Latest news with #RedSeaGlobal
Channel Post MEA
4 hours ago
- Business
- Channel Post MEA
SAP's AI Copilot Joule Deployed At Red Sea Global
SAP and Saudi real estate developer Red Sea Global (RSG) have marked a new phase in their strategic partnership with the successful deployment of SAP's AI-powered copilot, Joule, across human capital management functions. The rollout represents a significant step in RSG's growth and digital enhancement, following several years of collaboration with SAP across core business operations. The developer was the first organisation in the Middle East and Africa – North region to roll out Joule, launching the initial phase across the HR functions of its core business units and several subsidiaries. A full-scale deployment across all subsidiaries will follow and will ultimately benefit around 10,500 employees. The current use cases focus on three high-impact areas: job description creation, candidate screening and performance management. Joule is embedded within SAP SuccessFactors and enables HR professionals to complete complex tasks through natural language prompts, helping them automate routine processes, improve consistency and make faster decisions. Red Sea Global plans to extend Joule's capabilities into other SAP systems, including ERP and digital spend/procurement, as part of its strategy to enhance productivity and operational insight across the enterprise. By deploying Joule more broadly and harnessing Business AI, the group aims to run faster, work smarter and operate more efficiently at scale. Sultan Moraished, Group Head of Technology & Corporate Excellence at Red Sea Global, added: 'We are proud to be the first organisation in the region to implement SAP Joule for HR. Implementing Joule AI has empowered our HR teams to focus on strategic initiatives by streamlining repetitive tasks. This technology is a game-changer for fostering talent development and aligning our workforce with the ambitious goals of Vision 2030.' Mohammed Alromaizan, Vice President, SAP KSA, added: 'Red Sea Global is leading by example in applying Business AI to real-world operations. The successful deployment of Joule in HR shows how AI can enhance efficiency, empower teams, and support strategic goals. We're proud to support RSG on their journey to drive innovation and deliver on Vision 2030'. RSG has worked with SAP since 2021 as part of a broader technology transformation aligned with Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030. Its digital ecosystem includes SAP SuccessFactors, SAP Ariba, SAP Supply Chain Management, SAP BTP and SAP S/4HANA Cloud, forming a cloud-first foundation to support sustainable development, operational excellence and long-term growth.
Arab News
6 days ago
- Arab News
How Saudi Arabia is restoring its mangroves to fight climate change and boost tourism
RIYADH: Saudi Arabia is scaling up efforts to protect and expand its mangrove forests — hailed as 'nature's super ecosystems' — as part of a push to restore coastal habitats, combat climate change, and diversify the Kingdom's tourism economy. As the world marks the UN-designated International Day for the Conservation of the Mangrove Ecosystem on July 26, new initiatives are building on earlier successes and harnessing cutting-edge technology, long-term planning, and private-sector collaboration. 'Mangrove forests are nature's super ecosystems — capable of storing large amounts of carbon, preventing coastal erosion, supporting biodiversity, and mitigating floods,' said Raed Al-Basseet, group chief environment and sustainability officer at Red Sea Global. Mangroves are salt-tolerant trees that grow in the intertidal zones of the Red Sea and Arabian Gulf. They stabilize coastlines, trap pollutants, act as carbon sinks, and provide vital breeding grounds for marine life. Their dense roots protect against erosion and storm surges, while their branches shelter nesting birds, and marine species, such as shrimp, lay their eggs among their roots. Their leaves also serve as food for many other organisms. Today, two species dominate Saudi Arabia's mangrove zones: Rhizophora mucronata (Al-Qundil), found along the southern Red Sea coast, and Avicennia marina (Al-Qarm), which thrives on the Arabian Gulf and northern Red Sea shores. According to Saudipedia, Saudi Arabia is home to approximately 400 million mangrove trees, spread across 60 million square meters, with an average density of over 86,000 trees per hectare. • International Day for the Conservation of the Mangrove Ecosystem is marked every year on July 26. • Saudi Arabia aims to plant more than 100 million mangrove trees along its coastlines by the year 2030. • Red Sea Global has cultivated more than 3 million seedlings as part of its environmental restoration strategy. As part of the Saudi Green Initiative, launched in 2021 to support the Kingdom's sustainability goals and its net-zero emissions target by 2060, authorities have committed to planting more than 100 million mangrove trees by 2030. That is a fraction of the SGI's broader ambition to plant 10 billion trees across Saudi Arabia in the coming decades, but mangroves are a priority given their powerful role in carbon sequestration and biodiversity. In 2023, a pilot mangrove restoration scheme began at Jeddah Islamic Port. Meanwhile, the National Center for Vegetation Cover Development and Combating Desertification is spearheading coastal planting projects in Jazan, Makkah, Tabuk, Madinah, Asir, and the Eastern Province, using nurseries and protective measures to ensure long-term survival. As of the 2021 mangrove conservation day, officials had already planted more than 14.6 million mangrove trees, in partnership with private and public sector entities. 'The cultivation and transplantation of mangrove trees is a highly technical process that demands detailed planning and precision,' said Al-Basseet. 'We carefully monitor tidal cycles to identify suitable low-tide periods and avoid windy conditions during planting.' Saudi Arabia's mangrove reforestation programs are increasingly powered by geographic information systems, drones, and satellite imagery, helping experts pinpoint ideal sites based on factors like sediment composition, salinity, and tidal movement. To protect young trees, conservation teams install fencing and even deploy camera traps to deter animals, such as camels, from grazing on the saplings. 'Mangrove regeneration is integral to our broader environmental sustainability strategy,' said Tariq Al-Abassi, senior director of environmental programs at RSG. 'By following a science-led approach, we ensure the long-term viability and regeneration of these ecosystems as a renewable natural asset.' Mangroves are among the most carbon-dense forests on Earth, locking away CO2 in both biomass and soil. They also reduce ocean acidification by moderating localized pH levels, helping buffer marine life against the effects of climate change. But their value is not only environmental. Mangroves support eco-tourism — such as kayaking, birdwatching, and nature tours — and provide ingredients used in cosmetics and dyes. Increasingly, they are a cornerstone of Saudi Arabia's vision to develop eco-friendly marine parks and coastal attractions that align with its economic diversification goals under Vision 2030. With rising global awareness around the importance of coastal ecosystems, Saudi Arabia's mangrove strategy positions the Kingdom not only as a regional conservation leader but as a global one. As Al-Basseet put it: 'They are among our most efficient natural tools for climate resilience.'
Zawya
21-07-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Acciona Living & Culture appoints Yannic Leveque as Vice President for The Middle East
RIYADH: ACCIONA Living & Culture is pleased to announce the appointment of Yannic Leveque as Vice President for the Middle East, marking a key milestone in the company's strategic expansion across the region, particularly in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Yannic brings over 20+ years of international experience in architecture, construction, and cultural destination development and 10 years in the GCC. Her portfolio includes some of the most iconic and complex projects in the Middle East, such as the Guggenheim Museum Abu Dhabi, Uptown Tower and Atlantis The Royal in Dubai, Clinique La Prairie and Jayasom hotels in Amaala, and Laheq Island under The Red Sea Global Projects. She has also worked on significant projects in Europe, including the Building Vacláv Havel for the European Parliament. Yannic's appointment comes at a crucial time as ACCIONA Living & Culture continues to support the delivery of ambitious cultural and hospitality initiatives across Saudi Arabia and the GCC. Her leadership will reinforce the company's position as a partner of choice for projects that place culture at the core of entertainment and economic progress, in full alignment with the goals of Saudi Vision 2030. 'I am thrilled to join ACCIONA Living & Culture at such a pivotal moment for the region,' said Yannic Leveque. 'With over 50 projects delivered at Expo 2020 Dubai and landmark cultural works like the 3-2-1 Qatar Olympic and Sports Museum, the Shindagha Museums, and major hospitality developments across Saudi Arabia, ACCIONA Living & Culture has demonstrated an unparalleled ability to deliver high-impact cultural and experiential experiences. The Middle East is redefining the global cultural landscape, and I look forward to building on this impressive legacy by leading innovative projects that connect communities and contribute meaningfully to the region's transformation.' As Middle East Vice President, Yannic will lead efforts to expand ACCIONA Living and Culture's footprint in the cultural, experiential, and luxury tourism sectors, leveraging her extensive background in design and execution of large-scale, high-profile developments. Her passion for working with diverse and talented teams, combined with a proven track record of delivering excellence in complex environments, makes her a key asset to ACCIONA Living & Culture's growth strategy in the region. PROJECTS IN THE MIDDLE EAST ACCIONA Living & Culture has a strong presence in the Museums, Exhibitions, and Events sector across the Middle East. Among its major past achievements are the National Museum of Oman and a significant contribution to Expo 2020 Dubai, delivering 54 projects and nearly 35,000 m² of exhibition space, including the Sustainability Pavilion, UAE Pavilion, Spanish Pavilion, Youth Pavilion, Expo Live Pavilion, Thematic Pavilions, and Micro-museums. Other standout projects include the Shindagha Museums in Dubai and the Qasr Al Watan Presidential Palace in Abu Dhabi. Currently, ACCIONA is executing various exhibitions and museum projects in Abu Dhabi and the wider region. In Qatar, ACCIONA, in collaboration with UCC, was responsible for the fit-out and museography of the 3-2-1 Qatar Olympic and Sports Museum, the largest museum globally dedicated to the Olympic Games and sports. The company also led the design and production of over 150 media installations for the National Museum of Qatar, delivered the Msheireb Museums, and produced several high-profile temporary exhibitions for Qatar Museums, including the Al Jazeera Exhibition and Tales of a Connected World: Lusail Museum. In Saudi Arabia, ACCIONA has expanded its footprint with projects such as the Net Zero Exhibition and fit-out works for several high-end hospitality developments along the Red Sea coast. Additionally, the company has been involved in delivering VIP lounges for Riyadh Air, both at the Riyadh Airport and at the Wanda Metropolitano Stadium—home of the Atlético de Madrid football team—in Spain. With a strong presence in the region, ACCIONA Living & Culture continues to deliver world-class cultural projects that inform, inspire, and foster meaningful public engagement. ACCIONA Living & Culture combines innovative urbanism and culture to develop sustainable projects around the world. With more than 30 years of experience and presence in over 40 countries, the company has created responsible urban solutions such as residential complexes, iconic offices, interior design projects and logistics spaces, as well as museums, exhibitions, immersive experiences and sports and entertainment events. Notable cultural projects developed by ACCIONA Living & Culture include the Grand Egyptian Museum, the House of European History Museum in Brussels and the Qatar Olympic & Sports Museum. In the residential sector, it has developed more than 13,000 homes in Spain, Mexico, Poland, Portugal and Brazil, as well as offices and major logistics projects. ACCIONA is a global company and a leader in providing renewable solutions for a decarbonized economy. Its business offerings include renewable energy, water treatment and management, eco-efficient transport and mobility systems, resilient infrastructure, etc. The company has been carbon neutral since 2016. ACCIONA recorded sales of €19.190 billion in 2024 and has a business presence in more than 40 countries.
Arab News
19-07-2025
- Business
- Arab News
Jeddah by jet ski: How the Red Sea is powering Saudi Arabia's new tourism economy
RIYADH: Once a trading port and gateway to holy cities, Jeddah's Red Sea coast has transformed into a lively center for marine leisure, luxury tourism, and major yachting and water sports events. This shift shows Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 diversification plan in action, with private enterprise working alongside government-led reforms to help deliver new economic developments. In 2024, Jeddah's Red Sea tourism figures were robust, with the Jeddah Season attracting over 1.7 million visitors in 52 days, according to the Saudi Press Agency. This came as the Kingdom as a whole saw a record 30 million inbound tourists in 2024, an 8 percent increase from 2023, with a total inbound tourism spending of SR168.5 billion ($44 million), up 19 percent year on year, according to the Ministry of Tourism. How the Red Sea coastline in Jeddah changed into a key hub for marine leisure activities Developments on hand are part of a larger coastal regeneration plan aimed at establishing Jeddah as a key gateway between the Red Sea and global destinations. According to Samir Imran, partner at Arthur D. Little Middle East, the Red Sea Global resort is expanding its eco-development along the Red Sea coast, focusing on regenerative tourism, coral reef preservation, and high-end hospitality, noting that resorts like Sheybarah, Six Senses, and Desert Rock are already open, with more set to launch soon. 'Modern Waterfront & Marinas: Jeddah's 4.2 km Corniche Waterfront was completely redeveloped and opened, providing parks, beaches, promenades and recreational facilities. Now named the Roshn Waterfront, this seaside promenade attracts over 55 million visitors each year who come to exercise and enjoy Red Sea views,' Imran said. He explained that the Jeddah Yacht Club & Marina, which opened in 2022, is Saudi Arabia's first luxury tourist marina, offering 101 deep-water berths, superyacht services, and positioning Jeddah as a key hub for the Kingdom's growing tourism sector. Similarly, PwC Middle East Partner and Global Tourism Industry Lead, Nicolas Mayer, elaborated on how Jeddah's Red Sea coast has become a top tourism destination, offering a mix of heritage, culture, and marine leisure that appeals to today's experience-driven travelers. 'There's also been rapid growth in nature-based activities. Snorkeling, fishing trips, and coral reef tours now feature alongside kayaking, bird watching, and excursions into the coastal wetlands. These options open the door to everything from a morning adventure to a multi-day itinerary,' Mayer said. 'What makes Jeddah special is how well all of this comes together. You can start your day in a historic district and end it on a jet ski or dining seaside. For many visitors, this mix of experiences is what makes Jeddah feel like a real destination, not just a single attraction,' he added. How the Saudi Vision 2030 is influencing the coastal renaissance in Jeddah Jeddah's marine luxury growth stems from the Kingdom's Vision 2030, which drives tourism, economic diversification, and quality of life, with the coastline showcasing these efforts. From Arthur D. Little's side, Imran explained that Saudi Arabia has introduced major regulatory reforms to boost marine tourism, including tourist e-visas, lifting the ban on foreign-flagged yachts, and establishing the Red Sea Authority to issue licenses and oversee the sector's growth. 'By establishing defined entry points with customs facilities and streamlining yacht permit procedures, the Kingdom eliminated longstanding barriers, making it more accessible and connected to the global community,' he said. The partner went on to say that under Vision 2030, the nation has heavily invested in the area's tourism infrastructure, including the Jeddah Central Project, backed by the Public Investment Fund, which is expected to feature a new waterfront, marina, beaches, and cultural landmarks by 2027. At the same time, the government is encouraging private-sector participation through regulatory reforms and incentives, leading to partnerships like Cruise Saudi and MSC Cruises, all aimed at transforming Jeddah into a global marine tourism hub. He added that the area's coastal transformation is fueling Saudi Arabia's tourism boom. As marine attractions grow, so does local spending and job creation, with Red Sea tourism expected to add SR85 billion to gross domestic product and create 210,000 jobs by 2030. 'In Jeddah, one can already see the impact in the hospitality sector: dozens of new restaurants, cafes, and boutique hotels have sprung up along the revitalized Corniche, employing Saudi youth and diversifying the local economy,' Imran said. He concluded by saying that marine sports in Jeddah are boosting local talent, with over 1,000 Saudis trained in 2024 for roles like dive instructors and marina managers. Vision 2030 has also enabled women to join the sector, competing in sailing and powerboat racing. These efforts are creating a cycle of stronger infrastructure, workforce inclusion, and rising tourism. Additionally, Vision 2030 has driven Jeddah's shift from standalone projects to integrated coastal destinations, fostering long-term tourism growth and job creation. 'In Jeddah, we're seeing a sharp rise in new job categories tied to the marine economy. Tour operators, diving instructors, marina staff, fishing guides, and jet ski rental businesses are expanding fast. Yacht chartering and high-end marine hospitality are growing too,' PwC's Mayer said. He continued to stress that upscale waterfront dining is boosting demand for a wide range of hospitality roles, supported by local training programs. Meanwhile, the 'Umrah Plus' trend is encouraging religious visitors to extend their stays for cultural and leisure experiences, creating new jobs and aligning with Vision 2030's goals of economic diversification and investment in people. The future development of Jeddah's marine Arthur D. Little's Imran noted that Jeddah's Red Sea coast is set to strengthen its position as a marine luxury hub, combining heritage with modern coastal appeal. With strong infrastructure already in place, experts are optimistic about continued rapid growth. 'The Al-Arbaeen Lagoon revival, with its new yacht marina and 4.4 km park, is actively under construction in 2025. These will add capacity for more boats and more visitors. Cruise tourism is also ramping up, Jeddah's port is now a home base for Red Sea cruises, introducing yet another stream of maritime tourists exploring the coast,' he said. 'We can expect tourist volumes in Jeddah to keep climbing as air connectivity improves and as word spreads about its Red Sea treasures,' the ADL partner added. Private and global investors are playing a bigger role in Jeddah's tourism growth, aiming to serve 19 million coastal visitors by 2030, many from the region, Imran clarified. He noted that experts view Jeddah's Red Sea location as ideal for year-round yachting, positioning it as a strong alternative to winter destinations such as the Caribbean or Dubai. From PwC's perspective, Mayer justified that the Red Sea Authority will ensure future growth stays sustainable and coordinated, while the city's active private sector helps drive innovation and preserve its unique character. 'We'll likely see growth in multi-day yacht itineraries that link Jeddah to quieter parts of the coast. Cruise tourism might also become a bigger part of the mix, especially as infrastructure improves. Water taxis, floating hotels, and digitally enhanced marine experiences, like virtual dive guides, could help the city appeal to younger travelers and tech-savvy tourists,' Mayer said. He added: 'Jeddah also benefits from its position as both a cultural capital and a transit hub for religious tourism. That makes it a natural gateway. Travelers might start their trip with Umrah or a visit to Al-Balad and then head to the coast for a few days of nature and leisure.'
Leaders
15-07-2025
- Business
- Leaders
AMAALA Unveils Professional Sailing Team to Champion Ocean Science, Sustainability
Red Sea Global has officially launched Team AMAALA, a professional sailing team that will compete in The Ocean Race Europe 2025—one of the most prestigious and challenging sailing competitions in the world. The race will span several stages from the Baltic Sea to the Adriatic Sea, placing AMAALA at the heart of an international movement for ocean sustainability. Sailing, Sustainability The formation of Team AMAALA represents a significant step in Red Sea Global's deepening connection with the sailing world. This move also reflects the company's long-term commitment to ocean conservation and sustainable development. Leading the team is Alan Roura, a renowned Swiss sailor with a strong track record in high-performance ocean racing, particularly in the IMOCA 60 class. Vision for Conscious Tourism, Environmental Advocacy John Pagano, CEO of Red Sea Global, emphasized the broader mission behind the initiative: 'We are building integrated destinations guided by science and inspired by nature, aiming to enhance the well-being of humans, society, and nature together. We also believe that conscious tourism can be a driving force for positive change and a means to empower destinations to thrive and sustain.' He added that Team AMAALA's presence in The Ocean Race Europe offers a powerful platform to advocate for global solidarity in protecting marine environments. 'If there is a time when the world needs a collective will to protect our oceans and natural inspiration for sailors, this is the right time,' Pagano noted. Global Recognition, Stronger Identity Pagano further highlighted the strategic value of Team AMAALA: 'This project enhances our global identity and presence. While Red Sea Global has been a proud part of The Ocean Race family since 2023, now it's time for Team AMAALA to raise its flag on the global stage and forge deeper connections with the sailing world and the luxury yachting lifestyle central to our destination.' Following its debut in The Ocean Race Europe 2025, Team AMAALA is set to participate in future landmark events, including: A transatlantic race from New York to Barcelona in 2026 A round-the-world race in 2027, with the AMAALA destination as the grand finale, making it the first time the race concludes on the Red Sea coast Commitment to Ocean Science, Research As part of its participation, AMAALA will also serve as an official supporter of The Ocean Race's science program during both the 2025 and 2027 races. This initiative will collect critical ocean data, such as: Water temperature Salinity levels Oxygen and CO₂ content Microplastic concentrations Environmental DNA samples This data will be shared with international scientific bodies, contributing to a deeper understanding of changing oceanic conditions, particularly in European waters. The 2023 edition of the race yielded over four million data points for scientific research. Corallium One of the key beneficiaries of this data will be Corallium, AMAALA's marine life center set to open later this year. Corallium will serve as a global hub for: Ocean conservation Marine education Environmental awareness Ocean Race Finally, Red Sea Global's partnership with The Ocean Race began in 2023, rooted in a shared mission to promote ocean health and sustainability. In 2024, AMAALA was officially named the final destination for the 15th edition of The Ocean Race in 2027—an honor that underscores the Red Sea's growing significance in the global sailing and marine conservation communities. Related Topics : AMAALA Project: New Milestones in Luxury Red Sea Destination Red Sea International Earns 7 LEED Certificates for Real Estate Projects Saudi Red Sea Authority Launches 'More than One Sea' Campaign Short link : Post Views: 20
