‘Bupa Marathon’ promotes health and fitness in Jubail

‘Bupa Marathon’ promotes health and fitness in Jubail
The marathon kicked off from Dareen Beach in Jubail Industrial City.
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Updated 25 November 2023
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‘Bupa Marathon’ promotes health and fitness in Jubail

‘Bupa Marathon’ promotes health and fitness in Jubail

Bupa Arabia for Cooperative Insurance hosted a marathon on Nov. 18 in Jubail Industrial City. This event was a key initiative under Bupa Arabia’s “Live Right” program, aimed at raising awareness about physical activity and promoting a healthy lifestyle.

In collaboration with the Social Services Department of the Royal Commission for Jubail and Yanbu, the “Bupa Marathon” brought together residents of the Eastern Province for a day of fitness, camaraderie, and community engagement.

The marathon, which kicked off at 4 p.m. from Dareen Beach in Jubail Industrial City, offered three distinct races tailored to participants of diverse abilities and fitness levels. The 10-kilometer race catered to professionals, while a five-kilometer race and a three-kilometer race targeted families and children, respectively. Beyond the races, a dedicated recreational area hosted complementary sporting events, diverse food and beverage options, and entertainment activities with gifts for all participants.

In addition, Bupa Arabia announced the planting of more than 5,000 trees — an initiative aimed at preserving and sustaining the environment.

Tal Nazer, CEO of Bupa Arabia, underscored the significance of partnering with the Royal Commission for Jubail and Yanbu, saying: “Our collaboration reaffirmed our dedication to promoting physical fitness and a healthy lifestyle among Eastern Province residents, aligning seamlessly with the Vision 2030 objectives. This event was designed to forge community bonds and contribute to the establishment of a healthy city, emphasizing health and physical fitness as foundational elements for the Eastern Province’s development and progress.”

He added: “The Bupa Marathon sought to convey a resounding message about the importance of sports engagement, adopting a healthy lifestyle, and elevating the quality of life for individuals and the community.”

This mission aligned seamlessly with the Vision 2030 goal of increasing the percentage of people engaging in sports at least once a week to 40 percent by the year 2030.”

In underlining the pivotal role of sporting events and awareness campaigns in advancing health consciousness and promoting physical well-being, Nazer highlighted the other impactful initiatives of Bupa Arabia’s “Live Right” program. Launched last year across key Saudi cities, including Riyadh, Jeddah, and in the Eastern Province, the program revolved around five fundamental pillars: The Health Lounge, Physical Fitness, Awareness and Prevention, Mental Well-being, and Psychological Health. These pillars collectively aimed to instill healthy lifestyle habits.

As part of the program, a number of informative sessions were held, in which families actively participated and had their questions answered by medical professionals and specialists.


CPHI Middle East launched as region’s premier pharma event

CPHI Middle East launched as region’s premier pharma event
Updated 07 October 2024
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CPHI Middle East launched as region’s premier pharma event

CPHI Middle East launched as region’s premier pharma event

Tahaluf, Saudi Arabia’s fastest-growing business event organizer, has launched the latest in its vertical industry shows — CPHI Middle East, the region’s premier pharmaceutical event — marking a significant milestone for the Middle East’s rapidly expanding pharma sector.

Set to take place at the Riyadh Front Exhibition and Convention Center from Dec.10-12, this landmark event has garnered the support of the Saudi Ministry of Health and is being held in partnership with the Events Investment Fund.

The event comes as Saudi Arabia emerges as a global leader in biotechnology, with an ambitious plan to achieve self-sufficiency in vaccine production, biomanufacturing, and genomics. Further, the country’s pharmaceutical market, the largest in the Middle East, is expected to reach $11.5 billion by 2032, exhibiting a compound annual growth rate of 2.52 percent, according to market researcher IMARC Group.

Mohaned El-Mahgoub, group director at Tahaluf, said: “The MENA region, which is the world’s fifth largest pharma market, makes Saudi Arabia an important international meeting hub for the pharmaceutical community. It is a hugely attractive region for multinational pharma companies, with projected double digit annual market growth until 2032. CPHI Middle East and Africa will be where the future of pharma unites to forge long-lasting partnerships that stretch across the Middle East, Africa and around the world.”

Healthcare and life sciences are among Saudi Arabia’s most significant sectors and key focuses of Saudi Vision 2030. Of the $333 billion 2024 budget allocation, healthcare and social development expenditures account for roughly $57 billion, the third-largest segment after general and military spending.

Adam Andersen, executive vice president, pharma, Informa Markets, said: “Our venture into the Middle East is a significant milestone as we celebrate 35 years of CPHI this year. Given Saudi Arabia’s strategic location, coupled with an increasing demand for high-quality healthcare products, we’re confident CPHI Middle East will deliver exceptional value to our stakeholders, exhibitors and attendees as we bring the heart of pharma to the Kingdom. This inaugural event also aligns with a key goal of Saudi Vision 2030 to double domestic manufacturing from 20 percent to 40 percent. With several international pharmaceutical companies having already committed to setting up operations in Saudi Arabia, CPHI Middle East will build on that by drawing a number of key international brands eager to explore Saudi Arabia as a potential regional hub.”

Tahaluf expects the event to spread across 30,000 square meters of exhibition space, attract 30,000 visitors, over 400 exhibitors, and more than 100 participating countries. Major regional industry names are among early sponsors and exhibitor signings, including Sudair Pharma, Tabuk Pharmaceuticals, Hikma Pharmaceutical, Pioneer Company for Pharmaceutical Industries, SPIMACO and Julphar, EIPICO, Dallah Pharma, MS Pharma, Dr. Reddy’s Laboratories, Zeta Pharma, and Dietrich Engineering Consultants.

Designed as an experiential event, CPHI Middle East will feature four dedicated stages — The Future, Innovation, Next-Gen Bio and Discovery — where experts will help delegates examine the latest industry trends, challenges and opportunities. A headline speaker platform is already taking shape with global industry leaders signing up to address the gatherings, including Anil Kane, executive director, global head of technical and scientific affairs, Thermo Fisher Scientific; Zakiya Al-Kurdi, public policy and regulatory affairs, US Pharmacopeia; Claudia Palme, senior executive adviser strategy& Middle East, PwC; Faisal bin Dail, chairman, National Committee for Pharmaceutical Industries and Baxter; Musaed Al-Kholief, Saudi Commission for Health Specialities, strategy adviser at the Secretariat General; Bikash Chatterjee, president and chief science officer, Pharmatech Associates, a USP Company; as well as Hala Audi, CEO, Unizima.

CPHI Middle East is the latest in a raft of new vertical events to be launched in Saudi Arabia by Tahaluf — the strategic collaborative venture between Informa PLC, the Saudi Federation for Cybersecurity, Programming and Drones, and the Events Investment Fund. The launch of CPHI is part of Tahaluf’s major expansion strategy — the biggest single events expansion in Saudi Arabia’s history — in which the company is introducing more than 20 new B2B and B2C titles into the Kingdom by the end of 2025, bringing more than $1 billion in economic impact to Riyadh.


Chef Akira Back set to elevate Riyadh’s culinary scene

Chef Akira Back set to elevate Riyadh’s culinary scene
Updated 07 October 2024
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Chef Akira Back set to elevate Riyadh’s culinary scene

Chef Akira Back set to elevate Riyadh’s culinary scene

World-renowned chef Akira Back launched his namesake restaurant on Oct. 7 in the heart of Riyadh’s prestigious diplomatic quarter. The establishment promises to redefine the city’s dining landscape, offering a tantalizing adventure for the palate and soul alike.

Born in Seoul, Korea and raised in Aspen, Colorado, Chef Akira currently operates 28 restaurants internationally, including locations in London, Paris, Dubai, Las Vegas, and more, with new venues on the cusp including Rome, Florence and San Francisco opening within the next two years. Chef Akira has grown a global following due to his innovative culinary experiences blended with a vibrant social atmosphere.

A one-time professional snowboarder, Chef Akira’s dishes are influenced by memories of his childhood in Korea, combined with his global travels and integral love of global cuisine. He is renowned for his ability to reshape modern Japanese dining and truly brings a sense of adventure and boundless creativity to his culinary creations, which are as playful as they are polished.

At Akira Back Riyadh, guests can expect a culinary journey like no other, which will showcase an array of Chef Akira’s greatest hits including the international favorite “AB Tuna Pizza,” consisting of a wafer-thin crunchy crust, umami aioli made with ponzu sauce, tuna sashimi, micro shiso and white truffle oil, and the “Perfect Storm,” one of Chef Akira’s signature sushi rolls with spicy tuna, prawn tempura, trout belly aburi and chipotle mayo.

Located at 1364 Shopping Center, the restaurant’s design is a marvel of luxury and sophistication. The expansive and well-appointed dining area boasts plush leather seats and luxurious wood and marble finishes, creating an inviting and elegant atmosphere. 

The open kitchen, similar to the dynamic setup in all other locations, allows diners to observe the meticulous preparation of their meals, adding an interactive element to their dining experience.

A standout feature of the Riyadh location is a painting by Chef Akira’s mother, which graces the ceiling, adding an artistic and cultural touch to the venue. This unique element reflects the chef’s appreciation for art and family heritage, creating a visually stunning focal point for the restaurant.


Mohamed Alshamari named CEO of Aster Hospitals and Clinics in KSA

Mohamed Alshamari named CEO of Aster Hospitals  and Clinics in KSA
Updated 07 October 2024
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Mohamed Alshamari named CEO of Aster Hospitals and Clinics in KSA

Mohamed Alshamari named CEO of Aster Hospitals  and Clinics in KSA

Aster DM Healthcare has appointed Mohamed Alshamari as the new chief executive of Aster Hospitals and Clinics in Saudi Arabia. This appointment aligns with Aster DM Healthcare’s strategic expansion plans and commitment to improving the healthcare landscape in the Kingdom.

Alshamari brings nearly two decades of experience in healthcare and insurance, with expertise in healthcare strategy, consulting, investment, and operations management. He has held leadership positions at organizations such as Aramco, SABIC, Royal Commission Hospital, MedGulf, and Dr. Sulaiman Al-Habib. Prior to joining Aster, he served as the sports medicine adviser at the Saudi Ministry of Sports. In his new role, Alshamari will oversee planning, strategy, development, growth expansion, service delivery, and key partnerships. He will report to Alisha Moopen, managing director and group CEO of Aster DM Healthcare, and work closely with functional leads to ensure the successful execution of strategic objectives.

Moopen said: “We are glad to welcome Mohamed Alshamari as the CEO of Aster Hospitals and Clinics in Saudi Arabia. His extensive experience in healthcare and insurance, combined with his strategic outlook and leadership, will be instrumental in driving our growth and the vision that we have for Aster’s expansion in the Kingdom.”

Alshamari said: “I am thrilled to join Aster DM Healthcare and contribute to its vision of transforming healthcare in Saudi Arabia. The company’s commitment to clinical excellence and patient-centric care has been pivotal in establishing Aster as a trusted name in the healthcare industry.” 

With Aster’s 37-year legacy of 16 hospitals, 121 clinics and 306 pharmacies in the region, we are well-positioned to build the same trust in the Kingdom and continue driving the transformation of healthcare. I look forward to leveraging my experience and insights to support the team, drive further growth, and achieve new milestones for Aster DM Healthcare in Saudi Arabia.”

Recently, Aster DM Healthcare expanded Aster Sanad Hospital in Riyadh to 200 beds with the launch of a Grand Wing building.


Madinah’s first Waldorf Astoria to open doors in 2028

Madinah’s first Waldorf Astoria to open doors in 2028
Updated 06 October 2024
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Madinah’s first Waldorf Astoria to open doors in 2028

Madinah’s first Waldorf Astoria to open doors in 2028

Taiba Investments, a leader in Saudi hospitality and real estate, has unveiled a strategic partnership with Hilton to bring the iconic Waldorf Astoria Hotels and Resorts brand to the holy city of Madinah. Signed during the Future Hospitality Summit World in Dubai, this agreement underscores Taiba Investments’ ongoing expansion into the high-end hospitality market and further reinforces the company’s commitment to elevating Saudi Arabia’s tourism sector by partnering with world-renowned hospitality companies such as Hilton.

Sultan Al-Otaibi, CEO, Taiba Investments, said: “This agreement marks a pivotal moment in our strategic growth, reflecting our unwavering commitment to enhancing Saudi Arabia’s hospitality offering across diverse segments. Our collaboration with Hilton and Waldorf Astoria Hotels and Resorts will elevate tourism and hospitality by delivering an extraordinary guest experience in line with the ‘Pilgrim Experience Program.’ This project not only reaffirms our leadership in the sector but also highlights our dedication to Saudi Vision 2030 by providing world-class accommodation that honors the Kingdom’s rich heritage.”

Set to open in 2028, Waldorf Astoria Al-Madinah will mark the debut of the award-winning brand in Madinah, introducing its luxury and signature service to the holy city. Uniquely situated on the northern side of the Prophet’s Mosque, the hotel boasts exclusive, direct views of the holy site and is only a few minutes’ walk away.

Carlos Khneisser, vice president, development, Middle East and Africa, Hilton, said: “We are delighted to extend our partnership with Taiba Investments through this remarkable project. Saudi Arabia remains one of our fastest-growing markets where we plan to grow our footprint to exceed 100 hotels in the coming years. Waldorf Astoria Al-Madinah will bring the brand’s timeless hospitality and elegant service near one of the world’s most sacred sites. Together with Taiba, we look forward to expanding our network across the Kingdom and delivering unforgettable experiences to our guests.”

Waldorf Astoria Al-Madinah will feature more than 300 guest rooms and suites, three world-class dining concepts including the celebrated Peacock Alley café and two thoughtfully curated restaurants including a signature venue. The hotel will house two multi-functional halls, a boardroom, private club lounge, a prayer room, as well as a fitness center.

By pioneering transformative projects, Taiba Investments aims to significantly contribute to local economic growth, generate valuable job opportunities, and support the tourism infrastructure development, all while delivering an experience deeply rooted in tradition.

As part of this strategy, Taiba Investments will renovate the existing Taiba Front Hotel, rebranding it as Waldorf Astoria Al-Madinah. This transformation will merge the global brand’s timeless luxury with the cultural essence of the holy city, elevating the property’s sophistication and exclusivity while consolidating Taiba’s position as a key player in redefining Madinah’s hospitality landscape.


‘Bigger and better’: Saudi General Aviation Airshow returns to Riyadh

‘Bigger and better’: Saudi General Aviation Airshow returns to Riyadh
Updated 06 October 2024
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‘Bigger and better’: Saudi General Aviation Airshow returns to Riyadh

‘Bigger and better’: Saudi General Aviation Airshow returns to Riyadh

The Saudi Aviation Club has announced the highly anticipated return of the Saudi General Aviation Airshow — Sand and Fun 2024, the Middle East’s leading general aviation airshow. Scheduled to take place from Nov. 19 to 23, the event will be held at Al-Thumamah Airport, Riyadh.

Now in its sixth edition, this event promises to be the largest aviation gathering in the region, featuring more than 100 exhibitors, over 15 airshow teams, and an expected attendance of more than 100,000 visitors.

Prince Sultan bin Salman, founder and chairman of the Saudi Aviation Club, said: “The Saudi General Aviation Airshow — Sand and Fun 2024 is more than just an airshow; it is a celebration of aviation innovation and a testament to the spirit of flight that lives in the heart of the Kingdom. We are proud to host this event, which not only showcases the best in aviation but also inspires future generations to reach for the skies. We cannot fail to extend our highest thanks to our leadership, for their continuous support for the sector and for youth in all fields.”

Dr. Ahmed Fahad Alfahaid, a board member, executive director of the Saudi Aviation Club, said: “We are thrilled to bring together the global aviation community once again for what promises to be a truly unforgettable event. Sand and Fun is a unique platform for innovation, education, and cultural exchange, highlighting Saudi Arabia’s growing prominence in the aviation sector, which enjoys continuous support from our leadership.”

The Saudi General Aviation Airshow — Sand and Fun 2024 will showcase thrilling aerial displays, a diverse range of aircraft, interactive exhibitions, and an exciting concert lineup, all designed to celebrate aviation culture and inspire the next generation of enthusiasts. Families and kids are set to enjoy a variety of entertainment and food options, including exhibitions and musical shows that cater to all ages. This year’s show will also feature the SkyVentures Air Show, where top talents from around the globe will perform breathtaking maneuvers, demonstrating the pinnacle of aviation skill and artistry. The event will culminate with a music concert, providing a grand finale to a week of aviation excitement.

Sand and Fun will serve as a premier platform for key regional decision-makers to delve into the latest advancements in aviation technology and innovations. It will facilitate the forging of strategic partnerships among industry leaders, fostering collaboration and growth in the aviation sector.

Attendees will have the opportunity to engage in meaningful discussions on the future of aviation, addressing emerging trends, challenges, and opportunities. This environment aims to drive progress and innovation, positioning the Middle East as a pivotal hub in the global aviation landscape. Alongside these insightful sessions, visitors can also look forward to an array of entertaining activities, with interactive experiences, live shows, and immersive displays — offering fun and engaging activations throughout the event.