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New Honeywell center to boost KSA’s industrial cybersecurity

New Honeywell center to boost KSA’s industrial cybersecurity
The Honeywell center will provide security services to key sectors.
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Updated 14 January 2025

New Honeywell center to boost KSA’s industrial cybersecurity

New Honeywell center to boost KSA’s industrial cybersecurity

Honeywell has launched a new center in Jubail to provide localized cybersecurity services for critical industrial sectors in the Kingdom. The center was announced at IKTVA Forum and Exhibition in Dhahran.

The Honeywell Himaya Center, located in the company’s Jubail office, underscores the alignment of Honeywell’s portfolio to three compelling megatrends including automation. It is designed to strengthen industrial cybersecurity capabilities in the Kingdom by offering more robust operational technology security solutions to address today’s evolving threats, while helping businesses maintain regulatory compliance.

The center will provide in-country managed security services to key sectors including energy, manufacturing and utilities. This includes Honeywell’s flagship Cyber Insight and Cyber Watch software solutions, which help businesses maintain continuous compliance with the National Cybersecurity Authority OT Cybersecurity Controls regulations, and support the use of automation and artificial intelligence-enabled technologies. 




Abdullah Al-Juffali, president, Honeywell ֱ and Bahrain.

“The launch of the Honeywell Himaya Center is a testament to our dedication to supporting ֱ’s localization and industrial transformation objectives, and the ambitious vision set forth by the IKTVA program,” said Abdullah Al-Juffali, president, Honeywell ֱ and Bahrain. 

“The new center will bring critical local cybersecurity capabilities to the Kingdom, and support the growth of a resilient and self-reliant industrial ecosystem.”

ֱ’s cybersecurity market is expected to grow from $3.6 billion today to $10.5 billion by 2032. This growth is driven by digital transformation, rising cyberthreats, and initiatives like Vision 2030. The increasing reliance on cloud technologies and focus on data protection are fueling demand for advanced security solutions across key industries.

“Industrial automation and AI are pivotal in driving operational efficiency and business resilience across critical industries,” said George Bou Mitri, president, Honeywell Industrial Automation for the Middle East, Turkiye, Africa, and Central Asia. “The target of the Honeywell Himaya Center is to provide unparalleled support to businesses, helping them navigate the complexities of industrial cybersecurity and leverage the benefits of advanced automation technologies.”

Honeywell is at the global forefront of driving the future of OT cybersecurity by enabling secure, compliant and resilient operations across the industrial sector. The launch of the Honeywell Himaya Center is a significant step toward supporting the Kingdom’s digital transformation and strengthening its position as a key player in the global cybersecurity market.

Honeywell has been present in ֱ for more than 70 years, delivering cutting-edge solutions and actively contributing to the government’s vision to advance technology adoption and sustainability efforts. Honeywell runs training programs to help transform ֱ into a knowledge-based economy, equipping Saudi nationals with essential technical skills in various sectors including energy, automation, and aviation.


STC Bank launches new savings product ‘Numu+’

STC Bank launches new savings product ‘Numu+’
Updated 13 July 2025

STC Bank launches new savings product ‘Numu+’

STC Bank launches new savings product ‘Numu+’

STC Bank has launched a unique savings product — “Numu+” — which will encourage customers to save through an innovative concept. It includes valuable rewards and gifts, such as luxury cars, cash, and electronic devices, offered by the bank as an incentive to grow their personal savings.

“Numu+” was primarily designed as an account that enables customers to save through a unique experience via the bank’s app. The product is in line with Vision 2030, specifically the Financial Sector Development Program, and the goal of raising the savings rate across the Kingdom from six to 10 percent. It also continues STC Bank’s efforts to introduce innovative digital products that enhance the financial solvency of various customer segments.

STC Bank’s continued growth is driven by its customer-centric digital financial services platform, which allows individual users to open a bank account with an IBAN number. This allows customers to enjoy a host of benefits, including the “Numu+” savings service, instant local and international transfers at competitive rates via mobile numbers, card services, an online store, expense monitoring and financial planning features, and other daily financial transactions, all of which have become easier than ever before.


SAB signs on as mentor in ministry’s sustainability program

SAB signs on as mentor in ministry’s sustainability program
Updated 13 July 2025

SAB signs on as mentor in ministry’s sustainability program

SAB signs on as mentor in ministry’s sustainability program

SAB will mentor a select group of prominent organizations, including Dallah Healthcare Company, Rawabi Holding Company, Middle East Paper Company, and City Cement Company. 
Saudi Awwal Bank, one of the leading banks in the Kingdom, has announced its participation in the Ministry of Economy and Planning’s Sustainability Champions Program. The official signing ceremony took place on May 28 at SAB Tower, marking a key milestone in SAB’s commitment to sustainability.
The MEP Sustainability Champions Program aims to enhance sustainability performance across key sectors by partnering with organizations that demonstrate leadership and a commitment to sustainable practices. As a mentor in the program, SAB will utilize its extensive experience and resources to support and guide its mentees on their sustainability journeys.
As part of its role, SAB will mentor a select group of prominent organizations in the program, including Dallah Healthcare Company, Rawabi Holding Company, Middle East Paper Company, and City Cement Company. This initiative marks the beginning of a collaborative effort to enhance sustainability practices across key sectors and achieve Vision 2030 goals.
Tony Cripps, managing director of SAB, said: “Sustainability is no longer a choice — it’s a responsibility. Through our partnership with the MEP Sustainability Champions Program, SAB is taking tangible steps to build the knowledge infrastructure around sustainability and contribute to the Kingdom’s goals. We are proud to be part of this forward-looking initiative, which aligns with our environmental, social and governance strategy and our commitment to supporting sustainable economic growth.”
The signing ceremony marked the beginning of a strategic collaboration focused on sustainability. Senior executives from SAB and the participating mentees attended the event, emphasizing the shared commitment to advancing sustainability across key sectors.
SAB continues to demonstrate its leadership in sustainability through its comprehensive ESG strategy. The bank is actively engaged in various initiatives that foster sustainable economic development in line with Saudi Vision 2030. Through its partnerships with governmental bodies, such as the Ministry of Economy and Planning, SAB plays a key role in driving forward the Kingdom’s sustainability aspirations, contributing to long-term, positive environmental and societal impacts.

 


Riyadh show addresses KSA’s sports infrastructure ambitions

Riyadh show addresses KSA’s sports infrastructure ambitions
Updated 13 July 2025

Riyadh show addresses KSA’s sports infrastructure ambitions

Riyadh show addresses KSA’s sports infrastructure ambitions

The first edition of FSB Sports Show Riyadh concluded recently, establishing itself as ֱ’s largest trade event dedicated to sports infrastructure, leisure facilities and public spaces. Launched in the leadup to landmark events like the 2029 Asian Winter Games and FIFA World Cup 2034, the exhibition has been timely in meeting the surging demand for sports infrastructure in the Kingdom, further aligning with ֱ’s Quality of Life Program and ongoing stadium and recreational facility development as part of Vision 2030.
FSB Sports Show Riyadh, co-located with International Hardware Fair ֱ, drew significant turnout from government stakeholders, real estate developers, consultants and leisure operators, welcoming more than 13,000 attendees. Visitors included professionals working across stadiums, public parks, schools, and large-scale urban projects, all actively seeking fit-for-purpose, ready-to-deploy solutions.
With packed aisles and a busy show floor, the debut edition highlighted how sports and leisure infrastructure is becoming a central pillar in ֱ’s Vision 2030 ambitions. Furthermore, the “Sport for All” strategy by the Kingdom’s government helps promote physical activity, inclusion, and community well-being by expanding access to sports facilities and encouraging participation across all age groups — from popular sports to public urban sports programs.
The 2025 edition featured 200 exhibiting companies and brands, with participation from both local and international exhibitors across key product categories, including playground and leisure facilities, urban design and architecture, sports surfaces, pool/spa fitting equipment and sports facilities and equipment. 
Dedicated country pavilions, including China and Türkiye, showcased innovative solutions in sports flooring, artificial turf, aquatic technologies, outdoor fitness parks, modular structures, urban seating and more. 
Besides these pavilions, Italy presented the strongest European participation with 13 exhibitors.
The Saudi Sports and Leisure Summit addressed key themes such as smart facility management, climate-adaptive design and sustainable and adaptive infrastructure. Speakers from Saudi Sports for All Federation, AtkinsRéalis, Saudi Sports Professionals Network and Levelz Gaming Group led discussions that brought together consultants, policymakers and investors focused on reshaping ֱ’s sports infrastructure through inclusive and accessible spaces.
The two-day feature, ActiveSpaces 360, explored practical conversations and discussions on topics including, modular builds, synthetic turf quality, urban activation, and inclusive space planning.
Muhammed Kazi, senior vice president — construction, dmg events, said: “The response to the first edition of FSB Sports Show Riyadh has been phenomenal. It’s clear there’s a real need for a dedicated trade event that brings together sports infrastructure suppliers and decision-makers, especially as ֱ accelerates its investments in wellness and active living. We look forward to growing the event even further in 2026 in partnership with Koelnmesse.”
Denis Steker, senior vice president, Koelnmesse GmbH, added: “By connecting international solution providers with ֱn decision-makers, FSB Sports Show Riyadh has established its role as a go-to sourcing trade exhibition for the Kingdom’s sports infrastructure investment drive.”


Radisson Hotel Group strengthens presence in Middle East with strategic team expansion

Radisson Hotel Group strengthens presence in Middle East with strategic team expansion
Updated 11 July 2025

Radisson Hotel Group strengthens presence in Middle East with strategic team expansion

Radisson Hotel Group strengthens presence in Middle East with strategic team expansion

Radisson Hotel Group has promoted Elie Milky to chief development officer for Middle East, Cyprus, and Greece, reinforcing its commitment to doubling the wider regional portfolio to over 150 hotels and 50,000 keys in operation and under development by 2030.

Milky, who marked 15 years with the company last month, has steered many of the group’s headline deals across ֱ and the wider Gulf, helping make the Middle East one of Radisson’s fastest-growing markets. 
Under Milky’s leadership, Radisson is scaling its development and feasibility teams, adding specialist analysts and project managers to enhance deal sourcing, underwriting, and technical support.

The team is based out of Dubai with regular visits to Riyadh, Cairo and across the region, ensuring on-the-ground support for owners as large-scale tourism investment accelerates.

A key pillar of that team is Ayman Ezzeddine, who joined Radisson in early 2024 as director of development for the Middle East with special focus on Egypt and ֱ. Over the past 18 months, Ezzeddine’s market analysis, owner relations and deal structuring have led to several deals and a strong pipeline for upcoming signings, reinforcing Radisson’s owner-centric approach.

Commenting on his new role, Milky said: “The region is moving at record speed. With Ayman’s effort and our expanded development and feasibility bench, we’re ready to deliver high-quality hotels, resorts and serviced apartments that create jobs, diversify economies, and meet investor expectations across every segment.”

In the last 12 months, Radisson has strengthened its footprint across the region. Two new Park Inn hotels, Makkah Thakher Alsharqi and Makkah Thakher Algharbi deepened the group’s presence in the holy city along with a recent opening in Riyadh and Madinah as well, while November 2024 welcomed Park Inn by Radisson Hotel and Apartments Kuwait, the brand’s second property in the country. Looking ahead,

Radisson Collection Residence Riyadh, the brand’s third address in the Saudi capital, is set to open in Q4 2025. Recent signings extend the pipeline even further: Radisson Collection Residence Amman Abdoun and Radisson RED Amman Downtown introduce both brands to Jordan, and two more Radisson RED hotels are slated for Diriyah, ֱ, and Ras Al-Khaimah, UAE.

Altogether the Middle East portfolio now approaches 100 hotels in operation or development, keeping Radisson on course for its 2030 growth target of over 150 properties and 50,000 keys.


Lulu’s new store in Jeddah offers everything from daily essentials to lifestyle needs

Lulu’s new store in Jeddah offers everything from daily essentials to lifestyle needs
Updated 10 July 2025

Lulu’s new store in Jeddah offers everything from daily essentials to lifestyle needs

Lulu’s new store in Jeddah offers everything from daily essentials to lifestyle needs

Lulu Retail has further strengthened its presence in ֱ with the grand opening of a new hypermarket in Jeddah’s Al-Baghdadiyah Al-Gharbiyah district. 

Located along the vibrant Al-Andalus Road, the new outlet offers a comprehensive and modern shopping experience that combines convenience, variety, and innovative retail design.

The launch is in line with the group’s commitment to supporting ֱ’s Vision 2030 by enhancing consumer services and contributing to the local economy.

The store was inaugurated by Nasar Salem Almoteb, deputy mayor of Jeddah Municipality, in the presence of Ihsan Bafakih, executive vice chairman of Al Nahla group, Nasser Huwaiden Thaiban Ali Alketbi, consul general of the UAE in Jeddah, Fahad Ahmed Khan Suri, consul general of India in Jeddah, and Yusuffali M.A, chairman of LuLu group, along with other dignitaries.

“We are proud to further strengthen our footprint in Jeddah with the launch of this hypermarket in Al-Baghdadiyah Al-Gharbiyah. This expansion reflects our unwavering commitment to the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 by creating jobs, enhancing retail infrastructure, and offering world-class shopping experiences to the community. We remain dedicated to being a catalyst in ֱ’s dynamic retail transformation."

Spanning over 117000 square feet, the hypermarket features a wide array of retail sections, including a fully stocked supermarket, fresh food zones, LuLu Connect electronics, fashion store, and specialty counters such as BLSH and Eye Express. 

A spacious food court adjacent to the fresh food section provides shoppers with a relaxing space to enjoy freshly prepared meals.

To ensure a smooth and convenient shopping experience, the store offers ample dedicated parking, accommodating both local residents and visitors. 

To celebrate the opening, exclusive inaugural offers are available across all departments, giving customers exceptional value on high-quality products.

The Al-Baghdadiyah hypermarket marks a key milestone in LuLu group’s strategy to serve evolving consumer needs while supporting the Kingdom’s long-term vision for sustainable economic and social development. ‎

Also present on the occasion were Saleh Ihsan Tayeb, director of corporate communications, Jeddah Chamber of Commerce; Youssef Abdullah Al-Salami, mayor of Al-Baghdadiyah; Mohammed Wajih bin Hassan Sharbatly, member of the board of managers, Al Nahla group; Sami Abdulaziz Al-Mukhdoob, CEO – real estate sector, Al Nahla group and other dignitaries.