Lucid Air Grand Touring: a luxurious ride with room for improvement

Lucid Air Grand Touring: a luxurious ride with room for improvement
The Lucid Air Grand Touring offers an incredibly calm and smooth driving experience.
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Updated 24 August 2024
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Lucid Air Grand Touring: a luxurious ride with room for improvement

Lucid Air Grand Touring: a luxurious ride with room for improvement

I recently had the opportunity to test drive the Lucid Air Grand Touring, and I must say, my experience was nothing short of remarkable. The moment I stepped into the car, I was enveloped in an atmosphere of luxury and elegance that truly sets this vehicle apart from its competitors.

The Lucid Air Grand Touring offers an incredibly calm and smooth driving experience. The level of serenity while on the road is unparalleled; I could barely sense the road underneath. The car glides effortlessly, almost as if it is floating, providing a perfect 10 out of 10 in terms of ride quality and comfort. Its impressive acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.2 seconds and a top speed of 270 km/h make it a thrill to drive, while the dual-motor all-wheel drive offers exceptional handling and control.

The interior of the Lucid Air Grand Touring is a testament to sheer luxury. Designed with three distinct themes — Mojave, Santa Cruz, and Tahoe — the cabin space evokes a sense of place and sophistication. High-quality fabrics, leathers, and textiles complement the rich metallic exterior colors inspired by the beauty of the California landscape. The expansive glass canopy offers an optional panoramic view that lets the light in while blocking heat and harmful rays. Inside, the roomy interior with ample leg and headroom makes long rides comfortable, while the massage seats and front and rear heating provide even warmth and relaxation. Power sunshades for the rear and rear side windows allow you to block the sun without compromising the view.

Starting at SR581,325 ($155,000), the Lucid Air Grand Touring boasts a WLTP estimated range of up to 839 km. However, my experience with the range was less impressive, as a full charge only provided around 400 km, likely due to the use of air conditioning. Despite this, the car’s drag coefficient of 0.197 cd and its powertrain, featuring 819 hp peak power, contribute to its overall efficiency and performance. Additionally, the choice of 19-21-inch wheels enhances its aesthetic appeal.

Despite these impressive specs, there are a couple of areas that need attention. The electric range fell short of expectations, particularly given the car’s advertised capabilities. Additionally, the interior lighting did not illuminate the cabin as effectively as I would have liked, which could be a concern for those who prefer a well-lit environment, especially during night drives. Furthermore, while the Lucid Air Grand Touring is undeniably luxurious, it is priced on the higher end. 

Considering its premium features and elegant design, the vehicle feels somewhat overpriced for what it offers, although it remains a respectable choice.

Overall, my experience with the Lucid Air Grand Touring was overwhelmingly positive. The car’s elegance, comfort, and advanced features make it a standout choice in the luxury electric vehicle market, though potential buyers should weigh the cost against its offerings.


Wallan Trading opens Renault showroom in Jeddah

Wallan Trading opens Renault showroom in Jeddah
Updated 18 September 2024
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Wallan Trading opens Renault showroom in Jeddah

Wallan Trading opens Renault showroom in Jeddah

Wallan Trading Company, the official distributor of the French car brand Renault in Saudi Arabia, opened a new showroom in Automall Jeddah, King Abdulaziz Road. The opening ceremony was attended by Jerome Pannaud, managing director of Renault operations in Africa, the Middle East and Asia Pacific, and Abdulaziz Al-Wallan, vice chairman of Wallan Holding, in addition to a selection of senior officials, industry leaders and media representatives

The Renault showroom at AutoMall Jeddah features a range of new Renault models, including the new Renault Arkana, which belongs to the compact multi-purpose coupe category. In addition, the showroom offers a variety of models that are highly popular among admirers of the French automaker in the Saudi market, such as the versatile Renault Koleos, the modern sedan Renault Megane, Renault Duster, and Renault Express.

This new showroom in Jeddah marks the first Renault facility in the western region of the Kingdom under the Wallan Trading umbrella. It follows the opening of a state-of-the-art center for the brand earlier this year in Riyadh, with further showrooms and centers scheduled to open in key regions across the Kingdom.

Vice Chairman Al-Wallan said: “The opening of a dedicated Renault showroom in Jeddah under the umbrella of Wallan Trading comes as part of the company’s expansion strategy following the announcement of its strategic partnership with the Renault Group in the Saudi market last year, 2023, as an official distributor of its products. This aims to serve customers of the French brand in Jeddah and its surrounding areas, and to remain close to them.”

He added: “We are working through our expansion strategy across the main regions of the Kingdom to highlight Renault’s significant industrial, innovative, and technological capabilities, and to offer a diverse range of products and modern models backed by the latest technologies and innovative services to the Saudi market. Our goal is to ensure a premium ownership experience that befits our customers and the prestigious French brand.”

Wallan Trading Company, a subsidiary of Wallan Holding, is one of the oldest companies in the Kingdom’s automotive sector. With more than 45 years of experience, it provides high-quality products and services to its customers. In addition to its partnership with Renault, the company represents major global automobile manufacturers such as Hyundai, Genesis, Geely, and Zeekr.


Sunil John to spearhead Stagwell growth in MENA

Sunil John to spearhead Stagwell growth in MENA
Updated 18 September 2024
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Sunil John to spearhead Stagwell growth in MENA

Sunil John to spearhead Stagwell growth in MENA

Stagwell, a challenger network built to transform marketing, has appointed Sunil John as senior adviser of Stagwell MENA. John will head Stagwell’s forthcoming MENA office, spearheading growth and enhancing collaboration among local agencies and partners. He will also develop new client solutions, utilizing his extensive regional network to support brands aiming for both regional expansion and global reach.
John, named the Best PR Professional in the Middle East by PRWeek in 2023 and 2020, brings more than three decades of regional experience to Stagwell, having founded ASDA’A BCW, the region’s leading PR consultancy, and been instrumental in shaping the public relations landscape in the Arab world. During his time at ASDA’A, he launched Proof Communications, a specialist digital and design firm; OnePoint5, an ESG advisory; and led the annual Arab Youth Survey, a groundbreaking thought leadership platform capturing the hopes and aspirations of the 200 million Arab youth. 
Additionally, as an advisory board member of the Dubai International Chamber since July 2021, John has been influential in reinforcing Dubai’s status as a global trade hub.
“Marketers who miss out on MENA will miss out on one of the biggest consumer growth stories of our decade,” said Mark Penn, chairman and CEO, Stagwell. “As we focus on becoming more competitive internationally, Sunil’s unparalleled experience in MENA and his leadership are what Stagwell needs to deepen our presence and help our clients succeed in this crucial market.” 
“I am excited to join Stagwell and contribute to its unique technology-driven offering in the marketing services landscape,” said John. “The opportunity to integrate my experience, my love of research and insights, and my focus on digital transformation and technology with Stagwell’s innovative approach will bring value to a region that is one of the fastest growing in the world. As a challenger network, I believe Stagwell will be the company that creates significant impact for our clients in the MENA region.” 
John’s appointment comes at a time when Stagwell is opening a new chapter in the region after recently announcing its intent to acquire Consulum, a leading government advisory firm that specializes in strategic communications, public policy and leadership support in MENA and other global markets.


Hikma and Saudi Gastroenterology Association elevate IBD care across KSA

Hikma and Saudi Gastroenterology Association elevate IBD care across KSA
Updated 17 September 2024
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Hikma and Saudi Gastroenterology Association elevate IBD care across KSA

Hikma and Saudi Gastroenterology Association elevate IBD care across KSA

Hikma Pharmaceuticals KSA announced the expansion of its strategic partnership with the Saudi Gastroenterology Association. A memorandum of understanding has been signed between the two entities to enhance the management and treatment of inflammatory bowel disease across the Kingdom through early intervention, multidisciplinary collaboration and public and patient education.

IBD is a chronic inflammation of the intestine characterized by severe stomach pain and diarrhea affecting nearly 5 million people worldwide. The main types of IBD are Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. In Saudi Arabia, the prevalence of this disease has been increasing; as of 2012, the incidence was estimated at 0.94 patients per 100,000 individuals over the past 20 years.

The partnership will address the critical gaps in IBD management from the perspectives of both physicians and patients. Leveraging a multifaceted approach that includes a social media awareness campaign and comprehensive medical training programs, the initiatives have been designed to disseminate essential knowledge about IBD management to healthcare professionals, patients and the public. The medical training programs, accredited by the British Accreditation Council for Medical Education, have been offered to healthcare professionals across the Kingdom, including a specialized small intestinal ultrasound workshop, certified by the International Bowel Ultrasound Society.

Dr. Majed Almadi, president of SGA, said: “Our expanded partnership with Hikma marks a significant step toward enhancing IBD care across Saudi Arabia. Our initiatives are grounded in a patient-centric approach that not only focuses on but also enhances public awareness, improves diagnostics and treatments, and reduces the stigma associated with IBD.”

This collaboration is about empowering patients and providers alike with the knowledge and tools they need to manage this condition more effectively.”

Dr. Ma’moon Al-Araidah, general manager and vice president of Hikma in Saudi Arabia GCC, said: “As a leading provider of essential medicines in the Kingdom, serving patients and healthcare professionals for over 40 years, we are pleased to collaborate with the SGA through this strategic partnership promoting connectivity within our health communities. This multifaceted approach for IBD management represents a significant step forward for patients in the region living with this condition. We are confident that by raising awareness, empowering healthcare professionals, and fostering collaboration with government stakeholders, we are putting better health within reach to improve even more patients’ lives.”


Saudi Maritime & Logistics Congress returns for bigger, better 5th edition

The two-day event will bring together experts and specialists from the global maritime transport and logistics sector.
The two-day event will bring together experts and specialists from the global maritime transport and logistics sector.
Updated 17 September 2024
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Saudi Maritime & Logistics Congress returns for bigger, better 5th edition

The two-day event will bring together experts and specialists from the global maritime transport and logistics sector.

Reinforcing the significance of the Saudi Maritime and Logistics Congress in Dammam, which takes place from Sept. 18-19, several new speakers have been confirmed to the conference lineup, adding some heavyweight industry knowledge to the two-day program.

The event’s fifth edition is being held under the auspices of Minister of Transport and Logistic Services Saleh bin Nasser Al-Jasser, who will also make the keynote address on Day 1.

Additionally, Bahri CEO Ahmed Alsubaey, IMI CEO Abdullah Al-Ghamdi and Transport General Authority Deputy for Maritime Transport Essam M. Alammari are all now confirmed at the shipping and logistics conference and exhibition. The event will take place at Dhahran Expo and is free for industry to attend.

Also joining the prestigious speaker parade is Kaupo Laanerand, deputy minister for maritime and water affairs, Ministry of Climate, Estonia, and Poul Hestbaek, CEO, Folk Maritime.

Chris Morley, group director, Seatrade Maritime, the organizers of the event, said: “The high-profile speaker lineup is testament to the importance of this event in the shipping calendar. As the industry gathers in the Kingdom, it allows for attendees to listen and learn from industry experts and be part of discussions that impact many facets of this global industry.”

He added: “Our ultimate aim is to facilitate fruitful cooperation between the public and private sector entities that catalyzes growth for our industry.”

Over the course of the event, topics under the spotlight will include: Interconnected logistics and the supply chain of the future; Shipbuilding and repair; Digitization of maritime: The adoption of AI and machine learning; Offshore safety: The importance of maintaining world-class safety standards; and Energy transition for a sustainable future and workforce development.

The conference agenda will start with keynotes and an international virtual address from International Maritime Organization Secretary-General Arsenio Dominguez, as well as an industry keynote from ABS Senior Vice President Gareth Burton.

Saudi Maritime and Logistics Congress is being held with founding partners Bahri and Seatrade Maritime. With its main partners, The Saudi Ports Authority, known as Mawani, and the TGA, as well as strategic partners Saudi Aramco and IMI, the event expects more than 10,000 attendees from across 70+ countries; in addition to a record 200+ exhibitors and scores of local, regional and international speakers.

Alammari, deputy for maritime transport, TGA, said: “As we have seen from its progressive growth in attendance, which stood at an impressive 95 percent in 2023, Saudi Maritime and Logistics Congress has become a key regional forum for the exchange of ideas between the brightest and best the industry has to offer.

“From policy-makers to investors, industry professionals to academics, the strength of this congress is indebted to the diversity of its attendees. The participation not only of TGA, but of our partners in Mawani, Bahri, Saudi Aramco and others, is a strong signal that the Kingdom’s policy-makers and industry giants are committed to the important dialogue taking place over the direction of travel of shipping. All of these entities have helped to shape the agenda and attract the speakers we will hear from throughout the congress.”

He added: “Saudi Maritime and Logistics Congress is no longer a regional conference, but a global one, and it is TGA’s hope that it continues to grow.”

The TGA is working on an international level to advance cooperation with IMO member states to enhance global connectivity to the Kingdom.

Alammari said: “In 2024, Saudi Arabia ranked 16th globally out of 187 countries by the UN Conference on Trade and Development, reflecting the concerted efforts by the Kingdom to increase global maritime connectivity and capitalize on the Kingdom’s strategic location in line with the aspirations of Vision 2030. Saudi Arabia continues to develop the port of NEOM and NEOM’s Oxagon to be one of the world’s first fully integrated port and supply chain systems.”

The two-day event will bring together experts and specialists from the global maritime transport and logistics sector to share knowledge, experiences, and insights. It also seeks to foster investment and strategic partnerships, explore opportunities for growth, and support the National Transport and Logistics Strategy and the Kingdom’s Vision 2030.

The event will also provide recommendations and proposals that will improve the maritime transport industry and enhance the sustainability of logistics services in accordance with international standards and leading models.


GAIN Summit: stc launches AI lab, inks partnerships

GAIN Summit: stc launches AI lab, inks partnerships
Updated 16 September 2024
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GAIN Summit: stc launches AI lab, inks partnerships

GAIN Summit: stc launches AI lab, inks partnerships

stc Group, an enabler of digital transformation, concluded its participation in the Global AI Summit by signing a series of strategic agreements with Saudi Railways, King Abdullah University of Science and Technology, Huawei, the Research Development and Innovation Authority, and SambaNova Systems.

stc’s participation in the summit highlights its leadership role in driving digital transformation both locally and globally. The event served as a platform for stc to showcase its innovative solutions, products and technologies, and reaffirm its commitment to positioning Saudi Arabia as a leading digital hub in the Middle East.

The agreements will help accelerate the group’s strategic objectives in various fields, including artificial intelligence, innovation, and digital transformation. Among these partnerships is an agreement with Saudi Railways to enhance customer service through AI-based technological solutions that improve operations at all levels.

Additionally, stc signed a strategic cooperation agreement with KAUST to establish a research center specializing in generative AI within the group. This center is the first of its kind in the region for R&D and innovation in generative AI technology, leveraging the shared expertise of stc and the university in data and AI fields.

stc also signed a cooperation agreement with Huawei in data, analytics, and AI fields to enhance stc’s digital capabilities, develop network infrastructure, support data-driven decision-making, and improve corporate operations.

The partnerships also included an agreement with the RDIA to develop mechanisms for supporting and enabling entrepreneurial projects, enhancing research opportunities, and providing empowerment for innovative ideas within future economic priorities.

A strategic partnership agreement with SambaNova Systems was signed to deploy and expand the GenAI Sovereign Cloud within stc’s data centers, enhancing AI capabilities for cloud infrastructure and supporting advanced AI applications in the Kingdom.

During the summit, stc participated in several panel discussions to spread knowledge, including a session titled “Decoding AI Strategies,” focusing on enabling companies to responsibly engage with AI applications by balancing competitive advantage, resource efficiency, and ethical considerations. Another session titled “The Role of AI in Skills Enhancement and Innovation” discussed AI’s role in empowering employees and improving their skills according to labor market requirements, as well as continuous learning through AI-driven innovation.

During the closing ceremony, stc Group received three awards, including recognition for its technical support and sponsorship of the summit as a digital enabler, an award for adopting AI ethics from the early stages, and a prize for solutions by stc, specializing in IoT products, under the Innovation Sponsorship category.

The Saudi Data and AI Authority hosted the third edition of the Global AI Summit from Sept. 10 to 12, at King Abdulaziz International Convention Center in Riyadh.