More luxury & spirituality: Zamzam Pullman Makkah Hotel undergoes renovation

Samer Khair, cluster general manager of Zamzam Pullman Makkah and Madinah.
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Updated 13 December 2022
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More luxury & spirituality: Zamzam Pullman Makkah Hotel undergoes renovation

Zamzam Pullman Makkah Hotel, owned by Munshaat Real Estate Projects Company, has announced the beginning of its renovation work, which will include upgrades to its 1,315 rooms, suites and overall facilities.

The renovation is part of a development plan aimed at modernizing the hotel in accordance with its future aspirations and strategy, underlining its history as the first hotel in the Abraj Al-Bait project, which is also called Makkah Clock Tower, while preserving its distinctive identity marked out over the years. To undertake the project, the Saudi Lana group has been appointed as a project contractor and international consulting firm JLL Jones Lang Lasal as project manager.

Zamzam Pullman Makkah Hotel has a unique design that reflects the elegant classical character that brings a spiritual vibe, which fits in with its status and location, directly overlooking the Grand Mosque of Makkah and the Holy Kaaba. The renovation work will add more luxury and distinction to the new decorations and furniture in all of the hotel’s rooms and suites, as well as hotel lobbies, restaurants and café.

Samer Khair, cluster general manager of Zamzam Pullman Makkah and Madinah, said: “The guests of Allah are expected to enjoy the elegant classical character of the hotel after renovation of its rooms, suites and facilities. We will offer them an ideal residency experience amid an atmosphere of spirituality and originality.”

He added: “Zamzam Pullman Makkah Hotel is considered one of the most important hotels in Saudi Arabia, especially in Makkah, and it is the first hotel in the Abraj Al-Bait project.”

Khair said that the renovation work will take place in several stages, while the property carries on normal operations.

“We are working to preserve the hotel’s position and its history within the religious tourism system; our goal is to provide hospitality services at the highest quality to achieve an integrated religious tourism experience for visitors and pilgrims,” he said. 


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.”


Stellar launches as catalyst to transform education in KSA

Updated 03 February 2025
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Stellar launches as catalyst to transform education in KSA

Stellar, a newly established independent education solutions provider, marked its official launch with two private events in Riyadh and Jeddah. Emerging from Emkan Education’s Cambridge department, Stellar represents a new chapter in delivering innovative, reliable, and impactful education services to empower learners, educators, schools and institutions across the Kingdom.

The launch events celebrated Stellar’s mission of “Education Beyond Limits,” a vision deeply aligned with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, which emphasizes educational transformation and the development of a globally competitive workforce.

Prominent figures attended the events to lend their support to this milestone. In Riyadh, Dr. Ahmed Al-Aqeel of Downe House, Dr. Ibrahim Alfarhan, general manager of international education at Ataa Educational Company, and Dr. Asmaa Al-Qadi from Al-Tarbyah Al-Islamyah Schools, joined the celebration, commending Stellar’s efforts to bridge gaps in knowledge and create opportunities for success.

The Jeddah event welcomed Arwa Alkheriji of Al-Andalus Education Company, Wafa Ashmawi of Maarif, and Siham Ouri, education adviser at the US Consulate, who highlighted the value of global collaboration in fostering local educational advancements.

Stellar builds upon Emkan Education’s decade-long journey and values of empowering schools, educators, and learners. Now an independent entity, Stellar is poised to expand its reach as a partner who can provide comprehensive, tailored support across every aspect of education. A wide range of services will be offered that cater to the unique needs of schools, teachers, and students, with the support of expert partners who share the same values.

Central to Stellar’s success is its strong network of partnerships, including collaborations with renowned organizations such as Cambridge International, Aanaab, and Transform International.

During the events, Stellar recognized the contributions of its four ambassadors: Ann Philip from Reigate Grammar School Riyadh, Asma Al-Qunaisi from AlKuttab Company, Wafaa Ashmawi from Maarif Education Company, and Mohammed Eissa from AlKhandaq International School. Their heartfelt testimonials highlighted Stellar’s profound impact on their institutions and its role in driving educational excellence. Activities such as storytelling sessions and networking opportunities further enriched the celebrations, emphasizing the values of collaboration, leadership, and continuous improvement.

Khulood Eshaq, Stellar’s CEO, said during the launch: “Stellar is not just a provider; we are a trusted partner committed to education beyond limits. Our work aligns with the Human Capital Development Program, contributing to Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 by driving excellence and inspiring lifelong learning.”

The Stellar launch events concluded with an invitation for schools, educators, and stakeholders to join its mission of transforming education.