IDC to Host 12th Edition of Saudi Arabia CIO Summit in Riyadh as the Kingdom Continues to Embrace the Digital Transformation Goals of Vision 2030

After a gap of two years, the IDC Saudi Arabia CIO Summit returns to an in-person format on September 19-20 in Riyadh as the Kingdom continues its rapid transformation towards a digital economy in alignment with the goals of Vision 2030.

Hosted under the theme ‘Accelerating the Journey to a Digital-First World’, the highly anticipated 12th annual IDC Saudi Arabia CIO Summit will combine a series of presentations, panel discussions, real-life use cases, and individual technology tracks. Delegates will be able to explore a broad range of themes central to their ongoing digital journeys and take an exclusive look at the very latest developments in technological innovation.

“As Saudi organizations tap into the value-creation opportunities being driven by digital transformation (DX), they are increasingly embracing a digital-first approach to building resilience into their business operations,” says Hamza Naqshbandi, IDC’s associate vice president for Saudi Arabia and Bahrain. “Spurred by significant investments in the creation of new customer experiences, digital ecosystem-based business models, digital supply chains, and evolving ‘Future of Work’ models, the Kingdom is poised to become a global digital powerhouse. These themes will shape discussions at this year’s IDC Saudi Arabia CIO Summit— a trusted platform that connects leading ICT executives to help unleash new opportunities and solve some of the most pressing challenges that organizations are facing in their quest to enable a digital economy in Saudi Arabia.”

The event will feature insights from IDC’s CIO Advisory Council for Saudi Arabia, whose members include some of the Kingdom’s most respected ICT leaders and experts:
 
Eng. Naif Sheshah, Assistant Deputy Governor, Planning and Development, and Chief Digital Officer, Communications and Information Technology Commission (CITC)
Eng. Faisal Bakhashwain, Deputy Minister for Digital Transformation, Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development
Yazeed Al Otaibi, Assistant Deputy Minister for Planning and Digital Transformation, Ministry of Health
General Sundah Alsehali, General Director of Information Technology, Ministry of Defense
Eng. Haithem Al Faraj, Group Chief Technology Officer, Saudi Telecom Company (STC)
Abdulaziz Abanmi, Chief Operating Officer, Saudi Payments
Yousef A. Alsuhaibani, Chief Information Officer, Mobily
Eng. Ghada Albugami, Chief Information Officer and Presidential Advisor for Digital Transformation, Princess Nourah Bint Abdulrahman University
Jason E. Roos, Chief Information Officer, King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST)
Ayman Alharbi, Senior Director of IT, The Red Sea Development Company and Amaala
Bander Al-Shahrani, Head of IT, Public Investment Fund (PIF)

The annual IDC Saudi Arabia CIO Summit is the place to come for thought-provoking, in-depth discussions about cutting-edge tech solutions, emerging use cases, and proven strategies for driving success. This year’s installment will conclude on September 20 with the IDC Excellence Awards 2022, which will recognize the efforts of Saudi Arabia’s leading technology executives across three categories: CIO of the Year, CISO of the Year, and Women in Technology and Business.

IDC is honored to have a wide range of partners on board for the IDC Saudi Arabia CIO Summit 2022, including IBM as Host Partner; SITE as Game Changer Partner; Unifonic as Innovation Partner; Tech Mahindra as DX Partner; Red Hat as Smart ICT Partner; Cisco as Strategic Partner; AWS, Cloud4C, Google Cloud, Riverbed / Starlink, UiPath, Software AG, CEQUENS, and Microsoft as Summit Partners; Micro Focus, SS&C Blue Prism, Fortinet, VMware, Mendix, SBM, and AMD as Platinum Partners; Kofax, Udacity, Nexthink, Crayon, Cloudera, Snowflake, Nahil Computers / HPE, and Symphony Summit as Technology Focus Group Partners
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KAFD To Host International Real Estate Community Management Summit (IRECMS) Masterclass

The event is a first for IRECMS in KSA and highlights KAFD’s expertise in serving the global real estate industry

King Abdullah Financial District (KAFD), the region’s prime destination for business and a cosmopolitan lifestyle, today announced that on September 1st it will host a knowledge-sharing real estate masterclass in partnership with IRECMS. IRECMS is a global event series, organised by Plan3Media Event Management and is committed to lifting the benchmark of community, facilities, property and asset management across the world. IRECMS Masterclass Riyadh is the organization’s first foray into the promising KSA market and serves as a launchpad for larger events in the future. The masterclass program will be led by three international industry speakers and will be attended by senior management from the real estate industry throughout the Kingdom and the broader region. 

“IRECMS Masterclass Riyadh is a unique opportunity for real estate professionals to learn from global experts and create powerful international peer networks,” said Gautam Sashittal, KAFD CEO. “We at KAFD are honored to host the first-ever masterclass in Riyadh and view this collaboration with IRECMS as the natural outcome of a shared interest in serving the real estate sector, both here in the Kingdom and around the world.” 

“We believe that KSA is a promising region which will see rapid growth in real estate management. Launching IRECMS in KSA is our endeavor to facilitate this growth,” said Harsha Agrawal, Event Director for IRECMS.

Launched in 2019, IRECMS has been held in Mumbai, Bengaluru, Dubai and Madrid. In addition to the upcoming event in Riyadh, in 2022 IRECMS will be held in Bahrain, Mumbai, Milan and Dubai. For more information, visit https://irecms.com/dubai.

Owned by the Public Investment Fund (PIF), KAFD is the region’s new destination for business, leisure and residence. A landmark project set on more than 3 million square meters of land in the heart of the capital, KAFD is home to 1.6 million square meters of state-of-the-art office space, world-class entertainment venues and iconic luxury residences. Offering a competitive ecosystem of vibrant lifestyle experiences powered by differentiated customer service, KAFD invites citizens of the world to envisionaccelerate and live

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WIZZ AIR ANNOUNCES MAJOR EXPANSION IN SAUDI ARABIA

Over one million low fare seats on 20 routes launched from Europe to Riyadh, Jeddah, and Dammam to support Vision 2030

Wizz Air, Europe’s fastest growing and most sustainable airline, is launching 20 exciting new routes from Bucharest, Budapest, Catania, Larnaca, Milan, Naples, Rome, Sofia, Tirana, Venice and Vienna to Riyadh, Jeddah, and Dammam in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The airline introduces a new era of extended travel opportunities at ultra-low fares between Europe and the Kingdom to strengthen Saudi Arabia’s global connectivity.  Tickets for all routes are already on sale on wizzair.com and the airline’s mobile app, with fares starting from 54.99 €.*

The new routes will majorly enhance Wizz Air’s presence in the Kingdom that will boost the growing Saudi Arabian tourism sector and contribute to the Vision 2030 programme to triple the country’s passenger traffic by 2030. Just alone this expansion will bring over one million additional travellers to Saudi Arabia next year. 

Jozsef Varadi, CEO of Wizz Air, said: Saudi Arabia is one of the most exciting countries in the world for aviation portraying an eclectic mix of travel opportunities with unmissable destinations, countless exciting attractions, and a thriving cultural scene. Today’s announcement follows the Memorandum of Understanding we recently signed with the government enabling us to contribute to Saudi tourism’s growth and its entire ecosystem.  Not only does Wizz Air offer incredibly low fares to travellers given our operational efficiency, but we also fly one the youngest, most modern, and sustainable fleet of aircraft in the world. I see the Kingdom as a long-term strategic market for Wizz Air where we will continue to innovate and carry the flag of low cost flying for the benefit of Saudi residents and visitors as well as the country’s diversifying economy.” 

Fahd Hamidaddin, CEO and Member of the Board at Saudi Tourism Authority, said: “Today’s announcement of 20 new routes to Saudi is one of the largest such announcements anywhere in the world. It is a real first for Wizz Air and for Saudi, and opens a new and affordable gateway for visitors from Europe that will allow everyone to come and explore the world’s most exciting new destination. This is already an exceptional partnership and today is just the start.We are making it easier than ever to get to Saudi and are confident that increased travel options and competitiveness will expand consumer choice and drive down costs.”

Khalil Lamrabet, CEO of The Air Connectivity Program, said: “We are pleased to have been able to work with Wizz Air to grow its network to Saudi Arabia; the announced routes are a testament to the strong traffic potential that the Kingdom has to offer. We look forward to welcoming these new flights into the Kingdom’s expanding network and to working with Wizz Air to explore other route opportunities in Saudi Arabia.”

Mohammed Ahmed Almowkley, CEO of Matarat, said: “We at Matarat are working with our partners and airline companies to provide an attractive environment at Saudi airports for airlines and passengers to offer better choices with high-quality services, and this work is an extension to the previous announcement with Wizz Air to operate direct flights from King Fahd International Airport to three diverse international destinations. Matarat will continue on this path to achieve the National Aviation Strategy objectives which are part of the Saudi 2030 vision.”

Wizz Air signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Ministry of Investment for the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The MoU is a Ministry of Tourism initiative, aimed to enhance the development of the Saudi Tourism Sector. It reflects a shared vision between the parties on the potential Wizz Air could bring to the Kingdom to stimulate tourist demand, thereby making a significant contribution to Saudi Arabia’s planned growth.

The easing of COVID-19 restrictions and the removal of PCR test requirements for vaccinated travellers has made travel simpler again, allowing for more spontaneous trips abroad.

For ultimate peace of mind during this uncertain time, passengers can book tickets with confidence, thanks to WIZZ Flex. With WIZZ Flex, passengers can cancel their flight up to three hours before departure without any fee and receive 100% of the fare immediately reimbursed in airline credit.

RouteOperating DaysSales startFlights start Fares from*
Budapest – RiyadhMonday & FridayOn sale09/01/202354.99 EUR
Budapest – JeddahTuesday & SaturdayOn sale10/01/202354.99 EUR
Budapest – DammamThursday & SundayOn sale20/04/202354.99 EUR
Bucharest – RiyadhMonday & ThursdayOn sale09/01/202354.99 EUR
Bucharest – JeddahTuesday & SaturdayOn sale10/01/202354.99 EUR
Catania – RiyadhTuesday & SaturdayOn sale18/04/202354.99 EUR
Larnaca – RiyadhMondayOn sale17/04/202354.99 EUR
Larnaca – JeddahSaturdayOn sale08/07/202354.99 EUR
Larnaca – DammamTuesdayOn sale04/07/202354.99 EUR
Milan – JeddahTuesday & SaturdayOn sale03/12/202254.99 EUR
Milan – RiyadhThursday & SundayOn sale20/04/202354.99 EUR
Naples – RiyadhTuesdayOn sale18/04/202354.99 EUR
Rome – RiyadhTuesday & SaturdayOn sale06/12/202254.99 EUR
Rome – JeddahWednesday & SaturdayOn sale11/01/202354.99 EUR
Sofia – RiyadhThursday & SundayOn sale20/04/202354.99 EUR
Tirana – Dammam**Monday & FridayOn sale17/04/202354.99 EUR
Venice – RiyadhThursday & SundayOn sale20/04/202354.99 EUR
Venice – JeddahTuesday & SaturdayOn sale18/04/202354.99 EUR
Vienna – RiyadhTuesday, Thursday & SaturdayOn sale19/12/202254.99 EUR
Vienna – JeddahTuesday & SaturdayOn sale13/12/202254.99 EUR
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SIYAM WORLD MALDIVES ‘PIMPS’ GUEST RIDES WITH SEABREACHERS, MINI MOKES AND THE WORLD’S FIRST WATER BIKES

Indian Ocean iconoclast Siyam World has unleashed a new fleet of custom Mini Mokes; adrenaline-pumping Seabreachers; and “the world’s first water bike”, Manta5’s Hydrofoiler XE-1, providing guests with three more eyepopping ways to motor away from the Maldives mainstream.

On a mission to bring its guests the broadest offering of memorable escapades and never-done-before experiences, Siyam World made waves last year when it opened with the Indian Ocean’s biggest floating water park – and now it has rivals trailing in its wake once again after launching the Maldives’ first ever Seabreacher. With the aerodynamic lines of a fighter jet and a sculpted shark-like body, the Seabreacher represents a dramatic breakthrough in recreational boating. Operating more like an aircraft than a watercraft, these extraordinary semisubmersible vessels can jump over, dive under and carve left and right through the waves – and are even capable of 360-degree barrel rolls on the water. The Seabreacher’s acrylic canopy and underwater view ports give pilot and passenger near-360-degree views, while its supercharged 260hp engine propels them across the water at speeds of up to 50mph. 

For a more tranquil, yet singularly surreal take on conquering the waves, Siyam World guests can also experience the extraordinary Manta5 Hydrofoiler XE-1 – the world’s first hydrofoil e-bikes. Capable of speeds up to 11 knots, these emission-free, wake-free, near-silent wave-riding phenomena harness the same technology as America’s Cup yachts to create a completely new cycling experience on water.

Back on dry land, guests staying at The Beach House Collection – Siyam World’s exclusive enclave of 24 show-stopping one- to six-bedroom Residences – can also now explore the island’s trails in style with their very own custom Mini Moke. Recently revived and relaunched as the first heritage car marque to go fully electric, the British-made Mini Moke is the ultimate retro-chic beach whip. Each of Siyam World’s Mini Mokes comes with an onboard sound system and is named after a colourful 90s music legend – think “Green Day”, “Red Hot Chilli Peppers” and “Pink Floyd” – with a vibrant paintjob to match.

Siyam World is an unapologetically quirky, all-embracing five-star all-inclusive island destination that transcends cultures and borders to offer guests an ever-expanding array of ‘never-seen-before’ experiences – from the Indian Ocean’s biggest floating water park to the Maldives’ first resort horse ranch. The natural 54-hectare island resort boasts an enticing variety of 19 accommodation categories ranging from 89 to 3,000 square metres, from lush Pool Beach Villas, expansive Beach Suites and breath-taking Beach Residences to playful overwater Villas complete with irresistible water slides. An exclusive enclave, The Beach House Collection, also features stunning Grand Water Pavilions and the magnificent Palace. All accommodation types overlook the pristine Maldivian waters, come with direct access to the ocean and feature generously proportioned indoor and outdoor living spaces with private pools.

Siyam World offers Seabreacher experiences from USD400++ per person (20 minutes) and Manta5 Hydrofoiler rental from USD130++ per person (20 minutes). Mini Moke rental is complimentary for The Beach House Collection guests. For more information, visit Siyam World or follow on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, TikTok or YouTube. For booking enquires email: stay@siyamworld.com.

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Few Weeks Remain to Secure Early Bird Tickets for Disney On Ice presents Mickey and Friends

Three weeks remain for fans to grab early bird tickets to watch the world’s most loved fictional characters as Disney On Icepresents Mickey and Friends skates into Abu Dhabi from 12th to 16th October at the Etihad Arena, Yas Island Abu Dhabi. Guests will receive 10% off when booking silver, gold or platinum tickets before July 1st.

Mickey Mouse is joined by Minnie Mouse, Donald Duck and Goofy on a journey to discover his favorite memory of all time. Using Mickey’s “Mouse Pad,” show hosts encourage fans to be part of the action and help the gang venture through Disney stories, sharing memorable moments from treasured tales. Along the way, families sail away with Moana as she displays courage to save her island on a high-seas adventure with the demigod, Maui. Families will continue the journey to the wintry world of Arendelle as royal sisters Anna and Elsa discover true love is the most powerful magic of all and experience the mysterious magic of Fantasia as a Sorcerer’s Apprentice makes brooms come to life.Live Your Story” alongside Disney Princesses as they use perseverance, determination and hard work to inspire Mickey and children around the world to share their favorite Disney memories.

While delivering the same magical experiences guests expect from Disney On Ice, Feld Entertainment is continuing Guest Wellness Enhancements to help keep families safe at its live events. Feld Entertainment is working closely with venue partners to establish and follow COVID-19 health and safety standards in accordance with all local guidelines.  Please monitor the venue website for health and safety policies, including face covering and entry requirements, which are subject to change.  Full details on Feld Entertainment Guest Wellness Enhancements can be found here.

WHEN:     Wednesday, 12th October        7:30 PM           

        Thursday, 13th October        7:30 PM

        Friday, 14th October            3:30 PM & 7:30 PM

        Saturday, 15th October        11:30AM, 3:30 PM & 7:30 PM

        Sunday, 16th October            11:30AM, 3:30 PM & 7:30 PM

WHERE:    Etihad Arena – Yas Island, Abu Dhabi

PROMOTION:  Early Bird Special; from May 23rd till July 1st, 10% off will be offered on silver, gold and platinum. 

TICKETS:    www.DisneyOnIceME.com   

*Ticket pricing is subject to change based on market demand. 

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Saudi Organizations Must Develop the Right Skill Sets to Enhance Their Security Posture for an Increasingly Digital World

International Data Corporation (IDC) today hosted the Saudi Arabia edition of its IDC Security Roadshow 2022, with more than 180 of the country’s most influential security leaders in attendance at the Crowne Plaza Riyadh RDC Hotel. The event addressed the theme ‘Elevating the Security of the Future Enterprise’.As cybersecurity gains strategic weight on the executive-level agenda, new challenges and opportunities are arising, but only 21% of Saudi organizations recently surveyed by IDC have an end-to-end security strategy in place that includes shared responsibilities, risk tolerance, classified events, and a recovery plan in case of an attack. Another 40% have a partially developed security strategy in place, while 12% have implemented a security strategy but not formally tested or reviewed it yet.Organizations are still lagging when it comes to implementing security solutions, but this is not the only challenge. The skills gap is huge in terms of security professionals, not only in Saudi Arabia, but also globally. Cybersecurity professionals were already scarce before the pandemic, but due to the increase in remote working and the evolving threat landscape after the pandemic’s onset, demand for security skills has heightened further. These skills are now in short supply, and their cost is constantly rising.”Evolving digital transformation strategies and shifting industry dynamics across Saudi Arabia are driving organizations to innovate and explore new technologies and delivery models,” said Hamza Naqshbandi, IDC’s associate vice president for Saudi Arabia and Bahrain, as he presented the event’s opening keynote. “In turn, this is creating a complex ecosystem beset by new cybersecurity challenges. As a result, cybersecurity is no longer limited to protecting technology assets but must also ensure business resiliency. Indeed, 54% of Saudi organizations surveyed by IDC said that their security departments are now involved in the planning and assessment stage for all new developments.”The Saudi Arabia edition of the IDC Security Roadshow 2022 explained why ensuring visibility and control across the entire technology footprint is now vital for organizational survival. With pressing challenges to the security of the future enterprise firmly in mind, industry experts explored a raft of transformative technologies, dissected the ever-growing threat landscape, and examined the increasingly sophisticated nature of cyberattacks. The event showcased insights from a range of respected industry thought leaders as they presented sessions on topics such as: Simplifying Your Zero Trust JourneySecuring Modern Applications: What You Need to Know NowConfronting the New Wave of CyberattacksThe Role of Threat Intelligence Within a Cyber Defense StrategyKeeping your Enterprise Business Safe with SecurityManaged Cyber Defense: When Professionals Fight ProfessionalsWeathering the Threat StormLooking Beyond the Obvious: A Comprehensive Approach to Investigating & Managing RisksThe agenda also incorporated fascinating end-user insights from Khalid Al Faheid, CISO of Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Environment, Water, and Agriculture (MEWA), as he presented proven best practices for developing the cybersecurity capabilities required to thrive to secure the future enterprise. The event culminated with the official launch of an exclusive new IDC and Microsoft white paper titled ‘Cybersecurity KSA: A Digital Transformation Imperative’, with all attendees receiving a complementary copy of the report, which explores all the latest trends and developments shaping cybersecurity investments in the Kingdom.To learn more about the IDC Security Roadshow 2022, please contact Sheila Manek at smanek@idc.com or on +971 4 446 3154. You can also join the conversation on social media using the hashtag #IDCITSECURITY.The Saudi Arabia edition of the IDC Security Roadshow 2022 in Riyadh was supported by the following organizations: Platinum Partners: VMware, Checkmarx, Mimecast, Kaspersky, Oracle, Help AG, CrowdStrike, Microsoft; Gold Partners: SentinelOne, Odyssey, Secureworks / Redington, Veeam, Juniper Networks, Rubrik, Trellix, Attack IQ, Saudi Business Machines; Exhibit Partner: Forescout; Media Partners: Media Partners: International Business Magazine, Cyber Defense Magazine.

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GCC Smartphone Market Suffers Decline as Demand Continues to Weaken

ewly released data from IDC’s Worldwide Quarterly Mobile Phone Tracker shows that shipments of mobile phones to the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region declined 0.8% quarter on quarter (QoQ) in Q1 2022 to total 6.10 million units. Smartphone shipments were up 0.4% QoQ to 5.47 million units, while feature phone shipments decline 9.8% over the same period to 0.63 million units. In terms of value, the GCC smartphone market was worth $2.09 billion in Q4 2021, a decrease of 4.5% QoQ, while the feature phone market totaled $11.16 million, down 25.9%.Samsung and Xiaomi channels reported improved supply across the GCC for the quarter. Samsung saw its most significant growth in the low ($100<$200) and premium ($800+) ends of the market, while Xiaomi saw growth in the midrange to high-end category ($200<$600). Apple faced shortages stemming from delayed shipments, which impeded the vendor’s overall unit and value growth during the quarter.Smartphone shipments to Saudi Arabia declined 4.9% QoQ in Q1 2022, although the Kingdom still accounted for 53.3% of all smartphone shipments to the GCC. The UAE, the region’s second-largest market, saw shipments increase 11.2% QoQ for 24.9% share.”Q1 2022 saw a drop in shipments to Saudi Arabia with partners reporting excess inventory in the channel and lagging demand,” says Akash Balachandran, a senior analyst at IDC. “However, the ‘Other GCC’ countries (Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, and Qatar) saw a mild pickup after having experienced constrained supply in previous quarters. The UAE’s smartphone growth stemmed mainly from an improved supply of low-end and premium Samsung devices, as well as from Xiaomi’s concerted focus on promoting its midrange devices.”Samsung led the GCC smartphone market in terms of shipments in Q1 2022 with 47.5% share. The vendor posted 6.9% QoQ growth in shipments as supply improved, especially for its S-series devices. Second-placed Apple, with 15.4% share, saw shipments decline 18.2% QoQ, with channel partners reporting supply constraints and delays in shipments. Rounding out the top three, Xiaomi accounted for 14.9% of the GCC smartphone market in Q1 2022, with its expanding portfolio of midrange to high-end devices driving a 9.3% QoQ increase in shipments to the region.

Figure 1: GCC Smartphone Market by Brand Share (Units), Q1 2021–Q2 2022

The GCC smartphone market is forecast to decline 4.8% QoQ in Q2 2022 due to rising inflation, declining consumer demand, and growing inventory in the channel. Travel and tourism will continue to increase but will not be sufficient to improve the quarter.”5G shipments to the GCC in Q1 2022 were down 3.4% QoQ and accounted for 35.9% of overall smartphone shipments,” says Ramazan Yavuz, a senior research manager at IDC. “This was due to higher shipments of entry-level 4G Android devices in conjunction with shortages of iOS 5G devices. While ups and downs are expected in the short term, 5G penetration is forecast to continue at its previous rapid pace over the medium and long term and will make up 80.6% of total GCC smartphone shipments in 2026.”

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Alhokair announces opening of Danish sensation Flying Tiger Copenhagen’s first store in the Kingdom

Fawaz Abdulaziz Alhokair Co. (“Alhokair”), the leading franchise retailer in Saudi Arabia, announced the opening of the first Flying Tiger Copenhagen store in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The launch is a key milestone in Alhokair’s strategy to enhance customer experience by introducing unique concepts to the ever-growing Saudi market. The addition of Flying Tiger Copenhagen is in line with Alhokair’s mission to leverage unique partnerships with international brands to deliver a diversified brand offering to its customers.Speaking on the store opening, Marwan Moukarzel, Chief Executive Officer at Alhokair said: “We are committed to partnering with brands that share our vision and ambition to introduce personalised customer experiences and diversified offerings. As part of our commitment to cement our position as the leading lifestyle retailer, we are meeting a pertinent need for uniquely driven concept stores in the Saudi market. We look forward to welcoming our customers to the stores, where we invite them to immerse themselves in the experience our new stores have to offer.”Hani Nehme, General Manager of E-commerce and Multimedia at Alhokair commented: “We are thrilled to welcome Flying Tiger Copenhagen to the Kingdom. Their creative and sustainable offering through their unique concept store is an exciting addition to Alhokair’s fast-evolving portfolio. A firm favourite globally, the arrival of the inaugural store in Al Nakheel Mall Riyadh this month is a testament to Alhokair’s dedication to introducing coveted concepts to the people of the Kingdom, enriching the local shopping experience with handpicked international offerings.” Since the first store opened in Copenhagen in 1988, the variety retail concept has grown to almost 900 shops worldwide. Flying Tiger Copenhagen has a strong focus on uniqueness, product relevance and sustainability. Good and affordable design combined with a unique shopping experience is at the very core of the business. Moreover, Flying Tiger Copenhagen remains committed to respecting ethical, environmental, and social standards across its entire value chain.Martin Jermiin, CEO at Flying Tiger Copenhagen adds: ”We are very pleased to have partnered up with Alhokair on this important market entry. We are excited to bring Saudi customers our unique concept and fun shopping experience, and have a strong belief that our offering and products fit the Saudi consumers well.”Saudi Arabia’s first Flying Tiger Copenhagen store will open in Al Nakheel Mall Riyadh on February 24. The launch marks the mobilisation of ambitious plans by Alhokair to introduce 45 stores in five years, starting with the Flying Tiger Copenhagen brick-and-mortar store. Alhokair will introduce their next Flying Tiger Copenhagen stores in Riyadh Gallery, followed by Mall of Dhahran and Al Nakheel Mall Dammam.
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Riyadh International Luxury Week returns with 2022 Edition

Pioneering Watch & Jewellery Event in Kingdom of Saudi Arabia 

to be held for second year

Following on from the success of its inaugural edition in 2021, Riyadh International Luxury Week is set to be held at the Al Faisaliah Hotel in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia from 24th – 27th May 2022. The event is designed to showcase the ultimate in watch and jewellery creativity and craftsmanship, featuring over 60 of some of the world’s – and region’s – most prominent brands, as well as a host of interactive experiences for visitors.

Riyadh International Luxury Week offers a gateway for watch and jewellery specialists to engage with their audience in the Kingdom, debuting novelties, showcasing standout pieces, sharing their heritage and craft, and creating a platform for conversation in the luxury space.

The exhibition will once again have one zone dedicated to Jewellery, the other to Horology in the form of Salon des Grandes Complications. Displays will include both Fine and High Jewellery, an array of curated pieces made with visionary savoir-faire and featuring rare, extraordinary stones, as well as a wide range of exceptional timepieces crafted to the highest levels of artistry and technological innovation by legendary watchmakers.

This year, young Saudi designers will be given the chance to shine, with a dedicated section to those new to the industry, devoted to their craft. Another new addition is the Bespoke Jewellery Design Salon, where visitors will be able to dream up one-off creations guided by industry specialists. 

Several seminars will also be held, with acclaimed experts offering insights into both watchmaking and jewellery topics. Special guests include Nezar Jamil Mukhtar, Member of the National Committee for Precious Metals & Gemstones and Member of the Gold & Jewellery Committee of Riyadh Chamber, Sotheby’s representatives Frederic Watrelot and Sophie Stevens, and watch collector Khalid Al Seif among others. Her Excellency Evelyne Genta, wife of legendary watchmaker Gerald Genta, will also join one of the sessions, virtually.

“It is apparent to all that there is immense appreciation for watches and jewellery across the Middle East, particularly in Saudi Arabia. As the largest economy in the MENA region, with steady growth under Saudi’s Vision 2030 diversification programme, there are great opportunities for the luxury industry in the Kingdom. Riyadh International Luxury Week addresses this, and is an exciting platform for visitors to get up close and personal with some incredible creations for the first time. The event also adds another layer of dialogue through educational experiences for those with a passion to further their knowledge,” stated Abdulrahman Alzeer, CEO of Riyadh International Luxury Week.

For registrations and attendance, please visit www.riyadhluxuryweek.com

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Luxury Home Fragrances Brand Dr. Vranjes Enhances Offering in KSA

Having resonated with the discerning shopper in the Kingdom, Italian luxury home fragrances brand Dr. Vranjes Firenze has enhanced its offering.
It’s elegant stores at Red Sea Mall in Jeddah and Granada Mall in Riyadh, as well as the Debenhams concession store at Riyadh Park Mall will now house exclusive Eau de Parfum and Scented Body Care collections. These lightweight formulas elevated by incomparable fragrances come in a variety of options including bold eau de parfum, hydrating body mists enriched with aloe, fresh and invigorating body washes, and sweet-scented hair mists.
The innovative, recyclable elegant golden aluminium packaging of the sprays and mists and exclusive glass perfume bottle that pays homage to Brunelleschi’s iconic dome adds to the charm.

The collection is available in five of the most beloved Dr Vranjes fragrances – Oud Nobile, Rosso Nobile, Ambra, Giglio Di Firenze and Ginger Lime.

This will further augment a stunning range of products including home fragrances and candles carefully selected to appeal to regional preferences. Highlighting elements of musk, oud, light florals, and warm spicy notes, ideal for the Middle East, the collections available in-store include best-selling choices such as Oud Nobile and Rosso Nobile as well as Mirra Zafferano, a spicy and intense fragrance, combining Myrrh, Vanilla, Calabrian Bergamot and Saffron.

“Our captivating fragrances are the missing ingredient that complete and transform any space. This summer and beyond we invite you to visit our stores in Red Sea Mall and Granada Mall to go on a journey of discovery using our signature scents that encourage you to be in your element, make memorable experiences with family and friends and to get the best out of each and every day,” said Ahmad Hawalah, Business Manager, Dr Vranjes Firenze.

“From our renowned home fragrances to our exciting new perfumes and body care ranges, we use innovative and meticulous techniques combined with a wealth of experience to create products that enhance one’s environment and well-being,” he added.

Created by Dr. Paolo Vranjes and his wife Anna Maria, Dr Vranjes Firenze is inspired by his artistic home city of Florence and the beautiful landscapes of Tuscany in Italy. Founded in Italy in 1983, the brand is the result of Dr. Paolo Vranjes’ quest to create the finest fragrances in that iconic bottle inspired by Florence’s Duomo.

These bespoke fragrances stimulate the senses and emotions and add warmth to any household, according to personal taste, season, space, volume, and light. Dr. Vranjes Firenze’s fragrances dress spaces like a made-to-measure suit.

Finished in glass bottles for optimum decadence, Dr. Vranjes Firenze home fragrances are the perfect answer to modern living. All Dr. Vranjes fragrances are packaged in beautiful glass bottles and are available in the following sizes: 25ml ,100ml, 250 ml, 500 ml, 1250 ml, 1.5 liters, 2.5 liters and 5 liters. Each bottle comes with diffusion sticks.

Refills are available in 500 ml and 2.5 liters with diffusion sticks, as well as Lamparfum refills.

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