Arab journalists explore Rizhao's many charms

A high-profile media exchange has connected 14 Arab countries and regions with Rizhao's multi-faceted development story, offering global audience a fresh, on-the-ground perspective on this vibrant coastal city in East China's Shandong province.

Through immersive site visits and local interactions, Arab journalists and content creators gained first-hand insights into the city's millennia-old cultural heritage, fast-growing low-carbon industrial system and people-centered ecological livability, laying a new foundation for deeper cultural and trade links between Rizhao and the Arab world.

The journey took the group far beyond regular sightseeing, presenting a complete picture of Rizhao that blends ancient living heritage, modern industrial vitality and natural coastal beauty.

At Dinglin Temple on Fulai Mountain in Juxian county, the 4,000-year-old ginkgo tree, a living marker of intergenerational cultural continuity, left a deep impression on all visitors. "I'm impressed by how much China values the protection of its cultural and natural heritage," said Sudanese journalist Mohamed Adil.

At the Chaxiang Fengming rural vitalization area, the delegation learned how Rizhao green tea was introduced from southern China in the 1950s, and how smart agricultural technologies are now applied across the whole tea growing process.

Al Arabiya presenter Salem Alzubaidi praised the tea's smooth, mellow flavor, and shared he would explore the possibility of introducing similar tea cultivation projects in Saudi Arabia.

The group visited Rizhao Port and leading local enterprises in new energy and high-end manufacturing, gaining a clear view of how the city's sea-rail intermodal network connects local industries directly to global markets.

Over the three days from Oct 28 to 30, the team arranged a tightly curated itinerary that balanced cultural heritage sites, industrial hubs and community experiences, ensuring every visitor could see different sides of the city.

Egyptian journalist Amina Mohamed highlighted the deep integration of digital technology in local agriculture and industry, and expressed strong expectations for closer practical cooperation between Rizhao and Egypt.

Beyond industrial visits, the delegation experienced the city's coastal scenery and cultural life. They strolled along the Sunshine Coast Greenway, and visited Shandong Vocational and Technical University of International Studies, where they tried traditional Chinese crafts and exchanged views with students majoring in Arabic language and regional studies.

Syrian journalist Abdulrahman Tafour described Rizhao as a city that makes every visitor feel immediately welcomed. "As soon as you arrive in this city, you feel comfortable and at ease, almost like a local. The warmth and hospitality of its people leave a lasting impression."

These authentic experiences will soon be shared across Arab mainstream media, turning Rizhao into a new potential partner for cultural exchange and green cooperation across the region.