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Award-winning filmmaker Mohamed Ben Attia discusses ‘Behind the Mountains’ set to screen at RSIFF
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Paul Chowdhry set to bring ‘family-friendly’ comedy to Riyadh 
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The local filmmakers on show in RSIFF’s ‘Arab Spectacular’ section
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SingleView launches open banking solutions at Seamless Middle East 2023 in Dubai

Updated 28 May 2023

Arab News

May 28, 2023 13:57

UMG Alholol Trading Company “SingleView” participated in the “Seamless Middle East 2023” exhibition on May 23-24 in Dubai, aiming to present its latest financial solutions in the field of open banking. The financial company is seeking to strengthen its position as one of the best financial technology companies in the Kingdom, by improving the experience of companies and institutions in managing their financial transactions based on the latest available financial technologies.

SingleView is always keen to participate in such specialized fintech events aiming to explore new markets regionally and internationally and strengthen the company’s position in the field of open banking, fintech and other solutions that help companies in digital transformation processes. The company focused in this edition on showcasing its latest open banking solutions, among which is the ability to access bank data in real time. The services help companies from e-commerce, finance, accounting, travel and tourism and other sectors to make decisions and provide customized services to their customers in light of real-time data.

Considered one of the most prominent events in its field, Seamless Middle East provides an opportunity to companies to get updated about the latest trends in payments, fintech, e-commerce and retail solutions.

It is worth noting that SingleView has recently obtained the permission of the Saudi Central Bank, also known as SAMA, to work within the legislative experimental environment in accordance with the regulatory framework of open banking, thus becoming one of the first companies to obtain the technical permit. The company was able to obtain the permit due to its full readiness to meet all regulatory and legislative requirements. Moreover, SingleView has several successful partnerships with international technology companies and service providers, which has earned it experience, excellence and leadership in innovating solutions in the field of open banking.

Abdurhman Alarifi, SingleView CEO, expressed his gratitude to the supervising team of the open banking program and the legislative experimental environment at SAMA and Saudi Payments for their efforts in helping the company develop and comply with the regulatory framework of open banking. The program creates opportunities for SingleView and other fintech companies to enrich the Kingdom’s financial sector with their innovative services and solutions.

SingleView aims to expand in the field of fintech solutions and explore new markets regionally and globally to be able to provide its innovative solutions to various markets, in order to strengthen its position as one of the specialized financial companies providing open banking solutions. Moreover, the company is working to promote its position in the local market supporting the digital transformation movement, which is one of the main pillars of the Kingdom’s Vision 2030.

Misk Schools students enjoy ‘BTEC in Esports’ lesson

Updated 29 November 2023

Arab News

November 29, 2023 23:21

Misk Schools students enjoy ‘BTEC in Esports’ lesson

Updated 29 November 2023

Arab News

November 29, 2023 23:21

The Misk Global Forum in Riyadh, held from Nov. 15-17, showcased the talents and ideas of young leaders, CEOs and entrepreneurs from around the world, but one of the most exciting highlights was the inaugural “BTEC in Esports” lesson, delivered to students from Riyadh’s prestigious Misk Schools.

Esports influencer Brandon Smith flew into Riyadh especially to deliver the lesson on behalf of the region’s leaders in educational esports, EStars. Accredited in the MENA region by Pearson Education, one of the world’s top education providers, the BTEC in Esports program is designed to provide students with the expertise they need to access opportunities in the fast-growing esports sector. The esports industry saw revenues of almost $2 billion in 2022 and has been growing at more than 20 percent per year.

Fittingly, the lesson was delivered in the Riyadh Schools’ Classroom of the Future, which has been designed and built in partnership with EStars. The concept provides a template for reinventing education using the best emerging technologies and teaching practices, to empower students growing up in a very different world.

Misk Schools is the first school in the Kingdom to adopt esports as part of its curriculum, which aims to produce future leaders, ready to embrace the knowledge economy embodied in Vision 2030.

Dr. Steffen Sommer, director general of Misk Schools, said: “Esports encourages young people to work together and play together, which is culturally quite new here. In addition to educating students about a rapidly expanding global industry, the BTEC also hones strategic thinking, teamwork and entrepreneurial skills — essential capabilities for emerging leaders navigating the world.”

The inaugural BTEC in Esports lesson and the Riyadh Schools’ Classroom of the Future were the subject of huge interest at the Misk Global Forum, visited by a number of Saudi dignitaries, ministry officials and VIPs, plus stars such as two-time world champion boxer Amir Khan, professional racing driver Reema Juffali and Saudi astronauts Rayyanah Barnawi and Ali Alqarni.

EStars CEO Mags Byrne said: “We are proud to be delivering the BTEC in Esports to students at Misk Schools. EStars aims to provide a pathway to careers of the future for the students of today. Collaborating with such a pioneering partner as Misk Schools has given us a chance to showcase how the BTEC in Esports upskills students to forge careers in the growing esports sector.”

Founded in 2017 in the UK by CEO Byrne, EStars is the global leader in educational esports, providing students with the skills they need to succeed in one of the world’s fastest-growing industries. It has offices in Abu Dhabi from which it covers the Middle East and Africa region.

LuLu celebrates 14 years in Saudi Arabia with gifts, deals

Updated 29 November 2023

Arab News

November 29, 2023 23:20

LuLu celebrates 14 years in Saudi Arabia with gifts, deals

Updated 29 November 2023

Arab News

November 29, 2023 23:20

The number 14 will be celebrated by LuLu Hypermarket across Saudi Arabia for 36 days as the retail giant welcomes shoppers for its 14th anniversary. The official announcement of the big celebration was made at a press conference at Riyadh Boulevard and flashed on giant video screens at the venue.

To mark the occasion, one of Saudi Arabia’s favorite shopping destinations, LuLu Hypermarket has announced a bonanza of 1,400 valuable gifts worth SR2 million ($533,300) for its customers.

The gifts include VVIP tickets to much-anticipated football matches, Apple phones and tablets, TV sets, AirPods, Sony PS5, laptops, and other electronic goods like refrigerators, microwave ovens and washing machines, in addition to grocery hampers.

LuLu will select surprise winners across its hypermarkets in the Kingdom from Nov. 26 to Dec. 31.

As a mark of respect to all the staff of LuLu Saudi Arabia, the oldest Saudi national employed by the group for 17 years, Basher Al-Bish, and his son Yusuff, named after LuLu Group Chairman Yusuffali M.A., were invited to cut the 14th anniversary cake during the press conference. Al-Bish spoke emotionally about how he has been a LuLu employee since the start and even before the first LuLu Hypermarket opened doors in Saudi Arabia.

“I am proud to be the first employee of LuLu KSA — LuLu is a great place to work in and the group is so invested in Saudi Arabia’s progress that it inspires us all,” Al-Bish said. “Moreover, I am an admirer of our Chairman Yusuffali M.A., and I have even named my son Yusuff after him.”

The anniversary promotion comes packed with super deals — 14 promotions from 14 “Big Brands,” super-value deals on essentials such as rice, oil and sugar, in-store promotions, live demonstration, hourly offers and deals on “Products of the Day.” Shoppers can update their electronic devices with affordable prices on branded laptops, tablets, smart watches, mobile phones, high-end audio devices, printing consumables and accessories.

LuLu Group currently employs 4,500 Saudi nationals in its retail network of 33 stores across the Kingdom.

“The success of LuLu Hypermarket is our bond with our Saudi Arabian customer base — their trust and their recognition of our quality promise has enabled our amazing 14-year growth,” said Shehim Mohammed, director of LuLu Hypermarkets Saudi Arabia.

“We have always put customers first and this anniversary celebration combines our promise of customer care, quality and affordability and is our way of saying thank you to all our customers in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.”

Huawei summit builds bridge for business growth in Middle East and Africa for global partners

Updated 29 November 2023

Arab News

November 29, 2023 07:14

Huawei summit builds bridge for business growth in Middle East and Africa for global partners

Updated 29 November 2023

Arab News

November 29, 2023 07:14

The HDC·Together Huawei MEA Ecosystem Summit, held in Dubai, showcased a seamless fusion of collaboration and innovation. The first day of the exclusive event was on Nov. 27 at the illustrious Dubai Opera. It brought together Huawei Ecosystem partners from China and across the Middle East and Africa.

Building bridges for future growth

Organized in partnership with Dubai Economy and Tourism and Saudi Tourism Authority, the summit combined the strengths and initiatives of both entities, fostering innovation, economic growth, and developments in technology and tourism.

In the convergence of technology and opportunity, HDC.Together becomes the bridge connecting the MEA region and China, fostering innovation, partnerships, and business exchange across markets, paving the way for growth and a better future.

Throughout the summit, speakers emphasized the importance of collaborative efforts within Huawei’s Ecosystem for advancing technology and innovation. Maryam Al-Balooshi, vice chair and UAE representative of the Committee of Aviation Environment Protection — ICAO, said: “In the ever-evolving landscape of technology, Huawei’s ecosystem stands as a testament to transformative collaboration, enriching experiences by building bridges into a better future.”

Ali Khalifa bin Thalith, secretary-general of HIPA, said: “Through the lens of innovation, Huawei Themes has not just adorned our digital spaces but has become a platform to globalize the beauty of art and photography, making creativity universally accessible to users with an impressive download of over 1,000,000 on the official Huawei Themes store.”

Acclaimed Emirati artist Mahmood Al-Abadi shared the story of his successful journey with calligraphy and arts as well as his collaboration with Huawei Themes, and how it elevated his digital experience to new heights. He expressed excitement over the vast array of customizable themes and the seamless integration with Huawei smartphones, foldable phones, tablets and smartwatches.

Strategizing for the year ahead

The event outlined a comprehensive 2024 action plan with HMS’ strategic partners, formalizing commitments to innovation and growth with 24 partners from across the region like Emirates, Arabian Oud, Jahez and Viu, who expressed their dedication to these shared goals.

The summit featured dynamic discussion panels and round tables, engaging industry experts in profound conversations. They explored the collaborative potential of Huawei AppGallery and Petal Ads, uncovering shared capabilities.

Unveiling prospects with AppGallery

With a focus on fostering new growth opportunities in gaming, Huawei AppGallery is strategically leveraging the rapid expansion across the MEA region and China. The summit served as a dynamic platform for facilitating partnerships and collaboration between local and global players, fostering an environment of innovation and mutual growth. Participants were treated to crafty presentations sharing insights, case studies and success stories from top regional and global gaming partners, offering a comprehensive overview of the latest trends in the market. The discussions were enriched by the participation of esteemed guests in the MEA Game Business Trends panel, talking about esports, government support, payment landscape and importance of localization. Together, they set the stage for AppGallery to further elevate its role as a driving force in the gaming industry, uniting key players for a future of unprecedented success and collaboration.

Global perspective

Emirates provided an insightful account of its journey with Huawei Ecosystem, highlighting the successful collaboration and providing valuable benchmarks for the broader travel industry, emphasizing the power of strategic partnerships within evolving technological landscapes. This year, Emirates App successfully released a version for Huawei’s smartwatches that allows users to use QR codes as boarding passes.

Petal Ads and regional insights

Additionally, Middle East Communications Network provided a comprehensive analysis of global and regional advertising trends tailored for regional advertisers. This included an in-depth exploration of the current global advertising landscape, emerging trends, consumer behavior patterns, and effective strategies. These testaments highlighted Petal Ads’ advanced capabilities for offering enriched user experiences, setting the stage for a new era in this sphere.

HMS introduced new solutions and innovations, underscoring a commitment to connecting with customers, enabling brand growth, and embracing future challenges. The HDC·Together Huawei MEA Ecosystem Summit stands as a testament to Huawei’s unwavering dedication to fostering collaboration, innovation, and a connected future. Ultimately, the summit served as an annual showcase for knowledge-sharing and cutting-edge solutions within Huawei’s thriving ecosystem, uniting partners from China and the MEA.

Dar Al-Arkan launches Elie Saab’s first branded villas in Riyadh

Updated 28 November 2023

Arab News

November 28, 2023 23:26

Dar Al-Arkan launches Elie Saab’s first branded villas in Riyadh

Updated 28 November 2023

Arab News

November 28, 2023 23:26

Dar Al-Arkan, a real estate company in Saudi Arabia, has announced the launch of “Etoile by Elie Saab,” paving the way for the renowned designer’s first branded residence in the Kingdom.

For the first time in Saudi Arabia, the iconic flair and elegance of Elie Saab can be found in Etoile at SEDRA, the first integrated community of its kind in Riyadh.

“A sanctuary of opulence and tranquillity, Etoile by Elie Saab features homes that emanate luxury, while engraved in tradition,” a statement said. “It entails an assortment of three- and four-bedroom villas with the very unique Wadi Villas offering uninterrupted views of the immersive wadis.”

The grandeur of Etoile by Elie Saab is further exemplified by its architecture. The monolithic structures with their window boxes done up in ancestral textures and hues, straddle a cosmopolitan lifestyle amidst a serene community. It is signature couture living at its best with warm wood finishes, cool flawless marble and a luxe cream palette offering an atmosphere of pure splendor. From bedrooms boasting spacious walk-in closets and en-suite bathrooms providing the perfect setting to unwind, rejuvenate, and reconnect with the beauty of nature, the design elements of the development seamlessly marry practicality with regal aesthetics.

Yousef Al-Shelash, chairman, Dar Al-Arkan, said: “Luxurious living in the heart of Riyadh will elevate the Kingdom’s appeal for discerning residents and global investors keen on setting up base here. We are more than proud to join forces with Elie Saab, a long-standing partner to bring their first branded residence to the Kingdom. Etoile by Elie Saab offers a truly luxurious experience for those seeking peace and sanctuary in the midst of a bustling environment. With this project, we hope to bring a unique mix of traditional architecture with haute couture finish that is synonymous with the signature style of Elie Saab, while setting a new benchmark within the real estate sector in the country.”

Elie Saab Jr, CEO of Elie Saab Group, said: “We are excited to start a new journey in Saudi Arabia with Dar Al-Arkan. Luxury, elegance, and craftsmanship are key to our brand’s timeless appeal, and we are delighted to bring these to Etoile by Elie Saab at SEDRA. Designing bespoke living that reflects the heritage and culture of the Kingdom while providing aesthetically pleasing modern amenities is a challenge that we were more than happy to take on. Etoile reflects all that Elie Saab as a brand stands for today — it is elegant, classic yet sleek and modern and is designed to elevate one’s living experience.”

Housing Etoile by Elie Saab, SEDRA by Roshn combines modern and aspirational living with the unique heritage and history of Saudi Arabia with Salmani architecture at its heart. Located north of Riyadh, the world-class community is strategically situated close to the city’s prominent destinations with easy access to the main roads. Vast green spaces, parks, sports facilities, community centers, state-of-the-art education and medical centers ensure the self-contained community offers a holistic lifestyle to all residents.

With an enviable portfolio of elegantly designed residences, Dar Al-Arkan has cemented its standing as a much sought-after real estate solution provider in the country. The launch of this project further reinforces the commitment of the company to crafting experiences that resonate with the lifestyle and aspirations of the citizens of Saudi Arabia.

Lorindale named Kingdom’s ‘best luxury concierge service’

Updated 28 November 2023

Arab News

November 28, 2023 23:25

Lorindale named Kingdom’s ‘best luxury concierge service’

Updated 28 November 2023

Arab News

November 28, 2023 23:25

Lorindale, a global luxury concierge and lifestyle management services provider based in the Kingdom, reaffirmed its position as the benchmark for personalized luxury, recently winning the Best Luxury Concierge Services 2023 in Saudi Arabia award at the Luxury Lifestyle Awards. Founded in 2016 in Alkhobar by the visionary Bushra Alolayan, Lorindale has swiftly evolved into a global force in lifestyle management.

What sets Lorindale apart in this digital age is its revolutionary, one-to-one personalized contact through dedicated lifestyle managers. This unique approach ensures that every client receives responsiveness and access that transforms the concept of luxury concierge services into an entirely new realm.

“At Lorindale, we don’t just offer a service; we provide a lifeline to the best the world has to offer,” said Alolayan, founder of Lorindale. “Our lifestyle managers connect our clients to a global network of advisers, offering a complete luxury lifestyle experience tailored to individual demands, wishes, and needs.”

Lorindale’s comprehensive lifestyle management extends beyond the ordinary, covering fundamental demands, wishes, and needs. The dedicated team taps into a unique ecosystem of advisers and partners to make anything and everything possible for its members. From end-to-end guest management and concierge services for events to a one-stop travel shop specializing in custom luxury vacations, Lorindale ensures that life is an ongoing adventure filled with exclusive experiences.

The Lorindale concierge membership unlocks access to a vast global network of advisers, guaranteeing that every request, no matter how small, is fulfilled. Whether it is securing reservations at the newest and best restaurants, creating personalized travel itineraries to the most incredible locations, or obtaining sold-out luxury products, Lorindale’s team is dedicated to making life extraordinary.

With a focus on bringing customers, employees, or stakeholders together through full-service event assistance, Lorindale offers end-to-end event management and concierge services. The company’s travel, logistics, and onsite concierge teams collaborate to ensure flawless execution and an unforgettable experience for all involved.

“We are thrilled to be recognized with such a prestigious award, as it acknowledges the tireless efforts from our wonderful team, whose passion for creating dream travel itineraries and support services for our clients has no limits,” added Alolayan.

SingleView launches open banking solutions at Seamless Middle East 2023 in Dubai