Bupa Arabia for Cooperative Insurance hosted its Bupa Marathon 2024 on Nov. 30 in Riyadh’s Misk City. The event, held under the slogan “Your steps bring life to our environment,” brought together more than 2,500 participants of all ages and abilities, including people with special needs, to support the twin causes of public health and environmental sustainability.

The marathon was supported by Mohammed Bin Salman Nonprofitable City, the Saudi Sports for All Federation, and the Ministry of Sports, reflecting the cooperation between governmental authorities and the private sector to enhance physical activity and health awareness in Saudi society.

Hanen Al-Rasheed won first place in the 10-km women’s race, while Abdulrahman Al Anssary bagged first position in the men’s category. In the five-km race, Noor Al-Jubouri and Mahmoud Osman emerged winners in their respective categories.

Meanwhile, in the 1-km race, Jana El-Houshy bagged first position among women while Yassine Lafif came first in the men’s category. In the special needs category, Omar Mahdi won first place in the 1-km race.

Alshereef Hamideddin, senior executive director of marketing at Bupa Arabia, said: “This marathon is not only a race for sport, but it’s an invitation to motivate the community to adopt an effective and healthy lifestyle, as well as maintain the environment. We are proud of the positive energy and the huge attendance that we witnessed from all the participants; this assures the importance of such activities to enhance community spirit.”

In line with its commitment to preserving the environment, Bupa Arabia planted a tree across the Kingdom for every participant. The initiative aims to increase green spaces and enhance environmental awareness.

The Bupa Marathon is part of Bupa Arabia’s “Live Right” program, which launched in 2022 to promote a culture of healthy lifestyles in the Kingdom. The marathon is also in line with the goals of Saudi Vision 2030, which include enhancing physical activity, improving public health, and supporting environmental sustainability.

Saudi luxury F&B brand Bateel International, renowned for its gourmet delights, has announced its expansion into Asia with the opening of its first boutique in Seoul, South Korea. The outlet opened in mid-November at the prestigious Lotte World Mall. This milestone marks a pivotal moment in Bateel’s global growth strategy, bringing its collection of premium organic dates, single-origin chocolates and gourmet products to a discerning audience in one of Asia’s most vibrant markets.

After years of evaluating international markets, Bateel identified South Korea as a prime destination for its boutique expansion. With a sophisticated consumer base that values health-conscious, trendy products, Seoul presents the perfect market for Bateel’s offering of organic and filled dates, artisanal chocolates and luxurious packaged gift sets. The location in Lotte World Mall, adjacent to the entrance of the renowned viewing deck, mirrors the brand’s successful presence at Dubai Mall, where Bateel boutiques attract thousands of global visitors.

“We are thrilled to enter the South Korean market,” said Bilal El-Kurjie, senior commercial director at Bateel. “Our presence in this key market allows us to bring the unique Bateel experience to new customers, starting with this iconic location at Lotte World Mall.” 

The new boutique, larger than some of Bateel’s flagship stores in Saudi Arabia and the UAE, will offer the full Bateel experience. Customers will enjoy an extensive range of premium products, including Bateel’s organic dates, high-end single-origin chocolate collection, and bespoke packaging options, designed to cater to both local tastes and the international tourist market.

In addition to the boutique, Bateel plans to introduce its new Bateel El’an concept, a modern café format, in early 2025. This next phase will elevate Bateel’s presence in South Korea, offering dine-in, takeaway, and delivery options that showcase Bateel’s signature culinary excellence.

Central to Bateel’s expansion strategy is its commitment to sourcing the highest-quality ingredients globally. This dedication, paired with a focus on sustainability, aligns with the growing demand for responsibly sourced luxury products in South Korea.

“This expansion is the start of a new chapter for Bateel in Asia,” El-Kurjie added. “We have ambitious plans underway and look forward to further expanding our presence, starting with Seoul and soon moving into markets like Singapore.”

Bateel has established a strong global presence in more than 29 countries, with luxury boutiques and cafés in premium destinations across the GCC, Europe, and Asia.