Gulf Air and Formula 1 celebrate 75 years

Gulf Air and Formula 1 celebrate 75 years
The celebratory event was held at the airline’s Paddock Club Suite during the Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix 2025 on Saturday.
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Updated 13 April 2025
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Gulf Air and Formula 1 celebrate 75 years

Gulf Air and Formula 1 celebrate 75 years

Gulf Air, the national carrier of Bahrain, hosted a celebratory event at its Paddock Club Suite during the Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix 2025 on Saturday. The event marked a historic milestone as two global icons — Gulf Air and Formula 1 — celebrated their 75th anniversaries, highlighting decades of innovation, excellence, and global impact. The evening also showcased Bahrain’s growing prominence as a global hub for motorsports and aviation and celebrated the unveiling of the airline’s 75th anniversary emblem and slogan “Bringing the world to you for 75 years.”

The event was hosted by Gulf Air Group CEO Jeffrey Goh, and attended by President and CEO of Formula 1 Stefano Domenicali and Gulf Air Group Chairman Khalid Taqi.

Goh said: “Celebrating our 75th anniversary alongside Formula 1 is a testament to the strength of our partnership and our shared commitment to excellence. The unveiling of our 75th anniversary emblem and slogan ‘Bringing the world to you for 75 years’ is not just a tribute to our past but also a promise for the future — a future defined by innovation, connectivity, and continued growth.”

Domenicali added: “2025 is a special year for Gulf Air, which like Formula 1 celebrates its 75th anniversary. Gulf Air has been an important partner since the historic first race in Bahrain, 21 years ago, contributing significantly to the growth of our sport in the region and globally. I would like to sincerely thank them for the passion, continuity and dedication they have always shown toward Formula 1.”

The event was a celebration of legacy and vision, reinforcing Gulf Air’s role in supporting Bahrain’s status as a global leader in motorsports. 

The Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix 2025 continues to be one of the most significant sporting events in the country, attracting fans and participants from around the world. 

Gulf Air has been the title sponsor of this prestigious event since the launch of the Grand Prix in Bahrain in 2004, further strengthening its ties to the global motorsport community.


VentureDive’s AI-powered contact center compliance engine wins ‘Best Analytics Solution of the Year’ award

VentureDive’s AI-powered contact center compliance engine wins ‘Best Analytics Solution of the Year’ award
Updated 16 sec ago
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VentureDive’s AI-powered contact center compliance engine wins ‘Best Analytics Solution of the Year’ award

VentureDive’s AI-powered contact center compliance engine wins ‘Best Analytics Solution of the Year’ award

VentureDive’s AI-powered Compliance and Call Insights Engine was named the “Best Analytics Solution of the Year” at the 9th Middle East Enterprise AI and Analytics Summit. This prestigious accolade highlights the transformative potential of VentureDive’s innovative, AI-first approach to tackling the challenges of modern call/ contact center operations across industries such as BFSI, telecommunications, retail/ CPG, healthcare, e-commerce, and the public sector.

Designed to meet the unique needs of businesses in the Kingdom and MENA region, the AI-powered Compliance and Call Insights Engine leverages generative AI, large language models, and advanced automatic speech recognition to deliver deep, actionable insights. Built with a focus on addressing granular business pain points, the solution enables real-time compliance monitoring, multilingual transcription, and culturally relevant sentiment analysis.

Imran Moinuddin, senior vice president of data and AI at VentureDive, said: “AI empowers contact centers to revolutionize customer interactions by analyzing behaviors at an unprecedented scale. By delivering near real-time insights into both customer and agent dynamics, AI accelerates compliance assurance — achieving in moments what traditional quality review teams would take hours or even days to accomplish. This transformative capability not only enhances operational efficiency but also ensures a seamless, high-quality customer experience.”

The solution’s potential was demonstrated through a successful collaboration with a leading BFSI in Saudi Arabia. In this engagement, the solution automated compliance evaluations, significantly reducing manual review times and exceeding client expectations by delivering more than a 70 percent success rate in fulfilling regulatory and internal quality/ compliance standards. Its ability to accurately transcribe and analyze Arabic and local dialects ensures precision and compliance with regional standards.

Underscoring VentureDive’s commitment to enabling enterprises and startups to become AI-first, Saad Fazil, COO of VentureDive, said: “Building something that truly understands the complexities of the Saudi and MENA markets, especially with Arabic dialects, was a real challenge. We’re not just throwing AI at a problem. We’re using it to make a real difference for our clients. Imagine cutting compliance review times from days to minutes. That’s the kind of tangible impact we’re delivering.”

This recognition reaffirms VentureDive’s ability to drive innovation through AI-powered solutions, empowering organizations to optimize their call/contact center operations, enhance customer satisfaction, and achieve operational excellence.


From new Friends to big adventures: Children share what they want on their dream holidays

From new Friends to big adventures: Children share what they want on their dream holidays
Updated 3 min 11 sec ago
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From new Friends to big adventures: Children share what they want on their dream holidays

From new Friends to big adventures: Children share what they want on their dream holidays

As summer approaches, a new global survey has revealed what our young travelers are dreaming about, and it's not just ice cream and cartoons.

From friendship quests to superhero adventures, today's young adventurers are bringing big imagination to their travel wish lists.

The survey was commissioned by Experience Abu Dhabi, the destination brand of the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi, polling over 7,000 children aged 5 to 12 and their parents from across nine countries, including France, Italy, Germany, China, UK, US, and India, as well as UAE and Saudi Arabia.

The data reveals something both unexpected and universal: 90% of children worldwide want holiday activities that help them make new friends.

In an age of screens and streaming, what kids are genuinely craving is real connection.

Whether it's exploring the children's library, splashing at a waterpark, or a day out at the aquarium, these shared adventures can easily help children form new bonds that stretch across the globe.

Additionally, peer influence also plays a powerful role: 95% of kids want to try activities they can tell their friends about, while 91% are inspired by what their friends have done.

While connection is key, imagination still plays a huge role, with 89% of children saying their ideal holiday lets them experience their favorite video game or movie in real life.

These young travelers aren't just watching, scrolling or gaming, they're trying to imagine themselves inside those worlds.

Nouf Mohamed Al-Bushlaibi, executive director of strategic marketing & communications at DCT Abu Dhabi, said: "As both a parent and a marketer, I know firsthand how important it is to really listen to kids, to understand what lights them up, what sparks their imagination, and what makes a holiday unforgettable.

“We commissioned this research to hear what truly matters to children when they look at holidays, and what they told us was inspiring: they want connection, adventure, and the freedom to play out the stories they love. Abu Dhabi brings all of that to life as a place where kids can dream big, try new things, and feel right at home doing it with their loved ones."

As children from around the world revealed what makes a holiday unforgettable, each country had its own standout passion.

In the UAE, 98% of kids said big, exciting adventures are a must.

More than 3 in 4 kids surveyed in India want to visit a museum on holiday.

In the UK, 94% prioritise activities they can talk about with friends.

German children showed a strong interest in cultural food experiences, with 84% wanting to visit a food market.

89% of kids from China want time to relax, play and hang out.

Italian kids stood out for their curiosity, with 95% wanting to try activities they’ve never done before.

French kids gravitated towards water activities, with 97% wanting to spend a day at a waterpark or enjoying water sports.

Children in Saudi Arabia showed a love for variety with 82% wanting to try lots of different cool activities on holiday.

In the US, 85% of children are keen to take part in make-believe activities like being a race car driver or zookeeper for the day.

The takeaway is simple: kids want to follow their passions. They’re looking for a holiday that blends fun, freedom and the chance to explore their interests in their own way.

And they’re looking to do it all with their loved ones.

The research also finds that family time remains sacred, even in today's day and age, with 97% of kids saying that enjoying fun moments with their families is one of their must-haves on their dream holiday.

With a diverse range of attractions dotted across the emirate, Abu Dhabi stands out as a "Totally Recommended" holiday destination for families, entirely children-approved.

As kids look for opportunities to play make-believe roles (85%), Abu Dhabi is setting the stage for them to do it all.

From cruising through Yas Marina Circuit and exciting animal encounters at Emirates Park Zoo, to donning the capes of their favorite superheroes at Warner Bros.

World Abu Dhabi, the emirate is packed with experiences that will make kids feel like they've jumped straight into their dream holidays.

And there’s even more to discover.

At teamLab Phenomena Abu Dhabi, families can explore a world where art comes alive, light reacts to movement and every step sparks a new surprise.

Opening later this year are Zayed National Museum, the national museum of the UAE, and the Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi, which will narrate the story of life on Earth and the origins of our universe.

So, with all of these incredible insights, what does the perfect family holiday look like? That’s exactly what we set out to create, by handing the planning over to the kids themselves.

We asked children to design their dream holiday. Not just what they wanted to see and do, but how they wanted to feel, where they wanted to eat, and what kind of pace made the experience fun.

The result is a seven-day itinerary filled with culture, big adventures, creative play, nature, and moments to slow down.

From waterparks and wildlife to desert discoveries, the itinerary reflects exactly what today's young travelers are looking for.

And because it's shaped by the kids themselves, it speaks their language: curious, imaginative and full of excitement.

Best of all, every part of it can be experienced right here in Abu Dhabi.

With a kids-recommended itinerary, we're handing parents a blueprint to their kids' ultimate dream holiday.

This summer, Abu Dhabi isn't just about what you can do. It's about setting your own pace. Whether you're up for non-stop adventure or slow, easy days with space to wander, everything is close and accessible.

Parents usually need to have kids choose one or two things on a given trip, but Abu Dhabi is the all-in-one family holiday that almost plans itself.

It's everything you want without the "I'm bored" or the "are we nearly there?"... it's a family destination that gives you space to explore, relax, and spend time together, all at your own pace.

Abu Dhabi is recommended because whatever kind of holiday you're looking for, you'll find it.


Bosch and Juffali celebrate 60 years of partnership

Bosch and Juffali celebrate 60 years of partnership
Updated 30 April 2025
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Bosch and Juffali celebrate 60 years of partnership

Bosch and Juffali celebrate 60 years of partnership

Bosch, a supplier of solutions and services, commemorated its more than 60-year relationship with Juffali Co., one of Saudi Arabia’s largest commercial enterprises. For more than six decades, Juffali has been the representative of Bosch’s automotive aftermarket and power tools business in Saudi Arabia. This milestone was marked at Juffali’s headquarters, with attendees from both organizations, including Khaled Juffali, chairman of Juffali Co.; Per Johansson, vice president and board member of Bosch Middle East; and Haneen Al-Saleh, managing director at Bosch Saudi Arabia regional headquarters.

Speaking on this long-standing partnership, Johansson emphasized the mutual trust, shared values, and strong cooperation that have strengthened Bosch and Juffali’s relationship over the past six decades. “As we recognize our partnership with Juffali, I am happy about our ongoing successful collaboration and joint accomplishments. This enduring relationship enabled us to deliver innovative solutions to our customers following our company’s claim ‘Invented for life.’”

Al-Saleh added: “The 60-year partnership with Juffali underlines our strong collaboration and commitment to progress. By combining our strengths, we continue to support Saudi Arabia’s industrial growth and contribute to the realization of Vision 2030.”

“We at Juffali are committed to supporting Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, which aims to diversify the economy and foster growth across various sectors. Our collaboration contributes to key aspects of the vision, including infrastructure development, industrial expansion, and technological innovation. We aim to continue building on our successful history and delivering value to our customers in the Kingdom,” said chairman Juffali.

The ceremony was also attended by notable figures, including Ali Dulaim, group CEO of Juffali Co.; Dana Juffali, board member of Juffali Co.; Husni Rifai, CEO of JTECO; Faisal Charara, group CFO of Juffali Co.; and Mate Muskat, CFO of Bosch Group Middle East.

With more than 12 million vehicles in Saudi Arabia, the demand for repairs and replacement parts is booming. This surge has fostered the growth of independent garages and service chains offering cost-effective alternatives. Additionally, e-commerce platforms specializing in automotive parts are revolutionizing distribution channels, thereby enhancing consumer access to an extensive range of products.

Bosch has successfully introduced state-of-the-art technologies and premium components, such as advanced engine parts and diagnostic tools. Together with Juffali, investments in technician training have equipped workshops with the skills needed for modern vehicles, particularly as automotive technology continues to advance. The partnership also supports independent workshops through the Bosch Car Service Concept, contributing to a stronger automotive repair infrastructure in the Kingdom.

Saudi Arabia’s ambitious Vision 2030 and significant investments in giga-projects have fueled unprecedented growth in the construction sector. With large-scale developments reshaping the nation’s infrastructure, the demand for high-performance tools is at an all-time high. Bosch’s professional power tools and accessories are essential in driving efficiency and precision across these transformative projects.

Bosch Middle East and Juffali earlier this year expanded their long-standing partnership into the home appliances industry through a strategic distribution agreement between Juffali Home Appliances and BSH Middle East. This alliance will grow the presence of Bosch home appliances across Saudi Arabia.


Diriyah Company inks deal with GoZahid to promote ‘City of Earth’

Diriyah Company inks deal with GoZahid to promote ‘City of Earth’
Updated 30 April 2025
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Diriyah Company inks deal with GoZahid to promote ‘City of Earth’

Diriyah Company inks deal with GoZahid to promote ‘City of Earth’

Diriyah Company has signed a travel trade agreement with Saudi travel brand GoZahid to further promote Diriyah as a premier global cultural and tourism destination.

The announcement comes as Diriyah Company is participating in the Arabian Travel Market trade show in Dubai, which runs until May 1, featuring GoZahid as a trade partner. GoZahid is joined alongside other major trade partners at Diriyah Company’s booth including Athaar Arabia, Abercrombie and Kent, 88 Destinations, Tetrapylon, and Bonjour Saudi.

The collaboration will build on its existing success as a destination that has already attracted more than 3 million visits since opening its UNESCO World Heritage site of At-Turaif and the Bujairi Terrace dining precinct in December 2022, as well as its first hotel — the 134-room Bab Samhan, a Luxury Collection Hotel, in December last year.

Under the agreement, Diriyah Company and GoZahid will collaborate to promote Diriyah, known as the “City of Earth,” to inbound cultural travelers. Their partnership will focus on enhancing destination marketing, training tour operators, hosting destination workshops, and developing training manuals for tour guides.

Diriyah Company Group CEO Jerry Inzerillo said: “We are delighted to have signed a travel trade agreement with GoZahid, a long-established and internationally recognized travel house in the Kingdom. Our collaboration will help ensure that travelers have an unforgettable cultural experience visiting ‘The City of Earth’ as we continue to develop one of the world’s gathering places with centuries of history at its core.”

Daniel Ponzo, group managing director at Zahid Travel Group, said: “We are incredibly proud to partner with Diriyah Company to bring the story of Diriyah to life for travelers from around the world. This collaboration is a testament to our shared commitment to cultural authenticity, exceptional service, and meaningful travel experiences. Together, we look forward to welcoming the world to this extraordinary destination and supporting its continued rise as a global icon.”

Diriyah Company’s travel partner agreements aim to position Diriyah as an emerging must-visit destination on the global tourism map, leveraging the expertise of world-class, specialized partners.

With plans to develop many of the world’s leading global hotel brands, the Royal Diriyah Opera House, and the 20,000 seat multi-purpose Diriyah Arena, among many other tourism assets, Diriyah, situated on the outskirts of the capital city of Riyadh, is set to become one of the greatest gathering places in the world.


Alshaya Retail Academy launched to train Saudi youth for job market

Alshaya Retail Academy launched to train Saudi youth for job market
Updated 30 April 2025
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Alshaya Retail Academy launched to train Saudi youth for job market

Alshaya Retail Academy launched to train Saudi youth for job market

Alshaya Group, one of the world’s leading international retail franchise operators, announced the launch of the Alshaya Retail Academy to train young Saudi men and women on the latest retail industry concepts and practices, in the Kingdom. The academy has been launched in partnership with several leading government entities, including the Human Resources Development Fund. 

By providing newly employed Saudi nationals with essential hands-on and theoretical training, Alshaya Retail Academy will directly contribute to the goals of Saudi Vision 2030. This initiative not only prepares youth for successful retail careers but also strengthens the national economy by enhancing their competitiveness in the global job market. The launch of the academy aligns with Alshaya’s continued commitment to the region, especially with the opening of The Avenues in Riyadh and Alkhobar, creating additional opportunities for local talent and contributing to the Kingdom’s growing retail sector. 

The inaugural event was attended by Executive Chairman of Alshaya Group Mohammed Alshaya, CEO of Alshaya Group John Hadden, Deputy General Manager for Business at the Human Resources Development Fund Firas Aba Alkhail, Assistant Deputy Minister at the Ministry of Commerce Muhammed Al-Melhem, Assistant Deputy Minister for the Localization of Tourism Ibrahim Jubairi Gharwi, Assistant Deputy Governor of the Technical and Vocational Training Corporation Abdul Rahman Al-Marwani, and Assistant Director General of the General Directorate for Private Sector Training Khalid Al-Nasser.

The attendees emphasized the importance of this initiative in enhancing the participation of Saudi youth in the labor market, which is essential to driving sustainable development and boosting economic growth in the Kingdom.

The academy offers comprehensive training programs, including one-month development courses, as well as three-month qualification courses. These programs combine theoretical and practical training, enhancing trainees’ opportunities to acquire market-ready skills that align with the rapid developments occurring in the retail sector in the Kingdom.

“At Alshaya, we believe in the importance of empowering Saudi youth by equipping them with the knowledge and skills necessary for their professional growth. We are committed to providing them with comprehensive and integrated training opportunities that will help them thrive in the retail sector. This initiative aims to build a national workforce capable of adapting to the rapid changes occurring in the market, in line with the goals of Saudi Vision 2030,” said executive chairman Alshaya.

Abdullah Faisal, regional people director at Alshaya Group, said: “At Alshaya Group, we are deeply committed to providing the best opportunities for all Saudi citizens, whether in employment or training. We take great pride in our established record of employing national talent and continuously strive to expand the opportunities available to them. Through the Alshaya Academy, we aim to empower our youth by equipping them with the essential skills needed to thrive across various sectors, while providing them with the tools necessary for success in the workforce, in alignment with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030. We are confident that the Alshaya Academy will serve as a cornerstone for developing talent and helping realize the aspirations of an ambitious generation dedicated to excellence and innovation, in collaboration with leading government bodies.” 

Alshaya was recently awarded by the Saudi Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development as a leading company in parallel training and feminization. “This recognition underscores our commitment to gender diversity and the empowerment of Saudi women in alignment with Saudi Vision 2030,” Faisal added.

Currently, Alshaya runs professional training and mentoring programs to ensure that Saudi nationals develop the skills they need during their career path. The company has successfully attracted around 4,000 Saudi females to work in world-leading brands such as Starbucks, The Cheesecake Factory, Shake Shack, Raising Cane’s, H&M, American Eagle, Victoria’s Secret, Bath and Body Works, and Foot Locker.