Mountain Dew ‘Levels Up the Game’ at Esports World Cup 2025 with an immersive fan experience

Manal Saleh

Posts a 9.1% rise in H1 net profit to $127.0 million, reflecting strong operational performance.

Declares interim dividend of $98.4 million.

The jump was supported by growth in private label and ecommerce sales, and as per plans, to open 20 new stores in 2025

Lulu Retail has announced its H1 2025 financial results, delivering a solid 9.1% year-on-year increase in net profit to $127.0 million. Revenues rose to $4.1 billion (up 5.9% YoY), and like-for-like sales increased by 3.8%, driven by robust performance across key categories. In Q2 2025, the company reported revenues of $2.0 billion, up 4.6% YoY with a strong sales growth. This performance was bolstered by continued growth in private label and the e-commerce category. Private label grew 3.5% YoY, accounting for 29.7% of retail revenue, while e-commerce maintained its momentum with sales up 43.4% YoY to $108 million, representing 5.6% of retail revenue. Gross profit increased 6.5% YoY to $468 million. EBITDA grew 7.6% YoY to $204 million.

Declares interim dividend of $98.4 million (3.5 fils per share):

Lulu Retail has declared an interim dividend of $98.4 million (3.5 fils per share), corresponding to a payout ratio of 78% of H1 2025 distributable profits—consistent with the IPO dividend policy.

Key Highlights – H1 2025

* Revenue: $4.1 billion (up 5.9% YoY), driven by strong volume and category growth

* EBITDA: $418 million (up 7.0% YoY); Q2 2025: $204 million (up 7.6% YoY). Margins improved by 28 basis points in Q2.

* Net Profit: $127 million (up 9.1% YoY), with a net margin of 3.1%

* Private Label Growth: Up 3.5% YoY in Q2, accounting for 29.7% of retail revenue

* E-commerce: Q2 sales up 43.4% YoY to $108 million (5.6% of retail revenue); 45.4% increase in customer count YoY

* Loyalty Program: The Happiness loyalty program added 1 million new members during the quarter, bringing total membership to 7.3 million.

• Store Expansion: Seven new stores opened in H1 plus 4 more in July, taking the total to 259; full-year target of 20 new stores remains on track

* Growth Strategy: Private label and e-commerce continue to play pivotal roles in Lulu’s growth approach

“Our steady and resilient H1 2025 performance is a testament to our wellestablished growth pillars, enabling record sales and margin improvements. We expect our growth momentum to persist as we focus on expanding our store network, launching new outlets, enhancing operational efficiency, and unlocking further potential through private label and e-commerce offerings,” said Saifee Rupawala, CEO of Lulu Retail.

Regional Performance:

* UAE (largest market): Q2 revenue up 9.4% YoY, driven by continued high demand for fresh food and supported by Lulu’s omnichannel strategy

* Saudi Arabia (KSA): Revenue grew 3.8% YoY, aided by strong electrical goods sales and new store openings

* Kuwait: Revenue up 4.9% YoY; consistent positive performance

About Lulu Retail:

Founded in 1974, Lulu Retail—together with its subsidiaries—is the largest full-line retailer in the GCC by selling space, sales, and store count, operating 256 hypermarkets, express, and mini-market stores across the region. The Group supports a robust ecommerce presence via its mobile app, online storefront, and partner channels. Serving more than 690,000 daily shoppers from 130 nationalities, Lulu sources products from 85 countries and operates 19 on-the-ground sourcing offices. Its strong brand reputation across the GCC fuels store growth, network expansion, and elevated customer loyalty.

Manal Saleh

 GFH Financial Group B.S.C (“GFH” or “the Group”) (Bahrain Bourse: GFH) today announced its financial results for the second quarter (“the quarter”) and first six months of the year (“the period”) ended 30 June 2025.

Net profit attributable to shareholders was US$ 37.10 million for the second quarter of the year compared to US$ 33.61 million in the second quarter of 2024, an increase of 10.38%, driven by strong growth in commercial banking, treasury and proprietary investment income. Earnings per share for the second quarter were US cents 1.06 compared with US cents 0.93 in the second quarter of 2024, an increase of 13.98%. Total comprehensive income attributable to shareholders was US$ 51.7 million for the second quarter of 2025 versus US$ 31.41 million in the second quarter of 2024, an increase of 64.62%. Total income was US$ 186.12 million for the second quarter of the year compared with US$ 169.26 million in the second quarter of 2024, an increase of 9.96%. Consolidated net profit for the second quarter was US$ 39.02 million compared with US$ 37.55 million in the second quarter of 2024, an increase of 3.91%. Total expenses for the quarter were US$ 91.91 million compared with US$ 74.69 million in the prior-year period, an increase of 23.05%.

The Group reported net profit attributable to shareholders of US$ 67.24 million for the first six months of the year compared with US$ 60.75 million in the same period of 2024, an increase of 10.69%, reflecting sustained growth in core banking and improved contributions from treasury and proprietary investments. Earnings per share for the six-month period was US cents 1.93 compared to US cents 1.71 for the first half of 2024, an increase of 12.87%. Total comprehensive income attributable to shareholders was US$ 78.91 million for the first six months of the year compared with US$ 67.31 million in the same period in 2024, an increase of 17.23%. Total income for the period was US$ 357.07 million, an increase of 7.48% from US$ 332.23 million year-on-year.  Consolidated net profit for the first six months of the year was US$ 69.72 million compared with US$ 67.90 million in the corresponding period of 2024, an increase of 2.68%. Total expenses for the six-month period were US$ 181.35 million compared with US$ 163.87 million in same period of 2024, an increase of 10.67%. Total equity attributable to shareholders was US$ 1,002.60 million at 30 June 2025 compared with US$ 980.94 million at 31 December 2024, an increase of 2.21%. Total assets of the Group were US$ 12.36 billion compared with US$ 11.03 billion at 31 December 2024, an increase of 12.06%.

Currently, GFH manages more than US$ 23.75 billion of assets and funds including a global portfolio of investments in logistics, healthcare, education and technology in the MENA region, Europe and North America.

The Group’s financial results in full can be found at www.bahrainbourse.com. Shares of GFH are traded under the ticker “GFH” on the Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange, Bahrain Bourse, Boursa Kuwait and Dubai Financial Market.

Mr. Abdulmohsen Rashed Al Rashed

Chairman, GFH Financial Group

“We are delighted to announce the Group’s financial results for the second quarter and first half of 2025, which reflect the strength of our diversified business model. Broad-based growth across commercial and investment banking, alongside improving contributions from treasury and proprietary activities, delivered higher profitability and resilient earnings, underpinned by prudent risk management, healthy liquidity and a robust capital position.

As we look ahead, we are scaling platforms in logistics and healthcare, deepening our footprint in the GCC and US, and consolidating strategic holdings such as Seef Properties. Continued investment in digital capabilities and governance will support disciplined growth, selective capital deployment and value-accretive exits, positioning GFH to deliver sustainable returns and remain a trusted partner for our shareholders and stakeholders.”

Mr. Hisham Alrayes

CEO and Board Member, GFH Financial Group

 “We are honoured to announce results that demonstrate continued operational momentum across the Group. In H1 2025 we achieved higher financing income, stronger proprietary and dividend flows, and a marked improvement in treasury performance. We tightened cost discipline while investing in data, automation and a next-generation conversational assistant, which is accelerating onboarding on the GFH: Investment Banking App and broadening investor access across our platforms, supported by solid asset quality and liquidity. 

Looking to the second half, we will deploy capital selectively into logistics and healthcare through our US and GCC funds, advance our partnership with Al Tijaria, and pursue disciplined realisations to recycle capital. We will further strengthen funding diversity, liquidity and risk hedging, while deepening our presence in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the UAE. Our focus remains on compounding recurring income and delivering consistent, market-leading returns, with rigorous governance and stakeholder engagement.”

Business Unit Highlights

The Group continued to deliver sound performance and contributions from across its core business lines during the second quarter of 2025.

Investment Management:

• GFH increased the Group’s ownership in Seef Properties B.S.C., one of the leading real estate development and commercial centres management companies in the Kingdom of Bahrain to 27.98%. This strategic move aligns with the Group’s expanding investment portfolio. This aims to create additional value for our shareholders within the real estate portfolios operating in the same sector. 

• GFH Capital (“GFHC”), a KSA-based Subsidiary of GFH signing strategic partnership with The Commercial Real Estate Company K.P.S.C. (“Al Tijaria”), a prominent Kuwait-based real estate company will act as a technical advisor for one of GFHC’s Logistics Funds and will gain exposure to the Group’s growing investments and exposures in the warehousing and logistics sector across Saudi Arabia and the wider Gulf region.

• GFH Capital also acquired assets as well as development opportunities in KSA and UAE with total value US$125 million. The assets in KSA include a fully leased warehouse facility in South Riyadh.

• GFH Partners, the DIFC based global asset management arm of GFH with US-based partners, acquired a healthcare asset portfolio valued at over US$195 million, majority leased to investment-grade tenants. The assets are located across Texas, Arizona, and Colorado.

• GFH Partners invested US$190m in a portfolio of logistics and industrial assets in Q2 2025. The assets include fiber optic manufacturing facility and include multiple transportation logistics facilities designed for diverse uses such as truck servicing, parking, and outdoor storage.

Commercial Banking:

• The Group’s commercial banking arm, Khaleeji Bank, delivered stronger performance over the first six months, with net profit attributable to shareholders increasing by 9.26% to US$ 14.93 million, underpinned by higher income from financing contracts and enhancing asset quality in addition to tangible progress in the digital transformation and implementing innovative digital programs and expanding the range of banking products. 

• Total comprehensive income attributable to shareholders rose over the six-month period by 26.75%.

• The balance sheet expanded in H1 2025, with total assets up 9.03%, investments in sukuk up 9.88%, and financing contracts up 13.46%.

Treasury & Proprietary Investments:

• Contributions from the Group’s treasury and proprietary investment activities amounted to US$ 118.55 million in Q2 2025, taking H1 2025 contributions to US$ 181.17 million.

• Finance and treasury portfolio income totalled US$ 81.68 million in Q2 2025 (US$ 144.11 million in H1 2025)

• Income from proprietary investments amounted to US$ 59.75 million in H1 2025

ESG Highlights

The Group continued to effectively execute on its Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) strategy undertaking key initiatives in the second quarter including:

• Strengthened Social Impact through Education Partnerships: GFH partnered with Dubai Cares to support the “Pack for Impact” initiative, assembling 2,000 school kits for underprivileged students in the UAE, reflecting the Group’s commitment to inclusive education and volunteer engagement.

• Recognition for ESG Leadership and Innovation: Ranked among the top 3 ESG performers on the LSEG Index and listed as one of Bahrain’s Top 50 Companies, GFH was also the first GCC investment bank to launch a conversational AI assistant within its investment app.

Note: This press release may contain forward-looking statements. These statements are based on current expectations, estimates and projections about the operating environment and involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results, performance or events to differ materially. Factors include, among others, market conditions, rates, regulatory developments, execution risks and other matters described in the Group’s published financial statements. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date of this release; the Group undertakes no obligation to update them except as required by applicable law.

Manal Saleh

 Forbes Middle East, the leading financial and economic magazine, highlighted the historic Initial Public Offering by flynas, the leading low-cost airline in the world and the best LCC in the Middle East, that raised $1.1 billion in the first-ever airline listing in Saudi Arabia. 

In its August edition, Forbes published an exclusive interview with Bander Almohanna, CEO and Managing Director of flynas, with his photo leading the magazine cover, about flynas "flying ahead" on a new route for the low-cost aviation industry.

Forbes said that flynas made history being the first ever listed carrier in Saudi Arabia to go public after offering 30% of its shares to the public last June, raising $1.1 billion "in a landmark IPO". In the exclusive interview, the magazine explored Almohanna's vision and focus on further route expansion and new destinations for flynas.

Forbes Middle East, the Arabic version of the renowned American magazine Forbes, quoted Almohanna as saying that the offering, which was 100% oversubscribed valuing the airline at $3.6 billion, marks "a significant milestone not only for flynas but also for the Saudi financial market and the broader aviation sector."

The listing coincided with a surge in IPO momentum across the Gulf. Despite global headwinds, the GCC saw 27 deals raising $4.1 billion in the first half of 2025, with flynas topping the list with more than 25% of the total capital raised, Forbes highlighted.

"flynas benefited from the Kingdom's resilience, robust growth, and the clarity of Vision 2030," Almohanna said, highlighting the aviation's key role in the national transformation.

Forbes said that Almohanna has joined flynas since its early stages as the Chief Financial Officer of the group, that was launched in 2007, and played a central role in flynas's evolution. With a background in finance, including a stint at the Saudi Arabian Monetary Agency from 1993 to 2002 in the Banking Supervision Department, transitioning from finance to aviation was a strategic evolution for Almohanna. "My financial background gave me a solid foundation in understanding the economic dynamics of the airline industry," Almohanna told Forbes. "It has allowed me to make informed, data-driven decisions that support long-term operational and financial sustainability – something every CEO should be equibbed to do," he added.

He was promoted to Executive Vice President in 2008 and became managing director and CEO in 2015, leading the flynas Group (flynas, NASJET, and flynas Hajj & Umrah) through rapid growth.

Forbes quoted Aljoharah Alsmari, VP of Investment Banking at BSF Capital, a lead manager of the IPO, as saying, "As the only independent low-cost carrier in Saudi Arabia, flynas is internationally recognized for its operational efficiency and rapid growth."

As new entrants to the market emerge and legacy carriers expand, flynas continues to differentiate itself through its regional footprint, aggressive fleet expansion, and strategic focus on high-growth segments, particularly religious tourism, Forbes said. "Competition is always welcome – it drives innovation," Almohanna noted.

In 2018, flynas launched its "We Connect the World to the Kingdom" strategy, targeting international destinations that had not previously had direct routes to Saudi Arabia, Forbes said. Flynas plans to more than double its current fleet to 160 aircraft by 2030, with its network set to grow from over 70 destinations to 165 and more than 300 routes, Forbes mentioned.

As for MENA's aviation sector, Almohanna sees a strong potential. "Saudi Arabia, in particular, has all the right ingredients to become an aviation powerhouse," he stressed.

flynas, the leading low-cost airline in the world and the best LCC in the Middle East, and the first airline listed on the Saudi Exchange (Tadawul) operates 139 routes to more than 70 domestic and international destinations in 30 countries with more than 2000 weekly flights and has flown more than 80 million passengers since its launch in 2007, with the aim to reach 165 domestic and international destinations within its growth and expansion plan, and in line with the objectives of Vision 2030.

Manal Saleh

Presence was marked with a dynamic, one-of-a-kind experience with Mountain Dew being omnipresent on all the digital screens at The Boulevard Riyadh City

Riyadh, Saudi Arabia – August 12, 2025: Taking the gaming to the next level, Mountain Dew is making its legendary, high-octane brand energy felt at the Esports World Cup (EWC) 2025 at Boulevard Riyadh City. With an exciting booth at EWC arena teaming with sports and gaming enthusiasts Mountain Dew has been engaging audiences through on-ground activations to celebrate the spirit of the gamers. The presence was marked with a dynamic, one-of-a-kind experience with Mountain Dew being omnipresent on all the screens at The Boulevard, Riyadh.

The latest campaign by the brand with a bold message ‘Level Up your game’, is adding to the thrill of the competition, risk-taking, and adventurous mindset. With an association with one of the world’s biggest esports events, the brand has reasserted its role as the ultimate refreshment for champions.

At the heart of the activation is the Mountain Dew Free Zone Booth, a unique challenge arena where visitors will face off in Mortal Kombat on PS5 set to the toughest difficulty — without the “unfair advantage” of drinking Mountain Dew. Winners will be celebrated with dramatic smoke effects, green lights, and the iconic “You are the winner!” announcement, along with exclusive Mountain Dew merchandise, free competition tickets, and the chance to meet their favourite top gaming influencers.

Fans will even get the chance to compete directly against their adored gaming personalities on August 8, with two lucky winners walking away with premium merchandise from Dew. The campaign becomes further exciting with humorous online skits showing influencers playfully sneaking in Mountain Dew for an extra boost to the brand’s messaging.

Presence of the brand was marked with a dynamic, one-of-a-kind experience with Mountain Dew being omnipresent on all the screens at The Boulevard Riyadh City. The takeover was witnessed by mesmerized audiences and left an indelible mark on the gaming community.

Throwing light on the campaign, Karim Mohsen, Chief Marketing Officer at PepsiCo MEA, , said, “Esports has gone to the next level and requires gamers to have a refreshed mind to match the spirit of the games; we have designed the campaign to honour and celebrate this untiring gaming spirit. Our activation at the EWC is also a reflection of the grandness of the event and is meant to make the visitors feel the energy associated with Mountain Dew.” 

Don’t miss out — visit the Mountain Dew Free Zone Booth at EWC and experience the action firsthand! The booth will be live and electrifying until the end of the Esports World Cup, so make sure to stop by and level up your game!

Manal Saleh

Riyadh, Saudi Arabia - HONOR has officially launched its new Contact Center in Saudi Arabia, a major milestone in the brand’s efforts to expand its customer service operations in the region. Built to provide localized, responsive, and high-quality support, the new center reinforces HONOR’s commitment to putting customers first through a customer-centric, service-oriented approach.

With a growing user base across the Kingdom, the HONOR KSA Contact Center is designed to meet a wide range of customer needs - from product inquiries and technical support to e-commerce services and VIP assistance. The facility brings together local expertise, multiple communication channels, and specialized services to ensure every HONOR user receives timely and professional support.

Multichannel Support for Maximum Accessibility

The center supports a wide range of communication methods to give users more flexibility in how they connect. Customers can reach HONOR via traditional voice hotlines for service or e-commerce inquiries (inbound and outbound), an exclusive VIP hotline, live online chat, email, WhatsApp, and HONOR’s official social media platforms.

This multichannel setup ensures that whether customers prefer speaking with an agent, chatting online, or sending a quick message, they can always expect prompt and reliable assistance.

Operating 12 hours and seven days a week, the Contact Center offers support whenever needed. This daily availability ensures that customers across Saudi Arabia can count on accessible support.

More Than Just Support - A Full-Service Experience

Beyond resolving questions and technical issues, the HONOR KSA Contact Center also provides broader support services, including e-commerce order management, after-sales service, and complaint resolution. Customers with order-related queries or service concerns can receive help from a team trained to handle various stages of the ownership journey.

A key part of this service model is HONOR’s VIP support, which provides high-tier users with exclusive access to personalized assistance. VIP customers benefit from a dedicated hotline, prioritized response times, and attention from more senior agents. This added layer of service is designed to elevate the experience for HONOR’s most loyal users and provide them with faster, more tailored care.

To ensure this model operates efficiently, the Contact Center uses skill-based agent assignment, by matching inquiries with team members based on experience and specialization. More complex or high-value interactions - particularly from VIP users - are directed to senior agents who are equipped to deliver detailed, effective support.

Local Expertise with a Cultural Focus

One of the core strengths of the HONOR KSA Contact Center is its fully local team. Every support agent is a Saudi national, selected for their deep understanding of local culture, language, and customer expectations. This approach not only ensures smoother communication, but also allows HONOR to build more authentic and trusted relationships with its users.

To maintain quality and consistency, agents undergo ongoing training and professional development. HONOR’s operational model emphasizes both technical proficiency and cultural fluency, ensuring that every interaction reflects the brand’s values and service standards.

By equipping staff with local knowledge and clear communication skills, the center strengthens HONOR’s ability to deliver relevant, customer-first service - an essential factor in a diverse and fast-evolving market like Saudi Arabia.

Supporting HONOR’s Growth in the Region

The launch of the HONOR KSA Contact Center aligns with the brand’s broader regional strategy. As HONOR continues to grow its footprint in the Middle East, investing in localized infrastructure is a key part of its plan to deliver meaningful value to customers beyond just the product itself.

This initiative underscores HONOR’s commitment to listening to customer feedback, refining service operations, and improving satisfaction at every stage of the user journey. By providing more direct, accessible, and culturally attuned support, HONOR is deepening its relationship with users across the Kingdom - and positioning itself for long-term success in the region.

Manal Saleh

l   On August 9, 2025, OMODA&JAECOO held JAECOO DAY in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, officially unveiling the all-new light off-road SUV — JAECOO 5. Prices Starting from Comfort: 63,135 SAR, Luxury: 72,335 SAR and Premium: 82,685 (VAT inclusive). The model was simultaneously launched in Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Qatar, and the UAE, marking a new chapter in joint launches across the Middle East. At the event, regional ambassador Bader Faisal AlShuaibi made a surprise appearance. Multiple models from the JAECOO family shared the spotlight, alongside the debut of the SHS super hybrid system — fully showcasing the brand's global strategy and technological strength.

l   JAECOO 5 is a light off-road SUV that seamlessly blends urban commuting with outdoor exploration. Engineered for outstanding off-road capability and multi-terrain adaptability, it redefines the lifestyle experience of intelligent SUVs by creating three smart mobility scenarios — music, camping, and pet-friendly travel — all centered around the philosophy of Human·Vehicle·Life.

l   In July, the parent company of OMODA&JAECOO ranked 233rd in the 2025 Fortune Global 500, with cumulative exports exceeding 5 million units, achieving a Dual 500 milestone — a breakthrough in its globalization strategy.

On August 9, 2025, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, hosted a highly anticipated automotive event — JAECOO DAY. Under the theme GO DISCOVER, the event marked the official launch of the brand-new light off-road SUV, JAECOO 5, and announced its simultaneous release across four key Middle Eastern markets: Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Qatar, and the UAE. As a significant step in JAECOO's global expansion, this milestone event not only underscores the brand's strong commitment to the Middle Eastern market but also signals the start of a new trend wave in the light off-road SUV segment.

Celebrity Power with Family Momentum: Redefining the New Light Off-road Lifestyle

At the launch event, renowned Middle Eastern singer and theater director Bader Faisal AlShuaibi made a stunning appearance as the regional ambassador for JAECOO 5, instantly igniting excitement across the venue. Sharing the spotlight was a regionally customized edition of JAECOO 5, specially tailored for the local market. Building on the high-quality standards of the original factory, personalized customizations have been integrated to better meet the diverse local driving needs, fully showcasing the exceptional adaptability of JAECOO 5 and the brand's deep understanding of user preferences for individuality.

The full JAECOO family took center stage at the launch event — from JAECOO 5 to JAECOO 8, multiple models were unveiled together, highlighting the brand's comprehensive strength. Whether for daily urban commuting or desert expeditions, every JAECOO vehicle demonstrated outstanding adaptability and robust off-road capability. This collective showcase not only reflects JAECOO's deep expertise in technological innovation and scenario-based design but also underscores its commitment and capability to meet diverse user needs across global markets.

A dedicated exhibition area for the SHS super hybrid system was set up at the venue, offering a comprehensive showcase of this cutting-edge system's unique appeal. The system is composed of three core components: the 5th-generation 1.5TDGI hybrid-dedicated engine, a stepless super hybrid DHT system tailored for hybrid performance, and a high-performance hybrid-dedicated battery. Working in synergy, these components deliver exceptional driving performance and outstanding energy efficiency. From the global stage to the Middle East, SHS super hybrid system is rapidly rolling out, providing users with travel solutions that are efficient, eco-friendly, and exhilarating to drive.

JAECOO 5: Redefining the All-Round Light Off-Roader

JAECOO 5 is more than just a light off-road SUV — it embodies a new lifestyle that seamlessly blends urban commuting with outdoor exploration. Tailored for new elites, JAECOO 5 strikes a perfect balance between the two. Equipped with an independent suspension system, 540° panoramic image, and a 600mm wading depth, significantly enhancing its off-road capabilities and multi-scenario adaptability.

Built around the Human·Vehicle·Life philosophy, JAECOO 5 pioneers three dedicated lifestyle scenarios — music, camping, and pet-friendly travel —empowered by intelligent technology to deliver a diverse mobility experience. The Karaoke Mode integrates a noise-canceling microphone with in-car subwoofers to create an immersive musical environment. A 75kg load-bearing roof platform, paired with detachable magnetic lights and other camping gear, makes outdoor adventures more convenient. Notably, with its outstanding product strengths, JAECOO 5 has passed rigorous testing and earned the TÜV SÜD certification for pet-friendly cabin, delivering the best-in-class travel experience for both owners and their furry companions.

The debut of JAECOO 5 in the Middle East marks more than just the launch of a new vehicle — it represents a multidimensional fusion of brand, culture, and technology. Looking ahead, OMODA&JAECOO will continue to deepen its presence in the Middle East market. Guided by its user-centric philosophy, the brand will accompany more consumers in embracing their own light off-road lifestyle through continuously evolving products and experiences.

OMODA&JAECOO demonstrated strong growth momentum in the European market in 2025, becoming the fastest-growing automotive brand in the region. In the NEV segment, leveraging the world's leading super hybrid system technology, the brand delivers high-efficiency NEV solutions to global users, while steadily progressing toward its goal of becoming the global leading brand in the super hybrid market. Notably, JAECOO 7 SHS will soon start pre-sale in Saudi Arabia. Everyone is welcome to visit the OJ showroom to take a test drive and experience the extraordinary driving experience brought by the J7 SHS.

Manal Saleh

Deadline for the fifth edition of the Automechanika Dubai Awards is approaching, including new awards, Distributor of the Year and Rising Star in Automotive Aftermarket, recognising outstanding distributors and exceptional young professionals from across the GCC 

The ceremony is set to take place on 10 December 2025 at the Dubai World Trade Centre

The diversity and calibre of early entries reaffirm the awards’ position as a leading platform celebrating global best practices and regional excellence

Nominations for the fifth annual Automechanika Dubai Awards are now open. The grand finale will take place at Dubai World Trade Centre on 10 December 2025 during the 22nd edition of Automechanika Dubai, where they will celebrate global best practices and regional excellence.

This year’s ceremony will feature two new awards. Taking place under the Service Excellence category, the Distributor of the Year Award will recognise outstanding independent aftermarket distributors from across the Middle East. The Rising Star in Automotive Aftermarket Award, meanwhile, will shine a spotlight on the most promising professionals under the age of 30 as part of the event’s People category.

All entries must be submitted by 15 August. The shortlist of finalists for the 2025 awards will be unveiled in mid-October.

Tommy Le, Show Manager for Automechanika Dubai, said: “The Automechanika Dubai Awards continue to reflect the ambition, creativity and momentum that have come to define the Middle East and Africa’s automotive aftermarket sector.

“This year’s edition will feature 15 awards spanning the categories of Service Excellence, People, Products and Transformation,” Le continued. “With two brand new trophies, highlighting excellence, innovation and long-term potential in the fields of distribution and talent, I have no doubt that the Automechanika Dubai Awards 2025 will be the most competitive and exciting to date.”

Submissions will be assessed by an independent panel of regional and international industry experts, using rigorous evaluation criteria to gauge their impact, innovation and contribution to the region’s automotive aftermarket sector.

With more than 400 entries, the 2024 edition saw 54 finalists go head-to-head in Dubai. Organisers say that the quality of early nominations for the 2025 awards has been extremely high, and include submissions from the GCC, Kenya, Europe, and the US showcasing innovation, sustainability, and service excellence from established players and emerging disruptors in the automotive aftermarket.

The Automechanika Dubai Awards programme, which awards companies and individuals within four categories, including Service Excellence, Products, Transformation, and People, plays a central role in shaping industry standards and celebrating success. From product safety and sustainability to car care and mobile services, this year’s accolades are designed to champion those helping to drive excellence across the Gulf’s automotive aftermarket sector.

Judging for the 2025 edition will be led by a distinguished panel of industry leaders, including Nasir Saif Sultan AlSeeri, Head of VIP Vehicles Maintenance Section at Dubai Government Workshop; Alan Whaley, Founder and Chairman of AMENA Auto; Dr. Maya Ben Dror, Co-founder and COO of ComplexChaos, Chairperson of Women in Mobility, and Venture Partner at NextGear Ventures; and Frank Schlehuber, Senior Consultant for Market Affairs at the European Association of Automotive Suppliers, alongside several other respected experts. (See below for the full panel).

Gaitri Jeswani, Chief Operations Officer at Eurodiesel Services LLC and recipient of the Women in Automotive Aftermarket award at the Automechanika Dubai Awards 2024, shared, “I am truly honoured and humbled to receive the Women in Automotive Aftermarket award, which reflects the hard work of the entire Eurodiesel Services team. This recognition inspires me to keep advocating for inclusivity, mentorship, and innovation in our evolving industry. I’m grateful for the support that drives us to push boundaries and create positive change for future generations.” 

In addition to receiving the award, Jeswani will serve as an honorary judge on this year’s Automechanika Dubai Awards panel.

Taking place at Dubai World Trade Centre from 9-11 December 2025, the upcoming edition of Automechanika Dubai is based around six key pillars: sustainability, electrification and digitalisation, innovation, training, recruitment and safety. Returning features include the Automechanika Academy, Innovation4Mobility, the Automechanika Awards, the Pitstop Challenge, the Modern Workshop and the Lubricants, Base Oil and Additives Conference. 

The show will feature 10 product sections, including Parts & Components, Electrics & Electronics, Accessories & Customising, Car Wash, Care & Detailing, Body & Paint, Diagnostics & Repair, Oils, Lubricants & Fuels, Tyres & Batteries, Digital Solutions & Services, and a new product area focusing on Connectivity & Autonomous Driving. 

Companies and individuals wishing to enter should visit, the Automechanika Dubai Awards page.

Ends

Manal Saleh

Riyadh, August 7, 2025 - LG Electronics (LG) has announced launching of its new Business Innovation Center (BIC) in Riyadh, designed to offer Saudi business customers an immersive journey into the future of commercial and display technologies, highlighting the best and brightest of LG’s innovative line-up.

(BIC) Located in the new LG’s office in Al-Sahafa District in Riyadh. while being tailored to the needs and ambitions of the Saudi market. Managed by LG’s Information Display (ID) team, the state-of-the-art space has been curated as a technology showcase, as well as a collaborative platform aligned with Saudi Vision 2030 and the nation’s drive toward digital transformation.

“Saudi Arabia is undergoing a profound evolution across all sectors; from retail and hospitality to smart cities and digital infrastructure,” said LG Saudi Managing Director Mr. Sunny Kim. “With the Riyadh Business Innovation Center, we’re creating a space that empowers partners to visualize, plan, and implement future-forward solutions, leveraging LG’s world-class display technologies.”

The Riyadh BIC is designed around multiple interactive experience zones, each tailored to demonstrate the real-world application of the brand’s most advanced technologies, where visitors can explore the likes of built-in kitchen systems that seamlessly blend premium displays with smart home functionality – ideal for hospitality and high-end residential spaces. The center also showcases LG’s newest innovations in IT and gaming, including high-resolution business monitors and ultra-responsive gaming displays built for speed and accuracy.

Adding to an invitingly immersive journey are curved and ultra-wide displays optimized for mission-critical environments such as control rooms and trading floors, alongside LG’s transparent OLED signage; a cutting-edge solution transforming customer engagement in retail and corporate spaces.

All brought together in a space that invites exploration, collaboration, and forward-thinking design, the center delivers, too, visually arresting LED installations and digital signage designed for airports, educational institutions, and public venues, among so many more applications.

Visitors to the new BIC will be among the first to experience how LG’s latest solutions function in real-world scenarios – whether a smart retail store, futuristic boardroom, or digitally connected home environment. Additionally, the center will serve as a collaboration hub, where LG’s local clients, partners, and systems integrators can engage in workshops, solution testing, training, and consultation to co-develop tailored technology ecosystems.

About LG Electronics, Inc.

LG Electronics is a global innovator in technology and consumer electronics with a presence in almost every country and an international workforce of more than 74,000. LG’s four Companies – Home Appliance Solution, Media Entertainment Solution, Vehicle Solution and the Eco Solution – combined for global revenue of over KRW 82 trillion in 2023. LG is a leading manufacturer of consumer and commercial products ranging from TVs, home appliances, air solutions, monitors, automotive components and solutions, and its premium LG SIGNATURE and intelligent LG ThinQ brands are familiar names world over. Visit www.LGnewsroom.com for the latest news.

 You can discover their favorite programs by launching the LG Channels application on their LG screen. Since 2024 LG Channels for Automotive For more news on LG, visit www.LGnewsroom.com.

Rashad Iskandrni

In his capacity as Vice Chairman of the Saudi-Korean Business Council, Mr. Abdul Salam Aljabr, Vice Chairman of AlJabr Company, participated in the Korean Content 2025 exhibition organized by the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism and the Korean Creative Content Agency in Riyadh, with the participation of a large number of Saudi and Korean companies, and witnessed the presence and interaction of a wide range of Saudi entrepreneurs to discuss cooperation opportunities with their Korean counterparts.

In his speech during the joint workshop at the exhibition, Mr. Aljabr pointed out that Korean creative industries have become a source of inspiration globally, from drama and music to digital games and animation. He explained that the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is opening doors to this creativity and interacting with it as part of its journey towards diversifying the economy and enhancing local content, as part of the goals of Vision 2030.

Emphasizing the importance of cultural content, not only as a means of expression but also as a platform for civilizational communication and understanding between peoples, and as a promising economic engine if utilized correctly.

Mr. Aljabr explained that the Council sees great opportunities to build strategic partnerships between Saudi Arabia and Korea in this vital sector, through joint productions, training and development programs.

Manal Saleh

 Esterad Investment Co. B.S.C. (“Esterad” or “the Company”) (Trading Code: ESTERAD) announced its financial results for the second quarter of 2025 (“the quarter”) ending June 30, 2025.

Net profit attributable to shareholders was BD 1,041,757 for the second quarter of 2025 compared to BD 885,853 for the same period last year, reflecting an increase of 18%. Esterad continued to deliver double-digit growth, driven by disciplined execution of its restructuring strategy and performance across its diversified global private equity, public market and real estate portfolio. Earnings per share for the quarter was 6.4 Fils compared with 5.8 Fils in the second quarter of last year. Total comprehensive income attributable to shareholders amounted to BD 1,183,296 in Q2 2025 compared to BD 290,269 in the same quarter of last year, representing a significant increase of 308%. Total income for the second quarter stood at BD  2,227,469, marking an 18% decline compared to BD  2,716,940 in the second quarter of 2024. Profit rose despite lower income owing to a 33% cut in total expenses and a 61% drop in interest costs following deleveraging.

For the first six months of the year, net profit attributable to shareholders rose to BD 1,531,362, a 16% increase from the BD 1,321,646 reported in the same period of 2024. Earnings per share for first half of 2025 was 9.5 Fils compared with 8.6 Fils in H1 2024. Total comprehensive income attributable to shareholders in the first six months of 2025 amounted to BD 1,714,247, compared with BD 855,310 for the corresponding period of 2024, representing an increase of 100%. Total income for the first six months of 2025 was BD 4,087,553 compared to BD 4,694,745 in the same period of 2024, down by 13%. 

As of 30 June 2025, total equity attributable to shareholders reached BD  43,141,313, a 1% decline from the BD  43,377,483 recorded as of 31 December 2024. Total assets decreased by 11% to BD 83,142,818 compared to BD 93,100,840 on 31 December 2024, primarily because of portfolio restructuring and investment exits.

In line with its strategic objectives, Esterad continued to deleverage its balance sheet and reduce financing costs, utilising proceeds from profitable investment exits, including primary listed equities in the first half of the year, to prepay debt early, further strengthening its financial position.

Commenting on the results, Mr. Nabeel Noorudin, Board Chairman of Esterad, said: “Our results for the second quarter reaffirm Esterad’s continued ability to deliver resilient performance and value creation, despite global macroeconomic challenges. The strong growth in earnings reflects disciplined execution of our long-term strategy, which is focused on optimising our capital structure, enhancing returns from core assets, and exiting legacy investments. 

We have made significant progress on our restructuring roadmap, with successful partial exits of global listed equities. These efforts are enabling us to redeploy capital into higher-yielding and strategically aligned opportunities across key markets. Esterad remains strongly positioned to capitalise and identify unique investment opportunities that offer risk-adjust returns for our shareholders.”

Elaborating further, Mr. Noorudin added: “In parallel, we are actively working on several strategic transactions targeted to close in the second half of the year, which are expected to drive future growth in both business activity and profitability. These include niche new opportunities in defensive sectors & opportunistic yielding real estate projects. In addition, we are also looking forward to resuming construction and beginning sales of one of our recently acquired, partially completed real estate projects in Bahrain in the second half of the year.”

On his part, Mr. Ahmed Abdulrahman, Chief Executive Officer of Esterad, stated: “We are pleased with our performance in the second quarter and the continued execution of our strategy, which has resulted in sustained profit growth and stronger financial position. Our focus remains on activating newly acquired assets and exiting legacy holdings as we successfully realised value from the exit of our global listed equities in the last quarter. We remain fully committed to the turnaround and repositioning of key assets across our diversified global portfolio, unlocking long-term value, and deploying capital efficiently into high-potential opportunities. A key priority in the second half of the year is to resume construction and begin sales on a recently acquired, incomplete real estate project. “

He added: “A key contributor to our positive momentum has been the progress of Esterad Bank, which continues to advance on its strategic roadmap. The Bank entered 2025 with strengthened capital and a healthy pipeline of investment opportunities. During Q2, the Bank made further progress on strategic acquisitions as they are in advanced stages of negotiation on three deals, with expected closures in the third quarter. We remain confident in our ability to deliver superior returns for our investors by capitalising on these compelling, income-generating investments.”

Manal Saleh

• New Nissan Magnite scores a 5-star rating for overall passenger safety

·        Engineered to meet global standards, the latest Magnite offers enhanced safety with reinforced body structure and over 40 Standard Safety Features

·        Built on the enhanced CMF-A+ platform and offering advanced safety features designed to help protect drivers, passengers, and pedestrians on the road

Jeddah, Saudi Arabia (10 August 2025): The all-new Nissan Magnite has been awarded a 5-star overall safety rating by the Global New Car Assessment Program (GNCAP).

Now available in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and across the Middle East, the all-new Magnite received a perfect 5-star rating in adult safety and a 3-star rating in child safety, resulting in an overall 5-star safety rating for passengers.

Richard Woods, Chief Executive Officer, Global NCAP, said: “It's very welcome to see Nissan's focus on improving the Magnite's safety performance. The 5-star rating is relevant to consumers, and it demonstrates what can be achieved in a relatively short period of time when a manufacturer is fully committed to engage in the NCAP process."

Magnite underwent rigorous testing, including assessments of adult occupant protection, child safety, and safety assist features. The vehicle demonstrated exceptional performance across all categories, showcasing its robust build quality, advanced safety features, and innovative design aimed at safeguarding drivers and passengers alike.

Leon Dorssers, Nissan Senior Vice President, Chief of Commercial Operations, AMIEO Region (Africa, Middle East, India, Europe & Oceania) said, “As car makers, our first and overriding responsibility is to make our vehicles safe. Our Design, Engineering and Production teams are committed to this goal, so receiving globally recognized verification of these efforts through a 5-star Global NCAP rating is immensely rewarding. Magnite is an exceptional car in every way, and it is especially important safety is amongst the top of its long list of attributes.”

Nissan has announced the availability of the all-new Nissan Magnite for the Middle East – as the first region in the world to receive the left-hand-drive (LHD) model. Launched at a stylish event in Riyadh in March 2025, the vehicle is now being exported to markets in Africa, the Middle East, and Southeast Asia. It boasts over 40 standard safety features including 6 airbags, improved body structure incorporating 67% high tensile strength steel (>440Mpa), anti-lock braking systems (ABS) and electronic brake-force distribution (EBD), vehicle dynamic control, and more.

Global NCAP’s crash test protocols assess frontal and side impact protection for all models, as well as electronic stability control (ESC). Pedestrian protection and side pole impact protection assessments are also required for vehicles scoring the highest star ratings (**).

The Magnite’s bold and stylish design, more than 20 first and best-in-segment features, and over 55 safety features make it a standout choice in the compact SUV segment.

Additional safety features such as three-point seatbelts for all seats, seatbelt reminders, child lock, ISOFIX child seat anchorages, and rear parking sensors now come as standard across all variants, ensuring every journey is not just comfortable but more secure than ever. 

Rashad Iskandrni

 : the FuelCell SuperComp Elite v5. Featuring the latest high-performance tech, these shoes are designed for runners who live for the chase, including Alex Yee, British New Balance triathlete and Paris Olympic gold medalist who debuted the shoe’s performance at the 2025 TCS London Marathon and finished with an impressive time of 2:11:08!

With an ultra-lightweight frame and breathable upper materials, the SC Elite v5 gives runners the confidence and comfort to go all-in throughout the race without ever feeling weighed down. Meanwhile, the brand-new FuelCell midsole works in conjunction with the Energy Arc carbon plate system, offering explosive energy powerful propulsion and making every stride count. 

Product Highlights

• Key Features:

o FuelCell foam for high-rebound energy return

o Energy Arc technology with a carbon plate for max propulsion

o Breathable engineered upper for lightweight lockdown

o Designed for comfort over 42.2km without compromising speed

• Where: New Balance stores across the UAE and on newbalance.co.ae

• When: August 7, 2025

• Price: 1440  

Whether you're training for an important race or clocking a PB for that final stretch, the SC Elite v5 is purpose-built for athletes pushing pace, chasing personal bests, and demanding more from every stride. This is the shoe for those who know that every second (and every gram) counts.

Manal Saleh

Discover how HONOR’s cutting-edge battery tech is redefining smartphone performance and setting new industry standards

(Riyadh-KSA, 07.08.2025) We use smartphones for almost everything, calls, photos, games, and even more. But behind every great phone is a powerful battery that keeps it running. Over the years, battery technology has advanced in stages, making our smartphones last longer, charge faster, and become lighter and thinner. Batteries have gone through different phases to meet the growing demands of everyday smartphone use.

In the 1970s, Nickel-Cadmium batteries were used, but they charged slowly, had low capacity, and didn’t last very long. The 1990s brought better batteries with increased energy storage and longer life, though they still faced safety issues like overheating.

By the 1990s, lithium-ion batteries arrived, offering much higher energy density and lighter weight, allowing phones to run longer and become slimmer. The 2010s introduced lithium-ion polymer batteries that were thinner and safer, enabling the slim, stylish smartphones we know today.

The latest breakthrough came in the 2020s with silicon-carbon anode batteries. Launched 1^st by HONOR in 2023, this revolutionary technology enhances battery capacity, pushing smartphone battery performance to new heights.

Why Silicon-Carbon Batteries Are Revolutionary

HONOR’s silicon-carbon battery technology is a big step forward in how smartphones and other devices get their power. Let’s break it down into simple parts with just a little technical detail so it’s easy to understand.

The Basics: How a Battery Works

Think of a battery as a small power tank. It has three main parts:

• Anode (negative side): Stores lithium ions when the battery is full.
• Cathode (positive side): Receives the ions when the battery is being used, releasing energy.
• Electrolyte: A special liquid or gel that lets the ions move between the two sides.
• 
  

This movement of ions is what powers your phone.

The Old Way: Graphite Anodes

For years, most batteries used graphite as the anode material. Graphite is reliable, but it can only hold a limited number of lithium ions. Think of it as a small parking lot, it works, but it can only fit so many cars (lithium ions). Even though technology is moving fast, some tech brands are still using this older battery method. This slows down progress, as it limits how much batteries can improve in capacity and overall performance.

The New & Revolutionary Way: Silicon-Carbon Anodes

This is where HONOR’s innovation comes in. Instead of just using graphite, HONOR mixes silicon and carbon to create a much better anode.

The Star Player: Silicon

• More Power: Silicon can hold up to 10 times more lithium ions than graphite. That means much higher energy capacity in the same space.
• The Problem: Pure silicon gets much bigger up to three times its size when charging. This swelling can break the battery over time, like a parking lot that grows too big and cracks.

The Supporting Role: Carbon

• To solve the silicon swelling problem, HONOR mixes silicon with carbon to create a silicon-carbon composite anode.
• HONOR uses a porous carbon framework to ensure good electrical conductivity and to control how much the silicon expands.

·        They also apply nano-silicon in situ vapor deposition, a method, the special process to coat tiny silicon particles evenly onto the carbon framework. This keeps the silicon spread out and stable inside the battery.

• This combination strengthens the battery, making it more durable and efficient.

What HONOR’s Silicon-Carbon Battery Offers

·        More Power in Less Space: This battery can hold a lot more energy without taking up extra room.

In simple words: Your phone can run longer without getting bulkier.

In technical terms: It delivers higher capacity (mAh) and energy density (Wh/L) in the same size or weight.

·        Thinner, Lighter Phones: Because the battery packs more energy into a smaller space, phones like HONOR Magic V2 and V3 can be slimmer than other foldables without sacrificing battery performance.

·         

·        Leading Silicon Content: HONOR uses up to 15% silicon in their battery anodes which is the highest among Chinese brands, meaning better energy storage and overall performance.

·        Works Well in Extreme Conditions: These batteries keep performing even in freezing temperatures (down to -20°C)

·        Longer Battery Life: With smart design and power management software and self-developed chipset (like HONOR’s E1/E2 chip), the battery stays healthy and lasts longer.

HONOR’s strength comes from its strong R&D team specializing in battery technology. About 40% of their R&D staff are doctors, and 50% have master’s degrees, showing deep expertise. They also have a solid supply chain, working closely with advanced and reliable suppliers to ensure high-quality materials.

With cutting-edge technology, exceptional R&D, human-centric approach, HONOR is powering the next generation of smartphones. Their breakthroughs mean longer-lasting, faster-charging devices that set a new industry standard for performance and reliability.

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.