Saudi space graduate Sarah Alhabbas lauded in Germany

Sarah Alhabbas and Prince Abdullah Al-Saud were joined at the special event by Serco’s senior officials Amar Vora, Mona Althagafi and Islam Alizada.
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Updated 16 July 2024
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Saudi space graduate Sarah Alhabbas lauded in Germany

Sarah Alhabbas, the first graduate of Serco’s Space Graduate Program, was invited on Thursday to the Embassy of Saudi Arabia in Germany to meet with Prince Abdullah bin Khalid bin Sultan Al-Saud, the Saudi ambassador to Germany. The invitation was in recognition of her remarkable progress within a sector pitted to be instrumental in the achievement of Vision 2030. During the meeting, Alhabbas discussed how her experience with Serco can be an inspiration to the next generation of Saudi talent.

Alhabbas, currently working in Serco’s Copernicus Operations Support Services or COP-2, with the European Space Operations Center in Darmstadt, Germany as part of her intensive training program, was joined at this special event by Serco Middle East’s Head of Space Amar Vora, Serco’s KSA Country Director Mona Althagafi and Serco’s Head of COP-2 Islam Alizada. This prestigious invitation underscores Saudi Arabia’s keenness to develop its human resources and the pivotal role Serco is playing in advancing the Kingdom’s capabilities in the space industry, highlighting how the private sector company is supporting the Kingdom’s commitment to nurturing local talent capabilities to support Vision 2030 as a government impact partner.

Alhabbas was chosen by Serco as their first space graduate from more than 400 applications. An aerospace engineering graduate with a minor in applied mathematics from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in the US, she joined Serco as a graduate spacecraft operations engineer. In the past 12 months, Alhabbas underwent comprehensive training in the Kingdom and is now coming to the end of an intensive six-month training program at Serco’s COP-2 facilities in Germany, aimed at deepening her theoretical knowledge. Upon completion, Alhabbas will be certified as a proficient spacecraft operations engineer in a graduation taking place later this summer. After supporting a launch campaign, she will return to Saudi Arabia where she will transfer the knowledge gained to the wider Serco space team and its clients.

This accomplishment highlights the broader impact of Serco’s initiatives in the Kingdom. Serco has more than 60 years of space experience globally, supporting civil and military space programs, including those of the European Space Agency, the UK Ministry of Defense and NASA. In 2023, it launched a dedicated space division in the Middle East to support local talent and develop regional capabilities, ensuring the transfer of its wide-ranging operational knowledge and capabilities to the region. Its graduate, space-specific program is the first of its kind not only within the Kingdom, but also across Serco globally. By leveraging decades of global experience in the space industry, Serco is playing a crucial role in transferring knowledge and skills to Saudi nationals, impacting a better future.

Prince Abdullah said: “Sarah Alhabbas’ accomplishments epitomize the potential and the great expectation of Saudi Arabia’s youth in pioneering new frontiers. Her journey marks a significant personal achievement and symbolizes the leadership’s confidence and ambition in our nation’s youth. We are happy to celebrate Sarah’s accomplishment and look forward to her contribution to the Kingdom’s aerospace sector.”

Alhabbas said: “This opportunity to train with the European Space Agency and seasoned, international experts has been transformative. I am deeply honored by this recognition from Prince Abdullah. It reaffirms my commitment to contributing to the Saudi space sector and to inspiring other young Saudis to pursue their passions in this exciting field.”

Vora, Serco’s Middle East head of space, said: “At Serco, we are committed to bringing our global expertise to Saudi Arabia, fostering local talent and driving the Kingdom’s space ambitions. Sarah’s success is a shining example of what can be achieved through dedication and the right support. We are thrilled to see her represent the future of Saudi space exploration.”


Najm partners with automotive dealers for repair service

Updated 25 August 2024
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Najm partners with automotive dealers for repair service

Najm for Insurance Services held the “Integrated Partnerships” forum last week at JW Marriott Hotel Riyadh. The event was attended by representatives from the Insurance Authority, the Saudi Standards, Metrology and Quality Organization, insurance companies, major automotive dealers, as well as owners of classified repair centers and workshops from various regions, and senior officials from Najm.

During the forum, Najm honored 150 automotive dealers and certified workshop owners, as part of the Najm Repair Network Service, which was recently launched to provide repair services for vehicles damaged by traffic accidents. This service is part of Najm’s efforts to expand its operations from accident surveying to repairing damaged vehicles. It also enhances the customer experience when it comes to post-accident procedures, and improves traffic safety standards.

As part of the forum activities, Najm signed five agreements with automotive dealers, namely Al-Wallan Trading Company, Al-Jabr Trading Company, Abdullah Hashim Company Limited, Altawkilat Universal Motors, and Mohamed Youssef Naghi Hyundai, all of which will join as NRN repair service providers. 

Mohammed Y. Al-Shehri, CEO of Najm

In his opening speech, Ahmed Al-Qusayr, executive director of supervision at the Insurance Authority, expressed his pleasure with the partnership between the insurance sector and vehicle repair services sector, pointing out that this strategic partnership, led by Najm and supported by the Insurance Authority, represents a strategic investment in the future of insurance in the Kingdom. “It sets new standards for traffic safety, reducing risks on Saudi roads and protecting the rights of insured parties and beneficiaries through a comprehensive vehicle repair system according to the highest quality standards,” he said.

Mohammed Y. Al-Shehri, CEO of Najm, said: “The recently launched NRN service reflects our expansion from accident inspection to post-accident support. It represents a qualitative leap in the services provided to insurance customers and vehicle owners. The core value of this service lies in providing integrated, streamlined, guaranteed, and entirely free services to owners of damaged vehicles. This value extends to the owners of vehicles damaged by traffic accidents, partners from repair centers, and it positively impacts the community as a whole.

“The NRN service is built on three main pillars that include empowering insurance companies and vehicle repair workshops to deliver comprehensive services, improving vehicle repair quality to enhance road safety and the safety of road users, and leveraging Najm’s technological capabilities to overcome all difficulties for both customers and partners,” Al-Shehri added.

He also expressed his appreciation for the NRN service partners and thanked them for their trust in Najm and their cooperation in transforming this service from an idea into a reality that “empowers the insurance sector, provides innovative solutions to improve customer experience, enhances road safety, increases insurance compensation efficiency, supports the logistics sector, attracts investment in vehicle maintenance, and strengthens efforts to combat insurance fraud.”

The NRN service has achieved remarkable success since its launch, which confirms the successful integration of its partners and its importance and added value for all parties involved, which includes vehicle owners, insurance companies, and repair centers.


Hajj 2024: Tawal celebrates success with partners

Updated 25 August 2024
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Hajj 2024: Tawal celebrates success with partners

Leading integrated ICT infrastructure provider Tawal recently organized a ceremony to celebrate its success during the recent Hajj season and honor its partners. The event in Jeddah was attended by several company leaders, senior officials from stc Group, and representatives from local and international partners such as Ericsson and Nokia.

The ceremony included a comprehensive review of key achievements, how challenges were overcome, and the provision of effective solutions for digital infrastructure. Additionally, suggestions for improvements related to future Hajj season preparations were shared.

The event was in celebration of Tawal’s tremendous success in digital enablement witnessed during the last Hajj season, particularly in providing the best telecommunications infrastructure services in collaboration with various partners. This effort contributed to improved coverage levels and increased capacity. The event also aimed to strengthen the cooperation and deepen relationships with partners to continue developing and providing communications and information technology infrastructure services to all operators — all in accordance with the highest quality standards and in cooperation with the relevant authorities and Hajj committees.

The ceremony also reflects the company’s commitment to highlighting the efforts of its partners in the success of the Hajj season and documenting their shared achievements.

Tawal owns a portfolio of more than 21,000 telecom towers in five countries. The company is expanding its reach across new cities and rural areas in Saudi Arabia, with the scope of its operations now extending to a wide range of countries in Asia and across Europe.


Honor’s ‘thinnest and lightest AI foldable smartphone’ to launch in KSA

Updated 25 August 2024
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Honor’s ‘thinnest and lightest AI foldable smartphone’ to launch in KSA

Global technology brand Honor has announced the upcoming launch of its next-generation flagship foldable smartphone — the Magic V3 — in Saudi Arabia. Being the “thinnest and lightest AI foldable smartphone” on the market, the new foldable sets the stage for a future of innovation and design. Succeeding the Magic V2, the Magic V3 sets a new industry benchmark with its slim 9.2 mm folded thickness, as thin as a regular flagship bar phone.

When unfolded, it achieves an astonishing 4.35 mm thickness, defying expectations of what a foldable device can accomplish. Weighing just 226 g, it even outshines some of the flagship bar phones available in the market, demonstrating an ultra-lightweight nature. The combination of its ultra-slim profile and lightweight design provides users with a comfortable grip, elevating their overall smartphone experience.

Featuring the industry’s slimmest Honor Super Steel Hinge, the Magic V3 offers exceptional resilience and reliability to withstand the rigors of daily use.

The Magic V3 sets a new standard in durability with its use of a highly resilient fiber as the body material, replacing conventional fiberglass to elevate overall resilience. As the first smartphone brand that leverages the remarkable properties of this fiber, the Magic V3 achieves an impressive 40 times impact resistance compared to other flagship models and 40 percent thinner profile, ensuring unparalleled protection and slimness for the device.

Packed with the Honor Anti-scratch NanoCrystal Shield, the 6.43-inch external display of the Magic V3 showcases outstanding durability and stability. With advanced materials that have 50 percent higher crystal density, the display offers up to 10 times enhanced shock absorption capabilities compared to regular glasses, ensuring outstanding durability against accidental drops.

The Magic V3 features the ultra-large 5,150 mAh third-generation Honor silicon-carbon battery, delivering exceptional performance while simultaneously achieving a significant reduction in battery size.

Honor Magic V3 comes in three nature-inspired colorways, namely Reddish Brown, Green, and Black.

The new foldable will soon be available for pre-order in the Kingdom, with an exciting price and special offers.


Musanadah offers support services to EP charity

Updated 24 August 2024
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Musanadah offers support services to EP charity

Musanadah, a Saudi provider of integrated facilities management solutions and manned security services, has signed a new service delivery agreement with the Charitable Association for the Care and Rehabilitation of the Disabled in the Eastern Province — Prince Sultan Rehabilitation Complex, or Efaa.

The agreement was signed in the presence of Eastern Province Gov. Prince Saud bin Nayef; Chairman of the Board of Directors of Efaa Khaled bin Abdullah Al-Zamil; Rami Alturki, president and CEO of Alturki Holding, parent company of Musanadah; Ahmed Al-Hakeem, senior human resources manager; and Hameed Alshabrami, security manager at Musanadah.

Under this new arrangement, Musanadah will provide manned security services to the not-for-profit organization to support their limbs and orthosis center providing valuable services for people with disabilities.

Efaa is one of the largest charitable organizations working in the humanitarian field, serving people with disabilities for more than 25 years, offering the latest educational, medical and industrial methodologies and equipment.

Nigel Wright, managing director at Musanadah, said: “We are delighted to support Efaa by providing manned security services as part of our commitment to corporate social responsibility across the Kingdom. This new agreement aligns with our objective to support the community and give back to those in need. By ensuring a safe environment for Efaa’s operations, we are not only supporting their vital community work but also reinforcing our dedication to making a positive impact in society, all part of Musanadah’s ongoing commitment to Saudi Vision 2030 goals.”

Musanadah recently renewed its official security services licensing, enhancing its ability to meet the evolving needs of clients. Saudi Arabia’s High Commission for Industrial Security is the licensing body and national regulatory agency for security, safety and fire protection requirements at industrial facilities and designated critical infrastructure in the Kingdom. 

Applicants must meet stringent requirements overseen by a central government authority in the Kingdom with ongoing compliance requirements. This high level of statutory regulation is intended to provide the utmost protection for citizens and critical assets in Saudi Arabia.

Musanadah provides a wide array of security services tailored to the unique requirements of its clients. These services include on-site security personnel, advanced monitoring surveillance systems, access control solutions, risk assessment and management, and comprehensive security consulting.

Musanadah also offers comprehensive and customized facilities management solutions to clients in the critical infrastructure, governmental, commercial, educational, leisure, residential, hospitality and retail sectors across Saudi Arabia.


Lucid Air Grand Touring: a luxurious ride with room for improvement

Updated 24 August 2024
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Lucid Air Grand Touring: a luxurious ride with room for improvement

I recently had the opportunity to test drive the Lucid Air Grand Touring, and I must say, my experience was nothing short of remarkable. The moment I stepped into the car, I was enveloped in an atmosphere of luxury and elegance that truly sets this vehicle apart from its competitors.

The Lucid Air Grand Touring offers an incredibly calm and smooth driving experience. The level of serenity while on the road is unparalleled; I could barely sense the road underneath. The car glides effortlessly, almost as if it is floating, providing a perfect 10 out of 10 in terms of ride quality and comfort. Its impressive acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.2 seconds and a top speed of 270 km/h make it a thrill to drive, while the dual-motor all-wheel drive offers exceptional handling and control.

The interior of the Lucid Air Grand Touring is a testament to sheer luxury. Designed with three distinct themes — Mojave, Santa Cruz, and Tahoe — the cabin space evokes a sense of place and sophistication. High-quality fabrics, leathers, and textiles complement the rich metallic exterior colors inspired by the beauty of the California landscape. The expansive glass canopy offers an optional panoramic view that lets the light in while blocking heat and harmful rays. Inside, the roomy interior with ample leg and headroom makes long rides comfortable, while the massage seats and front and rear heating provide even warmth and relaxation. Power sunshades for the rear and rear side windows allow you to block the sun without compromising the view.

Starting at SR581,325 ($155,000), the Lucid Air Grand Touring boasts a WLTP estimated range of up to 839 km. However, my experience with the range was less impressive, as a full charge only provided around 400 km, likely due to the use of air conditioning. Despite this, the car’s drag coefficient of 0.197 cd and its powertrain, featuring 819 hp peak power, contribute to its overall efficiency and performance. Additionally, the choice of 19-21-inch wheels enhances its aesthetic appeal.

Despite these impressive specs, there are a couple of areas that need attention. The electric range fell short of expectations, particularly given the car’s advertised capabilities. Additionally, the interior lighting did not illuminate the cabin as effectively as I would have liked, which could be a concern for those who prefer a well-lit environment, especially during night drives. Furthermore, while the Lucid Air Grand Touring is undeniably luxurious, it is priced on the higher end. 

Considering its premium features and elegant design, the vehicle feels somewhat overpriced for what it offers, although it remains a respectable choice.

Overall, my experience with the Lucid Air Grand Touring was overwhelmingly positive. The car’s elegance, comfort, and advanced features make it a standout choice in the luxury electric vehicle market, though potential buyers should weigh the cost against its offerings.