Pre-implantation Genetic Diagnosis (PGD) has been instrumental in helping couples prevent the risk of having a child with genetic disorders, according to IVI Middle East Fertility Clinic. The fertility center recently reported its first two successful PGD pregnancies in Muscat. “PGD is a technique where medical experts can check the genes in an embryo before pregnancy occurs. Couples who have alterations or mutations in their genes, or who have a risk of having children with genetic disorders, benefit from this screening. PGD is the latest reproductive technological advancement in medical science and is immensely important as it gives possibility to these couples to have healthy children and reduces the burden on the family, the health care system and society as a whole,” said Prof. Dr. Human Fatemi, medical director, IVI Middle East Fertility Clinic.
IVI Middle East Fertility Clinic has made several advances in the reproductive medicine field. The clinic has recently reported two successful pregnancies in Muscat following PGD, which not only highlights the outstanding proficiency of the embryology team, but also demonstrates the adeptness of the clinical team for their sustained effort and commitment to achieving 73 percent successful pregnancy rates.
Until this year, Omani couples traveled abroad to seek PGD. However, with IVI Middle East Fertility Clinic reporting successful pregnancies following PGD, couples have not only found a new hope, but also have access to the world’s best treatment options in the region.
The procedure for PGD test is simple. It includes obtaining eggs from the mother and injecting them with the husband’s sperm. The fertilized eggs are then followed for five or six days until they become embryos, inside the IVF lab. Then a biopsy is performed from the mature embryo when cells are examined to rule out any genetic mutation / alteration. This process takes about ten days. In the meanwhile, the embryos are frozen by a process known as cryopreservation. When the results from the diagnostic process are available, normal embryos without the genetic disorder are transferred into the mother’s uterus.
Oman witnesses first successful Pre-implantation Genetic Diagnosis (PGD)
Oman witnesses first successful Pre-implantation Genetic Diagnosis (PGD)
MBSC hosts record-breaking graduation with 476 students
Prince Mohammed Bin Salman College of Business and Entrepreneurship, the Kingdom’s world-class business school, has celebrated its largest graduating class to date, marking a significant milestone in its journey to redefine business education in Saudi Arabia. A total of 476 graduates were honored this year across the Executive MBA, Master in Finance, and Master in Management programs — an impressive 44 percent increase from 2024.
The graduating class reflects MBSC’s continued momentum and strategic expansion across the Kingdom. In 2023, the school graduated 102 students; by 2024, that number rose to 330 — and now, 476 in 2025 — demonstrating a strong and sustained growth in demand for MBSC’s programs.
This year’s graduates represent a dynamic mix of professionals from across Saudi Arabia’s key sectors, including finance, government, telecommunications, and energy. The cohort includes a rising number of women leaders, entrepreneurs, and senior executives committed to driving innovation and positive impact in their fields.
MBSC delivers its graduate programs across two locations: King Abdullah Economic City, its home campus, and Riyadh, in partnership with stc Academy. This geographic spread ensures increased accessibility while offering a consistently high standard of experiential, world-class education.
Dr. Zeger Degraeve, dean of MBSC, said: “This record-breaking class of graduates represents more than just numbers — it signals a growing community of empowered, purpose-driven leaders. Our mission is to nurture transformative individuals who will lead with clarity, creativity, and courage. These graduates are well-positioned to contribute meaningfully to Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, and we are proud to be part of their journey.”
MBSC’s programs are uniquely designed to meet the evolving needs of today’s business landscape, offering hands-on, practical learning that prepares graduates to lead in complex, fast-moving environments. The school’s rigorous admission process ensures a diverse and high-calibre student body, many of whom hold key roles in both private and public sectors.
“MBSC has given me more than just an education — it gave me clarity in my leadership style and the confidence to make bold decisions,” said Ahmed Alsamaani, an Executive MBA graduate from the class of 2025.
“As a young Saudi woman in finance, this program shaped my voice and gave me the tools to make a meaningful impact in my field,” said Badour Alhejailan, a Master in Finance graduate.
Another student, Abdulrahman Khalid Alabaykan, a Master in Management graduate, added: “Studying at MBSC while continuing my career allowed me to apply what I learned in real time, transforming the way I contribute to my workplace.”
MBSC continues to strengthen its position as a hub for high-impact, future-focused education in the Kingdom. With its pragmatic, entrepreneurial approach to teaching and learning, the college remains committed to developing principled, effective leaders who will play an essential role in achieving the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 ambitions.
UAE startup Quiqup enters Saudi logistics market
Quiqup, a UAE-based e-commerce logistics provider, has launched its core fulfillment and delivery services in Saudi Arabia, marking a major milestone in its regional expansion.
This move is backed by the strategic support of the Mohammed bin Rashid Innovation Fund, which has played a pivotal role in helping Quiqup expand its operations and double its business in the past two years.
The company’s expansion comes after its notable impact on the UAE’s e-commerce ecosystem and aligns with its strategy to offer integrated logistics solutions to businesses across the GCC.
Founded in the UAE in 2017, Quiqup provides comprehensive logistics services, focusing on small and medium-sized enterprises. The company offers storage, sorting, packaging, and delivery services. With its expansion into Saudi Arabia, commercial clients in the Kingdom can now access Quiqup’s reliable and efficient fulfillment services.
Fatima Yousif Alnaqbi, acting assistant undersecretary for the support services sector at UAE Ministry of Finance, and the ministry’s representative at MBRIF, said: “Supporting the success of high-potential innovators who contribute to economic growth is one of the core objectives of the Mohammed bin Rashid Innovation Fund. Quiqup’s journey exemplifies how strategic support, combined with innovation and market expertise, can drive a company’s growth and create a meaningful economic impact.”
She added: “Over the past few years, we have worked closely with Quiqup through our Guarantee Scheme and have seen the company’s outstanding potential in reshaping the e-commerce logistics sector in the UAE. Its expansion into Saudi Arabia is a testament to its ability to apply its expertise and innovative solutions in new markets. We look forward to supporting its continued growth across the region.”
Bassel El-Koussa, CEO of Quiqup, said: “Our expansion into Saudi Arabia is a natural next step, driven by our customers’ evolving needs.”
With the increasing demand for seamless cross-border logistics solutions, we are proud to extend our services to neighboring markets. We see the GCC as a connected e-commerce ecosystem where operational efficiencies in one market enhance the overall regional performance.”
“By building a robust and integrated platform, we are not only expanding our reach but also contributing to a more efficient and interconnected logistics network. Our strong track record in the UAE serves as a solid foundation for our operations in Saudi Arabia, and we look forward to working with e-commerce businesses in the Kingdom to support their growth and contribute to the local economy,” he added.
Deutsche Bank woos global investors to Saudi Arabia
Deutsche Bank, in strategic collaboration with the Ministry of Investment of Saudi Arabia under the “Invest Saudi” initiative, hosted the inaugural Deutsche Bank Expert Connections event on April 9-10 at the Four Seasons Hotel in Riyadh. This exclusive gathering underscores Deutsche Bank’s commitment to facilitating high-value investment opportunities for its global clients within the Kingdom, in alignment with the objectives of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030.
Led by Alexander Wynaendts, chairman of Deutsche Bank’s supervisory board, the two-day event convened 40 global ultra-high-net-worth clients, international investors, policymakers, and business leaders, to explore strategic investment opportunities across key sectors of the Saudi economy and forge impactful partnerships that drive economic diversification and sustainable growth.
Participants engaged in focused discussions and interactive sessions covering critical areas such as clean energy, mining, financial services, technology, tourism, housing, and real estate. Senior representatives from the Ministry of Investment, Public Investment Fund, Capital Market Authority, Ministry of Energy, Ministry of Tourism, and Ministry of Communications and Information Technology shared insights aimed at enhancing economic growth, attracting quality investments, and addressing challenges shaping the future of Saudi Arabia’s economy.
“As a trusted partner to Saudi Arabia, Deutsche Bank is dedicated to supporting Vision 2030 through strategic, long-term partnerships that contribute to Saudi Arabia’s ongoing economic transformation and resilience,” a statement said. “With a strong focus on wealth management, Deutsche Bank aims to connect global ultra-high-net-worth clients and family offices with the Kingdom’s rapidly growing investment landscape, providing tailored advisory services and unlocking new opportunities for growth.”
Jamal Al-Kishi, CEO for Middle East and Africa at Deutsche Bank, said: “Saudi Arabia is pursuing a uniquely ambitious program for social and economic development and diversification. We at Deutsche Bank are proud to support Vision 2030 by connecting our global clients with some of the most promising opportunities in the Kingdom. This forum reflects our long-term commitment and dedication to partnering with Saudi Arabia on its journey toward enduring economic growth. We are truly grateful for the tremendous support provided by the Ministry of Investment at all levels, without which we wouldn’t have been able to conduct this important event”
Celebrating its 20 years of local presence in the Kingdom next year, Deutsche Bank looks forward to deepening its collaboration with Saudi stakeholders, empowering its clients to actively participate in one of the world’s most attractive and dynamic investment destinations.
Gulf Air and Formula 1 celebrate 75 years
Gulf Air, the national carrier of Bahrain, hosted a celebratory event at its Paddock Club Suite during the Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix 2025 on Saturday. The event marked a historic milestone as two global icons — Gulf Air and Formula 1 — celebrated their 75th anniversaries, highlighting decades of innovation, excellence, and global impact. The evening also showcased Bahrain’s growing prominence as a global hub for motorsports and aviation and celebrated the unveiling of the airline’s 75th anniversary emblem and slogan “Bringing the world to you for 75 years.”
The event was hosted by Gulf Air Group CEO Jeffrey Goh, and attended by President and CEO of Formula 1 Stefano Domenicali and Gulf Air Group Chairman Khalid Taqi.
Goh said: “Celebrating our 75th anniversary alongside Formula 1 is a testament to the strength of our partnership and our shared commitment to excellence. The unveiling of our 75th anniversary emblem and slogan ‘Bringing the world to you for 75 years’ is not just a tribute to our past but also a promise for the future — a future defined by innovation, connectivity, and continued growth.”
Domenicali added: “2025 is a special year for Gulf Air, which like Formula 1 celebrates its 75th anniversary. Gulf Air has been an important partner since the historic first race in Bahrain, 21 years ago, contributing significantly to the growth of our sport in the region and globally. I would like to sincerely thank them for the passion, continuity and dedication they have always shown toward Formula 1.”
The event was a celebration of legacy and vision, reinforcing Gulf Air’s role in supporting Bahrain’s status as a global leader in motorsports.
The Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix 2025 continues to be one of the most significant sporting events in the country, attracting fans and participants from around the world.
Gulf Air has been the title sponsor of this prestigious event since the launch of the Grand Prix in Bahrain in 2004, further strengthening its ties to the global motorsport community.
Majid Al-Futtaim expands luxury retail footprint in region
Majid Al-Futtaim has announced an ambitious expansion of its luxury retail portfolio for 2025. Following a record-breaking 2024, which saw a 26 percent growth in its lifestyle business, the expansion will be anchored by renowned Italian brands Eleventy, Corneliani, and Poltrona Frau, with a series of store openings planned across key locations in Saudi Arabia and the UAE.
As part of its strategic growth agenda, Majid Al-Futtaim will launch more than 30 new stores, spanning both luxury and high- street brands across the region. The expansion will include five standalone Eleventy stores, the regional debut of Corneliani, and the first Poltrona Frau store outside the UAE in Saudi Arabia.
Fahed Ghanim, CEO of Majid Al-Futtaim Lifestyle, said: “In a region where customers have an abundance of choice, our ambition is to curate a portfolio of luxury brands that offer something truly distinctive. By introducing brands like Eleventy, Corneliani, and Poltrona Frau, we are bringing new dimensions to the luxury market — combining timeless craftsmanship with modern sensibilities that resonate with the refined tastes of our customers.”
He added: “At Majid Al-Futtaim, our work with luxury brands has been deeply rooted in THAT Concept Store, which has been instrumental in identifying and nurturing brands with the potential to thrive in this market. Eleventy’s journey, from its initial shop-in-shop to standalone stores, is a testament to how we test, scale, and grow global luxury brands. This strategic approach allows us to continuously evolve the luxury retail experience, delivering fresh, distinctive offerings that resonate with our customers.”
The five standalone Eleventy stores opening in key locations this year include Solitaire Mall in Saudi Arabia, Mall of the Emirates, Marsa Al-Arab, which all open this month, with Dubai Mall and The Grove in the UAE to follow later in the year. This growth builds on Eleventy’s successful presence in the region, which includes a shop-in-shop at THAT Concept Store, a pop-up at Mall of the Emirates, and its first standalone location in Marina Mall Abu Dhabi, which opened in November 2024.
Majid Al-Futtaim is further strengthening its partnership with Poltrona Frau, the iconic Italian luxury furniture brand, by introducing its first store in the region outside the UAE at Centria Mall, Riyadh, in May. Poltrona Frau achieved remarkable success in 2024, with its revenue increasing fivefold following the launch of its second UAE store at Mall of the Emirates
Italian luxury menswear brand Corneliani also made its regional store debut in April at Solitaire Mall in the Kingdom. Corneliani is one of Italy’s oldest independent luxury brands, renowned for its meticulous craftsmanship and presence in more than 70 countries.
Marco Baldassari, co-founder and menswear creative director at Eleventy, said: “Eleventy’s philosophy of understated elegance and commitment to sustainability resonates strongly with the sophisticated Middle Eastern consumer. We are excited to strengthen our partnership with Majid Al-Futtaim, whose visionary approach to luxury retail is shaping a new vision with a growing focus on customer needs. Together, we aim to redefine luxury retail by offering timeless craftsmanship, sustainable practices, and innovative experiences.”
Nicola Coropulis, CEO of Poltrona Frau, said: “Since partnering with Majid Al-Futtaim more than two years ago, we have focused on strategic growth and elevating the customer experience across the region. The revitalization of our flagship store in Jumeirah and our successful debut at Mall of the Emirates have been key milestones in our journey. We are now excited to bring this momentum to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia with our first store in Riyadh, further solidifying our presence in the GCC and expanding our reach in this dynamic market.”
Majid Al-Futtaim’s expansion in luxury retail builds on a record-breaking 2024, which saw a 26 percent increase in revenue across its portfolio and a 31 percent surge in digital sales. The year also marked the opening of 17 new stores across the region, bringing the total to 87 stores, including flagship locations for brands such as lululemon, Psycho Bunny, Shiseido, Crate and Barrel, and CB2, alongside 27 e-commerce platforms. Looking ahead, 2025 is set to be another milestone year for its lifestyle business, with plans to open 30 new stores across the region, including seven in Saudi Arabia — a key priority market for the group.
