Majid Al-Futtaim introduces first green wall in Sharjah

Al-Zahia, Sharjah’s premier lifestyle destination, offers contemporary and well-designed homes, surrounded by green spaces and a range of upscale amenities.
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Updated 09 January 2022
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Majid Al-Futtaim introduces first green wall in Sharjah

Majid Al-Futtaim Communities, part of Majid Al-Futtaim Properties, is continuing to drive more sustainable and eco-friendly buildings. Following their ambition to develop thriving and sustainable communities, underpinned by placemaking environments derived from the principles of well-being, Al-Zahia, Sharjah’s premier lifestyle destination, recently announced the completion of their living wall, the first vertical garden across the emirate of Sharjah.
Presenting a lush work of art in the community spaces, the vertical garden at Al-Zahia is home to more than 15,000 plants of different species and spans across 160 square meters. As part of the highly anticipated community clubhouse, Majid Al-Futtaim Communities continues to lead the way in innovative and customer-centric destinations.




Driven by our placemaking principles and commitment to break boundaries, Al-Zahia is underway in redefining Sharjah’s living experience.
Hawazen Esber
Chief Executive, Majid Al-Futtaim Communities

Earning global recognition due to their distinct economic and ecological advantages and rising environmental awareness, green walls have emerged as an essential component of sustainable urban development. Contributing to healthy communities, living walls can serve as a means of expression, creating a unique space for people to express themselves in various ways. Naturally infusing the air with oxygen, plants take in more CO2 than they release, removing traces of toxic chemicals and contributing toward cleaner, more oxygenated air. Absorbing approximately 41 percent more noise than traditional walls, the vertical gardens are not only beautiful and healthy; they equally reduce noise from external surroundings
and activities.
“At Majid Al-Futtaim our communities are about embedding local culture, creating more sustainable environments, capturing the beauty of nature while recognizing the potential for healthy living. Studies show that living in a green environment brings people together and that small-scale greenery has a positive effect on social cohesion in neighborhoods. Driven by our placemaking principles and commitment to break boundaries, Al-Zahia is underway in redefining Sharjah’s living experience,” said Hawazen Esber, chief executive, Majid Al-Futtaim Communities.
Al-Zahia offers homeowners contemporary and well-designed homes, surrounded by green spaces and a range of upscale amenities.
Located within walking distance of the recently opened City Center Al-Zahia, an innovative shopping and dining destination in Sharjah, the 1-million-square-meter residential community, is owned by Sharjah Holding — a joint venture between Majid Al-Futtaim Properties and Sharjah Asset Management.


Dar wa Emaar’s ‘Saraya Al-Fursan 2’ achieves SR450m in sales within 3 months of launch

Updated 05 February 2025
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Dar wa Emaar’s ‘Saraya Al-Fursan 2’ achieves SR450m in sales within 3 months of launch

Dar wa Emaar Real Estate Investment and Development Company, a pioneer in the real estate development sector in Saudi Arabia, has achieved an impressive 50 percent sales milestone, totaling SR450 million ($120 million), for its Saraya Al-Fursan 2 residential development in Al-Fursan Suburb, Riyadh, just three months after its launch. Introduced during last year’s Cityscape Global, the second phase of the project has been realized through DwE’s ongoing partnership with the National Housing Company.

Saraya Al-Fursan 2 is a testament to the enduring success of its predecessor, reflecting the deep trust and confidence clients and the NHC place in Dar wa Emaar. This second phase not only continues the legacy of quality and excellence established by the first but also signals the strength of the ongoing partnership between DwE and NHC, which has been crucial in meeting the high expectations and demands of today’s Saudi real estate market.

Commenting on the project’s resounding early-stage success, Mansour Aljfaili, sales director at DwE, said: “DwE has had the privilege of serving the Kingdom and its people for nearly two decades, during which we have witnessed the flourishing of the real estate industry and the emergence of a mature, discerning, and optimistic market. Homeownership is one of the most significant investments an individual or family can make, and Saraya Al-Fursan 2’s strong sales figures demonstrate that DwE has once again earned the trust and confidence of the public. These impressive results have also surpassed our target for the first year since the launch, reflecting the exceptional demand and confidence in our projects. We look forward to seeing Saraya Al-Fursan, and the Al-Fursan Suburb community, continue to evolve and thrive in the years to come.”

Saraya Al-Fursan 2 represents the latest milestone in DwE’s commitment to honoring Saudi Arabia’s rich heritage while addressing the current and future primary property ownership aspirations of its people. Strategically located just 10 km from King Khalid International Airport and 30 km from Riyadh Boulevard and the King Abdullah Financial District, Saraya Al-Fursan 2 offers unparalleled connectivity while enhancing quality of life with homes tailored to suit the evolving needs of today’s Saudi citizens and residents. 

This vibrant, community-focused lifestyle development offers 718 housing units across four thoughtfully designed villa models: two five-bedroom family villas and two four-bedroom villas. 

Each model blends modern and vernacular architectural motifs, with their exterior facades characterized by bold, cubic designs accented by mashrabiya screens and warm earthen tones. The interiors combine open, contemporary layouts with traditional majlis and dewaniyah spaces. Saraya Al-Fursan 2 emphasizes sustainable design with features like energy-saving LED lighting, natural marble and porcelain flooring, and high-quality construction materials ensuring durability and environmental consciousness.

Saraya Al Fursan is a key project within Al-Fursan Suburb, designed to increase the supply of quality housing in this ambitious city development. Spanning 461,683 square meters, it dedicates 41 percent of its space to residential villas, 32 percent to gardens and landscapes, and 27 percent to commercial spaces, roads, and public facilities. 


Big 5 Construct Saudi returns with 2,000 exhibitors from 60 nations

Updated 04 February 2025
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Big 5 Construct Saudi returns with 2,000 exhibitors from 60 nations

Saudi Arabia’s construction market is projected to grow from $70.33 billion in 2024 to $91.36 billion by 2029, according to Mordor Intelligence, highlighting the growing opportunities in the construction sector. Big 5 Construct Saudi, the largest and most influential construction event in the Kingdom, is returning for its 13th edition, expanding into a two-week format and designed to meet the evolving demands of the market.

Unifying the full construction value chain from inception to completion, the event will provide two weeks of business making, networking and knowledge sharing at the Riyadh Front Exhibition and Conference Center, from Feb. 15–18 (first week) and Feb. 24–27 (second week), providing attendees with a specialized and comprehensive experience tailored to the construction ecosystem’s diverse needs.

“With over a decade of success, Big 5 Construct Saudi will bring together more than 2,000 leading local and international companies, fueling high-impact collaborations, project innovations and the adoption of cutting-edge construction technologies and techniques that are shaping Saudi Arabia’s built environment,” said Muhammed Kazi, senior vice president — construction at dmg events. “The new two-week format directly responds to the dynamic growth of the Saudi market and its evolving needs. This approach enables us to deliver a more targeted experience for attendees while maximizing access to ongoing and upcoming business opportunities driven by Vision 2030’s development goals.”

The first week of Big 5 Construct Saudi will lay the foundation for the Kingdom’s future construction projects, focusing on critical sectors like building materials, plant machinery, concrete, offsite construction, HVAC R and MEP technology. Heavy Saudi Arabia, Totally Concrete Saudi Arabia and HVAC R Saudi will be the co-located events alongside Big 5 Construct Saudi, offering specialized insights into Saudi Arabia’s $1.7 trillion project pipeline.

Leading industry players will present innovative products and services. Some of these include: Masdar, a distributor offering a wide range of building materials and tools; Daikin, an innovator in HVAC solutions; Saudi Binladin Group, a major construction conglomerate; CPC, a provider of building materials; Haier, a provider of smart appliances; Dewalt, a manufacturer of power tools; Al-Yamamah Steel, a supplier of steel products; Vada Stone, a specialist in natural stone; and Buna, a producer of concrete solutions.

Hussein and Al-Hassan G. Shaker Bros. Company, a leading HVAC company, is supporting the event as the HVAC R — Exclusive Diamond Sponsor. Commenting on their participation, Sheikh Hassan G. Shaker, CEO, Hussein and Al-Hassan G. Shaker Bros, said: “As the sole distributor of Midea air conditioners in Saudi Arabia, we are thrilled to bring back our cutting-edge HVAC solutions and latest innovations to the forefront at this year’s Big 5 Construct Saudi.”

Also supporting the HVAC R Expo as the HVAC R Partner is American multinational HVAC, refrigeration, and fire and security equipment giant Carrier. “The co-located HVAC R Saudi Arabia aligns perfectly with our vision at Carrier to contribute to the Kingdom’s transformative construction landscape and strengthen our presence in this dynamic market,” said Salman Zebian, general manager, Carrier Saudi Arabia.

From Feb. 24–27, the second week of Big 5 Construct Saudi will shift its focus to the finishing touches that complete construction projects. Key sectors such as building facades, windows, urban design, marble, stone, hospital design and build and facilities management will take the center stage, with co-located events like Windows, Doors and Facades Saudi Arabia, Marble and Stone Saudi Arabia, Urban Design and Landscape Saudi Arabia, Saudi Hospital Design and Build Expo, and Saudi FM and Clean.

Exhibitors include: Al-Zamil, a leader in industrial solutions; Schuco, an expert in window systems; Alumil, a manufacturer of aluminum systems; Pulver, a supplier of industrial equipment; ALCO, a producer of construction materials; Akma Stone, a specialist in natural stone; National Paints, a provider of coatings; Al-Andalus, a distributor of building materials; Domus, a provider of architectural solutions; Cube, an innovator in construction technologies; Technoform, a specialist in thermal insulation; and Gutmann, a supplier of aluminum systems.


Budget Saudi launches ‘Quit Screens to Scenes’ campaign

Updated 04 February 2025
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Budget Saudi launches ‘Quit Screens to Scenes’ campaign

Budget Saudi Arabia, a car rental company in the Kingdom, has launched a new initiative to bring friends, families and loved ones together.

Underlining its commitment to empowering people to embark on rewarding travel and transportation experiences, the company has partnered with popular Saudi influencer Azooz Bakr to enliven special occasions, celebrate cherished moments and create lasting memories.

At a time when more people are spending more time online than ever, Budget Saudi’s new initiative — “Quit Screens to Scenes” — inspires consumers across the Kingdom to immerse themselves in their real-world connections, transforming virtual engagements into meaningful, in-person experiences that will live long in the memory.

As part of the campaign and in-keeping with the company’s ongoing mission to curate transporting adventures for its customers, the initiative will see the company provide a new service to users. As opposed to simply sending a digital message — be it through a text or an email — to a friend or family member when celebrating occasions or anniversaries such as birthdays, job promotions and new career milestones, Budget Saudi will offer people the chance to reconnect with those closest to them and take part in special on-ground celebrations.

Participants will be personally driven by Bakr to surprise and celebrate with their loved ones, transforming virtual interactions into truly special occasions. Budget Saudi will handle all logistics, making the experience as smooth, seamless and straightforward as possible, reiterating that celebrating real-world connections can be just as simple as sending a virtual message — and much more rewarding.

Fawaz Abdullah Danish, president and group CEO, Budget Saudi Arabia, said: “At Budget Saudi, we ‘Keep Moving’ people where they need to be and take great pride in doing so. We understand that this is incredibly important — especially when bringing families and loved ones together to celebrate the moments and occasions that matter most to them. We recognize that our work transcends simply enabling customers to move from point A to point B: the move that breaks the shackles of status quo to freedom of creativity and empowerment. It empowers people to enrich their lives by strengthening their bonds with those dearest and closest to them, no matter how far away they might be. ‘Quit Screens to Scenes’ was created to do precisely that, transforming people’s personal celebrations and lives by bridging the gap between the virtual world and the real world.”


Social Development Bank, Jahez Group back startups with SR10m fund

Updated 04 February 2025
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Social Development Bank, Jahez Group back startups with SR10m fund

Saudi Arabia’s Social Development Bank successfully concluded a training camp for the Jahez Social Responsibility Portfolio, which took place over five days at the Dulani Business Center in Riyadh.

The camp resulted in supporting 20 entrepreneurial projects with a total financing of SR10 million ($2.7 million) and a funding ceiling of SR500,000 per project, drawn from the overall SR30 million value of the Jahez Social Responsibility Portfolio. 

SDB managed the portfolio by conducting feasibility studies, disbursing funds, and overseeing project progress to ensure their long-term sustainability. This integrated model is designed to empower entrepreneurs and foster a thriving startup ecosystem.

Throughout the camp, participants received extensive training in essential business skills, including economic feasibility studies and investment proposal presentations, equipping them with the knowledge and confidence needed to successfully enter the market. 

The initiative is part of a strategic partnership with Jahez, to strengthen public-private sector collaboration, drive sustainable development, and empower entrepreneurs in the fast-growing logistics sector.

Sultan Al-Hamidi, CEO of SDB, said: “The Jahez Social Responsibility Portfolio is not merely a financing tool but a comprehensive development framework aimed at fostering innovation and entrepreneurship among Saudi youth. Through our management of this portfolio, we are committed to creating a lasting economic impact, generating real opportunities for ambitious entrepreneurs. The Jahez camp was a bright beginning to a journey of contribution and accomplishments, where each supported project contributes to building a sustainable economy and a brighter future.”

Ghassab Al-Mandeel, CEO of Jahez Group, said: “Our partnership with SDB embodies our dedication to empowering entrepreneurs by providing them with the necessary financial and operational support. This initiative aims to accelerate the growth of the logistics sector as a key driver of the national economy, while fostering innovation through pioneering projects aligned with Saudi Vision 2030. Each training phase within the camp has been a crucial step toward turning promising ideas into viable, sustainable businesses.”

SDB launched a pioneering social responsibility portfolio, offering a structured framework for companies to effectively contribute to community development and sustainable growth. Jahez was the first partner in this initiative, committing an initial SR30 million to the portfolio.


BSF Capital partners with BlackRock to deliver innovative investment solutions in Saudi Arabia

Updated 04 February 2025
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BSF Capital partners with BlackRock to deliver innovative investment solutions in Saudi Arabia

Saudi Fransi Capital, a leading Capital Markets Institution in Saudi Arabia, has partnered with BlackRock, the world’s largest asset management firm.

The collaboration will integrate BSF Capital’s deep local insights and market knowledge with BlackRock’s global expertise in asset management and investment advisory services. Together, the two firms will introduce a range of multi-asset investment strategies with a focus on global exposures designed to align with the evolving financial goals of clients in the Kingdom across all segments.

Salam Al-Khunaizi, CEO and board member of BSF Capital, said: “We are proud to build on our long-standing relationship with BlackRock, which marks an important milestone for BSF Capital. This collaboration strengthens our ability to deliver innovative, client-focused investment solutions that meet the evolving needs of our clients and reinforce our position as a leader in the Kingdom’s financial sector. Aligned with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 and the Financial Sector Development Program, this partnership reflects our commitment to supporting the development of the financial sector through promoting income diversification, boosting savings, and offering various investment opportunities.”

Yazeed Almubarak, CEO of BlackRock Saudi Arabia, said: “We’re delighted to expand our partnership with BSF Capital to bring tailored investment solutions to the Saudi market that help investors meet their financial needs and ambitions. At BlackRock, we share BSF Capital’s steadfast commitment to supporting the delivery of Vision 2030 through expanding the Kingdom’s capital markets and introducing unique and differentiated investment solutions.”