Inaugural warehousing, wood expo held in Riyadh

Featuring more than 3,500 products and services, the Riyadh event showcases the latest technologies and strategies in logistics services and warehousing solutions. (AN photo by Rashid Hassan)
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Featuring more than 3,500 products and services, the Riyadh event showcases the latest technologies and strategies in logistics services and warehousing solutions. (AN photo by Rashid Hassan)
Inaugural warehousing, wood expo held in Riyadh
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Saudi Warehousing & Logistics Expo co-located with the Saudi Wood Expo opens in Riyadh. (Supplied)
Inaugural warehousing, wood expo held in Riyadh
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A session in progress at Saudi Logistics summit co-located with the Saudi Wood Expo. (Supplied)
Inaugural warehousing, wood expo held in Riyadh
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Saudi Warehousing & Logistics Expo co-located with the Saudi Wood Expo inaugurated by Hassan Alhwaizy, president of the Federation of Saudi Chambers. (Supplied)
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Updated 03 September 2024
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Inaugural warehousing, wood expo held in Riyadh

Inaugural warehousing, wood expo held in Riyadh
  • Logistics event aims to support Kingdom’s Vision 2030 targets
  • More than 3,500 products and services showcased in the Saudi capital

RIYADH: Two expos being held side by side in Riyadh are aiming to support the Saudi logistics sector in line with the national Vision 2030 program.

The Saudi Warehousing and Logistics Expo and the Saudi Wood Expo were inaugurated by Hassan Al-Hwaizy, president of the Federation of Saudi Chambers of Commerce, bringing warehousing, logistics, wood and woodworking firms under one roof in the Kingdom.

Held at the Riyadh International Convention and Exhibition Center until Sept. 4, the three-day event was opened by Al-Hwaizy, who said: “We participate in this significant logistics event as a supporting partner, demonstrating our dedication to advancing and enhancing the logistics sector in support of Saudi Vision 2030.”




Featuring more than 3,500 products and services, the Riyadh event showcases the latest technologies and strategies in logistics services and warehousing solutions. (AN photo/Supplied)

Featuring more than 3,500 products and services, the event showcases the latest technologies and strategies in logistics services and warehousing solutions, he added.

Mohammed Kazi, senior vice president of construction at dmg events, the organizer of the expo, said: “The bustling aisles on the opening day underlined the growing demand for supply chain solutions and distinctive wood products in the Kingdom, reflecting its ambition to establish itself as a leading industrial powerhouse and global logistics hub.”

We participate in this significant logistics event as a supporting partner, demonstrating our dedication to advancing and enhancing the logistics sector in support of Saudi Vision 2030.

Hassan Al-Hwaizy, President, Federation of Saudi Chambers of Commerce

Amr El-Mansoury, chief supply chain officer at Tamer Group, told Arab News that exhibiting at the expo is “a rewarding experience” and offers the opportunity to showcase products and forge industry connections.

“The seamless coordination and support from the event organizers made it a standout opportunity for growth in our sector,” he added.




Hassan Al-Hwaizy, President, Federation of Saudi Chambers of Commerce

At the expo, Tenderd, a fleet management platform, showcased a live demo of its AI-powered safety system, designed for logistics and warehousing companies. The system uses advanced AI and real-time monitoring to enforce safety protocols, reduce risks and boost operational efficiency, ensuring safer work environments even in challenging conditions.

Another exhibitor, Almajdouie Logistics, a Dammam-based transport and logistics giant, unveiled new models of the Peugeot Partner and Citroen Berlingo vans that combine advanced technology with efficiency and reliability.

Fian Group, a Jeddah-based supplier of specialized chemicals and finishing products, presented a live demo of its mobile industrial robots, which enhance infrastructure projects by “optimizing resources and maintaining operations,” and “supporting smart living in residential developments through automated services and sustainable solutions.”




Wijdan AlJahwri, operations manager, Ufnoon Gallery at the expo. (AN photo by Rashid Hassan)

Desert Board launched Palm Strand Boards, the world’s first sustainable three-meter, 60-minute fire-rated door core made from annual regenerated palm biomass.

The first Saudi Logistics Summit’s sessions explored industry priorities and discussed the significance of international partnerships and localizing manufacturing.

Dr. Abdullah Al-Abdulkarim, CEO of the Saudi Logistics Academy, highlighted the importance of the In-Kingdom Total Value Add program in supporting the expansion of the Kingdom’s logistics industry and helping Saudi Arabia climb ranks on World Bank’s Logistics Performance Index.




Visitors at Ufnoon Gallery at the expo. (AN photo by Rashid Hassan)

In another session, Ahmed Attia, group supply chain director of Zahrawi Group, said that investment in distribution efficiency will drive economic growth and enhance outcomes in the Kingdom.

The expo also features a talks program, Wood Hala Chats, where speakers lead awareness sessions focused on sustainability, digitization and automation in the woodworking industry.

Meanwhile, Ufnoon Gallery is showcasing art at the event.

Wijdan Al-Jahwri, operations manager at the gallery and a visual artist for more than 20 years, told Arab News: “Art is beauty. It speaks to all but with different nuances and that’s where the beauty lies.

“It is an expression of a human being’s creative mind, their feelings, imagination and personal emotions. I am happy that our gallery is drawing visitors at the expo.”

 

 


Somalian PM visits Makkah’s Hira Cultural District

Somalian PM visits Makkah’s Hira Cultural District
Updated 15 sec ago
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Somalian PM visits Makkah’s Hira Cultural District

Somalian PM visits Makkah’s Hira Cultural District

JEDDAH: Somalian Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre visited the Hira Cultural District in Makkah, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Monday.

He toured sections of the Revelation Exhibition, including the stories of revelation with the prophets and other components of the district.

The exhibition features a pavilion detailing the Cave of Hira and Khadijah bint Khuwaylid, the Mother of the Believers, along with a depiction of the first revelation.

The prime minister also visited the Holy Qur’an Museum, where he viewed manuscripts and exhibits that highlight the status of the Qur’an and efforts to preserve it.

He praised the district’s scientific content, its techniques, and the Kingdom’s efforts to enrich visitors’ religious and cultural experiences, according to the SPA.

The Hira Cultural District spans about 67,000 square meters near Jabal Hira, one of Makkah’s most famous landmarks.

The tourism and educational destination bridges the past and present, aligning with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 to enhance quality of life and visitor experiences.


Saudi project clears 714 Houthi mines in Yemen

Saudi project clears 714 Houthi mines in Yemen
Updated 10 February 2025
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Saudi project clears 714 Houthi mines in Yemen

Saudi project clears 714 Houthi mines in Yemen

RIYADH: Members of Saudi Arabia’s Project Masam removed 714 explosive devices from various regions of Yemen last week.

The total included 30 anti-tank mines and 684 unexploded ordnances, according to a recent report.

Ousama Al-Gosaibi, the initiative’s managing director, said a total of 481,240 mines had been cleared since its inception in 2018.

The explosives were planted indiscriminately and posed a threat to civilians, including children, women and the elderly.

The demining operations took place in Marib, Aden, Jouf, Shabwa, Taiz, Hodeidah, Lahij, Sanaa, Al-Bayda, Al-Dhale and Saada.

The initiative trains local demining engineers and provides them with modern equipment. It also offers support to Yemenis injured by the devices.

Teams are tasked with clearing villages, roads and schools to facilitate safe movement for civilians and the delivery of humanitarian aid.


US Chamber of Commerce official discusses US-Saudi collaboration on AI policy

US Chamber of Commerce official discusses US-Saudi collaboration on AI policy
Updated 10 February 2025
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US Chamber of Commerce official discusses US-Saudi collaboration on AI policy

US Chamber of Commerce official discusses US-Saudi collaboration on AI policy
  • Kingdom maintains open-door approach with US business group, says Steve Lutes
  • Strong regulatory framework will inspire investor confidence, promote innovation

RIYADH: As Saudi Arabia accelerates its adoption of artificial intelligence, a strong regulatory framework is emerging as a key driver of US-Saudi collaboration.

In an exclusive interview with Arab News on the sidelines of the LEAP 2025 technology conference, Steve Lutes, vice president for Middle East affairs at the US Chamber of Commerce, stressed the importance of implementing clear policies that inspire investor confidence.

“One thing that’s always at the core is to have the policy and regulatory environment that is going to give confidence and clarity to investors, risk-takers, and innovators,” Lutes said.

He added that Saudi Arabia maintains an open-door policy in working with the US Chamber and industry leaders to shape its regulatory framework.

“This will catalyze finance and fuel more investment, bring more innovation, and strengthen partnerships between the United States and Saudi Arabia in AI and across the broader economy,” he said.

Saudi Arabia recently announced plans to expand its trade and investment ties with the US to at least $600 billion over the next four years, according to the Saudi Press Agency.

Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman outlined the Kingdom’s strategy during a phone conversation with US President Donald Trump.

Lutes pointed to Saudi Arabia’s young, tech-savvy workforce as a key factor in advancing AI under Vision 2030.

“Saudi is a young country, and you have a young workforce that is embracing technology and wants to be right there, whether in the private sector or government, leading the way on technology innovation and adaptation,” he said.

He underscored that talent development, alongside a robust regulatory framework, will be critical in fostering AI innovation and scaling businesses in Saudi Arabia.

Ensuring Saudi Arabia has access to cutting-edge US technology is also a priority, Lutes noted, emphasizing that this access is essential for the Kingdom’s innovation ecosystem.

“It’s one of the things that we would put toward the top of the list,” he said, referring to high-performance AI hardware such as Nvidia’s advanced chips.

While acknowledging the importance of security measures, Lutes emphasized the need to balance protection with cooperation.

“Yes, we want to protect and make sure that the right measures are in place, but it’s absolutely critical that our strategic allies, like the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, have access to and the ability to tap into US technology.”

He emphasized the broader economic implications of this access, noting that US companies are already playing a significant role in Saudi Arabia’s AI-driven transformation.

“What’s going on here in the Kingdom is very important to our economic relationship in the United States and to the US companies that are already here, doing incredible things,” he said.

“We want to see that only grow, deepen, and create more jobs, more investment, more innovation, and more opportunities to strengthen the US-Saudi relationship.”

Lutes expressed optimism about the future of US-Saudi AI collaboration, highlighting the role of diplomacy in achieving shared goals.

“I’m an optimist, and I believe we will get to a good place in terms of that policy,” he said.

He added that efforts should focus on ensuring everything is fueled and catalyzed to accelerate partnerships between the US and the Kingdom, with the private sector leading the way.


19 arrested after three drug gangs dismantled in Saudi Arabia, interior ministry says

Three criminal networks involved in the smuggling and trafficking of drugs in the regions of Asir, Jazan, and Eastern Province.
Three criminal networks involved in the smuggling and trafficking of drugs in the regions of Asir, Jazan, and Eastern Province.
Updated 10 February 2025
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19 arrested after three drug gangs dismantled in Saudi Arabia, interior ministry says

Three criminal networks involved in the smuggling and trafficking of drugs in the regions of Asir, Jazan, and Eastern Province.
  • 15 government employees allegedly involved in the activities of the drug gangs have been arrested and referred to the Public Prosecution

RIYADH: Three criminal networks involved in the smuggling and trafficking of drugs in the regions of Asir, Jazan, and the Eastern Province have been dismantled, an official source at the Saudi Interior Ministry said on Sunday.

The networks were transferring drugs to other parts of the Kingdom and laundered the money they gained, the source said.

19 people involved in the activities of these gangs were arrested, including five Ministry of Interior employees, seven Zakat, Tax, and Customs Authority employees, and three Ministry of Defense employees. The necessary legal measures were taken against them and they were referred to the Public Prosecution.

The Ministry of Interior said it announced the arrests to highlight that security authorities are vigilant against all criminal activity targeting the nation and its youth with drugs.


Boston Dynamics founder not concerned about robot takeover, warns against overregulation

Boston Dynamics founder not concerned about robot takeover, warns against overregulation
Updated 09 February 2025
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Boston Dynamics founder not concerned about robot takeover, warns against overregulation

Boston Dynamics founder not concerned about robot takeover, warns against overregulation
  • Robots eliminating people is not ‘serious concern’
  • Excessive restrictions could slow progress, says Raibert

RIYADH: The idea that robots could take over the world is not a “serious concern,” said the founder of advanced robotics company Boston Dynamics, as he warned against excessive regulation at a Riyadh technology conference on Sunday.

“There’s some fear that robots are going to somehow get out of hand and take over the world and eliminate people. I don’t really think that’s a serious concern,” Marc Raibert said during the fourth edition of the LEAP summit.

While regulation is necessary, Raibert believes that excessive restrictions could slow progress.

He expressed his concern about “overregulation stopping us from having the benefits of AI and robotics that could develop because robots can solve problems that we face in addition to causing problems.”

He added that while regulating mature applications makes sense, limiting the technology too early could hinder its potential.

His comments were made during a fireside chat titled “The Future of Robotics and AI,” in which he highlighted the role of artificial intelligence-powered robots in elderly care and assistance for people with disabilities.

“We have a couple of teams working on physical designs, but more importantly on the intelligence and perception needed to be able to do those kinds of tasks,” Raibert said.

Beyond industrial use, robotics is expected to play an important role in healthcare, supporting patient care, people with disabilities, and elderly assistance, according to Raibert, who founded the leading robotics company in 1992.

“I think cognitive intelligence, AI, is going to help us make it a lot easier to communicate with the robot, but also for the robot to understand the world, so that they can do things more easily without having everything programmed in detail,” he added.

Raibert also introduced a project at his AI Institute called “Watch, Understand, Do,” which aims to improve robots’ ability to learn tasks by observing human workers.

The initiative focuses on on-the-job training, where a robot can watch a worker perform a task — such as assembling a component in a factory — and gradually replicate it. While this process is intuitive for humans, it remains a technical challenge for robots, requiring advancements in machine perception and task sequencing.

He pointed out that while humanoid robots are gaining attention, true human-like capabilities go beyond having two arms and two legs. He emphasized that intelligence, problem-solving skills, and the ability to interact effectively with the environment will define the next generation of AI-driven robotics.

Raibert discussed the differences between robotics adoption in workplaces and homes, explaining that industrial environments offer a structured setting where robots can operate more efficiently. He noted that robots are likely to become more common in workplaces before being integrated into homes.

However, integrating robots into homes presents additional challenges, including safety, cost, and adaptability to unstructured environments. He said while home robots will eventually become more common, their widespread adoption will likely follow the expansion of industrial and commercial robotics.

As part of LEAP, the Saudi Data and Artificial Intelligence Authority is gathering global AI leaders at its DeepFest platform during the fourth edition of the summit.

With more than 150 speakers, 120 exhibitors, and an expected attendance of over 50,000 people from around the world, DeepFest showcases a range of cutting-edge AI technology.

The event explores emerging technologies, fosters collaboration, exchanges expertise, and builds partnerships, contributing to innovation and strengthening cooperation among experts across diverse industries.