< PreviousSUPPLY CHAIN www.mepmiddleeast.com 30 MEP Middle East | January 2025www.mepmiddleeast.com SUPPLY CHAIN THE FUTURE OF Almas Tholot, Editor of MEP Middle East, discusses the critical role of sustainable construction and the supply chain in achieving net-zero goals at the Big 5 Global MEP_Jan2025_30-35_Big 5 Supply Chain Panel_13484119.indd 3022/12/2024 08:42SUPPLY CHAIN www.mepmiddleeast.comJanuary 2025 | MEP Middle East 31 www.mepmiddleeast.com Nadia Ibrahim, Middle East Director of Sustainability, Ricardo Nour Kashwani, Head of Tendering and Bid Analysis, UAE Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure The construction industry has long been a significant contributor to global carbon emissions. However, with increasing focus from governments, environmental organisations, and the public, the sector is now undergoing a crucial transformation toward sustainability. A pivotal aspect of this shift is the role of the supply chain, which directly influences the carbon footprint of construction projects, particularly through Scope 3 emissions. As part of the Big 5 Global, Big 5 Talks hosted a panel discussion on the topic. Moderated by Almas Tholot, Editor of MEP Middle East, the session featured insights from leading industry figures: Mahesh Ramanujam, President and CEO of the Global Network for Zero; Nadia Ibrahim, Middle East Director of Sustainability at Ricardo; Arpan Pal, Manager of Sustainable Development and Healthy Living at WSP in the Middle East; and Nour Kashwani, Head of Tendering and Bid Analysis at the UAE Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure. The discussion delved into the pressing need for sustainable practices in construction and the pivotal role of the supply chain in achieving these goals. Mahesh Ramanujam explained that achieving net-zero carbon construction goals requires more than just reducing operational energy consumption. “It’s about minimising the environmental impact at every phase of a building’s lifecycle—from design through construction to commissioning and operations,” he said. This broader approach is essential, as the construction sector accounts for a significant portion of global emissions, and Scope 3 emissions— those from materials sourcing, transportation, and disposal—make up the lion’s share. “Only about 0.023% of the world’s buildings are truly net-zero, and most of these are focused solely on energy use,” Ramanujam noted. To address Scope 3 emissions, collaboration across the supply chain is key. Working closely with suppliers, manufacturers, and subcontractors ensures that sustainable materials and processes are prioritised. Ramanujam emphasised that tools like Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs) and Life Cycle Assessments (LCAs) help in assessing and reducing the carbon footprint of construction materials. The supply chain’s influence is evident, as it accounts for a significant portion of a building’s emissions. Ramanujam added, “Sustainability isn’t just a goal— it needs to be a core part of how the entire value chain operates.” Integrating sustainability throughout the supply chain ensures that net-zero goals are met while minimising long-term environmental impacts. In fact, collaboration with suppliers on issues like transportation emissions and the reuse of materials is critical to reducing the overall carbon footprint. Nadia Ibrahim shared her insights on how the Middle East’s construction sector is evolving towards sustainable practices, particularly in light of rapid development in countries like Saudi Arabia and the UAE. “The Middle East’s construction sector, traditionally focused on cost, is increasingly adopting environmentally friendly business strategies,” she explained, pointing out that the pandemic’s disruptions led to a shift towards local sustainable sourcing, which has driven the adoption of green supply chains. “Regulatory frameworks in the region, such as the UAE’s Circular Economy Policy and the NDC3, which targets 79% sectoral emission reductions in the building sector, are driving this change,” she noted. She also highlighted the growing interest in innovative materials and technologies, such as recycled aggregates, biobased materials, and bamboo. She emphasised that these sustainable MEP_Jan2025_30-35_Big 5 Supply Chain Panel_13484119.indd 3123/12/2024 16:05SUPPLY CHAIN www.mepmiddleeast.com 32 MEP Middle East | January 2025www.mepmiddleeast.com materials contribute to reducing the carbon footprint of construction projects. She further emphasised that technologies such as AI, IoT, and blockchain are transforming the construction supply chain by enabling better management of materials, waste, and energy consumption. For instance, 3D printing is revolutionising construction by reducing waste and allowing for customised, sustainable buildings. Nadia stated, “In Dubai, the goal is to have 25% of all new buildings constructed using 3D printing by 2030.” Nour Kashwani shared how government policies and tendering frameworks are pushing the construction industry towards sustainability. “The UAE government has implemented comprehensive policies that promote sustainable practices, such as Dubai’s Al Safat rating system and the national sustainability guidelines for buildings, infrastructure, and maintenance projects,” Kashwani explained. These initiatives encourage developers, contractors, consultants, subcontractors, and vendors to align their projects with environmental standards, ensuring that sustainability is embedded at every stage of the construction process. “By embedding these principles into tendering and bid evaluation criteria, the government not only promotes sustainable practices but also strengthens its position as a global leader in sustainable infrastructure development,” she said. As governments around the world continue to push for sustainability, these frameworks help align construction practices with international environmental goals, making sustainability a non-negotiable factor. CURRENT TRENDS AND OPPORTUNITIES As the construction industry evolves, sustainability- focused trends are reshaping the way buildings are designed, constructed, and operated. In the Middle East, the demand for energy-efficient, sustainable buildings is rising due to both environmental concerns and the region’s extreme climate. Arpan Pal highlighted that energy efficiency and healthy building standards are becoming crucial in the region. “The harsh climate of the Middle East, combined with increasing environmental awareness, has led to a shift towards sustainable building designs,” he explained. The adoption of passive design strategies, such as shading, ventilation, and building orientation, is helping reduce reliance on air conditioning, which is a major energy consumer in the region. Moreover, Pal pointed out that advancements in HVAC systems, including air filtration technologies, are improving indoor air quality, which is crucial given the region’s frequent dust storms and pollutants. Big5 Talks at the Big 5 Global, Dubai “Getting suppliers and material providers to share transparent product information, especially regarding lifecycle and sustainability, can be challenging” - Nadia Ibrahim MEP_Jan2025_30-35_Big 5 Supply Chain Panel_13484119.indd 3222/12/2024 08:43SUPPLY CHAIN www.mepmiddleeast.comJanuary 2025 | MEP Middle East 33 www.mepmiddleeast.com “Additionally, low-VOC (volatile organic compound) paints, materials, and finishes are being used to minimise harmful emissions,” he added. Pal also discussed the importance of LCAs in guiding sustainable design. “Our team at WSP uses LCAs to identify which materials have the least environmental impact over their lifecycle,” he said. By assessing everything from material extraction to disposal, designers can make informed decisions that help reduce the carbon footprint of buildings. Nour Kashwani expanded on the challenges that arise when integrating sustainability into procurement processes. “One of the main challenges is the higher upfront costs of sustainable materials,” Kashwani explained. While sustainable materials can reduce long-term operational costs, the initial investment can be a barrier for some developers. “From a governmental perspective, it is essential to minimise upfront expenses without compromising the sustainability or long-term viability of a project.” Kashwani also noted that the construction industry is often resistant to change. “Some companies are hesitant to adopt new sustainability metrics because of uncertainty about potential risks and consequences,” she said. To address these challenges, Kashwani advocates for better collaboration between the public and private sectors, along with clear government incentives to offset initial costs and emphasise the long-term benefits of sustainability. “Companies, on the other hand, need to adopt a proactive approach, investing in capacity-building and innovative solutions to align with these sustainability requirements. Together, these efforts can ensure that sustainability becomes an integral part of tendering and procurement processes, driving progress toward a more resilient and sustainable future,” she added. LIFECYCLE ASSESSMENTS AND ROI As sustainability becomes a central focus in the construction industry, lifecycle assessments are gaining traction as a tool to evaluate the environmental impact of materials used in building projects. Nadia Ibrahim discussed the role of LCAs in decision-making. “Lifecycle assessments are critical in evaluating the total environmental impact of materials,” she said. This helps avoid greenwashing and ensures that the materials used in construction have been properly assessed for their sustainability. She further explained that LCAs evaluate the impact of materials across their entire life cycle, from production, transportation, and usage to disposal. “This transparency is essential for the stakeholders who are looking to reduce their carbon footprint,” she added. According to her, LCA “is a powerful tool that can help product manufacturers and suppliers gain a competitive advantage with their customers. This is particularly valuable for demonstrating return on investment (ROI) through positive environmental impacts, such as carbon footprint reduction and pollution control, alongside cost considerations.” INTEGRATING DIGITAL TECHNOLOGIES AND AUTOMATION Emerging technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), the Internet of Things (IoT), and blockchain are no longer optional innovations; they are Almas Tholot, Editor, MEP Middle East “Some companies are hesitant to adopt new sustainability metrics because of uncertainty about potential risks and consequences” - Nour Kashwani As sustainability becomes a central focus in the construction industry, lifecycle assessments are gaining traction as a tool to evaluate the environmental impact of materials used in building projects MEP_Jan2025_30-35_Big 5 Supply Chain Panel_13484119.indd 3322/12/2024 08:43SUPPLY CHAIN www.mepmiddleeast.com 34 MEP Middle East | January 2025www.mepmiddleeast.com becoming essential tools in reshaping supply chain management to achieve transparency, efficiency, and sustainable outcomes. Ramanujam, a staunch advocate of sustainable construction practices, highlighted this transformative potential: “Sustainability and digital transformation go hand in hand. Technologies like AI, IoT, and blockchain are playing a huge role in making the supply chain more sustainable and transparent. The construction industry is in a unique position to benefit from these digital innovations, especially when it comes to cutting emissions, improving resource efficiency, and streamlining operations.” The integration of digital technologies is not merely about efficiency but also about fostering a circular economy. “By reducing waste and reusing materials right from the planning stages, AI and IoT can help manage construction waste more effectively,” Ramanujam explained. “These technologies also make it easier to track and sort materials for recycling on-site and even create closed-loop systems where materials can be reused across different projects, cutting down environmental impact.” Blockchain, a revolutionary tool for ensuring transparency, is particularly impactful. Its ability to create secure, traceable records allows stakeholders to monitor every step of the supply chain— from material production to delivery. Ramanujam emphasised this point: “Blockchain ensures sustainable practices are followed, and it also makes it easier to verify the carbon footprint of materials, helping stakeholders make more informed decisions about what to buy.” Furthermore, these digital innovations empower developers to track embodied carbon throughout a building’s lifecycle. By doing so, construction teams can identify opportunities to reduce emissions at every stage, from design to demolition, fostering a more sustainable future for the built environment. BUILDING INFORMATION MODELING AND AUTOMATED LOGISTICS Arpan Pal expanded on the critical role of Building Information Modeling (BIM) in enhancing the supply chain’s efficiency and sustainability. “BIM provides a centralised digital model accessible to all stakeholders, fostering enhanced collaboration, reducing errors and rework, and enabling more efficient and sustainable designs. This approach allows for precise material quantity calculations, minimising waste and enabling early resource allocation to streamline the supply chain effectively.” Pal’s observations underscore the value of lifecycle assessment plugins integrated into design tools. These enable supply chain strategies to be optimised during a project’s initial stages, paving the way for incorporating low-carbon materials into designs Arpan Pal, Manager of Sustainable Development and Healthy Living, WSP in the Middle East Mahesh Ramanujam, President and CEO, Global Network for Zero Lifecycle assessments evaluate the impact of materials across their entire life cycle, from production, transportation, and usage to disposal “The harsh climate of the Middle East, combined with increasing environmental awareness, has led to a shift towards sustainable building designs” - Arpan Pal MEP_Jan2025_30-35_Big 5 Supply Chain Panel_13484119.indd 3422/12/2024 08:43SUPPLY CHAIN www.mepmiddleeast.comJanuary 2025 | MEP Middle East 35 www.mepmiddleeast.com and procurement processes. Such forward-thinking practices not only reduce waste but also lower the overall carbon footprint of construction projects, creating a ripple effect of sustainable benefits. COLLABORATION Achieving ambitious sustainability goals in construction requires innovation and technology, but collaboration is just as critical. Nadia Ibrahim emphasised the interconnected roles of owners, developers, architects, suppliers, and contractors in fostering this alignment. “The integration of sustainable practices into the construction supply chain is not just a trend but a necessity for the future of the industry,” she noted. While collaboration is crucial, it is not without challenges. She highlighted the complexities of sourcing sustainable materials, particularly in regions like the Middle East, where over 80% of materials are imported. “Getting suppliers and material providers to share transparent product information, especially regarding lifecycle and sustainability, can be challenging. There should be systematic processes where clear specifications are proposed for sustainable materials from a design perspective and suppliers bring transparent information on the same,” she suggested. Addressing these hurdles involves striking a delicate balance between the industry’s traditional cost-sensitive nature and the need to adopt innovative, sustainable solutions. She called for a comprehensive approach that extends beyond material selection to consider the entire social and environmental implications of the construction process. “Decarbonisation should be the objective in each and every link in the construction value chain,” she emphasised. GLOBAL FRAMEWORKS The adoption of global initiatives and frameworks is pivotal for aligning stakeholders around shared sustainability goals. Ramanujam shared his vision for evolving green building rating systems towards net- zero standards. “While systems like LEED have done a great job of promoting sustainable construction, there’s an urgent need to fully integrate net-zero principles into the entire building lifecycle,” he asserted. Ramanujam’s creation of the Global Network for Zero exemplifies this commitment. “We not only focus on certification but on planning and implementing net- zero goals throughout the building’s lifecycle. By 2030, every green building will need a net-zero roadmap,” he stated. This shift reflects growing investor and tenant demand for low-carbon spaces and underscores the importance of universal certification standards to guide developers and owners through the complexities of achieving net-zero status. Transparency remains a cornerstone of these efforts. “We need to implement global reporting standards that require companies to disclose their carbon footprints, particularly Scope 3 emissions. This would create a clearer picture of where emissions are coming from in the supply chain, allowing everyone to track progress and hold each other accountable,” Ramanujam explained. The fragmented nature of the construction industry often impedes collaboration. To overcome this, Ramanujam advocated for creating global platforms for knowledge-sharing and best practices. “By fostering collaboration across the supply chain—whether through digital tools, industry networks, or shared platforms—we can break down silos and encourage the adoption of sustainable practices across all phases of construction,” he remarked. Sustainability in construction is no longer optional; it is a collective commitment supported by robust frameworks and collaborative efforts. As Nadia Ibrahim aptly noted, “Transforming the supply chain into a sustainable value chain involves more than rethinking blueprints and selecting green-labelled products. It requires buy-in from all stakeholders involved.” The adoption of global initiatives and frameworks is pivotal for aligning stakeholders around shared sustainability goals “Sustainability isn’t just a goal—it needs to be a core part of how the entire value chain operates” - Mahesh Ramanujam MEP_Jan2025_30-35_Big 5 Supply Chain Panel_13484119.indd 3522/12/2024 08:43www.mepmiddleeast.com 36 MEP Middle East | January 2025www.mepmiddleeast.com Sameer Daoud, Managing Director of the Infrastructure Division at KEO, brings over 27 years of expertise to the field, with 19 of those years firmly rooted in the GCC region. Speaking exclusively to MEP Middle East at the Big 5, Daoud highlighted KEO’s dedication to shaping the future of infrastructure through innovation, collaboration, and a client- centric approach. Daoud emphasised that KEO’s unique market position is underpinned by its people and their diverse skill sets. “Our specialists bring a level of commitment and expertise that sets us apart,” he remarked. This dedication is further reinforced by a legacy of trust and excellence, operational innovation, and an unwavering focus on client satisfaction. KEO’s approach to innovation extends beyond merely adopting new tools or construction methods. According to Daoud, the company actively integrates cutting-edge technologies and market tools, ensuring agility in responding to industry trends. This adaptability enables KEO to maintain robust communication channels, both internally and with external stakeholders, bridging the gap between contractors and clients to deliver maximum value to the community. ADDRESSING INDUSTRY CHALLENGES In addressing industry challenges, Daoud highlighted the importance of effective communication and collaboration. “At KEO, with our global presence and diversity, we have a shared mission. It all begins and ends with communication,” he explained. By fostering a culture of collaboration, the company ensures seamless operations across teams and projects. Looking ahead, Daoud shared KEO’s focus on expanding its innovation portfolio, encompassing advancements in AI, construction technologies, and sustainable practices. “It’s not just about talking about technology and sustainability, but making it a reality,” he stated, underscoring the company’s commitment to linking technological progress with tangible community benefits. As KEO marks its 60th anniversary this year, the company celebrates a rich history of achievements. “The journey has had its ups and downs, but the milestones we’ve reached over the past six decades are a testament to the strength and support of the KEO family,” Daoud reflected. This milestone serves as both a moment of pride and motivation to continue delivering excellence in the years to come. KEO’s forward-looking strategy, rooted in innovation and collaboration, ensures the company remains a leader in shaping the future of the infrastructure sector while upholding its core values of trust, excellence, and community impact. BUILDING TOMORROW: KEO’S VISION FOR THE FUTURE AT THE BIG 5 KEO’s approach to innovation extends beyond merely adopting new tools or construction methods; it ensures agility in responding to industry trends BIG 5 MEP_Jan2025_36-39_Big 5 Interviews_13488208.indd 3622/12/2024 08:45www.mepmiddleeast.comJanuary 2025 | MEP Middle East 37 www.mepmiddleeast.com Cornerstone Middleeast made a significant impact at the Big 5 this year, showcasing its comprehensive range of testing and inspection solutions tailored to the MEP sector. As a regional leader in asset performance optimisation, the company highlighted its holistic approach to ensuring the reliability and longevity of critical infrastructure. REVOLUTIONISING ASSET TESTING AND INSPECTION Central to Cornerstone’s participation was its solution-driven approach, offering advanced services such as CCTV pipeline inspections, façade air and water testing, and drone-based assessments. These services are designed to enhance compliance, mitigate risks, and provide actionable insights for clients managing the complexities of large-scale projects. By integrating various testing methods under a single provider, the company delivers a seamless experience that saves both time and costs. “Our holistic approach considers the entire ecosystem of a building, examining the interplay between structural, mechanical, and electrical systems,” explained Reshma Bhaskaran, General Manager – Corporate Operations. This methodology was exemplified in a recent case study involving a recurring electrical fault. While traditional solutions failed to resolve the issue, Cornerstone’s multidisciplinary team identified façade-related condensation as the root cause, effectively addressing the problem and preventing further disruptions. INNOVATIVE TECHNOLOGIES FOR CONTEMPORARY CHALLENGES Cornerstone is leveraging state-of-the-art technology to transform asset inspection and testing. AI-powered defect detection in pipeline assessments, drone-based inspections for electrical transmission lines and solar PV plants, and integration with smart building systems enable predictive maintenance and data-driven decision-making. These innovations align with the Middle East’s growing emphasis on sustainability and digital transformation. “From enhancing energy efficiency with façade testing to optimising water systems through CCTV inspections, our solutions contribute directly to the region’s green building initiatives,” stated Sarath Mohanan, General Manager – Client Solution and Delivery. STRATEGICALLY POSITIONED FOR GROWTH With the Middle East advancing ambitious green infrastructure projects, Cornerstone is strategically positioned to meet the industry’s evolving needs. By prioritising regulatory compliance and harnessing smart technologies, the company ensures its clients adhere to the highest standards while enhancing system performance and sustainability. Cornerstone Middleeast’s participation at the Big 5 reinforced its reputation as a trusted partner in the MEP sector, delivering innovative solutions that guarantee the integrity, safety, and efficiency of the built environment. CORNERSTONE MIDDLEEAST’S VISION: DRIVING INNOVATION AND SUSTAINABILITY Cornerstone Middleeast highlighted its role in solving complex infrastructure challenges through advanced technologies and a multidisciplinary approach PARTNER CONTENT MEP_Jan2025_36-39_Big 5 Interviews_13488208.indd 3722/12/2024 08:45www.mepmiddleeast.com 38 MEP Middle East | January 2025www.mepmiddleeast.com PARTNER CONTENT GF Piping Systems, a Swiss company with a 220-year legacy, is making waves in the Middle East with its cutting-edge water and flow solutions. At the Big 5 event, MEP Middle East conducted an exclusive interview with Christopher Merrell, Chief Marketing Officer at GF Piping Systems, to learn more about the business’ growth plans, innovative technologies, and its commitment to the Middle East region. “The Big 5 is a huge opportunity for us,” said Merrell. “It allows us to connect with construction partners from across the region and showcase our portfolio, including our recent joint venture, GF Corys, which was inaugurated a year ago in the UAE and is now present in Oman, Kuwait, and Bahrain.” DRIVING EFFICIENCY THROUGH INNOVATION GF Piping Systems has a strong focus on addressing critical industry challenges, particularly through offsite manufacturing and prefabrication. These solutions reduce reliance on skilled labour and enhance project efficiency, all while maintaining operational safety and compliance with international standards. “Our offsite manufacturing capabilities short-circuit time constraints for construction companies,” Merrell explained. “We also provide world-leading polymer products that solve issues like energy efficiency, water loss, and clean water delivery—all while ensuring site safety and eliminating corrosion concerns.” The company’s heritage is steeped in innovation and quality. “As a 220-year-old company, you don’t survive this long without offering the highest quality products,” Merrell said. “We go above and beyond compliance, with testing labs at our headquarters in Schaffhausen and facilities worldwide to ensure our products meet the most rigorous standards.” BUILDING PARTNERSHIPS FOR TOMORROW At this year’s Big 5, GF launched its Partnerships for Tomorrow campaign, a bold initiative aimed at introducing the GF brand more prominently to the Middle East. This aligns with the company’s ambition to become the leading provider of water and flow solutions in the UAE and across the region. “Our goal is to be the number one provider in the UAE and grow from there,” Merrell stated. “We want GF to be a household name in this space, supporting the region’s biggest construction projects with our expertise, technology, and sustainable solutions.” LOOKING AHEAD As GF Piping Systems continues to expand its footprint in the Middle East, its vision for 2025 is clear: to remain a trusted partner for the region’s largest and most demanding construction projects. “In 2025, we aim to be the partner of choice, delivering water and flow solutions with expertise and resources across demanding segments,” Merrell shared. The company’s longstanding commitment to innovation, quality, and sustainability positions it as a key player in shaping the future of the region’s construction landscape. “Being a Swiss company, compliance and quality are in our DNA,” said Merrell. “We’re here to support our customers in achieving their sustainability and compliance goals—and to grow together.” GF Piping Systems’ presence at the Big 5 underscored its dedication to advancing water and flow technologies while building meaningful partnerships in the Middle East. With its robust portfolio and bold vision, GF is set to transform the region’s approach to efficient and sustainable construction. GF PIPING SYSTEMS: REVOLUTIONISING PIPING SOLUTIONS FOR A SUSTAINABLE FUTURE GF Piping Systems has a strong focus on addressing critical industry challenges, particularly through offsite manufacturing and prefabrication MEP_Jan2025_36-39_Big 5 Interviews_13488208.indd 3822/12/2024 08:45www.mepmiddleeast.comJanuary 2025 | MEP Middle East 39 www.mepmiddleeast.com PARTNER CONTENT With the conclusion of the Big 5 Expo, industry leaders reflect on the innovative contributions showcased throughout the event. Among the standout exhibitors was Rubber World Industry’s renowned Gulf-O-Flex, whose product line is designed to meet the growing demand for soundproofing in commercial, industrial, and residential projects. Mujtaba Shaikhani, Managing Director of Gulf-O- Flex, shared insights into the company’s strategies and future ambitions during an exclusive interview. “Big 5 is a great event to be a part of. We look forward to it every year,” Shaikhani remarked, highlighting the expo’s importance for networking and business growth. Operating for over 30 years with five manufacturing facilities across the Middle East and Far East Asia, Gulf-O-Flex leverages such events to stay abreast of industry innovations and emerging start-up ideas. “We focus on passive energy saving. So where you focus on your building envelopes and the type of material you’re using in those buildings,” Shaikhani explained. This focus on passive solutions sets Gulf-O-Flex apart from the prevalent active energy methods in the HVAC industry, which often rely on technologies like remote-controlled temperature systems. Gulf-O-Flex’s expertise is evident in its involvement with numerous mega projects. “We’ve worked with many mega projects, and each project is different,” Shaikhani stated. The company’s internal team meticulously develops customised solutions tailored to the specific climatic conditions of regions like Saudi Arabia, where extreme temperatures and varying humidity levels demand precise engineering. Looking ahead, Gulf-O-Flex is aligning its goals with global sustainability targets. “Our ambitions have now changed from preserving what is happening now to aligning with net zero climate visions,” Shaikhani said. The company is not only providing advanced solutions but also raising awareness about passive energy-saving technologies. This involves collaborating with clients, developers, and regulatory bodies to implement and elevate energy efficiency standards. “When talking about sustainability, businesses need to change their approach from not only focusing on profits but also what they are doing for the people and the planet,” he explained. PLANS FOR 2025 The year 2025 marks a significant milestone for Gulf-O-Flex with the inauguration of its fifth plant in Saudi Arabia. “We’re starting our fifth plant in Saudi and we’re excited about what this plant is going to bring, especially with the mega projects in Saudi,” Shaikhani announced. This expansion underscores Gulf-O-Flex’s commitment to delivering Saudi-made products and supporting clients in meeting their energy efficiency targets. As Gulf-O-Flex continues to innovate and expand, its focus remains steadfast on providing sustainable, customised solutions that meet the evolving demands of the global market. “We are not only providing solutions but also raising awareness on passive energy-saving technologies,” Shaikhani concluded, highlighting the company’s dual role in driving both technological advancement and industry-wide sustainability. GULF-O-FLEX SHOWCASES CUTTING- EDGE PASSIVE ENERGY SOLUTIONS AT THE BIG 5 MD Mujtaba Shaikhani unveils plans for the company’s new manufacturing plant in Saudi Arabia set to open in 2025 MEP_Jan2025_36-39_Big 5 Interviews_13488208.indd 3922/12/2024 08:46Next >