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.


Red Sea Global announces ‘Nammos Resort AMAALA’

Updated 27 April 2025
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Red Sea Global announces ‘Nammos Resort AMAALA’

Red Sea Global, the developer behind regenerative tourism destinations AMAALA and The Red Sea, has unveiled Nammos Resort AMAALA, setting a new standard for luxury in the region. This partnership marks Nammos Hotels and Resorts’ first hotel outside of Greece, bringing its iconic Cycladic elegance and world-renowned hospitality to Saudi Arabia.

Located at the stunning Triple Bay and offering breathtaking ocean and Hijaz Cove views, Nammos Resort AMAALA will welcome guests later this year, promising an unparalleled experience defined by sophisticated design, exceptional amenities, and a harmonious blend of Mykonian and Hijazi influences.

Nammos Resort AMAALA is the second resort under Nammos Hotel and Resorts brand portfolio. It is part of ADMO Lifestyle Holding, a joint venture between Alpha Dhabi Holding and Monterock International.

The luxury property will have 110 keys with ocean views and 20 branded residences with waterfront views of the AMAALA Marina and Corallium Marine Life Institute. The property features a luxury spa, offering serene rejuvenation, a state-of-the-art fitness center for health and wellness enthusiasts and a Children’s Club, perfect for family-friendly experiences.

Nammos Resort AMAALA includes four dining venues: Horizon Bar with sunset views of the Red Sea; Nammos Restaurant; Nalu Restaurant, an all-day dining restaurant blending Latin American and Asian flavors with cascading pools that lead to the resort’s main beach; and Omnia Restaurant, an international restaurant featuring a rotating line up of guest chefs and brands.

The property’s design masterfully blends Greek and Saudi aesthetics. Crafted by Foster + Partners, the exterior draws inspiration from traditional Hijazi architecture, while the interiors, designed by Lazaro Rosa Violan Studio from Spain and Elastic Architects from Greece, capture the timeless elegance of Mykonos’ Cycladic style. Signature elements include iconic terrazzo flooring, textured walls, traditional archways, and a refined color palette of aquamarine, white, and gold. Accentuated with tarnished gold finishes and soft marble, the result is a contemporary Mediterranean ambiance.

Renowned for its beachfront bliss, Nammos Restaurant AMAALA is located on the exclusive Hijaz Island off the resort’s coast. Offering unparalleled sunset views over the Red Sea, the restaurant promises ultimate privacy with its cabanas. Accessible via boat from the Marina Village jetty, the club is exclusive to guests staying at AMAALA’s resorts. The highlight is an infinity pool that seemingly floats over the Red Sea, offering breathtaking views of the sunset.

Petros Stathis, chairman of Nammos World and vice chairman of ADMO Lifestyle Holding, said: “The opening of Nammos Resort AMAALA marks a defining milestone for our Nammos brand, a full-scale, all-encompassing resort experience in one of the most anticipated luxury travel destinations in the world. We have the utmost confidence in the visionary leadership of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, whose shared commitment to excellence is set to redefine the global hospitality landscape for decades to come. We are simply honored to be part of this extraordinary journey and look forward to the remarkable chapters that lie ahead at Red Sea.”

Sanjay Nandi, CEO of ADMO Lifestyle Holding, added: “Nammos Resort AMAALA marks a significant milestone in ADMO’s global expansion in hotels.”

As a brand synonymous with vibrant luxury and exceptional experiences, opening in one of the world’s most exclusive luxury lifestyle and wellness retreats is the perfect fit for the iconic Nammos brand and reinforces ADMO’s commitment to expanding our international portfolio in the premium hospitality sector.”

The first master plan of AMAALA, centered on the Triple Bay development, is progressing well, with the first guests expected to arrive in 2025 at the destination’s 1,400 keys across eight hotels. Triple Bay will eventually feature 12 resorts and three residential communities.

Upon full completion, AMAALA will boast approximately 4,000 rooms across 30 hotels, along with approximately 1,200 luxury residential villas, apartments, and estate homes. The development will also include vibrant marinas for the global yachting community, as well as high-end retail, fine dining, wellness and recreational facilities.


Maaden seeks to ‘Unearth Tomorrow’ with dynamic rebrand

Updated 27 April 2025
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Maaden seeks to ‘Unearth Tomorrow’ with dynamic rebrand

Saudi Arabian Mining Company, known as Maaden, the largest multi-commodity mining and metals company in the Middle East and one of the fastest-growing mining companies in the world, has unveiled its dynamic new brand identity. The rebranding is an impactful expression of the company’s ambitious vision: to drive innovation, lead with purpose, and to inspire and invest in the next generation.

As Maaden establishes itself as a globally significant Saudi mining champion, with an ambitious plan to grow 10 times by 2040, its goal is to become the employer of choice for the next generation of Saudi professionals. To achieve this, Maaden has realigned its visual identity and brand strategy to reflect the company’s dynamism, technology focus, and ambitious growth.

The visual identity captures Maaden’s proud Saudi heritage and its global ambition with the fusion of the infinity symbol, the Arabic and English M — representing legacy, vision, and connectivity. The tagline, Unearth Tomorrow, recognizes the company’s overarching purpose of developing the Kingdom’s mineral resources to fuel economic, societal, and industrial growth.

Bob Wilt, CEO of Maaden, said: “We are unveiling more than a visual identity today; this is an important milestone in our journey as a Saudi-based, globally significant organization that drives progress through technology, innovation, and talent. We have ambitious growth plans that are already being realized, and to fuel these, we must continue to inspire our current and future workforce to transform the mining sector and realize Saudi Arabia’s significant mineral potential.”

“As one of the fastest growing mining companies in the world, Maaden takes its role as a sector champion seriously. It was important that we created an image that encompasses those ambitions and positions us differently, visually and strategically, and captures the spirit of excitement and motivation that must define everything we do.”

The wordmark of Maaden’s new brand identity made its debut earlier this year on Aston Martin Aramco’s AMR25 Formula One car. As the team’s first-ever principal partner, Maaden’s branding features prominently on the car’s livery. Both this partnership and Maaden’s recent pillar partnership with LIV Golf are key markers of the company’s ongoing transformation to connect with a broader audience to attract top talent and strengthen its profile on the global stage.

Prioritizing domestic development and local talent, Maaden is driving economic diversification and fueling the Kingdom’s transformation. Inspired by the goals of Vision 2030, Maaden is attracting world leading partners, investing in new technologies and ramping up capabilities — building the third pillar of Saudi Arabia’s economy.


Pakistani educator in Kingdom wins Cambridge Dedicated Teacher Award

Updated 27 April 2025
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Pakistani educator in Kingdom wins Cambridge Dedicated Teacher Award

The International Education group at Cambridge University Press and Assessment has announced accounting and business studies teacher Farrukh Saleem Ghouri from Pakistan International School Jeddah English Section as the regional winner of the 2025 Cambridge Dedicated Teacher Awards in the  Middle East and North Africa. Ghouri is the first teacher in Saudi Arabia to be recognized as a regional winner in the competition’s seven-year history.

Ghouri is one of nine regional winners of the global Cambridge competition that celebrates the achievements of teachers around the world. As a regional winner, he will win 500 pounds ($665) worth of books for his class, a trophy, take part in a regional awards ceremony and receive publicity for himself and his school during the coming year. He will also appear on a “Thank you” page at the front of a range of new Cambridge textbooks, available to the public from November.

Ghouri has more than 25 years’ experience teaching Cambridge IGCSE and Cambridge International A Level accounting and business studies. Currently serving as head of department — commerce at PISJES in Jeddah, Ghouri prides himself in delivering more than just the syllabus.

“Teaching, to me, isn’t just about explaining concepts or helping students pass exams. It’s about unlocking their potential, challenging them to think bigger, and standing beside them as they discover what they’re capable of,” he said. “Whether it’s late-night after school events or guiding students through moments of uncertainty, I believe true education happens when we show up — fully, genuinely, and consistently.” I’ve simply tried to be the kind of mentor I once needed, and if that’s made a difference, then I consider myself incredibly fortunate.”

By going to dedicatedteacher.cambridge.org/vote, the public can now vote for Ghouri or another of the nine regional winners to become the overall, global winner. 

The deadline to vote is April 30 and the winner will be announced on May 21.

Rod Smith, managing director of International Education, said: “I congratulate Farrukh on his immense accomplishments, which I’m sure will inspire teachers and learners across Saudi Arabia.”


‘Esaaf,’ first Arabic film in IMAX, eyes global release

Updated 26 April 2025
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‘Esaaf,’ first Arabic film in IMAX, eyes global release

In a groundbreaking moment for Arabic cinema, “Esaaf” has earned its place in history as the first Arabic-language film to be screened in IMAX. Blending heart-pounding action with sharp comedy, the film offers a one-of-a-kind cinematic experience that sets a bold new precedent for the region’s film industry. By leading the charge, “Esaaf” opens doors for Saudi and Gulf talent to push boundaries and craft original, high-impact stories.

Set in Riyadh, “Esaaf,” meaning ambulance, follows two incompetent paramedics completely out of their depth, who unwittingly become embroiled in a kidnapping plot.

Since its release in Saudi cinemas, “Esaaf” has quickly captured the hearts of both critics and audiences alike. Its fresh mix of action and humor has sparked enthusiastic discussions online and drawn crowds across the country — including many families, who are embracing the film’s dynamic energy and enjoying the shared experience it brings to the big screen.

Supported by the General Entertainment Authority and Riyadh Season, “Esaaf” is produced by Blacklight and House of Comedy in partnership with SMC.

Talal Al-Anazi, CEO and co-founder of Blacklight, said: “We’re delighted by the overwhelming response to ‘Esaaf.’ This success not only validates our efforts but also inspires us to explore more bold ideas and larger-scale productions.”

Lead actor Ibrahim Al-Hajjaj said: “I’ve been blown away by the audience’s reactions. Combining action and comedy through IMAX is something entirely new for local viewers, and I’m eager to see how it continues to evolve.”

Christopher Tillman, vice president of international development and distribution at IMAX, said: “This title marks our first step into the exciting and rapidly growing Arabic-language film market, which is full of thrilling and entertaining stories we’re eager to share with audiences. With a high-level production team and a gripping, humorous story, fans can experience this laugh-out-loud thrill ride with the crystal-clear image and immersive sound exclusive to IMAX locations.”

Behind the scenes, the production team has hinted at promising talks with international distributors — an exciting step that could see “Esaaf” featured in global festivals and introduced to broader markets. The growing buzz around the film reflects a larger wave of excitement for Saudi-made content, reinforcing the Kingdom’s rising influence on the global cinematic stage.

Executive Producer Peter Smith is exploring international distribution to further underscore the potential of Saudi cinema.


GenAI can revolutionize healthcare in Kingdom: report

Updated 26 April 2025
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GenAI can revolutionize healthcare in Kingdom: report

As part of the Kingdom’s ambitious Vision 2030 and the Health Sector Transformation Program, the healthcare sector is witnessing groundbreaking innovations with the integration of generative AI. PwC Middle East, in partnership with the HSTP, has launched the latest report, “Navigating new frontiers in health: A strategic guide to GenAI in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia,” which provides a detailed analysis of the current state of healthcare transformation and how AI is poised to reshape the future of healthcare delivery in the Kingdom.

The report gathers insights from PwC Middle East’s 28th CEO Survey — KSA Findings, which revealed that 92 percent of CEOs in Saudi Arabia plan to systematically integrate GenAI into their technology platforms within three years, 88 percent into core business strategy, and 79 percent into new products/services development. For the health sector, the potential applications of GenAI in support of building a “vibrant society” are wide-ranging, including in medical imaging and diagnosis, drug discovery, mobile clinics and predictive, personalized care.

“This report underscores the growing potential of genAI to not only optimize healthcare operations but also to improve patient care and outcomes,” said Tariq Beshtawi, health industries partner, digital health transformation leader, PwC Middle East. “As Saudi Arabia works toward its Vision 2030 goals, the healthcare sector’s adoption of GenAI will play a crucial role in creating a more resilient, efficient, and patient-centric system.”

With the Kingdom facing increasing pressure to manage chronic diseases and improve accessibility in underserved regions, GenAI is proving to be a game-changer in optimizing care delivery and relieving the administrative burden on medical professionals.

Abdulgader Hamdan A Almoeen, Health Sector Transformation Program lead, said: “The Health Sector Transformation Program is driving efforts to create a future of healthcare that is more accessible, efficient, and focused on prevention. Leveraging GenAI and other advanced technologies, we are not just improving outcomes; we are defining a new global standard for the sector.”

As the Kingdom continues to prioritize healthcare in its Vision 2030 strategy, GenAI stands at the forefront of this transformation, offering significant benefits in diagnostics, drug discovery, and patient care. The insights provided in this report further demonstrate the clear potential for GenAI to revolutionize the healthcare system, ensuring that all citizens have access to world-class medical services.

This collaboration between PwC Middle East and the HSTP highlights Saudi Arabia’s readiness to embrace the future of healthcare, ensuring that it remains at the cutting edge of innovation while delivering more accessible, efficient, and personalized care for its population.