More than the hunt: How falconry season brings Emiratis together in Abu Dhabi | The National

Season began on October 20 and will run until the end of January
The news, anew

Season began on October 20 and will run until the end of January
Culture
The event 'Parliamo Italiano in Al-Balad,' hosted by Call of Culture and the Italian Consulate in Historic Jeddah, celebrated the connections between Italian and Saudi cultures through language, music, and dialogue as part of the 26th Week of the Italian Language in the World. Participants engaged in relaxed conversations and activities that highlighted the historic links between Arabic and Italian, reflecting a shared cultural heritage despite geographical distances.
Culture
Sohn Won-pyung's novel "Almond" explores the complexities of human connection through the story of Yunjae, a teenager with alexithymia who struggles to understand emotions. As he navigates his relationships, particularly with the impulsive Gon, the novel raises important questions about empathy and the nature of understanding others. Ultimately, it emphasizes that true connection often requires a willingness to see the world from another's perspective, rather than simply sharing their feelings.
Culture
Despite predictions of its decline due to digital innovation, print book sales remain strong globally, with over 762 million print books sold in the U.S. alone in 2025. Book culture continues to thrive in various regions, such as Europe and the Arab world, where print remains a significant part of cultural life and commerce. The resilience of print books reflects an enduring physical connection with readers, while digital platforms enhance rather than diminish their popularity.