Saudi Sports for All celebrates success of Ramadan events

Saudi Sports for All celebrates success of Ramadan events
In Riyadh, the R7 Run brought together hundreds of participants representing an array of 37 nationalities, fostering unity and diversity through the universal language of sport.
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Updated 10 April 2024
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Saudi Sports for All celebrates success of Ramadan events

Saudi Sports for All celebrates success of Ramadan events

Saudi Sports for All has announced the resounding success of its series of Ramadan tournaments, culminating in an unprecedented celebration of sportsmanship, community, and healthy living across the Kingdom.

The SFA Ramadan Domes tournament, held in Dammam, witnessed an overwhelming participation of thousands of individuals across nine tournaments. From padel to basketball, male and female athletes showcased their prowess and passion for sports, embodying the spirit of camaraderie and competition. With cash prizes for winners and runners-up, as well as complimentary court bookings for spectators, the tournament truly encapsulated the essence of inclusivity and excellence.

In Riyadh, the R7 Run brought together hundreds of participants representing an impressive array of 37 nationalities, fostering unity and diversity through the universal language of sport. Meanwhile, in Jeddah, the Masafat Run witnessed an astounding participation of hundreds of individuals from 42 nationalities, underscoring the global appeal of SFA’s initiatives.

Furthermore, the SFA Ramadan Steps Challenge, a digital activation aimed at promoting physical activity and well-being, attracted a staggering 5,331 participants who collectively achieved an astonishing 724,010,991 steps, emphasizing the power of technology in driving positive lifestyle changes.

“We are thrilled to continue the ‘Ramadan a Chance to Change’ campaign for the second year,” said Ammar Alamro, director of marketing and communication at SFA. “Ramadan is a time of self-reflection and spiritual rejuvenation, and we believe it is also an opportunity for individuals to embrace positive change in various aspects of their lives. We invite everyone to join our events and embark on this transformative journey together.”

During the holy month of Ramadan, the SFA encouraged everyone to harness the power of change and embrace movement in their lives. Whether it is a conscious decision or a response to life’s challenges, change is a vital aspect of personal development. By approaching change with passion and dedication, individuals can experience remarkable results during this special month.

As SFA continues to champion the importance of sports and active living, the organization remains committed to empowering individuals of all ages and abilities to lead healthier, more fulfilling lives through inclusive and accessible sporting opportunities.


New Murabba partners with NCVC for sustainable development

New Murabba partners with NCVC for sustainable development
Updated 17 December 2024
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New Murabba partners with NCVC for sustainable development

New Murabba partners with NCVC for sustainable development

New Murabba Development Company signed a memorandum of understanding with the National Center for Vegetation Cover Development and Combating Desertification in a landmark agreement for sustainable urban development. This strategic partnership underscores New Murabba’s unwavering commitment to environmental stewardship and its ambitious goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2060, which aligns with Saudi Arabia’s national objective.

The collaboration will implement innovative solutions for vegetation cover development, desertification control, and biodiversity enhancement throughout New Murabba.

This initiative will create a greener and more sustainable urban environment and serve as a model for future developments across the Kingdom. The MoU was formally signed by Michael Dyke, chief executive of New Murabba Development Company, and Dr. Khaled bin Abdullah Alabdulqadir, chief executive of the NCVC.

Dyke said: “Through this collaboration, we anticipate the opportunity to exchange valuable experiences regarding the implementation of mutually agreed-upon joint programs and projects focused on afforestation and the enhancement of green spaces in designated areas within Saudi Arabia. Additionally, we aspire to strengthen our partnership with the center to facilitate a coordinated approach in operationalizing the necessary procedures and measures to preserve the ecosystem and natural vegetation.”

This collaboration, a key component of New Murabba’s comprehensive ESG strategy, will extend over three years and focus on pioneering research, innovative green vegetation strategies, and community engagement. As the future of downtown living, New Murabba is dedicated to setting a global benchmark for sustainable urban development by integrating leading-edge environmental practices into the core of its design and operations. The partnership exemplifies this commitment and will contribute significantly to creating a vibrant, sustainable, and carbon-neutral urban ecosystem.

The MoU also signifies New Murabba’s commitment to pioneering innovative solutions for sustainable urban development. By integrating green infrastructure and prioritizing environmental stewardship, New Murabba is contributing to the UN Sustainable Development Goals, particularly Goal 11 (sustainable cities and communities) and Goal 13 (climate action), while setting a new global standard for future cities.


Saudi-based content creators explore the best of Indonesia

Saudi-based content creators explore the best of Indonesia
Updated 17 December 2024
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Saudi-based content creators explore the best of Indonesia

Saudi-based content creators explore the best of Indonesia

Six Saudi Arabia-based content creators recently embarked on a week-long journey to Indonesia, immersing themselves in the country’s vibrant cultural heritage and stunning natural beauty. Organized by the Indonesian Consulate General in Jeddah, the trip took place from Nov. 30 to Dec. 6, and spotlighted the diverse attractions of Jakarta, Bogor, and Bali.

The group featured social media content creators, including Muath Alamri, Abdalhadi Alkhodari, Hussein Huraibi, Ibrahim Hakami, Yaser Taher and Jawad Mohammed. Their participation was part of a cultural and tourism initiative aimed at leveraging social media to strengthen ties between Saudi Arabia and Indonesia while also promoting Indonesia’s rich traditions and diverse attractions to audiences in the Kingdom.

The journey began in Jakarta, where the content creators participated in the city’s lively Car Free Day. This weekly event transforms the bustling streets of Jakarta into vibrant hubs for jogging, cycling, and various sports activities on Sunday morning.

The group then delved into Indonesia’s UNESCO-recognized cultural heritage. They attended a jamu workshop, where they learned to craft the traditional herbal drink celebrated for its health benefits. Additionally, they experienced the intricate artistry of batik, Indonesia’s iconic fabric, and wayang, the traditional art of shadow puppetry, and also toured the historic Batavia Old Town.

Their journey continued in Bogor, where the lush greenery of Taman Safari Indonesia offered a thrilling wildlife adventure. There, the group enjoyed a safari tour and interacted closely with exotic animals. This experience showcased Indonesia’s commitment to wildlife conservation and ecotourism.

The content creators concluded the journey in Bali, Indonesia’s most famous destination. The group visited the picturesque landscapes of Nusa Penida, a one-day trip destination from Bali’s mainland known for its pristine beach and dramatic cliffs. They also enjoyed adrenaline-fueled activities such as ATV riding and river rafting in Ubud. The combination of serene natural beauty and exhilarating adventures provided a memorable end to their journey.

This initiative underscores Indonesia’s innovative approach to promoting its cultural and tourism sector by leveraging the power of social media content creators to share the country’s diverse attractions and beauty with their audiences, inspiring more people to explore its captivating landscapes and vibrant culture.

The collaboration between the Indonesian Consulate in Jeddah and these Saudi Arabia-based content creators showcased Indonesia as a must-visit destination, further strengthening cultural and tourism ties between the two nations.


Mobily named ‘best wholesale company in Middle East’

Mobily named ‘best wholesale company in Middle East’
Updated 17 December 2024
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Mobily named ‘best wholesale company in Middle East’

Mobily named ‘best wholesale company in Middle East’

Etihad Etisalat, better known as Mobily, Saudi Arabia’s leading telecommunications, media, and technology company, has won the “Best Wholesale Company in the Middle East Award for 2024” during the 18th Telecom Review Leaders’ Summit, held in Dubai on Dec. 10-11.

This award recognizes Mobily’s pivotal role as a key player in the region’s wholesale and carrier landscape and its unwavering commitment to delivering cutting-edge digital solutions across local, regional, and international markets.

The recognition also highlights Mobily’s success in executing strategic initiatives to build strong partnerships and develop innovative business models. These efforts align with the Kingdom’s digital transformation goals and Saudi Vision 2030, ensuring Mobily continues to meet the evolving needs of its customers and partners.

Thamer Al-Fadda, senior vice president, wholesale and carrier services at Mobily, said: “We are honored to receive this award, which highlights our dedication to investing in digital infrastructure and carrier solutions, delivering state-of-the-art services, and enhancing customer experiences both locally and globally. This achievement is a testament to our role in advancing the Kingdom’s position as a digital leader.”

Mobily’s contributions to the Middle East’s digital empowerment are evident through its comprehensive digital ecosystem, encompassing robust local and international connectivity, advanced data center solutions, and a neutral international internet exchange. 

These initiatives support local and global enterprises while bolstering Saudi Arabia’s digital infrastructure, reinforcing its role as a global digital hub connecting East and West.

The Telecom Review Summit brought together senior executives from more than 36 countries, fostering dialogue on the latest trends, challenges, and opportunities in the ICT sector, with a particular focus on the Middle East region.


Vaccinating the future: Sanofi drives innovation and impact in Gulf region

Baptiste de Clarens, general manager of Sanofi
Baptiste de Clarens, general manager of Sanofi
Updated 17 December 2024
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Vaccinating the future: Sanofi drives innovation and impact in Gulf region

Baptiste de Clarens, general manager of Sanofi

When Baptiste de Clarens stepped into the role of general manager for vaccines in Saudi Arabia and the Gulf region at Sanofi less than a year ago, he brought with him a wealth of experience, a track record of success, and a vision to transform the region. De Clarens, whose career has spanned continents — from Korea to France and now the Middle East — has embraced this new chapter with a clear mission: to redefine how Sanofi leverages its innovative vaccine pipeline while navigating the unique challenges and opportunities of the Gulf.

The Gulf region is no longer just a market that executes global strategies; it has emerged as a vital area shaping Sanofi’s global agenda. De Clarens sees this shift as a pivotal moment, a chance to “write a new growth story” for the region. And at the heart of this story lies Sanofi’s cutting-edge vaccine pipeline, which includes groundbreaking developments like high-dose flu vaccines and RSV monoclonal antibodies. These innovations, paired with ambitious plans for local vaccine manufacturing as part of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, position Sanofi as a key player in the Gulf’s healthcare transformation.

One standout milestone is the launch of Sanofi’s RSV monoclonal antibody in Kuwait, with plans to be introduced in Saudi Arabia and the UAE soon. This innovation has already proven its impact in markets like the US and Europe by reducing infant hospitalizations by up to 90 percent. For de Clarens, the introduction of RSV solutions in the Gulf is an opportunity to make a meaningful difference in public health outcomes — redefining how infants are protected.

However, driving change in the Gulf comes with its share of challenges. Despite the region’s exceptional success in pediatric immunization — especially in Saudi Arabia, which boasts some of the highest global vaccination rates — adult immunization lags behind. Vaccine skepticism remains a hurdle, particularly for flu and COVID-19 vaccines among older populations. De Clarens recognizes this gap and is laser-focused on strengthening immunization infrastructure and public health awareness to address it.

Localization is another cornerstone of de Clarens’ strategy. Through Sanofi’s partnership with Arabio and other key stakeholders, the company is advancing vaccine manufacturing capabilities in Saudi Arabia. This effort aligns not only with Vision 2030’s goal of achieving healthcare autonomy but also underscores Sanofi’s long-term commitment to the region.

De Clarens views the Gulf as a region of immense potential. “The region has been successful in the past, but now we have access to tools and resources that were not fully utilized before,” he said. With more than 30 vaccine launches planned globally in the next five years, the Gulf stands poised to lead in adoption and innovation.

As the world’s eyes turn to the Middle East, driven by transformative visions like Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, de Clarens is clear-eyed about Sanofi’s role in shaping the future of healthcare in the region. With a focus on innovation, public health, and local partnerships, his leadership promises to leave a lasting impact — not just for Sanofi, but for the millions of lives touched by vaccines in the Gulf and beyond.


Kohler opens regional headquarters in Riyadh

Kohler opens regional headquarters in Riyadh
Updated 17 December 2024
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Kohler opens regional headquarters in Riyadh

Kohler opens regional headquarters in Riyadh

Kohler Co., a global leader in kitchen and bath design and innovation, has opened its new regional headquarters in Riyadh. Led by David Kohler, chair and chief executive, this strategic move highlights Kohler’s commitment to supporting Saudi Arabia’s development and further advancing the Middle East market.

Kohler’s expansion to Riyadh headquarters exemplifies the company’s dedication to fostering growth in Saudi Arabia, with a focus on providing exceptional products and services to its customers — developers, architects, designers and end consumers. Through increased and extensive training programs, Kohler is committed to building a skilled workforce within the region, in alignment with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030. 

David Kohler commented on the expansion, saying, “Opening our new regional headquarters in Riyadh is a significant step forward in our commitment to Saudi Arabia and the Middle East. We’re investing not only in the infrastructure to serve our partners and customers better, but also in local talent, resources, and innovative product solutions that align with the region’s ambitions and our company’s growth strategy.” David Kohler serves as Chair and CEO and represents the fourth generation of Kohler family leadership.

This expansion will support Kohler’s strategy to introduce more innovations — such as smart toilets and showers, captivating PVD faucet finishes, colors and new materials — across Saudi Arabia and the Middle East. Kohler has brought numerous advanced products to the Middle East, many of which combine technology with wellness. These solutions, designed to create multi-sensory experiences, incorporate controls for water, steam, sound, and light, elevating the home and hospitality environments. 

About Kohler Co.

For more than 150 years, Kohler Co. has been a global leader in design and innovation, dedicated to providing gracious living through kitchen and bath products; luxury cabinetry, tile and lighting; distributed energy solutions and luxury hospitality experiences and major championship golf. Privately held Kohler Co. was founded in 1873 and is headquartered in Kohler, Wisconsin. The company also develops solutions to address pressing issues, such as clean water and sanitation, for underserved communities around the world to enhance the quality of life for current and future generations.