Saudi Arabia’s Social Development Bank concluded the FintechHub program in partnership with the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development and its Empretec program, with support from Fintech Saudi. This initiative marks the first of its kind under the Empretec Center and is part of SDB’s ongoing commitment to driving innovation and supporting entrepreneurship in the financial technology sector.

Held from Sept. 8-12 in Riyadh, the FintechHub program focused on fostering innovation in financial technology by developing a robust economic ecosystem designed to support emerging ventures and aspiring entrepreneurs. Participants were introduced to the latest trends in fintech and provided with knowledge and tools to develop their projects and achieve sustainable success.

The program highlights SDB’s strong collaboration with key players in the financial technology sector, including Fintech Saudi, which plays a pivotal role in enhancing the Kingdom’s fintech ecosystem. The initiative is also supported by certified trainers from the Empretec program, alongside leading global fintech entrepreneurs, offering participants access to expertise and industry insights.

Throughout the program, participants explored cutting-edge technologies and innovations to ensure they stay ahead of market developments. They also learned how to create sustainable, effective business models aligned with consumer needs and designed to drive economic growth. 

In addition, the program provided a valuable networking platform, enabling participants to connect with fellow entrepreneurs and industry leaders, further supporting their journey toward success.

As part of the program’s activities, participants had the opportunity to present their projects to a group of prominent investors in the Kingdom, including Rakan Al-Fadl from Takamol, Abdullah Al-Duwaish from Flat6Labs, and Philip Matos, CEO of ABstartups. The program also featured inspiring talks from successful local entrepreneurs, including Maher Loubieh, CEO and co-founder of HALA, who shared his experience and insights on building a startup in the fintech sector.

The FintechHub program culminated in the graduation of 26 entrepreneurs specializing in tech startups, showcasing the initiative’s success in building a strong foundation of business leaders within the financial technology space.

This program underscores SDB’s dedication to supporting the growth of the fintech sector and promoting sustainable economic development through innovation and entrepreneurship.

Wizz Air, Europe’s fastest-growing and most environmentally sustainable airline, has launched a new direct route between London Gatwick and Jeddah, starting on March 31, 2025. This new route underscores Wizz Air’s dedication to expanding its presence in Saudi Arabia, offering travelers more options and affordable fares. Tickets are now available on wizzair.com and the Wizz Air app, with prices starting from $116.99.
Wizz Air’s new London Gatwick to Jeddah route will operate daily all year round, connecting two vibrant cities. This strategic addition to Wizz Air’s network highlights the airline’s commitment to providing affordable and accessible travel options while strengthening ties between Saudi Arabia and the UK.

Over the past three years, Wizz Air has significantly increased its capacity in Saudi Arabia, introducing numerous new routes and enhancing travel options, while contributing to the country’s connectivity in line with Vision 2030 and following a partnership agreement with Saudi Tourism Authority to increase connectivity to Europe and boost inbound visitors.

This route is one of many offerings that will leverage the Airbus A321XLR’s extended range and efficiency, revolutionizing intercontinental travel and making it more accessible than ever before.
“The Airbus A321XLR is the most cost-efficient aircraft of its class and, given the enhanced range capability, it enables Wizz Air to connect the furthest destinations in its network and further expand it, connecting cultures and continents. We’re excited to unlock unbeatable fares for our customers on the newly announced route to London, while offering the most sustainable option for flying,” said Andras Rado, head of communications and government affairs, Wizz Air, during a press conference in Jeddah. “We are already flying several 5-6 hour long ultra-low-cost routes with great satisfaction to our customers, and the XLR (extra-long range) will extend our outstanding value proposition to 7–8-hour long flights.”

We’re excited to unlock unbeatable fares for our customers on the newly announced route to London.

Andras Rado, Head of Communications and Government Affairs, Wizz Air

The new aircraft type, a first in the region, is the most cost-effective in its class, more sustainable due to less fuel burn and designed to operate intercontinental flights of up to 7-8 hours, revolutionizing the long-haul travel market.
“We as an airport are delighted to offer affordable fares for our customers on the newly announced route to London Gatwick while providing the Wizz Air’s new route as an option for traveling to the UK,” said Kimmo Ruotsalainen, general manager of aviation business development, Jeddah Airports Company.
Wizz Air’s investment in Saudi Arabia includes the use of modern, fuel-efficient aircraft, contributing to more sustainable travel. The airline’s carbon intensity is estimated to be at least 30 percent lower than that of other carriers on the same routes, aligning with Wizz Air’s commitment to reducing its environmental footprint.
Since entering the Saudi market, Wizz Air has created more than 1,500 job opportunities in the associated industries.