Latest news with #KSA
Trade Arabia
7 hours ago
- Business
- Trade Arabia
ALEC report outlines operational excellence, resilience for sustainable growth
ALEC Holdings, a leading construction and related services company, has released its latest Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) and Sustainability report, underscoring the company's commitment to responsible growth and sustained operational excellence across its UAE and KSA operations. The company's sustainability achievements have been recognised externally. ALEC was awarded the Dubai Chamber of Commerce ESG Label and earned the 'Committed' sustainability badge from EcoVadis. The EcoVadis assessment covered 21 criteria across Environment, Labour & Human Rights, Ethics, and Sustainable Procurement, further validating ALEC's robust ESG posture. "We take pride in the results which showcase our maturing sustainability strategy that's fully integrated into our business model - not as a compliance exercise, but as a lever for resilience and regional growth," said Barry Lewis, CEO at ALEC Holdings. "As ALEC continues to deliver complex, high-value projects across the region, our ESG commitments serve as a key enabler of operational excellence and stakeholder trust," he stated "Our 2024 report reflects the tangible progress we've made in enhancing transparency, building workforce resilience, and embedding sustainability into every level of the business — from our project sites to the boardroom," he added. ALEC's reputation for governance and compliance was further reinforced this year by the successful rollout of 'ALEC ALERT' — a secure whistleblowing platform enabling employees, subcontractors and vendors to report unethical conduct anonymously. With 73.5% of staff* in the UAE and KSA completing ethics training, ALEC is fostering a culture of accountability that supports robust decision-making. This ethical foundation directly contributes to transparent financial practices and sound business stewardship, offering confidence to partners and stakeholders alike. ALEC said it has completed a comprehensive double materiality assessment - a significant step in refining its ESG priorities. By engaging a wide array of internal and external stakeholders including employees, investors, clients, auditors, consultants, and community partners, the company ensured its ESG and decarbonisation approach reflects evolving risks, opportunities, and expectations, it stated. This emphasis on governance is matched by ALEC's enduring investment in people. In 2024, more than 4,600 workers were trained at ALEC's dedicated trade skills facility, contributing to a healthy pipeline of internal promotions from labour to staff roles and measurable employee career advancement. With 68 nationalities represented and nearly 40% of managers* having completed gender diversity training, ALEC is building an inclusive workforce that reflects the increasingly global nature of clients and communities it serves, it added. 'Talent is one of the most critical assets for a business like ours, and our ability to attract, retain and grow top-tier professionals directly impacts the quality of what we deliver,' remarked Lewis. 'By investing in both upskilling and wellbeing, we ensure ALEC remains an employer of choice — and a partner clients can rely on to bring visionary projects to life,' he added. On the environmental front, ALEC has taken impactful steps to decarbonise operations and strengthen climate resilience across its assets and operations. Most of the company's offices and factories in the UAE and KSA were refurbished in 2024, not just to improve energy and water efficiency, but also to enhance workplace experience. With solar-diesel hybrid generators and battery energy storage systems (BESS) deployed at four ALEC Construction project sites, ALEC is reducing its dependence on fossil fuels to power its sites while enhancing operational efficiency.
Zawya
12 hours ago
- Business
- Zawya
Saudi's Event Scene expands to 10+ categories with 5x drop in ticket price
Saudi Arabia's entertainment sector is expected to reach about SAR 17.36 billion by 2030, driven by digitalisation, diversified event formats, and changes in audience behaviour. According to Platinumlist, 70% of tickets are now purchased via mobile, with 31% bought on the same day, reflecting a shift toward spontaneous, mobile-first experiences. RIYADH, KSA: Platinumlist, the Saudi-based online ticketing platform, examines key changes and trends in the industry, drawing on its decade-long presence in the market. Over the past few years, Vision 2030 and the General Entertainment Authority (GEA) initiatives have driven major investment in cultural and entertainment projects. New regulations have encouraged private‑sector support in every region of the Kingdom, with more than 3700 businesses involved in the entertainment sector. Experiential Formats Top Preference in Event Landscape Event formats have multiplied and diversified at an unprecedented rate. Between 2016 and 2017, Arabic pop concerts accounted for nearly 100% of all public events, which was both culturally acceptable and logistically feasible at the time. Today, no single category dominates, shows Platinumlist's internal data, and audiences are engaging with a much wider range of events like Experiential Formats (attractions, immersive zones, seasonal festivals - 24%), Arabic Music & Concerts (23%) Family & Cultural Content (kids events, lifestyle, national days - 13%), Youth & Niche Segments (EDM, anime, gaming, underground - 13%), Business & Conferences (3%). Alongside the diversification of formats, the scale of events is also growing. Flagship events like Formula 1, the Riyadh Season Winter Wonderland, and the Diriyah Biennale place Saudi Arabia firmly on the global entertainment map. This has created a ripple effect across hospitality, retail, and local creative industries, with inbound tourist spending reaching SAR 153.61 billion in 2024. 'The Saudi entertainment market is one of the most dynamic and promising in the region, and Platinumlist is incredibly proud to have been part of this vibrant journey for over a decade,' said Moayad Qudus, Senior Business Development Manager at Platinumlist. 'Since entering the Kingdom 10 years ago, we have invested SAR 105 million in human capital and technology, a testament to our deep belief in the potential of Saudi Arabia's vision and people. Being part of this transformative era is not just a business opportunity — it's a privilege and a patriotic commitment to the growth of a nation we proudly call home.' Same-Day Mobile Ticketing Is Dominant Ticket‑buying behaviour has shifted from planning weeks ahead (for 73% of buyers in 2017) to deciding just days or hours before an event (31% in 2025). Mobile sales now account for over 70% of all transactions according to Platinumlist, with dynamic QR codes ensuring secure entry. Saudi Arabia was the first market in the GCC region where Platinumlist rolled out mobile ticketing and ticket-exchange features. According to the company's internal data, this security measure has cut ticket fraud by 85%. Accessibility has improved both in price and frequency. Average ticket order values have fallen from SAR 1,400 in 2018 to around SAR 250 today. This means that events become a more affordable and frequent part of everyday life, and are open to a new audience mix, including families, students, and youth segments. Digitalisation and Immersiveness As a Key Trend Saudi Arabia goes beyond hosting events to elevate cultural destinations, uniting art, adventure and innovation in unique, once-in-a-lifetime experiences. Saudi's events are shifting towards integrated entertainment hubs, such as Qiddiya and AlUla, where concerts, exhibitions, and outdoor adventures coexist in one location. AI-driven personalisation and AR/VR layers are now common, while smart crowd-management and fully digital tickets make purchasing easier and safer. Event designers prioritise interactive, immersive experiences that blend cutting-edge tech with creative formats. With the entertainment sector projected to grow at a 10.44% compound annual growth rate (CAGR), Saudi Arabia holds significant potential to shape the global entertainment landscape. Combining its unique cultural heritage with innovative approaches, the Kingdom is well-positioned to achieve its vision of becoming a hub for world-class events and tourism. About the company Platinumlist is a leading online ticketing platform in the Middle East. Users can follow their favourite artists, get notifications for local performances, and enjoy secure and convenient access to events. Furthermore, Platinumlist supports event organisers with advanced tools like reporting, seat mapping, and dynamic QR codes, covering everything from setup and management to digital marketing, on-site ticket scanning, and sales. In Saudi Arabia, the company sold its first ticket ten years ago and is now trusted by over 300 different organisers, partnering with the Ministry of Culture, General Entertainment Authority (GEA), Royal Commission for Riyadh City, Saudi Esport Authority, Ministry of Sport, Saudi Motorsport Company, Saudi Equestrian Federation, and many more. As a mature entertainment brand in the region, it has delivered ticketing services for over 1,500 events for more than 300 organisers.
See - Sada Elbalad
15 hours ago
- Entertainment
- See - Sada Elbalad
Ahmed Fahmi, Maram Ali to Star in TV Series "Etneen Kahwa"; Production Underway
Yara Sameh Egyptian singer-actor Ahmed Fahmi is set to star alongside Syrian actress Maram Ali in the TV series "Etneen Kahwa." The cast also includes Mohsen Mohieddin, Mai Elkady, Nancy Salah, Hazem Ehab, Passant Abu Basha, Ahmed El Shamy, Karim El-Emary, and more. It is scripted by Amr Mahmoud Yassin, directed by Essam Nassar, and produced by Ahmed Abdel-Ati. Principal photography is underway. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Ahmed Fahmi (@fahmi173) Fahmi was last seen in the TV series "Abyad X Aswad". The cast also includes Myrna Noureldin, Naglaa Badr, Edward, Safaa El-Toukhi, Ahmed Maged, Aicel Ramzy, Sarah Elshamy, Jala Hashim, and more. It is scripted by Hisham Hilal, director by Muhammad Bakir, and is produced by Sally Wally. "Fi Lahza" debuted during the Ramadan 2025 drama marathon. Fahmi, born on March 17, 1978, began his artistic career as a member of the band 'Wama'. The band was founded in 1998 by the singer and Mohamed Nour, and also includes Mohamed Nour and Nader Hamdy. The band first appeared in 2003. Later on, he made his acting debut in the 2007 film "Khaleg Neama", starring Ghada Adel. read more New Tourism Route To Launch in Old Cairo Ahmed El Sakka-Led Play 'Sayidati Al Jamila' to Be Staged in KSA on Dec. 6 Mandy Moore Joins Season 2 of "Dr. Death" Anthology Series Don't Miss These Movies at 44th Cairo Int'l Film Festival Today Amr Diab to Headline KSA's MDLBEAST Soundstorm 2022 Festival Arts & Culture Mai Omar Stuns in Latest Instagram Photos Arts & Culture "The Flash" to End with Season 9 Arts & Culture Ministry of Culture Organizes four day Children's Film Festival Arts & Culture Canadian PM wishes Muslims Eid-al-Adha News Egypt confirms denial of airspace access to US B-52 bombers News Ayat Khaddoura's Final Video Captures Bombardment of Beit Lahia News Australia Fines Telegram $600,000 Over Terrorism, Child Abuse Content Arts & Culture Nicole Kidman and Keith Urban's $4.7M LA Home Burglarized Sports Former Al Zamalek Player Ibrahim Shika Passes away after Long Battle with Cancer Sports Neymar Announced for Brazil's Preliminary List for 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers News Prime Minister Moustafa Madbouly Inaugurates Two Indian Companies Arts & Culture New Archaeological Discovery from 26th Dynasty Uncovered in Karnak Temple Business Fear & Greed Index Plummets to Lowest Level Ever Recorded amid Global Trade War Arts & Culture Zahi Hawass: Claims of Columns Beneath the Pyramid of Khafre Are Lies
See - Sada Elbalad
15 hours ago
- Entertainment
- See - Sada Elbalad
Ryan Coogler's "Sinners" Gets Digital and Blu-ray Release Date
Yara Sameh Ryan Coogler's latest masterpiece, "Sinners", will hit streaming platforms and VOD on June 3. The vampire thriller, which premiered in theaters last month, features Michael B. Jordan as twin brothers Smoke and Stack, who return to their Mississippi hometown to start over. However, they soon learn that an even greater evil is waiting for them. Hailee Steinfeld and Wunmi Mosaku also feature. Since its release in theaters, "Sinners" has consistently dominated at the box office, alongside Marvel's "Thunderbolts*" and "Final Destination: Bloodlines". "Sinners" became an instant critical success. It opened to $48 million domestically, and has since raked in $246.4 million at the domestic box office and $76.4 million internationally. Now, as it approaches a nearly two-month run, the website When To Stream reports that Sinners will be out on. It's currently available for pre-order on Amazon's Prime Video, and is also expected to be available on AppleTV, Fandango at Home, and YouTube. It will be followed by Steelbook, 4K Ultra HD, Blu-ray, and DVD editions on July 8. Ahead of its release, it had already earned a rare Rotten Tomatoes critics score of 99 percent. It currently sits at a critics' score of 97 percent on Rotten Tomatoes , followed by a 96 percent audience score. Shortly after its debut, it made history as the first-ever horror film to receive an A rating on CinemaScore . For 47 years, CinemaScore has measured a film's appeal by polling early reactions, and never before has a horror film earned a rating higher than an A-. Rotten Tomatoes called it 'one of the best films of the year.' ScreenRant reports that it's only $31 million away from making it on the top 10 list of the highest-grossing R-rated films ever domestically. It's currently 12th on the list, just below "The Hangover Part II". 2009's "The Hangover" currently sits at the No. 10 spot, with an estimated $277 million at the domestic box office. read more New Tourism Route To Launch in Old Cairo Ahmed El Sakka-Led Play 'Sayidati Al Jamila' to Be Staged in KSA on Dec. 6 Mandy Moore Joins Season 2 of "Dr. Death" Anthology Series Don't Miss These Movies at 44th Cairo Int'l Film Festival Today Amr Diab to Headline KSA's MDLBEAST Soundstorm 2022 Festival Arts & Culture Mai Omar Stuns in Latest Instagram Photos Arts & Culture "The Flash" to End with Season 9 Arts & Culture Ministry of Culture Organizes four day Children's Film Festival Arts & Culture Canadian PM wishes Muslims Eid-al-Adha News Egypt confirms denial of airspace access to US B-52 bombers News Ayat Khaddoura's Final Video Captures Bombardment of Beit Lahia News Australia Fines Telegram $600,000 Over Terrorism, Child Abuse Content Arts & Culture Nicole Kidman and Keith Urban's $4.7M LA Home Burglarized Sports Former Al Zamalek Player Ibrahim Shika Passes away after Long Battle with Cancer Sports Neymar Announced for Brazil's Preliminary List for 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers News Prime Minister Moustafa Madbouly Inaugurates Two Indian Companies Arts & Culture New Archaeological Discovery from 26th Dynasty Uncovered in Karnak Temple Business Fear & Greed Index Plummets to Lowest Level Ever Recorded amid Global Trade War Arts & Culture Zahi Hawass: Claims of Columns Beneath the Pyramid of Khafre Are Lies
Zawya
15 hours ago
- Business
- Zawya
ALEC Holdings' 2024 ESG Report reflects operational excellence and resilience for sustainable, long-term growth
Dubai, UAE – ALEC Holdings (ALEC), a leading construction and related services company, today published its latest Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) and Sustainability report, underscoring the company's commitment to responsible growth and sustained operational excellence across its UAE and KSA operations. The company's sustainability achievements have been recognised externally. ALEC was awarded the Dubai Chamber of Commerce ESG Label and earned the 'Committed' sustainability badge from EcoVadis. The EcoVadis assessment covered 21 criteria across Environment, Labour & Human Rights, Ethics, and Sustainable Procurement, further validating ALEC's robust ESG posture. 'We take pride in the results which showcase our maturing sustainability strategy that's fully integrated into our business model — not as a compliance exercise, but as a lever for resilience and regional growth. As ALEC continues to deliver complex, high-value projects across the region, our ESG commitments serve as a key enabler of operational excellence and stakeholder trust,' said Barry Lewis, CEO at ALEC Holdings. 'Our 2024 report reflects the tangible progress we've made in enhancing transparency, building workforce resilience, and embedding sustainability into every level of the business — from our project sites to the boardroom.' ALEC's reputation for governance and compliance was further reinforced this year by the successful rollout of 'ALEC ALERT' — a secure whistleblowing platform enabling employees, subcontractors and vendors to report unethical conduct anonymously. With 73.5% of staff* in the UAE and KSA completing ethics training, ALEC is fostering a culture of accountability that supports robust decision-making. This ethical foundation directly contributes to transparent financial practices and sound business stewardship, offering confidence to partners and stakeholders alike. ALEC completed a comprehensive double materiality assessment — a significant step in refining its ESG priorities. By engaging a wide array of internal and external stakeholders including employees, investors, clients, auditors, consultants, and community partners, the company ensured its ESG and decarbonisation approach reflects evolving risks, opportunities, and expectations. This emphasis on governance is matched by ALEC's enduring investment in people. In 2024, more than 4,600 workers were trained at ALEC's dedicated trade skills facility, contributing to a healthy pipeline of internal promotions from labour to staff roles and measurable employee career advancement. With 68 nationalities represented and nearly 40% of managers* having completed gender diversity training, ALEC is building an inclusive workforce that reflects the increasingly global nature of clients and communities it serves. 'Talent is one of the most critical assets for a business like ours, and our ability to attract, retain and grow top-tier professionals directly impacts the quality of what we deliver,' added Lewis. 'By investing in both upskilling and wellbeing, we ensure ALEC remains an employer of choice — and a partner clients can rely on to bring visionary projects to life.' On the environmental front, ALEC has taken impactful steps to decarbonise operations and strengthen climate resilience across its assets and operations. Most of the company's offices and factories in the UAE and KSA were refurbished in 2024, not just to improve energy and water efficiency, but also to enhance workplace experience. With solar-diesel hybrid generators and battery energy storage systems (BESS) deployed at four ALEC Construction project sites, ALEC is reducing its dependence on fossil fuels to power its sites while enhancing operational efficiency. These efforts align with national renewable energy strategies in both major markets for the company. Eight ALEC projects achieved LEED certification and five received a Pearl Estidama rating, with more under review. Beyond operations, ALEC continues to play an active role in enriching communities. Over 1,100 employees participated in CSR activities last year, contributing more than 548 volunteering hours that positively impacted over 6,300 people. Through partnerships with Dubai Cares, SmartLife (NPO/NGO) and Emirates Red Crescent, ALEC directed hundreds of thousands of dirhams towards education, labour welfare, and humanitarian initiatives in the UAE, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, and Nepal. 'As we target an aggressive phase of regional growth, we believe our ESG strategy not only protects value, but actively drives it,' said Lewis. 'Our goal is to set the benchmark for sustainable construction operations in the Middle East — delivering world-class projects while raising the bar for ethics, environmental responsibility and workforce empowerment.' Methodology ALEC Holdings 2024 ESG report covers the period from 1 January 2024 to 31 December 2024 and relates to the company's UAE and KSA operations. The report partially aligns with leading global ESG frameworks including the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) Standards, the United Nations Global Compact's 10 principles, the Sustainability Accounting Standards Board (SASB) Engineering & Construction Services metrics, and the Dubai Financial Market's ESG reporting guidelines. About ALEC ALEC Holdings, part of the Investment Corporate of Dubai (ICD), is a leading construction and related businesses group operating in the UAE and KSA. The company builds and provides construction solutions that set industry benchmarks for quality, safety, functionality, and aesthetics. ALEC Holdings offers its clients complete turnkey solutions in construction, MEP, fit-out, marine, oil & gas, modular construction, energy efficiency and solar projects, heavy equipment rental, technology systems and asset maintenance. With these capabilities, the company successfully serves a diverse range of sectors including airports, retail, hotels & resorts, high-rise buildings, and themed projects.
