< PreviousTOTAL GROSS FLOOR AREA 75,000M2 | THE BIG PICTURE | 20 JULY 2024JULY 2024 21 | THE BIG PICTURE | Designed by internationally acclaimed architectural rm, Nikken Sekkei, the Dubai Harbour Residences is designed for superior liveability, providing a beachfront collection of low-rise residences with panoramic sea views. Spread over a 75,000m2 gross oor area (GFA), the project will have easy access to the upscale amenities, retail, and hospitality choices of the region’s most vibrant maritime lifestyle offering. A recently announced 1,500-metre bridge in collaboration with RTA will also facilitate direct exit and entry points to the destination. [Nikken Sekkei] JULY 2024 2122 JULY 2024 | COVER STORY | SUCCESS REDEFINED Under the visionary leadership of Faisal Bouzo and Tarek Al Ajlani, C&P is crafting legacies and engineering the extraordinary in Saudi Arabia’s luxury landscapeJULY 2024 23 | COVER STORY | Very few companies in the construction industry have demonstrated the strategic foresight and achieved the remarkable growth of Saudi-headquartered contractor, Construction & Planning Company (C&P). This dynamic fi rm has established a signifi cant presence in the Saudi market through a combination of innovative project execution and strategic expansions under the leadership of Faisal Bouzo and Tarek Al Ajlani, the Co-founders and Managing Partners. BA Holding, a group designed to oversee and support diverse subsidiaries, acts as a major backbone, providing integrated vertical support. Bouzo explains, “BA Holding was established to control subsidiaries such as C&P (general contracting), SMEP (MEP), City Heights (real estate development), Globix (trading), TPportal (procurement), and CRAFTED (wood joinery factory), and to manage their operations and assets.” Additionally, the family offi ce, managed by Habib El Radi, Vice President for Finance, is responsible for overseeing the investment portfolio, ensuring seamless fi nancial synergy within the group. This strategic setup ensures seamless fi nancial synergy within the group. “Its advantage is that it keeps the fi nancial cycle rotating in a closed circuit between the subsidiaries,” Bouzo adds. According to him, the past year has been particularly momentous for C&P, marked by substantial achievements in project execution and expansion. “C&P is proud to have been the contracting partner of choice for a number of high-profi le clients and megaprojects such as Saudi Stock Exchange (Tadawul), Red Sea Global, King Abdullah Petroleum Studies and Research Center (KAPSARC), and Saudi National Bank (SNB), amongst others,” Bouzo notes. Additionally, C&P successfully competed with international design fi rms to secure the design project for Red Sea Global’s tower at the King Abdullah Financial District (KAFD). MEETING MARKET DEMANDS One of BA Holding’s key subsidiaries, City Heights, has made signifi cant strides in the Saudi real estate market, addressing evolving demands with its innovative projects. “City Heights develops premium real estate projects that resonate with modernity and comfort,” says Bouzo. One of its standout projects, Alyasmin Residences, amongst others, showcases 24 JULY 2024 | COVER STORY | state-of-the-art design in its apartments and townhouses, executed with the highest quality standards. Currently, City Heights is also working on a mixed-use project that aims to elevate lifestyles through its various off erings. Bouzo also reveals that in response to market needs, City Heights is fi lling the gap for 1-bedroom and 2-bedroom premium apartments, a demand typically overshadowed by larger units in the country. Additionally, the developer collaborates with companies that have substantial fi nancial backing to undertake ambitious projects and ensure high-quality development. Meanwhile, he adds that First Avenue, specialising in real estate investment and development, has achieved signifi cant milestones in the past year. Bouzo shares, “The company has been recently approved to be listed in the Saudi stock exchange market.” Major projects include La Perle Mall in Jeddah and Capital Avenue Business Center and Offi ces Tower in Riyadh. These projects are set to play a crucial role in the urban development of Riyadh and Jeddah, contributing to the cities’ modernisation and growth. The synergy between C&P and its subsidiaries, like City Heights, SMEP, and First Avenue, enhances C&P’s ability to provide integrated and holistic services. “The group of companies all revolve around construction in one way or another, and share services and resources,” Bouzo explains, highlighting that this ensures diversifi cation of revenue. This integrated approach not only strengthens C&P’s competitive position but also enhances its value proposition to clients. Bouzo further elaborates, “By leveraging the expertise and resources of each subsidiary, we can better understand client needs, identify opportunities, and deliver highly specialised solutions that address the unique requirements of various markets and segments.” ALIGNING WITH VISION 2030 As C&P continues to grow and solidify its presence in the construction industry, its strategic integration of advanced technologies and sustainability initiatives has set it apart as a leader in the fi eld. Al Ajlani, Co-founder and Managing Partner, elaborates on the technological and sustainable advancements that have revolutionised their approach to construction. Incorporating advanced technologies like Building Information Modelling (BIM) and digital construction methods has become a cornerstone of C&P’s project management and execution. Al Ajlani explains, “BIM and digital construction methods have already proven to have a signifi cant impact on effi ciency in our projects. It is cost and time-eff ective due to its ability to prevent potential clashes during construction, and it allows better coordination among various stakeholders involved in projects, including the PMs, engineers, and respective clients.” A notable advancement in their technical capabilities is their mastery of 7D in Building Information Modeling (BIM). This approach focuses on capturing data related to the entire lifecycle of the building, including aspects like sustainability, energy performance, operational effi ciency, and end-of-life considerations. Overview of Saudi Stock Exchange (Tadawul)’s new HQ; t-out work executed by C&P “Our expansion strategy focuses on diversi cation and sustainable development, targeting speci c high-growth areas” Faisal Bouzo, Co-founder and Managing Partner, C&P Faisal Bouzo, Co-founder and Managing Partner, C&PJULY 2024 25 | COVER STORY | Overview of The 25 Mall by C&P Overview of Osool’s Digital City 02 in Riyadh by C&P Continuing, Al Ajlani states that a signifi cant challenge they have addressed through digital transformation is managing the complexity of large-scale projects, which often involve multiple stakeholders and intricate timelines. “Beyond BIM, we utilise WhiteHelmet for real-time capture and AI-driven analytics in multiple construction aspects,” he explains, pointing out that these tools provide real-time data and analytics, improving decision-making and project coordination and have been instrumental in ensuring that projects are delivered effi ciently and to a high standard. C&P’s dedication to sustainability is evident through its adoption of LEED standards, led by LEED Accredited Professionals (LEED-AP), in their projects. Al Ajlani highlights the impact of these standards: “We have integrated LEED standards into our projects, focusing on sustainable materials, energy and water effi ciency, waste management, indoor air quality (IAQ), and environmental impact.” The Tadawul Saudi Stock Exchange HQ Fit-out at KAFD-Riyadh serves as a prime example of C&P’s commitment to sustainability and excellence in construction. This project, which achieved LEED Gold certifi cation, showcases impressive sustainability outcomes. Notably, the fi t-out achieved a 50% reduction in water consumption and a 10% reduction in energy consumption. Additionally, the comprehensive waste management plan implemented during the project diverted 75% of waste from landfi lls. Enhanced indoor air quality is another signifi cant target for C&P, which will contribute to increased employee productivity and improved well-being, once completed. This ongoing project exemplifi es how C&P integrates sustainable practices to deliver high-performance buildings that benefi t both the environment and their occupants. “Our commitment to LEED certifi cation has signifi cantly improved sustainable practices, improved building performance, and provided environmental benefi ts for clients, occupants, and the environment,” Al Ajlani adds. Beyond LEED certifi cation, C&P has implemented a range of sustainability initiatives that align with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030. These initiatives include integrating solar energy, using water- effi cient fi xtures, executing comprehensive waste management plans, prioritising local procurement, and launching community education programs. “These eff orts promote 26 JULY 2024 | COVER STORY | renewable energy adoption, resource conservation, community development, and foster a sustainable economy,” Al Ajlani emphasises. “By aligning our strategies with the national vision, C&P is contributing to the broader goals of sustainability and economic diversifi cation in Saudi Arabia.” DIVERSIFYING THE PROJECT PORTFOLIO Managing a diverse project portfolio, especially when handling large-scale projects like mega-towers and intricate fi t-outs, requires meticulous planning and strategic execution. Al Ajlani outlines the key strategies that C&P employs: “Our procurement department works around the clock to source materials quickly and effi ciently, resulting in smooth project kick-off s and progress, and ultimately, timely delivery.” Here, he also highlights the importance of Globix, their trading arm based in China, which has been operating for 18 years and was recently acquired by C&P. Strategic planning and strong client relationships are also crucial. “C&P maintains strong relationships with existing clients, which lead to repeat business and referrals across various project types. We have a rich track record of delivering high- quality projects with emphasis on timeline, coordination, and client relations,” he notes. Additionally, the company’s focus on innovation through new technologies, construction methods, and design trends ensures it stays at the forefront of the industry. According to Bouzo, attracting and retaining top talent is integral to C&P’s continued success, especially amidst the contractor’s rapid expansion. He explains, “We aim to maintain a positive and healthy work environment, fostering a culture of respect, transparency, and harmony in teamwork. We recognise employees for their contributions and achievements through performance incentives.” Investing in employee training and development is another key strategy. “C&P invests in employee training and development programs to foster continuous learning and skill enhancement,” Bouzo adds. This commitment to professional growth not only enhances employee satisfaction but also ensures that C&P remains equipped with a skilled and motivated workforce. GUIDING PRINCIPLES C&P’s journey towards excellence and innovation is deeply rooted in its leadership principles and organisational culture. Bouzo outlines the company’s approach to fostering a culture of excellence. “C&P aims for excellence through setting high standards for performance and conduct, inspiring employees to strive for excellence in our work,” he states. “By establishing clear goals and expectations, and holding employees accountable for their performance and results, we ensure a consistent delivery of high-quality outcomes.” Continuing, he adds that a strong focus on understanding and meeting client needs is integral to C&P’s ethos. “We strive to maintain our strong focus on understanding and meeting client needs, in order to deliver value-added solutions that exceed expectations,” Bouzo adds. This client-centric approach not only enhances satisfaction but also drives the company’s reputation for reliability and excellence. C&P believes in synergy between government entities and private sector stakeholders, aligned with Saudi Vision 2030. By creating strategic partnerships, Bouzo reveals that he leverages strengths from both sectors to contribute to the kingdom’s goals. He ensures projects Overview of First Avenue’s Capital Avenue project executed by C&PJULY 2024 27 | COVER STORY | comply with national policies and regulations while integrating innovative technologies from private companies, thus meeting both regulatory standards and Vision 2030’s objectives effi ciently. This dual approach not only ensures effi cient project execution but also aligns with the strategic objectives of Vision 2030, contributing to the kingdom’s ambitious goals. C&P’s strategy for market expansion is characterised by diversifi cation and sustainable development, targeting specifi c high-growth areas. Bouzo elaborates on their focus, “Our expansion strategy focuses on diversifi cation and sustainable development, targeting specifi c high- growth areas.” Within Saudi Arabia, C&P is committed to supporting the country’s vision through involvement in mega and gigaprojects, which not only drive domestic growth but also showcase C&P’s capabilities in handling large-scale, innovative developments, which are essential components of Saudi Vision 2030. For international expansion, C&P is concentrating on the GCC countries, with a particular emphasis on Dubai, where they are executing projects, and Egypt, where they have back offi ces and are also looking to execute projects. Additionally, C&P is the engineering and construction arm for AYANA Real Estate, headed by the former CEO of Emaar. “These markets off er substantial opportunities for growth and align with our commitment to sustainability and innovation,” Bouzo states. By focusing on these targeted regions, C&P aims to build a balanced portfolio of projects and maintain its leadership in the construction industry. HONOURING THE PAST, BUILDING THE FUTURE The outlook for the construction industry in Saudi Arabia is marked by a unique blend of cultural heritage and contemporary challenges. Bouzo provides insight into the current trends and future outlook, particularly in the context of Vision 2030. “The construction industry in Saudi Arabia is at the forefront of a remarkable transformation, driven by the ambitious goals of Vision 2030. A key trend is the innovative blend of cultural heritage with cutting-edge contemporary architecture,” he notes. Projects like NEOM exemplify this trend, pushing the boundaries of design and engineering to introduce futuristic and sustainable buildings that challenge traditional construction norms. “This includes the development of high-tech, environmentally friendly infrastructure that aims to create smart, connected cities,” Bouzo adds. While embracing modernity, there is a concerted eff ort to preserve and integrate the kingdom’s rich cultural heritage within these new developments. “This dual focus ensures that while we are building for the future, we are also honouring our past. This approach also leverages advanced technologies and sustainable practices, ensuring that new developments are both groundbreaking and respectful of historical context,” he concludes. “By aligning our strategies with the national vision, C&P is contributing to the broader goals of sustainability and economic diversi cation in Saudi Arabia” Tarek Al Ajlani, Co-founder and Managing Partner, C&P Overview of one of the projects by C&P’s subsidiary, City Heights Tarek Al Ajlani, Co-founder and Managing Partner, C&P| XXXXX XXXXX | 28 JULY 2024 |||| XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX ||| 2828 JULJULY 2Y20240244 TH E GI G A P R 28 JULY 2024| XXXXXX XXXXXX | JULY 2024 29 ||| XXXXXXXXXXXX X XXXXXX XXXXXXXXXXXXXXX ||| JULJULU Y 2Y 220240240 4 29292929 RE POR T R OJ E C T JULY 2024 29Next >