Kohler opens regional headquarters in Riyadh

Updated 47 sec ago

Arab News

December 17, 2024 09:00

Kohler Co., a global leader in kitchen and bath design and innovation, has opened its new regional headquarters in Riyadh. Led by David Kohler, chair and chief executive, this strategic move highlights Kohler’s commitment to supporting Saudi Arabia’s development and further advancing the Middle East market.

Kohler’s expansion to Riyadh headquarters exemplifies the company’s dedication to fostering growth in Saudi Arabia, with a focus on providing exceptional products and services to its customers — developers, architects, designers and end consumers. Through increased and extensive training programs, Kohler is committed to building a skilled workforce within the region, in alignment with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030.

David Kohler commented on the expansion, saying, “Opening our new regional headquarters in Riyadh is a significant step forward in our commitment to Saudi Arabia and the Middle East. We’re investing not only in the infrastructure to serve our partners and customers better, but also in local talent, resources, and innovative product solutions that align with the region’s ambitions and our company’s growth strategy.” David Kohler serves as Chair and CEO and represents the fourth generation of Kohler family leadership.

This expansion will support Kohler’s strategy to introduce more innovations — such as smart toilets and showers, captivating PVD faucet finishes, colors and new materials — across Saudi Arabia and the Middle East. Kohler has brought numerous advanced products to the Middle East, many of which combine technology with wellness. These solutions, designed to create multi-sensory experiences, incorporate controls for water, steam, sound, and light, elevating the home and hospitality environments.

About Kohler Co.

For more than 150 years, Kohler Co. has been a global leader in design and innovation, dedicated to providing gracious living through kitchen and bath products; luxury cabinetry, tile and lighting; distributed energy solutions and luxury hospitality experiences and major championship golf. Privately held Kohler Co. was founded in 1873 and is headquartered in Kohler, Wisconsin. The company also develops solutions to address pressing issues, such as clean water and sanitation, for underserved communities around the world to enhance the quality of life for current and future generations.

OSP launches ‘NovusCrete’ consortium to lead sustainable concrete innovation

Updated 5 min 41 sec ago

Arab News

December 17, 2024 08:54

OSP launches ‘NovusCrete’ consortium to lead sustainable concrete innovation

Updated 5 min 41 sec ago

Arab News

December 17, 2024 08:54

The Oil Sustainability Program has established the NovusCrete consortium, a global collaboration effort which will develop and accelerate the adoption of sustainable and durable saltwater concrete. With a focus on utilizing local resources, including innovative polymer-based materials, PP-fiber, recycled aggregates, special concrete admixtures and modified fine aggregates such as sand, NovusCrete seeks to reduce environmental impact while transforming the construction industry through increased resilience and sustainability.

Aligned with OSP’s commitment to advancing sustainable solutions for modern applications through innovation, NovusCrete will pioneer eco-friendly concrete solutions using saltwater and innovative polymer-based materials.

The consortium, comprising top industry leaders such as NEOM, represented by the design and construction sector, Saudi Investment Recycling Company, SIKA, and ClimateCrete Inc, will work closely together to enable the adoption of glass fiber reinforced polymer and other local materials in saltwater concrete. Led by OSP, the NovusCrete consortium will also develop standards and regulations that help support the facilitation and adoption of GFRP applications and other local materials in concrete. Furthermore, the consortium will promote sustainability in the building and construction industry by upcycling waste, extending the lifespan of buildings, and minimizing environmental impact from construction activities.

The NovusCrete consortium is supported by the American Concrete Institute, which contributes to the effort of this initiative through the work of their technical committees. Together, all parties involved will foster a construction landscape that prioritizes environmental stewardship and innovation.

Nokia and Aramco successfully achieve first 2.4 Tbps optical transmission

Updated 16 December 2024

Arab News

December 16, 2024 23:14

Nokia and Aramco successfully achieve first 2.4 Tbps optical transmission

Updated 16 December 2024

Arab News

December 16, 2024 23:14

Nokia and Aramco achieved the first-ever 2.4 Tbps “PSE-6s full card capacity” field implementation in Aramco’s operational network.

The implementation tested the 2.4 Tbps capacity of Nokia’s line cards powered by PSE-6s along with the fiber sensing capabilities of the Nokia PSE-6s chipset in Aramco’s demanding field environment. The deployment was executed on Aramco’s existing fiber network infrastructure over a dispersion shifted fiber route, showcasing a clear and seamless evolution path of Aramco’s current install base. This initiative is expected to further enhance the efficiency, capacity, and sustainability of Aramco’s optical network infrastructure.

Nokia’s PSE-6s, which enables 2.4 Tbps line cards, also demonstrated its full potential by delivering 6 x 400GE of client traffic over a WDM spectrum of only 300 GHz.

Nabil Nuaim, senior vice president of digital and information technology, Aramco, said: “Our collaboration with Nokia has assisted in enhancing our optical network infrastructure. This successful demonstration shows that our fiber network is well-equipped to handle the growing demand for high-capacity traffic securely, as we look to future-proof our operations for next-generation technologies.”

Carlo Corti, head of optical networks, Middle East and Africa at Nokia, said: “This field trial underscores our commitment to innovation and delivering cutting-edge technology to our customers.”

Abdul Latif Jameel Hospital celebrates 30 years

Updated 16 December 2024

Arab News

December 16, 2024 23:12

Abdul Latif Jameel Hospital celebrates 30 years

Updated 16 December 2024

Arab News

December 16, 2024 23:12

The Abdul Latif Jameel Hospital for Medical Rehabilitation celebrated its 30th anniversary, marking a profound social and health impact in the field of comprehensive medical rehabilitation, having served more than 125,000 patients. The celebration took place on Dec. 7 at the Shangri-La Hotel in Jeddah, showcasing the hospital’s historical milestones and key achievements.

The event was held under the patronage of Deputy Emir of Makkah province Prince Saud bin Mishaal bin Abdulaziz, and in the presence of Jeddah Gov. Prince Saud bin Abdullah bin Jalawi. It was attended by Hassan Jameel, deputy president and vice chairman of Abdul Latif Jameel, in addition to leaders from Abdul Latif Jameel Hospital, Abdul Latif Jameel, and prominent figures from the public and private sectors.

The Abdul Latif Jameel Hospital was established in 1994 and has built a legacy of achievements as the first private medical rehabilitation hospital in Saudi Arabia. With a state-of-the-art facility in Jeddah spanning 43,000 square meters, it houses eight wings with a capacity of 76 beds and offers a range of outpatient services.

The idea behind the hospital dates back to the early nineties when the late Abdul Latif Jameel suffered a stroke that severely impacted his well-being, prompting him to travel abroad to receive treatment. Upon his return, he sought to establish a specialized center for medical rehabilitation that would serve the people of Saudi Arabia and its residents. His son, Mohammed Jameel carried the torch after him and began the center’s construction, implementing it, and supervising its management.

Alesayi Electronics expands Hoover product range in KSA

Updated 16 December 2024

Arab News

December 16, 2024 23:09

Alesayi Electronics expands Hoover product range in KSA

Updated 16 December 2024

Arab News

December 16, 2024 23:09

Alesayi Electronics, a subsidiary of Alesayi Holding, has announced an enhanced partnership with global brand Hoover, to expand its product portfolio in the Saudi market. The partnership will introduce a diverse range of modern home appliances characterized by advanced technology, reaffirming the group’s commitment to delivering cutting-edge solutions to consumers in Saudi Arabia.

This agreement marks a milestone in a strategic partnership that began in 2014, during which Alesayi Electronics focused on distributing Hoover floorcare appliances in the Saudi market. This collaboration achieved remarkable success, with more than half a million units sold.

Hany Habashy, CEO of Alesayi Holding, said: “Strengthening our partnership with Hoover reflects our long-term strategy of building relationships with global partners who share our vision of excellence and innovation. This agreement aims not only to expand the product portfolio but also to empower Saudi consumers with access to advanced technologies that enhance quality of life and meet their evolving aspirations.”

David Winterbottom, TTI/Hoover president of floorcare for EMEA, said: “Our partnership with Alesayi Electronics underscores our commitment to solidifying our presence in one of the world’s most significant markets by providing technological solutions tailored to the growing needs of consumers. This agreement is not just about expanding our product range; it is a strategic step toward shaping the future of home solutions in Saudi Arabia through collaboration with a partner that possesses exceptional local expertise and vision.”

Rayan Alesayi, CEO of Alesayi Better Life, said: “Our partnership with Hoover reflects the vision of our late founder, Omar Kassim Alesayi — may he rest in peace — which is centered on providing innovative solutions to improve the quality of life. We take pride in continuing this journey by enhancing our product portfolio to meet the aspirations of consumers in Saudi Arabia, delivering a home experience driven by advanced technology that makes daily life easier and more comfortable.”

Since its establishment in 1998, Alesayi Electronics has consistently delivered innovative solutions designed to simplify consumers’ lives. The company follows a comprehensive business model that encompasses product supply, marketing, distribution, and effective sales management throughout the product lifecycle.

Hoover, founded in 1907 by inventor Murray Spangler, is a globally recognized brand in the home appliance sector. The company revolutionized the industry with the creation of the first vacuum cleaner and has continued its journey as a symbol of quality and innovation, offering products that merge high performance with practical design to meet the needs of households worldwide.

The agreement signing ceremony was held at the Alesayi Holding headquarters in Dubai, attended by Habashy, Winterbottom, and Rayan Alesayi. Mohammed Hashish, executive director of Alesayi Electronics, and Hanane Fariji, commercial director for the Middle East at TTI/Hoover, were also in attendance. This partnership represents a significant step in delivering enhanced quality-of-life solutions to consumers in the Kingdom.

Making Saudi Arabia’s leaders of the future: MBSC launches undergraduate programs

Zeger Degraeve, dean of MBSC

Updated 16 December 2024

Manal Al- Barakati

December 16, 2024 20:30

Making Saudi Arabia’s leaders of the future: MBSC launches undergraduate programs

Updated 16 December 2024

Manal Al- Barakati

December 16, 2024 20:30

RIYADH: Prince Mohammed Bin Salman College of Business and Entrepreneurship is set to break new ground by introducing its first undergraduate programs within the next one to two years.

This step will allow Saudi students to access a world-class business education locally, eliminating the need to travel abroad for elite academic opportunities.

“For a long time, Saudis who wanted top-tier business training had no choice but to go to the US or Europe,” said Zeger Degraeve, dean of MBSC. “With this program, we’re ensuring they can stay in the Kingdom while receiving an education on par with the best institutions in the world.”

This initiative coincides with a pivotal shift in the global business landscape, as the Middle East cements itself as a key driver of growth and innovation.

Degraeve highlighted the region’s rising significance, saying: “The future of business is here. Europe is stagnating, the US remains dynamic, but the Middle East is where the greatest opportunities lie. This region needs a business school that not only meets global standards but is also deeply rooted in its context to develop leaders who will define its future.”

The undergraduate programs will adopt MBSC’s distinctive approach, blending rigorous academics with practical leadership development. “Our focus is on creating leaders who think critically, act decisively, and create tangible value,” Degraeve said. “It’s about combining knowledge with the interpersonal and decision-making skills required to succeed in complex, collaborative environments.”

Currently, MBSC offers a range of graduate programs, including an Executive MBA and master’s degrees in finance and management. These programs have already delivered significant outcomes for graduates, with many doubling their salaries within three years of completing their studies. Additionally, MBSC has cultivated a vibrant culture of entrepreneurship, with several startups launched by its alumni making their mark across the Kingdom.

Degraeve said that this expansion is aligned with Saudi Vision 2030, a blueprint for transforming the Kingdom into a hub for education, innovation, and leadership.

“With our undergraduate programs, we’re not just giving students an alternative to studying abroad,” he said. “We’re building the foundation for a generation of leaders who will shape the Middle East as the next frontier for global business.”

As MBSC broadens its offerings, it aims to solidify Saudi Arabia’s standing in the global academic and economic landscape. “This is about more than education,” Degraeve said. “It’s about preparing the Kingdom’s future leaders to drive change from within and for the region.”

Kohler opens regional headquarters in Riyadh