stc Group, the region’s leading digital enabler, has reinforced its position as a leader in sustainability by joining the inaugural edition of the “Saudi Sustainability Champions” program, launched by the Ministry of Economy and Planning at the World Economic Forum Special Meeting on Global Collaboration, Growth and Energy for Development in Riyadh.
The program is a knowledge transfer and partnership initiative that has identified the top performing Saudi companies in corporate sustainability. stc Group has joined 23 other champions that have been shortlisted from seven sectors, reflecting the continuous efforts by stc Group to focus on sustainability within its operations.
At the World Economic Forum Special Meeting in Riyadh, Olayan Al-Wetaid, CEO of stc Group, signed a pledge that commits the group to become net-zero by 2060 or earlier, supporting three or more companies in their sustainability transformation, and improving sustainability performance and reporting across the group. 
stc Group has committed to integrating sustainability in all its operations by adopting new technologies and solutions that help reduce its environmental footprint and boost operational efficiency. By adopting these policies, stc Group will be able to achieve its corporate objectives, support national and global sustainable development goals, and contribute to Vision 2030. 
The group utilizes state-of-the-art technologies and solutions to bolster the principles of sustainability and provide a healthier environment for next generations. In 2023, it won Forbes Middle East Sustainability Leaders Award in recognition of its efforts to reduce carbon emissions and promote sustainable practices.

Leading real estate developer Aldar Properties has unveiled Athlon, a first-of-its-kind “active living” concept in Dubai.
Meticulously designed with principles of active living throughout, Athlon is Dubai’s first and only concept designed for the everyday movement of its residents. Featuring world-class amenities, as well as a program of activities exclusively curated by wellness experts, the development redefines fitness-focused living, with the goal of ensuring long-term well-being and a profound sense of community for all residents.
Developed in partnership with Dubai Holding, a diversified global investment company with investments in 31 countries, Athlon represents the joint venture’s second residential project in Dubai, building upon the resounding success of Haven by Aldar, launched in late 2023.
Jonathan Emery, CEO of Aldar Development, said: “The unveiling of Athlon marks a definitive moment in our ambitious Dubai expansion strategy, building upon the tremendous success of Haven by Aldar. As we witness an unwavering demand for unparalleled residential developments in Dubai, from both local and international investors, we are confident that Athlon’s groundbreaking concept will captivate a diverse range of investors and homeowners, setting a new standard for active living in the region.”
Located beside Global Village, the luxurious development is defined by a seamless connection of interactive green spaces — where athletic spaces merge with green walkways and vibrant parks — and features tailored activities to suit every age and interest.
Expertly planned around a captivating central park that forms the community’s beating heart, Athlon — inspired by the Greek word for “place of contest” — features four additional parks — Adventure, Play, Wellness, and Valley — as well as a total of seven clubhouses, weaving dedicated zones for fitness and socializing throughout the community. The community features more than 10 km of tracks, trails, and loops — with the cycling loop connected directly to Al-Qudra’s iconic track — offering boundless opportunities to indulge in jogging, cycling, roller-skating, and functional training within the community.
From activities that push limits, to those focused on well-being, sports, play, and gathering, the entire emotional and psychological spectrum of wellness has been carefully considered throughout Athlon, for the benefit of its residents, visitors, and workers. State-of-the-art amenities here include a café, massage rooms, jacuzzi, sauna, yoga room, gym, and a kids’ playroom.
Surrounding the parks, the residences, featuring 1,492 units ranging from three- to four-bedroom townhouses, three- to five-bedroom standard villas, and four- to six-bedroom premium villas have been designed to maximize natural light and use colors and materials that enhance the sense of space and well-being.
In line with Aldar’s commitment to sustainability and achieving its net-zero targets, Athlon will be developed with an emphasis on efficient and low-carbon design principles. This approach will be supported by the use of locally sourced and low-carbon materials, as well as the adoption of responsible and green construction practices.
The development has achieved LEED Platinum pre-certification, incorporating features such as energy-efficient and water-saving fixtures, electric vehicle charging facilities, smart waste disposal systems, and access to public transportation.