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JEDDAH: Saudi-EU ties have been further strengthened after the Kingdom’s minister of economy and planning held a range of high-level meetings with leading figures from the institution.

Faisal Al-Ibrahim met European Parliament Vice President Pina Picierno in Brussels on Sept. 17 to discuss enhancing collaboration between the Kingdom and the EU on key areas of mutual interest, according to the Saudi Press Agency.

The minister also held talks with the European Commissioner for the Mediterranean Dubravka Suica aimed at boosting cooperation across several sectors and reviewing developments of mutual interest, and with EU Special Representative for the Gulf Luigi Di Maio to strengthen bilateral economic and trade relations.

A day earlier, Al-Ibrahim met European Commissioner for Economy and Productivity Valdis Dombrovskis to discuss bilateral cooperation within the framework of ��������’s Vision 2030 and recent global economic developments.

In July, the EU announced a €42.5 billion ($46.4 billion) commitment to renewable energy, border security, and socio-economic development across the Middle East and North Africa from 2028.

The funding, aimed at fostering stability and mutual prosperity, opens further opportunities for Saudi-EU collaboration, particularly in renewable energy and sustainable development initiatives aligned with Vision 2030.

In October, the first EU-Gulf Cooperation Council Summit was held in Brussels, marking a historic moment with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman attending. 

In May 2024, the European Chamber of Commerce in �������� was launched, the first of its kind in the Middle East and North Africa region.

JEDDAH: Passengers traveling through Jeddah airport are set to experience a new duty-free zone, offering global and local brands as �������� expands its aviation sector. 

The project is managed by JAH Arabia International Duty-Free LLC, a joint venture between Germany’s Gebr. Heinemann, ��������’s Astra Group, and Jordanian Duty-Free Shops. The group holds a seven-year license to operate the duty-free shop across Terminal 1 and the North Terminal at King Abdulaziz International Airport. 

The launch is part of ��������’s broader push to modernize its aviation sector, enhance passenger experience, and diversify revenue streams, while also showcasing local culture alongside global brands.  

The new duty-free underscores the Kingdom’s bid to attract international travelers, strengthen its position as a regional hub, and generate jobs and investment across tourism and retail. 

Mazen Johar, CEO of Jeddah Airports Co., which operates King Abdulaziz International Airport, told Arab News that about 100 young Saudis are employed as merchandisers at the facility. 

“The pilot opening took place in August last year, focusing on the key products passengers are most likely to demand. Following the full launch, monthly reviews will track sales, assess demand, and identify emerging passenger needs,” he said. 

Johar emphasized that the duty-free reflects the status of King Abdulaziz International Airport and Jeddah’s rich culture. “The new duty-free aims to deliver exceptional shopping options and enhance services available to passengers at the airport.” 

He added that the zone will help increase revenues, diversify income sources, create investment opportunities for local and international investors, and generate direct and indirect jobs for Saudi youth, in line with the National Aviation Strategy and Vision 2030. 

Spanning about 8,000 sq. meters, the zone showcases more than 335 international brands across 35 outlets and boutiques.  

Simon Forde, CEO of JAH Arabia International Duty-Free LLC, told Arab News that they carry all the main global brands, while also highlighting regional products. 

“I think maybe we need a few more Saudi made products. We have a Saudi-made area. We sell a lot of dates and souvenirs.” 

Categories include cosmetics, confectionery, gourmet foods, tobacco, souvenirs, fashion, accessories, and jewelry. Standalone stores include Longchamp, Michael Kors, and Swarovski. Other brands featured are BOSS, Ralph Lauren, and Lacoste. 

He added that Saudi products account for 10 to 15 percent of the duty-free’s overall displays, noting that the company is still learning about the region and the Kingdom. 

Speaking at the launch, Forde added: “We are committed to offer passengers a shopping experience that reflects the uniqueness of the Jeddah airport by striking the perfect balance between a global mindset and local culture.”