Paymentology Launches PayCredit to Power Credit Innovation for Digital Banks and Fintechs in Saudi Arabia and the GCC

Manal Saleh

1.     Pioneering Discoveries in Paleobiology and Modern Aviation Technologies The Abu Dhabi Museum of Natural History, in collaboration with the University of Manchester, has uncovered three-dimensional microscopic structures within the bones of pterosaurs from the Jurassic era. This engineering breakthrough could contribute to the development of lighter, stronger, and more fuel-efficient materials in modern aviation. The results of this research were published in Scientific Reports of Nature, reinforcing the museum's stature as a leading global institution that connects natural history with advanced technologies in aviation. This research was led by Professor Dr. Philip Manning, Deputy Director of Scientific Research at the Abu Dhabi Museum of Natural History.

2.     Significant Contributions to Planetary Sciences and Planetary Defense Dr. Ludovic Ferrier, a curator at the Abu Dhabi Museum of Natural History, has played a pivotal role in international efforts to recover and analyze fragments of asteroid 2023 CX1, including the Saint Pierre-Lefigey meteorite. As a co-author of the study published in Nature Astronomy regarding the first trace of an asteroid fully tracked before entering the atmosphere, his work exemplifies the museum's leadership in planetary defense research and global scientific collaboration.

Scientific Partnerships

The Abu Dhabi Museum of Natural History bolsters a strong network of local and international partnerships to support advanced research and innovation. Through collaborations with leading institutions worldwide, the museum contributes to the advancement of scientific knowledge and cultivates a vibrant research culture based on discovery and knowledge exchange.

Laboratories at the Abu Dhabi Museum of Natural History

1.     Fossil Lab The Fossil Lab provides visitors with the opportunity to observe the preparation of real fossils and gain insight into the museum's research. Museum scientists work with original specimens and demonstrate methods for cleaning, studying, and preserving fossils. Visitors can interact directly with paleontologists, ask questions, and even handle some fossil materials designated for experimentation. The lab serves as an educational space that connects the public with the latest research and techniques in paleontology.

2.     Life Sciences Lab Scientists in the Life Sciences Lab explore the vast biodiversity of Earth through the study of specialized scientific collections. Various samples are collected to research the adaptation, behavior, and ecological relationships of organisms. Researchers continually develop new techniques and interventions that contribute to the protection and preservation of global biodiversity, making the lab a center for research and awareness of environmental sustainability.

The Abu Dhabi Museum of Natural History spans over 35,000 square meters and was designed by the global architectural firm Mecanoo to embody natural rock formations, directly reflecting the museum’s mission to enhance visitors' understanding of and connection to the natural world. The geometric layout serves as a key element in the design, with pentagonal shapes inspired by cellular structures found in nature recurring throughout. Water and plants play a central role in the architectural composition, representing essential symbols of life in the desert environment.

In addition to permanent exhibition halls, the museum features spaces dedicated to temporary exhibitions and special events, as well as theater facilities designed for cultural and educational purposes. Construction works have already begun at the museum's site, signaling the start of the first phase of developing this prominent cultural and scientific landmark.

1.     What is the philosophy or core inspiration behind the design concept of the Abu Dhabi Museum of Natural History? The design vision is based on a profound personal memory experienced by architect Nuno Fontarra in his childhood, as he explored tidal rocks in Porto, Portugal. Each ascent and descent on these rocks revealed a new small world between stone and water, igniting his sense of curiosity and discovery. These early moments shaped his understanding of how humans interact with nature as a space for exploration and adventure. Mecanoo translated this memory into the context of Abu Dhabi, drawing inspiration from the spirit of the wadi—not just as a seasonal water channel but as a natural structure that signifies movement, life, and direction in the desert. Thus, the museum emerged as a rocky formation extending across an "urban wadi," standing at the threshold between land and sea. The building is rooted in the desert sands while simultaneously opening to the gulf, guiding visitors through spaces that change rhythmically as tides ebb and flow, evoking the sculpted landscapes of the wadi over time. For Mecanoo, the building is not seen as a mass of architecture placed above the ground, but as part of it: a dwelling woven into the natural fabric that reveals the continuity of desert, rocks, wadi, and sea as a unified system integral to the experience of discovery.

2.     What are the prominent architectural elements that distinguish the Abu Dhabi Museum of Natural History? The most notable architectural feature of the museum is its system of hanging gardens, which transforms the building into a vibrant natural scene where urban development blends with public spaces and environmental elements. These gardens create green layers that cascade over the facades and structures, making the museum a lively entity connected to its surroundings rather than separate from it.

3.     How does the design enhance the visitor experience within the museum? The hanging gardens turn the museum into a dynamic and interactive space, where the building becomes part of the natural environment, and nature forms a part of the movement paths within the building. This integration creates an immersive experience for visitors, making each step a journey of exploration and granting everyone the role of a "scientist" discovering new layers of the story told by the place.

4.     How have community views and local culture contributed to shaping the final design? The final design was inspired by the spirit of the urban wadi, which encourages movement and discovery while reflecting the lifestyle patterns in Abu Dhabi. Mecanoo designed two main pathways that allow the public to navigate freely between different blocks of the building and explore the waterfront. Thanks to the abundance of public spaces provided by the building, the museum has become a true community gathering point. At sunset, the space allows visitors to enjoy quiet strolls, creating an experience that aligns with local customs and behaviors, fostering an environment where people feel familiarity and connection.

5.     How does the design accommodate future growth needs, changes, or technological developments? The building follows a modular approach that allows it to evolve over time, much like the cellular structures from which the architectural inspiration is drawn. This approach makes it easy to add new spaces or develop internal functions, accommodating future requirements and advanced technologies without compromising the original identity of the building.

6.     Does the museum include special systems for controlling indoor air quality, particularly for protecting specimens and collections? Yes, the museum is equipped with advanced climate control and air quality systems to ensure the protection of both visitors and scientific specimens. These systems regulate temperature, humidity, and particulate matter levels, providing an optimal environment for preserving samples in the long term.

Manal Saleh

Taiba, a leading Saudi hospitality and real estate company listed on Tadawul, has signed a Memorandum of understanding (MOU) with China Travel Online (CBISN Services) to prepare Taiba hotels in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to welcome Chinese tourists and provide all services tailored to their needs, including language support, cuisine, and cultural experiences that appeal to Chinese visitors, ensuring a comprehensive hospitality experience.

The agreement includes collaboration in organizing and promoting joint events in both China and Saudi Arabia, exchanging knowledge, expertise, and best practices to enhance the readiness of Saudi destinations and hospitality sectors for the Chinese market, marketing and promoting joint events through digital, media, and trade channels, and exploring future cooperation opportunities in tourism and hotel investment.

Hassan Ahdab, Chief Hospitality Operations Officer at Taiba, said, "Our collaboration with China Travel Online marks a strategic milestone in expanding Taiba's presence within the vast Chinese tourism market. We are dedicated to meeting every need of Chinese visitors -from language and cuisine to cultural immersion- ensuring their visit to the Kingdom is truly memorable. This collaboration will drive increased Chinese tourism and further position Saudi Arabia as a leading global tourism destination".

The MOU was signed on the sidelines of the World Travel Market in London (WTM London), held from November 4 to 6, 2025, and outlines joint cooperation in organizing two key events in the Kingdom: The China MICE Summit 2026 and the China Ready Workshop.

China Travel Online will invite leading Chinese MICE operators to participate in the summit in Saudi Arabia and will deliver the China Ready Workshop to audiences in Saudi Arabia and the wider Middle East.

Taiba will be responsible for hosting the events locally, providing logistical support, coordinating with Saudi tourism authorities, and inviting Saudi suppliers to participate in both the summit and the workshop.

It is worth noting that Taiba Company places great emphasis on building strategic partnerships aimed at developing the tourism sector in the Kingdom. It has established collaborations with global hotel brands such as Marriott and Hilton, joined the membership of the World Tourism Organization, and has received several prestigious local and regional awards.

Manal Saleh

Deepening Strategic Partnership to Drive Innovation in Next-Generation Mobility Solutions

Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, Nov. 20, 2025 — Executives from LG Electronics, LG Display, LG Energy Solution and LG Innotek met with Mercedes-Benz AG to discuss expanded collaboration under LG’s “One LG Solution” strategy. Focused on leveraging the combined expertise of LG Group affiliates, this effort brings together the four companies driving the Group’s automotive components business.

The meeting took place on November 13 at LG Twin Towers in Yeouido, Seoul, during the visit of Ola Källenius, Chairman of the Board of Management and CEO of Mercedes-Benz Group AG, to Korea. Participants included William Cho, CEO of LG Electronics; Jeong Cheol-dong, CEO of LG Display; Kim Dong-myung, CEO of LG Energy Solution; and Moon Hyuk-soo, CEO of LG Innotek, alongside Mathias Vaitl, CEO of Mercedes-Benz Korea, and other senior executives.

Discussions centered on strengthening cooperation to support Mercedes-Benz’s vision for the future of mobility – including the transition to electric vehicles (EVs) and the establishment of a flexible, sustainable global production network driven by digitalization and automation.

In line with this shared vision, LG Electronics, LG Display, LG Energy Solution and LG Innotek presented their next-generation solutions in EV components, batteries, displays and autonomous driving sensors, seeking new ways to strengthen integration under the One LG Solution framework.

The four LG Group affiliates already work closely with Mercedes-Benz across multiple core areas of mobility technology:

-         LG Electronics and Mercedes-Benz have long worked together on core systems for software-defined vehicles (SDVs), including in-vehicle infotainment (IVI) and advanced driver assistance systems. A notable example is the co-developed OLED-based IVI system for the Mercedes-Benz EQS, featuring a curved panoramic display that spans the entire dashboard – reflecting the growing trend toward immersive, large-format in-vehicle screens.

-         LG Display has been supplying advanced Plastic OLED (P-OLED) panels to Mercedes-Benz since 2020. Built on flexible plastic substrates, the P-OLED panels deliver exceptional image quality and enable elegant, curved designs, including those featured in Mercedes-Benz’s next-generation MBUX Hyperscreen infotainment system.

-         LG Energy Solution continues its partnership with Mercedes-Benz in the area of electric vehicle batteries.

-         LG Innotek is in discussions to expand cooperation in autonomous driving sensor technologies, including vehicle camera modules, LiDAR and Radar.

“At Mercedes-Benz, we firmly believe that strategic, collaborative partnerships are the driving force which shapes our next generation vehicles,” said, Ola Källenius, CEO of Mercedes-Benz AG. “Together with LG, we share a vision built on innovation, quality and sustainability. By combining our strengths, we’re creating vehicles that will set new global standards.”

“We will further solidify our strategic partnership with Mercedes-Benz by leveraging our core competencies in the vehicle components business – from our user experience-centric value proposition to our integrated SDV solution portfolio and globally proven technology and reliability,” said William Cho, CEO of LG Electronics.

Manal Saleh

Landmark Arabia Launches New Centrepoint, Max Flagship Stores at U Walk Riyadh

·        Two iconic brands unveiled modern, design-led concepts with open layouts, curated collections, and elevated service touchpoints tailored transform the shopping journey of Saudi families

·        Landmark Arabia strengthens its expansion momentum with upgraded formats and digital-first experiences

·        17 Centerpoint and 24 Max new stores set to open in the next 2 years

Riyadh, Saudi Arabia — 19 November 2025 Landmark Arabia, a Saudi-based division of Landmark Group, announced a major retail milestone with the opening of two flagship stores — an all-new concept design for Centrepoint and its latest store format iteration of Max — at U Walk Riyadh. Together, the openings bring modern, design-led, and digitally enhanced shopping experiences to one of the capital’s most vibrant lifestyle destinations, underscoring the Group’s long-standing commitment to the Kingdom, where it has been serving customers for over 30 years.

A new era of store design and retail innovation

Spanning over 32,000 sq ft, the new Centrepoint flagship introduces the brand’s latest global retail format, designed to elevate the customer journey through immersive design, intuitive navigation, and integrated digital convenience. Key design enhancements include:

• A fully open floor plan with wider aisles, easier navigation, and clearly defined brand zones for Splash, Babyshop, Lifestyle, and Shoemart.
• Curated trend-led collections displayed in a gallery-like format for faster discovery and improved product storytelling.
• Enhanced fitting lounges designed with improved lighting, mirror tech, and service-led assistance points.
• Multi-sensory visual merchandising featuring dynamic digital screens, elevated product showcases, and seasonal immersive displays.
• Technology-enabled checkout experiences, including expanded self-checkout, improved click-and-collect integration, and quicker digital payment options.

Integrated omnichannel features — including real-time stock visibility and digital product information touchpoints — ensure customers can shop on their terms, whether online or in-store.

Centrepoint now operates 92 stores across 32 Saudi cities, including 21 in Riyadh. Over the past three years, the brand has opened 14 new stores and renovated 25, each upgraded to its refreshed identity and contemporary look.

Max’s footprint expansion with a new store at U Walk

Complementing Centrepoint’s opening, Max — the region’s leading value fashion brand — has also launched a brand-new store at U Walk, spanning 16,000+ sq. ft. with a reimagined, premium-yet-accessible shopping experience. Reflecting MAX’s modernised design identity, the store features a clean, open layout, trend-focused displays, and digital touchpoints that enhance accessibility and convenience for families. The store also uses RFID technology for seamless self-checkout and enables Click and Collect service for online shoppers. Max now operates 128 stores in over 50 cities across the Kingdom.

The addition of Max further strengthens Landmark Arabia’s multi-brand presence in Riyadh, offering customers an expanded choice of fashion, essentials, and everyday value under one destination mall.

“Our new flagship store openings represent the future of retail in Saudi— modern, immersive, and powered by design and technology,” said TS Vedapuri, Chief Country Officer for Landmark Arabia. “After over 30 years of connecting with families across the Kingdom, we are proud to launch stores that embodies our next phase of growth. U Walk is a vibrant destination, and these openings reflect our continued investment and confidence in Saudi Arabia’s dynamic retail landscape.”

Commitment to people, talent, and inclusive growth

At Landmark Arabia, it’s not all about business. People are at the heart of everything they do. Across Saudi Arabia, the company employs more than 9,700 team members, including 50% Saudi nationals, of whom 75% are women. The organisation fosters a culture of growth, development, and long-term opportunity, evidenced in a large number of long-term employees. The Group has been consistently recognised for its commitment to nationalisation and capability building, winning multiple Brandon Hall Awards and ranking among the Top 5 in the Middle East for the CIPD ME Award for Best Nationalisation Initiative.

Looking ahead

Over the next three years, Centrepoint will continue its expansion across the Kingdom with 17 new stores, 8 major renovations, and 2 store relocations. While Max is set to open 24 new stores, 12 relocations and 8 renovations during the same period — reinforcing Landmark Arabia’s commitment to accessibility, innovation, and offering customer exceptional value.

As part of the opening celebrations, visitors to the new Centrepoint store can enjoy an exclusive launch promotion: Shop for SAR 300 and get SAR 150 back, available from 19–22 November 2025.

-END-

Manal Saleh

Rikaz, Saudi Arabia's leading real estate developer, announced the signing of a strategic partnership with Logistiya, a company specialized in developing logistics facilities, and Forsa Capital, an investment fund management firm, to launch a logistics real estate fund with investments estimated at SAR 300 million. The announcement was made on the sidelines of Cityscape Saudi Arabia 2025, held in Riyadh from November 17 to 20.

Under the partnership, a plot of land of approximately 97,000 square meters within The Node project in Riyadh will be allocated to develop an “A-Class” warehousing facility covering around 67,000 square meters. The facility is expected to begin operations in 2027.

The partnership between Rikaz, Logistiya, and Forsa Capital reflects their commitment to supporting the development of the logistics sector in the Kingdom and enhancing logistics facilities in line with the highest international standards. This initiative will help improve supply chain efficiency, meet the growing demand for modern logistics infrastructure, and strengthen the ability to attract institutional capital and investors who favor long-term income-generating assets such as warehouses and logistics centers.

This partnership also embodies a unified forward-looking vision aimed at creating sustainable value that attracts quality investments and provides innovative development solutions supporting the Kingdom’s economic transformation, especially given that investment in the logistics sector is a key priority of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030.

Khalid bin Hassan Al-Qahtani, Chairman and CEO of Rikaz, expressed his excitement about the launch of this partnership, stating: "Our collaboration with Logistiya and Forsa Capital to develop the first ‘A-Class’ warehouse complex within our flagship The Node project represents the culmination of our ongoing efforts to support Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030.

He added: "At Rikaz, we believe in adhering to the highest standards of quality and innovation. This partnership ensures the provision of logistics facilities that meet global standards, enhancing our ability to attract international companies."

He further emphasized: "This project marks the beginning of larger and more ambitious initiatives in the logistics sector. Through this collaboration, we are committed to delivering high-quality, state-of-the-art logistics facilities that support the Kingdom’s national economic ambitions and strengthen our position as a leading developer in Saudi Arabia."

It is worth noting that Rikaz possesses a rich and diverse portfolio, encompassing a range of residential, commercial, and entertainment projects. The company’s vision aligns with the Kingdom’s accelerated urban development as part of its ambitious plans under Vision 2030. Rikaz holds a unique and distinguished position in the region, having successfully delivered exceptional real estate and urban development projects in prime locations, offering high-quality services that enhance the quality of life and fulfill the aspirations of Saudi citizens for distinctive and premium housing.

Manal Saleh

Riyadh, KSA 19 Nov. 2025– Dsquares has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with stc Group to upgrade how Saudi consumers experience rewards and everyday benefits. The collaboration centres on making loyalty more useful in real daily life through instant, personalised digital rewards offered across categories that matter most to consumers.

The agreement integrates Dsquares’ loyalty technology into stc’s ecosystem to support a broader shift in the Kingdom toward customer-centric digital services. The new model aims to provide people with faster access to relevant e-vouchers, easier redemption journeys, and offers that reflect their habits and preferences, moving loyalty from a promotional add-on to a practical part of day-to-day spending.

Marwan Kenawy, Co-founder and CEO of Dsquares, highlighted the long-term vision saying: “We are honoured to partner with stc to power the discount platform for “qitaf,” one of the most trusted and widely used loyalty programs in Saudi Arabia and the GCC. By managing and implementing the “qitaf” e-voucher ecosystem, we’re not just deploying technology; we’re building solutions that enhance everyday experiences for millions of Saudi consumers. This deep commitment to digital transformation ensures that loyalty programs become more accessible, practical, and rewarding across the Kingdom.”

“This collaboration comes at a time when the loyalty sector in the region is undergoing major transformation, as brands shift from traditional, points-based and transaction-driven programs to more human-centric experiences powered by data and behavior, placing the user’s needs at the heart of every feature and value delivered.”

Mohamed El Fahad, General Manager of Loyalty at stc, commented on the new value proposition saying: “This partnership is fundamentally about enhancing value and utility for our members. The collaboration with Dsquares allows us to inject intelligent solutions into our loyalty ecosystem, aiming to provide exclusive, relevant discounts delivered seamlessly as electronic vouchers directly through the new “qitaf” application. This strategic move ensures personalized rewards are instant and practical for our 19 million+ customers, reinforcing “qitaf's” position as a leader in customer appreciation.”

By bringing together a major telecom operator and a regional loyalty specialist, the collaboration reinforces a broader shift underway in Saudi Arabia: moving from traditional, points-heavy loyalty schemes to smarter, behaviour-driven ecosystems. The partnership is designed to give “qitaf” members a more intuitive, practical, and personalised rewards experience, one that integrates smoothly into their everyday spending.

Industry data reflects this momentum: the loyalty market in the Middle East is expected to grow by 16.3% in 2025 to reach USD 3.27 billion, with the wider MENA region forecast to expand from USD 5.85 billion to USD 9.38 billion by 2028. This rapid growth underscores the shift toward more sophisticated, consumer-centric loyalty ecosystems, making initiatives like the stc–Dsquares partnership increasingly critical to meeting evolving expectations.

As part of the agreement, Dsquares will implement the digital infrastructure that powers “qitaf’s” e-voucher ecosystem and curate the expanded “qitaf” Marketplace. This ensures members receive timely, relevant discounts based on their points balance and shopping patterns, making “qitaf” a more useful companion in daily life.

Manal Saleh

• A special presentation of Meyerowitz’s work, including new video and audio installations, to be shown at Somerset House, London from 17 April - 4 May 2026

• Meyerowitz to be recognised at the annual Awards ceremony in London on 16 April 2026

RIYADH, SAUDI ARABIA, 18 NOVEMBER 2025 - Joel Meyerowitz is announced as the recipient of the prestigious Outstanding Contribution to Photography title of the Sony World Photography Awards 2026, which honours the people that have shaped the history of the medium. Meyerowitz is recognised for his diverse and expansive body of work, and its extraordinary influence on the visual vocabulary of photography. 

Joel Meyerowitz’s practice is marked by his observant eye, finely tuned to the currents and textures of life. His work shows a fascination with life happening around him, and a remarkable instinct for framing images that are at once revealing and enigmatic, imbued with beauty and wit. Meyerowitz’s photographs direct the viewer’s gaze to the parallel and interconnected stories that define a moment. The subjects of his photographs are wide-ranging, from his iconic depictions of the bustle of city life, to his depictions of coastal life and the vast seascapes of Cape Cod, through to his pivotal series documenting all the work inside Ground Zero in the aftermath of 9/11, and his recent self-portraiture. Over the years, Joel Meyerowitz has captured the surprises that can be found by looking carefully at the scenes that surround us.

An early proponent of colour photography, Joel Meyerowitz was instrumental in bringing this method to widespread recognition and use, and is credited for expanding its global appreciation, establishing it as a fine art practice. His work since the early 1960s has made him a leading figure in the history of 20th century photography. 

To mark the award, a special retrospective of works by Joel Meyerowitz will be shown at Somerset House, London, as part of the Sony World Photography Awards 2026 exhibition. This showcase offers an insight into the spirit and curiosity that has characterised his practice for the past six decades. Through video and audio installations, Meyerowitz invites visitors to see from his vantage point, recalling the sense of wonder he experienced seeing the scenes in his images for the first time. In several specially commissioned new video and audio installations created in collaboration with award-winning filmmaker Chris Ryan, the photographer reflects on the process of the making of specific images, as well as charting the trajectories of his life, tracing the steps and creative turning points that have led him to the current point. The exhibition will additionally present emblematic works from across Meyerowitz’s career including his early street photography from New York and his travels to Europe, his ‘field photographs,’ focused on the colours, objects and patterns across the frame, photographs from his time in Cape Cod, and his coverage of Ground Zero. 

Born in New York City, USA in 1938, Joel Meyerowitz studied painting and medical drawing at Ohio State University before working as an advertising art director. After watching the Swiss-American photographer Robert Frank shoot an advertising project for him in 1962, Meyerowitz immediately quit his job and went out onto the streets with a borrowed camera and two rolls of colour film, and embarked on a career that would make an indelible mark on the medium. While his early work was in colour, he later added Black and White to his photography. Meyerowitz’s work forms an integral part of the American photographic canon – it has appeared in over 350 exhibitions in museums and galleries across the world, and has been published in 57 monographs.

Commenting on his acceptance of the award, Joel Meyerowitz says: ‘I am honoured to be selected as this year’s Outstanding Contribution to Photography recipient. The photographs I have made over the years show the world as I see it, and the moments of beauty, humour and fun that can be found everywhere, if we take the opportunity to look. I hope this exhibition will encourage visitors to look again at their surroundings and engage with all of the life that unfolds around them.’

The Outstanding Contribution to Photography award recognises the voices behind the most groundbreaking photographic work of our time. As its 19th recipient, Joel Meyerowitz joins a distinguished list of names including Mary Ellen Mark (2014), Martin Parr (2017), Graciela Iturbide (2021), Edward Burtynsky (2022), Sebastião Salgado (2024) and Susan Meiselas (2025).

Manal Saleh

 In just one week, the Kingdom of Bahrain is set to host the region’s largest luxury shopping event,  the 33rd edition of Jewellery Arabia and 3rd edition of Scent Arabia 2025, held under the patronage of His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister. The events will take place in Exhibition World Bahrain from 25 to 29 November, featuring over 700 international and regional brands across six dedicated halls.

The event is expected to draw thousands of visitors from Bahrain, the Gulf, and neighbouring countries to enjoy a luxurious shopping experience providing the finest brands in fine jewellery, watches, and perfumes. Jewellery Arabia will showcase over 700 luxury jewellery and watch brands, including renowned names such as Samer Halimeh, Aliel, Al Zain Jewellery, Patek Philippe, and TAG Heuer. For the first time, the exhibition will feature new international brands including Tiffany & Co., Malabar Gold & Diamonds, Carrera y Carrera and Karati, a distinguished Japanese jeweller. 

Meanwhile, Scent Arabia will present over 100 brands specialising in luxury perfumes, with notable names such as Junaid Perfumes, Al Rawnaq, Gissah Perfumes, and Taif Al Emarat. Visitors can indulge in authentic oriental scents alongside modern fragrances, creating a unique olfactory journey. They can also explore the Bahraini Gold Souq, featuring 38 local brands, alongside international pavilions representing Greece, India, Hong Kong, Thailand, and Singapore, transforming the exhibition into a global platform for creativity and innovation in jewellery making. 

For relaxation between shopping sessions, visitors can unwind at the elegant Jewellery Arabia Plaza, or enjoy a variety of fine foods and beverages at the Scent Arabia Hall including Melenzane Bahrain.

For yet another year, the event will also feature the participation of Danat – Bahrain Institute for Pearls and Gemstones, the Kingdom’s official authority dedicated to the authentication, verification and education of natural pearls, gemstones and jewellery.

On the occasion, Ms Sara Ahmed Buhiji, CEO of the Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority (BTEA) and Chairperson of EWB, expressed her enthusiasm for the upcoming exhibitions, stressing that Jewellery Arabia and Scent Arabia have become among Bahrain and the region’s most anticipated events combining luxury, creativity, and cultural diversity.

Buhiji added that the current edition will be the most distinguished yet regarding volume of international participation gracing the event agenda. These exhibitions bolster Bahrain's position as a leading hub for hosting major events in the region while supporting its tourism strategy by attracting visitors and investors from across the region and beyond. This year’s new activations will make the visitor experience more diverse and enriching, with a focus on integrating arts, culture, and innovation within a sophisticated shopping atmosphere that reflects Bahrain's authentic spirit and openness to the world.

 Mr Mohammed Ebrahim, General Manager of Informa Bahrain, added that preparations are underway for the launch of this prestigious event, noting significant expansion in pavilion and brand participation, reflecting confidence in Bahrain as a prime location for luxury exhibitions and conferences.

Ebrahim added that Jewellery Arabia and Scent Arabia offer a comprehensive experience blending in luxury, diversity, and innovation, making the two exhibitions a key annual destination for fashion and luxury enthusiasts in the Middle East. 

Regarding accessibility, the Bahrain International Circuit has been designated as the main parking area, accommodating over 10,000 vehicles. A complimentary shuttle service runs throughout the day, transporting visitors directly to EWB. Dedicated buses are also available for people of determination, with shaded waiting areas for added comfort. Valet parking is available at The West and Main Entrances of EWB, which can be pre-booked through the Amakin app for BD 12 for the full day. Parking at EWB will also be available on a first-come, first-serve basis.

Those interested in visiting Jewellery Arabia and Scent Arabia can pre-register online for free access to both events via the following link: https://bit.ly/4mNxPT3 or through the official mobile app.

Doors will be open from 3 pm to 10 pm, from Tuesday, 25 November to Thursday, 27 November. On Friday, 28 November, doors will be open from 1 pm to 10 pm, while the closing day, Saturday, 29 November, will resume from 3 pm to 10 pm. Jewellery Arabia will be held in Halls 3, 5, 6, 7, and 8, while Scent Arabia will be located in Hall 2.

Manal Saleh

During Cityscape Global 2025 in Riyadh:

Osool Integrated Real Estate announced the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Taiba to launch "Project Light" to renovate three hotels located on the northern side of the central zone of Madinah, with a total of 1,500 keys. The project seeks to transform these hotels into world-class hospitality destinations inspired by Madinah's architectural character and deep Islamic heritage.

Under the MoU, both parties will establish a specialized company to develop and operate the three hotels through a startegic partnership agreement, delivering distinctive hospitality experiences supported by world-class services and facilities that meet expectations of pilgrims, Umrah performers, and visitors from around the world.

The project also seeks to contribute to the development and advancement of the hospitality sector in Madinah, enhance the quality of services provided to the guests of Allah, in addition to supporting tourism and economic activities in the region, and providing a unique cultural and spiritual stay experience for pilgrims, Umrah performers, visitors, tourists, and business travellers.

Mr. Feras Albanyan, CEO of Osool Integrated Real Estate, stated: "The Project Light marks a significant milestone in Osool’s journey to solidify its role as an integrated investor and operator of real estate assets, and as a key driver of urban redevelopment initiatives in strategic locations across the Kingdom. Our partnership with Taiba represents a natural alignment between our capabilities in managing complex portfolios and Taiba's deep expertise in Madinah's hospitality market, enabling us to present a development model that supports the goals of Saudi Vision 2030".

For his part, Mr. Sultan bin Badr Al-Otaibi, CEO of Taiba, said: "The signing of this memorandum with Osool Real Estate aligns with Taiba's strategy to expand in the hospitality sector and support tourism growth in line with Saudi Vision 2030".

Al-Otaibi explained that the "Project Light" will strengthen Taiba's hospitality asset portfolio through a long-term institutional investment designed to create an integrated urban experience that enhances the quality of services offered to pilgrims and visitors and reinforces Madinah's appeal as a global destination for hospitality and religious tourism.

The MoU establishes a framework for both parties to study the project and evaluate its investment and operational feasibility, in preparation for completing the necessary final agreements and structuring the appropriate investment mechanism before launching the actual implementation phases. Coordination with the relevant authorities in Madinah will continue to ensure alignment with existing urban and regulatory plans.

The project is expected to support the local economy by creating direct and indirect job opportunities for the region's residents and by enabling local businesses, especially small and medium enterprises, to benefit from supply and service opportunities related to development and operations.

The signing of the MoU between Osool and Taiba underscores the commitment of both parties to developing high-value investment opportunities in Madinah and strengthening the role of the Saudi real estate sector as a key driver of economic growth, diversification, and long-term institutional investment.

Both Osool and Taiba continue to integrate ESG and sustainability principles into their investment and operational processes by adopting smart and green building solutions and improving resource efficiency, in support of the Kingdom's climate targets and to enhance quality of life in the communities they serve.

Manal Saleh

Strong Performance in Home Appliance and Vehicle Solutions Drives Second-Highest Third-Quarter Revenue in Company History 

Nov. 16, 2025 — LG Electronics Inc. (LG) today announced consolidated revenue of KRW 21.87 trillion and operating profit of KRW 688.9 billion for the third quarter of 2025.

The Home Appliance Solution (HS) Company and Vehicle Solution (VS) Company delivered strong performances despite external challenges such as U.S. tariffs and a slowdown in the electric vehicle (EV) market. These results reflect LG’s ongoing transformation of its business portfolio and commitment to qualitative growth, encompassing B2B solutions such as vehicle and HVAC systems, expanding non-hardware businesses like subscriptions and webOS, and innovative direct-to-consumer business models.

In the third quarter, LG’s B2B revenue grew 2 percent year-on-year to KRW 5.9 trillion, while revenue from appliance subscription services reached KRW 700 billion, up 31 percent year-on-year.

Q3 2025 Results & Outlook by Company

LG Home Appliance Solution (HS) Company 

The HS Company reported revenue of KRW 6.58 trillion and operating profit of KRW 365.9 billion. Growth was driven by a successful two-track strategy targeting both premium and mass-market segments, alongside continued expansion in subscription and online businesses. Production site optimization and operational efficiency improvements helped offset much of the U.S. tariff impact, resulting in higher year-on-year profitability.

Looking ahead to the fourth quarter, the global home appliance market is expected to remain challenging due to sluggish demand recovery and intensified competition. The Company plans to continue expanding its subscription and online businesses and maintain focus on furthering its qualitative growth efforts. It will also pursue cost structure enhancements and fixed cost reductions to improve profitability year-on-year.

LG Media Entertainment Solution (MS) Company 

The MS Company recorded revenue of KRW 4.65 trillion and an operating loss of KRW 302.6 billion in the third quarter. Profitability was impacted by increased marketing investments to address intensifying competition and one-time expenses related to voluntary retirements.

The Company remains focused on improving operational efficiency and profitability in its TV business while expanding the webOS platform through advancements in advertising and content diversification. It also plans to strengthen its presence in Global South markets, where demand remains relatively resilient.

LG Vehicle Solution (VS) Company

The VS Company recorded revenue of KRW 2.65 trillion and operating profit of KRW 149.6 billion. Revenue reached an all-time third-quarter high, while operating profit achieved the highest quarterly level since the Company’s establishment. The operating profit margin exceeded 5 percent for the first time.

While external factors such as changes to U.S. EV subsidy policies may present short-term challenges in the fourth quarter, the Company aims to maintain stable profitability through ongoing product mix optimization, cost structure improvements and efficiency initiatives.

LG Eco Solution (ES) Company 

The ES Company reported revenue of KRW 2.17 trillion and operating profit of KRW 132.9 billion. Revenue increased slightly year-on-year, supported by stronger domestic sales and continued growth in subscription and online businesses. Operating profit declined modestly due to expanded investments.

The Company plans to strengthen growth momentum through region-specific product launches and explore new opportunities in commercial HVAC systems and industrial and power generation chillers. It has recently secured a series of AI data center cooling solution contracts across North America, Latin America, the Middle East and Asia, demonstrating tangible progress. The Company aims to use these projects as strategic references to further expand its market presence. In parallel, it is preparing for the commercialization of next-generation liquid cooling solutions for data centers and broadening partnerships to advance immersion cooling technologies.

Manal Saleh

TCL strengthens its long-standing partnership with Call of Duty®️ and showcases its latest QD-Mini LED televisions as the ultimate gaming displays for the world of Black Ops 7.

TCL Electronics, a global leader in consumer technology, recognized as the Global No. 1 Ultra-Large Screen TV Brand (OMDIA 2024) and a prominent pioneer in home appliances, announced the expansion of its partnership with Call of Duty®️ alongside the global rollout of Black Ops 7. Returning as the Official TV Partner, TCL is aligning its newest QD-Mini LED technology with one of the most anticipated releases of the year, offering players an elevated visual experience designed to bring every mission, environment and detail to life.

Big-Screen Immersion for the Black Ops Universe

Call of Duty is designed for scale, detail and fast-paced tactical action—elements that come to life on big-screen displays. TCL’s QD-Mini LED TVs amplify these moments with precision dimming, high refresh rates and refined brightness that help players track movement, read environments and respond with accuracy.

TCL C8K — Flagship Performance for Maximum Immersion on the Biggest Screens

Available in 65” to 98”, the C8K is engineered for players seeking the most cinematic and commanding display possible. With up to 3,840 local dimming zones and peak brightness reaching 4,500 – 5,000 nits peak brightness (size-dependent), the C8K produces exceptional clarity, depth and Halo control. Combined with its 4K 144Hz display, ultra-fast motion handling, and premium QD color accuracy, the C8K delivers a 

powerhouse visual experience tailored for next-generation consoles. Its QLED technology further enhances this performance by producing an ultra-wide color range—covering 97% of the DCI-P3 spectrum—bringing over a billion rich, lifelike colors to the screen for truly immersive gameplay.

TCL C7K — Higher Brightness, More Precision and Enhanced Visual Depth

Stepping up in performance, the C7K incorporates up to 2,800 local dimming zones and 3,000 nits peak brightness to deliver greater contrast and realism on a big screen. With a 144Hz native refresh rate, AMD FreeSync Premium Pro and optimized Game Modes with improved audio, and motion stays exceptionally smooth and responsive even during high-intensity sequences. The C7K’s elevated HDR performance enhances visibility of textures, UI elements and lighting, creating a more immersive and finely detailed experience for players stepping into the world of Black Ops 7.

TCL C6K — Fast, Fluid and Built for Players Who Prioritize Responsiveness

The C6K delivers smooth, stable performance with a 144Hz native refresh rate, VRR support and low input lag suited for fast-paced encounters. Its QD-Mini LED backlight features hundreds of dimming zones,  improving visibility in darker areas of the map and helping players identify environmental details that matter in close combat. For big-screen gaming setups, the C6K offers fluidity and speed that competitive players value.

Game Master Technology: Optimized for Competitive Play

All three models feature TCL’s Game Master suite—a dedicated set of gaming tools that automatically activates low-latency performance modes, manages VRR/FreeSync stability, and provides a quick-access gaming dashboard for real-time adjustments. Shadow enhancement features also improve visibility in darker areas, giving players clearer insight during tactical moments.

Wide Viewing Angle for Shared and Multi-Position Play

TCL’s QD-Mini LED lineup also offers improved wide-angle viewing, maintaining brightness and color accuracy even when players are not seated directly in front of the screen. Whether gaming from different positions or playing co-op with friends, picture consistency remains intact—an essential advantage for large-screen setups.

A Strengthened Partnership Built on Years of Collaboration

TCL and Call of Duty share a long-standing partnership that has grown alongside the evolution of the gaming landscape. Over the years, TCL has supported multiple franchise releases, global creator events and regional gaming activations, consistently aligning its display innovations with the visual standards of the Call of Duty universe.

From previous Black Ops titles to this year’s Call of Duty®️: NEXT, TCL has collaborated closely with Activision to understand the needs of players and enhance gaming-driven features across its lineup. With Black Ops 7, the partnership enters a new chapter combining advanced QD-Mini LED technology with one of the most iconic franchises in modern gaming.

 “Call of Duty has always pushed visual innovation,” said Scott Ramirez, Vice President of Product Marketing and Development, TCL Home Theater. “With Black Ops 7 and our newest QD-Mini LED televisions, we are delivering the brightness, contrast and motion handling needed to experience the game as its creators intended.”

 “Our partnership with Call of Duty reflects our shared focus on delivering immersive, high-performance experiences for players. With Black Ops 7 and our latest QD-Mini LED lineup, we’re delivering the level of clarity, motion precision and responsiveness today’s players expect from a next-generation gaming display.” Said Mr. Majid Khan Niazi, Marketing Director, TCL Middle East & Africa