By Hussain Hazzazi
Okaz/Saudi Gazette
JEDDAH — Citizens and expatriate residents wonder why the heritage festival “Kida” in the historic part of Jeddah was not held this year after it was successfully organized for years in a row with the participation of a large number of people, including foreign tourists.
An informed source told Okaz/Saudi Gazette that the cancellation occurred probably due to the festival’s coincidence with school exams. “I think the festival was canceled this year because the school exams were earlier scheduled in Ramadan. However, it was decided later to hold the exams before the fasting month,” the source said.
Another source, however, expected the resumption of the festival due to its historic and economic significance. Another Jeddah historical festival titled “Atareek” was organized two months ago.
Previous Ramadan festivals, which lasted for 10 days, contained some 65 events and activities, and reflected the constructive partnership between the Saudi Commission for Tourism and National Heritage and Entertainment Authority.
