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LuLu opens new hypermarket in Makkah

Updated 25 March 2025

Arab News

March 25, 2025 12:55

Following the opening of new stores in the holy cities of Makkah and Madinah, LuLu has opened its latest hypermarket in Al Rusayfah, Makkah, located on Abdullah Areef street, Al Rusayfah district.

This strategic expansion aligns with LuLu's commitment to providing world-class shopping experiences to residents and visitors while supporting the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 initiative.

Abdullah Hanif, the secretary-general of the Makkah Chamber along with Fahd Abdulrahman Al-Mutaz, mayor of Rusayfah, officially inaugurated the new store in the presence of Ashraf Ali Musliyam, executive director of LuLu Group, along with Shehim Mohammed, director of LuLu KSA, and other distinguished dignitaries.

Musliyam said: "We continue to expand regionally in Saudi Arabia and the new store in Al Rusayfah generates more employment opportunities and strengthens the local economy. We will open more than 45 new stores across the GCC within three years.”

New projects also includes three in the holy city of Madinah amongst others.

"We are undergoing a digital transformation to enhance the customer experience both online and in-store," he added.

The new LuLu store, which spans a total built-up area of around 200,000 square feet, is designed to offer a seamless and modern shopping experience, catering to the diverse needs of customers with a well-curated selection of daily essentials, fresh food, and departmental offerings, similar to other Lulu stores in Makkah and Madinah.

The new store boasts a spacious 72-square-meter exclusive dining area, offering a comfortable space for shoppers.

The new store in Al Rusayfa will feature a well-designed layout inspired by the city’s cultural and architectural essence.

Customers will enjoy a spacious and easily navigable shopping environment, ensuring convenience and comfort. Apart from the department stores, LuLu’s iconic value-added shop, LOT, will also be opened shortly.

Rafeek Mohammed Ali, business development director of LuLu KSA, Noushad M.A, regional director of LuLu KSA, western region and other senior officials were also present.

Majid Al-Futtaim expands lifestyle retail footprint across Saudi Arabia

Updated 24 April 2025

Arab News

April 24, 2025 11:24

Majid Al-Futtaim expands lifestyle retail footprint across Saudi Arabia

Updated 24 April 2025

Arab News

April 24, 2025 11:24

Majid Al-Futtaim, a leading shopping malls, communities, retail, and leisure pioneer across the Middle East, Africa, and Central Asia, has announced the expansion of its lifestyle retail footprint in Saudi Arabia. As part of its continued commitment to the Saudi market, the group’s lifestyle business plans to open 13 new stores in 2025 — five already launched — bringing its total store count in the Kingdom to 31.

The expansion features a mix of global lifestyle and luxury brands across Riyadh and Jeddah. This includes the launch of the first Saudi stores for Italian smart luxury brand Eleventy and luxury menswear label Corneliani, both of which debuted this month at Solitaire Mall, Riyadh. In May, Poltrona Frau — the iconic Italian luxury furniture house — will open its first store outside the UAE at Centria Mall, further reinforcing Majid Al-Futtaim’s commitment to growing its luxury presence in the Kingdom.

Abercrombie and Fitch and lululemon also opened new stores in Solitaire Mall last month, marking an important step in their continued regional growth. The brands now operate six and nine stores respectively across the Kingdom, with new locations set to open in Jeddah later this year.

Fahed Ghanim, CEO of Majid Al-Futtaim Lifestyle, said: “Saudi Arabia continues to be a core focus for our business, and our retail expansion reflects both growing consumer demand and our confidence in the market. From fashion and wellness to home and design, our goal is to deliver more of the brands our customers love — while introducing fresh experiences through our exclusive global partnerships.”

“In a region where customers have an abundance of choice, our ambition is to curate a portfolio of global lifestyle and luxury brands that offer something truly distinctive in the Kingdom. By introducing brands like Eleventy, Corneliani, and Poltrona Frau, we are bringing new dimensions to the luxury market — combining timeless craftsmanship with modern sensibilities that resonate with the refined tastes of our customers.”

The launch of Eleventy in Solitaire Mall is part of an ambitious regional expansion for the brand with another four standalone Eleventy stores opening in key locations in 2025, including Mall of the Emirates, Marsa Al-Arab, Dubai Mall and The Grove in the UAE. Known for its commitment to sustainable practices and premium materials, Eleventy reflects the growing consumer demand for quality and subtle sophistication, all under the “Made in Italy” banner.

Marco Baldassari, co-founder and menswear creative director at Eleventy, said: “Eleventy’s philosophy of understated elegance and commitment to sustainability resonates strongly with the sophisticated Middle Eastern consumer. We are excited to strengthen our partnership with Majid Al-Futtaim, whose visionary approach to luxury retail is shaping a new vision with a growing focus on customer needs. Together, we aim to redefine luxury retail by offering timeless craftsmanship, sustainable practices, and innovative experiences.”

Majid Al-Futtaim’s lifestyle portfolio will also welcome a new Crate and Barrel store at Sahara Mall, Riyadh, reinforcing the brand’s presence in the capital. Meanwhile, in Jeddah, five new stores will launch at Jawharat Mall, including lululemon, Hollister, Eleventy, Abercrombie and Fitch, and AllSaints — bringing some of the world’s most in-demand fashion and lifestyle brands even closer to Saudi customers.

Majid Al-Futtaim’s retail expansion in Saudi Arabia builds on a record-breaking 2024, which saw a 26 percent increase in revenue across its lifestyle portfolio and a 31 percent surge in digital sales — including a 22 percent uplift in Saudi Arabia alone. The year also saw the opening of 17 new stores across the region, five of which are in the Kingdom, as well as flagship locations for brands such as lululemon, Crate and Barrel, and CB2, alongside 27 e-commerce platforms.

Zain KSA partners with Aamal to support productive families

Updated 23 April 2025

Arab News

April 23, 2025 22:16

Zain KSA partners with Aamal to support productive families

Updated 23 April 2025

Arab News

April 23, 2025 22:16

Zain KSA has signed a cooperation agreement with Aamal Association for Family Development, in line with its integrated environmental, social and governance strategy and as part of its ongoing efforts to empower all segments of society. This collaboration will enhance Zain KSA’s social responsibility efforts and expand the impact of its initiatives to more vulnerable communities.

This initiative aligns with Zain KSA’s broader corporate sustainability strategy and its diverse programs to empower individuals and advance community development through strategic partnerships and impactful initiatives. Through this collaboration, Zain KSA continues to drive the integration between the private and nonprofit sectors, contributing to building a sustainable development ecosystem that supports Saudi Vision 2030’s objectives, fostering a vibrant society, a thriving economy, and a brighter future for all.

Zain KSA’s collaboration with Aamal Association will support productive family projects and market their products and services locally. The initiative will help increase self-employment rates, provide an incubating environment where small family enterprises can grow and enhance their participation in the local economy. Zain KSA will also welcome Aamal Association within its main locations, providing market spaces to sell their products directly to employees and partners.

Commenting on the agreement, Abdulmohsen bin Abdulelah Abalkhail, head of talent acquisition and facility at Zain KSA, said: “At Zain KSA, we are dedicated to advancing nationwide development across all segments of society. We firmly believe in the strength of collaboration and the importance of integrating efforts with civil society organizations to achieve this goal. Our partnership with Aamal Association reflects this commitment, this time through supporting productive family projects and creating an environment where they can thrive and contribute to the local economic growth, in line with the goals of Saudi Vision 2030.”

Zain KSA received the Gold Award from the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development at the inaugural CSR Award in recognition of its impactful sustainability and social responsibility initiatives. The accolade underscores the company’s strategy of empowering the Saudi community and advancing national, humanitarian, and social development efforts within a responsible business framework.

AI action figure trend: Kaspersky warns about data privacy

Updated 23 April 2025

Arab News

April 23, 2025 22:15

AI action figure trend: Kaspersky warns about data privacy

Updated 23 April 2025

Arab News

April 23, 2025 22:15

As the latest social media trend sees users jumping on the AI action figure craze by uploading personal information and photos to generate hyper-realistic AI dolls or action figures of themselves, Kaspersky urges individuals to be cautious about the personal information they share online.

The trend, while entertaining, raises concerns about data privacy and digital safety. Uploading images and personal information linked to the likes of nicknames, work, hobbies and family, to AI platforms may seem harmless but can inadvertently expose users to cyberthreats such as identity theft, phishing attacks, and unauthorized use of biometric data.

A Kaspersky study highlighted the paradox in users’ approach to digital privacy. While 45 percent of respondents in the Kingdom cover their webcams to maintain privacy, and 44 percent rely on incognito mode for secure browsing, a significant number still engage in risky online behaviors. Notably, 47 percent of respondents admitted to sharing personal details with unverified sources to access online games and quizzes. This is often done without considering the potential security implications.

“Participating in viral trends such as AI action figure or anime-style images inspired by Studio Ghibli can be fun, but it is essential to understand the potential risks involved,” said Brandon Muller, technical expert for the MEA region at Kaspersky. “It’s important to keep in mind that this data could be accessed by cyberattackers. By sharing detailed personal information and images, users may unknowingly provide scammers with the data needed to compromise their digital identities or create social engineering messages.”

Kaspersky offers the following recommendations to safeguard personal data:

• Review privacy policies: Before using AI-powered tools, read and understand their privacy terms to know how your data will be used and stored and whether it may be shared with third parties.

• Limit personal information sharing: Avoid uploading sensitive photos or details that could be exploited, such as addresses or financial information.

• Use generic images: If possible, use generic images or landscape photos instead of high-resolution close-ups of your face, as facial data can be used for biometric profiling.

• Be cautious with permissions: Only grant necessary permissions to apps and platforms and be wary of those requesting excessive access, such as access to your contacts or location.

• Use trusted security solutions: Protect your devices with reliable cybersecurity software, such as Kaspersky Premium, to detect and prevent potential threats.

Rotana Signs: Pioneering the future of advertising in Saudi Arabia

Updated 23 April 2025

Arab News

April 23, 2025 11:20

Rotana Signs: Pioneering the future of advertising in Saudi Arabia

Updated 23 April 2025

Arab News

April 23, 2025 11:20

Saudi Arabia is undergoing an extraordinary transformation with Vision 2030 reshaping its economic, social, urban, and technological landscapes. This bold vision has not only heightened the Kingdom’s standing but has also set global standards for progress.

As a leading force in this transformation, Rotana Signs is in pursuit of elevating the out-of-home advertising market and has begun doing so with the launch of potentially the largest digital screens in the world on the iconic Kingdom Tower and Burj Rafal tower in Riyadh.

With four striking LED facades (two per tower) and over 48,000 square meters of state-of-the-art LED technology, Rotana Signs offers advertisers an unparalleled opportunity to connect with audiences in an unforgettable way. Installed on recognized landmarks, these digital facades rise above the city skyline allowing brands to be seen from over five kilometers away. Their grandeur alone cuts through traditional advertising clutter and captures resident attention like never before.

The true power of Riyadh’s digital towers lies in their ability to captivate audiences of all backgrounds, spark user-generated content, and create viral moments. Every campaign captured and shared on social media exponentially extends its reach, helping connect brands with a digitally engaged global audience.

A prime example of this potential is Mobily’s “A Leading Network” campaign, which utilized both the northern and southern digital facades on the Kingdom Tower (30,924 square meters). Mobily became the first telco operator to fully embrace this groundbreaking advertising opportunity, demonstrating the immense creative power of these formats.

Rotana Signs’ Deputy CEO of Sales Hasan Zaini expressed pride in supporting Mobily’s management, whose innovative approach pushed creative boundaries. Combined with the integration of a dynamic blue laser light show linking Kingdom Tower with Al-Faisaliah Tower to the south and Majdoul Tower to the north, the campaign execution showcased the limitless potential of these digital facades.

Hisham Hendi, chief consumer marketing and sales officer at Mobily, said that this impactful and unique rollout reflects the operator’s determination over the past few years in delivering a world-class, reliable and seamless experience to their customers across the Kingdom.

Similarly, Rotana Signs is committed to reshaping the advertising landscape with revolutionary formats that create extraordinary brand experiences. By collaborating with its partners, Rotana Signs is contributing to the Kingdom’s growth and prosperity in alignment with Vision 2030 objectives within the advertising space.

29th Dubai World Cup breaks records and paves way for the future of horse racing

Updated 23 April 2025

Arab News

April 23, 2025 11:14

29th Dubai World Cup breaks records and paves way for the future of horse racing

Updated 23 April 2025

Arab News

April 23, 2025 11:14

The 29th Dubai World Cup marked a new milestone in international horse racing, drawing a record-breaking crowd of over 65,000 spectators and offering an impressive $30.5 million in prize money across nine world-class races. Capping off a thrilling season, the event showcased Dubai Racing Club’s commitment to delivering an exceptional racing experience on a truly global stage.

A spectacular closing ceremony featuring a triple Guinness World Record-breaking drone and fireworks display lit up Meydan Racecourse, reinforcing Dubai’s reputation for combining sport, innovation, and entertainment.

One of the most anticipated events on the international racing calendar, the Dubai World Cup welcomed a record 170 global broadcasters and nearly 500 accredited media professionals, bringing the excitement from the track to screens globally. From thrilling races to exclusive hospitality, the energy was palpable both on-site and worldwide.

The season’s success extended beyond the main event. The Dubai Racing Carnival, which runs from November to March, saw a 34 percent rise in attendance, a testament to Dubai’s growing appeal in the sport. Highlights included the much-anticipated Fashion Friday on Jan. 24, where Romantic Warrior secured his 10th Group 1 win in Jebel Hatta. International winners from the UK, France, Hong Kong, and Norway further underlined the carnival’s global competitiveness.

This season showcased strong infrastructure and global reach, largely due to Dubai’s strategic location and its advanced equine transport and quarantine facilities. These factors position Dubai as a premier hub for international horse racing. Each year, the Dubai Racing Club’s International Department imports and quarantines around 3,000 horses. This process facilitates smooth participation for competitors from around the world and strengthens the city’s reputation as a leading destination for racing events.

As in previous seasons, innovation was crucial, featuring new technologies such as drone-based coverage and advanced analytics through Total Performance Data. These improvements enhanced the viewing experience and offered valuable insights for fans, trainers, and analysts, all while maintaining the highest safety standards for horses, jockeys, and spectators.

One of the most spectacular viral moments was the drone and fireworks display during the Dubai World Cup closing ceremony. This event not only broke three Guinness World Records but also showcased a commitment to innovation.

“These moments captivate our guests and project Dubai’s excellence on a global stage, showcasing what’s possible when cutting-edge technology and visionary event design come together,” said Sophie Ryan, head of corporate communications, marketing and brand at Dubai Racing Club.

Beyond the racing, Meydan Racecourse evolved into a full-fledged lifestyle destination. The venue offered luxury suites, exclusive balconies, and high-end culinary experiences from restaurants including The MAINE, Beau, and Cipriani Dolci. Popular events like Ladies’ Nights and the Style Stakes fashion competition added flair to the festivities, underscoring Dubai’s blend of tradition and modern luxury.

As for fashion, it remains a core part of the racing culture in Dubai. This season’s Style Stakes, sponsored by Emaar, elevated the glamor with bold self-expression and cultural flair. From the elegance of Fashion Friday to Emirates Super Saturday, racegoers embraced the spirit of individuality. For the first time, Dubai Racing Club also introduced a Millinery Exhibition, celebrating the artistry of hat-making and offering a new opportunity for fashion enthusiasts to shop one of the most essential elements of the horse racing outfit.

What can we anticipate for the upcoming seasons?

As preparations begin for the 30th anniversary of the Dubai World Cup in 2026, Dubai Racing Club is deepening global partnerships with organizations like Churchill Downs and The Jockey Club. With new hospitality collaborations on the horizon, the future promises an even more immersive and world-class experience for racing fans. “The 30th anniversary of the Dubai World Cup in 2026 will deliver the most memorable celebration, setting a new benchmark for the sport,” added Ryan.

As the curtain falls on an unforgettable season, one thing is clear — Dubai Racing Club is not just hosting the future of horse racing; it is defining it.

LuLu opens new hypermarket in Makkah