ServiceNow Yokohama release boosts AI automation, governance, and workflow intelligence

ServiceNow Yokohama release boosts AI automation, governance, and workflow intelligence
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Updated 16 March 2025
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ServiceNow Yokohama release boosts AI automation, governance, and workflow intelligence

ServiceNow Yokohama release boosts AI automation, governance, and workflow intelligence

ServiceNow, the AI platform for business transformation, unveiled the Yokohama platform release, advancing automation, governance, and workflow intelligence to help businesses navigate operational complexity. With this release, organizations can accelerate application development, improve workflow performance, and enhance customer experiences — all while maintaining the highest standards of governance and security. 

From ServiceNow Studio, which provides a unified workspace for rapid application development and governance, to enhanced self-service portals which enable customers to conveniently configure and place orders, these innovations simplify complexity and drive efficiency. Service Observability also ensures business resilience through AI-driven insights so organizations can meet the growing demand for enterprise-wide visibility — all within a single, secure platform.

The 2024 Gartner Digital Worker Survey found that over 60 percent of digital workers are streamlining work with basic automation and using analytics to build customized dashboards to support business decisions. With the Yokohama release, ServiceNow is reducing complexity and inefficiencies so businesses can strengthen decision-making, improve experiences, and accelerate productivity.

“ServiceNow continues to redefine what’s possible with AI-powered automation. By embedding intelligence into end-to-end workflows, we enable businesses to break down siloes, accelerate decision-making, and drive seamless operations at scale,” said Jon Sigler, executive vice president of Platform and AI at ServiceNow. “With the Yokohama platform release, ServiceNow helps our customers take action — giving businesses the ability to move faster, innovate smarter, and scale seamlessly. The ServiceNow Platform unites people, processes, and data in a single system of action, transforming complexity into clarity and making business transformation readily achievable.”

Speed and scale define modern business — but fragmented tools slow innovation, and siloed solutions lead to governance issues and workflow inconsistencies. The opportunity comes from building AI-powered, enterprise-grade solutions that connect teams, automate workflows, and establish security by design.

ServiceNow Studio is a unified, AI-powered environment that revolutionizes development on the ServiceNow Platform for no-code, low-code, and pro-code developers. With built-in support from Now Assist, ServiceNow Studio accelerates application development with intuitive, easy-to-use tools that enhance collaboration and streamline automation. 

Developers can work seamlessly across projects by managing all metadata in one place with cross-scope editing and confidently deploy changes with developer-friendly update set management. 

Expanding on ServiceNow’s AI Agent innovations, it integrates with AI Agent Studio, enabling developers to design both apps and AI agents in one experience. Together, these capabilities automate reviews, approvals, and application changes all enabled by the seamless data integration of ServiceNow Workflow Data Fabric for fully governed, enterprise-wide data connectivity. By centralizing tools, best practices, and AI-driven workflows, ServiceNow Studio empowers businesses to scale automation, collaborate more effectively, and turn innovation into real impact.

Service Observability, part of ServiceNow IT Operation Management, gives organizations a single solution to manage and act on insights across their entire observability ecosystem. Many enterprises rely on dozens of monitoring and observability tools, creating complexity and blind spots. Service Observability brings together information from any source, using AI-driven insights to pinpoint root causes faster, quantify business impact, and resolve issues before they escalate.

With Service Observability, IT teams get a unified, AI-powered hub that integrates seamlessly with their existing solutions. AI-driven automated workflows allow organizations to reduce downtime, remove guesswork, and align service operations with business outcomes. Service Observability delivers real-time intelligence that helps organizations move from reactive troubleshooting to proactive problem-solving.


Al-Murjan Group and BlueFive Capital launch Shariah-compliant investment platform

Al-Murjan Group and BlueFive Capital launch Shariah-compliant investment platform
Updated 08 September 2025
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Al-Murjan Group and BlueFive Capital launch Shariah-compliant investment platform

Al-Murjan Group and BlueFive Capital launch Shariah-compliant investment platform

Al-Murjan Group, one of Saudi Arabia’s most established and respected family business groups, and BlueFive Capital, a global investment platform, have announced a cross shareholding strategic linkup to co-develop a global platform for Islamic finance.

The partnership includes reciprocal ownership stake in the two stakeholders’ respective Shariah-compliant asset manage- ment units: BlueFive acquiring a substantial minority stake in Sidra Capital, a leading Shariah-compliant asset manager that specializes in private assets, and Al-Murjan Group Holding acquiring a substantial minority stake in BlueFive786, BlueFive’s newly launched Shariah-compliant investment arm.

BlueFive786, which will be headquartered in Singapore, offers Shariah-compliant investment products, such as retirement and saving schemes to its savers and retirees, based predominantly in the Southeast Asian countries of Indonesia, Malaysia, Bangladesh, Brunei and Singapore. As part of the deal, BlueFive will open its office in Riyadh, and jointly alongside Sidra Capital, will manage and undertake investments in Saudi Arabia.

The deal will provide both parties with enhanced access to cross-border investment opportunities and institutional capital. This partnership will also support joint product development and co-branded investment vehicles, enabling institutional and private clients to access best-in-class Islamic investment strategies. The parties are currently awaiting the final approvals of the relevant regulatory authorities in Saudi Arabia.

As part of the transaction, BlueFive Capital Founder and Chief Executive Hazem Ben-Gacem, and BlueFive Co-founder Yasser Bajsair will join the board of directors of Sidra Capital. Taufiq Bahamdain, CEO of Al-Murjan Group Holding, and Shahid Shaikh, a board member in Al-Murjan Group, will represent Al-Murjan in the board of BlueFive 786.

Bahamdain said: “This strategic alignment with BlueFive Capital builds upon Sidra Capital’s decades of experience

in Islamic finance, taking its mission to become a globally recognized leader in Shariah-compliant finance to the next level. By combining Sidra Capital’s established expertise and deep roots in the GCC with BlueFive’s innovative platform and access to Southeast Asia’s dynamic markets, we are creating a powerful conduit for cross-border ethical investment.

“This partnership is built on a shared commitment to integrity, performance, and expanding access to sophisticated, values-driven investment products for a global clientele.”

Ben-Gacem added:“Grateful for the trust of Sheikh Abdulrahman bin Mahfouz and look forward to joining with Al-Murjan to build a lasting legacy in the field of Shariah-compliant investing. The partnership will look to redefine and shape the products and solutions that are today available across Muslim-majority growth markets.”


Indian school launches ‘ISSAACC’ to foster scientific temper

Indian school launches ‘ISSAACC’ to foster scientific temper
Updated 06 September 2025
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Indian school launches ‘ISSAACC’ to foster scientific temper

Indian school launches ‘ISSAACC’ to foster scientific temper

International Indian School Jeddah has unveiled a new transformative platform to provide students with global scientific exposure, practical mentorship and career guidance.

The International Scientific Society for Advanced Academic and Career Counseling was announced in a landmark ceremony that brought together eminent scientists, educationists, and community leaders.

The ceremony began with a welcome address by Principal of IISJ Dr. Mohammad Imran, who underlined the importance of curiosity-driven education and platforms that prepare students for the future.

Dr. Prince Mufti Zia, founding director of ISSAACC and IISJ managing committee member, introduced the vision of the society, describing it as a practical avenue for students to transform their scientific ideas into reality.

Prof. Anwar Bilgrami, chief patron of ISSAACC, elaborated on the motives and strategies of ISSAACC, urging students to nurture scientific temperament and pursue innovation with focus and clarity.

Abdul Ghafoor Danish, media and outreach adviser, highlighted the necessity of ISSAACC in broadening career options for students, beyond traditional fields such as medicine and guiding them toward diverse rewarding careers.

Nooruddin Khan, financial adviser of ISSAACC, emphasized the society’s role in preparing young Indians to contribute to the nation’s global rise through science and technology.

Guest of Honor Prof.Javed Mussarat, vice chancellor of Integral University, Lucknow, inspired students with his keynote address, urging them to set career goals early and pursue them with dedication.

The ceremony also carried the message of Consul General of India in Jeddah Fahad Ahmed Khan Suri, read out by Chief Guest Mohammad Hashim, consul (commerce and PIC) at the Indian Consulate. Suri congratulated IISJ on this landmark initiative and assured support for empowering Indian youth.

Chairman of IISJ Managing Committee Dr. Abdul Saleem, together with fellow members Dr. Mohammed Shafee, Dr. Nusrat Khan,  Dr. Farheen Ameena Taha, Dr. Zubair Hameed, and Dr. Hemalatha Mahalingam, extended their full support to ISSAACC, calling it a transformative step for IISJ and the Indian community in Jeddah.

The ceremony saw the launch of the ISSAACC website, providing a roadmap for student engagement. The “Young Scientist Program,” with an initial grant of SR5,000, was announced for student research proposals.

Members of the ISSAACC advisory board, most of whom are globally ranked among the top 2 percent scientists, pledged full cooperation in guiding IISJ students.

The inauguration of ISSAACC at IISJ marks the beginning of a new era in student empowerment. With the active involvement of globally recognized scientists, community leaders, and the school’s leadership, ISSAACC is set to nurture innovators, researchers, and leaders who will shape the future of science and strengthen India’s global standing.


SAB receives ISO 20400 for sustainable procurement

SAB receives ISO 20400 for sustainable procurement
Updated 01 September 2025
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SAB receives ISO 20400 for sustainable procurement

SAB receives ISO 20400 for sustainable procurement

Saudi Awwal Bank has obtained the ISO 20400 for sustainable procurement, becoming the first bank in the MEA region and the 42nd entity globally to receive this international recognition from BSI. Encompassing every stage from strategic vision to operational delivery, this achievement reflects SAB’s alignment with international standards in integrating sustainability into its procurement practices.

Developed by the International Organization for Standardization, ISO 20400 provides a globally recognized framework for integrating sustainability across procurement functions. This standard focuses on governance, labor practices, human rights, environmental impact and ethical business conduct throughout the supply chain.

The alignment assessment was conducted in collaboration with British Standards Institution, the business improvement and standards company, and a founding member of ISO. This process involved a comprehensive review of SAB’s procurement frameworks, strategies, and implementation mechanisms to evaluate the integration of sustainability into the bank’s operations.

As a result of this assessment, SAB has strengthened its sustainability integration in procurement decision-making. The bank has enhanced supplier engagement practices and implemented more robust approaches to ethical sourcing, ensuring consistency with its broader environmental, social, and governance objectives. These enhancements support the advancement of SAB’s long-term ESG agenda through responsible operations and transparent supply chain management.

Ghada Al-Jarbou, chief operating officer at SAB, said: “The adoption of ISO 20400 represents a significant milestone in institutionalizing sustainability across our procurement activities. It reflects our commitment to responsible sourcing and enhances our ability to engage suppliers in line with SAB’s ESG priorities and Vision 2030.”

Ilias Karampoikis, META sales and commercial director at BSI, said: “There is a significant opportunity for banks and other financial organizations to influence sustainability through their lending, investment, and governance practices. It’s great to see Saudi Awwal Bank leading the way with this achievement of the sustainable procurement standard (ISO 20400), which demonstrates that the organization is making conscious choices around its environmental, social, and economic impact, helping to accelerate progress toward a sustainable world. Congratulations to the team for this achievement.”


Saudi Wood Expo opens today in Riyadh

Saudi Wood Expo opens today in Riyadh
Updated 01 September 2025
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Saudi Wood Expo opens today in Riyadh

Saudi Wood Expo opens today in Riyadh

Saudi Wood Expo, the country’s largest event for the wood and woodworking industries, returned to Riyadh for its second edition today, taking place from Sept. 1–3 at the Riyadh International Convention and Exhibition Center.

Organized by dmg events and powered by Big 5 Construct Saudi, the event brought together leading suppliers, manufacturers, designers and buyers from across the wood and woodworking industry, featuring over 3,500 products and solutions from more than 200 exhibitors spanning over 30 countries.

As industry leaders and government officials converge in Riyadh, the exhibition offers three days of hands-on sourcing and strategic networking, giving attendees a front-row seat to the latest innovations, solutions and business opportunities in the region.

Visitors will experience an interactive exhibition floor designed to inspire and inform. The Wood Artisans Zone will spotlight leading talent from Saudi Arabia, featuring live demonstrations from wood carving artists Abdullah Al-Silani and Ahmed Al-Shadoukhi; visual artists Wijdan Al-Jahwri, Ahmed Al-Nkhlani and Hind Al-Khamis; and wood artists Ahmed Al-Furaih and Fahad Al-Omran. Together, they will showcase how traditional craftsmanship and contemporary artistry intersect in the creation of unique wooden pieces.

The Wood Design Trail highlights exhibitors whose wood solutions stand out for exceptional design, durability and functionality. From premium finishes and materials to innovative joinery and interior fit-out applications, this feature celebrates products that combine aesthetic appeal with long-lasting performance, redefining how wood shapes spaces and elevates design.

The Wood Around the World feature showcases timber diversity through the visually engaging Knowledge Wood Wall, presenting international wood varieties and applications. Industry professionals will also test their skills in the WoodU Do It? challenge, a hands-on competition where participants race against the clock to drill as many screws as possible into a wooden surface, with prizes to be given away. Complementing these interactive zones, exhibitors will host live demonstrations of their latest products and machinery, offering visitors a firsthand look at modern solutions.

Leading brands participating include Desert Board, PROADEC along with SURTECO, SLABH Industrial Solutions, Saudi Wooden Industries, Saudi Industrial Machinery Wood Panels Company, Salco Laminates Industries, Al-Tajweed Contracting and Trading, among others.

The exhibition also features international pavilions from Turkiye, China and Italy, along with showcases, providing visitors direct access to the latest innovations from across Europe, North America, Asia and the Middle East.

Saudi Wood Expo is expected to welcome more than 10,000 professionals under one roof, including industry leaders like IKEA, MACE, Abunayyan and Abyat, as well as giga-project stakeholders from Red Sea Global and Omrania. Government bodies such as Riyadh Municipality and the Ministry of Industry and Mineral Resources have already registered, reflecting strong public sector support for the wood sector.


51Talk, Saudi Arabia’s leading one-on-one online English education platform Lights Up Kingdom Tower to Launch Back-to-School Season

51Talk, Saudi Arabia’s leading one-on-one online English education platform Lights Up Kingdom Tower to Launch Back-to-School Season
Updated 27 August 2025
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51Talk, Saudi Arabia’s leading one-on-one online English education platform Lights Up Kingdom Tower to Launch Back-to-School Season

51Talk, Saudi Arabia’s leading one-on-one online English education platform Lights Up Kingdom Tower to Launch Back-to-School Season

51Talk, Saudi Arabia’s leading one-on-one online English education platform, illuminated the iconic Kingdom Tower in Riyadh with the bold message “Your Confidence Starts with your Language,” marking the official launch of its back-to-school campaign.

The lighting of the Kingdom Tower was the highlight of a series of milestone initiatives by 51Talk in the Kingdom, including the unveiling of three-city outdoor advertising campaigns, the opening of its flagship learning center at Park Avenue, activations in Panorama Mall, and participation in the upcoming Education Expo. 

This integrated campaign emphasizes 51Talk’s growing commitment to the Saudi market and its mission to empower students and families to build confidence through English proficiency.

On July 20, 51Talk officially established its Middle East headquarters in Riyadh, underscoring its long-term commitment to the region. Earlier in July, brand ambassador Dr. Yasser Al-Hazimi visited 51Talk’s international R&D headquarters in Beijing, further strengthening ties and affirming the company’s dedication to serving Saudi learners.

Commenting on the launch, Jack Huang, founder and CEO of 51Talk, said: “We believe that your confidence starts with your language, and English learning is a vital bridge to building opportunities for the future. Saudi Arabia is one of the fastest-growing markets for digital learning, and 51Talk is proud to be the No. 1 platform in the Kingdom for one-on-one online English education. Our back-to-school campaign reflects our mission to support students, youth, and families as they ‘Start it Right’ this academic season.”

Al-Hazimi, education expert, consultant, and 51Talk’s brand ambassador in the Kingdom, said: “51Talk is not merely a language-learning platform; it is an opportunity to empower the new generation with the skills of the future. This mission is closely aligned with the Kingdom’s focus on education and youth empowerment. I am proud to support this vision and look forward to the positive impact it will have on our students and children.”

With more than 40 million learners worldwide and a growing base in the Middle East, 51Talk is committed to supporting Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 education goals. By combining iconic visibility on the Kingdom Tower, strategic outdoor campaigns, flagship openings, and educational activations, 51Talk is reaffirming its role as Saudi Arabia’s leading one-on-one online English learning platform and a committed partner in the Kingdom’s education transformation journey.