Who’s Who: Khulood Al-Mani, professor, digital transformation expert
Updated 19 September 2022
Arab News
Khulood Al-Mani is a professor and expert in the digital transformation of entrepreneurship, innovation, startups and artificial intelligence.
She is the founder and owner of KM Technology, a company specializing in digital solutions, AI, smart cities, and virtual and augmented reality.
Al-Mani has been ranked among the 50 most powerful global thought leaders in AI for the year 2022, according to software company Engati, which specializes in AI, robotics and automation and is based in Silicon Valley, California.
Al-Mani was ranked first in the world among the 32 most important global figures in information technology and AI at the conclusion of the Mobile World Congress 2022, which was held in Barcelona from Jan. 1-8, 2022 and is considered the most influential event in the information and communications technology industry.
She is a founding member of the Saudi Association for Engineering Innovation and Research at the King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology.
Al-Mani was keen to apply her scientific expertise in establishing the Virtual Tech Accelerator platform for small and medium-sized enterprises in the UK in 2018.
The VTA platform is a necessity in the digital age to connect innovators, founders, consultants and members of the entrepreneurship ecosystem to a larger network of resources, including funding and partnerships.
The platform aims to drive the growth of digital entrepreneurship using a model that accelerates virtual reality coupled with a new approach that provides great opportunities for the development of startups.
International brands turn to Riyadh to expand cooperation
Capital cements role as hub at World Defense Show
Updated 49 min 27 sec ago
Rahaf Jambi
RIYADH: Saudi Arabia's capital is cementing its role as a rising hub in the global defense industry, and the World Defense Show has attracted international brands eager to showcase advanced technologies and expand partnerships in the Kingdom and beyond.
Held under the patronage of the Saudi leadership, the show — which runs until Feb. 12 — has brought together defense manufacturers, technology innovators and government representatives from around the world.
Arab News spoke to several international exhibitors who underscored the show’s growing importance as a gateway to pursue regional and global cooperation.
Among the returning participants is Passtech Machine Tools, represented by Syed Zahid, its sales manager.
Passtech Machine Tools is participating in the World Defense Show in Riyadh for the third time, says sales manager Syed Zahid. (AN photo by Rahaf Jambi)
The company collaborates with various international brands, providing tools, machines and gauges, including advanced CNC (computer numerical control) machinery from South Korea.
For Zahid, WDS has proved to be a strategic platform, and he said: “This is our third time. We see it as very, very useful.”
From China, Jihua Group Co. Ltd. showcases advanced navigation devices and integrated systems. Peter Wang, its senior product manager, expressed optimism about expanding cooperation.
At the company’s booth, Arab News was introduced to several technologies, including what Wang described as a “true-color navigation device.”
Highlighting a wearable system, Wang said it was designed to enhance mobility and operational efficiency.
Jihua Group Co. Ltd. of China, another participant in WDS Riyadh, showcased advanced navigation devices and integrated systems. (AN photo by Rahaf Jambi)
He emphasized the diversity of visitors and the potential for cross-border cooperation, and added: “I meet different countries’ customers here. I’m very happy and I want to get some opportunities for cooperation.”
Turkiye is also represented at the event. Masttech, which is attending WDS for the first time, is showcasing its products for visitors.
Deputy General Manager Sitki Tuzun said: “We are here to show all our products. We are producing electromechanical, mechanical and pneumatic mast systems here.”
While the company does not yet have Saudi clients, Tuzun made it clear that the show was a strategic leap toward entering the market.
“We are here for connection and new business cooperation,” he said.
First-time WDS participant Masttech hopes to capture a portion of the Saudi defense market soon. (AN photo by Rahaf Jambi)
The World Defense Show has demonstrated its increasing influence as a platform from which global brands meet regional opportunity.
Beyond static displays, the show serves as a dynamic networking arena, connecting manufacturers, suppliers, and defense stakeholders under one roof.
As Saudi Arabia accelerates efforts to localize its defense industry and invest in advanced technologies, WDS continues to facilitate partnerships, technology transfer and international collaboration — reinforcing Riyadh’s emergence as a central node in the global defense ecosystem.
