Latest News from Makkah Newspaper
Makkah Newspaper
2 hours ago
- Business
- Makkah Newspaper
Three Pioneering Companies Reshaping the Future of Space
Dear reader, as this marks my 100th article in Makkah Newspaper, I wanted to share with you a different and exciting topic, the future of commercial space. Dear reader, today, SpaceX stands as one of the dominant companies in the global space industry, having made significant strides in space exploration. This includes the launch of its reusable rockets, which revolutionized space travel costs. Furthermore, SpaceX has solidified its position as a leader in transporting passengers and cargo to space, notably through its partnership with NASA. The company's ambitious projects, such as Starlink, aim to provide global satellite-based internet connectivity. However, despite SpaceX's current dominance in several areas of the space industry, many new companies are starting to compete fiercely. These companies span various specializations and target different sectors of space exploration, creating unprecedented competition and innovation. Among the most prominent of these companies are Rocket Lab, AST SpaceMobile, and Redwire, each focusing on different aspects such as space logistics, global connectivity through space, and developing advanced space infrastructure. Rocket Lab is one of the leading companies that offers innovative solutions in space logistics. With an ambitious vision, the company enhances the space industry by launching small rockets that help place satellites into orbit. Rocket Lab plays a crucial role in facilitating access to space using small rockets, providing affordable services to small and medium-sized companies wishing to launch their satellites. The company focuses on offering cost-effective space logistics solutions with high flexibility for its clients. Through advanced rocket launch technologies that are efficient and customizable to meet the clients' needs, Rocket Lab accelerates space operations and improves the effectiveness of the services it provides. The company is also expanding its services to include the development of specialized rockets and overall space innovation. Rocket Lab aims to become an integrated space company, offering comprehensive services ranging from design and development to rocket launches, rather than limiting itself solely to the launch phase. AST SpaceMobile is working to change the way the world connects to the internet using space technology. The company's mission is to develop a space-based communication network that improves connectivity in remote and geographically isolated areas that cannot benefit from traditional terrestrial networks. This network involves a system of satellites providing high-quality connectivity globally, all through mobile phones without the need for additional equipment, which is quite groundbreaking. AST SpaceMobile stands out by offering innovative solutions to users in areas suffering from poor connectivity, whether in major cities or remote rural areas. By providing reliable and secure connections, the company helps link the entire world together, contributing to international cooperation and promoting sustainable development across industries such as healthcare, education, and commerce. Redwire is a leader in building and developing space infrastructure. The company specializes in designing and implementing integrated space solutions that enhance space infrastructure, including manufacturing satellites and advanced technologies that support space operations. Redwire offers a range of services, including space systems design, spacecraft manufacturing, and developing infrastructure that facilitates global space operations. Innovation in developing space tools and technologies is a core part of Redwire's vision. By utilizing advanced techniques in designing and manufacturing space equipment, the company delivers effective solutions that contribute to the overall development of the space industry. Additionally, the company strives to provide solutions that support sustainability in the space sector, making space utilization more efficient. In conclusion, these three companies form a vital pillar in the global space industry. Each specializes in a different field but together they contribute to improving available technologies and enhancing space capabilities. Rocket Lab offers innovative solutions in space logistics, AST SpaceMobile improves global connectivity through space, and Redwire plays a crucial role in developing space infrastructure. If these companies continue to develop their technological solutions, they will play an integral role in the future of space exploration and contribute to unlocking new opportunities for the global economy. nabilalhakamy@
Makkah Newspaper
6 days ago
- Business
- Makkah Newspaper
ROSHN Group's Brand Value Tops One Billion Dollars, Becomes Saudi Arabia's Most Valuable Real Estate Brand
ROSHN Group, Saudi Arabia's leading multi-asset real estate developer and a Public Investment Fund (PIF) company, has been crowned as Saudi Arabia's most valuable real estate brand at a value topping $1 billion by Brand Finance, the world's leading independent brand valuation consultancy. ROSHN Group was founded just under five years ago with a mandate to contribute to Vision 2030. Now, ROSHN Group's brand and reputation rank in the top twenty across different sectors nationwide and is the third most valuable real estate brand regionally. The rapid growth of the brand and financial performance of the Group mirrors the expansion of the Kingdom's real estate market over the past decade, following the push by Vision 2030 to promote national development. Brand Finance found that ROSHN Group's new identity and expansion into sectors such as education, entertainment, healthcare, and sports – the Group is involved in building two of the stadiums that will host the 2034 FIFA World Cup in Saudi Arabia – has also helped to raise its profile nationally, regionally, and globally. 'We are proud to see ROSHN crowned as the strongest real estate brand in the Kingdom—an accomplishment achieved in less than five years,' said Ghada Alrumayan, Group Chief Marketing and Communications Officer at ROSHN Group. 'This milestone reflects the success of our expansion strategy and new brand launch, embodying our clear vision and rapid growth as we reinforce the Group's real estate leadership in Saudi Arabia. This recognition is a result of the growing trust in our brand and the added value we deliver, setting new benchmarks across the real estate sector. We will continue to build on this success to further cement ROSHN's position as a model of excellence and leadership, shaping the future of the industry in line with Saudi Vision 2030 and its goals to enhance quality of life and diversify the national economy across sectors.' 'ROSHN Group's exceptional rise to become Saudi Arabia's most valuable real estate brand in just five years reflects the power of purpose-led strategy and visionary execution. ROSHN Group is reshaping urban living in line with Saudi Vision 2030 through its integrated communities and innovative mixed-use developments, with a focus on sustainability and community investment. Its evolution into a multi-asset developer marks a bold new chapter, positioning the brand not only as a national champion, but as a regional leader with global relevance,' said Chairman & CEO of Brand Finance, David Haigh. Brand Finance is the world's leading brand valuation consultancy. Brand Finance regularly evaluates the strength of brands and quantifies their financial value to help organizations make strategic decisions. Every year, Brand Finance conducts more than 6,000 brand valuations, supported by original market research, and publishes over 100 reports covering brands across all sectors and countries, including brands in Saudi Arabia.
Makkah Newspaper
18-05-2025
- Business
- Makkah Newspaper
Pakistan vs India: Fragile strategic balance
UAE political analyst and former Federal National Council candidate The ongoing tension between nuclear neighbors India and Pakistan raises key questions about their actual military capabilities should a large-scale conflict erupt. With rapid advances in military technology and shifting global alliances – especially considering how the Russia-Ukraine conflict has disrupted military supply chains – serious questions emerge. Could either country sustain an intensive conventional war for six months? What chances would each have of neutralizing their opponent's defenses and critical assets? How much could they depend on foreign support to replace losses in such a complex scenario? Looking objectively at these factors points to a reality far more nuanced than simple weapons counts. In a recent breakthrough, however, statements from US President Donald Trump have shifted the conversation, announcing successful American mediation resulting in a ceasefire agreement between India and Pakistan. Trump praised both countries for showing 'common sense and great intelligence' in choosing to end the crisis. While this development spares the region from immediate widespread conflict, understanding the underlying military capabilities that fueled this tension remains important, as these tensions could flare up again at any time. Data shows that ammunition and equipment reserves play a decisive role in a country's ability to fight a long war. India has traditionally aimed to maintain strategic war stockpiles sufficient for 10 to 40 days of heavy combat. Recent reports since late 2020 indicate India is working hard to ensure supplies for at least 15 days of intensive fighting, with longer-term goals of reaching 40 days, supported by domestic manufacturing initiatives under the 'Make in India' program. Given these figures, India could likely sustain high-intensity warfare for between two weeks and just over a month without major resupply. This limitation may have influenced India's willingness to accept de-escalation, recognizing the steep costs of prolonged fighting. Pakistan's situation appears considerably more challenging, according to recent intelligence and defense analyses. Multiple sources indicate Pakistan's artillery ammunition reserves – essential for any major ground campaign – might last only four days (96 hours) of high-intensity combat. This critical shortage, if accurate, combined with Pakistan's economic struggles, severely limits its ability to sustain extended conventional warfare. The situation worsens with reports that Pakistan has exported ammunition to Ukraine, potentially further depleting its already limited stockpiles. This vulnerability likely influenced Islamabad's receptiveness to mediation efforts. In this context, claims about either country lasting six months on initial stockpiles alone seem unrealistic. India remains far from this capability despite its ambitions, while Pakistan faces an existential challenge in this regard. A war of such duration would require robust domestic production and reliable external supply lines. Both countries, or at least one of them, likely recognized this reality, improving chances for successful peace negotiations. The complete destruction of an adversary's air defenses and military assets within six months is virtually impossible. Both countries possess large armed forces with extensive arsenals distributed across vast territories, making comprehensive destruction unachievable without overwhelming and sustained superiority. More realistically, we would see considerable degradation of capabilities on both sides, with attacks targeting airports, command centers, radar installations, missile sites, and logistics hubs. The side with better intelligence capabilities, precision weapons, electronic warfare systems, and greater resilience would inflict more damage. Pakistan, with its potentially limited ammunition supplies, might face faster deterioration of its defensive capabilities in a prolonged conflict without substantial external support. This mutual vulnerability may have contributed to both sides accepting the ceasefire. Nuclear deterrence clearly sets boundaries on conventional escalation, as any attempt to completely eliminate the opponent's military assets could be seen as an existential threat pushing toward nuclear confrontation – a scenario major powers like the United States actively work to prevent through diplomatic channels. The recent American mediation has proven crucial in managing tensions between India and Pakistan. This intervention by a superpower shows international concern about preventing conflict between nuclear-armed states. It suggests both Washington's awareness of how dangerous regional escalation could be for global stability and its desire to maintain influence in the region and mould the decisions of both countries. The American-brokered ceasefire confirms that the 'common sense and great intelligence' President Trump mentioned likely came from both sides recognizing these harsh realities and the enormous risks any full-scale confrontation would entail.
Makkah Newspaper
11-04-2025
- Business
- Makkah Newspaper
Saudi Electricity Company Launches 6.73 Billion Phase 2 of Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) Under the Supervision of Ministry of Energy
The Saudi Electricity Company (SEC) has announced the launch of Phase 2 of its Battery Energy Storage System (BESS), under the supervision of Ministry of Energy, and a total investment exceeding 6.73 billion with a capacity of 2.5 gigawatts. This phase includes five projects located in Riyadh, Al-Qaisumah, Al-Jawf, Al-Dawadmi, and Rabigh, The launch of energy storage projects is part of the National Renewable Energy Program supervised by Ministry of Energy, aimed at increasing the installed capacity of renewable energy sources in the Kingdom's electricity mix to approximately 50% by 2030. This initiative supports enhancing energy efficiency, improving the performance of the electrical grid, strengthening its reliability, and achieving the Kingdom's energy sector targets. SEC has signed contracts with BYD ,and Alfanar Projects to supply and construct 500 MW/2000 MWh battery storage systems for each of the five locations. The implementation of this phase will increase the reserve margin in different operational areas, provide high operational flexibility that enables a rapid response to changes in power demand, enhance the reliability of the electrical grid, and improve energy distribution efficiency while reducing operational costs. The deployment of Battery Energy Storage Systems requires full integration with the national grid, compliance with regulatory requirements, and adherence to the highest standards of safety and environmental preservation. In this regard, SEC is working in coordination with the relevant authorities to ensure the success of this project and to reinforce its position as a fundamental pillar in the energy transition of Saudi Arabia by providing innovative and sustainable energy solutions for a more efficient and reliable future. This project reflects the Kingdom's commitment to the goals of Saudi Vision 2030 by enabling effective integration between the national grid and renewable energy sources, reducing reliance on conventional power generation plants, and improving energy distribution efficiency across different regions of Saudi Arabia, ensuring a continuous and highly efficient power supply. Battery Energy Storage Systems are among the most advanced solutions, playing a critical role in stabilizing the electrical grid, reducing the risk of power outages, and improving energy consumption efficiency. These systems can transition from standby mode to full operation within milliseconds, providing an instant response to grid fluctuations and reinforcing the resilience of the power system in facing challenges.
Makkah Newspaper
05-04-2025
- Business
- Makkah Newspaper
UAE and Saudi Arabia: Strategic model of fraternal integration
UAE political analyst and former Federal National Council candidate What sets the Emirati-Saudi relationship apart as a distinctive and noteworthy example of bilateral ties between nations? How have these two countries managed to cultivate a strong strategic partnership amid rising regional and global challenges? These are compelling questions, especially given the rapid geopolitical shifts reshaping the region. When you factor in the significant security, economic, and political obstacles that accompany these changes, their importance becomes even clearer. The bond between the United Arab Emirates and the Saudi Arabia stands as a critical foundation for collective security within the Gulf Cooperation Council. Beyond that, it plays an essential role in supporting broader Arab national security, contributing to stability and safety across the region. The fraternal connection between the UAE and Saudi Arabia rests on deep, enduring roots. A shared history, aligned aspirations, and consistent positions on regional and international matters form the bedrock of their relations. These elements strengthen their mutual interests and enhance their collective resilience. In recent years, this partnership has seen impressive growth, with meaningful advancements in political, economic, social, and cultural spheres. Much of this progress can be attributed to the thoughtful leadership guiding both nations. The UAE has long viewed Saudi Arabia as a vital strategic ally, a perspective that dates back to the era of its founder, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan. In a region often marked by volatility and uncertainty, this view holds firm. At this pivotal moment in the Middle East's complex history, the Emirati-Saudi alliance serves as a strategic framework. It aligns their outlooks on priorities, risks, opportunities, and challenges, fostering a unified approach. It's fair to say that UAE-Saudi relations have reached an unprecedented level of strength today. Both nations share a cohesive vision centered on security, stability, prosperity, development, and collaboration. While they maintain longstanding ties with other GCC members since the council's formation in the early 1980s, the Emirati-Saudi partnership stands out. Its remarkable degree of alignment and harmony makes it truly exceptional. A prime example of this closeness is the Saudi-Emirati Coordination Council. This body drives forward joint strategic initiatives, particularly in economic and investment areas, with impact felt across the Arab world and beyond. Such efforts establish a robust platform for cooperation and coordination. They also reflect the firm commitment of both countries' leaders to deepen their ties across various fields. Historically, Emirati-Saudi relations have been a cornerstone of Gulf and Arab security. Their shared perspectives on regional issues and their productive collaboration have reinforced this role. Together, they've worked effectively to benefit Gulf and Arab communities, promoting greater stability and prosperity. On pressing threats like extremism and terror, their stances remain steadfast. They're committed to crafting a unified Arab strategy to address these dangers, guided by a sense of historical responsibility and the expectations of Arab societies. Recent regional crises have only deepened their connection. This is evident across political, economic, military, and media dimensions. A striking illustration came during the Arab Coalition to Restore Legitimacy in Yemen. There, the UAE and Saudi Arabia stood united against threats to regional security, with the sacrifices of their fallen soldiers marking a powerful chapter in their shared story. On the global stage, both nations enjoy a respected reputation thanks to their wise and balanced policies. They take clear stands against radicalization, intolerance, and terrorism while advocating for dialogue between cultures and civilizations. Since the GCC's inception, the UAE and Saudi Arabia have consistently supported joint Gulf efforts. Their positions strengthen unity, benefiting GCC populations and equipping them to face regional and international challenges. This relationship goes beyond official dealings—it's personal too. The historical, cultural, and social ties between Emirati and Saudi people run deep, grounded in a shared heritage. Similar values, traditions, and customs further solidify their bond, creating a genuine sense of kinship. This partnership offers a remarkable model of enduring brotherhood, built on good neighborliness and common goals. The ties of fraternity and distinction linking the UAE and Saudi Arabia are inspiring. Their journey together reflects generosity and a spirit of collaboration. Looking at current trends, it's clear that Emirati-Saudi relations are poised to keep growing and evolving. The strong resolve of both nations' leadership fuels this progress across all domains. These ties will remain a vital pillar of regional security and stability, serving as a blueprint for cooperation among Arab states. In political and security matters, the UAE and Saudi Arabia will continue aligning their views on regional and global issues. They'll work together to tackle challenges and threats to the region's safety. Their partnership will remain a strong example of coordination and teamwork in pursuit of shared objectives. In sum, the Emirati-Saudi relationship stands as a unique case of interstate relations. It transcends typical alliances and mutual interests, reaching a level of strategic integration and a shared destiny. Through the wisdom of their leaders, these two countries have forged a resilient partnership amid mounting challenges. It's a model worth emulating for Arab states. As we've seen time and again, this relationship will stay dynamic and adaptable. It'll evolve with the times while looking ahead with a clear vision and firm determination. That's all to the benefit of both countries, their closely connected people, and the wider Arab region.
