The Luxury Network KSA Magazine Issue 22

TECH MEETS LUXURY

ISSUE 22 | JUL - AUG 2025

CHRIS BARTON FOUNDER OF SHAZAM

REFRESH YOUR SUMMER

22 | Jul - Aug 2025

Rolls-royce Unveils Spectre Rose: A Mother’s Tribute To Her Daughter

Ferrari 296 Speciale & Speciale A, Driving Thrills Redefined

Chris Barton: Inventing the Future, One Disruption at a Time

The Red Sea Invites Travellers to Reconnect with ‘We’ve Saved a Place for You’

Six Ways to Go Wild This Summer with Six Senses

Rituals introduces limited-edition Dream Collection

Riyadh Air and Ink Innovation partner to define Delivery Management

Saudi Arabia’s Cultural Development Fund Charts New Path for Film

Art

FERRARI 296 SPECIALE DEBUTS IN THE MIDDLE EAST: DRIVING THRILLS REDEFINED

Just after its global debut in Maranello, Ferrari proudly unveiled the 296 Speciale in the Middle East during an exclusive event in Dubai. Curated with Ferrari’s signature elegance, the event offered guests an immersive introduction to the brandnew mid-rear-engined special series Berlinetta and its extraordinary performance capabilities.

The car takes its rightful place in the exclusive lineage of special version Ferrari berlinettas and, just like its forebears – the Challenge Stradale, 430 Scuderia, 458 Speciale and 488 Pista – has been conceived to set the new benchmark in terms of driving thrills and engagement, not just for the marque’s production range, but for the segment as a whole.

“True to its name, this model is nothing short of extraordinary, blending cutting-edge innovation with Ferrari’s unmistakable DNA. With its supreme agility and dynamic finesse, heightened responsiveness and unmatched driving engagement, the 296 Speciale sets a new benchmark for performance and driving emotion behind the wheel. We can’t wait to see this remarkable model on the roads of the region.”

The capabilities of the 296 Speciale in terms of agility, turn-in precision, and stability place it in a class of its own. This special version not only amplifies the already outstanding performance of the 296 GTB, but also introduces a level of predictability and intuitiveness that elevates the driving experience to new heights. Conceived

for the Ferrarista who demands an unrivalled driving experience, the 296 Speciale represents the new pinnacle for the Ferrari production range in terms of driving fun and is dedicated to owners in search of that special feeling of being at the wheel of a car with extraordinary performance.

The 296 Speciale takes the agility and responsiveness of the 296 GTB to extreme new heights by exploiting the full potential of its plug-in hybrid architecture, consisting of a rear-mid 120° V6 twin turbo engine and an electric motor, a short wheelbase and innovative dynamic control systems. The drivetrain delivers an astonishing combined power output of 880 hp, 50 more than the 296 GTB and a record for a rear-wheeldrive production Ferrari.

To make these results possible, Ferrari drew extensively from its experience in motor sports: the internal combustion engine borrows from the powerplant of the 296 Challenge in terms of engine management maps and boost strategy, and boasts titanium connecting rods, reinforced pistons and a lightened crankshaft. All these elements, together with a knock control system derived from Formula 1, have raised the power output of the V6 to 700 cv, 37 more than the model this special version is based on. The V6 engine of the 296 Speciale maintains its distinctive timbre, a sound consisting of the pure harmonics of the 3rd, 6th, and 9th combustion orders which, in this application, have gained in quality, intensity and volume.

The electric motor has also been uprated and is now capable of delivering 180 cv in the new extra boost mode. This increase in power has also made it possible to introduce a new strategy for the eight-speed DCT transmission, which makes use of additional torque during shifts to shorten shift times and increase both performance and driver engagement.

The 296 Speciale generates 435 kg of downforce at 250 km/h - 20% more than the 296 GTB – thanks to innovative solutions developed and tested on the 296 Challenge. These include the aero damper integrated

“

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The launch of the Ferrari 296 Speciale marks a special occasion for the brand in the Middle East”

Giorgio Turri, General Manager, Ferrari Middle East.

into the front bonnet and the vertical fins on the rear bumper which incorporate new side wings that work in synergy with the active rear spoiler to generate additional downforce. The spoiler is now managed by a new actuator control strategy that not only shortens the transition time between Low Drag (LD) and High Downforce (HD) configurations by 50% but also introduces a new Medium Downforce (MD) configuration, which improves rear-end stability at high speeds.

A great deal of attention was dedicated to saving weight, which is crucial for increasing driving thrills. Overall weight has been reduced by 50 kg compared with the 296 GTB by using materials such as carbon fibre for some of the bodyshell parts and titanium for components in the engine. The resulting weight/power ratio is just 1.69 kg/cv, a record for a rear-wheeldrive Ferrari berlinetta.

To accentuate the dynamic capabilities of the 296 Speciale and ensure that the car behaves predictably when driven at the limit, Ferrari’s engineers also worked on fine-tuning the electronic control systems, suspension set-up and tyres. The 296 Speciale is equipped with the latest generation of the ABS Evo dynamic control system, which improves braking precision and repeatability in all surface and grip conditions. The spring and damper settings have been revised – the car now rides 5 mm lower than the 296 GTB – reducing maximum roll angle when cornering by 13% and improving the behaviour of the car at the limit.

On the Road

ROLLS-ROYCE UNVEILS SPECTRE ROSE: A MOTHER’S TRIBUTE TO HER DAUGHTER

“The Rolls-Royce Private Office Dubai exists for commissions like Spectre Rose. This unique destination offers the time, space and expertise required to translate sentiment into form, so that every detail is intentional and meaningful. Created in close collaboration with our dedicated designer, based permanently in Dubai, this commission is a tribute from a mother to her daughter, layered with discreet, personal gestures. Spectre Rose reaffirms Rolls-Royce’s unique ability to interpret and realise personal stories with care, clarity and exquisite craft.”

Crichton, Regional Director Middle East & Africa, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars

James

Rolls-Royce presents Spectre Rose, a singular expression of Bespoke craftsmanship, commissioned through the Rolls-Royce Private Office Dubai.

The commission was created at the request of a prominent Middle Eastern client through Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Abu Dhabi, in honour of her beloved daughter. Her brief to the Bespoke Collective was to use an ‘English Rose’ – her favourite flower – to symbolise beauty, heritage and family. The inspiration for the design came from the English Princess Rose, a flower whose name and character subtly echo the sentiment of the commission. The rose’s colour – a delicate pink – is also the favourite colour of the commissioning client’s daughter. Each green leaf on the embroidered stem represents a family member, adding an intimate and purposeful gesture to the design.”

“Designing Spectre Rose was deeply personal, with every bespoke element crafted to tell a meaningful story. From my first inspiring conversation with our client,

I knew we were creating a truly unique car – one that reflects a beautiful bond between mother and daughter and carry profound significance. At the Private Office Dubai, we take the time to listen closely as our clients share their memories and personal meanings, allowing us to enrich the design process and bring their stories to life through every detail.”

Michelle Lusby, Bespoke Lead Designer, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Middle East & Africa

Bespoke Rose Embroidery

All four headrests and the rear seat waterfall bear the Bespoke rose motif that gives the motor car its name and identity. The embroidery was developed through a close collaboration between a dedicated Bespoke Designer, based at Private Office Dubai, and a Bespoke embroidery artisan, based at the Home of Rolls-Royce in Goodwood.

The artisan created a new technique that blends two shades of pink thread using a satin stitch. This method

creates a subtle gradient, where a darker pink fades gently to a lighter hue at the petal edges. The flower head is rendered with a higher stitch density than usual to enhance its prominence, achieving a sculptural, three-dimensional effect. In contrast, the stem and leaves are stitched in a flatter tatami technique, using thread angles to shape and shade the design without drawing attention away from the rose itself.

A Canvas for Bespoke

Spectre Rose is finished in brilliant Arctic White, accentuated by a single Coachline hand-painted in vibrant Peony Pink; the same shade has been selected for the pinstripes on the 23-inch forged seven-spoke wheels and their body-coloured centres.

The interior continues the sharp, high-contrast theme, with leather upholstered seats in Grace White with complements of Black and Peony Pink seat inserts,

contrast stitching and detailing. High-gloss Piano White veneer, Black carpets, and a Black central armrest complete the clean, monochromatic effect.

Private Office Dubai: a Sanctuary for Self-Expression Rolls-Royce Private Office Dubai provides the perfect setting for clients to explore their creative visions and create personally meaningful motor cars. Like its counterparts in Shanghai, Seoul and New York City, and the original at Goodwood, this creative hub is available by invitation only and enables clients to collaborate closely on their commissions with a Rolls-Royce Bespoke Designer and a dedicated Client Experience Manager. A quiet, relaxing and secluded space, Private Office Dubai is filled with objects, textures, themes and colours to spark conversations and help clients explore the near-limitless possibilities of Bespoke.

On the Road

FERRARI 296 SPECIALE & SPECIALE A DRIVING THRILLS REDEFINED

Ferrari has unveiled two new high-performance models—the 296 Speciale and 296 Speciale A—that raise the bar for driving excitement in both coupé and open-top formats. Designed for passionate Ferraristi, these plug-in hybrid supercars build on the acclaimed 296 GTB and 296 GTS, delivering a thrilling blend of cutting-edge performance, aerodynamic innovation, and race-derived engineering.

Unrivalled Performance

At the heart of both models lies a powerful hybrid powertrain combining a 120° V6 twin-turbo engine with an electric motor for a total output of 880 cv, 50 more than their base models. The V6, enhanced with titanium connecting rods, reinforced pistons, and a Formula 1-inspired knock control system, produces 700 cv alone. An upgraded electric motor delivers 180 cv in Extra Boost mode, enabling lightning-fast gear shifts and improved responsiveness via the 8-speed DCT gearbox.

Advanced Aerodynamics

Thanks to innovations inspired by the 296 Challenge, both the Speciale and Speciale A achieve 435 kg of downforce at 250 km/h—a 20% increase over their standard versions. Key elements include a new aero damper, vertical fins with integrated side wings, and an advanced active rear spoiler with a three-mode configuration (Low, Medium, and High Downforce).

Driver-Centric Dynamics

Ferrari has fine-tuned every aspect of the driving experience, including weight reduction—50 kg lighter than the base cars—through extensive use of carbon fibre and titanium. A revised suspension setup lowers the ride height by 5 mm, reducing body roll by 13% and enhancing high-speed stability. Both models feature the latest ABS Evo system, offering improved braking precision on all surfaces.

Coupé or Open-Top – Your Choice

The 296 Speciale continues Ferrari’s lineage of hardcore berlinettas, while the 296 Speciale A adds the exhilaration of open-air driving via Ferrari’s renowned Retractable Hard Top (RHT). Both models deliver the same exceptional performance, but the Speciale A provides the added sensory thrill of the wind and engine sound in full symphony.

On the Road

Bentley Saudi Arabia announces the global launch of the BENTLEY BATUR CONVERTIBLE

The Batur Convertible, the third coachbuilt Bentley of the modern era, has made its global debut at an exclusive event.

With only 16 individually numbered cars being produced, the Batur Convertible is a true collector's piece. Each will feature the most potent iteration of Bentley's iconic W12 engine, a 750 PS, hand-assembled 6.0-litre twin-turbocharged masterpiece set to end production this summer, making this one of the last Bentleys to ever house this legendary powertrain. Beyond its extraordinary performance, the Batur Convertible offers limitless personalisation, with every detail tailored to reflect the vision and individuality of its owner.

Design details

The exterior of the Batur Convertible Engineering Car, is another demonstration of the art of the possible with the Mulliner Bespoke Studio. It is a showcase of dynamic colour transitions and high-performance materials, brought to life through its Midnight Emerald exterior paint and High Gloss Carbon Fibre finishes. At the front, the grille stands out with a bold Satin Dark Titanium finish throughout, with the exception of the grille matrix, where a Gloss Mandarin to Gloss Beluga fade creates a striking visual transition.

At the heart of this bold exterior is the distinctive Batur Racing Stripe, finished in Gloss Porpoise and flanked with Gloss Mandarin outer stripes, both hide-matched to the interior leather, creating a seamless visual connection between the exterior and the cabin.

The cabin echoes the exterior, with Cumbrian Green and Porpoises leather being accented with Mandarin stitching and piping, complemented with machined titanium Organ Stops and Bullseye vents. The veneer is Mulliner's exquisite "guitar fade", where a

transition of colour and texture spans the width of the cabin, from gloss Beluga to high gloss carbon fibre, and back to gloss Beluga, and finished with the unique laser-etched audio signature of this W12 engine.

Bespoke two-seat touring Bentley has a rich history of open-cockpit cars, from the very first Bentley of 1919, through the company's foundation years in the 1920s, to the most recent - the Bacalar.

The architecture of the Batur Convertible has allowed Mulliner's designers to seize the opportunity to create a theme that not only blends the design of the Bacalar and Batur but includes the versatility of a convertible. The designers also chose to highlight the two-seater character with a 'wraparound' cockpit inspired by the design of the Bacalar.

Personal and uniquely commissioned

The Mulliner Bespoke Studio will co-create every Batur Convertible with each client, utilising our exclusive inhouse commissioning software. It adopts a unique 'off menu' approach to commissioning that allows any part of the car to be customised in colour and surface finish, bringing each vision to life.

Endless samples of unique materials bring texture and feel to the process, with the resulting commissions being truly individual and created by the client, limited only by their imagination.

Paint choice is infinite, starting with the full Mulliner colour palette and travelling beyond into fully bespoke paint and even hand-painted elements. The exterior brightware can be any mix of light and dark, satin or gloss, or even titanium. Another subtle option available is a graduated contrast colour to the front grille, allowing for a vibrant ombre effect.

In the cabin, the highly exclusive option of 3D printed rose gold includes key driver touch points, such as the Bentley Drive Mode Selector, encircling the start/stop button and used to change chassis modes. The centrepiece of an exquisite cabin, the dial complements the design of the front grille. Rose gold can also be applied to Bentley's iconic Organ Stop vent controls in the dashboard, as well as on the steering wheel itself.

Bentley Mulliner has collaborated with expert goldsmiths based in the historic Jewellery Quarter of Birmingham, England, where jewellery has been made for centuries, to craft these unique parts. This special collaboration highlights Bentley's ability to combine new, advanced manufacturing technologies with more traditional materials and finishing techniques.

Exclusive and powerful

Each Batur Convertible will be handcrafted over the course of several months in Mulliner's workshop at Bentley's carbon-neutral factory in Crewe, England.

The Batur features the most powerful version of Bentley's iconic W12, a 750 PS, hand-assembled 6.0-litre twin-turbocharged engine that has metaphorically and literally powered Bentley's success for the last two decades.

For the W12 powertrain that the Batur Convertible shares with its coupe counterpart, a revised intake system, upgraded turbochargers, new intercoolers, and extensive recalibration enable 750 PS and 1,000 Nm of torque, to deliver exceptional performance for this pinnacle grand tourer. This development of the engine is in celebration of its achievements over 20 years, over which it has been developed to produce nearly 40% more power while improving fuel economy by 25%.

On the Road

A CENTURY OF POWER AND INFLUENCE: THE ROLLS-ROYCE PHANTOM AT 100

P• 100 years after it was first conceived, Rolls-Royce reflects on Phantom’s global influence

• As the ultimate Rolls-Royce, Phantom is the world’s pinnacle luxury product

• Owned by cultural icons, Phantom has both reflected and shaped the world

• Phantom has been an inspiring stage for greatness at history’s defining moments

• Underscores the long history of elaborate, highly personal Bespoke Phantoms

• Today’s Rolls-Royce designers have been inspired to create eight artworks, celebrating Phantom’s centenary year

hantom occupies an unrivalled position at the apex of the luxury world. Since 1925, Phantom has stood as the most recognisable symbol of success. Across eight generations, it has conveyed royalty, leaders, artists and captains of industry, present at some of the most significant moments of modern history. Revered for its timeless elegance, Phantom became the ultimate expression of influence, refined taste and personal style.

To mark Phantom’s centenary, the marque’s designers have created new artworks honouring Phantom’s cultural legacy. Inspired by the 1910 commission given to artist Charles Sykes – creator of the Spirit of Ecstasy – to produce oil paintings of Phantoms in locations that reflected clients’ lifestyles, they echo the diverse lives and worlds Phantom has inhabited over the past century.

As this nameplate celebrates its centenary, Rolls-Royce reflects on Phantom’s glorious legacy and just a few of the fascinating stories where Phantom plays a role.

PHANTOM AS A STATEMENT OF AUTHORITY

One of the great commanders of the Second World War, Field Marshal Bernard Law Montgomery, was nicknamed ‘the Spartan General’ for his austere lifestyle. His sole concession to comfort was in his personal transport. Recognising the power of image and symbolism, ‘Monty’ used a pair of Phantom IIIs to communicate permanence, solidity and reliability, sending a clear signal to his troops that he would stick with them through the darkest hours.

“Phantom is much more than a motor car. For 100 years, it has stood at the pinnacle of all RollsRoyce motor cars – a cultural phenomenon that both reflects and influences the world around it. From its earliest days, Phantom has been one of the most desired rewards for success and a potent symbol of power and prestige on the world stage. Beyond status, it has always offered its owners a canvas for personal expression, transformed through Bespoke craftsmanship into a moving work of art. Across music, politics, art and beyond, Phantom has been present at many of history’s defining moments. The stories that surround it — and the images they’ve inspired our designers to create — reveal its extraordinary reach, and its enduring connection to greatness.”

Chris Brownridge, Chief Executive, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars

In the build-up to D-Day in June 1944, he used one of his Phantoms to convey Winston Churchill, General Eisenhower and even King George VI to planning sessions at the Supreme Headquarters Allied Expeditionary Force in Hampshire. Following the war, he would use his other Phantom to convey the Prime Ministers of Canada, Australia and New Zealand.

PHANTOM AS THE ROYAL STANDARD

While Montgomery’s Phantoms were present at events that shaped the modern world, others took pride of place in royal households; none more so than in RollsRoyce’s home market of Great Britain.

In 1948, shortly after marrying HRH Princess Elizabeth, the Duke of Edinburgh asked Rolls-Royce to build a Phantom for their joint use. The result, code-named Maharajah of Nabha, became the first Phantom IV and remains in service today under the same name. This motor car marks one of the milestones of a long Royal association.

The British Royal Family subsequently commissioned another Phantom IV, two Phantom Vs, and two Phantom VIs to convey the sovereign. One of these is the renowned Silver Jubilee Phantom VI, which was presented to Queen Elizabeth II in 1977 by the British motor industry to celebrate her 25 years on the throne; it would later be used at the wedding of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge in 2011 for the arrival of the bride at Westminster Abbey.

Across continents, another Phantom V would play a role in the birth of a nation. Delivered in 1966 to Sheikh

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Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan, revered as the ‘founding father’ of the United Arab Emirates, it would be present at his inauguration as ruler of Abu Dhabi. In 1971, it carried James Treadwell, the first British Ambassador to the UAE, to the ceremony that formally established the federation.

British diplomats across the globe also embraced Phantom as their own tools of soft power. These trusted envoys would serve in postings as far flung as Tokyo, Washington, New Delhi, and other destinations. Sir John Fretwell, former British ambassador to Paris, once told The Times, “My Rolls certainly helped when visiting the Élysée. The guards on the gate had no excuse for not knowing it was the British ambassador.”

Whether navigating the world stage or serving quietly in its home market, Phantom has always been an imposing presence. Phantom V, launched in 1959, was 5.8m (almost 19ft) long – while no official documentation exists to prove it, some historians have posited that the minimum distance between British parking meters was revised to accommodate its dimensions.

ENTER JOHN LENNON: A PHANTOM FOR A BEATLE

Not every Phantom V was destined for royal service or diplomatic ceremony. In December 1964, John Lennon rewarded himself for the success of The Beatles’ A Hard Day’s Night by commissioning his own Phantom V, specifying that it should be black everywhere, inside and out (though the Pantheon grille and Spirit of Ecstasy mascot retained their conventional bright finish at Rolls-Royce’s insistence). Lennon’s Phantom was one

of the first motor cars in Britain to have blacked-out windows. As he explained to Rolling Stone in 1965, “If it’s daylight when you’re coming home, it’s still dark inside the car – you just shut all the windows and you’re still in the club.”

But this would not be its most famous incarnation. In 1967, before the release of Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band, it was repainted in vibrant yellow and covered with swirling, floral motifs and zodiac symbols, becoming an artistic manifesto for the Summer of Love the same year. Lennon later claimed

it was attacked with an umbrella by an outraged Englishwoman who shouted, “How dare you do that to a Rolls-Royce!” – an incident that only galvanised its legend.

TO HOLLYWOOD AND BEYOND: PHANTOM TAKES THE LEAD

Hollywood, too, embraced Phantom. Among the pioneers of cinema, Jack Warner, co-founder of the Warner Brothers studio, rewarded himself with a Phantom. More famously, stars including Fred Astaire, Greta Garbo and Mary Pickford were also early owners. In 1964, Phantom made screen appearances in Goldfinger – in which the villain smuggled gold in a Phantom III. This would be one of 12 appearances by Rolls-Royce motor cars in the long-running James Bond franchise. In 2024, the marque commemorated the 60th anniversary of the film with Phantom Goldfinger, a one-ofone Bespoke Phantom VIII, replicating the original’s black and yellow coachwork and replete with innovative film-inspired details.

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Also in 1964 came the premiere of The Yellow RollsRoyce. The all-star cast included Rex Harrison, Ingrid Bergman, Shirley MacLaine, Omar Sharif, George C. Scott, Alain Delon and Jeanne Moreau – and a 1931 Phantom II. The soundtrack song Forget Domani won a Golden Globe and was later recorded by both Perry Como and Frank Sinatra. The latter would also own a Rolls-Royce.

THE KING’S MOTOR CAR: A PHANTOM FOR ELVIS

Other titans of popular culture also gravitated to Phantom as their fame waxed across the globe. Elvis Presley, ‘The King’ himself, bought a Phantom V in 1963. His car included a Bespoke microphone and a rear armrest writing kit. After his mother’s chickens damaged the mirror-finish Midnight Blue paintwork by pecking at their reflections, he had it resprayed Silver Blue, which didn’t show the blemishes. In 1968, Elvis donated his motor car to charity, inspiring the song Elvis’s RollsRoyce by Leonard Cohen and Was (Not Was).

A NEW ERA OF SUCCESS

The arrival of Phantom VII in the early 2000s coincided with the rise of self-made entrepreneurs, global celebrity culture, and social media. Freed from traditional luxury codes, they wanted to express their personality, not just their success – and Phantom provided the perfect canvas.

In a neat full circle, many of the people who made their fortunes in these new industries chose to invest in a Phantom, then use their platforms to share their ownership experience with the world – be it on television, or via Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube.

As its presence grew, Phantom became a fixture at award ceremonies and gala events, ensuring its owners a grand arrival with effortless grace on the red carpet; in 2012, three special edition Phantom Drophead Coupés made a surprise appearance at the closing ceremony of the Olympics in London. A suitably grand arrival for such a momentous occasion, this event, along with numerous others in more recent history, was broadcast directly to the devices of millions, making Phantom a social media star in its own right.

PHANTOM TODAY

Today, in its eighth generation, Phantom remains the ultimate expression of presence and purpose. Whether represented in cultural institutions like the Saatchi Gallery and the Serpentine, or serving as a collaborative canvas for brands including Hermès and Iris van Herpen, it continues to reflect and shape the world around it. Every new, ever more elaborate Bespoke commission adds another chapter to this remarkable story – one of power, culture, influence, and personal expression.

Jewels of the World premieres in Al Khobar

Saudi Arabia’s Eastern Province welcomes grandest Jewellery & Watch fair ever

Jewels of the World officially opened its doors on 9th May. The largest jewellery and watch fair ever held in Saudi Arabia’s Eastern Province, the event brings together a remarkable collection of international brands and independent designers from across the globe.

Welcoming visitors until 12th May, it features the regional debut of some exquisite high jewellery, fine jewellery, bridal sets and pioneering timepieces, all showcased in a spectacular setting at the strategically located Dhahran Expo.

Among the participating names are Al Baqshi Jewelry, Al Jawharji Jewellery, Al Nahar Jewellery, Alessa Jewelry, Araya Fine Jewellery, Azar Gems, Bil Arabi, Blue White Group, Charles Oudin, Dani by Daniel K, Devji Aurum, Diva Jewels, Etho Maria, Gems & Jewels Palace, George Hakim, Hanna Jewels, House of Gems, J.H. Jewellers, K K Jewels, K. Lalita Jewellers, Kahn Jewellery, La Prima Gioielli, Lapis, Lida Diamond, Nafees, Nsouli, Pace Gems, Panchoo, Piranesi, Rakyan’s Fine Jewellery, Renée Jewellers, RK Jewellers, Rose, Sandy Tabet Jewellery, Silvia Furmanovich, Tijoree, Vanessa Gioielli, Yvan Tufenkjian and more.

Special highlights include Italian jeweller FerriFirenze’s Vito collection, precious, handmade treasures crafted with graceful curves and etched with supple contours, comforting to the touch and fluttering along the wearer’s skin. Fusing art with mechanics, award-winning designer Tariq Riaz presents his innovative Circle of Life – sophisticated, disruptive and the ultimate in precision, featuring a genius expandable design thanks to a patented mechanism.

Ananya’s Magnificent Jewels Volume 3 - Mogra Emerald set is a masterpiece handcrafted in gold, diamonds, emeralds and mother of pearl, a tribute to grace and sacred beauty drawing from the essence of the Mogra Jasmine flower. Karen Suen is showing a stunning, transformable Conch Pearl tiara which can be transformed into a necklace that took several years to develop, and a pair of stunning Paraiba Earrings with diamonds, featuring perfectly matched pairs of Paraiba Tourmalines - an incredible rarity.

Tejori’s Frozen Symphony, a timeless high jewellery set, captures the beauty of frozen moments and features pear and marquise-cut white diamonds, each meticulously set in sculptural 3D structures that mirror the poetry of wild ice. Amongst other creations, Luca Carati is presenting a limited-edition Deco cuff bracelet, a blend of geometric precision and opulent design reminiscent of the bold elegance of the 1920s. The masterpiece features 5.80 carats of the finest white diamonds set in rose gold and, for the first time, titanium.

Drawing on the strength and femininity of the Arab women, Saudi Arabian HRH Joaillerie bridges European craftsmanship with Middle Eastern aesthetics as showcased in its stunning new

creations, including Star of the Orient, a striking high jewellery necklace inspired by the eight-pointed star, an enduring symbol found in architecture across the Arab world.

The event is open to the public until 12th May from 16:00 hrs - 23:00 hrs every day, before moving to Riyadh’s Mandarin Oriental Al Faisaliah from 16th – 19th May.

Jewels of the World is brought to you by Lucid Motors and supported by Brinks International and Store Makers.

For further information, please visit www.jowsaudi.com

CHRIS BARTON INVENTING THE FUTURE, ONE DISRUPTION AT A TIME

Chris Barton is an inspirational keynote speaker whose themes are technology, AI, innovation, entrepreneurship, overcoming obstacles, resilience, persistence, and eliminating friction.

Chris is the founder and first CEO of Shazam, three-time startup founder, pioneer of mobile ecosystems at Google and Dropbox, and inventor of 12 patents including one found within the Google search algorithm.

Invented 8 years before mobile apps existed, Shazam was the first AI technology in history that reached mass consumers. Shazam has been downloaded 2 billion times and was acquired by Apple in 2018 for a reported $400 million, making it Apple’s 6th largest acquisition of all-time.

Chris is now building his third startup company which will detect drowning in swimming pools using artificial intelligence and computer vision.

Chris, your journey from inventing Shazam to pioneering technologies at Google and Dropbox is legendary. Looking back, what was the spark that ignited your passion for disruptive innovation?

Ever since I was a kid, I have always loved to create things that can impact others. I enjoy the process of coming up with the vision and then seeing it through until it becomes a reality. I know that I am not a talented singer, musician, artist, writer, or poet … so my form of creativity is to create products. I also recognize that a product needs to be a business in order to become self-sustaining so business models are part of the creation process. In particular I like to create products that have their foundation in technology because this is a way to create truly magical new things for the world.

Shazam was born eight years before mobile apps even existed. How did you manage to think so far ahead of the curve, and what were the biggest challenges you faced convincing others to believe in your vision?

When I conceived the idea for Shazam, I was focused on solving a real world problem – to identify the music that you hear anywhere. Not only did apps not exist at the time I came up with the idea in late 1999, but mobile phones had tiny black and white screens with only enough pixels to show basic information which was typically just a few lines of text. I focused on innovation on working with the technologies that existed at the time but also realized I would be able to do more with Shazam once phones became more advanced. Of course, I didn’t realize it would take a full eight years before a truly delightful user experience would be possible with the launch of the iPhone app store in 2008.

I faced many challenges in convincing people as I worked with my co-founders to build Shazam. I had to first convince my co-founders to believe that this was a worthwhile focus and had a chance of success. Then I had to convince the fourth co-founder, the technical genius, that he must not give up in finding a way to invent the algorithm. After that we had to convince angel investors to invest in our idea. Then we had to convince venture capitalists to fund us with $7.5 million. Then as we built for launch, we had to convince mobile phone companies to partner with us, music distributors to provide access to music, and all the people we hired to join our startup company!

Shazam reaching 2 billion downloads and being acquired by Apple for a reported $400 million is a monumental achievement. What did that acquisition symbolize for you personally and professionally?

First of all, one big realization I have had is that the ultimate goal of “exit” for any entrepreneur is so much harder to achieve than I had realized. When exits occur, they are most commonly acquisitions and much more rarely they are IPOs. Because we read about acquisitions in the press everyday, it makes us feel that they are common and inevitable for most companies. However I think that is misleading. The reality is that someone has to feel the real need to “buy” your company and this is not something you directly control. Even when Shazam achieved global recognition as a popular app starting in 2008, it still took an additional ten years before it was acquired in 2018.

Being acquired by Apple was a dream come true. Apple is known for very rarely making big acquisitions. Most of its technology and products are homegrown. Most of its acquisition activity is focused on small teams and technologies that have not achieved global reach yet. I have always admired Apple for its innovative approach to delighting customers while also making user experiences simple. This felt like a perfect alignment with Shazam especially since Apple cares deeply about music. After all the original iPhone was launched by Steve Jobs on stage as “A phone. An ipod. A web browser” so music was a core part of the proposition.

For me the acquisition by Apple symbolized a stamp of approval that my vision and all the very hard work to realize it over 18 years had really been a success. There was no better outcome I could imagine.

You’re now developing a groundbreaking AI technology to detect drowning in swimming pools a powerful life-saving mission. What inspired you to tackle this particular challenge?

With a big of financial “breathing room” in my personal life after the exit of Shazam, I wanted to start creating again with my own startup visions. This time, I wanted to pick an idea that impacted the world in an even more meaningful way, by saving lives. I knew that my new idea would be

built on top of the most advanced AI technologies but I wanted to pick a problem that might be a smaller market but that does solve a real problem. I knew that most entrepreneurs and technologists go after the biggest and most financially rewarding busineses. I felt that preventing drowning in swimming pools is a problem that can be solved by combining novel hardware design with computer vision (a form of AI). This market was too small to be of interest to most big tech companies or even startups seeking big valuations. My journey now is how to create a solution in a capital efficient way that become a sustainable business.

Fortunately I don’t know anyone who has drowned but I do have a son who spent a bunch of his time around swimming pools so that was an inspiration. Sadly, drowning is a significant cause of accidental death for children every year so this is a real problem that needs to be solved.

As someone with 12 patents, including one integrated into the Google search algorithm, how do you approach the process of invention? Is it driven by necessity, curiosity, or intuition?

My approach to innovation is to “start from the end and then think backwards”. I believe that the reason that we limit our innovation possibilities is that we tend to think iteratively from what we already know or by researching what is out there. Instead I think about the ultimate user experience as if anything was possible. Then I think backwards from there on how I can overcome each obstacle to get to that outcome. This thinking requires a lot of curiousity, out-of-the box thinking, thinking from first principles, and most importantly creativity in finding solutions to all the obstacles along

the way. Persistance is the key ingredient to get to a successful outcome. It isn’t easy and it definitely takes lots of dedication and time. But it is worth every ounce of effort.

From Shazam to AI in heart health and now water safety, your startups seem to blend innovation with purpose. How do you choose your next venture? Is there a common thread that guides your decisions?

The most powerful fuel for entrepreneurs or anyone else who wants to change the world in some way is not money or fame or ego. The most powerful fuel is purpose. When you have a sense of purpose, you have a fuel that does not run out. You have a reason to chip away at the obstacles each and every day. You have a mission with which you can rally support from others. Your purpose comes from a chance to create real impact. The sense of purpose is the common thread behind my decisions as I build new products and businesses.

You’ve taught entrepreneurship at universities and appeared alongside tech icons in a Super Bowl ad. What advice do you share most often with aspiring entrepreneurs, especially those in emerging markets like Saudi Arabia?

I have taught entrepreneurship in several online courses, one of which is Misk right inside Saudi Arabia. My advice to aspiring entrepreneurs in places like Saudi Arabia is can span so many areas. My inspirational keynotes teach four fundamental ways of thinking differently in order to bring big ideas to life. However I also have all kinds of advice that often comes out in specific Q&A around all the unique approaches that entrepreneurs can use to be successful across so many challenges. You can see examples of some of these pieces of advice in the “Education Videos” section of my web site (www.chrisjbarton.com).

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is rapidly investing in innovation and smart technology. How do you see the region’s potential in contributing to the future of AI and tech entrepreneurship globally?

With the global access to AI models and cloud services, entrepreneurs in Saudi Arabia have more empowerment than ever before in history. They can built unique products and solutions to address their market, the broader middle east, and even global opportunities. The opportunities are only limited by the vision and desire of the entrepreneurs. With adequate support and funding, the possibilities are limitless. Now is the time more than ever before.

Luxury is often associated with exclusivity and excellence. In your world, where innovation is the luxury, what does “luxury” mean to you personally and professionally?

The luxury that I am so grateful to have is the freedom to work on the projects that I enjoy and that give me a sense of purpose. This luxury is more valuable to me than a bigger house, more expensive vacations, or nicer clothes. The value of how I spend my time and who I spend it with is priceless.

As someone who blends technology with purpose, what legacy do you hope to leave behind—not just in tech, but in how we use innovation to serve humanity?

In addition to the products and businesses that I put into the world, I want my legacy to be a message that many people take to heart that they can really make a difference. This is a message that makes people feel empowered to build things, make change, innovate. A message that makes it clear that they don’t have to be a genius like Bill Gates or Mark Zuckerberg. They can be a pretty ordinary person with a big vision and a huge heart. This is the theme of my keynotes and my future book.

“Being able to read someone else’s body language is the ability to fine-tune your own non-verbal vibe.”

- JUDI JAMES

The Luxury Network Academy is an educational initiative to individuals who are interested in joining the growing community of the luxury industry. In times of downsizing, global unemployment, and never-ending quality pressures, the need for protecting high standards in marketing sectors is being compromised.

TLN.ACADEMY

THE RED SEA INVITES TRAVELLERS TO RECONNECT WITH ‘WE’VE SAVED A PLACE FOR YOU’ A CAMPAIGN CELEBRATING RECONNECTION, DISCOVERY AND TIMELESS LUXURY

Framed by golden coastlines and clear waters, The Red Sea is Saudi Arabia’s most refined expression of luxury — one shaped by elegance, intention, and deep respect for its setting. Through the launch of “We’ve Saved a Place for You,” the destination extends a heartfelt invitation to explore a world where nature and design exist in balance, and where every experience speaks to the discerning traveller’s desire for meaning. Whether it’s a place for adventure, celebration, stillness, or reconnection — there is space here for everyone’s story. It is a place held in trust for generations to come — and waiting for those who seek something truly rare.

Set along one of the world’s most vibrant coastlines and framed by storied mountains, The Red Sea Saudi Arabia offers a sanctuary where luxury and nature exist in seamless harmony. Here, sweeping architecture flows organically into the land, vibrant coral reefs flourish under careful stewardship, and every moment is curated to feel both intimate and extraordinary. This is a destination shaped by reverence — not crowds — and designed to remain timeless. It has been created not only to welcome, but to honour whatever guests wish to pursue — from the thrill of discovery to the serenity of reconnection.

The campaign evokes the emotional truth behind the destination: that The Red Sea has always been here, waiting — not simply to be seen, but to be felt. As guests arrive through the architecturally striking Red Sea International Airport, they begin a journey where discovery unfolds organically, guided by the

region’s spirit of Hafawa — Saudi Arabia’s legacy of warm, wholehearted hospitality.

Set gently within the landscape, five resorts are now open, each offering a unique interpretation of luxury that complements the destination’s natural rhythm. From secluded island escapes to desert-framed sanctuaries, every property is thoughtfully designed to exist in harmony with its surroundings. Whether it’s barefoot elegance by the sea, contemporary refinement in the mountains, or family retreats with views of vibrant coral reefs, these openings represent the first chapter in a growing portfolio — with 11 more resorts soon to follow on Shura Island, the iconic centrepiece of The Red Sea.

At The Red Sea, every experience is an invitation to reconnect — with nature, with culture, and with a deeper sense of self. Guests can hike trails that wind through sundrenched mountains, dive into coral gardens teeming with life, or cycle across desert landscapes that shift with the light. Wellness unfolds through sunrise yoga on secluded shores and holistic rituals that restore balance and clarity. Culinary moments come alive beneath starlit skies, where heritage and innovation meet on every plate. Cultural discovery is woven into falconry displays, guided heritage walks, and the quiet beauty of storytelling landscapes. Designed for travellers of all generations and abilities, experiences are thoughtfully curated to suit every pace — from leisurely kayakers exploring the mangrove forests to beginner divers and seasoned explorers — offering ease, comfort, and a profound sense of place.

“We’ve Saved a Place for You” marks the evolution of The Red Sea from a destination of firsts into a sanctuary for those who value authenticity, exclusivity, and design-led immersion. This is not simply a place to stay — it is a place to belong. A destination generational stories, natural wonder, and worldclass hospitality come together to offer something rare in today’s travel landscape: meaning.

www.visitredsea.com

SIX WAYS TO GO WILD THIS SUMMER WITH SIX SENSES

RECONNECT WITH NATURE AND EACH OTHER – NO SCREENS REQUIRED

This summer, Six Senses invites families to swap screen time for green time with “Six Ways to Go Wild” – a globe-spanning collection of immersive, nature-led adventures designed especially for younger guests.

From the deserts of Saudi Arabia to the reefs of Fiji, Six Senses properties offer unique wildlife and conservation experiences that turn kids into explorers – and give parents time to recharge. No screens. No scrolls. Just wild adventures.

From the desert to the deep sea, here’s how kids can reconnect with the wild at Six Senses:

Wadi Rangers – Six Senses Southern Dunes (Saudi Arabia): At Six Senses Southern Dunes, The Red Sea, kids can join the Junior Wadi Ranger programme to explore the native flora and fauna, including the Arabian Red Fox and Desert Hedgehog, as part of an initiative launched on the International Day for Biological Diversity.

Coral

Gardeners – Six

Senses

Fiji: At Six Senses Fiji, children team up with NGO Coral Gardeners to snorkel, clean coral nurseries, and support the reef’s circular ecosystem alongside expert marine biologists.

Eco Warriors – Six Senses Yao Noi (Thailand): Six Senses Yao Noi’s Junior Eco Warrior programme combines farm life, nature play, and sustainability workshops — from collecting eggs to building birdhouses from recycled timber.

Escape Diaries

Marine Biologists – Six Senses Laamu (Maldives):

At Six Senses Laamu, kids dive into the Junior Marine Biology classroom to explore the reef, create conservation videos, and meet spinner dolphins in their natural habitat.

Hedgehog Helpers – Six Senses Ibiza (Spain): At Can Tanca, the organic farm at Six Senses Ibiza, little ones assist rescued hedgehogs with coconut oil baths and feeding, preparing them for safe release into the wild.

Monkey Monitors – Six Senses Ninh Van Bay (Vietnam): Six Senses Ninh Van Bay offers hikes with a resident biologist to observe and protect the critically endangered black-shanked douc langurs.

These hands-on experiences are part of the global Grow With Six Senses initiative, which incorporates the six dimensions of wellness into every child’s stay — encouraging connection, creativity, and curiosity in nature.

This summer, go wild. Together.

For more information www.sixsenses.com

FAIRMONT HOTELS & RESORTS STRENGTHENS SAUDI ARABIAN

PRESENCE

The beloved hospitality brand expands into strategic and sought-after Saudi destinations Al Kohbar, Red Sea & Rua Madinah, set to deliver 616 keys by 2030

Step into a significant new chapter in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia with Fairmont Hotels & Resorts, part of the world leading hospitality group Accor. Recognized among the most storied addresses in the world and celebrating the best of each destination, Fairmont Hotels & Resorts will embrace culture in all its forms with three new Saudi openings - Fairmont Red Sea opening end of 2025, Fairmont Ajdan Al Khobar in 2027 and Fairmont Rua Madinah in 2028. Aligned with the Kingdom’s Saudi Vision 2030, this signifies a new stronghold in the Kingdom and bolsters the brand’s record-breaking pipeline.

Maarten Den Nieuwenhuijsen, Senior Vice President Openings and Guest Experience, Fairmont Hotels & Resorts commented: “At Fairmont, we pursue growth with intention, selecting destinations that reflect our commitment to timeless hospitality and cultural resonance. Saudi Arabia is one of the world’s most dynamic tourist destinations, offering untold opportunities for growth, and we are proud to play a role in shaping its hospitality landscape. I am confident that our upcoming openings will not only contribute to the Kingdom’s luxury hospitality offering but also foster meaningful connections with guests and

communities. These projects are a testament to the strength of our development pipeline and our longterm commitment to the region.”

Fairmont The Red Sea – Rendering

Each property will represent Fairmont’s dedication to transformative accommodation and celebration of heritage. Fairmont The Red Sea, positioned in the Kingdom’s groundbreaking Red Sea Project—one of the world’s most ambitious regenerative tourism projects— is set to redefine the relationship between luxury tourism and the natural world. Once opened, the property will feature 193 rooms, six distinct dining concepts, including an overwater restaurant with views of the Red Sea and the mangroves, teens centre, kids’ clubs, and a spa. The resort will be situated next to an 18-hole championship golf course, reflecting Fairmont’s association as a world-class golf operator. It will set new standards in sustainable development, positioned on 200 km of

untouched coastline, an archipelago of more than 90 unspoiled islands, dormant volcanoes, rich marine habitat, and ancient archaeological sites.

Fairmont Ajdan Al Khobar – Rendering

Arriving in 2027, Fairmont Ajdan Al Khobar will offer 160 rooms, and serviced apartments, four dining outlets, a Fairmont Spa and fitness facilities and executive meeting rooms. Strategically located in the heart of Al Khobar’s center, the property will become part of the vibrant Ajdan Waterfront development, featuring retail and entertainment attractions.

Fairmont Rua Madinah – Rendering

Overlooking the revered Prophet’s Mosque and located in one of Saudi Arabia’s religious cities, Fairmont Rua Madinah is set to feature 143 spacious rooms and suites, a variety of dining venues and 120 branded residences - boasting its own kids club, fitness

center and spa. With the opening of Fairmont Rua Madinah, the hotel brand will be present in the two main religious cities of Saudi Arabia. Fairmont Rua Madinah will join Fairmont’s established presence in Saudi Arabia, including the iconic Makkah Clock Royal Tower, A Fairmont Hotel, a symbol of luxury and religious significance in the heart of the Holy City.

Makkah

Clock Royal Tower, A Fairmont Hotel

Majestically overlooking the sacred Kaaba, it offers an unforgettable experience, making it the premier choice for discerning pilgrims undertaking Umrah and Hajj. As the crown jewel of The Clock Towers complex, this architectural masterpiece rises 61 floors, exuding opulence through its meticulously designed interiors and exceptional amenities, redefining the essence of luxury hospitality.

Fairmont Riyadh

Fairmont’s existing presence in Saudi Arabia extends to Riyadh with Fairmont Hotel Riyadh. The hotel is ideally located near key attractions and entertainment venues, offering contemporary luxury infused with Middle Eastern charm. The hotel features six exceptional dining concepts, including the vibrant Italian restaurant Che Figata! and the premium steakhouse House of Grill, each delivering unforgettable culinary experiences. For relaxation, guests can retreat to the serene Fairmont Spa, which features separate facilities for men and

women, along with a stunning indoor pool. Set along King Fahd Road with breathtaking views of Riyadh’s skyline or lush landscaped gardens, Fairmont Ramla Serviced Residences, Riyadh is the Kingdom’s first luxury serviced residence, designed for both business and leisure travelers. It offers a verdant and tranquil escape from the energy of Saudi Arabia’s most dynamic city.

Fairmont Ramla Serviced Residences, Riyadh

Rolf Lippuner, Vice President, Operations for Middle East Fairmont Hotels & Resorts, stated: “Saudi Arabia’s hospitality landscape is evolving at an extraordinary pace, and Fairmont is honoured to contribute to this exciting transformation. Having spent a significant part of my career in the Kingdom, I have witnessed its dynamic growth firsthand. I am proud to continue stewarding the success of our existing properties while preparing to welcome new Fairmont addresses to life. With its rich heritage and bold vision for the future, the Kingdom offers an unparalleled mix of genuine yet exceptional and cutting-edge innovation, providing the perfect backdrop for creating captivating and meaningful guest experiences.”

The series of openings aims to meet rising demand in the Kingdom’s key tourism and economic hubs, emphasizing Fairmont’s strategy to bring exceptional dining and outstanding locations, through heartfelt service, and the delivery of meaningful experiences.

RITUALS INTRODUCES

COLLECTION

Step into the realm of imagination

Rituals introduces The Dream Collection: a new limited-edition line of body and home cosmetics designed to transform your personal space into a haven of relaxation and beauty. Featuring innovative formulations and a warm woody-floral fragrance, this collection ranges from whipped cream-like foams and scrubs to sparkling glosses and pastel lotions. All designed to elevate your self-care routine.

Discover Rituals’ new limited-edition and dive into a world where textures pop, with cool new products like whipped foams, silky-soft creams, and shimmering oils. With bold colours and simple design, the Dream Collection offers a range of 13 products with cutting-edge formulas infused with unique ingredients like blue daisy and moonstone. This creates a cosy, modern scent that feels like early spring mornings and the first light touching the morning dew.

Dagmar Brusse, Creative Director of Rituals, explains the insipiration: “With this collection, we wanted to create a sensory escape that allows our customers to find peace and joy in their daily routines. This collection is all about embracing the beauty of dreams and

transforming them into reality. For the first time, we worked with AI in combination with a real life model to craft the visual assets, blending innovation with creativity to bring this dreamlike world to life.”

DISCOVER THE COLLECTION

Float on cloud nine with The Dream Collection Whipped Shower Foam. A new sensory revolution that effortlessly transforms into a light, airy, cloud-like lather. With it’s whipped, lilac foam and dreamy floral, woody scent, it turns your everyday shower into a dream-like escape.

Level up your lip game with The Dream Collection Lip Oil. A luxurious blend of beauty and nourishment. With a sweet, fruity bubble gum scent and a hint of mint, it’s like a blast from the past. It’s more than just a lip gloss – it’s lip care that will give you that just-been-kissed shine, powered by a 5-oil blend, hydrating squalane, and Vitamin E.

Smell like a dream, last like a legend. The Dream Collection Eau de Parfum has got your back, all day and night! The beautiful and long-lasting limited-edition perfume surrounds you with whispers of rhum, delicate essence of white peach and alluring tuberose, anchored by a base of delicate musk that lingers softly. With its dreamy floral and gourmand scent, it’s both strong and long-lasting—made to stay with you from day to night.

Dream away with The Dream Collection Hand Wash that envelopes you with the its fresh blend of sheer jasmine, orris, sandalwood and musk. With its soft lilac shimmer and dreamy floral and woody scent, it leaves your skin feeling clean, refreshed, and delicately fragranced.

The Dream Collection Scented Candle is infused with delicate fragrances like sheer jasmine, powdery orris, warm sandalwood, and musk to transport you to a dreamlike state with endless possibilities. With up to 50 hours of burn time, it’s the perfect way to elevate any space. Tip: Pair it with other dream-inspired products from the collection for a complete sensory experience.

The Dream Collection launches in the KSA mid-May, and in UAE towards the end of May, followed by KWT, QTR, BHR and OMN after. The collection will be available for purchase on Rituals.com and instore.

An Exclusive Seasonal Dining Experience Inspired by Riyadh’s Art Scene, Served Throughout May & June at L’ami Dave

L’ami Dave, the French fine-dining concept with a contemporary twist located at Mansard Riyadh, A Radisson Collection Hotel, is pleased to introduce a special one-month limited menu from May to June, celebrating Saudi Arabia’s inaugural of Art Week Riyadh.

This exclusive menu pays tribute to the inaugural edition of Art Week Riyadh, hosted earlier this April by the Saudi Visual Arts Commission. The landmark event united over 240 artists and showcased more than 500 artworks, highlighting Saudi Arabia’s expanding presence on the global art stage. Created to empower artists, foster cultural dialogue, and champion creative diversity. Art Week Riyadh offered a non-commercial platform rooted in contemporary artistic expression.

L’ami Dave has partnered with the Saudi Visual Arts Commission inviting art enthusiasts for a special menu that honors the success of the initiative and the vibrant growth of the Kingdom’s art scene.

To offer guests a true culinary experience, the limited-time menu, available all day at the restaurant, features a curated selection of four appetizers and four main courses, each inspired by the spirit of creativity and innovation that defines Art. Guests are flexible to savor the full experience or select individual dishes, served separately from the restaurant’s regular à la carte menu.

Taste Makers

For appetizers, guests are invited to indulge in a variety of refined flavors. The Warm Wild Mushroom Ragout offers a rich and creamy experience, elegantly served over toasted brioche. The Crabe Beignet delivers a crispy, golden bite, complemented by a touch of spice and a refreshing slaw. For a lighter option, the Prawn Provençale captures the essence of the Mediterranean with its aromatic broth, while the Citrus Vegetable Carpaccio presents a vibrant and zesty medley of the season’s freshest produce with a colorful and refreshing start to the meal.

For the main course, guests can savor a selection of rich and satisfying dishes. The Prime Beef Fillet is exceptionally tender and full of depth, finished with a classic sauce and a delicate touch of truffle. The Crispy Frilled Salmon is seared to perfection, offering a buttery texture accented by a subtle hint of red wine. The Lamb Rack impresses with its flavorful, herbaceous crust, while the Roasted Chicken Breast remains juicy and aromatic, infused with the bright notes of thyme and lemon. To complement the meal, guests can enjoy comforting sides such as golden French fries or tender green beans.

For a sweet finale, guest can order the Citrus Napoleon, a delicate mille-feuille layered with citrus cream, offering a light, vibrant, and refreshing end to the dining experience.

The new special menu promises a dining experience that is both distinctive and memorable, whether for a relaxed lunch or an unforgettable evening.

when you answer the call of the wild.

Immerse yourself in the world’s most remote and breathtaking destinations aboard Seabourn’s ultra-luxury expedition ships. With an intimate, yacht-like atmosphere and intuitive, personalised service, you’ll feel at home while venturing to the Arctic, Antarctica, the South Pacific, and all seven continents – encountering rare wildlife and landscapes few will ever see.

TRUMP

by M ajed G aroub

During his first foreign trip as U.S. President, Donald Trump signed agreements and initiated collaborations and investments across Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates, totaling approximately $4 to $5 trillion across both traditional and modern sectors. Of particular significance are the partnerships in military, technological, and artificial intelligence industries—especially those taking place within Saudi Arabia and the Gulf Cooperation Council states—marking a strategic alliance aimed at combating terrorism and promoting regional and global stability, peace, and security.

Trump’s policy of transactional diplomacy—leveraging tariffs and economic pressure—has been a decisive tool to advance American interests and reinforce “America First.” This approach, addressing deep-rooted historical issues worldwide, has allowed Iran to expand its influence within the Arab world—through Iraq, Syria, Lebanon, and Yemen—and to some extent in other Muslim-majority countries. It has also facilitated the proliferation of groups such as the Muslim

Brotherhood, ISIS, Hamas, Houthis, and Hezbollah, all of which serve to weaken Arab states and distract them from their core issues, in service of Israeli interests and amid the growing influence of China and the global geopolitical landscape, including Russia’s war in Ukraine.

It appears that American strategic interests are increasingly aligned with a stabilizing, leadership role for Saudi Arabia and the broader Islamic world, fostering a lasting peace in the Middle East—an objective that would help the U.S. preserve its gains and counterbalance Chinese influence. The soft power of Saudi Arabia, the Gulf, and Egypt—built on principles of justice, adherence to Arab rights, and non-interference in internal affairs—has proven effective over time through patience and perseverance. This approach has positioned these nations as key partners in investment, development, and peace-building, rather than conflict and destruction.

In this context, soft power—complemented by strategic economic investments in sports, entertainment, tourism,

and cultural diplomacy—has become Saudi Arabia’s greatest asset. Meanwhile, traditional hard power—exploited by Iran in supporting proxy conflicts and regional destabilization—continues to threaten regional and international peace.

Trump’s presidency can be described as a seismic shift—an earthquake that has shaken the foundations of global geopolitics. We hope that he will succeed in fostering peace in Ukraine and Russia, and in the Middle East, by balancing power with Iran—particularly after neutralizing its last regional proxy, the Houthis in Yemen—thus paving the way for a long-sought peace in the region, lasting more than seven decades.

Trump’s impact is a rare phenomenon— an intersection of legal, political, and economic forces that seldom recur in history. One cannot help but recall the Roman Emperor Caesar—an analogy to the magnitude of his influence.

THE IMPORTANCE OF HEALTHCARE RELIEF IN CRISES: A SPOTLIGHT ON SAUDI ARABIA’S CONTRIBUTIONS

BY DR. FAISAL ZAGZOOG

Crisis management has become a science by itself, and that is due to natural disasters, armed conflicts, or public health emergencies; the value of healthcare relief has become extraordinarily vital for a very long time. When communities are engulfed in chaos, the availability of medical services often falters, leaving vulnerable populations at risk of preventable diseases and unnecessary suffering. The concept of healthcare relief addresses these urgent needs, providing essential services such as medical treatment, emergency care, and mental health support, ultimately saving countless lives.

When speaking about healthcare relief, it is important to know that it plays a multifaceted role during crises. First and foremost, it ensures that immediate medical needs are met. This includes the provision of first aid, treatment for injuries, and management of chronic illnesses that can worsen without proper care. It is also crucial in disease prevention, as it often involves vaccination campaigns and the distribution of medicines to

prevent outbreaks. Beyond physical health, it also plays a role in addressing mental health needs, as trauma and anxiety often accompany crises, requiring psychological aid and counseling.

No wonder that Saudi Arabia stands out as one of the world’s leading providers of healthcare relief, demonstrating its commitment to humanitarian aid and international cooperation. The Kingdom has clearly expanded its role on the global stage, particularly in recent years, exemplifying the values of compassion and solidarity. Through various initiatives and partnerships, Saudi Arabia has provided substantial support in crisis-hit regions, particularly in Yemen, Syria, Sudan, and other areas affected by conflict and disaster. One of the key organizations contributing to Saudi Arabia’s healthcare relief efforts is the King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Center (KSrelief). Since its inception in 2015, KSrelief has facilitated numerous projects focusing on healthcare, including the establishment of medical clinics, the distribution of medical

supplies, and the provision of specialized treatments for those afflicted by war and disasters. Their work also extends to organizing mobile clinics that reach remote and underserved areas, ensuring that even the most isolated communities receive necessary medical attention.

In the same context, Saudi Arabia has participated actively in global efforts to combat health crises, such as the COVID-19 pandemic. The Kingdom has contributed vaccines and medical supplies to various countries, showcasing its responsibility as a leader in healthcare disaster response.

To conclude and summarize, healthcare relief strategies in times of crisis cannot be overstated. Saudi Arabia’s extensive contributions to this vital sector underscore its dedication to humanitarian principles and the welfare of people in distress. As the world continues to face challenges, the role of effective healthcare relief remains crucial, and the Kingdom’s leadership in this arena sets a commendable example for nations worldwide.

WATER RESILIENCE IN A CHANGING CLIMATE

BY DINA ALNAHDY CHAIRPERSON CES CONSULTING

As global water scarcity intensifies, building water resilience has become a critical priority for nations, particularly arid countries like Saudi Arabia. UN-Water reports that 2.3 billion people reside in countries facing water stress, including 733 million living under high to critical levels of water scarcity1 . As we mark World Water Week this August, it is vital to spotlight how Saudi Arabia is enhancing its water security through innovation, strategy, and sustainable development.

Tackling Water Scarcity through Innovation: With water demand forecast to rise steeply by 2040, Saudi Arabia is accelerating smart water strategies to ensure sustainable access for a growing population. According to the World Resources Institute, the Middle East and North Africa face the highest levels of water stress, with 83% of their populations experiencing extreme scarcity, followed by South Asia, where 74% of people are similarly affected2

Saudi Arabia is in a position to lead the global water reuse revolution, with plans to boost capacity by 800% by 2025 and embed reuse into smart industrial

systems3. Water management in the industrial sector is crucial due to high water demand and limited resources. To manage this more efficiently, businesses across Saudi Arabia are turning to innovative water-saving strategies that reduce usage, lower costs, and ensure regulatory compliance.

New Technologies for Water Efficiency: As water scarcity becomes a pressing global challenge, various innovative technologies are being developed and deployed to optimize water use across sectors. Here are some of the most impactful technologies currently transforming water efficiency:

Smart Water Management Systems: These systems use Internet of Things (IoT) sensors and cloud-based platforms to monitor and manage water usage in real-time. Sensors detect minor leaks in pipelines to prevent water loss. Data-driven insights help utilities and users optimize water consumption.

PHYN is a well-known leak detection technology, addressing one of the most common issues in water distribution systems. PHYN utilizes high-precision ultrasonic technology to detect leaks4.

AI-Driven Forecasting: Artificial intelligence helps predict water demand by analyzing weather, usage patterns, and infrastructure performance. This allows for better planning, reduced waste, and improved water delivery systems. Australia successfully reduced water consumption by 50% between 2002 and 2009

while achieving a 40% growth in GDP, thanks to the effective use of AI combined with IoT technologies5.

Water Reuse Technologies: Advanced treatment systems like membrane bioreactors and reverse osmosis enable the safe reuse of wastewater in agriculture, industry, and urban areas. This reduces demand for freshwater and supports circular water economies. According to the International Water Association, large-scale water reuse is more cost-effective, reducing costs by up to 33%. Environmentally, greater reuse helps lower impacts, cutting freshwater eutrophication by 8–12% and climate-related emissions by 8–52%, depending on its application6.

Solar-Powered Desalination: This technology uses solar energy to turn seawater into freshwater, providing a sustainable solution in arid and off-grid areas. It reduces energy costs and carbon emissions compared to traditional desalination.

Atmospheric Water Generation (AWG): AWG systems pull moisture from the air and condense it into clean drinking water. Ideal for humid, water-scarce regions, they offer an alternative water source for both emergencies and daily use.

These technologies not only conserve water and lower environmental impact but also support economic growth by creating green jobs and attracting sustainable investments, in line with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 goals.

1- https://www.unwater.org/app/uploads/2021/12/SDG-6-Summary-Progress-Update-2021_Version-July-2021a.pdf 2- https://www.wri.org/insights/highest-water-stressed-countries

3- https://www.deswater.com/DWT_articles/vol_263_papers/263_2022_127.pdf

4- Rangel, R. P., Vieyra, M. T. S., Alcalá, M. E. L., & González, R. P. (2021). Examples to relate school mathematics to everyday life mediated by video, Tracker and GeoGebra. In South Florida Journal of Development (Vol. 2, Issue 3, pp. 4417–4434). https://doi.org/10.46932/sfjdv2n3-046

5- https://gprjournals.org/journals/index.php/ajt/article/download/208/239/683

6- https://iwaponline.com/jwrd/article/10/4/475/77838/Economic-and-environmental-assessment-of-water

LIFE IS A RIVER, NOT A STAIRCASE

A 10-DAY REFLECTION ON PRESENCE, PAUSE, AND THE POWER OF STILLNESS

BY SORAKA S ALKHATIB | THE CORPORATE NOMAD | ITIGER – DEAN OF ةيراسلا

I didn’t disappear to escape.

There were no announcements, no flights, no detox hashtags.

Just a quiet decision to unplug — for ten days — during a sacred window of time.

No phone. No meetings. No noise. No talking.

Only presence. Only breath. Only silence.

A Decision to Realign

This wasn’t about checking out. And it wasn’t about getting ahead.

It was about returning inward — To remember what matters when everything external fades.

At some point, I realized I had been scrolling through life… not writing it.

So I asked:

“What happens if I just stop — and listen?”

Silence Wasn’t Empty — It Was Full

Each day in solitude wasn’t dramatic. It was honest.

I began to notice:

• How quickly my thoughts reached for distraction

• How rarely I allowed stillness without purpose

• How much I longed for clarity — but resisted it

But slowly, the internal noise softened. And beneath it, I started hearing something else: Myself.

A Scroll, Not a Schedule

I didn’t plan my days. I recorded them.

Each evening, I wrote a single sentence beginning with:

“Today, I remembered…”

No goals. No performance. Just memory.

What started as journaling became a scroll — a thread of awareness connecting each day to the next.

The Real Luxury? Clarity

When I returned, nothing around me had changed. But I had.

I paused more. Listened better. Moved slower — with more intention. It wasn’t a reset. It was a recalibration.

Somewhere during that silence, a truth emerged:

Life is a river, not a staircase.

We spend so much energy trying to climb — up roles, ranks, routines. But maybe it’s not about height. Maybe it’s about flow.

Silence taught me that stillness isn’t stopping… It’s letting go of resistance and listening for where the current is meant to take you.

If You’re Reading This…

You don’t need ten days. You don’t need a retreat or a ritual. You just need a moment.

A breath. A check-in.

A question:

“Am I writing my scroll — or just consuming someone else’s?”

Start there.

That might be the beginning of your own return.

Because the true luxury today… Isn’t escape. It’s presence.

Riyadh Air Unlocks a World of Possibilities with Partnerships Spanning 125 Countries During Arabian Travel Market

Riyadh Air, Saudi Arabia’s new national airline, has concluded its attendance at the Arabian Travel Market (ATM) in Dubai, UAE, having signed 11 agreements with strategic partners to further innovate the air travel experience.

The partnerships are across a range of sales and distribution providers in over 125 countries. The completion of the Memoranda of Understanding (MOU) will enable Riyadh Air to boost its brand visibility while promoting its diverse range of flight services and products.

“These agreements reinforce Riyadh Air’s determination to be a truly global airline and push the boundaries of travel for our guests,” said Osamah Alnuaiser – SVP, Marketing and Corporate Communications at Riyadh Air. “Everyone wants to be a part of the Riyadh Air story, and we are carefully selecting companies and entities as partners that will join us on our journey towards our maiden flight and beyond.”

The deals are a strategic move by the airline aimed at significantly enhancing the carrier’s offerings. The partnerships are with a variety of renowned organizations, including DNATA, Discover the World Momentum, Aviareps, and Satguru Representation Services.

The MOUs are designed to foster sustainable, prosperous, and mutually beneficial relationships that deliver exceptional travel experiences for customers in Europe, Asia, the Middle East, Australasia, and Africa. By collaborating with these industry leaders, Riyadh Air aims to solidify its presence in international markets and ensure travellers enjoy Saudi Arabia’s exceptional hospitality.

An example of this is Riyadh Air’s partnership with leading customer loyalty program, Loyalty Juggernaut, Inc. Under the deal, Juggernaut’s next-generation program will deliver a personalized, seamless, and rewarding experience for travellers worldwide. The system is powered by the company’s cloud-native GRAVTY® platform and will feature real-time engagement, AI-driven personalization, expanded partnerships, dynamic earn and redemption opportunities, and a seamless mobile-first experience.

Riyadh Air has also partnered with some of the world’s leading travel technology distributors during ATM. Agreements have been signed with Amadeus, Sabre, TPConnects, Verteil Technologies and Air Retailer. These technologies will enhance the airline’s ability to showcase and distribute scalable modern retailing solutions. These partnerships will highlight dynamic pricing, and personalized travel offers from different global business

touchpoints as part of the airline’s digital vision and modern distribution strategy.

Riyadh Air is fully embracing the potential of these technologies to leverage tech solutions to create an innovative approach to content distribution. By taking this approach, Riyadh Air will be able to simplify the process for a global network of travel agents, corporate buyers, and customers, allowing them to access and sell all products and services seamlessly, thereby breaking away from the limitations of traditional channels.

By taking a win-win approach, Riyadh Air ensures that discerning customers can experience unparalleled Saudi hospitality when onboard, complemented by a tailored, real-time travel experience.

For more information, please visit www.riyadhair.com

WWD x Fashion Futures Announce Global Fashion & Beauty Summit for May 21-22 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

Today, Women’s Wear Daily (WWD) and the Saudi Fashion Commission announced the upcoming Global Fashion & Beauty Summit set to take place May 21 – 22, at Bab Samhan in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Under the theme, ‘Age of Agility: Identifying Opportunity,’ the summit will gather key business leaders, innovators, and influencers from around the world to discuss the evolving landscape of fashion, beauty, and wellness industries. Presented in partnership with Fashion Futures, Saudi Arabia’s premier fashion intelligence platform, the summit combines global expertise with local insight to foster strategic dialogue, innovation, and cross-market collaboration.

“Following our first successful Global Fashion Summit in Riyadh last June, we are excited to once again be teaming with Fashion Futures on another event examining the major trends in fashion, beauty and retail,” said Amanda Smith, Chief Executive Officer of Fairchild Media Group. “Saudi Arabia is one of the most compelling markets

in the world today, and we have brought together an impressive lineup of designers, executives and creatives to provide their views on the path forward amid these turbulent times and to witness and discuss the groundbreaking developments taking place in the industry in this key region.”

“The speakers we brought together for last year’s Global Fashion Summit in Riyadh were incredibly impressed with the industry’s developments and growth in Saudi Arabia, and we look forward to having them see how much it has progressed in the last year,” said James Fallon, Chief Content Officer of Fairchild Media Group. “This year’s Summit will enable key industry leaders to give their insights on how to build and grow a business, creativity, the latest trends and the future paths for growth. I am sure it will be a compelling exchange.”

“Partnering once again with Women’s Wear Daily allows us to further amplify the creative dialogue between Saudi Arabia and the global industry,” said Burak Cakmak, Chief Executive Officer, Saudi Fashion Commission. “This year’s focus on fashion and beauty speaks directly to the evolving nature of personal expression and cultural relevance. Through this summit, we aim to spotlight new ideas, drive meaningful conversations, and inspire innovation across the fashion sector and beyond.”

The summit will feature a powerful lineup of expert speakers who will cover a range of essential topics, including:

· Navigating Global Demographics: From the Sephora teens to the rise of Gen X spending and the aging Millennials, understanding what resonates with different demographic cohorts around the world is crucial for success in beauty and wellness.

· Where Beauty Becomes Lifestyle: Beauty has shifted from being solely about appearance to how one feels. This session will examine the latest in experiential wellness, including services, rituals, products, and technologies that focus on both inner and outer beauty.

· Inside Shifting Market Dynamics: While brands are global, consumers are local. Speakers will share real-time insights on what is working at retail in key markets like Asia, Europe, and the U.S., and why these strategies are so effective in their respective regions.

· The Movers, The Shakers, The Idea Makers: Meet the founders and creatives who are breaking the boundaries of beauty and wellness, creating new opportunities, and shaping the industry with innovative insights and forward-thinking ideas.

For partnership inquiries, please contact Melissa Rocco at mrocco@fairchildfashion.com. For attendance inquiries, please contact Lauren Simeone at lsimeone@ fairchildfashion.com. For event details and updates please visit WWD Global Fashion and Beauty Summit event site.

For event details and updates, please visit www.events.wwd.com

Diriyah Company Launches London Experience Centre at One

Hyde Park, Knightsbridge

Diriyah House Experience Centre to operate through a co-branding partnership with Sotheby’s International Realty

Diriyah Company is launching a new marketing initiative at one of London’s most prestigious locations to showcase the project.

The Diriyah House Experience Centre will be hosted at One Hyde Park, a premier business address in Knightsbridge near Harrods. It will provide an immersive experience for those interested in opportunities in Diriyah, one of Saudi Arabia’s giga-projects located on the outskirts of Riyadh.

The Diriyah House Experience Centre’s official opening is scheduled for the beginning of July 2025. The centre will operate as a co-branded hub operated by Sotheby’s International Realty, the UK company originally founded by Sotheby’s art dealers.

Sotheby’s International Realty has recently entered the Saudi market and chosen Diriyah as a key launchpad, already marketing branded residences for prestigious hospitality names such as The Ritz-Carlton, Corinthia, and Baccarat—all part of the landmark developments taking shape in Diriyah.

The Diriyah House Experience Centre will include a stateof-the-art marketing suite featuring a masterplan model and flexible model display. It will bring The City of Earth to life for a wider global audience.

“This prestigious London address enables us to share Diriyah’s story on a global stage in a truly world-class setting, strengthening our international outreach as we build one of the world’s greatest gathering places, rooted in the history, heritage and culture of the Kingdom.”

George Azar, Chairman & CEO of Dubai, United Kingdom, and Saudi Arabia Sotheby International Realty, added: “We are proud to collaborate with Diriyah Company on this landmark initiative and to support the launch of the Diriyah House Experience Center at One Hyde Park. As their partners, we are pleased to offer our experience and expertise in presenting ultra-prime real estate to a global audience. With a strong foothold in the UK’s super-prime market, this collaboration allows us to do what we do best — represent the world’s most exceptional properties while acting as local experts with global reach. Through

this partnership, we look forward to connecting discerning investors and stakeholders in the UK with the extraordinary vision and opportunities emerging in Diriyah.”

The announcement of the Diriyah Experience Centre follows a successful month-long activation by Diriyah Company at Harrods in London in July 2024. The campaign featured a showcase of Diriyah’s masterplan models and a supporting out-of-home marketing campaign across the city. This international engagement reflects the growing global appetite for investment in The City of Earth and reinforces Diriyah’s commitment to connecting with the international investment community. Located on the outskirts of Riyadh and backed by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund, Diriyah is an integrated urban development project covering 14 square kilometers. It includes building homes for around 100,000 residents and is expected to create nearly 180,000 jobs. Its ambition is to attract approximately 50 million visits annually, contributing an estimated SAR 70 billion (£16.6 billion) to Saudi Arabia’s GDP. Diriyah Company does not have any permanent establishment or a place of business in the UK. The Diriyah House Experience Centre is operated by Sotheby’s International Realty for the sole purpose of marketing Diriyah’ s projects.

We are delighted to open this high-profile and prestigious experience centre in the heart of London.

Jerry Inzerillo, Diriyah Company Group CEO

Saudi superstar Aseel Omran partners with Motorola as brand’s first Middle East ambassador

Star actress, singer, and lifestyle influencer signs annual ambassadorship agreement as Motorola launches

RAZR 60 Ultra flip phone in the Middle East

Saudi actress and singer Aseel Omran has partnered with Motorola to become an ambassador for the brand coinciding with the phone maker’s Middle East launch of its latest premium flagship flip phone, the Motorola Razr 60 Ultra.

The Riyadh-born star, who boasts over 6.5 million Instagram followers, embodies the shared values of iconic design and cutting-edge technology that Motorola champions. As a symbol of empowerment for Saudi women, Omran rose to fame through reality TV shows like ‘Gulf Stars’ and ‘Hiya wa Huwa.’ Her collaborations with international producers, including the renowned RedOne, have cemented her status in the competitive Arab music scene.

Her status as a role model and style icon in the Arab world, coupled with her ability to connect authentically with the youth, embodies the brand's ethos of authenticity and confidence. Aseel's partnership with Motorola not only enhances the brand's appeal but also reinforces its dedication to creating cultural heroes inspiring the next generation of icons.

Motorola has consistently positioned itself at the intersection of lifestyle and technology, forging partnerships with globally recognized brands such as Swarovski, Pantone and Bose. These collaborations underline Motorola's commitment to blending culture, iconic design, and lifestyle experiences with cutting-edge innovation, creating products that resonate deeply with diverse cultural aesthetics and technological advancements.

Omran's confidence to choose the path less walked, her diversity and innovation in her roles, and her strong connection with the youth in the region make her the perfect ambassador for Motorola. Aseel actively uses her social media platforms to connect with fans and promote important causes, such as her work with the UNHCR (United Nations Refugee Agency). Her partnership with Motorola will enhance how she discovers, shares, and connects with her vast social media audience.

“I’m thrilled to partner with Motorola, a brand that shares my passion for blending iconic style and design with the latest cutting-edge technology,” said Omran. “I’m excited to use the power of technology to connect with my

We’re excited to welcome Aseel Omran to the Motorola family as our first ambassador in the Middle East.

Vinayak Shenoy, Marketing Director, MEA, Motorola

audience in new and inspiring ways, and to continue empowering women across the Kingdom and the region.”

Aseel’s talent and influence make her a role model who has defied cultural norms to define her own path and empower others, aligning perfectly with our values of ‘flipping the script’ and ‘Make it Iconic.’ This partnership will help us engage with a wider audience, showcasing the power of cultural diversity, lifestyle, innovation and collaboration within the region.”

Motorola razr 60 Ultra: Redefining the foldable experience

The Motorola Razr 60 Ultra is the company’s latest flip phone, blending iconic design with cutting-edge technology to deliver a premium and personalized experience. Ultra-compact and crafted with premium finishes like Alcantara and real wood, the Motorola Razr 60 Ultra redefines the foldable experience with its powerful and intelligent moto AI integration.

Featuring a versatile outer screen backed by the lightning-fast Qualcomm Snapdragon® AI engine and 68W TurboPower™ charging—the fastest in any flip phone—the Motorola Razr 60 Ultra delivers both performance and style in one sleek fold.

For more information, please visit www.motorola.ae

MAKKAH COMMISSION ELEVATES HAJJ SERVICES WITH MAJOR INFRASTRUCTURE AND TRANSPORT UPGRADES

The Royal Commission for Makkah City and Holy Sites significantly enhanced the pilgrim experience by implementing advanced infrastructure projects, particularly in the energy and transportation sectors.

In a substantial investment exceeding SAR3 billion, the commission boosted electricity capacity in the holy sites by 95% and distributed over 7 million cubic meters of water, ensuring robust essential services for pilgrims.

The commission also managed an integrated transportation system involving over 23,000 buses. It launched the General Center for Transport as a unified hub to streamline movement. This center spearheaded the public transportation plan for all stages of the Hajj, in collaboration with the Public Security. Dedicated frequency lanes for buses drastically reduced travel time to just 20 minutes.

In cooperation with the Ministry of Health and Kidana Development Company, the commission increased bed capacity in the holy sites by over 60% and opened an emergency hospital. It also equipped 71 rapid intervention points for the Saudi Red Crescent Authority, shaded over 170,000 square meters of paths with rubber flooring, and planted 23,000 trees in Mina.

Royal Commission for Makkah City and Holy Sites CEO Saleh Al-Rasheed commended the tireless efforts of the wise leadership, which were instrumental in the success of this year’s Hajj season. He also lauded the continuous cooperation and diligent work of all participating entities.

RIYADH AIR AND INK INNOVATION PARTNER TO DEFINE DELIVERY MANAGEMENT

NEW PARTNERSHIP RETHINKS THE AIRLINE EXPERIENCE FOR DIGITAL-FIRST TRAVELLERS

Riyadh Air, the digitally native national carrier of Saudi Arabia, is joining forces with travel technology provider Ink Innovation to deliver a next-generation air travel experience—one designed from the ground up for flexibility and convenience.

At the heart of this collaboration is a shared ambition: to set a new standard for what air travel can be in a world shaped by e-commerce, cloud computing, and travellers’ expectations.

“Ink is a standout partner of the Riyadh Air family. They’ve brought innovation to the table at times beyond where we’ve been thinking,” said. “They’ve stimulated all sorts of incredible ideas in how we’ve been trying to create the seamless journey, the journey that embraces how digital can play an even bigger part.”

Moving beyond legacy systems Airlines have long struggled with outdated infrastructure—systems built to move passengers from point A to B but not to delight, empower, or adapt. This partnership aims to change that.

Riyadh Air and Ink Innovation are implementing a full Delivery Management System aligned with

the IATA Modern Airline Retailing (MAR) model. The platform lets you manage and interact with orders in real time, without outdated systems that rely on PNLs or PNRs. This puts travellers in charge of their journeys.

Passengers will be able to make changes onthe-go, add services mid-trip, and connect with third-party content in one streamlined experience. Instead of static, pre-booked trips, travel becomes modular, personal, and responsive.

Proven in the field

The system has already proven its readiness in real-world operations. Riyadh Air achieved its Air Operator Certificate using Ink’s platform, with proving flights across key international cities including Munich, Kuala Lumpur, Mumbai, and Cairo. All flight handling, check-in, and load control functions were completed using Ink’s digital tools.

“What we’re trying to do with Ink…is offer a brilliant service to our customers. For me, our customers are the guests who travel on the aircraft, as well as the teams who work at the check-in desks and departure gates at airports. If they see our system as easy to use, straightforward, and

“Tony Douglas, CEO of Riyadh Air said: “Ink is a key partner to Riyadh Air and continues to foster innovation at every step of the journey. As a like-minded tech-innovator, it is an ideal collaborator as we aim to provide an outstanding digital experience for our guests at their first travel touchpoint.”

highly reliable, they will be happy to work on their flights and offer even better service to our customers,” said Peter Bellew, Chief Operating Officer at Riyadh Air.

By leveraging mobile-based operations and cloud-native architecture, Riyadh Air teams can respond instantly to passenger or operational needs—whether a last-minute seat change or managing disrupted flights without the drama typical of legacy systems.

From airline to travel ecosystem

The broader ambition goes well beyond the airport terminal experience and check-in upgrade. Ink and Riyadh Air have built their system to connect travellers to hotels, airport transfers, local experiences, and multimodal transport like rail. It is designed to support upselling, cross-selling, and personalised service delivery,

all aligned with the modern expectations of today’s traveller.

While many airlines continue to plan digital upgrade and launch Delivery systems in 2027 and beyond, Riyadh Air and Ink will fully deploy this system in 2025. This initiative delivers on the Modern Airline Retailing promise—not someday, but now.

“We are developing a platform that aligns perfectly with the Modern Airline Retailing model,” said Shawn Richards, CEO and Co-Founder of Ink Innovation. “Our vision for travel is about empowering passengers much more than they are today. We believe that travellers will want the ability to change, enhance, or remove parts of their journey with ease. Right now, that’s not possible.”

Ink provides a dynamic platform designed to evolve with passenger travel.

Red Sea Global and

SEK

Education Group

partner

to bring world-class education for families based at The Red Sea and AMAALA

RSchools set to open in the 2025-2026 academic year, offering the prestigious International Baccalaureate (IB) program

Up to 120 students expected to enroll in the schools operated by the world-renowned SEK International Schools during the first year

This partnership supports Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 goals for social development and economic diversification by raising education standards

ed Sea Global (RSG), the developer behind the regenerative tourism destinations The Red Sea and AMAALA, has partnered with SEK Education Group to open two campuses, in AMAALA and at Turtle Bay, The Red Sea’s residential and commercial village Launching in September for the 2025-2026 academic year, the two schools will offer world-class education for up to 726 students, with an initial intake of 120 expected, with children aged four months to 14 years.

The opening of Turtle Bay International School, at The Red Sea, and Daraah International School, at AMAALA, aligns with RSG’s commitment to creating self-sufficient communities and providing an exceptional quality of life for residents and their families. It also strengthens SEK Education Group’s presence in the Middle East, where it already operates in Riyadh.

The new schools align with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 goals of social development and economic diversification by raising education standards within the Kingdom. With priority enrollment given to children of RSG employees and those who work at the destinations, the schools will help foster a multi-generational, dynamic and globally connected environment within the developer’s regenerative destinations.

“Providing a world-class education within our destinations is key to our vision of creating and fostering supportive and inclusive communities for those working at the destinations and their families,” said Ahmad Darwish, Group Chief Administrative Officer at Red Sea Global.

“SEK’s approach to education, combined with their decades of expertise, will empower each student at our schools to thrive in a highly dynamic learning environment.”

A world-renowned education

The two co-educational schools will offer the prestigious International Baccalaureate (IB) program, known worldwide for its academic rigor and holistic approach to

learning. As part of SEK Education Group’s innovative academic model, the schools will emphasize personalized learning, competency-based education, and internationalization. SEK has a strong international track record and is a pioneer in implementing programs such as the IB.

State-of-the-art facilities at the schools will include:

- Bright, spacious classrooms that foster a supportive learning environment where every student can flourish

- Dedicated “maker” spaces where students can work on creative projects

- Technologically advanced science labs with cutting-edge equipment

- A modern library equipped with an extensive collection of books and online resources

- A dedicated sports building, a swimming pool, extracurricular activities and wellbeing clubs.

A strategic partnership

SEK Education Group was chosen for its innovative education model. This includes its ‘Future Learning Model”, that integrates active methodologies, advanced technology, and flexible learning spaces to enhance students’ critical thinking, creativity and autonomy. The schools will be staffed by highly experienced international and local teachers, ensuring students receive the highest standard of education.

Nieves Segovia, SEK Education Group President, said: “It is an honor to join forces with Red Sea Global to provide a world-class and international education to pupils at the Red Sea Village schools. The new schools will be spaces of innovation, sustainability and well-being, which responds to the current challenges of educational transformation, and will foster global mindset among our students.

“With these two new schools, we strengthen our presence in Saudi Arabia, which began with the opening of our SEK Riyadh school in 2021 and allow us to contribute through our unique education model connected to the world, to the social development of the countries in which we are present.”

The Red Sea welcomed its first guests in 2023. It now has five hotels open, as well as the Red Sea International Airport (RSI). Situated within three hours’ flying time of 250 million people and eight hours’ flying time for 85% of the world’s population, RSI is the gateway to the destination for guests and residents alike, whether based in the Kingdom or further afield. RSG is on track to complete all 16 hotels that make up Phase One of The Red Sea in 2025.

AMAALA is set to welcome its first guests later this year with the ambitious goal of becoming the world’s most comprehensive health and wellness destination. Launching with more than 1,400 hotel rooms across eight luxury resorts, it will welcome some of the most renowned wellness operators globally, offering a wide array of programs tailored to diverse lifestyles and well-being needs.

RIYADH AIR ANNOUNCES ORDER OF UP TO 50 AIRBUS A350-1000 LARGE WIDEBODY AIRCRAFT AT PARIS AIR SHOW

With a range of up to 16,000kms, the Airbus A350-1000 will facilitate the network’s ultra long-haul destinations as it aims to serve over 100 destinations around the globe by 2030

Agreement complements Riyadh

Air’s existing 132 aircraft on order, bringing the total fleet to up to 182

Airline is moving closer to its maiden flight in 2025, having recently received its Air Operator’s

Riyadh Air, the new national carrier of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, today announced an order for up to 50 Airbus A350-1000 aircraft at the 55th Edition of Paris Airshow. The agreement includes 25 firm orders with purchase rights for an additional 25 aircraft. The deal was agreed with a signing ceremony at Paris Le Bourget today, by Riyadh Air Chief Financial Officer Adam Boukadida and Airbus EVP Sales of Commercial Aircraft Business, Benoît de Saint-Exupéry in the presence of PIF Governor and Riyadh Air Chairman His Excellency Yasir Al-Rumayyan, CEO of Riyadh Air Tony Douglas and CEO of Airbus Commercial Aircraft, Christian Scherer.

The A350-1000 aircraft has an operational range of more than 16,000 kms, allowing Riyadh Air’s network to reach the farthest corners of the globe and bringing major cities within reach. The airline expects to serve over 100 destinations around the globe by 2030, ensuring Riyadh, a G20 capital city, develops strong connectivity to the world in advance of major events such as Riyadh Expo 2030 and FIFA World Cup 2034TM

Riyadh Air has chosen the Airbus A350-1000 to further optimize its fleet, capacity and operations, while minimizing the number of aircraft types in the fleet. With this new order of up to 50 planes, the start-up airline now has up to 182 aircraft on order and will operate a three-type fleet with flights set to commence later in 2025. With a large seat capacity, the airline intends to offer guests a stylish and exclusive First-Class cabin on the Airbus A350 aircraft to complement its recently revealed Business Class and cabin interior, raising the bar to deliver an exceptional and innovative guest experience.

His Excellency Yasir Al-Rumayyan, PIF Governor and Chairman of Riyadh Air said: “Our new national carrier is set to take to the skies in the near future, and as a fundamental element of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s infrastructure, will connect our capital city to over 100 international destinations around the globe by 2030. With its outstanding range, adding the Airbus A3501000 to our fleet demonstrates the strategic contribution of Riyadh Air in positioning Saudi Arabia as a global aviation hub.”

“Riyadh Air is making significant progress as we move towards our first flight later this year and agreeing this deal for up to 50 Airbus A350-1000 aircraft is an important statement of intent,” said Riyadh Air CEO Tony

Douglas. “Already in 2025, we have received our AOC and unveiled our new cabin interiors and having now completed our initial three aircraft orders, we are in a position to fulfil our ambitious network goals. We play an important role in the evolution of the Saudi aviation ecosystem with the aim to create 200,000 direct and indirect jobs and contribute almost $20 billion to the Kingdom’s non-oil GDP.”

Riyadh Air aims to be a leading airline and will equip its fleet with the latest and most advanced digital features, providing an innovative guest experience that is the best in class in terms of aircraft cabin interior design, in addition to the latest generation of entertainment and connectivity systems on board.

The establishment of Riyadh Air aligns with PIF’s strategy to unlock promising sectors locally to support economic diversification. The airline will provide tourists from around the world the opportunity to visit Saudi Arabia’s cultural and natural attractions and further establish Riyadh as a preeminent business hub to the world. Riyadh Air will also serve as a catalyst for the Saudi National Transport and Logistics Strategy and the National Tourism Strategy by increasing air transport options, raising cargo capacity and, in turn, growing international passenger traffic.

““We are honored to support Riyadh Air’s bold vision with the A350-1000, the world’s most modern and efficient widebody aircraft. This partnership reflects our shared commitment to innovation and decarbonization whilst connecting the vibrant Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to the world! Riyadh Air’s selection of the A350-1000 underscores the aircraft’s unmatched capability to deliver premium passenger experience and operational excellence—perfectly aligned with the ambitions of Vision 2030.”, commented Christian Scherer, Chief Executive Officer Commercial Aircraft at Airbus

SAUDI ARABIA’S CULTURAL DEVELOPMENT

FUND CHARTS NEW PATH FOR FILM FINANCING AT CANNES FILM FESTIVAL

The Saudi Cultural Development Fund (CDF), Saudi Arabia’s leading financial enabler for the cultural sector, hosted a roundtable and networking lunch at the 78th Cannes Film Festival, bringing together industry leaders, major studio executives, filmmakers, producers, and financiers. Titled “Collaborate and Invest: Shaping the Future of the Film Industry,” the event explored tailored financing mechanisms driving sustainable growth in the film sector and foster international collaborations, aligning with Saudi Arabia’s vision to become a global hub for creative filmmaking.

A New Approach to Driving Financial Excellence in the Saudi Film Sector

During the event, CDF announced a significant expansion of its role in supporting film projects, introducing a comprehensive financial excellence framework. This approach, created in close collaboration with various partners within the Saudi film ecosystem, aims to streamline funding processes, enhance clarity, and expand access for stakeholders across the entire film industry value chain. The framework aims to improve the efficiency of the incentives process, targeting a 60% reduction in processing times for successful applications. Key components include:

• Clear Eligibility Criteria: Clear guidelines for accessing financial support.

• Well-Defined Evaluation Process: Objective assessments for project funding to enhancing decision-making.

• Faster Processing Times: An integrated digital system for submitting, tracking, and managing funding applications.

This new direction reflects CDF’s strategic commitment to accelerating the growth of the Saudi film sector, aligning closely with the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 goals of economic diversification and cultural empowerment. By enhancing the funding infrastructure and fostering a competitive, globally connected film industry, CDF aims to position Saudi Arabia as a leading destination for the film sector.

Art Week Riyadh Wraps Up Landmark Inaugural Edition, Spotlighting Saudi’s Creative Momentum

Art Week Riyadh concluded its inaugural edition as a resounding success, welcoming more than 17,000 visitors between 6–13 April 2025, across 13 locations throughout the Saudi capital. An initiative of the Saudi Visual Arts Commission, one of the eleven sector-specific commissions under the Ministry of Culture, the event is a non-commercial platform for celebrating and amplifying Saudi Arabia’s dynamic art scene, by fostering exchange and supporting the arts.

As Saudi Arabia continues to grow its presence on the global art stage, Art Week Riyadh established a significant new platform for discovery, dialogue, and creative exchange — bringing together over 50 leading local, regional, and international galleries, more than 200 artists, over 500 artworks, and more than 100 activations in a city-wide celebration of Saudi’s dynamic art scene.

Extending Access to Saudi Cultural Collections

A major highlight, the Collections in Dialogue exhibition at JAX District — featuring works from the collections of King Abdulaziz Center for

World Culture (Ithra), Art Jameel, and the Saudi Research and Media Group (SRMG) — will remain open to the public until 31 May 2025. These rare presentations offer a deep reflection on Saudi Arabia’s evolving cultural identity through works by artists such as Do Ho Suh, Maha Malluh, Michelangelo Pistoletto, Ahmed Mater, and others.

Additional highlights of the week included:

Galleries Curated Selections: At The Edge Exhibition At JAX District, over 30 galleries presented curated selections of artworks exploring cultural dialogues between Saudi Arabia, the wider MENA region, and the global contemporary art scene.

Including significant presentations from leading galleries such as Lisson Gallery, Galleria Continua, Selma Feriani, THE PILL®, Mennour, Lawrie Shabibi and Galerie Krinzinger, with standout works by artists such as Wael Shawky, Kader Attia, Ahmed Mater, Nefeli Papadimouli, Mohammad Alfaraj, Maha Malluh, Lulwah Al Humoud, and Ayesha Singh.

Al Mousa Center Activations

At the Al Mousa Center in central Riyadh, 20 galleries presented solo and group exhibitions specially conceived for Art Week Riyadh, highlighting pioneering artists as well as emerging talents from the region and abroad. Once a bustling commercial complex, the center is now a cultural destination. Highlights included Hunna, a women-led exhibition presented by ERRM Gallery and Gallery Misr, the studio of Abdullah Hammas, an exhibition of works by Saddek Wasil at Ahlam Gallery, a showcase of regional artists at Ama Art Venue, and a panel titled “The Value of the Past is a Measure of the Future”, moderated by Raneem Farsi, Curator and Art Advisor. The talk considered that Saudi’s visual arts past is not only history but a constant source of contemporary discovery that shapes the future.

Public Program: How To Art World? – Lessons in Value

Curated by Shumon Basar, the public program offered a series of thought-provoking talks and workshops addressing the key themes

“Throughout the week, we’ve seen the vision of Art Week Riyadh come to life — a vibrant celebration of creativity, a bridge between local and global voices, and a platform for discovery shaped by and for the creative community in Saudi Arabia and beyond. This week has marked more than just a milestone for Riyadh; it reflects a broader cultural movement unfolding across the country, driven by an unwavering commitment to nurturing, preserving, and advancing the visual arts for generations to come.”

Dina Amin, CEO of the Visual Arts Commission

shaping the visual arts in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, and globally today. Example topics explored included: why collectors collect; the role of patronage in contemporary art; the art of auctioneering; and the value of art in the age of digital reproduction. Speakers included influential art world figures such as: Chiara Costa, Head of Programs, Fondazione Prada; Basma AlSulaiman, Saudi Patron and Founder of BASMOCA; Maria Sukkar, Collector and Patron; alongside important contributions from partners such as Christie’s, Sotheby’s, Gagosian and others.

Citywide Engagements

Visitors also stepped into Galleries: ATHR, Hafez, and Liff, in addition the studios of leading Saudi artists at JAX District including Muhannad Shono, as well as Marwa AlMugait, Moath Alofi, Nasser AlTurki and Noura Bin Saidan among others. At the Saudi Arabia Museum of Contemporary Art (SAMoCA), the exhibitions Art of the Kingdom and Adaptability Ceramics, alongside a series of experimental workshops and popups, drew audiences. Meanwhile,

ATHR activations across the city offered unique encounters and learning opportunities such as ISDAR (Lulwah Al Homoud) Studio’s workshop on etching dry point by artist Zeina Bardran. Art Week Riyadh is an initiative of Saudi Arabia’s Visual Arts Commission — one of 11 sector-specific commissions under the Ministry of Culture, leading the development of the visual arts sector in the Kingdom.

Her Highness Princess Adwaa bint Yazeed Al Saud, Head of Art Week Riyadh commented: “Art Week Riyadh demonstrated what is possible when institutions, practitioners, and communities come together around a shared cultural vision. I am proud of what this inaugural edition has set in motion, and grateful to all who contributed to its success. Our theme, At The Edge, speaks to a moment defined by the fluid intersections of tradition and innovation, local narratives and global perspectives, heritage and future visions. It is through such moments that we continue to shape a dynamic and enduring artistic landscape for Saudi Arabia.”

RIYADH AIR AND AIR FRANCE-KLM SIGN

MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING (MOU) TO ESTABLISH STRATEGIC COOPERATION AND EXPAND GLOBAL CONNECTIVITY

Saudi Arabia’s new national carrier, Riyadh Air and Air FranceKLM signed a Strategic Cooperation Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), marking a significant step forward in global connectivity for guests traveling between Riyadh, Paris, Amsterdam, and destinations far beyond.

The MoU, signed at the 2025 IATA Annual General Meeting by Tony Douglas CEO Riyadh Air and Benjamin Smith CEO of Air France-KLM Group, sets the foundation for a dynamic partnership. Subject to regulatory approvals, the collaboration aims to gradually introduce a wide range of benefits for guests and to unlock new opportunities across Western Europe, North and South America, the Middle East, Asia, and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. This strategic partnership will focus on strengthening network connectivity, with both partners working together to maximize future opportunities through Riyadh Air’s hub in the capital of Saudi Arabia and Air FranceKLM’s Paris-Charles de Gaulle and Amsterdam-Schiphol airport hubs. The recent launch of Air France’s Paris Charles de Gaulle–Riyadh service, alongside KLM’s established Amsterdam–Riyadh operations, reflects the shared commitment to expanding travel options for guests.

Beyond route connectivity, Riyadh Air and Air FranceKLM will collaborate to enhance the guest experience, exploring opportunities in reciprocal loyalty program rewards, operational support, and lounge access. The partnership also extends to areas such as Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO), digital transformation, sustainability, and cargo services—ensuring a comprehensive approach to delivering value.

“Tony Douglas, CEO of Riyadh Air, commented: “We are dedicated to connecting Riyadh to the world, and partnering with Air France-KLM - a leader in global aviation, will accelerate bringing to life our vision to deliver exceptional experiences and the realization of our long-term vision: to redefine air travel through innovation, operational excellence, and guest-centric services. This partnership not only strengthens our international network but also reinforces confidence in our growth trajectory and our role in supporting Saudi Arabia’s broader economic diversification goals under Vision 2030.”

“Benjamin Smith, CEO of Air FranceKLM Group, added: “Saudi Arabia is rapidly emerging as a key market for aviation. With our three brands, Air France, KLM and Transavia now serving the country, and with this new agreement with Riyadh Air, we aim to continue increasing our footprint in the region. We look forward to combining our networks and expertise with Riyadh Air, and to offer our mutual customers more choice and convenience. This cooperation is complementary to our SkyTeam partner in the region.”

As Riyadh Air embarks on its journey to become a leading global carrier, this partnership with Air FranceKLM underlines a bold commitment to excellence, innovation, and exceptional guest experience.

Experience at the edge: Redefining CX for Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030

In 2016, Saudi Arabia launched Vision 2030, a sweeping national agenda to future-proof its economy, reduce reliance on oil and enhance quality of life for citizens. Built around the pillars of a vibrant society, a thriving economy and an ambitious nation, the initiative has become synonymous with rapid innovation—driven by investments in AI, cloud computing, smart cities and digital government.

Today, these efforts are visible everywhere, from biometric border controls to AI-powered health platforms and cashless pilgrimages. Yet amid all this progress, a critical question has emerged: as infrastructure transforms and services go digital, is the customer experience transforming with them or being left behind?

While government platforms like Absher and Tawakkalna have raised the bar for ease and accessibility, not all sectors have kept pace. Despite the surge in connectivity and the availability of advanced technologies, many businesses—and even institutions—still rely on fragmented, one-size-fits-all communication systems that fall short of citizen expectations.

A connected nation, rising expectations

In 2025, Saudi Arabia stands as one of the most digitally advanced nations in the region:

· It has 36.84 million internet users, with 99% penetration

· 94.3% of the population is active on social media, with 35.1 million users (DataReportal 2024) · 93.18% use smartphones to go online (Statista)

But this level of access is only the beginning. The real transformation lies in what people are now demanding—seamless, intelligent and hyper-personalised digital interactions across every touch point.

And this is where the gap starts to show.

Identifying the CX gap in Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia’s CX evolution is a critical component of Vision 2030’s people-first transformation. Industries such as fintech, tourism and entertainment are embracing personalised, digital-first engagement. The rise of STC Pay, digital-only banks and mega-projects like NEOM reflect growing demand for seamless, tech-enabled experiences. Yet

despite this momentum, customer experience delivery is not yet keeping pace with digital ambition. Many organisations still struggle with fragmented platforms, legacy systems and siloed data—barriers that make it difficult to deliver the kind of real-time, personalised interactions today’s consumers expect. According to PwC’s Voice of the Consumer 2024 survey, Saudi consumers are increasingly digital, health-conscious and sustainability-minded, demanding intuitive, tailored experiences at every interaction. However, 59% of regional organisations still rely on basic journey mapping and only a fraction are adopting integrated, insight-driven CX tools. Meanwhile, the Saudi customer experience management (CXM) market was valued at USD 181.2 million in 2024 and is projected to reach USD 746.8 million by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 19.4% (BlueWeave Consulting), underscoring both the market’s potential and the urgency for transformation.

What’s needed now is a shift from reactive CX models—common in sectors like finance, where customer issues are often addressed only after complaints—to proactive engagement. The current CX gap

stems from organizations’ inability to break down data silos, integrate touchpoints and provide seamless service across channels. Despite having the infrastructure for advanced digital engagement, many businesses still lack the tools and processes to deliver personalised, anticipatory service that customers now expect. This gap not only hampers customer satisfaction but also limits the ability of businesses to fully leverage their investments in digital transformation. As highlighted in IDC’s Future of Customer Experience 2024 predictions, businesses must unify data, channels and insights to meet rising expectations and fully capitalise on their digital infrastructure investments.

In short, the infrastructure is advancing, but experience delivery hasn’t fully caught up. To realise Vision 2030’s full potential, closing this CX gap must become a priority, not just in government, but across every industry shaping Saudi Arabia’s future.

Where expectations meet infrastructure

As organisations scale their digital operations, they face a layered challenge: How do you deliver personalised, real-time, multichannel

engagement whilst ensuring data privacy, regulatory compliance and operational efficiency?

It’s no longer enough to have siloed digital tools or individual channel integrations. What’s needed is a cohesive infrastructure for communication, one that can keep pace with user behaviour and support the customer-first mind-set driving Vision 2030.

This is where engageX from e& enterprise steps in, to make execution possible at scale.

How engageX powers customer-centric transformation

· Omnichannel reach for a mobile-first nation

With 93% of Saudis accessing the internet via smartphones, meeting people where they are isn’t a convenience—it’s a baseline. engageX enables organisations to orchestrate communications across SMS, WhatsApp, voice, email, social platforms and mobile apps.

This is particularly vital in sectors like government, banking and retail where customer touch points have multiplied, and consistency matters more than ever. engageX unifies those

channels under one umbrella, enabling smooth, intuitive interactions that feel effortless for users and manageable at scale for organisations.

· Intelligent contact centres, built for agility

As customer expectations evolve, contact centres must become more adaptive, responsive and channel-aware. engageX enables this shift by equipping organisations with cloud-native

infrastructure, omnichannel agent interfaces and AI-powered self-service tools—all designed to streamline support operations.

From real-time routing to seamless transitions between virtual assistants and human agents, engageX helps reduce response times while improving customer satisfaction. For added flexibility, organisations can also tap into engageX’s BPO support for staffing and workflow management, making it easier to scale operations without compromising service quality.

· Data protection and responsible innovation

As digital touchpoints evolve, user trust is more important than ever. engageX is built with this in mind, offering:

· Encryption by default, ensuring secure conversations across all channels

· Granular access control, providing tight governance over sensitive information

· Enterprise-grade security, designed to protect data and maintain compliance

These features are essential for industries handling sensitive information, such as healthcare, finance, education and public services, where security breaches can have far-reaching consequences.

· Localised innovation for a localised vision

While engageX is built on global standards, its true strength lies in regional relevance. The platform understands and integrates:

- Arabic language preferences and UI - Local telco integrations

These capabilities not only accelerate deployment but improve adoption and usability, ensuring that digital experiences actually resonate with Saudi users.

With over 6.5 billion interactions enabled annually and use cases spanning everything from social commerce to airline support across 900+ agents, engageX is already demonstrating how Saudi institutions can bring Vision 2030 to life, not just through services, but through better experiences.

Conclusion – From digital to human Saudi Arabia’s journey to 2030 is one of extraordinary ambition and real, measurable progress. And if

the goal is a society that’s not just digital, but truly human-centred, then the way people experience these services must evolve alongside the infrastructure itself.

By closing communication gaps and enabling smarter engagement, solutions like engageX are helping organisations transform Vision 2030 from a strategic vision into a lived reality, one meaningful interaction at a time.

Customer experience that is real, responsive and relevant is no longer a competitive advantage, it’s a national imperative. Whether in the public or private sector, organisations must now rethink not just how they serve, but how they connect, listen and adapt.

SAR 4.3 BILLION SAUDI RIYALS IN FINANCING BY THE SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT

BANK IN THE FIRST HALF OF 2025

The Social Development Bank held its second-quarter meeting for 2025, chaired by His Excellency the Minister of Human Resources and Social Development and Chairman of the Bank’s Board of Directors, Eng. Ahmed bin Sulaiman Al-Rajhi, in the presence of the board members. The meeting addressed several agenda items aimed at strengthening national efforts to serve citizens and support the Kingdom’s development ecosystem.

The Board reviewed the performance report for the first half of this year, which showcased the bank’s commitment to fostering entrepreneurship and developing innovative business models. During this period, total financing reached SAR 4.3 billion, positively impacting over 43,000 citizens across various regions of the Kingdom. This funding included SAR 1.8 billion dedicated to supporting freelancers and productive families, benefiting more than 18,000 individuals; over SAR 1.5 billion allocated to small and emerging enterprises, for 5,000 businesses; and SAR 1 billion in social financing, which reached approximately 20,000 citizens.

The report also noted the creation of 40,000 new savings accounts by midyear, which reflects the Bank’s efforts to empower beneficiaries in financial planning and saving.

Additionally, the report highlighted the bank’s wide range of initiatives and services aimed at supporting, enabling, and developing businesses through platforms including “Dulani Business Center” and “Jadah 30”, which host over 4,000 businesses in addition to more than 150,000 individuals have benefited from these programs across 13 branches throughout the Kingdom. This reflects the bank’s commitment to delivering a diverse range of financial and non-financial services across the Kingdom.

His Excellency Eng. Ahmed bin Sulaiman Al-Rajhi, Minister of Human Resources and Social Development and Chairman of the Bank’s Board of Directors, expressed his appreciation for the continuous and unwavering support provided by the wise leadership for development efforts. He emphasized that the achievements made during the first half of the year reflect the effectiveness of the Bank’s strategic direction in empowering individuals and enterprises, unlocking the potential of citizens, and creating an attractive labor market for both local and global talent, in support of the national economy’s progress.

The board praised the Bank for its successful celebration of its 53rd anniversary and the inauguration of “Jadah 30” at the bank’s headquarters in Riyadh, attended by His Royal Highness Prince Faisal bin Bandar bin Abdulaziz, Governor of the Riyadh Region. The event highlighted the signing of several significant development agreements with the nonprofit sector to create a financing portfolio dedicated to promoting nonprofit sustainability. Additionally, agreements were established with various banks to develop financing portfolios for entrepreneurs and emerging enterprises. The occasion also marked the launch of the Freelancer Card, aimed at supporting freelance professionals by improving their access to financial solutions and banking services.

Eng. Sultan bin Abdulaziz Al-Humaidi, CEO of the Social Development Bank, affirmed that these achievements embody the bank’s pivotal role in advancing national development through targeted financing initiatives and services that reach various segments of society. He praised the generous support of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques and His Royal Highness the Crown Prince —may God protect them— which has enabled the bank to continue empowering entrepreneurs and supporting small and emerging enterprises, while contributing to the Kingdom’s economic and social growth

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