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Saudi non-profit sector registers 1.4% rise in boost to Vision 2030 goals

March saw the creation of 57 civil associations, seven civil society organizations, and eight family funds. Shutterstock
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Updated 05 April 2024
Arab News
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Saudi non-profit sector registers 1.4% rise in boost to Vision 2030 goals

Updated 05 April 2024
Arab News

RIYADH: Non-profit organizations in Saudi Arabia grew by 72 in March, as the sector recorded a 1.4 percent rise over the month.

Official figures released by the National Center for Non-Profit Sector Development showed the number of bodies registered in this sphere now stands at 4,721 – a 182 percent rise from 2018.

March saw the creation of 57 civil associations, seven civil society organizations, and eight family funds across the Kingdom, according to a report by the Saudi Press Agency.

The non-profit sector is a key part of the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 economic diversification initiative, and in June Minister of Human Resources and Social Development Ahmed Al-Rajhi lauded the organizations for creating “sustainable impacts” and implementing “many outstanding projects.”

The SPA report highlighting the latest increase said the National Center “noted the continuous growth witnessed by the non-profit sector, at the level of non-profit organizations, the number of volunteers, and the increase witnessed in the number of technically supervised units in government agencies.”

The release added; “The Center points to the progress achieved through the cooperation of all parties of the non-profit sector system, and the observed development in the governance of non-profit organizations. 

“In 2023, it achieved advanced levels of governance, which confirms the sector organizations’ commitment to compliance according to the targeted development roles.”

According to SPA, the Center also announced the issuance of decisions against a number of non-profit organizations and individuals, including four warnings against civil society organizations, four dismissal decisions for the boards of directors of civil society organizations, and a decision to exclude an employee of a civil society organization from working in the sector for a temporary period.

In February, the minister of human resources and social development used a speech at the Second Annual Forum for Non-Governmental Organizations in Riyadh to highlight how well bodies in the sector are run.

“There has been an increase in the satisfaction rate of beneficiaries of services of non-profit organizations reaching 86 percent, exceeding the target for the year 2025,” said Al-Rajhi at the time, adding that there are more than 800,000 volunteers in the sector, with government contracts awarded to non-profit sector organizations valued at SR6 billion ($1.6 billion) since 2018.

Topics: National Center for Non-Profit Sector Non-Profit sector

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Closing Bell: Saudi main index ends week in red; trade volume nears $3bn 

Updated 21 sec ago
Nour El-Shaeri 
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Closing Bell: Saudi main index ends week in red; trade volume nears $3bn 

Updated 21 sec ago
Nour El-Shaeri 

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s Tadawul All Share Index closed in red on Thursday, losing 68.61 points, or 0.57 percent, to settle at 11,892.44. 

The total trading turnover of the benchmark index was SR10.9 billion ($2.9 billion), as 51 of the listed stocks advanced, while 185 retreated.  

The MSCI Tadawul Index also decreased by 8.95 points, or 0.60 percent, to close at 1,489.42. 

The Kingdom’s parallel market Nomu gained 247.96 points, or 0.79 percent, to close at 31,444.21. This comes as 33 of the listed stocks advanced, while 49 retreated. 

The best-performing stock of the day was Savola Group, with its share price surging by 9.97 percent to SR36.95. 

Other top performers included Middle East Specialized Cables Co., which saw its share price rise by 5.14 percent to SR41.90, and Arabian Centers Co., which saw a 3.94 percent increase to SR21.62. 

Bawan Co. and Al-Baha Investment and Development Co. also saw a positive change, with their share prices surging by 3.64 percent and 3.23 percent to SR57 and SR0.32, respectively. 

The worst performer of the day was Fitaihi Holding Group, whose share price fell by 6.68 percent to SR4.05. 

Arabian Contracting Services Co. and AYYAN Investment Co. also saw declines, with their shares dropping by 4.17 percent and 14.42 percent to SR156.40 and SR3.87, respectively.  

Moreover, Raydan Food Co. and East Pipes Integrated Co. for Industry also saw declines in today’s session, with their share prices dropping by 3.32 percent and 3.30 percent to SR22.10 and SR135, respectively. 

On Nomu, the top performer was Leaf Global Environmental Services Co., with its share price surging by 13.29 percent to reach SR110. 

In second place was Intelligent Oud Co. for Trading, which saw an 8.92 percent surge in terms of share price to SR48.25, followed by National Environmental Recycling Co., which saw a 6.71 percent surge in its share price to reach SR8.11. 

Saudi Azm for Communication and Information Technology Co. and Gas Arabian Services Co. also fared well with 6.16 percent and 4.67 percent increases, respectively. 

On the announcement front, United Electronics Co., also known as eXtra, has recommended repurchasing up to 3 million ordinary shares to be held as treasury shares, according to a filing with the Tadawul. 

The board highlighted that the current market price of the company’s stock is below its fair value, prompting the buyback proposal. 

The repurchase will be financed through eXtra’s internal resources, including proceeds from the successful initial public offering of its subsidiary, United International Holding Co. 

Currently, 4.4 percent of eXtra’s share capital is held as treasury shares. The company highlighted that repurchased shares will not carry voting rights at shareholders’ meetings. 

The proposed buyback is subject to approval by the extraordinary general meeting. It will also require compliance with financial solvency requirements outlined in the executive regulations of the Companies Law governing listed joint-stock companies. 

ACWA Power Co. has also submitted a request to the Capital Market Authority to increase its capital through an SR7.13 billion rights issue, according to a bourse filing. 

The company stated that further updates regarding the capital increase will be disclosed in due course. 

Red Sea International Co.’s subsidiary, Fundamental Installation for Electric Work Co., has signed an agreement to increase its credit facilities with Saudi Awwal Bank by SR100 million, according to a statement to Tadawul. 

As a result, the total value of the facilities will rise to SR296.11 million, with the financing period extending until Dec. 18, 2025. 

The agreement includes a promissory note of SR296.10 million signed by Fundamental Installation for Electric Work, Red Sea International, and MSB Holding, as well as Fares Esamet Al-Saadi and Zeyad Al-Sayegh. 

Personal guarantees of SR14.50 million and SR29.01 million were also provided by Al-Sayegh and Al-Saadi, respectively, while MSB Holding and Red Sea International issued corporate guarantees of SR101.56 million and SR151.01 million, respectively. 

The additional credit facilities aim to increase the limit of letters of credit to support the import and procurement of goods for one of the company’s projects. 

United Electronics Co.’s share price increased by 3.05 percent in Thursday’s trading session to reach SR98. 

ACWA Power Co. Saw a 2.13 percent drop in its share price to close Thursday’s trading at SR377.60.

Red Sea International Co.’s share price dropped 1.06 percent to settle at SR0.60 by Thursday’s end.

Topics: Closing Bell Saudi Stock Exchange (Tadawul) Tadawul All Share Index (TASI)

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NEOM signs JV agreement to accelerate construction automation

Updated 55 min 30 sec ago
Nirmal Narayanan
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NEOM signs JV agreement to accelerate construction automation

Updated 55 min 30 sec ago
Nirmal Narayanan

RIYADH: NEOM has entered into a joint venture agreement with Samsung C&T Corp. to advance the development and deployment of construction automation technology in Saudi Arabia.

This strategic partnership will unlock an initial investment exceeding SR1.3 billion ($350 million) in construction robotics. The agreement comes just a week after NEOM signed a separate deal with GMT Robotics to fast-track the delivery of its ambitious projects.

According to the statement, the collaboration with Samsung C&T will focus on automating rebar cage assembly using advanced robotic welding and tying techniques. This innovation aims to enable the creation of large, pre-manufactured reinforcement cages, a key component in construction.

Rebar cages are critical tension devices used in concrete to form reinforced structures, providing strength to infrastructure projects. “Sustainability is a core principle at NEOM, driving not only what we build but how we build it. By automating labor-intensive processes through robotics, we are pushing the boundaries of construction innovation,” said Majid Mufti, CEO of the NEOM Investment Fund.

The automated rebar assembly technology is expected to reduce manual labor by up to 80 percent, minimize material waste, enhance safety and quality, and lower rebar cage assembly costs by up to 40 percent.

NEOM also emphasized that the agreement would establish rebar cage assembly factories in the region, creating over 2,000 skilled local jobs. This move is crucial to meet the extensive construction needs for THE LINE and other key developments within NEOM.

“Developing an advanced industrial manufacturing economy at NEOM is a significant step in accelerating modern construction methods across our flagship projects,” said Bandar Ashrour, sector head of design and construction at NEOM.

“This agreement will not only boost local talent but also align with Saudi Arabia’s vision to transform the Kingdom into a leader in advanced industries, ensuring long-term economic resilience and global competitiveness.”

NEOM’s partnership with Samsung C&T marks a pivotal moment in the ongoing development of the giga-project, positioning it as a leader in advancing construction technologies.

The JV will help NEOM leverage emerging technologies and forge strategic collaborations with industry giants to revolutionize construction practices in the region. “Together, we aim to revolutionize the construction industry by incorporating cutting-edge robotics and automation solutions, which will redefine how projects within NEOM are delivered,” said Hojin Jung, president and head of corporate new business at Samsung C&T Corp.

This joint venture underscores NEOM’s commitment to transforming the construction sector and highlights its role as a frontrunner in integrating innovative technologies within large-scale infrastructure projects.

Topics: NEOM

Women leaders, innovators take center stage at Forbes Summit in Riyadh

Updated 19 December 2024
Sulafa Alkhunaizi
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Women leaders, innovators take center stage at Forbes Summit in Riyadh

Updated 19 December 2024
Sulafa Alkhunaizi

RIYADH: Women’s leadership and achievements were the focus of a dynamic summit in Riyadh, where a series of panel discussions and workshops highlighted empowerment, career success, and navigating the changing business landscape.

The Forbes Middle East Women’s Summit, a two-day event held at the Riyadh International Convention & Exhibition Center, concluded on Dec. 19, celebrating the significant contributions of women across the region.

The summit featured two primary stages: the Empowerment Arena and the She Leads Hub. Discussions at the Empowerment Arena explored vital topics, including advancing healthcare as part of Vision 2030, promoting women’s leadership, and redefining entrepreneurship.

At the She Leads Hub, panels delved into strategies for professional success, enhancing well-being and sustainability, and empowering women in leadership positions.

Notable attendees included Princess Doaa bint Mohammed, CEO of Al Mohra Education Co. and former supreme president of the Arab Women’s Authority, and Princess Lamia bint Majed Saud Al-Saud, secretary-general and board member of Alwaleed Philanthropies.

Princess Doaa bint Mohammed, CEO of Al Mohra Education Co. and Princess Lamia bint Majed Saud Al-Saud, secretary-general of Alwaleed Philanthropies attended the event. AN photo

Mishaal Ashemimry, the first female aerospace engineer in the Gulf Cooperation Council and founder of MISHAAL Aerospace, delivered an inspiring open mic session titled “The Hard Decisions You Have to Make to Pursue Your Passion.” She urged attendees to take bold steps in their careers, despite the obstacles they may face.

Speaking to Arab News, Ashemimry shared that her passion for space began during a family trip to the desert of Unaizah, a governorate in Al-Qassim.

“I looked up to the sky. I was called upon by the stars because I was very curious about them. I couldn’t get enough answers about the stars, so I decided, well, I gotta go to space to understand this stuff, and the only way to go to space is to make a rocket,” she said.

Ashemimry, who overcame numerous challenges from people who doubted and underestimated her, emphasized that resilience, determination, and perseverance are essential for success in business.

“You will fail and you will stumble. You will face people who will be against you. You need to believe in yourself and be determined enough to achieve what you want,” she added.

American-Jordanian abstract artist Aida Murad, one of the summit’s featured artists, presented a colorful collection of paintings. In an interview with Arab News, Murad shared her experiences as both an artist and entrepreneur in Saudi Arabia.

“I feel very empowered here. It’s a high-value-based culture, so when your values align, things become much easier. People and companies are also highly accessible here — more so than in other countries where I’ve done business. I think it’s because there’s a genuine eagerness to invite value-aligned individuals to Saudi Arabia,” she said.

Murad also highlighted the importance of adaptability and building connections as key strategies for business expansion.

She added: “Create a target list. It sounds simple, but it’s often the most basic things that people overlook. Take the time to read your audience. There are moments when they’re overwhelmed and others when they’re more available — timing is everything.”

Furthermore, she underscored the significance of understanding Saudi Arabia’s unique business culture. “There are countless events here for networking — attend them. It’s straightforward, but here, business isn’t conducted over emails as much as it is in person or through WhatsApp. Understanding how people communicate and conduct business here is crucial to building meaningful connections.”

Topics: entreprenuership

Saudi sports sector value to reach $22bn by 2030, driven by investments and global events

Updated 19 December 2024
Miguel Hadchity
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Saudi sports sector value to reach $22bn by 2030, driven by investments and global events

Updated 19 December 2024
Miguel Hadchity

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s sports sector market value is projected to hit $22.4 billion by 2030, up from $8 billion, driven by a surge in investments and a growing focus on the industry.

According to the report released by SURJ Sports Investments, a company under the Public Investment Fund, the Kingdom has hosted over 100 major international events across 40 different sports since 2019.

This growth supports Vision 2030’s goal of developing the Kingdom into a global sport and entertainment hub, with Middle East and North Africa sports market revenue projected to rise from $4.79 billion in 2024 to $5.57 billion by 2029, as per data from Statista.

Major events hosted by the Kingdom include the FIFA Club World Cup, the Saudi Cup horse race, and various Formula 1 races held in Jeddah.

“These efforts culminated in December with the Kingdom officially winning the right to host the 2034 FIFA World Cup,” said Danny Townsend, the CEO of SURJ Sports Investments.

Saudi Arabia’s commitment to sports development is evident in financial investments. SURJ’s report highlighted that the sector’s contribution to the Kingdom’s gross domestic product grew from $2.4 billion in 2016 to $6.9 billion in 2019. 

Annual contributions are projected to reach $16.5 billion by 2030, accounting for 1.5 percent of the national GDP. Additionally, sports investments are expected to generate over 100,000 jobs in the next decade.

Key achievements in the sector include the launch of the Professional Fighters League Middle East and North Africa, supported by SURJ Sports Investments, marking the first regional mixed martial arts league. 

“This initiative opens new avenues for athletes from Saudi Arabia and the Middle East to compete in this discipline,” Townsend added.

The sector also saw a rise in infrastructure spending, with plans for $2.7 billion to develop and renovate facilities by 2028, according to the report.

The growing enthusiasm for sports among Saudi citizens has been pivotal. Participation rates in physical activities have increased, with 50 percent of the population now exercising regularly, up from 13 percent in 2015. 

This shift has been supported by initiatives like the “Sports for All Federation,” which engaged over 295,000 participants in community programs in 2023 alone.

Female participation has also increased by 400 percent since 2015, and women now make up 45 percent of community sports club members. A total of 97 female coaches were registered in 2023, reflecting a 61 percent year-on-year increase.

Saudi Arabia’s investment in esports and digital gaming is another growth frontier. The country has earmarked $38 billion for the sector, with the goal of contributing $13.3 billion to the national GDP by 2030. 

Hosting major events like the Esports World Cup has cemented the Kingdom’s status as a leader in the industry.

“As we approach 2025, the focus will remain on continuing efforts to achieve more accomplishments,” the CEO said.

Topics: Saudi sport SURJ Sports Investments

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Saudi Arabia becoming global leader in tackling labor market challenges: GLMC report 

Updated 19 December 2024
REEM WALID 
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Saudi Arabia becoming global leader in tackling labor market challenges: GLMC report 

Updated 19 December 2024
REEM WALID 

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia is emerging as a global leader in addressing labor market challenges, skill development, and workforce requalification, according to a report from the Global Labor Market Conference.

The inaugural report, issued by the conference hosted by the Kingdom’s Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development, emphasized the government’s initiatives to bridge the gap between academic qualifications and market demands. 

These efforts include enhancing education and training programs and preparing young job seekers for the rapidly evolving global labor landscape. 

The findings align with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 goals, which aim to reduce unemployment from 11.6 percent in 2017 to 7 percent by the end of the decade. The strategy focuses on developing national talent, requalifying the workforce, and driving economic diversification to solidify the Kingdom’s global competitiveness. 

“Saudi Arabia has made significant strides in increasing access to education, improving quality, and promoting inclusive learning opportunities,” the report said. 

The report, based on input from 14,000 participants across 14 countries, highlighted growing global concerns about workforce readiness. Over half of respondents expressed fears that their current skills could become obsolete in the near future, underlining the urgent need for upskilling to meet the demands of a rapidly changing labor market. 

“Respondents, in fact, identified cognitive skills, management skills, as well as socio-emotional skills as the three most critical competencies to succeed in the current labor market.” the report stated. 

The study also highlighted increasing automation as a significant threat to employment across various sectors. It emphasized the growing importance of expertise in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics for success in technology-driven industries.

Although men continue to dominate STEM-related fields, the report highlighted progress in narrowing the gender gap in some countries. “For instance, India has a female graduation rate of 26 percent, followed by Saudi Arabia at 21 percent,” it said. 

The report added that these figures surpass those of European countries and the US, where rates range between 10 and 13 percent. “However, the percentage of STEM degrees obtained by women has stagnated, except in Saudi Arabia,” it stated.  

The second annual Global Labor Market Conference will take place in Riyadh from Jan. 29 to 30, 2025. The event is expected to host over 5,000 attendees, including labor ministers from 40 countries, executives, international experts, and public-sector leaders from more than 50 nations. 

Discussions will center on global labor market challenges and opportunities, further cementing Saudi Arabia’s leadership in workforce development. 

Topics: Global Labor Market Conference labor market Saudi labor market

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