Al-Majalla at 45: A legacy of excellence, a future of innovation

Al-Majalla at 45: A legacy of excellence, a future of innovation
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Updated 27 February 2025
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Al-Majalla at 45: A legacy of excellence, a future of innovation

Al-Majalla at 45: A legacy of excellence, a future of innovation

The Middle East’s leading Arabic current affairs magazine Al-Majalla is celebrating its 45th anniversary, coinciding with the second anniversary of its digital transformation, which introduced a suite of new digital products, an upgraded bilingual website in Arabic and English, and enhanced social media and interactive digital platforms.

Since its establishment in 1980, Al-Majalla has held a unique position in the media landscape as a reliable source of news and bold intellectual discourse.

Over the decades, it has earned the trust of thought leaders and decision-makers, delivering in-depth, balanced analyses that explore and analyze the issues shaping our world.

Al-Majalla has conducted exclusive interviews with global and regional leaders, published groundbreaking investigative reports spanning politics, culture, economics, and technology, and

For more than four decades, Al-Majalla has provided unique coverage of pivotal events in regional and global history, led by a distinguished group of journalists and editors-in-chief who have left a significant mark on the media landscape, including Abdulrahman Al-Rashed, Othman Al-Omair, and Adel Al-Toraifi.

The magazine has also conducted exclusive interviews with prominent political figures who have contributed to shaping today’s political and cultural landscape. These figures include U.S. President Ronald Reagan, British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher, King Hussein of Jordan, and Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak.

Al Majalla attracted a distinguished group of writers, thinkers, and experts from around the world, including Nobel laureate Naguib Mahfouz, Syrian poet Nizar Qabbani, and Sudanese novelist Tayeb Salih.

Throughout its history, the magazine has been a trusted source for insightful perspectives and precise analyses on significant historical milestones.

Al-Majalla was among the first to recognize the Iranian politics, closely monitoring Iran-backed organizations and movements. It extensively covered the Iraqi invasion of Kuwait, being the first to report on the Kuwaiti government’s meeting in Saudi Arabia in 1990. The magazine also provided detailed exclusive coverage of Palestinian President Yasser Arafat’s departure from Beirut in 1982, uncovering the secret negotiations that led to his exit.

Since its relaunch two years ago, Al-Majalla has achieved significant milestones and secured exclusive interviews, reinforcing its prestigious status in the region and beyond. Among its key achievements was an exclusive report on a “ceasefire proposal” in Gaza, which gained widespread attention from major Arabic and international media outlets.

It also exclusively published the “full story” of former Syrian President Bashar Assad’s escape, revealing details never told before about the days leading to the fall of the Assad regime. Other widely covered investigative pieces included “top-secret” communications between Israel and the Assad regime and the Hamas-Fatah agreement on Gaza governance.

Jomana R. Alrashed, CEO of SRMG, reflected on Al-Majalla’s enduring legacy: “For over four decades, Al-Majalla has documented the transformations of the region and the world, staying at the forefront of unfolding events while maintaining a steadfast commitment to in-depth, credible, and accurate reporting. Its legacy stands as a testament to a clear editorial vision, upheld by an exceptional team of distinguished journalists and intellectuals, driven by unwavering passion and dedication.”

Speaking on Al-Majalla’s relaunch two years ago in a refreshed and modernized format, Alrashed highlighted the evolving role of media: “In today’s rapidly shifting media landscape, we must honor our strong heritage while embracing modern platforms and formats that resonate with the next generation of readers, leaders, and decision-makers. Our role extends beyond news reporting — we are a mirror to reality, a window into the future, and a bridge that connects generations politically, culturally, and socially.”

Beyond its journalistic achievements, the platform has been recognized for its visual storytelling and illustrative journalism, winning prestigious awards alongside major international media institutions like The New York Times, The Washington Post, and The Economist.

The transformation over the past two years has led to remarkable success. Page views have surged by 910 percent, daily visitors have increased by 714 percent, and monthly visitors have grown by 629 percent.

To continue to stay ahead in the digital era, Al-Majalla launched its talk show, Hadith Al-Majalla, featuring influential figures discussing key cover stories.

The magazine also hosted a panel discussion at the renowned Frontline Club in London, featuring top media, diplomats and experts.

Editor-in-Chief of Al-Majalla Ibrahim Hamidi said: “Today, we celebrate 45 years since the founding of Al-Majalla. This distinguished legacy, crafted with expertise and foresight by leading journalists and intellectuals, presents both an opportunity and a challenge for us. It is an opportunity to build upon this rich heritage with a modern, forward-thinking approach that resonates with the world today, and a challenge that motivates us to preserve, enrich, and elevate this legacy with the highest standards and ambitious goals.

“Over the past two years, in the age of the digital innovation, we have focused on delivering insightful, in-depth content, enhanced by elegant language and cutting-edge visual and interactive media, distributed across social platforms to reach a wide and diverse audience. Our mission is to serve as a dynamic bridge that connects our region to the world and unites generations. Just as Al-Majalla transformed magazine journalism more than four decades ago, we now aim to take competitiveness to new, uncharted heights.”


IBM and Scuderia Ferrari HP debut reimagined app

IBM and Scuderia Ferrari HP debut reimagined app
Updated 05 May 2025
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IBM and Scuderia Ferrari HP debut reimagined app

IBM and Scuderia Ferrari HP debut reimagined app

IBM and Scuderia Ferrari HP have introduced a newly reimagined mobile app experience designed to bring the passionate global fanbase of nearly 400 million Tifosi closer than ever to cars, drivers and races they love.

Now available in English and — for the first time — Italian, the app includes an all-new Race Center and Racing Insights built with IBM watsonx, delivering a more immersive experience. These AI-powered features bring fans even closer to all the Scuderia Ferrari HP action from race weekend and include:

• AI-generated race summaries: Post-race recaps of the Scuderia Ferrari HP team’s performance that are available within hours of a race’s conclusion. Using LLMs on watsonx, the team’s complex race data is transformed into compelling narratives that include reflections from the Scuderia Ferrari HP drivers and team principal.

• Post-race insights and data visualizations: dynamic visuals, created from technologies on watsonx, which allow fans to interact with and see post-race driver and car data including telemetry, weather, track conditions, session results, and car and tire strategies.

• Historical driver and team insights: analysis that provides fans with comparisons of key 2025 race moments to past Scuderia Ferrari HP race milestones including car, driver and track moments. These insights are generated by LLMs on watsonx, including IBM Granite, and are embedded within the AI-generated race summaries and other Scuderia Ferrari HP content.

Alongside Race Center, IBM and Scuderia Ferrari have launched new app features designed to deliver personalized and interactive fan experiences year-round. These include:

• Fan messages: allows fans to send messages directly to the Scuderia Ferrari HP team for the chance to be featured in key team communications including social media posts, team blogs, and more.

• Interactive fan polls: daily polls that offer fan voting on a range of Scuderia Ferrari HP topics including qualifying, race performances, and historical and favorite team moments.

• Iconic races: race summaries highlighting some of Ferrari’s most famous wins throughout the decades.

IBM and Scuderia Ferrari will continue rolling out new app features throughout 2025 to make the racing season even more exciting. By combining data and AI technologies with the team’s vast amounts of current and historical data, IBM and Scuderia Ferrari are working to reimagine the digital fan experience in ways that deepen the connection between Tifosi, F1 fans, and the world’s most renowned F1 racing team.

“IBM and Ferrari are bound by a shared commitment to progress, innovation and excellence,” said Jonathan Adashek, senior vice president of marketing and communications at IBM. “With AI, we’re creating a new blueprint for digital fan engagement that brings fans even closer to Scuderia Ferrari whether it’s race weekend or not. The app is built with the same data and analytics technologies used by IBM clients across industries to achieve enhanced customer experiences, help their employees reach new levels of productivity and make more informed, data-driven business decisions.”

“This app is about bringing all our fans closer to the heart of the racing world of Ferrari,” said Lorenzo Giorgetti, chief racing revenue officer. “With IBM’s cutting-edge AI technology and our shared commitment to innovation and excellence, we are creating a digital experience worthy of the Ferrari name.”


Visit Qatar, flynas sign MoU to strengthen bilateral tourism cooperation

Visit Qatar, flynas sign MoU to strengthen bilateral tourism cooperation
Updated 05 May 2025
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Visit Qatar, flynas sign MoU to strengthen bilateral tourism cooperation

Visit Qatar, flynas sign MoU to strengthen bilateral tourism cooperation

Visit Qatar signed a memorandum of understanding with flynas to boost travel between the Kingdom and Qatar, during its participation at Arabian Travel Market 2025 in Dubai.

The signing ceremony was attended by Abdulaziz Ali Al-Mawlawi, CEO of Visit Qatar, alongside senior officials from Visit Qatar. Representing flynas were Stefan Magiera, chief commercial officer, and Abdulelah Aleidi, vice president of sales.

Under the agreement, the two parties will work together to explore the launch of additional flights between Saudi Arabia and Qatar during major events and tournaments, including the FIFA Arab Cup Qatar 2025. The partnership will also see the implementation of joint marketing campaigns positioning Qatar as a premier destination for Saudi travelers.

This agreement builds on the strong collaborative foundation between Visit Qatar and flynas, particularly in enhancing air connectivity and implementing joint promotional campaigns during peak traveling seasons. Through this partnership, both parties will continue to provide seamless traveling experiences and boost tourist traffic between the two countries.


‘Mango Mania’ sweeps LuLu, with 119 varieties on offer

‘Mango Mania’ sweeps LuLu, with 119 varieties on offer
Updated 05 May 2025
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‘Mango Mania’ sweeps LuLu, with 119 varieties on offer

‘Mango Mania’ sweeps LuLu, with 119 varieties on offer

LuLu Hypermarkets across the Kingdom are hosting Mango Mania Festival — the biggest festival of its kind in Saudi Arabia celebrating the popular summer fruit.

The festival, officially launched by Consul General of India in Jeddah Fahad Ahmed Khan Suri, will run until May 10, offering a flavorful journey across borders with over 119 global varieties of mangoes sourced from more than 12 countries.

Leading the event are Saudi Arabia and India, contributing an impressive 24 and 60 mango varieties, respectively. Other participating countries adding their tropical treasures to the mix include Vietnam, Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, Yemen, Uganda, Kenya, Colombia, and Peru.

“This is more than just a fruit festival — it’s a cultural showcase,” said Suri. “India’s deep-rooted connection with the mango is well-known, and it’s wonderful to see LuLu bringing that legacy to Saudi Arabia, along with a global flavor palette. Mango Mania offers a delicious experience that bridges taste and tradition,” he added.

The festival highlights mangoes in every imaginable form — from fresh harvests to curated culinary experiences. Shoppers can expect an exciting lineup in the Hot Food and Cold Food counters, featuring innovative dishes such as mango chicken curry, mango fish curry, honey mango stuffed chicken breasts, and classic favorites like aamras (mango puree) with puri (deep-fried bread), mango pickles, and vegan mango smoothies with flaxseed. The dessert section is a tropical dream, showcasing mango pudding, mango cheesecake, mango mousse, mango pastries, offering something sweet for every palate.

Shehim Mohammed, director of LuLu Hypermarkets Saudi Arabia, said: “We’re thrilled to bring back Mango Mania, one of our most loved seasonal fests. It’s not just about showcasing variety — it’s about celebrating the health, flavor, and joy this fruit brings. We’re also proud to shine a spotlight on Saudi-grown mangoes, reinforcing our commitment to supporting local agriculture.”


Dar Wa Emaar launches $200m residential project in Dammam

Dar Wa Emaar launches $200m residential project in Dammam
Updated 05 May 2025
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Dar Wa Emaar launches $200m residential project in Dammam

Dar Wa Emaar launches $200m residential project in Dammam

Dar Wa Emaar Real Estate Investment and Development Company has announced the launch of its latest residential development, “Saraya Al-Sharq,” in partnership with the National Housing Company. The project involves an investment valued at SR750 million ($200 million) in Al-Wajeha destination, Dammam, as part of the company’s ongoing commitment to meeting the evolving needs of Saudi families and supporting the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 goal of increasing homeownership to 70 percent.

Spanning over 410,000 square meters, Saraya Al-Sharq offers 616 residential units, making it the newest addition to the acclaimed “Saraya” series by Dar Wa Emaar. The project has been designed in line with the highest construction and urban planning standards, providing four distinct unit models tailored to suit Saudi households’ diverse lifestyles and aspirations.

Strategically located near Riyadh Main Road and close to key landmarks such as King Fahd International Airport, hospitals, schools, and universities, the development offers residents integrated amenities, including retail and medical centers, mosques, dedicated walking paths, and lush green spaces, with 28 percent of the total area reserved for parks and landscaping, providing a holistic and elevated living experience designed for modern family life.

Saraya Al-Sharq stands out for its diverse range of spacious residential units, ranging from 200 to 360 square meters. The development offers four thoughtfully designed unit models, including three models with four-bedroom and one five-bedroom options, catering to various family needs. The project also features energy-efficient lighting, expansive glass façades that maximize natural light, and a selection of premium materials that reflect attention to detail and construction excellence.

Amr Fakhry Elfeky, executive director of development and investment at Dar Wa Emaar, said: “The Saraya Al-Sharq project is a natural progression of our successful ventures in the Eastern Province, executed in partnership with NHC, including landmark developments such as Saraya Al-Bahar and Saraya Al-Ghoroub. This underscores the profound trust placed in Dar Wa Emaar by both our clients and NHC. The project further solidifies our enduring commitment to meeting the dynamic needs of the real estate market over nearly two decades through the delivery of innovative, high-quality projects that exceed customer expectations in terms of design, construction standards, and integrated amenities.”

Saraya Al-Sharq creates a fully integrated community to foster growth and prosperity. In collaboration with several financial institutions, it offers innovative financing solutions to facilitate homeownership for citizens. The project targets a wide range of potential homeowners, with prices starting at SR797,000, making the homeownership process more flexible and seamless.

Since 2007, Dar Wa Emaar has maintained its leadership in the real estate market by developing thousands of residential units across various regions of the Kingdom. Through its diverse projects, the company contributes to enhancing the quality of life by addressing the varied needs of citizens and residents. The company plays a crucial role in bridging the housing gap and driving sustainable growth within the Kingdom’s real estate sector.


SOUEAST showcases effortless mobility in test drive event

SOUEAST showcases effortless mobility in test drive event
Updated 04 May 2025
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SOUEAST showcases effortless mobility in test drive event

SOUEAST showcases effortless mobility in test drive event

During the inaugural Global EASE DAY 2025, Chinese automaker SOUEAST successfully held its first global media test drive event “EASE Experience” in Shanghai. Designed to showcase the brand’s multi-scenario urban mobility solutions, the event highlighted the stylish, comfort, and warm-tech of SOUEAST models.

Global media and influencers praised the lineup for its seamless integration of innovation, performance, and urban adaptability.

The “EASE Experience” test drive immersed participants in meticulously crafted urban and outdoor simulations.

SOUEAST’s latest models — S09, S07, S06 and the hybrid S06 DM — demonstrated their versatility through dynamic driving challenges.

From high-speed acceleration to different terrain, each model underscored SOUEAST’s commitment to redefining EASE, intelligent urban mobility.

S09: The pinnacle of performance

Positioned as a D-segment smart premium SUV, the S09 embodies SOUEAST’s pinnacle of design, technology, and performance.

The model is 4,858 mm in length, 1,925 mm in width, and 1,780 mm in height, with a 2,850-mm wheelbase, offering a spacious 7-seat layout, ideal for both city commutes and family trips.

With its sleek profile, U-shaped grille, and LED lighting system, the S09 exudes sophistication.

Inside, ergonomic eco-friendly seats with heating/ ventilation functions pair with a 10.25-inch LCD dashboard and 15.6-inch console screen, blending luxury with smart technology.

During the cross-axle test, the S09 demonstrated impressive off-road capability.

Equipped with an intelligent 4WD system, it continuously monitors tire grip and vehicle posture in real time.

When the right front wheel was suspended, the system responded instantly, allowing the vehicle to remain steady without any body sway.

On the roller section, the 2.0T high-power engine paired with an 8AT allowed the S09 to maintain smooth and linear power delivery even over uneven surfaces.

The vehicle’s response remained steady and resilient.

“Drivers can confidently control the throttle rhythm, there’s no shaking in the cabin — the entire process feels remarkably fluid and comfortable,” said an experienced automotive media outlet.

S07: Urban intelligence meets futuristic style

Targeting urban youth, the C-segment S07 merges futuristic aesthetics with smart functionality. Its “starry sky” grille, LED daytime running lights, and spacious cabin position it as a trendsetter in urban mobility.

Dual 12.3-inch connected screens, a Qualcomm Snapdragon 8155 chip, and multi-language voice control ensure intuitive interaction.

The driver-centric cockpit features six-way electric seats with memory settings.

In the slalom test, the S07 exhibited precise handling during rapid, continuous steering inputs, supported by well-matched tires with strong grip.

“We could effortlessly control the steering inputs. Even during quick left-right transitions. The cabin remained well-balanced, while the tires delivered detailed feedback on road interaction,” the tester said.

S06 and S06 DM: Dynamic edge for urban stylish creators

The S06 series caters to urban youth seeking sporty aesthetics and practicality.

The hybrid S06 DM adds electrified performance, combining efficiency with thrilling power.

Aggressive front fascia, R20 alloy wheels, and a panoramic sunroof emphasize its athletic character.

The S06 DM’s 0–100 km/h acceleration and deceleration seamlessly blend power and smoothness.

At launch, the vehicle is driven primarily by the electric motor, delivering a smooth, quiet output — with virtually no mechanical noise in the cabin.