Saudi-based Al Salem Johnson Controls keen to explore opportunities in Uzbekistan: CEO
Updated 18 August 2022
Fahad Abujadayel & Nirmal Narayanan
JEDDAH: Saudi-based Al Salem Johnson Controls wants to expand operations in Uzbekistan, as the country offers a lot of opportunities for private companies, according to a top official.
Speaking to Arab News on the sidelines of the fourth meeting of Saudi-Uzbek Business Council in Jeddah on Wednesday, Mohanad Al-Shaikh, CEO of Al Salem Johnson Controls, said there are a lot of good synergies between Saudi Arabia and Uzbekistan in various sectors.
“Uzbekistan is focusing on agriculture, petrochemicals, pharmaceuticals. And I think we do have the base to supply many of those industries out of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, with the accumulated knowledge and experiences we developed here,” he said.
Al-Shaikh added: “I’m talking mainly about our field, HVAC, industrial refrigeration, the controls, fire suppressions and detections, systems.”
Talking about the opportunities in the refrigeration and air conditioning sector, the CEO noted that Saudi Arabia has the expertise to cooperate and help the knowledge transfer.
“Johnson Controls does have an office in Uzbekistan, and it’s mainly on the industrial refrigeration side. But I would like to see Saudi-made products exported to Uzbekistan. That’s where I see the wonders of opportunities taking place,” he added.
Al-Shaikh said that Saudi Arabia is the second largest market for Johnson Controls globally.
“Saudi Arabia is considered to be the second or third largest operations globally (for Johnson Controls). And we’re talking about a $40 billion company. We would be honored to be supporting Saudi Arabia and that is allowing us to build the right knowledge and expertise in our field,” he further noted.
KARACHI: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Friday lauded the contribution of overseas Pakistanis as workers’ remittances surged to a record $31.2 billion during the first ten months of the current fiscal year, with Saudi Arabia emerging as the top source of inflows.
According to data released by the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP), remittances rose by 30.9 percent during July-April FY25 compared to $23.9 billion received in the same period last year.
In April alone, Pakistan received $3.2 billion, showing a 13.1 percent year-on-year increase. The inflows were mainly sourced from Saudi Arabia ($725.4 million), United Arab Emirates ($657.6 million), United Kingdom ($535.3 million) and the United States ($302.4 million).
“Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expressed satisfaction over a 31 percent increase in remittances during the first 10 months of fiscal year 2025 compared to the previous year,” a statement issued by his office said.
“Remittances reaching a record level is a reflection of the confidence of overseas Pakistanis in government policies,” it quoted him as saying.
Remittances form a vital pillar of Pakistan’s external sector, helping stabilize the current account, fueling domestic consumption and easing the country’s reliance on external borrowing.
Earlier this year, in March, the SBP recorded an all-time monthly high of $4.1 billion in remittance inflows, driven by seasonal factors and improved formal channel usage.
Pakistan has focused on boosting exports and remittances in recent years as part of broader efforts to strengthen its external sector and address economic vulnerabilities.
The central bank has also revised its FY25 remittance projection upward from $36 billion to $38 billion, citing current trends.
‘A revolution in the way people travel’ — Saudi aviation industry soaring with sky-high ambition
Updated 09 May 2025
Miguel Hadchity
RIYADH: Increased technology integration and greater connectivity over the next five years will see Saudi Arabia cement its position as a global aviation hub, experts have told Arab News.
In a comprehensive assessment of the Kingdom’s air sector, analysts and industry insiders have set out how investment in infrastructure, the roll out of new airlines, and a focus on sustainability will see Saudi Arabia reach its Vision 2030 goals.
The Kingdom is targeting handling 330 million passengers annually across 250 destinations by the end of the decade, as well as transporting 4.5 million tonnes of cargo.
The industry laid the groundwork for this growth in 2024, achieving record-breaking results with the 94 million passengers transported representing a 15 percent year-on-year increase, alongside a 10 percent rise in flight activity, and a 52 percent boost in air cargo, to reach nearly 1 million tonnes.
The International Air Transport Association’s Regional Vice President for Africa and the Middle East, Kamil Al-Awadhi told Arab News that the Kingdom is preparing for the aviation sector to play an even bigger role in its future.
“Over the next five years, we expect continued development in digitalization and connectivity, and for Saudi Arabia to be in an even stronger position as a global hub, driving economic and social growth for the Kingdom,” he said.
Al-Awadhi also emphasized that the nation’s regulatory reforms and commitment to sustainability will be key factors in attracting international airline partnerships and investment.
He added: “GACA’s (the General Authority of Civil Aviation) revision of its charging scheme, to make Saudi airports more competitive in the region, is a positive step, now and for the future. As is its establishment of an independent economic regulatory framework.”
The top official noted that Saudi Arabia is the first country in the Middle East and North Africa to do this, and encouraged others to follow.
Riyadh Air — a portal to the Kingdom
A key development in the sector is the highly anticipated debut of Riyadh Air, Saudi Arabia’s new full-service airline, set to launch in 2025.
The company has made significant strides in preparation for its release, including major aircraft acquisitions, strategic alliances, and technological investments.
Mark Bothorn, principal of innovation practice at Arthur D. Little Middle East, highlighted that the launch of Riyadh Air is a “watershed moment for Saudi Arabia’s aviation sector — an event of this scale and significance happens perhaps once a decade.”
He added: “As a full-service national flag carrier, Riyadh Air will not only enhance domestic connectivity but also position the Kingdom’s capital as a major global aviation hub.”
Bothorn further anticipated that the new national carrier would serve as an ambassador for Saudi Arabia, embodying the nation’s vision through cutting-edge design, unparalleled guest experience, and world-class connectivity. “The way the world perceives Riyadh will, in many ways, be shaped by the experiences this airline delivers,” he added.
Mark Bothorn, principal of innovation practice at Arthur D. Little Middle East. Supplied
The airline has ordered 60 Airbus A321neo jets, with plans for additional wide-body aircraft this year. It has secured agreements with Singapore Airlines, Air China, and Delta Air Lines to enhance interline connectivity, codeshare operations, and frequent flyer benefits.
Riyadh Air is collaborating with Artefact to develop an advanced data analytics platform that aims to offer hyper-personalized services and seamless digital-first experiences. Its initial routes will connect Saudi Arabia to major cities in Europe, North America, and Asia, enhancing its international connectivity.
Riyadh Air plans to connect with more than 100 cities by 2030. Shutterstock
The Kingdom’s existing airlines are also undergoing significant transformations to cater to the growing demand and enhance international reach.
Saudia has placed a historic $19 billion order for 105 Airbus A320neo aircraft to expand its fleet, set for delivery starting in 2026.
Additionally, the airline is enhancing its maintenance and repair capabilities through a partnership with Air France-KLM. Flyadeal, Saudia’s budget airline, aims to double its fleet to 100 aircraft by 2030, offering affordable travel options across domestic and regional routes.
Flynas, the region’s top low-cost airline, secured a 280-aircraft deal, including Airbus A320neo and A330neo models, to support its aggressive expansion strategy. The airline also introduced new routes connecting Saudi Arabia to Africa and Europe.
Bothorn commented on the impact of heightened market contenders, saying: “Increased competition is always a catalyst for innovation and improvement, and in Saudi Arabia’s aviation sector, it will lead to two transformative outcomes.”
First, enhanced connectivity will strengthen Riyadh’s position as a global business hub by providing seamless access to international markets through more flights and improved routing.
Second, Riyadh Air, unburdened by legacy systems, has the potential to redefine air travel, setting new benchmarks in passenger experience and efficiency, according to Bothorn.
Airport infrastructure soars
To handle the volume that new airlines will be attracting, Saudi Arabia is investing heavily in airport infrastructure.
King Salman International Airport in Riyadh is set to become one of the world’s largest airports, with ongoing developments led by global firms including Foster & Partners and Jacobs Engineering. The airport will increase its capacity to accommodate 120 million passengers by 2030.
King Khalid International Airport’s expansion includes upgrades to Terminals 1 and 2, increasing capacity to 14 million passengers annually. Saudia’s deal with German aerospace company Lilium NV will introduce 50 electric vertical takeoff and landing jets, making it the first airline in the region to invest in sustainable air travel.
Bothorn emphasized the impact of airport infrastructure advancements. “For many travelers, the airport experience is often the most stressful part of a journey — navigating terminals, dealing with security bottlenecks, and enduring long waits.”
He added: “A seamless integration between the airport and airlines can dramatically transform this, replacing frustration with efficiency and even moments of delight.”
Bothorn envisioned airports that proactively anticipate passenger needs, with real-time updates enabling travelers to relax in lounges or dine rather than wait at gates.
An impression of how King Salman International Airport will look when construction is completed. File
Investment turbines spin
Saudi Arabia’s business aviation sector is thriving, driven by an influx of high-net-worth individuals and economic expansion. The sector, valued at $1.2 billion in 2023, is expected to grow at an annual rate of 8.88 percent from 2025 to 2029.
GACA is further boosting this sector by removing restrictions on foreign on-demand charter flights, allowing international operators to enter the domestic private aviation market starting in May.
Infrastructure and transportation developments outlined in the 2025 Saudi budget report reinforce these aviation ambitions. The gross domestic product of the transportation and logistics sector grew by 6.4 percent in the first half of 2024.
Total investment contracts signed in this sector amounted to over SR200 billion ($53.3 billion). Saudi Arabia has also strengthened its global presence by securing key positions in international aviation organizations, including hosting the UNCTAD Global Supply Chain Forum in 2026 and chairing the Executive Council of the Arab Civil Aviation Organization.
To enhance aviation services, the Kingdom has looked to implement modern and eco-friendly transportation initiatives during the Hajj season, including self-driving taxis, smart delivery vehicles, and increased aircraft seat capacity for pilgrims. Performance-based operations and maintenance contracts have been executed to enhance asset management efficiency.
Plans for 2025 include SR42 billion allocated for the infrastructure and transportation sector, which will witness the launch of several travel lounges across international airports, licensing new national air carriers, and expanding public bus networks to improve intercity and regional connectivity.
Al-Awadhi of IATA further elaborated on the nation’s role in shaping global aviation policies. “Many countries in the region look to Saudi Arabia for developing their aviation sectors, so the Kingdom plays an important role in shaping regional policies.”
Recent work revamping economic regulation related to consumer protection, safety and security has been followed by other countries in the region, according to the top official.
“We’re stronger as an industry when standards are aligned, not just regionally but globally,” he added.
Private jets and Saudi Arabia’s aviation roadmap
Saudi Arabia has made developing the private aviation market a key part of its roadmap for the sector, with the charter and corporate jet segments being supported by infrastructure upgrades such as six new general aviation airports.
The sector’s growth aligns with Vision 2030’s diversification efforts, particularly in tourism and entertainment, with destinations like AlUla and the Red Sea International Airport, capable of handling 1 million tourists annually, driving demand.
During 2024’s Future Aviation Forum, GACA unveiled a roadmap aimed at increasing the general aviation sector’s contribution to GDP, targeting a tenfold growth to reach $2 billion by 2030. The plan encompassed the business aircraft sector, including private charter flights and corporate aviation.
Sustainability is another focus, with GACA’s plan targeting net-zero emissions by 2060 through initiatives such as sustainable aviation fuel and AI-driven efficiency optimizations. However, challenges, including limited sustainable aviation fuel supply, remain.
The International Air Transport Association’s Regional Vice President for Africa and the Middle East Kamil Al-Awadhi. Supplied
The 35 percent SAF blend, supplied by Arabian Petroleum Supply Co., reduces aircraft emissions by up to 35 percent per flight, aligning with RSG’s broader sustainability efforts, including 400 megawatt-peak of solar installations and plans to plant 50 million mangroves by 2030.
The airport, operational from 2023 and with international flights beginning in 2024, serves the growing Red Sea destination, set to feature 50 resorts by 2030.
The next five years will bring transformative benefits for travelers flying to and from Saudi Arabia. Expanded airline networks will improve connectivity, reduce layovers, and increase travel convenience.
The rise of low-cost carriers like flyadeal and flynas means more budget-friendly flights for domestic and international routes. AI-driven services, biometric security checks, and world-class airport infrastructure will streamline travel, making it more efficient and comfortable.
“Expect nothing short of a revolution in the way people travel,” Bothorn said. He explained that long queues at security and immigration, endless gate waits, and the anxiety of either rushing through the airport or arriving far too early “will become relics of the past.” He projected air travel to become more intuitive and enjoyable.
Al-Awadhi added that Saudi Arabia is investing heavily in digital processing of passengers and integrating latest technologies at airports.
“We can certainly expect better passenger experience and customer service,” he said, adding: “Airlines are also updating their fleets so travelers will be flying on the latest aircrafts, enjoying what new technologies have to offer. Improved connectivity will provide travelers with more choices, enhancing the overall customer experience.”
Investments in eVTOL aircraft and eco-friendly practices signal a shift toward greener aviation. Saudi Arabia is undergoing a historic transformation in its aviation sector, with massive investments, strategic expansions, and cutting-edge innovations that will redefine the travel experience.
By 2030, the Kingdom aims to be a premier global aviation hub, offering world-class connectivity, seamless air travel, and state-of-the-art airport facilities.
Saudi Arabia fast-tracks shift to cashless economy on back of fintech boom
Updated 09 May 2025
Nadin Hassan
RIYADH: Saudi Arabia is accelerating its journey toward becoming a cashless society, propelled by a booming fintech sector, rising consumer adoption of digital services, and a proactive regulatory framework.
From Riyadh’s tech districts to small shops in remote towns, the Kingdom is swiftly shifting from coins and notes to codes and clicks.
With Vision 2030 as the blueprint, Saudi Arabia is leveraging its young, digitally connected population and progressive regulatory framework to fast-track its evolution into a cashless economy.
“The branch-based and cash-based banking model is transforming into a world of mobile banking, artificial intelligence-enabled services, open banking, and digital financing solutions,” Khalid Al-Sharif, CEO of Abdul Latif Jameel Finance, told Arab News, adding: “The Kingdom’s shift to a cashless economy offers a significant opportunity for financial institutions to rethink and embrace digital-first business models to remain competitive.”
Fintech revolution
As of 2023, the number of fintech companies in Saudi Arabia hit 216, surpassing the target of 150 by 44 percent. Direct jobs in the sector have crossed 6,500, more than double the initial projections.
Venture capital investment in Saudi fintechs surged sixfold in 2023 compared to the previous year, with companies raising SR2.5 billion ($666 million) across 10 funding rounds. The Kingdom’s fintech assets under management are projected to approach $64 billion in 2024, signaling substantial momentum.
“The fintech sector in the Kingdom is positioned for rapid growth in the coming years, driven by multiple factors, including increased digital banking adoption, a young and tech-savvy population, and the government’s push for diversification under Vision 2030,” Imad Kaddoura, partner at PwC Middle East, told Arab News.
He continued: “By collaborating on areas such as digital wallets, AI-driven financial services, and blockchain-based solutions, Saudi Arabia can position itself as a regional leader in fintech.”
Digital banking redefined
The Kingdom’s banking sector is undergoing a digital revolution. The emergence of digital-only banks and mobile-first services is reshaping how consumers engage with financial institutions.
With a youthful, connected population, the appetite for frictionless banking is surging. Saudi digital banks are tapping into AI, machine learning, and data analytics to deliver hyper-personalized services, breaking down traditional barriers to banking.
These innovations are streamlining operations while reaching underserved communities. Opening accounts, accessing loans, or managing personal finances is becoming faster, easier, and more inclusive.
“Achieving financial inclusion for everyone in a cashless society is imperative,” said Al-Sharif. “The advancement of alternative credit scoring, digital lending platforms, and mobile-based services is helping to bridge the gap.”
Mobile payments
The Saudi Central Bank has been working to strengthen the Kingdom’s digital payment infrastructure. File
The adoption of mobile payment solutions has skyrocketed, with services like stc pay, Apple Pay, and Mada Pay leading the charge. From groceries to utility bills, consumers are embracing contactless options for everyday transactions.
“In 2023, electronic payments engaged in 70 percent of all retail consumer transactions in Saudi Arabia, up from 62 percent in 2022,” Al-Sharif noted. “This signals a remarkable change in consumer preferences and a broader transition toward a fully digital economy.”
This shift is driven by both private sector innovation and regulatory support. The Saudi Central Bank, also known as SAMA, continues to strengthen the digital payment infrastructure and security, while aiming to achieve 80 percent non-cash transactions by 2030 — a goal now well within reach.
Retailers, restaurants, and service providers are rapidly embracing digital payments, integrating cashless solutions into daily business operations.
Blockchain and open banking
Saudi banks and fintech firms are also experimenting with blockchain in regulatory sandboxes launched by SAMA. These controlled environments enable firms to test innovations while ensuring regulatory compliance — a model that’s attracting global fintech players and investors alike.
“Saudi Arabia’s regulatory landscape has evolved rapidly to support a dynamic fintech ecosystem — but with innovation comes complexity,” Said Murad, senior partner at Global Ventures, told Arab News.
“What sets Saudi Arabia apart is its proactive, collaborative regulatory approach. Initiatives like the Regulatory Sandbox by Fintech Saudi and SAMA provide a critical runway for fintechs to test and iterate,” he added.
Open banking is further redefining financial services by enabling secure, consent-based data sharing between banks and third-party providers.
“Open banking is not a disruption — it’s a redefinition of how financial services are built, delivered, and experienced in Saudi Arabia,” Murad said. “By enabling secure, consent-based data sharing ... it’s reshaping the competitive landscape.”
The cashless transition is not just about convenience — it has deep social and economic ramifications.
By broadening access to banking services, Saudi Arabia is fostering financial inclusion, bringing unbanked and underbanked populations into the fold.
“Digital financial services can extend access to millions who have historically been underserved by traditional banking,” Murad noted. “Fintech innovation is already playing a central role. Hakbah, for example, is redefining savings in the digital era by modernizing Jameya — the traditional group savings model — into a platform that’s accessible, secure, and user-friendly.”
He added: “By digitizing familiar behaviors, Hakbah empowers individuals, particularly the underbanked, to build financial resilience and long-term security.”
Kaddoura went on to say: “Financial inclusion in a fully digital economy relies on a few key elements. It’s essential to increase mobile banking access and improve digital literacy, particularly for underserved populations.”
Digital payments and alternative lending platforms are also making it easier for entrepreneurs to access capital, manage transactions, and grow their businesses. Meanwhile, the growing fintech ecosystem is helping create jobs, attract tech talent, and position Saudi Arabia as a regional financial powerhouse.
Safeguarding the digital shift
Cybersecurity is more important than ever. Shutterstock
Despite this progress, challenges remain. As the financial system becomes more digitized, cybersecurity and consumer trust become critical.
“While digital payments bring numerous advantages, they also introduce cybersecurity and fraud risks that must be carefully managed,” Al-Sharif warned.
“We implement robust security measures including advanced encryption, AI-driven fraud detection, and multi-factor authentication to protect our clients’ information.”
Murad echoed this concern: “As digital payments become the norm, cybersecurity and fraud prevention must become foundational pillars of the financial ecosystem. The same infrastructure that enables speed, scale, and convenience also introduces new vectors for cyberattacks.”
Beyond security, talent development is another key concern.
“Financial institutions need to focus on long-term digital strategies, invest in talent development, and collaborate with regulatory bodies to adopt disruptive technologies while maintaining financial sector stability,” Kaddoura said.
Financial literacy also plays a pivotal role. “Underserved communities still require financial solutions that accommodate their needs,” said Al-Sharif. “Educational programs are essential to empower consumers to make informed financial decisions.”
Digital-first economy
Saudi Arabia’s journey toward a cashless society is seen as being part of a societal and economic transformation.
“The shift toward a cashless economy is more than a technological evolution — it’s a catalyst for economic growth, operational efficiency, and financial inclusion,” Murad said. “A cashless Saudi Arabia is about building a digital-first economy that is more efficient, inclusive, and resilient.”
With Vision 2030 as the guiding force, fintech innovation as the engine, and an increasingly digital-savvy population as the driver, Saudi Arabia is redefining the future of finance and setting a regional benchmark along the way.
Oil Updates — crude set for weekly gain ahead of US-China trade talks
Updated 32 min 52 sec ago
Reuters
LONDON: Oil prices rose on Friday, poised for a weekly gain as trade tensions between top oil consumers China and the US showed signs of easing.
Brent crude rose by $1.07, or 1.7 percent, to $63.91 a barrel by 4:07 p.m. Saudi time. US West Texas Intermediate crude was up $1.11, or about 1.85 percent, at $61.02.
Both benchmarks were at their highest in nearly 10 days and on track to rise more than 4 percent for the week.
Trade talks between the US and China are definitely positive for oil, given that tariffs at their current extremes keep recession risks elevated, said Bjarne Schieldrop, chief commodities analyst at SEB.
US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent will meet China’s top economic official Vice Premier He Lifeng in Switzerland on May 10 to work toward resolving the trade disputes that have threatened oil demand.
US President Donald Trump said on Friday that China should open up its market to the US and that 80 percent tariffs on Chinese goods “seems right.” Current tariffs stand at 145 percent for China.
However, analysts noted that while the desire of both sides to cool tensions is a positive catalyst, a deal is unlikely to materialize very quickly.
Chinese exports rose faster than expected in April while imports narrowed their decline, customs data showed on Friday, giving Beijing some relief ahead of the talks.
Weighing on oil prices, meanwhile, was the planned increase to oil output by the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries and its allies, known collectively as OPEC+.
However, a Reuters survey found that OPEC oil output edged lower in April as production declines in Libya, Venezuela and Iraq outweighed a scheduled increase in output.
“Further sanctions would help crude prices if it means more disruption to Iranian production,” said Panmure Liberum analyst Ashley Kelty.
“If not, the forecast oversupply will only be made worse by recent OPEC+ moves to unwind quota reductions.”
Closing Bell: Saudi main index closes in red at 11,364
Updated 08 May 2025
Miguel Hadchity
RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s Tadawul All Share Index dipped on Thursday, losing 34.63 points, or 0.3 percent, to close at 11,364.11.
The total trading turnover of the benchmark index was SR4.71 billion ($1.25 billion), as only 65 stocks advanced, while 173 retreated.
The MSCI Tadawul Index decreased by 3.77 points, or 0.26 percent, to close at 1,452.01.
The Kingdom’s parallel market, Nomu, rose, gaining 153.78 points, or 0.55 percent, to close at 27,931.49. This comes as 40 stocks advanced, while 34 retreated.
The best-performing stock on the main market was Al Majed Oud Co., with its share price surging by 9.88 percent to SR129.
Other top performers included Saudi Arabian Cooperative Insurance Co., which saw its share price rise by 4.38 percent to SR15.24, and MBC Group Co., which saw a 3.79 percent increase to SR42.45.
Gulf General Cooperative Insurance Co. recorded the largest decline of the day, with its share price slipping 9.98 percent to SR7.76.
United Cooperative Assurance Co. saw its shares fall by 9.23 percent to SR8.06, while Middle East Healthcare Co. recorded a decline of 8.91 percent, closing at SR64.40.
On the announcements front, ACWA Power Co. reported its interim financial results for the first three months of the year, posting a net profit of SR427.1 million — a 14.9 percent decline compared to the previous quarter.
The company attributed the drop in net profit to an impairment recovery recognized in the prior quarter, higher financial charges, and a lower deferred tax credit.
ACWA Power Co.’s shares on the main market rose 0.54 percent in today’s trading session, closing at SR299.40.
In another announcement, Gas Arabian Services Co. also announced its financial results for the same period with its net profit rising by 46.9 percent to SR31.3 million compared to the same period last year.
The company credited the growth to substantial growth in revenue and savings in cost of revenue.
The GAS’s share price traded 0.89 percent higher to reach SR15.80.
During the first quarter of the year, Saudi Reinsurance Co.’s net profit after Zakat reached SR35.4 million, up by 11.3 percent compared to the same period in 2024.
This growth was attributed to an increase in reinsurance revenue by 56 percent, coupled with a rise in net profit of reinsurance results and net investment profit.
Moreover, the National Shipping Co. of Saudi Arabia and Bupa Arabia for Cooperative Insurance Co. also announced their financial results for the first quarter of 2025, with net profits reaching SR532.8 million and SR380.2 million, respectively.
Bahri’s shares on the main market declined by 3.55 percent to close at SR29.90, while Bupa Arabia’s shares fell 0.56 percent to SR178.20.
