Samar Yahya

Saudi Gazette

JEDDAH — The Lebanese Consulate General here played host to an exhibition celebrating Lebanon’s culture — following the success of a similar event held last year.



“Lebanese Hands II” was held at the consulate’s new premises near King Abdulaziz Road Thursday afternoon.



Zina Atallah, wife of Lebanese Consul General Ziad, revealed her pride at being able to host the exhibition.



She said: “I’m proud especially that most exhibitors are women, reflecting their innovations and keenness to showcase their valuable use of time.



“The exhibition goes smoothly and we can see that it is more organized than last year’s.



“The whole atmosphere is family-like, exhibitors are so cooperative with each other with no sense of negative competition, but friendship.



“I’m also glad to see families coming with their children to visit the exhibition.



“It is an excellent opportunity for the Lebanese community to meet.”



Ziad said he saw the exhibition as a major success, particularly with the good response and diverse collection of exhibitors and products.



He said: “The exhibition hosts diverse innovations by the Lebanese with the aim to get to know and showcase their novelty.



“Our major objective is to provide consular services as well as to gather the Lebanese community.



“We could see paintings, accessories, Lebanese traditional food, costumes and abaya (the long flowing gown worn by women in public) designs, chocolate arrangements, paintings and more exhibitors.”



Exhibitors included Sacha, which offered a wide spectrum of chocolate arrangements and souvenirs; Ghofran Yaghy with handmade accessories and traditional embroidery using fine yet traditional designs; and Malfoufi, which offered hand-painted items, baby shower gifts, clothing and fashion accessories, gift baskets, events, and contemporary gift-wrapping services.



University professor Dr. Zeinab Merza showcased her fine handmade accessories, designs and products as part of her “A New York Affair” collection.



Micheline Nasrallah, another designer, offered her exclusive range of dress accessories.



Visitors included the Lebanese community in Jeddah, Saudi businessmen, consuls general and diplomats in addition to many families.