LEAP 2025 sees flurry of infrastructure announcements

Redington has operated in the Kingdom for 24 years. Redington

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Updated 11 February 2025

Nour El-Shaeri

February 11, 2025 14:30

LEAP 2025 sees flurry of infrastructure announcements

Updated 11 February 2025

Nour El-Shaeri

February 11, 2025 14:30

RIYADH: ��ֱ��’s premier technology event, LEAP 2025, has showcased major investment announcements and strategic collaborations, further cementing the Kingdom’s position as a regional hub for digital transformation.

From large-scale infrastructure projects to artificial intelligence-driven innovations, companies have unveiled commitments that align with the nation’s Vision 2030’s push for technological advancement.

Redington Commits $533.3m to Saudi expansion

Redington, a global technology aggregator, announced an SR2 billion ($533.3 million) investment over the next decade to strengthen its presence in ��ֱ��.

The funds, sourced from internal accruals, will be used to establish a new headquarters, a smart distribution center, and talent development initiatives.

The firm, which has operated in the Kingdom for 24 years, delivered $1.5 billion worth of technology in 2024 alone.

Viswanath Pallasena, the company’s CEO for the Middle East and Africa, said: “We are wholeheartedly committed to Saudi Vision 2030, where technology is a key component to all its three pillars — a vibrant society, a thriving economy, and an ambitious nation. We’re truly dedicated to playing an active role in bringing its transformative goals to life.”

PIF’s SEVEN and TAWAL to develop digital infrastructure for entertainment destinations

The partnership was signed by Abdulrahman Al-Ali, chief information technology officer at SEVEN, and Mohammed Al-Haqbani, CEO of TAWAL. SEVEN

Saudi Entertainment Ventures, also known as SEVEN, a subsidiary of Qiddiya Investment Co. backed by the Public Investment Fund, signed a strategic agreement with TAWAL, a Saudi telecommunications infrastructure firm, to establish neutral digital infrastructure across its 21 entertainment destinations.

The partnership includes the development of internal and external telecom infrastructure featuring indoor coverage systems, multi-band antenna distribution, and neutral communication towers.

The goal is to enhance 4G and 5G connectivity, support Internet-of-Things applications, and enable advanced digital services for visitors.

“This partnership marks a significant step in advancing the digital infrastructure of our entertainment destinations, enabling exceptional and seamless experiences for our visitors,” said Abdulrahman Al-Ali, chief information officer at SEVEN.

Qualcomm and Aramco Digital unveil AI-enabled industrial 5G smartphones

Qualcomm Technologies and Aramco Digital announced a collaboration to develop the world’s first AI-enabled industrial 5G smartphones with native support for the 450-megahertz spectrum.

The 450MHz spectrum is a low-frequency band known for its long-range coverage and strong signal penetration, making it ideal for industrial and rural connectivity. It supports IoT, machine-to-machine communication, and private 5G networks, particularly in energy, utilities, and remote operations.

These devices, powered by Qualcomm’s QCM8550 and QCM6490 processors, will be designed for industrial applications, providing advanced connectivity and data transfer capabilities.

“At Aramco Digital, we are committed to pushing the boundaries of technological innovation,” said Eid Al-Harbi, connectivity president at Aramco Digital. “By utilizing cutting-edge 5G and AI technologies, we are enabling smarter, more sustainable industry that aligns with the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 and beyond.”

IBM and Lenovo expand AI collaboration in ��ֱ��

Ayman Al-Rashed, regional vice president, IBM ��ֱ�� and Giovanni Di Filippo, president of EMEA, Lenovo, at LEAP 2025. IBM

IBM and Lenovo announced an expansion of their technology partnership to accelerate generative AI adoption in the Kingdom.

The collaboration will integrate IBM’s watsonx AI portfolio, including the Saudi Data and Artificial Intelligence Authority’s open-source Arabic Large Language Model, with Lenovo’s infrastructure.

The initiative is expected to help Saudi businesses and government agencies enhance AI-driven decision-making in areas such as fraud detection, public safety, and IT operations.

Giovanni Di Filippo, president of EMEA Infrastructure Solutions Group at Lenovo, emphasized the significance of the partnership, and said: “We’re pleased to deepen our partnership to bring IBM’s fit-for-purpose generative AI offerings together with Lenovo’s infrastructure solutions to provide customers in ��ֱ�� with solutions designed to meet their unique needs.”

EDGNEX to deploy 500MW of data center capacity by 2030

EDGNEX, the digital infrastructure arm of DAMAC Group, revealed plans to roll out 500 megawatts of data center capacity across the Kingdom by 2030, targeting AI and cloud computing demands.

With existing operations in Riyadh and Dammam, EDGNEX aims to expand its Saudi footprint while engaging local vendors and creating high-value technology and engineering jobs.

The company’s broader portfolio spans 10 countries, with a projected capacity exceeding 1000MW.

Topics: LEAP2025 Redington Saudi Entertainment Ventures (SEVEN)

ADNOC deploys AI system for oil terminals

Updated 16 September 2025

Arab News

September 16, 2025 22:24

ADNOC deploys AI system for oil terminals

Developed by Innovez One, a leading port management system provider, the technology optimizes resource allocation and enables real-time tracking of marine activities across ADNOC L&S’s UAE ports

Updated 16 September 2025

Arab News

September 16, 2025 22:24

RIYADH: ADNOC Logistics and Services has launched the Gulf Cooperation Council’s first AI-powered Smart Port Solution to enhance petroleum port operations, according to the Emirates News Agency.

Developed by Innovez One, a leading port management system provider, the technology optimizes resource allocation and enables real-time tracking of marine activities across ADNOC L&S’s UAE ports, including Das, Zirku, Mubaraz, Ruwais, and Jebel Dhana.

The solution slashes vessel turnaround time by up to 90 percent, reducing service sourcing from three hours to 45 seconds. It is projected to save 3,000 hours annually, yielding operational savings of $950,000 by 2028. Additionally, jetty utilization has increased by 20 percent, boosting overall port efficiency and improving vessel management by 10 percent.

Capt. Abdulkareem Al-Masabi, CEO of ADNOC L&S, emphasized the company’s focus on innovation: “This smart port solution reinforces our commitment to leveraging AI to optimize operations, drive value for our business and customers, and advance sustainability.”

David Yeo, CEO of Innovez One, highlighted the collaboration’s impact: “Our AI-driven solution not only streamlines workflows but also supports ADNOC L&S’s sustainability goals, positioning UAE petroleum ports as a global benchmark for smart operations.”

ADNOC L&S’s adoption of cutting-edge AI aligns with its strategy for operational excellence and sustainable growth.

Topics: ADNOC Smart Port Solution AI

��ֱ��’s Social Development Bank grants $1.73bn in financing by Q3

Updated 16 September 2025

Nirmal Narayanan

September 16, 2025 19:55

��ֱ��’s Social Development Bank grants $1.73bn in financing by Q3

Updated 16 September 2025

Nirmal Narayanan

September 16, 2025 19:55

RIYADH: ��ֱ��’s Social Development Bank disbursed SR6.5 billion ($1.73 billion) in financing in the first nine months of 2025, benefiting over 90,000 citizens and enterprises, after extending SR8 billion in 2024.

Of this, SR2.5 billion supported self-employed practitioners and productive families, reaching 53,000 beneficiaries — including 14,500 in the third quarter, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

Strengthening small, medium, and emerging industries is a key goal of ��ֱ��’s Vision 2030, as the Kingdom works to diversify its economy and reduce its decades-long reliance on crude oil revenues.

FASTFACTS

More than SR2.4 billion went to 7,300 small and emerging enterprises, with 2,400 of them financed in the third quarter alone.

Social financing accounted for SR1.6 billion, benefitting 30,000 people, including 10,000 during the latest quarter.

Quoting Ahmed Al-Rajhi, minister of human resources and social development and chairman of SDB, SPA stated that “the achievements reflect the effectiveness of the Bank’s strategic directions in empowering individuals and establishments, and providing an attractive labor market for local and global capabilities, in support of the national economy.”

The report added that more than SR2.4 billion went to 7,300 small and emerging enterprises, with 2,400 of them financed in the third quarter alone. Social financing accounted for SR1.6 billion, benefitting 30,000 people, including 10,000 during the latest quarter.

Sultan Al-Hamidi, CEO of SDB, said these achievements align with the support the bank receives from Saudi leadership to advance the Kingdom’s comprehensive development.

He added that the institution will continue serving as a national development enabler through an integrated system of financing and non-financing solutions aimed at empowering entrepreneurs, fostering enterprise growth, and transforming ideas into sustainable projects.

In December, SDB signed an agreement with Saudi National Bank to launch a financing portfolio to support entrepreneurship in the Kingdom.

The portfolio, introduced under SNB’s Ahalina program, was set to provide SR10 million ($2.66 million) in funding to entrepreneurs, SPA reported at the time.

Under the deal, SNB and SDB agreed to strengthen public-private cooperation to boost the Kingdom’s entrepreneurial landscape.

Topics: Finance

��ֱ��, New Zealand deepen ties with $100m in commercial deals

Updated 17 September 2025

Lama Alhamawi

September 16, 2025 16:17

��ֱ��, New Zealand deepen ties with $100m in commercial deals

Trade and Investment Minister Todd McClay led a delegation of 21 New Zealand businesses to ��ֱ��
��ֱ�� is one of New Zealand’s largest and fastest-growing export destinations in the Middle East.

Updated 17 September 2025

Lama Alhamawi

September 16, 2025 16:17

RIYADH: ��ֱ�� is one of the most dynamic markets in the Middle East, New Zealand’s trade minister has claimed after deals valued at $100 million were signed by businesses from the two countries.

Todd McClay spoke to Arab News during a visit to Riyadh where he led a delegation of 21 New Zealand businesses to promote trade and investment ties with the Kingdom.

The memorandums of understanding signed during the trip included those involving NIG Nutritionals and Al Dawaa Pharmacies, 26 Seasons and Qassim Strawberry & Fruit Cooperative Society, and Gallagher Animal Management and Al Tajweed.

“These partnerships mark an important step in deepening New Zealand’s trade relationship with ��ֱ�� and across the Gulf region. Together, they are expected to generate more than $100 million in commercial value for New Zealand,” McClay said.

“This will give our exporters a significant boost, reinforce New Zealand as a reliable trade partner, and contribute to our goal of doubling the value of exports in 10 years,” he added.

The official also held a meeting with Khalid Al-Falih, ��ֱ��’s Minister of Investment, to discuss opportunities for deeper investment links between the two countries.

The meeting builds on the conclusion of the New Zealand–Gulf Cooperation Council Free Trade Agreement last year and a growing commitment to enhanced trade and investment cooperation.

“We reached an agreement with ��ֱ�� in the GCC last year for a free trade agreement, and we’re looking forward to signing it in the region in the coming months,” McClay told Arab News.

“But this was an opportunity to bring a number of New Zealand businesses here to find partners and people to trade and invest with, to grow a strong business relationship in the Kingdom,” he added.

Trade with ��ֱ�� has grown significantly in recent years, with exports up 118 percent since 2021. According to the New Zealand Ministry for Trade & Investment and Agriculture, ��ֱ�� is one of the two largest export destinations in the Middle East, and the 18th largest market globally.

As of June, two-way trade reached 1.6 billion New Zealand dollars ($960 million), with exports valued at 1.35 billion dollars. Dairy dominated at 80 percent of New Zealand exports, followed by meat at nearly 10 percent.

According to the New Zealand Year-end June report, ��ֱ�� is New Zealand's 22nd largest trading partner.

Todd McClay. (AN photo by Huda Bashatah)

“��ֱ�� is one of the most dynamic markets in the Middle East, worth$2.8 trillion and is driving one of the largest global transformations and rebuild programs through its Vision 2030 strategy,” McClay said.

The minister believes the success of the negotiation of the trade agreement is “significant,” saying: “It’s one of the first trade agreements that the GCC has concluded in quite a long period of time that they’ve decided to do it with New Zealand, I think, is an honor for us.”

He added: “But it really now is just the foundation for how we can grow that relationship further.”

Todd McClay speaking to Arab News. (AN photo by Huda Bashatah)

��ֱ�� is already one of New Zealand’s largest and fastest-growing export destinations in the Middle East.

As of 2025, the two countries mark 48 years of diplomatic relations. Exports have more than doubled in four years, from $620 million in June 2021 to $1.35 billion in June, bringing two-way trade to $1.58 billion.

During his trip the minister held multiple sideline meetings, including with the Saudi Public Investment Fund to scout opportunities available in the Kingdom, as well as visiting the Expo 2030 site.

Topics: New Zealand - GCC Saudi - New Zealand Ties New Zealand

Closing Bell: Saudi main index rises to 10,519

Updated 16 September 2025

Nirmal Narayanan

September 16, 2025 16:07

Closing Bell: Saudi main index rises to 10,519

Updated 16 September 2025

Nirmal Narayanan

September 16, 2025 16:07

RIYADH: ��ֱ��’s Tadawul All-Share Index rebounded on Tuesday, gaining 91.67 points, or 0.88 percent, to close at 10,518.73.

The total trading turnover of the benchmark index was SR4.32 billion ($1.15 billion), with 233 stocks advancing and 20 declining.

��ֱ��’s parallel market, Nomu, also rose 0.29 percent, closing at 25,022.58.

The MSCI Tadawul Index edged up 0.81 percent to 1,369.12.

The best-performing stock on the main market was Fawaz Abdulaziz Alhokair Co., also known as Cenomi Retail, with its share price rising 9.97 percent to SR28.68.

Retal Urban Development Co. shares climbed 5.85 percent to SR12.30, while Saudi Ground Services Co. gained 5.60 percent to SR44.10.

Conversely, National Medical Care Co. fell 1.82 percent to SR161.50.

In corporate news, Almarai Co. announced the launch of its dollar-denominated sukuk under its $2 billion Trust Certificate Issuance Program.

According to a Tadawul statement, the offering period began on Sept. 16 and will run through Sept. 17. The minimum subscription is $200,000, in increments of $1,000, while the final value, return, and maturity will be determined by market conditions.

Almarai’s share price rose 2.53 percent to SR45.10.

First Milling Co. said it signed a binding agreement to acquire 60 percent of the share capital of Al-Kenan Al-Arabia Trading Co., a single-person limited liability company registered in ��ֱ��.

The Tadawul statement noted that the transaction includes the transfer of ownership in accordance with the agreement’s terms and conditions, subject to regulatory approvals and customary conditions required to complete such deals.

First Milling added that the acquisition aligns with its growth strategy, aimed at expanding activities in the feed sector, diversifying revenue sources, and strengthening its market position in the Kingdom and beyond.

The company’s share price rose 0.69 percent to SR51.30.

Topics: Closing Bell Saudi exchange Saudi Stock Exchange (Tadawul)

PIF-backed AviLease, Hassana form aircraft leasing JV

Updated 16 September 2025

Mohammed Al-Kinani

September 16, 2025 14:13

PIF-backed AviLease, Hassana form aircraft leasing JV

Updated 16 September 2025

Mohammed Al-Kinani

September 16, 2025 14:13

JEDDAH: ��ֱ��’s Public Investment Fund-backed AviLease has partnered with Hassana Investment Co. to establish a new aircraft leasing joint venture, underscoring growing public-private collaboration in advancing the Kingdom’s aviation sector.

Hassana, the investment manager of the General Organization for Social Insurance, will hold the majority stake in the venture. AviLease, which manages an aircraft portfolio worth over $7 billion, will act as the platform’s aircraft service provider, according to a press release.

The partnership comes as AviLease expands, having placed Boeing and Airbus orders in June, secured a $1.5 billion financing facility in April, and received investment-grade ratings.

The company is targeting a fleet of about 200 aircraft in ��ֱ��’s growing aviation market.

The move aims to broaden access to aviation financing for local and international investors while supporting the Kingdom’s National Aviation Strategy. This supports the Kingdom’s updated target of drawing 150 million visitors a year by 2030, up from the original Vision 2030 goal of 100 million.

AviLease CEO Edward O’Byrne said the collaboration with Hassana enhances the company’s position as a PIF-backed lessor.

“The proposed joint venture is a foundational step in building a scalable platform that supports the growth of ��ֱ��’s aviation ecosystem. We look forward to further developing this partnership through future transactions and expanding our footprint in the global aircraft leasing market,” he added.

As its first transaction, the JV will acquire a portfolio of 10 aircraft from AviLease, currently leased to Saudi carriers. The fleet consists of new-generation, fuel-efficient models, aligning with ��ֱ��’s push to boost efficiency and sustainability in its expanding aviation infrastructure.

Hani Al-Jehani, acting CEO and chief investment officer, Hassana, said: “This strategic partnership underscores our commitment to investing in resilient assets that generate sustainable, long-term cash flows supported by strong fundamentals.”

He added: “Through our collaboration with AviLease, we aim to strengthen our exposure to the aviation leasing sector while advancing the Kingdom’s broader aviation aspirations.”

Al-Jehani said the initiative is fully aligned with the mandate to pursue attractive investment opportunities that advance the fund’s portfolio objectives.

Fahad Al-Saif, chairman of AviLease, called the partnership “a significant step,” adding that it represents the private sector’s first entry into the fast-growing aviation leasing space and reflects deeper collaboration between PIF companies and private investors.

He further emphasized that such partnerships provide a robust financial platform, capable of attracting high-quality local and international investments while reinforcing ��ֱ��’s growing financial market presence regionally and globally.

Hassana manages more than SR1.2 trillion ($300 billion) in assets, deploying its scale and expertise across sectors and geographies to generate long-term value.

Earlier this year, the firm signed a memorandum of understanding with Saudi Real Estate Refinance Co., another PIF subsidiary, to launch the region’s first residential mortgage-backed securities — further reflecting its role in diversifying ��ֱ��’s financial markets and pioneering innovative investment initiatives.

Topics: AviLease Hassana Investment Co.

��ֱ��

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��ֱ��’s Social Development Bank grants $1.73bn in financing by Q3

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LEAP 2025 sees flurry of infrastructure announcements

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��ֱ��’s Social Development Bank grants $1.73bn in financing by Q3

��ֱ��, New Zealand deepen ties with $100m in commercial deals