flyadeal eyes 75,000 overseas Hajj pilgrims in 2025

flyadeal eyes 75,000 overseas Hajj pilgrims in 2025
From right, Steven Greenway, CEO of flyadeal; Ibrahim Al-Omar, director general of Saudia Group; Dr. Tawfiq Al-Rabiah, minister of Hajj and Umrah; and Rakan Alotaibi, director of Hajj and Umrah and commercial regulatory affairs at flyadeal, along with with the airline’s cabin crew.
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Updated 27 January 2025
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flyadeal eyes 75,000 overseas Hajj pilgrims in 2025

flyadeal eyes 75,000 overseas Hajj pilgrims in 2025

flyadeal, the fastest growing low-cost airline in the Kingdom and Middle East, expects to carry more than 75,000 pilgrims on dedicated international charters during this year’s Hajj season. The figure represents yet another significant milestone for flyadeal, which has been scaling up the number of overseas Hajj flights since 2023.

From 35,000 pilgrims flown by flyadeal into the Kingdom last year — up 35 percent from 2023 — the number is expected to more than double to 75,000 in 2025, with the airline operating additional widebody charters into Jeddah and Madinah, gateways to the holy city of Makkah.

flyadeal is also stepping up its year-round Umrah services, which will continue to operate from Turkiye, Iraq and Uzbekistan, with the UK, Thailand, India and countries in Africa and Central Asia set to be included for 2025.

The growth plans were announced during the 4th Hajj Conference and Exhibition that took place in Jeddah last week.

flyadeal joined sister companies Saudia and Saudi Ground Services under the umbrella of parent Saudia Group — this year’s strategic sponsor — for a joint exhibition stand promoting products and services to visiting Hajj committees, ministries and tour operators from around the world. 




Steven Greenway, CEO of flyadeal

Minister of Hajj and Umrah Dr.Tawfiq bin Fawzan Al-Rabiah, President of the General Authority of Civil Aviation Abdulaziz bin Abdullah Al-Duailej, and Director General of Saudia Group Ibrahim bin Abdulrahaman Al-Omar; were among the many visiting dignitaries.

Steven Greenway, CEO of flyadeal, said: “This year’s Hajj forum was a perfect opportunity to give visiting delegations and travel companies an insight into flyadeal’s Hajj preparations for 2025, our year-round Umrah plans, and exciting growth of our scheduled operations in the Middle East, Africa, Europe and South Asia over the next 12 months and beyond.

“Having operated two successful seasons of Hajj charters with 120 flights from 15 destinations across seven countries last year, we now turn to 2025 during which we expect to carry around 75,000 pilgrims as we bring in more widebody aircraft dedicated to our biggest ever international Hajj uplift. In addition, we are conducting more year-round Umrah flights as widebody aircraft enable us to operate from further afield including the UK, Thailand and India.

“Running a Hajj operation during an intense one month period every year is effectively like running a separate business from our day-to-day scheduled services. Our dedicated teams work tirelessly in coordination with our travel partners in the Kingdom and overseas to provide a unique end-to-end experience.”

Rakan Alotaibi, director of Hajj and Umrah and commercial regulatory affairs, flyadeal, added: “We signed a number of Hajj agreements with delegations last week followed by their visits to our Jeddah headquarters to learn more about flyadeal and our operations firsthand as we gear up with national pride for what promises to be an extremely busy and gratifying summer season carrying so many pilgrims to Saudi Arabia.”

“flyadeal remains committed to the very important, yet complex, annual Hajj movements for which we put in tremendous effort beyond expectations ensuring they run as smoothly as possible to support the dreams and aspirations of first-time Hajj pilgrims, many of whom are also first-time fliers.”

flyadeal was among a host of travel companies, including airlines, hotels, ground transport operators, agents and tour firms to showcase their products to delegates during the Jeddah event.


ROX Motor expands into Saudi Arabia with LEAP 2025 debut

ROX Motor expands into Saudi Arabia with LEAP 2025 debut
Updated 34 min 19 sec ago
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ROX Motor expands into Saudi Arabia with LEAP 2025 debut

ROX Motor expands into Saudi Arabia with LEAP 2025 debut

ROX Motor, a Chinese luxury new energy vehicle brand, officially entered the Saudi market with the debut of its luxury all-terrain SUV, ROX 01, at the LEAP 2025 exhibition. The company has already secured multiple orders, with sales now underway. In addition, ROX Motor, in partnership with the Laith Al-Obaidi Group, officially opened its first Saudi showroom in Riyadh, providing local customers with a more comprehensive and convenient car-buying experience. The brand’s flagship Saudi showroom on Khurais Road is set to open later this month.

Aligned with the global transition toward sustainable mobility, Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 initiatives present a unique market opportunity for ROX Motor to play a leading role in the country’s automotive future.

Jarvis Yan, co-founder and CEO of ROX Motor, said: “Our participation in LEAP marks just the beginning of our long-term commitment to the Saudi market. We’ve tailored our strategy to align with the country’s cultural landscape, consumer preferences, and regulatory framework, ensuring that our products and services are fully aligned with the local market’s demands. Looking ahead, we are excited to announce that we will be launching a new global model in the second half of this year, with plans to introduce one new model annually as part of our steady expansion strategy.”

This commitment is reflected in ROX 01, which integrates extended-range technology, offering zero emissions in electric mode and superior fuel efficiency in extended-range mode — perfectly aligning with Saudi Arabia’s sustainability goals. Its all-terrain capabilities enable seamless navigation across Saudi Arabia’s diverse landscapes, ranging from expansive deserts to rugged mountains, while its intelligent driving systems also provide an exceptional experience for urban and daily driving.

Further enhancing its dedication to Saudi customers, ROX Motor has integrated market-specific innovations, including Arabic voice interaction controls and climate-specific adaptations such as a high-capacity air-conditioning system, an electric drivetrain cooling system, and UV-blocking electric sunshades. 

Additionally, ROX Motor has signed MoUs with Stellar Gate Games, a joint venture between NetEase Games and Sandsoft, and COFE, a leading digital coffee platform, to jointly promote the development of ROX 01’s intelligent in-car cabin and outdoor lifestyles in Saudi Arabia, further demonstrating the brand’s focus on providing regionally customized solutions for customers across all markets.

Since its global expansion began in 2024, ROX Motor has exceeded 10,000 orders for the ROX 01 and established sales and service networks in over 20 countries, including Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kazakhstan, and the UAE, where the ROX 01 now ranks third in the luxury SUV segment, trailing only the Land Rover Defender and Range Rover. With a solid foundation and strategic vision, ROX Motor is poised for continued growth, delivering innovative, luxury, and adventure-ready solutions to customers in Saudi Arabia and beyond.


Ericsson showcases 5G robotic dog ‘Rocky’ at LEAP 2025

Ericsson showcases 5G robotic dog ‘Rocky’ at LEAP 2025
Updated 10 February 2025
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Ericsson showcases 5G robotic dog ‘Rocky’ at LEAP 2025

Ericsson showcases 5G robotic dog ‘Rocky’ at LEAP 2025

Ericsson is featuring its 5G-powered robotic dog, Rocky, as part of its technology demonstrations at LEAP 2025. The showcase highlights how robotics, combined with 5G, is enabling advancements in industrial automation and operational efficiency.

Rocky is equipped with advanced sensors, cameras, and private 5G connectivity, enabling tasks such as factory inspections, remote monitoring, and safety assessments. The integration of real-time data transmission and artificial intelligence enhances operational accuracy in challenging environments.

By leveraging the Ericsson Private 5G network, Rocky can also assist authorities with efficient emergency response and quality inspections of factories, airports, and other critical infrastructure. Ericsson Private 5G sets a new standard for network performance, enabling secure, reliable, high-speed 4G and 5G connectivity, powered by its robust dual-mode core and industry-leading radio portfolio. Ante Mihovilovic, vice president and head of networks at Ericsson Middle East and Africa, said: “Rocky demonstrates how private 5G networks can support advanced robotics to optimize industrial processes. By leveraging the high-speed, low-latency, and secure connectivity of Ericsson Private 5G, industries can adopt innovative solutions that enhance operational efficiency, improve safety, and enable real-time decision-making. Our participation at LEAP 2025 underscores Ericsson’s commitment to providing technology that meets the evolving demands of industrial automation and digital transformation.”

Ericsson’s presence at LEAP 2025 highlights its innovation leadership and commitment to Saudi Vision 2030. Under the theme “Step Forward: Discover the Unfolding Future,” Ericsson is showcasing advanced solutions, live demonstrations, and insights into the future of connectivity. 

With more than four decades of partnership in Saudi Arabia, Ericsson continues to collaborate with communication service providers, enterprises, and government entities to localize advanced technologies, nurture local talent, and support the Kingdom’s position in the global technology landscape.

Now in its fourth year, LEAP 2025 is bringing together more than 600 startups, 1,000 speakers, and over 1,800 exhibitors from around the world to explore the future of global digital advancement and innovation under the theme “Into New Worlds.”


Lucid Gravity SUV hits the market in Saudi Arabia

Lucid Gravity SUV hits  the market in Saudi Arabia
Updated 10 February 2025
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Lucid Gravity SUV hits the market in Saudi Arabia

Lucid Gravity SUV hits  the market in Saudi Arabia

Lucid Group, Inc., a maker of advanced electric vehicles, announced that the Lucid Gravity Grand Touring is now available to order in Saudi Arabia at Lucid locations and online via the Lucid Saudi Arabia website.

The Grand Touring delivers an exceptional combination of sophistication, versatility, interior space, and range, making it the perfect choice for discerning customers across the Kingdom, who can now select vehicle configurations.

“The Lucid Gravity is the world’s most advanced SUV and we are delighted to bring it to the Kingdom,” said Faisal Sultan, vice president and managing director Middle East at Lucid. “It provides a sophisticated space for up to seven adults, game-changing versatility, and an unparalleled driving experience. Best of all, it is available for order in Saudi Arabia via the company studios and website right now.”

Lucid Gravity is a groundbreaking new class of SUV, conceived from the ground up without compromise. Enabled by Lucid’s revolutionary technology, Lucid Gravity provides the interior space and practicality of a full-size SUV within the exterior footprint of a mid-size SUV.

The full Lucid Gravity product line includes Lucid Gravity Grand Touring, starting at SR487,715 ($130,000), equipped with dual electric motors delivering 828 horsepower and more than 700 km of projected range on a single charge.

Lucid Gravity Grand Touring can be configured in two exterior colors, including the launch color Aurora Green Metallic, and with a variety of wheel designs and sizes ranging from 22 and 23 inches. The standard Stealth Appearance features dark polished and painted finishes on exterior surfaces and trim. For those who prefer brighter trim, the optional Platinum Appearance applies a silver luster to exterior accents and trim.

The Lucid Gravity is offered with five interior themes, each incorporating sustainable and premium materials to evoke a different part of the world-renowned state of California’s iconic landscape. The Mojave theme, available in standard PurLuxe and premium PurLuxe versions, evokes the Mojave Desert with bio-PVC upholstery and black ash or walnut wood trim. 

The Yosemite PurLuxe Premium captures the spirit of Yosemite National Park with light, earth-toned upholstery and black and walnut wood accents.

The Tahoe and Ojai themes, both featuring Nappa leather and premium natural grain leather on heated and ventilated 18-way power front seats with massage, draw inspiration from Lake Tahoe and the Ojai Valley, respectively. All themes emphasize luxurious comfort and environmental consciousness.

The Lucid Gravity comes standard with two rows of seats for up to five occupants. An optional three-row version seats up to seven adults with ample space still available for cargo.


LG Electronics, Shaker Group mark 30 years of sustainable HVAC innovation

LG Electronics, Shaker Group mark 30 years of sustainable HVAC innovation
Updated 10 February 2025
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LG Electronics, Shaker Group mark 30 years of sustainable HVAC innovation

LG Electronics, Shaker Group mark 30 years of sustainable HVAC innovation

LG Electronics Saudi Arabia and Al-Hassan Ghazi Ibrahim Shaker Co., an importer, manufacturer and distributor of air conditioners and home appliances in the Kingdom, are celebrating their 30-year partnership, a journey marked by innovation and excellence in the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning industry.

This long-term alliance will continue to promote LG’s innovative HVAC solutions, and reinforce LG and Shaker’s position as a leading HVAC solution provider in the Kingdom. These advanced solutions include residential and commercial air conditioning and chiller systems. All are designed to emphasize “Made in Saudi,” sustainability, energy efficiency, and alignment with Saudi Vision 2030’s development goals.

The HVAC sector has undergone profound change in recent times, with artificial intelligence and Internet of Things boosting innovation in the field. Today, customers expect solutions to be more sustainable, efficient, and optimized for operations than ever before. 

LG and Shaker Group have been at the forefront of this evolution with advanced products like the LG Multi V I, which is expected to launch in the Kingdom later this year. LG Multi V I uses integrated AI algorithms to analyze real-time data and thereby optimize energy usage. This enables the product to be flexible enough to adjust cooling during peak hours as well as monitor room occupancy to ensure temperature levels are ideally set with minimal manual input. This makes it the premier option for consultants in charge of complex projects.

Pilwon Jung, MEA regional representative of LG Electronics, said: “Over the past three decades, LG has collaborated with Shaker to deliver the most advanced HVAC solutions to meet the evolving needs of our customers. Our commitment to driving growth, enhancing customer satisfaction, and contributing to the Kingdom’s sustainability goals remains stronger than ever.”

The partnership was launched in 2008 with the establishment of a joint venture factory in Riyadh that initially produced up to 750,000 units annually. This was a critical step in localizing production while addressing the Kingdom’s pressing need for HVAC solutions.

In recognition of the remarkable milestones achieved, LG and Shaker Group will be honoring key stakeholders who have played significant roles in realizing the partnership’s objectives. This move underscores their shared commitment to fostering a culture of excellence and acknowledging the invaluable contributions of their partners.

Mohammed Ibrahim Abunayyan, CEO of Shaker, said: “Our 30-year collaboration with LG Electronics Saudi Arabia is a testament to our shared commitment to innovation and contributing to the Kingdom’s prosperity. This enduring partnership reflects our joint dedication to delivering leading, cutting-edge, energy-efficient HVAC solutions that align with Saudi Arabia’s strategic vision while meeting the evolving needs of our valued consumers. Together, we continue to drive excellence, shaping a future of progress and sustainable development.”

As they celebrate this milestone, LG and Shaker Group reaffirm their commitment to promoting sustainable and energy-efficient HVAC solutions that align with Saudi Vision 2030 and contribute to a diversified economy.


Rotana TV appoints SPEX as exclusive advertising partner

Rotana TV appoints SPEX as exclusive advertising partner
Updated 10 February 2025
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Rotana TV appoints SPEX as exclusive advertising partner

Rotana TV appoints SPEX as exclusive advertising partner

Rotana TV has signed a strategic agreement with SPEX, one of Extend’s companies, officially appointing them as the exclusive advertising agency responsible for managing and selling advertising across Rotana TV channels. Under this partnership, SPEX will also oversee all digital advertising initiatives, ensuring a seamless and innovative approach to media monetization.

This collaboration marks a significant milestone in Rotana TV’s ongoing efforts to optimize its advertising strategy and maximize revenue potential across both television and digital platforms. By leveraging SPEX’s expertise in media sales and digital advertising solutions, Rotana TV aims to strengthen its market position and enhance the effectiveness of its advertising offerings.

“Rotana TV has always been at the forefront of media and entertainment in the region, and our partnership with SPEX is a testament to our commitment to excellence. With their expertise in advertising sales and digital media, we are confident that this collaboration will create new opportunities for advertisers and elevate the commercial potential of our platforms,” said Princess Lamia bint Majid Al-Saud, CEO of Rotana Media Group 

Sami Al-Rasheed, chairman of the board at SPEX, said: “This agreement marks a significant step in the advancement of the television and digital advertising landscape. Through our strategic approach and data-driven methodology, we aim to enhance advertisers’ experience and deliver highly efficient and impactful advertising solutions within a vast and influential network like Rotana.”