One Marine: Sailing into a New Era of Offshore Excellence

The Birth of a Maritime Powerhouse

In the heart of **Abu Dhabi, UAE**, a new chapter in offshore marine history has begun. Two giants — **International Marine Construction Company (IMCC)**, established in 1974 and headquartered in Kuwait, renowned for its leadership in offshore marine maintenance and construction services, and **Maridive Offshore Projects**, founded in 1993 in Egypt as one of the region’s largest marine and oilfield service providers — have joined forces to create something monumental.  

On **November 4th, 2025**, during the prestigious **ADIPEC Abu Dhabi** event, both companies signed a **Memorandum of Understanding (MoU)**, officially launching **‘One Marine’**. This groundbreaking joint venture will focus on offshore support vessel (OSV) operations and deliver integrated marine services across the GCC, Middle East, Asia, and global markets.  

From the very beginning, the vision is clear: to combine unrivaled operational expertise, advanced marine assets, and innovative technical capabilities to provide efficient, safe, and high-quality offshore support, maintenance, and logistics. Headquartered in the **Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM)**, One Marine is set to become a beacon of excellence for the energy, ports, and infrastructure sectors worldwide.  

Strategic Partnerships and a Vision for the Future

This alliance is more than business — it is a bold statement about regional cooperation and shared ambition. **Mr. Ahmad Saad Al-Mnaifi**, Chairman of IMCC, and **Mrs. Shahira Zeid**, Chairwoman of Maridive Offshore Projects, spearheaded the signing, marking a pivotal step toward enhancing maritime service capabilities within critical markets.  

The leadership team itself signals strength: **Mr. Maen Razouqi**, Vice Chairman & CEO of IMCC, will serve as Chairman of One Marine, bringing decades of expertise in regional growth and strategic market positioning. Meanwhile, **Mr. Mohammed Nadim**, CEO of Maridive Offshore Projects, will take on the role of Vice Chairman, ensuring the venture harnesses over **80 years of combined experience** to meet the soaring demand for efficiency, safety, and sustainability in the industry.  

Supported by **Gate Capital**, a Dubai-based strategic and corporate finance advisory firm, One Marine is already being hailed as a “milestone transaction” in the offshore marine landscape. **Mr. Munther Hilal**, CEO of Gate Capital, emphasized the profound value structured partnerships bring to the ever-evolving marine sector.  

With such powerful synergy, One Marine is not just poised to navigate challenging seas — it is set to lead them 

Biban 2025: Riyadh’s Grand Stage for Global Opportunities

In the heart of **RIYADH, Saudi Arabia**, the future of entrepreneurship came alive at the **Biban Forum 2025** — a spectacular four-day celebration of innovation, ambition, and global collaboration. From **November 5 to 8**, the **Riyadh Front Exhibition & Conference Center** became the epicenter of ideas, where entrepreneurs, startups, and small and medium enterprises (SMEs) inspired the world under the theme *“Global Destination for Opportunities.”*  

With more than **100,000 participants from 113 countries**, the forum was not just an event, but a vibrant marketplace of dreams. Agreements totaling over **USD 10.1 billion** were signed, setting the stage for lasting partnerships and groundbreaking ventures. It was clear: Saudi Arabia is no longer emerging — it is leading the charge as a hub for entrepreneurial brilliance.  

Inspiring Minds, Transforming Ideas

The **Biban Forum 2025** was a masterclass in inspiration. Legendary football figure **Ricardo Kaká**, now an entrepreneur and investor, shared his journey of turning passion into purpose. His words encouraged attendees to pursue not just profits, but impact. Meanwhile, **Simon Squibb**, a celebrated serial entrepreneur, reminded the audience that innovation thrives where courage meets opportunity.  

Through captivating keynote sessions and thought-provoking panel discussions, participants uncovered new perspectives on investing in innovation, building ventures that foster sustainable growth, and driving social change. This was more than theory — it was a call to action for every piece of talent present.

Opportunity Awaits: From Pitch to Partnership

Transitioning from inspiration to action, **Biban Forum 2025** offered unmatched networking and business-building opportunities. The **Startup Door** welcomed **1,021 startups from 66 countries**, each presenting cutting-edge ideas to potential investors. It was a melting pot of creativity and ambition, with every handshake holding the potential for transformation.  

Meanwhile, the **Investors Arena** became a dynamic meeting point, where innovators pitched visions that could redefine industries. The **Pitching Stage** gave startups a global spotlight, allowing them to stand before world-class investors and share big ideas with even bigger potential. And for the competitive spirits, the **Entrepreneurship World Cup Global Finals** crowned “Swijin AG” as the ultimate champion, securing **USD 1.5 million** and worldwide recognition. 

Saudi Arabia’s Bright Horizon

As the forum concluded, the results were nothing short of remarkable — from billion-dollar agreements to global collaborations and knowledge exchanges that will echo into the future. **Biban Forum 2025** has fortified Saudi Arabia’s stance as a *true global destination for opportunities*, setting the tone for a new era of innovation, where bold ideas meet transformative investment.  

The spirit of Biban lives on — in every venture born, every partnership forged, and every entrepreneur inspired to dream bigger. Saudi Arabia’s entrepreneurial stage is set, and the world is ready to watch the next act unfold. 

Anytime Fitness Lifts Off in Riyadh — A New Chapter for Saudi Wellness

A New Fitness Era in Riyadh

Riyadh is preparing to welcome a fresh wave of accessible fitness as Anytime Fitness partners with ABFit to expand across the Kingdom. This development arrives at a pivotal moment, as Saudi Vision 2030 emphasizes healthier lifestyles and improved quality of life. Consequently, residents can expect more options for coaching, nutrition, and recovery in the coming years.

RIYADH, Saudi Arabia, Purpose Brands LLC is pleased to announce that Anytime Fitness, the world's largest fitness club and personalized coaching experience brand, has announced its latest master franchise agreement with ABFit, Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA). The announcement arrives as the Kingdom continues to pursue its Saudi Vision 2030 for improving the quality of life and promoting the health of all its citizens and residents.

"We are thrilled to bring the Anytime Fitness brand to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia," said Raed Alarabi Alharthi, investor partner and general manager, ABFit. "Health and fitness are key components of The Saudi Vision 2030 goals, and we are proud to make this investment and expand access to fitness services across the Kingdom."

What This Means for Communities and Growth

First, the rollout will begin with a flagship club in spring 2026, and then scale rapidly; at least 60 clubs will open over the next six years, offering both women's and men's branches across multiple cities. Thus, community access to personalized fitness programs will increase, and local employment opportunities in the wellness sector will follow.

Moreover, leaders note that government initiatives support this momentum. "There has never been a better time than now to welcome the Anytime Fitness brand to the Kingdom," said Asem Abu Eisheh, CEO, Anytime Fitness Saudi Arabia. "The Ministry of Health offers numerous nutrition and physical activity initiatives to support healthy lifestyles; the Ministry of Sports works to increase the percentage of individuals who engage in regular physical activity; and the Ministry of Investment encourages investments in the fitness sector, creating an attractive environment that supports sustainable growth."

Global Reach, Local Impact

Furthermore, Anytime Fitness will now operate in 49 countries and territories, strengthening Purpose Brands’ presence alongside Orangetheory Fitness. Consequently, Saudis will gain access to a global network of best practices in coaching and wellness, benefiting from innovations tested worldwide.

Finally, leaders from both Anytime Fitness and Purpose Brands emphasize mutual confidence and long-term vision. "As we move with intention to expand the ways Anytime Fitness helps people with their personal health and wellness journeys, this agreement with ABFit and the vote of confidence from the Kingdom is something we deeply respect," said Stacy Anderson, global president, Anytime Fitness. Therefore, this partnership signals both economic investment and a meaningful step toward healthier communities across Saudi Arabia.

Madinah’s Hospitality Horizon: How a New Partnership Is Transforming Short-Term Stays

A Bold Step Toward a New Residential Era in Madinah  

Madinah, Saudi Arabia, is stepping into a new chapter of urban living as **Knowledge Economic City (KEC)**, the pioneering publicly listed developer shaping the city’s transformation, announces a **landmark joint-venture agreement** with *Maison Prive Holiday Homes Rental L.L.C.*. This strategic alliance creates a company dedicated to short-term residential rental (STR) management, setting a new standard for elegance and efficiency in accommodation.  

From pilgrims seeking comfort near sacred sites to business travelers desiring convenience and style, this initiative will offer an experience beyond the ordinary. The STR management platform will not only provide fully furnished residences but also deliver a seamless guest journey—from smooth online booking to personalized concierge, wellness services, and curated travel coordination.  

Transitioning from vision to reality, this partnership captures the heartbeat of modern tourism in Madinah while respecting its deep cultural heritage. It is more than a real estate project; it’s a hospitality evolution.  

Introducing Al Alyaa – A City Within a City  

The first gem in this venture’s crown is **Al Alyaa**, KEC’s flagship mixed-use community. This 226,000-square-meter development blends human-centered design with serene, landscaped gardens, vibrant retail spaces, and inspiring hospitality hubs. Its 1,490 residential units and 70,000 square meters of greenery create a sanctuary that fosters both community and comfort.  

But Al Alyaa isn’t just about serene living—it’s also about smart investment. Through the unified hospitality and property-management model, homeowners gain more than a residence; they gain a financial opportunity. Flexible ownership and STR potential mean properties can serve as private retreats or income-generating assets, adapting effortlessly to market demand.  

Maison Privee’s Grand Entry into Saudi Arabia  

For Maison Privee, this partnership signals a powerful entry into the **Saudi market**. Managing Director Paul Mallee highlights their vision: a centralized management platform designed to maximize yields for investors while granting them unparalleled control. With the growing demand for flexible short- and long-stay options in Madinah, owners can now switch rental models at will—ensuring adaptability and profitability.  

Ultimately, this joint venture is not just shaping buildings; it’s shaping lifestyles. In blending **Madinah’s timeless charm** with cutting-edge hospitality solutions, KEC and Maison Privee are reimagining what it means to stay, live, and invest in one of the world’s most revered cities. 

Future Unlocked: How the Saudi AI & Edge Computing Hackathon 2025 is Powering Tomorrow’s Intelligent Systems

Riyadh’s Rising Technology Pulse 

In the vibrant heart of **Riyadh, Saudi Arabia**, the air buzzed with excitement as the *Saudi AI & Edge Computing Hackathon 2025* unfolded, hosted by **Prince Sultan University** in collaboration with **MemryX**. This wasn’t just another technology competition—it was a convergence of academia and industry, a whirlwind of creativity, and a living testament to Saudi Arabia’s surge toward becoming a major global tech hub.  

Over several days, the campus transformed into a fertile ground for innovation. Student teams from across the Kingdom demonstrated breakthrough applications in **artificial intelligence** and **edge computing**, tackling pressing challenges in healthcare, industrial automation, and public safety. Guided by seasoned mentors from MemryX and other leading organizations, these young innovators gained hands-on experience with edge-optimized hardware and software—turning abstract algorithms into tangible, life-changing solutions.  

The Heroes of Innovation

More than 15 passionate teams took center stage, each determined to make their mark on the future. The winners were not just recognized for their technical brilliance, but for their capacity to imagine and diligently create solutions that could reshape industries.  

**Winner – SurvAI**: Led by **Muddassir Khalidi, Ahmed Ammar, and Hamza**, this visionary solution integrated *facial recognition* and *NLP-based object detection*, enabling security systems to generate real-time reports with remarkable accuracy. Their reward? A cash prize and an exclusive internship at MemryX.  

**First Runner-Up – Qinspect**: Guided by **Tala Ismail AlOraini**, this platform could process *four high-resolution video streams simultaneously* with millisecond latency, revolutionizing real-time quality inspection.  

**Second Runner-Up – SiteGuard**: Led by **Muath Abdulaziz Almansour**, the autonomous drone system promised safer construction and industrial sites, tightening perimeter control and ensuring compliance.  

Innovation Award – Cano

Designed by **Raneem Jehad Abumoustafa**, this *Smart AI Cane* helps visually impaired users navigate independently, turning thoughtful design into practical empowerment.  

More Than Just a Hackathon

The event left a lasting impression not merely for its high-tech marvels, but for the spirit of collaboration it ignited. Dr. **Heba Alkhoshaim**, Vice President of Student Life at Prince Sultan University, put it beautifully: *“Innovation doesn’t just happen in Silicon Valley—it’s happening right here in Riyadh.”*  

Transitions between workshops, coding marathons, and live demonstrations flowed seamlessly, reflecting the vibrant ecosystem Saudi Arabia now fosters. This hackathon was proof that with the right support, creativity can bloom anywhere—and in this case, it bloomed in the midst of a city rapidly becoming a jewel of global tech advancement.  

The *Saudi AI & Edge Computing Hackathon 2025* was more than a competition—it was a blueprint for a future where Saudi Arabia stands tall as an innovation leader. With MemryX’s continued support and Prince Sultan University’s dedication, the Kingdom’s youth are not just dreaming big—they’re building the intelligent systems of tomorrow. 

Forging Power in the Desert: Hanwha Power Systems’ Bold Leap into Saudi Arabia’s Energy Future

A Landmark Agreement in the Heart of SPARK

On the 4th of the month, **Hanwha Power Systems signed a land lease agreement with SPARK** to build a cutting-edge compressor packaging and service center spanning approximately **11,600㎡** within **King Salman Energy Park (SPARK)** — a globally recognized hub for the energy industry, wholly owned by **Saudi Arabia's national oil company, ARAMCO**. This strategic development marks a significant milestone for the company, positioning it directly within Saudi Arabia’s thriving industrial ecosystem.  

Notably, the agreement was sealed at **ADIPEC 2025**, the world’s largest oil and gas exhibition currently captivating industry leaders in Abu Dhabi, UAE. Scheduled to break ground in the first quarter of 2026, the new facility aims for commercial operations by the first half of 2027. This ambitious timeline reflects Hanwha Power Systems’ determination to meet growing demand for compressors and related equipment in the **oil & gas, plant, and clean energy** sectors across the Middle East.  

Driving Innovation, Localization, and Growth

This deal perfectly aligns with the **Saudi government’s vision** of localizing the supply chain. By establishing a local facility, Hanwha Power Systems will not only ensure faster delivery and tailored solutions but also contribute to **job creation** and the development of skilled personnel within the Kingdom. Strengthening business competitiveness in the Middle East isn’t just about meeting demand — it’s about embedding innovation and service excellence where it’s needed most.  

As of the first half of 2025, Hanwha Power Systems has supplied over **9,000 units of compressors and industrial equipment** worldwide, with a significant portion operating in the Middle East. These machines are at work across varied sectors, from **carbon capture and utilization (CCUS)** to **air separation**. The new facility will offer **total care** for customer equipment, ensure timely delivery through localized packaging, and deepen partnerships with local oil & gas and power generation companies.  

Voices of Vision and Commitment

Soo-kyoung Kim, Head of AM Business Unit at Hanwha Power Systems, emphasized,  

> “Securing a foothold in the Middle East, where our major clients are concentrated, is essential for business expansion. We will ensure cost reduction, maximized efficiency, and stable operation throughout the lifecycle of the compressor equipment for local Middle Eastern clients.”  

Echoing these ambitions, Nabil Chaachou, Vice President of Strategy & Business Development at **SPARK**, highlighted,  

> “This agreement reflects SPARK’s commitment to attracting high-value industrial investments that advance the localization of the energy supply chain. Hanwha Power Systems’ new facility strengthens our ecosystem by enabling advanced manufacturing and service capabilities that will create jobs, drive technology transfer, and support sustainable growth in the Kingdom.”  

Powering Tomorrow’s Energy Landscape

Hanwha Power Systems’ leap into **King Salman Energy Park** is more than an infrastructure project — it’s a statement of intent, a pledge to merge global expertise with local opportunities. By positioning itself at the center of the Middle East’s energy revolution, Hanwha is setting the stage for a future where technology, sustainability, and localized industry meet to drive progress not only for Saudi Arabia but for the entire region.  

Gateway to Tomorrow: How the Future Minerals Forum and BMO Are Forging a New Era in Global Mineral Investment

In the heart of **Riyadh, Saudi Arabia**, a remarkable shift is underway in the global minerals sector. The **Future Minerals Forum (FMF)**, recognized as the world’s leading platform for shaping the future of minerals, has announced a groundbreaking partnership with **BMO**, the global leader in metals and mining investment banking. This collaboration transcends borders and ambitions, setting the stage for a more interconnected and sustainable mineral investment landscape.  

With the shared vision of driving global mineral development through strategic investment promotion, FMF and BMO are poised to bring unparalleled expertise to investors seeking new opportunities. As the industry faces rapid transformation fueled by technology, demand for critical minerals, and sustainability imperatives, this partnership is positioned to ignite meaningful dialogues and create actionable pathways, unlocking value in regions such as the **MENA** and the “Super Region” — spanning Africa, Western, and Central Asia.  

Building Bridges in the Global Mineral Landscape

The partnership, a first for FMF, was hailed by Ali Al-Mutairi — FMF’s Executive Director — as a historic milestone. His words underscored the forum’s mission: to connect investors, policymakers, and industry leaders not just in the region, but globally. This step ensures that both organizations will create lasting opportunities, enhancing sustainability and innovation in mineral development projects.  

Moreover, under the inspiring theme **"Gateway to Funding"**, FMF will host exclusive elements to elevate the investor experience. From *closed-door mining investment journey sessions* led by BMO — mapping the entire mineral value chain from exploration to processing — to investor-focused presentations by major mining companies, FMF will provide attendees with rare, direct engagement with industry decision-makers.  

Riyadh 2026 – The Stage for Transformation

Scheduled from **January 13 to 15, 2026**, the Future Minerals Forum will transform Riyadh into the epicenter of global mineral investment discussions. The atmosphere is expected to be electric, with innovators, financiers, and key stakeholders convening under one roof to discuss not only capital access, but also strategies for sustainable growth within the sector.  

Transitioning from previous editions, FMF 2026 will serve as a **gateway for international cooperation**. Whether it’s a regional entrepreneur looking for mining partnerships or an institutional investor seeking to diversify portfolios, the forum promises a wealth of resources, connections, and actionable insights. This carefully curated combination of high-level strategy, investor engagement, and expert knowledge sharing reflects FMF’s dedication to shaping the future of minerals.  

In a world hungry for resources but conscious of environmental impact, the FMF-BMO partnership signals a new era of collaboration — one where opportunities are abundant, sustainability is a priority, and every handshake could spark the next big chapter in mineral development.  

Interested in being part of history? [Register now for FMF 2026](https://registration.futuremineralsforum.com/e/9ee6d849-04bf-4671-837f-b32ca68b2d74/a/9ee6d849-086b-48d1-98c0-524e5a0494cf) before the gateway opens!  

Riyadh Resonance — Phoenix Contact Ignites Industrial Transformation

A Bold Entry into Saudi Arabia

Phoenix Contact is proud to announce its participation in the upcoming Industrial Transformation Exhibition, powered by Hannover Messe, taking place at the Riyadh International Convention & Exhibition Center. This premier event brings together global leaders in industrial automation, electrification, and digitalization to shape the future of smart manufacturing. At Hall 1, Stand 1-349, Phoenix Contact will present its latest innovations designed to empower industries across the Kingdom. Visitors will have the opportunity to explore live demonstrations, engage with technical experts, and discover how Phoenix Contact's solutions support Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 and its industrial transformation.

Moreover, "Our presence at this exhibition reflects our long-term commitment to the region," said Fahad Alotaibi, Managing Director at Phoenix Contact Trading LLC. From modular terminal blocks to open control systems and Ethernet-based automation, our portfolio is tailored to meet the evolving needs of installers, operators, and developers in Saudi Arabia. Phoenix Contact's participation is further strengthened by the recent establishment of Phoenix Contact Trading LLC in Riyadh, a strategic move to deepen local engagement and deliver customized solutions for infrastructure, energy, and manufacturing sectors.

Local Roots, Global Expertise

Phoenix Contact, a global leader in industrial automation and connectivity solutions, has established Phoenix Contact Trading LLC in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, marking a pivotal step in its strategic expansion across the Middle East. Founded in 2024, the new entity reinforces Phoenix Contact's commitment to supporting the Kingdom's Vision 2030 and its broader economic and industrial transformation. Consequently, companies across Riyadh and beyond now gain faster access to tailored automation solutions and on-the-ground expertise.

Event Details: Location: Riyadh International Convention & Exhibition Center Dates: 1–3 December 2025 Opening Ceremony: December 1, 2025: 04:00 p.m. - 09:30 p.m. (Subject to change) Show Opening Hours: December 02 - 03: 01:00 p.m. - 09.30 p.m. (Subject to change) Stand: Hall 1, Stand 1-349. For more information and to register, visit Phoenix Contact Saudi Arabia. Finally, attendees should plan to visit the stand early, because hands-on demos and expert dialogue will fill each day.

Anchoring Ambitions: JBR’s Bold Expansion into Dubai's Maritime Future

Setting Sail into New Horizons

Amid a rapidly evolving M&A and corporate finance landscape, JBR is charting a bold course forward with the opening of a new office in the **United Arab Emirates (UAE)**. Nestled in the heart of **Dubai**, this strategic expansion comes through a partnership with industry veteran **Martin Helweg** of the Helweg Group. Helweg will serve as Partner of **JBR UAE**, guiding its local strategy and connecting it to global possibilities.  

This exciting move marks a new chapter in the growth of **JBR's Maritime & Offshore cluster**. As Dubai’s skyline continues to symbolize ambition and opportunity, its position as a global maritime hub becomes increasingly vital. The UAE is now a bridge between East and West, making it the perfect anchor for JBR’s expansion. With the Dubai office, JBR strengthens its global presence while positioning itself to serve clients at the forefront of maritime trade, offshore operations, and sustainable energy investments. 

Building Bridges Across Oceans

“Many of our clients are turning their focus to the Middle East and Asia,” says **Ronald van Rijn**, Managing Partner of JBR. This observation reflects a growing shift in global business dynamics. At the same time, interest from these regions towards Europe creates a strong flow of opportunities in both directions. By establishing its Dubai office, JBR is cementing itself as a trusted advisor capable of navigating these cross-market currents.  

Rick ter Maat, Partner and Head of the Maritime & Offshore cluster, emphasizes the rapid evolution of the M&A market in the region. JBR’s team is already advising on significant transactions such as the successful process between **Seacontractors** and **Jifmar**. Operating from Dubai allows JBR to offer local expertise on strategic decisions, mergers and acquisitions, and vessel financing — all while forging fresh partnerships in the region’s vibrant maritime sector.  

A Wave of Global Collaboration

Martin Helweg sees the Dubai expansion as more than a physical move; it’s a powerful step toward sustainable value creation in an ever-changing world. By blending JBR’s international experience with deep-rooted maritime insights, the UAE office becomes an epicenter of innovation.  

Furthermore, the Dubai team will work closely with JBR’s Netherlands and Belgium offices. This combination of headquarters-led expertise and on-the-ground presence ensures a seamless connection across continents. Several colleagues will relocate to Dubai to strengthen collaboration, ensuring that clients across Maritime & Offshore and Ports & Terminals feel the full impact of JBR’s commitment. 

With its bold leap into Dubai, JBR is not just opening a new office — it’s opening doors to limitless maritime and offshore opportunities. This move signals resilience, foresight, and a commitment to creating sustainable value worldwide.  

Steel Meets Sunshine: Bahrain’s Bold Leap into the Future

A Vision Forged in Light

In **MANAMA, Bahrain**, a new chapter in industrial history unfolds. **Foulath Holding**, the powerhouse behind **Bahrain Steel** and **SULB**, has joined forces with **Yellow Door Energy**, the Middle East and Africa's leading sustainable energy developer, for a truly groundbreaking sustainability initiative. Together, they are set to develop a massive **123-Megawatt-Peak (MWp)** solar project under a Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) — one of the largest of its kind in the world.  

At the heart of this monumental feat is the **world’s largest single-site rooftop solar power plant**, boasting an impressive **50 MWp** capacity. Imagine **77,000 gleaming solar panels** stretched across a sprawling **262,000-square-meter stockyard shed**, turning steel production into a cleaner, greener process. This visionary project was proudly announced at the **Gateway Gulf Forum**, hosted by the **Bahrain Economic Development Board** at the Four Seasons Hotel, Bahrain Bay — a gathering of global industrial innovators, policymakers, and investors.  

More Than Power: A Commitment to the Planet

This initiative is not just about energy — it’s about responsibility 🌍. **H.E. Noor bint Ali Alkhulaif**, Minister of Sustainable Development, emphasized Bahrain’s leadership in clean technology, highlighting the nation’s commitment to environmental stewardship and its ambitious **Net Zero 2060 target**. Her remarks capture the spirit of a country determined to merge innovation with sustainability.  

For **Foulath Holding’s Chairman, Meshary Al-Judaimi**, the solar project continues a long-standing pledge, backed by USD 250 million invested in sustainability projects over recent years. The move aligns industrial ambitions with environmental protection, setting a precedent for steelmakers worldwide. As **Sherif ElKholy** of **Actis** noted, this initiative proves that cost-competitive clean energy is not just possible — it’s transformative, and it’s capable of decarbonizing even the most energy-intensive industries.  

Ripples of Change Across the Gulf

In its first year, the solar plant will generate **200 million kilowatt-hours (kWh)** of clean electricity, reducing **90,000 metric tons** of carbon emissions — a remarkable stride toward a greener Bahrain. With over **189,900 high-efficiency panels** spanning more than **707,000 square meters**, this engineering marvel will inspire similar initiatives across the Gulf and beyond.  

From rooftop solar arrays to ground-mounted installations, the project stands as a beacon for future industrial sustainability. It’s more than an achievement; it’s a clear signal that Bahrain, driven by innovators like Foulath Holding and Yellow Door Energy, is ready to redefine the very fabric of its industrial identity. 

Shaping Tomorrow: Dubai Ushers in the 7 Wonders of Future Cities

On **World Cities Day 2025**, the skyline of **Dubai, UAE** didn’t just shine with architectural marvels — it signaled the dawn of a new era. **New7Wonders, the world's official authority for public voting to choose Wonders**, launched its boldest campaign yet: *The 7 Wonders of Future Cities*. This ambitious initiative calls upon the global community to discover and celebrate extraordinary urban developments that embody innovation, sustainability, and human progress.  

Following a soft launch earlier this month, the proposal and application phase is now officially open. Over the next twelve months, cities, districts, and visionary projects from every corner of the planet will present their achievements. These wonders-in-the-making reflect the perfect harmony between advanced technology, breathtaking design, and environmental responsibility.  

From Heritage to Horizon: A Global Call to Dream Bigger

Bernard Weber, President and Founder of **New7Wonders**, explained that *"The wonders of the future are being built now – in the choices, creativity and courage of today's urban visionaries."* His words capture the heartbeat of this global conversation. The campaign invites communities to ask: what makes a city truly “of the future”? The answer lies not only in skyscrapers and smart systems but in how innovation serves humanity’s deeper needs.  

Jean-Paul de la Fuente, Director of **New7Wonders** and Chairman of the campaign, painted a vivid picture: future cities should dare to dream, design, and deliver a better balance between nature, community, and growth. This vision is set to unfold through public engagement — the same proven methodology that powered global votes for the New 7 Wonders of the World and the New 7 Wonders of Nature, campaigns that united millions and transformed economies.  

The Road Ahead: Voting for Tomorrow’s Icons

After the year-long proposal phase, the campaign takes its most exciting step — the **global voting** period, beginning on **31 October 2026**. From bustling megacities to quiet, innovative districts, the race will be fierce. In true New7Wonders style, it will be the public who decides which developments earn the coveted title of *Wonders of the Future*. The grand reveal awaits on **31 October 2027**, a date destined to become historic.  

Coordinated by **Global Platform Limited**, Dubai’s own worldwide licensing and commercial arm of **New7Wonders**, this campaign is more than a celebration of urban design; it’s a beacon for the world. The **Wonder Effect** — proven to create socio-economic, marketing, and educational growth worth hundreds of billions — could soon be shaping the skylines we’ve yet to see.  

-**In a world racing toward tomorrow, the 7 Wonders of Future Cities offer more than a list — they offer hope, creativity, and a shared vision for what humanity can build together.** 

Website: [www.7wondersfc.com](http://www.7wondersfc.com)  

Elevating Efficiency: Dematic’s Game-Changing Pallet Shuttle 4-Way Debuts in Dubai

 

Dubai Welcomes Next-Level Supply Chain Innovation

From **Dubai, UAE**, the heartbeat of global trade is about to pulse faster than ever. This November 4–6, 2025, the grand halls of the **Dubai World Trade Centre** will buzz with anticipation as **Dematic**, a celebrated global leader in intelligent supply chain automation, takes center stage at **Gulfood Manufacturing 2025**.  

Visitors heading to **Hall Za’abeel 2, Stand Z2-A73** will witness a dazzling lineup of advanced automation technologies that promise to reshape the way food and beverage manufacturers operate. Among these, one innovation shines brighter than the rest — the **Pallet Shuttle 4-Way system**. This breakthrough solution, meticulously designed for efficiency, flexibility, and increased storage capacity, is already transforming warehouses in the beverage, pharmaceutical, and manufacturing sectors worldwide.  

Unpacking the Power of the Pallet Shuttle 4-Way

 

Imagine a warehouse where every inch of space serves a purpose, where pallets glide seamlessly across levels without a wasted second. With scalable high-density pallet racking and an impressive ability to transport unit loads of up to 2,000 kg, Dematic’s Pallet Shuttle 4-Way is more than just machinery — it’s a revolution in motion.  

Mithun Perinchery, Head of Sales – Middle East, Turkey, and Africa, captures the essence perfectly: in an age of tight land availability and high construction costs, businesses need to “do more with less.” This innovative system unlocks untapped vertical storage, boosts throughput, and eliminates the need for costly expansions or workforce increases. With multiple shuttles servicing each level, modular scalability, and adaptability for ambient, chilled, and freezer environments as cold as −25 °C, it’s a future-ready asset for the food, beverage, and pharmaceutical sectors.  

-

Final Invitation: Be There to See the Future

If you’re ready to witness logistics innovation firsthand, make your way to **Gulfood Manufacturing 2025**. Visit **Dematic at Hall Za’abeel 2, Stand Z2–A73**, and experience how the **Pallet Shuttle 4-Way** can empower your operations. Because in the world of supply chain automation, the future isn’t coming — it’s already here in Dubai.   

From Oil Wealth to Knowledge Power: How Saudi Arabia Is Redefining Economic Sovereignty

  

The Rise of a Knowledge-Based Economy

In the heart of **RIYADH, Saudi Arabia**, a profound economic transformation is unfolding. As explored in the analytical article published in *Asharq Al-Awsat* titled *"How is Saudi Arabia Redefining Wealth and Economic Sovereignty?"*, writer Faisal Abu Zaki paints a vivid picture of a Kingdom steering away from its historical reliance on oil. Under *Saudi Vision 2030*, the shift to an economy driven by knowledge, advanced technology, and empowered citizens is more than an ambition — it is becoming a reality.  

This transition is visible in hard numbers. Saudi Arabia’s non-oil economy now accounts for over 57% of GDP as of the first quarter of 2025. Furthermore, non-oil revenues surged from SAR 164 billion in 2015 to an impressive SAR 502 billion in 2024. These statistics are not merely milestones; they are proof of the success of strategic diversification policies implemented by the Ministry of Finance and its specialized centers. The Kingdom is cultivating wealth that extends beyond its natural resources, investing heavily in human capital, artificial intelligence, renewable energy, and cutting-edge sectors like semiconductors.  

Sovereignty Through Strategic Vision

Economic sovereignty in today’s Saudi Arabia is about more than controlling resources. As Faisal Abu Zaki highlights, it is also about controlling the narrative of growth — making domestic financial decisions that strengthen long-term sustainability while remaining resilient to external market volatility. The Public Investment Fund (PIF) spearheads this approach, expanding into future-oriented industries that promise enduring prosperity.  

Meanwhile, the fiscal and financial policies guided by the Ministry of Finance and the National Debt Management Center (NDMC) provide a stable backbone for responsible growth. These measures ensure fiscal discipline and protect against economic shocks. This stability has had a tangible social impact: unemployment dropped to just 3.2%, while women’s participation in the workforce rose to over 36%. The Kingdom’s “new wealth” lies in its people — their skills, creativity, and innovation — forming the foundation of an economy built not on oil rent, but on intellectual capital and sustainable vision. 

Empowering a Financially Conscious Society

Communication & Financial Knowledge (Mutamem) recognizes the importance of public awareness in sustaining this transformation. By promoting financial literacy through its initiatives, the Center equips citizens with the tools to navigate and contribute to Saudi Arabia’s evolving economic landscape. This helps cement a culture of financial responsibility aligned with *Saudi Vision 2030*.  

Ultimately, the Kingdom’s journey showcases a remarkable blend of ambition and pragmatism. Through strategic investments, disciplined policies, and empowered citizens, Saudi Arabia is carving a distinctive path toward an economy rooted in knowledge production. In doing so, it sets a precedent for redefining wealth and economic sovereignty in the 21st century. 

[Comm. & Financial Knowledge Center](https://cfkc.gov.sa) – **@CFKC_KSA**