Cenomi Centers to champion global retail industry at 2025 RLC Global Forum

Updated 1 min 49 sec ago

Arab News

January 29, 2025 17:57

Cenomi Centers, the largest owner, operator and developer of contemporary lifestyle centers in Saudi Arabia, has announced a refreshed and renewed strategic partnership with the 2025 RLC Global Forum, supporting the platform for another year.

Taking place on Feb. 4-5 in Riyadh, the highly anticipated event brings together global powerhouses, innovators and leaders across the retail sector to discuss the most important issues affecting the industry today.

This year’s gathering takes place as Saudi Arabia’s retail market shows remarkable resilience and growth, totaling SR37.4 billion ($9.97 billion) in Q3 2024, against a backdrop of global economic uncertainty. Furthermore, the Saudi retail sector is expected to increase by a compound annual growth rate of 7.2 percent to 2028, reaching a total value of $142 billion; Cenomi Centers is at the forefront of this progress.

Across the two-day event, there will be more than 100 speakers and over 600 companies present, alongside influential media analysts and partners. Regional and global leaders, CEOs and entrepreneurs will debate how to deliver growth and development across the sector, discussing strategy, innovation and key industry trends. Other distinguished partners to be involved include Diriyah Company, Apparel Group, Chalhoub Group and Panda Retail Company

Alison Rehill-Erguven, CEO of Cenomi Centers, said: “Our strategic partnership with the RLC Global Forum comes at an exciting time of expansion for Cenomi Centers, with our groundbreaking Jawharat Jeddah and Riyadh retail developments set to launch in 2025, changing the shape of the Saudi retail sector. We are thrilled to once again be championing the global retail industry at this leading event and look forward to some lively discussion on how what we do informs economies on both a local, national and international level.”

Panos Linardos, chairman of the RLC Global Forum, said: “Our partnership with Cenomi Centers reflects a shared ambition to shape the future of retail in Saudi Arabia and beyond. Together, we are not only addressing today’s challenges but also driving meaningful conversations and actions that will define the next era of retail. This collaboration empowers Saudi Arabia’s retail sector to set new global benchmarks in resilience, growth, and innovation.”

Riyad Bank leads the way in sustainability with comprehensive ESG strategy

Updated 29 January 2025

Arab News

January 29, 2025 10:30

Riyad Bank leads the way in sustainability with comprehensive ESG strategy

Updated 29 January 2025

Arab News

January 29, 2025 10:30

Riyad Bank, a leading financial institution in Saudi Arabia, has launched a white paper outlining its sustainability strategy, setting a new standard for sustainability in the regional banking sector.

“The white paper shares our approach, our choices, and the methodology that underpins our strategy in a transparent and collaborative manner so that others may benefit from our experience,” Riyad Bank said in a statement.

The strategy is aligned with the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 and its commitment to net-zero by 2060. It includes ambitious goals for sustainable finance, emissions reduction, and community engagement.

Key highlights include:

Net-zero by 2060: Aligning with Saudi Arabia’s national targets, the bank aims to achieve net-zero emissions by 2060, with an ambitious interim target of net-zero for its own operations (scope 1 and 2) by 2035.
Internal 2030 sector targets: The bank has established its scope 3 financed emissions baseline and set science-based interim decarbonization targets for its power and iron and steel sectors.
Sustainable finance leadership: The bank has set a target of SR20 billion in sustainable finance volume by 2030, demonstrating its commitment to financing projects and initiatives that contribute to a sustainable future.
Expanding industry partnerships: The bank will increase engagement with leading sustainability initiatives, including the Partnership for Carbon Accounting Financials, the UN Global Compact, CDP, and the Principles for Responsible Banking.
Strong ESG governance: The bank has enhanced its existing robust ESG governance framework, with increased oversight at the board and management levels, integrated KPIs, and incentivized sustainability performance.
Community engagement: The strategy emphasizes enhanced community engagement and initiatives, focusing on creating a positive social impact.

Riyad Bank’s sustainability strategy is accompanied by a comprehensive three-year roadmap for the bank’s sustainability journey, setting a clear path for the bank to create long-term value for its stakeholders and contribute to a sustainable future for the Kingdom and the region.

New VW Tiguan launches in KSA with sleek design, more tech

Updated 28 January 2025

Arab News

January 28, 2025 22:12

New VW Tiguan launches in KSA with sleek design, more tech

Updated 28 January 2025

Arab News

January 28, 2025 22:12

Volkswagen has announced the launch of the new Tiguan in the Kingdom with the arrival of the third generation of this iconic SUV. More than 7.6 million Tiguan vehicles have been sold worldwide since its debut in 2007, making it one of Volkswagen’s best-selling models. The new Tiguan is now available in showrooms across the Kingdom with a 1.4-liter TSI engine.

Matthias Ziegler, CEO of Volkswagen Middle East, said: “The Tiguan has been a global success for the Volkswagen brand, and this also applies to our region. The Tiguan has proven to be the ideal SUV for our customers, offering them enough space for an active lifestyle and complementing their driving experience with high-tech features and an attractive design.”

Mohammad Moussa, general manager of Volkswagen Saudi Arabia, added: “We are proud of Tiguan’s popularity in the Kingdom, thanks to its sleek design, cutting-edge technologies, connectivity features, safety, and exceptional German quality.”

The new Tiguan is built on the modular transverse matrix platform, the latest and most widely used technological platform from Volkswagen. The Tiguan comes with innovative technologies that enhance every aspect of the driving experience. The Digital Cockpit Pro display provides seamless connectivity between you and your vehicle, thanks to its sleek design and ease of use.

You will also enjoy the comfort provided by the front seats’ air massage function, the IQ. Light HD headlights inspired by the luxurious Touareg, as well as the latest park assist system that makes parking an absolute breeze.

The Pro adaptive chassis control system is designed to improve comfort and performance, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable ride.

The new Tiguan’s design is a major evolution, with a modern and bold look. The front features striking flat LED headlights, an illuminated strip, along with a new grille and bumper, while the rear includes a horizontal light strip and enhanced storage space.

You can now choose from three new vibrant colors: Cypress Green, Oyster Silver, and Persimmon Red, in addition to five metallic paint options.

The cabin features premium materials and a modern design, making the new dashboard easy to use and wonderfully integrated.

Ritz-Carlton, Jeddah names hospitality ace as general manager

Updated 28 January 2025

Arab News

January 28, 2025 22:10

Ritz-Carlton, Jeddah names hospitality ace as general manager

Updated 28 January 2025

Arab News

January 28, 2025 22:10

The Ritz-Carlton, Jeddah has appointed Vipin Khattar as its new general manager. A transformational leader with a proven record of accomplishments and delivering exceptional results, Khattar brings a wealth of expertise and visionary leadership, honed over an illustrious career with some of the world’s most prestigious hospitality brands. His appointment marks an exciting new chapter for this iconic property.

Khattar joins The Ritz-Carlton, Jeddah following a distinguished tenure as multi-property general manager in Dubai, where he led The St. Regis Downtown Dubai, Delta Hotels by Marriott, Dubai Investment Park, and Marriott Residences Al-Barsha South, Dubai to much success. Known for his strategic acumen, operational excellence, and unrelenting focus on guest satisfaction, he consistently elevated these properties to industry-leading positions.

Previously, as general manager of JW Marriott New Delhi Aerocity, Khattar cemented the hotel’s reputation as a beacon of luxury in India’s competitive hospitality landscape. His career also includes an impressive tenure with Hyatt, where he oversaw flagship properties in Dubai and Sharm El-Sheikh, earning accolades for exceptional performance, guest experience, and his ability to inspire and empower teams.

Reflecting on his new role, Khattar said: “It is both an honor and a profound responsibility to lead The Ritz-Carlton, Jeddah, a property synonymous with timeless elegance and world-class service.”

Together with the passionate and dedicated team, I am committed to delivering extraordinary guest experiences while elevating the hotel’s status as a premier destination.”

Khattar is a graduate of the prestigious International Hotel and Tourism Training Institute in Montreux, Switzerland. Beyond his professional achievements, he is a passionate traveler who has explored more than 50 countries, drawing inspiration from diverse cultures and experiences. Living by the philosophy that “a healthy body fosters a healthy mind,” he maintains a disciplined lifestyle, incorporating clean eating and regular fitness into his routine — practices he credits with creativity and innovation.

Khattar’s appointment solidifies The Ritz-Carlton, Jeddah’s commitment to transformative leadership and unparalleled hospitality.

Queen Rania Teacher Academy wins accreditation from UK-based CPD Standards Office

Updated 28 January 2025

Arab News

January 28, 2025 15:53

Queen Rania Teacher Academy wins accreditation from UK-based CPD Standards Office

Updated 28 January 2025

Arab News

January 28, 2025 15:53

The Queen Rania Teacher Academy has received official accreditation from the CPD Standards Office, an independent, international accreditation organization, marking a significant milestone in its pursuit of excellence in education. In addition to providing accreditation for three of QRTA’s flagship professional development programs, the CPD Standards Office also recognized the academy as a service provider, making it the first educational training center in the region to receive this world-recognized accreditation.

The CPD Standards Office, based in the UK, is one of the most respected accreditation bodies globally for continuing professional development. Known for its rigorous evaluation process, it ensures that training providers and their programs meet the highest standards of quality and impact.

Among the accredited programs is the Advanced Instructional Leadership Professional Diploma, which is designed to equip school leaders with advanced leadership skills and strategies to foster innovation, improve instructional quality, and create a culture of excellence within their schools. Additionally, the Professional Development for Kindergarten Teachers (Ta’seeso) program focuses on early childhood education, empowering kindergarten teachers with the knowledge and tools to create engaging and effective learning environments that support young learners’ holistic development. The third accredited program, Teacher Education Induction, prepares educators to transition into the role of teacher-educators, equipping them with the skills, knowledge, and practices required to effectively empower teachers to grow into skilled, confident, and resilient educators.

Dr. Osama Obeidat, CEO of QRTA, said: “Receiving CPD accreditation is not just a recognition of the quality of our programs — it’s a validation of their impact on educators and the educational ecosystem as a whole. It signifies that participants in these programs are engaging with content that is globally recognized and aligned with best practices. We take pride in being able to support educators in their professional growth, empowering them to inspire meaningful change in their schools and communities.”

This accreditation underscores QRTA’s commitment to delivering internationally recognized, high-quality professional development opportunities that empower educators to lead transformative change in education. It also further establishes QRTA as a leading force in teacher training and professional development in the Arab world.

By securing this accreditation, QRTA strengthens its position as a trusted partner for educators and institutions seeking professional development that meets the most rigorous international benchmarks. It also signals the academy’s continued dedication to advancing the teaching profession with innovative programs that inspire, empower, and elevate educators to meet the challenges of a rapidly evolving educational landscape.

flyadeal eyes 75,000 overseas Hajj pilgrims in 2025

Updated 27 January 2025

Arab News

January 27, 2025 22:02

flyadeal eyes 75,000 overseas Hajj pilgrims in 2025

Updated 27 January 2025

Arab News

January 27, 2025 22:02

flyadeal, the fastest growing low-cost airline in the Kingdom and Middle East, expects to carry more than 75,000 pilgrims on dedicated international charters during this year’s Hajj season. The figure represents yet another significant milestone for flyadeal, which has been scaling up the number of overseas Hajj flights since 2023.

From 35,000 pilgrims flown by flyadeal into the Kingdom last year — up 35 percent from 2023 — the number is expected to more than double to 75,000 in 2025, with the airline operating additional widebody charters into Jeddah and Madinah, gateways to the holy city of Makkah.

flyadeal is also stepping up its year-round Umrah services, which will continue to operate from Turkiye, Iraq and Uzbekistan, with the UK, Thailand, India and countries in Africa and Central Asia set to be included for 2025.

The growth plans were announced during the 4th Hajj Conference and Exhibition that took place in Jeddah last week.

flyadeal joined sister companies Saudia and Saudi Ground Services under the umbrella of parent Saudia Group — this year’s strategic sponsor — for a joint exhibition stand promoting products and services to visiting Hajj committees, ministries and tour operators from around the world.

Minister of Hajj and Umrah Dr.Tawfiq bin Fawzan Al-Rabiah, President of the General Authority of Civil Aviation Abdulaziz bin Abdullah Al-Duailej, and Director General of Saudia Group Ibrahim bin Abdulrahaman Al-Omar; were among the many visiting dignitaries.

Steven Greenway, CEO of flyadeal, said: “This year’s Hajj forum was a perfect opportunity to give visiting delegations and travel companies an insight into flyadeal’s Hajj preparations for 2025, our year-round Umrah plans, and exciting growth of our scheduled operations in the Middle East, Africa, Europe and South Asia over the next 12 months and beyond.

“Having operated two successful seasons of Hajj charters with 120 flights from 15 destinations across seven countries last year, we now turn to 2025 during which we expect to carry around 75,000 pilgrims as we bring in more widebody aircraft dedicated to our biggest ever international Hajj uplift. In addition, we are conducting more year-round Umrah flights as widebody aircraft enable us to operate from further afield including the UK, Thailand and India.

“Running a Hajj operation during an intense one month period every year is effectively like running a separate business from our day-to-day scheduled services. Our dedicated teams work tirelessly in coordination with our travel partners in the Kingdom and overseas to provide a unique end-to-end experience.”

Rakan Alotaibi, director of Hajj and Umrah and commercial regulatory affairs, flyadeal, added: “We signed a number of Hajj agreements with delegations last week followed by their visits to our Jeddah headquarters to learn more about flyadeal and our operations firsthand as we gear up with national pride for what promises to be an extremely busy and gratifying summer season carrying so many pilgrims to Saudi Arabia.”

“flyadeal remains committed to the very important, yet complex, annual Hajj movements for which we put in tremendous effort beyond expectations ensuring they run as smoothly as possible to support the dreams and aspirations of first-time Hajj pilgrims, many of whom are also first-time fliers.”

flyadeal was among a host of travel companies, including airlines, hotels, ground transport operators, agents and tour firms to showcase their products to delegates during the Jeddah event.

Cenomi Centers to champion global retail industry at 2025 RLC Global Forum