Samsung Electronics Co. Ltd., a global leader in digital media and digital convergence technologies, in partnership with MBC Group, first private free-to-air satellite broadcasting company in the Arab World, announced the launch of SHAHID application, the region’s leading video on demand (VOD) service. As a regional first, Samsung Smart TVs across the MENA will feature the SHAHID application.
SHAHID application and SHAHID.NETare currently available for viewers to catch up on their favorite TV shows and series. The region’s leading VOD, recorded 284 million media views in 2013 only. The new application is now available for viewers to enjoy what they have missed on TV, from series to shows and to global formats.
“The television experience is rapidly evolving for viewers across the MENA region,” said Choong Ro Lee, president of Samsung MENA. “We at Samsung are dedicated to create new and innovative ways to deliver best viewing experience, and with our partnership with MBC Group we will continue offering viewers the content they want, when they want in a new MENA consumer lifestyle. As a leader in the visual display market, Samsung’s Smart TV lineup offers a powerful platform for SHAHID service, providing viewers with unrivaled picture quality and the ultimate front row experience as they enjoy premium content.”
SHAHID experience will be enhanced further by Samsung’s Curved UHD TVs, which usher in a new era of immersive viewing. The curved screen gives video content a wider field of view, creating a panoramic effect that brings images to life, while enveloping viewers in true-to-life clarity and detail.
Sam Barnett, MBC Group CEO, stated: “Since 2007, SHAHID has made the best Arabic content available on VOD. Recent upgrades to the service have also made it easier to search and faster to watch. We’re now ensuring that this popular service is accessible across different devices. So we’re delighted to announce this partnership with a leading company like Samsung and to have SHAHID available on Samsung Smart TVs. SHAHID viewers will be able to choose between SD and HD picture viewing to match their broadband network and speed.”
Samsung partners with MBC to launch SHAHID application
Samsung partners with MBC to launch SHAHID application
Saudi aviation airshow announces exciting event lineup
The highly anticipated Saudi General Aviation Airshow — Sand and Fun 2024 is set to take place from Nov. 19 to 23 at Al-Thumamah Airport, Riyadh. As the largest aviation event in the Middle East, Sand and Fun 2024 will gather industry leaders and aviation enthusiasts to celebrate aviation innovation and creativity, in line with Saudi Vision 2030.
Bringing together more than 100 exhibitors from across the globe and an expected 100,000 visitors, this year’s edition promises to be the biggest to date, showcasing the latest in general aviation technology and developments, as well as thrilling aerial displays and interactive exhibits.
At the heart of the airshow will be the SkyVentures Air Show, featuring more than 15 international airshow teams. Spectators can expect breathtaking performances by world-renowned teams such as the Saudi Hawks and the Phoenix Paramotors Display Team from Poland. These aerial spectacles will showcase precision flying and aerobatic artistry, captivating audiences of all ages, with a special surprise awaiting attendees.
The Static Display will offer visitors a chance to get up close to some of the most advanced military and civilian aircraft, featuring participation from the Ministry of Defense, National Guard, and the Presidency of State Security. The exhibition will delve into cutting-edge aviation technologies, from 3D printing, flight simulators, and drone displays, to RC planes and laser shows.
A key highlight will be the Hangar Talks, where aviation experts and industry leaders will discuss critical trends and innovations. Topics will include AI in aviation, urban air mobility, safety and security, and business aviation.
This platform will provide a unique opportunity for attendees to engage in discussions shaping the future of the aviation industry, featuring inspiring stories including expeditions to the South Pole.
Families and aviation enthusiasts alike will enjoy the Avitainment Zone, where education meets entertainment. This interactive space will feature virtual reality experiences, rocket building workshops, and a real-life Iron Man suit, offering fun and engaging activities for visitors of all ages.
For younger attendees, the Kids Zone will provide a host of fun, educational activities, including aviation-themed workshops, interactive exhibits, and flight simulators designed specifically for children. The dedicated photo zone will ensure that all these memorable moments are captured.
Visitors can also indulge in a variety of food and beverage options, with an array of food stalls offering international cuisines, snacks, and refreshments.
The week-long event will culminate in a spectacular music concert, blending aviation excitement with live performances by leading regional artists.
In addition to Sand and Fun 2024, aviation professionals may also take note of the concurrent 118th FAI General Conference, being held at the Radisson Blu Hotel, Riyadh Convention and Exhibition Center. The event brings together the global aviation and air sports community to discuss the future of flight.
stc forges new partnerships to revolutionize healthcare sector
stc Group, Saudi Arabia’s leading digital enabler, showcased its cutting-edge digital health solutions at the recent Global Health Exhibition. The group forged several notable partnerships poised to significantly advance and strengthen the Kingdom’s healthcare sector.
The exhibition, in its seventh year, took place at the Riyadh Exhibition and Convention Center under the theme “Invest in Health.” It offered an opportunity for government officials, industry experts, and healthcare professionals to come together to discuss transformative investments in Saudi Arabia’s healthcare sector.
stc signed several significant agreements to revolutionize healthcare across Saudi Arabia. These partnerships align with the Vision 2030 goals and highlight the group’s pivotal role in driving digital transformation in the healthcare sector.
Ministry of National Guard Health Affairs
Guided by Saudi Arabia’s ambitions to improve the quality of services, increase healthcare access for all, and adopt advanced digital health solutions, stc Group announced a partnership with the Ministry of National Guard Health Affairs. This new partnership will support medical diagnoses with the latest AI solutions. It will enhance clinical decision-making through AI-driven data analysis, and foster collaboration between clinical and technical teams in both medical and non-medical AI fields.
Medication Dispensing Machines
stc Group announced an agreement to automate medication dispensing machines across hospitals, government centers and public places in the Kingdom. The service will also be available in remote areas, actively supporting the ongoing digital health transformation and enhancing the patient experience.
Ministry of Health
stc Group announced two contracts to deliver the national PACs Tele ICU project to transform the Ministry of Health’s technological capabilities, infrastructure, cloud services, and cybersecurity requirements. This digital health transformation, in line with Vision 2030, will revolutionize patient care across the ministry.
National Unified Procurement Company
A new partnership with the National Unified Procurement Company, which specializes in medical equipment supply and logistics for government entities, will integrate cutting-edge technologies into the healthcare supply chain, supporting the timely and effective delivery of medical supplies.
Dr. Mohammed Alfagih Hospital
Through a separate partnership with Dr. Mohamed Alfagih Hospital, stc Group will elevate the patient experience within hospital rooms, offering a more comfortable stay for patients. The in-room experience will be transformed through the integrated use of infotainment, stc tv and essential core services.
Almana Hospital
Almana Hospital has chosen stc Group as their cybersecurity operations partner in their recent managed SOC selection. Under this partnership, stc Group will provide advanced threat protection and mitigation while enabling comprehensive regulatory compliance, creating a secure ecosystem.
Hail Health Cluster
stc showcased a successful partnership with the Hail Health Cluster on population health management. This collaboration enabled the Hail Health Cluster to raise health awareness, and has provided the cluster with elevated digital health solutions in line with stc Group’s digital capabilities.
stc Group’s participation in the Global Health Exhibition 2024 underscores its unwavering commitment to transforming Saudi Arabia’s healthcare landscape through innovative digital solutions and strategic partnerships.
By signing agreements with key organizations and government entities, stc Group is poised to drive significant advancements in patient care, healthcare access, and operational efficiency.
Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 debuts in MENA from the heart of Abu Dhabi
Last week, Abu Dhabi, the capital of the UAE, witnessed the highly anticipated launch of Call of Duty: Black Ops 6, the latest installment of the world’s most popular first-person shooter series.
The celebratory event, hosted by Activision Blizzard in collaboration with Abu Dhabi Gaming, brought together regional influencers and content creators for a thrilling two-day experience.
The launch included a unique opportunity for 14 of the biggest regional influencers to test their skills on Oct. 24 at Abu Dhabi’s iconic Yas Marina Circuit, where they drove Formula 3000 cars, capturing the adrenaline-fueled excitement of the game and winning limited edition Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 helmets.
On Oct. 25, the event continued with a 6v6 showdown in Black Ops 6, complemented by a captivating drone show that illuminated the Abu Dhabi skyline with iconic elements from the game and Abu Dhabi Gaming logo, marking a memorable moment for the gaming community across the Middle East.
These events confirm Activision Blizzard’s commitment to the Middle East and Africa region, showcasing its strong support for content creators and delivering exciting, immersive experiences tailored to the local gamers through its globally renowned franchise.
Abu Dhabi Gaming, a government-led initiative, drives Abu Dhabi’s vision of becoming a global gaming hub by fostering talent, innovation, and industry growth. Bringing together government bodies, commercial partners, and content creators, the initiative supports a thriving ecosystem poised to showcase regional content on the world stage. The launch of Black Ops 6 exemplifies Abu Dhabi Gaming’s commitment to elevating Abu Dhabi’s role in the gaming industry.
Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 is now available on Xbox One/ Xbox Series X|S, PlayStation 4|5, Battle.net, Steam, Game Pass Console and Game Pass PC.
Cenomi Centers: 10 new global and regional brands to open at U Walk Riyadh
Cenomi Centers, the owner, operator and developer of retail and lifestyle destinations in Saudi Arabia, has announced that 10 new retailers are opening in its lifestyle mall, U Walk Riyadh.
Successful global and regional brands such as Nike, Nespresso, Adidas, Dry Bar, Massimo Dutti, Pull&Bear, Under Armor, Al-Nassr Club, Lenskart and Jack Morgan are already confirmed for U Walk Riyadh, with further new retailer announcements set to follow. The openings are set to continue over the coming months including exciting new retailers, dining and grocery soon to be announced.
The introduction of the leading retail brands is part of significant enhancements to the popular destination in the capital, which is already a major attraction for locals and tourists, known for its shopping, restaurants and cafes with outdoor dining, as well as fountains and public spaces spread across 30 acres.
Cenomi Centers is also investing in an additional multi-story car park, taking the total car parks at U Walk Riyadh to 2,000. The proposed new car park is currently awaiting planning approval and will enhance the overall shopping experience.
Opened in 2019, U Walk Riyadh is one of Cenomi Centers’ key lifestyle centers and this investment along with enhancements to the retail mix will ensure Cenomi Centers continues to provide next-level customer experiences.
Cenomi Centers CEO Alison Rehill Erguven said: “The significant retail and car parking enhancements are welcome additions to U Walk Riyadh, already a key destination in the capital. At Cenomi Centers, we pride ourselves on offering our customers much-loved brands from around the world in our malls. The addition of the major retailer names with more to follow delivers on our strategy to have a strong retail mix alongside dining and entertainment to meet the new ways our consumers want to shop and be entertained.”
U Walk Riyadh was the first of several next-generation lifestyle assets alongside the new U Walk Jeddah, which opened at the end of 2023. Cenomi Centers has six flagship and lifestyle centers under development, all of which redefine the mall and shopping experience in Saudi Arabia, including flagships Jawharat Riyadh and Jawharat Jeddah, which are set to complete at the end of 2025.
LuLu plants 3,000 trees in Eastern Province
LuLu Hypermarket recently hosted a community event in the Eastern Province in collaboration with Khobar municipality, during which 3,000 chaste trees were planted. The event was attended by Abdullah bin Ali Al-Ayyadi, assistant director of the parks and beautification department at the municipality, who highlighted the role of the private sector in supporting environmental initiatives and driving sustainable development across the Kingdom.
LuLu’s tree planting campaign aligns with the Saudi Green Initiative, aimed at increasing green spaces and improving the quality of life across various regions of the Kingdom. The chaste tree was specifically chosen for its adaptability to the region’s climate, as well as its numerous environmental and health benefits. This tree symbolizes care for the environment and the provision of a healthy and sustainable life for future generations, reflecting LuLu Hypermarket’s commitment to supporting environmental issues and promoting sustainability.
Through this event, LuLu seeks to enhance environmental awareness among community members, emphasizing that tree planting is not merely a recreational activity but carries a powerful message urging everyone to participate in protecting the environment and conserving natural resources. The event witnessed wide participation from local community members, reflecting their growing concern for environmental issues and their desire to be part of sustainable environmental solutions.
Al-Ayyadi said that LuLu’s initiative serves as a model for successful collaboration between the public and private sectors, enhancing the prospects for achieving the desired environmental goals.
Mohammed Ahmed Bobsheit, executive director of LuLu Group in the Eastern Province, said: “Through this initiative, we affirm that every tree we plant today is a seed of hope for a greener and more sustainable future. Caring for the environment is not just a duty toward the Earth, but a commitment to future generations. Together, we can make a positive difference that ensures a better world for generations to come.”
Bobsheit also thanked Khobar Municipality for their support in making the initiative a success.
As part of its commitment to social responsibility and the Saudi Green Initiative, LuLu plans to organize more such tree planting events in the future, in addition to implementing several environmental awareness programs and activities for its customers across all its branches in Saudi Arabia.
