Latest news with #Khobar
Zawya
a day ago
- Sport
- Zawya
FIBO Arabia and the Saudi Bodybuilding Federation flex with new partnership announcement
Saudi Arabia's top athletes will compete for global representation as FIBO Arabia joins forces with the Saudi Bodybuilding Federation to host the Kingdom's leading bodybuilding event as part of its high-impact Performance Arena The FIBO Arabia x SBBF National Championship, which takes place from 1-3 October 2025 as part of FIBO Arabia, will determine the national team representing the Kingdom at the IFBB World Bodybuilding Championships Riyadh, Saudi Arabia: The Saudi National Bodybuilding Championship is set to take place at FIBO Arabia 2025 in collaboration with the Saudi Bodybuilding Federation (SBBF), in a landmark moment for the Kingdom's fitness industry. Officially named the FIBO Arabia x SBBF National Championship, the event will feature the nation's top athletes competing for the chance to represent Saudi Arabia on the global stage at the IFBB World Bodybuilding Championships, which will take place in Khobar from November 27 to December 1. Held from 1 to 3 October 2025 at the Riyadh Front Exhibition & Conference Centre, FIBO Arabia, organised by RX Arabia, a global leader in events and exhibitions, will be the largest health, fitness, and wellness exhibition in the region, held under the theme ' For a strong and healthy society'. The national bodybuilding competition will headline the show's Performance Arena, one of the show's most anticipated features. Vasyl Zhygalo, Managing Director of Middle East and Emerging Markets at RX, said: 'The Saudi National Bodybuilding Championship at FIBO Arabia is a significant milestone for the industry, as a celebration of athleticism and national pride, and underscoring the global ambition of the Kingdom. 'Through our collaboration with the Saudi Bodybuilding Federation, we are providing a competitive platform for elite athletes, but also reinforcing FIBO Arabia's position as the regional hub for health, fitness and sporting excellence.' The bodybuilding championship will offer attendees the opportunity to witness the dedication and discipline of Saudi Arabia's most accomplished athletes. As part of FIBO Arabia's broader vision, the Performance Arena will also feature a wellness program, including meet-and-greet sessions and inspirational talks, hosted by industry leaders and fitness icons. Ayman Mohammad Al-Rashed, President of the Saudi Bodybuilding Federation, said: 'Bodybuilding continues to grow as a recognised and respected sport in Saudi Arabia. This championship will spotlight the Kingdom's finest athletes and provide a pathway for global representation. Partnering with FIBO Arabia allows us to elevate our athletes' profiles and inspire a new generation of bodybuilders.' Complementing the championship is the launch of a dedicated Callisthenics Arena, sponsored by Rhythm Calisthenics, Saudi Arabia's first specialised callisthenics gym. This space will welcome both GCC and international athletes to participate in strength, endurance, flexibility, and coordination challenges and competitions. In addition, a Group Fitness Arena and Performance Arena will further solidify FIBO Arabia's position as the region's premier fitness experience. Held under the patronage and with the support of the Ministry of Investment and its Sport Sector Team, FIBO Arabia 2025 aligns with Saudi Vision 2030, which places strong emphasis on promoting health, wellbeing, and a thriving sports sector. The event serves as a strategic platform to attract investment, foster partnerships, and support the continued growth of the Kingdom's health and fitness industry. This year's debut edition will welcome over 10,500 visitors, more than 140 exhibitors, 50 global speakers, 375 qualified buyers, and 50 hosted decision-makers, offering unmatched opportunities for networking, knowledge sharing, and business development. From the latest in gym equipment and nutrition to digital wellness and sportswear innovation, FIBO Arabia will showcase the full spectrum of the global fitness ecosystem. As the world's attention turns toward Saudi Arabia's transformation, FIBO Arabia 2025 will highlight the Kingdom's emerging role as a centre for athletic excellence and healthy living. For more information about FIBO Arabia and to register your attendance, please visit: -Ends- About FIBO Arabia FIBO Arabia's purpose is to foster a strong and healthy society. As part of the global FIBO network, it supports long and fulfilling lives for people across the region. The annual FIBO Arabia show brings together key players from the health, fitness, and wellness sectors to create a platform for innovations, investments, and trends tailored to an active lifestyle. Over the course of three dynamic days, FIBO Arabia offers unparalleled opportunities for building businesses, networking, and educating at the highest level. Attendees can look forward to numerous exciting and impressive live experiences, making FIBO Arabia an essential event for anyone passionate about health and wellness in the Middle East. The first FIBO Arabia will take place at the Riyadh Front Exhibition & Conference Center from October 1 to 3, 2025. Please visit About RX RX is a global leader in events and exhibitions, leveraging industry expertise, data, and technology to build businesses for individuals, communities, and organisations. With a presence in 25 countries across 42 industry sectors, RX hosts approximately 350 events annually. RX is committed to creating an inclusive work environment for all our people. RX empowers businesses to thrive by leveraging data-driven insights and digital solutions. RX is part of RELX, a global provider of information-based analytics and decision tools for professional and business customers. For more information, visit Media contact: JAMES LAKIE General Manager Indigo Icon Tower, Jumeirah Lakes Towers Dubai, United Arab Emirates E-mail: Website: A member of the ECCO Communications Network
Zawya
3 days ago
- Business
- Zawya
Naba Alsaha and Strataphy partner to launch one of Saudi Arabia's first geothermal-cooled hospitals
Khobar, Saudi Arabia — In a pioneering step for sustainable healthcare infrastructure, Naba Alsaha Hospital, a leading Saudi healthcare group, has partnered with clean cooling innovator Strataphy to deploy advanced, subsurface-powered cooling systems for its new hospital complex in Riyadh, currently under construction. 'This project highlights how geothermal technology can meet the strict reliability and operational demands of the healthcare sector,' said Ahmed Alhani, COO of Strataphy. 'Hospitals require uninterrupted cooling performance around the clock. With our CAS model and subsurface technology, we're able to deliver that performance while significantly reducing grid impact and carbon emissions.' Saudi Arabia has more than 2,300 healthcare facilities across the Kingdom. With each facility requiring on average 1.5 megawatts-thermal (MW-th) of cooling capacity, the national healthcare sector represents a total thermal demand of approximately 3.45 gigawatts-thermal (GW-th). This places immense strain on the power grid and creates a clear opportunity for cleaner, more efficient solutions. At the heart of the system is Strataphy's PrimeLoop —a patent-pending geothermal hybrid architecture that uses subsurface temperatures to deliver continuous and efficient building cooling. Unlike traditional HVAC systems, which rely on electricity-intensive compressors and degrade in performance during high ambient temperatures, PrimeLoop operates silently and consistently, delivering a Coefficient of Performance (COP) over 5, more than double that of conventional methods. The solution is offered through Strataphy's Cooling as a Service (CAS) model—turning cooling from a costly CapEx decision into a monthly operating service. Strataphy handles design, drilling, installation, and long-term operations and maintenance, with clients only paying for actual cooling used. This removes technical and financial risk while improving ESG outcomes. 'As demand for high-performance medical infrastructure grows, we're proud to be among the first hospitals in the Kingdom to adopt this innovative, sustainable approach,' said Nayef Al-Jishi, Business Development Manager at Naba Alsaha Hospital. 'For us, it's about delivering long-term value to patients, operators, and the national grid. This partnership with Strataphy reinforces our commitment to future-ready, resilient, and environmentally aligned healthcare facilities.' 'This collaboration reflects a broader transformation underway across the Kingdom,' concluded Ammar Alali, CEO of Strataphy. 'The healthcare sector—with its 24/7 operational needs—is ideally suited to lead the geothermal cooling transition. We're proud to help power that shift and demonstrate how clean infrastructure can meet both performance and sustainability goals.' Photo caption: L-R: Signing ceremony at Naba Al Saha facility, featuring Ahmed Alhani, COO of Strataphy; Nayef Al-Jishi, Business Development Manager at Naba Al Saha Hospital; and Ammar Alali, CEO of Strataphy -Ends- For more information on Strataphy, please contact: Enquiries:Neena Punnen Email: neena@ OR contact@ About Naba Alsaha Hospital Naba Alsaha Hospital, a publicly traded company on Tadawul, is one of Saudi Arabia's leading integrated healthcare providers, delivering patient care through a network of advanced medical facilities and specialized clinical services. Founded on a commitment to excellence, compassion, and innovation, the group has built a strong reputation for combining modern technology with expert medical staff to serve both local and regional communities. With a growing footprint across the Kingdom, including the development of a new state-of-the-art hospital in Riyadh, Naba Alsaha is at the forefront of modern healthcare infrastructure in Saudi Arabia. Its facilities are equipped with the latest diagnostic imaging, surgical systems, and emergency care technologies—ensuring rapid response, accuracy, and comfort across every level of care. In alignment with Saudi Arabia's vision, Naba Alsaha is actively investing in sustainable development and digital transformation. From implementing smart hospital technologies to adopting environmentally conscious building practices and now integrating geothermal-powered cooling, the group is helping shape the future of healthcare delivery in the region. About Strataphy Strataphy is transforming geothermal cooling with its proprietary and patent-pending subsurface system design and wellbore completion technologies, which include an advanced geothermal cooling system and wellbore completion solutions. These innovations optimize heat exchange efficiency, adaptability across geological settings, and long-term performance. At the core of this advancement is Strataphy's technology, PrimeLoop and business model Cooling as a Service (CAS), which provides sustainable cooling without upfront investments. By leveraging advanced wellbore designs and subsurface engineering, Strataphy delivers a subscription-based solution covering system design, installation, and operations & maintenance (O&M). By combining patent-pending subsurface technologies with a service-driven model, Strataphy is leading the shift toward scalable, high-performance geothermal cooling to support Saudi Arabia's energy transition.
The National
22-07-2025
- Sport
- The National
Ambitious Al Qadsiah sign Mateo Retegui, a player at the peak of his powers
Al Qadsiah have completed the signing of Atalanta striker Mateo Retegui, last season's top scorer in Serie A, in a deal reported to be worth around €70 million. In one of the most intriguing Saudi Pro League transfers of the summer so far, Retegui arrives in Khobar at the height of his powers, joining an ambitious, Aramco-backed project determined to disrupt the domestic hierarchy. Retegui, 26, is a classic number nine who has just enjoyed a spectacular season in Italy, scoring 25 goals in 36 Serie A games, six clear of next-best Moise Kean at Fiorentina. Retegui inherited a love of sport from his father, a hockey player who represnted Argentina at the Olympics, a sport Retegui showed promise in when he was younger until the lure of football became too strong. He started his career in his native Argentina at Boca Juniors but would only make one appearance at the club over five years. He spent various spells on loan at Estudiantes, Talleres and Tigre. ****** Al Qadsiah deal confirmation tweet ***** It was at Tigre where Retegui found his scoring touch, notching 35 goals in 70 games over two seasons. But it was the Italian national team's desperate lack of strike power that would take Retegui's career in a new direction. Despite Italy's triumph at Euro 2020, by early 2023 then head coach Roberto Mancini was growing disillusioned. 'I don't know why there are so few strikers,' he lamented. 'We are very limited going forward.' In his desperate search for a reliable number nine, he reached out to an old friend Juan Sebastian Veron, the former Argentina midfielder and an ex-teammate of Mancini's during their time at Lazio, who pointed him towards a relatively unknown forward at Tigre: a certain Mateo Retegui. Intrigued, Mancini dispatched his most trusted adviser, Mauro Sandreani, whose primary role with the national team was to scout and assess emerging talent. His detailed report noted a striker with an eye for goal and physical presence in the box. There were limitations: some tactical rawness, a lack of finesse off the ball, but the potential was unmistakable. Italy needed a striker, especially one with scoring instincts, moving quickly to entice a player with family roots in Sicily and Genoa. Retegui remembers his first encounter with Mancini well: 'I arrived at midnight, and he was waiting for me. 'Do you know why you're here?' he asked. 'To play,' I said. 'To play, yes,' he replied, 'but above all – to score goals.' 'Perfect,' I told him, 'I live for that.'' And on March 23, 2023, he did exactly that – scoring on his debut against England in Naples. For a player whose great-grandfather once left Sicily seeking a better life, it was footballing fate. A move to Serie A followed, joining Genoa for €15 million in the summer of 2023. Under Alberto Gilardino, Retegui offered glimpses of his potential but remained a work in progress, still adjusting to a new league and learning the language of Italian football. He would finish the first season with nine goals in 31 games across competitions, enough to earn him a €28m move to Atlanta. And it was in Bergamo, under Gian Piero Gasperini, that he really blossomed. In Gasperini's 3-4-2-1, a system built to amplify his strengths, Retegui would not only finish as Serie A's top scorer but also joint-fourth in the assists chart. Once known for his directness and physicality, Retegui had grown into a more complete forward. 'Retegui has had an extraordinary season,' said Gasperini. 'He has scored with his right foot, his left, his head – thanks also to the contribution of the team. His goals have been decisive for our campaign.' That form caught attention of clubs across the globe and as the spotlight widened, the striker grew restless. As he weighed up his next move, a new challenge emerged, not from one of Europe's giants, but from a club looking to make waves in a rapidly improving league. In Saudi Arabia, Al Qadsiah have undergone a transformation of their own, having been taken over by state oil giant Saudi Aramco in the summer of 2023. It was a move that immediately breathed life – and an unprecedented financial muscle – into the second-tier club that had become known for yo-yoing between the top two divisions. Former Liverpool and England striker Robbie Fowler was appointed as manager and tasked with leading a full-scale rebuild that saw sixteen new signings arrive. It looked like Fowler was on track as Al Qadsiah started the 2023/24 season with six wins and two draws from eight league matches, leaving them one point off top spot, with his lone defeat coming in the King's Cup against top-flight Al Taawoun. But just four months in, Spanish sporting director Carlos Anton decided to change tact, sacking Fowler and bringing in the experienced Michel, a countryman who had previously coached at clubs including Sevilla, Marseille and Olympiacos. Al Qadsiah would go on to secure promotion as first division champions and return to SPL football for first time since 2021. That momentum would continue back in the Saudi Pro League. Armed with Aramco's resources, Al Qadsiah secured headline signings Nacho, the former Real Madrid captain and Spain defender, Uruguayan midfielder Nahitan Nandez from Cagliari, and veteran Gabon striker Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang from Marseille. The team would finish the 2024/25 in fourth place, behind champions Al Ittihad, Al Hilal and Cristiano Ronaldo's Al Nassr. Al Qadsiah boasted the league's best defence, conceding 31 goals. A run to the King's Cup final – where they would lose 3-1 to Ittihad with Karim Benzema scoring twice – would help cement their arrival among Saudi Arabian football's elite. With Aubameyang moving back to Marseille, Al Qadsiah turned their attentions to Retegui. And despite warnings that a move to the kingdom could jeopardise his role with the national team, Retegui has agreed to the move. Atalanta drove a hard bargain and the deal is the club's second-biggest sale, behind only Rasmus Hojlund's move to Manchester United. Predictably, the Italians aren't happy, but even Gazzetta dello Sport acknowledged the growing appeal of Saudi Arabia, calling it 'the opportunity of a lifetime'. At Al Qadsiah, he finds a club that mirrors his own trajectory: once overlooked, now ambitious and unafraid to dream bigger. The SPL has acquired a player at the peak of his powers.
Khaleej Times
13-07-2025
- Khaleej Times
Video: Wearing sleepwear, night thobes in public? You could get fined in Saudi
A video clip shared by Saudi Arabia's Qassim Region Police shows a man being confronted by authorities for walking around in public while wearing a night thobe — a type of sleepwear typically worn by men inside their homes. While the garment may appear modest to those unfamiliar with Saudi dress culture, wearing it in public is considered inappropriate and a violation of the Kingdom's public decency laws, which prohibit attire deemed unfit for public spaces. The violation is outlined under Article 4 of the Public Decency Regulations, which states: "No person shall appear in a public place wearing indecent clothing or clothing which bear images, shapes, signs, or phrases that violate public decency." Article 8, Section 1 of the same regulations further stipulates that violators may face fines of up to 5,000 riyals (Dh4,800), with penalties doubled for repeat offenses within a year. In areas like Khobar, residents say they can be fined 100 riyals if seen wearing a night thobe in public spaces. The footage is part of a broader video released by the Kingdom's Ministry of Interior, highlighting several enforcement actions carried out across the region. Watch the video below as shared by Ministry of Interior: In another clip, officers are seen conducting a thorough search of a vehicle, where they discovered illegal drugs concealed in multiple parts of the car. In the footage, officers are seen inspecting the car's seats and checking beneath the vehicle, ultimately recovering packets of drugs hidden in several locations. The third clip shows an individual caught begging from outside a car while it was stopped at a traffic signal. Begging in public places, including such incidents at traffic signals, is prohibited under Saudi Arabia's Anti-Begging Law, which enforces strict penalties for both individuals and organised networks involved in these activities. Under the Anti-Begging Law, individuals who beg, manage a network of beggars, or assist others in begging can face imprisonment for up to six months and/or fines reaching 50,000 riyals (Dh48,000). Organised begging networks are subject to even harsher penalties, including imprisonment of up to one year and fines of up to 100,000 riyals (Dh97,000). For non-Saudi beggars, deportation is mandatory after serving their sentence and paying the fine, with a ban from returning to the Kingdom, except for pilgrimage purposes.
Yahoo
24-06-2025
- Yahoo
The Michelin Guide Expands Its Culinary Horizons to Saudi Arabia
MICHELIN KSA CAC QR code 2 QR code 1 125 years The MICHELIN Guide announced its arrival in a new destination: Saudi Arabia, for an upcoming 2026 edition. The restaurant selection for the inaugural edition will be unveiled towards the end of the year 2025. The renowned anonymous MICHELIN Inspectors are already in the field, meticulously exploring the Kingdom's vibrant culinary scene. RIYADH, Saudi Arabia, June 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The MICHELIN Guide announced today its latest expansion into the vibrant culinary landscapes of Saudi Arabia. This new selection will focus on the bustling cities of Riyadh and Jeddah, while also beginning to explore the diverse regions of the Kingdom, including Khobar, AlUla, and many more. The prestigious guide revealed that its independent, anonymous inspectors have been thoroughly exploring these areas to identify the most outstanding dining establishments. This selection will highlight the best of Saudi Arabia's dining scene, showcasing talented chefs and teams who embody passion, creativity, and respect for local culinary traditions. "These past few years, our MICHELIN inspectors have been keeping a watchful eye on The Kingdom's culinary progression and continue to relish the wonderful spectrum that this fast-developing country has to offer,' explained Gwendal Poullennec, International Director of the MICHELIN Guide. Saudi Arabia stands as a unique destination, offering an exquisite blend of ancient history, rich culture, and modern luxury. The Kingdom's diverse landscapes, from the vast deserts to the stunning Red Sea coastline, provide a backdrop for unforgettable experiences. It is home to several UNESCO World Heritage Sites such as Diriyah, and its deep historical and cultural heritage sets it apart. This distinctive blend makes Saudi Arabia an unmatched destination for food lovers, history enthusiasts, and avid travelers. The warmth and generosity of the Saudi people further enhance the travel experience, making every visitor feel welcome and valued. From the heartwarming traditional Saudi restaurants keen to preserve and showcase recipes that have been handed down through the generations, to the always-packed restaurants, and jaw-dropping malls such as VIA Riyadh that feature renowned global brands. Saudi Arabia's diverse and dynamic food culture, from the aromatic spices of traditional dishes to the contemporary creations of modern chefs, is now set to receive the global recognition it deserves. The MICHELIN Guide's presence will not only highlight the culinary talents within the Kingdom but also attract food enthusiasts and connoisseurs from around the globe, eager to explore the unique and exquisite flavors that Saudi Arabia has to offer. Unforgettable experiences aplenty; be it kabsa in a Najd setting or Mubahar rice with the locals, fabulous mini cheese and honey glazed sambosas galore or a mouthwatering masabeeb, the generosity, pride, and hospitality remain firmly in the memory. Additionally, our inspectors observed an impressive culinary diversity, where American cuisine mingles with Japanese, Chinese, Greek, and Thai. Whether it's exceptional Saudi dishes or global favorites, Saudi Arabia offers something for every international traveler eager to explore the captivating sights while savoring the diverse culinary offerings. Mayada Badr, the CEO of the Saudi Culinary Arts Commission, said: 'Our collaboration with the MICHELIN Guide marks an important milestone in celebrating the unique and diverse culinary scene of Saudi Arabia. It shines a light on the creativity and excellence of our chefs and restaurants, and invites the world to discover the distinct flavors and experiences the Kingdom has to offer.' For decades, the MICHELIN Guide has been the gold standard in recognizing and celebrating exceptional dining experiences. Its arrival in Saudi Arabia is a testament to the country's burgeoning culinary landscape, where tradition meets innovation, and local flavors are elevated to new heights. As the MICHELIN Guide begins its journey in the Kingdom, it invites both locals and visitors to embark on a culinary adventure like no other. The MICHELIN Guide MethodologyThe MICHELIN Guide was created in 1900 by the Michelin tire company to support the growth of automobile mobility. Since then, it has remained loyal to its original mission: to settle in mature gastronomic destinations, to guide international travelers and local foodies to the best restaurants, to highlight world culinary scenes, and to promote travel culture. The selection will be made according to the MICHELIN Guide's historic methodology, focusing only on the quality of the cuisine proposed by the restaurants, which the anonymous MICHELIN Guide Inspectors evaluate by following five universal criteria: The quality of the ingredients The mastery of cooking techniques The harmony of flavors The personality of the cuisine The consistency both over time and through the menu as a whole The MICHELIN Guide Restaurant SelectionThe MICHELIN Guide conveys its restaurant reviews through an extensive system of distinctions, which are awarded to special restaurants within its full selection. The most famous distinctions are its globally renowned MICHELIN Stars awarded to the restaurant offering the best culinary experiences. One MICHELIN Star is awarded to restaurants for 'high-quality cooking that is worth a stop,' two MICHELIN Stars for 'excellent cooking that is worth a detour,' and three MICHELIN Stars for 'exceptional cuisine that is worth a special journey.' Alongside the coveted Star ratings, the selection also includes the popular Bib Gourmand category, a distinction awarded to restaurants that provide good quality food at a moderate price. The MICHELIN Guide is committed to maintaining the highest global standards in its restaurant selection process. Our team of anonymous, experienced, and expert inspectors conduct continuous and rigorous evaluations of restaurants. These evaluations are carried out objectively and independently, ensuring that external factors do not influence the results. This dedication to impartiality and excellence guarantees that only outstanding dining establishments are recognized. For the first time, the MICHELIN Guide Saudi Arabia 2026 selection will be revealed in three stages. On the 15th of each month from October to December 2025, the inaugural selection for Saudi Arabia will be unveiled on our dedicated digital platform: To learn more about the MICHELIN Guide history, methodology or selection organization, please visit or follow updates on and MICHELIN Guide Worldwide app for iOS and Android Dedicated Website : @MichelinGuide The MICHELIN Guide celebrates its 125th anniversary! About Michelin Michelin is building a world-leading manufacturer of life-changing composites and experiences. Pioneering engineered materials for more than 130 years, Michelin is uniquely positioned to make decisive contributions to human progress and to a more sustainable world. Drawing on its deep know-how in polymer composites, Michelin is constantly innovating to manufacture high-quality tires and components for critical applications in demanding fields as varied as mobility, construction, aeronautics, low-carbon energies, and healthcare. The care placed in its products and deep customer knowledge inspire Michelin to offer the finest experiences. This spans from providing data- and AI-based connected solutions for professional fleets to recommending outstanding restaurants and hotels curated by the MICHELIN Guide. Headquartered in Clermont-Ferrand, France, Michelin is present in 175 countries and employs 129,800 people. ( Photos accompanying this announcement are available at CONTACT: Press Contact BPG Group michelinguide@ in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
