The role of SAS analytics in flood management

This solution demonstrates the proven value of SAS’ flood management tools. (Supplied)
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Updated 24 July 2024
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The role of SAS analytics in flood management

The devastating effects of flooding on infrastructure, human lives, and the economy are undeniable. 

As climate change intensifies the frequency and severity of flooding events, effective flood management has become top priority. 

Through providing advanced analytics and forecasting tools, SAS has grown into a key player in the field of flood management, supporting organizations in both preparing for and minimizing the impact of floods.

Considering how unpredictable natural disasters like flooding can be, Alexander Tikhonov, regional director of SAS Middle East, Turkiye and Africa, underscored SAS’ dedication to developing innovative, lifesaving solutions.

“We are deeply committed to supporting communities with cutting-edge technologies that not only enhance operational efficiency but also safeguard lives. Our efforts through the SAS D[n]A Factory initiative reaffirm our dedication to developing innovative solutions that help communities better prepare for and respond to natural disasters.”

Under SAS D[n]A Factory, the company’s new, pioneering initiative, SAS draws on its extensive international expertise to create a tailored solution that responds perfectly to the region’s specific needs and challenges. 

This solution demonstrates the proven value of SAS’ flood management tools, based on trusted data, analytics, and AI, in equipping organizations better prepare for future flooding events and unforeseen situations.

Currently, the pilot version of the solution illustrates the following capabilities: 

1. Advanced Analytics: Processes enormous volumes of data coming from various data sources to provide accurate flood forecasts and risk assessments.

2. Real-Time Monitoring: Shows how important real-time data is when it comes to monitoring flood-prone areas and predicting potential flooding events.

3. Proactive Planning: Emphasizes the role of predictive analytics in proactive flood management, allowing organizations to plan and implement mitigation strategies well in advance.

4. Enhanced Community Preparedness: Provides insights into how communities can leverage SAS tools to improve their preparedness and response to flood emergencies.

SAS has proven that it can provide more than just theoretical answers by working with an extensive number of governmental and nongovernmental organizations globally to enhance their flood management systems.

For instance, SAS collaborated with the Jakarta government to deploy an award-winning flood control system integrated into the “JAKI” super app. 

Using real-time data and advanced predictive analytics, this innovative system can accurately predict flooding events. It combines sensor data and weather forecasts, enabling timely interventions that significantly reduce the adverse effects of floods. Not only has the system strengthened Jakarta’s flood response, but it has also garnered praise for its groundbreaking application of technology to city planning.

The Town of Cary in North Carolina, US, is another great example. SAS has provided the town with a tailored flood incident prediction and preparedness solution, utilizing the Microsoft Azure platform and integrating flood risk assessment, real-time monitoring, and predictive analytics capabilities. 

The system’s ability to bring together data from several sources, including weather forecasts, river levels, and historical data, allows for accurate flood forecasting and early warning services. Thanks to this proactive approach, the Town of Cary is now significantly better prepared to deal with potential flood threats, guaranteeing the community’s safety.

Regional flood management strategies can be drastically enhanced with the power of SAS advanced analytics and real-time data processing tools.  

In addition to mitigating flood damage, this new solution from SAS D[n]A Factory can help local communities feel less vulnerable to flooding events while properly equipped to quickly recover.


Zain KSA empowers people with disabilities in ICT sector

Updated 09 September 2024
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Zain KSA empowers people with disabilities in ICT sector

Demonstrating its commitment to empowering people with disabilities, Zain KSA has signed a memorandum of understanding with the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development. Zain KSA will offer specialized training and development programs, along with job opportunities for individuals with disabilities as part of this agreement. Additionally, registered users on the MHRSD platform will receive exclusive offers tailored to their needs.

This collaboration seeks to empower individuals with disabilities and boost their presence in the ICT sector. This initiative demonstrates Zain KSA’s values of diversity, inclusion, and equality. By offering equal opportunities to all, Zain KSA is actively contributing to Saudi Vision 2030’s goal of enhancing social services, particularly for people with disabilities, through training, development, and integration into the workforce.

Commenting on the development, Loluwah Saad Alnowaiser, Zain KSA’s executive vice president of human resources, said: “At Zain KSA, our commitment goes beyond advancing telecommunications and digital services. We are dedicated to nurturing creativity and innovation among young talent throughout the Kingdom. Rooted in our belief that every individual possesses unique potential, we view it as our responsibility as Saudi leaders to cultivate and invest in this talent. This commitment aligns with our broader strategy to foster diversity and inclusivity within the workplace and society at large.

“Since 2018, we have actively pursued initiatives, such as the We Able initiative, to advance these goals. At Zain KSA, we are dedicated to attracting, training, and developing talented individuals with disabilities. We equip them with the scientific and professional skills needed to pursue fulfilling careers aligned with their abilities. Our goal is not just to retain this exceptional talent, but to nurture and empower them, enabling them to play an active role in community development.”

In his statement, MHRSD’s Assistant Undersecretary for Rehabilitation and Social Guidance Ahmed bin Mohammed Al-Hadithia said: “We are committed to creating an inclusive society where individuals with disabilities have equal opportunities to contribute to the nation’s social and economic progress. Our partnership with the private sector is instrumental in achieving seamless integration in this area, aligning with the ambitious goals of Saudi Vision 2030.”

Zain KSA partners with various organizations to empower individuals with disabilities to contribute to Saudi Vision 2030 goals. Most recently, the company partnered with the Authority of People with Disabilities on the Purple Saturday initiative to provide tailored and exclusive benefits to this community.


Bentley to launch new Flying Spur today

Updated 09 September 2024
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Bentley to launch new Flying Spur today

Bentley Saudi Arabia announced that the latest Grand Touring sedan — the new Flying Spur — will be launched on Sept. 10.

Reborn with the company’s new “Ultra Performance Hybrid” powertrain with 782 PS and 1,000 Nm, Bentley’s four-door supercar demonstrates the power of the possible. The new Flying Spur is not only the most powerful and most dynamic, but also the most efficient four-door car in Bentley’s 105-year history, with CO2 below 40 g/km, an e-range more than 45 miles, and total range of more than 500 miles.

The Ultra Performance Hybrid powertrain is Bentley’s future, delivering astonishing flexibility from incredibly accessible supercar performance to silent, effortless electric luxury. To launch the new Flying Spur, Bentley Motors will release a film showcasing the car’s newly-expanded dynamic capabilities — at the hands of racing stars old and new.


Pfizer appoints Elif Aral as regional president

Updated 09 September 2024
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Pfizer appoints Elif Aral as regional president

Pfizer has announced the appointment of Elif Aral as regional president for Middle East, Russia, and Africa to spearhead operations in the region and bring scientific breakthroughs in vaccines, oncology, rare diseases, internal medicine, hospitals, and inflammation and immunology.

In her new role, in addition to overseeing all therapeutic areas within the MERA region, Aral will drive strategic initiatives to improve healthcare access and equity, working closely with regional partners and governments to ensure Pfizer’s leading portfolio and breakthroughs reach those who need them.

Aral said: “I am thrilled to embark on this new chapter with Pfizer and am particularly honored to be the first woman to hold a presidential role at the company in the region.”


Costa Coffee honors Saudi heritage with new offerings

Updated 08 September 2024
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Costa Coffee honors Saudi heritage with new offerings

Costa Coffee, brought to the Kingdom by Alghanim Industries, is deepening its connection with the Saudi market through the introduction of exclusive, locally inspired menu offerings. This initiative reflects Costa Coffee’s commitment to delivering tailored experiences that resonate with the rich cultural heritage of Saudi Arabia.

In collaboration with celebrated Saudi chef Rakan Al-Oraifi, Costa Coffee has unveiled a curated selection of dishes that blend tradition with innovation. Chef Rakan, recognized as Best Saudi Chef in both 2018 and 2019, brings his culinary expertise to this partnership, creating a menu that will be available exclusively at 10 flagship Costa Coffee locations in Riyadh.

“I am thrilled to infuse the authentic taste of Saudi Arabia into the innovative dishes I’ve crafted in collaboration with Costa Coffee,” said Chef Rakan. “The history, depth, and diversity of Saudi flavors are extraordinary, and having the opportunity to present them in select Costa Coffee locations, which are a daily part of any coffee enthusiast’s life in Riyadh, is truly remarkable.”

In addition to these culinary creations, Costa Coffee has introduced new value-driven initiatives tailored to the preferences of its Saudi customers. These include value bundle offers and revised drink sizes, designed to enhance the customer experience with more accessible price points. These offerings have been rolled out across all 50 Costa Coffee locations in Riyadh.

Costa Coffee’s ongoing partnership with Jazean, a distinguished Saudi coffee brand, further enriches this initiative. Building on the success of this collaboration, Costa Coffee is now offering additional Jazean products, including the newly introduced Saudi espresso coffee and Jazean Coffee Crema.

“Our new offerings at Costa Coffee are a testament to our understanding of the Saudi market’s preferences. We are always committed to delivering quality and value while integrating distinctive Saudi-inspired products as we continually enrich the coffee experience across the Kingdom, reinforcing our role in highlighting its rich coffee heritage and supporting the local coffee sector. The successful reception of this initial rollout in Riyadh will pave the way for expanding these thoughtfully localized offerings to other regions across the Kingdom and bringing a uniquely Saudi experience to Costa Coffee’s customers,” said Wejdan Aboljadayel, marketing manager at Costa Coffee Saudi Arabia.


Nintex announces investments, new office in Kingdom

Updated 08 September 2024
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Nintex announces investments, new office in Kingdom

Nintex, a leader in process intelligence and automation, on Thursday announced the opening of its new office in Riyadh, as part of the company’s ongoing investment in the Kingdom and Middle East.

“Saudi Arabia is and will continue to be a critical market for technology as the Kingdom pursues ambitious goals around modernization and infrastructure to realize the opportunities within its Vision 2030 framework. By bringing together the best in automation and AI, Nintex is well-equipped to support key components of the Vision 2030 framework, including the modernization of the public sector, growing investments in technology, and more,” said Amit Mathradas, CEO of Nintex. “With our long-standing relationship with Saudi customers and partners and newly expanded footprint in Saudi Arabia, Nintex is demonstrating its commitment to the Kingdom by supporting digital transformation efforts and investing in local talent.”

The office location in Al-Olaya, the central business district of Riyadh, is part of Nintex’s strategic investment in Saudi Arabia. Additionally, Nintex plans to hire and build out its team with local, valuable talent within the Kingdom. Hiring will span numerous departments and teams, including channel and alliances, customer success, finance, human resources, IT, marketing, sales, technical support, and more.

Nintex is hiring a vice president and general manager for the GCC. This role will be responsible for spearheading the business operations within the region. In the interim, Ayman El-Hattab, regional vice president of emerging markets at Nintex, will continue to lead Saudi Arabia operations and the company’s existing operations in the Middle East.

Today, Nintex’s process automation and intelligence platform supports Saudi initiatives such as the National Industrial Development and Logistics Program and the National Transformation Program, in addition to various digital transformation programs in the country.

As part of ongoing investments in the Kingdom, Nintex will further invest into its Nintex Automation K2 product offerings. The K2 platform has supported advanced requirements, providing a powerful and sophisticated workflow engine that can scale with complexity and specific governance requirements for important, sensitive, and mission-critical work across organizations of any size. Specific investment areas include:

• Translations and localization: Nintex Automation K2 now natively supports Arabic language. In addition to Arabic, K2 also supports French, German, and Spanish for all design experiences. SmartForms also now supports multiple languages in a single view or form, allowing for easier multilingual experiences.

• Modern experiences: Investments in SmartForms include highly requested controls and updating default themes for a more modern user experience.

• Integration and modernization: Upcoming investments include new integrations into Nintex RPA, Nintex DocGen, and updated integration points for modern extensibility standards.

“Today’s announcement is a significant step forward in Nintex’s ongoing commitment to Saudi Arabia and the Kingdom’s ambitions for digital transformation and growth,” said El-Hattab. “By establishing a Saudi Arabia office, hiring in-market experts, and bolstering our key product for the region, Nintex supports the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 goals of creating a digital society, digital government, and a future of innovation. We look forward to enhancing how we serve our existing customers and expanding the power of automation to more Saudi organizations in the future.”