HVAC leader Rheem marks 100 years with Saudi expansion

Renowned for its reliability and innovation, Rheem has earned the trust of leading developers, contractors, and homeowners across the globe. Supplied
Renowned for its reliability and innovation, Rheem has earned the trust of leading developers, contractors, and homeowners across the globe. Supplied
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Updated 27 February 2025
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HVAC leader Rheem marks 100 years with Saudi expansion

HVAC leader Rheem marks 100 years with Saudi expansion

As Rheem celebrates its 100th anniversary this year, the company is reflecting on a century of innovation, technological advancements and global expansion. Established in 1925, Rheem has become a world leader in heating, cooling, and water heating solutions, providing reliable and energy-efficient systems to customers across the globe. With a strong presence in more than 50 countries, Rheem’s journey has been marked by a relentless pursuit of excellence, and this milestone year underscores its commitment to the future.

Rheem established its regional headquarters in Saudi Arabia, solidifying its investment in the Middle East and demonstrating the company’s commitment to fostering innovation and local talent in the Kingdom. Rheem’s presence in Saudi Arabia is a key in its global expansion plans, ensuring the delivery of world-class HVAC solutions to one of the most rapidly growing markets in the region.

At the core of Rheem Middle East’s expansion is Rheem Saudi Arabia and the launch of its cutting-edge Innovation and Learning Center in Riyadh. This state-of-the-art facility not only showcases Rheem’s latest technologies but also serves as a training ground for the next generation of Saudi professionals. Through its comprehensive training programs, Rheem is empowering young Saudis with essential skills, aligning with the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 goals of local talent development and economic diversification. Rheem aims to create opportunities for Saudi nationals, enhancing their technical expertise and leadership skills in an industry vital to the Kingdom’s infrastructural and economic progress. This strategic investment in human capital echoes Vision 2030’s emphasis on building a skilled, competitive workforce that can drive future growth.

Going further, as part of its commitment to Vision 2030, Rheem is focused on playing a key role in advancing Saudi Arabia’s goals of diversification and sustainability. By providing cutting-edge HVAC solutions, Rheem supports the Kingdom’s objectives of reducing energy consumption and promoting eco-friendly technologies. The company’s focus on innovation and sustainability aligns with Vision 2030’s pillar of environmental responsibility, as Rheem strives to contribute to the Kingdom’s shift toward a greener future.

Rheem’s century-long legacy is built on a foundation of innovation, quality, and sustainability, which has been recognized globally through numerous awards. The company has consistently been lauded for its energy-efficient technologies and its role in advancing sustainable HVAC solutions, from being awarded for the best-in-class product innovation to receiving accolades for outstanding customer service.

As Rheem approaches its 100th anniversary, the company looks back on decades of strong partnerships and satisfied clients. Renowned for its reliability and innovation, Rheem has earned the trust of leading developers, contractors, and homeowners across the globe. 

The company remains focused on its mission of innovation and global growth. The establishment of the regional headquarters and ILC in Saudi Arabia signals Rheem’s continued commitment to shaping the future of the HVAC industry in Saudi Arabia and across the globe.


Saudi Signage & Labelling Expo attracts record visitors

Saudi Signage & Labelling Expo attracts record visitors
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Saudi Signage & Labelling Expo attracts record visitors

Saudi Signage & Labelling Expo attracts record visitors

The second edition of the Saudi Signage and Labelling Expo, co-located with the Saudi Paper and Packaging Expo, drew thousands of professionals from across the signage, labelling, paper and packaging value chain, from May 20-22 at the Riyadh International Convention Center.

“In the second year, the event has been an encouraging reflection of the market’s pace and direction as seen in the activity and engagement on the busy exhibition floor. Cross-border conversations, live demonstrations and the ongoing deal-making we’ve seen in just the first two days demonstrate the growing strength and maturity of Saudi Arabia’s signage, labelling, paper and packaging landscape,” said Muhammed Kazi, senior vice president — construction, dmg events.

More than 150 regional and international exhibitors highlighted new product lines and machinery, including innovations in UV printing, 3D systems, LED displays and wayfinding technologies, providing buyers with an opportunity to choose the right products, services, systems and solutions based on their needs.

One of the exhibitors, ProNext, in collaboration with PRO TECHnology, unveiled next-generation UV, direct-to-object and food-grade 3D printing solutions, tailored to businesses looking to elevate both creative output and technical precision. “We are leveraging Saudi Signage and Labelling Expo as a platform to introduce three of our most advanced printing solutions to the Saudi market,” said Jamal Maraqa, managing director, PRO TECHnology. “This includes a 360-degree object printer from the US capable of producing up to 20,000 items a day, a newly launched flatbed printer making its Middle East debut and a specialized food printer designed for chocolates, cakes and bakery products, showcasing the diverse possibilities within the printing landscape.”

Showcasing complementary capabilities in the signage space, Riyadh-based PHC presented its live signage and wayfinding solutions at the event, drawing on a portfolio of more than 1,500 completed projects that continue to shape navigation across the Kingdom’s public spaces, retail centers and transport hubs.

Elsewhere on the floor, European player Domino Sign showcased advanced sign-making equipment and LED systems that combine French engineering with Korean precision, supporting efficient branding across sectors. 

Building on this focus on technical advancement, another Saudi exhibitor National Signage Industrial Company and its subsidiary SCREEN World unveiled the country’s first LED assembly line, highlighting their locally manufactured solutions, from architectural signage and traffic systems to billboard structures and transparent LED displays.

As businesses in Saudi Arabia place greater emphasis on environmental responsibility, visitors at the event explored sustainable materials, packaging solutions and eco-conscious production processes.

Chinese company Anhui Angran Green Technology presented green materials for signage and packaging, designed to reduce environmental impact across the supply chain by offering recyclable substrates and energy-efficient processes that appeal to sustainability-minded buyers. Another exhibitor, CMYK Print Solutions offered locally available, advanced printing technologies that align with sustainable practices. Digital Star Machinery and Equipments complemented this by showcasing automated printing and packaging systems engineered to reduce material waste and improve energy efficiency, reinforcing the event’s focus on practical, eco-conscious solutions.

Henan Jianwei Paper from China displayed a variety of food-grade, eco-friendly paper products that meet international sustainability benchmarks. Meanwhile, another Chinese company, Jiangxi Hemeng Technology, promoted environmentally responsible packaging solutions focused on customization and low-waste production. Suzhou Xiangyuan New Materials, which operates a green-certified factory in China, rounded out the sustainable showcase with chemical and signage materials produced through cleaner manufacturing methods.

With key discussions across the exhibition floor, the event has positioned itself as a hub for business growth, technical collaboration and dialogue across the signage, labelling, paper and packaging communities.


Eram Holdings gets B+/ BB+ rating from S&P

Eram Holdings gets B+/ BB+ rating from S&P
Updated 1 min 44 sec ago
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Eram Holdings gets B+/ BB+ rating from S&P

Eram Holdings gets B+/ BB+ rating from S&P

Eram Holdings, a private conglomerate headquartered in Saudi Arabia, announced its B+ and BB+ Saudi national credit rating, with a stable outlook, from Standard and Poor’s. This rating action reflects external validation of the company’s excellent track record and future growth potential in the Kingdom and beyond, while underscoring its strategic commitment to diversified financing in order to build up its business in a sustainable manner.

Established in the 1990s, Eram Holdings operates across five business verticals globally from its Saudi Arabian headquarters. Its subsidiaries have a 95 percent client retention rate and cater to major companies across oil and gas, petrochemicals, utilities, airports, maritime and for high-profile giga-projects in the region. The company has gained an enviable reputation for being a preferred vendor for specialized technical services, a leading travel management company in the region, a rapidly expanding healthcare business, and for launching initiatives in support of the national vision for the development of import substitute products and services in Saudi Arabia. The subsidiary company involved in R&D and manufacturing exports Saudi-made power electronics products such as industrial grade UPS, battery chargers, frequency converters, and customized solar solutions for mission-critical applications.

This financial transformation and shift in Eram’s funding will attract strategic partnerships with global companies and financial institutions, providing access to syndicated loan, sukuk and private placement markets, and enabling it to facilitate expansion across key regional markets.

“Our company has been in a steady growth mode and we are now entering a transformative phase to better support our clients and capitalize on expanding regional opportunities. We have set a combined target of achieving 28-35 percent CAGR growth by 2028. 

“As Saudi Arabia seeks greater global integration, through its Vision 2030 initiatives, hosting Expo 2030 and World Cup 2034, Eram is uniquely positioned to support these national milestones. 

“This rating is a testament to the diligent efforts of the Eram team and our dedication to our clients,” said Dr. Siddeek Ahamed, chairman and managing director. 

“We are excited about this next phase of our strategic expansion.”

“Lonmile and its affiliates have supported Eram in achieving this milestone credit rating over the last 12 months. We are thrilled to support Eram as it makes transformative steps from a private company to a firm with a public credit rating. Eram’s foothold in Saudi Arabia and across the GCC, in multiple industrial sectors, make this a very exciting time for the firm, as it continues to expand its reach and scale at pace,” said Naveen Ayyaril, partner at Lonmile.


SAB partners with IDEMIA to launch innovative card activation solution

SAB partners with IDEMIA to launch innovative card activation solution
Updated 26 May 2025
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SAB partners with IDEMIA to launch innovative card activation solution

SAB partners with IDEMIA to launch innovative card activation solution

Saudi Awwal Bank has become the first bank in the Kingdom to implement IDEMIA Secure Transactions’ “Tap to Activate” solution. This initiative is part of SAB’s commitment to enhancing customer transactions and providing a seamless and secure banking experience.

The “Tap to Activate” solution will integrate both physical and digital payment experiences, allowing their customers to efficiently activate new payment cards by simply tapping on their smartphone. 

The service’s robust authentication protocols allow for a secure, convenient, and hassle-free process that ensures that only the customer can activate their card, eliminating the need for ATMs or phone banking.

Bandar Al-Gheshayan, chief wealth and personal banking officer at SAB, said: “SAB is proud to launch the innovative ‘Tap to Activate’ solution in the Kingdom, reaffirming our commitment to secure and seamless banking experiences. 

By leveraging cutting-edge technology and our longstanding partnership with IDEMIA Secure Transactions, we continue to meet the evolving needs of our customers. 

This initiative enhances convenience, supports the Kingdom’s broader digital transformation goals, and sets new standards in customer experience.”

Serigne Dia, vice president of payment services, Middle East and Africa, IDEMIA Secure Transactions, said: “We are excited to strengthen our partnership with SAB through the launch of the innovative ‘Tap to Activate’ solution. In today’s era of convenience, simplifying the user experience has never been more crucial. SAB’s keen understanding of evolving consumer needs and market trends exemplifies their customer-centric and forward-thinking approach. By moving beyond the physical card and entrusting IDEMIA Secure Transactions with a digital solution, SAB affirms the high-quality standards that we are trusted to deliver.”

SAB and IST share a longstanding partnership, having previously collaborated on eco-friendly rPVC payment cards for the bank’s customers and exclusive premium metal cards for its high-net-worth clients. This latest venture underscores their shared commitment to innovation and customer-centric financial solutions.

SAB remains at the forefront of driving innovation and advancing digital infrastructure, fully aligned with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 goals of building a robust and secure digital economy. By harnessing cutting-edge technologies and introducing pioneering secure banking solutions, SAB continues to play a vital role in transforming the financial sector.


Saudi Warehousing & Logistics Summit returns for second edition

Saudi Warehousing & Logistics Summit returns for second edition
Updated 26 May 2025
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Saudi Warehousing & Logistics Summit returns for second edition

Saudi Warehousing & Logistics Summit returns for second edition

The Saudi Warehousing and Logistics Expo has returned to the Riyadh International Convention and Exhibition Center, running from May 27–29. Taking place under the patronage of the Ministry of Transport and Logistic Services, the event plays a central role in supporting the Kingdom’s logistics transformation. With the sector projected to reach $15 billion by 2030, the expo provides a timely platform for stakeholders to align priorities, explore new solutions and contribute to national development objectives under Vision 2030. Forming a central part of the exhibition is the Saudi Warehousing and Logistics Summit, returning for its second edition. 

The CPD-certified program brings together public and private sector leaders and service providers to engage in constructive dialogue, share practical insights and address the sector’s evolving needs. In line with the ambitions of the National Industrial Development and Logistics Program to position the Kingdom as a global logistics hub, the summit offers a strategic platform to align on priorities and support the growth of a sustainable, agile and internationally competitive logistics landscape.

“Saudi Warehousing and Logistics Summit returns as an essential meeting ground for leaders shaping the future of supply chain, warehousing and logistics in the Kingdom,” said Muhammed Kazi, senior vice president — construction, dmg events. “By bringing together a broad spectrum of voices, the summit plays a key role in guiding industry strategies aligned with Saudi Arabia’s growth ambitions for the warehousing and logistics industry.”

This year’s summit agenda is built around seven key pillars: transformation, resilience, collaboration, generative AI, customer centricity and ESG. Speakers will explore practical approaches to streamlining operations, expanding warehousing capacity, building risk-resilient supply chains and adopting AI to meet rising customer and market expectations. With logistics playing an increasingly strategic role in economic diversification and trade facilitation, the summit will also highlight the need for stronger cross-industry collaboration and investment in talent.

“Saudi Warehousing and Logistics Summit creates space for strategic and data-driven engagement across sectors. I look forward to sharing the stage with fellow industry leaders to address real challenges, share success stories and insights and develop a shared understanding of what’s needed to move forward,” said Ali Hakami, chief supply chain and procurement officer at Hana Water, and a key speaker at the summit.

The speaker lineup features senior leaders and decision-makers from across the ecosystem, including Mutasim Al-Olayan, strategic planning director, Ministry of Transport and Logistic Services; Alaa Banbelh, director of new logistics program, Ministry of Transport and Logistic Services; Hala H. Alhuraibi, aviation and logistics director, Ministry of Investment; Abdullah Munif Al-Munif, vice president for commercial business, Saudi Ports Authority; Sami Almoghirah, logistics director, Special Integrated Logistics Zone Company; Adeel Abdullah A. Alsharif, director of materials and logistics, Tahakom; and Wouter Nijland, master planning and development director, Matarat, among others. 

A dedicated case study will be delivered by Michael Stockdale, group head of supply chain and logistics, Red Sea Global, highlighting the application of strategic supply chain design and sustainability principles. One of the sessions, “Ensuring Future Readiness: Building an Efficient and Resilient Supply Chain,” prioritizes discussions on striking the right balance between performance and cost in a resilient and efficient supply chain. 

The Saudi Warehousing and Logistics Summit highlights the Kingdom’s focus on logistics as a key enabler of economic growth and trade connectivity, contributing directly to Vision 2030 outcomes.


Abdul Latif Jameel, Uber sign MoU to transform urban mobility

Abdul Latif Jameel, Uber sign MoU to transform urban mobility
Updated 26 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.