Zee Entertainment Enterprise LLC, described as the largest Asian television network in the world, has launched a new Arabic channel, Zee Alwan, with unique content aimed at Arab family audiences, including a diverse choice of Arabic serials and hugely popular Indian TV serials dubbed in Arabic.
Zee Alwan marks the first time that some of India's most popular television serials are brought to the Middle East in Arabic. The move builds on the growing popularity of Bollywood in the Arab world as well as the strong and historic cultural links between the Arab world and India, with Indian family serials set to appeal to Arabic audiences.
Zee Alwan will be set apart for its diverse programming, which not only includes dubbed Indian serials but also popular shows on cookery, health and fitness, and travel features, among others. A number of Arabic serials, produced and set in the Arab world, will also be aired.
Mukund Cairae, CEO for Middle East, North Africa & Pakistan, Zee Entertainment Enterprise LLC, said: "With Zee Alwan, we are delighted to offer our audiences in the Arab world a dedicated channel that presents popular Indian serials dubbed in Arabic, and tailored for Arabic family audiences. The cultural context outlined in these popular serials will resonate with Arabic audiences as they are essentially about human values, family bonding, friendships and relationships. The historic ties between the Arab world and India will further enable Arabic audiences to relate to the serials."
Zee Alwan completes the mission that Zee Aflam started by offering the full range of Indian content for the entire Arab family. The programs respect the sensitivities of Arab audiences, especially women, and will have dedicated programming that will further appeal to them. Zee Alwan will also have Arab female anchors to present the shows, provide recaps on earlier episodes, and present vignettes from upcoming episodes.
Zee Alwan presents Indian serials dubbed in Arabic
Zee Alwan presents Indian serials dubbed in Arabic
Radisson hotels offer gateway to Antananarivo’s charm
Antananarivo, the capital of Madagascar, blends rich history, cultural diversity, and modernization. Known for its hills adorned with traditional Malagasy houses and colorful market stalls, the city’s charm is captivating. Among its most dynamic areas is the Tana Waterfront District, a centerpiece of the city’s evolution, combining commerce, entertainment and luxury living along the serene Lake Masay.
In this vibrant district stand the Radisson Blu and Radisson Tamboho Hotel Antananarivo Waterfront. Owned by local stakeholders Feride and Eric Hassanaly of Talys Group and managed under the prestigious Radisson brand, these hotels epitomize modern sophistication and Malagasy hospitality. They offer a gateway to explore both the cultural richness of Antananarivo and the cosmopolitan vibrancy of the Tana Waterfront, making them ideal for explorers and business travelers alike.
Located near the Ankorondrano business district, Radisson Blu Antananarivo Waterfront is a serene retreat for professionals and leisure travelers. Combining contemporary design with comfort, it offers stylish rooms and thoughtful amenities, ensuring productivity and relaxation. The hotel features a range of accommodations, from standard rooms to the opulent presidential suite, each thoughtfully decorated with modern sophistication. Guests enjoy seamless service, making the Radisson Blu a perfect blend of luxury and practicality.
Beyond its rooms, the hotel offers inviting spaces for work and connection, excellent dining options, and attentive service, creating an environment where guests can recharge, connect, and thrive.The signature restaurant Firelake is a grill house and seafood haven that invites diners on a captivating sensory journey. Located on the eighth floor, it offers stunning views and a warm, vibrant atmosphere. Guests enjoy a variety of grilled meats and fresh seafood, prepared by skilled chefs who celebrate authenticity and depth of flavor. The open kitchen adds to the dining experience, showcasing culinary artistry, while the rooftop pool enhances the ambiance. Firelake transforms from a bright, inviting space during the day to a cozy, vibrant setting at night, making it a top destination for culinary exploration.
For those seeking comfort, The Larder offers a continental culinary escape, celebrating homely tastes and diverse cuisines. Guests can enjoy a sumptuous buffet in a relaxed setting, either indoors or on the charming balcony. Perfect for any occasion, The Larder provides a warm atmosphere and a delightful blend of familiar and new flavors. The Firelake Bar, also on the eighth floor, is a cozy retreat offering an exceptional selection of signature beverages. With soft lighting, inviting décor, and stunning city views, it provides the perfect backdrop for unwinding or celebrating. The Lobby Bar offers a tranquil escape with comforting drinks and warm beverages. Its inviting terrace and live piano music create a relaxing oasis, perfect for quiet reflection or meaningful conversations.
Wellness is a priority at Radisson Blu Antananarivo Waterfront. The eighth-floor fitness center features state-of-the-art equipment with panoramic city views, while the rooftop pool offers a refreshing escape. On-request massage services provide an additional layer of relaxation, making it easy for guests to recharge during their stay.
With more than 30 years of experience, Cluster Executive Chef Jérôme Daniel Martens brings a love for gastronomy to Radisson Blu Madagascar. His commitment to using 100 percent local ingredients ensures each dish reflects the essence of Madagascar, creating memorable dining experiences that celebrate both tradition and innovation. Cluster General Manager François van Rens oversees three Radisson properties in Madagascar. With extensive experience in the hospitality industry, van Rens is dedicated to excellence and actively contributes to the development of Madagascar’s tourism sector through his work with local organizations.
Samaco-Volkswagen supports sports with Al-Ittihad sponsorship
Samaco-Volkswagen announced a two-season sponsorship agreement with the renowned Al-Ittihad Football Club. This partnership is set to captivate football and car enthusiasts alike, aligning with efforts to support sports and football in Saudi Arabia.
The men’s team of Al-Ittihad will don their iconic yellow-and-black striped jerseys prominently featuring the Volkswagen logo on the front, while the women’s team will showcase the logo on their shoulders. Additionally, Samaco-Volkswagen will provide players with the latest Volkswagen models, including the new Touareg, Teramont, and the youth-favorite T-Roc, throughout the sponsorship period.
The sponsorship agreement signing ceremony was held at the club’s headquarters, attended by Loay Mashabi, chairman of Al-Ittihad, and Mohammed Rafah, CEO of Samaco Automotive. Also present were Alaa Tamraz, deputy CEO of shared services and chief financial officer of Samaco; Mohamed Mousa, general manager of Volkswagen; and Ahmed Al-Naniah, marketing manager for Samaco-Volkswagen, along with several other officials from both sides.
Rafah said: “We are honored to sponsor a prominent club like Al-Ittihad, known for its distinguished local, continental, and global presence and its passionate, active fanbase. Volkswagen is a globally renowned automotive brand with a legacy spanning nearly 90 years, well-known for its support of sports worldwide. Today, we reinforce this message through our partnership with a major club, contributing to sports and youth activities in the Kingdom. This aligns with Vision 2030’s emphasis on empowering the nation’s youth and sports sectors. We are thrilled to sponsor both the men’s and women’s teams and look forward to celebrating new achievements together this season.”
Mashabi said: “Our club’s success in attracting exceptional companies to leverage its vast outreach is evident through the exposure it provides to brands not only on official team jerseys but also across the club’s highly engaged social media platforms.
“This includes significant local and international media coverage of all club events. Today, we are pleased to welcome a distinguished automotive brand renowned for its exceptional design, performance, and driving pleasure. I am confident this sponsorship will achieve its goals, given Al-Ittihad’s significant resources and enormous fan base. As we’ve witnessed over the past weeks with the influx of new sponsorships, our work to attract more partners continues.
“The success of our commercial operations reflects the collective efforts of all departments to elevate the club both athletically and organizationally, ensuring we maintain a position befitting this historic club and its loyal fans.”
SRC inks SR1bn mortgage portfolio deal with Bidaya Finance
The Saudi Real Estate Refinance Company, a Public Investment Fund company, has signed an agreement to acquire a SR1 billion ($266.6 million) mortgage portfolio from Bidaya Finance. The signing ceremony took place in the presence of Minister of Municipalities and Housing and Chairman of SRC Majid bin Abdullah Al-Hogail and Chairman of Bidaya Finance Abdulaziz bin Saleh Al-Omair.
The agreement, signed by SRC CEO Majeed bin Fahad Al-Abduljabbar and Bidaya Finance CEO Mahmoud Dahdouli, marks a continuation of SRC’s ongoing efforts to bolster the residential real estate finance market in the Kingdom and expand refinancing opportunities.
This portfolio, the largest among mortgage companies, underscores the commitment of both parties to deliver innovative mortgage solutions to citizens and to contribute to the goals of the Housing Program, a key initiative of Saudi Vision 2030, which aims to increase homeownership among citizens.
Al-Abduljabbar said the agreement is part of an expanded partnership with Bidaya Finance, to inject additional liquidity and boost stability in the Kingdom’s real estate finance market. “The agreement is a significant step toward achieving the strategic objectives of the Housing Program by offering flexible financing solutions to Saudi families,” he added.
“It is a key step in our efforts to forge strategic partnerships with leading financial institutions, aimed at developing an active secondary market for residential real estate financing in the Kingdom.”
Dahdouli, meanwhile, said: “This agreement with SRC represents a strategic milestone in strengthening our role in providing innovative financing solutions that contribute to the development of the securities market through mortgage portfolios.
“It also aligns with our vision to empower a brighter financial future for our clients to achieve their aspirations and meet their needs, aligning with the objectives of the Housing Program under the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 to increase homeownership among citizens.”
The SRC was established by the PIF in 2017 to develop the Kingdom’s real estate finance market. Licensed by the Saudi Central Bank to operate in the field of real estate refinancing, SRC plays a pivotal role in achieving the objectives of the Housing Program under Saudi Vision 2030, which seeks to increase homeownership rates among Saudi citizens. This is accomplished by providing liquidity to financiers, enabling them to offer affordable housing finance to individuals, and working closely with partners to support the Kingdom’s housing ecosystem.
Audi strengthens partnership with Key Car Rental
Audi Saudi Arabia and Samaco Motors, the exclusive dealer for Audi cars in the Kingdom, are celebrating their enduring partnership with Key Car Rental, a partner since 1998. The collaboration has grown stronger over the years, with Key Car Rental selecting a curated fleet of Audi vehicles to meet the diverse needs of premium rental customers across the Kingdom. The partnership has enjoyed an increase in the purchase of Audi cars, with a diverse fleet including Audi A4, A6 and A8 models, in addition to the Audi Q2 and Q3 now also available across rental points of sales across the Kingdom.
To honor the partnership, Audi and Key Car Rental recently hosted a celebration at the Audi showroom in Jeddah. The event marked the delivery of the latest additions to Key Car Rental’s growing premium rental fleet and highlighted the increasing demand for Audi vehicles in the Saudi rental market. Top management from both Key Car Rental and Audi Saudi Arabia were in attendance, as well as representatives from sales and marketing divisions, all of whom celebrated the continued success of this collaboration.
“The continuous expansion of our fleet with Audi range has been a significant milestone for Key Car Rental, marking a new era in our service offering with the help of Audi’s seamless operations, which has greatly contributed to increasing our sales and customer satisfaction,” said Khalid Baghdadi, CEO of Key Car Rental.
Key Car Rental demonstrated unwavering trust in Audi’s product portfolio, by purchasing 100 units of the Audi Q2 and Q3 models, which were strategically distributed across their PoS locations throughout the Kingdom.
This bold move underscored the growing demand for the luxury segment within the Saudi rental market. The entry SUV models Audi Q2 and Q3 perfectly balance premium, performance, and affordability, meeting the needs of customers who seek premium quality at a competitive price point. The Q2, compact yet efficient, combines urban versatility with Audi’s cutting-edge design, making it ideal for those who value agility and style. Meanwhile, the Q3 offers a refined driving experience, blending performance and comfort to provide the perfect solution for customers seeking a practical, yet premium vehicle.
“This collaboration has been a significant turning point for us. The addition of these vehicles to our fleet highlights our commitment to providing exceptional, premium experiences for both business and leisure clients,” said Saleh Aljerwi, COO of Key Car Rental.
In 2014, Key Car Rental successfully facilitated more than 29,000 Audi rentals across Saudi Arabia, with a growing selection of models available for customers to choose from.
“This partnership with Key Car Rental has been instrumental in driving Audi’s growth in the region. As we continue to strengthen our presence, we are proud to offer a diverse fleet of vehicles that elevates the rental experience in Saudi Arabia for local customers and the increasing business travel and leisure tourism the Kingdom continues to enjoy,” said Simon Horabin, general manager of Audi Saudi Arabia.
Abeer Medical Group celebrates 25 years in Saudi Arabia
Abeer Medical Group celebrated 25 years in Saudi Arabia with a grand ceremony held at the Ritz-Carlton Jeddah. The celebration brought together guests from various sectors, including officials from the Ministry of Health, insurance providers, bankers, diplomats, suppliers, and leaders from the business community.
The event commenced with a warm welcome from Dr. Jemshith Ahmed, vice president of strategic planning and medical affairs, who expressed gratitude for the support and dedication of everyone involved in Abeer’s journey.
Alungal Mohammed, president of Abeer Medical Group, reflected on the challenges the organization has faced over the years, emphasizing the resilience and commitment of the team. He expressed appreciation for all stakeholders, whose unwavering support has been pivotal in Abeer’s growth.
The Vision 2030 roadmap, designed by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman under the guidance of King Salman, has paved the way for Abeer to expand its services to meet the growing healthcare needs of the community. With plans to add around 40 new centers across major and tier 2 cities, Abeer will enhance its capacity to serve a growing patient base.
The president also highlighted the importance of collaboration with government ministries, insurance companies, and community members, in driving Abeer’s mission forward. Looking to the future, Abeer is dedicated to harnessing technology and innovation while continuing its commitment to patient-centered care, he said.
Dr. Ahmed Alungal, executive vice president, shared insights into the group’s current standing in the healthcare sector and outlined an ambitious vision for the future.
Dr. Alungal highlighted the introduction of two new verticals designed to enhance Abeer Medical Group’s service offerings: Lavender Health — a premium clinic that provides a carefully curated selection of specialties tailored specifically for niche groups, and Abeer Express clinics — local neighborhood clinics that deliver accessible and affordable primary healthcare services to the community. He outlined Abeer’s ambitious expansion plans, revealing that the organization would grow its presence from the current six cities to more than 15 across the Kingdom. This expansion is set to significantly increase its reach, making quality healthcare accessible to more than 14 million care seekers, up from the current 4 million.
Among the guests at the event were Mohammed Alhassan, co-founder and co-CEO of Gulf Islamic Investments, and Khaled Almaeena, director of Abeer Medical Group, who praised Abeer’s achievements and contributions to the community.
The evening concluded with Hamza Dagistani, vice president of human capital and shared services, proposing a vote of thanks, recognizing the collaborative efforts and dedication of all who have contributed to the group’s success over the past 25 years.
