Saudia launches world’s first sanitizing prayer beads

ProtecTasbih, launched by Saudia, redefines traditional prayer beads, reflecting a harmonious blend of cultural reverence and modern health consciousness.
Short Url
Updated 06 February 2024
Follow

Saudia launches world’s first sanitizing prayer beads

Saudia, the Kingdom’s national flag carrier, has launched the world’s first sanitizing prayer beads just in time for the holy month of Ramadan and Umrah season — where Saudia and the Kingdom typically anticipate the largest influx of guests and Umrah pilgrims.

ProtecTasbih, created in collaboration with creative agency partners, are the first prayer beads that offer a dual function, seamlessly combining the spiritual practice of tasbih — a form of dhikr or remembrance of Allah — with the added benefit of hand sanitization. This innovative creation redefines the traditional prayer beads, reflecting a harmonious blend of cultural reverence and modern health consciousness.

The prayer beads use tea tree oil as a sanitizing element as it is effective against a broad spectrum of bacteria and disrupts the cell membrane of the bacteria itself. Using a molding technique, the oil was integrated into a semi-solid compound to create a solid bead.

Essam Akhonbay, vice president marketing at Saudia, said: “At Saudia, our commitment to the well-being of all our guests is paramount. We take pride in introducing a unique product that enhances the pilgrimage experience, allowing our guests to fully immerse themselves in their spiritual journey.”

The new innovative product will be available on board for all Saudia guests to ensure a healthier and sanitary pilgrimage journey. ProtecTasbih were also distributed across the holy city of Makkah.


LuLu expands specialty coffee footprint in KSA with Sulalat

Updated 24 January 2026
Follow

LuLu expands specialty coffee footprint in KSA with Sulalat

LuLu Group has signed a landmark MoU with Sulalat Coffee during the 5th edition of World of Coffee Dubai trade show. This exclusive retail partnership is designed to enhance the specialty coffee offerings across LuLu Hypermarkets in Saudi Arabia, meeting the growing demand for premium coffee experiences within the region.
The agreement was signed by Mohamed Haris, director, Saudi Arabia, LuLu Group, and Abdulelah Al-Murqi, marketing director, Sulalat Coffee. Through this collaboration, LuLu Group will provide a dedicated platform for Sulalat’s specialty-grade beans, which are globally sourced and roasted in Riyadh. This initiative ensures that world-class coffee quality, previously reserved for niche aficionados, is now readily accessible to coffee lovers throughout the Kingdom.
By partnering with Sulalat Coffee, LuLu Group is integrating artisanal expertise with large-scale retail excellence. Sulalat has been a pioneer in the specialty coffee movement in the region, and this partnership allows LuLu to showcase unique varieties and professional-grade roasting. The collaboration reflects a shared vision to celebrate the thriving local coffee culture and deliver an unparalleled selection of premium products to everyday consumers.
In alignment with Saudi Vision 2030, this partnership reinforces LuLu Group’s commitment to empowering homegrown brands and fostering economic diversification within the Kingdom. By providing a global stage for local excellence at events like World of Coffee Dubai, LuLu continues to support the growth of a vibrant private sector and a sustainable retail ecosystem.
As the premier platform for the industry, World of Coffee Dubai 2026 highlights the rapid growth and innovation within the regional coffee scene. With the event attracting more than 17,000 visitors and hundreds of global exhibitors, it provides a vital stage for industry leaders to connect.