops, and a wide range of shops and restaurants. The delegates also visited different parts of the market, including the Okaz Boys’ section, the language and culture tent, and the art and music arena, and took commemorative pictures.
At the end of the visit, the delegation commended the cultural and tourism activities featured at Souk Okaz, which reflects the support of the government, led by the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz and HRH Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Wali. Crown Prince, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defense, and for the care of of His Royal Highness Prince Khalid al-Faisal, advisor to the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, The Emir of Mecca, and His Excellency the President, the Saudi Commission for Tourism and National Heritage.