X account launched to preserve legacy of historian Abdulkarim Al-Khatib

A dedicated X account has been established to preserve the legacy of Saudi historian and media pioneer Abdulkarim Al-Khatib, whose work documented the history of Yanbu. The account is managed by experts familiar with Al-Khatib’s life and literary and media contributions, aiming to gather his scattered works and highlight his impact for future generations.

Al-Khatib was born in Yanbu in 1933 and pursued journalism studies in Egypt before returning to Saudi Arabia, where he built a career in journalism, radio, administration, and academia. His most notable radio program, "Al-Ard Al-Tayyiba" (The Good Land), aired on Saudi Radio for nearly 18 years beginning in 1964. Al-Khatib was also the host of "Majlis Abu Hamdan," a show that tackled social issues in a dramatic style.

As a historian, he authored several books on Yanbu’s history, notable figures, and social life, including "History of Yanbu" and "Expanded History of Yanbu." He received numerous accolades, including the King Salman Prize for the History of the Arabian Peninsula in 2012 and the Special Medal of Honor for Saudi Authors in 2006. Al-Khatib’s influence extended beyond media; his work on documenting Yanbu’s history, its figures, and social life was instrumental in preserving the city’s collective memory.

He passed away on October 16, 2023, leaving behind a legacy that encompasses his contributions to media, documentation, and preserving memory.