Food delivery platform Keeta expands to Riyadh with SR1bn investment

Updated 09 October 2024

Arab News

October 09, 2024 19:02

Keeta, the international subsidiary of Meituan, China’s on-demand delivery giant, has announced its expansion into Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. This development signifies the platform’s commitment to enhancing food delivery services throughout the Kingdom.

As the localized Saudi arm of Meituan, Keeta draws on the expertise of one of the largest food delivery platforms in the world. Meituan manages an impressive 60 million deliveries daily and serves 680 million users, underscoring its global leadership in the industry.

In support of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, Keeta is poised to invest SR1 billion ($266.6 million) in the Kingdom. This strategic investment will facilitate the growth of Keeta’s operations and contribute to the local job market and overall economy.

Saudi Arabia presents a burgeoning market for food delivery, with recent reports indicating that the number of users is expected to reach 19.2 million by 2029. As more consumers embrace digital solutions, the demand for efficient food delivery services continues to rise.

“Our expansion into Riyadh underlines our commitment to the Saudi market, which presents unique opportunities driven by a young, tech-savvy population and a growing appetite for digital solutions,” said Tony Qiu, CEO of Keeta. “We are excited to invest in this dynamic environment, supporting Vision 2030 while offering a seamless and diverse food delivery experience that meets the distinct preferences of Saudi consumers.”

Keeta’s value proposition emphasizes affordability, with unlimited free delivery options, a reliable on-time delivery promise, and a diverse array of restaurants and cuisines. The platform’s goal is to provide an unparalleled food delivery experience tailored to the needs of customers.

As the platform broadens its presence in Saudi Arabia, Keeta is committed to redefining the food delivery landscape while contributing to the Kingdom’s economic development.

Rheem Middle East opens regional HQ in Saudi Arabia

The new regional headquarters will play a critical role in supporting the company’s expansion strategy.

Updated 09 October 2024

Arab News

October 09, 2024 16:08

Rheem Middle East opens regional HQ in Saudi Arabia

Updated 09 October 2024

Arab News

October 09, 2024 16:08

As part of its ongoing commitment toward its key market of Saudi Arabia, Rheem Middle East has announced the establishment of its new regional headquarters in the Kingdom. This move marks a significant milestone in the company’s dedication to servicing its customers in the country.

At the heart of this expansion is the launch of Rheem’s state-of-the-art Innovation and Learning Center in Riyadh. The ILC serves as a pivotal hub for showcasing Rheem’s latest HVAC technologies and providing specialized training programs aimed at developing the next generation of Saudi professionals. By offering comprehensive educational programs, Rheem is equipping young Saudis with the skills and knowledge required to excel in the rapidly evolving HVAC industry, emphasizing the growth of local talent and the importance of fostering a knowledge-based economy.

Rheem’s investment in Saudi Arabia reflects the company’s commitment to servicing the local market while driving innovative HVAC solutions tailored to the market. “As we approach our 100th anniversary in 2025, we are thrilled to establish our regional headquarters in Saudi Arabia, which is a key market that plays an essential role in our global aspirations, and are committed to supporting the Kingdom’s growth” said Brian Hempenstall, vice president and general manager of Rheem Middle East.

As Rheem continues to innovate and grow, the new regional headquarters and the ILC will play a critical role in supporting the company’s expansion strategy, reinforcing its position as a thought leader in the Saudi HVAC industry.

Trascent and Gulaid Holding launch JV to offer facilities management services in Saudi Arabia

Rakesh Kishan, chief executive of Trascent Arabia and managing principal of Trascent

Updated 09 October 2024

Arab News

October 09, 2024 09:50

Trascent and Gulaid Holding launch JV to offer facilities management services in Saudi Arabia

Updated 09 October 2024

Arab News

October 09, 2024 09:50

Trascent, a global leader in facilities management advisory services, and Gulaid Holding, a renowned investor within Saudi Arabia’s facilities management sector, have joined forces to launch Trascent Arabia, a joint venture designed to provide value added and differentiated services focused on the Kingdom’s facilities management industry. The new entity will provide innovative solutions aligned with Saudi Vision 2030, which will focus on transforming the way FM services are delivered across the country and Gulf region.

Trascent is globally established for thought leadership and expertise in structuring and governing the delivery of best-in-class FM services, drawing from its experience in advising more than 20 percent of the Fortune 500 companies on outsourcing FM across diverse markets. Complemented by Gulaid Holding’s 15-year deep understanding of the Saudi market and local capabilities, Trascent Arabia aims to enhance FM service quality and efficiency through best practices in contracting and managing FM services. The joint venture aims to address unmet market demands by offering cutting-edge advisory, contract management, and program management services.

Rakesh Kishan, chief executive of Trascent Arabia and managing principal of Trascent, said: “Trascent Arabia will bring market-leading expertise in advanced contracting models for facilities management at a time where clients are seeking better and more innovative solutions in FM. By combining Gulaid’s deep local knowledge with Trascent’s market-leading capabilities, we are positioned to deliver world-class services that support the increasing demands of facilities management in Saudi Arabia. As the Kingdom invests heavily in new cities, infrastructure, entertainment, and other investments, our services will enable clients to achieve FM excellence for residents, tourists, and businesses alike.”

According to a recent report by Fortune Business Insights, the FM sector in Saudi Arabia is projected to reach $56.33 billion by 2032, growing at a compounded annual rate of 10.3 percent from 2023. With the Kingdom undergoing a transformation for Vision 2030, the FM industry faces increasing pressure to move beyond traditional manpower-based services to more sophisticated, customer experience-led solutions. Trascent Arabia will help clients achieve advanced FM services tailored to support key national megaprojects, such as NEOM, Qiddiya, and the Red Sea Project.

Naser Gulaid, executive chairman of Gulaid Holding, added: “For the past 15 years, Gulaid Holding has been a leading investor in Saudi Arabia’s FM industry. With Vision 2030 raising the bar for excellence, Trascent Arabia will help to bridge the gap between current market capabilities and future demands. Our services will not only enhance operational efficiencies but also introduce technology-driven FM strategies that focus on customer experience, sustainability, and efficiency, perfectly aligning with the Kingdom’s vision for growth. Our clients want innovative, experience-led services, and that’s exactly what Trascent Arabia is bringing to the table.”

Trascent Arabia will focus on three core service areas: management consulting services — advising clients on how to structure FM contracts, develop service specifications and deploy best practices in commercial models; contract execution and management — providing a single point of contact for ensuring compliance performance across FM contracts; and program management — overseeing key client initiatives, including energy efficiency and sustainability projects, ensuring their effective and timely implementation.

The joint venture will position Trascent Arabia as a key FM resource for clients in Saudi Arabia. The company will be led by an experienced executive team with a deep knowledge of local dynamics and global FM best practices.

Jazo PR and Getty Images announce strategic partnership in KSA

Updated 09 October 2024

Arab News

October 09, 2024 09:45

Jazo PR and Getty Images announce strategic partnership in KSA

Updated 09 October 2024

Arab News

October 09, 2024 09:45

Jazo PR, a unique boutique entertainment consultancy based in Riyadh, and Getty Images, a preeminent global visual content creator and marketplace, have announced a strategic partnership to increase visual coverage of and drive global awareness around Saudi Arabia’s entertainment industry.

Jazo PR and Getty Images have collaborated for many years to service the needs of major brands and talent, showcasing them at their best through outstanding imagery and video captured at events such as Cannes Film Festival and Venice Film Festival. Together, the partners will bring Getty Images’ unique specialism in entertainment imagery and video to the Kingdom, making its visual content services and unrivaled global distribution platform available to local brands, publicists and organizations.

“I am honored that Getty Images will be collaborating with us to bring their unique expertise and creativity in entertainment production and content services to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia,” said Laurent Boye, founder and CEO of Jazo PR. “This partnership will create global awareness around Saudi Arabia’s thriving entertainment industry, showing the best of Saudi talent and culture to the world as the country realizes its Vision 2030.”

“We are proud to be partnering with Jazo PR to bring our visual content expertise to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and showcase the country’s dynamic entertainment industry to the world,” said Lisa Marie Rae, senior director, entertainment at Getty Images. “Customers such as publicists, brands and festival organizers trust us to capture stunning imagery and video of their talent and events, which we distribute to media organizations around the world in almost real time. We are excited to bring these capabilities to Saudi Arabia and to work with the local photographers and videographers already capturing the Kingdom’s growing array of outstanding events.”

Jazo PR is a global PR consultancy set up by Boye, a veteran publicist, who has almost 250 credits on IMDB and has represented and worked with many of the global entertainment industry’s top talent and films. Boye recently opened Jazo PR’s Riyadh branch through Saudi Arabia’s new business-friendly initiatives, after splitting his time between Los Angeles and the Kingdom.

Getty Images is a trusted partner to many of entertainment’s biggest events. Its content creators are at every major entertainment event globally, from awards ceremonies to fashion weeks to film festivals, covering almost 70,000 entertainment events a year and partnering with major brands on creative content strategy.

New Murabba showcases visionary hospitality development at FHS

Updated 08 October 2024

Arab News

October 08, 2024 23:32

New Murabba showcases visionary hospitality development at FHS

Updated 08 October 2024

Arab News

October 08, 2024 23:32

New Murabba Development Company — a PIF company, was the platinum sponsor of the Future Hospitality Summit, which took place from Sept. 30 to Oct. 2 in Dubai. As a forward-thinking player in the hospitality industry, New Murabba is committed to seizing opportunities and staying ahead of industry trends. The company engages with key stakeholders across the hospitality spectrum, including industry leaders, investors, and developers, while sharing its ambitious vision for sustainable growth in the sector.

At the event, the executive team, led by New Murabba CEO Michael Dyke, outlined the company’s roadmap for advancing the hospitality landscape. Dyke presented an ambitious plan focused on the development of infrastructure, the establishment of seamless transportation systems, the improvement of recreational facilities, and the modernization of lifestyle amenities. These efforts are central to revitalizing key hospitality sectors, including hotels, hospitality centers, and retail destinations.

“Our goal is to establish New Murabba as a premier destination for tourism and hospitality in the region. We are fully committed to pushing boundaries, setting new benchmarks in sustainable urban development, and embracing the ongoing evolution of this dynamic industry. We believe that the hospitality sector plays a crucial role in fostering vibrant communities and boosting the local economy,” said Dyke.

New Murabba will incorporate 27 million square meters of premium real estate distributed across 18 communities, with an estimated population exceeding 400,000. This destination will serve as a model for urban planning, boasting seamless transportation and sustainable infrastructure. Furthermore, it will accommodate more than 100,000 residential units, 9,000 hotel rooms, and 500,000 square meters of retail space. Additionally, it will feature various entertainment venues, educational institutions, health care facilities, and a 45,000-seat stadium.

New Murabba is redefining urban living with its “born smart” city concept, offering modern, high-quality homes. With world-class amenities, state-of-the-art schools, healthcare facilities and seamless integration with the broader Riyadh metropolitan area, it provides unmatched convenience.

One of the primary highlights presented at the summit was the Mukaab, which is the world’s largest and most complex structure. It comprises mixed-use properties that encompass all asset classes. Spanning more than 2 million square meters of floor space, the Mukaab redefines luxury with immersive shopping, dining, and cultural experiences. This awe-inspiring cube-shaped structure, standing 400 meters in width, height, and depth, is large enough to house 20 Empire State Buildings.

It integrates modern Najdi architectural design with state-of-the-art digital and holographic technologies, offering visitors a unique fusion of premium hospitality, retail, cultural experiences, and entertainment.

During the summit, Dyke joined BBC presenter Stephen Sackur for an exclusive television interview, where they discussed New Murabba’s forward-looking vision and its latest developments. In addition, New Murabba Director of Development Stephen Rossouw participated in a panel discussion titled “Branded Residences: A New Era in Real Estate Investment,” delving into how New Murabba plans to transform the hospitality landscape.

By sponsoring the Future Hospitality Summit, New Murabba reaffirms its dedication to becoming a key player in the global tourism and hospitality industry. Through active participation in discussions that shape the future of hospitality, the company is poised to make a lasting impact on Saudi Arabia and beyond.

Budget Saudi Arabia named partner of AlUla Moments Calendar

Updated 08 October 2024

Arab News

October 08, 2024 23:28

Budget Saudi Arabia named partner of AlUla Moments Calendar

Updated 08 October 2024

Arab News

October 08, 2024 23:28

Budget Saudi Arabia, a provider of car rental and leasing services including commercial vehicles in the Kingdom, has committed to a formal three-year agreement to become an official partner of AlUla Moments Calendar of Events. The partnership, formalized by Budget Saudi Arabia’s President and Group CEO Fawaz Abdullah Danish and Rami Al-Moallim, vice president of destination management and marketing at the Royal Commission for AlUla, represents a significant step forward in the ongoing development and global promotion of AlUla as a premier destination.

This collaboration cements Budget Saudi Arabia’s involvement in all major events hosted at AlUla, particularly sports events such as the renowned Richard Mille AlUla Desert Polo, AlFursan Cup, AlUla Tour, AlUla Falcon Cup, and AlUla Camel Cup. These events, which highlight equestrian, traditional cultural heritage sports, reinforce AlUla’s position as a regional hub for sports and cultural heritage.

Danish said: “We are honored to be a part of AlUla’s journey to becoming a leading global destination. This partnership aligns seamlessly with Saudi Vision 2030, emphasizing our commitment to contributing to the Kingdom’s economic diversification through tourism and sports. We look forward to fostering a long-lasting relationship with the Royal Commission for AlUla that will resonate for years.”

Meanwhile, Al-Moallim said: “We are thrilled to announce our strategic partnership with Budget Saudi Arabia for the highly anticipated AlUla Moments Calendar of Events. This collaboration underscores our unwavering commitment to delivering an exceptional and seamless experience for our guests, as we introduce the largest fleet in Saudi Arabia to support AlUla’s world-class events.”

He added: “By aligning with Budget Saudi Arabia, we are elevating the logistical capabilities of our events’ showcases, reinforcing our dedication to sharing AlUla’s rich cultural heritage and breathtaking landscapes with the world. Together, we are driving forward a new era of excellence in event management and guest experience.”

As AlUla continues to emerge as a global tourism and cultural hub, Budget Saudi Arabia’s role in providing seamless transportation solutions will be pivotal in accommodating the anticipated influx of visitors. The collaboration aligns with RCU’s development goals and enhances the visitor experience by offering tailored mobility services.

With a rich legacy of 200,000 years of shared human history and home to some of the most advanced ancient civilizations, AlUla has long been a cradle for social gatherings and cultural celebrations. The AlUla Moments Calendar brings this heritage to life through five distinctive festivals, offering a captivating array of experiences in art, culture, music, nature, wellness, equestrian activities, dining, and astronomy.

Food delivery platform Keeta expands to Riyadh with SR1bn investment