Celebrating #HerAmbitions: TikTok MENA Creator Hub awards female entrepreneurs in Riyadh

Updated 09 March 2024

Arab News

March 09, 2024 18:53

Following an inspiring journey of innovation and entrepreneurship, TikTok MENA celebrated the conclusion of the second edition of the TikTok MENA Creator Hub, #HerAmbitions, with a grand awards ceremony at Lakum Art Space in Riyadh, on Feb. 28. The event marked the culmination of a program dedicated to spotlighting women-led businesses and supporting their growth within the MENA business landscape.

The evening featured speeches from Kinda Ibrahim, general manager of operations, TikTok Middle East, Turkiye, Africa, Pakistan and South Asia; Jomana Al-Rashid, CEO of SRMG; and Reem Akl, regional communications and advocacy analyst at UN Women Arab States. All of these women highlighted the critical role of women entrepreneurs in shaping the future of business in the MENA region.

The judging panel for #HerAmbitions included renowned creators and entrepreneurs such as lifestyle influencer and businesswoman Karen Wazen; culinary expert Chahrazad Al-Hajjar, founder of Chahrazad’s Cuisine The Bakery; and Doaa Gawish, CEO and founder of The Hair Addict, all of who played a crucial role in guiding the participants through their entrepreneurial journey.

With the support of UN Women, the TikTok MENA Creator Hub has successfully identified and nurtured the business talents of women entrepreneurs across the MENA region. The program provided a platform for participants to showcase their unique talents and business acumen, receiving mentorship from successful female leaders, and engaging in valuable workshops and panels.

“TikTok is at the forefront of championing Arab women, underscoring our collective belief in the transformative power of collaboration. Such partnerships ignite innovative solutions and foster enduring teamwork, offering women enhanced opportunities in the entrepreneurship industry. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to TikTok and to the myriad of creative minds and innovators. Your creativity and resilience have been instrumental in paving the path toward a more promising and inclusive future for everyone,” said Akl.

The TikTok MENA Creator Hub unfolded through three dynamic stages, from the initial in-app announcement and elevator pitch submissions to live panels, culminating in the awards ceremony where finalists showcased their businesses. The winners were awarded monetary prizes, with the first-place winner Duaa Al-Bataiha receiving significant support for her business venture. Second and third-place winners Heba Qadeer and Lara Akl, respectively, also received substantial monetary awards to further support their business initiatives.

Ibrahim said: “The second edition of the MENA Creator Hub #HerAmbitions has not only set the stage for these remarkable women leaders to shine but also amplified their voices and stories, building a supportive community that celebrates the power of women in business. We are thrilled to be in Riyadh to witness the positive impact of the #HerAmbitions campaign on empowering women entrepreneurs across the MENA region.”

The awards ceremony featured a captivating performance by SEERA, the all-female Arab rock fusion band, adding a unique musical dimension to the celebration. Additionally, the event featured immersive creative experiences by artists including Riyadh-based digital illustrator Anjali Rengan.

The event not only recognized the potential of female entrepreneurs but also emphasized the importance of community, mentorship, and the power of digital platforms in amplifying women’s voices in business. As the TikTok MENA Creator Hub concludes its second edition, it leaves behind a legacy of empowerment and inspiration for future women entrepreneurs in the MENA region.

Flexjet fuels private aviation growth in Kingdom

Updated 5 min 25 sec ago

Arab News

January 21, 2025 22:39

Flexjet fuels private aviation growth in Kingdom

Updated 5 min 25 sec ago

Arab News

January 21, 2025 22:39

As Saudi Arabia’s private aviation sector experiences unprecedented growth, Flexjet, a leader in private aviation established in 1995, is primed to support the Kingdom’s evolving travel needs. Combining the ultimate private jet experience, sophisticated state-of-the-art fleet and a sustainability-first approach, Flexjet offers services that are lately in high demand among Saudi Arabia’s growing number of ultra-high-net-worth individuals.

The Kingdom’s private aviation sector, valued at SR4.5 billion ($1.2 billion) in 2023, is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate of 8.88 percent through 2029. The sector’s expansion reflects rising demand for luxury travel options, driven by an increasing number of affluent tourists and growing disposable wealth.

Flexjet’s operations are built around providing customized travel solutions, making it a natural fit for Saudi Arabia’s elite private aviation clientele. Since its acquisition by Directional Aviation, a leader in the private aviation industry with more than SR13 billion in annual revenue and over 4,000 employees, Flexjet has seen skyrocketing growth, transforming from a respected player in private aviation into a global powerhouse. Under the strategic vision of Directional Aviation, Flexjet placed a record-breaking SR21 billion order for 265 Bombardier jets, followed by a SR5.2 billion order from Embraer in 2019, ensuring it maintains its state-of-the-art fleet.

These strategic orders allow Flexjet to service its clients in Saudi Arabia with advanced aircraft like the Embraer Praetor 600, which combines long-range capabilities with exceptional cabin comfort, and the Gulfstream G650, renowned for its ability to provide connections between distant destinations.

Flexjet’s global fleet today stands at 300 jets and a large number of helicopters, which are operated by over 1,000 pilots, with more than 100 of those within the region.

Its partnerships with luxury hotels like Dorchester Collections, The Lana, ensure that its clients experience true luxury by offering seamless transitions from air to ground. The Lana epitomizes modern elegance with a five-star rating, complete with 225 refined rooms and suites, world-class dining by renowned chefs, and a serene spa.

Flexjet’s sustainability initiatives are at the forefront of the industry and are naturally aligned with the Kingdom’s vision for a green future. Through a comprehensive program developed with specialist consultancy 4AIR, Flexjet addresses sustainability across all timelines, offsetting 100 percent of carbon emissions for every flight in the short term, promoting sustainable aviation fuel in the medium term and investing significantly in advanced clean aviation technologies for the long term.

“Demand for flights to the GCC region has risen exponentially for Flexjet in the past three years and it’s now not just a question of flying international travelers into the region, but also gaining increasing numbers of clients who are based there — particularly in Saudi Arabia,” said Andrew Collins, CEO of Flexjet. “We are perfectly placed to appeal to the UHNWI community in the GCC with our exceptional fleet capabilities and luxury onboard service, and the region will continue to be a major focus for us in 2025,” he added.

Flexjet’s presence in Saudi Arabia reflects its broader strategy of serving markets where demand for premium private aviation solutions is fast-growing. With a focus on aligning its services with the Kingdom’s ambitious economic goals and connectivity plans, the company is poised to contribute meaningfully to the growth of the private aviation sector within the Kingdom and the broader region.

Indian school students benefit from health awareness program

Updated 7 min 18 sec ago

Arab News

January 21, 2025 22:39

Indian school students benefit from health awareness program

Updated 7 min 18 sec ago

Arab News

January 21, 2025 22:39

Indian Doctors Medical Forum, Jeddah, in association with the Indian Consulate, organized a health awareness program for the students of International Indian School Jeddah, as part of a series of events under the Indian government’s “Fit India Campaign.”

The “School Health Awareness Program” was inaugurated by Consul General of India Fahad Ahmed Khan Suri.

During his address, Suri highlighted the importance of preventive healthcare campaigns for overall health and well-being. Expressing appreciation for the collective efforts of members of IDMF, officials and staff of IISJ, and participating hospitals, which made the initiative a grand success, he underlined the importance of meaningful collaborations between the consulate and Indian expatriates to promote the health and well-being of the Indian community, in general, and that of the student community, in particular.

As part of this program, 6,000 eye screening tests were conducted for IISJ students from pre-primary and primary classes, at three different locations.

A team of experienced ophthalmologists conducted the computerized screening, meticulously assessing the vision and eye health of the students. The screenings covered basic vision tests, checks for common refractive errors, and evaluations for early signs of conditions like myopia, hypermetropia, and amblyopia.

The camp identified the students requiring corrective measures, such as eyeglasses or further medical attention, ensuring appropriate referrals for follow-up care.

IISJ Principal Dr. Mohammad Imran and school officials and staff expressed their gratitude for this meaningful endeavor, recognizing its potential to significantly enhance the learning experiences and quality of life for the children.

IDMF President Dr. Ashfaque Maniyar, in his address, emphasized the role of regular eye check-ups in maintaining overall health and academic performance.

The “School Health Awareness Program” promotes good health among students by detecting health issues at an early stage.

The Indian Consulate, in association with IDMF, plans to conduct a series of health awareness events in phases during 2025-26, which will include eye, dental, ENT and general health screenings.

AMAK showcases Saudi Arabia’s mining potential

Updated 20 January 2025

Arab News

January 20, 2025 22:13

AMAK showcases Saudi Arabia’s mining potential

Updated 20 January 2025

Arab News

January 20, 2025 22:13

Al-Masane Al-Kobra Mining Company highlighted the Kingdom’s emerging position as a global mining hub during the Future Minerals Forum 2025 and announced the addition of three new exploration licenses for base and precious metals after winning the seventh round of the mining bids organized by the Ministry of Industry and Mineral Resources.

Underlining the recent operational achievements that demonstrate the sector’s growth potential, Geoffrey Day, chief executive officer of AMAK, said: “Saudi Arabia has established itself as one of the most progressive and supportive countries for mining development. The Kingdom’s mineral wealth, estimated at SR9.4 trillion ($2.5 trillion) according to the Ministry of Industry and Mineral Resources, combined with supportive government policies and initiatives, along with infrastructure development projects, creates unprecedented opportunities for international collaboration.”

Strategic growth and operational excellence

AMAK has accomplished several significant milestones that accelerate the Kingdom’s mining sector, in line with the goals outlined in Saudi Vision 2030. These include the completion of the Moyeath processing plant within the Al-Masane Mine. The expansion has increased annual ore processing capacity to 1.2 million tonnes, enabling a combined production of 30-40 kt of copper concentrate, 60-80 kt of zinc concentrate, 35-45 koz of gold, and approximately 500 koz of silver.

As part of its 2025 strategic growth plan, AMAK is advancing several key projects. These include the Khutainah Gold Project, and the Nuham Iron Ore Project with more than 7 Mt resources. The company also plans to initiate underground mining operations at the Guyan Gold Mine in 2025, which is expected to reduce gold production costs through higher-grade underground reserves and lower production costs.

Sustainability and national talent

The company’s commitment to sustainable practices includes initiatives to connect its facilities to the national power grid, which will reduce diesel consumption and improve the company’s carbon footprint. AMAK is also expanding its dry tailing storage capacity to accommodate all current and future mineable reserves, supporting both operational growth and environmental sustainability.

In alignment with Vision 2030’s focus on human capital development, AMAK has achieved a 36 percent localization rate in its workforce. The company’s partnership with the Saudi Mining Polytechnic has been instrumental in training Saudi youth for specialized roles in the mining sector.

Recently, 30 Saudi trainees completed a comprehensive two-year diploma program and are now actively contributing to various operational areas.

“Our growth strategy fully supports the Kingdom’s vision by developing Saudi Arabia’s rich mineral resources while contributing to local economies,” Day said. “The expansion of our operations, combined with our focus on sustainability and national workforce development, demonstrates our commitment to creating long-term value for all stakeholders.”

Transformative potential of mining

Day also highlighted the transformative potential of Saudi Arabia’s mining sector in addressing global mineral supply challenges. “The Kingdom is strategically positioned to become a key supplier of critical minerals essential for the global energy transition. With our expanding operations and focus on innovation, AMAK is well-positioned to support this transformation.”

The company’s strategic approach aligns with Saudi Arabia’s broader ambitions to rank among the top 10 mining countries globally. AMAK’s recent investments in exploration and processing capabilities demonstrate the opportunities available within the Kingdom’s mining sector, which is supported by robust infrastructure development, including ports, modern highway networks, and industrial zones.

“What makes Saudi Arabia particularly attractive for mining investment is the combination of geological wealth, strategic location between Asia, Europe, and Africa, and the introduction of the Mining Investment Law,” Day added. “These factors, coupled with the Kingdom’s commitment to developing the sector, create an unprecedented opportunity for global partnerships.”

AMAK’s participation in FMF 2025, marking its fourth consecutive year at the forum, reflects its ongoing commitment to advancing Saudi Arabia’s mining sector. The company continues to implement advanced technologies, including prospectivity mapping and systems for real-time tracking of metals from mine to smelter, positioning itself at the forefront of mining innovation in the region.

PIF’s sarcc acquires Riyadh residential resort for SR2.5bn

Updated 20 January 2025

Arab News

January 20, 2025 22:11

PIF’s sarcc acquires Riyadh residential resort for SR2.5bn

Updated 20 January 2025

Arab News

January 20, 2025 22:11

Smart Accommodation for Residential Complexes Company, a PIF company, has successfully acquired the prominent Al-Nakhla Residential Resort in Riyadh for SR2.5 billion ($667 million).

This pivotal deal reflects sarcc’s alignment with PIF’s broader strategy, which directly supports Vision 2030. Through this move, sarcc is transforming employee accommodation in Saudi Arabia and reaffirming its mission to transform living spaces into innovative, world-class communities that foster professional success and enhance well-being.

Following the acquisition, sarcc has entered into a comprehensive resort management agreement with Al-Nakhla Investment to ensure continued operational excellence in leasing, marketing, and maintenance.

Mark Taylor, CEO of sarcc, said: “The acquisition of Al-Nakhla Residential Resort and our partnership with Al-Nakhla Investment Company represents a pivotal moment for sarcc as we aim to set new benchmarks in residential excellence. The resort’s exceptional facilities and award-winning reputation align seamlessly with our vision to create vibrant communities that enhance quality of life.”

Salama bin Melahi bin Saidan, chairman of Al-Nakhla Investment, added: “We are proud to collaborate with sarcc in its mission to revolutionize the employee accommodation sector.”

By leveraging our expertise, we aim to elevate operational standards and provide an unmatched living experience for Al-Nakhla residents.”

Al-Nakhla Residential Resort is known for its luxurious design, strategic location in Northern Riyadh, and world-class amenities. sarcc is committed to maintaining the resort’s reputation as a premier residential destination for senior management professionals, seeking to fulfill its promise of providing safe and secure living spaces that enhance the well-being and productivity of Saudi Arabia’s talent. Furthermore, the company remains dedicated to contributing to Saudi Arabia’s local content by partnering with local players to deliver exceptional employee accommodation facilities.

Riyadh Season to sponsor 2025 Drone Racing World Cup in Saudi Arabia

Updated 20 January 2025

Arab News

January 20, 2025 18:27

Riyadh Season to sponsor 2025 Drone Racing World Cup in Saudi Arabia

Updated 20 January 2025

Arab News

January 20, 2025 18:27

Turki Alalshikh, chairman of the General Entertainment Authority, has announced Riyadh Season’s sponsorship of the 2025 Drone Racing World Cup, which will be hosted by Saudi Arabia from Jan. 23 to 25. The event is organized by the Saudi Federation for Cybersecurity, Programming, and Drones, in collaboration with the International Air Sports Federation.

The tournament, set to take place in the Boulevard City, will feature elite pilots from over 50 countries competing in thrilling races with speeds reaching 350 km/h. Winners will take home prizes exceeding SR1 million ($266,530).

This marks the inaugural championship of the Drone Racing World Cup series, which consists of rounds held in leading drone racing nations. Titles are awarded based on the best three results throughout the year.

Saudi Arabia is hosting the championship for the first time this year, following the previous edition held in South Korea last October. The 2025 series will also include rounds in countries such as South Korea, Italy, Germany, Spain, and Sweden.

Launched in 2016, the Drone Racing World Cup has captivated audiences worldwide with its exciting combination of emerging technology and sports.

Saudi Arabia’s hosting of this global event reflects its commitment to leadership in electronic sports and offers a golden opportunity for Saudi competitors to shine on an international stage.

Riyadh Season continues to present a wide array of events and entertainment options catering to diverse interests within the community.

Celebrating #HerAmbitions: TikTok MENA Creator Hub awards female entrepreneurs in Riyadh