AEC showcases cybersecurity solutions & more at LEAP

AEC showcased a complete range of solutions, systems, and products, including its flagship data diode, along with other cybersecurity solutions.
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Updated 07 February 2022
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AEC showcases cybersecurity solutions & more at LEAP

The Advanced Electronics Company, a SAMI company, successfully concluded its participation in the LEAP technology conference, from Feb. 1-3, at Riyadh International Conventions and Exhibitions Center.

AEC showcased a complete range of solutions, systems, and products, including its flagship data diode, a next-generation cybersecurity technology that helps protect sensitive networks and databases from hacking and breaches, along with other cybersecurity solutions, cloud computing systems, IoT, and digital health services. Also, the company presented its Security Operations Center, which supports IT professionals in securing their cybersecurity systems and ensures immunity from breaches.

AEC CEO Ziad Al-Musallam said: “We are proud of AEC’s participation in LEAP, an opportunity to showcase the company’s capabilities led by our national talents and inspired by the Kingdom’s Vision 2030.” Al-Musallam stressed the importance of AEC’s technical and digital solutions and services within the company’s goals of remaining one of the key enablers of the Kingdom’s digital transformation journey.

AEC also inked a contract with the Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs to fulfill the ministry’s information security and cybersecurity needs and provide information technology infrastructure services.

Al-Musallam and Ahmed Al-Mansouri, assistant for executive affairs to the Saudi Minister of Foreign Affairs, signed the contract. The agreement comes within the framework of supporting the digital transformation journey in the Kingdom, enhancing cybersecurity and governance in the field of information technology, as well as increasing the percentage of knowledge localization and technology transfer to elevate national capabilities.

AEC’s pavilion in the conference was visited by a number of senior officials from government and private authorities, including Rumaih Al-Rumaih, chairman of the Saudi Public Transport Authority, and Dr. Ghassan Alshibl, adviser to the general secretariat of the Saudi Council of Ministers and vice chairman of SAMI.

Established in 1988 and headquartered in Riyadh, AEC is a leader in the electronics, technology, and manufacturing industries. The company designs, develops, manufactures, maintains, and repairs advanced systems and products in the defense and aerospace, information and communications technology, security, and energy sectors. It employs more than 2,200 employees, 85 percent of whom are Saudis working in various fields.


STC Bank wins Temenos’ ‘Fast Track Growth’ award

Senior officials of STC Bank at the Temenos Forward Awards.
Updated 33 sec ago
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STC Bank wins Temenos’ ‘Fast Track Growth’ award

STC Bank has been awarded the Fast Track Growth award at the annual Temenos Forward Awards in Madrid, Spain, in acknowledgment of its remarkable growth in users since its launch as a full-fledged digital bank just three months ago.

STC Bank is one of the leading digital banks in the Kingdom. It began its journey as a digital wallet before transitioning into a fully licensed digital bank under the supervision of the Saudi Central Bank.

The bank’s rapid growth is attributed to its ease of use and innovative features, such as instant money transfers via mobile number, competitive rates on international remittances, bill payments, and more.

Existing wallet users can seamlessly migrate to the bank’s platform, while new customers can open a bank account in less than two minutes.

Temenos, a global leader in banking software for more than 32 years, has been instrumental in supporting the banking sector through its core banking platform, Temenos Core.

This platform empowers users with access to modern digital lending and deposit solutions.

With Temenos Core, the bank has successfully launched a microservice and data-driven architecture and is expanding into innovative lending and digital deposit solutions, reinforcing its strategy of modular, data-driven offerings.

This collaboration supports STC Bank’s commitment to adopting advanced technology to redefine banking standards in the Kingdom and the broader GCC region.


Majid Al-Futtaim brings Italian furniture brand Poltrona Frau to KSA

Updated 31 May 2025
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Majid Al-Futtaim brings Italian furniture brand Poltrona Frau to KSA

Majid Al-Futtaim, a shopping malls, communities, retail, and leisure pioneer across the Middle East, Africa, and Central Asia, has announced the opening of Poltrona Frau’s first standalone store in Saudi Arabia at Centria Mall in Riyadh, marking a key milestone in the brand’s regional growth. The store marks Poltrona Frau’s third location in the GCC and part of Majid Al-Futtaim’s broader strategy to expand its premium home offering across the Middle East.

Located on the first floor of Centria Mall, Riyadh’s premier destination for luxury and international fashion, the new 320-square-meter store offers curated lifestyle settings and a dedicated material library, which offers clients a hands-on opportunity to customize their interiors with an haute couture approach. Inspired by the warmth and intimacy of a contemporary home, the space was designed by multidisciplinary studio AMDL CIRCLE under the direction of architect Michele De Lucchi, and features layered textures, warm tones, and artisan-crafted details.

Fahed Ghanim, CEO of Majid Al-Futtaim Lifestyle, said: “Saudi Arabia is a key growth market for Majid Al-Futtaim and Poltrona Frau, as demand for premium, design-led living continues to rise. This opening builds on the brand’s strong momentum following the world’s first mall-based Poltrona Frau store at Mall of the Emirates and the launch of its localized e-commerce platform. It reflects our strategy to scale global brands across the region while delivering curated, high-quality omnichannel experiences.” 

Fahed Ghanim, CEO of Majid Al-Futtaim Lifestyle

Nicola Coropulis, CEO of Poltrona Frau, said: “Following successful openings in Kuala Lumpur, Bangkok and São Paulo, our presence in Riyadh strengthens our position in a region increasingly aligned with our values of timeless elegance and artisanal quality. In partnership with Majid Al-Futtaim, this flagship store in Saudi Arabia will support both our residential and contract business growth, enabling us to serve both private clients and large-scale projects across hospitality, corporate, and public spaces.”

The new flagship store will feature Poltrona Frau’s most celebrated icons, including the 1919 armchair, the Vanity XC armchair, the Archibald sofa, pieces from The Five Seasons Collection of 2025 and highlights from the 2024 Imagine Collection. The Blisscape Sofa by Ludovica Serafini + Roberto Palomba, will be unveiled for the first time regionally, following its debut at the Salone del Mobile and its direct arrival from the Milan flagship store. Also on display is the Mallorca Rug from Sahrai’s Underwaterlife summer collection, alongside products from Ceccotti Collezioni, the Tuscan woodworking atelier acquired by Poltrona Frau in 2018.

To mark the opening, a Poltrona Frau master artisan will demonstrate the brand’s handcrafting techniques live in-store, providing a rare glimpse into the savoir-faire that has defined the brand for over a century. The activation echoes the values of L’Atelier dei Saperi, a recently launched initiative aimed at preserving and passing on artisanal skills through intergenerational mentorship.

Poltrona Frau’s entry into the Saudi market marks a strategic milestone in its regional expansion, reinforcing the brand’s commitment to meeting the growing demand for timeless, design-led living across the GCC. In partnership with Majid Al-Futtaim, the brand is set for sustained growth as it continues to strengthen its presence in the region’s most influential luxury destinations.


Porsche opens new state-of-the-art showroom in Alkhobar

Updated 31 May 2025
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Porsche opens new state-of-the-art showroom in Alkhobar

Porsche Saudi Arabia unveiled its new state-of-the-art center in Alkhobar on May 21. A ribbon-cutting ceremony marked the beginning of the launch event, celebrating the collaboration between SAMACO Motors and Porsche Middle East and Africa on the corporate identity upgrade of the facility.

This new facility encompasses a total area of 1,263 square meters and includes a combined new and pre-owned car showroom designed to meet all “Destination Porsche” requirements. The elevated showroom can accommodate up to 16 car displays and features the brand-associated Carrera Café.

Guests have the opportunity to experience the passion and precision of both new and pre-owned models while enjoying amenities such as a fitting lounge, the Porsche Lifestyle store, and an equipment area, all within the state-of-the-art facility.

Porsche’s commitment to e-performance was also highlighted, with three e-charger outlets available in the parking area — two AC and one DC charging stations.

The event was attended by key representatives from SAMACO Motors, Porsche Middle East and Africa, and Porsche Saudi Arabia.

“This facility represents a significant milestone in the enhancement of the Porsche experience for customers in this region,” said Rashad Embaby, general manager, Porsche Saudi Arabia.


Kohler inspires transformation at its first signature store in KSA

Updated 31 May 2025
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Kohler inspires transformation at its first signature store in KSA

Kohler Co., the global leader in kitchen and bath design and innovation, has launched its first signature store, KSS, in Saudi Arabia. 

This landmark showroom, developed in partnership with Bayt Al-Ebaa and designed by the internationally acclaimed Kristina Zanic Consultants, marks a significant milestone in Kohler’s commitment to transforming lifestyles through bold design, sustainable innovation, and immersive experiences.

The Riyadh KSS is an experiential space that showcases Kohler’s 151-year legacy of craftsmanship and innovation. 

It is designed to inspire visitors through a series of thoughtfully curated environments. 

These range from spaces that foster creative engagement and innovation, celebrate eco-conscious designs and have spaces such as Midnight Reverie, which balances sophistication with bold aesthetics; and Past Perfect, a timeless suite blending modern and traditional design languages. 

The store also introduces KALLISTA, a luxury brand that embodies artistry and quality, elevating the bathroom experience with its exquisite American craftsmanship and design heritage.

This immersive showroom is more than a retail space; it is a creative hub that integrates sustainable solutions, cutting-edge technology, and engaging content to elevate the quality of life for its visitors. 

Highlights include Kohler’s Anthem+ digital showering system featuring invigoration steam, sound tile shower speakers, and an innovative veil smart toilet in honed black, part of Kohler’s Design Changes Everything campaign.

“Our mission is to help people live more gracious, healthy, and sustainable lives — and this store embodies that vision," said David Kohler, chair and CEO of Kohler Co. 

“The launch of our first signature store in Saudi Arabia provides a terrific opportunity to invite the region to transform its expectations of daily living, showcase exceptional design, and build strong relationships to delight customers,” he added.

Kohler’s mission to help people live gracious, healthy, and sustainable lives resonates deeply with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, particularly the Quality-of-Life program. 

The program aims to enhance lifestyle, promote healthy living, and foster sustainability — principles that are embedded in Kohler’s product portfolio and showroom experience. 

The KSS Riyadh store represents the first of many planned in the Kingdom, reinforcing Kohler’s long-term commitment to supporting Saudi Arabia’s transformative journey toward a more vibrant and sustainable future.

“This partnership reflects a shared vision—to empower Saudi homes with transformative, future-ready living solutions,” said Abdullah Hakmi, owner of Bayt Al Ebaa. “This isn’t just a store. It’s a canvas for aspiration.” 

Bayt Al Ebaa is one of the leading suppliers of kitchen and bath materials in KSA. 

The aesthetic direction and spatial storytelling of the showroom were developed in collaboration with Kristina Zanic Consultants, known for their sophisticated, human-centric design sensibility.

For more than 150 years, Kohler Co. has been a global leader in bold design and innovation, dedicated to helping people live gracious, healthy, and sustainable lives through its kitchen and bath products; luxury cabinetry, tile, and lighting; wellness products and services; and luxury hospitality experiences and major championship golf. 

Privately held Kohler Co. was founded in 1873 and is headquartered in Kohler, Wisconsin. 

The company also develops sustainable living solutions to enhance the quality of life for current and future generations. 

Its Innovation for Good platform addresses pressing issues, such as clean water and safe sanitation, with breakthrough products and services for underserved communities. 

David Kohler serves as chair and CEO and represents the fourth generation of Kohler family leadership.


Naif Alrajhi Investment, Aljazira Capital launch SR1.7bn fund

Updated 30 May 2025
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Naif Alrajhi Investment, Aljazira Capital launch SR1.7bn fund

Naif Alrajhi Investment has formed a strategic partnership with Aljazira Capital to launch a closed private real estate investment fund. Valued at SR1.7 billion ($453.2 million), the fund will focus on the development of two high-impact real estate projects in Riyadh and Jeddah.

This partnership underscores the shared investment vision of both companies in the Saudi real estate market and their shared ambition to enhance its appeal by developing innovative, high-value projects. The fund will support the execution of two strategic developments in two of the Kingdom’s most prominent and dynamic cities.

In Riyadh, the fund will support the development of a luxury residential project in Al-Khuzama district, designed to offer a fully integrated residential environment. The project will feature a diverse range of private residences, premium services, and architectural designs aligned with Saudi Arabia’s modern vision. Strategically located near key landmarks in the capital, the project offers strong investment value and serves as an ideal choice for those seeking exceptional living in one of Riyadh’s most prestigious neighborhoods.

In Jeddah, the fund will support a mixed-use development in North Jeddah along King Abdulaziz Road. The project will feature residential and commercial towers, a luxury hotel, office spaces, retail outlets, and dining destinations. Designed to meet the growing demand for integrated, lifestyle-centric developments, the project combines living, working, and leisure in one strategic location. Its architectural design reflects Saudi Arabia’s vision to preserve and modernize the Kingdom’s identity, contributing to the evolving urban landscape of Jeddah in a contemporary and forward-looking way.

Naif Saleh Alrajhi, chairman and CEO of Naif Alrajhi Investment, said: “We are proud to partner with Aljazira Capital in developing two high-impact projects. Strategic locations were carefully selected, and the real estate offerings were designed based on thorough market research and trends, while ensuring alignment with the urban code and architectural identity of each region.” He added: “This collaboration reflects our ongoing commitment to developing distinctive real estate projects that enhance quality of life.”

Naif Al-Mesned, CEO and managing director of Aljazira Capital, said: “At Aljazira Capital, we remain dedicated to offering high-quality investment opportunities that align with our clients’ aspirations and respond to evolving market demands. The launch of this fund, in partnership with Naif Alrajhi Investment as a specialized real estate developer, reflects our strategy to diversify our investment offerings and reinforce our active presence in the real estate sector.”

Bandar Al-Hogail, head of real estate assets at Aljazira Capital, added: “The launch of this fund marks an important milestone in Aljazira Capital’s strategy to offer a diversified portfolio of high-quality real estate investment products.” He added: “Partnering with experienced industry specialists such as Naif Alrajhi Investment — the developer behind the fund’s projects — is a key factor in ensuring project success and achieving targeted returns.”

Naif Alrajhi Investment is one of the Kingdom’s leading investment groups, managing a diversified portfolio with a strong focus on the real estate sector. With a proven track record of success both locally and internationally, the company brings deep expertise and a strategic vision to developing real estate assets that meet the highest standards.