DHAHRAN — As part of the 2025 Asian Physics Olympiad, which the Kingdom is hosting for the first time in Dhahran from May 4 to 12, some 240 students from 30 countries and more than 110 international specialists experienced a full scientific and cultural program that went beyond the competition itself, including educational and recreational visits that painted a panoramic picture of Saudi Arabia's heritage and modern renaissance.

As part of the accompanying cultural program, the delegations visited several prominent Eastern Province landmarks, most notably the King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture (Ithra), which impressed visitors with its architecture and interactive learning experiences blending art, technology, knowledge and creativity.

The tours also included a visit to the SciTech center, which offered participants a rich interactive experience combining applied science and technical innovation, boosting students' scientific awareness in an environment that encourages curiosity and discovery.

The experience was not without an authentic heritage touch: participants visited the "Hadab" stable for purebred Arabian horses, learning about the history and art of Saudi horsemanship in a scene that combined heritage and cultural identity. They also enjoyed the beauty of the Al-Khobar Corniche on boat trips and recreational outings that introduced them to the Saudi way of life.

The cultural program concluded with a distinctive heritage evening organized by the Mawhiba Foundation, featuring folklore performances and corners representing heritage landmarks such as the Masmak Fortress and traditional souks, with international delegates donning Saudi traditional dress and expressing admiration for Saudi hospitality and the richness of local culture.

These accompanying activities underscore the Kingdom's interest in presenting a comprehensive image to the world that combines scientific leadership, developmental progress and cultural richness, as part of a vision to position Saudi Arabia as a regional platform for science and innovation and an attractive venue for global events.

The Kingdom has taken part in the Asian Physics Olympiad since 2012, winning 16 international medals over the years, and hosted the International Chemistry Olympiad last year with 90 countries participating — underscoring its advanced position on the international scientific competition map.