Time Zone |
Asia/Riyadh |
Standard Time GMT / UTC |
UTC+3 |
Daylight Saving Time |
Daylight saving time is not observed in the current region. |
Time Zone |
Europe/Zurich |
Standard Time GMT / UTC |
UTC+1 |
Daylight Saving Time |
UTC+2 |
Al-Aflaj is a city in the Eastern Province of Saudi Arabia, about 300 kilometers southeast of the capital, Riyadh, in the interior of the Arabian Peninsula. The city is known as the "Garden of the Desert" due to its vast oases and well-developed agricultural irrigation system. Thanks to abundant groundwater resources and traditional Falaj (underground waterway) irrigation techniques, the area around Afif is one of the most important agricultural regions in Saudi Arabia, producing dates, wheat and vegetables. The local climate is hot and dry, with summer temperatures often exceeding 40 degrees Celsius, but the presence of oases provides the city with a pleasant ecological environment. Epitomizing traditional Saudi culture, Afif retains a rustic appearance and its inhabitants are known for their Bedouin traditions and hospitality, making it an ideal destination to experience rural life in the Saudi interior.
Bern, the capital of the Swiss Confederation, is located in the west of the country on the banks of the Aare River and is the capital of the canton of Bern. As the political center of Switzerland, the federal government agencies and foreign embassies are located here. The city is famous for its well-preserved medieval old town, which was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983.
Founded in 1191, the city's name derives from the German word "Bär" (bear), which is often depicted in the city's symbols and fountains. The Old Town, with its 6 kilometers of arcade streets, Renaissance fountains and famous clock tower (Zytglogge), attracts many visitors. Albert Einstein lived here and developed his theory of relativity, and his former home is now open as a museum.
Economically, Bern is dominated by the service, precision instrument and pharmaceutical industries, and is an important conference and tourist destination. The city's beautiful setting, surrounded by hills and rivers, offers a wealth of outdoor activities. Bern combines historical heritage, cultural charm and modern functionality, reflecting the high quality of life and efficient governance of Switzerland.