Travel – Arabian Records (1st post : Eid Al Fitr – 01st Shawwal 1439 (AH) / 15th June 2018 ) / (BETA testing – Research

CHAD : How an African pastry chef Hissein Mahamoud Barkai brought Chadian chic to Paris

Hissein Mahamoud Barkai won France’s Lebey Prize for best artisan in 2022. A member of the Toques françaises association of chefs, he’s become an ambassador for Chadian gastronomy around the world, with hallmark creations like the “Paris-N’Djamena”.

Barkai was born in Chad and after training in France as a pastry chef now spends his time between Paris and N’Djamena.

His cuisine is a delicate fusion of locally sourced ingredients such as dates, almonds and sorghum flour married with French savoir faire.

In October this year he was awarded the 2022 Lebey Prize for best artisan, but earning recognition in his native Chad, where cooking is reserved to women, was a slog.

“Being a Chadian man and cooking is near impossible, even Utopian,” he told RFI’s Nathalie Amar. “I was lucky to live in France and be able to do what I wanted to do, but it’s not easy to be able to cook here in Chad.”

Barkai hails from the north of Chad, where he was born into the Gorane ethnic group.

“In my village of birth only women can cook, so I was touching on a sensitive issue. They’re very welcoming people but they are proud of their traditions and dignity.”

So while Barkai, like many chefs, enjoyed showing off photos of his creations on social media, he used a pseudonym in the early days.

“I was in Montpellier and rather than calling myself Mahamoud, I used Al Hussein. It was close to my real name, but meant that people wouldn’t know straightaway that it was me,” he explains.

After a while he understood he couldn’t spend his life hiding. He made a short video, “a sort of culinary coming out” and posted it on YouTube.

It allowed Barkai to publicly embrace his passion.

“I received countless positive messages from people encouraging me and saying they’d like their son to do the same thing and so on. That’s how the doors opened and it was a psychological relief. A weight had been lifted.”

Feast your eyes on some of Barkai’s creations by clicking on the slideshow below.

Pastries by Hissein Mahamoud Barkai, aka the Desert Pastry Chef

A culinary journey

To the naked eye Barkai’s pastries look like any high-end French patisseries.

“You’d never suspect they’d be part of African or Chadian gastronomy,” he says.

But once you see it on your plate and taste it, “that’s when you start travelling, when you’re in something completely unique: African, Chadian, the land of the Sahel”.

He reels off a few of the many regional ingredients that go into his recipes: balamites, dates, black tamarind, hibiscus, moringa.

One of his specialties is a cup cake made with red or white sorghum flour. Not only is it locally sourced in Chad, it’s naturally gluten-free.

When cooking in N’Djamena, he avoids importing expensive products from France wherever possible – replacing butter with shea butter, wheat flour with sorghum or ground pea flour.

From Brest to N’Djamena

His hallmark patisserie is the Paris-N’Djamena – a version of the famed praline cream-filled cake known as Paris-Brest.

However, the only thing he’s kept from the classic French recipe is the choux pastry.

He replaced the praline cream with almonds and the fruit of the balanite tree (Balanites aegyptiaca), known more commonly as wild date in English and “savonnier” (soap tree) in French because its bark produces a soapy effect.

The tree’s oval fruits resemble dates, though their taste is far more acidic, Barkai explains.

Chadians traditionally suck on the fruit to cleanse the stomach, help with breast-feeding, strengthen hair and boost their immune system.

Replacing the hazelnut-based praline cream with almonds is a challenge, he says, because of their bitter edge.

“We have people here who are specialised in cracking the hard nut, removing the bitter centre and blanching it several times to reduce the bitterness.”

But he remains attached to the slightly tart twist the almonds and balanites give his dessert.

Passing on the passion

Paris is a pastry chef’s dream location but N’Djamena is still largely unexplored culinary territory.

Barkai has trained “at least 150 women in the profession” since he’s been travelling between the two capital cities. Trainees include young mothers and housewives who’ve been able to build up small micro-entreprises to support their families.

“I’m very proud, I’ve seen there are plenty of women who are now managing to live off what I’ve taught them.”

source/content: rfi.fr /RFI ( headline edited)

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Chef Hissein Mahamoud Barkai, aka the Desert Pastry Chef © Hissein Mahamoud Barkai personal archives

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CHAD

SAUDI ARABIA : 4,000-year-old town discovered hidden in Arabian oasis

Then an ancient 14.5 kilometer-long wall was discovered at the site

When Al-Natah was built, cities were flourishing in the Levant region along the Mediterranean Sea from present-day Syria to Jordan

The discovery of a 4,000-year-old fortified town hidden in an oasis in modern-day Saudi Arabia reveals how life at the time was slowly changing from a nomadic to an urban existence, archaeologists said on Wednesday.

The remains of the town, dubbed Al-Natah, were long concealed by the walled oasis of Khaybar, a green and fertile speck surrounded by desert in the northwest of the Arabian Peninsula.

Then an ancient 14.5 kilometer-long wall was discovered at the site, according to research led by French archaeologist Guillaume Charloux published earlier this year.

For a new study published in the journal PLOS One, a French-Saudi team of researchers have provided “proof that these ramparts are organized around a habitat,” Charloux told AFP.

The large town, which was home to up to 500 residents, was built around 2,400 BC during the early Bronze Age, the researchers said.

It was abandoned around a thousand years later. “No one knows why,” Charloux said.

When Al-Natah was built, cities were flourishing in the Levant region along the Mediterranean Sea from present-day Syria to Jordan.

Northwest Arabia at the time was thought to have been barren desert, crossed by pastoral nomads and dotted with burial sites.

That was until 15 years ago, when archaeologists discovered ramparts dating back to the Bronze Age in the oasis of Tayma, to Khaybar’s north.

This “first essential discovery” led scientists to look closer at these oases, Charloux said.

Black volcanic rocks called basalt concealed the walls of Al-Natah so well that it “protected the site from illegal excavations,” Charloux said.

But observing the site from above revealed potential paths and the foundations of houses, suggesting where the archaeologists needed to dig. They discovered foundations “strong enough to easily support at least one- or two-story” homes, Charloux said, emphasising that there was much more work to be done to understand the site. But their preliminary findings paint a picture of a 2.6-hectare town with around 50 houses perched on a hill, equipped with a wall of its own.

Tombs inside a necropolis there contained metal weapons like axes and daggers as well as stones such as agate, indicating a relatively advanced society for so long ago.
Pieces of pottery “suggest a relatively egalitarian society,” the study said. They are “very pretty but very simple ceramics,” added Charloux.

The size of the ramparts — which could reach around five meters (16 feet) high — suggests that Al-Natah was the seat of some kind of powerful local authority.
These discoveries reveal a process of “slow urbanism” during the transition between nomadic and more settled village life, the study said.

For example, fortified oases could have been in contact with each other in an area still largely populated by pastoral nomadic groups. Such exchanges could have even laid the foundations for the “incense route” which saw spices, frankincense and myrrh traded from southern Arabia to the Mediterranean.

Al-Natah was still small compared to cities in Mesopotamia or Egypt during the period.

But in these vast expanses of desert, it appears there was “another path toward urbanization” than such city-states, one “more modest, much slower, and quite specific to the northwest of Arabia,” Charloux said.

source/content: arabnews.com (headline edited)

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SAUDI ARABIA

SAUDI ARABIA : Artifacts on display at Makkah exhibition

A highlight of the exhibition is an immersive recreation of the Cave of Hira, where the Prophet Muhammad is said to have received his first revelation.

The Hira Cultural District in Makkah is currently hosting the Revelation Exhibition, drawing visitors from all walks of life.

The exhibition provides a unique opportunity to delve into the stories of the prophets, from Adam to Muhammad.

A highlight of the exhibition is an immersive recreation of the Cave of Hira, where the Prophet Muhammad is said to have received his first revelation.

Visitors can go back in time to experience the historic moment through state-of-the-art technology and interactive displays.

The exhibition also features a range of artifacts, including a photographed copy of the Qur’an that belonged to the esteemed companion Uthman ibn Affan, and ancient stone inscriptions bearing verses from the Qur’an.

The Hira Cultural District is a cultural and tourism destination which is committed to enriching the visitor experience.

Its Autumn Vacation series of events offers a diverse range of experiences, including equestrian skills demonstrations, a display of traditional caravans, and engaging challenges.

source/content: arabnews.com (headline edited)

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The Hira Cultural District is a cultural and tourism destination which is committed to enriching the visitor experience. (SPA)

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SAUDI ARABIA

QATARI mountaineer Sheikha Asma bint Thani Al-Thani becomes ‘First Arab woman & Qatari to complete Explorer’s Grand Slam’

Qatari Mountaineer Sheikha Asma bint Thani Al-Thani made history as she posed atop the Castensz Pyramid in Central Papua, two days back on October 11, 2024, becoming the first Arab woman and Qatari to complete the prestigious Explorer’s Grand Slam.

“The Explorers Grand Slam is one of the world’s most prestigious adventure challenges, involving climbing the highest peak on each continent and skiing to the North and South Poles. Fewer than 75 people in history have completed this incredible feat,” she wrote on her social media account, adding that she was honoured to be the first Arab woman and Qatari national to achieve this milestone.

Sheikha Asma began her Explorer’s Grand Slam journey with Kilimanjaro in 2014, after which she reached the North Pole in 2018, she then conquered the Aconcagua in 2019. In 2021, Sheikha Asma summitted Elbrus and then began the following year with Mount Vinson in January, from where she skied to the South Pole Last Degree. Then in May 2022, she was at the top of her dream destination – the mighty Everest. In June 2022, she conquered Mt Denali, then leaving her one summit away from the Grand Slam.

Writing about her journey so far, Sheikha Asma stated, “A journey that began in 2014 with a dream and a determination to break boundaries. Along the way, I’ve learned that persistence, no matter how challenging the road, always pays off. Each summit represents a step closer to realizing my potential, but more importantly, it’s a testament to staying true to your dreams, even when the path ahead seems impossible.”

Sheikha Asma has also successfully summited Mount Lhotse, Kangchenjunga, Mount Ama Dablam, Mount Dhaulagiri, Mount Manaslu, and Labuche Peak.

Sheikha Asma dedicated her most recent victory to every young girl with big dreams, as she encouraged them to keep dreaming big, “there are no limits to what we can achieve if we remain persistent and believe in ourselves. Keep climbing, keep dreaming, and know that the summit is always within reach.”

source/content: thepeninsulaqatar.com (headline edited)

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QATAR

U.A.E: Meet Obaid AlSuwaidi, the Emirati Engineer selected to ‘walk’ on Mars in Nasa’s 45-day simulation

The crew will also perform activities like vegetable cultivation and shrimp farming in an environment designed to simulate space conditions.

In a 45-day space exploration simulation in the US, Obaid AlSuwaidi, a captain engineer at the UAE Ministry of Defence has been selected to join the primary crew scheduled to “walk” on Mars.

AlSuwaidi will join the second analog study of the UAE Analog Programme that is scheduled to begin on November 1.

He will join the primary crew, including Kristen Magas, Tiffany Snyder, and Anderson Wilder, in a 45-day mission within the 650-square-foot Human Exploration Research Analog (HERA) facility at Nasa’s Johnson Space Center in Houston, Texas, US. The Analog mission is part of Nasa’s Human Exploration Research Analog (HERA) Campaign 7 Mission 4.

Who is Obaid AlSuwaidi?

In his role at the Ministry, he played a key part in cultivating a skilled team to address the nation’s defence requirements, enhancing productivity, and establishing high professional standards. He also has a wealth of experience in civil and marine engineering.

AlSuwaidi holds a bachelor’s degree in engineering from Western Sydney University in Australia, a master’s degree in civil and environmental engineering from George Washington University in the USA, and a master’s degree in project management from Abu Dhabi University.

Outside of his professional commitments, he enjoys horse riding, swimming, and running.

This year, AlSuwaidi is among the fourth group of volunteers participating in an analog study in HERA. The first phase of the second analog study of the UAE Analog Programme was concluded on March 11, 2024, followed by the completion of the second and third phases on June 25, 2024 and September 23, 2024, respectively.

What is the HERA habitat?

The three-story HERA habitat is designed to simulate the conditions of space exploration on Earth, providing a unique platform for studying human adaptability to isolation and confinement. By mimicking the challenges of long-term space travel, such as missions to Mars, scientists aim to gain insights into how future astronauts will handle the extreme physical and psychological demands of deep space journeys.

During the mission, the crew will engage in various experiments, including a simulated “walk” on Mars using virtual reality, as well as activities like vegetable cultivation and shrimp farming.

Additionally, the crew will experience communication delays with Mission Control, replicating the increasing time lags expected as they “approach” Mars. These delays, which could extend up to five minutes one way, are crucial for understanding how astronauts might cope with similar conditions during future interplanetary missions.

Experiments to aid in deep space missions

Adnan AlRais, Assistant Director General – Space Operations and Exploration Sector, MBRSC said, “We are pleased to announce the selection of Obaid AlSuwaidi for the next phase of the second analog study under the UAE Analog Programme. His involvement in this mission, in collaboration with Nasa, strengthens our scientific foundation in addressing the human factors of long-duration spaceflight.”

He added, “The findings from this study will play a crucial role in shaping the future strategies for deep space missions, including Mars, while reinforcing the UAE’s position as a key player in international space exploration. We remain dedicated to pushing the boundaries of innovation and inspiring future generations to drive forward our vision of space exploration and scientific discovery.”

The four crewmembers will participate in 18 human health experiments, focusing on physiological, behavioural, and psychological responses in a controlled environment. This research will provide valuable data, which seeks to enhance human resilience and performance in spaceflight conditions.

source/content: khaleejtimes.com (headline edited)

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Obaid AlSuwaidi. Photo: Supplied

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UNITED ARAB EMIRATES (U.A.E)

Palestinian American Chef Michael Rafidi Wins James Beard Culinary Award 2024 in Chicago

Palestinian chef Michael Rafidi has been honored with the James Beard Awards in Chicago, winning the title of Outstanding Chef 2024.

The culinary world is full of awards and accolades that honor talented chefs, and among them is the James Beard Awards. Often referred to as the “Oscars of the food world”, it is one of the highest honors in the industry. This year, Palestinian chef Michael Rafidi, the owner of Albi — a Michelin-starred restaurant in the capital of the United States, Washington, D.C. was titled winner under the category of Outstanding Chef.

Previously, Rafidi’s restaurant garnered a Michelin Star in 2022, an award that is only granted to restaurants that are able to present an exceptional dining experience using top-notch ingredients consistently. Rafidi’s food encapsulates the rich flavors of his Palestinian heritage, with each dish presenting remnants of his culture.

Chef Micheal Rafidi’s caption on his Instagram post, or speech as he called it included a poignant homage to his grandfather who was a chef in Washington for decades, and a big source of inspiration to delve into his restaurateur journey. “I accepted this award on the shoulders of my Palestinian ancestors, my grandparents and my mother. Through it all, they held onto their love of food, a taste of our lineage that told stories of love, resilience and hope,” stated Rafidi. He added, “As I grew in my career, I realized my Palestinian identity would become my purpose for the restaurants we would build, the menus we would create, and the food we would serve. Ending the caption with, “In case I wasn’t clear on stage. This award is dedicated to the people of Palestine.”

Regarding the win, Ayman, the Palestinian-Egyptian news anchor at MSNBC posted, “Now after last night’s James Beard Awards, Palestinian cuisine is not only recognized as part of the tapestry of America, it is celebrated among the very best cuisines in the world thanks to generations of Palestinians who are constantly pushing their food to new heights.”

source/content: en.vogue.me (headline edited)

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Photo: Getty

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AMERICAN / PALESTINIAN

QATAR Airways acquires 25% stake in South Africa’s Airlink

In a strategic move to expand its presence in Africa, Qatar Airways Group has announced the acquisition of a 25% stake in Airlink, a prominent regional carrier based in Southern Africa. This investment, revealed on August 20, 2024, aims to enhance the existing code-sharing partnership between the two airlines and bolster Qatar Airways’ growth strategy across the African continent.

Airlink, established in 1992, has a robust network covering more than 45 destinations in 15 African countries. With a fleet of over 65 jetliners, it serves various cities throughout Southern Africa, as well as destinations in Madagascar and St Helena Island.

The collaboration is expected to bring mutual benefits, including network expansion, increased capacity, and extended marketing reach. Airlink Chief Executive Rodger Foster highlighted the significance of the deal, saying, “Having Qatar Airways as an equity partner is a powerful endorsement of Airlink and echoes our faith in the markets we currently serve and plan to add to our network.”

The partnership will also align both carriers’ loyalty programs – Qatar Airways Privilege Club and Airlink Skybucks – offering enhanced benefits to customers.

Qatar Airways, which currently flies to 29 destinations in Africa, has been actively pursuing its Africa growth strategy since 2019. The airline has been expanding its presence on the continent, adding new destinations such as Abidjan, Abuja, Accra, Harare, Kano, Luanda, Lusaka, and Port Harcourt to its network, while also resuming services to Cairo and Alexandria.

This investment follows Qatar Airways’ previous strategic moves in Africa, including acquiring a 60% stake in a new multi-billion-dollar international airport being built near Kigali, Rwanda, in 2019.

As part of its broader expansion plans, Qatar Airways has also announced increased flight frequencies to popular tourism destinations. Starting October 27, the airline will add an eighth daily flight to London, bringing the total to 56 weekly flights. Additionally, it plans to increase services to Male (Maldives), Miami (US), and Tokyo (Japan) during the 2024-2025 winter season.

This latest acquisition underscores Qatar Airways’ commitment to strengthening its position in the African aviation market and capitalizing on the continent’s growth potential.

source/content: gtrmag.com /globaltravelretailmagazine (headline edited)

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Senior executives from Qatar Airways and Airlink at the announcement

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QATAR

UAE re-elected to membership of the Executive Council of the Arab Civil Aviation Organization

The United Arab Emirates, represented by the General Civil Aviation Authority, won re-election to the Executive Council of the Arab Civil Aviation Organization for a period of two years, by unanimous vote.

This came during the elections held during the organization’s General Assembly, which was held in Rabat, Morocco, on July 3 and 4.

His Excellency Abdullah bin Touq Al Marri, Minister of Economy and Chairman of the Board of Directors of the General Civil Aviation Authority, said : “Thanks to the directives of the wise leadership, the UAE is witnessing a new achievement added to the UAE civil aviation sector through its re-election to membership in the Executive Council of the Arab Civil Aviation Organization.”

He explained that this achievement is a confirmation of the strong and distinguished partnership that links the UAE with its brothers in the Arab countries, and an indicator of confidence in the strength and position of the civil aviation sector as a global aviation center.

His Excellency added: “There is no doubt that civil aviation is one of the strong files on the Arab cooperation agenda, which has achieved progress in a number of key files. The UAE is keen to support all efforts that would enhance and develop joint Arab action and advance it to more advanced levels that serve the future development visions of Arab countries and enhance the path of economic growth at the regional level.”

For his part, His Excellency Saif Mohammed Al Suwaidi, Director General of the General Civil Aviation Authority, expressed his pride and honor in achieving this accomplishment, which came as a result of the wise vision of the wise leadership and an affirmation of the country’s position as a major and distinguished driver in this sector at the Arab and international levels.

His Excellency explained that the UAE is committed to supporting all efforts aimed at enhancing joint Arab action, especially in the civil aviation sector. The country will continue to support the initiatives and efforts of the Arab Organization, and work with the elected Chairman of the Executive Council to support the strategic and administrative plans of the organization, in a way that achieves benefit and ensures a safe and sustainable future for the Arab aviation sector, enhances the weight and strength of the Arab Group in the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), and contributes to raising the Arab civil aviation sector to a more advanced and prosperous position.

It is noteworthy that the Executive Council of the organization consists of nine members elected by the General Assembly from among the candidates of the member states of the organization for a period of two years, and is responsible for the decisions and recommendations of the organization.

source/content: wam.ae (headline edited)

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UNITED ARAB EMIRATES (U.A.E)

Dr. Sara Faris Abdullah Philby, granddaughter of iconic explorer Abdullah Philby, recounts his influence on her life and pursuits

Some of the specimens he has gathered are held in the British Museum in London,” Sara told Arab News.

As the granddaughter of the renowned explorer Abdullah Philby, Dr. Sara Faris Abdullah Philby’s decision to pursue her medical education in Saudi Arabia echoes the pioneering spirit that defined her grandfather’s historic exploration of the Arabian Peninsula.

In honoring her family’s heritage, Sara follows in the footsteps of Sheikh Abdullah Philby, whose multifaceted contributions continue to inspire generations.

“My grandfather led a truly remarkable life,” Sara told Arab News. “From his legendary expeditions to his conversion to Islam, his influence extends far beyond our family.”

She said he has had a profound impact on her life: “Simply contemplating his image fills me with warmth and optimism. My grandfather, Abdullah, possessed a rare combination of traits — uniqueness, dedication, and punctuality — that set him apart. As an explorer and writer, he navigated uncharted territories with grace and determination, leaving an indelible mark on history.”

Who was Abdullah Philby?

Harry St. John Bridger Philby, an explorer and Arabist, received his education at Westminster School and Trinity College, Cambridge. After joining the Indian Civil Service, where he mastered several languages including Urdu, Punjabi, Baluchi, Persian, and Arabic, Philby was recruited to Basra in Mesopotamia (modern Iraq) in 1915 by Percy Cox. His service in Baghdad and Basra eventually led to a mission to meet Ibn Saud in Riyadh, a journey across Arabia for which he was awarded the Royal Geographical Society Founders Medal.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Harry St. John Bridger Philby, or Sheikh Abdullah, left behind a legacy as one of the greatest Arabian explorers.

• Over three decades, he embarked on extraordinary journeys, notably crossing the Empty Quarter in 1932, a feat that tested the limits of endurance.

• His granddaughter Dr. Sara Philby pursued her education in Alfaisal University in Riyadh. • After completing a bachelor’s degree in medicine and another in surgery, she was drawn to the intricate world of embryology.

From their first encounter, Philby was captivated by the magnetic personality of Ibn Saud, and the two formed a friendship that lasted 36 years. Despite his involvement in business and writing, Philby’s true passion lay in exploration. Over three decades, he embarked on extraordinary journeys, notably crossing the Empty Quarter in 1932, a feat that tested the limits of endurance.

Traveling by camel and later by Land Rover, Philby meticulously documented his expeditions, recording place names, temperatures, compass bearings, and more. His scholarly contributions earned him high honors from academic societies worldwide.

“He lived to witness a golden chapter in his life, marked by numerous creations of detailed maps, priceless books including unmatched details of his journeys, and contributions to several fields such as history, politics, and wildlife. Some of the specimens he has gathered are held in the British Museum in London,” Sara told Arab News.

As a trusted advisor to Ibn Saud, Philby’s insights and candid opinions were valued by the monarch. His conversion to Islam in 1930 further strengthened their bond, and Philby was bestowed the name Sheikh Abdullah.

In 1960, at the age of 75, Philby died during a visit to Beirut, leaving behind a legacy as one of the greatest Arabian explorers. He was buried in the Muslim graveyard at El-Bouchara, with his son Kim’s inscription on his grave marking his profound impact on exploration and scholarship.

For me, honoring my grandfather’s legacy is not merely a goal but a life purpose.

Dr. Sara Faris abdullah Philby, Alfaisal University graduate

“(He) left behind a spectacular life story and a loving family, led by my beloved uncle Khaled Philby and my beloved father Faris Philby, who would adore him for the rest of time,” Sara said.

His involvement in Arabia during World War I, his close relationship with Ibn Saud, and his pivotal role in the Arab Revolt and the creation of Saudi Arabia highlight his enduring influence on the region’s history and culture.

Sara explained that her grandfather’s legacy continues to influence her approach in life and her career in medicine: “His interests in exploration and travel might differ from my academic interests in medicine and clinical embryology. However, that doesn’t diminish his huge impact on my educational decisions.

“With his legacy as a beacon, I am motivated to continuously push myself to new heights, embracing challenges and opportunities for growth along the way,” she added. “His love for history, the desert, maps, and wildlife will forever capture my heart, despite my academic pathway heading somewhere different.”

Sara pursued her education in Alfaisal University in Riyadh. After completing a bachelor’s degree in medicine and another in surgery, she was drawn to the intricate world of embryology.

“My interest in this field stemmed from a personal fascination with reading books on embryology and reproductive sciences,” she noted. “Moreover, I was deeply inspired by the noble goals of this discipline, particularly in addressing infertility and assisting couples in starting families according to God’s will.”

Sara’s religious and cultural background plays a pivotal role in shaping her career aspirations. “As a Muslim, my faith serves as a guiding light,” she affirms. “Islam’s teachings emphasize compassion and kindness, influencing my academic pursuits. The profound references to embryology in the Holy Qur’an have deepened my interest in this field.

“The Holy Qur’an beautifully elucidates the stages of human embryonic development in multiple verses,” she noted. “This further solidified my conviction to pursue a career in clinical embryology and reproductive biology.”

Following her passion, this year Sara graduated from Alfaisal University with a master’s degree in biomedical sciences, specializing in clinical embryology and reproductive biology, achieving first honors.

Speaking about the enriching experience at the university, she said: “Alfaisal University has been an integral part of my life for many educationally fruitful years … I am hopeful for its continued success and prosperity in the future.”

Her journey through academia had its own challenges: “The rigorous demands of the field required unwavering commitment and patience. However, these experiences have shaped me into the person I am today, instilling in me a sense of resilience and determination.

“Embrace the journey, stay true to yourself, and remain dedicated to your goals,” she advises aspiring professionals. “Believe in your abilities and seize the opportunities that come your way.”

Balancing personal aspirations with her family’s legacy is a central theme for Sara. “I place great importance on aligning my personal aspirations with the expectations associated with my family’s legacy,” she explains. “By staying true to myself and honoring my family’s heritage, I find harmony in pursuing my goals.”

As she navigates the complexities of academia and embarks on her own path of exploration, Sara remains steadfast in her commitment to honoring the rich heritage passed down to her by her grandfather.

“For me, honoring my grandfather’s legacy is not merely a goal but a life purpose,” Sara said.

source/content: arabnews.com (headline edited)

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The British renowned explorer Abdullah Philby, or Philby of Arabia. / In honoring her family’s heritage, Sara Philby follows in the footsteps of Sheikh Abdullah Philby, whose multifaceted contributions continue to inspire generations. Supplied/AN photo by Abdulrhman Bin Shalhoub)

Dr. Sara Faris Abdullah Philby, Alfaisal University graduate

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BRITISH / SAUDI ARABIAN

SHARJAH, U.A.E: Arab Leader Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammad Al Qassimi Develops Rich Historical Work on France in Arabic to Educate the Region on Their Invaluable Contributions to Western Civilisation

Sharjah Ruler collected 8,000 rare titles documenting French cultural history.

His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Member of the UAE Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah, is a leading Arab scholar and historian who has made contributions to documenting France’s cultural history from an Arab perspective.

The historian has been recently conferred the title of The Legion of Honour, with the rank of Commander – one of the highest national honours in the Republic of France in recognition of his efforts to strengthen cooperation relations between the French Republic and Sharjah in a variety of fields, particularly culture. The honour was granted to the Sharjah Ruler by His Excellency Emmanuel Macron, the French President, and presented by Nicolas Niemtchinow, Ambassador of the French Republic to the UAE.

His Highness is currently developing the chapters of a comprehensive work, the first of which is titled ‘The Century of Lights.’ Set in the 18th century – the chapter focuses on the era that established the foundations of Western society and examines the pivotal role played by Denis Diderot, the founder of the Encyclopédie, in collaboration with D’Alembert, as well as the contributions of liberal philosophers of that century such as Jean-Jacques Rousseau and Voltaire.

The Arab historian navigates the remainder of the 18th and 19th centuries in the following two chapters, before penning the fourth chapter titled, ‘Controversial Issues on Globalisation and Cultural Exception’ detailing everything that had happened in relation to globalisation and France’s role in it.

“France, at the helm of the European Union, began vigorously defending the idea of cultural exception; it has prevailed. From my end, I will publish this book in Arabic to introduce all Arabs to French culture,” His Highness said.

“In 2003, the French Republic conferred the ‘Order of the French Republic for Arts and Letters,’ with the rank of ‘Knight Commander’ upon me. I saw this honour as a mandate to continue cultural giving, and I discussed the Republic of France’s pioneering role in intellectual enlightenment and civilised communication, as well as its contributions to the cultural field, translation, and literature, and the spread of the concepts of freedom and justice,” His Highness added.

From that day forward, the Ruler of Sharjah initiated the acquisition of available written records that document the cultural history of the French Republic, using the titles of books in the Egyptian Scientific Institute in Cairo. “I collected nearly 8,000 rare titles in French and decided to establish a scientific institute for those books in Sharjah, similar to the French and Egyptian Institute,” His Highness added, saying he donated his entire collection to the institute in Egypt after it was turned to ashes by a violent fire in December 2011.

source/content: businesswire.com / AETOSWire (headline edited)

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His Highness Ruler of Sharjah while receiving the title of The Legion of Honour, with the rank of Commander (Photo: AETOSWire)

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SHARJAH, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES (U.A.E)