Saudi Artisanal Co. launches to boost handicrafts sector 

The Saudi Artisanal Co. has commenced operations in the Kingdom with a mission to promote the nation’s cultural heritage and boost the economy. (Supplied)
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Updated 13 December 2023
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Saudi Artisanal Co. launches to boost handicrafts sector 

  • Industry can generate billions, says CEO Husameddin Almadani
  • Plan to create 9,000 direct and indirect sustainable jobs for artisans

RIYADH: The Saudi Artisanal Co. has commenced operations in the Kingdom with a mission to promote the nation’s cultural heritage, and boost the economy, through the design and production of high-quality, innovative and modern products.

With the global handicraft market expected to surpass SR5 trillion ($1.3 trillion) and the domestic industry projected to reach SR5 billion by 2028, the company aims to service 15 percent of the market, while also nurturing the growth of small- and medium-sized enterprises within the sector.

Amid Saudi Arabia’s ambitious plan to welcome 150 million tourists by 2030, Husameddin Almadani, CEO of the firm, emphasized the company’s role in this pursuit.

“Aligned with Vision 2030, our commitment is to showcase high-quality Saudi handicrafts both locally and internationally, focusing on creating 9,000 direct and indirect sustainable employment opportunities for artisans.

“And we aspire to contribute close to SR1 billion to the Kingdom’s gross domestic product by 2030, in support of the comprehensive economic goals of Vision 2030.”

Almadani said significant investments in the hospitality and culture sectors would help grow Saudi Arabia’s artisanal industry.


Saudi Arabia’s KAUST advances AI training with winter school

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Saudi Arabia’s KAUST advances AI training with winter school

  • The event provides a platform for research collaboration, academic partnerships, and connections with global scientific institutions

JEDDAH: King Abdullah University of Science and Technology is hosting the second MenaML Winter School, in partnership with the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology, from Jan. 24 to 29.

It brings together leading researchers, scientists, and specialists in artificial intelligence from across the Middle East and North Africa, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

The program aims to advance scientific research and build specialized technical skills through an intensive curriculum covering both theoretical and applied AI.

Sessions cover the latest in intelligent model engineering, AI for scientific applications, and high-efficiency computing technologies.

Representatives from 16 international scientific and technological institutions are participating, alongside 300 researchers selected from 2,300 applicants based on merit and research potential.

The event provides a platform for research collaboration, academic partnerships, and connections with global scientific institutions.

It promotes innovation and solutions across sectors, including energy, health, infrastructure, and advanced technology, the SPA reported.

The program strengthens regional human capital through advanced training, knowledge exchange with leading experts, and fostering an ecosystem that encourages research and innovation.

It also reinforces the Kingdom’s role as a regional and global hub for scientific research and advanced technologies, supporting its contribution to the development of AI.