Arthur D. Little Spotlights Scalable Technologies to Combat Land Degradation in the World’s Harshest Climates

Arthur D. Little Spotlights Scalable Technologies to Combat Land Degradation in the World’s Harshest Climates

14 مايو 2025 - 22:40

كتب : Nibras Al-arab - نبراس العرب

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Rashad Iskandrni


 As climate pressures intensify globally, countries in hyper-arid zones such as the Gulf are facing some of the most acute environmental challenges. Land degradation and desertification threaten food security, water availability, and ecosystem stability. The report emphasizes that while these issues are global, their impact is often more severe in regions like the GCC, and require coordinated, technology-led solutions to address effectively. 

 “In hyper-arid regions, innovation and the scale-up of greening technologies are no longer optional, they are essential to effectively combat desertification, restore degraded lands, and secure long-term food and water resilience. Beyond environmental benefits, these technologies unlock significant socio-economic gains by revitalizing rural livelihoods, creating green jobs, and strengthening climate adaptation capacity.” said Marielli Bou Harb, Partner at Arthur D. Little. 

The study identifies five transformative technologies: AI systems for precision land management, IoT-based sensors enabling real-time environmental feedback, biochar production for soil regeneration, localized composting for organic nutrient cycling, and genetic engineering where socially and culturally appropriate. These technologies are distinguished not only by their ecological promise but also by their alignment with region-specific conditions such as extreme heat, limited freshwater, and fragile soils. They have been evaluated through Arthur D. Little's proprietary foresight framework, connecting global research trends with on-the-ground applicability. 


 “Real impact lies not just in identifying technologies, but in prioritizing those that are both promising and practical rooted in strong scientific research, adapted to the harsh realities of hyper-arid environments, and backed by growing investment and market momentum. We focus on solutions with the greatest potential to scale where they are needed most and when urgency can no longer be postponed” added Marielli Bou Harb. 

Across the GCC, national greening campaigns and restoration targets are gaining traction. Saudi Arabia’s 10 billion-tree pledge and its leadership role in the Middle East Green Initiative (MGI) - aiming to restore 200 million hectares - are major drivers of experimentation and innovation. Yet progress is not isolated. The UAE, Qatar, and others are advancing pilot programs that provide models for cross-border replication and scale. 

 “Innovation thrives when minds unite entrepreneurs, scientists, investors, government, and communities, fuelling green technologies that root deep in Middle Eastern soil, growing a sustainable future for generations to come,” said Juan Moreno, Principal at Arthur D. Little. 

Concrete results are emerging, including AI-driven irrigation improving water efficiency by 40 to 50 percent, biochar reducing reliance on traditional water inputs, composting increasing yields in nutrient-poor soils, and sensor networks streamlining restoration efforts through predictive data. 


To maximize impact, the study calls for urgent action around four key levers: align policy and investment across GCC and neighboring countries under initiatives like MGI, expand R&D ecosystems to localize emerging global tech, create regional centers for innovation exchange and upskilling, and enable blended finance models to drive scale through public-private partnerships. 

 “With climate pressures accelerating, the region must move from pilot projects to scalable transformation,” Juan Moreno emphasized. “This report is a practical guide for policymakers, investors, and innovators committed to reversing land degradation and building long-term resilience.”

Arthur D. Little concludes that sustainable land management in hyper-arid regions is no longer a future ambition, it’s a present-day economic, environmental, and geopolitical imperative. The time to act is now.

مواضيع ذات صلة

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Nissan Saudi Celebrates 2024 Milestones with Parts Wholesalers

Rashad Iskandrni

Jeddah, Saudi – May 29, 2025: Nissan Saudi Arabia, in collaboration with its official distributor Petromin Nissan, hosted the seventh Annual Parts Wholesaler Event, reaffirming its commitment to strengthening partnerships with its wholesalers across the Kingdom.

The event brought together Nissan partners from across the Kingdom, along with senior management from Nissan Saudi Arabia and Petromin Nissan. The ceremony aimed to strengthen relationships with authorized parts distributors and recognize their vital contributions throughout 2024 in supporting Nissan’s growth and reinforcing its presence in the Saudi market.

During the event, Adib Takieddine, Managing Director of Nissan Saudi Arabia, expressed his appreciation to all partners and wholesalers. “Our distributors are a true extension of Nissan’s value in the market. Our success across the Kingdom would not have been possible without their commitment and dedication to representing the brand in the best possible way,” he said. He added: “At Nissan, we believe true partnership begins with trust, grows through effective communication, and thrives on a shared commitment to continuous improvement.”

This strong collaboration played a key role in Nissan’s performance in the Saudi market, contributing to a 20% rise in genuine parts sales, demonstrating the synergy between product quality and a strong distribution network.

Kamal Al Hajj, Director of Aftersales Services at Nissan Saudi Arabia, stated: “At Nissan, we are committed to working closely with our partners, led by our official distributor Petromin and our authorized wholesale parts distributors, through regular field visits and open communication. This ongoing engagement allows us to respond proactively to feedback and ensure an integrated, high-quality experience for our customers.” He continued: “The Saudi market is a cornerstone of our regional strategy. That’s why we continue to emphasize the importance of purchasing from official sources to ensure service excellence and operational continuity.”

Al Hajj also highlighted the strong performance of the all-new Nissan Patrol, which continues to reinforce its position as one of the region’s most iconic models, particularly in Saudi Arabia. He underscored the importance of maintaining after-sales support and ensuring the availability of genuine parts as key pillars in building complete ownership experience and earning customer trust. He further noted the positive reception of the recently launched Nissan Magnite and Kicks models, praised for their quality and reliability. Supported by Nissan’s commitment to efficient after-sales service, these vehicles play an important role in deepening customer loyalty and enhancing long-term relationships.

The ceremony also recognized several outstanding distributors for their exceptional efforts and measurable achievements in 2024, reaffirming their position as essential partners in Nissan’s continued success.

The event reflects Nissan’s ongoing dedication to building long-term partnerships with wholesale distributors and enhancing aftersales services in Saudi Arabia in line with the highest international standards.

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منذ 3 أيام . News

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BD collaborates with General Administration of Pharmaceutical Care at the Ministry of Health, and Innovative Insights on Hospital Pharmacy Practice

Rashad Iskandrni

(IHOP) to host Connected Medication Management Roadshow in Riyadh

 

Healthcare leaders gather to explore innovative medication management, digital transformation, and patient safety as part in a shared commitment to advance the world of health.

 

Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, May 27, 2025 The Saudi entity of BD (Becton, Dickinson and Company) (NYSE: BDX), a leading global medical technology organization, in collaboration with the General Administration of Pharmaceutical Care at the Ministry of Health, Saudi Arabia and IHOP successfully hosted today the Connected Medication Management (CMM) Roadshow in Riyadh.

 

The event brought together healthcare leaders and professionals to discuss innovative medication management strategies, with a focus on enhancing patient safety, improving workflow efficiency, and supporting healthcare worker safety. Opening Keynotes from Dr. Mohammed Alshennawi, General Director, General Administration of Pharmaceutical Care at the Ministry of Health, Saudi Arabia, and Wassim Mohsen, BD’s Business Director, Medication Management Solutions for Middle East and Africa set the tone for an insightful day centred on critical topics including interoperability and connected medication management.

 

The roadshow also featured a series of insightful presentations from esteemed healthcare professionals across the Kingdom. Dr. Abdulwahhab AlShammari, Assistant Professor of Health Informatics at KSAU-HS, who presented on the impact of AI in healthcare and transforming patient outcomes. Dr. Abdullah AlShehry, Director of Pharmacy at King Fahad Medical City, Riyadh who shared a success story on implementing pharmacy automation and its role in achieving operational excellence. Additionally, Dr. Hisham Momattin, Corporate Pharmacy Director at Al Mouwasat Hospital, presented insights on optimizing outpatient pharmacy workflows to improve patient outcomes in the outpatient set up. Dr. Afnan Almordi, Head of project Management and Pharmacy Informatics Section, General Administration of Pharmaceutical care at the Ministry of Health, elaborated more on the integration of pharmacy informatics in everyday pharmacy practice. Finally, Dr. Maher Mominah, Pharmacy Informatics and Automation Manager at King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre, who shared his extensive experience in navigating the complexities of pharmacy automation.

 

Reflecting on the importance of the event, Dr. Mohammed Alshennawi commented, “Connected medication management is a critical component of Saudi Arabia’s healthcare transformation. Events like these are platforms for us to engage and share best practices and drive innovation in patient care, ultimately supporting the Kingdom’s Vision 2030.”

 

Maher Elhassan, Vice President and General Manager, Middle East, North Africa, and Turkey (MENAT) at BD, added, “The CMM Roadshow is a testament to our ongoing commitment to supporting the healthcare sector in Saudi Arabia by leveraging digital solutions to improve patient safety and operational efficiency. We are proud to collaborate with the Ministry of Health to create a smarter, more connected healthcare ecosystem.”

 

Omar Malabarey, Country General Manager, BD Saudi Arabia, remarked, “As healthcare systems evolve, it is crucial to integrate cutting-edge technologies that are safer, simpler and smarter. The CMM Roadshow reflects BD’s commitment to supporting this transformation in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.”

 

The event also featured interactive workshops on critical topics, including medication safety, automated dispensing, and the future of pharmacy automation, providing attendees with practical insights and hands-on experience.

 

 

 

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منذ 4 أيام . News

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TIME Hotels appoints Fares Satli as Director of Business Development to drive the company’s regional and global growth

Rashad Iskandrni

With more than two decades of industry expertise, Satli joins TIME Hotels to lead commercial expansion and strategic partnerships as part of the company’s rebranded portfolio and target of 100 properties by 2030

Dubai, United Arab Emirates, 27 May 2025: TIME Hotels, the UAE-headquartered hospitality brand, has announced the appointment of Fares Satli as its Director of Business Development, strengthening the company’s senior leadership during a period of growth. The announcement comes as TIME Hotels pursues a multi-brand expansion strategy, with 12 new openings planned by Q1 2026 and a long-term objective of reaching 100 properties worldwide within the next five years.

A seasoned executive with over 20 years of cross-sector experience, Satli brings a unique perspective to the role. He began his professional journey in the banking industry, where he held senior roles in retail, investment, and private banking at top-tier institutions, including Standard Chartered, Barclays, HSBC, and Citibank.

In 2014, he moved into hospitality, specialising in business development and taking on senior positions at leading regional and international operators such as BlueBay Hotels and Resorts, Ishraq Hospitality, and Valor Hospitality Partners.

Satli will lead TIME Hotels’ commercial expansion efforts, develop corporate partnerships, identify new revenue streams, and support the strategic rollout of the group’s growing portfolio of brands. These include VIVI by TIME, a bold lifestyle brand; HALO by TIME, a premium upscale offering; and Rotella, TIME Hotels’ luxury concept designed to deliver exclusivity, sophistication, and culturally enriched hospitality. The company is also repositioning its residential offering under three distinct tiers, TIME Residences Classic, Executive, and Premium, to serve both long- and short-stay guests better.

Mohamed Awadalla, CEO of TIME Hotels, stated: “Fares joins us during an exciting and transformative period. We are evolving from a strong regional player into a global operator with a multi-brand strategy designed to meet the diverse needs of today’s travellers. His dynamic leadership, sharp commercial instincts, and track record in financial services and hospitality will be instrumental in our next growth phase.”

Holding a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Satli is also a certified Investment Consultant through the Chartered Institute for Securities & Investment (CISI), London. His strengths in feasibility analysis, strategic negotiations, and investor relations ideally position him to support the company’s ambitious expansion goals across high-growth tourism markets.

In addition to his core business development responsibilities, Satli will be central in reinforcing TIME Hotels’ presence across key territories. By Q1 2026, the company is set to launch 12 new properties across Saudi Arabia, Morocco, Tanzania, and the Maldives.

This includes two flagship developments in the Maldives: VIVI by TIME, a contemporary 75-key lifestyle resort on Hankede Island, and HALO by TIME, a 150-key upscale property offering a mix of overwater villas and luxury rooms. These openings mark TIME Hotels’ debut in the Indian Ocean region and reflect the company’s long-term commitment to global expansion through carefully curated destinations.

Speaking about his appointment, Satli said, “TIME Hotels has built a strong reputation for operational excellence and guest-centric service, and as such, I am delighted to join the brand at this pivotal point in its journey. The expansion of our brand family presents new avenues for growth and innovation. I look forward to building key partnerships, delivering new opportunities, and helping TIME Hotels scale new heights in established and emerging markets.”

The company operates 17 properties in the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Egypt. Its pipeline will increase its portfolio to 29 hotels and more than 8,000 keys by early 2026.

For more information, please visit https://www.timehotels.com/.

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منذ 4 أيام . News

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Samsung Electronics Saudi Arabia Launches Bespoke AI Digital Appliances at an Exclusive Event in Riyadh

Rashad Iskandrni

The launch highlighted Samsung’s commitment to leading the digital appliances market by delivering cutting-edge, intelligent solutions designed for modern living

 

 

Riyadh, Saudi Arabia – May 27, 2025 - Samsung Electronics Saudi Arabia proudly hosted an exclusive event at the Hyatt Regency Hotel in Riyadh to unveil its latest range of Bespoke AI digital appliances.  

The event offered an elegant and inviting setting for this significant occasion, bringing together key stakeholders including Samsung’s digital appliance partners, senior executives and dedicated employees.

Throughout the event, guests were given an exclusive preview of the new Bespoke AI product lineup. The presentations highlighted Samsung’s continuous efforts to integrate advanced AI into everyday appliances, showcasing how these innovative products are designed to deliver personalized, energy-efficient and seamless experiences for consumers. The launch underscored Samsung’s commitment to leading the digital appliances market with cutting-edge intelligent solutions tailored to the modern lifestyle.

Samsung’s top management, including the company’s leadership team, shared their vision for the future of home automation. They emphasized Samsung’s dedication to innovation that enhances quality of life and fosters a smarter living environment.

 

Hendrick Lee, Managing Director of Samsung Electronics Saudi Arabia, shared his excitement about the launch, commenting “Our new Bespoke AI digital appliances represent a significant advancement in personalized and intelligent living. At Samsung, we remain dedicated to pioneering innovative technologies that transform homes into smarter and more intuitive spaces. This launch underscores our ongoing commitment to innovation, quality and customer satisfaction and we look forward to maintaining our leadership position in the digital appliances industry in Saudi Arabia and beyond”

 

The event also served as a valuable networking opportunity, allowing partners to exchange insights, discuss collaborative opportunities, and strengthen the ecosystem within which Samsung operates.

 

To learn more about the innovative Bespoke AI products and other Samsung digital appliances, please visit  samsung.com

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منذ 4 أيام . News

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FLYNAS LAUNCHES RETAIL SUBSCRIPTION FOR IPO

Rashad Iskandrni


flynas Company SJSC (“flynas” or “the Company”), one of the leading low-cost carriers (“LCC”) in the Middle East and North Africa (“MENA”) region, today announced the opening of its retail subscription period for individual investors as part of its initial public Offering (IPO) on the Saudi Exchange.

The final offer price has been set at SAR 80.0 per share, marking the top end of the previously announced price range. This follows an overwhelming response from institutional investors, with the institutional tranche oversubscribed approximately 100 times, attracting SAR 409 billion in orders from local and international investors.

Retail investors have access to 10,251,114 shares, representing 20% of the total Offering, while institutional investors have been allocated the remaining 80%.

Subscriptions can be made through a wide network of receiving banks and capital market institutions, including: Albilad Capital, Alinma Capital, Alistithmar Capital, Al Jazira Capital, Alkhabeer Capital, Al Rajhi Capital, ANB Capital, BSF Capital, Derayah Financial, GIB Capital, Riyad Capital, SAB Invest, Sahm Capital, SNB Capital, and Yaqeen Capital.

The retail subscription window will run from Wednesday, 28 May to Sunday, 1 June 2025G (closing at 12:00 PM KSA time). Allocation will be completed by Tuesday 3 June and refunds by Thursday 5 June 2025G.

منذ 4 أيام . News

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Muriya Showcases Outstanding Destinations at OREX 2025, Reinforcing Oman’s Position as a Premier Investment and Lifestyle Hub

Rashad Iskandrni


May 27, 2025, Muriya, the developer behind award winning destinations—Hawana Salalah and Jebel Sifah—made a strong statement at the OREX Design & Build Oman Exhibition 2025, presenting its flagship developments as shining examples of serene living, coastal elegance, and high-value investment in the Sultanate.

Hawana Salalah and Jebel Sifah, by Orascom Development and Omran, are fully integrated towns that feature harmonious waterfront living fully connected with nature. 


Hawana Salalah features a 13.6 km coastline of white sandy beaches with lush greenery, 5-star resorts, vibrant year-round marina, Water park and culinary F&B dining experiences overlooking the magnificent ocean views, whereas Jebel Sifah 40 min away from Muscat is 7km of pristine beaches, 9-hole golf course, stunning coastline featuring the Hajar mountains backdrop.

 The destinations have become the top of mind mixed-use residential, entertainment and hospitality landmarks and are year-round event hubs, hosting internationally renowned tournaments such as IRONMAN 70.3 Salalah, the SOCCA World Cup, and the International Fishing competition.


“OREX provides the ideal platform to demonstrate how Muriya is elevating Oman’s profile on the global tourism and investment map,” said engineer Wael Al Lawati, CEO of Muriya. “Hawana Salalah and Jebel Sifah are more than residential projects, they are immersive lifestyle destinations that embody Oman’s breathtaking nature and authentic charm, while offering unique experiences that resonate with today’s discerning residents, travelers, and investors”. 

The diversity of properties at the destinations ranges from hotel branded residences to standalone neighborhoods with Townhouses, Villas and apartments, all meticulously serviced by Wateera (Muriya’s property management and Rental services division) ensuring seamless rental and hospitality management for homeowners around the world.


With over 1,200 luxury hotel rooms, thousands of delivered waterfront homes, and a pipeline of ongoing developments such as Amazi in Hawana Salalah and Al Raya in Sifah, Muriya continues to redefine tourism-led real estate in Oman. Its integrated townships blend leisure, wellness, community living, and sustainable design—making them attractive for both investors and international residents seeking long-term value. 

As Oman accelerates its transformation under Vision 2040, Muriya remains at the forefront—building destinations that inspire the local, regional and international communities.



منذ 5 أيام . News