Latest news with #Saudi-inspired
Arab News
17-04-2025
- Automotive
- Arab News
Young Saudi artist designs Fernando Alonso's helmet for Saudi Arabian Grand Prix
JEDDAH: Spanish drvier Fernando Alonso, Aston Martin's two-time Formula 1 world champion, will wear a special Saudi-inspired helmet for the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix at the Jeddah Corniche Circuit this weekend. For the latest updates, follow us @ArabNewsSport The design was created by Sara Turkestani, a young Saudi artist, whose work was selected by Alonso through a nationwide competition organized as part of Aramco's Generation 3 initiative. The Saudi company is the main sponsor of the Aston Martin F1 team. According to the team, Alonso 'loved the design's Saudi Arabian desert landscapes, which reminded him of his time competing in the Dakar Rally.' Turkestani said the competition gave her the opportunity to channel her passion for art and design, while celebrating Saudi Arabia's rich cultural heritage. 'The desert theme represents resilience and history, combined with a modern style to represent F1,' she said. 'I am grateful for the chance to share my design, and I am so proud to see it on Fernando Alonso's helmet. It's such an honor to know he will wear it for the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix.' As part of the competition, Aramco invited Saudi designers, artists, and motorsport fans to create a unique helmet design inspired by Saudi culture and national identity. The Saudi Arabian Grand Prix, now a key fixture on the F1 calendar, takes place on the streets of Jeddah's Corniche Circuit, one of the fastest and longest tracks in the championship. First held in 2021, the race has quickly become a standout event for drivers and fans alike.
Saudi Gazette
15-04-2025
- Business
- Saudi Gazette
Supply. Supply. Supply: How Badael plans to meet record demand for DZRT
By Anas Alyusuf RIYADH — Badael, a Saudi-based smoking cessation company established by the Public Investment Fund in 2023, is scaling up its production and retail presence to meet the growing demand for its flagship product, DZRT — a tobacco-free nicotine pouch aimed at helping smokers quit. In less than two years, the company has enabled nearly 400,000 smokers to transition away from cigarettes, with 140,000 of them reportedly exiting nicotine use altogether. Badael now expects to reach its original goal of helping one million smokers quit — initially set for 2032 — by as early as 2026. 'We're already seeing results: 140,000 of those who switched to DZRT have now exited the nicotine category entirely,' said Tolga Sezer, CEO of Badael, in an interview with Saudi Gazette. 'Our goal is clear: to reduce smoking prevalence, support economic diversification, create local jobs, and reduce healthcare costs caused by smoking-related preventable diseases.' According to Sezer, Badael's focus remains squarely on impact rather than profit. 'We don't have commercial motives. Our primary focus is to help people move away from smoking — and eventually from nicotine dependency altogether.' DZRT is not classified as a medical product and is available without a prescription, making it accessible to a broader segment of smokers. The pouch delivers nicotine without tobacco or combustion and is designed to offer a discreet and convenient alternative to smoking. 'It satisfies nicotine cravings, discreet enough to use anywhere, and at the same time doesn't contain tobacco nor produce smoke,' Sezer said. With demand far outpacing initial projections, Badael is expanding its manufacturing capabilities at its Jeddah facilities. The company is targeting production of more than 100 million cans this year, up from an early target of 1.5 million. Additional production lines are expected to go live mid-year and again by the end of 2025. Retail access is also being ramped up. Although 60 percent of DZRT sales currently take place online, the company plans to expand its retail network to 6,000 outlets across 13 major cities by year-end. Localization is another key element of Badael's strategy. The company sources most of its ingredients, products, and packaging from within the Kingdom, and has introduced Saudi-inspired flavors tailored to local preferences. 'This reinforces the company's commitment to the Kingdom and Vision 2030 economic goals,' said Sezer. Despite its commercial scale, Badael insists its efforts remain firmly rooted in smoking cessation. 'We never target non-smokers. Everything we do, from marketing communication to on-the-ground activation, is under the banner of smoking cessation,' Sezer said. Badael is also eyeing expansion beyond Saudi Arabia, with plans to enter GCC and MENA markets before eventually targeting Europe. 'Our mission is not just to help Saudi smokers — we aim to expand into the GCC, key MENA markets, and eventually Europe. We want to be a major global player in healthcare — harm reduction,' he said. Looking ahead, Badael is developing additional reduced-harm nicotine delivery systems aimed at supporting smokers through their quitting journey. 'We will introduce various products — all with the same purpose: helping people move away from smoking addiction,' Sezer added. For Badael, success is measured in lives changed, not sales figures. 'We take people away from smoking — they stay with us for a period, and then they exit. And we are happy with that,' said Sezer.
Leaders
20-02-2025
- General
- Leaders
Gift Inspiration for Saudi Founding Day: What to Buy?
Saudi Founding Day, celebrated on February 22nd, is a significant occasion that marks the establishment of the first Saudi state in 1727 by Imam Muhammad bin Saud. It is a day of national pride, heritage, and cultural appreciation. Gifting is a wonderful way to celebrate this event and express love for the country, family, and friends. Here are some meaningful gift ideas for Saudi Founding Day: Traditional Saudi Attire Gifting traditional Saudi clothing, such as a bisht for men or an elegant abaya for women, is a great way to honor the cultural heritage. Accessories like a shemagh or ghutra for men and embroidered scarves for women can also be thoughtful additions. Perfumes, Oud Oud and traditional Arabic perfumes are deeply ingrained in Saudi culture. High-quality oud, bakhoor, or exclusive Arabian perfume sets make luxurious and cherished gifts. Customized Saudi-Themed Gifts Personalized items, such as engraved jewelry with Arabic calligraphy, customized mugs, or home décor featuring Saudi symbols, make unique and memorable gifts. Saudi Coffee, Dates Sets A beautifully packaged set of Saudi coffee (qahwa) along with premium dates is a delightful gift that showcases the country's hospitality traditions. Handmade Art, Calligraphy Arabic calligraphy and Saudi-inspired artworks, whether in the form of paintings, engraved plaques, or framed verses, serve as elegant and meaningful gifts. Books on Saudi History, Culture For those who appreciate knowledge, books detailing Saudi Arabia's history, culture, and traditions can be a thoughtful present, offering deeper insights into the nation's rich heritage. Jewelry and Accessories Gold or silver jewelry inspired by traditional Saudi designs, including pendants shaped like the map of Saudi Arabia or pieces with Arabic inscriptions, make timeless and valuable gifts. Decorative Home Items Cushions, rugs, and wall hangings featuring Saudi-inspired designs or national colors (green and white) can enhance a home's aesthetic while reflecting patriotism. Charity Donations in Honor of Day A meaningful way to celebrate Saudi Founding Day is by donating to charitable causes in someone's name. This aligns with the spirit of generosity and community values in Saudi culture. Experience-Based Gifts Gifting experiences such as a desert safari, cultural tour, or a visit to a heritage site can create lasting memories while deepening appreciation for Saudi Arabia's history. Saudi Founding Day is an opportunity to celebrate the nation's rich history and values. Whether through traditional items, cultural experiences, or personalized keepsakes, thoughtful gifts help commemorate this special day in a meaningful and memorable way Related Topics : Celebrating Heritage: Saudi Embassy USA Commemorates Saudi Founding Day Almortajaz Arabian Horse Show to Celebrate Saudi Founding Day 500 drones fly in the sky of 'Ithra' on the Saudi founding day KSA Gears Up to Celebrate Saudi Founding Day Short link : Post Views: 74
