National Museum of Saudi Arabia Launches “Memory of the Home” for Founding Day and Ramadan

Manal Saleh

An analysis of Saudi outbound eSIM usage by Airalo, covering the period from November 2024 to October 2025, shows notable year-on-year growth in destinations such as Vietnam, Lebanon, Lithuania, and Uganda—highlighting a broader shift in Saudi travel preferences.

While established destinations in Europe and Turkey continue to attract high volumes, the data indicates that Saudi travelers are becoming more confident in exploring non-traditional routes, reflecting changing lifestyles and a more outward-looking travel mindset.

“Saudi travelers today are more globally aware and open to discovering new cultures,” said Ahmed Elficky, Regional Director at Airalo. “We’re seeing growing interest in destinations that offer authentic experiences and cultural depth, which signals a clear evolution in how Saudis approach international travel.”

Reflecting Lifestyle Shifts in Saudi Arabia

The rise of emerging destinations mirrors wider social and lifestyle changes taking place across the Kingdom. As international travel becomes more accessible and frequent, Saudi travelers are diversifying where they go and how they travel—placing greater value on meaningful experiences and flexibility.

Countries in Southeast Asia, Africa, and Eastern Europe are attracting increased attention due to cultural richness, competitive travel costs, greater visibility through digital platforms and social media, and improved access to reliable digital services while abroad.

Connectivity as a Travel Essential

As Saudis travel to a wider range of destinations, staying connected has become an essential part of the journey. Reliable mobile connectivity supports navigation, communication, and access to digital services—particularly in less familiar markets.

“Whether traveling for leisure or exploration, connectivity gives travelers confidence,” Elficky added. “It allows people to focus on the experience itself, knowing they can stay connected wherever they are.”

Looking Ahead

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Manal Saleh

ASMO, a joint venture between Aramco and DHL Supply Chain, has partnered with Arcapita Group Holdings Limited (“Arcapita”), a global alternative investment firm, to develop a 1.4 million square meter purpose-built logistics facility in Saudi Arabia designed to support the next phase of the Kingdom’s logistics and supply chain development. The project will be delivered through a forward funding transaction, reflecting a long-term investment in national infrastructure.

Through the partnership, Arcapita will fund and retain ownership of the facility, while ASMO will develop, lease, and operate the asset under a 22-year occupational lease. The facility will include a 43,000 square meter temperature-controlled Grade-A logistics warehouse, over 3,000 square meters of offices and staff facilities, 5,300 square meters of dedicated chemical storage space, and a 1.2 million square meter open yard. The investment reflects a shared goal by the parties to develop resilient, scalable, and future-ready institutional grade logistics infrastructure in the Kingdom.

Designed for large-scale industrial operations, the facility will help boast advanced warehouse and building management systems, digital integration, automated storage and retrieval systems, robotics, adherence to globally recognized sustainability standards, including photovoltaic readiness, electrical vehicle charging, and a LEED Gold certification.

“This development reflects the strategic intent behind ASMO’s mandate and reaffirms its role in enabling resilient and future-ready supply chains”, said Salem Al Huraish, Chairman of ASMO. “By investing in long-term infrastructure and strategic partnerships, ASMO is supporting the Kingdom’s industrial ambitions and contributing to the development of integrated logistics capabilities that serve both national priorities and global markets.”

The facility represents ASMO’s first purpose-built logistics center and forms part of four planned strategic sites underpinning ASMO’s national logistics network, aligned with the National Transport and Logistics Strategy (NTLS) under Saudi Vision 2030. Once operational, it will serve Aramco, its affiliates, and other key industrial players across the Kingdom. 

“ASMO’s new logistics hub at SPARK helps to strengthen Aramco’s supply chain resilience by delivering a centralized, high-efficiency facility in the heart of Saudi Arabia’s energy sector. As an anchor customer, we recognize the value of ASMO’s strategic investments in logistics infrastructure, demonstrating their ambition to delivering innovative, customer-focused solutions across the supply chain,” said Sulaiman Al Rubaian, Aramco Senior Vice President of Procurement & Supply Chain Management.

Isa Al Khalifa, Director and Head of MENA Real Estate at Arcapita, said: “This transaction builds on Arcapita’s established track record in developing and investing in Grade-A logistics and industrial assets. Combining our local expertise in Saudi Arabia with our experience in complex, forward-funded developments, we are pleased to partner with ASMO to support the development of a purpose-built facility that supports the Kingdom’s energy and industrial sectors, while securing a high-quality asset.”

Mishal Al Zughaibi, President & CEO of King Salman Energy Park (SPARK), said: “We are pleased to welcome ASMO to SPARK as part of a strategic partnership that further strengthens SPARK’s position as a premier logistics hub aligned with the Kingdom’s Vision 2030. This significant investment reflects the strong collaboration and ambition of all parties involved. SPARK’s advanced infrastructure and comprehensive services were a key factor in ASMO’s decision to establish its state-of-the-art logistics center within our park.” 

Located within Saudi Arabia’s energy ecosystem, SPARK is strategically positioned between Dammam Seaport, Aramco’s Abqaiq facilities, and Al Hasa, enabling direct connectivity across the Kingdom’s energy and industrial network. The site supports integrated operations through modern infrastructure and digital readiness and has attracted more than 70 investors from 16 countries, with Phase One infrastructure representing a total investment of $1.6 billion

Manal Saleh

[Riyadh, KSA - 23.02.2026] HONOR, a leading global AI device ecosystem company announces its global launch event at MWC Barcelona 2026, where the company will showcase the highly anticipated HONOR Robot Phone and offer a sneak peek into its future. HONOR will also introduce the HONOR Magic V6, its next-generation foldable featuring improved durability, a larger battery, and a slimmer design, reinforcing HONOR’s leadership in foldables.

Upcoming flagships, including the MagicPad 4 and MagicBook Pro 14, will further demonstrate how AI-powered devices boost productivity with superior performance in an ultra-slim profile.

As a firm believer in the future of AI, HONOR is guided by the brand vision of “combining human-centric design with technology to maximize human potential.” Following the introduction of the HONOR ALPHA PLAN at MWC Barcelona 2025, this year’s launch will highlight the company’s latest progress. From flagship devices to robotics innovations, HONOR will further demonstrate its vision of a human-machine synergized future at MWC.

HONOR invites attendees to join its keynote launch event to witness the future of AI devices and experience its groundbreaking innovations firsthand. The HONOR Keynote Launch Event will take place on March 1, 2026, from 13:00–14:00 CET at Palau de Congressos de Barcelona, Avenida La Reina Maria Cristina, 08004 Barcelona, Spain.

ABOUT HONOR

HONOR is a global leading AI device ecosystem company. It is committed to revolutionizing human-to-device interactions to bridge the AI ecosystem with all consumers in the agentic AI era and beyond. The company endeavors to open industrial boundaries through open, seamless collaboration to co-create a value-sharing ecosystem with industry partners. With an innovative product portfolio spanning AI phones, PCs, tablets, wearables and more, HONOR aims to empower every human, enabling everyone to embrace the new intelligent world

Manal Saleh

TAIBA, the leading Saudi company in the hospitality sector, announced the appointment of Mr. Tareq Derbas as Vice President of Hospitality Operations. This appointment reflects the company's commitment to strengthening its leadership team and advancing its long-term growth strategy, in line with the evolving tourism and hospitality landscape in the Kingdom. 

Mr. Derbas brings more than three decades of distinguished experience in luxury hospitality across the Middle East, including Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Jordan, and Oman. 

Throughout his career, Mr. Derbas has held senior leadership positions with renowned global brands, including The Ritz-Carlton, St. Regis, and Four Seasons, where he successfully led flagship properties and multiple hotel portfolios. 

Before joining TAIBA, Mr. Derbas served as Area General Manager at FAENA Hotels in Saudi Arabia and as a Board Member of the Jordan Tourism Board. His professional journey also includes key leadership roles at iconic properties such as Burj Al Arab, further reinforcing his deep operational expertise and strong understanding of the regional market. 

Mr. Derbas is known for his results-driven leadership style and his ability to enhance operational excellence, elevate guest experiences, and build high-performing management teams. His extensive experience in property repositioning and portfolio optimization has consistently contributed to achieving strong commercial and financial results. 

In his new role at TAIBA, Mr. Derbas will lead the hospitality operations, oversee performance across the company's portfolio, support expansion initiatives, and ensure the consistent delivery of world-class service standards. He will also play a key role in strengthening TAIBA's position as a leading hospitality platform in the Kingdom. 

On this occasion, Mr. Derbas stated: "I am honored to join TAIBA at this important stage of its journey, and I look forward to working with the team to enhance operational performance, strengthen our brands, and deliver exceptional experiences for our guests".

It is worth noting that TAIBA is keen to attract outstanding talent as part of its strategy to achieve operational excellence, create sustainable value, and reinforce its leading position in the Saudi hospitality sector.

Manal Saleh

·        Positions Aluminium Arabia as a strategic industry platform aligned with Vision 2030 manufacturing and localisation objectives

·        Hosted in partnership with the National Industrial Development Center (NIDC) as the official Government Partner

·        Connects global aluminium leaders with Saudi Arabia’s expanding metals and advanced manufacturing ecosystem

Riyadh, Saudi Arabia | 23 Feb 2026: Aluminium Arabia 2026, organised by RX, will take place from 27 to 29 April 2026 at Arena Riyadh, establishing itself as a strategic industrial platform supporting Saudi Arabia’s manufacturing growth, localisation objectives and advanced industrial development in line with Vision 2030. The exhibition brings together government stakeholders, global industry leaders and local manufacturers to accelerate the Kingdom’s aluminium value chain and strengthen industrial capabilities across the sector.

The exhibition is organised in partnership with the National Industrial Development Center (NIDC), the official Government Partner for Aluminium Arabia 2026. The partnership aims to position NIDC as a leading national enabler within the exhibition, amplifying its efforts to localise value chains, foster innovation and connect Saudi industries with international markets. This collaboration reinforces Aluminium Arabia’s role as a bridge between policy, industry and global expertise, aligned with national industrial priorities.

As part of the global ALUMINIUM portfolio of events, including Aluminium Global Exhibition in Düsseldorf, Aluminium Arabia delivers international credibility while tailoring its content to the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 ambitions. Saudi Arabia’s aluminium market is projected to reach a value of USD 3.53 billion by 2030, driven by a compound annual growth rate of 4.4 percent. This growth is underpinned by more than USD 12 billion invested in aluminium projects, abundant bauxite reserves, competitive energy costs and the presence of one of the world’s largest integrated aluminium production complexes at Ras Al-Khair Industrial City, producing 740,000 tonnes of aluminium per year.

Saudi Arabia has also set a clear ambition to be positioned among the top 10 aluminium producers globally, supported by broader investments across the metals sector and national initiatives that prioritise industrial innovation and localisation.

The inaugural Riyadh edition will unite the full aluminium value chain, from raw materials and processing technologies to downstream applications across construction, automotive, aerospace and packaging. With more than USD 1.3 trillion worth of infrastructure and megaprojects underway across the Kingdom, demand for aluminium solutions is accelerating, creating significant opportunities for producers, technology providers and end users.

Aluminium Arabia is structured around five core content pillars: downstream development; end-user applications; investment and localisation; sustainability and circular economy; and innovation, talent and Industry 4.0, including AI, IoT and data analytics. Together, these pillars reflect the exhibition’s comprehensive scope and its role in supporting the future development of Saudi Arabia’s aluminium and manufacturing ecosystem.

By aligning global best practices with local implementation, Aluminium Arabia 2026 aims to serve as a long-term platform shaping the future of the Middle East’s aluminium industry and industrial landscape.

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Manal Saleh

Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, February 19, 2026: Saudia Dairy and Foodstuff Company (SADAFCO) (Tadawul: 2270) has announced that its Board of Directors has approved the distribution of cash dividends to shareholders for the second half of the year ending 31 December 2025, underscoring the company’s continued commitment to delivering sustainable shareholder value.  

The total dividend payout amounts to SAR 255,677,016, to be distributed across 31,959,627 eligible shares, representing a dividend of SAR 8 per share. Dividend distribution is scheduled for 10 March 2026.

The announcement comes as the company reported positive financial results for the year ended December 31, 2025, delivering revenue growth, improved operating performance, and continued market leadership across its core product categories.

In a challenging operating environment, SADAFCO successfully delivered against its 2025 priorities of driving volume growth while protecting and strengthening market share.

The business achieved high single-digit volume growth across the portfolio. Notably, SADAFCO’s flagship SKU — 1-litre UHT milk — recorded 14% volume growth. In addition, its ice cream hero product, Saudia Sandwich, accelerated significantly, delivering close to 20% volume growth in the second half of 2025 in Saudi Arabia.

Market share performance was equally strong. Comparing year-end 2024 with year-end 2025, SADAFCO recorded substantial gains across key categories: +550 basis points for 1-litre milk, +540 basis points for flavoured milk, and +150 basis points for ice cream (AC Nielsen, Nov 24 vs Nov 25).

SADAFCO recorded full-year revenue of SAR 2.99 billion, representing a 4.96% increase year-on-year, reflecting strong consumer demand and continued progress in strategic growth channels. This performance builds on momentum seen earlier in the year, with first-half revenue reaching SAR 1.56 billion, an 8.6% increase compared to the same period in 2024.

Operating profit increased to SAR 483.6 million, up 1.21%, supported by disciplined execution and operational focus. Total comprehensive income attributable to shareholders rose 1.73% to SAR 489.5 million, demonstrating the company’s ability to maintain resilient profitability while continuing to invest in future growth.

First-half net profit reached SAR 243.8 million, while net profit for the first nine months stood at SAR 428.31 million, underscoring consistent earnings strength across the year.

Performance was underpinned by strong momentum in high-growth channels, with e-commerce sales rising by 54.9%, the out-of-home channel growing by 38.4%, and export sales increasing by 26.0%. SADAFCO also continued to expand its international footprint, entering new export markets, while its Mlekoma operations delivered a 29.8% year-on-year increase in sales, reinforcing the benefits of its international expansion strategy.

The company maintained its leadership across key categories, retaining market share positions of 58.4% in UHT milk, 51.3% in tomato paste, and 30.5% in ice cream. A healthy gross margin of 31.1% supported an overall profitability level of 15.9%, reflecting the strength of SADAFCO’s product portfolio and operational resilience.

Commenting on the results, Patrick Stillhart, Chief Executive Officer of SADAFCO, said: “Our 2025 performance reflects the strength of our strategy and the disciplined execution of our teams across the business. By accelerating growth in high-potential channels, expanding our international footprint, and reinforcing our leadership across core categories, we continue to build a more resilient and future-ready company. We remain focused on delivering sustainable growth and long-term value for our shareholders.”

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About Saudia Dairy & Foodstuff Company (SADAFCO):

SADAFCO is a publicly listed company that has been producing high-quality dairy and food products under the Saudia brand since 1976. SADAFCO is considered one of the leading companies in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in the production of tomato paste, ice cream, and milk.

SADAFCO is headquartered in Jeddah and manages sales and distribution operations across 24 locations within the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The company also has a presence in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries and exports its products to selected markets in the Middle East and North Africa.

Manal Saleh

* Advancing Saudi Arabia’s Position as a Global Healthcare Innovation Leader Aligned with Vision 2030

Riyadh, Saudi Arabia – 18 February 2026: Novartis commenced 2026 with two significant recognitions in Saudi Arabia, affirming its leadership in clinical research and contributions to the Kingdom’s developing healthcare sector.

At the Clinical Trials Transformation Conference: Unraveling the Future in Riyadh, Novartis was awarded First Place in the Clinical Research Contribution Award, presented by King Faisal Specialist Hospital & Research Centre. This accolade acknowledges Novartis’ commitment to advancing high-quality clinical research in Saudi Arabia and enhancing local scientific expertise.

Additionally, the Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA), through its 2025 clinical trials statistics, recognized Novartis as the leading multinational company contributing to clinical trials within the Kingdom. This recognition further demonstrates Novartis’ ongoing investment in research and development as well as its dedication to delivering innovative therapies to patients in Saudi Arabia.

These dual recognitions underscore the value of a robust clinical research environment in establishing Saudi Arabia as a center for global healthcare innovation, directly supporting the objectives outlined in Saudi Vision 2030. By integrating advanced clinical trials with rigorous research efforts, Novartis continues to support the Kingdom’s growth as a leader in healthcare innovation benefiting patients both locally and internationally.

Amir Abdulaziz, Country President of Novartis Saudi Arabia, stated: “Beginning the year with these recognitions reflects our sustained partnership with the Kingdom. These acknowledgments emphasize the effectiveness of our collaboration with regulatory bodies, healthcare institutions, and professionals, as well as our collective commitment to meaningful clinical research. Consistent with Vision 2030, we remain dedicated to reimagining medicine, investing in local talent, and positioning Saudi Arabia at the forefront of healthcare innovation.”

Novartis maintains a long-established presence in Saudi Arabia, committed to supporting Vision 2030 by improving health outcomes, promoting innovation, contributing to economic diversification, and investing in people and communities. In 2025, Novartis medicines reached millions of patients across the Kingdom, ensuring access to innovative therapeutic solutions. By addressing unmet medical needs and introducing advanced treatments, Novartis seeks to enhance quality of life and improve long-term health outcomes.

Human capital remains central to Novartis’ operations in Saudi Arabia. In line with Vision 2030’s priorities on employment, Saudization, and advancing women's workforce participation, Novartis continues to attract, develop, and retain local talent, foster an inclusive and diverse work environment, and support professional development and leadership initiatives. These efforts not only advance healthcare but also contribute to the broader development of the life sciences sector and the economic transformation of the Kingdom.

Manal Saleh

TAIBA, the leading Saudi company in the hospitality sector, unveiled this year's "Amasy TAIBA Ramadan" campaign, featuring a new identity and a refreshed concept that combines the values of the holy month, the authenticity of Saudi heritage, and the elegance of modern hotel experiences.

The campaign offers unparalleled hospitality, reflecting generosity, warm reception, and operational excellence across TAIBA's hotel properties throughout the kingdom.

This year's theme, "The Charm of Glowing Nights", draws inspiration from TAIBA's core values and visual identity rooted in Saudi culture, particularly as Saudi Founding Day coincides with the month of Ramadan. This approach enhances the national and human dimension of the experience, providing guests with an immersive atmosphere that harmoniously blends tradition with contemporary comfort.

The activities take place across a curated selection of TAIBA hotels, including Crowne Plaza Riyadh Palace, Riyadh Airport Marriott, Holiday Inn Jubail, Holiday Inn Tabuk, in addition to Makarem Hotels in Makkah and Madinah. All participating hotels follow unified quality and service standards to ensure a consistent and exceptional Ramadan experience for all guests.

"Amasy" 2026 offers a truly unique Ramadan experience with premium Iftar and Suhoor menus served in a welcoming and elegant setting. The program also features a variety of cultural and interactive activities aimed to enriching Ramadan evenings while fostering a deeper connection to Islamic values and community traditions.

Throughout the month, "Amasy" will host weekly events emphasizing social interaction and national identity, with evenings inspired by Saudi heritage, creative workshops, and photography experiences. Guests will also receive thoughtfully curated Ramadan gift packages that celebrate the spirit of the holy month.

As part of its commitment to social responsibility, TAIBA seeks, through the activities of the "Amasy TAIBA Ramadan" campaign, to implement a number of community initiatives that promote the values of solidarity and social cohesion and reflect the company's role in serving the community during the holy month. These efforts reinforce values of solidarity and social cohesion, demonstrating the company's dedication to serving the community during Ramadan.

The "Amasy" experience will also integrate key national and social occasions that coincide with Ramadan, such as Saudi Founding Day, International Women's Day, and Mother's Day, through interactive programs, cultural performances, and dedicated promotional campaigns that enrich the Ramadan atmosphere and encourage wider community engagement.

To ensure convenience, TAIBA provides a comprehensive digital platform where guests can easily book their Iftar and Suhoor experiences through the official website http://www.amasy.me, or approved booking applications.

It is worth noting that "Amasy TAIBA Ramadan" exemplifies TAIBA's commitment to advancing seasonal hospitality to the highest standards by combining operational innovation, cultural identity, and sustainable quality. The campaign aligns with national tourism objectives and Saudi Vision 2030 while reinforcing the company's leading position in the Kingdom’s hospitality sector.