黑料社区

Baheej to open new wellness resort on Yanbu coastline

Baheej to open new wellness resort on Yanbu coastline
Nestled on the tranquil shores of Yanbu, the boutique wellness resort will feature private sea-view cabanas, immersive wellness programming, and a signature spa.
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Updated 11 June 2025

Baheej to open new wellness resort on Yanbu coastline

Baheej to open new wellness resort on Yanbu coastline

Baheej, 黑料社区鈥檚 emerging destination developer and a joint venture between ASFAR, the Saudi Tourism Investment Company and a Public Investment Fund company with the Tamimi-AWN Alliance, has announced the fourth component of its transformative Yanbu Waterfront Project: a 34-room boutique wellness resort that brings together ancestral wellness wisdom and contemporary design inspired by the region鈥檚 seafaring heritage.

Nestled on the tranquil shores of Yanbu, this intimate sanctuary will feature private sea-view cabanas, immersive wellness programming, and a signature spa designed as an architectural homage to the pearl, once a precious treasure of Yanbu and a symbol of renewal and serenity.

Norah Al-Tamimi, CEO of Baheej, said: 鈥淭his project is a reflection of Baheej鈥檚 vision to enrich Saudi destinations with meaning, not just infrastructure. Our wellness resort is more than a place to stay 鈥 it鈥檚 an experience crafted around the values of balance, beauty, and belonging. We believe it will become a new symbol of Yanbu鈥檚 evolving identity as a serene coastal escape.鈥

Envisioned as a journey and offering guests opportunities to reconnect with self and place, Baheej is developing the resort with curated experiences that include meditation at sunrise, movement rituals inspired by coastal rhythms, and wellness treatments rooted in Arabic healing traditions and native ingredients.

鈥淭he design, developed by Spectrum Architecture, draws deeply from the soul of Yanbu,鈥 said Stefano Lopez, senior director at Baheej. 鈥淚t reinterprets the poetry of seafaring traditions and the calm resilience of the sea into a space of reflection, comfort, and transformation.鈥

Lopez also noted that the official brand of the resort will be revealed later this year, hinting at its distinctive Saudi character. 鈥淲e want to create a brand that resonates with our domestic travelers 鈥 one that brings generations of Saudi heritage and wellness practices to the forefront of contemporary hospitality,鈥 he said.

This launch marks a further step in Baheej鈥檚 mission to transform Yanbu into the gateway to the Red Sea Riviera 鈥 a new destination narrative that fuses nature, culture, and community. The wellness resort joins a growing collection of destination-defining assets developed by Baheej in Yanbu, including Cloud 7 Lifestyle hotel by Kerten Hospitality, Kaynuna Beach Escape and the upcoming Jaba Tour Center and Diving Club.


51Talk, 黑料社区鈥檚 leading one-on-one online English education platform Lights Up Kingdom Tower to Launch Back-to-School Season

51Talk, 黑料社区鈥檚 leading one-on-one online English education platform Lights Up Kingdom Tower to Launch Back-to-School Season
Updated 27 August 2025

51Talk, 黑料社区鈥檚 leading one-on-one online English education platform Lights Up Kingdom Tower to Launch Back-to-School Season

51Talk, 黑料社区鈥檚 leading one-on-one online English education platform Lights Up Kingdom Tower to Launch Back-to-School Season

51Talk, 黑料社区鈥檚 leading one-on-one online English education platform, illuminated the iconic Kingdom Tower in Riyadh with the bold message 鈥淵our Confidence Starts with your Language,鈥 marking the official launch of its back-to-school campaign.

The lighting of the Kingdom Tower was the highlight of a series of milestone initiatives by 51Talk in the Kingdom, including the unveiling of three-city outdoor advertising campaigns, the opening of its flagship learning center at Park Avenue, activations in Panorama Mall, and participation in the upcoming Education Expo. 

This integrated campaign emphasizes 51Talk鈥檚 growing commitment to the Saudi market and its mission to empower students and families to build confidence through English proficiency.

On July 20, 51Talk officially established its Middle East headquarters in Riyadh, underscoring its long-term commitment to the region. Earlier in July, brand ambassador Dr. Yasser Al-Hazimi visited 51Talk鈥檚 international R&D headquarters in Beijing, further strengthening ties and affirming the company鈥檚 dedication to serving Saudi learners.

Commenting on the launch, Jack Huang, founder and CEO of 51Talk, said: 鈥淲e believe that your confidence starts with your language, and English learning is a vital bridge to building opportunities for the future. 黑料社区 is one of the fastest-growing markets for digital learning, and 51Talk is proud to be the No. 1 platform in the Kingdom for one-on-one online English education. Our back-to-school campaign reflects our mission to support students, youth, and families as they 鈥楽tart it Right鈥 this academic season.鈥

Al-Hazimi, education expert, consultant, and 51Talk鈥檚 brand ambassador in the Kingdom, said: 鈥51Talk is not merely a language-learning platform; it is an opportunity to empower the new generation with the skills of the future. This mission is closely aligned with the Kingdom鈥檚 focus on education and youth empowerment. I am proud to support this vision and look forward to the positive impact it will have on our students and children.鈥

With more than 40 million learners worldwide and a growing base in the Middle East, 51Talk is committed to supporting 黑料社区鈥檚 Vision 2030 education goals. By combining iconic visibility on the Kingdom Tower, strategic outdoor campaigns, flagship openings, and educational activations, 51Talk is reaffirming its role as 黑料社区鈥檚 leading one-on-one online English learning platform and a committed partner in the Kingdom鈥檚 education transformation journey.


EXEED RX PHEV鈥檚 European sales jump 64.35% in July; model to debut in KSA

EXEED RX PHEV鈥檚 European sales jump 64.35% in July; model to debut in KSA
Updated 26 August 2025

EXEED RX PHEV鈥檚 European sales jump 64.35% in July; model to debut in KSA

EXEED RX PHEV鈥檚 European sales jump 64.35% in July; model to debut in KSA

On July 29, the 2025 Fortune Global 500 list was officially released worldwide. Chery Holding Group Co. Ltd. climbed to 233rd place, rising 152 positions from 2024, making it the fastest-rising automaker of the year. Meanwhile, Chery鈥檚 cumulative vehicle exports have surpassed 5 million units, maintaining its position as China鈥檚 No.1 auto exporter.

Chery鈥檚 premium new energy brand for global markets, EXEED, has seen sustained sales growth over the past month. In July, its RX PHEV model continued to perform strongly in core European markets such as the UK, Spain, and Italy. In the UK, sales reached 291 units, up 117 percent month on month. Spain led its segment with 599 units sold, underscoring the model鈥檚 growing appeal.

In Italy, 147 units were sold, placing the model at the forefront of the D-segment SUV category. Meanwhile, EXEED is accelerating its expansion in the Middle East, with the RX PHEV set to officially launch in 黑料社区 this year, redefining the standards of premium mobility in the region with its cutting-edge technology DNA.

As an SUV equipped with next-generation global hybrid technology, the RX PHEV features the largest-in-class 34.46 kWh battery in Europe. It delivers an electric-only WLTP range of up to 145 km 鈥 and achieved an impressive 169 km during real-world testing. Combined with a 70-liter fuel tank, the total range exceeds 1,100 km, while fuel consumption is as low as 1.7 liter/100 km. Additionally, its 65 kW DC fast-charging system enables the battery to charge from 30 percent to 80 percent in just 25 minutes, easing range anxiety.

In terms of safety, the RX PHEV sets a new benchmark in its class with outstanding real-world test results. It earned a 5-star rating in the E-NCAP safety assessment, scoring 90 percent for adult occupant protection, 85 percent for child occupant protection, 81 percent for vulnerable road user protection, and 80 percent for safety assist systems. Its performance in adult protection, pedestrian safety, and driver assistance even surpasses that of premium models such as the Audi Q5.

From long-distance hybrid performance testing across nine European countries to 5-star safety certification and real-world validation at premium events, the strength of RX PHEV has been proven in both market and scenario-based trials. Looking ahead, EXEED will partner with leading Saudi media outlets for a photo shoot at the Edge of the World, capturing the seamless harmony between the vehicle and the region鈥檚 breathtaking landscapes.

The brand will also host media test drives covering its full range of new energy models, alongside thrilling track sessions designed to showcase the vehicles鈥 dynamic performance. In addition, the highly anticipated RX model 鈥 alongside the AiMOGA robot powered by EXEED鈥檚 advanced technologies 鈥 will soon arrive in the Saudi market, continuing to expand the range of premium choices and distinctive services


BRF, Halal Products Development Company to launch innovation center in Jeddah

BRF, Halal Products Development Company to launch innovation center in Jeddah
Updated 19 August 2025

BRF, Halal Products Development Company to launch innovation center in Jeddah

BRF, Halal Products Development Company to launch innovation center in Jeddah

BRF, one of the world鈥檚 largest food companies and owner of the brands Sadia, Perdig茫o, Qualy and Banvit, and Halal Products Development Company, a Public Investment Fund company, have announced the creation of an innovation center at their processed food plant in Jeddah.

The laboratory complex is being designed with a focus on innovation, safety, and excellence in quality, meeting strict regulatory requirements and catering to the expectations of the local market. Following the construction of a new processed food plant announced in April this year, this move reflects the commitment of both companies to investing in the Kingdom鈥檚 local halal food supply and innovation, aligned with Vision 2030 goals.

In parallel, BRF and HPDC have finalized the establishment of a center of excellence responsible for information and data management, connecting, adapting, and implementing best practices to optimize the processes and maximize the operations.

鈥淭he investment in establishing an innovation center in Jeddah is a strategic step in consolidating our local presence in 黑料社区. The integration of research, cutting-edge technology, and local talent enables us to increase operational efficiency and better adapt to the specific needs of the local consumers,鈥 said Marquinhos Molina, CEO of BRF Arabia.

The innovation center will feature a state-of-the-art laboratory divided into three specialized areas: a Physicochemical Laboratory focused on technical specifications and quality control; a Microbiological Laboratory ensuring biosafety and preventing food contamination; and a Sensory Laboratory that evaluates whether the flavor, aroma, texture, and appearance meet the specific demands of the local consumer market.

The Jeddah plant is expected to generate over 500 direct jobs in the region, including specialized professionals who will work in the innovation center. These professionals will be responsible for standardizing and optimizing manufacturing processes, ensuring excellence in quality and strict compliance with food safety protocols. This aligns with national workforce development priorities and reinforces the localization of knowledge-intensive jobs in the Kingdom.

鈥淭he innovation center marks a significant step forward in HPDC鈥檚 mission to build a world-class halal ecosystem and position the Kingdom as a global halal hub. It underscores our commitment to strengthening local manufacturing capabilities, promoting self-sufficiency, and creating high-value job opportunities, all of which are essential to achieving the sustainability and economic diversification goals outlined in Vision 2030. The center will serve as a launchpad for future halal product innovations, positioning 黑料社区 as a global reference point in this sector,鈥 said Fahad Alnuhait, CEO of HPDC.

Announced in April this year, the new Jeddah plant dedicated to processed foods will have an estimated annual production capacity of 40,000 tonnes and an investment of $160 million in its initial phase. Production will serve the Saudi market, with the potential for exports to other countries in the region. Operations are scheduled to begin in mid-2026. 

BRF has been operating in the Middle East for over 50 years and leads the market with its Sadia brand, exporting to more than 14 countries in the region. In 2025, the company, through BRF Arabia 鈥 its joint venture with HPDC 鈥 officially entered the halal poultry production sector in 黑料社区 with the acquisition of a 26 percent stake in Addoha Poultry Company, a well-established player in the Saudi market, marking its official entry into the halal poultry production sector in the Kingdom. As a result of this acquisition, Sadia products are now also being produced locally at Addoha鈥檚 facility.


LuLu Retail reports H1 revenue of $4.1bn, up 5.9%

LuLu Retail reports H1 revenue of $4.1bn, up 5.9%
Updated 17 August 2025

LuLu Retail reports H1 revenue of $4.1bn, up 5.9%

LuLu Retail reports H1 revenue of $4.1bn, up 5.9%

LuLu Retail has announced its H1 2025 financial results, delivering a solid 9.1 percent year on year increase in net profit to $127 million. The revenues rose to $4.1 billion (up 5.9 percent YoY), and like-for-like sales increased by 3.8 percent, driven by robust performance across key categories.

In Q2, the company reported revenues of $2 billion, up 4.6 percent YoY with a strong sales growth. This performance was bolstered by continued growth in the private label and e-commerce categories.

LuLu鈥檚 private label grew 3.5 percent YoY, accounting for 29.7 percent of retail revenue, while e-commerce maintained its momentum with sales up 43.4 percent YoY to $108 million, representing 5.6 percent of retail revenue. The gross profit increased 6.5 percent YoY to $468 million. The EBITDA grew 7.6 percent YoY to $204 million.

LuLu Retail has declared an interim dividend of $98.4 million (3.5 fils per share), corresponding to a payout ratio of 78 percent of H1 2025 distributable profits 鈥 consistent with the IPO dividend policy.

Meanwhile, LuLu鈥檚 Happiness loyalty program added 1 million new members during the quarter, bringing the total membership to 7.3 million.

LuLu opened seven new stores in H1, in addition to four more in July, taking the total to 259. Its full-year target of 20 new stores remains on track.

鈥淥ur steady and resilient H1 2025 performance is a testament to our well-established growth pillars, enabling record sales and margin improvements. We expect our growth momentum to persist as we focus on expanding our store network, launching new outlets, enhancing operational efficiency, and unlocking further potential through private label and e-commerce offerings,鈥 said Saifee Rupawala, CEO of Lulu Retail.

Regional performance
In the UAE, LuLu鈥檚 largest market, the Q2 revenue was up 9.4 percent YoY, driven by continued high demand for fresh food and supported by LuLu鈥檚 omni-channel strategy. In 黑料社区, the revenue grew 3.8 percent YoY, aided by strong electronic goods sales and new store openings. Meanwhile, in Kuwait, the revenue grew by 4.9 percent YoY, showing a consistent positive performance.


Chevrolet and GMC mark GCC record sales with 鈥楾ruck Mania鈥

Chevrolet and GMC mark GCC record sales with 鈥楾ruck Mania鈥
Updated 16 August 2025

Chevrolet and GMC mark GCC record sales with 鈥楾ruck Mania鈥

Chevrolet and GMC mark GCC record sales with 鈥楾ruck Mania鈥

General Motors is spotlighting the evolving face of truck ownership in the Middle East as it celebrates a growing market share among its Chevrolet and GMC pickup lineup with a sales rise of 18 percent year on year, unveiling an emerging demographic among youth and women.

Marking its record sales, GM has launched the Chevrolet and GMC Truck Mania event across showrooms in 黑料社区, the UAE, Kuwait, Oman and Qatar, featuring attractive offers on the popular Chevrolet Silverado, GMC Sierra, GMC Canyon and all-electric GMC Hummer SUT.

Running from Aug. 13 to Sept. 13, the event offers immersive product experiences. Customers can expect tailored test drives for road and all-terrain, personalized consultations, and seasonal value offers designed to get them behind the wheel in time for the region鈥檚 most active months outdoors.

GM鈥檚 truck portfolio continues to resonate deeply among GCC nationals 鈥 particularly from 黑料社区 and the UAE. Among younger Emiratis aged 20鈥29, the GMC Sierra has emerged as a top choice for first-time buyers, reflecting a generational shift in preferences. Meanwhile, the Chevrolet Silverado sees robust repeat purchases from Saudi owners aged 30鈥50, underscoring its enduring appeal and reliability.

Furrukh Jawaid, chief marketing officer at General Motors Middle East and Africa, said: 鈥淥ff-roading in the Gulf is a rite of passage as youth begin to adopt the lifestyles of their parents, the desert becomes more than terrain and an adrenaline rush. It becomes a tradition. This is evident in the trends we are seeing of youth making up 20 to 35 percent of our customer base in the last few years. Therefore, Truck Mania is bringing GM鈥檚 most capable trucks to the forefront with compelling offers and experiences that reflect the evolving expectations of today鈥檚 customers.鈥

While male ownership remains dominant, female ownership is steadily rising signaling a broader cultural embrace of the segment. Over the past three years, female interest and ownership in full-size pickups has more than doubled, driven by increasing demand for safety features, elevated driving positions, flexible utility, and bold design.

In 2024 alone, women accounted for 9 percent of all GM truck buyers in the GCC, a notable increase from previous years. Kuwait leads the region with 13 percent of all female truck owners in GM鈥檚 portfolio, followed by the UAE at 9 percent, and Qatar at 7 percent. 

A third of GMC Sierra owners in the UAE are middle-aged Emirati women (ages 30鈥49), and there has been a 50 percent year on year increase in ownership among Emirati women aged 20鈥29. For Chevrolet Silverado, 19 percent of repeat female customers are over 30, with the majority in the middle-aged Kuwaiti segment.

Rohan Fernandes, managing director of commercial operations at General Motors Middle East and Africa, added: 鈥淭he growing demand for our world-class pickups from Chevrolet and GMC are visible as we witnessed a surging market share in the first half of 2025 of over 46 percent as we continue to empower more customers across the Gulf to take up off-roading, road-tripping adventures, reconnecting with the outdoors or making use of its capabilities for day-to-day needs. Pickups have grown beyond their traditional role as workhorses to become expressions of style, performance and heritage. Even off-roading has shifted from a practical skill to a deeply-rooted pastime.鈥