Renault Koleos 2026 makes regional debut in Diriyah

Renault Koleos 2026 makes regional debut in Diriyah
An interactive reveal enriched by dynamic audiovisual effects culminated in the unveiling of the new car.
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Updated 18 May 2025
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Renault Koleos 2026 makes regional debut in Diriyah

Renault Koleos 2026 makes regional debut in Diriyah

Wallan Trading, the exclusive distributor of French automotive brand Renault in Saudi Arabia, officially launched the Renault Koleos 2026 in Diriyah in a grand event attended by notable guests, media persons and auto enthusiasts. The launch marked the model’s debut in the Middle East region.

The event featured an interactive reveal enriched by dynamic audiovisual effects, culminating in the unveiling of the new Renault Koleos. Guests had the opportunity to explore the vehicle up close and discover its distinctive design and advanced technological features.

Fahad Al-Wallan, chairman of Wallan Holding, emphasized the strong partnership between Wallan Trading and Renault, united in their vision to deliver a premium ownership and driving experience through vehicles known for their elegant design, innovative technology, and high performance.

“The Renault Koleos 2026 represents a significant milestone in the automotive world and is the perfect choice for those who value elegance, refinement, quality, and innovation,” Al-Wallan said. “The decision to debut Koleos 2026 in the Saudi market, as a first in the Middle East, reflects the Kingdom’s growing importance amid strong economic growth and ongoing positive developments. This new generation of Koleos offers a truly exceptional option for car lovers, thanks to its innovative design, cutting-edge technology, and advanced features.”

The new Koleos is a pivotal launch within Renault’s International Game Plan 2027. It belongs to the D-segment of midsize SUVs and reflects the brand’s new design language and its guiding philosophy “voitures à vivre,” meaning “cars for living.” The model offers a bold, premium driving experience while prioritizing safety for drivers, passengers, and other road users.

Measuring 4.78 meters long, 1.88 meters wide, and 1.68 meters tall, Koleos delivers the proportions of a high-end SUV. A generous 2.82-meter wheelbase ensures ample interior space, with boot capacity of up to 589 liters.

The cabin features three panoramic 12.3-inch openR screens stretching across the dashboard, premium materials, and high-comfort seats, all contributing to a luxurious onboard experience. The front seats are heated and ventilated, with the front passenger seat adjustable in six directions, controlled via the dedicated passenger display.

Koleos is equipped with an intelligent four-wheel drive system that seamlessly adapts to changing road conditions without manual intervention. On smooth roads, it switches to 2WD for enhanced fuel efficiency. The intelligent torque distribution system adapts seamlessly to slippery, muddy, or sandy environments, providing optimal traction.

The 8-speed automatic transmission adjusts to the driver’s style, improving over time for smoother performance. It is powered by a 2-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine generating 235 hp and 350 Nm of torque, ensuring a dynamic and refined drive.

Koleos includes six drive modes, including off-road mode, and features 29 advanced driver assistance systems, three of which enable Level 2 autonomous driving. The vehicle uses a 180-degree interface to display nearby traffic in real time.

Koleos is also fitted with next-generation active driver assist, combining adaptive cruise control with lane centering technology. This system maintains the vehicle’s lane position using sensors and cameras, while an emergency lane-keeping function anticipates collisions and assists in avoidance maneuvers.

To ensure maximum safety, 18 percent of Koleos’ body structure uses hot forming technology, enhancing rigidity and crash protection. This also reduces vibrations and road noise for a smoother ride.

The Renault Koleos 2026 is now available across Saudi Arabia with prices starting from SR112,900 ($30,100), excluding VAT. It comes with a five-year or 100,000-km warranty and free servicing for two years or 40,000 km (whichever comes first).


Lulu launches 3 value concept stores in Saudi Arabia

Lulu launches 3 value concept stores in Saudi Arabia
Updated 17 July 2025
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Lulu launches 3 value concept stores in Saudi Arabia

Lulu launches 3 value concept stores in Saudi Arabia

Lulu Group inaugurated three new value concept — LOT — stores in Saudi Arabia in a single day — in Makkah, Saihat, Eastern Province, and Riyadh. The central launch event took place in Makkah and was attended by dignitaries and government officials.

The Makkah store was inaugurated by Dr. Waleed Basuliman, general manager of investment and partnerships at the Royal Commission for Makkah City and Holy Sites, alongside Lulu Group chairman Yusuff Ali M.A. 

Nasser Huwaiden Thaiban Ali Alketbi, consul general of the UAE in Jeddah; Engineer Yaser Attar, director general of investment and deputy for planning and financial sustainability at Makkah Municipality; business figures from Makkah, Engineer Abdulaziz Al Sindi, and Sheikh Ibrahim Al Rifaei were also present.

Yusuffali M.A. said: “This expansion reflects our commitment to the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 and our goal to offer high-quality, affordable products to all.” 

He added that with LOT, their aim is to redefine value retailing by making everyday essentials accessible to everyone without compromising on quality. 

“Four more LOT stores are in the pipeline in the Kingdom,” the Lulu chairman added.

Located on Abdullah Areef Street in Al-Rusafyah District, the new Makkah LOT store spans 43,000 square feet and is designed to deliver an engaging, budget-friendly shopping experience. 

It features a wide selection of household essentials, kitchenware, and fashion for men, women, and children, with a strong emphasis on quality and affordability. 

The store also offers ample parking space, enhancing its convenience for residents and visitors alike.

These value concept stores offer a wide range of products at unbeatable prices, with many items priced below SR22. 

This initiative aims to ensure that everyone can access high-quality goods, including household essentials, kitchenware, and fashion for men, women, and children.

The Eastern Province outlet, located in Saihat within the Lulu Hypermarket complex on Al-Musib Ibn Rafi Street, offers 24,000 square feet of smart retail space tailored to budget-friendly shoppers. 

Meanwhile, the Riyadh location in Al-Malaz features 18772 square feet of retail space and comprehensive parking facilities, positioning it as a flagship destination for value shopping in the capital.

All three stores opened with exclusive collections and promotional offers, reinforcing LOT’s core mission of making good-quality products accessible at wallet-friendly prices, responding to growing consumer demand for affordable yet high-quality retail experiences.

With this strategic expansion, Lulu continues to strengthen its footprint in the Saudi market, energizing the local retail sector and reaffirming its commitment to delivering value-driven shopping across key cities in the region. 


Jameel Motors to launch GAC electric vehicles in UK

Jameel Motors to launch GAC electric vehicles in UK
Updated 17 July 2025
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Jameel Motors to launch GAC electric vehicles in UK

Jameel Motors to launch GAC electric vehicles in UK

Jameel Motors, a leading provider of mobility solutions and partner of choice to top automotive brands, has signed a joint venture agreement with Chinese automaker GAC to distribute the latter’s electric vehicles in the UK. In April, Jameel Motors announced it had won a distribution agreement for GAC in Poland through a competitive process involving both local and international companies.

This innovative joint venture will be one of the first of its kind in the UK with a Chinese automaker, a market with significant long-term potential and will be established after completion of relevant regulatory and antitrust approvals. With battery electric vehicle registrations up 25.8 percent year-on-year and accounting for 21.8 percent of new car sales, the UK is a strong and expanding hub for EV adoption.

The agreement expands Jameel Motors’ existing portfolio in the UK — where it already distributes the electric commercial vehicle brand Farizon Auto — and will be its first passenger vehicle brand in the market. The partnership will bring new EVs to the UK, driving market growth and offering customers a broader range of choices.

Initially, two all-electric models from GAC AION will be available: the AION V, a C-segment SUV, and the AION UT, a B-segment hatchback. AION showcases GAC’s core strengths of award-winning quality and pioneering technology — ideally suited to meet the rising demand for quality electric vehicles among UK drivers. They will be available through select retail partners across the UK, with first customer deliveries expected at the end of Q1 2026. Additional models will follow to expand the AION lineup.

Jasmmine Wong, chief executive — Jameel Motors, said: “The joint venture with GAC represents a shared vision, and an exciting opportunity to meet the UK’s growing demand for smarter, cleaner passenger vehicles. Led by customer preference and guided by our expertise, we’re committed to staying ahead of trends and delivering first-class solutions that are both innovative and sustainable.”

Wayne Wei, president — GAC International, added: “GAC’s entry into the UK marks a crucial step in its internationalization strategy. As we set foot in this dynamic market, GAC is committed to bringing industry-leading products and first-class services to UK consumers.”

GAC is one of China’s major car manufacturers, ranking No. 181 in the Fortune Global 500 and having gained international recognition for its high-quality vehicles, advanced technological solutions, and commitment to sustainability. GAC’s business spans seven major sectors: R&D, complete vehicles, auto parts, energy and ecosystem, international operations, trade and mobility, as well as investment and finance.

As of today, GAC has a market presence across the Middle East, Southeast Asia, Eastern Europe, Africa and America, in a total of 84 countries and regions worldwide. Driven by a strong commitment to innovation, GAC has reached major milestones in its international expansion, with overseas sales of its self-branded vehicles surpassing 100,000 units for the first time in 2024, a 92.3 percent year-on-year increase.

Jameel Motors represents some of the world’s most recognized commercial and passenger vehicle brands and has operations in more than 10 countries across the Middle East, Africa, Europe, Asia and Australia. This agreement marks another milestone as Jameel Motors continues to expand internationally and harness innovation for the future of mobility. 


Amazon Prime Day unveils unmissable deals & savings

Amazon Prime Day unveils unmissable deals & savings
Updated 16 July 2025
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Amazon Prime Day unveils unmissable deals & savings

Amazon Prime Day unveils unmissable deals & savings

Amazon has announced seven days of savings for Prime members in Saudi Arabia from July 25 to 31. The Prime Day deals include top local and international brands across more than 30 categories including everyday essentials, school must-haves, electronics, fashion, beauty, kitchen, home, toys, and Amazon Devices.

Abdo Chlala, country manager, Amazon Saudi Arabia, said: “We’re proud to bring back the biggest celebration of Prime membership, offering even more value for our customers across the Kingdom. This year, we are extending Prime Day to seven days, giving members in Saudi Arabia more time to discover and shop thousands of deals. Prime Day is more than just a sale — it’s a celebration of exceptional savings, fast and free delivery options, and access to products our members love. As one of the most anticipated moments for our customers in Saudi Arabia, we continue to evolve the Prime experience based on their needs. With exciting offers dropping throughout the event, we’re delivering a Prime Day that brings selection, value, and convenience right to their doorstep.”

During Prime Day, members can shop thousands of deals across popular local and international brands including Adidas, Anker, Babyjoy, Bellababy, Coach, Coslus, Dyson, Eucerin, Garmin, Guess, JW PEI, Lego, Levoit, Nivea, Philips, PlayStation, Roborock, Shell, Skechers, Sony, TCL, Tefal, and Ugreen, as well as support local small and medium-sized businesses. Prime members will also have access to deals from Amazon US, UK and Germany via the Amazon.sa Global Store with free international delivery on eligible products. Members should keep an eye out throughout the seven-day sale event, as deals will keep dropping during various periods of Prime Day. Additional instant discounts will also be available from select banks, ensuring members can maximize their savings at every turn.

For the first time, this year’s Prime Day will also feature exclusive savings for Prime members across the newly launched Amazon Bazaar in-app shopping experience, making trendy fashion, home, and lifestyle finds even more affordable. 


Nesma & Partners acquires Al-Yusr Contracting Company

Nesma & Partners acquires Al-Yusr Contracting Company
Updated 16 July 2025
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Nesma & Partners acquires Al-Yusr Contracting Company

Nesma & Partners acquires Al-Yusr Contracting Company

Nesma and Partners, an integrated projects solutions company in Saudi Arabia, has announced the successful completion of its acquisition of Al-Yusr Industrial Contracting Company, a prominent provider of industrial services in the Kingdom.

This strategic investment positions Nesma and Partners as a leading integrated industrial services platform, enhancing its capabilities across the energy, infrastructure, and industrial sectors in alignment with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 development objectives.

AYTB will continue to operate as an independent company within the Nesma and Partners Group, preserving its organizational structure, brand, and operational autonomy. This acquisition enhances both companies’ capacity to deliver high-value project solutions across the whole asset lifecycle — from consulting, engineering, construction, and commissioning to operations, maintenance, and upgrades.

“We are proud to welcome AYTB into the Nesma and Partners family,” said Samer Abdul Samad, chief executive of Nesma and Partners and newly appointed chairman of AYTB. “AYTB has built a remarkable legacy of performance, particularly in operations and maintenance and plant industrial services. This partnership is based on mutual respect, complementary strengths, and a shared commitment to operational excellence.”

As part of this transition, Cristiano Tortelli has been appointed as chief executive of AYTB. Tortelli brings more than 30 years of global experience in energy and industrial services and has been actively involved in the transaction from its early stages. His leadership will support AYTB’s next phase of growth while maintaining continuity across all operations.

“I am honored to join AYTB as CEO at this exciting moment,” he said. “Together with the leadership team and the skilled workforce across AYTB, we will strengthen what has already been built, grow with confidence, and deliver sustainable value to our clients and stakeholders.”

AYTB is a leading Saudi, multi-disciplinary industrial contracting company providing a range of services and solutions to oil and gas, petrochemical, power generation and other major industrial sectors of Saudi Arabia. Boasting more than 40 years of experience in the fields of plant project services, manufacturing, industrial services, operations and maintenance, and housing and catering, AYTB has more than 6,000 employees.

Meanwhile, Nesma and Partners has grown its footprint both locally through its contracting and industrial services and globally through its wholly owned subsidiary, Kent, a leader in engineering and project management services.


Zain KSA and Cisco to develop AI infrastructure

Zain KSA and Cisco to develop AI infrastructure
Updated 16 July 2025
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Zain KSA and Cisco to develop AI infrastructure

Zain KSA and Cisco to develop AI infrastructure
  • The MoU is part of Zain KSA’s strategy to actively align with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 goals by driving digital transformation and positioning the Kingdom as a global digital innovation hub, particularly in the AI space

Zain KSA, a provider of telecommunications and digital services in Saudi Arabia, has signed a memorandum of understanding with Cisco, a global leader in networking and security, focusing on the development of cutting-edge AI infrastructure and GPU-as-a-service.

The agreement will leverage Cisco’s advanced, end-to-end infrastructure solutions for securely building and scaling AI workloads, supporting Zain KSA in delivering high-performance, resilient, and reliable GPU-powered services to the Saudi market.

The MoU is part of Zain KSA’s strategy to actively align with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 goals by driving digital transformation and positioning the Kingdom as a global digital innovation hub, particularly in the AI space.

HIGHLIGHT

The MoU also includes exploring opportunities for training programs to upskil local talent, in line with Zain KSA’s commitment to ICT skills development.

As part of the collaboration, Zain KSA will leverage its deep market knowledge, cutting-edge digital capabilities, and targeted investments alongside Cisco’s global expertise in AI-ready infrastructure development. The initiative will create new solutions and commercial models to enable customers across various sectors to confidently and easily adopt AI solutions.

The MoU also includes exploring opportunities for training programs to upskil local talent, in line with Zain KSA’s commitment to ICT skills development to support long-term national AI capabilities.

Fahad Sahmi Al-Sahmah, vice president of B2B sales, Zain KSA, said: “At Zain KSA, we are mobilizing all our capabilities and investments to drive nationwide digital innovation, positioning the Kingdom as a global hub, a digital economy powered by future-looking GenAI solutions and applications. These efforts aim to empower all stakeholders, including government entities, businesses, and individuals, to harness the boundless potential of AI in support of national goals. This strategic collaboration with Cisco, positions us well to explore, develop, and innovate use cases, as we continue building a resilient, integrated and agile digital ecosystem that can embrace next-gen technologies and deploy them in the Kingdom.”

Zayan Sadek, managing director for service providers at Cisco Middle East, Türkiye and Africa, said: “Cisco is excited to collaborate with Zain KSA to pave the way for a transformative AI-powered future in Saudi Arabia. By combining Zain KSA’s digital expertise with Cisco’s cutting-edge AI infrastructure technologies, we aim to unlock new possibilities to empower businesses to thrive in the AI era and position Saudi Arabia as a global hub for advanced technologies.”