Saudi Arabia to Implement Strategic Approach to Develop Biotechnologies at Global Level

The Riyadh International Biomedical Technology Summit concluded on Thursday. (Asharq Al-Awsat)
The Riyadh International Biomedical Technology Summit concluded on Thursday. (Asharq Al-Awsat)
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Saudi Arabia to Implement Strategic Approach to Develop Biotechnologies at Global Level

The Riyadh International Biomedical Technology Summit concluded on Thursday. (Asharq Al-Awsat)
The Riyadh International Biomedical Technology Summit concluded on Thursday. (Asharq Al-Awsat)

Participants in the Riyadh Global Biomedical Technology Summit underlined the need to launch an international coalition to work on the implementation of a set of recommendations issued at the end of the two-day conference.

Held under the auspices of Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman, the Riyadh International Biomedical Technology Summit concluded on Thursday, with the participation of a large number of government officials, experts and scientists in biomedical technology.

The conference emphasized the importance of maximizing health technology investment and cell and gene therapy, as well as researching ways to eliminate solid tumors by targeting cancer cells using cell therapy, and improving research and development productivity.

Bandar Al-Khorayef, Saudi Minister of Industry and Mineral Resources, said that the Kingdom followed a strategic and comprehensive approach to building the right infrastructure for biotechnology on a global level, with the aim to attract the best talents, promote innovation, and turn Saudi Arabia into an international leader in the field of healthcare and life sciences.

The minister added that Saudi Arabia had 50 registered pharmaceutical factories that cover the domestic reserves, with a rate of 28 percent in terms of value, and 42 percent in terms of volume, noting that pharmaceutical exports amounted to 1.5 million riyals ($400,000).

Al-Khorayef emphasized that the chemical pharmaceutical sector in the Kingdom “has proven its efficiency and ability to deal with challenges during the pandemic.”

Eng. Suliman Almazroua, CEO of the National Industrial Development and Logistics Program (NIDLP), touched on the Saudi Vision 2030 programs, which seek to transform the country into a leading industrial power in the world and the region.

The conference sessions discussed clinical trials, the development of the working mechanisms of the Real World Evidence (RWD), and the significant role of the Real World Data and artificial intelligence in reading the present and the assumed future.



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.