SAIDA - The Hariri Foundation for Sustainable Human Development launched the sixth season of “Sidon: A Ramadan City 2026 (1447 AH)” from Khan al-Franj.

The initiative, which runs throughout the holy month of Ramadan, features evenings and activities highlighting living tangible and intangible heritage, cultural and creative industries, economic and intellectual exchange, and community and sectoral dialogue.

This year’s edition aligns with the preparatory year for Saida's designation as a Mediterranean Capital of Culture and Dialogue 2027.

The launch ceremony was held under the patronage and in the presence of former MP Bahia Hariri, Vice President of the Future Movement and President of the Hariri Foundation, alongside official, political, municipal, economic, social and cultural figures.

Events began with the opening of the Ramadan market, followed by a nasheed performance by Mustafa Al-Jaafari and his band, as well as Mawlawi and Hakawati performances and audiovisual presentations on the history of Saida, Khan al-Franj and the previous five seasons of the program.

The program includes themed weeks such as “Ramadan Nights,” “One Thousand and One Nights,” storytelling evenings with artist Raja Al-Zein, scouting musical performances, women’s handicraft activities and an “Abaya Night” marking International Women’s Day.

The Foundation also thanked its partners, including Jbeily Brothers, Azzam Group, and DSigns, in addition to organizational partners LiveYourDream and WeEvents, and media partner Blackbox Productions.

The evening concluded with tours of the Ramadan market and heritage exhibition, and a suhoor gathering in the old city.