Masayuki Miyamoto, consul general of Japan, held a national day reception at his residence in Jeddah on Thursday to celebrate the 84th birthday of Japanese Emperor Akhito.
The reception was attended by government officials headed by Jamal Bakr Balkheour, director general of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Makkah Region, as well as other consuls general in Jeddah, businessmen and prominent guests.
After playing the national anthems of Japan and Saudi Arabia, Miyamoto delivered a speech in which he welcomed the guests and stressed the excellent ties between Japan and the Kingdom. He said the two countries enjoy deep, strong and friendly relations based on mutual respect and appreciation, not only between the two peoples and the governments, but also the imperial and royal families of the two countries.
Miyamoto said that Japan had much interest in the Kingdom’s current developments in all fields, led by King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.
Japan was one of the first countries that announced its support for Crown Prince Mohammed’s comprehensive plan, Saudi Vision 2030, the consul general said.
Japan has started to offer its expertise in various fields such as energy, water, infrastructure, metro and train projects, culture, entertainment, sports and other development projects in the Kingdom.
Miyamoto expressed his deep gratitude to the Saudi people for their hospitality and warm welcome to him since he arrived in Jeddah earlier this year. He expressed happiness for his return to the country, as he had started his diplomatic career at the Embassy of Japan in Riyadh 30 years ago.
He expressed hope that the mutual relations will develop further to meet the expectations of the leaders of the two friendly countries and that the Kingdom enjoys more progress, prosperity and growth under the leadership of King Salman.
Japanese emperor’s birthday celebrated in Jeddah
Japanese emperor’s birthday celebrated in Jeddah
Cenomi Centers inks deal for Jawharat Riyadh cooling plant
Cenomi Centers, the largest owner, operator and developer of contemporary lifestyle centers in Saudi Arabia, has announced the signing of a collaboration agreement with Arabian Cooling for Cooling and Air Conditioning — a joint venture of FAS Energy and Sojitz Corporation — to build, own, operate and transfer a new, environmentally best-in-class cooling plant that will service the flagship Jawharat Riyadh development and deliver significant savings in electricity consumption.
Cenomi Centers will work together with FAS Energy and Sojitz Corporation, to ensure the delivery of efficient and sustainable cooling solutions in line with the highest standards. Jawharat Riyadh will be the first Gold LEED certified mall alongside Jawharat Jeddah.
As part of the agreement, no upfront capital expenditure will be required by Cenomi Centers. Cenomi Centers will save approximately 13 MWhr every year in electricity consumption delivering around SR4 million ($1.06 million) savings annually. The total savings over 25 years is estimated at approximately SR100 million. In addition, it is anticipated that Cenomi Centers will save approximately 30 percent in operation and maintenance costs including replacement costs every year.
The new central cooling plant will provide increased efficiency compared to traditional cooling systems, resulting in a reduced carbon footprint. According to the US Environmental Protection Agency calculator, the plant will save the equivalent of 1 million gallons of gasoline annually.
It will have a capacity of 12,500 refrigeration tons for a period of 25 years starting from the commercial operation date, spanning over 350,000 square meters and achieving LEED certification. It includes dedicated offices for the operations team, hybrid cooling technology based on water cooled and air-cooled chillers and a thermal energy storage tank with a capacity exceeding 14,000 cubic meters. It also comprises water pumps, a heat exchanger, electrical equipment and all necessary components to fully equip and operate the plant.
The district cooling plant will have a greater degree of automation, which will reduce manual intervention and hence lead to improvements in efficiency. It will also deliver significant benefits to retailers who will not need to install individual cooling units or manage their operations and maintenance.
Alison Rehill Erguven, CEO of Cenomi Centers, said: “I’m proud to announce the collaboration with FAS Energy and Sojitz Corporation to deliver this state-of-the-art cooling plant for Jawharat Riyadh. This agreement reflects Cenomi Centers’ ambitions to ensure that its developments are world-leading in sustainability. It represents a significant milestone in our sustainability strategy by delivering innovative energy solutions, which are aligned to Vision 2030. Not only will this collaboration deliver significant sustainability benefits through the reduction of electricity consumption, it will deliver an estimated SR100 million in monetary savings over the life of the contract.”
Turki Al-Hokair, CEO of FAS Energy, said: “FAS Energy, founded in 2013, is proud to lead the way in investing in carbon-efficient infrastructure. Initially focused on renewable energy, FAS Energy is now expanding into other sectors as well, such as district cooling.
“Through our collaboration with Cenomi Centers, we aim to combine the expertise of FAS Energy and Sojitz Corporation to deliver efficient cooling solutions that meet the growing demand for energy-efficient services in developments of this kind. These district cooling systems are designed to optimize energy consumption, reduce carbon footprints, and provide reliable, high-quality services.
“Collaborating with Cenomi Centers aligns with our commitment to sustainability, innovation, and contribution to Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030. The implementation of these district cooling systems will not only benefit the environment but also enhance the overall experience for tenants and visitors within these developments.”
Yasushi Asano, general manager, Energy Solutions Department 2 (Middle East and CIS), Sojitz Corporation, said: “We’re excited to collaborate with Cenomi Centers on this flagship project. Providing sustainable and efficient cooling is one way we demonstrate our commitment to net-zero goals and a greener future. For us, this collaboration goes beyond technology — it’s about making a meaningful difference for communities and future generations.
“With HVAC systems accounting for a significant portion of greenhouse gas emissions and consuming over 50 percent of a building’s electricity, investing in efficient cooling infrastructure is crucial. We aim to continue investing in future technologies and implementing them at the root level to reduce energy consumption in cooling infrastructure, thereby promoting both environmental sustainability and operational efficiency.
“This initiative also reflects Sojitz’s commitment to supporting Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 and its sustainability objectives. As we continue to invest in efficient infrastructure, projects like this demonstrate our belief that responsible business practices are integral to progress and growth.”
To be completed at the end of 2025, the launch of Jawharat Riyadh and Jawharat Jeddah will be a watershed moment as Cenomi Centers pushes ahead with its ambitious growth pipeline to develop next-generation retail and lifestyle destinations in Saudi Arabia. Both malls will redefine the experiences of retail and leisure in the capital and nationwide. Jawharat Riyadh will introduce over 300 of the world’s most sought-after brands in more than 75 flagship stores, including 10 new brands to Riyadh.
The Arabian Cooling for Cooling and Air Conditioning has obtained a temporary license to operate district cooling services from the Saudi Electricity Regulatory Authority and any future developments regarding the JV’s acquisition of the final license will be announced at a later date.
Safa Investment launches SR1.1bn real estate fund
Safa Investment Company announced the launch of the “Flow MENA 1st Residential Fund,” an income-generating fund with a total value of SR1.1 billion ($292 million), during its participation in Cityscape Global 2024 in Riyadh. This initiative, launched in partnership with Flow MENA and SICO Capital, marks a strategic step by Safa Investment to boost value in the residential sector and offer unique investment opportunities.
The fund has successfully acquired five newly developed residential complexes, designed to the highest global standards, to furnish, operate, and lease them. The fund aspires to provide a high-quality residential experience in rental communities, focusing on maximizing returns and enhancing income throughout its operational duration.
In its statement, Safa Investment said that the fund is based on an innovative global model, aimed at delivering a unique residential experience and increasing the appeal of residential investment opportunities in the Kingdom.
Securing AI cloud platforms: A critical balancing act
As organizations worldwide embrace digital transformation, the convergence of artificial intelligence and cloud computing has emerged as a defining force of our technological era. This integration promises unprecedented opportunities for innovation and efficiency, yet it also introduces complex cybersecurity challenges that demand our immediate attention and strategic response.
The promise of AI in cloud environments extends far beyond mere operational improvements. When properly implemented, AI is a vigilant guardian of our digital assets, analyzing vast data streams in real-time to detect and respond to potential threats. This capability has been demonstrated by Huawei Cloud’s SecMaster 2.0, which integrates over 300 threat detection models, including 70 AI fine-tuned ones, showing how advanced AI can transform security operations. These systems can identify subtle patterns that might escape human observation, enabling organizations to move from reactive security measures to proactive threat prevention.
However, this technological advancement comes with a sobering reality: the capabilities that make AI-powered cloud services so powerful create new vulnerabilities. Organizations must navigate a complex landscape where data privacy concerns intersect with the need for robust AI training datasets. The fundamental requirement for AI systems to access and analyze large volumes of data creates a delicate balance between functionality and security. This challenge is particularly acute in sectors handling sensitive information, where the exposure of confidential data could have far-reaching consequences.
The threat landscape is further complicated by the emergence of sophisticated adversarial attacks targeting AI systems themselves. Malicious actors have demonstrated increasing sophistication in their ability to manipulate AI models, potentially causing them to make incorrect assessments or fail to detect genuine threats. This vulnerability is particularly concerning given the growing reliance on AI for critical security decisions. As organizations deploy more AI-powered tools in their cloud environments, each new integration potentially expands the attack surface, creating additional entry points for cybercriminals to exploit.
The industry’s heavy reliance on third-party cloud providers adds another layer of complexity to this security equation. While these partnerships enable organizations to access cutting-edge AI capabilities, they also create dependencies that can impact an organization’s security posture. The challenge lies in securing one’s own systems and ensuring that partners maintain equally robust security standards. This interconnected ecosystem demands a new approach to security governance, encompassing internal controls and external partnerships.
Perhaps most concerning is the growing skill gap in AI security expertise. As AI systems become more sophisticated, the shortage of professionals who understand both AI technology and cybersecurity principles becomes more acute. Leading providers are addressing this through automation and intelligence — for instance, Huawei Cloud’s implementation of 100+ predefined security playbooks and 10,000+ compliance baselines helps organizations maintain robust security even with limited expertise.
The path forward requires a fundamental shift in how we approach AI integration in cloud environments. Organizations must adopt a security-first mindset, where cybersecurity considerations are embedded into the earliest stages of AI deployment planning. This approach should include comprehensive risk assessments, regular security audits, and continuous monitoring of AI systems for potential vulnerabilities or anomalies.
Moreover, the industry must prioritize the development of AI-specific security standards and best practices. These guidelines should address not only technical security measures but also ethical considerations around data privacy and AI use. Collaboration between organizations, security researchers, and technology providers will be essential in developing and maintaining these standards.
Investment in training and education must also increase significantly. Organizations must build internal expertise in AI security while working to close the broader industry skill gap. This includes developing comprehensive training programs and creating clear career paths for AI security professionals.
The future of AI in cloud computing depends on our ability to balance innovation with security, ensuring that as we push the boundaries of what’s possible, we do so in a way that protects our digital assets and maintains the trust of our stakeholders. As demonstrated by recent developments in the industry, this is not just a technical challenge but a strategic imperative that will define the next chapter of digital transformation. Through continued innovation and collaboration, as showcased by industry leaders like Huawei Cloud, we can build a more secure and resilient digital future.
- The writer is Mohammed Moteb Alosaimi, CSO of Huawei Saudi Arabia.
Tata Motors marks 30 years in Saudi Arabia, assures long-term commitment
Tata Motors, India’s leading multinational automobile manufacturer with a presence in more than 40 countries, is celebrating 30 years of successful operations for its commercial vehicle business in Saudi Arabia. Since its foray into the market in 1994, Tata Motors has been a prominent player, supporting the Kingdom’s logistics and mass mobility sectors. With its current portfolio spanning more than 20 products across cargo and passenger mobility, Tata Motors has consistently introduced solutions that deliver a low total cost of ownership, enabling customers to achieve greater operational efficiency and higher profitability. To commemorate the milestone, Tata Motors will introduce new, state-of-the-art models at the upcoming Heavy Equipment and Trucks Show in Dammam, from Nov. 18-21.
Reflecting on Tata Motors’ journey and next phase of growth in Saudi Arabia, Anurag Mehrotra, head, international business, Tata Motors Commercial Vehicles, said: “Since our entry into the Kingdom three decades ago, Tata Motors has played an instrumental role in supporting key sectors through reliable, safe and efficient mobility solutions. Our commitment to delivering long-term value through a low total cost of ownership, reliable products, and a strong after-sales network continues to drive growth in the market. As the Kingdom prepares for accelerated infrastructure development and a growing demand for advanced mobility solutions, we look forward to supporting its evolving needs.”
Tata Motors offers customers comprehensive lifecycle management to ensure long-term reliability and performance through its official distributor Mohamed Yousuf Naghi Motors Co. This partnership provides customers with comprehensive after-sales support through a network of seven strategically located touchpoints through the Kingdom. It also includes access to modern service centers, trained technicians and easy availability of genuine spare parts, along with tailored service packages aimed at maximizing vehicle uptime and enhancing overall customer satisfaction.
Azeem Khan, brand director, Mohamed Yousuf Naghi Motors Co, said: “Our successful partnership with Tata Motors enables us to bring trusted Tata products to customers, assuring them of complete satisfaction as we work to keep their businesses moving forward. As we continue to support Tata Motors’ growth in the region, we remain committed to delivering the highest level of service to customers.”
Tata Motors offers a wide commercial vehicle portfolio globally, spanning sub-1-ton to 60-ton cargo vehicles and nine-seater to 71-seater mass mobility solutions. Backed by Tata Motors’ advanced R&D capabilities, these vehicles are robustly engineered and rigorously tested to suit local market requirements.
TDF reinforces Kingdom’s position as top global tourism hub
The Tourism Development Fund concluded its participation in the World Travel Market in London, reinforcing Saudi Arabia’s position as a leading global tourism hub, having highlighted the vast investment opportunities in the Kingdom’s tourism sector, a TDF press release said.
Over the course of the event, TDF engaged with top industry leaders, investors, and decision-makers from around the world to attract high-value foreign investments that align with the National Tourism Strategy and support Saudi Vision 2030.
As part of the Saudi Land pavilion, TDF showcased a diverse range of current and future projects boosting the Kingdom’s tourism sector, and highlighted its suite of innovative financing solutions and investment incentives.
These efforts were crowned with the signing of a memorandum of understanding with Dusit International, which focuses on developing luxury hospitality projects at key destinations across Saudi Arabia, offering guests unique and superior tourism experiences.
Throughout the event, TDF representatives provided in-depth briefings on the fund’s initiatives and achievements, and underscored TDF’s critical role in supporting tourism ventures and developing premier tourism destinations that align with Saudi Arabia’s long-term tourism vision.
The team also emphasized the significance of international collaboration, which is instrumental in building a sustainable tourism sector that benefits both investors and visitors.
In addition to promoting Saudi Arabia as a premier destination for tourism investments, TDF highlighted the Kingdom’s development to strategic partnerships in various sectors, particularly in hospitality and leisure tourism.
It reiterated its commitment to backing high-impact projects that will help achieve the Saudi Vision 2030 target of increasing the contribution of tourism to the national economy.
According to TDF, its participation in the World Travel Market is the culmination of its continuous efforts to make Saudi Arabia a top destination for tourism investment. It also reaffirms the fund’s commitment to supporting sustainable projects that expand the tourism offerings and services available to both visitors and investors, in line with the Kingdom’s ambition to become a global tourism powerhouse.
