News Wire
Royal Commission for AlUla signs four strategic agreements as French President Emmanuel Macron visits KSA
– Saudi Arabia partners with France to host Villa Hegra at AlUla
– Cultural complex to mark arrival of the ‘French villa’ model in the Middle East
– Agreements with Ferrandi Paris, Dassault Systèmes and RATP DeV Saudi Arabia to develop AlUla into a global smart city for residents and visitors
JEDDAH, Saudi Arabia, Dec. 5, 2021 /PRNewswire/ — The Royal Commission for AlUla (RCU) today announced the signing of four strategic agreements – including one for Villa Hegra, introducing the iconic ‘French villa’ model in the Middle East.
The signings coincided with Saturday’s official visit to Jeddah by the French President Emmanuel Macron and his meeting with His Royal Highness Prince Mohammad bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al-Saud, Crown Prince and Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Royal Commission for AlUla County.
The partnerships come as part of RCU’s integrated development programme to transform AlUla into a global cultural and natural heritage destination and a gateway city offering an outstanding quality of life for residents and visitors.
Villa Hegra at AlUla will be a unique place where artists, writers and painters come together, representing a continuity of AlUla’s legacy as a hub of commercial and cultural exchange. It will be respectful of the environment and history, and inclusive of local populations. Currently there are 11 iterations of the “Villa” worldwide, with seven in France and four overseas from Mexico to Rome, each showcasing the best of French and global culture.
The 15,100 sq m Villa Hegra will be a cluster of entities including the exclusive AlUla International College of Tourism & Hospitality, a 6,600 sq m lifestyle apartment-hotel, cultural centre, arts residence quarters and social club.
Signing the agreements for Villa Hegra were H.H. Prince Badr bin Farhan Al Saud, Governor of the Royal commission for AlUla and H.E. Jean-Yves Le Drian, Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs.
“The relationship between France and Saudi Arabia is built upon mutual recognition of the important of cultural exchange and development. Since the signing of our first agreements in 2018, we have worked together to create a new template for cultural diplomacy – one that puts the sharing of knowledge, expertise and resources at the fore and opens up new opportunities for the local community. The arrival of Villa Hegra at AlUla adds another layer to AlUla’s legacy as a place for the world to come together,” said Amr AlMadani, Chief Executive Officer of the Royal Commission for AlUla.
RCU also signed an exclusive agreement with the Ferrandi Paris Culinary Arts and Hospitality Institute to jointly create a Ferrandi-branded AlUla International College of Tourism & Hospitality to accelerate the long-term vision of establishing AlUla as the regional home of hospitality, tourism and the culinary arts.
Signed by Amr AlMadani, Chief Executive Officer of the Royal Commission for AlUla, and Bruno de Monte, CEO of Ferrandi, the exclusive partnership will contribute to AlUla’s strategy to become the primary knowledge and training hub for tourism, hospitality and culinary arts in the Kingdom. By partnering with world-class institutions, it aims to attract and upskill international and local talent into industry professionals to lead the sectors growth in AlUla.
In addition to Villa Hegra and the Ferrandi Paris Culinary Arts and Hospitality Institute, RCU also signed agreements with Dassault Systèmes and RATP DeV Saudi Arabia, focused on delivering a city fit for the future – providing citizens, residents and tourists with an outstanding quality of life by streamlining and digitizing processes and delivering public transport and mobility operations.
With Dassault Systèmes, RCU has partnered on the creation of a digital twin – a digital copy of AlUla that will function as an important tool for planning, development, municipal operations, community and investor citizens and investors. The agreement builds on the efforts of RCU to develop an integrated geo-spatial database.
Similarly, the partnership with RATP DeV Saudi Arabia leverages the organisation’s 120 years of transport operation in the development of a world class public transportation system in AlUla. The partnership will see RCU access the latest in mobility innovation and best practices in mobility operations and solutions, including autonomous vehicles, electric vehicles and hybrid vehicles that meet the needs of locals and tourists alike.
“AlUla is an experimental lab for the future of tourism. By partnering with industry leading entities such as the Ferrandi Paris Culinary Arts and Hospitality Institute, Dassault Systèmes and RATP DeV Saudi Arabia, we can access their vast store of knowledge, industry know-how as well as research and innovation to build a destination that is not only a cultural and artistic haven and a benchmark for sustainable development but an economic engine for the industry,” added Amr AlMadani, Chief Executive Officer of the Royal Commission for AlUla.
The agreements are an extension of the strong co-operation between the two nations across diverse sectors in AlUla following the signing of an intergovernmental agreement to develop new cultural, education and arts assets at AlUla on April 10, 2018. The agreement has led to a strong French role in AlUla, in areas from archaeology to smart-city infrastructure to hospitality, with the architect Jean Nouvel planning to build a luxury resort that will be carved into the sandstone rocks of AlUla, thereby reviving the traditional stonework of the area’s ancient Nabataean masons.
On the side lines of the Presidential visit, RCU also took part in a Saudi-French investment forum at Jeddah to explore further opportunities of mutual benefit.
For signing imagery, please click here.
For media enquiries please contact the RCU Public Relations team at publicrelations@rcu.gov.sa
Note to editors:
It is always AlUla / not Al-Ula
About the Royal Commission for AlUla
The Royal Commission for AlUla (RCU) was established by royal decree in July 2017 to preserve and develop AlUla, a region of outstanding natural and cultural significance in north-west Saudi Arabia. RCU’s long-term plan outlines a responsible, sustainable, and sensitive approach to urban and economic development, that preserves the area’s natural and historic heritage, while establishing AlUla as a desirable location to live, work, and visit. This encompasses a broad range of initiatives across archaeology, tourism, culture, education, and the arts, reflecting a commitment to meeting the economic diversification, local community empowerment, and heritage preservation priorities of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 programme.
News Wire
Jameson Connects & Crepdog Crew Celebrate Subcultures with Limited-Edition Capsule
Celebrating community, creativity, and self-expression through a limited-edition drop inspired by India’s most vibrant subcultures.
MUMBAI, India, June 4, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Jameson Connects joins forces with India’s largest sneaker and streetwear retailer, Crepdog Crew, to launch a one-of-a-kind limited-edition capsule that celebrates the spirit of counterculture in India. The collaboration is being launched under Jameson Connects – Jam Studio, a culture and community-driven collaborative space, which brings together creative minds to help explore a fresh artistic landscape.
Rooted in the dynamic street and creative scenes of India, Jameson Connects and Crepdog Crew have come together to spotlight authentic voices and celebrate self-expression from the ground up. Inspired by bomber jacket patch culture, the drop reinterprets the spirit of individuality and identity through a distinctive camo-style shacket with interchangeable patches, designed to be a canvas for personal storytelling. Complementing the shacket are a tote bag and mug, completing a bold and collectible capsule collection.
Ayush Kalra pays homage to the tattoo scene, Vijaya Aswani captures the dynamic energy of skateboarding, Jayesh Joshi channels the freedom of the biking community, and Siddhartha Iyer brings alive the rhythm and soul of music.
Anchit Kapil, Co-founder and CEO, Crepdog Crew, said, “Subcultures shape the streets long before trends catch up. At Crepdog Crew, we’ve always built spaces—physical and creative—for the community to thrive. This shacket is our way of putting that truth on fabric—a celebration of individuality, identity, and the scenes that give cities their soul. With Jameson Connects, we’ve created more than a drop—we’ve created a canvas for the culture.”
Mo Joshi, Co-founder of Azadi Records, Culture partner for Jameson Connects, said, “Real culture grows where community thrives. Jameson Connects has always been about championing grassroots voices and giving artists a platform to be seen, heard, and celebrated. This collaboration with Crepdog Crew isn’t just about merch—it’s about movement.”
The drop celebrates the power of creative collaboration through art, music, and community-first experiences.
About Jameson Connects
Powered by Jameson Ginger Ale, Jameson Connects is a community-first platform for India’s creative voices. Through verticals like Jam Pad, Jam Stage, Jam Studio, and Jam Radio, it brings together culture-shaping individuals and subcultures to collaborate, co-create, and connect.
About Azadi Records
Azadi Records is a progressive Indian music label spotlighting thought-provoking hip-hop across regional languages and subcultures. Since 2017, it has given voice to the unheard, pushing the boundaries of what Indian music can be.
For press inquiries, please contact:
Shefali Bhatia, PR Pundit Havas Red | shefali.bhatia@prpundithavasred.com | +91 9821821032
Sanjana Jhawar, PR Pundit Havas Red | sanjana.jhawar@prpundithavasred.com | +91 7023080670
View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/in/news-releases/jameson-connects–crepdog-crew-celebrate-subcultures-with-limited-edition-capsule-302472881.html
News Wire
Jameson Connects & Crepdog Crew Celebrate Subcultures with Limited-Edition Capsule
Celebrating community, creativity, and self-expression through a limited-edition drop inspired by India’s most vibrant subcultures.
MUMBAI, India, June 4, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Jameson Connects joins forces with India’s largest sneaker and streetwear retailer, Crepdog Crew, to launch a one-of-a-kind limited-edition capsule that celebrates the spirit of counterculture in India. The collaboration is being launched under Jameson Connects – Jam Studio, a culture and community-driven collaborative space, which brings together creative minds to help explore a fresh artistic landscape.
Rooted in the dynamic street and creative scenes of India, Jameson Connects and Crepdog Crew have come together to spotlight authentic voices and celebrate self-expression from the ground up. Inspired by bomber jacket patch culture, the drop reinterprets the spirit of individuality and identity through a distinctive camo-style shacket with interchangeable patches, designed to be a canvas for personal storytelling. Complementing the shacket are a tote bag and mug, completing a bold and collectible capsule collection.
Ayush Kalra pays homage to the tattoo scene, Vijaya Aswani captures the dynamic energy of skateboarding, Jayesh Joshi channels the freedom of the biking community, and Siddhartha Iyer brings alive the rhythm and soul of music.
Anchit Kapil, Co-founder and CEO, Crepdog Crew, said, “Subcultures shape the streets long before trends catch up. At Crepdog Crew, we’ve always built spaces—physical and creative—for the community to thrive. This shacket is our way of putting that truth on fabric—a celebration of individuality, identity, and the scenes that give cities their soul. With Jameson Connects, we’ve created more than a drop—we’ve created a canvas for the culture.”
Mo Joshi, Co-founder of Azadi Records, Culture partner for Jameson Connects, said, “Real culture grows where community thrives. Jameson Connects has always been about championing grassroots voices and giving artists a platform to be seen, heard, and celebrated. This collaboration with Crepdog Crew isn’t just about merch—it’s about movement.”
The drop celebrates the power of creative collaboration through art, music, and community-first experiences.
About Jameson Connects
Powered by Jameson Ginger Ale, Jameson Connects is a community-first platform for India’s creative voices. Through verticals like Jam Pad, Jam Stage, Jam Studio, and Jam Radio, it brings together culture-shaping individuals and subcultures to collaborate, co-create, and connect.
About Azadi Records
Azadi Records is a progressive Indian music label spotlighting thought-provoking hip-hop across regional languages and subcultures. Since 2017, it has given voice to the unheard, pushing the boundaries of what Indian music can be.
For press inquiries, please contact:
Shefali Bhatia, PR Pundit Havas Red | shefali.bhatia@prpundithavasred.com | +91 9821821032
Sanjana Jhawar, PR Pundit Havas Red | sanjana.jhawar@prpundithavasred.com | +91 7023080670
View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/in/news-releases/jameson-connects–crepdog-crew-celebrate-subcultures-with-limited-edition-capsule-302472881.html
News Wire
Jameson Connects grooves to Grammy winner Anderson .Paak in Mumbai
An intimate celebration of music, culture, and community, also featured Seedhe Maut and Shekhinah
MUMBAI, India, June 4, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Music lovers in Mumbai were treated to an unforgettable evening as Jameson Connects brought its signature global experience, Distilled Sounds, to India’s cultural capital with an electrifying night of rhythm, soul, and connection. Headlining the showcase was none other than Grammy Award-winning artist Anderson .Paak as DJ Pee .Wee, who took over Famous Studios, Mumbai, for a high-voltage, electrifying up-close performance that brought unmatched energy to this thrilling chapter of Jameson Connects.
DJ Pee .Wee, the dynamic alter ego of Anderson .Paak, delivered a high-energy DJ set that showcased his impeccable taste and versatility behind the console. Known for his genre-blending sound that merges hip-hop, soul, funk, and R&B, Anderson .Paak additionally treated audiences to an intimate live performance towards the end, captivating them with his rich musicality and vibrant presence.
Adding to the evening’s vibrant soundscape was a duo who need little introduction — Seedhe Maut. Fresh off the release of their eighth project DL91 FM, the genre-defying Delhi-based icons brought their razor-sharp lyrics and explosive live energy. Joining them was South African powerhouse Shekhinah, celebrated for her soulful vocals and signature fusion of R&B and pop. Together, they formed a thrilling trifecta of artistry that embodies Jameson’s spirit of fearless creativity and community.
With each edition, Jameson Connects continues to raise the bar in crafting immersive cultural experiences that merge music, community, and creativity. Known for spotlighting boundary-breaking talent from around the world while championing local voices, the platform has become a space where global artistry meets homegrown expression. The upcoming Mumbai showcase is set to be no different-an intimate yet high-impact gathering that celebrates the spirit of connection, the power of live performance, and the magic that unfolds when diverse creative energies come together under one roof.
More than just a music event, Jameson Connects delivered a curated celebration of culture, community, and connection. From eclectic pop-ups by homegrown brands to vibrant F&B experiences and the thoughtfully curated zones, every element is designed to spark conversations and camaraderie.
Stay tuned for what’s next from Jameson Connects.
Link: https://www.instagram.com/jameson_alwaysintomixin?igsh=eGszaTBsNTV5N2Yx
View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/in/news-releases/jameson-connects-grooves-to-grammy-winner-anderson-paak-in-mumbai-302472876.html
Jameson Connects & Crepdog Crew Celebrate Subcultures with Limited-Edition Capsule
Jameson Connects & Crepdog Crew Celebrate Subcultures with Limited-Edition Capsule
Jameson Connects grooves to Grammy winner Anderson .Paak in Mumbai
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