Decision-Makers Discuss in Riyadh Challenges of Global Mining Sector

The Saudi capital will host next week an international conference to discuss the challenges facing the mining sector. (Ali Al Dhaheri)
The Saudi capital will host next week an international conference to discuss the challenges facing the mining sector. (Ali Al Dhaheri)
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Decision-Makers Discuss in Riyadh Challenges of Global Mining Sector

The Saudi capital will host next week an international conference to discuss the challenges facing the mining sector. (Ali Al Dhaheri)
The Saudi capital will host next week an international conference to discuss the challenges facing the mining sector. (Ali Al Dhaheri)

The Saudi Ministry of Industry and Mineral Resources will organize on Jan. 11-13 in Riyadh, the International Mining Conference, which will be an opportunity for governments, companies and investors to discuss various issues and challenges facing the sector in the past two years.

Challenges of the Sector
In this context, the Global Mining Risk Survey 2021 report, issued by KPMG International, noted that the disruption of global supply chains posed a future challenge for the sector, adding that the cyclical fluctuations in global resource markets presented some difficulties for the mining sector.

With the market frequently unstable, the report said that mining companies must plan ahead, while boosting their use of scarce natural resources and pressing for cost solutions. It also stressed the need to increase focus on social responsibility programs.

According to the report, mining companies need to develop a more accurate view of the markets in which they operate, in order to chart the direction in which commodity prices are likely to head and make the right strategic decisions.

Sector Response
The reported noted that although the coronavirus pandemic has caused an economic recession in most countries of the world, it also led to higher stimulus spending in most key areas. This has increased demand for basic commodities, and prompted the mining sector to respond quickly to the unprecedented challenges posed by the pandemic, while ensuring the safety of employees and maintaining the security of supply chains.

The report indicated that commodity price fluctuations will force mining companies to constantly adjust their mine operations plans, in order to reach a much-needed value attraction, in the face of ever-changing market conditions.

Supply Chains
The problem of global supply chains continues to harm various industries, including mining, the report noted, which means that metal prices will rise in the next few months, and accordingly, the retail markets and the automobile industry will also be affected.

As for the means to solve the problem of supply chain disruptions, it will depend, to some extent, on the efforts to combat the spread of the coronavirus, especially with the emergence of the Omicron variant.

Nevertheless, the report pointed to signs of optimism as freight rates have decreased significantly in Asia and in freight lanes between the US West Coast, Asia and Europe.

Contrasting prices
According to Bloomberg’s analysis, in August 2021, the picture was not so bleak all the time for the mining sector, as iron was a big driver of profits for the largest producers, while the commodity hit a record level in the first half, at USD200 per ton.

Despite the recent decline in the prices of some commodities amid fears of a new surge of coronavirus cases, and with China’s move to limit the rise in costs, the prices of basic commodities for all categories are still registering record levels at the present time.



Apple Expands its Presence in Saudi Arabia with Launch of Arabic Online Store  

A concept image of the Apple Store. (Asharq Al-Awsat)
A concept image of the Apple Store. (Asharq Al-Awsat)
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Apple Expands its Presence in Saudi Arabia with Launch of Arabic Online Store  

A concept image of the Apple Store. (Asharq Al-Awsat)
A concept image of the Apple Store. (Asharq Al-Awsat)

Apple has officially launched its online store in Arabic for customers in Saudi Arabia, marking a significant step in the company’s expansion strategy for the region. The move also aligns with its plans to open a physical retail store in the Kingdom as part of a broader effort to deepen its regional presence.

According to Deirdre O’Brien, Senior Vice President of Retail and People at Apple, this step reflects the company’s growing commitment to Saudi Arabia and its rapidly expanding customer base.

The Arabic-language store is now accessible through Apple’s website and via the Apple Store app on smart devices.

In an interview with Asharq Al-Awsat, O’Brien expressed strong enthusiasm about bringing the Apple retail experience to Saudi Arabia. She emphasized the company’s longstanding presence in the Kingdom and noted that Saudi customers are deeply passionate about Apple products. This launch, she said, will help strengthen Apple’s direct relationship with communities across the country.

She also explained that both the online store and the upcoming physical location are part of Apple’s broader strategy in the Middle East. The company already operates several retail locations in the United Arab Emirates and continues to see strong demand for its products across the Gulf.

Investing in local economy

When asked about Apple’s investment in the Saudi economy, O’Brien pointed to initiatives such as the Apple Developer Academy, which is focused on nurturing and empowering local talent.

She described the company’s investment as one that aims to inspire individuals and support creativity. By combining Apple’s technology with passionate communities, she said, remarkable things can be achieved.

Apple has tailored the online store to meet the specific needs of Saudi customers. Features include live chat with Apple specialists in Arabic, customizable product options for devices like Mac and Apple Watch, and the ability to engrave AirPods and other accessories in Arabic or with emojis.

O’Brien highlighted the importance of making the full Apple experience accessible to customers in Saudi Arabia both online and in-store. She also noted that Apple offers device trade-in programs to accommodate users from different segments.

With e-commerce on the rise in Saudi Arabia, Apple is aiming to deliver a seamless shopping journey that blends both digital and physical experiences. O’Brien stated that Apple’s retail model has been designed to reflect modern shopping behavior, where customers move easily between online and in-store interactions. Whether a purchase begins online and ends in a store, or vice versa, Apple aims to provide consistent, high-quality support throughout.

Landmark store in Riyadh

Apple’s first physical store in Saudi Arabia is set to open in Diriyah, a UNESCO World Heritage site and a prominent cultural destination in Riyadh.

O’Brien described Diriyah as a unique and special location. She said Apple is committed to ensuring each of its stores reflects the local identity and culture, and that the new store in Saudi Arabia will be no exception.

She encouraged local customers to visit once the store opens, expressing confidence that the experience will be both unique and memorable.

Retail services

Apple is continuing to strengthen its presence in Saudi Arabia by focusing on innovation, engaging more closely with the local community, and delivering a retail experience designed to support and serve users throughout the Kingdom.

The new Arabic online store allows Saudi customers to browse and purchase Apple’s full product lineup. The experience is personalized, offering product recommendations based on the customer’s current devices. Customers can also compare models, access saved items, and track orders directly through the app.

For the first time, Apple is offering free consultations in Arabic and English through the Saudi store website. These sessions allow users to personalize products like AirPods, Apple Pencil, and AirTag with Arabic or English text and numbers, enhancing the individuality of each device.

Apple’s retail offering also includes pre-purchase support through chat and phone to help users find the best product for their needs. Post-purchase, the company provides services like personalized setup, secure data transfer for those switching to iOS, and eSIM activation.

As part of its long-term strategy, Apple has announced plans to open its first flagship retail store in Saudi Arabia by 2026. This store will be the first in a broader rollout of retail locations across the Kingdom.