< Previous40 Vol. 25/10, September 2024 Transport nership grounded in shared vision and mutual benefit. As Sultan puts it: “We’re in a unique position where our techno- logical innovation can readily be put to use and is the cornerstone of the Lucid- Saudi Arabia relationship, made possi- ble by our strategic partnership with the Public Investment Fund (PIF).” Jeddah and beyond Lucid’s expansion in Saudi Arabia is a clear sign that this isn’t just talk. The company is opening its third studio in the region, this time in Jeddah – a move Lucid Gravity, the seven-seat SUV is expected to attract a whole new segment of customers that’s as strategic as it is practical. “Establishing a presence in Jeddah was a natural progression and signifies a strategic step in Lucid’s expansion throughout the kingdom and in the region,” Sultan says. But it’s not just about selling more cars. The new Jeddah facility, located at Auto Mall, offers customers an immer- sive experience with Lucid’s award-win- ning Air model and functions as a state- of-the-ar t ser vice centre. The dual-purpose setup means that Lucid is not only meeting current demand, but also setting the stage for rapid growth. And with the studio located just an hour and a half from the AMP-2 manufac- tur ing f acility in King Abdullah Economic City (KAEC), the logistics are spot on. “This strategic proximity translates to faster delivery times for our electric vehicles,” Sultan notes. Scaling production to meet demand Let’s talk about production. Right now, Lucid’s AMP-2 facility in KAEC is assembling Lucid Air models, with a peak capacity of 5,000 cars annually. ABE_2510_38-41_Transport_Lucid_13352299.indd 4028/08/2024 18:32arabianbusiness.com 41 Transport But that’s just the beginning. The company is gearing up for a significant shift to complete build unit (CBU) production, a move that will massively increase their output. “We are currently expanding our manufacturing footprint and transition- ing to complete build unit (CBU) production, a milestone that will immensely increase our additional annual capacity,” Sultan reveals. What this means is that Lucid is preparing to scale in a big way, meeting not just domestic demand, but also posi- tioning itself to serve key markets across the Middle East and beyond. Long-term commitments and challenges Lucid’s commitment to Saudi Arabia is clear. The company has inked a deal to supply up to 100,000 vehicles to the kingdom over the next decade – a move that aligns perfectly with the Saudi Green Initiative’s goal of having 30 percent of all new car sales be electric by 2030. “Through the development of electric transportation, Lucid will support the Saudi Green Initiative’s imperative to ensure that 30 percent of new car sales in the kingdom are electric by 2030,” Sultan affirms. However, the road to establishing Saudi Arabia as a global automotive hub isn’t without its challenges. From infrastructure to climate to the need for a skilled workforce, there are hurdles to overcome. But Lucid is tackling these challenges head-on, leveraging its Sili- con Valley-developed technology to find solutions. “We’re currently tack- ling each challenge through our excep- tional Silicon Valley-developed technol- ogy in partnership with key entities such as EVIQ to develop a fast-charg- ing public network,” Sultan says. Lucid’s next journey Lucid isn’t just content with its current offerings. The company is gearing up to expand its product line, starting with the highly anticipated Lucid Gravity, a seven-seat SUV that’s expected to attract a whole new segment of custom- ers. “We are really excited about the production of the Lucid Gravity,” Sultan shares. “There is a tremendous amount of anticipation for our seven- seat SUV, and its launch will introduce Lucid to a much larger audience.” As for the competition, Sultan welcomes it. “Increased competition helps expand the wider EV infrastruc- ture and market,” he says. Lucid’s focus remains on driving innovation and pushing the boundaries of what’s possible with electric vehicles. This isn’t just about staying ahead of the curve – it’s about setting the pace for the entire industry. Lucid has inked a deal to supply up to 100,000 vehicles to KSA over the next decade Lucid opens full-service studio and service center in Jeddah Establishing a presence in Jeddah was a natural progression and signifies a strategic step in Lucid’s expansion throughout the kingdom and the region ABE_2510_38-41_Transport_Lucid_13352299.indd 4128/08/2024 18:3242 Vol. 25/10, September 2024 Sport The stadiums defining Saudi Arabia’s 2034 FIFA World Cup vision Words by KATE-LYNNE WOLMARANS 15 spectacular venues across five cities, blending cutting-edge technology with cultural heritage SPORT ABE_2510_42-47_Sport - Saudi Stadiums_13356153.indd 4228/08/2024 18:06arabianbusiness.com 43 Sport NEOM Stadium Location NEOM Seating capacity Over 45,000 Completion date 2032 Perched 350 metres above ground within the urban development of THE LINE, NEOM Stadium promises to be a marvel of modern architecture. Its roof, ingen- iously crafted from the city’s own struc- tures, symbolises innovation and sustaina- bility, running entirely on renewable energy. The venue, equipped with advanced tech- nologies and 4K Ultra HD broadcasting, will be a hub for professional football and community activities alike. King Salman International Stadium Location Riyadh Seating capacity 92,000 Completion date 2029 Saudi Arabia’s grandest stadium to date, King Salman International will seat a staggering 92,000 spectators. Situated near Riyadh’s airport, its design merges effortlessly with the natural terrain, providing optimal shading and ventila- tion. Beyond the World Cup, the venue will continue to host major national and international events, cementing its status as a premier sports hub. Qiddiya Coast Stadium Location Jeddah Seating capacity Over 45,000 (reducible to 25,000) Completion date 2032 Nestled along Jeddah’s northern shore, the Qiddiya Coast Stadium is a testament to the relationship between humans and nature. Designed to host 45,000 fans, it will be adaptable for various events post- World Cup, including concerts and esports, by reducing its capacity to 25,000. The venue will embody the dynamic interplay of water and energy, resonating with the city’s vibrant spirit. ABE_2510_42-47_Sport - Saudi Stadiums_13356153.indd 4328/08/2024 18:0744 Vol. 25/10, September 2024 Sport King Fahad Sports City Stadium Location Riyadh Seating capacity Over 58,000 (expanded to 70,000) Refurbishment completion date 2026 With its unique fabric roof inspired by traditional tents, King Fahad Sports City Stadium will undergo significant refurbishment to expand its capacity to over 70,000. Located near the scenic Wadi As-Sulai and the planned Sports Boulevard, the venue will remain a multipurpose hub, hosting sports and entertainment events post-World Cup. Prince Mohammed Bin Salman Stadium Location Riyadh Seating capacity Over 46,000 Completion date 2029 Located in Qiddiya, the stadium will feature a futuristic design incorporat- ing iridescent glass and solar panels. Its retractable pitch and robust trans- port links will make it a key venue for sports and entertainment. Addition- ally, it will house an Olympic Museum, celebrating Saudi Arabia’s sporting achievements. King Khalid University Stadium Location Abha Seating capacity Over 45,000 Refurbishment completion date 2030 Currently operational, King Khalid University Stadium will be expanded and modernised to meet World Cup standards. Situated on a university campus near Dalaghan Park, it will continue to foster a vibrant atmosphere for community and sporting events beyond 2034. ABE_2510_42-47_Sport - Saudi Stadiums_13356153.indd 4428/08/2024 18:07arabianbusiness.com 45 Sport New Murabba Stadium Location Riyadh Seating capacity Over 45,000 Completion date 2032 Inspired by the acacia tree’s bark, the New Murabba Stadium will provide a personalised fan experience with digital signage and immersive zones. Post- World Cup, it will host a variety of events, including concerts and gaming, promoting community engagement through its innovative design. ROSHN Stadium Location Riyadh Seating capacity Over 45,000 Completion date 2032 ROSHN Stadium’s parabolic shape will enhance acoustics, creating an immersive experience for spectators. Post-World Cup, it will become the heart of a walkable community, host- ing major tournaments and cultural events, seamlessly integrating into the urban fabric. King Abdullah Sports City Stadium Location Jeddah Seating capacity Over 57,000 Refurbishment completion date 2032 Nicknamed ‘The Shining Jewel’, this existing stadium will be updated to meet FIFA standards. Post-World Cup, it will continue to host Saudi national team matches and international events, maintaining its prestigious status. ABE_2510_42-47_Sport - Saudi Stadiums_13356153.indd 4528/08/2024 18:0746 Vol. 25/10, September 2024 Sport Aramco Stadium Location Al Khobar Seating capacity Over 45,000 Completion date 2026 Inspired by the Dawwama whirlpool, Aramco Stadium’s unique design will complement with Khobar’s coastal landscape. Located near the Corniche, it will serve as a landmark, hosting a professional football club and various events post-World Cup. South Riyadh Stadium Location Riyadh Seating capacity Over 45,000 Completion date 2032 Blending modern elements with tradi- tional architecture, the South Riyadh Stadium will feature sustainable design aspects like solar panels and rainwater harvesting. Post-World Cup, it will serve as a community hub, hosting sports and entertainment events. King Abdullah Economic City Stadium Location Jeddah Seating capacity Over 45,000 Completion date 2032 Inspired by coral reefs, the King Abdul- lah Economic City Stadium is part of a larger development focused on sustain- ability and community integration. Post-World Cup, it will host football, concerts, and exhibitions, promoting economic growth and environmental responsibility. ABE_2510_42-47_Sport - Saudi Stadiums_13356153.indd 4628/08/2024 18:07arabianbusiness.com 47 Sport Prince Faisal Bin Fahad Sports City Stadium Location Riyadh Seating capacity Over 45,000 Completion date 2027 With a design inspired by Salmani archi- tecture, this stadium will feature ener- gy-efficient systems and extensive solar panels. It will serve as a central hub for community sports and major events, integrated within a broader park site. Jeddah Central Development Stadium Location Jeddah Seating capacity Over 45,000 Completion date 2027 Blending traditional Al Balad architec- ture with modern technology, the Jeddah Central Development Stadium will anchor the Sports Park District. Post-World Cup, it will host profes- sional football clubs and various events, supporting the city’s development. King Saud University Stadium Location Riyadh Seating capacity Expanded to 46,000 Refurbishment completion date 2032 Currently home to Al Nassr football club, the King Saud University Stadium will be expanded for the World Cup. Located on a university campus, it will continue to serve university sports and community events, promoting a rich sporting culture. ABE_2510_42-47_Sport - Saudi Stadiums_13356153.indd 4728/08/2024 18:0748 Vol. 25/10, September 202448 Vol. 25/10, September 2024 ABE_2510_48-55_Cover story_13352295.indd 4828/08/2024 18:13arabianbusiness.com 49 Inside Princess Rym Ali’s mission to rewrite the narrative of Arab media WORDS BY MAJD ALBAHOU PHOTOGRAPHY BY TAREK MAWA D arabianbusiness.com 49 ABE_2510_48-55_Cover story_13352295.indd 4928/08/2024 18:13Next >