AlUla, Saudi Arabia, January 11, 2024 – In the presence of His Highness Prince Badr bin Abdullah bin Farhan Al Saud, Minister of Culture, Governor of the Royal Commission for AlUla and Chairman of the Board of Directors of AlUla Development Company, KUN Investment Holding – Saudi investment management company, and AlUla Development Company – fully owned by the Public Investment Fund (PIF), have signed a strategic Shareholders' Agreement to own and develop the Aman Hegra project. This venture is a collaboration to introduce a distinctive hospitality and a residential initiative in AlUla, Saudi Arabia.

The ceremony was attended by KUN Investment Holding Chairman, his excellency Mr. Abdullah Saleh Kamel and AlUla Development Company Managing Director, Naif Saleh AlHamdan. The momentous agreement was officially signed during the ceremony in AlUla, with Eng. Mohammed N. Hefni, Chief Executive Officer of KUN Investment Holding, and Fabien Toscano, Chief Executive Officer of AlUla Development Company, putting pen to paper to formalize the collaboration.

Founded in 1988, Aman is renowned for its unique locations – many of which are rich with cultural history and heritage – unparalleled service, exceptional design, and memorable experiences. With the vision of building a collection of intimate retreats with the unassuming, warm hospitality of a gracious private home, the Aman Hegra project will include an expansive Aman resort, with 42 hotel/villa keys and 30 branded private residences available for purchase. It will be spread across a prime eight million square meters site in Hegra – Saudi Arabia’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Mohammed N. Hefni, CEO of KUN Investment Holding, said “We are delighted to announce the collaboration with AlUla Development Company on the Aman Hegra project. This groundbreaking development marks an important moment in Saudi Arabia's tourism and hospitality landscape aligning with the Kingdom’s vision 2030”. He emphasized “KUN's expertise in crafting exceptional real estate experiences will play a pivotal role in ensuring the project's essential success. While, leveraging the invaluable expertise of world-renowned consultants and an award-winning international architectural practice, will position Hegra project as a leading luxurious destination”. He concluded by “commending the Royal Commission of AlUla, for their unwavering support and commitment to the project's success.” 

Naif Saleh AlHamdan, Managing Director of AlUla Development Company, commented, “As we embark on this transformative journey with KUN Investment Holding for the Aman Hegra project, we are dedicated to crafting not just a lifestyle and hospitality experience, but authentic and memorable destinations in the historical city of AlUla. We look forward to working together as we enable the transformation of AlUla into a place to visit, live and invest." 

Fabien Toscano, CEO of AlUla Development Company, added, "The collaboration with KUN Investment Holding represents a groundbreaking step in our mission to build and operate elevated assets in AlUla. The Aman Hegra project aligns with our commitment to fostering sustainable environments, unlocking the potential of this remarkable destination." 

KUN Investment Holding will own 80% and AlUla Development Company will own 20% of the joint venture. KUN Investment Holding will take the lead role in developing the project and ensure its delivery with the strategic support of AlUla Development Company.  
 

For more information, visit:
UDC website: udc.sa
UDC Twitter / Instagram: @UDC_SA / @udc_sa

ABOUT ALULA DEVELOPMENT COMPANY

AlUla Development Company is a real estate business wholly owned by the Public Investment Fund whose vision is aligned with the Saudi leadership’s Vision 2030. It was launched in 2023 to support the development of AlUla, while preserving its natural environment, heritage, and culture. By developing a world-class portfolio of real estate, residential and hospitality assets, in collaboration with the Royal Commission for AlUla and private sector entities, AlUla Development Company will support tourism and entertainment growth. 

For further information, please contact: 
Noura AlArji, Director of Marketing and Corporate Communications 
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ABOUT AMAN 
 
Aman was founded in 1988 with the vision of building a collection of intimate retreats with the unassuming, warm hospitality of a gracious private home. The first, Amanpuri (place of peace), in Phuket, Thailand, introduced the concept and, since then, Aman has grown to encompass 34 exquisitely serene hotels and resorts in 20 destinations across the world, with a further nine projects in the pipeline. In such spectacular settings, Aman has honed its offering with its transformative influence on mind, body and spirit through harmoniously designed environments transporting guests out of their everyday lives. Twelve properties also offer private branded Residences: sanctuaries that go beyond commonplace notions of luxury allowing a select few to make the Aman way of life a permanent reality. 
 
In recent years, Aman has grown to offer its coveted lifestyle beyond the parameters of its havens. In 2018, the introduction of Aman Skincare continued the brand’s holistic influence, offering beautiful, scented formulas using powerful all-natural ingredients and inspired by Aman Spas. The introduction of Sva – a range of supplements designed to help maintain optimum health – and Aman Fine Fragrance in 2020 continued this journey, bringing Aman into the comfort of home. This sentiment was echoed in 2021, with the arrival of a new retail collection, The Essentials by Aman, comprising timeless ready-to-wear pieces that answer the needs of every Aman guest. 
 
With innovation a cornerstone of the brand’s philosophy, in 2020 Aman introduced a new hotel brand, Janu – meaning ‘soul’ in Sanskrit. Janu offers a unique take on hospitality where genuine human interaction, playful expression and social wellness are at the core of the experience. Janu aims to bring balance to the head and heart and rekindle the soul. Several forthcoming Janu hotels are already under construction with the flagship, Janu Tokyo, set to open this winter. 
 
For further information, please contact: 
Charlotte Maslaveckas, Senior Marcomms Director 
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+41 79 880 69 63  

Dubai, United Arab Emirates: 11 January 2024 – Arada has announced the launch of sales at a new ultra-luxury landmark in Dubai, Armani Beach Residences at Palm Jumeirah, in partnership with Armani/Casa Interior Design Studio and Tadao Ando. Enjoying sweeping, panoramic views of the Arabian Gulf as well as Dubai’s famed skyline, Armani Beach Residences at Palm Jumeirah is designed to achieve harmony between architecture, the surrounding seascape and the senses.   
Designed by Tadao Ando, Armani Beach Residences at Palm Jumeirah features the Japanese Pritzker-Prize-winning architect’s longstanding emphasis on the association between nature and architecture, and is located on the outer crescent of the iconic manmade islands in Dubai.

Alongside its exemplary architecture and seafront setting, Armani Beach Residences at Palm Jumeirah is distinguished by a set of amenities spread over a 90,000 square foot space, all designed and furnished by Armani/Casa, allowing residents to experience a truly refined lifestyle. This collection of high-end facilities includes a premium residents-only spa, multi-purpose function room, cigar lounge, a compact movie theatre, children’s playroom and landscaped deck area, as well as a private beach. 

The magnificent elevated entry experience sets the tone, providing residents with extravagant ocean views from a range of angles. Throughout the building, the interplay of light and shadow amplifies a series of stylish design elements, including the overhanging arch and the many water features and pools.  
With price starting from AED21 million, every sumptuously appointed home at Armani Beach Residences at Palm Jumeirah is defined by a desire to bring the extravagant ocean and skyline views into the interior. This has been achieved by providing a wide range of configurations, including two-, three-, four-, five-bedroom residences, penthouses and two presidential suites, all of which offer unrestrained access to the exterior view. 

Each individually designed residence features high-end fixtures and fittings from Armani/Casa for living spaces, bathrooms and kitchens. Every home contains floor-to-ceiling glass facades, a circular or linear foyer (a signature Armani concept), amply sized terraces and well-proportioned ceiling heights. Buyers will also be able to choose between a light and dark palette for the interior design of their residence.   

The presidential suites provide a new definition of ultra-luxury, combining numerous different internal function areas – including a contemplative courtyard space with reflective pool, a personalised gym, libraries, a private cinema, and a private parking lounge with space for seven cars – with an opulent mega-terrace featuring an infinity pool. Buyers of penthouses and presidential suites will have the opportunity to work directly with Armani/Casa to deliver a truly bespoke interior scheme for their homes.  

Giorgio Armani, President and Chief Executive Officer of the Armani Group, said: “I believe this partnership with Tadao Ando and Arada will result in an exceptional and elevated living experience, complemented by superb architecture and refined, contemporary design."

HRH Prince Khaled bin Alwaleed bin Talal, Vice Chairman of Arada, said: "Armani Beach Residences at Palm Jumeirah represents a new standard for the high-end Dubai real estate market, helping to redefine the concept of ultra-luxury living in one of the world’s most coveted neighbourhoods. Brought together by Arada, this is the first and only time that Giorgio Armani and Tadao Ando have collaborated on a residential offering.”

Tadao Ando, Founder of Tadao Ando Architects & Associates, said: “I am proud to renew our longstanding partnership with Giorgio Armani to deliver a project that brings nature and architecture together, producing a spectacular space in which to live. The architecture at this wonderful location is designed to pursue a visual and experiential continuity between the interior and the seascape that surrounds the project, with the interplay of light and shadow helping to create a dynamic sequence from arrival through to the public areas and finally to each impeccable residence.”
Armani Beach Residences at Palm Jumeirah is scheduled to be completed by the end of 2026.  
 

Riyadh, Saudi Arabia: AJEX Logistics Services, a leading Middle East-based specialist in express distribution and shipping solutions, is proud to announce its participation in the National Retail Federation 2024 (NRF 2024): Retail's Big Show, the world's largest retail expo, taking place from January 14-16, 2024, in New York City. This historic moment marks AJEX as the first Saudi Arabian company to exhibit at this prestigious event, bringing together over 6,200 brands from across the globe.

Having launched its US operations earlier this year in September 2023, AJEX's presence at NRF 2024 not only signifies a significant milestone for the company but also demonstrates its unwavering commitment to Vision 2030. This ambitious Saudi Arabian initiative aims to diversify the economy and establish the nation as a global logistics hub. As the inaugural Saudi Arabian logistics company to showcase at this event, AJEX strives to promote global trade to and from Saudi Arabia, a nation recently ranked as the third most competitive G20 economy by the International Institute for Management Development (IIMD).

John Martin, General Manager for the United States, shared his thoughts about this significant step. “Underscoring our commitment to global trade, expansion, and promoting Vision 2030 on an international stage, we are proud to share that we will be exhibiting at NRF 2024. We especially look forward to connecting with retailers, industry leaders, and partners to share our innovative solutions which are supporting the launch of global brands into the Middle East’s largest economy,” Martin said.

“With a youthful population where 63% are under 30, a projected retail growth of 4.6% CAGR from 2022 to 2027, and a thriving economy rooted in political stability, AJEX stands as a pivotal conduit for brands seeking entry into one of the world's fastest-growing markets, bridging the gap into Saudi Arabia and the broader Middle East region,” he added. 

In addition to its participation at NRF 2024, AJEX proudly announces its upcoming presence at SHOPTALK, taking place from March 17-20 in Las Vegas. SHOPTALK annually gathers thousands of retail changemakers to shape the future of retail. These strategic participations are integral components of AJEX's global growth strategy, offering a unique opportunity to connect with retailers committed to advancing their retail logistics and expanding their global footprint. 

“By participating in these prestigious events, AJEX is seamlessly aligned with our mission to foster economic diversification, enhance logistics solutions, and facilitate universal connectivity to Saudi Arabia,” added Nourhan Beyrouti, Chief Revenue Officer for US Commercial Operations, AJEX. “With a commitment to customer service excellence, unparalleled shipping timelines, and a comprehensive network spanning the Middle East and beyond, AJEX is ideally positioned to be the gateway for global brands looking to enter one of the world's most promising markets.”

AJEX’s vision is to provide seamless domestic and international end-to-end integrated logistics services connecting B2B and B2C customers by land, sea and air throughout the Middle East and its global network. The company has established a comprehensive network that spans Saudi Arabia and the GCC region. This extensive network comprises eight main transportation hubs, and 60 strategically located facilities in Saudi Arabia, UAE, and Bahrain. Additionally, AJEX has established bonded gateway zones in critical locations such as Dammam, Jeddah, Dubai, and Manama. 

AJEX can be located at NRF at Booth #1753 and will be featured in the following NRF categories: Fulfillment & Replenishment Services, Storage and Distribution, Supply Chain and Delivery and Returns. 

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About AJEX
Founded in 2021, AJEX Logistics Services is the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s logistics & transportation expert. Specialized in Middle East E-commerce distribution and industrial solutions, AJEX is established in the UAE, Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, US, UK, Turkey, and China. With a network of more than 60 active logistics facilities, AJEX offers a full suite of customer-centric solutions from express distribution, E-commerce solutions, road, ocean, airfreight, warehousing, cold chain, and healthcare solutions. AJEX is a joint venture between Ajlan & Bros Holding, a leading investment company and conglomerate in the Middle East region, and SF Express, a leader in China Transportation and Logistics.   

Riyadh, Saudi Arabia - January, 2023 - Courtyard by Marriott Riyadh Northern Ring Road is thrilled to announce a special offer designed for families seeking unforgettable adventures in Riyadh. Guests can seize the opportunity to enjoy an enticing 50% off the second room when booking two rooms for getaway.

Known for its contemporary design and warm hospitality, Courtyard by Marriott understands the importance of family moments. This offer ensures guests can make the most of their time together, with the 50% discount applied to the second room when occupied by children aged 16 and under.

This exclusive offer is available on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays, offering flexibility with no minimum night stay required. The strategic location of Courtyard by Marriott Riyadh Northern Ring Road makes it an ideal starting point for exploring Riyadh's attractions, including Riyadh Park, Riyadh Boulevard, and major shopping malls.

Nestled in the heart of Riyadh, Courtyard by Marriott Northern Ring Road Riyadh, offers a panoramic feast for the senses, boasting the most captivating rooftop views in the region. The hotel's luxurious suites, in particular, provide an elevated experience, allowing guests to indulge in the breathtaking vistas.

Mr. Mahmoud Omar, General Manager, at Courtyard by Marriott Riyadh Northern Ring Road, expressed enthusiasm about this family-friendly offer, stating, "We're excited to offer families a special opportunity to create lasting memories in Riyadh. Enjoy a cozy and quality stay at Courtyard by Marriott Riyadh Northern Ring Road."

For additional information about Courtyard Riyadh Northern Ring Road and its offerings, please visit Marriott.com/RUHNR.

About Courtyard by Marriott® 

Courtyard by Marriott is the hotel brand of choice for trailblazing guests who are inspired by a passion to do great things. With more than 1,250 locations in 60 countries and territories, Courtyard is passionate about empowering its guests and serving the needs of travellers everywhere, no matter the purpose of their trip. Its thoughtfully designed guestrooms provide an elevated experience to relax and recharge, complete with plush bedding and flexible workspaces. Guests can work, eat well, connect, and be at their best to keep moving forward to succeed. 

Courtyard is proud to participate in Marriott Bonvoy®, the global travel program from Marriott International. The program offers members an extraordinary portfolio of global brands, exclusive experiences on Marriott Bonvoy Moments and unparalleled benefits including free nights and Elite status recognition. To enroll for free or for more information about the program, visit marriottbonvoy.com. For more information or reservations, visit courtyard.marriott.com.

Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, January 8th, 2023: Middle East Film & Comic Con (MEFCC), the region’s largest pop culture festival, has a magical announcement: joining the star studded line up are Harry Potter’s Weasley twins, James and Oliver Phelps. The brothers are best known for their portrayals of Fred Weasley (James) and George Weasley (Oliver) in the film adaptations of the Harry Potter book series by J.K. Rowling. James and Oliver will join the convention on Saturday February 10th and Sunday February 11th.

The actors rose to fame after their memorable performance in the Harry Potter film series, roles which they earned after allegedly skipping school to audition for the first Harry Potter film. The Phelps twins became quite popular with the fans throughout the franchise due to their quirkiness and fun-studded scenes, as they brought both Fred and George to life with their pranks, adventures and even their love for Quidditch.

Star-studded lineup

The Phelps brothers will be part of an all-star celebrity guest line-up of the 2024 edition of Middle East Film & Comic Con – joining Mexican actor Iñaki Godoy, The Straw Hat Pirates' Captain, Monkey D. Luffy, from Netflix's Live Action hit series, One Piece; Frank Welker, the voice behind Transformers’ Megatron, Garfield and Scooby Doo; Peter Cullen, the voice actor behind Optimus Prime, the protagonist of Transformers; Temuera Morrison, the Star Wars icon who has played both Boba Fett and Jango Fett; and Troy Baker, the American voice actor and musician, best known for his role as Joel in The Last of Us video game. The line-up will also include comic creators Mark Brooks, Carlo Pagulayan, Stephen Segovia, and Steve McNiven.

About MEFCC

Boasting a stupendous 12-year legacy of celebrating film, TV, sci-fi, anime, manga, gaming, comics and collectibles, the convention is held in strategic partnership with the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) at ADNEC, from February 9th-11th.

In 2024, it aims to create the ultimate fan experience in the UAE capital with fans spoilt by an abundance of attractions – ranging from Meet the Stars, where visitors can meet celebrities and create memories of a lifetime; the Comic Creators Club, where avid fans can get commissions; the Artist Alley featuring local and regional emerging and established artists showcasing and selling their latest work; the Gaming Arena, where enthusiasts can level up and battle it out in various tournaments and daily challenges; the Main Stage, which will host celebrity panels, interviews, community sessions and fan screenings; the Festival Plaza, where visitors will get to enjoy live entertainment, music, activities, and F&B; and the Japanese Village that is making its debut in 2024, which will bring a taste of Japan to Abu Dhabi with traditional experiences including Yukata tryouts, origami, calligraphy and live performances.

To find out more about MEFCC and to purchase tickets now, visit www.mefcc.com and follow @mefcc to stay connected.

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About Middle East Film & Comic Con

Middle East Film and Comic Con will return to Abu Dhabi from 9 - 11 February 2024 at Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre, UAE. Returning for its 12th edition and hosting over 35,000 fans, the event has grown to become the region’s largest popular culture festival. Offering a mix of international and regional entertainment and brands from Film, TV, Sci-Fi, Anime, Manga, Gaming, Comics and Collectibles – it’s the ultimate destination for a fun and action-packed weekend out.  Fans can meet celebrities, shop exclusive merchandise, watch film previews and screenings, take part in creative workshops, compete in gaming tournaments and cosplay competitions and geek out with the community!

For more information on the event, visit www.mefcc.com

About the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi 

The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) drives the sustainable growth of Abu Dhabi’s culture and tourism sectors, fuels economic progress and helps achieve Abu Dhabi’s wider global ambitions. By working in partnership with the organisations that define the emirate’s position as a leading international destination, DCT Abu Dhabi strives to unite the ecosystem around a shared vision of the emirate’s potential, coordinate effort and investment, deliver innovative solutions, and use the best tools, policies and systems to support the culture and tourism industries. 

DCT Abu Dhabi’s vision is defined by the emirate’s people, heritage and landscape. We work to enhance Abu Dhabi’s status as a place of authenticity, innovation, and unparalleled experiences, represented by its living traditions of hospitality, pioneering initiatives and creative thought. 

About Informa Connect

Informa Connect is a division of Informa plc, a global business that is listed on the London Stock Exchange and a member of the FTSE 100. Informa plc. has a network of trusted brands in specialist markets across more than 30 countries with 11,000+ colleagues. Informa Connect is a live events and digital platform specialist connecting individuals and professionals with knowledge, ideas and opportunities. Our purpose is to champion the specialist. Through hundreds of powerful brands, we work with businesses and professionals in specialist markets, providing the connections, intelligence and opportunities that help customers grow, do business, make breakthroughs and take better informed decisions. Operating major branded events in Finance, Biotech & Pharma and in a number of other specialist markets and connect communities online year-round.

Dubai, UAE: Be Beach, Dubai’s ultimate new day-to-night beach club destination nestled in the heart of Dubai Harbour, is throwing yet another world-class event that is sure to be the talk of the town! The seafront destination which offers unparalleled views across Dubai’s glittering horizon is the home to the best techno, dance, electronic and house beats across the city and this weekend’s DJ set is no exception.

Taking place on Saturday, 13th of January, Be Beach’s daytime opulence of upscale relaxation will transform into the city’s best nightlife venue where music takes center stage. Redefining Dubai’s entertainment and leisure scene, Be Beach’s sunset and after-dark soirée will captivate your senses and leave you wanting more. 

New York-based DJ Carlita is the latest addition to Be Beach’s already-impressive portfolio of world-renowned DJs, where she will be supported by Frederick Stone, RBØR, and Sam Farsio. Hailing from Istanbul, Carlita is a classically trained musician, multi-instrumentalist, and DJ, widely known for her masterful ability to mix and produce diverse sounds, tracks of various genres and rhythms from cultures across the world to create a kaleidoscope of electronic sounds, making her sets a multi-sensory experience.

A creative collaboration between Addmind Hospitality and Sekoya Management, Be Beach opened in October 2023 at the extraordinary Dubai Harbour, introducing a unique fusion of music, upscale relaxation, and culinary artistry. An elevated beach club where the spirit of the beach marries the charm of the coast, Be Beach offers an immersive day-to-night experience where every aspect is meticulously crafted to create a world of unparalleled luxury.

Date: Saturday, 13th January 2024
Timings: Doors open at 6pm.
Price: Ticket entries before 8pm are AED 100 for Ladies and AED 200 for Gents, inclusive of one drink each. After 8pm, prices are subject to increase.
Location: Be Beach, Dubai Harbour.

For table reservations and inquiries, please call +971 54 751 1119 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
 
For more information and the latest updates follow @bebeachdxb on socials. 

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About Addmind Hospitality:
Addmind Hospitality stands tall as a beacon of innovation in the hospitality world. Founded by the trailblazing Tony Habre in 2001, this hospitality powerhouse has transformed the Middle East's entertainment landscape with its diverse range of restaurants, bars, lounges, and more.

About Sekoya Management:
Founded and owned by John Nemr Saliba, Sekoya Management weaves dreams into reality, creating immersive luxury experiences that redefine entertainment. Drawing inspiration from global hotspots, Sekoya Management is dedicated to crafting lifestyle destinations that take Dubai's entertainment scene to unparalleled heights.

About Dubai Harbour:
Dubai Harbour is an extraordinary seafront district, inspired by our connection to the sea, designed for a maritime lifestyle. The district’s unique backdrop, iconic vista, and accessible location are combined with a wide range of living, retail, and hospitality choices, as well as comprehensive berthing facilities, making it the region’s most unique lifestyle offering.  Dubai Harbour sits just over 30kms from both Dubai International Airport (DXB) and Dubai World Central Airport (DWC) and is within easy reach from the city’s world-famous attractions such as Palm Jumeirah and Burj Al Arab.

Dubai Harbour is home to some of the most iconic destinations in Dubai, including the Dubai Harbour Cruise Terminal, a world-class facility comprising two purpose built terminal buildings, and Dubai Harbour Marinas, the region’s largest marina. In addition, Emaar Beachfront, a waterfront community offering residents premier beach access and a luxury seaside lifestyle, and Skydive Dubai, the world-class skydiving company, are also located in the heart of the district. In addition, Dubai Harbour was voted as winner of the World’s Best New Cruise Development at the 1st annual World Cruise Awards 2021.

As a one-of-a-kind destination, Dubai Harbour attracts a wide range of locally and internationally renowned events all year round, that play a key role in rekindling the city’s connection to the sea, providing additional ways for people to experience their own maritime journey. As the owning company and curator, Shamal Holding is investing its resources to be the driving force behind making Dubai Harbour an exceptional seafront district.

For more info, please visit: dubaiharbour.com