Millennials, the name given to the demographic cohort born between 1980 and 2000, are members of what is now the largest living generation. As they mature into 20 and 30-something professionals, they are taking over the helm from their parents across all sectors.
But with a predicted shortage of 1.8 million workers within information security by 2022, the gaping employment gap means the influx of a millennial workforce will be critical — and may well reshape the industry.
According to Stephen Cobb, a senior security researcher at ESET, the cybersecurity skills gap is the result of surging demand thanks to rising cybercrime, as well as a lack of, among newbie tech professionals, the historical enthusiasm of previous generations to maintain and secure existing systems.
Cobb wrote recently: “A lot of experienced security professionals are reaching retirement age, while many of today’s students find the potential rewards of building tomorrow’s technology more appealing than the task of securing yesterday’s.”
However, with headline-grabbing cyberattacks such as WannaCryptor, which went global last month, the importance of information security could not be higher on the agenda. Meaning there can only be increased emphasis on and interest in finding the best solutions to stem the disruption.
Into the vacuum left by retiring baby boomers will step “the most diverse group of information security workers” ever, according to a recent study from the Center for Cybersafety and Education (CCE).
Which is important, as research repeatedly shows that diverse workplaces outperform non-diverse alternatives, and it appears that information security is heading that way. According to the CCE, 78 percent of baby boomers in the industry identified as being Caucasian. For millennials it is only 65 percent.
Further, an influx of young blood may help rebalance the gender skew. As of 2015, women held only one in 10 computer security positions. “As women make up more than half the population, and almost half of the current workforce, this means that our industry could be failing to reach skilled professionals who may not even be aware of the possibility of a career in computer security,” wrote ESET researcher Lysa Myers.
Millennials: Meet the next generation of cybersecurity
Millennials: Meet the next generation of cybersecurity
‘India-Saudi Arabia Investment Connect’ gets good response
The Indian Consulate in Jeddah organized a one-day “India-Saudi Arabia Investment Connect” event at the Park Hyatt on Tuesday, Feb. 25. The main purpose was to provide valuable insights into the business and investment landscape of India by sharing information about the enormous opportunities for untapped trade and investment in the country.
Consul General Fahad Ahmed Khan Suri made the opening remarks. He welcomed the distinguished guests and highlighted the significance of organizing such an event to strengthen the bilateral economic and commercial ties between India and Saudi Arabia.
Indian Ambassador Dr. Suhel Ajaz Khan, in his address delivered virtually, said: “The scale of India’s transformation will shape the future, and deepening our partnership with Saudi Arabia is a win-win for both nations. India’s private sector has already realized this latent potential and has invested over $3 billion in Saudi Arabia. And this is only the beginning.”
Ahmed Al-Juraiyan, central office director, Ministry of Investment for Saudi Arabia, who was the guest of honor at the event, delivered a special address echoing the sentiments expressed by the Indian ambassador by highlighting the immense potential for cooperation between the two countries and the enormous opportunities for Indian investors in Saudi Arabia.
Dr. Jaimini Bhagwati, a former Indian Foreign Service officer, a financial sector and derivatives specialist who has served for over a decade at the World Bank, and who is currently a Distinguished Fellow at the Centre for Social and Economic Progress in New Delhi, delivered the keynote address on the “India Growth Story” and made a compelling case for “Investing in India” from a macroeconomic perspective.
Manusmriti, Counsellor (Economic and Commerce), Embassy of India in Riyadh; Badri Narayanan and Lakshmikumaran from Lakshmikumaran and Sridharan Attorneys; Vaibhav Kakkar from Saraf and Partners Law Offices, and Neeraj Agarwal from Apex Invest, delivered compelling presentations covering the important aspects pertaining to the investment domain.
These included a detailed overview of India-Saudi Arabia economic and commercial partnerships, sectoral investment opportunities in India, delineation of all the technical aspects related to legal and tax regulatory frameworks, mechanisms/routes for foreign direct investment into India, exclusive opportunities for investors in GIFT City, and an overview of the startup ecosystem in India.
Kalyana Sivagnanam, Group CEO, Petromin; Balakrishnan, CFO, Abdul Lateef Jameel Motors, and Puneet Kataria, head of real estate, Gulf Islamic Investment, shared their experiences and success stories of investing in India.
The conference also featured a specially curated panel discussion on the “Mechanics of Investing in India — Decoding the Indian Investment Ecosystem.”
The panel discussion was moderated by Awaiz Patni, Group CFO, Saudi Bugshan Company, and the panelists were Soham Avlani and Raghav Bahl from Promaft Partners, and L. Badri Narayanan from Lakshmikumaran and Sridharan Attorneys. The panelists focused on the conducive environment for investing in India, based on challenges and risk mitigation strategies, and they also spoke about the operational aspects of investing in India.
Various rising startups from India presented their investment pitches at the event and showcased innovative business ideas designed to attract potential investors.
The event was well attended by prominent Saudi businessmen and financial advisers from major business houses in Jeddah and by the friends of India in Saudi Arabia. The event is part of the series of trade and investment promotion initiatives that are being scheduled by the consulate.
AI in architecture, industry innovations take center stage at Big 5 Construct Saudi
The second week of Big 5 Construct Saudi continues to draw visitors from all over the Kingdom, with a focus on circular economy in architecture, an important strategy for promoting sustainability in the built environment.
Adopting a circular economy in architecture enables sustainable, adaptable and resource-efficient buildings, emphasized one of the speakers on the closing day of the Architect Leaders Forum Saudi.
During the session, Shahira Fahmy, founder and principal of Shahira Fahmy Architects stressed that by prioritizing material reuse, circular design and advanced technologies, architects could reduce waste, extend building lifecycles and measure environmental and social impact, ensuring long-term resilience and value.
“While industry leaders shared key insights on sustainable architecture, exhibitors showcased innovative solutions shaping Saudi Arabia’s built environment,” said Muhammed Kazi, senior vice president — construction, dmg events. “From AI-driven design tools and smart technologies to integrated facilities management and windows, doors and facade solutions, the exhibition floor continues to buzz with activity, reflecting the rising demand for eco-friendly, resource-efficient construction.”
As AI in architecture remained a key topic of discussion, one of the panels featuring Mark Ruppert, director of architecture + design at Mawarid Holdings International; Faiyad Peterson, country director KSA at Cundall; Tomasz Wozny, partner & general manager KSA at Foster + Partners; and Anas Sawalqa, KSA director at SAY Studio, highlighted how AI could complement both creativity and efficiency while still ensuring that the human element remains central to every design.
“We must guide AI to assist us. It should not be left to operate in isolation; it must be trained and practiced,” stressed Sawalqa. Fellow panelist Peterson noted: “While AI can optimize building efficiency and reduce material waste, we must use it responsibly. Designing with awareness and integrity is key, and AI should amplify this approach.”
In addition to the insightful discussions, Big 5 Construct Saudi also featured a wide array of innovative product showcases that are setting new benchmarks for the construction industry. Exhibitors displayed new technologies and solutions aimed at enhancing sustainability, efficiency and performance in the built environment. These products align with the growing demand for resource-efficient, smart and sustainable construction practices, supporting the Kingdom’s commitment to Vision 2030.
One such exhibitor, at Saudi FM & Clean, co-located with Big 5 Construct Saudi, AlMajal AlArabi Group is showcasing its integrated facility management solutions and leadership in the industry. Highlighting projects like the Riyadh Metro and Two Holy Mosques, MAG demonstrates its wide-reaching operations across 13 regions in the Kingdom, reinforcing its commitment to driving excellence in the sector.
Soundlines Group provides Saudi Arabia with skilled workers
Soundlines Group, a global leader in overseas recruitment, has been instrumental in supporting Saudi Arabia’s ambitious Vision 2030 by providing a skilled workforce for the country’s rapid development.
With decades of experience in international manpower deployment, they have established themselves as a trusted partner for large-scale infrastructure and construction projects, ensuring that the Kingdom has access to the right talent to drive its transformation.
Soundlines Group, being a part of Soundlines Global, a leading overseas recruitment company, has emerged as a trusted partner in supporting these efforts.
With expertise in adhering to Saudi labor laws and regulations, it focuses on providing a seamless recruitment process, connecting Saudi Arabia with a global talent pool of skilled workers.
Specializing in roles critical to the construction industry—such as electricians, welders, foremen, technicians, steel fixers, shuttering carpenters, masons, plumbers, and many more trades —we ensure that its recruitment efforts meet the Kingdom’s growing demand for specialized expertise. By supplying blue-collar professionals who are job-ready and equipped with the necessary skills, Soundlines contributes to the timely execution and efficiency of key projects aligned with Vision 2030.
A key differentiator is their commitment to ethical and transparent recruitment. By adhering to Saudi labor laws and best practices, the company ensures that both employers and employees benefit from fair, structured, and legally compliant hiring processes. This not only strengthens the workforce but also enhances Saudi Arabia’s reputation as a global hub for talent-driven growth.
“We are proud to contribute to Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 by bridging the gap between manpower demand and supply,” said a company spokesperson. “We take pride in being a small yet essential part of the Kingdom’s journey towards a modern and prosperous future.”
Recognizing the rapid expansion of mega projects in the kingdom, they continue to work closely with employers to identify, train, and deploy workers with specialized skills being one of the key contributors to workforce stability and project efficiency.
As Saudi Arabia progresses toward its Mission & Vision, Soundlines Group, part of Soundlines Global, stands ready to support its recruitment needs, reinforcing its position as a reliable and trusted partner in shaping the Kingdom’s future.
Nokia and ACES-NH deploy 25G PON-based neutral host fiber network
Nokia recently announced that ACES-NH successfully deployed Saudi Arabia’s first-ever 25G PON-based neutral host network, marking a significant milestone in the country’s fiber evolution.
Built on Nokia’s fiber technology, the new network enables multiple service providers to leverage a unified infrastructure, minimizing redundancy and driving enhanced connectivity to bolster Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030.
The neutral host model allows multiple service providers to share a high-performance fiber broadband network, improving efficiency and reducing infrastructure duplication.
As the leading supplier of 25G PON technology, Nokia equips ACES-NH with a future-ready fiber platform, supporting evolving use cases — from residential broadband and enterprise connectivity to smart city services and industrial applications.
ACES-NH’ open access network, powered by Nokia’s Altiplano Access Controller, leverages automation to streamline operations. The initial deployment comprises Optical Line Terminals and Optical Network Terminals, laying the groundwork for future nationwide expansion and extended use cases for enterprises.
Based on the Quillion chipset, Nokia’s 25G PON fiber broadband solution enables ACES-NH to deliver high-speed data and low latency for next-generation applications. This advancement ensures that businesses, small and medium enterprises, and consumers can enjoy seamless connectivity for cloud gaming, enterprise networking, and next-generation digital experiences.
Dr. Luai Hasnawi, chief of fixed network at ACES-NH, said: “Together with Nokia, we are proud to deliver Saudi Arabia’s first 25G PON-based neutral host network. This deployment transforms fiber connectivity in the Kingdom, giving multiple service providers secure,
high-speed access over a shared infrastructure and reinforcing ACES-NH’ leadership in neutral host solutions.”
Kamal Ballout, head of enterprise and partners for network infrastructure at Nokia Middle East & Africa, said: “This milestone marks a major shift toward ‘Fiber for Everything.’ With 25G PON, infrastructure providers like ACES-NH can address residential, enterprise, and mobile transport needs on a single network, reducing costs and accelerating digital innovation across Saudi Arabia.”
Lulu Hypermarkets announces exclusive Ramadan offers
As the holy month of Ramadan approaches, LuLu Hypermarkets in Saudi Arabia is proud to announce a remarkable lineup of exclusive promotions with discounts exceeding half the price on around 6,000 products that range from daily kitchen essentials to home improvement items, tech and more.
With the aim to cater to the needs of every family and celebrate the spirit of charity and giving while promoting sustainability for a greener future, Ramadan promotions feature essential goods, gourmet treats, meaningful gifts, and sustainable practices.
Shoppers can enjoy significant discounts on pantry staples such as premium rice, aromatic teas, refreshing juices, and essential oils, alongside a variety of ready-to-cook options like samosas, kibbeh, and other delights from the freezer to fryer section.
To ensure every iftar table is filled with fresh and wholesome foods, Lulu offers the finest cuts of meat, fresh fruits, and vegetables, all sourced with sustainability in mind. Additionally, indulgent desserts, artisanal cheeses, cold cuts, and children’s treats will be available. This year LuLu has curated a special promotion, Healthy Ramadan that will include every item catering to vegan, organic, and keto preferences at unbelievable discounts.
Shoppers can explore thoughtfully curated Ramadan-themed items, including children’s gifts for gergaan on the 15th of Ramadan, along with special Ramadan gift cards ranging from SR 50 to SR 500—perfect for gifting during social occasions.
For added convenience, the Ramadan Essentials Box, priced at just SAR 99, offers a complete set of ingredients for a seamless Ramadan kitchen, including rice, oil, milk powder, tea, sugar, pasta, dates, chicken stock, and more.
As families prepare for Ramadan gatherings, Lulu is also offering unbeatable deals on home accessories, cleaning products, home textiles, and white goods, ensuring that every home is ready for the season. For those seeking to refresh their wardrobes, Lulu’s High Street fashion collection brings the latest trends at remarkable prices, all with an eye toward sustainability.
Sustainability remains a top priority, with Lulu promoting reusable shopping bags, energy-efficient appliances, and eco-friendly home essentials. Responsible sourcing practices and waste reduction initiatives further reinforce the brand’s commitment to a greener future.
In the true spirit of giving, LuLu Hypermarkets is proud to introduce the Ramadan Charity Boxes—carefully curated grocery boxes priced at SR 99 and food boxes available for SR 15 during iftar, in collaboration with the Saudi Food Bank. These thoughtfully packed boxes contain essential items designed to support families in need during the holy month.
Furthermore, LuLu continues its meaningful partnership with Manafith, Saudi Arabia’s premier financial system solutions provider for charitable organizations, to help raise funds for needy. This Ramadan, LuLu remains dedicated to fostering a spirit of generosity and compassion, bringing communities together for a cause that truly matters.
As a trusted name in retail, Lulu Hypermarkets remains dedicated to providing customers with exceptional value, premium quality, and a seamless shopping experience throughout the holy month. With unbeatable offers, thoughtfully curated products, and meaningful initiatives, Lulu continues to be the preferred destination for a fulfilling and rewarding Ramadan shopping journey.
“Ramadan is a time for reflection, giving, and foster community bonding,” said Shehim Mohammed, director of Lulu Hypermarket, Saudi Arabia. “In this holy month, we want to offer our shoppers the convenience of finding high-quality products, meaningful gifts, and sustainable solutions—all while providing exceptional value. By integrating sustainability into our offerings, we hope to help create a greener future for the generations to come, all while celebrating the true essence of Ramadan.”
Lulu Hypermarkets extends its warmest wishes for a blessed and prosperous Ramadan, filled with peace, generosity, and a collective commitment to a more sustainable and brighter future.
