Who’s Who: Abdullah Bakhraibah, CEO of Arab Investment Co.
Updated 04 September 2024
Arab News
Abdullah Bakhraibah is CEO of the Arab Investment Co. as of August 2024.
The Arab Investment Co., a pan-Arab financial institution established in 1974, is owned by the governments of 17 Arab countries.
Bakhraibah’s experience of over 16 years in finance and investment, both locally and globally, makes him a valuable asset to the company.
In this role, he will lead the company in building and developing its business and achieving its new strategic objectives.
His most recent position was CEO and board member of State Street Saudi Arabia Financial Solutions, a Capital Market Authority-licensed subsidiary of State Street Corp., one of the world’s largest global financial institutions.
During his tenure, he spearheaded the opening of their office in the Kingdom, expanded their business presence, launched local portfolio management, and endorsed local partnerships.
He served as a member of CMA’s Capital Market Institutions Committee in 2020 for two years.
Prior to that, Bakhraibah served as head of business and products development at Ashmore Investment Saudi Arabia from 2019 to mid-2020 where he chaired the board of Ashmore’s investment funds and Tazah Limited Co.
From 2015 to 2018, he was head of sales in Saudi Arabia for Gulf International Bank (UK) and GIB Capital where he led the business development and represented GIB Capital’s debt capital market team in the issuance of $12.5 billion bonds with the National Debt Management Center at the Saudi Ministry of Finance in 2017.
Bakhraibah’s professional journey also includes various roles at SAB, including structured derivatives and treasury risk advisory from 2008 to 2015. He began his career at SAB as a money market and investment dealer in the treasury department in 2008.
Bakhraibah earned a master’s degree in business administration from the London Business School in 2020 and a bachelor’s degree in management information systems from the King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals in 2008.
Jeddah conference highlights Saudi-French archaeological discoveries on Farasan Islands
Updated 17 February 2025
Afshan Aziz
JEDDAH: French archaeologist and researcher Solene Marion de Proce hosted a conference titled “The Saudi-French Archaeological Project in the Farasan Islands: Past and Present” at the Alliance Francaise Saudi Arabia in Hay Jameel, Jeddah, on Sunday.
The conference explored the history and recent archaeological discoveries on the Farasan Islands, highlighting the outcomes of the unique scientific collaboration between France and Saudi Arabia.
In her presentation, Marion de Proce provided a comprehensive overview of the collaborative efforts between the Heritage Commission of the Ministry of Culture and the University Paris 1 Pantheon-Sorbonne as part of the Saudi-French archaeological mission on the Farasan Islands.
“We discussed the project’s history, sharing both past results and the most recent discoveries, as our team just completed the winter season of 2025,” she said. “The interest in the Farasan Islands began with the discovery of a Latin inscription by Farasani scholar, writer, and poet Ibrahim Miftah. The implications for understanding ancient maritime trade and Roman history were game-changing.”
She said that subsequent surveys and excavations led to the establishment of the Saudi-French mission on the Farasan Islands.
“The archipelago is a unique archaeological laboratory. The sites are well preserved, offering a window into the region’s cultural traits over time. It acts as a time capsule, a dream for every archaeologist."
French archeologist and researcher Solene Marion de Proce provided a comprehensive overview of the collaborative efforts as part of the Saudi-French archeological mission on the Farasan Islands. (Supplied)
The Saudi-French archaeological project has unearthed several significant discoveries, and Solene highlighted some key findings.
“The archipelago hosts many sites from the Late Bronze Age to Late Antiquity, which is the focus of our project. Led by Saudi archaeologist Mohammad Ali Al-Malki and myself, the team uncovered a South Arabian-style temple, long-duration settlements, and a Roman military camp — the southernmost ever discovered.”
Marion de Proce expressed optimism about the future of archaeological research in the region. “I am confident that the future of archaeological research in the Jazan/Farasan region is promising. It has so much to offer and much remains to be discovered. People are genuinely eager to learn more about their past.”
Larry Lamartiniere, managing director of Alliance Francaise Saudi Arabia, said: “Alliance Francaise, alongside the French Consulate in Jeddah, launched a series of conferences last month where French experts and scholars shared their research on Saudi Arabia and the Middle East with our community.
“This conference is a prime example of the excellence of the Saudi-French relationship, particularly through the ongoing archaeological project on the Farasan Islands. Our goal with these lectures is to make our space a hub for knowledge and discussion, providing experts with a platform to share their work. This time, we decided to present the lecture in English so that even non-French speakers could attend.”
Authorities bust drug smugglers across Saudi Arabia
Preliminary legal procedures were completed and all seized items were handed to the relevant authorities
Updated 17 February 2025
Arab News
RIYADH: Saudi authorities have reported multiple drug-related arrests and seizures across the Kingdom, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Monday.
Security officers in Asir region arrested two Ethiopians for smuggling 4 kg of qat, and two Yemenis with 10 kg of qat, in separate operations in Al-Farsha governorate.
In addition, officers in Jazan region arrested three Ethiopians for selling amphetamine; and in Jeddah, a citizen was arrested for selling hashish.
Border Guard patrols in Al-Dayer governorate, Jazan, thwarted the smuggling of 116 kg of hashish; and in another operation, two Yemenis were arrested for smuggling 240 kg of qat.
Border Guard patrols in Asir’s Al-Raboah sector thwarted the smuggling of 32,900 medically-regulated tablets, and arrested five Ethiopians for smuggling 100 kg of qat.
Preliminary legal procedures were completed and all seized items were handed to the relevant authorities.
The authorities have urged the public to report drug smuggling or selling by calling 911 in Makkah, Riyadh and the Eastern Province, or 999 in other regions.
Reports can also be submitted, in strict confidence, to the General Directorate of Narcotics Control at 995 or via email at [email protected].
Princess Sara announces launch of Misk heritage museum ‘Asaan’ in Diriyah
The goal of the museum is to become a global cultural hub celebrating Saudi Arabia’s heritage.
The museum will cover more than 40,000 sq. meters
Updated 17 February 2025
Arab News
RIYADH: Princess Sara bint Mashhour bin Abdulaziz, the wife of Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, announced the launch of Misk Heritage Museum program “Asaan,” a cultural institution expected to open in the coming years in Diriyah.
The goal of the museum, backed by the Mohammed bin Salman Foundation “Misk,” is to become a global cultural hub celebrating Saudi Arabia’s heritage.
It will play a key role in cultural sustainability through various exhibitions and educational programs.
“Asaan will showcase the Kingdom’s rich legacy, including artifacts, customs, and societal values,” Princess Sara, chairperson of Asaan, said in a statement.
“Our goal is to cultivate a generation that takes pride in its heritage and actively works to preserve and revitalize it.”
The museum will cover more than 40,000 sq. meters and will feature Zaha Hadid Architects’ designs, and blend traditional Najdi architecture with contemporary creativity.
Exhibits will include thousands of heritage artifacts that illustrate Saudi history and cultural evolution.
The site will also feature permanent exhibitions, art galleries, an arts courtyard, and the “Asaan’s Majlis,” a dedicated space for dialogue, workshops, and cultural discussions.
The museum will also house conservation laboratories and interactive learning programs, providing visitors with immersive experiences that bring Saudi history and traditions to life.
Princess Sara is a strong advocate for cultural preservation and empowerment, particularly in supporting young people and individuals with disabilities through educational and professional initiatives. Her efforts align with Saudi Vision 2030’s focus on heritage conservation and national identity, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Monday.
Asaan is expected to become a major cultural landmark, reinforcing Saudi Arabia’s leadership in heritage preservation and its commitment to celebrating its historical legacy on a global stage.
Saudi crown prince receives US Secretary of State Marco Rubio in Riyadh
US National Security Advisor Mike Waltz and Special Envoy to the Middle East Steve Witkoff have also arrived in Riyadh
Updated 45 min 5 sec ago
Arab News
RIYADH: Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman received US Secretary of State Marco Rubio in Riyadh on Monday.
Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan receives US Secretary of State Marco Rubio in Riyadh on Monday. (SPA)
Earlier on in the day, Rubio was received by the Kingdom’s Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan, Saudi Press Agency reported.
During the meeting, the diplomats reviewed Saudi-US relations and ways to enhance them to serve the interests of both friendly countries.
They also discussed regional and international developments and efforts made in this regard.
Rubio arrived in the Kingdom after a visit to Israel, the first leg of his first Middle East tour in his current position. Next up on his tour will be the United Arab Emirates.
US National Security Advisor Mike Waltz and Special Envoy to the Middle East Steve Witkoff have also arrived in Riyadh, Al-Ekhbariya reported.
SINDBAD Collective takes creativity for a road trip across Saudi Arabia and Bahrain
Together, the aim of the SINDBAD Collective is to form a community of creatives who believe in breaking barriers, taking risks and making art more accessible
Updated 17 February 2025
Jasmine Bager
ALKHOBAR: If you were in the right place at the right time, you might have caught a glimpse of something unexpected — a vehicle led by eight art experts, transformed into a roving exhibition, rolling across Saudi Arabia and Bahrain.
From Feb. 6-20, the fourth annual exhibition of the SINDBAD Collective took to the road, turning highways into hallways and city streets into gallery spaces.
This year’s edition, “SINDBAD: On the Road!,” is a mobile exhibition that challenges the traditional idea of gallery spaces. The collective modified an existing vehicle with a custom extension, allowing the team to exhibit, collect and connect with creative communities throughout the journey. They started in Jeddah, their home base, and made stops in Riyadh, Alkhobar and Bahrain before returning to Jeddah for a final showcase.
Moving art was just one part of the journey; it was about redefining how and where art can be experienced. (Supplied)
The journey began with a pre-launch event in Jeddah on Feb. 5, featuring an open mic and pickup event at Wasl Art Space.
The road trip officially kicked off on Feb. 6, as the SINDBAD team set out for Riyadh. A car meet took place on Feb. 7, followed by a pickup and open mic at Lamaat and Beast House in JAX district on Feb. 8.
In Alkhobar, where Arab News met the fun and dynamic team, the event was held on a rooftop at Bohemia Art Cafe on Valentine’s Day. The vehicle wouldn’t fit for logistical reasons, so people had to climb the stairs to witness — and submit — art.
HIGHLIGHTS
• From Feb. 6-20, the fourth annual exhibition of the SINDBAD Collective took to the road, turning highways into hallways and city streets into gallery spaces.
• In Alkhobar, where Arab News met the fun and dynamic team, the event was held on a rooftop at Bohemia Art Cafe on Valentine’s Day.
• The journey then crossed into Bahrain, where Riwaq Art Space hosted an exhibition on Feb. 15.
The journey then crossed into Bahrain, where Riwaq Art Space hosted an exhibition on Feb. 15.
Every year, the collective hosts an open call, inviting artists and researchers to submit work that challenges traditional formats. (Supplied)
The adventure will return to Jeddah, where on Feb. 20 Naqsh Art Studio will host a final exhibition showcasing the collected works and research from the entirety of the trip.
But the journey won’t stop there. SINDBAD will also participate at the N.E.S.T. Book Launch in AlUla on March 13.
This year, the structure itself was a modular three-panel system, designed to collapse, adapt and cross boundaries — literally and figuratively. The journey wasn’t just about moving art; it was about redefining how and where art can be experienced. Each city hosted a mix of guerrilla-style pop-ups and community activations.
Moving art was just one part of the journey; it was about redefining how and where art can be experienced. (AN photo)
This year, the team introduced SINDBAD Radio, an online platform featuring open-mic performances, artist submissions and curated music playlists to accompany the journey.
“Whenever somebody submits a work, they come and record a voice note explaining it,” Abdullah Al-Amoudi, a co-founder of the collective, told Arab News. “We put it on SINDBAD Radio, so when you tune in, you hear their story.” The radio station also broadcast live updates from the road, allowing audiences to follow along as the team made their way across the Kingdom.
SINDBAD Collective was founded in 2021 in Jeddah by a group of artists, designers, curators and researchers who wanted to create a more inclusive and experimental art platform.
The SINDBAD has been collecting artwork, sharing music, and engaging with communities since Feb. 6. (Supplied)
Every year, the collective hosts an open call, inviting artists and researchers to submit work that challenges traditional formats.
“The space of SINDBAD is a space of discovery. It’s a space for learning. It’s a space to make mistakes,” said his sister Ahaad Al-Amoudi, a founding member of the collective. “We take most of the works that are submitted. We never say no to any work.”
Ahaad is an accomplished artist whose work addresses history and representation. She earned degrees in visual communication from Dar Al-Hekma University in Jeddah and a master’s degree in print from the Royal College of Art, London.
Safwan Fallatah, also known as Mista Safwan, is a music producer, photographer and filmmaker. (Supplied)
In her research about Saudi Arabia’s ethnography, Ahaad’s photography, video and print installations are meant to reinterpret historical renditions of a reforming culture.
Ahaad and Abdullah’s mother, Effat Fadag, is an associate professor of fine arts at the University of Jeddah and a multidisciplinary artist — and the biggest champion of the group.
Abdullah is a designer and artist trained in film and landscape architecture, and the co-founder of THIRD SPACE* Studio. Together, they form the core of the collective.
They chose the name SINDBAD because of its deep cultural resonance. “Everybody has a different memory of who Sindbad is, but he’s always journeying,” Ahaad explained. “That’s why we thought he fit really well. He’s young, he’s fresh, he’s journeying.”
For the SINDBAD team, this year was all about community-building. “There’s so much happening in Riyadh, in Bahrain, in Jeddah,” Ahaad said. “We wanted to create a bond where we’re coming to you in Alkhobar, but you’re also coming to us.”
The idea of an open, evolving exhibition resonated deeply with people.
“We got to Alkhobar, and we thought — Bahrain is close enough, right?” Ahaad recalled. “We can cross the border. We can take this even further.”
As they traveled, something unexpected happened: Artists started pulling out artworks from their pockets. “They would see the truck open, see the artworks inside, and then literally take pieces out of their pockets and hand them to us,” Abdullah said. “They were ready for it. Some would even go back home, grab their artworks, and return.” The trip became a testament to artistic spontaneity and inclusivity.
“A lot of young artists feel like they have to apply to an open call, that they have to be at a certain level,” the siblings said. “We’re trying to break that barrier. We want them to feel safe, to feel like they can showcase their work, even if it’s a work in progress or something they made years ago. It’s time for them to take that step.”
Since Feb. 6, the SINDBAD team has been on the road, collecting artwork, sharing music, and engaging with communities.
Abdullah, who drove the entire 15-hour stretch from Riyadh to Alkhobar, described it as part of the fun. “I enjoy it a lot,” he said. “We have a radio station this year with SINDBAD Radio. It’s curated, and we go live on Instagram. People can tune in and listen as we drive — ‘We’re coming, we’re passing through this city, we’re on our way to that city.’”
With each stop, SINDBAD brought new voices into the fold, proving that art isn’t confined to galleries — it’s everywhere.
Beyond the Al-Amoudi family, SINDBAD Collective includes a diverse group of artists and researchers.
Mohsin Ali is an architectural researcher and curator exploring post-colonial migration and decolonial processes through architecture. He is currently an assistant curator at Art Jameel.
Damon James Owen is a multidisciplinary artist and educator working in printmaking, publishing, and experimental media.
Manar Eissa is a graphic designer and illustrator whose nature-inspired art reflects her passion for storytelling.
Yasser Al-Zahrani is a production manager and art director specializing in Saudi Arabia’s contemporary art scene.
Natalie Al-Sarraj is a visual storyteller and film studies graduate, who explores untold stories through film and digital media.
Safwan Fallatah, also known as Mista Safwan, is a music producer, photographer and filmmaker.
Together, the aim of the SINDBAD Collective is to form a community of creatives who believe in breaking barriers, taking risks and making art more accessible. And if you missed them this time, keep your eyes on the road. You never know when SINDBAD might roll through your city next.
