Ford’s DSFL for Her returns to Effat University

Updated 11 November 2018
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Ford’s DSFL for Her returns to Effat University

Women in Saudi Arabia say that strictly enforced traffic laws would help make roads safer, and that self-parking technology is a top priority for them when shopping for a new car.

The revelations came during a Twitter poll that targeted Saudi women, ahead of Ford’s return to Effat University in Jeddah for the second running of its Driving Skills for Life for Her program recently. Ford’s DSFL for Her made its global debut in Saudi Arabia earlier this year in March when more than 250 students from the university took part in the course — and dozens more took part in the second wave.

Simonetta Verdi, director, government and community relations, Ford Middle East and Africa, said: “Driving Skills for Life has been designed to address some of the concerns young drivers may have when it comes to taking to the roads for the first time, and help build confidence behind the steering wheel.”

Dr. Haifa Jamalallail, president of Effat University, said: “We continue to work with all elements of society to improve the safety of all citizens on the road. The Ford Driving Skills for Life program is a natural step in this direction.”

The poll targeted women aged 18-35 in three main cities — Jeddah, Riyadh and Dammam — and attracted more than 85,000 votes. 


Kingdom Centre’s comprehensive upgrade nears completion

Updated 05 January 2026
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Kingdom Centre’s comprehensive upgrade nears completion

Chairwoman of the Board of Kingdom Centre Nada Alateegi announced that the final phase of the comprehensive upgrade and redevelopment works at the iconic Riyadh landmark has neared completion.

Kingdom Centre was never intended to be just a shopping destination or a business hub, Alateegi said, but rather a space to deliver exceptional experiences. The experience is now being elevated to a new level of luxury that seamlessly brings together refined hospitality, high-end retail, and world-class business environments. 

She said that Kingdom Centre, inaugurated in 2001, commenced its modernization project in April 2023. The project is being implemented in partnership with a group of top-tier global designers and renowned contractors, and led by the Kingdom Centre management team, to ensure the highest standards of quality and precision.

The upgrades were carried out in accordance with the best safety practices, while maintaining uninterrupted operations and ensuring visitors’ comfort and safety are preserved throughout, Alateegi said. This approach reflects the vision and directives of Prince Alwaleed bin Talal and has contributed to the center receiving several awards, including its recognition for “visionary design and development.”

She added that Kingdom Centre had installed the largest fully integrated digital screen on Kingdom Tower facades, operated exclusively in partnership with digital advertising and media solutions leader Rotana Signs. The screen serves as an international showcase reflecting Riyadh’s evolution and its growing global standing.

Kingdom Centre is also home to the Four Seasons Hotel, one of the world’s most prestigious hospitality brands, in addition to VOX Cinemas, purpose-designed to world-class specifications guided by the center’s management vision. 

Moreover, Kingdom Centre introduced Al-Mamlaka Social Dining zone, which has become one of the region’s leading dining experiences and a model for other investors. Conceived by the center’s management to elevate the visitor experience, the Social Dining concept has been officially registered as the intellectual property of Kingdom Centre.

Kingdom Centre has also launched a mobile application and a dedicated visitor loyalty program offering a range of benefits. This initiative is part of the center’s digital transformation strategy and aims to strengthen long-term engagement with visitors.

Kingdom Centre’s management remains committed to setting a leading example for the sector, delivering innovative experiences that support Saudi Arabia’s tourism ambitions and align with Saudi Vision 2030, Alateegi added.