Riyadh Air's Game-Changing Partnership with Accenture for a Digital Future

Riyadh Air's Game-Changing Partnership with Accenture for a Digital Future

By Author

Published on December 23, 2023

Riyadh Air, the emerging airline, is set to revolutionize the aviation industry through a significant three-year partnership with global professional services company, Accenture. This collaboration is a strategic move to establish Riyadh Air as the first digitally-driven airline worldwide, in line with the Kingdom's vision for 2030.

Innovative Transformation:

Cloud-Centric Approach: Accenture will lead the creation of a cloud-based infrastructure for Riyadh Air, ensuring a smooth and efficient digital operation.

Enhanced Cybersecurity: A key focus will be on bolstering cybersecurity measures to safeguard the airline's operations.

Operational Excellence: The partnership aims to streamline services and manage operations effectively.

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A New Era in Aviation:

Digital-Centric Services: Riyadh Air is poised to lead a new era in aviation, distinguished by its commitment to digital-first solutions.

State-of-the-Art Tech: Utilizing advanced technologies like cloud computing and AI, Riyadh Air aims to deliver a seamless travel experience for passengers and employees alike.

Ambitious Expansion Plans: With plans to serve over 100 destinations by 2030, the airline is gearing up for a significant scale-up in operations.

Expert Comments:

Adam Boukadida, CFO, Riyadh Air: "Riyadh Air will be a digitally native airline, focused on delivering world-class service. Accenture’s partnership is crucial for our cloud-first strategy, ensuring our technology is future-proof and legacy-free."

Emily Weiss, Senior Managing Director, Accenture: "The launch of Riyadh Air marks a landmark moment in aviation. Our collaboration aims to create hyper-connected experiences for today’s and future travelers."

India's Aviation Landscape:

Akasa Air’s Perspective: During a fireside chat at the ET Travel & Tourism Conclave, Akasa Air's CCO & Co-Founder, Praveen Iyer, highlighted India's untapped aviation potential and the need for leveraging advanced technologies and infrastructure.

Riyadh Air’s Vision:

The airline is not just an addition to the aviation sector but a key player in achieving Saudi Arabia's 2030 vision, aiming to put Riyadh on the global map as a key destination and gateway. Supporting the Saudi Aviation Strategy and National Tourism Strategy, Riyadh Air is set to unlock Saudi Arabia’s cultural and natural attractions to the world while creating new job opportunities.


FIFA World Cup 2026: Spain Beat Argentina 1-0 to Lift Second World Cup Title

FIFA World Cup 2026: Spain Beat Argentina 1-0 to Lift Second World Cup Title

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on July 20, 2026

Spain were crowned FIFA World Cup 2026 champions after defeating defending champions Argentina 1-0 in an intense final that was decided in extra time.

The match remained goalless through regulation time before Ferran Torres, who came on as a second-half substitute, scored the winner in the 106th minute. Latching onto a loose ball inside the penalty area, Torres fired a left-footed strike under the crossbar to hand Spain its second FIFA World Cup title, the first since its triumph in 2010.

"It was a goal scored by 47 million people," Torres said, referring to Spain's population.

Spain's breakthrough came after Argentina were reduced to 10 men late in regulation when Enzo Fernández was shown a red card following a reckless challenge. The dismissal shifted momentum in Spain's favour before Torres delivered the decisive moment in extra time.

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Spain's defence once again proved its strength, successfully protecting the narrow lead until the final whistle. The newly crowned champions conceded just one goal in eight matches throughout the tournament, setting a new record for the fewest goals conceded by a FIFA World Cup-winning team.

The victory also denied Lionel Messi a second consecutive World Cup title in what the Argentine captain had indicated would be his final appearance at the tournament.

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The trophy presentation brought together several dignitaries, including FIFA President Gianni Infantino, King Felipe VI of Spain, and US President Donald Trump, who presented the FIFA World Cup trophy to the Spanish team.

Before the trophy lift, Trump briefly greeted Spain captain Rodri, describing him as his favourite player before congratulating the team on its historic achievement.

As Spain celebrated lifting football's most prestigious prize, an emotional scene unfolded for Argentina. Led by Lionel Messi, the players collected their silver medals to a standing ovation from supporters inside the stadium. Fans applauded the team as the anthem "Muchachos" echoed around the venue, acknowledging Argentina's remarkable journey despite falling short in the final.

For Spain, the victory marks a return to the top of world football after 16 years, while Argentina's campaign ended with disappointment but earned admiration for reaching another FIFA World Cup final.


Indian Railways Launches First Hydrogen-Powered Train on Jind–Sonipat Route

Indian Railways Launches First Hydrogen-Powered Train on Jind–Sonipat Route

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on July 20, 2026

 Indian Railways has introduced the country's first indigenously built hydrogen-powered passenger train, marking a significant step in its clean transportation journey. Named NaMo Green Rail, the train will operate on the Jind–Sonipat section of Northern Railway in Haryana.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the hydrogen-powered locomotive ahead of its maiden journey, describing the launch as an important milestone in India's vision of becoming both self-reliant and environmentally sustainable.

With the launch, India joins a select group of countries, including Germany, Japan, China and the United States, that have introduced hydrogen-powered passenger rail services. Germany was the first country to launch a commercial hydrogen-powered train fleet in 2022.

Designed, engineered and built entirely in India, NaMo Green Rail emits only heat and water vapour, making it a zero-emission alternative to diesel-powered trains. The initiative forms part of the government's broader efforts to expand hydrogen-based mobility and reduce carbon emissions across the transport sector.

The 10-coach train has a seating capacity of around 2,600 passengers and can operate at speeds of up to 75 km/h. It will run two return trips daily on the 90-kilometre route connecting Jind and Sonipat.

One of the key highlights of the new service is its affordable pricing. According to railway officials, ticket fares start at ₹5, with the highest fare capped at ₹25, depending on the distance travelled. Passengers on the inaugural service were also able to purchase tickets priced at ₹5.

Although Indian Railways has already electrified nearly all of its 70,000-kilometre rail network, hydrogen-powered trains provide a practical solution for routes where complete electrification may not be feasible.

The introduction of NaMo Green Rail aligns with the government's ambition to make Indian Railways net-zero by 2030, while supporting India's wider clean energy goals through increased adoption of hydrogen, renewable energy and other sustainable technologies.


Soy Soi Brings ‘Embers of Grills’ to Chennai with Asian Charcoal-Grilled Specialties

Soy Soi Brings ‘Embers of Grills’ to Chennai with Asian Charcoal-Grilled Specialties

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on July 20, 2026

Soy Soi, one of Chennai's leading destinations for Pan Asian cuisine, is celebrating the rich traditions of Asian charcoal grilling with its limited-time food promotion, 'Embers of Grills', available at its Kotturpuram outlet until July 19, 2026.

Inspired by the bustling satay stalls of Kuala Lumpur, Japan's robata grills, and the charcoal street food culture of Bangkok, Hanoi and Chengdu, the promotion brings together authentic open-fire cooking techniques from across Southeast and East Asia.

The specially curated menu highlights Soy Soi's signature grilled dishes alongside regional favourites, offering guests an opportunity to experience the bold, smoky flavours that have become synonymous with Asian charcoal grilling.

Among the featured dishes are Moo Ping with Spicy Peanut Sauce, featuring Thai-style marinated pork skewers; Ga Nuong – Grilled Chicken Leg, prepared with fragrant lemongrass and charcoal-grilled to perfection; Spiced Tofu Kin, made with Burmese spices and chilli paste; and Xinjiang Lamb Skewers, seasoned with cumin and served alongside a numbing Sichuan chilli sauce.

Drawing inspiration from the vibrant street food culture of Asia, Embers of Grills recreates the experience of live charcoal cooking in a restaurant setting through bold marinades, authentic flavours and a menu designed to cater to a variety of preferences.

With this special promotion, Soy Soi invites guests to savour the distinctive taste of charcoal-grilled cuisine and explore the diverse grilling traditions that continue to define some of Asia's most loved culinary destinations.

Event Details:

  • Venue: Soy Soi, Gandhi Mandapam Road, Chitra Nagar, Kotturpuram, Chennai – 600085

  • Dates: Till July 19, 2026

  • Timings: 12:00 PM – 3:30 PM and 6:30 PM – 10:30 PM

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