CONTENTS VOL. 3 • 2024 • ISSUE 02 14 20 20 DESIGN A special feature spotlighting three Saudi design rms and their projects as an exploration of the variety inherent in Saudi-authentic design aesthetics. 24 EVENT COVERAGE Highlighting the four engaging sessions from the annual CW KSA Infrastructure Summit 2024 with speakers from Mofarreh AlHarbi & Partners, Saudi Arabia Railways, KEO, JLL, and more. 36 CONSTRUCTION INNOVATIONS A glimpse into some of the ground- breaking construction advancements pioneered at Saudi Arabia’s leading institute for scienti c research and development. 24 36 COVER STORY Group CEO of Abdullah Al Othaim Investment Company, Meshaal Bin Omairh on how the company is diversi ng its operations by entering new sectors and developing mixed-use projects in different cities in Saudi Arabia. 34 After wrapping up the 2023 event line-up, Construction Week Middle East is gearing up for more exciting events in 2024. As we step into the fi rst quarter, we are excited to host industry leading events once again. These include the Leaders in Construction Conference series across the UAE and KSA, as well as Infrastructure Summits and Annual Awards. EVENTS CALENDAR For more information on conferences, contact Priyadarshini Rampuria, Conference Producer (priyadarshini.r@itp.com). For all award-related inquiries, contact Dmitry Lazarenko, Marketing and Events Manager (dmitry.lazarenko@itp.com). If you would like to be one of our partners and take advantage of our sponsorship opportunities, contact Anup Nagpurkar, Group Commercial Director (anup.nagpurkar@itp.com) or Ahmad Amer, Senior Sales Manager (ahmad.amer@itp.com). *Dates are subject to change at the editorial team’s discretion* CONFERENCECONFERENCE AWARDSAWARDS SEPTEMBER NOVEMBER JUNE NOVEMBER Leaders in Construction KSA Summit Leaders in Construction UAE Summit Construction Week KSA Awards Construction Week Middle East Awards EVENTS 2024 CALENDAR| EDITOR’S LETTER | 5 Progress Report T he only issue with writing for a leading construction publication, is that you will still be late for something happening somewhere else. If we are measuring the country’s pace in agreements, launches, awards, project completions, international certi cations, ground-breakings and unveilings, then we should be fortunate to be reporting from the centre of progress. Going into the rst quarter of 2024, we planned to curate an all-infrastructure issue. However, we quickly realised that we would not be ful lling our promise to keep you up-to-date with all the latest happenings in the industry. So eventually, we decided to go with a mix of exclusives for a broader coverage. In this April issue, you will be ipping through the pages that will include an interview with the global venues architect designing two iconic projects in Qiddiya (pg 12), an opinion piece by the Architecture Design Director at Boutique Group on her efforts to regenerate ultra-luxury cultural projects (pg 34), as well as taking a quick look at the cutting-edge research happening at KAUST with promising results for the AEC industry (pg 36). Additionally, you will also come across contributions from three local design rms that support our exploration of Saudi-authentic designs (pg 20). This issue also features an exclusive interview with Abdullah Al Othaim Investment Company’s Meshaal Bin Omairh, where the Group CEO answers our questions about the company’s multi-billion dollar investments to become a major destinations player, its preparations to become listed on Tadawul, and its motivations for its social and economic pursuits (pg 14). Now, it’s your turn to delve into this issue. Absorb its insights and lessons. Yet, swiftly pivot to seize the freshest updates in this ever-evolving industry. Sincerely, Muhammed F. Alharari Deputy Editor PUBLISHED BY AND © 2024 ITP MEDIA GROUP FZ-LLC. PO Box 500024, Dubai, United Arab Emirates TEL +971 4 444 3000 WEB: WWW.ITP.COM Offices in Abu Dhabi, Dubai, London, Mumbai, Riyadh & Geneva ITP MEDIA GROUP CEO Ali Akawi CFO Toby Jay Spencer-Davies Managing Director Alex Reeve EDITORIAL Group Editor Kate-Lynne Wolmarans +971 4 444 3541; kate.wolmarans@itp.com Digital Editor Julianne Tolentino +971 4 444 3855; julianne.tolentino@itp.com Deputy Editor Muhammed Alharari +966 11 512 2570; muhammed.alharari@itp.com Commercial Editor Angitha Pradeep +971 4 444 3278; angitha.pradeep@itp.com ART Art Director Amjad Ayche amjad.ayche@itp.com Art Editor Tofiq Memon tofiq.memon@itp.com Contributing Designer Muhammed Nahas ADVERTISING Group Commercial Director Anup Nagpurkar +971 4 444 3573; anup.nagpurkar@itp.com Commercial Director Moutaz Gadelhak +971 4 444 3177; moutaz.gadelhak@itp.com Commercial Manager Robert Cole +971 4 444 3417; robert.cole@itp.com Senior Sales Manager, Construction Week KSA Ahmad Amer +966 11 512 2570; ahmad.amer@itp.com PHOTOGRAPHY Videographer: Muhammad Kaleem Senior Video Editor: Liju Cheruvathur Social Media & Production Manager: Andy Ruedas PRODUCTION Production Manager Denny Kollannoor Production Coordinator Mahendra Pawar Senior Image Editor Emmalyn Robles DISTRIBUTION Circulation Executive Rajesh Pillai Distribution Coordinator Avinash Pereira Website www.constructionweekonline.com NOTICE: The publishers regret that they cannot accept liability for errors or omissions contained in this publication, however caused. The opinions and views contained in this publication are not necessarily those of the publishers. Readers are advised to seek specialist advice before acting on information contained in this publication, which is provided for general use and may not be appropriate for the readers’ particular circumstances. The ownership of trademarks is acknowledged. No part of this publication or any part of the contents thereof may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form without the permission of the publishers in writing. An exemption is hereby granted for extracts used for the purpose of fair review.| 5 THINGS | 6 | 5 THINGS | 666666666666 The kingdom’s construction industry is operating at maximum capacity, resulting in a surge of activity in the infrastructure, real estate, and tourism sectors. Construction Week Saudi provides essential insights into Saudi Arabia’s construction industry, including updates on gigaprojects and signi cant infrastructure projects. PIF and National Infrastructure Fund launches a new Contractor Financing Program This initiative off ers contractors diverse fi nancing options, fosters transparency and integration, and promotes project structures that ensure better cash fl ow management. PIF launches THE RIG, the world’s fi rst Water Sports and Adventure Tourism Destination Inspired by the design of off shore oil platforms, this unique hospitality and adventure experience will span a gross fl oor area (GFA) of over 300,000m2. Located 40km off the coastline, it seeks to attract over 900,000 annual visitors by 2032.| 5 THINGS | 7 || 5 THINGS || 777777 Al-Ayuni signs major deals with Diriyah Company and ROSHN The company has signed an order with the Diriyah Company for the development of the Diriyah project infrastructure, and has secured a contract with the ROSHN Group to design and build public facilities and residential units in Al Falwa community in the Eastern Province. Diriyah reveals 20,000-seat arena at MIPIM 2024 Designed by HKS Architects, the 76,000-square- metre venue is the latest asset by the giga-developer, and is set to become a leading destination in the Middle East, attracting global visitors and revolutionising the region’s events scene Riyadh. Talaat Moustafa Group and Al Muhaidib launches a strategic partnership The strategic partnership will commence with the “Banan City” project in Riyadh, while various smart and sustainable urban projects will be developed in Saudi Arabia.LESSONS FOR YOUNG CONSTRUCTION PROFESSIONALS Insights from construction industry leaders on strategies that have propelled their success, and the essential qualities for the next generation to thrive in the eld MARK DE COCINIS – A LESSON IN CAREER BUILDING A seasoned CEO and a renowned fi gure in the luxury hospitality industry with over 40 years of experience, Mark De Cocinis off ers the following wisdom for how he came to lead a team of local and international experts with the aim of creating unforgettable experiences for guests, and setting Saudi Arabian hospitality as a benchmark. “As young professionals in the construction industry, you are embarking on a journey that will shape the physical landscape of our world. Each project you undertake, whether it’s erecting towering skyscrapers or restoring historic landmarks, holds within it the potential to leave a lasting impact on generations to come. “My passion for hospitality was ignited in the warmth of my grandmother’s kitchen. Growing up, I spent countless hours by her side, marvelling at the magic she created with simple ingredients and boundless love. Little did I know then that those moments would lay the foundation for a career that would blend my love for architecture, design, and hospitality. My nonna unknowingly guided me to Boutique Group’s and its industry-redefi ning objective of contributing to the built environment as well as the kingdom’s intangible cultural heritage. “Passion is the fuel that propels us forward. It is the spark that ignites creativity, fuels perseverance, and drives excellence. Without passion, our work becomes mundane, a mere means to an end. But with passion, every task becomes infused with purpose and meaning. “As you navigate the complexities of your chosen industry, refl ect on what truly drives you. Is it the thrill of seeing a project come to life? The joy of overcoming challenges and pushing boundaries? Or perhaps, like me, it’s the profound satisfaction of knowing that your work has the power to create unforgettable experiences for others. “Whatever it may be, hold onto that passion fi ercely. Let it guide you through the long hours, the setbacks, and the inevitable moments of doubt. Embrace your unique journey, for it is through passion that we fi nd fulfi lment and success. “But passion alone is not enough. Alongside it must stand dedication, discipline and a relentless pursuit of excellence. Strive to expand your knowledge, hone your skills and surround yourself with mentors who will challenge and inspire you. Remember that greatness is not achieved overnight but through perseverance and unwavering commitment to your craft. And never forget the importance of loving what you do.” Within the construction industry’s transformative embrace lies a world of possibilities, where personal ambitions intertwine with the pursuit of excellence and the collective pursuit of national aspirations. Once perceived as a realm of hard hats and blueprints, the construction industry now emerges as a dynamic hub of innovation, where young professionals can not only build careers but also contribute to shaping the future of Saudi Arabia. | THOUGHT LEADERSHIP | 8DAVID HENRY – A LESSON IN LIFELONG LEARNING With over four decades of experience in property development, David Henry leads the team behind the transformative Mohammed bin Salman Nonprofi t City “Misk City.” From its inception, Henry has championed the Nonprofi t City, seeing it as a dynamic hub for youth and a global centre for innovation, education, and creativity. Certainly, there is much to learn from him. However, his main lesson here is clear and resounding: If you are just starting out, keep in mind that you are never done learning. “As the construction industry evolves with new technologies, regulations, and trends, lifelong learning becomes crucial for young professionals to stay competitive. “By remaining curious, seeking new learning opportunities, and investing in professional development, they can remain relevant. Pursuing advanced certifi cations, attending industry conferences, and engaging in mentorship programs are key to unlocking their full potential and achieving long-term success.” Aligned with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud’s visionary outlook, Henry’s mission is to guide the dedicated team who will shape the city that epitomises next-generation urban development, and carry forward its overarching ethos, which is to reward the Curious, the Knowledge- hungry, and, of course, the Dreamer. It is a destination that integrates top-tier cultural experiences, knowledge, innovation, talent, smart infrastructure, and sustainability, and poised to become a truly global destination. In application, delivering the city relies substantially on innovation, and it will not be diff erent for many of the major pioneering projects of the future. For Henry, this means that it is imperative that young professionals embrace new technologies and inventive approaches. “Whether through utilising advanced materials, adopting digital project management tools, or implementing sustainable building practices, innovation signifi cantly enhances effi ciency and sustainability in projects.” His lesson does not stop here; lifelong learners understand the virtue of giving back. He notes that sustainability is no longer an option but a necessity in the construction industry. “As agents of the built environment, professionals must prioritise sustainability to minimise environmental impact. This includes using sustainable materials, implementing energy-effi cient design principles, and incorporating green building technologies.” | THOUGHT LEADERSHIP | 9Next >