Al-Baha — July 16, 2025

Al-Mandaq governorate in Al-Baha region launched the "Daws Bani Fahm" popular market festival at the Barhareh center, part of the Al-Baha Summer 2025 program, amid a festive atmosphere attended by Al-Mandaq Governor Qasim bin Saeed Al Mohsen, along with a number of officials and heritage enthusiasts.

The festival forms part of the region's efforts to revive its historic popular markets, which for centuries served as vibrant centers of social and economic life and remain an authentic part of the history of local communities in Al-Baha region, with their distinctive urban character and commercial and cultural activities reflecting the diversity of the environment and heritage.

A Renewed Legacy and Community Spirit

Abdullah bin Daws Al-Zahrani, head of the Barhareh Social Development Society, said in his speech at the opening ceremony that the festival will become an annual fixture on the center's calendar, aimed at supporting craftspeople, farmers and local producers by giving them a platform to showcase their output and strengthening the bond between new generations and their long heritage.

This step reflects a development vision aimed at turning popular markets into tourism and cultural attractions that help stimulate the local economy, create sustainable jobs, and reinforce national identity.

Folklore Performances and Rich Culture

Festival activities included artistic and folklore performances that drew a strong response from attendees, most notably the Southern Ardah, which embodied the authenticity and connection to the region's mountainous environment, alongside a comprehensive exhibition of craft products and local agricultural produce for which Al-Baha region is known, such as pomegranates, grapes and barshoumi.

The market offers an opportunity to showcase Al-Baha's cultural and economic diversity, where arts meet crafts and agricultural heritage, in a scene that blends heritage and development and helps establish Al-Baha as a comprehensive tourism destination in line with Saudi Vision 2030.