mentl awards 2024: Celebrating mental health champions in Saudi Arabia

mentl awards 2024: Celebrating mental health champions in Saudi Arabia
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Updated 17 July 2024
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mentl awards 2024: Celebrating mental health champions in Saudi Arabia

mentl awards 2024: Celebrating mental health champions in Saudi Arabia

As the conversation around mental health continues to gain momentum in the region, the highly anticipated “mentl awards 2024” are back, bigger and more inspiring than ever before, and for the first time open to people and projects in Saudi Arabia.

The groundbreaking awards — created by mental health consultancy mentl — aim to recognize and celebrate the individuals and organizations, in the public and private sectors, making significant strides in this vital area.

Last year’s awards saw over 70 companies from the UAE reaching the finals at a glittering gala dinner at St. Regis Downtown in Dubai. This year, mentl awards have expanded to welcome entries from across the GCC, including Saudi Arabia, as well as the UAE, Qatar, Kuwait, Oman, and Bahrain. With a commitment to recognizing merit and excellence, these awards shine a spotlight on the unsung heroes and game-changers in workplaces and communities.

Last year’s winner: Adel bin Hdaya Al-Falasi

A standout from last year’s awards was the inspiring Emirati Adel bin Hdaya Al-Falasi, once dubbed “the possessed boy,” who bravely shared his experience with mental illness and who lifted the trophy as a Mental Health Hero. Since winning the award, Al-Falasi has grown into a powerful mental health advocate who challenges stigma, helping others in his community seek help. He returns to the awards this year as a judge.

The awards are open to public and private sectors, from startups and SMEs to major corporates and government departments in Saudi Arabia. The categories cover a wide range of industries, including finance, healthcare, education, logistics, technology, and more. Each category recognizes outstanding mental health initiatives that have made a significant impact.

Award categories include:

  • Best Mental Health Initiative in Saudi Arabia
  • Best Mental Health Initiative in the UAE
  • Best Mental Health Initiative in Qatar
  • Best Mental Health Initiative in Bahrain
  • Best Mental Health Initiative in Kuwait
  • Best Mental Health Initiative in Oman
  • Outstanding Mental Health Initiative in Education
  • Most Supportive Technology Company
  • Outstanding Mental Health Support in the Public Sector
  • Mental Health Heroes: Empathy in Leadership

For a complete list of categories and entry criteria, please visit mentlawards.com.

Independent jury

Recipients of the mentl awards 2024 will be chosen by an independent jury comprising leaders from both the public and private sectors. This panel includes healthcare professionals, mental health champions, CEOs, industry leaders, well-being advocates, and inspiring athletes and adventurers. Their collective expertise ensures that the awards are given purely on merit.

“It is time to honor those who are transforming the way we approach mental health, and the mentl awards 2024 is a groundbreaking initiative aimed at celebrating these champions within corporate environments, public sector institutions, and educational establishments. By recognizing those who have taken a stand to make a difference, we aim to inspire further progress and innovation in the field of mental health,” organizers said in a statement.

Call for entries

Early bird entry — available in July — to each category costs approximately SR560 ($150) inclusive of VAT and bank charges. Organizations can nominate as many projects or initiatives as they feel meet the criteria. Entries are now open, and mentl is encouraging all eligible participants to take this opportunity to showcase their impactful work.

Become a sponsor

Businesses in Saudi Arabia can support the mentl awards 2024 by becoming an official sponsor. They can help mentl amplify its mission and stand out as a champion of mental health. For sponsorship inquiries, please email [email protected].

Gala awards celebration

Winners will be celebrated at a prestigious gala awards ceremony in Dubai in November. 


stc to advance gen AI innovation in region with Cohere

stc to advance gen AI innovation in region with Cohere
Updated 12 February 2025
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stc to advance gen AI innovation in region with Cohere

stc to advance gen AI innovation in region with Cohere

stc Group, the region’s leading digital enabler, has announced a strategic collaboration with Cohere, a secure enterprise AI company, to transform the AI landscape in the Middle East and beyond. This collaboration is set to redefine stc’s AI-driven operations, enhance customer engagement, and unlock new digital growth opportunities through state-of-the-art AI solutions.

Under the collaboration, stc will leverage Cohere’s cutting-edge AI capabilities to develop transformative products as part of its internal gen AI initiative. The joint effort will focus on key AI-powered innovations, including stc’s AI-powered language model and the Digital Co-Workers Foundry, designed to optimize business efficiency and deliver a superior digital experience for customers.

As part of the efforts, stc will work with Cohere to develop North for Telecom, a customized version of Cohere’s North, a secure AI workspace platform announced earlier this year. North for Telecom will be tailored to address the unique needs of the sector, providing intelligent automation, enhanced conversational experiences, and real-time data insights. Meanwhile, the Digital Co-Workers Foundry will introduce AI-driven virtual assistants designed to streamline workflows, boost productivity, and support stc’s workforce with intelligent automation solutions.

“As a leader in digital transformation, stc continues to invest in advanced AI technologies that will shape the future of our industry. Our collaboration with Cohere represents a significant milestone in our AI journey, reinforcing our vision to harness AI-driven intelligence, enhance operational capabilities, and introduce innovative AI solutions that create tangible value,” said Haithem Mohammed Alfaraj, group chief technology officer at stc Group.

Motaz Alangari, group chief investment officer at stc Group, added: “stc Group strategically invests in pioneering companies that unlock access to transformative technologies, new business models, and enhanced revenue streams. This collaboration aligns with tali ventures, stc’s corporate venture capital arm, which plays a key role in fostering technological advancement and investing in next-generation innovations that complement stc’s digital ecosystem.

“Cohere is a global leader in secure enterprise AI, and our investment in this collaboration facilitates access to enterprise-grade AI solutions, positioning stc to maximize AI’s potential across its product and service offerings.”

Cohere will bring its expertise in enterprise AI models and applications to stc’s ecosystem, ensuring faster adoption and optimization of AI capabilities across stc’s digital infrastructure.

“It’s been great working closely with stc’s team,” said Aidan Gomez, Cohere’s co-founder and CEO. “I’m really excited to bring our secure AI technology to enhance its role as a digital enabler. We look forward to collaborating with stc and integrating Cohere’s enterprise AI solutions to lift grunt work off the backs of their employees so they can focus more on the areas of their jobs where they can add real value.” 

This collaboration underscores stc’s commitment to being at the forefront of AI-driven innovation, fostering a digital-first economy, and shaping the future of intelligent technology in Saudi Arabia and beyond.


Cenomi Centers taps Tawal to boost indoor mobile coverage in malls

Cenomi Centers taps Tawal to boost indoor mobile coverage in malls
Updated 12 February 2025
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Cenomi Centers taps Tawal to boost indoor mobile coverage in malls

Cenomi Centers taps Tawal to boost indoor mobile coverage in malls

Cenomi Centers, the leading owner, operator and developer of contemporary lifestyle centers in Saudi Arabia, announced during the LEAP 25 conference that it is partnering with telecommunications infrastructure provider Tawal to implement cutting-edge indoor cellular coverage across its retail properties. Cenomi Centers announced this step forward in digital connectivity as world leaders in technology gather in Saudi Arabia to discuss the ever-changing technology landscape.

This move will bring seamless, high-speed connectivity for visitors, tenants and mall operators across Cenomi Centers’ entire portfolio of 22 assets, including over 4,500 stores across 10 major Saudi cities. The network will cover various mobile service providers, ensuring maximum impact for all users.

The implementation of a wireless connectivity network is consistent with Cenomi Centers’ commitment to providing a premium visitor experience, empowering customers with easy connectivity for browsing, navigation and online purchases. It also fits into Cenomi Centers’ vision for digital malls, bringing together technology and shopping experiences to create a connected environment that drives footfall. 

This infrastructure will be future-ready, supporting emerging technologies like 5G, the Internet of Things and smart solutions. This is an investment that will ensure Cenomi Centers’ portfolio will be the best retail and lifestyle destinations not just for today, but for tomorrow.

Alison Rehill-Erguven, CEO, Cenomi Centers, said: “At Cenomi Centers, we are thrilled to partner with Tawal to offer the best connectivity to our customers. We know that the future of retail is in omnichannel experiences, and we want to ensure that both our customers and our tenants are able to engage with each other across as many mediums as possible, reinforcing our experiential approach to shopping. We are grateful to Tawal for its partnership and look forward to working together in the years to come.”

Mohammed Alhakbani, CEO, Tawal, said: “Tawal is enthusiastic about this agreement to offer state-of-the-art telecommunications infrastructure across all of Cenomi Centers’ properties. This is an important step toward guaranteeing high-quality cellular coverage for everyone, wherever they need it, ultimately serving to connect people and improve their daily lives.”

Tawal and Cenomi Centers share a dedication to empowering shoppers to connect with each other and enjoy the best retail experiences in the world. This commitment, partnering the Kingdom’s premiere shopping properties with the best telecommunications technologies, will position both partners, alongside their customers, to thrive in the years to come.


Cisco advances AI to support Saudi Arabia’s digitization goals

Cisco advances AI to support Saudi Arabia’s digitization goals
Updated 11 February 2025
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Cisco advances AI to support Saudi Arabia’s digitization goals

Cisco advances AI to support Saudi Arabia’s digitization goals

At LEAP 2025, Cisco, a global leader in networking and security, unveiled a series of strategic initiatives to advance AI in partnership with the Kingdom. By introducing advanced cloud data centers, AI talent development, and phased plans for local manufacturing, Cisco is deepening its commitment and strengthening its partnership with Saudi Arabia. These initiatives are designed to enhance Cisco’s regional presence and support the Kingdom’s ambitious digitization goals under Vision 2030, accelerating its evolution into a technology-driven economy.

“Our partnership with Cisco highlights the Kingdom’s commitment to accelerating its digital economy through innovation. These initiatives will enhance Saudi Arabia’s competitiveness both regionally and internationally by promoting innovation and the adoption of AI and cloud computing technologies.” said Vice Minister at the Saudi Ministry of Communications and IT Haytham Alohali.

“Cisco is proud to partner with the Kingdom to accelerate its Vision 2030,” said Cisco Chair and CEO Chuck Robbins. “Through our investments and innovation, we are protecting organizations, preparing the Saudi workforce for the AI era, and contributing to the local economy and manufacturing ecosystem. Together, we will pave the way for a more connected and secure future.” 

Chuck Robbins, Cisco Chair and CEO

“By aligning with key initiatives of Vision 2030, Cisco is committed to being a catalyst for digital transformation across various sectors in the Kingdom. As these projects advance, they will help strengthen digital infrastructure and drive economic growth to positively shape Saudi Arabia’s future,” said Salman Faqeeh, managing director, Cisco Saudi Arabia.

Delivering on its commitment, Cisco announced that its data centers for cloud security services as well as the Webex Collaboration Platform are now operational.

The security data center underpins Cisco’s cloud-based security services including its new secure service edge solution, Cisco Secure Access and Umbrella DNS. The center helps customers protect their users, infrastructure, and investments against threat actors and empowers them with flexible security services and data protection for devices, remote users, and distributed locations.

The collaboration data centers bring extensive services from the Webex suite such as meetings and calling closer to customers in the Kingdom and region.

Cisco will continue to advance AI and digital skills across the region as part of its Country Digital Acceleration program, aligning with the goals of the Saudi Research and Development National Strategy. In collaboration with King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology, the company will invest in additional Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert certifications, one of the industry’s most widely recognized and respected certifications, to enhance the Kingdom’s talent pool of highly skilled local IT professionals that can support complex networking infrastructures in the AI era.

Initially launched in the Kingdom in 2016, Cisco’s CDA program supports digitization efforts across key industries, fostering digital skills and developing the innovation ecosystem in the country. To date, the program has implemented more than 20 projects of national impact across vital sectors.

With a regional head office in Riyadh, Cisco intends to build on its long-standing partnerships in the Kingdom by initiating a manufacturing base, with groundwork beginning in 2025. The initial phase will focus on fulfillment operations for wireless technologies to meet local demand, with the intent to scale up in response to evolving market needs.


Dell opens merge and fulfillment hub in Dammam

Dell opens merge and fulfillment hub in Dammam
Updated 11 February 2025
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Dell opens merge and fulfillment hub in Dammam

Dell opens merge and fulfillment hub in Dammam

Dell Technologies has opened its first merge and fulfillment center in Saudi Arabia. Located in Dammam, the hub is engineered to handle up to 600,000 units per year, across all Dell’s product lines as customer demand grows.

The Dammam center also features a second touch manufacturing facility for product customization of Dell’s servers to ensure they meet specific customer needs. This makes the servers ready-to-use, reduces time-to-market, and enhances customer satisfaction.

Dell has also relocated its Flat Panel Monitor Hub to the Dammam facility to serve local customers, offering shipment deliveries within two days to reduce lead times and enhance operational excellence.

The opening of the new center represents a pivotal step in advancing the Kingdom’s ICT ecosystem. The Saudi facility is Dell’s fifth in the EMEA region and reinforces the company’s commitment to Saudi Vision 2030 in driving economic diversification through technological innovation.

The strategic investment builds on Dell’s regional headquarters license to operate in Saudi Arabia and will support the Kingdom in creating new jobs across logistics, manufacturing and technical fields, training local talent and nurturing a culture of innovation.

Haytham Alohali, vice minister of communications and information technology, said: “Dell’s decision to establish its merge and fulfillment center in Saudi Arabia highlights the Kingdom’s emergence as a regional hub for logistics and innovation. This facility will help create jobs and strengthen our local manufacturing and supply chain capabilities aligned with Vision 2030. Together, Saudi Arabia and Dell are building a dynamic and resilient digital economy.”

Adrian McDonald, president — EMEA, Dell Technologies, added: “Opening Dell’s first fulfillment hub in Dammam marks a significant milestone in our commitment to supporting Saudi Arabia’s ambitious vision for the future. By leveraging over 30 years of Dell’s supply chain expertise, combined with investments in local talent, infrastructure and training, we are dedicated to empowering local and regional businesses to thrive in a digital-first economy.”

Led by Saudi nationals, the center leverages their expertise to oversee logistics, manufacturing, and operations, driving excellence while promoting sustainable growth. The Dammam hub will also work directly with Dell’s local channel partners to streamline product distribution and meet customer demands in Saudi Arabia. The facility will also host specialized training programs to equip Saudi professionals with advanced skills in technology and supply chain management, cultivating a robust local workforce.


LEAP 2025 announces $7.5bn in tech and AI investments on Day 2

LEAP 2025 announces $7.5bn in tech and AI investments on Day 2
Updated 11 February 2025
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LEAP 2025 announces $7.5bn in tech and AI investments on Day 2

LEAP 2025 announces $7.5bn in tech and AI investments on Day 2

LEAP 2025, the global tech event, witnessed a series of groundbreaking investments on Day 2, exceeding $7.5 billion, in data centers, submarine and fiber-optic cable networks.

These investments are focused on enhancing digital infrastructure and promoting innovation in artificial intelligence, further establishing Saudi Arabia as a regional hub for technology and innovation.

DataVolt, in collaboration with NEOM, announced a significant investment of $5 billion to establish the first fully sustainable AI data center in Oxagon, with a capacity of 1.5 GW. This cutting-edge facility aims to become a global hub for advanced computing and innovation.

Alfanar revealed a $1.4 billion investment to develop four data centers, with a total capacity of 88 MW. This initiative will support the growth of the digital economy and the development of business solutions in Saudi Arabia.

In a strategic initiative to improve the Kingdom’s digital infrastructure, Mobily committed $905 million to develop key projects, including submarine cable networks and advanced data centers. 

In addition, Zoom has pledged $75 million to drive AI innovation and establish new data centers, strengthening support for tech enterprises and government entities, which will further fuel digital expansion in the region. 

Saudi Arabia Railways has announced a $51 million investment in a private fiber-optic network, which will enhance digital connectivity and expand the country’s communications infrastructure. 

In addition, SkyFive has highlighted Saudi Arabia’s growing role as a regional hub for technological innovation by unveiling a $100 million investment in non-terrestrial network services. This will focus on pioneering advanced air mobility solutions and driving innovation in this field. Also, HPE announced the expansion of “Made in KSA” in the region, and the localization of HPE Aruba solutions to enhance infrastructure with security-first and AI-powered networking.

LEAP 2025 is organized by the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology; the Saudi Federation for Cybersecurity, Programming, and Drones; Tahaluf, an alliance between SFCPD and Informa PLC; and the Events Investment Fund. The event brings together global tech leaders to exchange insights, foster connections between investors and startups, and highlight innovative technologies. 

LEAP features educational experiences, workshops, and thought leadership sessions, including the “LEAP Into Innovation” by the Research, Development, and Innovation Authority. Discussions explore future-focused topics such as green hydrogen, carbon-neutral cities, sustainable mining, and space exploration. 

LEAP 2025 continues to solidify Saudi Arabia’s leadership in the global technology landscape, driving forward a future of innovation and sustainable digital transformation.