Amazon creates 3,400 jobs across Saudi Arabia

Amazon has implemented more than 150 measures for employees, associates and drivers at all its sites in the Kingdom.
Short Url
Updated 05 December 2020
Follow

Amazon creates 3,400 jobs across Saudi Arabia

Amazon announced the creation of 3,400 new roles across its operations network in the Kingdom to meet growing customer demand during their annual “White Friday” sale campaign. Since launching Amazon.sa six months ago, the company has also invested in a 25 percent increase in the delivery station network it uses to speed up customers’ delivery times.

“These investments are a testament to Amazon’s commitment to providing quality jobs for local communities and customers with greater selection and more flexible delivery options,” a statement said.

The capital investments, spread across three key pillars — job creation, delivery infrastructure, and technology, have been well timed for the end-of-year shopping festival that began with White Friday, which took place from Nov. 24 to 30. To help supplement capacity for the rapid growth in customer demand, Amazon launched three new delivery stations through its subsidiaries and partners across Saudi Arabia, from Arar to Jazan and Makkah to Dammam. This expansion created more than 3,000 permanent and seasonal jobs, with more than 60 percent Saudization of Amazon’s permanent workforce.

Prashant Saran, director of operations for Amazon Middle East and North Africa, said: “When we first launched our marketplace in Saudi Arabia, we promised our customers the ability to shop a broader selection of both local products and international goods from Amazon. Since then, we have continued to invest in Saudi Arabia as part of our long-term commitment to our customers. We continue to innovate for our customers, bringing local and global businesses closer through our advanced fulfillment and logistics networks. We are ensuring customers across the country can get what they need from the comfort of their home while prioritizing our associates, partners, and customers’ health and safety.”

Amazon is leveraging its more than 20 years of experience in global technology innovation to create more efficient and safer processes for associates and partners in Saudi Arabia. These global technologies are seamlessly enhancing the entire delivery process across Saudi Arabia — from orders received in fulfillment centers, to the delivery of packages via sort centers, and to additional delivery stations to enable faster delivery for customers. Enhancements include geocoding solutions to calculate more accuracy for customer addresses with no postal codes and investing in Arabic language tools to support associates.

Since the start of the pandemic, Amazon has implemented more than 150 measures for employees, associates and drivers at its sites including new processes and space planning to ensure social distancing, additional sanitization stations, the provision of face coverings and daily temperature screenings.


Ford launches 2025 Taurus Hybrid in Middle East

Updated 48 sec ago
Follow

Ford launches 2025 Taurus Hybrid in Middle East

The 2025 Ford Taurus Full Hybrid has arrived in the Middle East, bringing substantially greater fuel economy to one of the region’s favorite luxury sedans. With a 1.5 L engine available across all three trims, the Taurus is Ford’s first hybrid sedan to be released in the region.

Featuring a spacious interior, advanced safety and convenience technologies, as well as performance drive, the 2025 Ford Taurus Hybrid builds on this family-friendly sedan’s decades-long legendary status in the Middle East.

The Taurus Hybrid’s arrival in the region signals Ford’s commitment to meeting growing consumer demand for eco-friendly alternatives and aligns with the shift toward smart cities and renewable energy sources. The vehicle is part of Ford’s expansion roadmap for electrified vehicles, with key milestones and expansion plans through 2025.

Efficiency without compromise

The full-hybrid Taurus’ electric motor drive operates at low vehicle speeds and gives the engine an assist, enhancing fuel economy and providing a substantial efficiency advantage without compromising on the driving performance seen in a traditional combustion engine vehicle.

Depending on the driving conditions, and mostly in low-speed maneuvers — such as parking, idling and city traffic — the Taurus Hybrid automatically switches to Electric Drive Mode, which is charged either through the combustion engine or regenerative braking. The power output of the electric motor is 48 KW equivalent to 64 HP, complemented by the 1.5 L engine, which gives a net power of 138 KW equivalent to 185 Hp.

For drivers who prefer an internal combustion engine, the 2025 Taurus is equipped with Ford’s proven 2-liter EcoBoost engine mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission, producing 239 Hp and 382 Nm of torque. Offered with front-wheel drive and three driving modes — Eco, Normal and Sport — the ICE Taurus enjoys an impressive fuel economy reaching as high as 15.3 km/l.

Comfort on the inside 

Featuring premium leather, suede-lined power seats, dual-zone auto AC, a panoramic sunroof, and seven shades of ambient lighting, the Ford Taurus’s interior was crafted with comfort and convenience for the driver and passengers alike. Sound-muffling materials used in the Taurus’ manufacturing process minimize exterior noise, ensuring a quiet ride for all occupants.

With spacious headroom at the front and back and a large 520 L trunk, the sedan packs in plenty of practicality to match its comfort credentials.

Technology-powered safety and convenience

A range of standard and available technologies have been built into the 2025 Taurus to ensure the safety of all occupants is paramount.

Standard to every Taurus are six airbags built into the Taurus — two at the front, two at the sides, and two in the curtain zone. Available driver-assist tech in the Trend and Titanium trims include blind spot information system and forward collision mitigation systems, forward collision and lane keeping/ departure warnings, rear parking sensor, driver impairment monitor, and an emergency steering assist, which works with other safety systems to prep the Taurus for extra-responsive steering in moments of emergency.

The Taurus Titanium ups the safety and convenience ante further, with a reverse brake assist, bringing the sedan to a stop when detecting motion when the vehicle is exiting backwards out of a parking spot, and a 360 view camera giving drivers a complete picture of Taurus’ surroundings.

The Taurus also features available adaptive cruise control, which automatically slows the vehicle down when detecting traffic, before returning to the driver’s preset cruise speed after things clear up.

Central connectivity

At the heart of Taurus’ technology offering is a multifunctional 13.2-inch center touchscreen, which complements an impressive 8-inch digital instrument panel cluster. The state-of-the-art center screen comes loaded with Ford’s SYNC4 technology, providing drivers with easy access to communications, entertainment, and information through both voice and touch prompts.

Drivers and passengers can keep the Taurus clutter-free thanks to the available inductive wireless charging for smartphones, while music-lovers will appreciate the six-speaker sound system.

With its spacious interior, advanced safety features, and a powerful yet fuel-efficient engine, the 2025 Ford Taurus offers a smooth and enjoyable ride for both the driver and passengers. From daily commutes to weekend road trips, this sedan combines style, performance, and practicality for a family-friendly vehicle that doesn’t compromise.

“The 2025 Taurus brings hybrid technology to one of the region’s favorite sedans, giving drivers more efficient performance than ever before seen in this nameplate,” said Sreejith Govind, brand marketing specialist at Ford Middle East. “With the Hybrid Taurus available across all three trims of this sedan, we’re proud to be offering customers the highest efficiency advantage without compromising important vehicle attributes.”

Ford’s commitment to the future is evident in the launch of the first of its new electrified offerings, the Taurus Hybrid. This flagship model embodies Ford’s dedication to innovation, boasting cutting-edge sustainable technologies, superior performance, and a distinguished design. By leveraging its longstanding presence and trusted reputation in the Middle East, Ford is ushering in a new era of automotive excellence, where advanced technology and environmental responsibility go hand-in-hand. The road to electrification emerges as a symbol of Ford’s vision for a brighter, more sustainable future of mobility, setting a new standard for the automotive industry.

The 2025 Ford Taurus is available at authorized distributors in the Middle East.


50 new Indian products launched at LuLu Hypermarket

Indian Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal launches Ladakh apples in LuLu.
Updated 05 November 2024
Follow

50 new Indian products launched at LuLu Hypermarket

In a significant move reflecting the depth of trade cooperation between Saudi Arabia and India, LuLu Hypermarket introduced a wide range of Indian-made products across its stores as part of the Diwali festival. 

Indian Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal inaugurated the Diwali Utsav at LuLu Hypermarket, which also saw the debut of several India-made products across their stores. The minister expressed appreciation for LuLu’s efforts in promoting Indian products in the Kingdom. He also praised the Indian community in Saudi Arabia for their hard work, resilience, and commitment to both their home and host countries, as he said they play an integral role in building bridges between cultures and economies.

More than 50 new products have been introduced, including premium A2 ghee, millet-based breakfast cereals, and organic beauty items. Ladakh apples, supported by international trade initiatives, alongside Indian Cavendish bananas, and dragon fruit, have also been launched.

Describing LuLu Chairman Yusuff Ali M.A. as the “Roving Ambassador of India,” Goyal said: “As the leading retail organization in the Middle East, LuLu’s commitment to showcasing high quality Indian products exemplifies the diverse acceptance of Indian products across the nations. This initiative not only supports local industries but also strengthens the economic ties between India and Saudi Arabia.”

“This initiative aims to promote the products of India, including the taste and culture of our country, among the national population and the large expatriate community residing in the region. We are on track to open our 100th store in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia within two years, which will ensure direct job opportunities for 10,000 Saudi nationals,” said Chairman Ali.

The launch event also included vibrant cultural performances, with local students presenting traditional dances to celebrate cultural diversity, complemented by a Saudi drumming troupe performing traditional music, creating a festive atmosphere.

This initiative is part of Lulu’s broader strategy to expand its offerings, having added more than 10,000 products to the store.

LuLu recently announced an Initial Public Offering for 25 percent of its share capital on the Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange, offering an opportunity for public investment in the GCC’s largest and fastest-growing full-line retailer. The subscriptions are open till Nov. 5. The final offer price will be announced on Nov. 6, with the listing anticipated on Nov. 14.


SAB receives prestigious ISO certification

Updated 05 November 2024
Follow

SAB receives prestigious ISO certification

 

Saudi Awwal Bank has achieved the ISO 9001:2015 certification from the International Organization for Standardization, becoming the first bank in the Kingdom to receive this prestigious recognition. This certification is awarded to organizations that effectively manage and enhance quality in their operations.

The certification process involved thorough audits conducted by experts from the British Standards Institution over the past three months, assessing various processes and procedures within the bank.

Ghada Al-Jarbou, chief operating officer at SAB, said: “We are pleased to be the first bank in the Kingdom to obtain the ISO 9001:2015 certification. This achievement reflects our commitment to delivering quality services and our focus on improving performance across the bank.”

She added: “This certification represents the hard work and teamwork of our staff. It strengthens our position in the banking sector and supports our goals in line with Saudi Vision 2030.”
This certification highlights SAB’s ongoing commitment to improving its services and meeting the needs of its customers, contributing to the broader economic growth in the Kingdom.


Porsche launches new Macan and Taycan models

Updated 04 November 2024
Follow

Porsche launches new Macan and Taycan models

Samaco Motors, the official importer of Porsche in Saudi Arabia, hosted an event in the Saudi capital on Oct. 28 to celebrate the launch of the new, all-electric Macan and the new updated Taycan in the Kingdom.

The event attracted Porsche customers, business leaders, media professionals, social media influencers and Porsche enthusiasts, all of whom enjoyed the first look of the company’s latest products.

The event is part of Porsche’s strategy to strengthen its presence in the Saudi automotive market and showcase the latest technologies and innovations in the field of electric vehicles.

During the launch ceremony, the features and specifications of the two new vehicles were demonstrated, and attendees had the opportunity to explore the models and learn more about them.

The launch of the electric Macan and the updated Taycan is an important step for Porsche to diversify and update its product range in line with its strategy to introduce more electrified models.

The new Macan features powertrains delivering up to 639 PS, offering top-tier performance on any terrain. With fast charging capabilities of up to 270 kW, the Macan showcases Porsche’s commitment to electric mobility. Both the Macan 4 and Macan Turbo provide an all-wheel drive, Porsche Traction Management, and top-class E-Performance.

The Macan 4 generates up to 408 PS and can accelerate from 0-100 km/h in just 5.2 seconds, with a top speed of 220 km/h.

Meanwhile, the Macan Turbo boasts 639 PS, rocketing from 0-100 km/h in just 3.3 seconds, with a top speed of 260 km/h.

The DC charging capability of the Macan is up to 270 kW. Under ideal conditions, the battery can be charged from 10 percent to 80 percent in approximately 21 minutes at a compatible fast-charging station, making the Macan an excellent companion for both everyday use and long journeys.

The new all-electric Macan can charge rapidly over a very wide state-of-charge range — with the battery temperature and weather conditions having relatively little impact on the charging time. The battery is preconditioned for an optimal charging experience.

The new all-electric Macan represents Porsche’s continued evolution toward sustainability, offering a range of advanced driving technologies, comprehensive assistance systems, and complete digital connectivity. This model is designed for drivers who value exceptional design and personalized customization, with exclusive options available through Porsche’s bespoke Exclusive Manufaktur program. With more than 800,000 Macans delivered worldwide since 2014, the new Macan marks the next milestone in Porsche’s journey toward a more sustainable future.

Meanwhile, Porsche has comprehensively improved the Taycan model range, significantly enhancing the overall system performance of the car. 

This is not only reflected in every model of the Taycan range, but even more in the new GT offer.

The Taycan Turbo GT with Weissach Package accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in just 2.2 seconds.This makes it two-tenths of a second faster than the Taycan Turbo S. The difference in acceleration from rest to 200 km/h is even more pronounced: the Taycan Turbo GT with Weissach Package needs 6.4 seconds. Its top speed is 305 km/h.

Thanks to additional aerodynamic measures and lightweight construction, the model is even more performance-oriented. This makes the new Taycan now also the most powerful production car Porsche has ever built. With its outstanding track capabilities, it has set lap records on international racetracks and further raised the benchmark in terms of driving dynamics.


Hilton’s first cohort of hospitality trainees graduate

Updated 04 November 2024
Follow

Hilton’s first cohort of hospitality trainees graduate

Hilton announced the graduation of its first cohort of students from a hospitality training program in partnership with Bunyan for Training, an affiliate of the reputed hospitality management school in Switzerland, Ecole Hôtelière de Lausanne.

Since signing the memorandum of understanding in 2022, 18 students have successfully completed the program and joined Hilton’s growing team across its 21 trading hotels in Saudi Arabia. The graduation ceremony was held at Jeddah Hilton, attended by officials from the Ministry of Culture, Ministry of Human Resources, Ministry of Tourism, and the Human Resources Fund, together with senior Bunyan for Training, EHL and Hilton representatives.

Fawaz Moumina, country manager and senior director of operations, Hilton, Saudi Arabia, said: “As we continue with our plans to more than quadruple our portfolio and open more than 70 hotels in the coming years, we are committed to creating 15,000 jobs, with more than half for Saudi nationals. We are proud to see the first group of graduates join our team and the second well underway, and we look forward to their future successes, which will inspire the next generation of Saudi hospitality professionals.”

Accredited by the Saudi Technical and Vocational Training Corporation and certified by EHL, the program offers both theoretical and practical training, along with opportunities to explore various areas of hospitality such as front office, housekeeping, and more.

Looking ahead, the next cohort of 40 students, half of whom are young women, has already begun training across Hilton hotels in Saudi Arabia.