Images of the animals in varieties of paints and colours [are intended] to delight the hearts of princes, increase their pleasure, and also the degree of care which they bestow on the work.

Like the beloved Aesop’s Fables, Kalīlah and Dimnah is a collection of animal fables that were written not just for moral instruction to three young princes, who were unruly at the time and had to learn to be wiser rulers, but also for the amusement and reflection of whoever reads them.The original manuscript contains seventy-eight paintings and many text folios telling the famous tales of the two jackals Kalila and Dimna. Each was clever and intelligent, but of the two Dimna was greedier, more ambitious and manipulative.&nbsp;Based on the Panchatantra written by Vidyapati (Bidpai), dating to the 3rd century BCE, the stories spread all over the Middle East in the 8th century after being translated into Arabic by the scholar and state official Ibn al-Muqaffa’ — where they became and remain wildly popular.

Witty, humor’s and philosophical, these fables of vice and virtue are constantly revisited and reimagined by writers and artists across the world.In this particular folio featured here, we meet the wise leopard. It is called The Leopard's Court - ‘Leopard Bearing Lion's Order to Fellow Judges’.Within a colourful, plentiful arabesques-cape of flowers, fruit, and cypress trees, an unwavering leopard sits in judgment on the devious jackal Dimna, whose lies and jealousy resulted in the killing of an innocent ox by his friend, the Lion-king. The jackal frenzied the king against the ox, who regretted killing his friend and ordered Dimna to stand trial. In this Folio, an outraged hare turns away from the jackal in disgust. Leopard, depicted as calm and wise, judges the case and Dimna is found guilty and sentenced to death by starvation.&nbsp;

To find out more about Kalila wa Dimna, visit King Faisal Center for Research and Islamic Studies (KFCRIS) and <a href="https://kfcris.com/en/view/103" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">their special collection of manuscripts</a>, where a copy, written by Muḥammad ibn ʿAlī al-Ḥanafī, is believed to be the second oldest copy existing in the world of Kalila wa Dimna.To read the fables of Kalila wa Dimna, explore their comprehensive book <a href="https://www.libraryofarabicliterature.org/books/9781479806539/kalilah-and-dimnah/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">‘Kalila and Dinah: Fabes of Virtue and Vice’</a> by the Library of Arabic Literature (NYU Abu Dhabi and NYU Press).&nbsp;

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Kalila wa Dimna — Timeless Animal Fables 

"Hussain… I see that you don’t share images of natural landscapes from your travels," is a common comment I receive whenever I share stories about the urban scenes I observe during my journeys, but I have my reasons, which I will explain below.History, archaeology, architecture, and anthropology; these are the realms of National Geographic, and they are also at the core of my interests, passions, and field of expertise. It is only natural, then, that I document my personal experiences related to these fields during my travels. If we reflect on the aforementioned areas, we find that they are all connected to human activity, whether in ancient or modern times. A brief visit to an archaeological site is often enough for one to grasp the essence of the place and gain at least a partial understanding of its history.However, the same does not entirely apply to nature. I may be able to understand the essence of a building in a single visit and then share some concise information about it by, for example, identifying its architectural style and highlighting some of its unique features. But when it comes to natural landscapes, one cannot share meaningful insights without fully immersing in and exploring them. No matter how simple a natural landscape may seem, like a desert for instance, it is inherently more complex than anything built by human hands.This may sound somewhat idealistic, but I find it difficult to truly savor a nature photograph unless the photographer has delved deep into the subject, capturing an image that could not be taken in a fleeting moment. Moreover, sharing such a photograph requires the photographer to have a thorough understanding of its background; geographic, scientific, and cultural. That is what is needed to shed light on the significance of taking said photograph.&nbsp;

That is why I firmly believe that one cannot truly showcase nature unless they are an explorer of it. This is also why I hold a deep respect for those who walk through nature. They do not take shortcuts to enjoy a breathtaking view; instead, they navigate every path, both accessible and treacherous, to absorb knowledge from its original sources and draw physical and spiritual energy from the environment. As a result, their camera lenses capture images rich in depth and meaning, inspired by mother nature herself.At National Geographic Al Arabiya, we have always been committed to sharing the creative works of Arab photographers across various fields. We also aspire to nurture a generation of explorers who traverse the vast expanse of the Arab World, sharing with us the wonders of their experiences through words and images. In an era of rapidly advancing knowledge tools such as artificial intelligence, the role of exploration becomes ever more vital. Without it, we would not be able to document experiences that reveal the true nature of our planet, its wonders that deserve celebration, its challenges that demand solutions, and its treasures that must be preserved.And photography continues to play a significant role in uncovering the history of built environments and interpreting nature.Hussain AlMoosawi: Acting Editor-in-Chief of National Geographic Magazine Al Arabiya and Architectural Photographer.&nbsp;

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The Probing Image: Urban History and interpreting Nature

As a collection of layered stones inspired by the geological nature of Saudi Arabia, Ithra's architecture directly takes from nature, but Ithra's programs give back to nature as well. To find out more about Ithra's story <a href="https://www.ithra.com/application/files/1416/8198/0500/The_Ithra_Story_English.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">click here</a>.&nbsp;Ithra’s deep connection with the region’s natural environment goes beyond the aesthetic aspects of the building. It extends to a societal responsibility reflected in its various programs. For instance, through the "iRead Marathon" – where the premise was that a tree would be planted for every 100 pages read– more than 24,000 seedlings have been planted across Qatif and Al-Ahsa over four consecutive editions, in collaboration with the National Center for Vegetation Cover Development and Combating Desertification (NCVC) in Saudi Arabia, along with relevant authorities.&nbsp;

The architect Cass Gilbert once said, “Books are the most enduring monuments of man's achievements.” With iRead Marathon, we try to replenish one of nature’s most enduring monuments, its trees. Reading is not an isolated act, it leaves a lasting impact on both minds and nature alike. Your continued reading contributes to the book industry, and every 100 pages read ensures the opportunity for more pages to be printed.&nbsp;Ready for the numbers? The first edition, held at Ithra Library, saw 162,000 pages read. The second edition, hosted at Ithra Library alongside two libraries in Riyadh and Tabuk, recorded 422,000 pages. The third edition, in collaboration with the Library of Alexandria in Egypt and the National Library of Morocco, reached 326,000 pages.&nbsp;And the surprise? The fourth edition, held in partnership with 17 Arab libraries, witnessed around 1.5 million pages read. An immense number of pages, and seedlings!Don’t miss next year’s edition to join in the fun!

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Green Pages

In a world of constant anxiety and worry about looming threats from climate change, conflict and war, many of us turn to nature for peace, succour, and even survival. Wherever we live in the world, we know places to escape to – the sea, the forest, the desert, the mountains. We know where they are, they call to us, and we know that they will embrace us, shelter us, and perhaps even make us whole again. That knowledge of course is not new. In fact, throughout human history and around the globe, stories remind us of the powerful role nature can play in our well-being, regeneration, and survival. This painting references one of them.At first sight, it evokes a beautiful nature scene of serene calm and rest: two couples relaxing and chatting in a lush green landscape ablaze with colorful flowers, blooming trees, tall cypresses and gently flowing rivers – all enclosed by vibrant rock formations. A haven of peace.

And yet, their reason for being there is not leisure, but survival – from a devastating massacre which, according to the story told, the Turanians had visited upon their Mongol people. The massacre had left only the four of them alive: Prince Nekuz, Prince Qiyan, and their two wives. Together, they had managed to escape by following a narrow track to a plain sheltered by the Ergenekon mountain range.&nbsp;It was here, nested and safe in the fertile valley evoked in the painting above, that – according to legend – the four of them started again, their children multiplying and dividing into tribes over the next 400 years. It was only then that the Egenekon plain became too crowded. In fact, living space had become so tight that the only way to leave was to blast a passage through an iron mine tunnel in the mountain face!

Written by Special Guest Contributor Dr. Ulrike Al-Khamis, Director and CEO at the <a href="https://agakhanmuseum.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Aga Khan Museum</a>, Toronto.&nbsp;In each issue, we feature a special treasure from the Aga Khan Museum, one that tells a story, captures a moment and inspires conversation.

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Seeking Refuge in Nature

An interview with artist <a href="https://www.instagram.com/noufmhmoud/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Nouf Al Jamea</a>, taking us on her journey with art. &nbsp;

&nbsp;I am an artist passionate about art and life, and I was born in Khobar in 1985. I have a deep love for painting and savor art in all its forms and colors. I work as an administrative employee in the government sector. I always strive to practice painting, express my existence, and make time to nurture my passion and inspiration.

Who is Nouf Al Jamea?

&nbsp;I have been painting since childhood, with the support and encouragement of my family, especially my beloved mother, who always celebrated my drawings and decorated our home’s walls with them.&nbsp;I am constantly inspired and moved by the role of women in society, as well as the life experiences and situations I go through as a human being who expresses herself and translates her emotions through lines and colors. I became a visual artist by the grace of God, through continuous practice, training in fine art techniques, and engaging in inspiring life experiences.

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What inspired you to become an artist?

&nbsp;I always make use of my free time to paint, and sometimes I dedicate an entire day to it. I enjoy lighting a candle, preparing a cup of coffee, and listening to inspiring musical pieces as I begin a new painting or continue working on unfinished ones.

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Do you have a specific routine or ritual for painting?

&nbsp;Through practice, training, reading, and reflection. &nbsp;

How do you develop your art over time?

&nbsp;Thank God, I have never faced difficulty in executing a piece of work. The challenge lies in extracting the idea and shaping it into a form.

Have you ever faced difficulties with one of your paintings?

&nbsp;I am always looking for opportunities to participate in local or international exhibitions. I also have a collaboration with ceramic artist Shaima Ahli at <a href="https://www.instagram.com/kleos.sa/?hl=en" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Kléos Store</a>. &nbsp;

Tell us about your upcoming exhibitions and projects.

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The artist's reflections on the sky and her wish to capture a star.

&nbsp;Art is life, beauty, and a language that speaks to the heart. &nbsp;

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Finally, what does art mean to you?

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A Language That Serenades the Hearts

As elusive as a fox.

There are variations on the saying, but all capture the mysteriousness, wisdom and gracefulness of the fox.&nbsp;Featured in stories, fables, and sayings from the region and beyond — this noble animal that is blessed with sly intelligence and cunning —recently graced Ithra with a stealthy visit.A beloved sighting in Aramco’s communities and at home in many of the company’s Biodiversity Protection Areas throughout the Kingdom, the Arabian Red Fox is a protected animal by law and hurting it is illegal and heavily fined. These agile quick foxes can run at speeds up to 42 km/h, and bring joy to residents whenever they happen to see one or two wander about the area in search of food.&nbsp; Known in Arabic as Al Tha’leb Al Ahmar, or Vulpes vulpes arabica in Latin — the Arabian Red Fox is the smallest subspecies of red foxes, can weigh as little as two kilograms, are pale brown in color, but can be darker if the sands are darker, as their color helps them adapt to their desert surroundings.They are also social creatures and are known to be playful and mischievous.&nbsp;

Contrary to common beliefs, foxes and cats avoid conflict, often by simply avoiding or getting out of each other’s way. Smaller mammals like rodents, may not be as lucky.&nbsp;These foxes have fur on the pads of their feet that helps distribute their weight, allowing them to move more easily on the shifting sands as well as protecting them from the hot surface. Their large ears act as heat exchangers, keeping them cool while helping them hear the tiniest of prey and locate them.&nbsp;As with all animals, they play an important role in balancing the ecosystem, and their adaptability to eat a wide variety of food, from fruits to insects and small animals, helps them survive the harsh terrains and limited natural sites (as many habitats have been taken over by construction and modernization).Loyal to one mate for life and forming close family units, these clever foxes continue to outsmart and beguile human communities, their presence immortalized in myths and legends for generations to come with few of us ever able to ‘outfox’ the fox.

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Fox Meets Rock 

The name of the magazine is born out of Ithra, which is the other name for The King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture. It also refers to ‘enriching,’ and so Ithra-e-yat, a play on the Arabic word of Ithra, is a plural of enrichment, and in this case, a collection of enriching stories.&nbsp;In another interesting twist: the word “Magazine” has its origins in the Arabic word makhzan, a storehouse. Ultimately, Ithraeyat Magazine is a storehouse of unique, enriching stories.Born in 2020 during the COVID-19 epidemic lockdowns, the magazine grew to feature hundreds of artists, creatives, and cultural figures; promote more than a 1000 art pieces in different forms — including the first ever debut of Canadian Indigenous art — and become a station of cultural growth for many writers as well.We discovered through our pages unique and somewhat humorous facts, such as in the ‘Legends’ edition, about how concepts of beauty in past civilizations in Arabia have lasted to this day; where ancient rock art on mountainous areas in Saudi Arabia depict and admire the curvy full-bodied woman, or as they said then (and even today) — the Murabraba woman.

Ithraeyat. What is in a name? What does Ithraeyat even mean? 

Some of our milestones:

Ithraeyat debuted the first AI-generated art on its cover in 2022 for our ‘<a href="https://ithraeyat.ithra.com/editions/identity" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Identity</a>’ edition, before the conversation of the impact of AI became mainstream and one of the biggest changes to our lives.&nbsp;

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AI art on our cover

We have had gems published in our magazine, such as ‘Architectural Sketch – Prime Minister's House,’ by Zaha Hadid from 1979 that was published in Ithraeyat’s ‘<a href="https://ithraeyat.ithra.com/editions/sketches" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Sketches</a>’ edition.This was Zaha’s ‘first major project,’ and she didn’t give up even though it wasn’t chosen as part of a competition. This piece illustrates the ‘Queen of Cures’ signature take on curves and flow in this simple-looking yet complex sketch.

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Forgotten stories of legendary figures

Debut of the late HRH Prince Badr bin Abdulmohsin’s paintings and an exclusive interview with him at his home.“Art is everywhere...You can’t stop art; it will find its way to express itself...” — The late HRH Prince Badr Bin Abdulmohsin Al-Saud (April 1949 - 4 May 2024), the legendary poet, in his last interview, <a href="https://ithraeyat.ithra.com/editions/desert/shakespeare-of-the-desert" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">shared his artistic side</a> with us in the edition dedicated to the ‘Desert’ theme.

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A reservoir of artists that left us

Ithraeyat also had the honor of an exclusive interview with the ‘Mother of Saudi art’ — Safeya Binzagr, published in the ‘Nostalgia’ edition — who also passed away in 2024 (1940- 12 Sept 2024)."Since a long time ago Saudi women were working hard in many fields and today, the world can see it all, and women can harvest the results of their relentless work through the last century …” — the late Safeya bBinzagr told Ithraeyat’s Editor in Chief, and who also shared her love of animals, such as cats, dogs and birds, including her beloved parrots named Honey and Spicy.

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There are many milestones, too many to share. 

And so, as we bid farewell to one season and welcome nature’s gift of another, join us in our garden of stories, and explore all our <a href="https://ithraeyat.ithra.com/download-issues" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">editions of Ithraeyat here.</a>To check out our four year anniversary milestones, please click <a href="https://ithraeyat.ithra.com/editions/doors/storytelling-reflections-over-the-four-years" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">here</a>.Thank you all for being part of the Ithraeyat journey.&nbsp; &nbsp;

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Planting Enriching Stories — Five Year Anniversary

The smallest feline is a masterpiece,

There is no doubt that there is one master of the virtual world and the real one — the enigmatic cat.&nbsp;Sure, sometimes people get distracted by their canine friend (or foe), the dog, but cats dominate our global culture with art pieces, photos, illustrations, sculptures, film and many other forms of dedication and admiration of the best of all beasts.“Cats are everywhere, cherished and were sacred in ancient civilizations, and they are near our homes and in the streets, and so they are always in our lives… I have always been fascinated by cats,” said renowned Saudi artist Tagreed Albagshi, who regularly features a cat – or some sort of feline, even a lion – &nbsp;in her art pieces.“There are so many legends associated with them, and impressions, whereby they mean different things to different people, some people see them as symbols of luck, and others view them as omen’s of bad luck and so featuring them in an art piece may inspire over a 100 interpretations,” she said.“They have been an important part of many cultures and civilizations, and are immortalized as carvings in caves and even as mummies in ancient Egypt,” she said, adding: “Even today, we are fascinated by them and can’t help but include them in our art and lives.”&nbsp;Whether in myth, in art or in film, cats have a special charm that continues to mesmerize the public. &nbsp;

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&nbsp;The independent film “Flow,” directed by Gints Zilbalodis, won the best animated feature film Oscar in 2025, securing the first ever Academy Award for Latvia and making history as the first indie film ever to win in this category.The animation, an environmental fable, follows a cat who finds refuge on a boat along with other animals, and they bond together after a flood destroys their homes — overcoming fears and misconceptions about each other and the world.“The cat changes in the story from this independent character to learning how to work together and the dog is on an opposite journey where he starts out being very trustful and always looking for someone to tell him what to do but learns to be more independent,” Zilbalodis told the media.This animated kitty captured our hearts, as do many cats in films of the past — even if they are on board a spaceship with a vicious alien. Remember Jones the orange cat in 1979’s Alien? Apparently many of the members of the audiences watching it in the cinema were more worried about Jones than about the human crew.&nbsp;The cat is so popular, it has several national and international days, and various initiatives in its honor around the world.

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“In ancient times cats were worshipped as gods; they have not forgotten this,” wrote English fantasy author Terry Pratchett. And while cats have mostly fallen on hard times, where they are often neglected and left to fend for themselves, they were once revered by important religious and historic figures.Among them is the Prophet Mohammed, who is said to have owned one beloved kitty called Mu’izza (or Muezza). One story goes that once, when Prophet Mohammed wanted to wear a robe to go out to prayers, he found his cat sleeping on one of the sleeves. Not wanting to wake the animal, he cut off the sleeve, leaving his cat to sleep peacefully. Later he sewed it back on.It is also believed that when the Prophet gave sermons within his household, it was often while holding his cat in his lap.

One of his famous companions was known as Abu Hurairah, which translates as “father of the kitten”, because he carried his pet cat with him and fed the strays around the mosque. It is said that Abu Hurairah’s cat saved Prophet Mohammed from a snake.Mercy and compassion towards cats, and animals in general, is embodied in an oft-repeated hadith that tells of how a woman went to hell because of a cat “which she neither fed nor let it eat from the vermin of earth”.Islamic cat-loving rulers include Mamluk Sultan Al-Zahir Baybars (13th century), who created a “cats’ garden”, where the cats of Cairo would find everything they needed and desired.&nbsp;

The 12th century ruler of Syria, Nour Aldeen Zenki, set up an Islamic endowment (waqf) for blind cats and another for “retired” animals. It seems cats have always had a special connection with the people of this region.&nbsp;They are mentioned in Arabic and Islamic literature, as well as in our mythologies. Examples include a famous six-lined elegy by Baghdad poet Ibn Al‘Allaf (died 319/931) for his cat that was killed by neighbours after it ate one of their pigeons.Another example is a line from Al-Jahiz's 9th-century work Kitab Al-Hayawan that states: "And the cat profits so much from its resemblance to the king of beasts that one way of dealing with approaching war elephants is to release a number of cats from a bag."

Whether cute, mischievous or warrior-like, cats will continue to dominate our cultural and creative worlds as they fascinate, inspire and amuse us without speaking a single word.

    

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World’s Most Popular Work of Art  — The Cat 

Reimagining and reinterpreting nature in artworks remains one of the most intimate and rewarding relationships an artist can form with nature. Whether to inspire serenity, reflection or awe, there is always something in nature we can honor, even sometimes with its precious metals. Nature continues to be our greatest treasure, and here we feature intricate art from the Ithra collection, &nbsp;shaped by nature’s various gifts. &nbsp;

Inspired by the sacred sites of Saudi Arabia, Aisha Khalid's project reflects her deep spiritual connection to places like the Ka'ba, the Prophet's Masjid, and Zamzam Well. For Khalid, commissioned works offer an opportunity to engage intimately with the cultural significance of such places. This tapestry, crafted from layers of lush velvet and adorned with steel and gold-plated pins, embodies her vision of these revered spaces. The rich textures and colors - black, green and blue - evoke the profound emotions tied to these holy sites, celebrating the beauty of traditional craftsmanship and its ability to convey deep spiritual narratives.

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Water Seeks the Thirsty

Here, this intricate lamp was one of the objects exhibited. Dedicated lamp keepers were in charge of lighting, extinguishing, and cleaning mosque lamps, as light was essential for both fajr (dawn) and ‘isha’ (night) prayers. This lamp would have been suspended from the ceiling with a glass saucer or tube inside to hold the oil or wick. The names inscribed on the lamp refer to an 8th/14th-century donor, suggesting that this lamp was made to replace an earlier original which was broken. It also quotes from chapter Al-Nur (24:35) of the Holy Qur’an.&nbsp;

“Ithra’s exhibit examined the waqf as it applies to the running and maintenance of the mosque which sits at the heart of Islamic community and civilization. In particularly it displays a range of items once housed in mosques across the Muslim world and examines them in relation to waqf ledgers detailing the expenditures of the famous mosques which contained schools, libraries, fountains and a khanqah, a form of meeting house,” said Idries Trevathan, the Curator of Islamic Art and Culture at Ithra.

Light is life, and life is light.&nbsp;As part of the second edition of the Islamic Arts Biennale that is taking place from January 25 to May 25, 2025 in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, The King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture (Ithra) showcased six Islamic artifacts, each with its own story and history.

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Light as Art

“In its simplest form, a waqf refers to an inalienable endowment under Islamic law. It typically involves donating a building, a piece of land or an object for Muslim religious or charitable purposes. The donation cannot be revoked, even by the donor. And cannot be changed, even many years after the donor’s death. Waqf is an act of socioeconomic solidarity in the community realizing balance and inclusion, be it providing aid, development and elevation on all levels, benefiting both rich and poor,” he said.To discover more of Ithra’s collection, please visit <a href="https://www.ithra.com/en/visit-ithra/attractions/museum" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Ithra Museum</a>. &nbsp; &nbsp;

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 Golden Threads of Nature 

From deep within the earth and under immense heat and pressure, limestone undergoes crystallization to form the exquisite and durable marble that we covet for its beauty and strength. Throughout the centuries, humans have transformed this natural wonder into remarkable works of art, a testament to nature’s treasures and mankind’s ability to shape raw materials into both functional structures and artistic masterpieces.Marble has been the cornerstone of human craftsmanship, from the ancient Greek and Roman statues to the masterpieces of the Renaissance. Architects, sculptors, and artisans have long relied on marble to create enduring works of art and architectural marvels, such as the grand columns of temples or Michelangelo’s iconic David.In Islamic architecture, renowned for its unique designs, spiritual essence, and meticulous craftsmanship, marble held a prominent role not only for its beauty but also for its symbolism. It represented grandeur and purity. Mosques, for instance, often featured marble arches, columns, mihrabs, and wall claddings.When considering Mughal architecture, which blended elements of Islamic, Persian, and Indian architectural styles, one cannot overlook the Taj Mahal. Built using red sandstone and white marble, it remains one of the world’s most celebrated monuments. Similarly, the Jama Masjid in Delhi, with its striking white marble, stands as another testament to this artistic tradition.

In 2025, Saudi’s Year of Handicrafts*, we highlight a remarkable work of art that showcases the expertise of sculptors in working with marble. These two massive jali-style lattice screens, hand-carved from pure white marble, were commissioned by the Mughal emperor Akbar and crafted by three of Makrana’s finest stone sculptors in Rajasthan, India.&nbsp;Inspired by the religious complex of Khwaja Salim Chishti in Fatehpur Sikri (1580–81 CE / 988 AH), these intricate screens remain unparalleled in their scale and craftsmanship. According to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ithra.com/en/speakers/abdul-karim-crites" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Mughal art historian Abdul Karim Crites</a>, "No structure of such magnitude or quality has been created since the 17th century."This masterpiece, along with other handcrafted marvels, is on display at Ithra’s exhibition "In Praise of the Artisan". To visit the exhibition,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ithra.com/en/special-programs/Islamic-art-conference/exhibition/praise-artisan" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">click here</a>.Marble, in all its forms, leaves behind an enduring legacy of beauty that cannot be overlooked or forgotten.*One way the Saudi Ministry of Culture celebrates distinctive Saudi culture is by connecting a cultural element to a year. 2025 is the Year of Handicrafts.

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The Majesty of Marble

Her face glows, her hair flows, and her smile glints. She walks in grace, a gazelle tiptoeing over soft soil...



Nature paints an impressive and intricate canvas of life and living beings in the Rub’ Al- Khali, which may be called the ‘Empty Quarter’, even though it is anything but empty.Against the impressive backdrop of Shaybah’s silky reddish sand dunes, there are fresh tiny and wobbly two-toed footprints on the sand that mark new hope for nature.Unaware of their importance in the national drive for conservation and revival of native species to the Rub’ Al-Khali, five baby ostriches are playfully tugging away at shrubs and kicking about some sand under the watchful eyes of their towering mother.Their even taller and more imposing father is at least 280 centimeters high (9.1 feet), with a bright red neck that aptly represents its moniker of Red Neck Ostrich. Known as a naeama in Arabic, the father will continue to stroll by, acting nonchalant, all the while guarding the perimeters of the area where his feathery family wander about.

Weighing 100 to 160 kg, and able to run up to 70 kph, this is the largest bird on Earth. It is also the African relative of the Arabian ostrich that unfortunately became extinct more than 70 years ago in the Arabian Gulf.&nbsp;The re-introduction of the African red-neck ostrich, the closest species to the Arabian — such as this new family of five offspring — is helping revive the presence of these giant birds across the Rub’ Al-Khali again.“It is quite a milestone to have all five chicks survive; a true celebration,” said Gregory Simkins, the conservation specialist at the Shaybah Wildlife Sanctuary. These ostriches, together with the majestic Arabian Oryx, the graceful Arabian Sand Gazelle regularly praised in Arabic poems, the slithering Arabian Toad-headed Agamid Lizard, the regal Golden Eagle, the unassuming MacQueen’s Bustard, the hopping Cape Hare, the agile Arabian Sand Fox (or The Ruppell’s Fox), and the stealthy Arabian Sand Cat; these are all just some of the protected species from over 217 species within a 637 square kilometer protected area within the vast Rub’ Al-Khali.

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Against the desert sands

Opened in 2016, the Shaybah Wildlife Sanctuary area has been restored to its natural state by preventing key threatening processes such as off-road driving, hunting, grazing by camels, and firewood collection. “Because this area is protected from human activities and grazing, its biodiversity is able to thrive and and we can observe and learn more about the different species being bred and taken care of here, and learn more about the delicate roles of species in the ecosystem,” said Simkins, who has worked in this field of conservation for 25 years.“Because this area is protected from human activities and grazing, its biodiversity is able to thrive and and we can observe and learn more about the different species being bred and taken care of here, and learn more about the delicate roles of species in the ecosystem,” said Simkins, who has worked in this field of conservation for 25 years.

A family affair

The Ithraeyat editorial team traveled south from Dhahran to Shaybah — located in the northern part of Rub’ Al-Khali and ten kilometers south of the Abu Dhabi border — and went on a special field visit with Simkins to experience the silence of the sands, the awe of viewing the animals in their natural habitat and the overall balance and tranquility the natural reserve inspires.“We conduct research and monitor the animals we release to make sure they are well and we learn more about their lives,” said Simkins. “The camera traps we have set up across the reserve help us see what animals and birds come out at night and what we may miss during the day. For instance, we have seen the elusive Arabian Sand Cats wander about at night,” he said.As cute as they look, the Arabian Sand Cats, with their sandy to light gray fur,are well camouflaged in the desert environment. Their ears set low on the sides of the head help them sense prey moving underground. They may be small, at 39 to 52 centimeters in length and weighing between 1 to 3 Kilograms, but they are known to kill strong venomous snakes.&nbsp;The reserve, one of 14 protected areas by Aramco, is a vast stretch of fenced land — with a special designed net to prevent animals like the sand cat from getting stuck —and is home also to 11 plant species including the desert hyacinth (Cistanche Tubulosa) — a favorite food of the Arabian Oryx as well as known as a medicinal herb in Chinese medicine said to aid memory and immunity.

Another lovely plant that blooms with yellow flowers is the Tribulus Pentandrus, a favorite treat for camels, and one that brings a blanket of floral beauty to the desert terrain.&nbsp;Insects also play an important role, with ants for instance often found around these plants to help disperse their seeds. “It is still a mystery what the loss of a species does to the bigger picture, as there could be subtle changes we are unaware of, with great consequences to nature and to our world,” said Simkins.“So every species matters, no matter how tiny.”From the migratory birds and the insects flying by to the curious oryx peeking over at us from behind a shelter as we were leaving, we drove carefully past small twin baby gazelles wagging their tails as they hopped away closer to their family. It has been a truly magical visit filled with the mesmerizing pulse of nature and its species.

More photos from Shaybah Wildlife Sanctuary:

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Where Red Sands and Animals Roam — Shaybah Canvas

Books set in natural landscapes have a different rhythm from those set in cities. They often leave behind the instant gratification of plot twists, clues, fights, and pulse-pounding conclusions. Instead of moving in straight lines, they often move in spirals, revealing more as we get closer and closer to the book’s beating heart.&nbsp;When we read the literary works below, we are the patient hunter; we read meditatively and watch for truths to come into sight, and then we follow them quietly back to their lair. These stories, novels, and poems immerse us directly in the scent and feel of the natural world.Even if you’ve never been to the Omani mountains, you can smell the hopbush, juniper, and dionysia in Zahran Alqasmi’s Honey Hunger. These works also remind us that we, too, are a part of nature. Even if we live in the always-hurrying world of computers and phones, we also belong to the larger web of being.

We start our nature-reading journey here, in the eighth century, joining avid hunter and extraordinary poet Abu Nuwas. His long-ago expeditions, modeled after lavish royal hunts, were &nbsp;probably staged on the secluded grounds of Iraqi Christian monasteries. Yet despite this relatively tame environment, we see the worlds of animals sharp and fresh.&nbsp;Here, a portrait of a hunting dog:“I sing of a dog pulling on the leash / like a lunatic terrified of needles / bolting from a doctor.&nbsp;We provoked him / but we needn’t have—he crackled / with pure energy, set to run like a star / shot from the sky.”<a href="https://www.aldiwan.net/poem64372.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">(Arabic version)</a>

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 A Demon Spirit: Arabic Hunting Poems, by Abu Nuwas, edited and translated by James E. Montgomery

Ibrahim al-Koni’s 1990 novel shows us a different aspect of the natural world. We find ourselves in the punishing Libyan desert, among an often nomadic people. Gold Dust focuses on the intense relationship between a young Tuareg man and his beloved camel, and it offers us striking literary descriptions of both the real and spiritual dimensions of the natural world. Here, the bond between a Tuareg man and his mehri camel might be stronger than the ties that bind him to humanity.

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Ibrahim al-Koni’s Gold Dust

Egyptian writer Mohammed Makhzangi’s 2006 short-story collection takes place in locations all around the world, often placing animals at the center of all-too-familiar violent human conflicts. Instead of bringing human characters into a peaceful natural scene, Makhzangi asks: What do deer, horses, and puppies feel amidst the US invasion of Iraq? What happens when rabbits are caught up in a popular uprising? Human cities are put in the background as we focus on the lives of animals, and how they might feel about the way we treat each other and the natural world.&nbsp;

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Mohammed Makhzangi’s Animals in Our Days, translated by Chip Rossetti

This lush 2017 novel is an essential read as our world undergoes drastic climate change. We follow its narrator, Azzan, as he camps out alone with his bees in the Omani lowlands, and later as he and two friends hunt for wild honey in the country’s rugged mountains. Throughout, the natural world is both overpowering and fragile. Here, we are not called on to be steward and “protect” nature, but rather to respect it, and to honor ourselves as a part of it.To enjoy the borderless world of books, please visit <a href="https://www.ithra.com/en/visit-ithra/attractions/library" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Ithra Library</a> and the <a href="https://arablit.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Arablit website.</a>

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Zahran Alqasmi's Honey Hunger, translated by Marilyn Booth

*Guest contributorM. Lynx Qualey is the editor-in-chief of the ArabLit cooperative and founder of <a href="https://arablit.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">ArabLit.org</a>, a website that brings together translators, authors, publishers, critics, academics and readers around discussions of Arabic literature in translation.

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Where Nature and Words Meet

Take high morals from the deserts, for the soul is corrupted by crowding, 

Often misrepresented as a barren place of nothingness, the desert is actually vibrant with life in various forms, and home to many species and even people.&nbsp;Not long ago, people lived closer to nature, or rather, within nature itself, as seen in the &nbsp;photos here that capture how a poet once lived in a cave in the mountains.&nbsp;Nature is home to many animals and plants that are able to naturally tolerate or adapt to their environment.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Their bodies have become specifically attuned to endure the harsh nature of the terrain and the taxing conditions, most prominently displayed in our &nbsp;ships of the desert – the camels.The sounds of life, be they birds, insects or the cuddly jerboa, transform the silence of the desert into a subtle song of wonder composed by nature’s very own orchestra..Visually, the clarity of the skies is something we have taken for granted. Our noise and light pollution within the cities block our view of the stars and planets above, but a drive out to nature returns to us this gift of stellar beauty to be experienced once more.

Enjoy our latest Aramco rarities. 

Here is the house of the poet Maimun ibn Qais al-A'sha, a pre-Islamic poet from the first class of pre-Islamic poets. He was born and raised in Manfuha, now a part of Riyadh, but then an urban village on the banks of Wadi Hanifa in Najd in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.. It contains his house and grave, and one of the streets of Manfuha was named Al-A'sha in his honor. &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

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South Of Riyadh at Manfuha, 1949 |

Camel’s Long Neck and Head (Camelus Dromedarius).&nbsp;

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Eastern Province, 1970 – 1977 |

Appreciate the smaller beings, such as the Dotted Beetle.

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Terraced wheat and barley fields. &nbsp;

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Asir. May 17, 1961 |

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Eastern Province, 1975 |

Closer look at a fluffy jerboa. &nbsp;

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Eastern Province, 1976 – 1977 |

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When Nature Was Our Home

The leopard does not change his spots.


On June 12,&nbsp; 2023, to raise awareness about this national icon, the United Nations General Assembly proclaimed February 10 as the International Day of the Arabian Leopard in&nbsp;<a href="https://undocs.org/A/RES/77/295">resolution 77/295</a>, whereby the Arabian&nbsp;Leopard&nbsp;Day was first launched by The Royal Commission of Alula in 2022.&nbsp;By celebrating this Day, the UN ultimately seeks to restore the Arabian leopard as "a flagship species for conservation and sustainability in its native region while emphasizing the critical role of biodiversity in maintaining the health and resilience of our planet’s ecosystems,” stated the UN website.

International Day of the Arabian Leopard 

For the inhabitants of the Arab region, the Arabian Leopard—known in Arabic as ‘Al-Nimr Al-Arabi’— part of its scientific name ‘Panthera pardus nimr,’ has long represented beauty, tranquillity, physical strength, fearlessness, and freedom. These enigmatic big cats continue to occupy a special place in the collective imagination and narrative; their story is immortalized in mythical stories and even everyday expressions.A strong and brave man may be called a Nimr or Nimran, and a clever and courageous woman may be called Nimrah.&nbsp;“I love our nation’s diverse biodiversity, and I am happy that the beautiful and strong Arabian leopard is getting attention as it is like the maestro in the ecological musical team,” said Ahmed Al-Boug, the General Manager of Terrestrial Conservation at the National Center for Wildlife (NCW).Historically finding itself to roam harsh terrains of dry, rocky mountains and unforgiving sandy deserts, it is no wonder that the Arabian leopard has always been rare as they would need to wander along large territories to access enough prey to sustain themselves.“Breeding is just one part of our national pride and drive to protect nature and its fauna and flora. We raise awareness, educate the different sides, conduct national campaigns, research, train future field teams and rangers who protect and monitor, and do many different aspects for the success of our nature,” said Al-Boug. “Our people are more aware now and do their best to protect their country’s vast natural habitats.” &nbsp;

With estimates of just 100 to 120 in the wild, conservation and breeding efforts help revive the ‘Panthera pardus nimr,’ the smallest leopard subspecies.

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