Shein unveils Saudi-inspired Fall/Winter collections

Shein unveiled its latest Fall/Winter 2024 collections to an audience of eager fashion enthusiasts.
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Shein unveiled its latest Fall/Winter 2024 collections to an audience of eager fashion enthusiasts.
Shein unveils Saudi-inspired Fall/Winter collections
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Updated 06 November 2024
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Shein unveils Saudi-inspired Fall/Winter collections

Shein unveiled its latest Fall/Winter 2024 collections to an audience of eager fashion enthusiasts.

RIYADH: Global fashion powerhouse Shein made a bold statement in Riyadh on Nov. 2, unveiling its latest Fall/Winter 2024 collections to an audience of eager fashion enthusiasts. Themed “Pearls to Radiant Glow, A Journey Through Arab Splendor,” the event merged tradition with trend, offering a fresh take on fashion that speaks to Saudi Arabia’s youth.

The immersive show showcased three collections — Dune Silhouette, Sunset Glow, and Ocean Garden — each reflecting a unique aspect of Saudi culture and landscape. With Riyadh’s style-conscious crowd in attendance, the collections represented the spirit of Saudi youth by drawing on elements of the natural world, from deserts to sunsets to marine life. Every piece seemed to embody the duality of Saudi identity, balancing heritage with a modern, forward-looking aesthetic.

The Dune Silhouette collection set the stage with designs inspired by the dynamic patterns of sand dunes. Embracing khaki hues and earthy tones, the collection used asymmetric tailoring and layered skirts to evoke the fluidity of desert landscapes. The pieces offered a fashionable twist on classic workwear, making a strong impression on attendees who value style that is both sophisticated and wearable.

Meanwhile, Sunset Glow captivated audiences with its warm color gradients that transition from deep orange to soft purples. Flowing silhouettes and delicate detailing, like chiffon accents and tassels, added a touch of romance to the collection. The designs captured the drama and beauty of a Saudi sunset, appealing to those drawn to a softer, more ethereal look.

Bringing a vibrant contrast to the event, Ocean Garden turned to the sea for inspiration, featuring youthful colors, floral prints, and whimsical embellishments like pearls and diamond accents. The collection’s playful spirit shone through with lotus leaf pleats and unique patterns, making it a standout for fashion fans seeking fresh, lively pieces.

Adding a layer of excitement, Shein welcomed more than 30 prominent fashion influencers to the event, including popular figures like Noha Nabil, Almaha, and Fouz, whose attendance highlighted the show’s influence on the region’s style scene. Their presence not only underscored the cultural relevance of the collections but also drew attention to the unique blend of Saudi heritage with Shein’s modern, accessible fashion philosophy. In addition to influencers, several dedicated fans of the brand were invited via social media giveaways and in-app registrations, creating a direct connection between Shein and its loyal customer base.

Another highlight of the evening was the attendance of Bayan Yasien, a celebrated Saudi artist who recently collaborated with Shein on a “Back to School” collection. This partnership, launched in September, was inspired by Saudi culture and reflects Shein’s commitment to celebrating regional artistry. Yasien’s involvement reinforced Shein’s dedication to honoring local creativity while fostering relationships within the Saudi artistic community.
With these new collections, Shein continues to expand its presence in Saudi Arabia by catering specifically to the tastes and interests of Saudi consumers. The event marked another step in Shein’s strategy to create meaningful engagement with its customer base, blending global fashion trends with elements of local culture. Fashion fans can explore the collections exclusively on the Shein website and app, while enjoying exclusive promotions.

For those who wish to experience the collection firsthand, Shein will host a pop-up showroom at Boulevard Riyadh starting on Nov. 15, offering a chance to view iconic pieces up close.

Shein’s Fall/Winter 2024 show in Riyadh underscored the brand’s growing influence in the Middle East, presenting a fusion of Arab splendor and contemporary style. As the collections hit the market, Shein’s approach to capturing local identity through global fashion reflects a broader trend within the industry, making the brand a prominent player in the Saudi fashion landscape.


LEAP steps ‘Into New Worlds’ with bold 2025 edition

LEAP 2025 will feature more exclusive experiences with the focus on world’s latest and most exciting technologies.
LEAP 2025 will feature more exclusive experiences with the focus on world’s latest and most exciting technologies.
Updated 10 December 2024
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LEAP steps ‘Into New Worlds’ with bold 2025 edition

LEAP 2025 will feature more exclusive experiences with the focus on world’s latest and most exciting technologies.

Saudi Arabia’s global award-winning tech event LEAP is poised to break new ground when a newly enriched and revamped fourth edition returns from Feb. 9-12, 2025 at the Riyadh Exhibition and Convention Center in Malham.

Being held under the theme “Into New Worlds,” LEAP 2025 will be the pioneering tech event’s first ticketed outing to date, encompassing a higher percentage of influential industry attendees to elevate business networking and investment opportunities across the technology landscape.

LEAP 2025 is co-organized by Tahaluf and the Ministry for Communications and Information Technology — a joint venture between Informa PLC, the Saudi Federation for Cybersecurity, Programming and Drones and Events Investment Fund. The event will deliver advanced features, including a new series of “LEAP Nights” activities, the return of DeepFest, a dedicated Tech Arena, a SportsTech Track and a commitment to hosting and enhancing innovation across multiple sectors such as space, gaming, education, and smart cities, over 20 stages.

Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Communications and Information Technology Abdullah Alswaha said: “LEAP has made an outstanding contribution to the realization of the Saudi Vision 2030 goals and has rightly positioned the country as a global technology hub. The decision to move to a ticketed format this year makes LEAP more of an exclusive experience for attendees and relevant to today’s global technology elite. LEAP 2025 will showcase exceptional technology innovations, business opportunities and content — ensuring Saudi Arabia becomes the world’s undisputed technology aggregator.”

Tahaluf expects the fourth edition to witness a surge in interactions between exhibitors and visitors, as LEAP 2025 guests will engage with more than 680 startups, 1000-plus expert speakers, and over 1,800 global tech brands.

LEAP 2025 will feature more exclusive experiences for attendees with the focus on connecting the right people with the world’s latest and most exciting technologies.

A new SportsTech Track will see the world of sports meet the latest tech trends. Attendees will be able to step into the future of sports and experience live demos, industry announcements, and the latest technology innovations from clubs, industry leaders, and pioneers of the sector. Confirmed speakers include Patrice Evra, the successful entrepreneur and former Manchester United forward and France national team captain, who makes his return to LEAP, as well as Mathieu Pierre Flamini, also a former French professional footballer and co-founder of GF Biochemicals.

The Tech Arena is also a new addition for LEAP 2025, where attendees will witness live product demos, get hands-on with prototypes, and see cutting-edge technology in action. The Tech Arena will host a lineup of interactive engagements, connecting participants directly with tomorrow’s breakthrough technologies and innovations.

The Startup Stage will see LEAP dedicate a platform to the brightest innovators and startups. Whether attendees are pitching, networking, or exploring, the Startup Stage will be the place where ideas take flight, and the future of tech unfolds. 

LEAP 2025 is expanding beyond the convention halls this year with LEAP Nights. Attendees can immerse themselves in Riyadh’s vibrant cultural scene, with an exciting lineup of dinners, meetups, and live entertainment. LEAP Nights will provide participants with the perfect backdrop for networking, socializing, and soaking in the city’s pulse — all whilst forging new connections across the global tech community. 

Faisal Alkhamisi, chairman of the SAFCP, said the new LEAP 2025 initiatives reflected the event’s role in mirroring the rapid pace of tech industry developments and hinted at even more to come.

“Over the past three years, LEAP has evolved at a rocket-fueled pace, playing a critical role in nurturing talent, creativity, and investment. Yet, this is just the beginning. LEAP will continue to reflect the ever-changing tech landscape and inspire pioneers from across the globe,” he said.

Michael Champion, CEO of Tahaluf, Saudi Arabia’s largest B2B event organizer and organizer of iconic brands LEAP, Cityscape, and Black Hat MEA, added: “By transforming LEAP, we are creating a more curated experience. Transitioning to a ticketed model will allow exhibitors and participants to benefit from direct access to a highly engaged and laser-focused audience, leading to more meaningful collaborations and business opportunities. This change reflects our commitment to delivering an event that continues to set the gold standard for tech innovation globally.”


Bateel expands into South Korea with luxury boutique

Bateel expands into South Korea with luxury boutique
Updated 09 December 2024
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Bateel expands into South Korea with luxury boutique

Bateel expands into South Korea with luxury boutique

Saudi luxury F&B brand Bateel International, renowned for its gourmet delights, has announced its expansion into Asia with the opening of its first boutique in Seoul, South Korea. The outlet opened in mid-November at the prestigious Lotte World Mall. This milestone marks a pivotal moment in Bateel’s global growth strategy, bringing its collection of premium organic dates, single-origin chocolates and gourmet products to a discerning audience in one of Asia’s most vibrant markets.

After years of evaluating international markets, Bateel identified South Korea as a prime destination for its boutique expansion. With a sophisticated consumer base that values health-conscious, trendy products, Seoul presents the perfect market for Bateel’s offering of organic and filled dates, artisanal chocolates and luxurious packaged gift sets. The location in Lotte World Mall, adjacent to the entrance of the renowned viewing deck, mirrors the brand’s successful presence at Dubai Mall, where Bateel boutiques attract thousands of global visitors.

“We are thrilled to enter the South Korean market,” said Bilal El-Kurjie, senior commercial director at Bateel. “Our presence in this key market allows us to bring the unique Bateel experience to new customers, starting with this iconic location at Lotte World Mall.” 

Bilal El-Kurjie, senior commercial director at Bateel International

The new boutique, larger than some of Bateel’s flagship stores in Saudi Arabia and the UAE, will offer the full Bateel experience. Customers will enjoy an extensive range of premium products, including Bateel’s organic dates, high-end single-origin chocolate collection, and bespoke packaging options, designed to cater to both local tastes and the international tourist market.

In addition to the boutique, Bateel plans to introduce its new Bateel El’an concept, a modern café format, in early 2025. This next phase will elevate Bateel’s presence in South Korea, offering dine-in, takeaway, and delivery options that showcase Bateel’s signature culinary excellence.

Central to Bateel’s expansion strategy is its commitment to sourcing the highest-quality ingredients globally. This dedication, paired with a focus on sustainability, aligns with the growing demand for responsibly sourced luxury products in South Korea.

“This expansion is the start of a new chapter for Bateel in Asia,” El-Kurjie added. “We have ambitious plans underway and look forward to further expanding our presence, starting with Seoul and soon moving into markets like Singapore.”

Bateel has established a strong global presence in more than 29 countries, with luxury boutiques and cafés in premium destinations across the GCC, Europe, and Asia.


Aramco-backed fintech Stake first platform to enable Saudi real estate investments from outside Kingdom

Yazeed Aldowayan, chief operating officer at Alrajhi Seventh, and Hanouf bin Saeed, general manager of Stake Saudi.
Yazeed Aldowayan, chief operating officer at Alrajhi Seventh, and Hanouf bin Saeed, general manager of Stake Saudi.
Updated 09 December 2024
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Aramco-backed fintech Stake first platform to enable Saudi real estate investments from outside Kingdom

Yazeed Aldowayan, chief operating officer at Alrajhi Seventh, and Hanouf bin Saeed, general manager of Stake Saudi.

Stake, a leading global digital real estate investment platform in the Middle East and North Africa region, has announced their official launch in the Kingdom. As the first platform regulated by the Capital Market Authority to afford individuals outside of the Kingdom the opportunity to invest into Saudi real estate, Stake is set to transform the investment landscape in the Kingdom.

In partnership with prominent developer Al-Rajhi Seventh, or RJ7, Stake has carefully selected an income-generating commercial building located in North Riyadh for its inaugural fund on the platform. As part of its launch, Stake has partnered with Mulkia Investment Company, a leading Saudi asset management firm. The collaboration focuses on establishing private real estate funds tailored for the Saudi market. These funds, managed by Mulkia and distributed through Stake’s digital platform, aim to lower the barrier to entry and make real estate investing into quality assets more accessible. Together, Stake and Mulkia will offer a robust pipeline of real estate opportunities, ranging from residential to commercial properties, all aligned with Vision 2030’s economic transformation goals.

Stake empowers investors with digital access to curated, Shariah-compliant real estate investments starting from as little as SR500 ($133) via its app. With a mission to democratize real estate ownership, Stake has already built a global community of over 800,000 users. Saudi Arabia’s dynamic and rapidly expanding economy plays a pivotal role in Stake’s strategic decision to enter the market. The Kingdom is forecasted to grow by 4.6 percent in 2025, making it one of the fastest-growing economies among G20 nations.

“Saudi Arabia is a cornerstone of Stake’s vision to redefine real estate investment,” said Manar Mahmassani, co-founder and co-CEO at Stake. “The Kingdom’s thriving economy and Vision 2030 initiative align perfectly with our mission to provide inclusive and borderless access to high-potential property markets. By entering Saudi Arabia, we are inviting investors worldwide to participate in its exciting growth story.”

At the helm of Stake’s Saudi operations is Hanouf bin Saeed, a financial industry veteran with over 17 years of experience. Her remarkable track record includes driving Riyad Bank’s non-bank financial institutions portfolio growth from SR1 billion to SR12 billion during her tenure. bin Saeed said: “Stake’s vision is revolutionary. By creating an ecosystem of trust and innovation, we are enabling individuals to build wealth like never before. I am honored to lead this mission in Saudi Arabia and look forward to shaping the future of real estate investment in the Kingdom.”

In June, Stake announced a $14 million Series A funding from top-tier investors like Aramco’s Wa’ed Ventures, one of Saudi Arabia’s largest VC’s, Mubadala Investment Company, Abu Dhabi’s Sovereign Investor and Al-Jomaih Holding, one of Saudi Arabia’s largest family conglomerates. Earlier this year, Stake was named as one of the top startups in 2024 by LinkedIn, and listed in the 2024 Top 100 Global Fintech list by CB Insights.

Stake is poised to redefine real estate investment in the Kingdom and beyond. The platform’s innovative approach to real estate ownership, transparency, and accessibility has the potential to bring about a change in how investors interact with property markets.


Redefining wealth management: The Family Office launches goal-based investing platform

Redefining wealth management: The Family Office launches goal-based investing platform
Updated 09 December 2024
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Redefining wealth management: The Family Office launches goal-based investing platform

Redefining wealth management: The Family Office launches goal-based investing platform

The Family Office, a leading wealth management firm in the GCC, has launched its new goal-based investing platform Financial Goal, which is designed to revolutionize how individuals plan, manage, and achieve their financial aspirations.

With the complexities of modern investing, Financial Goal offers an innovative solution that aligns investments with personal financial objectives, ensuring a structured and focused approach to wealth management. It equips investors with the tools they need to define clear financial goals, such as buying a home, funding education, planning for retirement, or leaving a legacy, and to develop personalized strategies to achieve them.

Key features of the platform include:

  1. Goal setting: Define one or multiple financial objectives with specific timelines, importance levels, and target amounts.
  2. Comprehensive financial insights: Input assets, liabilities, income, and expenses to gain a clear picture of your financial position.
  3. Real-time projections: Track progress with advanced features like wealth projections, risk-return analysis, and goal trackers.
  4. Tailored investment strategies: Receive customized portfolio recommendations aligned with your goals, risk tolerance, and investment horizon.

Unlike traditional investing, which prioritizes market performance or returns, the goal-based investing platform Financial Goal shifts the focus to achieving specific life milestones. By using advanced tools and leveraging The Family Office’s 20 years of expertise in private market investments, users can confidently align their financial decisions with their aspirations.

Abdulmohsin Al-Omran, founder and CEO of The Family Office, said: “This platform represents a significant step forward in our commitment to empowering individuals with a personalized and strategic approach to wealth management. We believe that financial planning should not just be about numbers, it’s about achieving the life goals that matter most to our clients.”


New Murabba unveils ESG & decarbonization strategies

New Murabba unveils ESG & decarbonization strategies
Updated 08 December 2024
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New Murabba unveils ESG & decarbonization strategies

New Murabba unveils ESG & decarbonization strategies

New Murabba, a Public Investment Fund company, has announced the launch of its environmental, social, and governance and decarbonization strategies, coinciding with International ESG Day, observed on Nov. 30. These strategic frameworks reinforce New Murabba’s commitment to sustainable development and align with the Kingdom’s Vision 2030.

New Murabba’s comprehensive decarbonization strategy charts a clear path toward a low-carbon future, echoing the goals set out in the Saudi Commitment to Carbon Neutrality by 2060 and the PIF’s pledge for operational net-zero emissions by 2050. This approach aligns seamlessly with the ambitious targets of the Saudi Green Initiative, which seek to significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions, champion renewable energy adoption, optimize energy efficiency, utilize low-carbon materials, and embrace circular economy principles.

Developed through extensive collaboration with employees, stakeholders, and leadership, New Murabba’s ESG strategy underscores its dedication to responsible and sustainable practices. The strategy outlines clear objectives and actions across three core pillars:

• Environment: minimizing environmental impact through initiatives such as carbon footprint reduction and responsible resource management.

• Social: creating a positive social impact by fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion, prioritizing worker well-being and safety, and upholding strong ethical standards.

• Governance: strengthening corporate governance through robust risk management, transparency, accountability, and responsible leadership.

“We’re proud to launch our ESG and decarbonization strategies, marking a significant milestone in our journey toward creating a sustainable urban destination,” said Michael Dyke, CEO of New Murabba. “Our decarbonization strategy is a testament to our dedication to supporting the Kingdom’s vision for a carbon-neutral future by 2060. New Murabba is committed to leading by example, demonstrating how responsible development can drive positive change for both our community and the planet. We are confident that these strategies will enhance our environmental performance and create long-term value for our investors and stakeholders.”

New Murabba’s dedication to ESG principles and decarbonization strengthens confidence among stakeholders who prioritize sustainable and impactful development. The project’s proactive approach to sustainability positions it as an attractive prospect for those seeking long-term value and positive environmental and social outcomes.

The strategies are intrinsically linked to the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals, supporting key goals such as SDG 11 (sustainable cities and communities) and SDG 13 (climate action).

 By prioritizing sustainability in every facet of its design and operation, New Murabba will serve as a model for responsible urban development, inspiring similar initiatives across the Kingdom and beyond.