Porsche launches new Macan and Taycan models

Porsche launches new Macan and Taycan models
The launch event is part of Porsche’s strategy to strengthen its presence in the Saudi automotive market and showcase the latest EV models.
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Updated 04 November 2024
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Porsche launches new Macan and Taycan models

Porsche launches new Macan and Taycan models

Samaco Motors, the official importer of Porsche in Saudi Arabia, hosted an event in the Saudi capital on Oct. 28 to celebrate the launch of the new, all-electric Macan and the new updated Taycan in the Kingdom.

The event attracted Porsche customers, business leaders, media professionals, social media influencers and Porsche enthusiasts, all of whom enjoyed the first look of the company’s latest products.

The event is part of Porsche’s strategy to strengthen its presence in the Saudi automotive market and showcase the latest technologies and innovations in the field of electric vehicles.

During the launch ceremony, the features and specifications of the two new vehicles were demonstrated, and attendees had the opportunity to explore the models and learn more about them.

The launch of the electric Macan and the updated Taycan is an important step for Porsche to diversify and update its product range in line with its strategy to introduce more electrified models.

The new Macan features powertrains delivering up to 639 PS, offering top-tier performance on any terrain. With fast charging capabilities of up to 270 kW, the Macan showcases Porsche’s commitment to electric mobility. Both the Macan 4 and Macan Turbo provide an all-wheel drive, Porsche Traction Management, and top-class E-Performance.

The Macan 4 generates up to 408 PS and can accelerate from 0-100 km/h in just 5.2 seconds, with a top speed of 220 km/h.

Meanwhile, the Macan Turbo boasts 639 PS, rocketing from 0-100 km/h in just 3.3 seconds, with a top speed of 260 km/h.

The DC charging capability of the Macan is up to 270 kW. Under ideal conditions, the battery can be charged from 10 percent to 80 percent in approximately 21 minutes at a compatible fast-charging station, making the Macan an excellent companion for both everyday use and long journeys.

The new all-electric Macan can charge rapidly over a very wide state-of-charge range — with the battery temperature and weather conditions having relatively little impact on the charging time. The battery is preconditioned for an optimal charging experience.

The new all-electric Macan represents Porsche’s continued evolution toward sustainability, offering a range of advanced driving technologies, comprehensive assistance systems, and complete digital connectivity. This model is designed for drivers who value exceptional design and personalized customization, with exclusive options available through Porsche’s bespoke Exclusive Manufaktur program. With more than 800,000 Macans delivered worldwide since 2014, the new Macan marks the next milestone in Porsche’s journey toward a more sustainable future.

Meanwhile, Porsche has comprehensively improved the Taycan model range, significantly enhancing the overall system performance of the car. 

This is not only reflected in every model of the Taycan range, but even more in the new GT offer.

The Taycan Turbo GT with Weissach Package accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in just 2.2 seconds.This makes it two-tenths of a second faster than the Taycan Turbo S. The difference in acceleration from rest to 200 km/h is even more pronounced: the Taycan Turbo GT with Weissach Package needs 6.4 seconds. Its top speed is 305 km/h.

Thanks to additional aerodynamic measures and lightweight construction, the model is even more performance-oriented. This makes the new Taycan now also the most powerful production car Porsche has ever built. With its outstanding track capabilities, it has set lap records on international racetracks and further raised the benchmark in terms of driving dynamics.


flynas launches retail subscription for IPO

flynas launches retail subscription for IPO
Updated 8 sec ago
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flynas launches retail subscription for IPO

flynas launches retail subscription for IPO

flynas Company, one of the leading low-cost carriers in the Middle East and North Africa region, has announced the opening of its retail subscription period for individual investors as part of its initial public offering on the Saudi Exchange.

The final offer price has been set at SR80 ($21) per share, marking the top end of the previously announced price range. This follows an overwhelming response from institutional investors, with the institutional tranche oversubscribed approximately 100 times, attracting SR409 billion in orders from local and international investors.

Retail investors have access to 10,251,114 shares, representing 20 percent of the total offering, while institutional investors have been allocated the remaining 80 percent.

Subscriptions can be made through a wide network of receiving banks and capital market institutions, including: Albilad Capital, Alinma Capital, Alistithmar Capital, Al-Jazira Capital, Alkhabeer Capital, Al-Rajhi Capital, ANB Capital, BSF Capital, Derayah Financial, GIB Capital, Riyad Capital, SAB Invest, Sahm Capital, SNB Capital, and Yaqeen Capital.

The retail subscription window will run from May 28 to June 1. Allocation will be completed by June 3 and refunds by June 5.


Abdul Latif Jameel, Uber sign MoU to transform urban mobility

Abdul Latif Jameel, Uber sign MoU to transform urban mobility
Updated 28 May 2025
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Abdul Latif Jameel, Uber sign MoU to transform urban mobility

Abdul Latif Jameel, Uber sign MoU to transform urban mobility

Abdul Latif Jameel and Uber Technologies have signed an MoU to explore opportunities to build a scalable, next-generation fleet operations platform. In line with the goals of Saudi Vision 2030, the collaboration seeks to enable socioeconomic growth in the Kingdom and create more earning opportunities for Saudi nationals.

The MoU was recently signed during the period in which the Saudi-US Investment Forum was held and the signing ceremony was attended by Minister of Transport and Logistic Services Saleh Al-Jasser and Acting President of the Transport General Authority Dr. Rumaih bin Mohammed Al-Rumaih. The MoU will help accelerate the transformation of urban mobility across Saudi Arabia, including through the deployment of autonomous vehicles. Representing both parties, the MoU was signed by Hassan Jameel, vice chairman, Saudi Arabia, Abdul Latif Jameel, and Dara Khosrowshahi, CEO of Uber.

Autonomous vehicles are pivotal to the future of transportation. Uber is building toward an electric, shared, and autonomous future, already working with 18 leading AV partners globally. Saudi Arabia is primed to be a key destination for urban transformation and the integration of AVs in the ecosystem. Abdul Latif Jameel, in collaboration with Uber, will play a pivotal role in accelerating the deployment of AVs, supporting local fleet operations.

Through their collaboration, the businesses will work closely to build a scalable mobility fleet with the aim of creating 30,000 earning opportunities for Saudi nationals.

With mobility playing a pivotal role in Saudi Arabia’s urban transformation, the MoU addresses current and future opportunities, as well as the needs of drivers, riders, and tourists in line with Vision 2030. By combining Abdul Latif Jameel’s strong operational excellence and local expertise with Uber’s global innovative mobility technology and network, the businesses will support economic diversification, elevating giga-projects, and contributing to the Saudi economy.

Vice chairman Jameel said: “Our collaboration with Uber reflects a shared vision for a smarter, more accessible, and autonomous mobility future. We are proud to be working with such a renowned technology leader, as we support Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 and position the Kingdom as a role model for the future of mobility. Equally important is how this agreement will help empower Saudi youth through the creation of job opportunities, while contributing to the Kingdom’s long-term prosperity.” Jameel also expressed his gratitude to Minister Al-Jasser for attending the MoU signing ceremony.

Meanwhile, Khosrowshahi said: “Saudi Arabia is a hugely important market to Uber. We’re thrilled to collaborate with Abdul Latif Jameel to advance and accelerate a future of mobility that is electric, shared, and autonomous in the country, while advancing earning opportunities for Saudi nationals. Our goal is to make Uber the best platform for AV technology and continue to introduce both autonomous and human-driven mobility solutions to help people get where they need to go, effortlessly.’’

With Saudi Arabia as the role model, Abdul Latif Jameel and Uber have a long-term ambition to create a cutting-edge standard for the future of mobility and a scalable playbook that can be deployed internationally.


Indian school in Jeddah hosts Phase 1 of cluster meet

Indian school in Jeddah hosts Phase 1 of cluster meet
Updated 29 May 2025
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Indian school in Jeddah hosts Phase 1 of cluster meet

Indian school in Jeddah hosts Phase 1 of cluster meet

The annual interschool sports and co-curricular meet “XXXIII CBSE Cluster Meet 2025” kicked off at the International Indian School Jeddah, which is the host school for the event this year. The zonal level competitions were conducted in April, following which the finalists participated in the cluster meet, which was inaugurated on May 17 at IISJ boys’ section.

Consul General of India Fahad Ahmed Khan Suri was the chief guest for this event. IISJ Managing Committee Chairman Dr. Mohammed Abdul Saleem, members of the managing committee, officials of the Saudi Basketball Academy, principals from participating schools, officials and staff of the host school, in addition to coaches, managers and participants from 18 CBSE schools across the Kingdom were part of this program.

Chapter Convener and Principal of IISJ Dr. Mohammed Imran welcomed the gathering, urging participants to compete with true sportsmanship and camaraderie. The chief guest along with all the dignitaries hoisted the CBSE flag and declared the cluster meet open. Suri, who attended the event despite his commitments to ongoing Hajj preparations, said he was eager to meet the 715 participants. Wishing them luck, he advised students to participate with zeal and enjoy every moment.

The cluster meet mascot “Altius” was introduced in a grand manner leaving the crowd excited. Students of the III-V blocks welcomed the gathering with a musical performance. The program concluded with a vote of thanks by Vice Principal of the Girls’ Section Farhadunnisa.

Phase 1 included badminton (under ages 14,16 and 17 for boys and girls), basketball (under 19 for girls), volleyball (under 19 boys), and football (under 19 boys) These teams came from the central, eastern and western regions of the Kingdom to participate in the final matches to clinch the championship.

IISJ won the rolling trophies for volleyball (boys) and basketball (girls), while IISR and NMEIS Riyadh bagged the rolling trophies for badminton for boys and girls, respectively. Al-Mawarid International School won the rolling trophy for football. In the first phase, IISJ and IISR are leading with equal points. The second phase, which will be held in September, will determine the school that will bag the coveted overall championship of the cluster meet.

Prominent among those who attended the valedictory event and gave away the prizes were Dr. Prince Mufti Ziaul Hasan, Dr. Hemalatha Mahalingam and Dr. Mohammed  Shafee.

The managing committee chairman praised the coaches and participants of the schools and appreciated the host school for all the arrangements.

Adil Akther, head of department of sports at IISJ, presented a report on the events held during the five-day meet. Mohammed Sirajuddin, senior PE teacher from IIS-Riyadh, presented the report on behalf of the participating schools.

The valedictory event concluded with the vote of thanks presented by the Controller of Examinations and officiating vice principal of IISJ Boys Section Syed Abdul Haq.


TNFS 2025: Saudi Arabia to host region’s first summit on smoking reduction

TNFS 2025: Saudi Arabia to host region’s first summit on smoking reduction
Updated 28 May 2025
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TNFS 2025: Saudi Arabia to host region’s first summit on smoking reduction

TNFS 2025: Saudi Arabia to host region’s first summit on smoking reduction

In a significant move that signals a shift in how the region tackles public health challenges, Riyadh is set to host the TNFS Summit 2025 — the first high-level regional summit focused on reducing smoking prevalence and addressing tobacco-related harm. This event will bring together organizations, health leaders, and policymakers from the region and around the globe.

The summit will take place on May 29 at the Four Seasons Hotel — Kingdom Centre, coinciding with “World No Tobacco Day.” It is supported by strategic partners, including the Quality-of-Life Program (Part of one of the realization programs of the Kingdom’s Vision 2030), Badael Company, and Smart Health as the scientific partner. The TNFS Summit will serve as a multilateral platform to encourage regional and international collaboration in tackling one of the most pressing public health challenges in the Arab world.

The summit is expected to culminate in the adoption of a regional charter for tobacco harm reduction and the signing of strategic cooperation agreements among participating entities, aimed at strengthening public health systems and enhancing regional regulatory frameworks.

TNFS Summit 2025 invites policymakers, public health experts, and civil society to unite around a shared vision: a healthier Middle East with lower tobacco dependence. This summit marks a clear commitment to science-based, prevention-first policies built on regional and international partnerships.

More than 100 local and international experts from leading institutions — including specialists from the UK, Sweden, and Saudi Arabia — will participate in the summit. They will discuss the latest research, exchange insights, and explore scalable, evidence-based policy solutions.

The agenda will focus on key strategic themes, including:

  • correcting public misconceptions about nicotine and tobacco harm reduction products
  • designing preventive policies grounded in scientific evidence
  • showcasing successful international regulatory frameworks that can be adapted to regional contexts
  • mobilizing community awareness and fostering collaboration between the public and private sectors

Badael Company, the summit’s strategic partner, stated that TNFS 2025 addresses an urgent regional need for data-driven dialogue and multilateral coordination to reflect the scale of tobacco-related harm in our societies. The summit is envisioned as a launchpad for the region’s healthier and more sustainable future.


Matarat Holding taps Thales to modernize Saudi airports

Matarat Holding taps Thales to modernize Saudi airports
Updated 27 May 2025
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Matarat Holding taps Thales to modernize Saudi airports

Matarat Holding taps Thales to modernize Saudi airports

Matarat Holding has signed an MoU with Thales, a global leader in advanced technologies. This strategic partnership, signed at Passenger Terminal Expo in Madrid, Spain, seeks to drive innovation, operational efficiency, and improved passenger experience through digital solutions and collaborative technological advancements.

Matarat Holding manages the operations of 27 airports in Saudi Arabia through its subsidiaries (Riyadh Airports, Jeddah Airports, Dammam Airports, and Cluster 2), and the MoU establishes a comprehensive framework for cooperation across multiple strategic areas of aviation development. Through this partnership, Thales will implement its expertise in smart technologies to modernize airport operations and management, driving digital transformation across Matarat’s subsidiaries. The collaboration will focus on sharing innovation and best practices to enhance service quality, streamline operational processes, and adopt future-ready solutions that will set new industry standards.

A key priority of the agreement is enhancing the traveler experience by leveraging Thales’ advanced capabilities in AI, biometrics, automation, and data-driven systems to create seamless and secure passenger journeys. The partnership will also enable the implementation of advanced digital platforms and next-generation infrastructure in Matarat airports.

Bernard Roux, CEO of Thales in Saudi Arabia and Central Asia, said: “This collaboration with Matarat Holding represents a transformative step in reshaping the future of Saudi aviation. By combining Thales’ expertise in digital transformation with Matarat’s operational excellence, we are not just implementing technologies — we are co-creating a smart and safe aviation ecosystem. Our joint solutions in AI, cybersecurity and connected systems will set new benchmarks for operational efficiency, enhanced passenger experience, and national security, directly contributing to the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 ambitions to become a global aviation leader.”