Kuwait Fund and Arab Coordination Group: A strategic partnership supporting sustainable development in Egypt

Updated 26 min 37 sec ago

October 25, 2025 13:33

The Kuwait Fund for Development’s receipt of the Abdullatif Yousef Al-Hamad Development Award for the Best Economic and Social Development Project in the Arab World for 2024, in recognition of its financing of the “Bahr Al-Baqar” project in Egypt, underscores the exceptional development efforts made by the fund since its establishment over six decades ago. This prestigious honor, received at a dedicated ceremony, confirms the fund’s long-standing commitment to advancing development in the region.
The Bahr Al-Baqar project, inaugurated on Sept. 27, 2021, was comprehensive in its technical planning and practical application, meeting the award’s criteria and making it deserving of this win.

This project is considered one of the most significant projects financed by the Kuwait Fund in Egypt, with a cost of approximately $416 million. It includes three main components: the construction of barrages to divert 5 million cubic meters of water per day from the Bahr Al-Baqar drain, the construction of a treatment plant with a capacity of about 5 million cubic meters of water per day east of the Suez Canal, and the reclamation of agricultural land, the establishment of agricultural reserves, and factories for agricultural processing, along with activities for livestock development.
Waleed Shamlan Al-Bahar, acting director general of the Kuwait Fund for Development, said the project is currently operating at high efficiency, producing around 5 million cubic meters of treated water per day, which is discharged into the Sheikh Jaber Canal for agricultural use.

Focus on economic, social, and environmental aspects
The fund is committed to financing projects with significant economic, social, and environmental impacts on the countries it operates in. Economically, this project supports the cultivation of thousands of acres using treated water, establishing agricultural reserves, factories for agricultural processing, and activities for livestock development, thereby achieving economic stability, increasing exports, and reducing imports for the country.

Socially, the project improves the living and economic conditions of residents in the project area by contributing to developmental projects and creating new job opportunities, both during and after the project’s completion.
Environmentally, the project addresses the degradation in the northern delta region, including Lake Manzala, one of Egypt’s largest natural lakes, which had suffered from continuous pollution, reducing its area by 75 percent.

Achievement of sustainable development goals
The project aligns with several sustainable development goals, including Goal 2: Zero Hunger, Goal 6: Clean Water and Sanitation, Goal 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth, Goal 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure, and Goal 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities, among others.

Cooperation between the fund and Egypt
The relationship between the Kuwait Fund and Egypt is deep and longstanding. This project continues the fund’s development efforts in Egypt, which began in 1964 with the financing of the Suez Canal Development Project. To date, the fund has provided 54 loans to Egypt, covering sectors such as agriculture, transport, energy, industry, water and sanitation, social development, and development banks.

The role of Arab Coordination Group
The Bahr Al-Baqar project highlights the collective role of the Arab Coordination Group in advancing large-scale development initiatives that address global development priorities. Within this framework, the Kuwait Fund for Development played a key role in financing the project, reflecting the group’s shared commitment to achieving tangible progress in sustainable development worldwide.

Recognition and appreciation
The Abdullatif Yousef Al-Hamad Development Award highlights and encourages successful development projects that have addressed existing problems, enhancing economic and social capacities in the Arab world. The award honors entities that finance outstanding development projects, appreciating their efforts and commitment to achieving development in the region.

Named after Abdullatif Yousef Al-Hamad in recognition of his achievements in development work in the Arab world, the award acknowledges his leadership of the Kuwait Fund for Development (1963-1982), the Ministry of Finance and Planning (1981-1983), and the Arab Fund for Economic and Social Development (1985-2020). His more than 50-year career focused on supporting development activities and directly supervising hundreds of projects that created thousands of jobs and improved the lives of millions in the Arab world. As a result of his significant contributions, Al-Hamad was honored by many Arab leaders and awarded honorary doctorates by various educational, regional, and international institutions.

Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi to open next month in Saadiyat Cultural District

Updated 23 October 2025

October 23, 2025 17:42

Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi to open next month in Saadiyat Cultural District

Updated 23 October 2025

October 23, 2025 17:42

The Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi will open to the public on Nov. 22 in Saadiyat Cultural District, marking a significant cultural milestone for the emirate. As the largest museum of its kind in the region, it represents a new global destination for science, nature, and education, inviting visitors to explore the story of life on our planet and engage in conversations about its future.

The 35,000-square-meter museum is an exciting addition to the UAE’s evolving cultural landscape. It takes visitors on an immersive journey through 13.8 billion years of natural history — from the Big Bang and the formation of our solar system to the evolution of life, including the rise and fall of dinosaurs and the extraordinary biodiversity of our planet.

Among the highlights of the museum are three travelers from deep time. One is the famed specimen affectionately known as Stan, a nearly complete skeleton of a mighty Tyrannosaurus rex, an apex predator which ruled the Earth 67 million years ago. It is joined by the largest animal ever known, represented by a magnificent, 25-meter female blue whale specimen, offering extraordinary insight into evolution, marine biodiversity, and the planet’s ongoing story of life. Completing the trio is the Murchison Meteorite — an artefact that witnessed the formation of our planet and contains 7-billion-year-old grains formed even before our solar system.

Mohamed Khalifa Al-Mubarak, chairman of the Department of Culture and Tourism — Abu Dhabi, said: “The opening of the Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi marks a major milestone in our journey to shape the emirate’s cultural landscape. The museum offers an immersive look at the story of life on Earth, framed for the first time through an Arabian lens, with the fauna, flora, and geological history of the region forming a prominent part of the visitor journey. The museum’s research and educational institution support scientific knowledge and undertakes innovative scientific studies in zoology, palaeontology, marine biology, molecular research and earth sciences. By fostering engagement with the natural sciences, the Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi inspires future generations and contributes to a more sustainable future.”

Across the galleries, the natural history of the Arabian Peninsula forms a central part of the museum’s narrative, highlighting the region’s unique contribution to Earth’s story. Among the most remarkable discoveries found in Abu Dhabi is an extinct species of elephant known as Stegotetrabelodon emiratus. This ancient member of the Elephantidae family was distinguished by tusks in both its upper and lower jaws — a rare trait unseen in modern elephants — offering visitors a glimpse into the evolutionary journey of these creatures and reflecting the region’s rich natural heritage.

Designed by renowned architects Mecanoo, the museum’s building rises from the Saadiyat Island landscape like a natural formation. Its silhouette echoes natural rock formations, reflecting the museum’s mission to connect people with the natural world and inspire the next generation to question, discover, and take part in shaping a more sustainable future.

Inside, the museum features a series of permanent galleries and exhibitions that take visitors on a journey through time. The main galleries include: The Story of Earth, The Evolving World, Our World, Resilient Planet, and Earth’s Future, alongside side galleries such as The PalaeoLab, The Life Sciences Lab, Arabia’s Climate, Beyond the Horizon, and The Human Story. Visitors can also explore the Interactive Theatre, which offers immersive visual experiences that transport them through time.

To mark its opening, the museum will present two temporary international exhibitions: The March of the Triceratops, showcasing the world’s only touring Triceratops herd, and the 61st Wildlife Photographer of the Year, one of the most prestigious global showcases of nature photography. Together, these exhibitions will launch the museum’s international program and pave the way for a new era of scientific and cultural collaboration at both local and global levels.

The museum joins a community of institutions including Louvre Abu Dhabi, teamLab Phenomena Abu Dhabi, and the upcoming Zayed National Museum and Guggenheim Abu Dhabi, reinforcing Saadiyat Cultural District as a global center for knowledge, creativity, and cultural exchange — a place where the past, present and future of humanity come together in one living story.

At Henkel, Saudi female leaders drive business transformation

Updated 23 October 2025

October 23, 2025 17:24

At Henkel, Saudi female leaders drive business transformation

Updated 23 October 2025

October 23, 2025 17:24

The story of women in the workplace has long been told through the language of barriers: glass ceilings, thresholds and invisible walls. But in the Gulf today, national agendas centered on human capital development, diversification and women’s empowerment have opened a different path. Vision 2030 in ��ֱ�� has created both the mandate and momentum to fundamentally transform women’s career trajectories, not just their presence, but their power to shape business outcomes.

As a long-term contributor to the region, Henkel sees today’s mission distinctly: acceleration is not just about having women in the workforce; it’s about positioning them where their leadership carries real weight in strategic decisions that shape innovation, drive competitive advantage, and determine business success. The shift from participation to strategic influence marks the difference between inclusion metrics and sustainable business growth.

For Henkel, this represents a fundamental business imperative. Innovation relies on different perspectives wielding actual decision-making power, and competitiveness relies on placing the best talent where it matters most. At Henkel, gender diversity in employment has never been a challenge — the company is continuously advancing its leadership pathways for female talent, recognizing that companies dominating the decade ahead are those that embed women’s leadership as a core organizational value and business strategy for sustainable growth.

Strategic leadership as a competitive advantage

“Diversity without decision-making authority is a missed opportunity. In ��ֱ��, where Vision 2030 has created momentum to place women as strategic decision-makers in industries that define the future, we see this as both a responsibility and a critical business driver,” said Simon Ulmann, vice president operations and supply chain, Henkel Adhesive Technologies IMEA. “At Henkel, we’ve maintained strong gender representation across all levels for years. Our commitment lies in continuously furthering our leadership pathways for female talent, ensuring we provide evolving opportunities for growth and strategic impact.”

This conviction underpins the implementation of Henkel’s global programs in the region. The CHAiNGERS program, Henkel’s global initiative launched across the UAE and ��ֱ��, is an intensive 18-month-long leadership accelerator that transcends traditional training. Through technical training, mentorship, rotations and stretch assignments, we prepare female engineers for roles where their decisions directly impact operational excellence and financial outcomes.

“The sophistication of CHAiNGERS lies in its focus on developing decision-making capability alongside technical mastery, as well as an emphasis on cultivating positive leadership characteristics,” said Marwa Mohamed, Henkel head of HR GCC and senior HRBP HR IMEA. “We’re developing talent which understands that their role isn’t just to support strategy but to shape it. With our next cohort in Dammam targeting early-career professionals at our Henkel Industrial Company and Polybit sites, we’re building a pipeline of Saudi female leaders ready to drive business transformation.”

From presence to power: measurable business impact

The results validate Henkel’s approach. One CHAiNGERS participant who began in plant operations now leads safety and risk management, where her strategic decisions directly influence operational efficiency. Another has stepped into sustainability leadership, where her initiatives strengthen the company’s competitive position while furthering its sustainability agenda.

These outcomes reflect how Henkel transforms potential into business impact through structured mentorship and leadership tracks that prepare women for positions where their decisions shape company direction.

Building strategic decision-makers

Henkel’s commitment to creating equal opportunities for all extends through the NextGen Leaders program, which is another 18-month long talent development track for young Saudi STEM professionals. By rotating across various Henkel adhesive technologies divisions, participants of the program influence business decisions that support the Kingdom’s manufacturing sector while shaping Henkel’s regional strategy.

“The NextGen program ensures that the voices of our talent are heard in strategic meetings where business direction is determined,” said Mohamed. “We’re creating leaders who set the agenda, not just have a seat at the table.”

What distinguishes Henkel’s approach is measuring success by decision-making authority and business impact, not participation rates. The company’s strategies explicitly target moving women into positions where their leadership shapes innovation priorities and drives sustainable growth.

“Women in our organization are architects of competitive advantage because they’re positioned where decisions matter most,” Ulmann said. Henkel has long been recognized as a leader in fostering a culture that values women in strategic roles, demonstrating the importance of their presence in shaping business outcomes. “Companies that overlook the inclusion of women in key leadership positions are essentially operating at only half their potential,” he added.

Defining the future through strategic leadership

The Gulf stands at a moment of profound transformation, with ��ֱ�� as a decisive driver. Vision 2030 recognizes that sustainable economic growth requires women’s strategic leadership, not just participation. For industrial companies like Henkel, further accelerating women into decision-making roles is strategic business planning for competitive advantage.

“The true test of leadership isn’t presence but impact. The talented women in our CHAiNGERS cohort and across Henkel in the GCC are an invaluable asset, defining our future through strategic decisions that shape our business trajectory,” said Ulmann. “We’ve built, and are furthering an ecosystem where women’s leadership directly determines business outcomes and creates competitive advantages that will define regional success.”

The question is not whether women will define the future of work in the GCC but whether companies are positioning them in roles where their leadership can deliver the strategic impact that sustainable growth demands.

Simon Ulmann, vice president of operations and supply chain for Henkel Adhesive Technologies IMEA, and Marwa Mohamed, head of human resources for Henkel GCC and senior HR business partner for HR IMEA, co-wrote this piece.

Cisco ��ֱ�� takes new approach to safeguarding digital ecosystem, top official

Updated 23 October 2025

October 23, 2025 16:54

Cisco ��ֱ�� takes new approach to safeguarding digital ecosystem, top official

Updated 23 October 2025

October 23, 2025 16:54

The most encouraging advancement is the growth of ��ֱ��’s information and communication technology sector, according to Salman Faqeeh, managing director, Cisco ��ֱ��. 

Last year, ICT spending in the Kingdom exceeded $10 billion, consolidating its position as the largest tech market in the MENA region, he said. 

"Another promising trend is a heightened focus on cybersecurity. ��ֱ��’s cybersecurity market is expected to reach a compound annual growth rate of 18.33% by 2029. The Kingdom is also rapidly advancing its vision for smart cities. The government has allocated $500 billion for its flagship smart city project Neom, which aims to integrate cutting-edge technologies such as AI, the Internet of Things, and renewable energy. 

"��ֱ�� is well on its way to becoming a global leader in innovation and technology adoption. At Cisco, we are at the forefront of supporting this journey by revolutionizing how infrastructure and data connect and protect organizations in the AI era," Faqeeh added. 

Amidst mounting complexity and expanding attack surfaces, cybersecurity is the bedrock of a prosperous digital economy. "At Cisco, we are taking a fundamental new approach to safeguarding the digital ecosystem, where security meets the network," he said. 

"Cisco AI Defense, our end-to-end AI security solution, protects every stage of AI development and deployment with unmatched visibility and control over networks," Faqeeh explained. 

Meanwhile, Cisco Hypershield, our groundbreaking security architecture, powers and protects the engine of the AI revolution – AI-scale data centers and clouds.   

Faqeeh said: "We are helping organizations across ��ֱ�� strengthen their cybersecurity posture with platform-based solutions like Security Cloud and Extended Detection and Response. A prime example is our work with stc to upgrade its Cyber Defense Center, which has resulted in increasing security cover by up to 95% and reducing incident response time from eight hours to one hour.

"AI brings immense opportunities to healthcare, promising faster and more accurate diagnoses, personalized treatments, and predictive care that could transform patient outcomes. While AI boosts productivity, workers can focus on tasks better suited for human expertise, like patient care. In education, AI serves as a complementary tool that enhances the educational experience while preserving vital human elements of teaching and learning. And finally, smart cities would not exist without AI, as AI powers IoT, on which smart cities run, using smart devices to deliver a connected living experience."

He added: "At Cisco, we are a trusted partner that helps organizations across diverse sectors accelerate their AI journeys within a responsible AI framework. Our collaborations with public and private sector entities are instrumental in building AI-ready infrastructure and fostering local innovation. We will continue to support ��ֱ��’s giga-projects by deploying smart building technologies and IoT solutions to create sustainable, connected urban environments. 

"In today's rapidly evolving threat landscape, relying solely on human-scale defense is no longer enough. We need AI to combat threats because we need to protect the ecosystem at machine scale, not just human scale. But the best defense won’t be artificial or human – it will be a collaboration between the two."  

According to our 2025 Cybersecurity Readiness Index, Faqeeh said, only 1% of organizations in ��ֱ�� have achieved the "mature" level of readiness required to effectively withstand today’s cybersecurity threats. "To tackle today’s cybersecurity challenges, enterprises must invest in AI-driven solutions, simplify security infrastructures, and enhance AI threat awareness. Prioritizing AI for threat detection, response, and recovery is essential, as is addressing talent shortages and mitigating risks from unmanaged devices and unregulated AI deployments, also known as shadow AI."

Faqeeh further said: "Security leaders have the responsibility to contribute their expertise to developing homegrown talent in the markets where they operate. At Cisco, we are committed to fostering a diverse and digitally skilled workforce in ��ֱ��. 

"Since its inception in the Kingdom in partnership with King Abdulaziz University, the Cisco Networking Academy has trained over 479,000 learners in cybersecurity and other digital technology fields for free. Notably, 36% of the participants have been women – one of the highest percentages globally. We are on track to achieve our target of upskilling 500,000 learners in five years.

"We have also joined forces with King Abdullah University of Science and Technology to establish the Cisco AI Institute that will train future AI leaders while driving AI innovation. In addition, we are providing Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert certifications in collaboration with King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology."

Burjeel Holdings to showcase next-gen healthcare innovation at Global Health Exhibition 2025

Updated 23 October 2025

October 23, 2025 15:38

Burjeel Holdings to showcase next-gen healthcare innovation at Global Health Exhibition 2025

Updated 23 October 2025

October 23, 2025 15:38

Burjeel Holdings, a leading super-specialty healthcare services provider in the MENA region, is set to highlight the future of intelligent, compassionate healthcare at the Global Health Exhibition 2025, taking place from Oct. 27 to 30 at the Riyadh Convention and Exhibition Center, Malham. Under the theme “Care meets Intelligence — World-Class Healthcare for the Kingdom,” Burjeel Holdings will showcase how innovation, advanced technology, and patient-centered care are converging to shape world-class healthcare in ��ֱ��. Artificial intelligence will feature prominently among the group’s key pillars, reflecting its focus on enhancing patient outcomes, improving clinical efficiency, and supporting the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 transformation goals.

Spotlight on innovation

At Booth No. H2 S10, Burjeel Holdings will showcase how human intelligence and technological advancements are merging to deliver better patient outcomes and experiences. The booth will feature a connected ecosystem of intelligent healthcare solutions that demonstrate how clinical expertise and advanced systems come together to enhance the quality, accessibility, and personalization of care.

Among the highlights is the “AI for Life” pavilion, where visitors can explore how AI-powered solutions are transforming patient engagement, clinical decision-making, and operational efficiency across Burjeel Holdings’ network. Developed in collaboration with global technology partners, these innovations reflect the group’s broader vision of uniting data, compassion, and precision to make healthcare smarter, more efficient, and deeply personal.

The key innovations on display include advanced patient engagement and clinical support platforms that bring empathy and intelligence to doctor–patient interactions. Other solutions, such as the Clinical AI Agent, demonstrate how intelligent systems can streamline workflows, enhance clinical decision-making, and improve continuity of care.

The group will launch a suite of wellness and disease management platforms at the exhibition, designed to extend personalization and precision across broader aspects of care. These upcoming solutions leverage biomarker insights, remote monitoring, and guided virtual therapy to support lifestyle optimization, chronic disease management, and mental well-being, empowering individuals to take proactive control of their health.

Through PhysioTherabia, the largest physiotherapy and wellness network in the Kingdom, Burjeel Holdings will also unveil a new AI-powered digital health platform focused on musculoskeletal care, pain management, and well-being.

In line with ��ֱ��’s Vision 2030, Burjeel Holdings continues to strengthen its presence in the Kingdom through collaborations that advance local capabilities and accessibility. The group is expected to announce new partnerships with public and private entities aimed at expanding insurance coverage, enhancing clinical expertise, and accelerating the delivery of advanced care.

The group’s growing presence in ��ֱ�� highlights its role as an active contributor to the Kingdom’s evolving healthcare landscape. “Our continued expansion in ��ֱ�� underscores Burjeel Holdings’ long-term commitment to supporting the Kingdom’s healthcare transformation. As a trusted partner, we are focused on building capacity, advancing innovation, and enhancing access to world-class care. The Global Health Exhibition provides an opportunity to demonstrate how intelligence and compassion converge to shape a smarter, more sustainable healthcare future in line with Vision 2030,” said Safeer Ahamed, Co-CEO of Burjeel Holdings.

Since starting operations in the Kingdom, the group’s brands, including PhysioTherabia, PhysioTrio, the Specialist Physiotherapy Center in Makkah and Al-Kalma, have established a growing network of 31 wellness and mental health centers serving communities across ��ֱ��. The group will soon open two new day surgery centers in Riyadh and Alkhobar, offering world-class outpatient and same-day surgical care closer to home.

Beyond its expanding presence in ��ֱ��, Burjeel Holdings will also spotlight its advanced complex care programs and capabilities, spanning oncology, transplant surgery, fetal medicine, and robotic-assisted procedures.

LuLu opens new store, promotes local pomegranates

Updated 23 October 2025

October 23, 2025 09:24

LuLu opens new store, promotes local pomegranates

Updated 23 October 2025

October 23, 2025 09:24

LuLu Retail has expanded its footprint in ��ֱ�� by opening a new hypermarket in Asal Center Tuwaiq, Riyadh. This move aligns with the goals of the Kingdom’s Vision 2030, aimed at boosting the economy and creating more job opportunities.

The new store was inaugurated by Mohammed A. Al-Ahamri, assistant deputy of integrated investors services at the Ministry of Investment, in the presence of Turki Al-Ajlan, board member of Riyadh Chamber; Matar Salem Ali Marran Al-Dhaheri, ambassador of the UAE to ��ֱ��; Dr. Suhel Ajaz Khan, ambassador of India to ��ֱ��; Yusuffali M.A., chairman of LuLu Group; and other guests.

“We’re proud to continue our expansion in ��ֱ��. This hypermarket reflects our commitment to Vision 2030 by creating jobs, enhancing retail infrastructure, and offering a top-class shopping experience,” said Yusuffali.

The store spans 65,000 square feet and features an extensive range of products, including groceries, fresh produce, meat, seafood, dairy, bakery items, home essentials, electronics, beauty products, and more. It also includes self-checkout counters for hassle-free shopping and a dedicated dining area within the fresh food section.

“With ample parking space and exclusive launch promotions, LuLu ensures a convenient and value-driven shopping experience,” a statement said.

Saudi Pomegranate Season
As part of its commitment to supporting local agriculture, LuLu Retail officially launched the Saudi Pomegranate Season. This initiative promotes the rich quality and freshness of locally grown pomegranates, encouraging customers to choose homegrown produce and support Saudi farmers, reinforcing LuLu’s dedication to celebrating ��ֱ��’s agricultural heritage while enhancing the shopping experience.

Also present on the occasion were Ashraf Ali M.A., executive director of LuLu; Salim M.A., global operations director of LuLu; Zulfiker Kadavath, director of LuLu fruits and vegetables; Mohamed Haris Puthiyaveettil, director of LuLu ��ֱ��; and other senior officials.

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