The Wörthersee Treffen motor show — one of the largest car events on the global calendar — is gearing up to take place again this month from May 29 to June 2 at the Austrian resort of Lake Wörthersee.
Established around 35 years ago, and attracting the largest gathering of Volkswagen car enthusiasts at one time, the week-long event welcomes over 100,000 visitors from across the globe annually. This year, the winners from Dub Drive GCC 2019, the Middle East’s annual club gathering, will also represent their clubs at the automotive event.
Members of Volkswagen clubs from Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Kuwait, Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Oman earned their place at Wörthersee Treffen having set themselves apart from the rest at this year’s Dub Drive GCC.
“From the most sought-after clubs to rare and unique cars, the winners represent the heartbeat of the Volkswagen brand in the Middle East,” the carmaker said.
The Volkswagen Passenger Cars brand is present in over 150 markets and produces vehicles at more than 50 locations in 14 countries.
Middle Eastern VW clubs set for Wörthersee Treffen
Middle Eastern VW clubs set for Wörthersee Treffen
InterContinental Al-Ahsa home to new Bateel boutique & café
Bateel International, a luxury retail, gourmet food and F&B brand, and InterContinental Al-Ahsa, part of the IHG Hotels and Resorts’ luxury and lifestyle portfolio, have announced a partnership that will see the launch of the first Bateel Boutique and Café Bateel within the prestigious hotel in Saudi Arabia.
The partnership adds to Bateel International’s portfolio that spans 16 countries with more than 70 boutiques and cafés. Offering a welcoming and inspiring space centered around the hotel’s grand staircase, guests can indulge in an exquisite selection of gourmet dates, pastries, and premium coffee and tea. Additionally, guests can explore a range of gourmet products presented in luxurious packaging, perfect for gifting. The offerings include a unique range of Bateel’s date-based delicacies, from date syrup and date balsamic vinegar to olive dates, sparkling date drinks, and condiments.
Bateel’s foray into this dynamic environment of InterContinental Al-Ahsa is strategically aligned with evolving consumer preferences for premium hospitality experiences. Bilal El-Kurjie, director of business development, described the alignment between Bateel’s brand values and standards and IHG’s renowned luxury offerings, saying that the partnership sets new benchmarks in hospitality excellence while contributing to the Kingdom’s growth.
Mohammed Abdulrahman Al-Afaliq, CEO of AH Group of Companies, highlighted the thoughtful planning behind the boutique and café concepts, envisioning the hotel as a premier destination for discerning travelers. The new retail and dining venues are poised to attract a new generation of customers seeking modern culinary experiences and unique gifting experiences.
Walid Al-Haddad, general manager of InterContinental Al-Ahsa, underscored the hotel’s status in the market as a cultural and hospitality icon, which stands out for its historic and natural surroundings. The collaboration with Bateel International and the launch of the new outlets will enhance the guest experience, offering a blend of sophistication, he said.
Al-Ahsa, the largest oasis in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, lies in the Eastern Province of Saudi Arabia. Situated within this sprawling oasis, near the Al-Qarah Cave, is the luxurious InterContinental Al-Ahsa.
Bateel enjoys an unparalleled legacy as one of the world’s leading organic date cultivators. An award-winning pioneer in the global food industry, the brand has elevated a revered fruit to a gourmet delicacy and created a luxury retail experience that launched an entirely new market for dates and confectioneries.
Huawei’s smart auto service ‘HMS for Car’ debuts at LEAP
HMS for Car, Huawei’s global automobile intelligent solution, stole the show at LEAP 2024, receiving unanimous praise and admiration from the exhibition visitors.
HMS for Car consists of four boxes for technology solutions, including AI Box, Map Box, App Box, and Net Box. It builds a more intelligent and networked system for automobiles designed to revolutionize the in-car experience and enable customers to travel more comfortably.
The AI Box supports smart voice interaction to control the usage of the car functions, leveraging Huawei’s extensive device experience, for seamless device-cloud interaction in real-time, and personalized voice customization by vehicle manufacturers. Users can control their entire car ecosystem with ease, from simple commands such as opening the window, to turning on the music, or the seat massage. Celia, the intelligent voice assistant, supports more than 10 languages, personalized settings, and continuous dialogue.
The App Box features Huawei AppGallery in the car system, offering a dynamic ecosystem for car applications. The AppGallery platform is an open ecosystem that fosters simple and efficient app integration in compliance with regulations and user data protection and security.
The Map Box provides intelligent navigation with features like lane-level guidance, charging points reminders, and traffic light countdown timing to keep ahead of traffic, for a more comfortable vehicle experience when driving.
The Net Box provides seamless, intelligent connectivity across borders with faster network speed and an automatic and smooth network switching in weak signal areas between different carriers.
With the development of the internet of vehicles era, the diversity of automotive internet applications has attracted much attention. HMS for Car actively cooperates with ecosystem partners around the world to improve solution capabilities.
Additionally, at the LEAP 2024 exhibition, Huawei signed an MoU with Najm, one of the biggest insurance service providers in Saudi Arabia, to provide digital solutions and expand the reach of Najm’s services and optimize the user experience. This collaboration will see the integration of local digital information with Petal Maps, to provide more efficient digital services for users. This will include integrating relevant data, including street names, administrative divisions, GPS tracks, road data, and panoramic 360-degree street view photos wherever available.
Kiri distributes 20,000 iftar meals through Eta’am
Saudi Food Bank, known as Eta’am, a prominent nonprofit organization in the Kingdom and region, has partnered with Kiri, a part of the Bel Group, to distribute iftar meals to those in need. The Ramadan initiative will ensure the provision of 20,000 fresh meals to individuals facing social challenges and those with limited incomes across Jeddah.
The collaborative effort to spread kindness and compassion aligns with the Vision 2030 goal of ensuring inclusive access to nutritious food for all. It underscores Kiri’s commitment to making meaningful contributions to society and spreading kindness across the Saudi community.
The iftar meals feature a wholesome combination of Kiri cheese with bread, fresh juice, and fruits, embodying the essence of Ramadan. Each meal will be meticulously packed daily to ensure freshness and the highest standards of taste.
This collaboration also highlights Bel Group’s commitment to engaging with the Kingdom’s culture and championing charitable endeavors.
Faisal Al-Shushan, CEO of Saudi Food Bank, said: “Our partnership with Bel Group to distribute 20,000 meals in Jeddah during the sacred month of Ramadan is not merely a gesture, but a profound testament to our unwavering commitment to enhancing food security efforts and extending vital assistance to families in need. By joining hands with esteemed organizations like Kiri, we are dedicated to fostering a culture of compassion and support, ensuring that every individual, regardless of circumstance, has equitable access to nourishing meals essential for a healthy and sustainable life. This collaboration underscores the spirit of Ramadan, a time of heightened generosity and communal solidarity, where acts of charity resonate deeply within our hearts and communities. Together, we strive to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those we serve, embodying the true essence of this blessed month.”
Garo Matossian, general manager of Bel Group for the Near Middle East, said: “Kiri is deeply committed to fostering kindness and generosity through all our initiatives, and our partnership with the Saudi Food Bank exemplifies this dedication. As we enter the sacred month of Ramadan, synonymous with compassion and giving, we recognize the significance of supporting the people of Saudi Arabia, where our brand has flourished. By collaborating with the Saudi Food Bank, we aim to empower individuals to make meaningful contributions to society, particularly during this auspicious time. Through initiatives like ‘Iftar Sayim,’ Kiri endeavors to create opportunities for spreading kindness and uplifting communities across Saudi society.”
This partnership not only reflects our commitment to giving back to the people of Saudi Arabia but also reinforces our belief in the transformative power of collective goodwill and generosity during the month of Ramadan.”
ServiceNow committed to powering Saudi Arabia’s AI future
As Saudi Arabia accelerates its digital transformation journey in line with Saudi Vision 2030, ServiceNow, a leading digital workflow platform, is solidifying its commitment to the Kingdom’s success. During LEAP 2024, ServiceNow Chief Commercial Officer Paul Smith emphasized the company’s commitment to helping the Kingdom realize its AI ambitions. Smith envisions a deep, prosperous partnership that will fuel Saudi Arabia’s rise as an economic powerhouse through the strategic application of new and emerging technologies.
Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, a roadmap that seeks to diversify the economy and propel the nation into the digital era, is a bold and ambitious framework. Smith sees it as an ideal fit for ServiceNow’s expertise. “The Kingdom’s vision is all about innovation and leveraging technology as a competitive advantage,” he said. “We have top-tier engineering talent, an industry-leading platform, and a deep understanding of how to use AI, particularly generative AI, to make a tangible difference in the business world. ServiceNow is ready to help Saudi Arabia make that leap.”
This ambition builds upon a foundation of collaboration. ServiceNow already has a significant presence in Saudi Arabia, having worked with partners and clients since 2011. Their platform has proven its value by streamlining processes and improving efficiency within both government institutions and private businesses. Smith cites noteworthy examples including the Ministry of Justice, which benefited from over 180 automated processes, and the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development, which created a single, integrated employee portal for faster issue resolution.
Currently, ServiceNow is further amplifying this impact. Recent company developments in the Kingdom include the introduction of new data center pairs and bold plans to grow its team in a new MENA regional headquarters. Furthermore, the Now Platform has been enhanced with Arabic language support, an initiative that aims to enable Saudi enterprises and individuals to effortlessly adopt this technology.
But technology on its own isn’t enough. To truly power an intelligence-based economy, a skilled workforce is essential. ServiceNow is addressing this need in two key ways:
- The Garage Partnership: ServiceNow is working with “The Garage” to nurture tech startups and provide access to the Now Platform, alongside training and mentorship that will help fuel innovation.
- ServiceNow Academy: Through the RiseUp with ServiceNow initiative, a new ServiceNow Academy will launch in partnership with the Saudi Digital Academy. This first-of-its-kind venture will provide thousands of Saudi citizens with training and hands-on experience with the Now Platform, equipping them with in-demand digital skills that are critical for an AI-driven workplace.
“There’s no question that Saudi Arabia has ambitious goals,” Smith said. “ServiceNow believes wholeheartedly in the value of big dreams. We know the Kingdom can achieve true digital transformation, and we’re committed to helping them do so.”
Leading this transformation is a focus on generative AI, a branch of artificial intelligence capable of creating original text, images, code, and other content formats. The potential is staggering, and Smith foresees its value across diverse sectors.
“The adoption of GenAI is moving faster than anything I’ve seen. Enterprises see the potential and want to get involved quickly,” he said. Citing Gartner’s research, he highlighted a predicted $3 trillion investment in AI between 2023 and 2027, with GenAI making up one-third of this surge. While companies are experimenting, Smith believes they’ll ultimately seek strategic partners like ServiceNow, for long-term, scalable success.
The benefits are already apparent. Companies like CBRE (real estate), Coursera (education), global giants Deloitte and Siemens AG, and others are using ServiceNow’s GenAI-powered solutions for tasks ranging from enhanced customer support to more streamlined HR operations. The common thread, Smith said, is increased productivity and greater employee satisfaction.
“I see endless possibilities for GenAI across industries,” he said, “but some obvious areas where it can create disruption and positive outcomes are healthcare and pharmaceuticals, retail, and the oil and gas sector.” In drug development, for example, GenAI’s ability to process massive amounts of data has the potential to streamline clinical trials and speed up the delivery of life-changing medications.
This is not just theoretical; ServiceNow is seeing the benefits of GenAI firsthand. GenAI product offerings are seeing record-breaking sales, while internal pilots demonstrate productivity increases of 30-40 percent. Perhaps even more telling, developer teams are embracing GenAI’s ability to generate code from plain language, overcoming the dreaded “blank page” problem that can stifle innovation.
When asked about ServiceNow’s own growth trajectory, Smith pointed to two key factors that set the company apart:
- The power of the platform: “Our platform is unmatched. It gets our customers real, tangible results quickly, which in today’s world of hyper-focus on ROI is essential. When we make our customers more productive and help them see value, ServiceNow also grows.”
A winning culture: “We’ve built a culture that’s results-oriented but focused on our most critical asset — our people. Our attrition numbers are the lowest they’ve been, and we’re seeing a record number of applications. We invest in our team with the goal of making them successful, knowing that in turn, they’ll make our customers successful.”
Smith emphasized a combination of strategic vision and a strong execution model for success. He said: “At ServiceNow, we have the reach of a global enterprise but retain the nimbleness and adaptability of a startup. Add to that our culture and a world-changing platform, and I believe that’s what drives our sustained success.”
‘U By Emaar’ elevates spiritual journey with Makkah launch
U By Emaar has announced a significant milestone in its growth — the renowned loyalty program is now expanding internationally to Makkah, at the luxurious Address Jabal Omar Makkah. This move marks a key development for U By Emaar, extending its exceptional benefits and experiences to a wider audience.
U By Emaar has been at the forefront of redefining loyalty rewards, offering a seamless blend of lifestyle experiences and unparalleled rewards across Emaar’s portfolio, which includes hospitality, dining, wellness, entertainment, and shopping. The expansion to the holy city of Makkah reflects the program’s dedication to offering its exclusive services to an international audience, enhancing the opportunities for members to earn and redeem “Upoints” in one of the most revered global destinations.
With its innovative approach to loyalty rewards, U By Emaar combines exceptional lifestyle experiences with valuable rewards. The expansion into Makkah signifies a major step in offering members more diverse experiences. Ideally located with stunning views of the Grand Mosque, Address Jabal Omar Makkah will be a key location for this new phase, providing members exclusive benefits and the chance to earn and redeem Upoints in a spiritually significant location.
“Address Jabal Omar Makkah is poised to redefine luxury in the heart of Makkah, blending spiritual elegance with Emaar’s signature contemporary luxury. Members staying at this prestigious hotel will enjoy a memorable stay enriched by personalized services and exclusive benefits, including earning and redeeming Upoints on stays, dining, wellness experiences, and more,” a statement said.
The decision to expand U By Emaar internationally stems from the company’s successful track record of providing members with exceptional value and distinctive experiences. Similar to the engaging events that have attracted large audiences to Emaar’s venues in Dubai, U By Emaar aims to offer compelling experiences for members at Address Jabal Omar Makkah.
“This expansion reflects our commitment to delivering unparalleled member satisfaction, as evidenced by consistently high satisfaction ratings,” the statement said.
A spokesperson for Emaar Hospitality Group expressed enthusiasm about the expansion, saying: “This momentous occasion is not only a testament to our dedication but also a celebration of our members worldwide. We are excited to introduce the unique blend of luxury and spirituality embodied at Address Jabal Omar Makkah to our esteemed U By Emaar members.”
“This expansion marks the beginning of a new era in which our loyalty program crosses international borders, fostering connections between hearts and cultures while striving to create exceptional and unforgettable experiences,” the statement said.