萝莉视频

Mining, entertainment sectors eye 100bn in investments by 2030

Mining, entertainment sectors eye 100bn in investments by 2030
萝莉视频鈥檚 regional headquarters program offers incentives and various support services for international businesses opening offices in Riyadh. (SPA)
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Updated 31 May 2025

Mining, entertainment sectors eye 100bn in investments by 2030

Mining, entertainment sectors eye 100bn in investments by 2030
  • Ongoing regulatory reforms are making the Kingdom an attractive destination for foreign investments

RIYADH:聽萝莉视频 is steadily progressing in its journey to attract $100 billion in foreign direct investments by the end of this decade, with the Kingdom heavily focusing on securing funds in high-growth sectors, experts have said.

萝莉视频鈥檚 Vision 2030 economic diversification program aims to transform its economic landscape, including attracting foreign direct investment and increasing FDI鈥檚 contribution to the Kingdom鈥檚 gross domestic product.

To facilitate and increase FDI, in August 萝莉视频 approved an updated investment law, aimed at boosting transparency and easing the process of investing in the Kingdom.

Speaking to Arab News, Emilio El-Asmar, partner at Oliver Wyman鈥檚 Government and Public Institutions practice 鈥 India, Middle East and Africa, said that the mining sector is one of the most promising industries that will help the Kingdom achieve its FDI goals by 2030.

He also pointed out that the ongoing regulatory reforms happening in 萝莉视频 are making the Kingdom an attractive destination for foreign investments.

鈥溌芾蚴悠碘檚 National Investment Strategy, central to Vision 2030, aims to transform the Kingdom into a globally competitive, innovation-driven economy,鈥 said El-Asmar.聽

萝莉视频 offers geopolitical neutrality, long-term offtake potential, and value-add opportunities.

Emilio El-Asmar, partner at Oliver Wyman鈥檚 Government and Public Institutions practice 鈥 India, Middle East and Africa

He added: 鈥淢ining and metals are among the most promising areas, as the Kingdom has $2.5 trillion worth of untapped resources, including gold, copper, lithium, and rare earth elements, which are vital to energy transition and global industry. Regulatory reforms and integrated industrial zones are opening this frontier market to international investment.鈥

The comments from the Oliver Wyman official come after 萝莉视频 launched a new incentive package to attract foreign direct investments into the nation鈥檚 mining sector.

The Ministry of Investment is collaborating closely with the Ministry of Industry and Mineral Resources through an exploration enablement program aimed at simplifying investments in the mineral exploration industry, the Saudi Press Agency reported in March.

Ryan Alnesayan, partner at Arthur D. Little in the Middle East region, also echoed similar views and said that the mining sector could become a game changer in 萝莉视频鈥檚 economic diversification journey.

鈥淭he new mining law and exploration incentives are attracting serious interest, and the Kingdom is positioning itself as a global mining hub with reliable data, infrastructure, and long-term demand,鈥 said Alnesayan.

El-Asmar further said that 萝莉视频鈥檚 Ras Al-Khair and Wa鈥檃d Al Shamal offer integrated infrastructure, rail and port access, and proximity to downstream processing, making them investment-friendly destinations for international entities.

鈥淭hese ecosystems support refining, smelting, and metal fabrication. A pipeline of investable projects, from exploration to processing, is backed by national institutions including the Public Investment Fund and industrial champions,鈥 said the Oliver Wyman official.聽

Global players are investing in everything from gaming and digital media to smart cities and AI.

Ryan Alnesayan, partner at Arthur D. Little in the Middle East region

He added: 鈥淎s global supply chains seek secure mineral sources, 萝莉视频 offers geopolitical neutrality, long-term offtake potential, and value-add opportunities. Its location between Africa, Asia, and Europe gives investors access to regional growth markets.鈥

In January, speaking at the Future Minerals Forum, 萝莉视频鈥檚 Minister of Industry and Mineral Resources Bandar Alkhorayef said the nation seeks to promote exploration opportunities across 5,000 sq. km of mineralized belts in 2025, aligned with the Kingdom鈥檚 broader plans to establish mining as the third pillar of its industrial economy.

In May, a report released by the General Authority for Statistics revealed that net FDI into 萝莉视频 stood at SR22.1 billion ($5.89 billion) in the fourth quarter of 2024, representing a rise of 26 percent compared to the previous three months.

GASTAT also added that this figure was the highest level across the year, surpassing the SR15.5 billion seen in the first three months of 2024, the SR19 billion recorded in the second quarter, and the SR17.5 billion witnessed in the third.

This development comes after 萝莉视频 rose to 13th place in Kearney鈥檚 2025 Foreign Direct Investment Confidence Index, published in April.

This is up one spot from last year and also means the Kingdom retained its position as the third-most attractive emerging market, signaling continued global confidence in its transformation strategy.

Kearney added that the ranking reflects the nation鈥檚 bold, reform-driven approach to building an internationally competitive, future-ready economy.

Other crucial sectors

El-Asmar also outlined other crucial areas that could drive FDI into 萝莉视频 in the coming years.

According to the Oliver Wyman official, sectors including pharmaceuticals, biotechnology and petrochemicals are also expected to see foreign funds pour into the Kingdom.

He added: 鈥淚n petrochemicals, 萝莉视频 is expanding beyond crude oil into speciality chemicals, high-performance plastics, and packaging, backed by integrated feedstock and logistics infrastructure.鈥

El-Asmar said that 萝莉视频 is ranked second among G20 countries in digital competitiveness, and the Kingdom has strong infrastructure, forward-looking regulations, and digital competitiveness capable of drawing FDI in AI, cloud, cybersecurity, smart city tech, fintech, and health tech.

鈥淚ncentives include regulatory sandboxes, IP protections, and access to a growing consumer and enterprise market, making the Kingdom attractive for global tech firms and startups,鈥 said El-Asmar.

Alnesayan also highlighted the role of technology and entertainment sectors in materialising 萝莉视频鈥檚 FDI goals.

鈥淓ntertainment and tech reflect 萝莉视频鈥檚 new growth story. Global players are investing in everything from gaming and digital media to smart cities and AI. These sectors are fueling job creation, innovation, and a dynamic consumer market,鈥 said the Arthur D. Little official.

El-Asmar agreed that the entertainment sector is central to 萝莉视频鈥檚 diversification and FDI strategy, reflecting cultural openness and rising domestic demand.

鈥淲ith a population of 35 million and rising demand for premium experiences, the Kingdom is seeing growth in cinemas, theme parks, live events, and content production. Major international brands are entering the market, supported by co-investment and giga-projects like Qiddiya,鈥 he said.

RHQ program and FDI

Alnesayan believes that 萝莉视频鈥檚 regional headquarters program is emerging as one of the key drivers of FDI in the Kingdom.

鈥淭he RHQ Program is not just about relocating offices 鈥 it鈥檚 about anchoring decision-making in Riyadh. That brings investment, talent, and deeper regional integration. We鈥檝e already seen over 600 companies commit, and the momentum is accelerating,鈥 he said.

萝莉视频鈥檚 regional headquarters program offers incentives such as a 30-year corporate income tax exemption, withholding tax immunity, and various support services for international businesses.

Some of the noted firms that relocated their headquarters to the Kingdom are Northern Trust, Bechtel and Pepsico from the US, and IHG Hotels and Resorts, PwC, and Deloitte from the UK.

El-Asmar also highlighted the importance of the RHQ program and said that 萝莉视频鈥檚 location 鈥 at the crossroads of Europe, Asia, and Africa 鈥 makes it an ideal base for regional operations.

Potential challenges

Despite all these positive developments, experts also outlined some of the challenges 萝莉视频 could face in achieving its FDI targets within the stipulated timeline.

鈥淭he fundamentals are strong, but challenges remain 鈥 global volatility, talent gaps, and the need for ongoing regulatory clarity. But the Kingdom is addressing these head-on through reforms, infrastructure investment, and strategic partnerships that reduce risk and increase investor confidence,鈥 said Alnesayan.

El-Asmar said that foreign investors need predictability, and to address this, 萝莉视频 has launched the Investor Confidence Protection Mechanism and Investor Council, alongside legal reforms including English-language documentation and digital licensing portals.

鈥淗igh operational costs and complex procedures persist in some sectors. Special Economic Zones, tax incentives, and digital services are helping to reduce these barriers and simplify market entry,鈥 said El-Asmar.

He concluded: 鈥淲hile these challenges are real, 萝莉视频鈥檚 strategic reforms, long-term vision, and favorable location continue to make it one of the world鈥檚 most promising emerging FDI destinations.鈥


鈥楻etailtainment鈥 shaping growth of shopping malls in 萝莉视频

鈥楻etailtainment鈥 shaping growth of shopping malls in 萝莉视频
Updated 07 June 2025

鈥楻etailtainment鈥 shaping growth of shopping malls in 萝莉视频

鈥楻etailtainment鈥 shaping growth of shopping malls in 萝莉视频
  • Shopping centers thrive as they evolve into social venues rather than mere shopping destinations

RIYADH: Shopping malls in 萝莉视频 have strong growth prospects, as consumers increasingly prefer the convenience of retail and entertainment offerings combined under one roof, experts have told Arab News.

Strengthening the Kingdom鈥檚 retail sector, including the development of shopping destinations, is one of the crucial goals outlined in the Vision 2030 program, as 萝莉视频 aims to become a global hub of business and tourism by the end of the decade.

In June, a report by global real estate consultancy Knight Frank revealed that Riyadh is leading the Kingdom鈥檚 retail transformation, with mall rents up 4 percent in a year and 2.2 million sq. meters of new retail space planned by 2030.

According to the analysis, average mall rent in the Saudi capital rose to SR2,848 ($765) per sq. meter by the end of March, with occupancy rates up 5 percent to reach 92 percent in the first quarter of 2025. 

Speaking to Arab News, Olivier de Cointet, senior adviser at management consulting firm Arthur D. Little, said that shopping malls are set to thrive in the Kingdom as they evolve into social venues rather than mere shopping destinations.

鈥淲ith retailtainment, which is the fusion of retail and entertainment, becoming an essential part of the customer experience, malls play a significant role in supporting the Kingdom鈥檚 vision to become a business and tourist destination hub,鈥 said Cointet.

He added: 鈥淭hese destinations enhance 萝莉视频鈥檚 appeal as a business and tourism hotspot and keep more consumer spending within the Kingdom.鈥

Anthony Spary, head of retail, leasing, and offices at CBRE for the Middle East and North Africa region, echoed similar views, saying that shopping malls in the Kingdom could serve as social hubs for both locals and visitors, promoting cultural exchange and providing a platform for both international and homegrown brands. 

Today鈥檚 consumer expects seamless integration between all channels, and this benefits physical as well as digital retail in terms of driving footfall, experience, and convenience.

Sundeep Khanna, partner at ADL

鈥淢alls often feature concepts such as family entertainment centers, cinemas, cultural events as well as unique anchor attractions, all of which will draw tourists and encourage repeat footfall with residents,鈥 said Spary.

Joe Abi Akl, partner and head of Oliver Wyman鈥檚 Retail and Consumer practice for India, the Middle East and Africa, said that shopping malls in 萝莉视频 have allocated nearly half of their gross leased area to non-retail activities, which could help them serve as social and entertainment destinations.

鈥淪hopping malls, with a pipeline exceeding 6 million sq. meters of GLA, play a vital role in this vision by offering integrated, experience-led environments. With more than 40 percent of mall space planned for non-retail activities, they鈥檙e not just commercial centers, but social and cultural anchors that enrich the Kingdom鈥檚 appeal as a leisure and lifestyle destination,鈥 said Abi Akl.

These comments align with 萝莉视频鈥檚 efforts to become a global hub for tourism and business by the end of the decade, with the Real Estate General Authority projecting the property market to reach $101.62 billion by 2029, representing a compound annual growth rate of 8 percent from 2024. 

Shaping retail spending

CBRE鈥檚 Spary said the rising number of shopping malls in the Kingdom is expected to boost retail spending as they provide consumers with convenience and a wide variety of product choices.

鈥溌芾蚴悠 offers a unique retail landscape in the region, providing a blend of strip malls, line retail, as well as community and regional shopping districts. This new wave of shopping malls will only add to this offering and create a more varied mix for the consumer,鈥 added Spary.

These views regarding consumer spending align with the findings of a recent report published by global consulting firm AlixPartners, which said the Kingdom鈥檚 consumer market is evolving rapidly, characterized by adaptability, shifting spending patterns, and resilience in the face of global economic challenges.

AlixPartners noted that the groceries and clothing categories are expected to remain key spending sectors in 2025, with consumers prioritizing value-driven deals and savings.

Craig Watson, head of retail at JLL in the Kingdom, stated that the development of several high-quality retail centers will transform the consumer experience across 萝莉视频, offering a wide array of choices and ultimately boosting overall spending.

鈥淲hen regions go through extensive and rapid growth, the consumer is always the winner, with increased supply providing new and exciting concepts to experience. The retail mix, success, and execution of these places will ultimately determine the share of wallet and who benefits most,鈥 said Watson.

In February, during the Retail Leaders Circle, Abdellah Iftahy, senior partner at McKinsey and Co., said that the Kingdom鈥檚 retail sector is undergoing a significant transformation, driven by a digitally savvy young population and increasing consumer confidence. 

He added that by 2035, 75 percent of retail spending is expected to come from the Saudi youth.

E-commerce vs. shopping malls 

Although the growth of e-commerce in 萝莉视频 may pose challenges for traditional retail formats, it can also complement the development of malls in the Kingdom, according to experts.

Watson notes that the Kingdom has emerged as a major e-commerce hub in the Middle East and North Africa, driven by its young, tech-savvy population and expanding internet coverage.

He believes the growth of the e-commerce sector will not negatively impact the operations of shopping malls nationwide. 

FASTFACTS

鈥 Strengthening the Kingdom鈥檚 retail sector, including the development of shopping destinations, is one of the crucial goals outlined in the Vision 2030 program.

鈥 Riyadh is leading the Kingdom鈥檚 retail transformation, with mall rents up 4 percent in a year and 2.2 million sq. meters of new retail space planned by 2030.

鈥淎s is the case with every region, the overwhelming majority of retail sales is derived from brick-and-mortar transactions. Malls will need to adapt by integrating technology, enhancing the customer experience and offering unique in-person experiences that cannot be replicated online,鈥 said Watson.

According to Spary, many consumers still prefer the tactile experience of shopping in person, and malls can integrate e-commerce by offering click-and-collect services.

鈥淢alls can serve as experiential spaces where brands showcase their products, attracting customers who enjoy the physical shopping experience. Taking into account both cultural shopping preferences as well as the impact of the climate on consumer behavior, increasing e-commerce penetration will add to the overall omnichannel approach that retailers are adopting across the region,鈥 said Spary.

Sundeep Khanna, partner at ADL, said that the growth of the e-commerce sector is not cannibalising shopping malls, but is actually complementing them.

鈥淭oday鈥檚 consumer expects seamless integration between all channels, and this benefits physical as well as digital retail in terms of driving footfall, experience, and convenience,鈥 said Khanna.

Attracting international brands 

Spary told Arab News that the transformation and upgrade of retail offerings in the market of 萝莉视频 will pave the way for new international brands to enter and grow within the Kingdom, contributing to the country鈥檚 wider economic goals.

According to the CBRE official, the entry of new brands will not only enhance consumer choices but also stimulate a competitive environment that encourages brand expansion and attracts investment.

鈥淐BRE is currently seeing record levels of demand from international brands looking to expand into the region. This demand is likely to continue given the robust and ever-maturing nature of this market,鈥 said Spary.

Cointet noted that 萝莉视频 has become an attractive destination for global fashion, luxury, and food and beverage retailers, drawn by the population鈥檚 strong spending power and the rise of premium mall spaces such as Riyadh Park and Mall of Arabia.

鈥淢all expansion goes hand-in-hand with pro-investment reforms 鈥 for example, 萝莉视频 now allows 100 percent foreign ownership in the retail sector, encouraging international companies and developers to invest directly,鈥 added Cointet.

The Arthur D. Little official further stated that the expansion of shopping malls in the Kingdom will also provide local brands with unprecedented opportunities to establish a national and international footprint.

鈥淭his is critical for developing the Saudi economy and I anticipate we will see more Saudi-owned brands enter the world stage in the coming years,鈥 added Cointet.

Potential challenges

The experts also highlighted some of the challenges in 萝莉视频鈥檚 retail landscape, particularly surrounding shopping malls, including oversupply.

鈥淲hilst there鈥檚 certainly a risk of oversupply with many large projects due to be delivered over the course of the next two to three years, the need for continuous innovation and adaptation to changing consumer trends will be crucial for the sustainability of shopping malls in the Kingdom,鈥 said Spary.

The CBRE official further said that new attractions, entertainment options, and cultural elements will play a pivotal role in reshaping the retail landscape in the market.

Spary added that the integration of these features will create a more engaging and immersive experience for consumers, ultimately redefining how shopping is perceived and enjoyed in the Kingdom.

Cointet expressed a slightly different view, stating that the demand for malls in 萝莉视频 is expected to rise in the coming years due to population growth.

He explained that this challenge could be addressed by developing large-format mega malls that serve as destinations in themselves, alongside smaller community malls designed to offer convenience at the local level.

In April, a separate analysis by S&P Global said that oversupply, changing retail preferences, and pressure on rental yields amid elevated capital expenditure by landlords could exert pressure on the Kingdom鈥檚 retail sector.

According to the US-based agency, the volume of retail projects in the pipeline raises the risk of potential oversupply, particularly in secondary locations where demand may not be sufficient to absorb new retail spaces. 

Discussing the risk of oversupply, Cointet said: 鈥溌芾蚴悠碘檚 aggressive development pipeline of new retail space underway 鈥 raises the risk of too much supply coming to market, which could pressure occupancies and rents in some areas, or even threaten the launch of some of the programs.鈥

He added: 鈥淟andlords and developers may need to differentiate their properties with unique experiences, dining, and entertainment offerings  鈥 and even offer lease incentives 鈥 to avoid saturation and keep shoppers engaged in an evolving retail landscape.鈥


萝莉视频 leads bold transformation to tackle water scarcity

萝莉视频 leads bold transformation to tackle water scarcity
Updated 07 June 2025

萝莉视频 leads bold transformation to tackle water scarcity

萝莉视频 leads bold transformation to tackle water scarcity
  • Kingdom takes decisive steps to secure water availability for future generations

RIYADH: 萝莉视频 is confronting one of the world鈥檚 most urgent environmental challenges: water scarcity. 

Faced with limited natural freshwater resources and a rapidly expanding population, the Kingdom is taking decisive steps to secure water availability for future generations.

Central to this ambitious transformation is a strategic focus on the 鈥淭hree As鈥 of water management: availability, accessibility, and affordability.

In recent years, 萝莉视频 has become a global leader in water desalination, investing heavily in cutting-edge technologies and large-scale infrastructure projects. 

These efforts are not only reshaping the nation鈥檚 water landscape but also setting an example for other arid regions grappling with similar issues.

Speaking to Arab News, Tariq Nada, executive vice president of the Center of Excellence at ACWA Power, highlighted the Kingdom鈥檚 dominant role in the water sector.

鈥淭he Kingdom鈥檚 current desalinated water supply capacity stands at over 12 million m3/day with a target to reach approximately 20 million m3/day by 2030,鈥 Nada explained.

He further noted: 鈥淎s of 2024, the Kingdom had committed $6.28 billion in ongoing projects focused on water distribution, water treatment plants, wastewater collection projects and wastewater treatment plants.鈥

Nick Strange, principal at Arthur D. Little, pointed out 萝莉视频鈥檚 massive achievements over the past five decades. 

鈥淭he country plans to more than double its desalination capacity to around 20 million m鲁/d by 2030. New mega plants are under development in strategic locations including the Eastern Province, Makkah, Jazan and Madinah (regions). In parallel, the transmission network will also be expanded in scale and reach to accommodate the growing demand and new production hubs,鈥 he told Arab News.

Strange added: 鈥淗owever, the Kingdom is not relying on desalination alone. Recognizing the importance of water sustainability, 萝莉视频 is also accelerating efforts in wastewater treatment and reuse. Current treated water capacity is 6-7 million m鲁/d, with approximately 30 percent being utilized.鈥

萝莉视频鈥檚 approach includes deploying advanced, energy-efficient technologies such as reverse osmosis systems and integrating renewable energy sources into desalination and wastewater treatment plants.

Meanwhile, the reuse of treated wastewater is gaining momentum as part of a wider push for sustainable resource management.

Public-private partnerships have been instrumental in driving this transformation, accelerating investments and expediting the development of critical infrastructure.

Nicolas Boukhalil, PwC Middle East鈥檚 energy, resources and sustainability deals leader, emphasized the benefits of opening the sector to international competition. 

HIGHLIGHTS

鈥 萝莉视频 is poised to make major strides in water infrastructure, innovation, and resource management 鈥 key to securing supplies, boosting the economy, and advancing Vision 2030.

鈥 萝莉视频鈥檚 approach includes deploying advanced, energy-efficient technologies such as reverse osmosis systems and integrating renewable energy sources into desalination and wastewater treatment plants.

鈥淭hese partnerships are introducing new technology, improving efficiency, and making water more affordable for homes, businesses, and farmers alike. The result: a more sustainable financial model that eases pressure on public budgets and supports long-term economic growth,鈥 he said.

He also stressed the importance of distribution networks, stating, 鈥淧roducing water is only half the battle, getting it where it鈥檚 needed is just as critical. That鈥檚 why major investments are also going into water transmission networks, storage reservoirs, and smart management systems.鈥

Hani Tohme, partner and Middle East and Africa sustainability lead at Kearney, shed light on the current wastewater situation.

鈥溌芾蚴悠 treats over 6.5 million cubic meters of municipal wastewater each day, yet only around 25 percent of that is reused, with wastewater network coverage reaching approximately 65 percent,鈥 he said.

The National Water Strategy aims to boost treatment and reuse significantly by 2030 鈥 targeting treatment of up to 10 million cubic meters daily and reuse rates of 70 percent.

Tohme explained: 鈥淭his enables groundwater preservation, supports industrial and agricultural reuse, and reduces dependency on energy-intensive desalination 鈥 which still provides 60 percent of urban water supply today.鈥

Enhancing water security

萝莉视频鈥檚 expansion of desalination and water purification is a cornerstone of Vision 2030, reinforcing national water security and the Kingdom鈥檚 broader transformation goals.

Nada from ACWA Power sees investment in advanced desalination as a critical response to water scarcity that also promotes economic growth through job creation and industry development.

鈥淪ince its inception, ACWA Power has consistently been an early adopter of new technologies, in full cooperation and collaboration with the full ecosystem, led by KSA Water offtaker, SWPC, achieving 87 percent reduction in specific power consumption over the last decade. This commitment to innovation is reflected in the company鈥檚 ongoing efforts to integrate sustainable and cost-effective water solutions,鈥 Nada said.

From Arthur D. Little鈥檚 perspective, these initiatives boost economic diversification and elevate Saudi firms globally. 

The Kingdom鈥檚 current desalinated water supply capacity stands at over 12 million m3/day with a target to reach approximately 20 million m3/day by 2030.

Tariq Nada, executive vice president of the Center of Excellence at ACWA Power

鈥淔or businesses, this presents significant opportunities across engineering, clean technology, and supply chain localization 鈥 while for the nation, it reinforces resilience, global competitiveness, and leadership in addressing one of the 21st century鈥檚 most pressing challenges: the sustainable management of water,鈥 Strange explained.

PwC also notes the alignment between the Kingdom鈥檚 water strategy and Vision 2030鈥檚 goals of economic diversification and sustainability.

鈥淎s global demand for desalination and sustainable water solutions rises, 萝莉视频 has the tools, talent, and ambition to become a world leader in water technology, creating new revenue streams while solving a shared global issue,鈥 Boukhalil said. Kearney鈥檚 Tohme emphasized the wastewater sector鈥檚 growing role in attracting private investment.

鈥淔or businesses, this creates significant opportunities in EPC contracting, localization of technologies including membrane technologies, operations and maintenance, and treated water offtake agreements, particularly in industrial zones and giga developments,鈥 he said.

Evolution of water purification

In 2025, 萝莉视频 is poised to make major strides in water infrastructure, innovation, and resource management 鈥 key to securing supplies, boosting the economy, and advancing Vision 2030.

Highlighting upcoming developments, Nada said: 鈥淚n 2025, we anticipate an increased integration of renewable energy, with water desalination plants increasingly powered by solar energy and battery energy storage systems, further reducing their environmental impact and operational costs.鈥

He added: 鈥淲e also expect to see a rise in the deployment of advanced membrane technologies, where next-generation membrane technologies will improve the efficiency and effectiveness of RO plants, reducing energy consumption and increasing water recovery rates.鈥

Nada also pointed to the role of digital technologies: 鈥淒igital technologies, such as AI, including machine learning, (will) enable real-time monitoring, optimization, and predictive maintenance of water purification plants.鈥

Kearney鈥檚 Tohme foresees three major shifts by 2025. He expects accelerated deployment of decentralized purification plants in underserved and remote areas, adoption of digital twins and predictive maintenance technologies to reduce operational costs and non-revenue water, and the strategic integration of treated water into agriculture and district cooling systems.

He concluded: 鈥淭hese trends are not just technical 鈥 they enhance 萝莉视频鈥檚 economic resilience by separating water supply from climate stress.鈥


Rabbit鈥檚 quick commerce model takes off in 萝莉视频

Rabbit鈥檚 quick commerce model takes off in 萝莉视频
Updated 07 June 2025

Rabbit鈥檚 quick commerce model takes off in 萝莉视频

Rabbit鈥檚 quick commerce model takes off in 萝莉视频
  • Strong early traction points to a positive start for Cairo-based startup

RIYADH: Early users of quick commerce company Rabbit in Riyadh are already showing promising signs of engagement, with weekly reorder rates comparable to those in the company鈥檚 more mature Egyptian market, Arab News has been told. 

This strong early traction points to a positive product-market fit as the Cairo-based startup expands into 萝莉视频.

Rabbit officially launched operations in the Kingdom in early 2024 and is aiming to replicate its hyper-growth strategy by tailoring its model to each city 鈥 starting with Riyadh.

鈥淎 more indicative, and exciting, insight is that we are seeing early users in 萝莉视频 already having a reorder rate of around one order a week,鈥 said Ahmad Yousry, co-founder and CEO of Rabbit, in an interview with Arab News.

鈥淭his is in line with our much more established customer base in Egypt, which is a compelling sign for us,鈥 he added.

Rabbit has already delivered more than 40 million items to 1.4 million users in Egypt, a market that has served as a foundational blueprint. However, the company is taking care not to simply copy and paste its strategies.

鈥淗ence, we adopt a tailored approach, focused on building city-by-city and being highly nimble as a company, which has already proven key,鈥 said Yousry.

Within six weeks of launching in Riyadh, Rabbit built a network of dark stores covering half of the city. Its goal is to expand across the remainder of the capital and into additional cities over the next 24 months. Dark stores 鈥 also known as micro-fulfillment centers or dark warehouses 鈥 are retail or distribution hubs designed exclusively to handle and process online shopping orders.

Known for its ultra-fast service, Rabbit is maintaining its performance standards in 萝莉视频.

鈥淥ur goal is to deliver over 94 percent of our orders within the promised time frame,鈥 Yousry said, referring to Rabbit鈥檚 20-minute delivery commitment.

Rabbit aims to deliver 20 million items in 萝莉视频 by 2026, forecasting exponential 鈥 not linear 鈥 growth. While the company has not disclosed current delivery volumes or active user numbers in the Kingdom, Yousry emphasized the importance of retention over vanity metrics.

鈥淲e focus on methodically growing the number of households that depend on Rabbit on a weekly basis,鈥 he said. 

A more indicative, and exciting, insight is that we are seeing early users in 萝莉视频 already having a reorder rate of around one order a week.

Ahmad Yousry, co-founder and CEO of Rabbit

In Egypt, Rabbit recorded 2.5 times year-on-year growth in the first quarter of 2025, highlighting the scalability of its operational model.

Yousry cautioned against direct comparisons, saying: 鈥淭he unit economics for both markets are quite different. We try not to base our growth strategy on comparative analytics, but rather on adapting the operational learnings from one market to another and building a sustainable business model around them.鈥

According to Yousry, increasing customer numbers and basket sizes are central to sustainable growth.

鈥淭here are two fundamental ways to grow the business in a sustainable and organic manner: acquire more customers and, or, increase the basket value per customer. We aim to focus on both of these elements,鈥 he said.

A major element of Rabbit鈥檚 regional strategy is local sourcing. In Egypt, over 60 percent of products are sourced from local suppliers, and the company is pursuing a similar 鈥 or higher 鈥 ratio in 萝莉视频.

鈥淚n 萝莉视频, we are currently on track to have even more local brands on the platform,鈥 Yousry said.

鈥淥ur partner-first focus, and our commitment to growing local brands and empowering local entrepreneurs, has significantly paid off in Egypt and we expect to see the same in 萝莉视频.鈥

Beyond fulfillment, Rabbit is prioritizing customer experience, emphasizing both convenience and reliability.

鈥淲hile speed is incredibly important, to be successful in the e-grocery market, you must also focus on the other key elements of the customer experience: convenience and reliability,鈥 said Yousry.

鈥淥ur customers know they can count on us to deliver speed, convenience, and consistency.鈥

Technology, particularly artificial intelligence, plays a critical role in Rabbit鈥檚 operations. The company is applying AI to enhance inventory management, logistics, and user engagement.

鈥淎I is a fundamental enabler of our operations and future growth in 萝莉视频,鈥 Yousry said. 

FASTFACTS

鈥 Within six weeks of launching in Riyadh, Rabbit built a network of dark stores covering half of the city. Its goal is to expand across the remainder of the capital and into additional cities over the next 24 months.

鈥 Rabbit aims to deliver 20 million items in 萝莉视频 by 2026, forecasting exponential 鈥 not linear 鈥 growth.

鈥 Rabbit has already delivered more than 40 million items to 1.4 million users in Egypt, a market that has served as a foundational blueprint.

鈥淲e are leveraging AI for sophisticated inventory management to predict demand accurately and minimize stockouts, ensuring product availability for our customers.鈥

Rabbit also uses machine learning to personalize the shopping experience within the app. 鈥淲e are utilizing proprietary machine-learning solutions to provide tailored product recommendations and a more engaging shopping experience for our users in the Kingdom,鈥 Yousry added.

The decision to launch regionally with 萝莉视频 was driven by the size and structure of its grocery sector.

鈥淭he food and grocery market is valued at $60 billion, yet the current online grocery transactions in 萝莉视频 are at a lower rate, sitting at 1.3 percent, than the likes of the UAE and the US,鈥 said Yousry.

鈥淩iyadh is transforming at lightning speed, providing us with the opportunity to meet the shift in customer behavior and demands.鈥

Understanding and adapting to local consumer behavior has been central to Rabbit鈥檚 entry into the market.

鈥淐onsumers in 萝莉视频 prioritize convenience, quality, and new technologies for a seamless shopping experience,鈥 said Yousry.

He added that, unlike Egypt 鈥 where purchases tend to be daily and need-based 鈥 Saudi shopping habits are more occasion-driven.

鈥淚n Egypt, the pattern leans more toward daily or impulse-driven purchases, often tied to single packs for immediate needs or smaller households.鈥

Rabbit鈥檚 mission is closely aligned with 萝莉视频鈥檚 Vision 2030, particularly in areas such as digital infrastructure development and support for small and medium enterprises.

鈥淲e are helping to accelerate the growth of the digital economy in a growing sector that is yet to reach its digitization potential,鈥 said Yousry, adding: 鈥淲e are building and leveraging state-of-the-art technology across our entire supply chain, aligning directly with the Kingdom鈥檚 vision for a diversified and digitally empowered future in two key sectors: logistics and retail.鈥

Supporting local entrepreneurs remains a central pillar of Rabbit鈥檚 regional operations.

鈥淥ur commitment to local sourcing and partnerships with SMEs provides a platform for these businesses to reach a wider customer base and scale their operations,鈥 he said.

鈥淲e hire local and build locally. We pride ourselves on being a hyperlocal company. We are not bringing Rabbit to 萝莉视频; we are instead building Rabbit 萝莉视频 by Saudi hands.鈥

Looking ahead, Rabbit sees 萝莉视频 not only as a key growth market but also as a launchpad for broader expansion.

鈥淲e are very excited for the future of Rabbit in the GCC region,鈥 said Yousry.

鈥淲e are already profitable in our first market, Egypt, and we look forward to building on this as we expand,鈥 he stated.

鈥淲e see 萝莉视频 as a champion market for the reasons already mentioned. We are focused on growing sustainably and expanding our footprint in the Kingdom, ultimately reaching profitability,鈥 the CEO added.


Saudis dig deep into their wallets as Eid Al-Adha drives spending surge

Saudis dig deep into their wallets as Eid Al-Adha drives spending surge
Updated 06 June 2025

Saudis dig deep into their wallets as Eid Al-Adha drives spending surge

Saudis dig deep into their wallets as Eid Al-Adha drives spending surge

RIYADH: 萝莉视频鈥檚 Eid Al-Adha holiday is proving to be a major economic driver, fueling robust growth across the Kingdom鈥檚 livestock, retail, and domestic tourism sectors.

Coinciding with the annual Hajj pilgrimage, the extended public holiday channels billions of riyals into the economy as businesses ramp up operations to meet soaring seasonal demand.

Livestock markets are bustling, shopping centers are teeming with eager consumers, and hotels and resorts across the Kingdom are reporting high occupancy rates 鈥 all pointing to a dynamic shift in consumer behavior and an increasingly diversified economic landscape.

Retail activity, in particular, is experiencing a seasonal boom. From glittering gold souqs and fashion boutiques to thriving e-commerce platforms, shoppers are on the lookout for Eid gifts, festive attire, and high-end products.

A recent survey by Toluna and MetrixLab shows that 47 percent of Saudi consumers expect to spend more this Eid than last year. Over half (51 percent) are boosting their shopping budgets, while 44 percent are allocating more for dining out.

Among the most in-demand items this season are fashion apparel, gold and diamond jewelry, perfumes, and electronics. In response, retailers are rolling out aggressive promotions, with 49 percent of consumers attracted to price discounts, 40 percent favoring bundled deals, and 33 percent looking for cash-back incentives.

The digital retail landscape is also witnessing significant momentum. The survey highlights that 31 percent of consumers now fall into the 鈥渉eavy digital shopper鈥 category 鈥 individuals who make purchases daily or several times a week.

Perfumes are one of the most in demand items. Getty

鈥淓id gifting remains a core element of celebrations, with 89 percent of KSA residents planning to give gifts in 2025,鈥 the report stated.  

The report added: 鈥淟uxury gifting continues to rise, with 41 percent opting for fashion cloths, up from 36 percent in 2024, dates, and sweets 45 percent, and major electronic devices gaining popularity, rising from 22 percent to 24 percent.鈥 

Fragrances and gourmet items such as dates and chocolates also continue to dominate gifting choices, reflecting cultural values and the desire to present meaningful and luxurious tokens of appreciation.  

The trend of self-gifting, while slightly down from 2024, remains strong, indicating the growing role of Eid as a moment for personal indulgence.

The tourism and hospitality sector stands out as one of the biggest winners during Eid Al-Adha, with hotels, resorts, and travel operators across 萝莉视频 witnessing a surge in demand.  

JS Anand, founder and CEO of Leva Hotels, told Arab News that the holiday鈥檚 timing alongside the Hajj pilgrimage makes it a uniquely impactful season, not only for spiritual observance but also for economic momentum driven by both local and international tourism. 

鈥淓id Al-Adha will increasingly serve as a key driver for business and consumption, benefiting both local and regional markets. Beyond its economic impact, the holiday is also a time for spiritual reflection, generosity, and community, while highlighting 萝莉视频鈥檚 vibrant culture and hospitality,鈥 Anand said. 

He added: 鈥淚ncreased consumer spending during this period benefits industries such as transportation, hospitality, and retail, while the extended holiday period further amplifies economic activity.鈥 

Speaking on shifting consumer behaviors, Anand noted that travelers are becoming more discerning and value-conscious. While they are not necessarily looking for the cheapest option, they want to ensure they鈥檙e getting meaningful value for what they pay. 

He added: 鈥淕uests increasingly expect hotels to deliver not just a place to stay, but a personalized, experience-rich offering that resonates with their lifestyle and preferences.鈥 

JS Anand, founder and CEO of Leva Hotels. Supplied

Domestic tourism continues to thrive, but international travel has surged in popularity among Saudi residents.  

According to Wego, 96.12 percent of Eid-related travel searches in the Kingdom are now for international destinations, up from 87.34 percent last year.  

Top destinations include Egypt, India, and the UAE, as well as Pakistan, Turkiye, and Bangladesh, along with a rising interest in European and Southeast Asian locales such as Italy, Thailand, and Malaysia. 

Despite the international travel boom, domestic destinations like Jeddah, Riyadh, and Madinah, alongside Dammam and Abha, remain popular for their cultural attractions and spiritual experiences.  

Wego data suggests that cultural exploration is becoming a primary driver in destination selection, as travelers seek meaningful connections during the holiday. 

Anand affirmed this trend: 鈥淭he hospitality sector must be agile, crafting offerings that cater not only to the loyal domestic traveler but also to the rising wave of international visitors.鈥 

He continued: 鈥淔or hotels, this means providing thoughtfully tailored packages, seamless digital booking experiences, and culturally resonant, memorable stays that appeal to both local guests and the growing base of inbound international tourists discovering 萝莉视频 during the festive Eid season and beyond.鈥 

Businesses are also preparing for the holiday through targeted promotions and operational enhancements. 鈥淭oday, it鈥檚 all about creating value-added, memorable, immersive experiences and curating unique, personalized offerings to meet the surge in demand and deliver exceptional value.鈥 

Mohammed Al-Mu鈥檃jil, a tourism expert, told Arab News that 萝莉视频 is seeing remarkable shifts in travel and consumer behavior this Eid season. 

鈥淚n 2025, 萝莉视频 witnessed a significant rise in consumer spending, with total expenditure reaching approximately SR148 billion ($39.46 billion) in March, the highest level since May 2021, reflecting a 17 percent increase compared to the previous year. This growth is attributed to the Ramadan and Eid Al-Fitr seasons, in addition to the Umrah season,鈥 Al-Mu鈥檃jil said. 

With more people shopping and traveling, businesses are also recalibrating their approach to Eid.  

Al-Mu鈥檃jil also highlighted the increasing role of technology and digital outreach stating: 鈥淐ompanies are increasingly relying on digital channels to engage with customers, with 94.03 percent of internet users in the Kingdom active on social media platforms such as X, TikTok, and Snapchat.鈥 

He also explained that domestic hotel nights increased by 14 percent, while international hotel nights rose by 13 percent. 

The Kingdom recorded a 48 percent increase in international visitors during the first quarter compared to the previous year, driven by Vision 2030 initiatives and relaxed visa regulations. 

International destinations are seeing strong demand from Saudi tourists, particularly Egypt, Turkiye, and Dubai, due to their geographic proximity, cultural similarities, and diverse tourism offerings,鈥 he said.  

鈥淩ed Sea cruises have also emerged as a new and appealing option, offering luxurious and comprehensive travel experiences.鈥 

He added that domestic travel remains a strong draw, stating: 鈥淥n the domestic front, cities such as AlUla, Abha, Al-Baha, Jeddah, and Riyadh have become favored destinations for Saudi travelers. These cities are distinguished by their natural and cultural diversity as well as advanced infrastructure, making them attractive to families and holidaymakers during the Eid season.鈥 

Al-Mu鈥檃jil added that digital platforms are increasingly central to consumer engagement, noting that the number of e-commerce users in 萝莉视频 is projected to reach 34.5 million by the end of 2025.  

鈥淲ith Internet penetration expected to rise from 66.7 percent in 2023 to 74.7 percent by 2027, digital engagement is reshaping how Saudis prepare for Eid, from online bookings to promotional offers,鈥 he said.

Increased spending

More than half 鈥 51 percent 鈥 of consumers in the Kingdom said they are willing to spend more on Eid gifts this year.  

According to the Toluna and MetrixLab report, this is driven by a mix of improved financial confidence and a desire to make the holiday more special after years of pandemic-related limitations.  

About 38 percent of consumers expressed a desire to make this Eid more special to compensate for pandemic-era limitations, while 36 percent noted improved financial standing. 

In addition, 35 percent plan to expand their gift lists to include more people, and 30 percent expressed a desire to be more generous with their families and friends. 

These sentiments are reflected in higher spending across multiple categories. Fashion apparel, fragrances, and electronics have seen a significant bump, while gold and diamond jewelry purchases have also increased slightly.  

The trend underscores Eid鈥檚 growing role not just as a religious and cultural moment, but as a peak period of emotional expression through gifting and consumer engagement 

With 89 percent of consumers planning to give gifts, and significant growth in retail and travel expenditures, Eid Al-Adha is proving to be not just a spiritual cornerstone 鈥 but a vital pillar of the Kingdom鈥檚 economy. 

The economic impact of Eid Al-Adha is particularly evident in the livestock sector, which sees a surge in demand 鈥 particularly in sheep and goats.  

Local farmers, traders, and international suppliers navigate challenges such as rising feed costs and supply chain constraints while ensuring a steady supply.  

Although the Kingdom鈥檚 livestock market remains robust, escalating feed prices have put upward pressure on animal prices, prompting some households to consider shared sacrifices or smaller livestock options. 

Seasonal livestock markets are also set up across major cities to accommodate the peak demand period. 

The evolving behavior of Saudi consumers 鈥 seeking quality, cultural relevance, and immersive experiences 鈥 indicates broader societal shifts and economic resilience.  

As Vision 2030 continues to reshape the Kingdom鈥檚 economic landscape, seasonal events like Eid Al-Adha serve not only as cultural milestones but also as indicators for consumer confidence and economic diversification.


MENA startup funding grows in May as Egypt rebounds聽

MENA startup funding grows in May as Egypt rebounds聽
Updated 06 June 2025

MENA startup funding grows in May as Egypt rebounds聽

MENA startup funding grows in May as Egypt rebounds聽

RIYADH: Startups across the Middle East and North Africa secured $289 million across 44 deals in May, marking a 25 percent rise from April and a 2 percent increase year-on-year.

While equity dominated the deal flow, debt financing represented just 9 percent of the total.

Egypt led regional fundraising with $125 million, bolstered by Nawy鈥檚 $75 million round and seven other deals totaling $50 million.  

The UAE followed with $86.7 million from 14 deals, while 萝莉视频 came third with $69 million from 15 transactions.  

Kuwait made a rare appearance in the top four, with two startups securing a combined $6 million. 

Despite the hype around artificial intelligence, fueled by a high-profile visit from US President Trump and Silicon Valley executives, funding in the sector was limited.  

AI startups attracted just $25 million across two deals, underscoring a gap between public narrative and private capital flows. 

Fintech maintained its lead among sectors, drawing $86.5 million through 14 rounds. Property technology followed, lifted by Nawy, while media technology firms raised $32 million.  

Construction technology firm WakeCap raised $28 million, one of the few notable later-stage rounds.  

Early-stage funding dominated the month, accounting for $161 million, with just one pre-series C deal recorded at $12 million. 

Business-to-business startups continued to command investor attention, raising $157 million across 29 deals.  

Hybrid startups secured $79 million, while B2C companies collected $53 million.  

The gender gap in startup funding persisted, with male-founded teams receiving 82 percent of capital, compared to 7 percent for women-led firms and 11 percent for mixed-gender teams. 

Stride Ventures doubles down on GCC with Saudi expansion 

Stride aims to triple its assets under management in the GCC by 2026. Stride

Stride Ventures, a global venture debt firm, is deepening its presence in the Gulf Cooperation Council, centering its growth strategy on 萝莉视频.  

The firm announced the opening of a second regional office, the doubling of its local team, and the release of the inaugural Global Venture Debt Report 2025, developed in partnership with Kearney. 

The report reveals that the GCC鈥檚 venture debt market has grown at a compound annual growth rate of 54 percent鈥攓uadruple the global average鈥攔eaching $500 million in 2024 from $60 million in 2020. 

As part of its regional ambitions, Stride aims to triple its assets under management in the GCC by 2026 and is targeting $500 million in commitments over the next three to five years.  

鈥溌芾蚴悠 is shaping the future of venture capital and private credit with intention and scale,鈥 said Fariha Javed, partner at Stride Ventures, adding: 鈥淲e are seeing a new generation of founders who understand the value of non-dilutive capital to scale responsibly and an equally ambitious set of investors in the region ready to fuel their growth.鈥  

Javed said that 萝莉视频 is moving from being a capital source to becoming a capital magnet.

Badir Fund backs Shorooq鈥檚 Nahda Fund II to unlock SME credit 

The UAE-based Arab Fund for Economic and Social Development has committed capital to Shorooq Partners鈥 Nahda Fund II through its Badir Fund for small and medium-sized enterprises.  

Founded in 2017, Shorooq is known for offering structured financing to growth-stage companies.  

Recent recipients include fintech firm Abhi and self-storage platform The Box, which received $15 million and $12.5 million in debt financing, respectively.  

鈥淭his collaboration with the Badir Fund is a significant step towards empowering SMEs in the Arab region,鈥 said Nathan Kwon, partner and credit head at Shorooq.  

鈥淏y combining our expertise in structured financing with the Badir Fund鈥檚 commitment to economic development, we can provide SMEs with the necessary resources to thrive.鈥 Essam Al-Quorashy, secretary general of the Badir Fund.  

鈥淭his investment from the Arab Fund will unlock vital growth opportunities for small businesses, promote their growth and foster financial inclusion of underserved segments across the Arab region,鈥 Al-Quorashy added. 

ShipBee secures $235k to digitize logistics in Qatar 

The fresh capital will fuel ShipBee鈥檚 team expansion, product development, and regional scaling. ShipBee

Doha-based logistics startup ShipBee has closed a $235,000 pre-seed round, valuing the company at $1 million.  

The funding was led by Qatar鈥檚 GrowthX, with contributions from two angel investors and $40,000 in founder capital.  

Founded in March 2024 by Tamer Raafat and Amer Azani, ShipBee provides a tech-enabled logistics platform integrating a digital marketplace, AI-powered software, mobile applications, and international express shipping. 

The funds will be used to grow the team, enhance the product, and expand regionally.  

鈥淭his funding empowers us to scale our vision of simplifying logistics through cutting-edge technology,鈥 said Tamer Raafat, co-founder and CEO. 

鈥淪hipBee鈥檚 vision is to build a smart logistics ecosystem in Qatar and MENA using the power of AI and new technologies.鈥 Hamad Al-Hajri, CEO and founder of GrowthX and Snoonu.  

鈥淪hipBee perfectly aligns with Qatar鈥檚 strategic goals by combining innovation with logistics excellence. I firmly believe ShipBee has the potential to become a leading technology-driven logistics platform, both regionally and globally,鈥 Al-Hajri added. 

Kumulus Water raises $3.5m to scale atmospheric water tech 

Kumulus was founded by Iheb Triki and Mohamed Ali Abid. Kumulus

Kumulus Water, a startup headquartered between France and Tunisia, has secured $3.5 million in seed funding to scale its off-grid water production systems.  

The round included support from Bpifrance, through the France 2030 SGPI initiative and the Ile-de-France Region, as well as regional VCs Khalys Venture, Flat6Labs, PlusVC, and beverage company Spadel.  

Several family offices and founders from Europe and North Africa also participated. 

Co-founded by Iheb Triki and Mohamed Abid, Kumulus develops atmospheric water generators that extract drinking water from air humidity 鈥 offering infrastructure-free solutions for underserved communities.  

The new capital will fund the launch of its industrial-grade Kumulus Boks machines and expand operations across France, Spain, and Tunisia, with 萝莉视频 identified as the next market entry point. 

EightClouds closes $20m round early, eyes consumer sector growth 

EightClouds is concentrating its activities in the food, beverage, and hospitality sectors. EightClouds

UAE-based alternative investment firm EightClouds has completed its $20 million capital raise ahead of schedule, closing the round in 11 months instead of the planned 24.  

The firm plans to deploy the funds into strategic acquisitions and initiatives targeting scalable, consumer-focused brands across the Gulf. 

EightClouds, which focuses on transforming capital into economic prosperity, is concentrating its activities in the food, beverage, and hospitality sectors.  

These industries, the firm notes, are driven by evolving consumer preferences and digital innovation.  

The company鈥檚 expansion strategy will focus on the UAE and 萝莉视频, markets it views as primed for rapid growth due to policy support and infrastructure readiness. 

Khwarizmi Ventures eyes $120m for second MENA-focused fund   

Saudi venture capital firm Khwarizmi Ventures is planning to raise up to $120 million for its second fund, aimed at supporting early-stage startups across the Middle East and North Africa.  

The fund will target investments from seed to series A stages and is expected to close by the end of 2025. 

Speaking to Alarabiya Business, managing partner Abdulaziz Al-Turki described the regional climate as a 鈥済olden opportunity鈥 for early-stage investors.  

鈥淭he number of unicorns in MENA has grown from zero a decade ago to eight today,鈥 he said, adding: 鈥淏y 2035, that number could reach 60.鈥  

Khwarizmi Ventures鈥 strategy is designed to place capital early in companies with strong scaling potential ahead of larger funding rounds. 

Edtech startup Taawoni raises $1.6m to expand training platform 

Saudi-based education technology company Taawoni has closed a $1.6 million investment round led by M Capital and supported by undisclosed investors.  

The startup, founded in 2021 by Aliyah Al-Ghubayn, operates a platform focused on cooperative training and professional development. 

Taawoni enables collaboration between universities and employers to deliver co-op training programs that provide students nearing graduation with real-world work experience.  

The new funds will be used to drive growth and integrate more deeply into both the education and human resources technology ecosystems across the region. Expansion into new regional markets is also planned.