STC Solutions Announces Binding Offer to Acquire Giza Systems Co.

STC announced a binding offer to acquire 89.49% of Giza Systems Co. from Inergia Technologies for Information Systems. (Asharq Al-Awsat)
STC announced a binding offer to acquire 89.49% of Giza Systems Co. from Inergia Technologies for Information Systems. (Asharq Al-Awsat)
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STC Solutions Announces Binding Offer to Acquire Giza Systems Co.

STC announced a binding offer to acquire 89.49% of Giza Systems Co. from Inergia Technologies for Information Systems. (Asharq Al-Awsat)
STC announced a binding offer to acquire 89.49% of Giza Systems Co. from Inergia Technologies for Information Systems. (Asharq Al-Awsat)

Saudi Arabian Internet and Communications Services Co. (solutions by STC) announced a binding offer to acquire 89.49% of Giza Systems Co. from Inergia Technologies for Information Systems, in addition to 34% of Giza Arabia, a subsidiary of Giza Systems.

In a statement to Tadawul, solutions said the transaction will be based on an enterprise value of $158 million, to be paid in cash.

Solutions said the acquisition is part of STC’s expansion plans and solutions’ strategic plans to lead digital transformation in Saudi Arabia.

It represents a strategic step in line with solutions’ international expansion strategy and an opportunity to enhance the Kingdom’s position and its information and communication technology (ICT) sector.

Digital transformation in the Kingdom has been witnessing a strong qualitative leaps, in light of Vision 2030, which places digitalization as one of its key pillars.

Solutions plays a leading role in enabling digital transformation and contributing to the Kingdom’s digital future by providing innovative and integrated digital solutions, being STC’s technology arm.

It is a leading IT service provider in the Kingdom’s business sector. It started operations over two decades ago and provided digital solutions for the public and private sectors. It has a strong experience through partnerships with more than 150 global and local partners.

The statement said Giza Systems is an information technology leading systems integrator that provides many technical solutions.

It has a track record of more than 40 years and has developed to become a regional power, digital transformation enabler and a leader in systems integration in the Middle East and North Africa region.

Giza Systems has offices in Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar and the United States, which allows it to provide its services to an ever-increasing client base in over 25 countries.

CEO of solutions Omar al-Noamani said the acquisition reflects the company’s intention to enhance its position in global markets, such as the UAE, Egypt and Qatar, and to enter new markets and expand business lines to meet the evolving needs of its customers and investor expectations.



Saudia Soars to 17th in Global Airline Rankings Amid Bold Transformation

A Saudia aircraft (Company’s website)
A Saudia aircraft (Company’s website)
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Saudia Soars to 17th in Global Airline Rankings Amid Bold Transformation

A Saudia aircraft (Company’s website)
A Saudia aircraft (Company’s website)

In a remarkable leap forward, Saudia has climbed to 17th place in the 2025 Skytrax ranking of the world’s best airlines, marking a significant improvement from its 82nd position in 2016.

The achievement comes as the global aviation sector grapples with mounting challenges, including supply chain disruptions, fluctuating demand, and the pressures of infrastructure development.

The milestone reflects the success of Saudia’s comprehensive transformation strategy aimed at strengthening its global standing and enhancing passenger experience. For the fourth consecutive year, the national carrier has also earned the title of the “World’s Most Improved Airline”, underscoring its sustained trajectory of growth and improvement.

Skytrax, a leading international airline and airport rating organization, bases its rankings on strict criteria, including both in-flight and ground service quality. Its annual awards are often referred to as the “Oscars of the aviation industry.”

Speaking to Asharq Al-Awsat, Eng. Abdullah Al-Shahrani, General Manager of Communication and official spokesperson for Saudia Group, confirmed that the airline is undergoing a sweeping upgrade of its fleet interiors.

A multi-year program to refurbish cabins in both Business and Economy classes is set to begin later this year and conclude by 2027.

In line with its push toward digital innovation, the airline has launched a pilot version of an AI-powered virtual assistant. This new platform is designed to streamline travel by integrating services such as bookings, hotel accommodations, ground transport, and entertainment.

Digital Transformation

Saudia’s transformation is not limited to passenger comfort. Al-Shahrani detailed a complete overhaul of the airline’s digital infrastructure, including instant booking for delayed or canceled flights, a digital wallet, and a reimagined booking, payment, and refund system. Most notably, refund processing times have been reduced from 40 days to under one minute.

Operationally, the airline continues to set high standards. In March 2025, Saudia recorded a 94.07% on-time arrival rate and 94% on-time departure rate, placing it among the top 10 most punctual carriers worldwide.

Strategic Growth Amid Global Challenges

Despite global and regional headwinds, including the need for large-scale infrastructure upgrades to host future mega-events such as Expo 2030 and the 2034 FIFA World Cup, Saudia is moving forward with bold expansion plans.

According to Al-Shahrani, the airline now operates flights to more than 145 international destinations, while positioning Jeddah as a major global air hub. This expansion is supported by the broader Saudia Group, which includes specialized subsidiaries in aircraft maintenance, training, and ground handling services.

As the Kingdom’s national carrier, Saudia plays a central role in advancing the goals of Saudi Vision 2030. The airline is actively contributing to the National Aviation Strategy, which aims to attract 330 million visitors annually, serve 30 million Hajj and Umrah pilgrims, and connect Saudi Arabia to over 250 global destinations. Additionally, the plan targets 4.5 million tons in annual air cargo capacity by 2030.

Looking ahead, Saudia is embarking on one of the largest fleet expansions in its history. By 2032, the airline expects to receive more than 118 new aircraft, including 49 Boeing 787 Dreamliners. Earlier this year, the carrier signed a landmark deal with Airbus to purchase 105 new A320neo aircraft, the largest such order in Saudi aviation history.

In April 2025, Saudia further bolstered its future capabilities with a new order for 20 wide-body Airbus A330neo aircraft, of which 10 will be operated by its low-cost subsidiary, Flyadeal.