IMI launches media academy with renowned Emirati news presenter Faisal bin Huraiz at the helm

IMI launches media academy with renowned Emirati news presenter Faisal bin Huraiz at the helm
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Updated 12 September 2024
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IMI launches media academy with renowned Emirati news presenter Faisal bin Huraiz at the helm

IMI launches media academy with renowned Emirati news presenter Faisal bin Huraiz at the helm

IMI, a privately-owned global media group headquartered in the UAE, has announced the launch of the IMI Academy, which will play a pivotal role in shaping the region’s media landscape. The academy will equip the next generation of journalists and content creators with the skills and resources necessary to excel, offering an advanced curriculum focused on media, journalism, and content creation using the latest learning methodologies.

IMI has undergone a significant transformation under the leadership of Group CEO Rani R. Raad, who also serves as president and operating partner of Redbird IMI. The launch of the IMI Academy represents the latest milestone in this ongoing journey, building on a series of strategic initiatives aimed at expanding and enhancing the group’s offerings. These efforts include the appointment of new divisional leaders at IMI, the introduction of new editors-in-chief at Sky News Arabia and CNN Business Arabic, and a comprehensive overhaul of the group’s editorial assets, focusing on both content strategy and product innovation.

Training and knowledge exchange have long been part of IMI’s operations, driven by the unwavering commitment of its various media entities and their training initiatives. The National recently initiated its second cohort of its graduate training program designed to provide young graduates with the essential skills and insights for a successful career in journalism. Also, since its inception in April 2021, Sky News Arabia Academy has made significant strides in nurturing future media professionals, journalists, and content creators, delivering high-caliber courses to a wide range of participants, from youth and students to aspiring media professionals, business leaders, and CEOs. The IMI Academy will build upon these under the leadership of Faisal bin Huraiz as its director.

Bin Huraiz first joined Sky News Arabia as a key member of its launch team and has been one of the channel’s leading anchors since 2012, conducting interviews with high-profile political figures such as UAE Vice President and Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Syrian President Bashar Assad, and Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi. In addition to his role in the newsroom, he has garnered extensive expertise as a trainer, coach, and certified mentor over the past 17 years, training more than 3,000 individuals, including top-level executives, government officials, students, and graduates. 

Raad said: “From the outset, our vision has been to build IMI into a global media powerhouse that enriches and empowers lives through cutting-edge media products, content, and user experiences, delivered by best-in-class journalists and professionals.

“We are proud to have made significant strides toward that goal over the past year, and we recognize that this progress brings with it a responsibility to nurture the next generation of media talent in the region, helping to grow this vital sector that we aim to lead. The establishment of the IMI Academy will introduce a new offering that supports the ongoing learning and development needs of our evolving industry.

“I am delighted to welcome Faisal bin Huraiz to this new role, which he will take on alongside his position as a presenter at Sky News Arabia. Faisal is an exemplary Emirati talent, and one of the region’s most highly certified professionals in media training, Faisal has been instrumental in the success of the Sky News Arabia Academy since its inception. In his new role, the IMI Academy will benefit not only from his expertise at Sky News Arabia but also from the strengths of The National, CNN Business Arabic, and Al-Ain News. I am confident that he will lead the IMI Academy to become the region’s foremost media training hub.”

Under bin Huraiz’s leadership, the academy will introduce world-class training and development programs, featuring modern curriculums delivered through advanced practical teaching techniques and accelerated learning methods. All courses will be aligned with global standards to ensure the highest levels of professionalism and will incorporate the latest technologies, including AI tools.

Reflecting on his new role, bin Huraiz said: “I am honored by the trust placed in me to lead the IMI Academy. This role perfectly aligns with my passion for training, capacity building, and media empowerment. In today’s era of storytelling, owning and effectively conveying your narrative is crucial — if you do not tell your story, someone else will. The experiences I’ve gained at Sky News Arabia, both in the newsroom and on the field, have deepened my commitment to advancing media training in our region. My goal is to enhance professionalism and empower every speaker and decision-maker to communicate their message effectively.

“I look forward to working with our experienced team to build on their excellent work and deliver innovative, impactful programs tailored to the needs of individuals, institutions, and governments, while upholding the highest professional and ethical standards.”

In addition to his extensive training accreditations and certifications, bin Huraiz holds a bachelor’s degree in mass communications from UAE University and an associate degree in cinematography and film/ video production from the New York Film Academy.


Salam Mobile renews partnership with Zain KSA

Salam Mobile renews partnership with Zain KSA
Updated 12 October 2024
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Salam Mobile renews partnership with Zain KSA

Salam Mobile renews partnership with Zain KSA

The Integrated Telecom Company, known as Salam Mobile, has extended its strategic partnership with Zain KSA, a provider of telecommunications and digital services in Saudi Arabia. This newly signed agreement extends the collaboration until 2030, focusing on expanding and enhancing Salam Mobile’s services by leveraging Zain KSA’s cutting-edge hosting capabilities and advanced telecommunications infrastructure.

This collaboration aligns with Salam Mobile’s strategy to elevate user experiences, strengthen its presence, and expand its services across the Kingdom. By leveraging Zain KSA’s advanced 5G infrastructure and digital capabilities, Salam Mobile will deliver enhanced mobile solutions, while contributing to the Kingdom’s broader digital goals. The partnership also reinforces Zain KSA’s dedication to promoting digital inclusion and advancing Saudi Arabia’s telecommunications and smart services sectors. Through direct, strategic investments in innovation and expansion, Zain KSA empowers mobile virtual network operators like Salam Mobile, along with other digital service providers, to grow and actively participate in the Kingdom’s digital transformation journey.

Salam Mobile CEO Ahmed Al-Anqari said: “Our partnership with Zain KSA has been instrumental in supporting our growth and expansion plans, playing a pivotal role in our transformation as a key contributor to the Kingdom’s digital transformation journey. With the renewal of this strategic partnership, we will leverage one of the most advanced 5G networks in the region, enabling us to expand our coverage and enhance our service and product portfolio for both individuals and businesses. This move reaffirms our commitment to building strong partnerships and harnessing cutting-edge technologies to accelerate digital transformation and support the Kingdom’s broader objectives.”

Acting CEO of Zain KSA Saad bin Abdulrahman Al-Sadhan added: “We remain committed to supporting the realization of Saudi Vision 2030 and our leadership’s aspirations to transform the Kingdom into a global hub of innovation and a smart digital economy. As a leading telecommunications provider, we recognize our duty to promote digital inclusion, which enhances the daily experiences of our customers and helps them achieve their goals. Our responsibility also extends to our partners in this vital telecom sector, particularly mobile virtual network operators. Empowerment drives impact, and inclusive partnerships yield widespread benefits. This is why we are focused on creating a level playing field that serves everyone and improves the overall quality of services and solutions. In line with this vision, we are pleased to extend our strategic partnership with Salam Mobile until 2030, building on years of successful collaboration.”

The partnership between Zain KSA and Salam Mobile, begun in 2021.


New Murabba participates in Riyadh career fair

New Murabba participates in Riyadh career fair
Updated 12 October 2024
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New Murabba participates in Riyadh career fair

New Murabba participates in Riyadh career fair

New Murabba Development Company participated in the 10th edition of the Step Ahead Career Fair in Riyadh, as part of its aim to attract the very best Saudi talent of the future. The exhibition featured a large gathering of more than 873 local and international employers within the Kingdom.

“New Murabba is committed to collaborating with various Saudi companies and sectors to attract highly skilled and ambitious talent. Our New Murabba Graduates Program is designed for both male and female graduates from local and international universities. This program aims to provide specialized and high-quality training to integrate and engage graduates, contributing to the company’s objectives and supporting Saudization plans and targets,” said Mamdouh Al-Quraishi, chief corporate services officer.

Al-Quraishi highlighted the significant engagement and attendance at the company’s exhibition pavilion, with notable interest from visitors and prospective candidates. Both male and female national talents expressed their keenness to join the New Murabba team. The company’s representatives warmly received them, addressing their queries regarding job applications and providing information about the New Murabba Graduate Program.

New Murabba is building a vibrant, modern destination in Riyadh, where innovation and technology harmonize with nature and sustainability. 

This landmark destination is set to captivate the world and pave the way for a new era in the bright future of the Kingdom.


Tetra Pak launches ‘Made, Consumed and Recycled in Saudi Arabia’ campaign

Tetra Pak launches ‘Made, Consumed and Recycled in Saudi Arabia’ campaign
Updated 12 October 2024
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Tetra Pak launches ‘Made, Consumed and Recycled in Saudi Arabia’ campaign

Tetra Pak launches ‘Made, Consumed and Recycled in Saudi Arabia’ campaign

Tetra Pak has launched its “Made, Consumed and Recycled in Saudi Arabia” campaign, marking 44 years as an industry champion of economic development, sustainability efforts, and food security in the Kingdom. The campaign enforces the company’s commitment to the economic diversification of the Kingdom’s economy and embraces the opportunity to highlight Tetra Pak’s role in reinforcing Saudi Arabia as a regional hub for food packaging and manufacturing in the Middle East.

Since its establishment in Saudi Arabia in 1980, Tetra Pak has significantly contributed to the Kingdom’s industrial and economic growth. The Jeddah factory that produces millions of products annually has been instrumental in positioning Saudi Arabia as a central hub for food packaging in the Middle East. This factory exports 40 percent of its products to 11 countries and has produced more than 165 billion products since its inception in 1998.

“Tetra Pak’s 44-year journey in Saudi Arabia is a testament to our unwavering commitment to the Kingdom’s economic development and Vision 2030 goals,” said Niels Hougaard, managing director of Tetra Pak Arabia. “Our world-class local production contributes to Saudi Arabia’s food security and supports local food and beverage customers in rolling out innovative food products in the local and export markets.”

As a first mover in carton packages recycling in the Kingdom, Tetra Pak invested $3 million in Saudi Arabia’s first comprehensive carton packages recycling solution. 

Partnering with Obeikan Paper Industries and Saudi Top Plastics, the recycling facility has the capacity to recycle 8,000 tons of carton packages annually, demonstrating the company’s commitment to supporting customers’ sustainability goals and aligning with Saudi Vision 2030’s circular economy targets.

Tetra Pak plays a pivotal role in supporting Saudi Arabia’s food and beverage industry, with more than 80 percent of local businesses relying on Tetra Pak’s processing equipment and packaging products to build and operate their plants efficiently in the Kingdom.


Saudi Arabia’s NSK Consultants signs partnership with Chinese private sector partners

Saudi Arabia’s NSK Consultants signs partnership with Chinese private sector partners
Updated 11 October 2024
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Saudi Arabia’s NSK Consultants signs partnership with Chinese private sector partners

Saudi Arabia’s NSK Consultants signs partnership with Chinese private sector partners

A leading Saudi company has announced the signing of a strategic partnership with private sector partners from China, marking a first-of-its-kind initiative to foster collaboration between two of the world’s largest economies. 

NSK Consultants, a Saudi-owned company founded in 2006 and based in Riyadh, and Beijing NAR International Consulting Company Limited, alongside the National Advanced Company, have signed two major partnerships in Saudi Arabia.

This collaboration aligns with the shared vision of boosting industrial integration between the Kingdom and China, in line with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, which seeks to diversify the economy and attract foreign investments. Trade between the two nations exceeded $87 billion in 2023, underscoring the strong economic ties between Saudi Arabia and China.

The partnership was signed in the presence of representatives from both sides, with a mutual commitment to providing specialized industrial consulting to Chinese companies looking to enter the Saudi market. This partnership will offer an excellent opportunity for Chinese companies to understand the Saudi market, assist with compliance reviews, and help them navigate Saudi tax and legal regulations. Additionally, it will provide the necessary technical and logistical support to ensure the success of these investments. The strategic relationship is formed at a time when Chinese investments in Saudi Arabia have surpassed $35 billion, primarily focusing on infrastructure, energy, and technology sectors. Conversely, Saudi investments in China have reached over $10 billion, concentrated in the oil and petrochemical sectors.

Through this partnership, the three offices will facilitate trade relations and provide the expertise needed to transfer knowledge and technology, contributing to the development of Saudi Arabia’s industrial sector. The agreement is expected to create new job opportunities and reinforce Saudi Arabia’s position as a regional and global industrial hub.

Dr. Nasser S. bin Kadasah, chairman of NSK Consultants, said: “We are delighted to sign this strategic partnership with our Chinese partners, and we aim to achieve tangible results that enhance our industrial capacities and increase bilateral trade between our two nations. We are committed to providing all necessary support to attract Chinese investments and foster a conducive environment for growth.”

He added: “This collaboration underscores the strong and growing relationship between Saudi Arabia and China, supporting ongoing efforts to enhance economic partnerships and promote the development of local industries to benefit both nations.”

The parent company of NAR International has already achieved success in Saudi Arabia, working closely with the Saudi private investment sector in engineering, procurement, construction, and operation projects related to smart farming. It plans to introduce relevant industrial facilities for agriculture through this partnership.

The collaboration is being facilitated by three international offices located in Riyadh, Beijing, and Suzhou, with the goal of attracting leading Chinese manufacturers to invest in the Saudi market, enhancing bilateral trade, and providing industrial consultancy services.


Jeddah International Motor Show set to welcome 300,000 visitors

Jeddah International Motor Show set to welcome 300,000 visitors
Updated 10 October 2024
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Jeddah International Motor Show set to welcome 300,000 visitors

Jeddah International Motor Show set to welcome 300,000 visitors

The city of Jeddah is gearing up to host the latest edition of Jeddah International Motor Show. The event will take place at the Jeddah Superdome from Oct. 29 to Nov. 2, bringing together the latest models, cutting-edge technologies, and advanced designs from the automotive world. This year’s show is set to feature an exclusive launch by one of the world’s leading automotive brands, further establishing the event as a global platform for the latest industry developments.

As one of the most eagerly awaited events in the Middle East, the motor show draws the attention of both car enthusiasts and industry experts. It serves as a major meeting point for the unveiling of new models and automotive innovations. The event’s significance is bolstered by projections that car sales in Saudi Arabia will reach 779,000 units by 2032, giving the Kingdom a 37 percent market share in the MENA region. This positions Saudi Arabia at the forefront of regional markets and highlights its pivotal role in shaping the future of the automotive industry.

Expected to draw over 300,000 attendees from across the globe, Jeddah International Motor Show 2024 promises to be not just an exhibition but a one-of-a-kind experience full of excitement and unforgettable moments. Visitors can enjoy thrilling SUV and off-road vehicle shows, interactive karting tracks, and simulation races. The opportunity to test drive dream cars adds a personal, hands-on dimension to the event, making it a must-attend for car lovers.

The show’s venue itself is a marvel that enhances the event’s grandeur, with the Jeddah Superdome — the world’s largest pillarless geodesic dome — holding a Guinness World Record. This architectural wonder underscores Jeddah’s status as a global hub for premier exhibitions and a beacon of excellence in the automotive industry.