Saudi Arabia - Business News Week

sports

Saudi Arabia’s summer of esports highlights success of Esports World Cup and New Global Sport Conference

Aug 28, 2024 by Sujata 0 Comments #Esports World Cup, #Saudi Arabia

saudi

Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, 28 August 2024: The Esports World Cup – watched by a total of 500 million viewers worldwide – and New Global Sport Conference have concluded in Riyadh, as Saudi Arabia ushered in a new era for gaming and esports.

The summer of esports saw HRH Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, present Saudi Arabian club Team Falcons with the Esports World Cup Club Championship trophy on Sunday.

Featuring the best clubs, the best players and the best games, the inaugural Esports World Cup hosted 22 tournaments across 21 titles for a duration of two months. A total prize pool of $60 million, the largest prize pool in the history of esports, was on offer for the tournament held at Boulevard Riyadh City.

The second edition of the New Global Sport Conference 2024 (NGSC) heard how esports, the new global sport, will merge traditional sport and its modern counterpart in a form of entertainment catalyzing people from all sectors of society and sparking economic growth.

The conference gathered more than 60 global speakers and 200 CEOs among 1,200 attendees from gaming, esports, technology, sports, entertainment, business and investment at the Four Seasons Hotel Riyadh At Kingdom Center.

His Royal Highness Prince Faisal bin Bandar bin Sultan, Chairman of the Saudi Esports Federation, said: “The Esports World Cup and New Global Sport Conference have ushered in a new dawn for gaming and esports across the globe, as well as Saudi Arabia’s sports and entertainment sectors. There is so much to be excited about and so much potential to fully capture.

“As I mentioned in my opening remarks at the New Global Sport Conference on Sunday, Saudi Arabia’s commitment to gaming and esports is unwavering. We believe in the transformative power of gaming and esports – not just as forms of entertainment but as catalysts for economic growth, social cohesion, and cultural exchange. Our faith in this industry is not just about its potential but also the people who drive it – the players, the fans, the publishers, the developers, the leaders who envision its future.

“As the Kingdom prepares to host the first-ever Olympic Esports Games in 2025, we look back at this summer of esports with pride and accomplishment while looking forward to what is to come with immense anticipation and belief.”

Ralf Reichert, CEO of the Esports World Cup Foundation, the hosting entity of the Esports World Cup, said: “The Esports World Cup has been a milestone moment in Saudi Arabia’s mission to elevate esports and attract a broader global audience.

“The success of the Esports World Cup has simultaneously been the success of Riyadh. Successfully hosting such a prestigious event highlights the capital city’s commitment to blending cutting-edge technology with a vibrant gaming culture. By creating an exceptional environment for both players and fans, Riyadh has set a new standard for global esports, proving that innovation and passion can transform any city into a hub for digital excellence.

“The second edition of the New Global Sport Conference was also another prime example of this. My panel appearance with Magnus Carlsen, the chess grandmaster and five-time World Champion, showed precisely the vast potential of merging traditional games and sports with their digital futures.”

In addition to Carlsen, the former Manchester United and France international footballer Patrice Evra was another celebrity attendee at NGSC. Evra shared his thoughts on a panel called ‘Becoming a Modern Sports Hero – Sports, Gaming and the Relentless Pursuit of Excellence’ alongside Gabriel “FalleN” Toledo, the Brazilian national Counter-Strike II player for FURIA Esports. Carlsen appeared with Reichert on a fascinating panel session entitled entitled ‘Chess, Esports: Strategy Redefined Together – From the Chessboard to the Digital Arena’.

Esports World Cup 2024 in numbers

Total Hours Watched: More than 250 million across all platforms
Highest Peak Concurrent Viewership: 3.5 million (League of Legends)
Total Viewers: 500 million
Tickets Sold: More than 175,000
Boulevard Riyadh City Visits: More than 2 million
Clubs: More than 200
Players: More than 1,500

The Future is Bright: Our Ambitions Are Limitless

His Royal Highness Prince Faisal said: “The success of the Esports World Cup and New Global Sport Conference is just the beginning. Our ambition to become a global hub for gaming and esports knows no bounds. The Kingdom’s involvement at regional and international levels will become even more influential over the next few years. Recent strategic initiatives and investments in gaming and esports have galvanized the ecosystem, helping to create today’s vibrant and opportunistic landscape.

“With continued support and investment, Saudi Arabia is poised to become the world’s go-to destination for gaming and esports by 2030. We are actively seeking and establishing partnerships with international esports organizations, companies, and influencers to facilitate knowledge transfer, expertise, and global integration.”

This is Just the Beginning

His Royal Highness Prince Faisal added: “As we look to the future, it’s clear that the best is yet to come. The Esports World Cup’s success, coupled with the insights and innovations shared at the New Global Sport Conference, proves that we are on the right path. Together, we will continue to elevate the sector, contribute meaningfully to its development, and shape its future on a global scale.
“To everyone who contributed to the success of the Esports World Cup and the New Global Sport Conference, thank you. Your dedication and passion have set a new standard for the industry, and we look forward to what the future holds. Together, we will build a brighter, more connected world through the power of esports and gaming.”

sports

Saudi Arabia’s hosting of Olympic Esports Games to headline discussions at the upcoming ‘New Global Sport Conference 2024

Aug 23, 2024 by Sujata 0 Comments #New Global Sport Conference 2024, #Olympic, #Saudi Arabia

Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, August 23, 2024—The New Global Sport Conference (NGSC) 2024 will shine a global spotlight on the recent announcement from the International Olympic Committee (IOC) to partner with the National Olympic Committee (NOC) of Saudi Arabia for 12 years to host the Olympic Esports Games.

GLOBVAL SPORTS

The conference, which will welcome 60 global speakers and more than 1,200 visionary leaders from the esports, gaming, business, entertainment, and mainstream esports realms, including over 200 of the world’s most prominent CEOs, will feature a groundbreaking panel discussion titled ‘A Historic Convergence of Esports,’ which will explore the transformative integration of esports into the Olympic movement.

The panel will feature a distinguished lineup of speakers, including Ser Miang Ng, Vice President of the International Olympic Committee; David Lappartient, IOC Member & Chair of the IOC Esports Commission, President of Union Cycliste Internationale; Abdulaziz Baeshen, Secretary General and CEO of the Saudi Olympic and Paralympic Committee; and Ralf Reichert, CEO of the Esports World Cup Foundation.

Ser Miang Ng, Vice President of the International Olympic Committee, said: “The decision to create the Olympic Esports Games marks a historic moment that will profoundly impact both the Olympics and the world of esports. This is a recognition of the skill, dedication, and athleticism of esports players, who will have the opportunity to write their names in history as the first winners of the Olympic Esports Games next year in Saudi Arabia. The world will witness esports’ true impact as players across the globe come together to compete at the highest level, showcasing their talents on the grandest stage.”

David Lappartient, IOC Member & Chair of the IOC Esports Commission, President of Union Cycliste Internationale, said: “I look forward to speaking at the New Global Sport Conference to discuss the historic decision to create the Olympic Esports Games. This decision reflects our commitment to innovation while upholding the values the Olympics have always stood for. Esports is a rapidly growing field that resonates deeply with younger generations worldwide, and it is only fitting that it takes its place on the Olympic stage, where the world’s best athletes come together in the spirit of excellence and fair play.”

“Our Commission has worked tirelessly to design a program that honors the interests of the esports community while staying true to Olympic values. We are thrilled to have Saudi Arabia as the host of this groundbreaking event, especially when looking at the Kingdom’s remarkable growth in esports, sports, and entertainment, which is a testament to its readiness to host such a spectacular event,” added Lappartient.

Abdulaziz Baeshen, Secretary General and CEO of the Saudi Olympic and Paralympic Committee, said: “The creation of the Olympic Esports Games represents a monumental opportunity in sports and gaming and marks a historic step forward for the Olympic movement, with Saudi Arabia at the forefront as an important driving force. It also aligns perfectly with the Kingdom’s National Gaming and Esports Strategy, launched in 2022, and is set to continue the sector’s rapid growth within the country. Beyond giving esports athletes a chance to represent something much bigger than themselves by competing for their countries in 2025, this is also an opportunity for Olympic values to reach and inspire an entirely new audience.”

Ralf Reichert, CEO of the Esports World Cup Foundation, said: “The recent announcement of the Olympic Esports Games is a true testament to the global impact of esports and its status as a new and serious global sport. This historic milestone gives our players the recognition they deserve and provides fans another thrilling global championship to support their countries and teams.”
“The first New Global Sport Conference in 2023 proudly unveiled the Esports World Cup – currently being hosted to global acclaim in Riyadh –, so it is fitting that this year’s edition provides another momentous step on Saudi Arabia’s esports journey. I look forward to hearing our speakers discuss this exciting future during the New Global Sport Conference”, added Reichert.

The announcement of the Olympic Esports Games last month made headline news worldwide, and the second edition of NGSC will provide the perfect opportunity for the global gaming community to converge in Riyadh for impactful creativity and discussion. The session will explore the profound implications of this convergence, celebrating the athletes redefining what it means to compete at the highest levels and shaping the future of global sports culture.

The discussion will highlight Saudi Arabia’s pioneering role in hosting the inaugural Olympic Esports Games, a milestone that signals a new direction for traditional and digital sports. The panelists will also address the strategic vision behind integrating esports into the Olympics and the opportunities and challenges of merging the dynamic world of esports with the storied tradition of the Olympic Games. This session represents a pivotal moment in the evolution of global sports culture as esports and the Olympics redefine the future of athletic achievement.

Hosted at the Four Seasons Hotel Riyadh At Kingdom Centre on August 24-25, NGSC’s second edition, The Future of Fandom,’ is the ideal platform to discuss the work achieved and what is still required for the inaugural Olympic Esports Games. The conference will focus on critical themes such as fan engagement in sports and esports and explore the latest trends and strategies in fan engagement.

business

Saudi Arabia Emerges as a Leading Industrial HubBoosting Global Mobility says Writer Relocations

Aug 8, 2024 by Mansi 0 Comments #HubBoosting Global Mobility, #Saudi Arabia, #Writer Relocations

Riyadh, KSA, 8 August 2024 — Writer Relocations, a leading global player in the relocation industry, highlights Saudi Arabia’s emergence as a pioneering force in the global industrial sector. The Kingdom’s major industrial cities, such as Jubail and Yanbu, are central to this development, attracting a significant influx of professionals from Europe and America.

Anoop Bosco, Regional Head Middle East at Writer Relocations

Saudi Arabia’s industrial sector experienced a 63% increase in new investments in 2023, amounting to SR15 billion ($3.99 billion). The number of industrial units also surged by 10%, reaching 11,549 in 2023. These developments align with the Kingdom’s Vision 2030, aimed at diversifying the economy and reducing dependency on oil by fostering industrial growth and innovation.

Anoop Bosco, Regional Head Middle East at Writer Relocations, remarked: “Saudi Arabia’s swift ascent as a key industrial hub is showcased by its world-class cities like Jubail and Yanbu. These cities are driving industrial innovation and development, making the Kingdom a sought-after destination for top talent from Europe and North America. Writer Relocations is honoured to facilitate this influx of skilled professionals by ensuring seamless relocations for individuals and their families moving to the Kingdom. Our mission is to provide a smooth transition and comprehensive support, enabling professionals to effectively contribute to Saudi Arabia’s industrial growth.”

For over 75 years, Writer Relocations has been at the forefront of the global relocation industry, offering comprehensive end-to-end services in the people and asset mobility sector. Handling more than 8,000 relocations annually, the company caters to the needs of employees and executives from over 3,000 global companies, solidifying its position as a premier mobility partner.
Jubail and Yanbu are exemplars of industrial success, featuring state-of-the-art infrastructure, advanced facilities, and a commitment to sustainable development. These cities play a crucial role in Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, which aims to diversify the economy and reduce dependency on oil by fostering industrial growth and innovation.

news

FarmERP Joins Forces with Seiyaj Tech to Strengthen its Presence in Saudi Arabia

Jul 11, 2024 by Mansi 0 Comments #FarmERP, #Mr. Santosh Shinde, #Saudi Arabia, #Seiyaj Tech

Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, July 2024: FarmERP, a global leader in cutting-edge sustainable technology solutions, has announced a strategic partnership with Seiyaj Tech, a Saudi Arabian tech company focused on localizing green energy technologies from top international companies. The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), signed in Riyadh, aims to expand FarmERP’s influence and impact in Saudi Arabia, leveraging Seiyaj Tech’s extensive business network and local expertise.

saudi arabia

Saudi Arabia’s agriculture sector faces unique challenges, including extreme weather, water scarcity, and limited resources. FarmERP, with over 12+ years of experience in the Gulf region and extensive operations in Saudi Arabia, has developed tailored solutions to meet the specific needs of the region’s agribusinesses. This partnership will allow FarmERP to collaborate with leading companies and government organizations, providing them with the advanced technology necessary to thrive in these challenging conditions.

Seiyaj Tech boasts a distinguished history of partnerships with major Saudi Arabian government entities and prominent players in the private sector. Renowned for their delivery of advanced software and hardware solutions, Seiyaj Tech empowers clients to achieve scalable growth. Through collaborations with leading global technology providers, they tailor cutting-edge solutions that meet specific local market requirements. This strategic alliance with FarmERP will notably expand their influence, strengthening efforts to advance agritech in the region. This aligns closely with Saudi Arabia’s ambitious objectives for sustainable development and food security, underscoring their commitment to transformative technological solutions.

Mr. Santosh Shinde, COO and Co-founder of FarmERP, commented on the partnership, saying, “By leveraging Seiyaj Tech’s local expertise and extensive network, we are confident in our ability to deliver impactful solutions that enhance productivity, profitability, and sustainability. This partnership will enable us to provide the necessary tools and technology to help Saudi agribusinesses thrive and contribute to a more sustainable agricultural sector.”

Mr. Hussein Ali Al Khars, CEO of Seiyaj Tech, added, “Our partnership with FarmERP aligns perfectly with our commitment to bringing advanced technological solutions to Saudi Arabia. We look forward to working together to provide more robust and valuable offerings to our customers, ultimately enhancing & upgrading the agritech landscape in Saudi Arabia.”

FarmERP has been at the forefront of providing innovative, sustainable technology solutions to some of the largest agricultural and food supply chain companies across the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Oman, Egypt, and Jordan. With a presence in over 30 countries, FarmERP serves mid to large-size farmers and agribusinesses, managing extensive agricultural operations, and overseeing the entire supply chain from farms to supermarkets.

Embodying cutting-edge technology, FarmERP’s platform integrates precision farming techniques and AI-powered FarmGyan advisories. These innovations are meticulously crafted to enhance resource efficiency, boost crop yields, and foster sustainable agricultural practices, especially tailored to thrive in Saudi Arabia’s demanding environmental landscape.

Mr. Sanjay Borkar, CEO and Co-founder of FarmERP, furthermore commented by saying, “This collaboration with Seiyaj Tech marks a significant step forward in our mission to transform agriculture in the region. With over a decade of proven expertise in the Gulf, FarmERP is well-equipped to address the unique challenges faced by Saudi Arabia’s agribusinesses. Together, we aim to drive innovation and support Saudi Vision 2030 for a sustainable agricultural future.”

technology

Cloudflare is expanding Regional Services Configuration Flexibility for Customers

May 27, 2024 by Gayathri Pariti 0 Comments #Cloudflare, #Cloudflare Green Energy, #Data localization, #Hong Kong and Macau, #NATO, #Regional Services, #Regional Services Configuration, #Saudi Arabia

In response to the growing demand for data localization and sovereignty, we are thrilled to announce the expansion of our Regional Services capabilities. Initially launched in June 2020, our Regional Services have evolved to meet the stringent data localization requirements imposed by various countries and organizations. Starting in late May 2024, these new capabilities will be available for early access, with general availability planned for June 2024.

Matthew Prince, Co-founder & CEO, Cloudflare (2)

Our expanded Regional Services will allow customers to configure data handling for a broader range of defined regions, ensuring compliance with local regulations and addressing specific business needs. Some of the new regions included in this expansion are Austria, Brazil, Cloudflare Green Energy, Exclusive of Hong Kong and Macau, Exclusive of Russia and Belarus, France, Italy, NATO, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Spain, Switzerland, and Taiwan.

This development is part of our ongoing commitment to provide comprehensive solutions that enhance security, performance, and legal compliance. Our new offerings enable customers to restrict data inspection to specific jurisdictions or exclude certain regions, thereby providing a tailored approach to data localization.

news

Indian Chamber of Commerce Appoints Mr. Salah Alwaheb as Chief Representative for Saudi Arabia

Mar 27, 2024 by Sujata 0 Comments #Ameya Prabhu, #Government-to-Government, #ICC, #Mr. Salah Alwaheb, #Saudi Arabia

Kolkata, 27th March 2024: The Indian Chamber of Commerce (ICC) proudly announces the appointment of Mr. Salah Alwaheb as its Chief Representative for Saudi Arabia, marking a significant strategic move to strengthen economic ties between India and Saudi Arabia.

Mr. Alwaheb is a highly skilled and motivated professional with over nine years of experience in developing and implementing successful business strategies. His extensive background includes a proven track record of success in Government-to-Government (G2G), Business-to-Business (B2B), and Business-to-Consumer (B2C) activities.

Mr. Salah Alwaheb

With a comprehensive understanding of international business dynamics, Mr. Alwaheb brings to the table a wealth of experience and a vast network of clients across various business verticals. His appointment underscores ICC’s commitment to fostering economic collaboration and trade partnerships between India and Saudi Arabia.

“Salah Alwaheb’s appointment as Chief Representative for Saudi Arabia is a strategic move to enhance our presence and strengthen economic bonds between our two nations,” said Ameya Prabhu, President at the Indian Chamber of Commerce. “His expertise and proven success in developing and implementing business strategies align seamlessly with our vision for expanding bilateral trade and investment opportunities. Under his leadership, we look forward to catalysing robust partnerships and bilateral investment, propelling India-Saudi Arabia trade beyond US$52.75 billion in the coming years.”

Mr. Alwaheb is recognized for his competitiveness, result-driven approach, and excellent communication skills, which will play a pivotal role in promoting ICC’s initiatives and facilitating collaboration between businesses in India and Saudi Arabia.

“I am honored to take on the role of Chief Representative for Saudi Arabia at the Indian Chamber of Commerce,” said Mr. Salah Alwaheb. “I look forward to contributing to the growth of economic ties between our countries and working closely with businesses to explore new avenues for cooperation and partnership.”

This appointment comes at a crucial juncture as both India and Saudi Arabia seek to strengthen economic collaboration. Saudi Arabia being the 19th largest foreign investor in India, has invested a total of $3.22 billion in India from April 2000 to September 2023, and both countries aim to diversify their trade routes and find new opportunities for mutual growth, diversify trade avenues, and explore new opportunities for mutual growth. The Indian Chamber of Commerce is confident that Mr. Alwaheb’s leadership will further elevate the relationship between the two nations and create a platform for sustained economic success.

Tag: Saudi Arabia