Mohammad Al-Zahrani and Sultan Al-Sughair Saudi Gazette JUBAIL — More than 100,000 visitors from all over the Kingdom and the Gulf region flocked to the 1st Jubail Spring Festival during its opening week at the Royal Commission of Jubail. People enjoyed entertainment shows and cultural contests that targeted little children while families enjoyed spending fun-packed evenings at the Traditional Karan Village. Visitors were able to view different handicrafts and how they are made. Al-Hasawi bread's magical ingredients, which include cardamom and saffron, attracted a large number of families whereas traditional woven clothes attracted a large number of Bahraini and Gulf women who reportedly bought large quantities. Hunting enthusiasts enjoyed watching eight falcons that were displayed in a special pavilion. The organizing committee urged visitors to respect traditional dress code and maintain a clean, smoke-free environment for all to enjoy. The festival aims to entertain the residents and visitors of Jubail Industrial City and support families who sell handmade goods. Meanwhile, the Eastern Coast festival which was organized by the Tourist Development Council in the Eastern Province and the Saudi Commission for Tourism and Antiquities (SCTA) wrapped up on Friday. The festival was the first of its kind held in the province and succeeded in portraying sea expeditions, heritage towns, the Eastern Province and the customs and traditions of Gulf fishermen and sailors. According to the organizers about half a million visitors attended the festival's events. Executive Director of the SCTA in the Eastern Province Abdul Latif Al-Binaian said the festival offered a unique tourism experience that highlighted the region's culture and accurately portrayed its marine life.
