ALJ Energy finalizes deal for Jordan solar projects

The solar plants will generate 133.4 MW DC in total — approximately two percent of Jordan’s total generation capacity and enough to supply more than 80,000 households.
Updated 29 March 2017
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ALJ Energy finalizes deal for Jordan solar projects

Abdul Latif Jameel Energy has recently announced it is one-step closer to powering 80,000 homes in Jordan with clean energy, as part of its commitment to being the leading solar development company in the Middle East.
The announcement coincided with the visit of King Salman to Jordan.
Omar Al-Madhi, CEO of Abdul Latif Jameel Energy, Saudi Arabia, said: “Our projects around the region, including in Jordan, clearly exhibit the great potential for solar in the Middle East.
“The electricity we are producing in Jordan is being generated at low cost — less than the average price of electricity in the country. It is financially viable, as well as having a positive impact on the environment. Upon project completion, nearly 80,000 homes would be powered in the country. Such projects provide proof that solar can be the sustainable energy source for the region, including in Abdul Latif Jameel’s home market of Saudi Arabia.”
He added: “With their development we can contribute to the generation of clean and affordable energy, fostering the region’s sustainable growth. That is why we remain committed to being the leading solar development company in the Middle East and beyond.”
As proof of the progress being made in developing clean energy, FRV, which is part of Abdul Latif Jameel Energy, has announced the financial close of two of the largest solar PV projects in Jordan.
The solar plants — Mafraq I and Mafraq II — represent a combined investment of approximately $180 million and will start construction shortly in the region of Mafraq. Once completed, they will generate 133.4 MW DC in total — approximately two percent of Jordan’s total generation capacity and enough to supply more than 80,000 households. Each project will avoid the emission of over 80,000 tons of CO2 per year, equivalent to removing 17,000 cars from the country’s highways.
The projects will create an estimated 500 jobs during their construction phase and are expected to begin operations in June 2018.
As part of its commitment to the social and economic development of the communities where it operates, FRV together with IFC, EBRD and PROPARCO, has signed two scholarship agreements with IE University related to these projects. The scholarships, called Young Talented Leaders, are intended to cover the training and accommodation expenses of two Jordanian students for the completion of bachelor’s degree courses at IE University in Madrid.


LuLu opens two new stores in Riyadh and Dammam

Updated 10 March 2026
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LuLu opens two new stores in Riyadh and Dammam

LuLu Retail has further expanded its presence in Saudi Arabia with the unveiling of two state-of-the-art shopping destinations in Riyadh and Dammam. These new stores are designed to bring a modern shopping experience closer to residential neighborhoods, offering everything from daily groceries to household essentials under one roof.
The expansion includes a massive flagship hypermarket and a convenient express store, each tailored to meet the needs of the local community with high standards of service and variety.
Recently, Yusuffali M. A., chairman of LuLu Group, reaffirmed the group’s commitment to continuous growth while ensuring an uninterrupted supply of products and maintaining stable prices for customers.
The largest of the new openings is located in the Suwaidi district of Riyadh. This massive flagship hypermarket covers more than 400,000 square feet and is built to be a one-stop shop for the capital’s residents.
The store was officially inaugurated by Mohammed Khalid Al-Shalfan, investors relationship manager at the Ministry of Investment, and Matar Salem Ali Marran Al-Dhaheri, ambassador of the UAE to Saudi Arabia.
This new retail landmark features an extensive range of departments, including grocery food and non-food items, beauty and wellness, chilled and dairy products, frozen foods, and a roastery. Shoppers can also find fresh fruits, vegetables, a bakery, and a delicatessen, as well as fresh meat and fish sections. A unique feature is the fresh food dining area. For tech enthusiasts, there are dedicated sections for computers, gaming, telecom, mobile phones, and consumer electronics. The store also carries stationery, household goods, home furnishings, toys, luggage, and footwear, all supported by more than 100 parking spaces.
Meanwhile in Dammam, LuLu inaugurated a new LuLu Xpress store and the LOT, a value shopping destination, in the Faisaliya district. The store was officially inaugurated by Mansour Al-Binali, assistant director general of the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development for the Eastern Province.
Covering 33,000 square feet, the store includes a wide range of products with fresh food, local produce, and meat, along with a section for technical consumer goods featuring the latest electronics and gadgets. 
The LOT Value Shop focuses on high-quality items at affordable prices. Residents can shop for household goods, home furnishings, stationery, toys, and educational products, most of which are priced below SR22 ($5.86).
For added convenience, the location provides nearly 100 parking spaces.
LuLu has launched special inaugural offers across all departments in both the Riyadh and Dammam stores. These promotions allow customers to enjoy significant savings on a wide range of products and international brands. This expansion reinforces LuLu’s commitment to supporting the Kingdom’s retail growth and providing quality service to neighborhoods across Saudi Arabia.