Samsung Shares Vision To Bring Calm to the Connected Device Experience at CES® 2023

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Samsung Shares Vision To Bring Calm to the Connected Device Experience at CES® 2023

Samsung Electronics today shared its vision for a calmer connected world through cutting-edge technologies that enhance the lives of users by providing smarter and more intuitive experiences. Speaking at a press conference at CES® 2023, Samsung and its key partners came together to outline details about how they plan to build a better-connected world while contributing to a more sustainable future.

Jong-Hee (JH) Han, Vice Chairman, CEO and Head of the DX (Device eXperience) Division at Samsung Electronics, opened the company’s presence at CES by highlighting Samsung’s strategy to deliver on the promise of the connected experience across the key touchpoints in our lives — in our homes, cars and at work — while also working to build a more sustainable future. The strategy outlined during the press conference focuses on the company’s aim of bringing calm to our connected world so that devices and innovation can genuinely enable better, more personal and more intuitive experiences. To do this, Samsung is focusing on seamlessly connecting devices and designing products to make the everyday use of technology more sustainable.

▲ Jong-Hee (JH) Han, Vice Chairman, CEO and Head of the DX (Device eXperience) Division at Samsung Electronics, introduces the theme of “Bringing Calm to Our Connected World,” the aim of which is to make life easier by connecting technology seamlessly.

“We recognize our vision is a big one,” said CEO JH Han. “It’s about solving real challenges today and understanding consumers’ future needs and aspirations. It will take time, innovation and cooperation with partners worldwide. But we are committed to achieving it and already getting started.”

Samsung Incorporates Sustainability at Every Level

To address our planet’s ongoing challenges, Samsung highlighted how it continues to prioritize the environment through a combination of sustainability targets, innovative product design and strategic partnerships. As a result, by 2050, all of Samsung’s businesses will match their electricity needs with renewable energy and reach net zero carbon emissions. In the nearer term, the DX Division will transition to 100 percent renewable energy by 2027 and achieve net zero carbon emissions by 2030.

▲ Inhee Chung, Vice President of Corporate Sustainability Center at Samsung Electronics, outlines the company’s new environmental strategy for everyday sustainability.

To further the company’s sustainability goals, Samsung outlined how Everyday Sustainability — building sustainability features into the company’s most popular products and services — will contribute to a healthier environment. This includes creating more sustainable products through innovative design in materials and energy efficiency.

“By building sustainability into the product experience, we, and the many people around the world who use our products, can contribute to a healthier planet,” said Inhee Chung, Vice President of Corporate Sustainability Center at Samsung. “As a result, some of our most popular products are now some of our most sustainable.”

Samsung announced that many of its TVs and smartphones use recycled materials, including recycled plastic from discarded finishing nets, while the company’s home appliances, memory and 5G radio network chipsets are contributing to energy savings for customers. In addition, Samsung’s connected services, such as SmartThings Energy and AI Energy Mode, are also helping consumers save energy and cut costs while lowering their overall climate impact.

▲ Vincent Stanley, Director of Philosophy at Patagonia, highlights the company’s collaboration with Samsung to create a new wash cycle called Less Microfiber, a groundbreaking function that reduces microplastic release by 54% during a laundry cycle.

Samsung also shared the stage with Patagonia, a global leader in outdoor clothing, to discuss a partnership to combat the issue of microplastics – the tiny particles often found in clothes and released into oceans, lakes and rivers through the laundry. Vincent Stanley, Director of Philosophy at Patagonia, spoke at the Samsung press conference about how the two companies have developed a new wash technology called the Less Microfiber Cycle,1 currently being incorporated into Samsung washing machines, which can reduce microplastic release by 54%2 during a laundry cycle. Like the Less Microfiber Cycle, Samsung and Patagonia recently developed the new Less Microfiber Filter,3 which reduces microplastic discharge by preventing them from escaping into the ocean at the end of a wash cycle.

▲ James Kwon, Product Manager, ENERGY STAR for Consumer Electronics at the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), discusses Samsung’s efforts to increase energy savings throughout its products.

Meanwhile, James Kwon, Product Manager, ENERGY STAR for Consumer Electronics at the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), announced that Samsung’s connected home experience with SmartThings is the first mass-market Smart Home Energy Management System to earn the prestigious ENERGY STAR SHEMS Certification. Samsung also continues to collaborate with diverse stakeholders in its sustainability efforts. For example, Samsung joined with the Carbon Trust and other technology leaders to develop the industry’s first specification for measuring, accounting for and decarbonizing the emissions associated with connected devices while being used by customers.

A Connected Home and Connected Life Built on Convenience

▲ Jaeyeon Jung, Executive Vice President and Head of SmartThings, introduces Samsung’s SmartThings system that provides more efficient and intuitive personalized experiences by maximizing connected devices and home appliances.

Samsung detailed plans to fulfill the connected experience today and in the future. During the company’s press conference, Jaeyeon Jung, Executive Vice President and Head of SmartThings, highlighted how features like SmartThings Home Monitor and SmartThings Pet Care bring convenience to the connected experience by monitoring and sharing alerts for anything out of the ordinary – for people and pets. Prompted by Samsung Smart TV, these services are some of the many ways Samsung and the connected platform SmartThings are creating an even smarter home.

▲ Alana Gomez-Solis, Corporate Communications Specialist at Samsung Electronics America, highlights how the many diverse features of SmartThings shape our daily lives.

A key part of this vision is increased interoperability, enabling consumers to connect more of their devices, whether they are Samsung’s or from a partner brand. As the industry looks to bring about a new level of compatibility through the Matter smart home standard, Samsung stated its commitment to this partnership philosophy. SmartThings was one of the first brands to adopt Matter, and Samsung is a founding member of the Home Connectivity Alliance (HCA).

Also, at the CES press conference, Samsung announced the latest smart home innovation, with the SmartThings Station — its first product to have Matter support built-in right from the beginning. It is a convenient, new way to kick-start SmartThings experiences at home and make it easier to interact with connected devices. SmartThings Station turns Samsung’s wireless charger into a smart home hub that can seamlessly transform the state of your home at the touch of a button.4

▲ Jasper Vervoort, Senior Vice President and General Manager at Philips Hue, presents the concept for a wholistic smart home experience, made possible through a growing technological ecosystem of various partnerships.

The focus on connected experiences also extended to unveiling new partnerships, including announcing an expanded collaboration with Philips Hue. Jasper Vervoort, Senior Vice President and General Manager at Philips Hue, discussed a new way to sync the content from Samsung TVs with Philips Hue lighting through the Philips Hue Sync TV app, which can be downloaded from the app store on Samsung TVs. This is the first solution to sync lighting and content from Samsung TVs without additional hardware.

▲ Shin Baik, Principal Engineer of Security Team, Mobile eXperience Business, shares the latest advancements in security and privacy with Knox Matrix, built on Samsung’s defense-grade security platform, to underscore the company’s commitment to keeping users’ data safe and secure.

With more devices connected than ever, Samsung also detailed how security and privacy innovations will be keys to building connected device ecosystems. The company is taking its device security experiences to the next level with its upcoming solution, Samsung Knox Matrix, which will conveniently and safely sync credentials across devices while protecting sensitive information via multi-layered mutual monitoring enabled by private blockchain technology.

▲ Marcus Futterlieb of HARMAN presents revamped in-vehicle experiences, including Ready Care that make driving safer and more comfortable using the latest technologies.

The connected experience is also extending to your commute. Marcus Futterlieb from HARMAN unveiled Samsung and HARMAN’s plans to inject a new level of intelligence, personalization and convenience into the in-cabin experience (ICX). Central to this effort is HARMAN Ready Care, which uses a machine learning algorithm to gather and process data from the car’s sensors to measure driver drowsiness and distraction, providing tailored interventions to mitigate risks and help improve the well-being of the driver.

A Vision for the Future

▲ Sebastian Seung, President of Samsung Research, explains the future of SmartThings related to Spatial AI and how it will continue to enrich our interactions with technology in the future.

The company also showcased next-generation innovations and technologies using the latest artificial intelligence (AI). Experiences enabled by Spatial AI — like in the JetBot AI+ — are laying the groundwork for better in-home experiences specific to the dimensions and environment of your space.

Samsung also gave a preview of Relumino Mode, which will come to select 2023 Samsung Neo QLED 8K and 4K TVs this year to make content viewing possible for people with vision impairment. Relumino Mode highlights outlines and improves contrast and color so that content is clearer and easier to enjoy.5 In addition, Samsung also displayed a new pair of Relumino glasses, which first debuted at CES 2018 as part of its startup acceleration program C-Lab project, as well as its mobile app to make the visual experience more enjoyable and personalized on every screen.

For more information, please visit Samsung.com.

IHG debuts voco brand in India with a signing in Jim Corbett

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IHG debuts voco brand in India with a signing in Jim Corbett

 IHG® Hotels & Resorts, one of the world’s leading hotel companies, has announced the signing of a management agreement with Satyadeo Hospitality Private Limited to convert Corbet Aamond Spa & Resort into India’s first voco hotel. The new voco Jim Corbett is scheduled to be rebranded by July 2024, adding 100 rooms to IHG’s premium portfolio in the country. The signing also marks introduction of the 7th brand from IHG’s global portfolio to the Indian market.

The distinctive, lifestyle brand, voco offers a premium experience to guests and combines the informality and charm of an individual hotel with the quality and reassurance of a global and respected brand. Since launching globally in 2018, voco has enjoyed rapid growth with multiple signings across Europe, Middle East, Africa and Asia (EMEAA), and the signing of voco Jim Corbett marks the brand’s debut in the South West Asia region.

A key part of voco’s offer for owners is the pace at which hotels are able to convert into IHG systems, helping them quickly benefit on a global scale and maximise their returns.

The new voco hotel will be located in the popular leisure gateway in North India, Jim Corbett which attracts high footfall from tourists. In addition to guest rooms, the hotel will feature an outdoor pool, a gymnasium, a spa beyond, an all-day dining restaurant and a bar. voco Jim Corbett’s indoor and outdoor banqueting spaces will cater to the demand from corporate and leisure guests, who are looking to benefit from the area’s excellent road connectivity with major cities in North India to host MICE including weddings and other occasions.

Located along the popular Dhikuli gate and within few minutes’ walk from the main market, voco Jim Corbett will have excellent visibility along the Kosi River and easy access to all major tourist spots in the area. The hotel is also strategically located in close proximity to the railway station and nearest airport in Pantnagar, positioning itself as the perfect destination for corporate and leisure guests.

Commenting on the signing, Sudeep Jain, Managing Director, SouthWest Asia, IHG Hotels & Resorts said, “We are delighted to partner with and welcome Satyadeo Hospitality Private Limited to the IHG family as we introduce the voco brand in India. voco has been one of IHG’s most successful brand launches, due to its refreshed guest offering, as well as interest from hotel owners who appreciate the brand’s flexibility and returns. We are excited for the opening of voco Jim Corbett in 2024 and are confident that the hotel will be much appreciated and enjoyed by our guests.

He further added, “This latest development is testament to our continued commitment to grow our footprint in India by bringing the right brands to the right markets. We are pleased with the confidence our owners have placed in our business and brands, and we look forward to further strengthening our portfolio in the country to offer exceptional hospitality to our guests.”

Pankaj Kashyap, Managing Director, Satyadeo Hospitality Private Limited added, “We are thrilled to partner with an internationally and locally trusted hospitality company like IHG to launch the voco brand in the country. With easy access from major cities such as Delhi NCR, Dehradun, and Agra, there is a very high demand for quality hotels in the Jim Corbett area for leisure as well as MICE. We are confident that once opened, voco Jim Corbett with its excellent location and exceptional proposition will be a great success.”

Mango passes the halfway point of the building works for its new headquarters, which will connect to a green area of 22 hectares

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Mango passes the halfway point of the building works for its new headquarters, which will connect to a green area of 22 hectares
  • The company is currently involved in the construction of its future corporate headquarters, which will connect to Parque de l’Hostal del Fum, a natural area equivalent to more than 22 football pitches with grassy meadows, streams and ponds inhabited by various species of local fauna and flora.
  • The Mango Campus, which will house over 2,200 employees, represents a total investment of 42 million euros, and has been conceived as a R+D+i centre that will allow the brand to face and adapt to the future needs of the company.
  • The new headquarters will comprise two office buildings interconnected via gardens and walkways, an auditorium for 200 people, a wellness centre con gymnasium, various showrooms and pilot stores, an external square and numerous green areas, among other installations.
  • Sustainability is one of the strategic cores of the project, which is why the new Mango Campus has been designed with sustainable materials and incorporates energy efficiency measures. It will also have solar panels and 100% of the electrical energy consumed will from renewable sources.

Mango, one of Europe’s leading fashion groups, has passed the halfway point in the construction of its new headquarters, which is forecast to open in 2024, for which it has designed a pioneering office complex that will connect with the Parque de l’Hostal del Fum, a natural environment of more than 22.5 hectares, the equivalent of more than 22 football pitches.

The new Mango Campus, located in Palau-solità i Plegamans (Barcelona), will house more than 2,200 employees, who will benefit from this green enclave that adjoins the offices, made up of grass meadows, paths, streams and ponds, inhabited by numerous species of local fauna and flora (pine trees, holm oak trees, poplar trees, river bank trees, thyme, rosemary, basil, in addition to small mammals and birds), and through which a tourist train runs.

In the words of Toni Ruiz, Mango’s Chief Executive Officer, “the new Mango Campus will represent a milestone in Mango’s history. On the one hand, the new, open and modern work environment will be a motor of change towards a new, more flexible and collaborative form of working for our employees. On the other, the opening of the Campus will be the perfect forty-year anniversary of the company”.

The Campus, which represents a total investment of 42 million euros, will comprise two office buildings interconnected via gardens and walkways that will house various work spaces for the different departments and activities of the company: design, dressmaking, samples, catalogues, photography sets, etc.
The Campus will also have a business centre with close to 25 meeting rooms and four multi-purpose rooms, two cafeterias with a canteen, an auditorium with capacity for over 200 people, a wellness centre with gymnasium, various showrooms, five pilot stores, an external square, green areas and a relaxation area and chill-out terrace on one of its buildings with capacity for over 300 people.

The external areas and its gardens will extend throughout the Campus, as well as in the internal and external patios, where it will be possible to go out to work, including under a movable roof. Furthermore, the company will apply the concept of rewilding beauty in its gardens, which will promote the predominance of local species, and incorporating species that existed before the construction of the building.

Background and current status of the project

The current Mango Campus was approved by Mango in 2020, within the context of a global pandemic, and in order to give the company a new headquarters building, a new corporate culture and to create a new way of working for its teams. The project, which will be fully complete in 2024, is currently at the halfway stage of construction.

Between 2021 and June 2022, the company focused its efforts on carrying out preliminary tasks to the construction related to site clearing and minor works, among others.

During the second half of 2022, Mango received the building permit and started construction on the structural part of the new complex, dividing the process into different areas (infrastructure, installations, flooring, etc.), 80% of which had already been tendered and awarded to different leading suppliers within their area of expertise in the construction sector.

For the overall conception and design of the project, Mango has counted on the collaboration and consultancy of two acclaimed architectural firms: CGA Architects and Cotecno, based in Barcelona and A Coruña respectively, who are also working together on the executive development and management of the project. For the execution of the landscaping works, the company has counted on the collaboration of the specialist firm AELAND.


A sustainable campus

As part of Mango’s commitment to sustainability, the architectural project of its new Campus has been designed to generate a low environmental impact, reduce CO2 emissions into the atmosphere and convert its offices into spaces that are more respectful to their surroundings and the planet.

With this in mind, the new Mango headquarters will install electrical charging points in its access areas and solar panels on the roofs of its two buildings and on the canopy that connects them, which will produce an annual renewable electrical energy supply of up to 1,040 MWh and result in a reduction in CO2 emissions of approximately 260 Tons, the equivalent of planting 27,500 trees.

In addition, the company has signed a renewable energy supply agreement under the PPA system with Acciona for the next ten years, whereby Mango will guarantee that 100% of the electrical energy consumed in its central offices (including the new Campus), its logistics warehouse in Lliçà d’Amunt (Barcelona) and ten of its largest stores in Spain will come from renewable sources.

The new headquarters will also implement energy efficiency measures such as high-efficiency and low consumption LED lighting, a system to regulate and control the building that will allow remote switching on and off, monitoring systems for energy consumption and rest rooms with low-consumption devices; as well as other mechanisms, such as aerothermics and inverter technology for the heating and ventilation of the buildings, which incorporate heat recovery systems to reuse the energy expelled to the outside.

To control its water impact, the Mango Campus will feature advances such as a system for the collection and use of rainwater for various purposes, such as the watering of green areas and gardens, of the roof of the new module to make it an urban garden and to make the central river bed an aquifer through wells in the flower beds.

As for the choice of building materials for the new Mango Campus, particular attention will be paid to their sustainable origin, through the selection of recycled and recyclable materials. Consequently, the work areas will feature natural rubber on the floors finished with environmentally-friendly and sustainable photo-catalytic paint to improve the quality of the inside air.

The roofs will be created using panels manufactured with recycled clothing fabrics and the coverings will be produced employing environmentally-friendly manufacturing processes, like the porcelain floors for the entrance and corridors.

We have also sought reparable finishes in line with the made to last philosophy in order to extend their useful life, adapting them to the changes and flexibility demanded by the building, therefore all work areas will feature detachable flooring over the technical floor to allow the areas to be reconfigured.

Similarly, we have considered aspects relating to acoustic comfort and air quality, therefore the auditorium will feature carpet flooring, the meeting rooms will be clad in recycled textiles and the industrial-look ceilings will be fitted with sound-absorbing panels to ensure a high level of acoustic comfort in all work areas. This strategy is likely to result in the Mango Campus being awarded a high score on the BREEAM sustainability certificate.


A new way of working

With this project, Mango aims to create a leading working model and go one step further in the way it works. The Mango Campus aims to generate a new way of collaborating, connecting, learning and innovating within the organisation. Flexible, open and inclusive workspaces designed to foster team work and community creation, while promoting the well-being of all employees with a unique and integrated culture.

The walkways that connect the different zones of the buildings and cross the landscaped patios, together with the main walkways, will encourage relationships between departments. What is more, to promote flexible working, the offices will be equipped with a wide range of ambiences for the work stations, with open meeting tables, informal meeting areas, closed meeting rooms, phone booths and areas for individual concentration.

The company is also working with Ilunion, part of Grupo Social ONCE and a leading organisation in Spain, to guarantee universal access to the building, especially for people with reduced mobility, as well as numerous measures and initiatives to guarantee the health and safety of employees in the work environment, such as heating and ventilation, ergonomics, lighting, etc.

Abu Dhabi Accountability Authority launches ADAA Smart application

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Abu Dhabi Accountability Authority launches ADAA Smart application

ABU DHABI, 9th January, 2023 (WAM) — Abu Dhabi Accountability Authority (ADAA) has launched the ADAA Smart application that offers several features, including access to the Wajib platform.

The app allows individuals to report financial or administrative misconduct that may be caused to public funds and resources, not only to investigate, but also to prevent them from happening.

The launch aims to encourage the sense of shared responsibility and promote a culture of awareness in preserving public resources in Abu Dhabi.

ADAA developed its digital platforms based on the highest global quality and information security standards as well as utilising the latest artificial intelligence technologies and optimal use of data. In addition, the app maintains user-confidentiality and privacy, promoting the value of accountability and raising the integrity of awareness of government employees and individuals, enhancing the emirate’s position and trust in its financial and economic systems.

The ADAA Smart app can be downloaded from Google Play and Apple Store, allowing all community members to access ADAA’s initiatives and platforms with convenience and ease including Wajib Platform, statutory auditors services, as well as the financial disclosure platform for senior government employees.

An ADAA spokesperson said that the digital transformation process reflects the authority’s vision and mandate to safeguard public funds, and that the creation of the ADAA Smart app is in line with the main themes of Abu Dhabi’s digitalisation agenda: government services, how to utilise and benefit from digital channels, government solutions that support joint digital transformation initiatives between government entities in Abu Dhabi, utilising artificial intelligence systems, and enhancing the emirate’s proactive role across many areas, including achieving high levels of integrity and transparency.

Aldar advances its position with improved ratings across three global benchmarks

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Aldar advances its position with improved ratings across three global benchmarks

ABU DHABI, 9th January, 2023 (WAM) — Aldar Properties (Aldar) has witnessed a robust year-on-year improvement in its ratings across three major global environmental, social, and governance (ESG) benchmarks, as gains continued to be made as a result of the strategic integration of ESG into the firm’s operating model.

Aldar’s higher ESG ratings from Sustainalytics, MSCI, and the S&P Dow Jones Sustainability Index (DJSI) were driven by enhanced data disclosure, governance, and risk management processes as well as improved supply chain and environmental management.

Aldar received an improved score of 16.1 on Sustainalytics’ ESG risk assessment scale in 2022, indicating a low level of ESG risk, compared to 16.6 in 2021. Results are measured on a scale of 0 to 100, with a rating between 10 and 20 classified as “Low Risk”. Aldar was ranked 11th in the global ranking of 104 diversified real estate companies analysed.

Aldar also saw an upgrade to its MSCI ESG rating in 2022 to “BBB” from “BB” in 2021. MSCI tracks exposure to ESG risks and how well companies manage those risks relative to peers.

Meanwhile, Aldar achieved 60 points in 2022 on the Dow Jones Sustainability Index, up from 58 points in 2021. The improved score moves the company into the top 7% of the 237 global real estate companies surveyed by DJSI.

Commenting on the improvement in ESG ratings, Salwa Al Maflahi, Director of Sustainability and CSR at Aldar, said, “The broad improvement in our ratings reflects the solid steps we have taken to enhance the quality of our data across the board and to enhance risk and governance processes. The commitments we have made to reduce our energy usage, enhance the quality of life in our communities and promote greater diversity and inclusivity are also demonstrated in the improvement of our ESG and sustainability ratings in 2022. While we have integrated sustainability into our operating model, we recognise that there is more work to be done, and we will continue to take the necessary measures that will further bolster our ratings and enrich shareholder value.”

During 2022, the steps Aldar took to reduce its carbon footprint included the signing of an agreement that will see 100 percent of Aldar’s owned and managed operating assets being powered by Emirates Water and Electricity Company’s clean energy sources for up to five years.

Aldar also launched a portfolio-wide energy management project to reduce its energy consumption by approximately 20 percent across 80 assets including hotels, schools, commercial, leisure, retail, and residential buildings.

In addition to reducing energy emissions, the project will enable Aldar to save approximately AED 40 million per year in energy consumption costs. This was followed by a commitment in September to invest AED 25 million in energy retrofit projects in 13 of its managed residential communities, making them more energy efficient and environmentally friendly. The investment will offset 19,000 tCO2 per year and reduce utility consumption by a total of AED 12 million per year across the 13 communities.

In August 2022, Aldar joined the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi)’s Expert Advisory Group for the buildings sector, making it the first Middle Eastern company to advise SBTi on a science-based net-zero target-setting for real estate and construction companies around the world.

Meanwhile, in November, Aldar joined the Clean Energy Business Council, a non-profit member association that is working to accelerate the transition towards clean energy in the MENA region, by connecting the public and private sectors.

HRH Crown Prince Announces Diriyah as PIF’s fifth Giga-project

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HRH Crown Prince Announces Diriyah as PIF’s fifth Giga-project
  • Diriyah becomes the fifth PIF giga-project after NEOM, Red Sea, Qiddiya, and Roshn projects
  • Giga-projects form a key part of PIF’s strategy due to their ability to create new economic ecosystems that drive economic growth and diversification in Saudi Arabia 
  • The Diriyah Project aligns with PIF’s strategy to focus on unlocking the capabilities of promising sectors, including tourism and culture in order to support Saudi Arabia’s position regionally and internationally as a leading tourism and cultural destination​

His Royal Highness Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman bin Abdulaziz, Prime Minister and Chairman of the Public Investment Fund (PIF) announced today the Diriyah Project as PIF’s fifth giga-project, reflecting Diriyah’s status as a unique destination with distinctive cultural, historical, and tourism landmarks.

The announcement reflects HRH the Crown Prince’s efforts in enabling the Saudi cultural  identity, which includes the Diriyah Project due to its historic, cultural, and political value proudly showcasing to the world Saudi Arabia’s 300 years of history. Diriyah Project is a globally significant destination that includes the Turaif District UNESCO World Heritage Site. These cultural and historical aspects position Diriyah as an unrivaled destination of global significance where the authenticity of Saudi heritage can be celebrated, revealing the historic origins of modern Saudi Arabia. Tourists will have the opportunity to explore and get to know Saudi’s history, and its culture at the city’s museums and purpose-built pavilions.

Giga-projects form a key pillar of PIF’s overall strategy, as they are instrumental in creating new economic ecosystems and launching new sectors that drive economic growth and diversification in Saudi Arabia, as well as creating investment opportunities across multiple sectors. PIF’s giga-projects portfolio currently includes NEOM, Red Sea, Qiddiya, Roshn, and now Diriyah projects.

The Diriyah giga-project is expected to enable many strategic domestic sectors, create partnerships with the local private sector, and unlock many new investment opportunities throughout its development and production phases in sectors such as construction, operation and management of hotels, retail, entertainment, and cultural facilities, creating thousands of new job opportunities and providing a series of initiatives designed to contribute to enriching the quality of life for residents and visitors.

Established by Royal Order in 2017, the Diriyah Gate Development Authority (DGDA) will continue its regulatory and supervisory role in maintaining the heritage and history of Diriyah. DGDA will also continue serving the Diriyah community, while providing full support to establish the Diriyah project as one of the world’s most prominent tourist destinations.

The Diriyah Project aligns with PIF’s strategy to focus on unlocking the capabilities of promising sectors, including the tourism and culture sectors, to support Saudi Arabia’s position regionally and internationally as a leading tourism and cultural destination.​

​

Investcorp set to invest $1bn in GCC real estate over next five years

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Investcorp set to invest $1bn in GCC real estate over next five years

MANAMA, 10th January, 2023 (WAM) — Investcorp, a Bahrain-based asset manager which counts Mubadala Investment Company as its biggest shareholder, announced today that it is planning to invest up to $1 billion in the real estate market in the GCC over the next five years.

This follows Investcorp’s first real estate acquisition in Saudi Arabia. The investment is a new, state-of-the-art, 215,000 square feet temperature-controlled warehouse located in Dammam.This is the first $100 million-worth of real estate investments the firm is currently assessing in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

The Dammam warehouse is fully leased to Racking Systems Logistics Services Company (also known as “RTL”), a third-party logistics company which serves the Saudi market in the temperature-controllaed warehousing and distribution segment.

The investment in the Dammam warehouse – which can store up to 32,000 pallets of goods – will bring the value of Investcorp’s global warehousing logistics investments to over $4 billion, representing approximately 42 million square feet of industrial space.

Hazem Ben-Gacem, Co-Chief Executive Officer of Investcorp, commented, “Investcorp is a natural partner in this growth journey, and this acquisition leverages our global experience investing in the logistics sector – particularly in the US, Europe and India. This is the first in a series of investments we are planning to make in the near future – to invest $1 billion over the next five years.”

Babak Sultani, Head of GCC Real Estate at Investcorp, said, “Our first acquisition of a warehouse facility in the GCC expands on our recent activity in the region where we see long-term growth dynamics, particularly in the Saudi Arabian market. We have ambitious plans across diversified real estate sectors that support healthcare, education, entertainment, consumer goods, tech-enabled services, manufacturing, transport and logistics, and industrial services.”

DIFC hosts over 250 companies managing assets worth $450 billion

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DIFC hosts over 250 companies managing assets worth $450 billion

DUBAI, 9th January, 2023 (WAM) — Arif Amiri, CEO of Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) Authority, affirmed that the centre has become a major engine for economic growth in Dubai and the UAE, with its contribution of about 5 percent of the value of the nominal GDP of the emirate of Dubai.

In an interview with the Emirates News Agency (WAM), Amiri said that the centre is the largest in wealth and asset management in the region, with more than 250 companies managing assets worth more than US$450 billion and more than 100 international funds operating locally.

According to estimates, the contribution of financial companies operating from DIFC to the financial services sector in the country exceeds 13 percent of the nominal GDP of the emirate of Dubai during the year 2021, he added.

He stated that the centre is currently one of the most prominent financial centres in the world and the leading financial centre in the Middle East, Africa and South Asia (MEASA) region, which includes more than 72 countries with a population of approximately 3 billion people, and an estimated gross domestic product of US$8 trillion.

Amiri pointed out that the centre maintained its leading position among global financial centres, as Dubai ranked first in the Middle East and among the top 20 globally on the Global Financial Centres Index for 2022, stressing that DIFC is one of the most advanced financial centres in the world, in addition to being the largest financial system in the region.

He added that among the 4,031 companies registered in DIFC, the centre hosts 17 of the top 20 banks in the world, 25 of the 30 most important banks of systemic importance globally, 5 of the top 10 insurance companies, and 5 of the top 10 asset management companies, and many other leading law and consulting companies at the global level.

Amiri stated that DIFC enjoys a pioneering operating environment and legal and regulatory frameworks that are in line with the best international standards, in addition to the abundance of innovative offers and the depth of its administrative system, which contributed to the success of the centre in attracting 1252 related companies specialised in finance and innovation, while the first six months of last year witnessed an increase in the number of financial technology companies and innovation companies registered in the centre to 599 companies, a year-on-year increase by 23 percent.

He also pointed out that the centre’s strategic location helps wealth and asset managers access emerging wealth in the fast-growing markets in the MEASA region.

The CEO of DIFC Authority said that the centre will continue its leading role in defining the parameters of the sector by launching initiatives that are consistent with its strategy for the year 2030, which contribute to attracting new business and talents to the centre’s exceptional system at an unprecedented pace.

He asserted that the centre’s successes were based on several factors, including the launch of financial technology and innovation initiatives; developing laws and regulatory frameworks; and striving to create influential and effective economic thought patterns with counterparts from other financial centres around the world.

Amiri explained that DIFC contributed to highlighting the promising investment opportunities in Dubai by organising successful tours and promotions in the United States of America, which witnessed the attendance of senior executives of more than 100 leading American financial services and technology companies. In addition, the centre’s promotional tour in Türkiye included holding a series of strategic meetings with key customers and partners in Istanbul.

At the level of the Middle East region, he said that DIFC organised a promotional tour in the Egyptian capital, Cairo, attended by 89 companies and entrepreneurs, to review the role of the emirate of Dubai and the centre in providing support and assistance to family businesses to improve their institutional and financial system and seize available opportunities to employ and adopt modern digital technologies.

Amiri explained that in addition to supporting new clients, DIFC cooperates with its existing clients to seize more opportunities in the region. “The past year witnessed a number of clients seeking to upgrade their work licences at the centre, including Societe Generale Bank and Al Ahli Bank of Kuwait,” he added.

The CEO of DIFC Authority stressed that the centre introduced and updated the laws and regulations in force, with the aim of strengthening its leading position, as it included incorporating amendments to the data protection law to ensure that its regulatory framework is compatible with the best international practices adopted.

Asked about the most prominent international companies and institutions that have recently joined DIFC, Amiri said that the list of new clients included Tarabut Gateway, the first UAE-based platform fully authorised by the Dubai Financial Services Authority (DFSA) for Open Finance activities; KMMRCE Holdings, a leading Dubai-based digital-first technology provider; Oneglobal Broking, specialist international broking company; ADIB Capital for Wealth and Asset Management; as well as Rapyd, which started operating in accordance with the laws and regulations in force in the country.

Amiri pointed out that DIFC signed a number of agreements and Memoranda of Understanding (MoU) last year, including the MoU signed with the UAE Central Bank in support of the efforts to develop and expand the financial technology sector in the country, in addition to the Open Finance Lab initiative, the first of its kind in the region, as well as the signing of the “India-UAE Startup Bridge” agreement.

He also added that the “Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Coding licence” was also launched to encourage more companies to establish a presence in DIFC.

Determining the Appropriate Budget for Advertising on Instagram for a Hotel

Agency News
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Determining the Appropriate Budget for Advertising on Instagram for a Hotel

The right budget for paid advertising on Instagram for a hotel will depend on several factors, such as the size of the hotel, its location, and the target audience. A small hotel in a rural area may not need to spend as much on advertising as a larger hotel in a major city. Additionally, the target audience for a luxury hotel may be different than that for a budget hotel.

In general, it’s a good idea to start with a small budget and gradually increase it as you learn more about what works for your hotel. A budget of $500 to $1,000 per month is a good starting point for many small to medium-sized hotels. However, it may be necessary to spend more if you are trying to reach a large audience in a competitive market.

When creating your ad campaign, it’s important to focus on your goals and target audience. For example, if you want to increase bookings during the low season, you may want to target people who live in your hotel’s surrounding area and are likely to be looking for a nearby place to stay. If you want to promote your hotel’s amenities, you may want to target people who are interested in travel and have shown an interest in similar hotels or resorts.

Once your ad campaign is up and running, be sure to track your results and adjust your budget and targeting as needed. Also it’s important to keep in mind that Instagram’s Ad bidding model and metrics (CPM, CPC) play a role, so you need to be aware and optimize accordingly.

It’s also worth considering testing different formats and targeting to reach the highest conversion rate. i.e. video ad may convert better than picture and also targeting based on interests and demographics may be more effective.

At EVOPS Marketing & PR we specialize in social media marketing including Instagram advertising. We can help you create and manage your Instagram advertising campaigns, from developing ad copy and designing visuals to targeting your ads to the right audience. Some of the services offered by our agency include:

  • Campaign planning and strategy: The agency will work with you to understand your goals and target audience, and develop a plan to reach them through Instagram advertising.
  • Ad creation and design: The agency will help you create effective ads that will catch the attention of your target audience and encourage them to take action. This can include designing visuals, writing ad copy, and filming videos.
  • Targeting and optimization: The agency will use Instagram’s targeting and optimization tools to make sure your ads are reaching the right people and performing well. This can include targeting specific demographics, interests, and behaviors, as well as testing different ad formats and targeting options.
  • Reporting and analysis: The agency will provide you with detailed reports on the performance of your ads, including metrics like reach, engagement, and conversions. We can use this data to make adjustments to your campaigns and improve results over time.
  • Continuous improvement: the agency will keep an eye on trends and new features of Instagram and other social media platforms, that can help drive results for the business.

When choosing an agency, it’s important to consider factors such as their experience in your industry, their portfolio of past clients and campaigns, and their approach to targeting and optimization. You should also take into account their ability to communicate effectively and deliver results in a timely manner.

It’s also important to have a clear agreement on expectations, budget and communication, to ensure that you and the agency are aligned.

Reach us on md@evops-pr.com or +971 50 6975146

Unlock the Power of TikTok for Your Business

Hina Bakht
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Unlock the Power of TikTok for Your Business

TikTok is a social media platform that has gained significant popularity in recent years, especially among younger users. It is known for its short-form, lip-sync, and dance videos, which are typically set to popular music or sound bites from movies, television shows, and other media. The platform has also become a popular outlet for creative expression, with users creating and sharing a wide range of content, including comedy skits, vlogs, and tutorials. TikTok has also been credited with helping to launch the careers of a number of creators who have gained large followings on the platform. Despite its popularity, TikTok has faced controversy and scrutiny, including over issues related to data privacy and potential national security concerns.

All said, TikTok can be a powerful marketing tool for businesses of all sizes. By creating engaging and entertaining content that resonates with the platform’s user base, businesses can use TikTok to increase brand awareness, generate leads, and drive sales.

There are a few key strategies that businesses can use to effectively market on TikTok:

  1. Create and share high-quality content: Success on TikTok depends on creating content that is interesting, creative, and resonates with the platform’s users. Businesses should focus on creating content that is aligned with their brand and values, and that is consistent with the platform’s style and tone.
  2. Use hashtags and participate in challenges: TikTok’s hashtag and challenge features can be powerful ways to increase the reach and engagement of your content. By participating in popular challenges or creating your own branded challenges, businesses can attract new followers and get their content in front of a wider audience.
  3. Collaborate with TikTok creators: Partnering with popular TikTok creators can be a effective way to get your brand in front of a large and engaged audience. Collaborations can take many forms, including sponsored content, product placements, or influencer marketing campaigns.
  4. Utilize paid advertising: TikTok offers a range of paid advertising options, including in-feed ads, branded hashtags, and branded effects. These options can help businesses reach a targeted audience and drive conversions.

Overall, the key to success on TikTok is to create high-quality content that resonates with the platform’s users and to engage with the TikTok community through hashtags, challenges, and collaborations.

At EVOPS Marketing and PR we offer comprehensive TikTok marketing services to businesses of all sizes. Our team not only specializes in creating and executing marketing campaigns on TikTok and other social media platforms, but we provide a full range of services including content creation, influencer partnerships, paid advertising, and more.

Reach us on md@evops-pr.com or +971 50 697 5146

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