��’s Neo Space Group to power Thai Airways with advanced in-flight connectivity

Updated 08 April 2025

Arab News

April 08, 2025 23:02

Neo Space Group, a Public Investment Fund company and ��’s leading commercial space services provider, announced an expanded partnership with Thai Airways International to equip 80 aircraft with its state-of-the-art in-flight connectivity solution.

This announcement builds on the earlier announcement of NSG and Thai Airways collaboration to deliver a seamless in-flight connectivity service, offering market-leading connection speed, global gate-to-gate coverage (where permitted), and a personalized passenger experience through seamless login and exclusive benefits for Royal Orchid Plus members.

Thai Airways’ passengers will benefit from unlimited, high-speed internet access throughout their journey. NSG’s IFC solution leverages the SES Open Orbits network, delivering high-speed, low-latency coverage through both GEO and MEO satellites across the airline’s global routes.

The rollout will begin with Thai Airways’ Boeing 777 fleet, which will be retrofitted starting in Q3 2025. In parallel, the Airbus A321neo fleet currently in production will be line-fitted with the Airbus HBCplus platform, with deliveries starting from Q4 2025.

Building on this momentum, Thai Airways’ Boeing 787 Dreamliner fleet, also in production, will be line-fitted with SPI’s Aeroconnect terminal — a major milestone in NSG and Thai Airways’ joint connectivity strategy. Deliveries for the 787s are scheduled to commence in mid-2026.

Martijn Blanken, CEO of Neo Space Group, said: “Being selected by Thai Airways International highlights the strength and versatility of NSG’s multi-orbit connectivity solutions. We are excited to support Thai Airways in elevating the passenger experience with reliable, high-speed internet. This collaboration marks not only the airline’s resurgence but also its forward-thinking vision, and we are proud to play a role in shaping its future.”

He added: “NSG’s IFC solution will deliver internet speeds of up to 200 Mbps, enabling best-in-class complimentary Wi-Fi streaming for premium class passengers and Royal Orchid Plus members. This investment reflects THAI’s broader strategy, building on its legacy of service excellence and digital innovation — while continuing to deliver its signature hospitality.”

Wirush Theparak, head of customer experience and product at Thai Airways International, said: “Thai Airways International is committed to delivering an elevated guest experience. Our partnership with NSG allows us to vastly improve our in-flight connectivity and offer our passengers new levels of convenience, entertainment, and comfort. This initiative marks a significant step in our journey to redefine passenger expectations.”

National Day: LuLu gifts new cultural landmark to Eastern Province

Updated 23 September 2025

September 23, 2025 09:05

National Day: LuLu gifts new cultural landmark to Eastern Province

Updated 23 September 2025

September 23, 2025 09:05

LuLu Hypermarket has once again secured a prestigious place in the Guinness World Records, adding to its legacy of record-breaking achievements with the creation of the world’s largest shattered glass artwork. The breathtaking masterpiece was unveiled during the 95th Saudi National Day celebrations at Alkhobar New Corniche on Sept. 20.

Featuring the official Saudi National Day symbol, the artwork was crafted with the support of Khobar Municipality and Unilever (Comfort). This striking artwork, embodying the Kingdom’s values of unity, pride, and collective spirit, has been presented as a gift to Khobar Municipality, where it will stand as a permanent cultural landmark in the Eastern Province.

Designed and executed by acclaimed Saudi visual artist Aseel Al-Maghlouth, the record-breaking installation transforms broken glass into an intricate celebration of tradition and modern artistry. Al-Maghlouth, widely recognized for his pioneering shattered glass painting style, captivated attendees with this vibrant tribute to national heritage.

The grand unveiling drew an audience comprising senior officials and dignitaries, including Naif Al-Suwaie, business development manager, Khobar Municipality; Sultan Al-Otaibi, manager of media and corporate communications, Khobar Municipality; Mohamed Haris, Director of LuLu Saudi Hypermarkets; Shamnas Pallikandy, regional director for the Eastern Province; and Muhammad Ahmad Abdul Jalil Bubushait, executive manager.

Al-Suwaie said: “We congratulate LuLu Hypermarket for this remarkable accomplishment, which stands as a proud symbol of Saudi heritage and creativity and a fitting gift to the nation on this special day.”

Haris added: “We are deeply honored to present this shattered-glass masterpiece to the Kingdom as part of the 95th Saudi National Day celebrations. This Guinness World Record is a heartfelt tribute to the people of ��, and we extend our sincere thanks to the Khobar Municipality, Unilever, the General Entertainment Authority, and artist Aseel Al-Maghlouth for their invaluable support.”

This landmark achievement not only adds a prestigious Guinness World Record to LuLu’s legacy but also underscores the retailer’s commitment to celebrating ��’s heritage and creating unforgettable experiences for the community and visitors alike.

Riyadh to host first edition of ‘BIO Middle East’ conference spotlighting biotech innovation

Updated 23 September 2025

September 23, 2025 02:00

Riyadh to host first edition of ‘BIO Middle East’ conference spotlighting biotech innovation

Updated 23 September 2025

September 23, 2025 02:00

The Saudi Ministry of Health has announced the launch of the first edition of BIO Middle East, a regional event dedicated entirely to biotechnology.

The event will take place from May 11 to 13, 2026, colocated with CPHI Middle East at the Riyadh Exhibition and Convention Center.

A first-of-its-kind for the region, the event reinforces the Kingdom’s leadership in this fast-growing sector and underscores its commitment to becoming a regional and global hub for pharmaceuticals and life sciences.

As part of a global series of landmark BIO gatherings that bring together leaders, innovators, and investors from across the world, BIO Middle East will extend this world-class platform for partnership and innovation to the region for the very first time.

The BIO Middle East exhibition and conference will feature high-level panel discussions with global industry leaders, company showcases of the latest biotech innovations, specialized workshops, and networking opportunities connecting investors and researchers to strengthen global partnerships and exchange knowledge in this vital field.

The event is expected to stimulate job creation within the Kingdom’s health sector, attract foreign investment that supports the national economy, and promote the development of innovative medical solutions that serve both local and regional communities — ultimately enhancing quality of life and advancing the transformative goals of Vision 2030.

Minister of Health Fahad bin Abdulrahman Aljalajel said: “The launch of BIO Middle East marks a significant milestone as the Kingdom establishes itself as a global hub for biotechnology and life sciences innovation.”

He added: “This event embodies Vision 2030’s commitment to building an advanced health ecosystem grounded in scientific research and international partnerships, with the aim of developing innovative solutions that serve our citizens, the region and contribute to humanity worldwide.

“In ��, we are committed to creating an enabling environment that brings together human talent, advanced digital infrastructure, and strategic investments to drive growth in this critical sector, enhance quality of life, and tackle global health and environmental challenges.”

Mike Champion, CEO, Tahaluf, said: “BIO Middle East is an exceptional platform that brings together global biotech leaders and decision-makers to accelerate innovation and expand international collaboration in the vital healthcare sector.”

He added: “We at Tahaluf are proud to partner with the Saudi Ministry of Health to organize this landmark event. We are confident that it will catalyze the growth of the biopharmaceutical industry across the Middle East and empower entrepreneurs and scientists to make a meaningful impact.

Hosting this event in the Kingdom is a highly strategic step, given its ambitious vision, advanced infrastructure, and genuine commitment to innovation and scientific research in healthcare.”

Anna Chrisman, president of life sciences at Informa, said that the event aligns with global transformations in the pharmaceutical and biotech industries. She said: “BIO Middle East will bring together innovators, deal makers, regulators, manufacturers, researchers, and investors under one roof to collaboratively design a roadmap for advancement and breakthrough innovation in this critical sector.

For more than three decades, EBD has successfully facilitated strategic partnerships between biotech innovators, investors, and pharmaceutical companies across Europe, North America, and Asia. We are thrilled to join forces with Tahaluf on this landmark event that will catalyze biotech innovation throughout the Middle East region.”

The Kingdom’s hosting of this global event aligns with its Vision 2030 program and the National Biotech Strategy, under the wise leadership of King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, which aims to diversify the economy and position the Kingdom as a global hub for biotechnology and life sciences innovation.

It places strong emphasis on advancing the health sector and its related industries, fostering choice, quality and building an integrated national ecosystem that brings together human talent, cutting-edge technology, and regulatory excellence. This event is the result of a strategic partnership between Tahaluf and EBD Group (a subsidiary of Informa), to create a transformative platform that drives pharmaceutical and biotech growth across the region.

The launch of BIO Middle East reflects the Kingdom’s substantial progress in building a globally competitive biotech ecosystem. �� has emerged as a key player in shaping the future of the sector, supported by flexible regulatory frameworks, advanced digital infrastructure, and growing investments in research, education, and biomanufacturing. The event provides an ideal platform to showcase these achievements and foster international partnerships that fuel innovation for the benefit of humanity.

FedEx opens regional logistics hub in Qatar

Updated 21 September 2025

September 21, 2025 16:24

FedEx opens regional logistics hub in Qatar

Updated 21 September 2025

September 21, 2025 16:24

Qatar Free Zones Authority and FedEx Logistics, a subsidiary of FedEx Corporation, have officially opened a new regional logistics facility at Ras Bufontas Free Zone in Doha, marking a significant step in Qatar’s emergence as a leading hub for global trade and supply chain operations.
The inauguration was attended by Sheikh Mohammed bin Hamad, CEO of QFZ, and Patrick Moebel, president of FedEx Logistics, alongside senior executives from both parties. The opening of the center comes within the framework of the existing partnership between QFZ and FedEx Logistics and based on the agreement signed between them in 2024.
Operated by FedEx Logistics Qatar QFZ LLC, the 1,249-square-meter facility features integrated warehousing, storage, and office spaces. Plugged into the FedEx global network, it will serve as a key gateway for freight forwarding and scheduling, facilitating the movement of goods between major markets in Asia, Europe, and North America.
Situated next to Hamad International Airport and close to Hamad Port, the facility offers seamless access to air transportation and freight, as well as access to knowledgeable guidance on customs brokerage processes. It will provide end-to-end supply chain solutions for industries, including retail, automotive, and technology. The facility supports Qatar’s rapidly expanding logistics sector valued at $10.14 billion and projected to reach $13.49 billion by 2030, with the country ranked seventh globally for logistics competence in the Agility Emerging Markets Logistics Index 2024.
Sheikh Mohammed said: “We are proud to welcome FedEx Logistics to our thriving logistics ecosystem, home to four of the world’s top 10 logistics providers. The investment by FedEx underscores QFZ’s competitive advantages, world-class infrastructure, seamless logistics connectivity network, and strategic geographical location close to the most prominent global markets, enhancing the ability of investing companies to reach large segments of consumers globally. We are confident that this milestone will contribute to strengthening Qatar’s leadership as a global hub for innovation, logistics and international trade.”
Moebel added: “Establishing this facility in Qatar enables us to connect our Qatari and regional customers to major markets in Asia, Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and North America with greater speed and efficiency. By integrating this location into the FedEx global network, we can deliver smarter, more reliable logistics solutions that help businesses grow and compete in today’s fast-moving global economy.”

LuLu to mark National Day with Guinness Record bid

Updated 20 September 2025

September 20, 2025 10:39

LuLu to mark National Day with Guinness Record bid

Updated 20 September 2025

September 20, 2025 10:39

In celebration of the 95th Saudi National Day and as a tribute to the Kingdom’s heritage and unity, LuLu Hypermarket is set to attempt a Guinness World Record with the creation of the world's largest shattered glass artwork on Sept. 20, from 4:30 p.m. at Alkhobar New Corniche. The 3-meter x 3-meter glass panel will feature the official symbol issued by the General Entertainment Authority, reflecting pride, unity, and societal support. Crafted with the support of Khobar Municipality and Unilever (Comfort), the artwork will be gifted to the municipality and is expected to become a new landmark in the Eastern Province.

The masterpiece will be created by Aseel Al-Mughlouth, a celebrated Saudi visual artist renowned for his innovative shattered glass paintings. Combining engineering expertise with artistic vision, Al-Mughlouth transforms broken glass into stunning creations admired across �� and the Arab world.

Spotlight on Saudi-made products

As part of the National Day celebrations, LuLu stores across the Kingdom are hosting festive activities from Sept. 17 to 23, offering exclusive deals, special promotions, and family-friendly cultural experiences. Shoppers can enjoy unbeatable prices across all categories, with a special emphasis on Saudi-made products, while participating in the joyous spirit of the nation. A midnight shopping event will take place on Sept. 22, from 6 p.m. to 1 a.m., featuring exciting offers and exclusive deals for night-time shoppers.

Google Pay for hassle-free shopping

To enhance convenience and innovation, LuLu has also introduced Google Pay across all stores in ��, making it the first retailer in the country to offer this fast, easy, and secure payment option.

This year, LuLu’s National Day festivities promise a memorable blend of art, shopping, culture, and community spirit, uniting customers in celebrating the Kingdom’s proud heritage while looking forward with creativity and innovation.

barq signs 3 agreements with global and local companies to develop digital and technological payment solutions

Updated 18 September 2025

September 18, 2025 16:47

barq signs 3 agreements with global and local companies to develop digital and technological payment solutions

Updated 18 September 2025

September 18, 2025 16:47

barq, the fastest-growing digital payments wallet in the Kingdom, announced the signing of three strategic partnership agreements on the sidelines of the Money20/20 Middle East conference hosted in Riyadh on Sept. 15–17, thereby strengthening its position in the digital payments and financial services sector.

barq signed a cooperation agreement with iPiD, a global leader in digital payment solutions, with the aim of enhancing customer experience and developing innovative cross-border payment solutions.

This contributes to accelerating financial transfers and enhancing their reliability and security, in line with the growing expansion of international trade flows.

barq was represented at the signing ceremony by Thamer Al-Harbi, director of international partnerships, while the partner company was represented by Sourabh Ranjan, regional director for the Middle East, Africa, and India.

On the second day of the conference, barq signed a strategic partnership agreement with Tawuniya Insurance, one of the largest insurance companies in the Kingdom.

The agreement focuses on exploring opportunities for cooperation in financial, technological, and related products and services, leveraging the innovative and integrated solutions provided by barq to support Tawuniya’s customers and enrich the digital experience in the insurance sector.

The signing ceremony was attended by Hamoud Al-Badr, director of Individual Life Insurance Sales, representing Tawuniya, and Muath Al-Sadhan, general manager of corporates, representing barq.

barq also entered into a strategic partnership with Innovative Systems, a global leader in a key compliance solution.

This partnership aims to enhance barq’s compliance program by leveraging Innovative Systems’ advanced global sanctions technologies, ensuring adherence to international sanctions regulations while mitigating operational risks.

Representing barq at the signing was Talal Al-Qahtani, chief commercial officer, while the agreement was signed on behalf of Innovative Systems by Deborah Overdieb, executive vice president.

Saad Al-Muhanna, CEO and co-founder of barq, said these agreements stem from barq’s firm commitment to developing the digital payments ecosystem and its dedication to building impactful partnerships with leading global and regional companies.

This contributes to driving innovation and opening new horizons for the growth of the financial sector in the Kingdom and the region.

This step comes within barq’s ongoing efforts to expand its strategic partnerships network locally and internationally and to deliver advanced digital financial solutions.

This coincides with the company’s distinguished performance during its first year, in which it reached over 8 million users from 150 nationalities, issued more than 6.5 million digital payment cards, and executed more than 500 million payment transactions.

These milestones reflect the Kingdom’s rapid transformation toward a cashless digital economy and reaffirm barq’s position as a leading provider of innovative digital payment solutions.

��