Aroya to host first Saudi floating franchise expo

Dr. Khalid Al-Ghamdi, left, chairman of the National Franchise Committee, and Alaa Tashkandi, general sales manager at AROYA Cruises, shake hands after signing the agreement. (Supplied)
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Updated 16 April 2025
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Aroya to host first Saudi floating franchise expo

The National Franchise Committee, in partnership with Aroya Cruises, has finalized preparations for the first-of-its-kind floating exhibition dedicated to franchising. The initiative, led by the Federation of Saudi Chambers, was formalized through an agreement signed by Dr. Khalid Al-Ghamdi, chairman of the National Franchise Committee, and Alaa Tashkandi, general sales manager at Aroya Cruises. The International Floating Franchise Exhibition will take place aboard the luxurious Aroya cruise ship from May 5-8.

The announcement came during a press conference held onboard the Aroya cruise in Jeddah, attended by various media representatives. The organizing committee unveiled details of the ship’s facilities that will host the expo, including halls, theaters, meeting rooms, and other logistical preparations.

Dr. Al-Ghamdi said that hosting the exhibition at sea symbolizes the global potential of Saudi brands, adding that the committee is working on a strategic initiative to accelerate the international expansion of Saudi franchises.

Tashkandi said that Aroya Cruises is fully equipped to host major exhibitions and commercial events, offering world-class amenities that promise an exceptional and unique experience for global attendees.

The Federation of Saudi Chambers, represented by the National Franchise Committee, had previously announced plans to organize the inaugural International Floating Franchise Exhibition from May 5–8, aboard the Aroya cruise ship in Jeddah.


LuLu expands specialty coffee footprint in KSA with Sulalat

Updated 24 January 2026
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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.