Latest news with #BaderAl-Kharafi
Kuwait Times
30-06-2025
- Business
- Kuwait Times
Zain launches 5G Advanced, unlocking new horizons for Kuwait's digital economy
Achievement embodies HH the Amir's vision of to transform Kuwait into a regional hub for digital economy: Bader Al-Kharafi KUWAIT: Zain has officially launched its next-generation 5G Advanced network, delivering nationwide coverage across most of Kuwait. The rollout marks a major step forward in unlocking the full potential of the digital era and establishing a highly advanced infrastructure that supports ultra-fast internet speeds throughout the country. Zain affirmed that its 5G Advanced network was built according to the highest global standards to meet the growing demand for data services, support smart city applications, power the Internet of Things, and accommodate the evolving digital lifestyle across sectors. The launch follows the official announcement by the Communication and Information Technology Regulatory Authority (CITRA) regarding the activation of 5G Advanced in Kuwait, a milestone toward building robust digital infrastructure and laying the groundwork for the adoption of 6G technologies in the near future. Kuwait now ranks among the first countries worldwide to deploy 5G Advanced commercially, underscoring its pioneering role in adopting cutting-edge telecom technologies and enhancing its position as a forward-looking digital hub. Zain Vice Chairman and Group CEO, Bader Nasser Al-Kharafi, stated: 'This milestone reflects the directives of His Highness the Amir, Sheikh Mishal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, to foster a thriving investment environment in which the ICT sector drives economic growth and positions Kuwait as a regional hub for the digital economy.' Al-Kharafi praised the extensive support from the government, particularly the efforts of the Minister of State for Communications Affairs Omar Al-Omar, and Acting Chairman of CITRA Sheikh Athbi Jaber Al-Sabah, for enabling this successful and seamless launch both technically and commercially. He continued: 'This progress places Kuwait among the first nations globally to launch 5G Advanced commercially, reinforcing the country's leadership in providing high-performance digital infrastructure. It opens vast opportunities to accelerate digital transformation, power smart services and IoT, and redefine the connectivity experience for all.' Al-Kharafi added that the launch aligns with Zain's recently announced 4WARAD strategy, which focuses on continuity, acceleration, collaboration and digital innovation: 'Through this launch, we reaffirm our commitment to meeting growing data demands, exploring new digital business models, and continuing our journey to evolve into a fully integrated technology company.' He further noted: 'We have heavily invested in upgrading our network to support the latest global advancements. We look forward to deepening our collaboration with government entities to help achieve the Kuwait Vision 2035 and place the country at the heart of the global technology revolution.' Nawaf Al-Gharabally, CEO of Zain Kuwait, commented: 'With the launch of 5G Advanced, we are contributing to a new chapter in Kuwait's digital transformation journey, an extension of Zain's longstanding efforts in national digital development since its inception in 1983.' He emphasized: 'This deployment reflects the outcomes of early investment in infrastructure, rigorous technical readiness, and successful nationwide field testing by Zain's network team, which ensured seamless coverage across most of the nation from day one.' 'This strategic move enhances Zain's proactive vision and operational excellence in delivering next-generation connectivity that meets the highest global benchmarks and offers a more advanced and reliable communications experience to the largest customer base in Kuwait.' he added. Al-Gharabally continued: 'We have strengthened our collaboration with global technology partners and leveraged our international expertise to adapt 5G Advanced in line with national priorities. We are proud to play a vital role in a leap that will benefit individuals, businesses, and the community at large.' To commemorate the launch, Al-Gharabally revealed that Zain has released a new TV commercial that reflects the human essence of technology: 'This campaign celebrates the moments that touch people's hearts and adds emotional depth to the connectivity experience.' He continued: 'The launch of this creative content aligns with our belief that technology is not solely defined by speed, but by its ability to build bridges between people and empower them to live their most wonderful moments. That is the true value we aim to deliver through 5G Advanced.' 30-Day Free Trial from Zain As part of its efforts to bring this next-generation experience to its customers, Zain is offering a free 30-day trial* of the 5G Advanced service to eligible postpaid subscribers starting 30 June until 29 July 2025. Eligible users will be automatically upgraded to the 5G Advanced network on their compatible devices at no additional cost during the offer period. To activate the service, customers can follow the simple steps provided on Zain's website and official communication channels. *Terms and conditions apply. For more information, visit A Leap in Network Capability 5G Advanced represents a significant leap in network performance, delivering much higher speeds compared to standard 5G. It is ideal for ultra-high-definition streaming, large file downloads, and lag-free online gaming, even during peak usage times. The technology also features ultra-low latency, enabling lightning-fast data transmission between devices and the cloud. This results in seamless performance for real-time applications like cloud gaming, video calls, connected vehicles, and AI-based services. Additionally, 5G Advanced offers smart bandwidth management through Component Carrier Aggregation, which allows the network to handle heavy usage efficiently without congestion or performance degradation. 'Live Your Wonderful': A Human-Centric Campaign To mark this technological milestone, Zain launched a new marketing campaign under the theme 'Live Your Wonderful', which includes a heartfelt television commercial highlighting the emotional impact of technology in our lives. The campaign takes viewers on an emotional journey through simple, everyday moments that become deeply meaningful when shared with loved ones. With 5G Advanced from Zain, these moments feel closer and more profound, perfectly reflecting the company's vision of using technology to enrich human connection. This campaign is part of Zain's ongoing efforts to connect with customers on a human level, and to spotlight how modern technology can enhance the beauty, meaning, and connectivity of daily life. Zain: A Pioneer in Tech Innovation The launch of 5G Advanced is the latest in a long line of achievements for Zain in leading Kuwait's telecom and technology sector. Since its founding in 1983 as the region's first mobile operator, Zain has consistently introduced groundbreaking technologies that shaped the local market. The company pioneered GSM services in 1994, followed by the country's first nationwide 4G LTE rollout in 2012, and became the first in the GCC to commercially launch 5G in 2019. Zain's commitment to excellence was reaffirmed in 2024 when it received five Speedtest Awards from Ookla, the global leader in network intelligence and connectivity insights. Zain won the titles of Fastest Mobile Network, Best 5G Gaming Experience, Best 5G Video Experience, Best Mobile Network, and Fastest 5G Network in Kuwait. The results were based on hundreds of thousands of consumer-initiated tests across the country during the second half of 2024, placing Zain clearly at the forefront of network performance nationwide. With this official launch, Zain Kuwait once again reaffirms its role as a leader in shaping the country's digital future, delivering innovative services that enhance customer experience and contribute to the growth of a robust digital economy. Zain remains a trusted partner in connecting Kuwait to what's next. Zain 5G Advanced 2025 Zain Kuwait HQ Building Zain Kuwait CEO Nawaf Al-Gharabally
Kuwait Times
15-05-2025
- Business
- Kuwait Times
Bader Al-Kharafi meets Hong Kong Chief, backs Amir's digital hub vision
KUWAIT: Zain Vice Chairman and Group CEO Bader Al-Kharafi meets Hong Kong SAR Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu. KUWAIT: Bader Nasser Al-Kharafi, Zain Vice Chairman and Group CEO, welcomed John Lee Ka-chiu, Chief Executive of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of the People's Republic of China, to Zain's headquarters as part of his official visit to Kuwait. Lee was accompanied by a high-level delegation from Hong Kong and China during his visit to Zain, which came as part of his wider visit to Kuwait from May 13-14. His visit included meetings with HH the Amir Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, HH the Crown Prince Sheikh Sabah Al-Khaled Al-Hamad Al-Sabah, Acting Prime Minister Sheikh Fahad Al-Yousef Al-Sabah and other senior government officials. Bader Al-Kharafi stated: 'We are committed to implementing the directives of His Highness the Amir Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah to advance Kuwait's transformation into a regional hub for the digital economy and create an attractive environment for investment led by the private sector. This visit aligns with that wise vision, as Kuwait and Hong Kong enjoy longstanding friendly relations.' Al-Kharafi welcomed the Chief Executive and his accompanying delegation. 'The two regions collaborate across various investment, trade, and economic fields at both governmental and private sector levels. This visit presents an opportunity to expand those horizons.' He added: 'Our discussions with Chief Executive John Lee and his delegation explored ways to expand digital transformation initiatives, enhance telecom infrastructure, drive business growth, and explore opportunities for collaboration in 5G networks, the Internet of Things and potential strategic partnerships.' (See Page 3)
National News
09-04-2025
- Business
- National News
President Aoun stresses strengthening Lebanese-Kuwaiti ties, especially in economy and investment
NNA - President of the Republic, General Joseph Aoun, on Wednesday affirmed the deep-rooted nature of Lebanese-Kuwaiti relations during his meeting with Bader Al-Kharafi, Chairman of the Al-Kharafi Group. Aoun underscored the importance of enhancing bilateral ties across all sectors, particularly in the economic and investment fields. ==========R.H.
Daily Tribune
04-03-2025
- Business
- Daily Tribune
Zain Group 2024 Net Income grows 15%
Zain Group, a leading provider of innovative ICT technologies and digital lifestyle communications, announces its consolidated financial results for the full-year 2024 (FY-24), and fourth-quarter (Q4-24) ended 31 December 2024. For FY-24, Zain Group generated consolidated revenue of KD 2 billion (USD 6.4 bn), up 3% YoY. Consolidated EBITDA for the period reached KD 689 million (USD 2.25 bn), with normalized EBITDA growth of 2% (excluding number range claim in 2023), reflecting an EBITDA margin of 35%. Consolidated net income reached KD 208 million (USD 677 m), representing normalized net income growth of 15%, when adjusted for number range claim and Tower transaction gain in 2023 and gain on business combination from acquisition of IHS (Kuwait TowerCo) in 2024. Earnings per share amounted to 48 fils (USD 0.16). Dividend recommendation. Zain Group recommended a cash dividend of 25 fils per share for the second half of 2024. This dividend follows the semi-annual dividend of 10 fils distributed in Q4-24, totaling 35 fils per share for the year and reflecting a 73% payout ratio, one of the highest among listed entities in the region and in line with the Board's previously committed minimum cash dividend policy of 35 fils in total, for three years that commenced in 2023 and ends in 2025. Furthermore, the Board made another recommendation to renew the minimum annual cash dividend policy of 35 fils in total, for the forthcoming three years commencing in 2026, subject to Annual General Assembly and statutory approvals. For Q4-24, Zain Group generated consolidated revenue of KD 526 m (USD 1.7 bn), up 7% YoY. EBITDA for the quarter reached KD 184 million (USD 599 m), reflecting an EBITDA margin of 35%. Normalized net income soared 120% to reach KD 72 m (USD 235 m), representing earnings per share of 17 fils (USD 0.05). The operator generated revenue of USD 205 m in Bahrain, up 7% YoY. EBITDA increased 5% to reach USD 63 million, reflecting an EBITDA margin of 31%. Net income grew 2% to reach USD 15.7 m, with data revenue growing 6% to represent 46% of total revenue. Commenting on the 2024 full year results, the Chairman of the Board of Directors of Zain Group, Mr. Osamah Al Furaih said, 'The Board will continue to invest in network expansion, technologies, strategic business opportunities, and talent to ensure the company reaps the rewards of the ever-growing mobile and ICT sector.' Zain Vice-Chairman and Group CEO, Bader Al-Kharafi commented, 'These robust results are due to the successful implementation of our 4SIGHT strategy that has positioned Zain among the top 15 global telecom entities in creating shareholder value over the last 5 years.'
Ammon
29-01-2025
- Business
- Ammon
Zain Group's MSCI rating for ESG upgraded to ‘BBB'
Ammon News - •Vice-Chairman & Group CEO, Bader Al-Kharafi, 'This upgrade reaffirms Zain's commitment to sustainability, corporate governance and ethical leadership, that is value creative for all stakeholders.' •Enhanced governance frameworks; evolving sustainability programs, implementation of stronger environmental policies and reducing carbon emissions; advancements in transparency and reporting; improving data protection and privacy policies, all contributed to upgrade from BB to BBB •In the environmental pillar Zain scored 10/10 – a best-in-class recognition Zain Group, a leading provider of innovative technologies and digital lifestyle and ICT communications operating in eight markets across the Middle East and Africa, announces a significant improvement in its Morgan Stanley Capital International (MSCI) rating in ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance), which was upgraded from 'BB' to 'BBB' as of December 2024. The renowned MSCI ESG Ratings methodology evaluates companies on their management of material ESG risks and opportunities including climate change, human capital, and corporate governance, with a focus on policies, performance metrics, and controversies. Ratings are industry-relative and range from 'AAA' to 'CCC,' with scores determined by a company's exposure to ESG risks and the effectiveness of its management strategies. MSCI's upgrade for Zain from BB to BBB reflected the company's ethical leadership that oversaw the implementation of enhanced governance frameworks; evolving sustainability programs; stronger environmental policies and reducing carbon emissions; advancements in transparency and reporting; improving data protection and privacy policies. Notably, in the environmental pillar Zain scored 10/10 – a best-in-class recognition. Zain Vice-Chairman and Group CEO, Bader Al-Kharafi commented, 'This ESG upgrade reaffirms Zain's commitment to sustainability, corporate governance, and ethical leadership, that is value creative for all stakeholders. It also marks an important milestone for the company as we continue to align with global industry standards and strive for further improvements in our ESG performance in line with our recently announced '4WARD'-Progress with Purpose five-year sustainable corporate strategy.' 'Zain operates within a complex geopolitical context and we will continue to invest in ESG initiatives and focus on mitigating risks through the integration of advanced technologies. We are relentless in our ongoing efforts to engage and collaborate with regulators, shareholders, and the wider community, to drive sound sustainable and corporate governance practices.' 'As a leading entity listed on the Boursa Kuwait Premier Market, sound ESG practices are becoming an increasingly important differentiator for organizations with respect to giving all stakeholders confidence that the company is being run in a sustainable, compliant and transparent manner. This MSCI upgrade to BBB reaffirms Zain's Investor Relations and Corporate Governance Framework as it helps Zain mitigate risks and facilitates an effective Board oversight over the company's executive management by promoting strong internal controls to improve integrity of financials and establishing a culture of compliance.' Al-Kharafi concluded, 'This framework is a cornerstone of the company's regional appeal, and has won the confidence and admiration from shareholders, the banking community, industry analysts, regulatory authorities and other globally recognized indices, attracting global investors.' Zain is one of the most active organizations in the region with respect to delivering meaningful connectivity that leads to equitable systemic change through its ESG initiatives, with the company playing a crucial role in empowering the markets in which it operates to reap the benefits of digital transformation for the benefit of the communities it serves and beyond.
