Saudia Cargo participates in Saudi-Chinese Business Forum

Saudia Cargo participates in Saudi-Chinese Business Forum
The forum aimed to strengthen economic cooperation between the Kingdom and China, and increase Saudi exports to the Chinese market.
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Updated 19 May 2025
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Saudia Cargo participates in Saudi-Chinese Business Forum

Saudia Cargo participates in Saudi-Chinese Business Forum

Saudia Cargo, a subsidiary of the Saudia Group, participated in the Saudi-Chinese Business Forum 2025 as the official logistics provider. The forum was held in Beijing from May 13-14. This participation aligns with the company’s continued expansion in the Chinese market and its commitment to supporting the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030.

The forum, held under the patronage of Minister of Environment, Water and Agriculture Abdulrahman Abdulmohsen Al-Fadhli, aimed to strengthen economic cooperation between the Kingdom and China, increase Saudi exports to the Chinese market, and explore investment opportunities in infrastructure projects.

Hashim Alsharif, vice president of strategy and business development at Saudia Cargo, underscored the company’s pivotal role in facilitating national exports and bridging Saudi producers with global consumers in alignment with the Kingdom’s Vision 2030. He also highlighted the provision of integrated and effective logistics solutions, bolstering trade between Saudi Arabia and China. He described the forum as “a crucial platform for unlocking new avenues of trade expansion.”

Alsharif said that Saudia Cargo was invited by the Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture as an official sponsor of the forum. The company was allocated an independent pavilion within the National Livestock and Fisheries Development Program, where it showcased a range of its logistics services, primarily cold chain solutions and e-commerce solutions designed to serve the agriculture and seafood sectors.

Last April, the company announced the signing of two MoUs to build strategic partnerships with major Chinese companies and open new channels for trade cooperation in the fields of transportation and logistics. The first MoU was with China Cargo Airlines to improve export operations and develop operational connectivity to capitalize on the growing trade movement between the two countries.

The second MoU was with China Henan Aviation Group to develop and invest in aviation, creating an air logistics bridge connecting Asia-Pacific with the Middle East, Europe, and Africa through the Zhengzhou and Riyadh hubs.


Saudi dermatologist first in region to receive ILDS honor

Saudi dermatologist first in region to receive ILDS honor
Updated 01 July 2025
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Saudi dermatologist first in region to receive ILDS honor

Saudi dermatologist first in region to receive ILDS honor

In a significant international milestone for Saudi Arabia, Dr. Saad bin Sami Al-Sogair, a leading Saudi dermatologist, has been awarded the 2025 International Leadership Medal by the International League of Dermatological Societies — one of the highest honors globally in the field of dermatology.

This prestigious award is presented annually to individuals who demonstrate exceptional international leadership, influence in public health policy, and who contribute meaningfully to global collaboration in skin health and medical education.

Dr. Al-Sogair is the first dermatologist from the GCC countries to receive this recognition. He was nominated by the Saudi Society of Dermatology and Dermatologic Surgery and was selected from a record number of distinguished candidates worldwide.

This achievement is widely seen as a testament not only to Dr. Al-Sogair’s personal dedication and leadership, but also to the growing influence of Saudi Arabia in global medical and scientific advancement. The announcement has been met with widespread praise in academic, clinical, and policy circles and is considered a source of national pride.

Professor Henry W. Lim, president of ILDS, congratulated the recipients, saying: “These annual awards celebrate exceptional contributions by dermatologists and related professionals in advancing skin health worldwide. Each of our worthy recipients have significantly improved the lives of people living with skin diseases, whether through international leadership or humanitarian efforts.

“Each of this year’s recipients is an inspiration. We extend our warmest congratulations and heartfelt thanks for their exceptional service to the field of dermatology.”

Dr. Abdullah bin Sulaiman Al-Akeel, president of the Saudi Society of Dermatology and Dermatologic Surgery, said: “We are extremely proud of Dr. Saad Al-Sogair for this historic recognition. His award not only reflects his tireless work and leadership but also highlights the Kingdom’s increasing global standing in dermatology. This comes at a significant moment, as Riyadh is currently bidding to host the 2031 World Congress of Dermatology, a global platform to showcase Saudi excellence in skin health.”

The ILDS International Leadership Medal honors individuals whose work has had a sustained global impact in areas such as medical education, innovation across borders, and international dermatologic collaboration.

This recognition aligns closely with Saudi Vision 2030, which seeks to enhance the Kingdom’s international presence in science, research, and healthcare innovation.


Cluster meet Phase 2 winners honored at Indian school

Cluster meet Phase 2 winners honored at Indian school
Updated 01 July 2025
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Cluster meet Phase 2 winners honored at Indian school

Cluster meet Phase 2 winners honored at Indian school

The prize distribution ceremony for the 33rd cluster meet Phase 2 was held on June 27 in the boys’ auditorium of the host school, International Indian School Jeddah. The program was meticulously planned and executed to mark the end of a successful series of interschool sports competitions.

Around 825 students from 21 schools across the Kingdom participated in the second phase held from June 23 to 27. The event covered athletics and field events, table tennis and basket ball for boys.

The ceremony commenced with a soulful recitation of the holy Qur’an, followed by a bouquet presentation to the chief guest Fahad Ahmed Khan Suri, consul general of India, who was warmly welcomed along with members of the school’s managing committee, principals of participating schools, guests and student participants.

The welcome address was delivered by IISJ Principal Dr. Mohammed Imran, who expressed appreciation for the spirit of sportsmanship displayed by students throughout the meet.

Following the welcome, head of the physical education department Adil Akhtar Khan presented a report on the cluster meet, highlighting key events, participation statistics, and notable achievements across the various sports disciplines. The report reflected the tremendous efforts and coordination that went into organizing the event and the enthusiasm shown by all participating schools.

An insightful overall observation was then shared by Mohammed Sirajuddin, a physical education teacher from Riyadh X-Zone, who commended students for their energy and commitment, and acknowledged the high level of competition witnessed over the past few days. He also expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the host school’s PE teacher and his dedicated team for their exceptional efforts and true spirit of sportsmanship in organizing and managing the event seamlessly.

In her speech, Farheen Taha, a member of the IISJ managing committee, emphasized the importance of physical education and interschool collaboration in holistic student development.

The highlight of the evening was the inspiring address by chief guest Suri, who praised the organizing team for their efforts and encouraged students to maintain a balance between academics and physical fitness. Quoting Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, he said “Khelega India, tabhi toh khilega India,” meaning “When India plays, India prospers,“

A lively musical interlude came next with a song performance by the students, which received resounding applause from the audience.

Girls Section Vice Principal Farhadunnisa delivered the vote of thanks.

Adding an element of fun and excitement, the mascot of the cluster meet “Altius” was introduced amidst cheers and applause. The mascot energized the crowd and symbolized the spirit of sportsmanship and unity.

The much-awaited prize distribution ceremony followed, where winners of various tracks, and field and team events were felicitated. Medals, trophies, and certificates were awarded to recognize outstanding performances. The overall championship trophy was awarded to IISJ for their consistent excellence across events.

The ceremony concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Vice Principal of IISJ Girls’ Section Farhadunnisa, who expressed gratitude to the organizing committee, volunteers, sponsors, participants, and guests for making the event a grand success.


Juthor breaks ground on $92m tissue factory at KAEC

Juthor breaks ground on $92m tissue factory at KAEC
Updated 30 June 2025
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Juthor breaks ground on $92m tissue factory at KAEC

Juthor breaks ground on $92m tissue factory at KAEC

Juthor Paper Manufacturing Co., a subsidiary of Middle East Paper Co., one of the largest paper manufacturers in the Middle East and North Africa region, has broken ground on TM6, its second high-capacity production line for tissue manufacturing at King Abdullah Economic City, near Jeddah.

The groundbreaking ceremony welcomed distinguished representatives from different government and private entities including MODON and Economic Cities and Special Zones Authority along with the Juthor and MEPCO senior leadership teams. With a total investment of SR345 million ($92 million), TM6 will significantly expand Juthor’s manufacturing output, increasing annual capacity to 120,000 tonnes and operating at a speed of 2,100 meters per minute.

TM6 supports Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 by advancing local manufacturing, reducing reliance on imports, creating skilled jobs, and adhering to world-class environmental standards.

Andritz AG, an Austria-based international technology group that provides advanced plants, equipment, services, and digital solutions, will manufacture, supply, and install the facility, over a 24-month period.

Commenting on the launch, Musab Al-Muhaidib, chairman of the board at MEPCO Group, said: “The launch of TM6 is a testament to our unwavering belief in Saudi Arabia’s industrial future. As we align with Vision 2030, this expansion strengthens our role in enabling local manufacturing and advancing the Kingdom’s self-sufficiency in the tissue sector.”

The facility will utilize cutting-edge technology and sustainable manufacturing methods to align with MEPCO’s environmental goals, including efficient resource use and minimizing carbon emissions.

Faisal Haddawi, group president at MEPCO Group, said: “At MEPCO Group, we do not simply build capacity — we build value, resilience, and trust. TM6 will accelerate our strategy for sustainable growth while deepening our contribution to the Saudi economy and regional markets.”

Juthor remains committed to continuous investment in manufacturing innovation to meet the growing demand for high-quality tissue paper products in the Kingdom and the wider MENA region.

The Saudi-based tissue paper manufacturer was established to meet the Kingdom’s rising demand for hygiene and paper products.


Saudi coffee brand JAZEAN featured in upcoming Monopoly edition

Saudi coffee brand JAZEAN featured in upcoming Monopoly edition
Updated 30 June 2025
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Saudi coffee brand JAZEAN featured in upcoming Monopoly edition

Saudi coffee brand JAZEAN featured in upcoming Monopoly edition

Saudi Coffee Company, a wholly owned subsidiary of the Public Investment Fund, has announced that JAZEAN, its flagship specialty coffee brand, is set to be featured in the Kingdom’s first Monopoly board game, Riyadh Edition. The Monopoly Riyadh Edition was officially launched on June 26, at King Abdullah Financial District, Riyadh’s innovation hub.

JAZEAN’s presence in Monopoly, the world’s second most played board game after chess, showcases the brand’s deep cultural relevance. Its inclusion recognizes JAZEAN’s pivotal role in elevating Saudi Arabia’s rich coffee heritage to the global stage through the brand’s storytelling and premium specialty coffee blends.

“We are honored that JAZEAN has been selected to represent Saudi culture in association with a global household name like Monopoly,” said Mohammed Zainy, chief marketing officer of SCC. “JAZEAN creates immersive experiences that connect people to the story, flavor, and hospitality of Saudi coffee, and this special edition of Monopoly offers a new platform to share that experience on a global scale.”

The launch event celebrated Saudi Arabia’s most notable landmarks, with the introduction of culturally significant icons featured in the game. Cultural symbols such as the dallah, the traditional Saudi coffee pot, along with visuals of Saudi coffee farms adorn the game board, providing players around the world a chance to explore and celebrate Saudi Arabia’s rich heritage through its iconic architecture, cultural landmarks, and traditions.

As Monopoly celebrates its 90th anniversary, this feature reflects the game’s enduring impact around the world. Monopoly’s different editions have seen more than 275 million copies sold in 37 languages in at least 103 countries. The board game’s resonance across the GCC is clear, with over 98 million minutes of engagement recorded across regional editions.

With the global board game market projected to exceed $22 billion by 2028, this collaboration with Monopoly provides JAZEAN and SCC with a powerful platform to reach new audiences and deepen cultural awareness.


DHL Express appoints Mansour AlHajjaj as country manager for Saudi Arabia

DHL Express appoints Mansour AlHajjaj as country manager for Saudi Arabia
Updated 30 June 2025
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DHL Express appoints Mansour AlHajjaj as country manager for Saudi Arabia

DHL Express appoints Mansour AlHajjaj as country manager for Saudi Arabia

DHL Express has appointed Mansour AlHajjaj as the new country manager for its Saudi Arabia operations. The appointment marks a significant milestone in AlHajjaj’s career with DHL Express, which began in 2006.

With nearly two decades of experience within the organization, AlHajjaj has held several key roles across customer service functions, consistently driving performance excellence and nurturing strong client relationships. In 2020, he stepped into a senior leadership position where he successfully led the transformation of customer services into a high-performing function and steered the retail team toward achieving double-digit growth.

AlHajjaj is recognized for his forward-thinking leadership and commitment to innovation. Under his guidance, DHL Express Saudi Arabia has earned multiple external accolades for service excellence. He has also played a major role in enhancing employee engagement and people development, effectively improving team culture and significantly reducing turnover. Additionally, his efforts to foster greater collaboration with supervisory authorities and government entities have further strengthened DHL’s partnerships across the Kingdom.

“It is a great honor to lead DHL Express Saudi Arabia at a pivotal time in the Kingdom’s journey toward Vision 2030, a vision that continues to position the country as a global logistics hub and a vital engine of regional and international trade,” AlHajjaj said.

“Aligned with this national ambition, we remain committed to strengthening our operational network, accelerating investments in infrastructure and innovation, and driving sustainable logistics solutions that deliver long-term impact. Above all, we will continue to invest in our people, the true driving force behind our success and the foundation of our continued leadership in the logistics sector.”