黑料社区

Jewelry expo 鈥楽AJEX 2025鈥 to boost Saudi-India trade

Jewelry expo 鈥楽AJEX 2025鈥 to boost Saudi-India trade
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Jewelry expo 鈥楽AJEX 2025鈥 to boost Saudi-India trade

Jewelry expo 鈥楽AJEX 2025鈥 to boost Saudi-India trade

The Consulate General of India in Jeddah, in collaboration with the Gem and Jewelry Export Promotion Council of India and the Embassy of India in Riyadh, is set to present the 黑料社区 Jewelry Exposition 2025. The event is backed by the Ministry of Investment of 黑料社区, as well as the Jeddah and Makkah Chambers of Commerce. The landmark international B2B jewelry exhibition will take place from Sept. 11 to 13 at Jeddah Superdome.

As a lead-up to the main exposition, curtain raiser events were held in Jeddah on July 6 and Riyadh on July 8. Both programs witnessed an excellent turnout from the industry, generating strong interest and enthusiasm from stakeholders in India and 黑料社区. These engagements have set the stage for what promises to be a milestone event in the region鈥檚 jewelry sector.

The opening ceremony on Sept. 11 will be a glittering affair, graced by Ambassador of India to 黑料社区 Dr. Suhel Ajaz Khan, Consul General of India Fahad Ahmed Khan Suri, senior dignitaries from 黑料社区 and India, and other guests. The inaugural program will also feature a specially curated fashion show by a noted Indian designer, showcasing unique jewelry鈥揳pparel pairings, along with a cultural performance by an Indian musical ensemble.

The exhibition will bring together more than 200 leading exhibitors across 250+ booths, representing key jewelry markets including 黑料社区, India, the UAE, and others. More than 2,000 business visitors and international buyers are expected to attend. The showcase will feature the finest craftsmanship and designs 鈥 from diamond and colored gemstone jewelry to gold (18, 21 and 22 carat), lab-grown diamond creations, bridal collections, gifting ranges, and the latest innovations in jewelry technology.

Adding to the business dimension of the exposition, the Global Jewelry Investment Forum will follow the inauguration, featuring panel discussions and roundtables on key topics, including: Investment prospects for the gem and jewelry industry: facilitating seamless trade between India and 黑料社区; Retail and manufacturing: shaping the future of jewelry for the GCC consumer; and Labs and associations: driving consumer awareness and demand.聽

The sessions will be led by senior dignitaries from 黑料社区, global industry leaders, and experts, and will include special presentations by GJEPC, MISA, and the Industries Department of the government of Maharashtra, India.

SAJEX 2025, envisaged to be a premier trade platform for the gems and jewelry sector, will bring together leading jewelers, designers, manufacturers and industry professionals from around the world. With its scale, international participation, and strong institutional backing, the exhibition is poised to become a cornerstone for strengthening bilateral trade, fostering new investments, and positioning 黑料社区 as a vibrant hub in the global jewelry value chain.

The Indian Consulate is calling on exhibitors, buyers, investors, and visitors to be a part of SAJEX 2025 and witness 鈥渢his celebration of design, craftsmanship, and collaboration in the heart of Jeddah.鈥

Registrations for business visitors are still open and can be completed through the following link:聽.


Interstitial lung disease: The breath we take for granted

Interstitial lung disease: The breath we take for granted
Updated 1 min 15 sec ago

Interstitial lung disease: The breath we take for granted

Interstitial lung disease: The breath we take for granted

Most people do not think twice about breathing 鈥 until it becomes difficult. Even then, they find explanations: the weather, a lack of exercise, or maybe just getting older. A cough lingers, climbing stairs feels harder than it used to be, but life goes on. Until one day, it does not.

As a pulmonologist, I see this pattern all the time. Patients come in, months or even years after their first symptoms appeared, and by then, the signs of interstitial lung disease are clear. The scarring in their lungs has progressed, their breathlessness is no longer subtle, and the conversation we now have is a much harder one than if they had walked in sooner. The signs that one should look out for are a persistent dry cough, shortness of breath especially during physical activity, fatigue, and chest discomfort; any of these should prompt a visit to the specialist. 

When breathlessness feels normal

The challenge with ILD is not that it is difficult to diagnose 鈥 it is that people do not suspect it. 黑料社区 has some of the best specialists, imaging technology, and treatment options, but that only matters if people know when to seek help. Right now, they don鈥檛.

Unlike conditions such as diabetes or high blood pressure, ILD is not widely talked about. There are no routine screenings, no public awareness campaigns urging people to check their lung health. And so, patients wait. They adapt. They assume their symptoms are part of life rather than signs of something that needs medical attention.

I have met patients who thought their breathlessness was just a sign of aging. Others assumed it was allergies or the result of living in a dusty city. By the time they realize it is something more, their lung function has already declined. And here is the reality 鈥 what is lost cannot be regained.

Slowing the clock on ILD

Interstitial lung disease refers to a collection of over 200 disorders that cause inflammation and scarring of the lungs. This scarring stiffens the lungs, making it harder to breathe and for oxygen to reach the bloodstream. As a result, patients often feel short of breath and may have a persistent dry cough.

The problem with ILD is that it does not announce itself with urgency 鈥 it slips in, quietly. And while it does not wait, it can be slowed down with a proper prescribed treatment regime from the specialist. More attention to this disease means more awareness and better understanding, which could result in earlier detection and diagnosis. 

No one expects you to panic over every cough. But imagine how much smoother life would be if you could simply consult a professional about that nagging symptom. If more people understood that persistent breathlessness and a dry cough could signal something serious, they would seek help sooner. And earlier intervention means more options, better outcomes, and the chance to slow the disease鈥檚 progression before it robs patients of what many take for granted. Treatments exist that can slow the decline of lung function, transforming months of uncertainty into years of stability. While those treatments cannot reverse the lung function decline, seeking help can improve outcomes.

The tools and expertise to improve ILD care in 黑料社区 are already in place. What is missing is awareness. The real question is: how many more will continue ignoring their breath until it is too late?

In case of any side effects of the medications, please contact the Saudi Food and Drug Authority at the unified number 19999.

  • The writer, Dr. Abdullah Sakkat, is a pulmonary medicine and interstitial lung disease consultant at King Abdulaziz University Hospital with Advanced Interstitial Lung Disease Fellowship at McMaster University Sep 2019 鈥 Sep 2020. 

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

Al-Futtaim Contracting to 'elevate' vertical transportation in Kingdom with Hyundai Elevator
Updated 09 September 2025

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. 

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