Saudi Arabian General Investment Authority (SAGIA) has announced a new licensing program tailored for innovators, both local and overseas talented students and researchers who are interested in implementing its ideas or patent rights for business startups across the Kingdom .
SAGIA’s new innovation-based license is a new license class that has been implemented in cooperation with King Abdullah University for Sciences & Technology (KAUST). SAGIA announced expansion of the implementation to involve all scientific and educational institutes in the Kingdom.
All eligible individuals interested in applying for innovative licenses are invited to submit their applications along with detailed documents that describe the idea, benefits, contribution to the local economy, job creation for Saudis, endorsement letters including concept validation from the educational or institute incubator, followed by progress reports for major project stages.
Innovators not being incubated by any educational or scientific institutions have to register their patents at KACST. This announcement is applicable to joint venture investors, whether local or overseas, which need to be licensed by SAGIA.
It is available for Saudi innovators who can receive privileges and services, including government services, offered by SAGIA’s business centers in Madinah, Riyadh, Jeddah, Dammam and Jazan.
Local innovators are invited to visit SAGIA website to complete registration and agree on terms and conditions. Applications and documents could be uploaded and submitted through SAGIA online services portal. Official response will be communicated to applicants within five working days.
SAGIA introduces new licensing program for innovators
SAGIA introduces new licensing program for innovators
LuLu Walkathon: 22,000 participants champion greener future
Alkhobar’s New Corniche transformed into a vibrant hub of energy and community spirit when more than 22,000 people gathered for the highly anticipated “LuLu Walkathon.” Organized by LuLu Saudi Hypermarket, the 3-km event was held under the patronage of the Ministry of Sport and Alkhobar municipality on Jan. 31. The walkathon successfully united the community under the themes of health and environmental sustainability.
The event was held with the cooperation of Meshaal Al-Harbi, head of Alkhobar municipality, and Tareq Al-Qahtani, director of the Ministry of Sport’s Eastern Province branch. The official flag-off was performed by Mohammed Haris, director of LuLu Hypermarket Saudi Arabia.
This year’s walkathon went beyond fitness, offering a rich tapestry of entertainment including soulful traditional Arabic music, a contemporary violin performance, and a playful “donuts dance,” which ensured a festive atmosphere for families of all ages.
A major highlight of the morning was the presence of Khadra. Khadra served as a living reminder of the Kingdom’s deep-rooted cultural artistry, posing for photos with the thousands of participants who lined the coast. To ensure every attendee felt the spirit of the celebration, participants were geared up with a premium merchandise kit containing custom-branded T-shirts and caps. Furthermore, every individual who successfully completed the 3-km route was rewarded with an exclusive LuLu goodie bag at the finish line to celebrate their achievement.
Sustainability remained a core pillar for the LuLu Walkathon this year, reflecting the brand’s long-term environmental vision. LuLu’s staff managed the route with a strict focus on environmental responsibility, while strategically placed refreshment stalls kept walkers hydrated without compromising the pristine condition of the corniche.
The massive success of the event was supported by key partners, including MasterCard as the commercial sponsor and Nada, which provided vital refreshments, alongside significant support from Radio Mirchi and Alyaum newspaper.
“The walkathon concluded not just as a race, but as a meaningful tribute to the Kingdom’s past and a definitive step toward a sustainable future,” a statement said. “By blending physical activity with cultural celebration and environmental stewardship, LuLu Hypermarket reaffirmed its commitment to the Saudi community, promoting an active, engaged, and responsible lifestyle for all residents.”
