Rotana Channels, Alibaba Cloud to advance Arabic automatic speech recognition

Rotana Channels, Alibaba Cloud to advance Arabic automatic speech recognition
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Updated 04 March 2025
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Rotana Channels, Alibaba Cloud to advance Arabic automatic speech recognition

Rotana Channels, Alibaba Cloud to advance Arabic automatic speech recognition

Rotana Channels has signed a memorandum of understanding with Alibaba Cloud, the digital technology and intelligence backbone of Alibaba Group, to enhance Automatic Speech Recognition technology for Arabic languages. 

This collaboration aims to focus on fine-tuning ASR capabilities for two key categories: Egyptian dialect and Khaliji Arabic, underscoring Rotana Channels’s commitment to innovation in Arabic-language content and the region’s technological advancement.

As part of the agreement, Alibaba Cloud will partner with Rotana Channels to co-develop an advanced Arabic Automatic Speech Recognition model by leveraging Alibaba Cloud’s  trustworthy cloud-based AI technology and Rotana Channels’s industry expertise in Arabic languages. 

This advanced solution will revolutionize how Arabic speech is recognized and processed, catering to the linguistic diversity and cultural richness of the Arabic-speaking world. In addition, Alibaba Cloud and Rotana Channels will establish a distribution partnership for the Middle East and North Africa region, ensuring the delivery of cutting-edge ASR solutions tailored to the region’s specific needs.

As a leading cloud service provider, Alibaba Cloud will also assist Rotana Channels in transitioning its video archive to the cloud, providing a comprehensive and scalable end-to-end solution tailored to Rotana Channels's needs leveraging Alibaba Cloud’s secure, scalable and robust cloud infrastructure.

Furthermore, Alibaba Cloud will provide Rotana Channels with access to its cutting-edge film restoration service, leveraging advanced deep learning models. 

This collaboration aims to revitalize classic Arabic films and preserve cultural heritage for future generations.

Princess Lamia bint Majid, CEO of Rotana Media Group, commented: “This partnership with Alibaba Cloud marks a significant step in advancing Arabic-language media through cutting-edge AI solutions. As a leader in content production, Rotana Channels remains committed to integrating the latest technologies that enhance audience experiences and support the digital transformation of the industry. By harnessing AI-powered Automatic Speech Recognition and cloud-based solutions, we are not only preserving the rich linguistic and cultural heritage of the Arabic language but also setting new standards for accessibility and engagement in media production.”

Eric Wan, general manager of the Middle East, Turkiye and Africa, at Alibaba Cloud Intelligence, expressed his enthusiasm about the collaboration, stating: “We are thrilled to announce our collaboration with Rotana Channels through this memorandum of understanding. 

“This collaboration underscores our commitment to supporting the digital transformation of the media industry in the Middle East. 

“By leveraging Alibaba Cloud's advanced technologies and innovative AI-powered cloud solutions, we aim to enhance Rotana Channels’ content delivery and audience engagement, ultimately driving value for their operations and elevating audiences’ experience.”

This strategic collaboration highlights Rotana Channels’s leading role in advancing digital innovation within the media and entertainment industry. 

By integrating advanced technologies with Rotana’s vast expertise in Arabic content production, the partnership is poised to deliver high-quality, innovative solutions that meet the evolving demands of the region's audience.


Resecurity joins US-UAE Business Council to advance cybersecurity collaboration across region

Resecurity joins US-UAE Business Council to advance cybersecurity collaboration across region
Updated 55 min 20 sec ago
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Resecurity joins US-UAE Business Council to advance cybersecurity collaboration across region

Resecurity joins US-UAE Business Council to advance cybersecurity collaboration across region

Resecurity, a US-based leader in cybersecurity and threat intelligence, has officially joined the US-UAE Business Council, reinforcing its long-term commitment to the Middle East and Gulf region. This strategic partnership will accelerate cybersecurity collaboration and support the region’s digital transformation efforts.

The US-UAE Business Council is the premier organization dedicated to strengthening commercial ties between the US and the UAE. Through high-level engagement with government and industry leaders, it fosters innovation, investment, and strategic partnerships across key sectors, including technology, energy, defense, and cybersecurity.

“We are delighted to welcome Resecurity to the US-UAE Business Council,” said Danny Sebright, president of the council. “Resecurity brings deep expertise in cyberthreat intelligence and digital risk management. Their involvement will greatly contribute to our technology-focused initiatives and help advance cybersecurity resilience throughout the region.”

Resecurity has been rapidly expanding its footprint in the Middle East, actively working with governments and critical infrastructure providers to mitigate cyberthreats, protect digital assets, and strengthen regional cybersecurity frameworks.

“Our membership in the US-UAE Business Council underscores our strategic vision for the region,” said Gene Yoo, CEO of Resecurity. “The UAE is a global leader in digital innovation, and we’re honored to contribute our expertise to support its vision for a secure and resilient digital future.”

Founded in 2016, Resecurity provides an end-to-end cybersecurity platform focused on threat intelligence, endpoint protection, and digital risk management. Recognized among the fastest-growing cybersecurity firms in Los Angeles by Inc. Magazine, the company has built a global reputation for data-driven intelligence and early breach detection.

Resecurity also maintains key partnerships with global security and defense organizations, including the World Economic Forum’s Cybercrime Atlas, InfraGard National Members Alliance, AFCEA, NDIA, FS-ISAC, and multiple American Chambers of Commerce.

Its distinguished advisory board includes:

  • Maj. Gen. Richard M. “Dick” Lake (USMC-Ret.)
  • Darrell M. Blocker, former deputy director, CIA Counterterrorist Center
  • Lt. Gen. (Dr.) Rajesh Pant, former national cybersecurity coordinator, India
  • Rear Adm. Teisuke Hayano (Ret.), former director of intelligence, JMSDF

This strategic engagement with the US-UAE Business Council marks a new chapter in Resecurity’s efforts to support cybersecurity development in the GCC region and beyond.

For further information, visit https://www.resecurity.com/


Mobily achieves fastest response time for online gaming, live streaming, and video calling

Mobily achieves fastest response time for online gaming, live streaming, and video calling
Updated 13 May 2025
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Mobily achieves fastest response time for online gaming, live streaming, and video calling

Mobily achieves fastest response time for online gaming, live streaming, and video calling

Etihad Etisalat Company, known as Mobily, has announced that it ranks first among Saudi telecom companies in response time for online gaming, live streaming, and video interactions. This recognition is based on reports issued by global platforms that measure latency and digital performance.

Nezar Banabeela, Mobily CEO, said: “We are proud of this achievement, which is one of the outcomes of Mobily’s continued investments in enhancing its digital infrastructure. These efforts have successfully reduced latency, enabling our customers to engage in real-time digital experiences and enjoy improved service quality that aligns with the world’s best practices.”

He added: “Mobily remains committed to advancing and enhancing its services by offering the latest technologies and solutions. Fast video loading and real-time interaction are essential for customer satisfaction and maintaining a presence on live-streaming platforms.”

To mark this milestone, Mobily launched a campaign titled “A leading Network,” inviting customers to enjoy low latency on its network and leverage cloud-based applications and IoT services for greater productivity and more efficient business operations.

Mobily’s reduced latency has enhanced user experiences in multiplayer gaming and video-on-demand streaming on mobile networks. It has also enabled seamless remote work environments, supporting smooth virtual meetings and empowering organizations to make swift decisions on urgent matters.

Moreover, Mobily’s ultra-low latency network is unlocking new possibilities across key sectors, including healthcare, education, business, entertainment, and finance. The financial sector, in particular, has been able to enhance customer experiences by accelerating digital services, delivering greater value with improved efficiency and lower costs, while also fostering continuous innovation and adaptability to evolving customer needs.

Video calling and gaming applications demand latency levels under 30 milliseconds in standard operating conditions to ensure data accuracy. Mobily’s network also offers high upload speeds suitable for video conferencing, cloud backups, file sharing, and social media content creation.

Mobily continues to invest in its digital infrastructure to strengthen Saudi Arabia’s position as a regional and global digital hub, recognized for innovation and technology excellence.


Lulu’s ‘Australia Week’ showcases growing bilateral trade

Lulu’s ‘Australia Week’ showcases growing bilateral trade
Updated 13 May 2025
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Lulu’s ‘Australia Week’ showcases growing bilateral trade

Lulu’s ‘Australia Week’ showcases growing bilateral trade

Lulu Retail has officially launched “Australia Week 2025” across all its stores in Saudi Arabia, celebrating the strong partnership between Saudi Arabia and Australia in food security and trade. 

The event was inaugurated at Lulu’s Diplomatic Quarter branch in Riyadh by Australian Ambassador to Saudi Arabia Mark Donovan, in the presence of Shehim Mohammed, director of LuLu Hypermarkets Saudi Arabia, senior officials from the Australian Embassy, and top executives from Lulu.

Running until May 17, Australia Week 2025 showcases more than 960 high-quality Australian products from 129 leading brands. Shoppers can explore a curated selection of premium meats, fresh fruit and vegetables, dairy, frozen items, canned goods, and health-oriented foods. This week-long event highlights Australia’s reputation for clean, green, and sustainable food production.

The initiative coincides with Australia’s participation in the Saudi Food Show and the in-store promotions are designed to complement Australia’s broader market engagement and deepen trade links with Middle Eastern markets.
“In Australia, we value our close relationship with Saudi Arabia,” Donovan said. 

Australia Week is a great opportunity to introduce our premium products to Saudi consumers. Lulu Retail is a strategic partner in this effort, and we are proud to present this diverse selection of Australian products to their customers.”

Mohammed added: “At Lulu, we are committed to offering a rich and diverse shopping experience to customers in Saudi Arabia. Australia Week is part of that commitment. Through our partnership with Australia, we are able to provide a selection of high-quality products that align with Saudi tastes and nutritional needs. We are excited to share these exceptional items with our customers.”

Bryony Hilless, Australian consul general to Dubai and Austrade general manager for the Middle East, said: “As the Middle East’s population grows and consumers increasingly demand high-quality and reliable food and beverages, Australia has become a secure and trusted exporter to the region. 

We’re proud to partner with Lulu Hypermarkets to showcase much-loved Australian products in-store and to support Australian producers to connect and grow export partnerships in the region.”

Austrade Trade and Investment Commissioner Todd Miller highlighted the strategic opportunity of engaging with the Saudi market, saying: “Australian producers are known the world over for high-quality products produced in sustainable and ethical ways. With Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 transforming the Kingdom’s food and beverage landscape, there are unparalleled opportunities for Australian exporters to provide the innovative, premium products the dynamic food market needs.”


Globant takes Saudi Pro League into new era of sports

Globant takes Saudi Pro League into new era of sports
Updated 12 May 2025
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Globant takes Saudi Pro League into new era of sports

Globant takes Saudi Pro League into new era of sports

Globant, a digitally native company focused on reinventing businesses through innovative technology solutions, has partnered with Saudi Pro League to implement the cutting-edge Competition Management Solution provided by Sportian, Globant’s sports division.

With the new platform, future SPL seasons will be managed through a digital ecosystem. With the help of AI and data analysis tools, the system will speed up previously manual tasks with the ability to detect and correct human error, significantly reducing manual tasks and allowing competition staff to focus on innovation.

The Competition Management Suite enables seamless digital enrollment of players, automated registration of new signings, and real-time match day operations — including lineup submissions, referee assignments, kit selection, and compliance processes. Designed with security at its core, the system also safeguards sensitive data to protect the integrity of the competition and the privacy of all participants. 

Mamdouh Aldoubayan, managing director of MENA at Globant

“We aim to support the fast growth of our competition with technology innovations that can enhance the sporting spectacle and help clubs perform to their best. The platform provided by Globant Sportian will provide a huge boost to our efficiency and take away unnecessary complexity, allowing our teams to focus on what they do best, play and enjoy football,” said Omar Mugharbel, CEO of Saudi Pro League.

“We are proud to bring our global expertise in digital reinvention to the MENA region, where the transformation of the sports, media, and entertainment industries is happening at an unprecedented pace,” said Federico Pienovi, CEO and CBO of new markets at Globant. “Through Sportian — Globant’s sports division — we are delivering a state-of-the-art solution that will redefine how football organizations operate — managing complex processes from calendar selection to legal compliance. This is more than digital transformation; it’s about helping visionary partners like the Saudi Pro League lead a new era of intelligent, connected, and data-driven sports.”

Globant Sportian offers end-to-end digital solutions for sports federations and leagues, including LALIGA, MotoGP and Belgian Pro League, among others, delivering specialized products that manage complex workflows such as fixture scheduling, compliance, and operational intelligence.

“This milestone marks the beginning of Globant’s journey in bringing cutting-edge technology to Saudi Arabia’s thriving sports ecosystem,” said Mamdouh Aldoubayan, managing director of MENA at Globant. “By digitizing core competition workflows and leveraging AI, we’re enabling the Saudi Pro League to operate with greater speed, transparency, and precision. This partnership highlights our commitment to building smart, scalable infrastructure aligned with Vision 2030 and the Kingdom’s ambitions in the global sports arena.”

This agreement reflects Globant’s continued expansion in the Middle East and its growing role as a trusted technology partner for forward-thinking sports organizations worldwide.

The Saudi Pro League is the premier football league in the Kingdom and holds the distinction of being the highest-ranked league in Asia, as recognized by the Asian Football Confederation.


SAB named ‘best bank in Saudi Arabia’ for sixth year in row

SAB named ‘best bank in Saudi Arabia’ for sixth year in row
Updated 12 May 2025
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SAB named ‘best bank in Saudi Arabia’ for sixth year in row

SAB named ‘best bank in Saudi Arabia’ for sixth year in row

Saudi Awwal Bank has been recognized as the “Best Bank in Saudi Arabia for 2025” by Global Finance magazine, for the sixth consecutive year. This prestigious accolade highlights SAB’s leadership in the Saudi banking sector and reaffirms its ongoing commitment to delivering innovative financial services that meet the evolving needs of its customers while supporting the ambitious goals of Vision 2030.

This recognition is a testament to the confidence the financial sector places in SAB. Over the past years, the bank has solidified its position as a high-performing financial institution through continuous growth in assets and profitability, expanding its customer base, and adopting cutting-edge financial technologies that enhance the customer experience.

SAB was selected for this award by a panel of international financial experts, who based their decision on a comprehensive set of criteria, including financial performance, business growth, service quality, digital transformation initiatives, risk management practices, and sustainability strategies.

Tony Cripps, managing director and CEO of SAB, said: “This recognition is a testament to the dedication, commitment, and hard work of all our employees in delivering the best banking experience for our customers. It also underscores our ability to adapt to the rapid transformations taking place in the financial sector and reflects our success in implementing a strategy focused on customer-centricity and sustainable innovation.”

He added: “We remain committed to continuously enhancing and evolving our financial services to create a holistic banking experience that empowers our customers to achieve their goals, while also strengthening our contribution to the growth of the Saudi economy.”

SAB continues to reinforce its position as a leading financial institution through its adoption of the latest banking technologies. Guided by a strategy aligned with national economic priorities and social responsibility, the bank plays a vital role in driving development and empowering the financial sector in the Kingdom.