Riyadh summit to showcase ��Ƶ as global aviation hub

Updated 09 February 2025

Arab News

February 09, 2025 22:27

The 12th Arab Aviation Summit will convene influential industry stakeholders on Feb. 17 and 18 in Riyadh, under the theme “Uniting Leaders, Building Tomorrow: Advancing Global Aviation.”

Hosted by Abdulaziz Al-Duailj, president of the Saudi General Authority of Civil Aviation, this landmark gathering will bring together key policymakers, industry pioneers, and global stakeholders, reaffirming the Arab world’s position at the forefront of aviation transformation.

This year’s summit will spotlight ��Ƶ’s position as a global aviation powerhouse, emphasizing its strategic role in shaping the industry’s future. As Riyadh hosts this prestigious gathering for the first time, discussions will focus on how the Kingdom’s rapid infrastructure expansion, policy reforms, and visionary leadership are transforming the aviation landscape, positioning itself as a key player in global air connectivity.

Backed by a $100 billion investment strategy, ��Ƶ is driving a new era of growth and modernization in the sector, with targeted developments across airports, airlines, cargo, logistics, and aviation services fostering innovation-driven collaborations and sustainable solutions that set new benchmarks in the aviation industry.

Frederico Fernandes, director, Arab Aviation Summit, said: “The Arab Aviation Summit 2025 is a defining moment for our industry, bringing together the brightest minds to explore innovative solutions that will shape the future of aviation. Riyadh serves as the ideal setting for this transformation, reinforcing the Kingdom’s role as a catalyst for global aviation growth.”

The Arab Aviation Summit 2025 will feature compelling keynote addresses and dynamic panel discussions. These sessions will highlight the global impact of aviation advancements and will provide unparalleled insights into the rapidly evolving aviation landscape with an elite lineup of speakers including: Gabriel Semelas, president, Africa and Middle East, Airbus; Hugo Espírito Santo, state secretary of infrastructure, Portugal; Bulut Bagci, president, World Tourism Forum Institute; Abdul Wahab Teffaha, secretary-general, Arab Air Carriers Organization; Kamil Al-Awadhi, regional vice president, Africa and Middle East, IATA; Steven Greenway, CEO, flyadeal; Majid Khan, CEO, Saudi Air Connectivity Program; Maryam Telmesani, vice president of sustainability, Saudia Group; Osamah Alnuaiser, senior vice president, marketing and corporate communications, Riyadh Air; Ziad Al-Hazmi, CEO, Lufthansa Technik Middle East; Hamdi Osman, founder and CEO, SolitAir Holding; and Imtiyaz Mohammad Manzary, general manager for general aviation, GACA.

Greek islands, Turkish cities & more: Aroya Cruises launches Season 2

Updated 04 October 2025

Lama Alhamawi

October 04, 2025 12:42

Greek islands, Turkish cities & more: Aroya Cruises launches Season 2

Updated 04 October 2025

Lama Alhamawi

October 04, 2025 12:42

��Ƶ’s first-ever cruise line Aroya Cruises has launched a new season featuring Greek islands Mykonos, Athens and Crete, and the Turkish cities of Bordum and Kaş.
“It is a butterfly itinerary between the Greek Islands and Turkish destinations, and also includes Alexandria in Egypt,” Turky Kari, executive director of marketing and corporate communications at Aroya, told Arab News.
Arab News was onboard the Mediterranean leg of the cruise, sailing between Türkiye and Egypt and stopping at popular destinations such as Marmaris, Bodrum, Kaş and Alexandria.
Aroya’s first season set sail from the Jeddah Islamic Port to other destinations, including the Jabal Al-Sabaya Island on the Red Sea coast. More than 95,000 guests enjoyed a personalized Saudi hospitality experience at sea as they explored different destinations.
Abroad, the cruise has distinct features, including the AlKhuzama VIP Experience that provides a round-the-clock butler service and curated moments throughout the journey.
“The AlKhuzama VIP Experience is an elevated service that we provide in suites. We have around 145 suites with nine villas, two of them are presidential and royal, with a capacity of 12 guests each,” Kari said.
“In AlKhuzama, we offer a dedicated lounge, restaurant, and a 24-hour butler service as well as a private boutique retail area,” he added.
“Aroya Cruises is proudly the first Arabian cruise line. What makes us unique is our remarkable Arabian experience. The Saudi hospitality that we offer on board is different from any cruise line. Our main focus is on family; we are offering many activities, events, entertainment and F&B options that focus on the family,” Kari said.
Aroya is the only cruise in the world that houses a Saudi restaurant — Irth. The restaurant, set up in collaboration with the Ministry of Culture, offers local dishes from each of the major regions of the Kingdom.
Other dining options include the Amwaj Buffet, Al-Waha, AlKhuzama lounge and restaurant for VIP guests, and Layalina, which offers an authentic taste of Lebanon with live dances and musical performances.
In terms of activities, there is something for everyone — from movie nights to live performances such as clown shows and Saudi orchestra.
“As the first Arabian cruise line, we are incorporating the Arabian experience in all of our touch points, including hospitality, F&B, and entertainment, which features Arabian Nights,” Kari said.
Moreover, what sets Aroya apart is its special offerings for women, including women-only hours in its spa, sky pool, and gym.
For a relaxing cruising experience, Bloom, the Aroya cruise spa, offers state-of-the-art treatments, including facials, massages, and body treatments. Moreover, for the guest’s peace of mind, the ship also includes a fully staffed medical center, offering emergency and primary healthcare.
Meanwhile, a kids’ center hosts cooking classes, art workshops, a state-of-the-art sailing game, as well as other activities for children aged six months to six years.
Kari said the next season of Aroya will primarily focus on the Arabian Gulf, starting from Dammam and cruising to various locations such as Doha, Sir Bani Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, and more.
“In these journeys, we will welcome guests from ��Ƶ and other GCC countries as well as international guests,” he added.

Riyadh Emerges as Global Hub for Purpose-Driven Investment

Updated 02 October 2025

October 02, 2025 23:03

Riyadh Emerges as Global Hub for Purpose-Driven Investment

Updated 02 October 2025

October 02, 2025 23:03

��Ƶ’s capital is emerging as a global reference point for responsible wealth stewardship. Today, visionary investors Genia Xasis, chief executive officer and partner, and Christopher Aw, chief investment officer and partner, announced the launch of Berkana — a Riyadh-based investment alliance designed to redefine how capital is deployed, not just for returns but for generational impact.

Structured as a circle of influential families and financial leaders from ��Ƶ, the Gulf, Dubai and London, Berkana aligns with the ambitions of Vision 2030, catalyzing three key shifts:

From passive ownership to informed stewardship.
From charitable giving to measurable impact.
From opportunistic deals to purpose-led capital strategies.

As part of its strategic roadmap, Berkana has identified five priority sectors aligned with its mission and ��Ƶ’s national transformation goals:

Affordable housing: Addressing access to quality living and urban growth
Climate technology: Innovations in renewable energy, carbon reduction and sustainability
Water supply and preservation: Technologies and infrastructure ensuring water security
Food and Agriculture Technology: Scalable innovation driving transformation across industries
Healthcare and life sciences: Solutions improving access, efficiency and longevity

“Riyadh embodies the spirit of leadership that inspires action. It is a place where men and women are equally encouraged to lead, innovate and invest with vision. For me, this city is more than a home — it is a compass. Berkana reflects the confidence, openness and ambition that Riyadh is now projecting onto the world.” said Genia Xasis, Berkana’s co-founder.

Christopher Aw, Berkana’s chief investment officer and partner, said: “This is not only about capital; it is about responsibility. Berkana’s framework is a reference point for how investment can shape economies and societies for generations to come.”

Berkana will launch through a series of private roundtables and strategic briefings in Riyadh, Dubai and London, with select opportunities for media engagement. The initiative is already in discussions with regional family offices, sovereign platforms and institutional investors to embed its model across key financial ecosystems.

Al-Futtaim BYD KSA unveils SHARK 6 — ��Ƶ's first-ever plug-in hybrid pickup

Updated 02 October 2025

October 02, 2025 18:10

Al-Futtaim BYD KSA unveils SHARK 6 — ��Ƶ's first-ever plug-in hybrid pickup

Updated 02 October 2025

October 02, 2025 18:10

Al-Futtaim BYD KSA, the official distributor of BYD, a global tech leader and pioneer in New Energy Vehicles, has launched the highly anticipated BYD SHARK 6, ��Ƶ's first-ever plug-in hybrid pickup.

As the global pickup market expands, the SHARK 6 arrives as a game-changing addition, seamlessly blending commercial utility with premium passenger comfort.

Positioned as a premium, versatile lifestyle vehicle, the BYD SHARK 6 is engineered to meet the evolving demands of modern drivers.

It leverages BYD’s pioneering PHEV technology, combining the convenience of traditional refueling with the high performance, efficiency, and sustainability of electric propulsion.

This innovative approach aligns with the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030, supporting a cleaner and more diversified energy future.

"The launch of the BYD SHARK 6 Super Hybrid marks a pivotal step in redefining mobility in the Kingdom," said Jerome Saigot, managing director of Al-Futtaim BYD in KSA.

"It’s more than a vehicle, it’s a statement of power, innovation, and sustainable progress. With the SHARK 6, we’re delivering not just a drive, but a lifestyle built for the future," he added.

This landmark launch represents a significant milestone in ��Ƶ's automotive landscape, reinforcing BYD’s commitment to innovation and long-term investment in the Kingdom.

At the heart of the SHARK 6 is the DMO Super Hybrid Off-road Platform, an in-house innovation by BYD that delivers nearly 430 horsepower, equivalent to a 4.0L V8 engine, through an intelligent electric four-wheel drive system.

This dual-mode architecture eliminates range anxiety while enabling exceptional performance across both off-road and urban environments.

The SHARK 6 also sets a new standard for vehicle architecture and safety. It features BYD’s Cell to Chassis technology, integrating the ultra-safe BYD Blade Battery directly into the high-strength steel frame.

This design increases torsional stiffness, enhances battery protection in harsh off-road conditions, and allows for a flat rear floor, significantly improving passenger space and ride comfort.

The premium driving experience is further elevated by a double-wishbone independent suspension on both the front and rear, a feature typically found in luxury SUVs, which provides exceptional comfort and agility.

Furthermore, with its electric-driven mode covering over 80% of typical driving conditions, the SHARK 6 achieves an industry-leading NVH (noise, vibration, and harshness) level for a near-silent and serene journey.

Technologically advanced, the SHARK 6 is equipped with a 540° panoramic view camera, offering full visibility of surroundings and undercarriage. The vehicle-to-load function transforms the pickup into a mobile power station, ideal for powering tools at a worksite or appliances during outdoor activities like camping or grilling.

The launch event was held at Riyadh Arena and brought together media representatives, influencers, customers, and sub-dealers for an exclusive first look at BYD’s cutting-edge hybrid technologies.

Looking ahead, BYD KSA is preparing to unveil even more models, expanding its portfolio of innovative electric vehicles tailored to meet the evolving needs of the Kingdom’s market. This commitment is part of BYD’s global vision to accelerate the transition to new energy mobility through continuous technological advancement.

The all-new BYD SHARK 6 is available for customers in ��Ƶ starting Oct. 1.

WETEX 2025: L&T showcases Saudi and GCC renewable projects

Updated 02 October 2025

October 02, 2025 17:53

WETEX 2025: L&T showcases Saudi and GCC renewable projects

Updated 02 October 2025

October 02, 2025 17:53

Larsen and Toubro, a global player in engineering and sustainable infrastructure, showcased its renewable energy and power projects at the Water, Energy, Technology and Environment Exhibition 2025, held from Sept. 30 to Oct. 2 at the Dubai World Trade Centre. L&T presented its advanced solutions in solar, wind, and energy storage, underscoring its commitment to supporting the region’s clean energy transformation in line with national visions, including ��Ƶ’s Vision 2030. L&T is also the platinum sponsor of the annual event that serves as a platform for industry professionals from more than 60 countries worldwide to connect and collaborate.

The company is playing a central role in major renewable initiatives across the GCC, including large-scale solar parks in ��Ƶ and the Mohammed bin Rashid Al-Maktoum Solar Park in Dubai. With one of the world’s largest renewable EPC portfolios, the company provides end-to-end hybrid solutions covering solar PV, battery storage, and wind with advanced grid integration capabilities. Leveraging cutting-edge engineering and digital technologies, L&T has delivered more than 35+ GWp of solar plants, 16 GWh of battery energy storage systems, and 444 MWp of floating solar plants.
T. Madhava Das, whole-time director and senior executive vice president (utilities), L&T, said: “L&T is committed to supporting the foresightedness and definitive actions of the leadership of countries and enterprises in the Middle East by bringing in advanced capabilities for global energy transition. With our all-round capabilities in dispatchable renewable generation, power T&D and digital solutions, we are confident of delivering ultra-mega projects to fuel the futuristic ambitions of the region.”
With a track record of having constructed more than 375 substations and 6,500 circuit-km of transmission lines, L&T continues to strengthen the region’s power grid, executing several mega projects involving high-voltage substations and transmission lines linking new or consolidating existing power zones.
The company is also building sustainable water infrastructure across the GCC, with a proven track record of more than 10 major projects worth over $1 billion in the UAE, Oman, and Qatar. Notable achievements include the Jebel Ali Sewage Treatment Plant in Dubai, the country’s largest wastewater treatment facility with a capacity of 375 million liters per day, and the Ad Dakhiliyah water transmission project in Oman, comprising 173 km of pipelines, 15 reservoirs totaling 440,000 cubic meters, and five pumping stations.
Visitors to L&T’s pavilion at WETEX 2025 explored interactive displays, including a BIM ARENA, a digital showcase of L&T’s 3D modeling and project management capabilities, and other advanced tools for sustainable infrastructure planning and execution.

LuLu grows Saudi footprint with new Taif store

Updated 02 October 2025

October 02, 2025 13:05

LuLu grows Saudi footprint with new Taif store

Updated 02 October 2025

October 02, 2025 13:05

Strengthening its footprint across the Kingdom, LuLu Retail officially opened its 70th store in ��Ƶ, located in the suburban area of Taif. This store marks a significant milestone in LuLu’s expansion strategy and demonstrates its ongoing commitment to the Saudi retail market.
The new LuLu Hypermarket was inaugurated by Abdullah bin Khamis Al-Zaidi, mayor of Taif, in the presence of Nasser Huwaiden Thaiban Ali Alketbi, consul general of the UAE in Jeddah; Fahad Ahmed Khan Suri, Indian consul general in Jeddah; and Yusuffali M.A., chairman of LuLu Group.
Also present on the occasion were Ashraf Ali M.A., executive director of LuLu Group; Mohamed Haris Puthiyaveettil, director of LuLu ��Ƶ; Noushad Madathiparambil Ali, regional director of LuLu western region, ��Ƶ; and other senior officials.
The opening not only represents a strategic retail development but also aligns with ��Ƶ’s Vision 2030 by supporting community growth and job creation.
“We are proud to support ��Ƶ’s Vision 2030 by expanding our retail footprint across the Kingdom,” said Yusuffali. “This new hypermarket is designed to enhance the shopping experience for the people of Taif while contributing to local economic development and providing employment opportunities for the community.”
The new hypermarket covers an impressive 195,770 square feet, offering a wide range of products and services under one roof. Shoppers can enjoy a supermarket, fresh food section, Lulu Connect electronics, a fashion store, a department store, BLSH beauty products, and Eye Express optical services. The store also features an upgraded food court to meet modern consumer needs.
To ensure convenience, the store includes six self-checkout counters and approximately 500 parking spaces. The launch was accompanied by attractive introductory offers across various product categories.
“This expansion reflects LuLu’s commitment to delivering quality products and services while supporting the Kingdom’s broader economic and social development objectives,” a statement said.
During the inauguration ceremony, Yusuffali also acknowledged the efforts of LuLu’s staff members who contributed to the making of the shattered glass art in Alkhobar that won a Guinness World Record and presented a memento to them. This artwork, created as the official emblem for the Saudi National Day celebrations, was a tribute to the Kingdom.

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