Layalina  tent offers standout iftar, sahoor experiences

The Layalina tent is not just about dining — it is about creating lasting memories through entertainment and culture.
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Updated 19 March 2025
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Layalina  tent offers standout iftar, sahoor experiences

RIYADH: Riyadh’s newest Ramadan tent, Layalina, is making waves as this month’s hotspot destination.

Hosted by The Ritz-Carlton, Riyadh, Layalina offers a blend of traditional and modern experiences, creating an unforgettable atmosphere for guests looking to break their fast or enjoy a lively sahoor.  

Bringing the event to life alongside The Ritz-Carlton is the Saudi-founded PR services, Modern Era.

Known for its dynamic approach, Modern Era has played a key role in transforming the Ramadan tent into an epic celebration, featuring top-tier entertainment and a carefully curated culinary experience. 

Renowned for offering the largest buffet in Riyadh, The Ritz-Carlton’s Layalina Ramadan tent boasts an impressive spread of dishes.

Guests can indulge in a diverse selection of international and Saudi cuisine, making every meal a memorable one.

The extensive menu includes a variety of international appetizers, chilled seafood, multiple live cooking stations, an array of main courses, and a lavish pastry station filled with delicious desserts. 

Layalina is divided into two distinct experiences — iftar and sahoor. Those seeking a peaceful setting to break their fast can enjoy a serene atmosphere, while guests looking for an engaging and entertaining night out can attend the lively sahoor sessions.

With its grand offerings, Layalina offers something for everyone throughout Ramadan. 

At the heart of the Layalina Ramadan tent is a central stage, featuring some of the region’s top entertainers. The grand opening of the tent set the bar high, delivering an evening filled with laughter and elegance with Abla Fahita. Known for her signature humor and charm, Fahita took center stage, captivating the audience and setting the tone for an exciting season ahead.

Also taking the stage were notable names such as Egyptian comedian Shaimaa Said, musical artist Hajjer El Khashab, Saudi actor and comedian Ibrahim Al-Khairallah, and Shadi Alfons, each adding their own flair to the mix.

With these star-studded lineups, the Layalina tent is not just about dining — it is about creating lasting memories through entertainment and culture. 

Layalina offers a luxurious Ramadan experience with iftar at SR500 ($133) and sahoor at SR325 per person. Children under six enter free, while those aged 6-12 receive a half-price discount (excluding 15 percent VAT).  

Layalina tent bookings are available until March 31.


SADAFCO showcases products, growth at Saudi Food Show

Updated 13 May 2025
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SADAFCO showcases products, growth at Saudi Food Show

Saudia Dairy and Foodstuff Company, known as SADAFCO, a leading manufacturer and distributor of high-quality dairy and food products, is participating in Saudi Food Show 2025, held from May 12–14 at the Riyadh Front Exhibition and Conference Center.

SADAFCO is welcoming visitors at Booth #C4-2, where it is showcasing key products, aiming to connect with clients, partners, and industry leaders in the Kingdom’s premier F&B trade environment.

“Saudi Arabia’s food landscape is moving fast — and so are we,” said Patrick Stillhart, CEO of SADAFCO. “Our goal is not only to deliver trusted products, but to play a central role in shaping the future of food in the Kingdom. Events like the Saudi Food Show allow us to listen, lead, and grow alongside our partners.”

In line with Vision 2030, SADAFCO continues to strengthen its local presence and future-ready operations. Key recent developments include:

• On top of the SR130 million ($34.6 million) investment in the new ice cream factory, which opened in 2021, SADAFCO has now invested another SR20 million to expand capacity and product variety.

• A strategic digital transformation partnership with SAP and NTT DATA to modernize operations and enhance efficiency.

• A long-term sustainability roadmap, including a zero-carbon fleet transition by 2045 and net-zero ambition for the company by 2060.

Based in Jeddah, SADAFCO operates sales and distribution depots in 24 locations across the Kingdom and Middle East.


Resecurity joins US-UAE Business Council to advance cybersecurity collaboration across region

Updated 13 May 2025
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Resecurity joins US-UAE Business Council to advance cybersecurity collaboration across region

Resecurity, a US-based leader in cybersecurity and threat intelligence, has officially joined the US-UAE Business Council, reinforcing its long-term commitment to the Middle East and Gulf region. This strategic partnership will accelerate cybersecurity collaboration and support the region’s digital transformation efforts.

The US-UAE Business Council is the premier organization dedicated to strengthening commercial ties between the US and the UAE. Through high-level engagement with government and industry leaders, it fosters innovation, investment, and strategic partnerships across key sectors, including technology, energy, defense, and cybersecurity.

“We are delighted to welcome Resecurity to the US-UAE Business Council,” said Danny Sebright, president of the council. “Resecurity brings deep expertise in cyberthreat intelligence and digital risk management. Their involvement will greatly contribute to our technology-focused initiatives and help advance cybersecurity resilience throughout the region.”

Resecurity has been rapidly expanding its footprint in the Middle East, actively working with governments and critical infrastructure providers to mitigate cyberthreats, protect digital assets, and strengthen regional cybersecurity frameworks.

“Our membership in the US-UAE Business Council underscores our strategic vision for the region,” said Gene Yoo, CEO of Resecurity. “The UAE is a global leader in digital innovation, and we’re honored to contribute our expertise to support its vision for a secure and resilient digital future.”

Founded in 2016, Resecurity provides an end-to-end cybersecurity platform focused on threat intelligence, endpoint protection, and digital risk management. Recognized among the fastest-growing cybersecurity firms in Los Angeles by Inc. Magazine, the company has built a global reputation for data-driven intelligence and early breach detection.

Resecurity also maintains key partnerships with global security and defense organizations, including the World Economic Forum’s Cybercrime Atlas, InfraGard National Members Alliance, AFCEA, NDIA, FS-ISAC, and multiple American Chambers of Commerce.

Its distinguished advisory board includes:

  • Maj. Gen. Richard M. “Dick” Lake (USMC-Ret.)
  • Darrell M. Blocker, former deputy director, CIA Counterterrorist Center
  • Lt. Gen. (Dr.) Rajesh Pant, former national cybersecurity coordinator, India
  • Rear Adm. Teisuke Hayano (Ret.), former director of intelligence, JMSDF

This strategic engagement with the US-UAE Business Council marks a new chapter in Resecurity’s efforts to support cybersecurity development in the GCC region and beyond.

For further information, visit https://www.resecurity.com/


Mobily achieves fastest response time for online gaming, live streaming, and video calling

Updated 13 May 2025
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Mobily achieves fastest response time for online gaming, live streaming, and video calling

Etihad Etisalat Company, known as Mobily, has announced that it ranks first among Saudi telecom companies in response time for online gaming, live streaming, and video interactions. This recognition is based on reports issued by global platforms that measure latency and digital performance.

Nezar Banabeela, Mobily CEO, said: “We are proud of this achievement, which is one of the outcomes of Mobily’s continued investments in enhancing its digital infrastructure. These efforts have successfully reduced latency, enabling our customers to engage in real-time digital experiences and enjoy improved service quality that aligns with the world’s best practices.”

He added: “Mobily remains committed to advancing and enhancing its services by offering the latest technologies and solutions. Fast video loading and real-time interaction are essential for customer satisfaction and maintaining a presence on live-streaming platforms.”

To mark this milestone, Mobily launched a campaign titled “A leading Network,” inviting customers to enjoy low latency on its network and leverage cloud-based applications and IoT services for greater productivity and more efficient business operations.

Mobily’s reduced latency has enhanced user experiences in multiplayer gaming and video-on-demand streaming on mobile networks. It has also enabled seamless remote work environments, supporting smooth virtual meetings and empowering organizations to make swift decisions on urgent matters.

Moreover, Mobily’s ultra-low latency network is unlocking new possibilities across key sectors, including healthcare, education, business, entertainment, and finance. The financial sector, in particular, has been able to enhance customer experiences by accelerating digital services, delivering greater value with improved efficiency and lower costs, while also fostering continuous innovation and adaptability to evolving customer needs.

Video calling and gaming applications demand latency levels under 30 milliseconds in standard operating conditions to ensure data accuracy. Mobily’s network also offers high upload speeds suitable for video conferencing, cloud backups, file sharing, and social media content creation.

Mobily continues to invest in its digital infrastructure to strengthen Saudi Arabia’s position as a regional and global digital hub, recognized for innovation and technology excellence.


Lulu’s ‘Australia Week’ showcases growing bilateral trade

Updated 13 May 2025
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Lulu’s ‘Australia Week’ showcases growing bilateral trade

Lulu Retail has officially launched “Australia Week 2025” across all its stores in Saudi Arabia, celebrating the strong partnership between Saudi Arabia and Australia in food security and trade. 

The event was inaugurated at Lulu’s Diplomatic Quarter branch in Riyadh by Australian Ambassador to Saudi Arabia Mark Donovan, in the presence of Shehim Mohammed, director of LuLu Hypermarkets Saudi Arabia, senior officials from the Australian Embassy, and top executives from Lulu.

Running until May 17, Australia Week 2025 showcases more than 960 high-quality Australian products from 129 leading brands. Shoppers can explore a curated selection of premium meats, fresh fruit and vegetables, dairy, frozen items, canned goods, and health-oriented foods. This week-long event highlights Australia’s reputation for clean, green, and sustainable food production.

The initiative coincides with Australia’s participation in the Saudi Food Show and the in-store promotions are designed to complement Australia’s broader market engagement and deepen trade links with Middle Eastern markets.
“In Australia, we value our close relationship with Saudi Arabia,” Donovan said. 

Australia Week is a great opportunity to introduce our premium products to Saudi consumers. Lulu Retail is a strategic partner in this effort, and we are proud to present this diverse selection of Australian products to their customers.”

Mohammed added: “At Lulu, we are committed to offering a rich and diverse shopping experience to customers in Saudi Arabia. Australia Week is part of that commitment. Through our partnership with Australia, we are able to provide a selection of high-quality products that align with Saudi tastes and nutritional needs. We are excited to share these exceptional items with our customers.”

Bryony Hilless, Australian consul general to Dubai and Austrade general manager for the Middle East, said: “As the Middle East’s population grows and consumers increasingly demand high-quality and reliable food and beverages, Australia has become a secure and trusted exporter to the region. 

We’re proud to partner with Lulu Hypermarkets to showcase much-loved Australian products in-store and to support Australian producers to connect and grow export partnerships in the region.”

Austrade Trade and Investment Commissioner Todd Miller highlighted the strategic opportunity of engaging with the Saudi market, saying: “Australian producers are known the world over for high-quality products produced in sustainable and ethical ways. With Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 transforming the Kingdom’s food and beverage landscape, there are unparalleled opportunities for Australian exporters to provide the innovative, premium products the dynamic food market needs.”


Globant takes Saudi Pro League into new era of sports

Updated 12 May 2025
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Globant takes Saudi Pro League into new era of sports

Globant, a digitally native company focused on reinventing businesses through innovative technology solutions, has partnered with Saudi Pro League to implement the cutting-edge Competition Management Solution provided by Sportian, Globant’s sports division.

With the new platform, future SPL seasons will be managed through a digital ecosystem. With the help of AI and data analysis tools, the system will speed up previously manual tasks with the ability to detect and correct human error, significantly reducing manual tasks and allowing competition staff to focus on innovation.

The Competition Management Suite enables seamless digital enrollment of players, automated registration of new signings, and real-time match day operations — including lineup submissions, referee assignments, kit selection, and compliance processes. Designed with security at its core, the system also safeguards sensitive data to protect the integrity of the competition and the privacy of all participants. 

Mamdouh Aldoubayan, managing director of MENA at Globant

“We aim to support the fast growth of our competition with technology innovations that can enhance the sporting spectacle and help clubs perform to their best. The platform provided by Globant Sportian will provide a huge boost to our efficiency and take away unnecessary complexity, allowing our teams to focus on what they do best, play and enjoy football,” said Omar Mugharbel, CEO of Saudi Pro League.

“We are proud to bring our global expertise in digital reinvention to the MENA region, where the transformation of the sports, media, and entertainment industries is happening at an unprecedented pace,” said Federico Pienovi, CEO and CBO of new markets at Globant. “Through Sportian — Globant’s sports division — we are delivering a state-of-the-art solution that will redefine how football organizations operate — managing complex processes from calendar selection to legal compliance. This is more than digital transformation; it’s about helping visionary partners like the Saudi Pro League lead a new era of intelligent, connected, and data-driven sports.”

Globant Sportian offers end-to-end digital solutions for sports federations and leagues, including LALIGA, MotoGP and Belgian Pro League, among others, delivering specialized products that manage complex workflows such as fixture scheduling, compliance, and operational intelligence.

“This milestone marks the beginning of Globant’s journey in bringing cutting-edge technology to Saudi Arabia’s thriving sports ecosystem,” said Mamdouh Aldoubayan, managing director of MENA at Globant. “By digitizing core competition workflows and leveraging AI, we’re enabling the Saudi Pro League to operate with greater speed, transparency, and precision. This partnership highlights our commitment to building smart, scalable infrastructure aligned with Vision 2030 and the Kingdom’s ambitions in the global sports arena.”

This agreement reflects Globant’s continued expansion in the Middle East and its growing role as a trusted technology partner for forward-thinking sports organizations worldwide.

The Saudi Pro League is the premier football league in the Kingdom and holds the distinction of being the highest-ranked league in Asia, as recognized by the Asian Football Confederation.