Kerten Hospitality announces ‘House Urban Eco Resort’ in Riyadh

Kerten Hospitality announces ‘House Urban Eco Resort’ in Riyadh
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Updated 13 March 2024
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Kerten Hospitality announces ‘House Urban Eco Resort’ in Riyadh

Kerten Hospitality announces ‘House Urban Eco Resort’ in Riyadh

Kerten Hospitality, in partnership with developers RIKAZ and RAFAL and with the support of the Ministry of Tourism, unveiled a ground-breaking project in the heart of Riyadh — The House Urban Eco Resort. This unique resort is set to redefine urban eco-living, blending leisure, wellness, and business within a sustainable and luxurious environment.

Kerten Hospitality — a global hotel operator recognized for its innovative approach to integrated living — has projects spanning across various countries, each uniquely tailored to embody the local culture and community ethos. With a diverse portfolio that includes bespoke hotels, residences, and lifestyle destinations, Kerten Hospitality is at the forefront of creating spaces that blend work, life, and leisure in harmonious synergy.

Situated in the heart of Riyadh, The House Urban Eco Resort is a paradigm of urban eco-friendliness, seamlessly blending green living within the city’s vibrant landscape. It boasts diverse services that cater to every need, featuring outdoor and dynamic working spaces, all resonating with the forward-thinking ethos of Vision 2030. The resort further distinguishes itself with its integrated dining and event spaces, offering a versatile setting for both private gatherings and curated events.

A cornerstone of the resort is its wellness focus, encompassing modern spa treatments and comprehensive wellness facilities including therapeutic treatments. Additionally, The House Urban Eco Resort offers a tranquil haven for staycations, casual social hangouts and corporate stays, making it the epitome of sophisticated urban living combined with eco-conscious sensibilities.

The House Urban Eco Resort Riyadh emerges as a one-of-its-kind sustainable urban oasis in the bustling cityscape. It embodies the essence of eco-conscious living while providing high-end services and facilities. The resort aims to preserve and enhance the oasis, keeping the distinctiveness of Riyadh’s natural oasis intact while creating a purposeful destination for both international travelers and locals.

It offers a blend of leisure, wellness, and business through its versatile mix of amenities catering to a diverse range of needs — from wellness elements to business facilities.

The resort will feature an interactive F&B experience in collaboration with local chefs, offering behind-the-scenes dining and event hosting. This initiative aims to provide a versatile culinary experience, seamlessly merging dining with event spaces.
Marloes Knippenberg, CEO of Kerten Hospitality, said: “The House Urban Eco Resort Riyadh is not just a resort; it’s a live demonstration of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030. It showcases the future of sustainable urban development, today. The resort’s eco-conscious design and services embody the principles of Vision 2030, offering guests a unique glimpse into the future of urban living.”

Unlike traditional eco resorts situated in remote natural settings, The House Urban Eco Resort revolutionizes sustainability by providing a green haven amidst vibrant cityscapes. With Riyadh as just the beginning, Kerten Hospitality’s plans include extending their footprint across Saudi Arabia, targeting various urban locales. This expansion mirrors the increasing desire for eco-friendly hospitality options in urban locations.

Kerten Hospitality, in strategic alliance with RIKAZ and RAFAL, and bolstered by the support of the Ministry of Tourism, is redefining the standards in eco-conscious urban hospitality. With The House Urban Eco Resort Riyadh, they are not just building a resort; they are crafting a sustainable future.

The Ministry of Tourism’s involvement plays a critical role in providing methodical guidance, ensuring that the project aligns with national tourism objectives and sustainability goals. The Ministry’s support is instrumental in amplifying the resort’s impact on the local community and the environment, promoting it as a model for eco-friendly urban development in the Kingdom.

RIKAZ, under Chairman and CEO Khalid Algahtani, is renowned for innovative projects that emphasize community integration and environmental values. Their commitment to “Rising Beyond” reflects in every project, including this foray into hospitality. Algahtani said: “At RIKAZ, we firmly believe in the power of strategic partnerships. This collaboration aligns seamlessly with RIKAZ’s expansion strategy by fostering partnerships with highly respected institutions like Kerten Hospitality and Rafal. It underscores our commitment to tapping into the significant real estate development in Saudi Arabia, in harmony with the ambitious Vision 2030. By leveraging this premium location and its natural oasis status, we firmly believe that the Urban Eco Resort will be a new experiential retreat to the hospitality market.”

RAFAL, led by CEO Elias Abou Samra, is dedicated to developing distinguished communities in Riyadh. Known for projects like Burj Rafal and RAFAL Residence, their partnership with Kerten Hospitality is a testament to their expertise in creating unique lifestyle experiences.

Kerten Hospitality’s “The Collective” initiative marks a significant investment in the Saudi hospitality sector, with 22+ projects. This initiative not only demonstrates Kerten Hospitality’s commitment to expanding its footprint in the Kingdom but also highlights its role in shaping the future of hospitality in the region. 


Rotana TV appoints SPEX as exclusive advertising partner

Rotana TV appoints SPEX as exclusive advertising partner
Updated 10 February 2025
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Rotana TV appoints SPEX as exclusive advertising partner

Rotana TV appoints SPEX as exclusive advertising partner

Rotana TV has signed a strategic agreement with SPEX, one of Extend’s companies, officially appointing them as the exclusive advertising agency responsible for managing and selling advertising across Rotana TV channels. Under this partnership, SPEX will also oversee all digital advertising initiatives, ensuring a seamless and innovative approach to media monetization.

This collaboration marks a significant milestone in Rotana TV’s ongoing efforts to optimize its advertising strategy and maximize revenue potential across both television and digital platforms. By leveraging SPEX’s expertise in media sales and digital advertising solutions, Rotana TV aims to strengthen its market position and enhance the effectiveness of its advertising offerings.

“Rotana TV has always been at the forefront of media and entertainment in the region, and our partnership with SPEX is a testament to our commitment to excellence. With their expertise in advertising sales and digital media, we are confident that this collaboration will create new opportunities for advertisers and elevate the commercial potential of our platforms,” said Princess Lamia bint Majid Al-Saud, CEO of Rotana Media Group 

Sami Al-Rasheed, chairman of the board at SPEX, said: “This agreement marks a significant step in the advancement of the television and digital advertising landscape. Through our strategic approach and data-driven methodology, we aim to enhance advertisers’ experience and deliver highly efficient and impactful advertising solutions within a vast and influential network like Rotana.”


Oilatum tackles rising problems of eczema, dry skin in KSA

Oilatum tackles rising problems of eczema, dry skin in KSA
Updated 10 February 2025
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Oilatum tackles rising problems of eczema, dry skin in KSA

Oilatum tackles rising problems of eczema, dry skin in KSA

As eczema and dry skin problems continue to rise in Saudi Arabia, Oilatum has launched an expanded product line to provide effective solutions for patients.

These problems are driven by the Kingdom’s harsh climate and increased environmental stressors.

Oilatum, a trusted name in skincare management for over 50 years and endorsed by the British Skin Foundation, has increased its portfolio from two to 11 products, introducing a comprehensive suite of scientifically advanced solutions designed to restore the skin’s moisture balance and protect it from environmental aggressors.

The new line features cleansing and moisturizing solutions for different age groups and needs.

They include rich moisturizing creams for intense hydration, gentle body washes for daily cleansing, and baby-specific products like soothing bath bubbles and head-to-toe wash.

The range is enriched with ceramides, pro-vitamin B5, and glycerine, ingredients clinically proven to deliver deep hydration, restore the skin’s protective barrier, and soothe irritation.

All products are available over-the-counter in pharmacies across the Kingdom, making effective skincare solutions easily accessible to those who need them.

Atopic dermatitis (eczema) is a chronic condition affecting around 25 percent of the Kingdom’s pediatric population and up to 13 percent of adults, according to a Saudi Ministry of Health report.

Recent research highlights an even broader prevalence when considering undiagnosed cases, emphasizing the urgent need for effective treatment options.

The Kingdom’s extreme climate, marked by extreme heat, low humidity, and heavy reliance on air conditioning, further exacerbates these conditions, making hydration and skin barrier protection essential components of eczema management.

Dr. Abdullah Abanami, a consultant dermatologist at Dr. Sulaiman Al Habib Hospital in Riyadh, said: "In our clinic, we are seeing a significant increase in cases of eczema and dry skin in both children and adults.

"Managing atopic skin can be particularly challenging for patients, as it often disrupts daily life and affects their overall well-being.

"Restoring and maintaining the skin barrier is critical. When the barrier is compromised, moisture is lost, and irritants can easily penetrate, exacerbating symptoms.

"Prioritizing hydration and using products that support the skin’s natural renewal process are essential first steps in reducing flare-ups and improving patient outcomes."

Prof. Dr. Diamant Thaçi, director and full university professor at the Institute and Comprehensive Center for Inflammation Medicine, University of Lübeck, Germany, said: “Targeted biologic therapy shows promising progress in addressing an unmet need in atopic dermatitis treatment.

"We do not yet have a biomarker for this disease, but with precision medicine, we are moving in the right direction.

"Of course, foundational care remains essential. Regular application of topical emollients, alongside treatments such as corticosteroids or calcineurin inhibitors, is still the best protocol for managing symptoms and improving the patient’s quality of life."

Ahmed El-Barbary, general manager, STADA KSA+, said: "At Oilatum, we understand the cycle of dry skin and the challenges it presents for patients with eczema and chronic dryness, particularly in extreme conditions.

"Our expanded range of 11 products is the result of decades of science, designed to soothe irritation, restore essential moisture, and strengthen the skin’s natural barrier.

"By equipping healthcare professionals in Saudi Arabia with these targeted solutions, we aim to help patients effectively manage atopic skin concerns, find relief from persistent irritation, and protect their skin from future discomfort."

The expanded Oilatum range was unveiled in Riyadh on Jan. 24, bringing together leading dermatologists, doctors, and pharmacists from across the Kingdom.

The event featured medical presentations by global and local experts on the impact of extreme weather conditions on skin health, as well as discussions on advancements in atopic dermatitis treatment.

Interactive sessions, including live product demonstrations, highlighted Oilatum’s commitment to supporting healthcare professionals in their mission to improve patient care.


KPMG highlights Kingdom’s progress in digital transformation

KPMG highlights Kingdom’s progress in digital transformation
Updated 09 February 2025
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KPMG highlights Kingdom’s progress in digital transformation

KPMG highlights Kingdom’s progress in digital transformation

KPMG has released its latest annual technology report, “Beyond the Hype: Balancing Speed, Security, and Value,” providing insights into the Kingdom’s digital transformation. Based on a global survey with 2,450 global technology executives — including 70 based in Saudi Arabia — the report explores how organizations adapt to fast-changing technologies, optimize investments, and tackle challenges like technical debt and cybersecurity. A key theme is the fear of missing out, which drives some organizations to adopt emerging technologies rapidly. While urgency is understandable, it carries risks if not guided by evidence-based approaches.

“This year’s findings underscore the tremendous progress Saudi Arabia is making in its digital transformation journey, driven by a strategic focus on balancing innovation with resilience. As organizations prioritize emerging technologies like AI and everything-as-a-service, or XaaS,  it is clear that evidence-based decision-making and addressing foundational challenges such as technical debt are critical to unlocking long-term value,” said Robert Ptaszynski, partner, head of digital and innovation at KPMG.

Organizations in the Kingdom are advancing digital transformation, with 75 percent reporting increased profitability from tech investments in the past 24 months, commonly between 11 percent and 15 percent. This success stems from evidence-based decisions, with 74 percent of leaders calculating tech initiative value before investing. Despite progress, 87 percent of executives are concerned about the pace of technological change, and 93 percent cite leadership risk aversion as a barrier to tech adoption.

In 2024, Saudi executives are prioritizing third-party guidance (99 percent) and in-house trials (83 percent) over competitor benchmarking. This reflects a growing focus on emerging technologies like AI, XaaS, and data analytics. XaaS technologies were identified as a top investment priority by 94 percent of respondents, citing agility and cost reduction, while 59 percent highlighted AI, automation, and data analytics. Interest in Web3 technologies is also growing, with 69 percent expressing enthusiasm for innovation.

Technical debt remains a critical barrier, with 66 percent of organizations reporting weekly disruptions due to foundational IT flaws. High-performing organizations proactively address technical debt, enabling smoother adoption of emerging technologies. The report warns against fear of missing out, distorting judgment, with 77 percent of executives pursuing technologies like virtual and augmented reality to stay competitive. Encouragingly, more leaders are prioritizing proofs of concept and ROI projections over following the herd.

Saudi Arabia leads globally in AI maturity, with 71 percent of respondents seeing productivity improvements from AI investments. However, scaling AI remains a challenge, with only 39 percent successfully deploying AI use cases at scale. Transparency concerns persist, with 87 percent identifying the AI “black box” as a workforce anxiety factor. Organizations are adopting democratized approaches, with 53 percent encouraging experimentation within structured guardrails. Many plan to centralize AI efforts to ensure efficiency and manage risks.

Data maturity has improved significantly, with 77 percent embedding data practices into daily operations. Nearly all respondents (97 percent) view data and analytics as integral to their strategies. Future priorities include leveraging data for competitive advantage, educating employees, and strengthening data management frameworks.

KPMG emphasizes that aligning tech investments with strategic objectives, addressing technical debt, embedding cybersecurity, and fostering a data-driven culture are essential for sustainable progress. High-performing organizations globally and in Saudi Arabia are advancing digital transformation by strategically evaluating tech portfolios, optimizing decision-making, and managing risks.

As Saudi Arabia embraces the next phase of digital transformation, the KPMG report highlights the importance of balancing speed, security, and value. By aligning tech investments with strategic goals and fostering resilience, Saudi businesses can achieve sustainable growth and keep pace with global innovation.


Riyadh summit to showcase Saudi Arabia as global aviation hub

Riyadh summit to showcase Saudi Arabia as global aviation hub
Updated 09 February 2025
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Riyadh summit to showcase Saudi Arabia as global aviation hub

Riyadh summit to showcase Saudi Arabia as global aviation hub

The 12th Arab Aviation Summit will convene influential industry stakeholders on Feb. 17 and 18 in Riyadh, under the theme “Uniting Leaders, Building Tomorrow: Advancing Global Aviation.”

Hosted by Abdulaziz Al-Duailj, president of the Saudi General Authority of Civil Aviation, this landmark gathering will bring together key policymakers, industry pioneers, and global stakeholders, reaffirming the Arab world’s position at the forefront of aviation transformation.

This year’s summit will spotlight Saudi Arabia’s position as a global aviation powerhouse, emphasizing its strategic role in shaping the industry’s future. As Riyadh hosts this prestigious gathering for the first time, discussions will focus on how the Kingdom’s rapid infrastructure expansion, policy reforms, and visionary leadership are transforming the aviation landscape, positioning itself as a key player in global air connectivity.

Backed by a $100 billion investment strategy, Saudi Arabia is driving a new era of growth and modernization in the sector, with targeted developments across airports, airlines, cargo, logistics, and aviation services fostering innovation-driven collaborations and sustainable solutions that set new benchmarks in the aviation industry.

Frederico Fernandes, director, Arab Aviation Summit, said: “The Arab Aviation Summit 2025 is a defining moment for our industry, bringing together the brightest minds to explore innovative solutions that will shape the future of aviation. Riyadh serves as the ideal setting for this transformation, reinforcing the Kingdom’s role as a catalyst for global aviation growth.”

The Arab Aviation Summit 2025 will feature compelling keynote addresses and dynamic panel discussions. These sessions will highlight the global impact of aviation advancements and will provide unparalleled insights into the rapidly evolving aviation landscape with an elite lineup of speakers including: Gabriel Semelas, president, Africa and Middle East, Airbus; Hugo Espírito Santo, state secretary of infrastructure, Portugal; Bulut Bagci, president, World Tourism Forum Institute; Abdul Wahab Teffaha, secretary-general, Arab Air Carriers Organization; Kamil Al-Awadhi, regional vice president, Africa and Middle East, IATA; Steven Greenway, CEO, flyadeal; Majid Khan, CEO, Saudi Air Connectivity Program; Maryam Telmesani, vice president of sustainability, Saudia Group; Osamah Alnuaiser, senior vice president, marketing and corporate communications, Riyadh Air; Ziad Al-Hazmi, CEO, Lufthansa Technik Middle East; Hamdi Osman, founder and CEO, SolitAir Holding; and Imtiyaz Mohammad Manzary, general manager for general aviation, GACA.


SAMI-AEC joins LEAP 2025 as diamond sponsor

SAMI-AEC joins LEAP 2025 as diamond sponsor
Updated 09 February 2025
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SAMI-AEC joins LEAP 2025 as diamond sponsor

SAMI-AEC joins LEAP 2025 as diamond sponsor

SAMI Advanced Electronics Company, a wholly owned subsidiary of Saudi Arabian Military Industries, is participating as a diamond sponsor at LEAP 2025. As one of the world’s premier technology gatherings, LEAP is taking place in Riyadh from Feb. 9 to 12, providing SAMI-AEC with a global platform to showcase its latest technological innovations to industry leaders, innovators, and technology enthusiasts from around the world.

At the heart of SAMI-AEC’s presence at LEAP 2025 is an immersive exhibition featuring groundbreaking solutions developed by Saudi talent, presented across five specialized zones: smart solutions, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, digital services, and specialized manufacturing capabilities. Each zone demonstrates the company’s commitment to technological excellence and its contributions to advancing Saudi Arabia’s digital and industrial sectors.

The smart solutions zone presents a suite of advanced urban technologies, including the state-of-the-art smart city platform, the Mawqfi smart parking system, queue management system, and fleet management solutions. These technologies are designed to enhance urban efficiency and optimize operational performance, reflecting SAMI-AEC’s leadership in the smart cities domain.

The AI zone highlights the company’s progress in AI-powered innovations, featuring cutting-edge solutions such as the Hema (eBariq drone), Raqeeb 4S, document recognition systems, and the under-vehicle scanning system. These intelligent systems represent the next generation of AI-driven security and automation technologies.

In the cybersecurity zone, SAMI-AEC is showcasing its robust cybersecurity portfolio, including its advanced monitoring detection response solution, data diode technology, cyber range services, and a comprehensive suite of cybersecurity services designed to fortify digital infrastructures and mitigate cyberthreats.

The digital services zone focuses on next-generation digital transformation solutions, including managed services, data monetization solutions, real-time communication tools, and the correspondence management system. These offerings underscore SAMI-AEC’s commitment to enhancing digital connectivity, efficiency, and security in today’s rapidly evolving technological landscape.

The specialized manufacturing zone provides an in-depth exploration of SAMI-AEC’s manufacturing-as-a-service capabilities, demonstrating its ability to deliver high-quality, specialized production solutions tailored to diverse industry needs.

Ziad Al-Musallam, CEO of SAMI-AEC, said: “Our engagement in the fourth edition of LEAP is a testament to our unwavering commitment to innovation, excellence, and progress. It reinforces our leadership in industrial technology, cybersecurity, smart cities, and advanced manufacturing. At LEAP 2025, we are excited to present pioneering solutions that align with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, strengthening the Kingdom’s position as a global technology powerhouse.”

Through its strategic participation at LEAP 2025, SAMI-AEC aims to expand its global footprint, forge meaningful collaborations with industry stakeholders, and drive localization and diversification initiatives that will empower Saudi Arabia’s digital economy. The event also presents a significant opportunity for SAMI-AEC to engage with investors and explore new avenues for growth within the global technology ecosystem.

Since its establishment in 1988, SAMI-AEC has been a key enabler of Saudi Arabia’s electronics and technology sectors, delivering advanced solutions across defense, aerospace, energy, and security. With a highly skilled workforce exceeding 3,659 professionals — 85 percent of whom are Saudi nationals, including more than 1,500 engineers and certified experts — SAMI-AEC exemplifies the Kingdom’s commitment to fostering a knowledge-based economy driven by innovation and technical expertise.