RIYADH —

Saudi Arabia won three major honors at the recently concluded MEED Awards, a leading recognition program honoring the contributions of organizations and individuals toward the socio-economic development of the region.

Samba Financial Group won Bank/Financial Institution of the Year; while ACWA Power was recognized as Renewables Company of the Year.

Saudi national Dr. Hibah Shata, Managing Director & Co Founder of Child Early Intervention Medical Centre, was presented with the Female Leader of the Year award, in association with NMC, for her visionary leadership and exceptional contributions to helping achieve meaningful change in Saudi society.

MEED Awards judges commended Samba for maintaining its strong performance while operating in a tough macro-economic environment. It also earned praises for addressing key issues and giving back to the community through initiatives such as the low-income housing program.

ACWA Power, meanwhile, was recognized for its “commitment to excellence in the development of renewable energy in the region, and for showing that utilities-scale renewable energy can be an effective source of energy as well as a viable commercial investment. Its long list of achievements includes at least two world records and an impressive track record for safety and project delivery.”

Samba Financial Group, ACWA Power and Dr. Hibah Shata were three of several individuals and organizations recognized by MEED Awards for their outstanding contributions to the economic success of the GCC, with Engr. Maitha bin Adai, CEO of the Traffic & Roads Agency at Dubai’s Roads & Transport Authority, receiving the MEED Editor’s Award for Lifetime Achievement.

“We congratulate the winners of this year’s edition of the awards, and salute their unwavering commitment to business excellence, quality and innovation. Through the MEED Awards program, we hope to put their achievements in the spotlight not only to celebrate their success, but also become an inspiration to others,” said Louise Baird, Head of Events, MEED. — SG