Huawei launches its Ramadan application “Muslim Daily” The new app offers a set of programs designed for helping Muslim track their prayers and daily rituals in the holy month through their smartphone

Huawei announced the launch of Muslim Daily app, its Ramadan application designed especially for fasting users with programs and features that help them perform their daily rituals on time including prayers (Al Salat), reciting the Holy Quran, identifying the Qiblah direction and finding the nearest mosques to the user’s location.

The free Android application offers a series of Ramadan programs on one single screen especially designed for Ramadan, including reciting Quran in text form, listening to 15 of the most famous Quran reciters (including Abdul Rahman Al Sodais, Abdul Basset Abdul Samad and Mashari Al Afasi), and the ability to change reciters at any time and complete the same verses (Ayat) without repeating the chapter (Surah) from the beginning, in addition to listening to the recitation even if the phone is off and adding a verse to the list of favorite verses to retrieve it quickly anytime later.

The application also offers a program to locate the direction of the Qiblah directly through GPS navigation feature in the smartphone. The application also displays prayer times for many cities around the world and alerts the user when it’s prayer time even if the phone is switched off, with a chronological countdown to the next prayer time. And according to the user’s current geographical location, the application can search for the nearest mosques and display them by name, address and distance.

When the user clicks on the name of a mosque from the list, the application will display Google map to show the user how to reach that mosque either on foot or by car. The application also displays the Hijri and Gregorian calendar on the same page, with the start and end dates of each calendar month. It also displays various religious events and occasions, such as Israa and Miraj, Prophet’s birthday, the beginning of Ramadan, Arafah, Eid al-Fitr, Eid al-Adha and the Hijri New Year among others.

Commenting on the new application, Gene Jiao, president of Huawei Consumer Business Group in the Middle East and Africa region said: “Huawei stays committed to making people’s lives better through its innovative products and software. And in the holy month of Ramadan, we do our best to offer valuable addition to the users’ experience in line with the spirituality of the blessed month to satisfy the needs of all our customers in the Islamic world, and we would like to take this opportunity to wish them a Happy and blessed Ramadan.”

 

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V-LINE GROUP invests heavily in the Kingdom as a commitment to Saudi Vision 2030

Today, V-LINE EUROPE GmbH, a global leader in industrial supply chain solutions, announces the establishment of V-LINE MIDDLE EAST in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia with a full trading license. The initial investment of nearly 27 million SAR will contribute to create hundred new jobs. This development marks one of the largest investments from a foreign Small and Medium-Size Enterprise (SME) in Saudi Arabia and one that advances the goals of a robust and diversified economy of the Kingdom’s Vision 2030. 

“The establishment of V-LINE MIDDLE EAST is a testament to our enduring success in the Kingdom, which began with the launch of our Jubail branch, V-LINE SAUDI ARABIA, in 2008 under the leadership of Mr. Shahzad Haider,” explains V-LINE EUROPE Founder and CEO Mr. Detlef Daues. “Our unparalleled ability to anticipate and understand the unique needs and objectives of our clients in the region has afforded us the opportunity to work with many exceptional enterprises both in the Kingdom and internationally.” V-LINE’s global expansion now encompasses operations in 20 countries with nearly one billion SAR in annual revenue.

V-LINE EUROPE GmbH has appointed Mr. Anas El Arras as Chief Executive Officer of
V-LINE MIDDLE EAST, bringing a wealth of experience and knowledge to the position. Mr. El Arras describes his new role as one that will “focus on expanding our established portfolio in Saudi Arabia by encouraging further local value creation and reflect our deep commitment to Saudi Vision 2030 by availing opportunities to develop the talents of young Saudis.” 

For Mr. Daues, the establishment of V-LINE MIDDLE EAST is a crowning achievement. “I am very thankful to HRH Deputy Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman for introducing Saudi Vision 2030,” Mr. Daues explained. “The establishment of V-LINE MIDDLE EAST affords us an opportunity to contribute to the Kingdom’s national Transformation Program by encouraging international SMEs to invest in Saudi Arabia and to support international Saudi-based businesses.” 

Mr. Daues would like to extend his sincerest gratitude and appreciation to the German Ambassador to Saudi Arabia H.E. Dieter W. Haller and H.E. Awwad Al Awwad, Saudi Ambassador to Germany and recently named Minister of Information and Culture, for their continued support and encouragement, as well as the Saudi investment partners who made the establishment of V-LINE MIDDLE EAST possible. “Today is a momentous day in the history of V-LINE,” Mr. Daues reflected. “It marks the beginning of renewed vision and purpose of V-LINE within the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Together, we will achieve our shared aim of realizing the goals of Saudi Vision 2030.”

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SAMA Governor Inaugurates “Second Insurance Career Day” today Al Eisa: Second Insurance Career Day comes in line with the governments’ aspirations to help create adequate jobs for youth as per Saudi Vision 2030

H.E. Dr. Ahmed Abdulkarim Al Kholifey, Governor of the Saudi Arabian Monetary Authority (SAMA), inaugurates the “Second Insurance Career Day” today, 24 May 2017, at The Institute of Finance in Riyadh, which will be held for two days from 24 to 25 May 2017, and will be attended by a number of specialists and officials from the Insurance Sector.

The “Second Insurance Career Day” is deemed as one of the most important gatherings that offers job opportunities in the Insurance Sector to young Saudi Job seekers. It comes as a direct result of the recommendations made in the “4th Saudi Insurance Symposium”, which stressed the importance of Saudiaztion of such vital sector, making serious investments in newly graduates and keeping up with the Ministry of Labor’s initiatives to provide training and qualification programs to young Saudi talents.

Mr. Adel Al Eisa, the official spokesperson for insurance companies and Head of Awareness and Training Committee explained that the “Second Insurance Career Day” aims at encouraging young Saudis to play their effective role in KSA economic development by directing their talents and academic achievements to the Insurance Sector and giving them the opportunity to meet over 30 organization offering young Saudis more than 700 job opportunities. The Second Insurance Career Day comes in line with the aspirations of our government to help create jobs that fit the young Saudis as per Saudi Vision 2030 and to further increase the Saudization of the Insurance Sector that currently stands at 58%.

Mr. Al Eisa called young males and females talents to visit this gathering and explore the job opportunities offered by both national and international companies that enjoy a long track record in the Saudi Insurance Sector. It should be noted that attendance for females will be from 09:00 a.m. to 01:00 p.m., and for males from 02:00 p.m. to 06:00 p.m. Those who cannot attend or are not from Riyadh, please visit www.icd-ksa.com to upload your CV and avoid taking the trouble to attend or travel.

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In cooperation with King Faisal Specialist Hospital Tawuniya organize the Blood Donation Campaign

The Company for Cooperative Insurance (Tawuniya) concluded an employees’ Blood Donation Campaign in cooperation with King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre. This Campaign took place during the period between 16 and 18 May 2017 at the Company’s Head Office in Riyadh.

The Campaign received remarkable response from Tawuniya’s employees who generously participated in the blood donation throughout three days in an initiative that exceeded the expectations of the King Faisal Specialist Hospital’s medical team who took part in the Campaign.

This Campaign is part of Tawuniya’s social responsibility programs aiming to promote health and wellness initiatives for Saudi society and to provide support to patients being treated by King Faisal Specialist Hospital.  

In this event, Mr. Majed A. Al-Bahiti, Marketing General Manager of Tawuniya, expressed his pride in the participation of Tawuniya’s employees in that benevolent initiative which aims to support and help patients to overcome their health issues. He prayed to Allah to bestow upon all of them quick recovery. “Blood donation is a humanitarian sympathy with patients, which everyone can take part in. Participation of Tawuniya’s employees in this significant campaign conveys a humanitarian message to the patients and society. Driven by the strategy developed by Tawuniya with respect to social responsibility, we strive, through such initiatives, to maximize our efforts in voluntary work in order to contribute to the development of our society and enhance its human capacities”, he said.

Further, Al-Bahiti recognized the role played by King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre, which is considered to be one of the eldest health facilities supporting Saudi society. He also extended his gratitude to the Hospital’s medical staff who contributed significantly to the success of this Campaign.

This Campaign complements the social responsibility programs carried out by Tawuniya, emphasizing on its strategy adopted to serve the society in line with the Company’s objectives to support healthcare and promote wellness and safety concepts within the society.

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AZKADENYA OPENS FIRST RESTAURANT BRANCH IN SAUDI ARABIA AT RUBEEN PLAZA, RIYADH Trendy restaurant to bring trademark twist on Arabic cuisine to the Kingdom by launching first branch in the capital

Popular restaurant Azkadenya opened its first branch in Riyadh, introducing a new audience to its much-loved Middle-Eastern dishes with a twist. Hailing from Jordan, where the modern-retro, casual dining concept was an instant hit in cosmopolitan capital Amman when it opened in 2011, this will be the first branch in Saudi Arabia.

A one-of-a-kind dining experience, Azkadenya blends a modern approach to traditional Arabic dishes with quirky interiors. Drawing inspiration from the Middle East back in 1950s right through to the early 90s – eccentric design elements are thrown together with humour to create a feast for the eyes, stomach and soul.

Azkadenya, managed by Gourmet Gulf, the leading food and beverage company in the Middle East, is located at Rubeen Plaza, on Riyadh’s Northern Ring Road.

Commenting on the launch, Stewart Black, Chief Executive Officer of Gourmet Gulf said, “The Saudi food industry has grown significantly over the past years and there is a growing demand for the best in class international restaurants. Azkadenya has gained the attention of the Gulf region, especially visitors from Saudi Arabia who frequent our outlets in the UAE. This first branch in Saudi Arabia offers a unique dining experience to Arab food lovers and brings even closer to our customers from Saudi Arabia who are already familiar with Azkadenya’s dishes and ambience.”

He added, the opening represents a significant milestone for the company and is part of Gourmet Gulf’s overall strategy of expanding its presence in Saudi Arabia. “The promising and growing business opportunities within the Kingdom require specialized companies with extensive experience and a high degree of efficiency. Gourmet Gulf’s experience has led us to partner with many leading international restaurant brands and now with our presence in Saudi Arabia, we look forward to adding value to the Kingdom’s existing food and beverage sector,” he said.

As the holy month of Ramadan soon approaches, Azkadenya is also the perfect location for guests to gather with family and friends and enjoy breaking their fast. The restaurant’s unrivalled buffet selection will change every day during the holy month, providing guests with plenty of mouth-watering reasons to return for more throughout the month of Ramadan.

It is also worth mentioning that, Gourmet Gulf holds the exclusive franchises rights of a prominent set of restaurants in KSA, including California Pizza Kitchen, YO! Sushi and Panda Express – the largest and fastest-growing Asian restaurant chain in the world. Other Gourmet Gulf restaurants opening in Saudi Arabia include Texas De Brazil and The Hummingbird Bakery.

 

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Huawei holds a training workshop to showcase its new era of professional photography through the new innovative P10 Plus and P10 smartphones

Huawei Tech Investment Co. Ltd. held a training workshop entitled “Professional Photography using a Smartphone” for media & social media influencers at Park Hyatt Jeddah Hotel to introduce a new era of professional photography and best ways to use the cameras of the new Huawei P10 Plus and P10 smartphones to replace their traditional professional cameras.

Huawei’s training workshop has seen remarkable attendance by a number of media. The renowned professional photographer Hussain Daghriri reviewed and discussed different ways to use the new features of P10 Plus and P10 cameras to replace the traditional professional cameras for the attending photography and media professionals. The cameras, co-engineered with the German professional lenses manufacturer Leica, offer many features and technologies that enable capturing vivid and high-quality images, in addition to the superfast image capture.

During the workshop, Huawei showcased its cutting-edge portrait features for capturing portrait images and transforming every shot into a cover shot.

Gene Jiao, president of Huawei Consumer Business Group for Huawei Middle East and Africa said: “Professional and amateur photographers may need to document a snapshot, take portrait pictures, or record video presentations for an important event or capture an extraordinary moment in a professional manner and this is why we enabled both smartphones with Leica Dual-Camera 2.0 for the HUAWEI P10 and Leica Dual-Camera 2.0 Pro Edition for the HUAWEI P10 Plus.  We collaborated with Leica to design a camera that gives users the opportunity to showcase their artistic touch and capture memorable photos that mimics Leica’s modern images using the new and innovative camera features. The Huawei P10 Plus & Huawei P10, the world’s first smartphone with a Leica front camera, transforms the selfie experience making it more fun for users. We have developed smart filtering software that works alongside the advanced lenses to take high-quality portrait images using back cameras which will give users of P10 Plus and P10 the ability to capture mesmerizing and memorable pictures. “

Huawei new smartphones feature new and unprecedented imaging technologies including precise 3D facial detection, photo enhancing filters and dynamic illumination. The Leica Dual-Camera Pro Edition 2.0 features a 12MP sensor and a 20MP monochrome that captures detailed facial features and improves image quality; in addition to the enhanced image fusion algorithms that work in concert to produce stunning photography.

These amazing features come with the dual camera Optical Image Stabilization (OIS) solutions and pixel binning technology, which makes the Huawei P10 Plus and Huawei P10 the perfect choice for superior night shot or low-light capabilities. Additional studio-level portrait tools and illumination effects were also developed based on extensive research.

The two devices use an artistic imaging algorithm which leverages Huawei’s extensive research of various different face shapes and skin colors. Captured photos are now more natural looking so that users who like to share photos on social media can share artistic shots that capture their friends’ attention. Moreover, Huawei added to P10 Plus and P10 smartphones several professional imaging tools and studio-like effects including natural color monochrome mode for the Bokeh effect in addition to the innovative Hybrid Zoom technology, an easy to use professional tool that allows you to take high quality more natural and dynamic pictures. The camera’s advanced software allows users to enhance and beautify skin appearance in the pictures giving it more bright and natural appearance.

In addition to the professional and advanced imaging technologies, the new smartphones offer high performance with memory of 6 and 4 GB and integrated 32/64/ and 128 GB storage that can be upgraded with additional 256 GB using micro SD memory cards. Moreover, the two phones feature the ultra-high-performance octa core Kirin 960 processor with speeds of up to 2.4 GHz and the ability to process graphics and run highly demanding graphics applications conveniently. The two phones are also dual Sim enabled. Huawei has carefully designed the smartphones to give an elegant and sleek appearance with thickness that doesn’t exceed 7 millimeters, and weight of less than 165 and 145 grams, in addition to the high definition 5.5-inch and 5.1-inch screens that give users the freedom of choice. And because battery life is one of the most important features sought by users, Huawei has increased the battery capacity to 3750 mAh in P10 Plus and 3,200 mAh in P10, in addition to Huawei’s exclusive SuperCharge technology which allows you to charge 60% of the battery in just 30 minutes and full battery charge in just 90 minutes.

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Sony Mobile Xperia XZ Premium available for online pre-order in Saudi Arabia Pre-order price SAR 2,499 and includes a free Sony MDR XB550AP headset

Sony Mobile Communications today announced that customers from across Saudi Arabia can pre-order Xperia XZ Premium smartphone online from 21st May at sonymobileksa.com/xperiaxzpremium, its dedicated Saudi Arabia website. Pre-order customers will receive a free Sony MDR XB550AP headset with their smartphone, which is priced at SAR 2,499.

Xperia XZ Premium has won more than 30 industry awards globally and is the only smartphone in the world to feature Sony’s new Motion Eye™ camera system. It offers the world’s first 960 framesi per second Super slow motion video capture and playback, four times slower than any other smartphone. Its camera is so advanced that it captures motion that the human eye can’t see.

For the first time ever in a smartphone, Xperia XZ Premium features a 4K HDR (High Dynamic Range, 2160 x 3840) 5.5” displayii. A truly unique Sony experience, it uses Sony’s BRAVIA TV technology to give you an immersive 4K HDR viewing experience in the palm of your hand, removing the constraints of your sofa.

Xperia XZ Premium offers users super-fast download speeds and several other intelligent features, and is powered by the cutting edge Qualcomm® Snapdragon™ 835 Mobile Platform. Additionally, with the USB Type-C™ socket, plugging in is easy because the connector is always the right way up.

Available in two colours – Luminous Chrome and Deepsea Black – Xperia XZ Premium can be pre-ordered in Saudi Arabia from 21st May until 1st June, 2017.

Sony Mobile’s Xperia XZ Premium will be available in stores across Saudi Arabia from the first week of June.

 

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Saudi Elenex and Saudi Aircon Exhibitions 2017 Kicked Off in Riyadh

The Saudi Elenex and Saudi Aircon Exhibitions kicked Off on the 14th of May 2017 at the Riyadh International Convention and Exhibition Center, in the presence of Eng. Mansour Al Qahtani, acting CEO of the Saudi Electricity company and Eng. Mansour Al Chautari, Vice Chairman of the Chamber of Commerce.

The exhibition will continue until the 16th of May, with the participation of more than 12 countries from around the world, reflecting the importance of the power sector in general and the major play the exhibition is playing by attracting leading companies, and contributing in highlighting the important challenges and achievements that encounters the electricity and air-conditioning sectors locally and internationally.

With the support of the diamond sponsorship of the Saudi Electricity company, and participating sponsor Saudi Standards Metrology and Quality Org. (SASO), as well as the participation of 112 companies, the exhibition showcased the promising investment opportunities in the renewable energy and techniques field. In addition to offering the latest air conditioning solutions and products and their positive impact on the environment and rationalization in the consumption of electricity.

In this context, Mr. Khalid Alamdar, Director of Sales and Marketing at Riyadh Exhibition company Ltd. Said: ‘’ This year we are celebrating the launch of the 20th edition of this exhibition, which has become a preferred platform for the most interested and experienced experts and the most specialized local and regional electricity exhibitions to explore the latest technologies that drive the sector forward’’.

It is worth mentioning that Riyadh Exhibitions Co. Ltd. (REC), is a Saudi company specialized in organizing local & international exhibitions, conferences and other trade events. The company caters to several activities for various economic sectors. Throughout its 36 years, REC has organized more than 440 unique and successful shows and conferences renowned for their innovation, professionalism and attention to details. REC boasts an international presence, supported by over 120 commercial & industrial bodies from more than 50 countries. Regionally, REC dominates with its wide range of events programs, serving 20 economic and financial sectors in the Middle East. REC’s leading events are certified by UFI.

 

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Saudi Health Care Exhibition welcomed more than 8 thousand visitors

The fifth edition of Saudi Health Care exhibition that lasted for three consecutive days with a wide gulf and international participation, was concluded with more than 8400 visitors, at the Riyadh International Convention and Exhibition Centre.

The organizing company, Riyadh Exhibition co Ltd. announced that this year 39 international pavilions were present and showcased all innovative health related products, services and medical equipment, which reflected the success of the exhibition with the participation of 339 companies. Additionally, several health initiatives were launched on the sidelines of the exhibition, and four major agreements were signed with international organizations, among which the agreement of Inmatech with two international companies, Delta controls and Stanley healthcare.

In this context, Mr. Khalid Alamdar, Director of sales and marketing, Riyadh Exhibitions Company, said: “During the exhibition, we were keen to introduce the latest health care services to our visitors and to shed the light on all the investment opportunities”.

He added: “The success of the exhibition is a success for all the companies and individuals who took part in it and worked hard to enrich the scientific movement, support the health sector, and improve healthcare efficiency and health practitioner services in the region and the world”.

Mr. Alamdar assured that this edition of Saudi Health Care show witnessed a remarkable success due to the huge role that exhibiting companies played in it. On top of the list are the sponsors headed by Siemens Healthineers the Platinum sponsor, Masimo the Gold sponsor and The Saudi Health Council, King Fahed Medical Center and the Council of Cooperative Health Insurance, the strategic partners.

It is worth mentioning that Riyadh Exhibitions Co. Ltd. (REC), is a Saudi company specialized in organizing local & international exhibitions, conferences and other trade events. The company caters to several activities for various economic sectors. Throughout its 36 years, REC has organized more than 440 unique and successful shows and conferences renowned for their innovation, professionalism and attention to details. REC boasts an international presence, supported by over 120 commercial & industrial bodies from more than 50 countries. Regionally, REC dominates with its wide range of events programs, serving 20 economic and financial sectors in the Middle East. REC’s leading events are certified by UFI.

 

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THE HUMMINGBIRD BAKERY LAUNCHES IN RIYADH A New and Unique Experience for American Dessert Lovers

Gourmet Gulf, the leading food and beverage company in the Middle East, has launched the first branch of The Hummingbird Bakery chain in Riyadh. The bakery, known for their indulgent American-style bakes and cakes is all set to be the destination of choice for all American dessert lovers in the Kingdom.

The Hummingbird Bakery is perhaps most famous for its cupcakes but also serves the finest fresh baked desserts such as muffins, brownies, cookies and other sweet treats.

In addition to offering an extensive range of traditional American baked products, the bakery is continually innovating to come up with new cupcake flavors.  The Hummingbird Bakery provides a unique experience to visitors and ensures there is always something new, fresh and exciting to try. Visitors to the bakery have the opportunity to directly see how their favorite desserts prepared and they can taste them as well.

“This bakery is a modern concept in baking American desserts, and its products are popular among many Saudis and residents who have experienced these kinds of desserts while traveling abroad,” said Stewart Black, CEO of Gourmet Gulf said.

He added, “The Saudi society’s openness to the world’s cultures has created an attractive environment for genuine investment in the food industry. This has led us to create attractive ideas and introduce a new culture that focuses on the changing patterns of markets to meet consumers’ needs and aspirations and provide a unique opportunity to experience the best international desserts.”

Erol Erguvenc, General Manager of Gourmet Gulf KSA said, “We are very happy with the opening of the first branch of The Hummingbird Bakery in Saudi Arabia. Our Rubeen Plaza branch will serve fresh and delicious American desserts and visitors will not only love the tastes of authentic American baking but will also have an enjoyable experience watching our bakers prepare these desserts before them.”

It is worth mentioning that Gourmet Gulf holds the exclusive franchises rights of a prominent set of restaurants in KSA, including California Pizza Kitchen, YO! Sushi and Panda Express –  the largest and fastest-growing Asian restaurant chain in the world. Other Gourmet Gulf restaurants opening in Saudi Arabia include Texas De Brazil and Azkadenya.

 

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