NEWS
Royal Commission AlUla , Artefact partner to drive transformation through data and AI
The Royal Commission for AlUla , RCU and Artefact , a data and AI consultancy , have announced a long-term partnership to drive data and AI transformation in AlUla . Uniquely combining data , AI , county development , innovation , and job creation , the partnership will focus on deploying best-practice technology , developing data and AI products , empowering smart services to the AlUla community , visitors , and investors , and transferring data and AI know-how to create highly skilled jobs in AlUla .
The partnership will focus on several key initiatives , including deploying the latest technology and products in Data and AI as well as implementing a comprehensive data and AI transformation and governance programme to ensure ethical and responsible use of data . In-line with Saudi Arabia ’ s drive towards economic diversification and job creation , Artefact will establish a data and AI academy to train and upskill local talent .
The partnership will deliver several benefits for AlUla ,: including AI-powered operations and decision support , next-gen visitor and community services and experiences and the creation of highly skilled local jobs in Data and AI .
RCU was established by Royal Decree in July 2017 to protect and safeguard AlUla , a region of outstanding natural and cultural significance in northwest Saudi Arabia .
RCU is embarking on a long-term plan to develop and deliver a sensitive , sustainable transformation of the region , reaffirming its position as a world-heritage destination for culture and tourism .
Rahul Arya , CEO and Managing Partner , Artefact MENA said : “ With this landmark partnership , we look forward to providing end-to-end products and capabilities that support the promotion of AlUla as a living museum for its community , tourists , investors and the world in a data-driven manner .
Riyadh Air , Microsoft partner to drive innovation and sustainability
Riyadh Air and Microsoft signed a
Memorandum of Understanding to drive innovation and sustainability across Saudi Arabia ’ s aviation sector .
As part of the agreement , Riyadh Air has selected Microsoft ’ s Azure cloud platform as its preferred platform for accelerating digital transformation and will leverage the highly secure , scalable , and reliable platform to improve operational efficiency and customer service .
The announcement will see both organisations collaborating to leverage the potential of cutting-edge technologies such as Big Data , Artificial Intelligence , copilot experiences , the Metaverse , and Virtual Reality to enhance Riyadh Air ’ s offerings , services , and operational models .
Riyadh Air and Microsoft will also jointly establish a Centre of Excellence that will provide a structured framework for driving innovation and delivering substantial business benefits for both organisations . The partnership also sees both parties forming a dedicated board that will actively drive efforts in line with Saudi Arabia ’ s national sustainability agenda . Microsoft will also extend its technical expertise to Riyadh Air by offering guidance in architecture design , scalability , security reviews , and more . This support will empower Riyadh Air to make the most of their journey on Azure .
Riyadh Air ’ s digital and technology strategy also support its mission , aligned with Saudi Arabia ’ s Vision 2030 , to lead the aviation industry by transforming Saudi Arabia , given its unique strategic location , into a global aviation and trade hub .
Adam Boukadida , Chief Finance Officer , Riyadh Air , said , “ Leveraging the robust Microsoft Azure platform is just the beginning ; we are poised to tap into the vast network of Microsoft partnerships and harness the remarkable AI capabilities offered through Microsoft ’ s comprehensive suite of services and solutions , empowering Riyadh Air to grow and thrive in the everevolving digital landscape .”
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