Hyundai will confirm details of two new products available to Middle East and Africa markets, with the region included in plans for a new-generation Sonata sedan and a new SUV model, the Palisade.
The Sonata is the eighth generation of Hyundai’s long-running mid-size sedan, while the Palisade is a new flagship SUV. It will be a mid-size SUV, but longer, wider and taller than the newest Santa Fe, which went on sale last year.
The new models feature bold design and benefit from the latest technical innovations. Features include convenience technology, such as wireless smartphone charging and advanced levels of connectivity, large touch-screen displays, and head-up display to show essential information on the windscreen — immediately in the driver’s view without glancing away from the road.
They also offer a wide range of safety technology, with a selection of advanced driver assistance systems packaged as Hyundai SmartSense.
“The Sonata has a long and successful history in our region, and consistently ranks among the most popular models in its segment, so we have high expectations for this latest model,” said Mike Song, Hyundai’s head of operations for the Middle East and Africa. “It offers premium design with sporty, coupe-like styling, combined with exceptional quality and outstanding value in the market.
“The Palisade offers the same high standards, while extending our range into new market segments, offering a larger family SUV as a flagship product. This will reach out to new customers for our brand, and also serve the changing needs of loyal Hyundai owners.”
Hyundai previewed the Palisade for the first time at the Los Angeles Auto Show last November, while the Sonata was presented publicly in March. An official hands-on launch of the Middle East and Africa versions will take place in South Korea, ahead of deliveries to the region during the summer.
Hyundai to unveil two key models for Middle East and Africa
Hyundai to unveil two key models for Middle East and Africa
Saudi Arabia world’s safest and most attractive investment destination, says chairman of Sumou Holding
Saudi Arabia has emerged as one of the world’s safest and most attractive destinations for investment, supported by the strength and resilience of its economy, according to Ayed bin Farhan Al-Qahtani, chairman of Sumou Holding.
Al-Qahtani said the Kingdom’s economy has consistently demonstrated its ability to navigate global and regional crises. He noted that Saudi Arabia has historically adapted to challenging conditions and emerged stronger, thanks to prudent economic policies and effective governance, both of which have reinforced the market’s financial strength. Al-Qahtani added that Saudi Vision 2030 has reshaped the structure of the national economy by diversifying income sources and leveraging the country’s core strengths, creating a more flexible and sustainable economic environment capable of withstanding global volatility.
According to Al-Qahtani, business activity across Saudi Arabia continues to operate normally despite current global uncertainties, highlighting the adaptability and experience of Saudi companies across multiple sectors.
Sumou Holding currently manages an investment portfolio valued at about $10 billion. Al-Qahtani said that the group plans to expand its investments in the Kingdom while seeking to attract additional foreign capital through international partnerships and joint ventures.
The company is evaluating a range of new opportunities across key sectors and particularly in real estate, which Al-Qahtani described as one of the most secure and attractive investment sectors in the Saudi market amid rising demand for residential, commercial, and development projects.
Saudi Arabia’s property market has also undergone significant regulatory reforms aimed at boosting its appeal to international investors. A new foreign property ownership law, which came into effect in early 2026, allows non-Saudis — individuals and companies, residents and non-residents — to own residential, commercial, and agricultural properties across designated areas of the Kingdom.
The framework will increase capital inflows into the real estate sector while introducing specific ownership rules for the holy cities of Makkah and Madinah, two markets Al-Qahtani said remain among the most secure and globally attractive for long-term investment.
Sumou Holding owns two companies listed on the Saudi Exchange: Sumou Real Estate Co. and Ader Real Estate Co.
Al-Qahtani added that the group’s international arm, Ader Global, is building partnerships with global investors and directing capital toward promising opportunities in the Saudi market, reinforcing the Kingdom’s role as a regional hub for investment and multinational companies.
With its strong regulatory framework, investment security, and continued government support for the private sector, Saudi Arabia is well positioned to attract further foreign capital in the coming years, Al-Qahtani said, cementing the country’s status as a leading global investment destination both today and in the future.
