黑料社区

Al-Futtaim Contracting to 'elevate' vertical transportation in Kingdom with Hyundai Elevator

Al-Futtaim Contracting to 'elevate' vertical transportation in Kingdom with Hyundai Elevator
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Al-Futtaim Contracting to 'elevate' vertical transportation in Kingdom with Hyundai Elevator

Al-Futtaim Contracting to 'elevate' vertical transportation in Kingdom with Hyundai Elevator

Al-Futtaim Contracting, a fully integrated, end-to-end specialist division of Al-Futtaim Real Estate operating across the UAE, 黑料社区, Qatar, and Egypt, has been delivering innovative solutions in the construction, engineering, technologies, and facilities management industries for over 50 years. Known for forging strong partnerships with leading global brands, the company offers an extensive portfolio of products, services, and expertise that have shaped iconic projects and advanced communities across the region.聽

Building on this legacy, Al-Futtaim Contracting has signed an exclusive partnership with global vertical transportation giant Hyundai Elevator to deliver next-generation elevator and escalator technologies to 黑料社区.

The announcement follows the formal signing at Hyundai Elevator鈥檚 headquarters in Seoul, South Korea, where Murali S., managing director of Al-Futtaim Contracting, and Yum Kyu Sang, head of global sales for Hyundai Elevator, sealed the strategic agreement. As part of the visit, Murali toured Hyundai鈥檚 pioneering smart campus in Chung-Ju City, including the iconic 250-meter Hyundai Asan Test Tower, which features elevators capable of speeds up to 21m/s, a testament to Hyundai鈥檚 global leadership in elevator technology.

Under the terms of the exclusive dealership, Al-Futtaim Contracting will serve as the sole distributor to supply, install, and maintain Hyundai Elevator鈥檚 full suite of vertical transportation solutions in 黑料社区. This will encompass all VT products, including machine-room-less elevators, escalators, moving walks, high-speed, and ultra-high-speed elevators, supporting the Kingdom鈥檚 ambitious urban and infrastructure initiatives.

Murali said: 鈥淥ur partnership with Hyundai Elevator marks a pivotal chapter for the Kingdom鈥檚 evolving skyline. Together, we will set new benchmarks for efficiency, safety, and design, empowering Saudi projects with world-class vertical mobility. This marks another significant partnership for Al-Futtaim Contracting in the sector, and as the exclusive dealer, we鈥檙e committed to supporting 黑料社区鈥檚 vision with transformative innovations and unmatched service. We are proud to continue driving progress across the region.鈥

Kyu Sang added: 鈥淲e are delighted to join forces with Al-Futtaim Contracting as our exclusive partner for 黑料社区. With Hyundai鈥檚 legacy of innovation and Al-Futtaim Contracting鈥檚 deep-rooted expertise, our collaboration sets the stage for the introduction of leading elevator and escalator solutions, catering to the ever-rising demand for speed, safety, and smart technologies.鈥

This exclusive partnership signifies Al-Futtaim Contracting鈥檚 ongoing commitment to being the 鈥淧artner of Possibilities鈥 as it marks its inaugural collaboration with Hyundai Elevator. By uniting the unique strengths of each entity, the agreement will elevate the standards of vertical transportation infrastructure throughout 黑料社区. It reflects a shared dedication to advancing innovation, technological leadership, and exceptional customer service as the Kingdom moves forward on its path to urban transformation.


Al-Murjan Group and BlueFive Capital launch Shariah-compliant investment platform

Al-Murjan Group and BlueFive Capital launch Shariah-compliant investment platform
Updated 08 September 2025

Al-Murjan Group and BlueFive Capital launch Shariah-compliant investment platform

Al-Murjan Group and BlueFive Capital launch Shariah-compliant investment platform

Al-Murjan Group, one of 黑料社区鈥檚 most established and respected family business groups, and BlueFive Capital, a global investment platform, have announced a cross shareholding strategic linkup to co-develop a global platform for Islamic finance.

The partnership includes reciprocal ownership stake in the two stakeholders鈥 respective Shariah-compliant asset manage- ment units: BlueFive acquiring a substantial minority stake in Sidra Capital, a leading Shariah-compliant asset manager that specializes in private assets, and Al-Murjan Group Holding acquiring a substantial minority stake in BlueFive786, BlueFive鈥檚 newly launched Shariah-compliant investment arm.

BlueFive786, which will be headquartered in Singapore, offers Shariah-compliant investment products, such as retirement and saving schemes to its savers and retirees, based predominantly in the Southeast Asian countries of Indonesia, Malaysia, Bangladesh, Brunei and Singapore. As part of the deal, BlueFive will open its office in Riyadh, and jointly alongside Sidra Capital, will manage and undertake investments in 黑料社区.

The deal will provide both parties with enhanced access to cross-border investment opportunities and institutional capital. This partnership will also support joint product development and co-branded investment vehicles, enabling institutional and private clients to access best-in-class Islamic investment strategies. The parties are currently awaiting the final approvals of the relevant regulatory authorities in 黑料社区.

As part of the transaction, BlueFive Capital Founder and Chief Executive Hazem Ben-Gacem, and BlueFive Co-founder Yasser Bajsair will join the board of directors of Sidra Capital. Taufiq Bahamdain, CEO of Al-Murjan Group Holding, and Shahid Shaikh, a board member in Al-Murjan Group, will represent Al-Murjan in the board of BlueFive 786.

Bahamdain said: 鈥淭his strategic alignment with BlueFive Capital builds upon Sidra Capital鈥檚 decades of experience

in Islamic finance, taking its mission to become a globally recognized leader in Shariah-compliant finance to the next level. By combining Sidra Capital鈥檚 established expertise and deep roots in the GCC with BlueFive鈥檚 innovative platform and access to Southeast Asia鈥檚 dynamic markets, we are creating a powerful conduit for cross-border ethical investment.

鈥淭his partnership is built on a shared commitment to integrity, performance, and expanding access to sophisticated, values-driven investment products for a global clientele.鈥

Ben-Gacem added:鈥淕rateful for the trust of Sheikh Abdulrahman bin Mahfouz and look forward to joining with Al-Murjan to build a lasting legacy in the field of Shariah-compliant investing. The partnership will look to redefine and shape the products and solutions that are today available across Muslim-majority growth markets.鈥


Indian school launches 鈥業SSAACC鈥 to foster scientific temper

Indian school launches 鈥業SSAACC鈥 to foster scientific temper
Updated 06 September 2025

Indian school launches 鈥業SSAACC鈥 to foster scientific temper

Indian school launches 鈥業SSAACC鈥 to foster scientific temper

International Indian School Jeddah has unveiled a new transformative platform to provide students with global scientific exposure, practical mentorship and career guidance.

The International Scientific Society for Advanced Academic and Career Counseling was announced in a landmark ceremony that brought together eminent scientists, educationists, and community leaders.

The ceremony began with a welcome address by Principal of IISJ Dr. Mohammad Imran, who underlined the importance of curiosity-driven education and platforms that prepare students for the future.

Dr. Prince Mufti Zia, founding director of ISSAACC and IISJ managing committee member, introduced the vision of the society, describing it as a practical avenue for students to transform their scientific ideas into reality.

Prof. Anwar Bilgrami, chief patron of ISSAACC, elaborated on the motives and strategies of ISSAACC, urging students to nurture scientific temperament and pursue innovation with focus and clarity.

Abdul Ghafoor Danish, media and outreach adviser, highlighted the necessity of ISSAACC in broadening career options for students, beyond traditional fields such as medicine and guiding them toward diverse rewarding careers.

Nooruddin Khan, financial adviser of ISSAACC, emphasized the society鈥檚 role in preparing young Indians to contribute to the nation鈥檚 global rise through science and technology.

Guest of Honor Prof.Javed Mussarat, vice chancellor of Integral University, Lucknow, inspired students with his keynote address, urging them to set career goals early and pursue them with dedication.

The ceremony also carried the message of Consul General of India in Jeddah Fahad Ahmed Khan Suri, read out by Chief Guest Mohammad Hashim, consul (commerce and PIC) at the Indian Consulate. Suri congratulated IISJ on this landmark initiative and assured support for empowering Indian youth.

Chairman of IISJ Managing Committee Dr. Abdul Saleem, together with fellow members Dr. Mohammed Shafee, Dr. Nusrat Khan,  Dr. Farheen Ameena Taha, Dr. Zubair Hameed, and Dr. Hemalatha Mahalingam, extended their full support to ISSAACC, calling it a transformative step for IISJ and the Indian community in Jeddah.

The ceremony saw the launch of the ISSAACC website, providing a roadmap for student engagement. The 鈥淵oung Scientist Program,鈥 with an initial grant of SR5,000, was announced for student research proposals.

Members of the ISSAACC advisory board, most of whom are globally ranked among the top 2 percent scientists, pledged full cooperation in guiding IISJ students.

The inauguration of ISSAACC at IISJ marks the beginning of a new era in student empowerment. With the active involvement of globally recognized scientists, community leaders, and the school鈥檚 leadership, ISSAACC is set to nurture innovators, researchers, and leaders who will shape the future of science and strengthen India鈥檚 global standing.


SAB receives ISO 20400 for sustainable procurement

SAB receives ISO 20400 for sustainable procurement
Updated 01 September 2025

SAB receives ISO 20400 for sustainable procurement

SAB receives ISO 20400 for sustainable procurement

Saudi Awwal Bank has obtained the ISO 20400 for sustainable procurement, becoming the first bank in the MEA region and the 42nd entity globally to receive this international recognition from BSI. Encompassing every stage from strategic vision to operational delivery, this achievement reflects SAB鈥檚 alignment with international standards in integrating sustainability into its procurement practices.
Developed by the International Organization for Standardization, ISO 20400 provides a globally recognized framework for integrating sustainability across procurement functions. This standard focuses on governance, labor practices, human rights, environmental impact and ethical business conduct throughout the supply chain.
The alignment assessment was conducted in collaboration with British Standards Institution, the business improvement and standards company, and a founding member of ISO. This process involved a comprehensive review of SAB鈥檚 procurement frameworks, strategies, and implementation mechanisms to evaluate the integration of sustainability into the bank鈥檚 operations.
As a result of this assessment, SAB has strengthened its sustainability integration in procurement decision-making. The bank has enhanced supplier engagement practices and implemented more robust approaches to ethical sourcing, ensuring consistency with its broader environmental, social, and governance objectives. These enhancements support the advancement of SAB鈥檚 long-term ESG agenda through responsible operations and transparent supply chain management.
Ghada Al-Jarbou, chief operating officer at SAB, said: 鈥淭he adoption of ISO 20400 represents a significant milestone in institutionalizing sustainability across our procurement activities. It reflects our commitment to responsible sourcing and enhances our ability to engage suppliers in line with SAB鈥檚 ESG priorities and Vision 2030.鈥
Ilias Karampoikis, META sales and commercial director at BSI, said: 鈥淭here is a significant opportunity for banks and other financial organizations to influence sustainability through their lending, investment, and governance practices. It鈥檚 great to see Saudi Awwal Bank leading the way with this achievement of the sustainable procurement standard (ISO 20400), which demonstrates that the organization is making conscious choices around its environmental, social, and economic impact, helping to accelerate progress toward a sustainable world. Congratulations to the team for this achievement.鈥


Saudi Wood Expo opens today in Riyadh

Saudi Wood Expo opens today in Riyadh
Updated 01 September 2025

Saudi Wood Expo opens today in Riyadh

Saudi Wood Expo opens today in Riyadh

Saudi Wood Expo, the country鈥檚 largest event for the wood and woodworking industries, returned to Riyadh for its second edition today, taking place from Sept. 1鈥3 at the Riyadh International Convention and Exhibition Center.

Organized by dmg events and powered by Big 5 Construct Saudi, the event brought together leading suppliers, manufacturers, designers and buyers from across the wood and woodworking industry, featuring over 3,500 products and solutions from more than 200 exhibitors spanning over 30 countries.

As industry leaders and government officials converge in Riyadh, the exhibition offers three days of hands-on sourcing and strategic networking, giving attendees a front-row seat to the latest innovations, solutions and business opportunities in the region.

Visitors will experience an interactive exhibition floor designed to inspire and inform. The Wood Artisans Zone will spotlight leading talent from 黑料社区, featuring live demonstrations from wood carving artists Abdullah Al-Silani and Ahmed Al-Shadoukhi; visual artists Wijdan Al-Jahwri, Ahmed Al-Nkhlani and Hind Al-Khamis; and wood artists Ahmed Al-Furaih and Fahad Al-Omran. Together, they will showcase how traditional craftsmanship and contemporary artistry intersect in the creation of unique wooden pieces.

The Wood Design Trail highlights exhibitors whose wood solutions stand out for exceptional design, durability and functionality. From premium finishes and materials to innovative joinery and interior fit-out applications, this feature celebrates products that combine aesthetic appeal with long-lasting performance, redefining how wood shapes spaces and elevates design.

The Wood Around the World feature showcases timber diversity through the visually engaging Knowledge Wood Wall, presenting international wood varieties and applications. Industry professionals will also test their skills in the WoodU Do It? challenge, a hands-on competition where participants race against the clock to drill as many screws as possible into a wooden surface, with prizes to be given away. Complementing these interactive zones, exhibitors will host live demonstrations of their latest products and machinery, offering visitors a firsthand look at modern solutions.

Leading brands participating include Desert Board, PROADEC along with SURTECO, SLABH Industrial Solutions, Saudi Wooden Industries, Saudi Industrial Machinery Wood Panels Company, Salco Laminates Industries, Al-Tajweed Contracting and Trading, among others.

The exhibition also features international pavilions from Turkiye, China and Italy, along with showcases, providing visitors direct access to the latest innovations from across Europe, North America, Asia and the Middle East.

Saudi Wood Expo is expected to welcome more than 10,000 professionals under one roof, including industry leaders like IKEA, MACE, Abunayyan and Abyat, as well as giga-project stakeholders from Red Sea Global and Omrania. Government bodies such as Riyadh Municipality and the Ministry of Industry and Mineral Resources have already registered, reflecting strong public sector support for the wood sector.


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.