Saudi Maritime & Logistics Congress returns for bigger, better 5th edition

The two-day event will bring together experts and specialists from the global maritime transport and logistics sector.

Updated 17 September 2024

Arab News

September 17, 2024 16:11

Reinforcing the significance of the Saudi Maritime and Logistics Congress in Dammam, which takes place from Sept. 18-19, several new speakers have been confirmed to the conference lineup, adding some heavyweight industry knowledge to the two-day program.

The event’s fifth edition is being held under the auspices of Minister of Transport and Logistic Services Saleh bin Nasser Al-Jasser, who will also make the keynote address on Day 1.

Additionally, Bahri CEO Ahmed Alsubaey, IMI CEO Abdullah Al-Ghamdi and Transport General Authority Deputy for Maritime Transport Essam M. Alammari are all now confirmed at the shipping and logistics conference and exhibition. The event will take place at Dhahran Expo and is free for industry to attend.

Also joining the prestigious speaker parade is Kaupo Laanerand, deputy minister for maritime and water affairs, Ministry of Climate, Estonia, and Poul Hestbaek, CEO, Folk Maritime.

Chris Morley, group director, Seatrade Maritime, the organizers of the event, said: “The high-profile speaker lineup is testament to the importance of this event in the shipping calendar. As the industry gathers in the Kingdom, it allows for attendees to listen and learn from industry experts and be part of discussions that impact many facets of this global industry.”

He added: “Our ultimate aim is to facilitate fruitful cooperation between the public and private sector entities that catalyzes growth for our industry.”

Over the course of the event, topics under the spotlight will include: Interconnected logistics and the supply chain of the future; Shipbuilding and repair; Digitization of maritime: The adoption of AI and machine learning; Offshore safety: The importance of maintaining world-class safety standards; and Energy transition for a sustainable future and workforce development.

The conference agenda will start with keynotes and an international virtual address from International Maritime Organization Secretary-General Arsenio Dominguez, as well as an industry keynote from ABS Senior Vice President Gareth Burton.

Saudi Maritime and Logistics Congress is being held with founding partners Bahri and Seatrade Maritime. With its main partners, The Saudi Ports Authority, known as Mawani, and the TGA, as well as strategic partners Saudi Aramco and IMI, the event expects more than 10,000 attendees from across 70+ countries; in addition to a record 200+ exhibitors and scores of local, regional and international speakers.

Alammari, deputy for maritime transport, TGA, said: “As we have seen from its progressive growth in attendance, which stood at an impressive 95 percent in 2023, Saudi Maritime and Logistics Congress has become a key regional forum for the exchange of ideas between the brightest and best the industry has to offer.

“From policy-makers to investors, industry professionals to academics, the strength of this congress is indebted to the diversity of its attendees. The participation not only of TGA, but of our partners in Mawani, Bahri, Saudi Aramco and others, is a strong signal that the Kingdom’s policy-makers and industry giants are committed to the important dialogue taking place over the direction of travel of shipping. All of these entities have helped to shape the agenda and attract the speakers we will hear from throughout the congress.”

He added: “Saudi Maritime and Logistics Congress is no longer a regional conference, but a global one, and it is TGA’s hope that it continues to grow.”

The TGA is working on an international level to advance cooperation with IMO member states to enhance global connectivity to the Kingdom.

Alammari said: “In 2024, �� ranked 16th globally out of 187 countries by the UN Conference on Trade and Development, reflecting the concerted efforts by the Kingdom to increase global maritime connectivity and capitalize on the Kingdom’s strategic location in line with the aspirations of Vision 2030. �� continues to develop the port of NEOM and NEOM’s Oxagon to be one of the world’s first fully integrated port and supply chain systems.”

The two-day event will bring together experts and specialists from the global maritime transport and logistics sector to share knowledge, experiences, and insights. It also seeks to foster investment and strategic partnerships, explore opportunities for growth, and support the National Transport and Logistics Strategy and the Kingdom’s Vision 2030.

The event will also provide recommendations and proposals that will improve the maritime transport industry and enhance the sustainability of logistics services in accordance with international standards and leading models.

Dusit expands Saudi portfolio with new resort in Al-Ahsa

Updated 11 August 2025

Arab News

August 11, 2025 22:28

Dusit expands Saudi portfolio with new resort in Al-Ahsa

Updated 11 August 2025

Arab News

August 11, 2025 22:28

Thai hospitality company Dusit International has signed a hotel management agreement with Al-Ghadeer Group to operate dusitD2 Al-Ahsa — a new upper-upscale resort in the heart of Al-Ahsa Oasis, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in the eastern part of the Arabian Peninsula.

The signing ceremony was held under the patronage of Al-Ahsa Gov. Prince Saud bin Talal, and was attended by notable dignitaries including Naif Al-Madi, chief business officer of the Tourism Development Fund; Sheikh Bassem Al-Ghadeer, chairman of Al-Ghadeer Group of Companies; and Gilles Cretallaz, chief operating officer of Dusit International.

Located just 30 minutes by car from Al-Ahsa International Airport and 90 minutes from Dammam, dusitD2 Al-Ahsa is set amidst palm-fringed landscapes and dramatic mountain vistas. The resort will offer 120 spacious suites, ranging from one-bedroom to three-bedroom configurations, each with a private terrace and plunge pool, providing an elevated sense of privacy and relaxation.

Designed by Cairo-based El-Ghoneimi Architects, the resort’s masterplan draws inspiration from the desert’s timeless beauty, the nearby mountains, and the life-giving symbolism of the palm tree.

Guests will enjoy a comprehensive range of premium facilities, including a wellness center with private treatment rooms, meditation areas, and dedicated spaces for yoga and holistic healing; an elegant 1,500-square-meter ballroom and expansive outdoor event lawn for weddings and large social or corporate gatherings; well-equipped meeting rooms for business travelers; a vibrant all-day dining restaurant; a lobby café offering light gourmet fare; a large outdoor swimming pool with an adjoining kids’ pool; and a dedicated kids club providing engaging activities in a safe and stimulating environment.

Surrounded by cultural and ecological treasures such as Al-Qarah Mountain, Juatha Park, and the historic Qaisariah Souq, the resort is ideally positioned to serve as a gateway for domestic and international travelers seeking meaningful experiences and immersive stays amid the largest oasis in the world.

“This important signing reflects our strategic commitment to bringing Dusit’s unique brand of Thai-inspired, gracious hospitality to key destinations worldwide and our dedication to delivering sustainable value for the communities we serve,” said Cretallaz. “We are delighted to partner with Al-Ghadeer Group to create a destination that celebrates Al-Ahsa’s rich heritage and natural beauty while offering exceptional comfort, modern luxury, responsible design, and memorable experiences for guests of all ages.”

Set to open in 2027, dusitD2 Al-Ahsa underscores Dusit International’s continued expansion in the Middle East, where the company currently operates nine properties and continues to explore opportunities to deliver holistic hospitality experiences across the region.

It is the second Dusit-branded property confirmed for ��, following the upcoming opening of Dusit Princess Al-Majma’ah, Riyadh, scheduled for Q4 this year.

Saudi Business Center showcases services in Japan

Updated 11 August 2025

Arab News

August 11, 2025 22:27

Saudi Business Center showcases services in Japan

Updated 11 August 2025

Arab News

August 11, 2025 22:27

The Saudi Business Center recently showcased its services at a workshop held at the Saudi pavilion during Expo 2025 Osaka in Japan, to introduce the Kingdom’s model for providing streamlined government services to the business sector.

The center highlighted its role in enhancing ��’s business environment by simplifying procedures for starting and operating economic activities. It presented its comprehensive services, designed to assist investors interested in entering the Saudi market and participating in development projects.

The workshop, attended by Japanese business leaders and potential investors, emphasized how the center facilitates the entire investment journey.

The center, which operates through 20 branches across 15 cities and a business platform, integrates more than 6,000 services from 62 government agencies into a single destination, as part of ��’s goal to become a global leader in the quality and ease of government services for the business sector.

TASARU and Blacklane drive ��’s future of mobility

Updated 11 August 2025

Arab News

August 11, 2025 12:04

TASARU and Blacklane drive ��’s future of mobility

Updated 11 August 2025

Arab News

August 11, 2025 12:04

�� is undergoing a mobility transformation, one that mirrors the ambitions of Vision 2030 and the expectations of a digitally native, innovative-driven population. As cities expand and lifestyles evolve, the Kingdom is investing heavily in sustainable, tech-forward transportation solutions that match its bold economic and environmental goals.

TASARU Mobility Investments is enabling the development of a smarter, greener transport ecosystem through strategic investments in partners like Blacklane. As a wholly owned entity of ��’s Public Investment Fund, TASARU supports the transformation of the Kingdom’s mobility sector by accelerating electrification, digitalization, and service excellence. Through this enabling role, TASARU is helping shape a new era of transport in �� in line with the goals of Vision 2030.

TASARU’s flagship collaboration is with Blacklane, the global chauffeur service renowned for premium, sustainable rides, which is now operating in Riyadh, Jeddah, Dammam, Madinah and Makkah. Blacklane blends global standards with local expectations in a market actively redefining luxury mobility. “�� is setting the pace for how luxury mobility will evolve globally,” said Jens Wohltorf, founder and CEO of Blacklane. “Together with TASARU, we’re delivering seamless, high-quality experiences that blend luxury with sustainability values that resonate deeply with our guests and Vision 2030.”

Blacklane’s expansion is underpinned by a growing fleet of electric vehicles and a commitment to local innovation. The company is working closely with Lucid Motors, whose Lucid Air and upcoming Gravity SUV will soon be integrated into Blacklane towards the end of 2025, bringing cutting-edge EV performance to the streets of ��.

Meanwhile, EVIQ, the Kingdom’s EV infrastructure leader, is providing the charging backbone for this EV expansion. In addition to building out charging networks, EVIQ is co-developing training programs through Blacklane’s Chauffeur Training Academy, ensuring drivers are equipped with the latest in EV safety, charging, and service excellence.

Blacklane’s vision for premium mobility is expanding beyond the road, with new initiatives seamlessly connecting air and ground travel. A key example is the partnership with Riyadh Air, ��’s national airline, which offers complimentary chauffeur services within a 50 km radius of King Khalid International Airport. The service is available to Business Elite, Business Class, and eligible loyalty members, delivering a world-class hospitality experience from touchdown to final destination.

The company’s services are already seeing strong traction. Airport transfers and city-to-city travel is performing exceptionally well, with intercity bookings showing sustained growth. Blacklane is also piloting a new “faster-pickups” service in Riyadh’s King Abdullah Financial District, designed to reduce wait times and enhance convenience for business travelers.

“This is just the beginning of a long-term commitment to sustainable innovation in the Kingdom,” said Adib Samara, general manager for �� at Blacklane. “We’re listening closely to the market and evolving with it.”

The evolution is being enabled by TASARU, whose strategic backing has supported Blacklane’s expansion across the Kingdom. The partnership is grounded in a shared commitment to a smarter, greener future aligned with Vision 2030.

“TASARU’s investment in Blacklane reflects our mission to power a new era of mobility in ��. By enabling sustainable transport solutions and nurturing local capabilities, we are building a future-ready ecosystem fully aligned with Vision 2030,” said Michael Müller, CEO of TASARU Mobility Investments.

NSH achieves historic mass concrete pour at Amiral site

Updated 10 August 2025

Arab News

August 10, 2025 21:57

NSH achieves historic mass concrete pour at Amiral site

Updated 10 August 2025

Arab News

August 10, 2025 21:57

In a landmark display of engineering expertise, operational precision, and safety excellence, Nasser S. Al-Hajri Corporation successfully executed the single largest continuous mass concrete pour in the history of the Amiral Project Complex. This has resulted in placing an extraordinary 5,010 cubic meters of concrete, with six pump trucks delivering 835 cubic meters each, and two pump trucks on standby over a 24-hour period for the Clean Water Lifting Basin under the HDPE and Logistics Package 2 and 3.

This record-breaking pour not only reinforces NSH’s reputation as a regional leader in industrial construction but also marks a pivotal structural milestone for the Amiral Derivatives and Logistics Megaproject, a flagship initiative led by SATORP, Maire Tecnimont, and strategic partners.

The massive operation was the result of weeks of meticulous planning, culminating in joint concrete design and logistics meetings held on July 27 and 28. The pour began precisely at 4:30 p.m. and was completed the next day at the same hour — executed with zero major incidents and full compliance with project safety and quality standards.

Throughout the 24-hour operation, strict safety protocols and engineering oversight were enforced. No first aid cases were reported — a testament to NSH’s unwavering commitment to workplace safety and planning excellence.

“This was a truly challenging job — handling over 1,215 tons of steel, intensive formwork, and non-stop concrete placement — and yet we executed it without a single incident. That speaks volumes of the team’s discipline and dedication,” said site leadership in a statement.

Site-wide coordination involved real-time QC inspections, flagman-led traffic management, 24/7 lighting, and specialized crews assigned to each pump station. Toolbox talks and safety briefings ensured all personnel remained aligned with the project’s expectations.

The milestone event was formally flagged off in the presence of key executives and stakeholders, including Ganesh Ravi Pillai, executive director; Suresh, senior vice president; Augustin, regional operations director of NSH; Sherin, regional manager of NSH; Guna, senior project manager; senior personnel from Maire Tecnimont and SATORP, Amiral site leadership from SATORP and project EPC partners.

“We’re proud of our Amiral team. This is a recordable achievement for the NSH family — the result of seamless coordination, disciplined execution, and total team effort. Congratulations to all involved,” said Pillai, addressing the site team after completion.

Also in attendance were representatives from Qanbar Readymix, who played a crucial role in maintaining supply flow, supported by their operational and quality teams.

This pour forms the structural foundation for the Clean Water Lifting Basin — a core component of the Amiral project’s logistics infrastructure.

Its successful completion ensures readiness for downstream units critical to the facility’s operation and is a vital step in ��’s push toward becoming a global petrochemical hub.

“NSH has once again demonstrated the capability to lead complex, high-stakes executions with precision,” said senior representatives from Maire Tecnimont and SATORP.

NSH continues to set benchmarks in industrial construction, engineering excellence, and safety-first executions. This historic pour at the Amiral site reaffirms NSH’s role as a trusted partner in advancing the Kingdom’s most ambitious industrial programs.

Millennium Hotels, Taiba relaunch two properties in Madinah

Updated 10 August 2025

Arab News

August 10, 2025 21:55

Millennium Hotels, Taiba relaunch two properties in Madinah

Updated 10 August 2025

Arab News

August 10, 2025 21:55

Millennium Hotels and Resorts Middle East and Africa, in partnership with Taiba, a Saudi hospitality company, has announced the relaunch of two iconic properties in the heart of Madinah: Millennium Al-Aqeeq and Millennium Taiba.

Strategically located close to the Prophet’s Mosque, both properties offer a spiritually enriching stay experience for Umrah pilgrims, families, and travelers seeking premium comfort rooted in Islamic hospitality.

“These properties are more than key assets in our portfolio — they are landmarks of faith, connection, and culture,” said Ali Hamad Lakhraim Al-Zaabi, president of Millennium Hotels MEA. “Our partnership with Taiba ensures that every guest, whether a pilgrim, traveler, or visitor, is welcomed with a seamless, enriching experience rooted in the values of Islamic hospitality and cultural reverence.”

Following an extensive enhancement of service and guest touchpoints, the hotels will offer upgraded digital booking services, enhanced dining concepts, and customized hospitality for religious travelers.

Sultan Bader Al-Otaibi, CEO of Taiba, said: “This strategic relaunch embodies our shared vision with Millennium Hotels and Resorts Middle East and Africa, to deliver world-class hospitality experiences that honor the spiritual significance of Madinah. At Taiba, we recognize the profound responsibility that comes with serving pilgrims and visitors to one of Islam’s holiest sites.

“Through this partnership, we are raising the standard of religious hospitality, seamlessly blending comfort, reverence, and service excellence. This initiative is a key milestone in our broader commitment to supporting the goals of ��’s Vision 2030, particularly in positioning the Kingdom as a leading global destination for religious tourism.”

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