Noor Riyadh 2024 Preview Night: A Radiant Prelude to the World’s Largest Light Art Festival

Noor Riyadh 2024 Preview Night: A Radiant Prelude to the World’s Largest Light Art Festival

27 November 2024 - 17:05

written : رشاد اسكندراني

hotel_booking

Rashad Iskandrni


•    The Noor Riyadh 2024 Preview Night provided an exclusive first look at the festival’s fourth edition with curated tours at the King Abdulaziz Historical Center and a drone show by United Visual Artists.
•    The fourth edition of Noor Riyadh showcases 62 installations by 61 artists from 18 countries, transforming Riyadh into a gallery without walls.
•    The festival runs from 28 November to 14 December across three iconic hubs: King Abdulaziz Historical Center, Wadi Hanifah and the JAX District.


Under the umbrella of Riyadh Art, Noor Riyadh’s 2024 Preview Night illuminated the King Abdulaziz Historical Center, offering a first glimpse at the festival. The evening brought together artists, curators and dignitaries to preview the fourth edition of the world’s largest light art festival, under the theme Light Years Apart.

Following welcome speeches from Architect Khalid Al-Hazani, Executive Director of the Riyadh Art Program, and Nouf AlMoneef, Festival Director of Noor Riyadh, festival curators Dr. Effat Abdullah Fadag and Dr. Alfredo Cramerotti led guests on guided tours of the 18 artworks surrounding Murabba Palace.

London-based artist collective, United Visual Artists, transformed the night sky into a living canvas with a preview of their drone show, Aether. Featuring 1,500 drones, the seven-minute performance explores the silent harmony of the stars and planets as it brings the unseen into view.

The Preview Night set the stage for Noor Riyadh 2024 which officially opens to the public from 28 November to 14 December. The festival turns Riyadh into a citywide gallery across three iconic hubs – the King Abdulaziz Historical Center, Wadi Hanifah and the JAX District – as this year’s edition showcases 62 light-based artworks created by 61 artists from 18 countries.

Noor Riyadh 2024 features 18 Saudi artists and 43 international artists, with representation from Australia, France, Germany, Hungary, Italy, Japan, Montenegro, Netherlands, Poland, Russia, Slovenia, South Korea, Spain, Türkiye, the United Kingdom, the United Arab Emirates, and the United States.

Noor Riyadh integrates public art displays with workshops, talks and community events, offering a unique blend of cultural enrichment and creative expression. Noor Riyadh has achieved 14 Guinness World Records, cementing its reputation as the largest and most impactful light art festival in the world.

The festival underscores Riyadh Art’s mission of transforming the Saudi capital into an open-air gallery. Since 2019, the Riyadh Art Program has presented over 500 artworks by more than 500 artists and attracted over six million visitors through its flagship festivals, Noor Riyadh and Tuwaiq Sculpture Symposium.

For more details, visit noorriyadh.sa or follow the festival on Instagram at instagram.com/noorriyadhfestival.

-End-

For more information regarding Riyadh Art and Noor Riyadh contact: 
Riyadh Art Media Center: info@riyadhart.sa  
-Notes to editors-
About Noor Riyadh 
Noor Riyadh is a citywide annual festival of light and art which launched in March 2021. Noor Riyadh includes a festival and world-class exhibition, along with a public program of community activities, featuring educational workshops, talks and performances. Noor Riyadh is the largest light art festival in the world. 
Noor Riyadh combines the highest quality light artworks from leading international and Saudi artists, across the largest city footprint of any light art festival worldwide. Staged under Riyadh Art, the festival aims to nurture local talent and inspire youth to drive Saudi Arabia’s creative economy.
Website: http://noorriyadh.sa
Instagram: @noorriyadhfestival
Twitter: @NoorRiyadhFest
Facebook: @NoorRiyadhFestival
Noor Riyadh is presented by Riyadh Art and the Royal Commission for Riyadh City.


Artist    Country    Artwork title, year    Hub
05.10 Studio    Saudi Arabia    Illuminating Souls    Wadi Hanifah
A.A.Murakami    United Kingdom (Alexander Groves)
Japan (Azusa Murakami)    The Passage of Ra    Jax District
Abdulrahman Taha    Saudi Arabia    Palm Forest    KAHC
Ali AlRuzaiza    Saudi Arabia    A Part of a Human Life    KAHC
Anna Ridler    United Kingdom    Circadian Nocturne    Wadi Hanifah
Asmaa Aljohani    Saudi Arabia    Al-Majles    Jax District
Atelier Sisu    Australia (the studio)
Peru (Renzo B. Larriviere) 
Australia (Zara Pasfield)    Evanescent    Wadi Hanifah
Athar Alharbi    Saudi Arabia    Perceiving Saudi Arabia’s Culture    KAHC
Ayman Yossri Daydban    Saudi Arabia    White Noise    Jax District
Boris Acket    Netherlands    Sunbeam, Captured    Jax District
Chris Levine    United Kingdom    Light is Love    Wadi Hanifah
         Higher Power    Faisaliah
Collectif Scale    France    Flux    Jax District
Daan Roosegaarde    Netherlands    Spark    Wadi Hanifah
Ebtesam Saleh    Saudi Arabia    Shabbah    Wadi Hanifah
Edoardo Dionea Cicconi    Italy    AKR III    KAHC
Fahad Al Naymah    Saudi Arabia    Manqiya    Wadi Hanifah
Federico Acciardi    Italy    Choreography in the Void    Jax District
Felix Frank    Germany    PULSE    KAHC
Filip Roca    Based in Barcelona    The Stream    KAHC
Hashel Al Lamki    United Arab Emirates    Bronze    Wadi Hanifah
Hmoud Alattawi    Saudi Arabia    Energy of Vision    Wadi Hanifah
Inside Out Project by JR    France    Inside Out    Jax District
Janez Grošelj    Slovenia    Alchemy of Atmospheres    KAHC
Javier Riera    Spain    Places of Geometry and Light    KAHC
Jiyen Lee    South Korea    Stain-Rainbow Forest 2.3    Jax District
Jukan Tateisi and Takeshi Yasura    Japan and United States (Jukan Tateisi)
Japan (Takeshi Yasura)    Gravitation    Jax District
Kimchi and Chips    South Korea and United Kingdom    Another Moon    Wadi Hanifah
Koros Design Studio    Hungary    Connected    KAHC
Krista Kim    Canada/Korea    Heart Space    Jax District
Ksawery Komputery    Poland    Flux    Wadi Hanifah
Lachlan Turczan    United States    Aldwa Alsael    Wadi Hanifah
Marshmallow Laser Feast    Based in the United Kingdom    Distortions in Spacetime    Jax District
Maryam Tariq    Saudi Arabia    Cosmic rays    Digital City
Mathias Gramoso    France and Portugal    PLAGIO.2    Jax District
Najla Alqubaisi    Saudi Arabia    The Sound of Millstone    KAHC
Nasser Al Turki    Saudi Arabia    Travel of the Light    Wadi Hanifah
Nawaf Al Dohan    Saudi Arabia    Sukoon    Jax District
Nick Verstand    Netherlands    Aura    Jax District
NONOTAK    France and Japan    Daydream V6    Jax District
Quiet Ensemble    Italy    Solar Dust    Wadi Hanifah
Random International    United Kingdom    Alone Together    KAHC
Rashed AlShashai    Saudi Arabia    The Fifth Pyramid    KAHC
Refik Anadol    Türkiye    Machine Hallucinations – LNM    KAHC
Ricardo Morcillo    Spain    Beings of Light    KAHC
Romain Tardy    France    The Great Indecision Council    Wadi Hanifah
Ryoji Ikeda    Japan    Mass    Jax District
Saad Al Howede    Saudi Arabia    TAPLINE    Wadi Hanifah
Saeed Gamhawi    Saudi Arabia    In Plain Sight    Wadi Hanifah
Shuster + Moseley    United Kingdom    The Empty Mirror of the Sky    Jax District
SpY    Spain    OVOID    Wadi Hanifah
Stanza    United Kingdom    Out of Breath: A Life Support Machine    Wadi Hanifah
Stefano Cagol    Italy    NAJM    Wadi Hanifah
Takayuki Mori    Japan    View Tracing #5 “LABYRINTH”    Jax District
THIRD SPACE* Studio    United Kingdom and Saudi Arabia    From East to West and North to South    Wadi Hanifah
TUNDRA    Based in France    Row    Jax District
United Visual Artists    United Kingdom    Aether    KAHC
Vincent Ruijters    Netherlands    Selintas Selalu    Jax District
VOUW    Netherlands    Chairwave    KAHC
Xavi Bové Studio    Spain    Phasing Rain    KAHC
Yann Nguema    France    The Well of Life    KAHC
Yusef Alahmad    Saudi Arabia    Metamorphosis    Jax District

مواضيع ذات صلة

card_img

Above It All: Armenia’s Sky-High Adventures Lure GCC Travellers Looking for Altitude and Adrenaline


November 2025 | UAE / GCC

Adventure is taking on new meaning in Armenia, one that blends elevation with elegance. From paragliders soaring over emerald valleys to hot-air balloons floating serenely above ancient skylines, and private helicopters tracing the rugged contours of the Caucasus, Armenia is emerging as the region’s most captivating destination for travellers.

 

For discerning explorers, Armenia’s ascent as an adventure destination couldn’t be more timely. With direct flights from the GCC and visa-free entry for GCC nationals and residents with valid GCC residence visas, the country offers effortless access to a world where wild beauty meets bespoke experiences.

 

 

A Sky-High Selection Of Adventures

• Paragliding with SkyClub Armenia and AERO Club. Glide above Lake Sevan’s sapphire waters and the snow-dusted peaks of Mount Aragats for cinematic views of the great outdoors. Whether it’s your first flight or your fiftieth, every launch offers a breathtaking experience. 

• Hot Air Ballooning with Skyball. Rise with the dawn and drift across beautiful landscapes painted gold by the morning sun. Each flight is a serene, almost meditative experience,luxury in its purest form.

• Bespoke Helicopter Journeys with Armenian Helicopters. Tailored flights glide over vineyards, medieval fortresses, and verdant valleys. For the ultimate thrill, skydivingexperiences allow the truly bold to freefall over Armenia’s untouched terrain, an unforgettable leap into the extraordinary.  

 


 

“There’s something truly magical about seeing Armenia from above,” says Lusine Gevorgyan, Chairman of the Tourism Committee of Armenia. “It’s more than just an adventure, it’s about experiencing the country’s beauty from a whole new perspective. From lush forests to snow-capped mountains and wide-open valleys, Armenia’s landscapes are incredibly diverse. We warmly invite travelers to discover this unique side of Armenia, where every view tells a unique story.”

 

Discover even more unforgettable experiences here: https://armenia.travel/experiences/

 

Into the Wild 

 

Armenia is not just as a cultural treasure with its wealth of ancient history, culture and world-class gastronomy, blended with outstanding natural beauty, but is a destination bursting with year-round adventure. 

 

As autumn unfolds, it brings crisp blue skies and perfect flying conditions—an ideal time for GCC travellers to trade the desert horizon for mountain thermals, and discover Armenia from an entirely new vantage point. For ski lovers, the snow-capped mountains also await as winter fast approaches. 

 

For more information on tourism in Armenia, visit https://armenia.travel/

  

 

 

منذ 13 دقيقة . News

card_img

Kia MEA Debuts the Kia Carens Facelift, Marking Major Evolution in Family Mobility


 


 

Dubai, United Arab Emirates, November 7, 2025: Kia Middle East & Africa today announces the launch of the new Kia Carens facelift in the region. As the most advanced and elevated evolution of the Kia Carens yet, the new vehicle is set to become the go-to family mobility choice in its segment with its forward-thinking design, technology, safety, and class-leading comfort upgrades.

 

The Kia Carens facelift’s design is inspired by Kia’s “Opposites United” philosophy, creating a unique balance that blendsdesign, technology, and family practicality. The vehicle highlights Kia’s progressive approach to reimagining everyday mobility, combining innovation, safety, and comfort in ways that respond to the evolving lifestyles of modern families.

 

“The Kia Carens has long stood as a symbol of our commitment to purposeful design and innovation,” said Ahmed Soudodi, Vice President of Product & Marketing, Kia Middle East & Africa. “Each generation has reflected our ambition to go further, creating vehicles that are bold yet simple, distinctive yet practical. This latest uplift continues that journey, bringing together design refinement, advanced technology, and everyday usability to meet the shifting preferences of our customers.”

 

Kia Carens Facelift: A Major Evolution Powered by Premium Upgrades

 

Combining modern sophistication with everyday practicality, the new Kia Carens facelift marks a remarkable evolution from its predecessor, introducing significant enhancements across exterior, interior, and feature elements. 

 

Externally, the model adopts a bold new design philosophy, with a completely reimagined front and rear that lend it a stronger, more SUV-like stance. The refreshed hood, sculpted radiator grille, and vertical-style DRLs create a confident front profile, while the connected LED lighting and redesigned tailgate at the rear complete a more dynamic, progressive aesthetic. The new 17-inch alloy wheels and roof rack design further highlight its adventurous silhouettealigned with Kia’s evolving EV-inspired design language and built to connect with today’s modern families

 

As the segment’s longest wheelbase, the upgraded Kia Carens also ensures exceptional space and comfort for every passenger.

 

Inside, the cabin has been entirely redesigned to deliver a sleeker, cleaner aesthetic that evokes warmth and comfort, creating an inviting environment where families feel right at home. A new slim cockpit design lends a futuristic, high-tech feel, while redesigned interior details such as the door handles add to the sense of modern refinement throughout the cabin.

 

The model also debuts a comprehensive upgrade in technology and convenience, now featuring an advanced ADAS package similar to the Sonet and Seltos, a 360-degree Surround View Monitor (SVM), an Electronic Parking Brake (EPB), and a Driver Power Seatall designed to enhance safety, ease, and everyday driving comfort.

 

The new Carens redefines value in its category, offering a premium driving experience that remains accessible to today’s families.

 

For more information, visithttps://www.kia-uae.com/showroom/carens/features/


منذ يومين . News

card_img

Amazon.sa 11.11 Sale: Incredible Deals, Fast Delivery, and Exclusive Savings for Prime members



Epic deals across every category this 11.11 from November 07 – 12 on www.amazon.sa/double11, with Same-Day and One-Day delivery on eligible items.


Get 50% off everything on Amazon Bazaar using code BZR50, plus shop trendy fashion and lifestyle finds as low as SAR 10.


Unlock extra savings with flexible payment options, and instant bank discounts with Mastercard and Riyad Bank Cards during the sale.


Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, November 05, 2025: Amazon.sa has unveiled a lineup of can't-miss offers for its upcoming 11.11 sale, giving customers access to thousands of deals, and more ways to save. While early 11.11 deals are already live, a wider selection of epic offers will be available for customers from November 07 to November 12 on www.amazon.sa/events/double11. The 11.11 Sale will feature thousands of offers from popular local and international brands across every category, from everyday essentials and fashion finds to must-have electronics, home, kitchen, beauty, and Amazon Devices.


Prime members on Amazon.sa can unlock extra value during the 11.11 Sale, enjoying exclusive offers, instant bank discounts, and free delivery options.


Customers can also enjoy savings on Bazaar, Amazon’s dedicated value destination, available within the app or via www.amazon.sa/bazaar, featuring thousands of affordable fashion, home, and lifestyle products at everyday low prices.


Abdo Chlala, Country Manager, Amazon Saudi Arabia, said: “Our 11.11 Sale is one of the most anticipated shopping moments of the year, and we're excited to bring customers in Saudi Arabia even more ways to save and shop conveniently. This year, we're offering thousands of deals across every category, with additional savings and exclusive offers for Prime members. From exciting deals like 50% off everything on Bazaar items with the code BZR50, to exclusive bank discounts and flexible payment plans, customers can look forward to a vast selection and a seamless shopping experience on Amazon.sa”.


Great Value, Endless Choice

Customers shopping 11.11 deals can also benefit from Same-Day and One-Day Delivery on eligible orders, making it easier than ever to tick off every item on their Wishlist, from last-minute essentials and home finds to must-have beauty products. Additionally, customers can explore and shop an extended range of deals through the Amazon.sa Global Store, featuring items from Amazon US, UK, and Germany, with popular brands like Coach, Calvin Klein, and ASICS.


Prime members unlock even more value with free delivery with Same-Day, One-Day, and Free International Delivery on eligible items, plus year-round exclusive shopping and entertainment perks, including Prime Video, Prime Gaming, and more. Not a member yet? Join Prime today at www.amazon.sa/prime for just SAR 16/month, or save with the annual membership at only SAR 140/year.


11.11 Favorite Deals on Amazon.sa

Here are some of the great 11.11 Sale deals customers in Saudi Arabia can look forward:


Everyday Essentials and Grocery

Save up to 50% on household supplies from brands including Tide, Gento, Persil, Hala, Kleenex, Finish, Clorox, Harpic, and Omo.

Save up to 50% on baby care products from brands including Pampers, BabyJoy, Huggies, Philips Avent, Tommee Tippee, Sanita Bambi, Baby Brezza, and Mustela.

Save up to 50% on hydration essentials and supplements from brands including Optimum nutrition, Muscletech, Humantra, and Isopure.

Save up to 40% on pantry staples from brands including Maggi, Rainbow, Rio Mare, and Lay’s.

Save up to 40% rice and oils from brands including Al-Shalan, Abu Kass, and Al Aila.

Save up to 40% on water, soft drinks, coffee, and teas from brands including Nescafe, Berain, Nestlé Pure Life, Nadec, Rita, Suntop, illy, Tang, Lipton, Pepsi, and Coca-Cola.

Save up to 30% on fresh fruits and vegetables, plus fresh herbs.


Beauty and Personal Care

Save up to 70% on makeup from brands including Maybellline, L'Oréal, Nyx, and Bourjois.

Save up to 70% on fragrances from brands including Davidoff, Calvin Klein, Joop!, Hugo Boss, Rasasi, Sapil, and Afnan.

Save up to 70% on hair products from brands including KÉRASTASE, L'Oréal, Pantene, Head & Shoulders, and Herbal Essences.

Save up to 60% on skincare from brands including Dr.Althea, Beauty of Joseon, Anua, Medicube, Nivea, Filorga, Neutrogena, and Vaseline.

Save up to 50% on hair care from brands including Rogaine, and Neocell.

Save up to 40% on personal grooming appliances, hair dryers, and electric toothbrushes from brands including Philips, Babyliss, Oral-B, Braun, Dyson, and Revlon.


Fashion

Save up to 50% on fashion and eyewear from brands including Lacoste, Nike, BOSS, Tommy Hilfiger, Guess, Puma, Calvin Klein, Ray Ban, Carrera, and Oakley.

Save up to 45% on watches and fitness trackers from brands including Tommy Hilfiger, COACH, Casio, WHOOP, Seiko, Citizen, and Garmin.

Save up to 40% on shoes from brands including New Balance, Crocs, Adidas, Skechers, Nike, and Puma.

Save up to 30% on bags, accessories and jewelry from brands including Swarovski, Pandora, Lacoste, GUESS, Tommy Hilfiger, and BOSS.


Electronics and Gaming

Save up to 40% on gaming consoles and accessories from brands including PlayStation, Nintendo, Game on, Logitech G, ASUS, and Intel.

Save up to 40% on headphones, headsets and speakers from brands including Sony, Bose, ASUS, HyperX, JBL, and Anker.

Save up to 40% on cameras and projectors from brands including Sony, Fujifilm, Gopro, Canon, DDPAI, and BYINTEK.

Save up to 30% on smartphones from brands including Samsung, Apple, XIAOMI, Honor, POCO, and Nothing.

Save up to 30% on laptops, tablets and monitors from brands including Apple, HP, Samsung, Microsofot, MSI, and ViewSonic.

Save up to 30% on TVs and monitors from brands including TCL, Hisense, LG, and Samsung.

Save up to 30% on portable chargers, adapters and universal sockets from brands including UGREEN, Anker, and Belkin.

Save up to 30% on ice machines from brands including Ninja, and Crownful.


Kitchen and Home

Save up to 50% on vacuum and spot cleaners from brands including Hoover, Dyson, Dreame, eufy, Roborock, and Bissell.

Save up to 40% on cookware from brands including Tefal, Korkmaz, Tramontina, and Neoflam.

Save up to 40% on irons and steamers from brands including Tefal and Philips.

Save up to 30% on coffee machines from brands including Philips, Nespresso, and Ninja.

Save up to 30% on air purifiers from brands including Philips, Dyson, and Levoit.

Save up to 30% on microwaves and air fryers from brands including Nikai, Black & Decker, and Philips.

Save up to 30% on major appliances such as ovens, refrigerators, air conditioners, dishwashers, and washing machines from brands including Nikai, Geepas, Impex, Super General, BOSCH, and Samsung.


Amazon Devices

Save up to 60% on security and doorbell cameras from Ring.

Save up to 30% on Kindle devices.


Sports

Save up to 40% on sportswear equipment such as dumbbells, rackets, and bands from brands including PROIRON, and Nox Pedal.

Save up to 30% on fitness equipment from brands including Sperax, Speediance, and SPARNOD.


Toys

Save up to 40% on toys and games from brands including LEGO, Barbie, LeapFrog, little tikes, Ms. Rachel, Hot Wheels, and Gabby's Dollhouse.


Pets

Save up to 40% on pet food from brands including Sheba, Purina, Whiskas, plus Felix and Mera.

Save up to 40% on cat litter from brands including Thomas, Catsan, Kit Cat, and Tidy Cats.


Additional Ways to Save this 11.11

Instant Bank Discounts: Shoppers on Amazon.sa can enjoy extra savings on eligible purchases when paying with Mastercard or Riyad Bank cards, such as SAR 100 off with Riyad Bank credit cards using code RB100, and 20% off with Riyad Bank Mada cards using RB20, T&Cs apply. 

Buy Now, Pay Later: Customers on Amazon.sa can enjoy hassle-free and affordable shopping with Tabby and Tamara, offering the convenience of splitting payments into 4 interest-free installments, T&Cs apply.

Bank Instalment Plans: Customers in the Kingdom can also opt to 0% instalment plans on eligible purchases from select banks at checkout on Amazon.sa, making payments easier and more flexible, T&Cs apply.

Prime Savings: Prime members get exclusive 11.11 discounts, including 10% off with Mastercard using code MC10, SAR 150 off with Riyad Bank credit cards using RB150, and 25% off with Riyad Bank Mada cards using RB75, T&Cs apply.

Amazon Gift Cards: Purchase an Amazon.sa eGift Card for SAR 400 and get up to SAR 40 promotional credit to shop your favorite products this 11.11, T&Cs apply.


Get ready to shop incredible 11.11 deals by downloading the Amazon app or visiting Amazon.sa, and join Prime today at www.amazon.sa/prime to get more value than ever.

منذ 3 أيام . News

card_img

Accor expands its luxury portfolio in Saudi Arabia with the signing of Sofitel Jabal Omar Makkah


 from left to right: Mr. Abdullah Almoudi - PR Manager of Jabal Omar Development Company (JODC); Jean-Baptiste Recher, Chief Development Officer Luxury Brands Middle East, Africa and Turkiye; Xavier Grange, Chief Development Officer, Sofitel, Sofitel Legend, MGallery & Emblems; Agnès Roquefort, Global Chief Development Officer Luxury & Lifestyle at Accor; Eng. Saleh Al-Habdan – CEO of JODC; Mr. Samer Sabra - Chief Hospitality Officer of JODC; Mr. Alaa Banaja - Chief GRC Officer of JODC; Mr. Mohamed Khalid - Senior Hospitality Manager of JODC; Mr. Mousa Bahri - Hospitality Executive Director of JODC; Mr. Shafqaat Bukhari - Senior Hospitality Manager of JODC

ACCOR, A GLOBAL LEADER IN HOSPITALITY, IS PLEASED TO ANNOUNCE THE SIGNING OF SOFITEL JABAL OMAR MAKKAH, A LANDMARK PROPERTY LOCATED IN THE HEART OF MAKKAH, WITHIN WALKING DISTANCE OF THE HOLY MOSQUE. SET TO OPEN IN 2026, THIS HOTEL WILL BE THE LARGEST SOFITEL PROPERTy IN THE WORLD, WITH 1,141 ROOMS AND SUITES.


“We are honored to introduce Sofitel in Makkah, a city that holds immense spiritual and cultural importance. Sofitel Jabal Omar Makkah will stand as a symbol of hospitality, serenity, and connection — a place where our French zest meets Saudi authenticity. This extraordinary project reflects our ambition to create meaningful cultural bridges through luxury hospitality in one of the world’s most sacred destinations.”

— Maud Bailly, CEO Sofitel Legend, Sofitel, MGallery & Emblems


Sofitel Jabal Omar Makkah will occupy a prime location within the prestigious Jabal Omar master development, providing direct pedestrian access to the Haram, Islam’s holiest site. The hotel will feature 1,141 elegant rooms and suites across two towers – Sofitel Jabal Omar Makkah North and Sofitel Jabal Omar Makkah South - each offering breathtaking views of the Holy Mosque and the surrounding cityscape.

Designed to blend French art de vivre with Saudi cultural heritage, the hotel will feature a collection of refined restaurants and lounges, executive meeting facilities and fitness centers. 

Across the towers, guests will discover six distinctive dining venues — including elegant all-day dining restaurants, a signature fine-dining destination celebrating French and Middle Eastern fusion cuisine, and intimate lobby lounges perfect for gatherings and reflection. A Club Millésime executive lounge will provide exclusive experiences for distinguished guests, combining culinary craftsmanship with personalized service.

Beyond dining, Sofitel Jabal Omar Makkah will offer curated sensory experiences that celebrate both French refinement and the spiritual essence of Makkah — from thoughtful wellness rituals and locally inspired teas to bespoke amenities crafted by Saudi artisans. Every detail, from fragrance to flavor, will be designed to honor Sofitel’s philosophy of Heartfelt and Committed Luxury with a French Zest.

The project is being developed in partnership with Jabal Omar Development Company (JODC), one of the largest publicly listed real estate firms in the Middle East and a key player in Makkah’s urban transformation. Renowned for its vision of creating world-class mixed-use developments that complement the spiritual essence of the Holy City, JODC is responsible for some of Makkah’s most prestigious hospitality, retail, and residential projects within the Jabal Omar masterplan.

This collaboration reflects a shared commitment between Accor and JODC to deliver an exceptional hospitality experience rooted in cultural respect, design excellence, and sustainable development.

“Sofitel Jabal Omar Makkah is a landmark achievement for Accor in the Middle East luxury sector. The hotel exemplifies our commitment to creating world-class properties that harmonize local heritage with French luxury, offering guests an unparalleled experience at the heart of Makkah.”

— Jean-Baptiste Recher, Chief Development Officer Luxury Brands Middle East, Africa and Turkiye

“The Jabal Omar development represents a cornerstone of Makkah’s urban transformation, reinforcing Accor’s leadership in the Kingdom’s luxury segment, and supporting Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030. The signing of the world’s largest Sofitel in Makkah reflects our ambition to grow the brand’s presence through landmark projects in key strategic markets, bringing the spirit of French luxury hospitality to a global stage. Sofitel’s proven expertise in operating large-scale hotels ensures we deliver exceptional guest experiences at any scale.”

— Xavier Grange, Chief Development Officer, Sofitel, Sofitel Legend, MGallery & Emblems

With its scale and strategic location, Sofitel Makkah Jabal Omar represents one of the largest single-hotel developments under the Sofitel brand in the Middle East, underscoring Accor’s strong commitment to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 — driving economic diversification and enhancing the country’s global tourism appeal.


sofitel.com | all.com | group.accor.com


sofitel.com | all.com | group.accor.com

منذ 3 أيام . News

card_img

Free Software Update to Enhance Real-time Recognition AF Performance and Other Features for Sony Electronics’ Interchangeable-lens cameras Alpha 1 II and Alpha 9 III



(Riyadh – Saudi Arabia, 5 November 2025) – Sony Electronics is providing free software updates  for the interchangeable-lens cameras Alpha 1 II and Alpha 9 III starting October 30, 2025. These updates support "Real-time Recognition AF+ (Plus)" with improved person recognition performance and recording of authenticity information for videos. Some features of this software update are planned for deployment to other models in the future. 


Key updates for both the Alpha 1 II and Alpha 9 III models:

Support for Real-time Recognition Auto Focus (AF+) with improved person recognition performance: Enhanced human pose estimation technology allows the camera to continuously track initially captured subjects with high accuracy, even in challenging sports scenes where athletes cross paths.

Support for recording authenticity information in videos : Authenticity data, once available only for still images, can now be attached to video recordings as digital signatures, enhancing content verification. For details, please refer here.

Enable preset focus function for zoom lenses without power zoom: The preset focus function can now be used with zoom lenses that do not have power zoom.


Additionally, the Alpha 9 III has received the following updates:

The Addition of Auto to Recognition Target: When Auto is selected in the Recognition Target subject setting, the camera automatically selects and recognizes a subject from among the recognition targets to which check marks were added on the [Auto Recog. Target] screen .

Vertical orientation support for shooting information layout : The shooting information layout displayed on screen now supports both horizontal and vertical orientations.


For compatible models and details of each function, please visit the support page for each camera.


ILCE-1M2: https://www.sony-mea.com/en/electronics/support/software/00349485

ILCE-9M3: https://www.sony-mea.com/en/electronics/support/software/00341217



Exclusive stories and exciting new content shot with Sony's imaging products can also be found at https://experience.sony-asia.com/, a site created to inform, educate, and inspire creators.

منذ 3 أيام . News

card_img

DORITOS AND MDLBEAST RADIO LAUNCH PROJECT TRIANGLE: SAUDI ARABIA'S BOLDEST HIP HOP TALENT COMPETITION


One-of-a-kind diverse program provides emerging artists, producers, and dancers with professional production resources and national platform

RIYADH, Saudi Arabia - November 4, 2025 - MDLBEAST Radio, in partnership with Doritos, announced the launch of Doritos Presents Project Triangle, powered by MDLBEAST Radio – an innovative eight-week Hip Hop talent development and competition program designed to elevate Saudi Arabia's most promising creative talent.

The groundbreaking initiative invites Hip Hop Artists, Music Producers, and Dancers aged 21 and above from across the Kingdom to form "Triangle Crews" – three-person teams representing the complete spectrum of Hip Hop culture: musical artistry, production excellence, and performance energy. Three selected crews will receive comprehensive professional support including studio recording, music video production, industry mentorship, and a national platform to showcase their work.

"Project Triangle represents more than a competition, it's a cultural movement that celebrates bold self-expression and breaks conventional boundaries," said Rohit Jayakaran, Head of Radio, MDLBEAST. "In partnership with Doritos, we're providing Saudi Arabia's emerging Hip Hop talent with world-class resources and the platform they deserve."

The program culminates in a live finale showdown on December 20, 2025 at Beast House in Riyadh, where all three crews will premiere their work and compete for the title of Saudi Arabia's boldest creators, with fans determining the winner through interactive voting. Winners will receive extended promotional support, music distribution through MDLBEAST Records, airplay on MDLBEAST Radio, and consideration for future MDLBEAST opportunities.

"Doritos has always championed those who dare to be different," said Ibrahim Zein, Chief Marketing Officer at PepsiCo Middle East. "Project Triangle embodies our commitment to empowering bold self-expression and supporting the next generation of Saudi creative talent."

Throughout the program, participants will be featured in behind-the-scenes video content and weekly radio capsules on MDLBEAST Radio, documenting their creative journey from concept to finale. 

Applications are now open at www.projecttriangleksa.com. Interested participants can also find more information on MDLBEAST Radio & Doritos Arabia's social media channels @mdlbeastradio and @doritosarabia.

About PepsiCo

PepsiCo products are enjoyed by consumers more than one billion times a day in more than 200 countries and territories around the world. PepsiCo generated nearly $92 billion in net revenue in 2024, driven by a complementary beverage and convenient foods portfolio that includes Lay’s, Doritos, Cheetos, Gatorade, Pepsi-Cola, Mountain Dew, and Quaker. PepsiCo’s product portfolio includes a wide range of enjoyable foods and beverages, including many iconic brands that generate more than $1 billion each in estimated annual retail sales. For more information, visit www.middleeast.pepsico.com, and follow on X (Twitter), InstagramFacebook, and LinkedIn @PepsiCoMiddleEast, @Doritosarabia

About MDLBEAST Radio

MDLBEAST Radio is the sonic heartbeat of the Middle East’s thriving music scene, championing both regional artists and global sounds. Broadcasting 24/7 across Riyadh (104.8 FM), Jeddah (98.1 FM), Dammam (97.4 FM), and Abha (87.6 FM), as well as online at mdlbeastradio.com, the station provides a powerful platform for emerging talent while connecting fans to the core of the international electronic music scene.

As a pioneer in the industry, MDLBEAST Radio amplifies creativity, fosters collaboration, and celebrates diversity through cutting-edge programming, exclusive mixes, and in-depth artist features. From the underground to the main stage, MDLBEAST Radio is more than just a station; it is a movement redefining music in the Middle East and beyond.

 


منذ 4 أيام . News