Digital Technology Forum Discusses Role of Local Content in Saudi Tech Sector

The Digital Technology Forum will feature nine dialogue sessions and presentations by 25 specialized speakers, who will discuss enabling local technology products and Blockchain technology. (Asharq Al-Awsat)
The Digital Technology Forum will feature nine dialogue sessions and presentations by 25 specialized speakers, who will discuss enabling local technology products and Blockchain technology. (Asharq Al-Awsat)
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Digital Technology Forum Discusses Role of Local Content in Saudi Tech Sector

The Digital Technology Forum will feature nine dialogue sessions and presentations by 25 specialized speakers, who will discuss enabling local technology products and Blockchain technology. (Asharq Al-Awsat)
The Digital Technology Forum will feature nine dialogue sessions and presentations by 25 specialized speakers, who will discuss enabling local technology products and Blockchain technology. (Asharq Al-Awsat)

The Saudi Communications and Information Technology Commission (CITC) is holding this Sunday the Digital Technology Forum 2022, under the title, “Enabling Local Technology Products”, with a focus on Blockchain technology.

Held under the patronage of Eng. Abdullah Al-Sawaha, Minister of Communications and Information Technology, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the CITC, the forum extends over two days and is being held in partnership with the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology, the Saudi Exports Development Authority, the Content and Government Procurement Authority, and with the participation of a number of officials and local and international experts.

The forum will feature nine dialogue sessions and presentations by 25 specialized speakers, who will discuss enabling local technology products and Blockchain technology.

The speakers include Haitham Al-Ohali, Saudi Deputy Minister of Communications and Information Technology, Engineer Osama Al-Zamil, Deputy Minister of Industry and Mineral Resources, Dr. Muhammad Al-Tamimi, Governor of the Communications and Information Technology Commission, and Eng. Ahmed Alsuwaiyan, Governor of the Digital Government Authority.

The event will also be attended by Sherif El-Malt, Public Sector Leader in Europe, Middle East and Africa at Oracle, Anthony Butler, Chief Technology Officer at IBM, Tobias Bauer, Principal at the Blockchain Founders Fund, and Anthony Day, founder of Blockchain Podcast.

The forum will also witness the launch of a number of businesses and initiatives, and an exhibition displaying more than 35 local technology and Blockchain products by more than 30 Saudi companies.

The forum will start with an inaugural presentation, followed by a session dedicated to government’s role in developing and supporting the local technical product, with the participation of a number of Saudi ministers.

The first day will also feature multiple presentations on the “Local Tech Product: A Promising Future,” while another session will review programs on enabling local content, with a presentation on the future directions of technologies and entrepreneurial opportunities.

The second day will witness a main presentation entitled, “Blockchain - Between Promises and Reality”, followed by a dialogue session on “Harnessing the Power of the Blockchain for Digital Government.”



Saudi's flynas Strikes Deal for Additional Airbus A320neos, 15 A330s

Saudi's flynas strikes deal for additional Airbus A320neos, 15 A330s (flynas)
Saudi's flynas strikes deal for additional Airbus A320neos, 15 A330s (flynas)
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Saudi's flynas Strikes Deal for Additional Airbus A320neos, 15 A330s

Saudi's flynas strikes deal for additional Airbus A320neos, 15 A330s (flynas)
Saudi's flynas strikes deal for additional Airbus A320neos, 15 A330s (flynas)

flynas, Saudi Arabia’s leading low-cost carrier, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Airbus for 75 A320neo family aircraft and 15 A330-900. This strategic agreement will expand the airline's capacity, range and enhance its overall fleet capabilities.
Signed during Farnborough International Airshow in the presence of President of the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) of Saudi Arabia, Abdulaziz bin Abdullah Al-Duailej, Chairman of the Board of NAS Holding Ayed Al Jeaid, flynas Chief Executive Officer & Managing Director Bandar Almohanna, and Airbus Chief Executive Officer, Commercial Aircraft, Christian Scherer, Airbus said on its website.
The new aircraft will join the carrier’s all Airbus fleet serving international, domestic and regional routes. The new A330-900 aircraft will boast a two-class configuration, accommodating up to 400 passengers.
"We are excited to further strengthen our long-standing partnership with Airbus," said Bander Almohanna, CEO and Managing Director of flynas. "The A320neo Family provides exceptional operational performance and environmental benefits, allowing us to offer unique, low-cost travel experiences. Additionally, the A330neowill enhance our long-haul capabilities with its advanced technology and efficiency while supporting our growth plans and Saudi Arabia’s pilgrim program."
Airbus Chief Executive Officer, Commercial Aircraft, Christian Scherer said, "We are delighted to expand our partnership with flynas through this significant milestone for both A320neo and A330-900 aircraft. The A330neo will allow flynas to further grow into widebody markets by building on the A320, benefiting from Airbus’ unique commonality. Both aircraft types offer flynas the perfect versatility and economics to expand into new markets while offering their passengers the latest cabin experience and comfort. We look forward to continuing our successful collaboration with flynas as they embark on this exciting new chapter."
The addition of the A330-900 aircraft will support flynas' ambitious growth plans. The airline anticipates significant operational efficiency gains by combining the new widebody aircraft with its existing A320neo fleet. The A330-900 offers increased capacity and range at unrivaled seat costs, ensuring flynas can compete effectively in the growing regional market, a key focus area for the airline.
The A330neo delivers unbeatable operating economics, powered by the latest-generation Rolls-Royce Trent 7000 engines, featuring new wings and a range of aerodynamic innovations resulting in a 25 percent reduction in fuel consumption and CO₂ emissions compared to previous generation competitor aircraft. The A330neo is capable of flying 8,150 nm / 15,094 km non-stop, providing ultimate comfort with more passenger space, a new lighting system, latest in-flight entertainment systems and full connectivity throughout the cabin.
As with all Airbus aircraft, the A330 family is already able to operate with up to 50% Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF). The manufacturer is targeting to have its aircraft up to 100% SAF capable by 2030.