Tawuniya launches virtual accelerator program for MENA startups

Updated 15 December 2024

Arab News

December 15, 2024 09:30

Tawuniya Insurance Company, an insurer in the MENA region, in collaboration with notable global and local partners including Google, Plug and Play, Monsha’at, and Code, has launched an innovative, intensive 12-week virtual accelerator program — InsurAi — to nurture technology startups across the Middle East and North Africa. The initiative underscores Tawuniya’s commitment to fostering innovation and supporting the vibrant startup ecosystem in the region.

The program, which started on Dec. 7, is inviting applications from technology startups eager to elevate their business models through expert guidance and potential funding opportunities. Focused on artificial intelligence and entrepreneurship, the initiative will select 10 promising startups to connect with global experts, elevate brand positioning, and advance in their spheres. On the final Demo Day, slated in the middle of 2025, the winning startup will receive $100,000, with $75,000 and $50,000 awarded to the second and third places, respectively.

This initiative aligns with Tawuniya’s strategic objective to champion cutting-edge solutions that enhance customer experiences and streamline insurance processes.

Abdullah Alshargi, group CTO at Tawuniya, said: “Our collaboration with global leaders like Google and Plug and Play, along with government entities Monsha’at and Code, underscores our commitment to leveraging advanced technologies and entrepreneurial spirit within the MENA insurance market. This program is more than a competition; it’s a gateway for startups to innovate and potentially lead with their solutions. Through this initiative, we aim to harness the significant potential of local talents, fostering digital transformation and innovation across the region.”

This accelerator program is powered by a robust partnership between Tawuniya and industry giants. Google brings its cutting-edge technology and vast expertise in digital innovation while Plug and Play, renowned for their global accelerator programs, will administer the accelerator, ensuring participants receive top-tier mentorship and support. Monsha’at and Code, as governmental entities, will bolster the program’s reach and effectiveness through strategic community outreach and essential resources aimed at fostering SMEs and startups within the region. This collective effort is designed to create a dynamic environment that propels technological and entrepreneurial growth.

As Tawuniya continues to lead in digital transformation within the insurance sector, this program further solidifies its role as a pillar of support for technological advancements and entrepreneurship in the region.

Amazon brings next-level tech to Esports World Cup

Updated 07 August 2025

Arab News

August 07, 2025 11:04

Amazon brings next-level tech to Esports World Cup

Updated 07 August 2025

Arab News

August 07, 2025 11:04

The Esports World Cup Foundation is collaborating with Amazon and Amazon Web Services to bring the Esports World Cup action closer than ever before to millions of fans worldwide by leveraging advanced technologies to create immersive and interactive experiences.

The collaboration combines Amazon’s retail expertise and AWS cloud technology to create a seamless connection between shopping, entertainment and competitive gaming throughout EWC tournaments, running from July 7 until Aug. 24 in Riyadh. Amazon is transforming how youth engage with their favorite esports content by providing a one-stop experience to shop, stream, and be entertained on Amazon.sa and Amazon.ae.

As the exclusive cloud partner of the Esports World Cup, AWS is powering a next-generation viewing experience through advanced cloud technology and machine learning capabilities. AWS is delivering AI-powered live match insights, including win probabilities and player heat maps, automated highlight generation tailored to fans’ favorite moments, and interactive dashboards for real-time statistics.

“Technology is central to how we grow the Esports World Cup, both in terms of scale and its impact,” said Francois Desir, senior manager, sponsorships at the Esports World Cup Foundation. “With AWS, we’re combining world-class compute and analytics services with creative storytelling and real-time engagement. It’s a partnership that bridges performance and play, creating unforgettable moments for fans, whether they’re stepping into the Amazon Arena in Riyadh or following the action at home.”

As the global e-commerce partner of EWC, Amazon is recognizing esports fans and players with “Hero’s Corner,” a first-of-its-kind online destination that brings together AI-powered immersive entertainment, exclusive shopping deals, and live tournament streams in one place in �� and the UAE. The digital experience is also amplified through on-ground activations at Riyadh Boulevard.

At the heart of this collaboration are four signature experiences that reimagine how fans engage with the tournament:

Hero’s Gate: A first-of-its-kind activation available to visitors at Riyadh Boulevard and online in the Kingdom and UAE On-site visitors will step into an immersive fantasy world, enjoying interactive experiences and photo opportunities. Each participant will receive a personalized cinematic trailer starring their personalized hero. Fans across the region can access the digital version online, creating their own avatar as they embark on a quest to Hero’s Gate.
Amazon Esports Arena: A premier gaming venue at Riyadh Boulevard where thousands of fans will witness the world’s top pros compete in live game finals. Visitors will experience the electrifying atmosphere as 2,000 elite players and 200 clubs from over 100 countries battle for glory across 25 tournaments and a record-breaking $70+ million prize pool. Each tournament promises unforgettable moments of competitive gaming at the highest level.
Amazon post-match interviews, presented by AWS: A unique interview series that brings audiences closer to the tournament’s most intense moments. Viewers can experience real-time analysis and statistics from experienced gamers, while pro players share their post-match reactions. Each segment captures the raw emotion and strategic thinking behind the matches, exclusively available through tournament broadcasts.
Exclusive deals and discounts: A dedicated shopping experience for youth and gamers in the Kingdom and UAE, which brings together the best deals in one place. Visitors will discover premium gaming gear, best-in-class electronics, snacks, fashion, and lifestyle products through the curated Hero’s Corner. The “EWC Hub” allows fans to stream the EWC tournament action live while shopping for pro gaming gear. Amazon.sacustomers can enjoy 20 percent off up to SR100 ($27) on selected products when using Mastercard credit or prepaid cards with code MC100 at checkout.
Prime Video entertainment: An exclusive content offering available on Prime Video takes viewers behind the scenes of competitive gaming. Viewers will experience the world of professional esports through “EWC Level Up,” a captivating docuseries directed by renowned filmmaker R.J. Cutler. The series reveals intimate stories of the biggest esports stars and the high-stakes world of competitive gaming, with all episodes now streaming on Prime Video.

“With over 23.5 million gamers and a gaming market valued at $2.3 billion, �� stands as one of the world’s fastest-growing gaming markets,” said Fahad Bahdailah, head of communications, Amazon ��. “We’re excited to be part of Saudi’s growing gaming ecosystem, offering our Amazon.sa community enhanced localized experiences that bring fans closer to the action than ever before, while giving youth something special to look forward to this summer.”

Abdullah Hashim secures distribution deal with Mikasa

Updated 07 August 2025

Arab News

August 07, 2025 00:31

Abdullah Hashim secures distribution deal with Mikasa

Updated 07 August 2025

Arab News

August 07, 2025 00:31

Abdullah Hashim Company Limited has announced an exclusive distribution partnership with Mikasa Corporation, a Japanese manufacturer of high-performance light construction equipment. The agreement was formalized during a signing ceremony at AHCL’s headquarters in Jeddah, marking a significant milestone for ��’s construction industry.
The signing ceremony was attended by Atsushi Suzuki, assistant manager, Mikasa Corporation; Khalid Abushaban, CEO, AHCL Group; Azizurrab, general manager, Machinery Division, AHCL; Faisal Bin Zager, general manager of human resources, AHCL Group; and Ayman Al-Omar, chief financial officer, AHCL Group.
As Mikasa’s exclusive Saudi distributor, AHCL will deliver the brand’s renowned vibratory plate compactors, rammers, and concrete vibrators — equipment trusted for durability and innovation in global infrastructure projects. This partnership reinforces AHCL’s commitment to advancing ��’s Vision 2030 goals by equipping local contractors with cutting-edge Japanese technology.
“This collaboration aligns with our mission to provide world-class machinery solutions. Mikasa’s precision engineering complements our portfolio, enabling us to better serve ��’s booming construction sector,” said Azizurrab.
AHCL will begin nationwide distribution of the equipment in Q4 2025, backed by its established service network and trained Saudi technicians.

Saudi-powered ‘TOURISE’ announces advisory board

Updated 07 August 2025

Arab News

August 07, 2025 00:29

Saudi-powered ‘TOURISE’ announces advisory board

Updated 07 August 2025

Arab News

August 07, 2025 00:29

TOURISE, a bold new global tourism platform, has announced the members of its cross-sector advisory board, a powerhouse of industry titans guiding TOURISE’s strategic direction and shaping the agenda of the inaugural global summit taking place in Riyadh from Nov. 11-13.
The 14-member board brings together expertise from tourism, technology, aviation, entertainment, education, sustainability and media, making it one of the most intentionally cross-sector bodies in global tourism today. Together, they will champion TOURISE’s vision, ensure high-impact global issues such as equity, geographical representation and sectoral diversity are in the spotlight and influence the long-term value of the platform.
Chaired by Minister of Tourism of �� Ahmed Al-Khateeb, the advisory board will seek to elevate tourism on the global stage and shape a bold new vision for the sector’s future.
“TOURISE is driving cross-sector global collaboration, and the formation of the advisory board ensures we are uniting diverse perspectives from representatives across the global tourism ecosystem,” Al-Khateeb said
“Their visionary thinking and deep expertise will be essential in transforming TOURISE from ambition into action, ensuring the platform becomes a catalyst of innovation, investment, and sustainability in tourism for decades to come.”
The advisory board members are: Fahd Hamidaddin, CEO, Saudi Tourism Authority and vice chair, TOURISE; Julia Simpson, president and CEO, World Travel and Tourism Council; Randy Durband, CEO, Global Sustainable Tourism Council; Luis Maroto, CEO, Amadeus; Blake Chandlee, former president of Global Business Solutions, TikTok; Neil Jacobs, founder of Wild Origins and former CEO of Six Senses; Stephane Lefebvre, president, Cirque du Soleil Entertainment Group; Jordi Carnes, president of Leitat Technological Center and CTECNO and former director general of Turismede Barcelona; Mario Enzesberger, founder and CEO, Liberty International Tourism Group; Patrick Andersen, CEO, Carlson Wagonlit Travel; Mo Gawdat, founder, One Billion Happy; Thomas Woldbye, CEO, Heathrow Airport; Fabien Fresnel, CEO, Riyadh School of Tourism and Hospitality; and Jean-Philippe Cossé, international events specialist.
“TOURISE is more than a summit; it’s a catalyst for global transformation in tourism.
“I joined the advisory board because I believe in the power of cross-sector collaboration to drive sustainable growth, foster innovation, and set new standards for responsible travel,” said Simpson.

Leading up to the TOURISE summit the advisory board will meet regularly to advise on the program, ensuring global views and insights shape the agenda.

Dr. Soliman Fakeeh Hospital wins SRC accreditation for 14 centers of excellence

Updated 06 August 2025

Arab News

August 06, 2025 13:08

Dr. Soliman Fakeeh Hospital wins SRC accreditation for 14 centers of excellence

Updated 06 August 2025

Arab News

August 06, 2025 13:08

Dr. Soliman Fakeeh Hospital in Jeddah has been awarded accreditation for 14 centers of excellence by the Surgical Review Corporation across various medical and surgical specialties — setting a world record for the highest number of centers of excellence accredited by SRC within a single hospital.

This prestigious international recognition reflects the hospital’s deep commitment to implementing 10 rigorous global standards, ensuring the delivery of safe, comprehensive, and high-quality patient care.

The accredited specialties include:

Robotic surgery
Urology
Orthopedic surgery
Spine surgery
Surgery of the hand
Colorectal surgery
Hernia surgery
Plastic surgery
Endoscopy
Ear, nose and throat
Ophthalmology
Minimally invasive gynecology
Specialized anesthesia in obesity surgery
Specialized anesthesia in orthopedic surgery

These accreditations are based on the hospital’s adherence to 10 rigorous global standards developed by SRC for centers of excellence. These include institutional commitment with a clear vision and a quality-first culture, certified medical expertise from highly qualified physicians with outstanding surgical records, trusted medical leadership to oversee program efficiency, and comprehensive consultative services with ongoing medical support for all medical and surgical cases.

Additional standards include the use of state-of-the-art equipment and advanced technology with fully trained staff, the availability of a qualified and dedicated medical and surgical teams with consistent on-call coverage, the application of standardized clinical pathways with precise protocols to ensure optimal care, and well-trained support teams including program coordinators, nurses, assistants, and specialized surgical staff.

Patient education is also prioritized through the provision of clear information and the obtaining of informed consent for all procedures with a shared decision-making approach. There is also a firm commitment to ongoing quality evaluation, outcome monitoring, and full compliance with data protection regulations.

Dr. Mazen Fakeeh, president of Fakeeh Care Group, expressed his pride in this global achievement, reaffirming the hospital’s commitment to delivering specialized, world-class healthcare that meets patients’ expectations and supports the vision of Fakeeh Care Group for excellence, leadership, and innovation in healthcare.

The Surgical Review Corporation is an independent, global, nonprofit organization dedicated to accrediting hospitals, surgeons, and surgical centers according to the highest standards of quality and patient safety. The Center of Excellence designation is awarded only after a comprehensive and rigorous evaluation process that ensures healthcare services are advanced, safe, and aligned with the best global medical practices.

�� to host Global IoT Congress 2025

Updated 06 August 2025

Arab News

August 06, 2025 02:10

�� to host Global IoT Congress 2025

The Kingdom ranks first among the top three Arab countries in smart city investments and leads the Arab world in the Government AI Readiness Index as well as the 2024 Government Electronic and Mobile Services Maturity Index

Updated 06 August 2025

Arab News

August 06, 2025 02:10

�� has emerged as the Middle East and North Africa’s largest digital economy, with a market value exceeding SR495 billion ($132 billion) over the past few years. Meanwhile, the Kingdom’s Internet of Things market specifically is estimated to grow 12-18 percent year-on-year to reach a market size of SR25.8 billion, reflecting the technologically progressive approach that �� has taken to building the country’s future. The Kingdom also ranks first among the top three Arab countries in smart city investments and leads the Arab world in the Government AI Readiness Index as well as the 2024 Government Electronic and Mobile Services Maturity Index.
Global investments in IoT are forecast to exceed SR4.5 trillion by 2026, and in the Middle East and North Africa, the IoT market is projected to reach SR90 billion by the same year.

FASTFACT

��’s IoT market specifically is estimated to grow 12-18 percent year-on-year to reach a market size of SR25.8 billion.

As the region’s largest IoT market, Riyadh is set to host the Global Internet of Things Congress 2025 on Oct. 21. The three-day event — the largest dedicated IoT event in the Kingdom and the wider MENA region — will put the Saudi capital in the spotlight as a regional powerhouse of emerging IoT technologies.
More than 200 prominent exhibitors and speakers ranging from industries like IoT, artificial intelligence, smart cities, energy, healthcare, and other emerging technologies, are expected from all over the world to address over 5,000 high-profile attendees such as industry leaders, C-level businesspeople and governmental stakeholders.
The Congress, organized by the Internet of Things Association, is set to host public entities, academic institutions, private companies, investors, entrepreneurs, and media representatives from all over the world. This landmark event will feature keynote sessions, interactive workshops, a technology exhibition, and strategic partnership announcements.
Abdullah bin Salem Al-Bedaiwy, chairman of the board at the IoTA, said: “As a nonprofit organization, the association is committed to development and innovation, encouraging investment, enhancing local content, and increasing localization within the IoT sector. Our initiative aims to launch a global IoT platform in its largest market, the Kingdom of ��. We extend our sincere gratitude to all our partners who contributed to making this vision a reality, and we look forward to the support of both the public and private sectors to ensure the success of this global event on Saudi soil.”
He added: “As a nonprofit organization, the IoTA is committed to fostering innovation and advancing both human and technological capital in the IoT sector. Our vision is to host the region’s largest dedicated IoT event in its biggest market, the Kingdom of ��. We extend our sincere gratitude to all our partners who have contributed to making this possible, and we look forward to the support of both the public and the private sector, to ensure the success of this global gathering in ��.”

Global Internet of Things Congress 2025 will cultivate cross-border and cross-sector knowledge exchange, drive innovation, and unlock investment opportunities, aligned with the objectives of digital transformation in ��’s Vision 2030.

Topics: Global IoT Congress 2025

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