Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture sponsors Saudi Agriculture Exhibition 2017.

In line with the government’s direction for promoting the private public partnership, The Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture signed an agreement with Riyadh Exhibitions Company to become the main sponsor of the Saudi Agriculture Exhibition 2017.

The agricultural sector in the Kingdom is developing in synchronization with the latest trends in the market, such as the shift towards using compound fodder in the poultry industry instead of green and traditional feed, the inclinations towards investing in aquaculture and greenhouses, and the ultimate goal of achieving food security.

The Saudi Agriculture Exhibition is one of the largest and most specialized exhibitions in the region, that covers a wide range of services, technologies and products that are crucial to the development of the Agricultural sector in the Kingdom.

The highly anticipated exhibition is gaining increased importance in light of the new trends and goals in the Kingdom, as it brings together some of the largest local and international companies every year. It has become a major platform to review the latest of products and technologies in the world of agriculture and related industries.

Mr. Khalid Alamdar, Director of sales and marketing at Riyadh Exhibitions Company, said:” We are honoured of having the Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture as sponsors of this show, as we are confident that the 36th edition of the exhibition will be a success. We aim to attract more specialists especially in the field of consumables, and contribute in the development of agricultural practices, and improve all agricultural services in the sector.”

Mr. Alamdar also revealed that: “The exhibition will be held from the 8th until the 11th of October 2017, at the Riyadh international conventional and exhibition centre. Like every year, visitors are looking forward for this exhibition that is highly recognized for its huge contribution in the development of the agricultural sector in the kingdom, and international exposure.”

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Hundreds of organizations showing interest in “Great Workplaces Saudi Arabia List 2017”

In line with international business trends and best practices, entities from the public, private and non-profit sectors of Saudi Arabia are now competing to be recognized for the quality of their work environment. As recently reported by Great Place to Work®, there has been an increased interest in their workplace assessment program in the Kingdom, “Great Workplaces KSA 2017 List”, which includes more than hundreds nominations so far.

Mr. Mohammed Al Shair, Chairman of Great Place to Work® Middle East, described the interest as reflecting the market’s shift, saying: “This list aims to encourage implementing best practices in human resources, and creating effective work environments that ensure equal opportunities for everyone, while rewarding distinguished team members. Such practices will help local companies edge up their competitive advantages in global markets, and support emerging companies to become leaders in their fields.”

Mr. Ziad Ghosn, Managing Director of Great Place to Work® KSA, explained that: “participating in the list stimulates organizations to create and maintain a healthy work environment, showcase their capabilities and skills, and tap into new progressive methods and practices.”

Mr. Ghosn added: “We are witnessing a shift in the work environment concept in Saudi Arabia. It is no longer an option, but rather a prerequisite of success, and a necessity to achieve pre-set goals, regardless of the sector in which the organization is operating. With the new market dynamics and fast shifts, a great workplace ensures a much-needed sustainable competitive edge.”

The Saudi society has become increasingly aware that having a healthy work environment, and a supportive team, is directly related to the productivity of the employee, which reflects on the profitability of the company.

It is worth mentioning that the “Great Workplace list” that was first launched in the Kingdom in 2014, is known for being the world’s first assessment program to recognize and evaluate the best working environments, and is currently being adopted by more than 40 countries around the world.

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Fast Auto Technic reveals state-of-the-art Ferrari & Maserati Showroom in Riyadh

Fast Auto Technic, the official dealer of Ferrari and Maserati luxury sport automobiles in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, opened its largest ever showroom in Riyadh. The state-of-the-art Ferrari and Maserati facility is the largest of its kind in the Middle East, reinforcing the company’s ongoing commitment to better serve clientele in the Kingdom.

The spacious showroom accommodates eight Ferrari vehicles on display, and ten Maserati vehicles, showcasing the widest range of both models. Seamlessly aligned with the global standards of both brands, the showroom has a total built-in area of 2,100m2 and welcomes visitors with an impressive interior, giving off a true sense of the brands persona and unique craftsmanship capabilities through its exceptional décor. A 700m2 mezzanine floor is also designed to further fit five pre-approved vehicles for each brand, with a dedicated car lift.

The new facility is the first in the region to welcome visitors into a gallery lounge, to network, relax and educate themselves about the history of both brands through the artwork and timelines on display. Guests can also experience the dedicated configuration rooms for each brand, providing clients with an opportunity to tailor their preferred vehicle in a comfortable setting.

Reiterating the company’s pledge to international quality standards and benchmark criteria in the automotive service industry, the new showroom is staffed with a highly skilled team dedicated to providing supreme service quality to clients.

Sheikh Mohammed Wajih Sharbatly, Chairman of Fast Auto Technic, commented: “We are proud to announce the opening of the region’s largest Ferrari and Maserati showroom in Riyadh. Across the years, our robust relationship with both brands have been reflected through incomparable offerings and services in the Kingdom, catering to a growing demand in the market despite the overall fluctuations of the industry. As with our latest showroom, our expansion plans continue to grow in line with the demand for both Italian brands”

 

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flyadeal – the Kingdom’s New Low Fare Airline Announces National Day Fare Promotion New airline establishes low fare position with very attractive prices First route to operate between Jeddah and Riyadh

flyadeal, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s new Low Fare Airline opened for sale with a breathtaking launch promotion in support of its first flight on National Day 2017. All seats on the two special flights that will be operated on Saturday 23rd September were being offered for sale at SAR 48 one way, a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to snap up a bargain and experience these inaugural flights.

The sale promotion continues with additional fares on double-daily flights between Jeddah and Riyadh from 24th September until midnight on 30th September with the travel period running until October 31st. Bookings can be made only via the flyadeal official website flyadeal.com or the all-female Customer Engagement Centre (CEC) on 920000212.  

The website follows a modern, clean and simple design with white space and vibrant colors, informational videos about flyadeal and clear easy-to-follow explanations of how to book a fare, choose a seat or pre-order a meal. The airline therefore continues to communicate its ‘only pay for what you need’ message, staying consistent with its social media campaign of recent months. By offering choices and a great price flyadeal is clearly looking to address the demands of budget conscious travelers in Saudi Arabia.

At the same time the website revealed two product features that will be a talking point with flyadeal customers. The first is a free 10kg cabin bag allowance which offers customers in the Kingdom the most generous carry on allowance of any other airline in Saudi Arabia that offers an economy class product. The second was an innovative trial of Ladies Only rows that are reserved for female customers seeking the comfort of a dedicated space.

In speaking about the National Day promotion, the CEO of flyadeal, Con Korfiatis, commented that “this is a very special time for the Kingdom and we are proud to commence flying on this auspicious day. We therefore chose to mark the day with a very special fare and let the low fare flyadeal experience speak for itself. Join us,” he concluded, “visit our website or call our Customer Engagement Centre. Be smart and Fly for Less… flyadeal.”

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Materials Handling opens in Dubai featuring 126 exhibitors from 20 countries Latest supply chain innovations on show from 3D virtual reality warehouse mapping to automated sortation systems

Dubai, UAE: H.E Mattar Al Tayer, Director-General and Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of the Dubai Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) opened Materials Handling Middle East 2017 at the Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre.

The only comprehensive industry-spanning trade platform for the wider Middle East, Materials Handling Middle East 2017 got off to a busy start, with 126 participating exhibitors from 20 countries, representing over 200 international brands, making their presence felt at the show.

The beefed-up international presence, with six of the Top 20 international materials handling brands participating, underlines the growing significance of the Middle East as a fast-growing focal point for materials handling, logistics and warehousing, thanks to its rapid pace of infrastructure development, economic growth and diversification.

“In today’s competitive business environment, it’s imperative for companies to update their offerings and keep pace with changing consumer needs by implementing fully integrated, effective, future-proof automation solutions, while also keeping their facilities modernised and boosting their productivity and profitability,” said Ahmed Pauwels, CEO of Messe Frankfurt Middle East, organiser of Materials Handling Middle East.

“Materials Handling Middle East 2017 shines a spotlight on the latest technologies solving key challenges that warehouse and supply chain managers face today.  These range from eco-friendly pallets, automated storage and picking solutions, and warehouse mapping using 3D virtual reality, to equipment such as warehouse trucks, telehandlers, tow tractors, cranes, and packaging.

“As a booming city in the Arabian Gulf, Dubai is a magnet for buyers from the logistics field. It’s one of the world’s busiest logistics hubs, serving more than two billion people throughout the Middle East, Indian Sub-continent, Africa and the CIS, opening up new and promising opportunities for exhibitors and visitors,” Pauwels added.

International heavyweights present and attracting the attention of regional buyer’s right from the start include Swisslog, SSI Schaefer, Daifuku, Dematic, Beumer Group and Kardex.

Speaking at the show, Alain Kaddoum, General Manager of Swisslog Warehouse & Distribution Solutions in the Middle East, who are offering a range of customised automation solutions, said: “Today a lot of businesses suffer from many challenges, especially in the manufacturing and distribution segments.

“Rising costs, changing consumer habits, increased operating expenses add greater pressure on businesses. In the past, companies needed logistics systems that quickly and efficiently moved large quantities of products through their distribution centres. Today things are different. Keeping pace with the trends towards ever smaller lot sizes and delivery quantities as well as ever faster availability and shorter product life cycles requires systems that are highly automated and flexible.

“When it comes to the warehouse technology, the Swisslog portfolio includes automated stacker cranes for pallets and light goods, conveyors, monorail systems, automated truck loading and automated picking modules, lifts, ASRS, AGV, shuttle systems, robotics and software to help businesses maximize their intralogistics potential. Basically everything from the Warehouse Management System to all the technical equipment and advanced innovative software required for automation,” added Kaddoum.

Drawing interest in their range of high-speed sortation systems was Beumer Group, who have set up more than 15 automated sortation systems across the region and have recently been selected to install the new express sortation system for Aramex Dubai. Frank Sorenson, Sales Director for Beumer Group said: “Our customers are looking for a flexible sorting solution with a high degree of automation which can be scaled according to their operational needs.

“Together with our partners, we work with a system-wide approach to warehousing and distribution to create a total solution which helps to increase efficiency in areas which are not usually directly linked to the sorter. This provides a highly flexible and responsive system to support immediate strategic plans and add the flexibility to respond to future needs.”

Materials Handling Middle East added a new Transport and Logistics section in 2017, where the latest Isuzu commercial vehicle product line is on display by the brand’s UAE sole distributor GENAVCO.  On show is a brand new F – Series model with a 4-cylinder engine mounted on a 7.5 ton truck chassis, standing apart from the conventional 6-cylinder engines.

Anton Du Plessis, the General Manager of the Isuzu Sales Division at GENAVCO, said: “Our 7.5 ton chassis with 4 cylinder engine is an addition to our current model line up with advanced diesel common rail technology.

“The truck industry is constantly changing, with more demands being placed on the manufacturer. So too the emphasis on emission standards & technology while trying to maximise the benefits for the end user with reduced cost of operation and less down time.  The challenge and the way forward is to optimise the cost of ownership while implementing alternative fuel options to maximise the benefits for the end user.”

Displaying a range of innovative solutions and services designed to streamline supply chain processes and enhance the overall operation is SPAN. Speaking about their offerings, Managing Director Walid Daniel said: “We offer a full range of product and service offerings, whether it’s the first step of logistics consultancy, the choice of storage systems, appropriate material handling equipment and warehouse accessories, the implementation of smart solutions that increase picking productivity and accuracy, or the final and critical step of safety and maintenance.

“This year, we’ve collaborated with our different partners to touch on these aspects of the supply chain process. We have a team from SNS, a leading logistics consultancy firm, with us to share their deep understanding of the supply chain operations.

“We’re also demonstrating our Voice Solution with our partners from Honeywell, and our S4 Pick to/by Light system; both aimed at optimising your operation and creating a smart warehouse. Furthermore, we’re exhibiting a new automated shuttle system introduced by Logsquare, and material handling equipment by Jungheinrich along with a range of plastic bins from Fami.

“Last but not least, with safety being of outmost importance in our industry, our SEMA approved inspector along with our specialised team of service engineers is available to discuss the maintenance programs for both racking systems and equipment,” added Daniel.

Materials Handling Middle East 2017 also features the return of the Supply Chain and Logistics Forum, an interactive summit bringing together regional industry professionals along with their international counterparts, government bodies, and policy makers to discuss key challenges and growth opportunities for logistics in the Middle East.

The event also includes the popular Forklift Operator of the Year, a unique competition where the UAE’s most skilled forklift jockeys go head to head to be crowned the country’s most skilled, safest, and efficient forklift operator.

More information is avaliable at: www.materialshandlingme.com.

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Materials Handling Middle East 2017

Materials Handling Middle East is the only dedicated show in the region for professionals from every facet of the warehousing, intralogistics and supply chain sector. From forklifts & lifting equipment to automation, the show presents solutions for all your warehousing requirements. The 2015 edition welcomed 4,498 trade visitors from 62 countries.

The 2017 edition will be held from 11 – 13 September and will showcase the world’s leading providers for intralogistics solutions, product demonstration areas and a highly regarded Supply Chain and Logistics Forum making it a highly anticipated edition.

Materials Handling Middle East focusses on multiple dynamic sectors including Logistics & Supply chainRetailFMCGAutomotiveOil & Gas and Pharmaceuticals, showcasing products and solutions that improve their productivity and efficiency.

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Sony Celebrates Record Haul of Seven Categories at The 2017 EISA Awards

Delivering inspiring products that redefined the boundaries in the imaging and home theatre markets, Sony has been recognised by the European Imaging and Sound Association (EISA) with a record seven awards, more than any other manufacturer and more than Sony has ever won in a single year.

EISA Camera of the Year 2017-2018: Sony α9

Awarded as EISA Camera of the Year for 2017-2018, the Sony α9 is a groundbreaking mirrorless camera that in many ways surpasses traditional DSLR rivals. Thanks to an innovative design, the 24.2 million pixel full-frame image sensor captures up to 20 frames per second in full resolution with no EVF blackout and offers completely silent, vibration-free shooting at up to 1/32,000th second. The new super-fast autofocus system, with 693 phase detection AF points covering 93% of the image area, ensures that even fast-moving subjects are in focus. The 5-axis image stabilisation allows a 5-step slower shutter speed. The oversampling process and full-frame pixel read-out result in excellent 4K movie quality.

EISA Prosumer Compact System Camera: Sony α6500

The α6500 is a very small compact system camera offering professional performance. Whether you are a 4K video or stills photographer, the α6500 offers excellent image quality with its 24.2 million pixel Exmor CMOS APS-C sized sensor, high speed and great choice of lenses. The 5-axis image stabilisation works with Sony E-mount lenses as well as A-mount lenses with adapters. The 425 phase detection AF points cover almost the whole picture frame, while the 3in tiltable touch screen lets you choose focus points with your finger. The camera supports up to 11 frames per second shooting with continuous AF and metering with a buffer that supports up to 269 pictures in one sequence.

EISA Compact Camera 2017-2018: Sony RX100 V

The Sony RX100 V is a high-tech masterpiece in a very compact body. Like its predecessor, it offers a 1.0-type sensor and an excellent retractable OLED electronic viewfinder. The new 20.1 million pixel Exmor RS CMOS image sensor, in conjunction with the fast BIONZ X image processor and a new front-end LSI, made it possible for Sony to shorten autofocus response time to 0.05sec and speed-up continuous shooting to 24 frames per second – with AF/AE tracking so that in a series of a moving subject, every picture stays in focus with the correct exposure. Besides the ability to shoot 4K videos, the RX100 V offers super slow motion up to 1000 frames per second, silent shooting and a multi-function control ring for personalised use.

EISA Superzoom Camera 2017-2018: Sony RX10 III

At just 1095g, the Sony RX10 III is the perfect camera for sports, nature and wildlife photographers looking for an easy to carry all-in-one solution. The stunning ZEISS Vario-Sonnar T* 24-600mm lens provides a 25x zoom range with a fast f/2.4-4 maximum aperture, while the Exmor RS 1.0-type sensor, super-fast autofocus and Optical SteadyShot ensure sharp images free from camera shake. In addition to its incredible focal range, the RX10 III can shoot macro from as close as 3cm from the lens, while the silent shutter means you won’t disturb sensitive nature subjects. The RX10 III isn’t just great for stills – it also shoots 4K video and there is also the option to shoot at 1000 frames per second for a dramatic 40x slow motion effect.

EISA Compact System Lens 2017-2018: Sony FE 100mm F2.8 STF GM OSS

This 100mm telephoto prime lens offers the outstanding resolution of the G Master series, combined with STF (Smooth Trans Focus) optics for breathtaking bokeh. This lens has been designed to produce extraordinarily smooth, natural bokeh without vignetting. It also features fast, precise, and quiet DDSSM autofocus, and is capable of shooting 0.25x magnification close ups. Built-in Optical SteadyShot image stabilisation minimises any blur caused by camera movements during long shutter times. The Sony FE 100mm F2.8 STF GM OSS upholds the premium G Master concept in all respects.

EISA Professional Compact System Lens 2017-2018: Sony FE 70-200mm F2.8 GM OSS

The Sony FE 70-200mm F2.8 GM OSS is an impressive lens covering the most popular angles for sports and action photography. Sharpness is extremely high and evenly distributed with almost no visible fall-off towards the edges. Sharpness is retained across the zoom range, even with tele-converters. It features a floating focusing system, implemented in an α zoom lens for the first time, that contributes to an impressive minimum focusing distance of merely 0.96m. The 11 rounded aperture blades ensure a beautiful bokeh, while the autofocus speed is super quick, in particular with the very fast Sony α9. Finally, the FE 70-200mm F2.8 GM OSS is built for heavy use under all weather conditions.

EISA Home Theatre TV 2017-2018: Sony KD-65ZD9

Sony’s 4K flagship delivers an outstanding viewing experience, with excellent colour reproduction and best-in-class contrast, plus support of all major HDR formats (including a scheduled upgrade for Dolby Vision). Key to its stunning picture from Ultra HD Blu-ray and 4K HDR streaming contents– even in a bright room – is Sony’s 4K HDR Processor, X1 Extreme, and the direct full-array LED local dimming technology, Backlight Master Drive, that deliver superb picture quality. The KD-65ZD9 is a premium home theatre display with the performance power to match and realizes the ultimate 4K HDR visual experience with extraordinary brightness, contrast, and vibrant colour.

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Bringing the power of Sony to two stunning new Xperia™ smartphones, introducing Xperia XZ1 and Xperia XA1 Plus

Sony Mobile Communications (“Sony Mobile”) today announced two additions to its Xperia portfolio, Xperia XZ1 and its super mid-range family, Xperia XA1 Plus.

The product unveiling follows Sony Mobile’s recent Q1 2017 financial results, which saw operating income reach 3.6 Billion Yen (US$ 32.9 Million) for the first quarter of this year.

Xperia XZ1

Harnessing the latest Sony innovation and audio technologies to offer immersive entertainment all wrapped up in a timeless premium design, Xperia XZ1 incorporates the latest Motion Eye™ camera for capturing detail beyond human eye capability, new ground-breaking technology for mobile with 3D scanning, class-leading display technologies for beautiful on-screen images including HDR display, and a premium listening experience with Hi-Res Audio.

Combining advanced processing power with super-fast download speeds, Xperia XZ1’s memory-stacked Exmor™ RS image sensor pushes motion capture to the next level and produces exceptional image quality. You can create sensational videos from your everyday moments by recording in 960 frames per second, providing stunning Super slow motion video playback. Plus, the 19 MP rear camera new Predictive Capture stays one step ahead and automatically starts buffering images when it detects action or even a smile, before you press the shutter button. So you can find a moment you have missed from a selection of up to four shots. Its new Autofocus burst intelligently follows your subject, adjusting the focus to make sure your action shots stay sharp. Rounding off the premium camera experience is the first-class 13-megapixel front camera with a 1/3” sensor and a display flash so you’ll get outstanding selfies in any light.

Showing a breakthrough in mobile creativity, 3D Creator is Sony’s unique, innovative in-house algorithm for fast and easy scanning of 3D objects, offering a new world of creative possibilities. For the first time ever in a smartphone, you can capture high quality 3D scans of objects in just one minute using the four scan modes; head scan, face scan, food scan and freeform scan. Each mode has its own custom guides for ease of use and after finishing your object scan there are various playful options. Either share with your friends on messenger apps using 3D stickers or upload to the 3D community such as Sketchfab, make the scan come alive by using it to create an avatar for use in the camera AR effects options, third party apps or as a live wallpaper, or even send your scan to a 3D printer to make it into a memorable keepsake. Within the 3D Creator app you can also choose the ‘Find More’ button which takes you to even more possibilities available through Google Play, to explore a wider and ever growing 3D ecosystem.

Xperia XZ1 takes full advantage of Sony’s BRAVIA TV technology and it brings more colour and contrast to immerse yourself in your favourite shows and movies in stunning realism, by incorporating HDR (High Dynamic Range) in its 5.2” Full HD display. Further technologies, including TRILUMINOS™ Display for mobile, X-Reality™ for mobile and Dynamic Contrast Enhancer work together to give razor-sharp, detailed and brighter images on screen.

Sony audio expertise also lets you immerse yourself in the truly authentic sound of Hi-Resolution Audio with Xperia XZ1, enabling you to enjoy every nuance and detail in a track as if you’re right there with the artist. Thanks to Sony’s DSEE HX you can also enjoy more of your music in near Hi-Resolution with its upscaling capability. Enjoy your music and movies with or without headphones using the evolved stereo speakers with S-Force Front Surround, bringing you 50% more sound pressure than previous Xperia models. Plus the built in Digital Noise Cancelling (DNC) technology reduces exterior noise by up to 98% when paired with DNC headphones for undisturbed listening.

Xperia XZ1 is water resistant, dust-proof and reinforced with Corning® Gorilla® Glass 5 on the display so it’s tough enough to take on your day. For a personalised touch, the integrated fingerprint sensor recognises you intuitively, giving it that unique and secure assurance.  Wrapping up the premium design are four new colours, each inspired by natural light and the beautiful arrival of the changing tones as morning arrives; Moonlit Blue, Venus Pink, Warm Silver, and our classic Black. To enhance your lifestyle choice, Sony’s new h.ear (pronounced ‘hear’) headphones (h.ear on 2 Mini Wireless, h.ear on 2 Wireless NC and h.ear in 2 Wireless) will also be available in harmonised colours to complement your Xperia.

Xperia XZ1 is powered by the cutting-edge Qualcomm® Snapdragon™ 835 Mobile Platform with X16 LTE, designed to provide blazing fast Gigabit LTE downloads speeds (up to 1Gbps) and performance to enjoy a modern lifestyle whilst working or having fun. The Snapdragon 835 Mobile Platform is engineered to support stunning graphics, smooth performance and enhanced battery efficiency. Perfect for smooth, responsive gameplay of your favourite PlayStation®4 games using PS4 Remote Play. File transfers are also super-charged thanks to the USB 3.1 connection which is 10 times quicker than USB 2.0 with a transfer speed of up to 5Gbps.

Moving onto the battery life and its charging technologies, Battery Care and Qnovo Adaptive Charging, help the battery stay healthy to give you a longer battery lifespan. On days when you’re using extra energy, Smart Stamina works ahead of time to keep you powered up by estimating how long your current battery will last based on how you normally use your phone. And if it thinks you’re going to run out, it will prompt you to activate Stamina mode which cuts energy consumption so your battery lasts longer.

Xperia XA1 Plus

Offering best in class entertainment in the palm of your hand, it features a 23MP camera, 5.5” Full HD display and immersive audio performance with ClearAudio+ Sony audio technology and Smart Amplifier. Bringing a vibrant choice of three colours to express your individual style – Gold, Blue, Pink and Black – Xperia XA1 Plus features a rounded, sleek design with narrow borders and intuitive fingerprint sensor on the power button to give you personalised security. All this is powered with all day battery thanks to its large capacity and Stamina Mode and with power efficient performance to keep everything running smoothly and quickly with its octa-core processor.

Camera expertise are taken from Sony’s digital camera division to deliver a leading rear camera that offers 23MP high resolution with a large 1/2.3” Exmor™RS for mobile sensor.  It features a bright F2.0 lens to offer stunning high resolution images even in low-light, accurate Hybrid Autofocus so even the most spontaneous moments are always in focus, and you’re guaranteed a superfast journey from launch to capture in 0.6s. Xperia XA1 Plus also features an 8MP 23mm wide-angle lens front camera to give you high quality images that capture all the action, even in a group selfie.

Entertainment lovers and multi-taskers alike will love the all-day battery and power efficient performance. Stamina Mode extends the battery lifetime just when you really need it, whilst Qnovo Adaptive Charging technology and Battery Care work together to maintain the long-term health of the battery by monitoring its health and adjusting the charging current accordingly to avoid damage and maximise its lifespan. Quick charging is also supported to give you that boost of hours of power in just minutes of charging, while its power-efficient MediaTek Helio P20 octa-core processor provides a seamless experience whether you browse the web, watch a video or play your favourite game. Sony’s Smart Cleaner, meanwhile, automatically deactivates unused app and clears the cache to give you the fastest, most optimised performance.

Availability

In UAE: Xperia XZ1 will be available for pre-order from September 7th 2017 and it will be priced AED 2,199 with complimentary Sony XB20 Bluetooth Speaker. It will ship with Android™ 8.0 Oreo.

Xperia XA1 Plus will be available in stores from the end of October and it will be priced AED 1,199.

In KSA: Xperia XZ1 will be available for pre-order from September 10th to 24th and it will be priced SAR 2,199 with free Smartwatch 3, Touch cover, Car charger type C and Tempered glass. It will ship with Android™ 8.0 Oreo.

Xperia XA1 Plus will be available in stores from the end of October and it will be priced SAR 1,099.

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Launching largest conference & exhibition to create new culture for entrepreneurship in partnership with STC Monsha’at launch “BIBAN” platform to support entrepreneurs and provides solutions for SMEs BIBAN conference is an interactive platform to inspire by the successes and motivate by challenges of the SMEs sector BIBAN reveals Monsha’at’s vision, in its first year, toward SMEs

Small and Medium Enterprises General Authority (Monsha’at) will launch an interactive conference (BIBAN) which will be held at the Riyadh Exhibition and Convention center from 17th to 20th September 2017.

According to Dr. Ghassan Ahmed Al Sulaiman, Governor of the General Authority for small and medium enterprises during a press conference today, the BIBAN conference is an important event to create a new culture for the SMEs sector. The event will highlight successes and challenges of SMEs in Saudi Arabia.

“BIBAN conference aims to raise the community awareness of the  importance of innovation and creativity for entrepreneurship as well as to create a nurturing environment and the technical infrastructure to support competitiveness among SMEs,” he added.

Dr. Ghassan Al Sulaiman revealed that the SMEs sector represents 99.2% of the total business in Saudi Arabia. At the same time, “Monsha’at” is working with its partners from all sectors to help SMEs to increase their contribution in the GDP, from 20% to 35%, according to the Saudi vision 2030.

“This sector is a basic source for job opportunities in the country and is also one of the main pillars to diversify the income sources for the national’s economy,” he said.

Dr. Al Sulaiman stressed the importance of BIBAN conference as an interactive event that aims to review successful models of SMEs. “The conference has been designed to overcome obstacles such as the weak communication among stakeholders and the low interest of entrepreneurs who are not familiar with the government systems” he said.  

“BIBAN will address these challenges in line with the SMEs owners and entrepreneurs’ needs and aspirations (enrichment, empowerment, education and development). The conference will focus on the available investments opportunities taking into the consideration the local market’s current and future needs,” he added.

Mr. Riyadh Saeed Muawad, Key Accounts VP and Business Development VP of STC (Saudi Telecom Company), said that the growth of SMEs sector is central to achieving the Saudi vision 2030 for the future generations. It is important to motivate and support of SME growth. Therefore, STC, seeks to support the SMEs sector by offering ICT solutions.”

Mr. Mohammad Al Khuraiji, Chief Executive Officer of Al Arabia outdoor advertising, said that such initiatives that target the youth in general and those initiatives that support youth entrepreneurship in specific has wide support by Saudi large companies. He added: “We see great potential in supporting this segment of the society which will also contribute positively to the growth of small and medium enterprise sector in Saudi Arabia. It will also help diversify the economy and achieve one of the pillars of Saudi Vision 2030”. Mr. Al Khuraiji concluded: “We will always support those initiatives that contribute to the socio-economic growth and development of Saudi Arabia in line with the country’s vision 2030 and reflects our position as a leading Saudi company in outdoor advertising.”

The conference reflects a dynamic interactive concept in line of the young entrepreneurs’ aspirations to realize their ideas and dreams. BIBAN conference also opens the doors of a realistic dialogue on the challenges faced by the SMEs sector, including regulations, legislations and the ability to achieve efficient management of the funds.

BIBAN will highlight positive and successful models in the community to learn more from their experience. This step will support young entrepreneurs who have an idea but they do not know where to start, how to understand the regulations and how to get tools to support their operations and administrative and technical solutions. The conference will create a new thought and culture in dealing with entrepreneur’s to support their future and ambitions.

The 12-stations that BIBAN conference has will provide to the visitors rich knowledge and includes the journey station, conference station, awards station, exhibition station, market station, communication station, empowerment station, opportunities station, solutions station, training station, enterprisers station and digital station.

The knowledge will be provided by academics in the business field. This experience will help business owners to start their projects in the future and open horizons of communication between SMEs and large enterprises.

The event will award best supporting bodies of entrepreneurship from various government, fund and education sectors, non-profit organizations as well as the private sector for their role to support SMEs. The event also will name the Best Program for SMEs and Entrepreneurs.

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The Civil Defense Holds Mock Drill at Makarem Umm Al Qura Hotel

As part of the plan to raise awareness on safety procedures and ensuring crisis preparedness, the Civil Defense in Makkah Al Mokaramah carried out a fire safety drill at Makarem Umm Al Qura Hotel in cooperation with the hotel`s safety and security department.

The security personnel at the hotel conducted a complete evacuation process to minimize any imminent danger that could threaten the security of the guests, employees, and properties, by adopting the highest safety, security and prevention measures. Guests, employees and other staff from the buildings were guided towards safe assembly points as the fire alarm went off.  Conference rooms, ballrooms, facilities, and offices were checked after complete evacuation. The fire alarm, evacuation support, the ambulance procedure and the control room were checked for readiness. Before the live drill, a workshop was conducted by the Civil Defense team to assess and evaluate the whole process and increase the readiness of the security and safety Team at the hotel.

 

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