Saudi Arabia Launches Training Program to Combat Money Laundering, Terrorism Financing

Director-General of Saudi Arabia’s Financial Academy Mana bin Mohammed Al-Khamsan. (Asharq Al-Awsat)
Director-General of Saudi Arabia’s Financial Academy Mana bin Mohammed Al-Khamsan. (Asharq Al-Awsat)
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Saudi Arabia Launches Training Program to Combat Money Laundering, Terrorism Financing

Director-General of Saudi Arabia’s Financial Academy Mana bin Mohammed Al-Khamsan. (Asharq Al-Awsat)
Director-General of Saudi Arabia’s Financial Academy Mana bin Mohammed Al-Khamsan. (Asharq Al-Awsat)

Saudi Arabia has unveiled a new training program to fight money laundering and terrorism financing. The initiative targets leaders in financial and non-financial sectors across the country.

The announcement was made during the "Arab Forum for Anti-Corruption Agencies and Financial Intelligence Units," a two-day event sponsored by Prince Mohammed bin Salman, Crown Prince and Prime Minister of Saudi Arabia, in Riyadh.

The 18-month program aims to train personnel to better prevent, analyze, and report illegal activities. It also seeks to improve information sharing between financial institutions and regulatory bodies, bolstering the overall integrity of the financial system.

The program, presented by Mana bin Mohammed Al-Khamsan, Director-General of Saudi Arabia’s Financial Academy, is a joint effort with the Kingdom’s state security and an international consultancy.

Al-Khamsan stressed the importance of combating financial crimes and highlighted the academy’s commitment to providing specialized training and certifications.

Aligned with Saudi Arabia’s national transformation plan, Vision 2030, the academy aims to support entities combating corruption and financial crimes. It has conducted over 500 training programs benefiting thousands of professionals from various sectors.

Al-Khamsan emphasized the value of professional certifications in boosting workforce efficiency, noting partnerships with respected international associations and institutions.



Saudi Transport, Logistics Sector Set for 10% Growth in Q2

An investor monitors a trading screen at the Saudi financial market in Riyadh. (AFP)
An investor monitors a trading screen at the Saudi financial market in Riyadh. (AFP)
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Saudi Transport, Logistics Sector Set for 10% Growth in Q2

An investor monitors a trading screen at the Saudi financial market in Riyadh. (AFP)
An investor monitors a trading screen at the Saudi financial market in Riyadh. (AFP)

As Saudi companies start reporting their Q2 financial results, experts are optimistic about the transport and logistics sector. They expect a 10% annual growth, with total net profits reaching around SAR 900 million ($240 million), driven by tourism and an economic corridor project.

In Q1, the seven listed transport and logistics companies in Saudi Arabia showed positive results, with combined profits increasing by 5.8% to SAR 818.7 million ($218 million) compared to the previous year.

Four companies reported profit growth, while three saw declines, including two with losses, according to Arbah Capital.

Al Rajhi Capital projects significant gains for Q2 compared to last year: Lumi Rental’s profits are expected to rise by 31% to SAR 65 million, SAL’s by 76% to SAR 192 million, and Theeb’s by 23% to SAR 37 million.

On the other hand, Aljazira Capital predicts a 13% decrease in Lumi Rental’s net profit to SAR 43 million, despite a 44% rise in revenue. This is due to higher operational costs post-IPO.

SAL’s annual profit is expected to grow by 76% to SAR 191.6 million, driven by a 29% increase in revenue and higher profit margins.

Aljazira Capital also expects a 2.8% drop in the sector’s net profit from Q1 due to lower profits for SAL and Seera, caused by reduced revenue and profit margins.

Mohammad Al Farraj, Head of Asset Management at Arbah Capital, told Asharq Al-Awsat that the sector’s continued profit growth is supported by seasonal factors like summer travel and higher demand for transport services.

He predicts Q2 profits will reach around SAR 900 million ($240 million), up 10% from Q1.

Al Farraj highlighted that the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC), linking India with the GCC and Europe, is expected to boost sector growth by improving trade and transport connections.

However, he warned that companies may still face challenges, including rising costs and workforce shortages.