Nestlé, KAUST partner to advance research and innovation in food and agriculture

Updated 10 min 15 sec ago

October 15, 2025 14:00

Nestlé �� has announced the signing of a strategic MoU with King Abdullah University of Science and Technology, in the presence of high-level officials from the Ministry of Investment, Nestlé and KAUST. The agreement marks a significant step toward establishing a joint framework for collaboration in the fields of packaging, agriculture, and food technology.

The signing ceremony was attended by Yasser Abdul Malak, chairman and chief executive of Nestlé Middle East and North Africa; Robert Helou, chief executive of Nestlé ��; and Dr. Ian Campbell, senior vice president of the National Transformation Institute at KAUST. The partnership seeks to develop innovative and sustainable solutions that enhance public health, strengthen food safety standards, and support national efforts to localize knowledge and foster innovation within the food ecosystem.

The collaboration focuses on advanced research in food and nutrition sciences, aiming to develop solutions that promote healthy lifestyles and environmental sustainability, leveraging KAUST’s world-class research ecosystem — which includes scientists from more than 120 nationalities — and Nestlé’s global expertise in food technology.

The agreement reflects Nestlé’s long-term commitment to investment in the Kingdom. In November 2022, the company signed an agreement with the Ministry of Investment to invest SR7 billion ($1.86 billion) over 10 years, covering the establishment of an advanced manufacturing facility and the launch of various research and development projects.

Commenting on the importance of the agreement, Helou said: “This partnership builds on Nestlé’s long-standing investment in �� and contributes to improving quality of life and public health through research and solutions that support sustainable food supply chains and meet the evolving aspirations of the Saudi market, in alignment with the goals of Saudi Vision 2030.”

Campbell added: “This agreement with Nestlé �� marks an important step in advancing national priorities through science and innovation. By combining King Abdullah University of Science and Technology’s research expertise with Nestlé’s industrial leadership, we aim to deliver solutions in food, health, and agriculture that improve quality of life and promote sustainable development. This partnership also reflects our shared commitment to supporting Saudi Vision 2030 through empowering national talent, enhancing food security, and driving long-term economic value.”

Dr. Rania Abou Samra, head of research and development and innovation at Nestlé Middle East and North Africa, said: “At Nestlé, we believe that innovation in food technology is the key to achieving a healthier and more sustainable food future. Our collaboration with King Abdullah University of Science and Technology opens new horizons for developing modern technologies that meet consumer needs and contribute to the well-being of society.”

The MoU aligns with the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030, addressing scientific challenges in food and health, supporting local agricultural production, improving crop efficiency, and contributing to the development of a knowledge-based economy that enhances quality of life.

Both parties affirmed that this partnership reflects a shared understanding of the importance of combining investment, scientific research, and innovation — translating into tangible projects that support sustainable development and place human health at the core of their priorities.

Ushering in a new era of sports production in �� with IMG

Updated 14 October 2025

October 13, 2025 17:52

Ushering in a new era of sports production in �� with IMG

Updated 14 October 2025

October 13, 2025 17:52

With all focus placed on realizing Vision 2030, ��’s program which aims to achieve increased diversification economically, socially and culturally, the Kingdom is undergoing a transformation that is seeing it fast become the new of home of global sport and entertainment. Aiding the country on this mission is IMG studios business, pairing global expertise with local partnerships to elevate productions, grow audiences and develop talent across the Kingdom. Here’s how that strategy has been playing out on screens and behind the scenes:

Global craft, local roots

��’s sporting rise has been matched by an equally ambitious broadcast vision. At the center of that push is a five-year production partnership between the Saudi Pro League, the ��n Football Federation and IMG, signed last year and set to run until the 2028/29 season. Covering the ROSHN Saudi League, the King’s Cup and the Saudi Super Cup, the goal for IMG is to roll out remote production capabilities, allowing production of multiple matches across the country at the same time. The result? Consistent, best-in-class coverage and storytelling of a league on the rise.

IMG’s approach in the Kingdom has been to enhance local properties and their products by connecting them with more fans in the region and around the world. To do so, IMG has partnered with Riyadh-based production facilities company Alamiya Media, combining local knowledge with global capability and resulting in consistent, superior coverage of the league, while nurturing and supporting production talent on the ground.

The partnership has been a huge success and combined with IMG’s mandate to distribute the SPL’s media rights internationally, the league and its stars are being watched by more fans than ever. For Matchweek 1 at the end of August, IMG’s young Saudi team of production assistants and coordinators navigated 100+ flights for nine matches across the country. “Having coordinated crews from across the globe to work on the Saudi Pro League in a pre-production period of three weeks, I look at this younger Saudi generation with admiration and pride. They will be the next generation of production managers, producers and directors,” said Gurjit Kharbanda, IMG’s production executive in ��.

This season will build on last season, when SPL matches were broadcast in more than 184 countries and across 43 platforms — strong evidence that IMG studios business’ production and storytelling expertise is helping build a compelling product in the heart of the Middle East.

Remote production at scale

Deploying throughout a busy match calendar requires efficiency as well as creativity. It is hoped that with the partnership between IMG and the SPL/SAFF, the rollout of advanced remote production workflows can soon become a reality, transforming the market. This would allow senior producers to work on matches across multiple venues on the same day, while centralizing quality control and graphics.

A key part of the infrastructure that would support this operation runs through IMG’s Stockley Park production facility in London, often described as Europe’s best connected broadcast hub.

For rightsholders, that matters. Consistency across cameras, communications and creative assets is what allows leagues to build brand equity across markets and form the foundations for new storytelling formats around stars, their clubs and wider culture.

Building a platform for the Esports World Cup

The same blueprint — premium production, best-in-class storytelling and global reach — has been evident at the Esports World Cup in Riyadh this year.

Hosted in Riyadh in August and featuring 2,000 elite players from 100 countries, the EWC formed part of the wider EWC Festival, where the gaming community came together around a series of community tournaments, live music, retro arcades, creator studios and more.

Attracting millions of in-person and online viewers, the Esports World Cup Foundation called on the expertise of IMG to enhance its existing broadcast coverage with a supplementary show designed to expand the EWC’s audience. The centerpiece of the partnership, EWC Spotlight was produced each championship weekend in a custom-built studio in Riyadh’s Boulevard City, taking fans behind the scenes with exclusive content and celebrity guests. Taking inspiration from IMG’s highly successful CBS Champions League show, the show introduced esports to a whole new audience.

Featuring multiple gaming arenas at the festival site with guests including Stranger Things star David Harbor, F1 driver Lando Norris and Prince Abdulaziz bin Turki Al-Faisal in attendance, EWC Spotlight complemented the live action with exciting entertainment formats that could draw in new audiences and deepen engagement with esports across every level.

With production handled on-site in Riyadh, emphasizing the importance IMG places on locally embedded teams, and the show carried by major broadcast partners including beIN, Fox Sports, DAZN and ITVx, EWC Spotlight was a template for how Saudi-based events could reach both core and mainstream audiences across the world.

A global moment for a Saudi tradition

In the world of equine sports, IMG produces the world feed for the Saudi Cup, the world’s most valuable horse race. In 2024, the broadcast package included a dedicated “Golden Hour” program, mixing culture and competition, and was picked up by 30+ international broadcasters across 170 territories — positioning Riyadh’s showpiece as a genuine global TV moment. Production is complemented by cinematic on-air visuals and a graphics language that honors the event’s Saudi identity.

Building a legacy beyond 2030

Whether it’s football, esports or racing, IMG studios business’ strategy in �� and MENA is consistent — pair global craft with local capability, innovate formats that welcome new fans and distribute content so the region’s stories travel. With multi-year partnerships across SPL, the EWC and prestige race days, the foundations IMG have laid are strong and screens everywhere in Riyadh and beyond are already showing the results.

Laticrete launches first factory in Jeddah, boosting local manufacturing

Updated 13 October 2025

October 13, 2025 15:03

Laticrete launches first factory in Jeddah, boosting local manufacturing

Updated 13 October 2025

October 13, 2025 15:03

Laticrete, a global leader in tile and stone installation systems, has officially opened its first manufacturing plant in Jeddah. This milestone investment strengthens the Kingdom’s local production capabilities, accelerates delivery schedules, and ensures greater product accessibility for contractors, developers, and the wider trade network.

Established in 1956, Laticrete is a family-run enterprise with operations in over 100 countries. Its innovative solutions have been used in iconic projects worldwide. For more than 40 years, the company has partnered with distributors in ��, contributing to the development of the nation’s modern construction sector.

David A. Rothberg, chairman, said: “We began as a small family business in the US when my father, of blessed memory, pioneered a breakthrough in tile installation. Over the decades, we learned that localization is critical: each market has its own regulations, preferences, and construction pace. By establishing local production, we can provide faster delivery and ensure products meet regional requirements.

“The Saudi market has long been important to us. With ceramic tile usage here among the highest globally, we saw the opportunity to expand our presence and better serve customers directly in the Kingdom.”

Patrick Millot, CEO, said: “Since our founding, innovation has been the heart of Laticrete. Our founder Henry M. Rothberg revolutionized the industry with the invention of thin-set adhesive. Today, we continue that legacy by introducing new solutions every year, ensuring our customers have access to cutting-edge technology.

“In ��, we are committed to bringing not only standard products but also our most advanced technologies from Day 1. This aligns with the Kingdom’s Vision 2030, which emphasizes innovation, sustainability, and world-class infrastructure development.”

Ritesh Singh, regional director, said: “The Jeddah plant reflects our strong commitment to Vision 2030, which encourages local manufacturing and greater participation in the Saudi economy. Laticrete has been present in the Kingdom for over 40 years, supplying materials for iconic projects. Now, with local manufacturing, we will serve the full spectrum of the market — from retail and mid-size residential projects to major commercial and hospitality developments.

“This facility is one of the most advanced within the Laticrete global network, capable of producing 99 percent of our product portfolio locally. By manufacturing in the Kingdom, we reduce import dependency, shorten lead times, and bring the latest global practices to the Saudi market.”

Khalid Khan, general manager, BINEX, said: “BINEX is proud to partner with Laticrete in this new chapter. For decades, we have worked together to supply high-quality solutions to projects across �� — from Yanbu to KAUST, Aramco, the Red Sea, and beyond.

“As one of the oldest registered companies in the Kingdom, BINEX has witnessed ��’s construction transformation firsthand. With this new facility, Laticrete will strengthen its position as the market leader in premium installation systems while expanding accessibility across the entire construction ecosystem.”

The Jeddah plant will create new employment opportunities for Saudi talent while providing training and skills development. By adopting eco-friendly practices, efficient processes, and responsibly sourced raw materials, Laticrete reinforces its dedication to sustainability and its alignment with ��’s industrial and environmental objectives.

Intelligent driving experience to debut at OMODA&JAECOO International User Summit 2025

Updated 12 October 2025

October 12, 2025 16:32

Intelligent driving experience to debut at OMODA&JAECOO International User Summit 2025

Updated 12 October 2025

October 12, 2025 16:32

OMODA&JAECOO is evolving from offering single models to a full-fledged product matrix. Leveraging its advanced hybrid technology, Auto Park system, and ADAS system, the brand has achieved a comprehensive leap forward in design, powertrain performance, safety, and intelligence.

It is committed to delivering an efficient, safe, and user-friendly mobility experience that meets global high standards.

OMODA&JAECOO is transforming from being a mere product provider to an ecosystem co-creator in the mobility sector. By upgrading its global service system, establishing a user co-creation platform, and continuously listening to user feedback, the brand is forging a warm and engaging new ecosystem for mobility.

The OMODA&JAECOO International User Summit is set to kick off in October. Under the theme of “Co-create Co-define,” and with the future vision of “Dare to be No.1,” this event will bring together global users to jointly explore new possibilities for future mobility.

This gathering serves not only as a platform for in-depth interaction between the brand and its users but also as a concentrated showcase of OMODA&JAECOO’s globalization strategy and ecological philosophy.

Leveraging its Full-Chain 4.0 Strategy, the brand will interpret its new heights through four key pillars: Global Product Evolution, Journey Together, Connected Care, and Voices of the Future, continuously providing global users with high-quality and intelligent mobility experiences.

Reshaping the future mobility ecosystem

OMODA&JAECOO’s comprehensive evolution from offering single models to a full-fledged product matrix represents not just an expansion of its product lineup but also a holistic leap forward in technological prowess, design innovation, and brand responsibility.

In terms of design, the brand has achieved an upgrade from Art in Motion 1.0 to 2.0-X, endowing its models with stronger visual appeal and distinctiveness.

Regarding powertrain, relying on globally leading super hybrid technology, OMODA&JAECOO provides users with efficient new energy mobility solutions. Intelligence and safety performance have emerged as key highlights of the brand’s product evolution.

The synergy between the Auto Park and ADAS systems significantly enhances driving intelligence and convenience. Multiple models, including the OMODA 9 SHS and JAECOO 7 SHS, have consecutively secured the five-star safety rating from Euro NCAP, setting a global standard for safety.

Moreover, the JAECOO 5 has earned the pet-friendly cabin certification from TÜV SÜD for its outstanding performance, delivering the best mobility experience in its class for both passengers and pets.

OMODA&JAECOO is transforming from being a mere product provider to an ecosystem co-creator in the mobility sector, integrating the ESG green philosophy throughout the entire product lifecycle to drive low-carbon R&D and sustainable development.

From design to technology, and from intelligence to safety, the brand continues to evolve across all dimensions, consistently demonstrating its unwavering commitment to high-quality, intelligent mobility.

Co-creating and ecosystem, from product connectivity to emotional symbiosis

A car is not merely a means of transportation; it is an extension of life and emotions. OMODA&JAECOO aspires for its users to perceive not just the value of its products, but also the brand’s profound engagement in their lives.

Throughout its global expansion, OMODA&JAECOO continues to evolve, cherishing every user’s experience and expression, and attentively listening to the myriad stories they craft alongside their beloved vehicles.

This two-way interaction harmonizes technology with humanity, imbuing the brand with a warm emotional essence and strengthening users’ sense of belonging and identification.

Service enhancement is a pivotal aspect of brand advancement. OMODA&JAECOO is comprehensively optimizing its global service system by increasing the density of service outlets, ensuring that users can enjoy high-standard, consistent, and attentive services no matter where they are.

The service model has also shifted from one-way support to two-way interaction, placing equal emphasis on global uniform quality and localized care, thereby bringing the brand closer to its users.

Listening to user voices and co-creating the future of mobility underscore OMODA&JAECOO’s open-minded approach. By hosting time-limited co-creation events and maintaining a long-term open platform, the brand gathers global wisdom to continuously drive user participation and product innovation.

With a comprehensive upgrade in technology, products, and user experiences, OMODA&JAECOO is ascending to new heights. Looking ahead, OMODA&JAECOO will persistently leverage a global perspective and a spirit of co-creation to craft warm, intelligent mobility experiences for users worldwide.

In July, the parent company of OMODA&JAECOO climbed to 233rd spot on the 2025 Fortune Global 500 list, while achieving a Dual 500 milestone — surpassing 5 million cumulative exports alongside its Global 500 ranking.

OMODA&JAECOO’s brand vision is co-creating a better life with young people — OMODA focuses on establishing itself as the global most professional crossover brand, while JAECOO aims to become the global leading elegant off-road brand, constructing differentiated competitiveness through parallel dual routes.

Based on such brand positioning and development approaches, OMODA&JAECOO demonstrated robust growth momentum in the European market in 2025, emerging as the fastest-growing brand locally. In the NEV sector, leveraging globally leading SHS technology, it provides efficient new energy solutions for users worldwide while steadily advancing toward the goal of becoming the leading global hybrid brand.

Notably, in addition to continuous breakthroughs in core automotive areas, OMODA&JAECOO has extended its technological innovation reach into the realm of intelligent technology.

The AiMOGA robot, jointly developed by the brand and the AiMOGA team, has become an exemplary practice in the intelligent transformation process of automakers, further broadening the brand’s value boundaries.

During the International User Summit, Chery International will launch a series of user-centered activities under its sub-brands CHERY, EXEED, OMODA JAECOO, and iCAUR.

#2025OJInternationalUserSummit #SuperHybridSystem #SHS #OMODA #JAECOO #OMODAJAECOO

Syria is online: Syrian Pavilion debuts at GITEX Expand North Star 2025 in Dubai

Updated 11 October 2025

October 11, 2025 12:05

Syria is online: Syrian Pavilion debuts at GITEX Expand North Star 2025 in Dubai

Updated 11 October 2025

October 11, 2025 12:05

For the first time, the Syrian Pavilion will take part in GITEX Expand North Star 2025, the world’s largest event for innovation and entrepreneurship, held in Dubai from Oct. 12 to 15, 2025. Under the slogan “Syria is Online,” the pavilion highlights the nation’s re-emergence in the global digital economy, showcasing Syrian talent, creativity, and innovation to international investors and technology leaders.

The pavilion will serve as a dynamic hub for Syrian startups and entrepreneurs to present their projects to top investors and partners, shedding light on inspiring success stories from across the tech ecosystem. It aims to build bridges for collaboration, employment, and cross-border partnerships.

Key highlights include:

Startup pitches at the Syrian Pavilion and on North Star’s main stages.
Panel discussions and interactive sessions on the future of technology and entrepreneurship in Syria.
Networking events connecting founders, investors, and organizations.

Empowering the next generation of Syrian talent

Bassel Yassine Ojjeh, chairman of SYNC and organizer of the Syrian Pavilion, said: “Our slogan ‘Syria is Online’ is a mission. We’re working to build a strong technological ecosystem that creates real opportunities for Syrian youth. Our goal is to generate 25,000 tech-related jobs within five years. Participating in GITEX Expand North Star is a vital step toward that goal — an opportunity to showcase Syrian talent and build partnerships that open doors for a new generation shaping the digital future.”

Backed by local and international support

The initiative is supported by the Syrian Business Council, SYNC, and the US–Syria Business Council, reflecting growing confidence in Syrian innovation and its potential to contribute to the global digital economy.

Reconnecting Syria to the global tech map

The Syrian Pavilion is not just an exhibition space — it’s a strategic platform positioning Syria as a hub for technology, creativity, and entrepreneurship. This milestone participation marks a turning point for Syria’s digital revival, connecting its innovators to the world and creating long-term economic opportunities.

GITEX Expand North Star 2025 is running from Oct. 12-15 at Dubai Harbor.

Global collaboration key to building a zero-waste world

Updated 10 October 2025

October 10, 2025 14:01

Global collaboration key to building a zero-waste world

Updated 10 October 2025

October 10, 2025 14:01

The scale of the world’s waste crisis is staggering. According to the UN, humanity produces around 2.2 billion tons of municipal solid waste each year. Without urgent action, that figure could rise to 3.8 billion tons by 2050. 

For many cities, waste management has become not just an environmental but also a financial and health concern. At the recent ASEAN Governors and Mayors Forum in Kuala Lumpur, local leaders reported that up to 40 percent of their municipal budgets are spent on waste. Meanwhile, citizens across the region ingest the equivalent of a credit card’s worth of microplastics annually.

Samed Agirbas, president of the Zero Waste Forum, argues that this is a truly global problem. “Every city and town faces the same challenge,” he says. “Waste is threatening well-being and economic prosperity, while accelerating climate change, biodiversity loss and pollution.”

Root of the problem

At the heart of the waste crisis is consumer behavior. A culture of convenience — where food, fashion, electronics and even construction materials are designed for short-term use — has driven unsustainable consumption and swelling landfills. Yet Agirbas points out that determined leadership can make a difference.

In Japan, Yokohama has pursued a two-decade city-wide program of awareness campaigns, regulation and community engagement. As a result, waste levels have dropped sharply, and landfill sites are being closed. Manila, by contrast, has focused on separating organic from inorganic waste, then incinerating residual waste to generate energy. While this is a positive step, Agirbas cautions that incineration cannot be the final answer. “Waste-to-energy plants are popping up all around the world,” he says. “But it isn’t zero waste. The Zero Waste Foundation would like the world to reduce the amount of waste that needs to be incinerated. This means rethinking, reusing and recycling.” 

Local solutions, global challenges

While cities experiment with solutions, international co-operation remains weak. Waste is still largely managed by national and municipal authorities with limited co-ordination across borders. Yet the Zero Waste Foundation, led by Agirbas, is working to change this.

The organization promotes zero waste principles globally, lobbying at the UN General Assembly, the World Urban Forum, regional summits such as ASEAN and annual climate conferences. It also works with academics to develop practical strategies that make low-waste living accessible to ordinary people. “Conservation of resources is important,” says Agirbas. “But we must be able to find alternatives that make it possible for ordinary people to live a zero-waste lifestyle.”

Signs of progress are emerging. In Tübingen, Germany, the introduction of a tax on disposable packaging cut waste by 15 percent within weeks. Initiatives such as this, Agirbas says, demonstrate that behavioral change is possible when governments provide the right incentives.

A growing movement

The foundation helped launch the first International Zero Waste Day in New York in 2023 and continues to build momentum. Its flagship upcoming event is the Zero Waste Forum in Istanbul, scheduled for Oct. 17-19. Under the theme “People. Places. Progress.,” the forum will convene leaders from governments, businesses and civil society to accelerate action.

Key themes include:

Cities as drivers of change, showing how mayors and governors are implementing zero waste locally.
Business and innovation, highlighting solutions from companies and startups making reuse and repair viable.
Global policy frameworks, including the UN Plastics Treaty and European packaging regulations.
Technology and data, exploring AI and digital traceability to measure progress.
Voices from the Global South, ensuring that solutions are inclusive and equitable.

The forum will also see the launch of the Zero Waste International Awards, recognizing pioneering cities, companies and individuals who deliver measurable results. Another expected outcome is the establishment of a business coalition to promote circular economy models that create jobs and attract investment.

A ministerial roundtable convened by Turkiye’s Minister of Environment, Urbanization and Climate Change Murat Kurum will focus on the alignment of zero waste policies among member states. Malaysia’s Minister of Housing and Local Government Nga Kor Ming, who is also the president of the UN Habitat Assembly, will advocate for the mainstreaming of the New Urban Agenda into the UNFCCC process at COP30. By adopting the zero waste policy, countries and cities can take action to reduce pollution and environmental degradation.

Navigating global tensions

Calls for multilateral action are rising, but they come at a time of geopolitical strain. Agirbas acknowledges these challenges but insists that co-operation is essential. “We don’t have a choice,” he says. “As our patron, Emine Erdogan, the first lady of Türkiye, says, we are obliged as humanity to act at once and together because we will either win or lose all together.”

This sense of urgency is also personal. “I have a little daughter,” Agirbas adds. “I want to make sure we leave a better world for her.”

The road ahead

Looking to the next decade, the foundation’s mission is clear: to inspire and enable societies to rethink, reuse and recycle at scale. Collaboration will be central — working with UN agencies, national and local governments, businesses, civil society and indigenous communities. Innovation will be equally important, as new technologies and economic models will determine whether zero-waste living can be achieved by ordinary people around the world.

“So long as there are human settlements, there will be a waste management challenge,” Agirbas reflects. “We need to create a whole-of-humanity approach that makes zero waste possible.”

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