Saudi Projects Issue 51

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SAUDI AMANA ENABLING MODULAR CONSTRUCTION OPENS ITS FACTORY IN RABIGH ROSEWOOD AMAALA HOTELS AND SPAS

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Editors Foreword

SUSTAINABILITY, WELLNESS AND THE MOVIES ON THE COVER OF THIS ISSUE OF SAUDI PROJECTS, WE FEATURE SAUDI AMANA, ONE OF THE REGION’S MOST RESPECTED DESIGNBUILD CONTRACTORS, WHICH HAS RECENTLY STRENGTHENED ITS PRE-EMINENT POSITION IN MODULAR CONSTRUCTION WITH THE OPENING OF A NEW STATE-OF-THE-ART FACTORY IN RABIGH. THIS IS BOTH EXCELLENT NEWS FOR THE CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY AND THE PLANET AS A WHOLE. The reason for this is that modular buildings are kind to the environment - they are eco-friendly and are leading the market with the use of recycled materials. In fact, one of the really big advantages of modular buildings is that you can be certain that you are investing in a sustainable construction process from beginning to end.

Talking about the environment, we speak to Andreas Flourou, Executive Director,

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Operations & Mobility at Red Sea Global, about making mobility cleaner, greener, and smarter, following the Kingdom’s recent announcement that it intends

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to convert at least 15% of its public transport and 25% of goods transport to advanced mobility vehicles, including autonomous vehicles, by 2030.

Sustainability within smart design is also in our sights, as we home in on the new Al Bustan store in Abha, where altavia.odg has set a new benchmark for the industry by creating a destination that provides a complete sensory experience for customers, ushering in a new age in the retail sector.

We focus on several of the giga-projects underway in the Kingdom too, not least Red Sea Global’s announcement that it has formed a partnership with the leading

SAUDI AMANA ENABLING MODULAR CONSTRUCTION OPENS ITS FACTORY IN RABIGH ROSEWOOD AMAALA HOTELS AND SPAS

SAUDI PROJECTS WILD PARTNERSHIP

NEOM INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

longevity clinic and wellness brand, Clinique La Prairie, including the development of a high-end 36,115m2 Clinique La Prairie Health Resort within Amaala, Elsewhere, we cover what’s happening in the world of the Public Investment Fund and take a look at the progress of the smart city concept throughout the Middle East, while also getting transported to the silver screen with AlUla’s ongoing rise in the global movie industry.

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This and much more can be found within the pages of this issue of Saudi Projects. We hope you enjoy it.

Rod Millington EDITOR

05

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BECAUSE WE CARE

06

Contents

COVER STORY

32

SAUDI AMANA

CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY GETS A BOOST FEATURES

14

38

PIF NEWS

SMART CITIES

44

66

THE SHAREEK PROGRAM

ROSEWOOD HOTELS AND SPAS

Contents

24

EVENTS

SAUDI PROJECTS PARTNERS WITH WILD ALSO IN THIS ISSUE

08

52

NEWS

INTERVIEW WITH ROSANNA CHOPRA - RSG

64

86

GIGA PROJECTS

AL BUSTAN - ALTAVIA.ODG

07

08

News

SAUDI STEALS THE SHOW AT CANNES

Saudi giga-projects stole the show at this year’s ‘Le Marché International des Professionnels de L’immobilier’ (MIPIM) 2023, the key global real estate event held on the French Riviera, in Cannes, focused on sourcing capital for real estate’s core and emerging asset classes, hosting more than 23,000 delegates and 2,400 exhibiting businesses from over 90 nations.

Micromobility and local community infrastructure headlined the debate on the second day, which was driven by ROSHN Group CEO David Grover, who explained: “We have a big role to play, not just as ROSHN, but as an enabler of jobs, GDP, value and growth.

“The use of micromobility is important for us; we want to create a wider environment where people can live, work and play in the same zone, to give them the option to avoid getting into the traffic of the city every day.”

L&T Partnership with Subsea 7 Pays Off A collaboration between Indian engineering behemoth Larsen & Toubro (L&T) and Oslo-listed Subsea 7 has earned major offshore contracts from Saudi Aramco under the latter's long-term agreement (LTA) framework, which is only available to a small group of international contractors.

L&T has confirmed the award of multiple contracts without naming the client or the offshore fields involved.

“The scope of work comprises engineering, procurement, construction and installation of offshore structures and upgradation of existing facilities,” a statement read.

News

$6.4 BILLION WORTH OF DEALS SIGNED FOR AL-FURSAN PROJECT The National Housing Company (NHC) has signed 30 contracts worth more than $6.4 billion for its new Al-Fursan project in Riyadh. The deals include agreements, memorandums of understanding (MoUs), and consultancy contracts.

The new Al-Fursan project is reported as being the largest residential suburb in Saudi Arabia.

Eighteen real estate development agreements were signed for the new Al-Fursan project’s first phase with companies that include Retal Urban Development Company and Sumou Real Estate Company.

Eighteen real estate development agreements were signed

BINYAH TO BUILD CAR PARK AT DIRIYAH GATE A further Diriyah Gate-Binyah contract was confirmed with

The car park will include a minimum of 2,000 parking places spread

the Saudi Real Estate Company (Al Akaria) announcing that

across four basement levels, covering an area of 100,000m2.

its subsidiary, Saudi Real Estate Infrastructure Company

The scope of work includes the construction of a reinforced

(Binyah), has been awarded a $145 million Diriyah Gate

concrete building, mechanical, electrical and plumbing (MEP)

Company contract to design, construct, test, and commission

works, a smart parking control management system, and a

the P3 car park project in the Northern Cultural District.

guidance system. The duration of the contract is 548 days.

The car park will include a minimum of 2,000 parking places

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10

News

MAERSK AWARDS $195 MILLION PROJECT IN JEDDAH ISLAMIC PORT The scope of work involves conducting all work

range of products, including HVAC systems, steel

required for the construction of warehouses,

buildings and structures, insulation panels, and

offices, and loading areas, including structural,

rockwool and fiberglass insulation materials. The

civil, finishing, and MEP work. Furthermore, the

project is scheduled to be completed by Q4 2024.

company indicated that it will also supply a wide

The company indicated that it will also supply a wide range of products

Contemporary Living in the Heart of Makkah A revolutionary urban living project in the heart of Makkah is set to modernize the Holy City without disrupting its historical, religious or cultural significance.

Thakher Development Company has announced that the first phase of its $7 billion Thakher Makkah development is close to completion. The project, which spans 320,000m2 and is located 1km from Masjid al-Haram (the Grand Mosque) in Makkah, is slated to become the perfect base for pilgrims to the Holy City.

The project, when completed, will generate 15,000 direct and 18,000 indirect jobs and will contribute to Makkah's long-term growth.

The project will generate 15,000 direct and 18,000 indirect jobs

News

HAVELOCK ONE DELIVERS INTERIOR FIT-OUT FOR CINEPLEX IN TAIF Havelock One, a leading fit-out and manufacturing group, has completed the interior and fit-out works for Grand Cinemas’ second outlet in the Kingdom at Park Mall in Taif, comprising 11 screens, two grand lobbies, and the main façade.

Spread across 315m2, the cineplex has a seating capacity ranging from 40-299, with a total seat count of 1,243.

11 screens, two grand lobbies, and the main façade

Royal Commission for Yanbu and Ras Al Khair Sign Five Agreements The Royal Commission in Saudi Arabia

Aluminum Industrial Company in connection

5,517 job opportunities in addition to

has inked five agreements totaling more

with the leasing of industrial land in Yanbu

offering a significant boost to mining

than $11.4 billion for the development

Industrial City to establish a factory project

infrastructure projects via a mining ore

of significant industrial projects in the

for smelting and rolling aluminum and

distribution port, which serves as a

Saudi cities of Ras Al Khair and Yanbu.

its alloys, drawing, purifying, and casting,

critical gateway to global markets.

According to the Royal Commission's

as well as casting non-ferrous metals.

statement, these include one with the Red Sea

The project is expected to provide

The project is expected to provide 5,517 job opportunities

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12

News

Saudi Arabia Leads in Hotel Room Development According to statistics supplied by analytics firm STR, hotel pipeline activity in the MENA region broke a global trend by increasing at the end of 2022. The data shows that 238,635 hotel rooms were under contract in the region in December, representing a 1.1% increase over the same month in 2021.

This gain contrasted with declines in all other regions, with Europe falling 11.2%, Asia Pacific falling 5.4%, and the Americas falling 3.2%.

Leading the way in hotel room construction in the MENA region was Saudi Arabia, accounting for 40,742.

This gain contrasted with declines in all other regions

AIR PRODUCTS TO BUILD NEOM’S FIRST HYDROGEN FUELING STATION

Air Products Qudra, has inked an agreement with Enowa, NEOM's energy, water, and hydrogen subsidiary, for the building and operation of the futuristic city's first hydrogen fueling station.

Air Products Qudra is a regional development and investment joint venture formed by Air Products in the United States and Qudra Energy, a subsidiary of Vision Invest. Air Products stated in announcing the strategic alliance that the first hydrogen fueling station will offer crucial infrastructure for NEOM's sustainability aspirations.

The initiative will help to decarbonize heavy modes of transport in NEOM, taking in both buses and heavyduty trucks. The groundwork for the fueling station is scheduled to begin in the second half of 2023.

The initiative will help to decarbonize heavy modes of transport in NEOM

News

KINGDOM TO MEET UN SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS BY 2030

EGIS AWARDED THREE-YEAR CONTRACT FOR 26 AIRPORTS

Thanks to the reform of its water industry and the implementation of a national Water Strategy the 2030 goals will be reached.

Dr Abdulaziz Al Shaibani, the Kingdom's Deputy Minister for Water at the Ministry of Environment, Water, and Agriculture, stated at the UN 2023 Water Conference in New York that Saudi Arabia has allocated $80 billion for water projects in the coming years as part of its efforts to achieve universal and equitable access to safe and affordable drinking water for all.

The National Water Strategy strives to maintain water resources, protect the environment, and

MATARAT, previously known as Saudi Civil Aviation Holding Company,

offer high-quality, cost-effective services. The

has announced that it has awarded a three-year contract to Egis to

strategy's goals align with SDG6 by ensuring

provide consulting services for 26 airports in the Kingdom.

global access to clean and safe water.

13

This contract is an important step in establishing phased project management portals, updating airport project management policies and procedures, and providing technical support for planning, designing, and monitoring the implementation of capital projects with MATARAT subsidiaries.

The project is intended to support strategic planning by defining and preparing a portfolio of five-year projects, working on the comprehensive plan program for the Kingdom's airports, and monitoring the alignment of future projects with MATARAT's strategic objectives.

This contract is an important step in establishing phased project management portals

Saudi Construction Sector Continues Growth According to a report by the US Saudi Business Council, the construction sector in the Kingdom maintained its growth momentum in the third quarter of 2022, with contracts worth $6.7 billion awarded during the period.

The report alluded to the fact that multiple Vision Realization Programs in the fields of tourism, housing and infrastructure development have driven the sector’s growth.

14

PIF News

PIF RECEIVES AWARDS The Public Investment Fund (PIF) received two awards for Emerging Markets Loan of the Year and Middle East Loan of the Year at the Global Capital Syndicated Loan Awards ceremony in London. The PIF is critical to the realization of Vision 2030, Saudi Arabia's economic restructuring program. As of the first quarter of 2022, its ambitious strategy had helped to power the national economy, producing over 500,000 direct and indirect jobs and managing $620 billion in assets.

The 20th annual Syndicated Loan, Leveraged Finance, and Private Debt Awards Dinner, held at the Waldorf Hilton in London, hosted guests from leading banks,

The PIF is critical to the realization of Vision 2030

investment firms, and advisers from Europe, the Middle East, and Africa region. The winners were determined by a poll of market participants and covered a period from 20 November 2021 to 15 November 2022.

PIF Acquires a 30% Stake in Saudi Tabreed The Public Investment Fund (PIF)

contracts with major companies in Saudi

recently announced the completion

Arabia. This includes Saudi Aramco’s

of its acquisition of a 30% stake in the

Dhahran district cooling plant, the

Saudi Tabreed District Cooling Company

Jabal Omar district cooling plant in

(Saudi Tabreed), a leading provider of

the city of Makkah, the district cooling

sustainable district cooling schemes for

scheme at King Khalid International

some of the largest projects in Saudi

Airport in Riyadh, and a centralized

Arabia. The investment supports PIF’s

cooling plant at the AMAAD Business

efforts to grow and develop the local

Park in Dhahran. Saudi Tabreed also

utilities and low-carbon sectors.

serves The Red Sea project, which is a

Saudi Tabreed currently manages

key part of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030.

779,000 tonnes of refrigeration via

Saudi Tabreed currently manages 779,000 tonnes of refrigeration

PIF News

PIF Announces £1.3 Billion Investments in Four Leading Companies in Construction Services Sector

15

The Public Investment Fund (PIF) has announced an investment reaching $1.3 billion Nesma & Partners Contracting Company, ElSeif Engineering Contracting Company, AlBawani Holding Company, and Almabani General Contractors Company. The investment will contribute to enabling the construction services sector and improving local supply chains for current and future projects in Saudi Arabia as part of further developing the country’s construction ecosystem.

The four companies in which PIF has invested have built a successful track record in executing and managing complex large-scale projects across multiple sectors in various regions of Saudi Arabia. The companies’ partnerships with PIF will support the regional and international expansion of their operations and businesses.

Leveraging its global reach, PIF will enable the four companies to develop regional and international partnerships, which will help increase the adoption of the latest technologies and the transfer of knowledge from global EPC (engineering, procurement, and construction) companies.

The companies’ partnerships with PIF will support the regional and international expansion of their operations and businesses

PIF INCREASES STAKE IN JAPAN’S TOEI Following shortly after Japanese film

The increased investment follows PIF’s

and TV studio company Toei published

February announcement that it had

a 10-year plan for international

boosted its stake in Japanese games

expansion, the Public Investment

and console maker Nintendo to 8.26%

Fund (PIF) has increased its stake in

and that (along with the Singapore

the business, from 5% to 6.03%.

state fund GIC) was a purchaser of a

Toei includes film and TV production

$966 million bond issue from Korean

operations, the T-Joy cinema chain,

entertainment tech firm, Kakao Corp.

and Toei Animation. In February of

PIF has stakes in three other Japanese

this year, it said that it had beaten

games firms too - Nexon, Capcom and

its film revenue record, thanks to

Koei Tecmo. It is also one of the prime

the success of titles including ‘The

movers behind LIV Golf, a golf tour to

First Slam Dunk’, ‘The Legend of

rival the currently dominant PGA.

Butterfly’ and ‘One Piece Film Red’.

16

PIF News

Riyadh Air Launch Announced with 200,000 New Jobs in the pipeline Mohammad bin Salman bin

The airline is estimated to

Abdulaziz, Saudi Arabia's

contribute $20 billion to non-oil

Prime Minister and Chairman

GDP growth and to create over

of the Public Investment

200,000 direct and indirect jobs.

Fund (PIF), has announced

Together with the newly

the founding of Riyadh Air, a

announced King Salman

wholly-owned subsidiary of PIF.

International Airport master

The new national carrier will

plan, the new national airline

capitalize on Saudi Arabia's

is PIF's latest investment in the

advantageous geographic

sector. Riyadh Air promises to

location between Asia, Africa,

improve customers' experiences

and Europe, allowing Riyadh

while linking them to over 100

to become a worldwide

destinations worldwide by 2030,

gateway and destination for

providing an extraordinary

transit, trade, and tourism.

experience centered on authentic,

Riyadh Air will be chaired by Yasir

warm Saudi hospitality. Riyadh

Al-Rumayyan, Governor of PIF

Air will also act as a catalyst for

and Chairman of English Premier

the Saudi National Transport and

League team Newcastle United,

Logistics Strategy and the National

while Tony Douglas, who brings

Tourism Strategy by expanding

more than 40 years of experience

air transportation alternatives,

in the aviation, transportation

increasing cargo capacity,

and logistics industries, has been

and, as a result, increasing

appointed Chief Executive Officer.

international passenger traffic.

The airline's senior management team will be comprised of Saudi and international specialists.

The airline, with Riyadh as its hub, will usher in a new era for the global travel and aviation industries. Riyadh Air will be a world-class airline, implementing worldwide best practices in

The airline is estimated to contribute $20 billion to non-oil GDP growth

sustainability and safety across its modern fleet of aircraft outfitted with cutting-edge technology.

 YASIR AL-RUMAYYAN, GOVERNOR OF PIF

PIF News

SRC ACQUIRES $1.33 BILLION IN HOME LOANS FROM AL RAJHI BANK The Saudi Real Estate Refinance Co., wholly owned by the Public Investment Fund (PIF), has purchased a portfolio of real estate loans worth over $1.33 billion from Al Rajhi Bank in the largest deal of its kind in the industry.

In a statement, the mortgage finance company stated that the transaction reflects its efforts to assist the development of the residential real estate finance sector.

Al Rajhi Bank, the Kingdom's second-largest lender, is also the world's largest Islamic bank in terms of mortgage assets and market capitalization.

The deal is described as the largest of its kind in the Kingdom

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18

PIF News

Marriott to Open Eight Hotels in Madinah

Marriott International has signed an

The projected openings will introduce around

agreement with Rua Al Madinah Holding

4,400 rooms across eight of the company’s

Company, a wholly-owned subsidiary

brands - The Ritz-Carlton, JW Marriott, Marriott

of the Public Investment Fund (PIF),

Hotels, Westin Hotels & Resorts, Le Méridien

to open eight hotels in Madinah.

Hotels & Resorts, Four Points by Sheraton,

The planned properties, which will be

Aloft Hotels, and Courtyard by Marriott.

located near the Prophet's Mosque, Al

Satya Anand, President, Europe, Middle East

Masjid An Nabawi, will be part of the Rua

& Africa, Marriott International, explained:

“There is a strong demand for highquality hotel accommodation in Madinah”

Al Madinah Project, which is designed

“There is a strong demand for high-

realizing its ambitions to further enrich

to improve the service and travel

quality hotel accommodation in Madinah

Madinah city’s Hajj and Umrah services,"

experience for visitors to Madinah.

and we are delighted to work with Rua Al

commented Ahmed Al Juhani, CEO of

Madinah Holding Company to support the

Rua Al Madinah Holding Company.

The projected openings will introduce around 4,400 rooms across eight of the company’s brands

enhancement and diversification of the

The Rua Al Madinah Project is expected

city’s hospitality landscape. This multi-deal

to cover 1.5 million square meters by

agreement also strengthens our footprint

2030, including 47,000 new rooms.

in Saudi Arabia where we continue to see

Open spaces will make up around

strong growth momentum in line with the

63% of the project's master plan.

Kingdom’s vision for its tourism sector.”

“The agreement with one of the world’s leading hospitality operators brings the Rua Al Madinah project a step closer to

PIF News

Saudi Investment Recycling to Acquire 60% of Masab Plastic Factory The Public Investment Fundowned Saudi Investment Recycling Co. has signed an agreement to acquire 60% of plastic resin manufacturer Masab Plastic Factory Co., with the agreement aiming to pave the way for the recycling firm to establish solid partnerships with the Kingdom’s private sector.

Masab collects domestic plastic scrap and recycles it into secondary raw materials through mechanical processes. In addition, the factory distributes plastic scrap raw materials in the form of flakes to manufacturers of fibers and bottles.

The Saudi Investment Recycling Co., which was founded in 2017, is committed to helping fulfill or surpass the objectives of the Saudi Vision 2030 by supporting different programs defined by the amended Waste Management National Regulation Framework. The company's aim is to be the National Waste Management champion, advancing the circular economy for a more sustainable society.

Back in 2021, the PIF-owned company set a goal of reducing waste landfill from 100% to effectively 0% by 2035.

The company's total recycling strategy focuses on 12 different waste materials, including raw sewage, construction/demolition debris, solid municipal waste, agricultural sludge, industrial effluent, end-of-life vehicles and batteries, old tires, automobile lubricants, and discarded electronic equipment.

The company set a goal of reducing waste landfill from 100% to effectively 0% by 2035

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PIF News

SEVEN to Bring World’s first Play-Doh Attractions to Saudi Arabia

Saudi Entertainment Ventures (SEVEN),

Guests will be able to enjoy multilevel

SEVEN has partnered with Thinkwell Group,

a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Public

playscapes, creativity stations and sensory

a global strategy, experience design, and

Investment Fund (PIF), in agreement

discovery activity areas that fully immerse

production agency, to develop the Play-

with Hasbro, Inc., a global branded

them in the essence and joy of playing with

Doh-themed entertainment centers.

entertainment leader, will develop and

Play-Doh compound (or toys). The centers

operate the world’s first Play-Doh-themed

will feature a café area for parents where they

Abdullah AlDawood, Chairman, SEVEN,

entertainment centers. The centers will

can enjoy their time while their children enjoy

commented: “Our strategic partnership with

open at SEVEN entertainment destinations

the Play-Doh entertainment and there will

Hasbro serves to bring the best-in-class

in eight locations in Saudi Arabia over the

also be a dedicated party and events room;

entertainment attractions to the people

next 10 years and will inspire imagination

ideal for hosting children’s gatherings.

of Saudi Arabia. Our Play-Doh-themed

in children across the Kingdom.

entertainment centers will inspire the creative

PIF News

SEVEN is investing more than SAR 50 billion to build 21 entertainment destinations that will provide unique and innovative world-class entertainment experiences and global partnerships from within the sector. The upcoming projects are located in 14 cities across the Kingdom: Riyadh, Kharj, Makkah, Jeddah, Taif, Dammam, Khobar, Al Ahsa, Madinah, Yanbu, Abha, Jizan, Buraidah, and Tabuk.

minds and imaginations of children across the Kingdom. Children will be able to learn while having fun at our Play-Doh centers located at SEVEN entertainment destinations. We are delighted to once again be pioneering the Kingdom’s entertainment landscape with the first ever Play-Doh-themed entertainment centers as we continue to enhance the quality of life for the people of Saudi Arabia.”

Matt Proulx, VP, Location Based Entertainment at Hasbro, Inc. said: “We are thrilled to be working alongside SEVEN to bring these truly unique experiences to Play-Doh fans in the Kingdom. Championed by our Blueprint 2.0 strategy, Hasbro is creating the bestbranded entertainment experiences. We’re excited for people to visit these immersive attractions in the future that we’re sure will delight new and lifelong fans and families of the brands for many years to come.”

The licensed agreement was signed by Eng. Essam Al Jubair, Chief Operating Officer at SEVEN, and Devrim Anadol, Commercial Director at Hasbro MENA.

The centers will bring fun and educational experiences that tap into children’s creativity and imagination

SEVEN will develop and operate the world’s first PLAY-DOH attractions in Saudi Arabia

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Appointments

Rockwell Automation Appoints Hussain Al Khater as New MD Hussain Al Khater has been appointed

playing a decisive part in the Kingdom's

Managing Director for Saudi Arabia by

developing oil and chemicals supply chain.

Rockwell Automation, Inc., the world's

The appointment of Al Khater will herald

leading company committed to industrial

a reorganization of Rockwell Automation’s

automation and digital transformation.

business operations in the region, which

His appointment marks the next step

will focus on Saudi market growth. The new

in the company's more than 50-year

structure allows the company to align with the

commitment to Saudi Arabia's long-term

requirements of Vision 2030 and future growth.

economic strategy, with Rockwell Automation

Larkin Martin and Steve Dauphin Join RedSea Board of Directors

 LARKIN MARTIN

The Saudi-based sustainable agriculture

Steve Dauphin is a founding partner of

technology company, RedSea, has

Bonaventure Capital, with over 25 years of

announced the appointment of Larkin Martin

venture capital investment experience. In the

to its board of directors. Martin is a seventh-

last 10 years, his team has focused on ‘backing

generation farmer who manages Martin

values-driven teams on missions to solve

Farm (Alabama) and is Vice President of

historically intractable problems’.

The Albemarle Corporation. Both are family

“At the heart of RedSea is its mission to

businesses with interests in agriculture and

help feed the world sustainably. Our firm is

timberland.

committed to helping the team do this by

She also holds directorial positions at the Soil

building a great company, with great products

Health Institute; NYSE-listed Rayonier Inc., a

and service, that creates significant value for its

timberland REIT; and Truxton Trust - a private

stakeholders,” Dauphin said.

bank. She is the chairman of Servico - a cotton ginning and agricultural services business, and the former chairman of the Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta and The Cotton Board, the statement added.

 STEVE DAUPHIN

MARTIN IS A SEVENTH-GENERATION FARMER

Appointments

23

AESG Appoints Tom Burkitt as Country Director for KSA AESG has announced the appointment of

consultant with 30 years of professional

Tom Burkitt as the company’s Country

experience. He has a technical background

Director for Saudi Arabia.

that covers environmental impact assessment,

Burkitt’s appointment will see him lead the

coastal planning, climate risk assessment,

company’s expansion across the Kingdom,

capacity building, infrastructure asset

while also helping with the advancement of

management, and the implementation of

the National Transformation Plan. Burkitt is a

technologies for solving complex environmental

scientist, business analyst, and environmental

and engineering challenges.

Gensler Appoints Design Director to Strengthen Master Planning Profile Gensler has announced the appointment of

the idea of ecological urbanism, and sustainable

Steven Velegrinis as Design Director for its

and resilient cities and places. With large-scale,

Middle East operation. Velegrinis will play a

recent projects such as the NEOM landscape

global role with an initial focus on the MENA

strategy and guidelines, the Al Arous masterplan

region and an emphasis on KSA.

in Jeddah, and the Wadi Safar masterplan in

Velegrinis has 30 years of experience as

Riyadh, Velegrinis is well placed to build upon

an urban planner, designer, and landscape

Gensler’s current Master Planning practice.

architect. His interests and work revolve around

Forescout Appoints General Manager and Director for MENA Region

 HASSAN EL KARHANI (LEFT) AND SAM ISMAIL (RIGHT)

Forescout Technologies Inc., the global

streamline the company to better serve

leader in automated cybersecurity, has

organizations and government entities who are

announced the appointment of Hassan El

faced with an ever-evolving threat landscape.

Karhani as General Manager for the Middle

Ismail brings decades of expertise in

East, Turkey, and Africa region. Also, joining

enhancing profitability and leading successful

his team is Sam Ismail, the new Director.

teams throughout the Middle East, Africa,

In this role, Karhani, who brings decades of

and Turkey. He has a global perspective on

senior management and leadership experience

innovation and diversity and is highly regarded

along with a deep understanding of the

for his exceptional customer and partner

region’s diverse networking and cybersecurity

relationships, and proficiency in maximizing

landscape, will expand Forescout’s regional

solution value and business outcomes.

presence, drive growth and investment and

24

EVENTS - WOMEN IN LEADERSHIP DELIVER

L AURA WOJCIECHOWSKI, PARTNER AND MEDIA DIRECTOR AT SAUDI PROJECTS AND EMMA BURDETT, FOUNDER AND CEO OF WILD

EVENTS - WOMEN IN LEADERSHIP DELIVER

25

WILD AND SAUDI PROJECTS PARTNERSHIP THE ROAD TO RECOVERY HAS BEEN PAVED WITH URBAN DEVELOPMENTS, WITH THE WORLD ECONOMIC FORUM EXPECTING THE SHARE OF THE WORLD’S POPULATION LIVING IN CITIES TO RISE FROM THE CURRENT 55% TO 80% BY 2050. THIS RATE OF GROWTH UNDOUBTEDLY PUTS PRESSURE ON HEALTHCARE, HOUSING, GOVERNANCE, AND PUBLIC TRANSPORT. BUT EQUALLY UNDERSCORES THE IMPORTANCE OF SMART CITIES AND SMART INFRASTRUCTURE TO BIND THEM TOGETHER.

26

EVENTS - WOMEN IN LEADERSHIP DELIVER

“This partnership will take the WILD movement across KSA”

W

omen’s networks play a pivotal

We have had much success with WILD in the

The partnership will bring a range of exciting

role in tackling gender inequality,

UAE and we are not a newcomer to the space.

opportunities to the Kingdom, including

and WILD: Women in Leadership Deliver is

This partnership will take the WILD movement

WILD events, the launch of the WILD Women

a platform for all women to come together,

across KSA, driving impact and creating change

Collective, the region’s unique and official

create connections, collaborate, and conquer.

for women by giving them the leadership skills

membership, leadership workshops, and lastly

The WILD philosophy stems from an authentic

needed to excel in their lives and careers,” says

the WILD and Saudi Projects Transformational

desire to transform, evolve and step up. WILD

Emma Burdett, Founder and CEO of WILD, says.

Leadership Conference for women in the

seeks to inspire women to become agents of

region to be held in Quarter 4, 2023.

possibility; helping women advance in the

Laura Wojciechowski, Partner and Media

workplace and to achieve personal growth.

Director at Saudi Projects, said: “We are

“WILD is content rich and has impacted many

absolutely delighted about the WILD and Saudi

women in the UAE. My vision is to drive this

To assist in the promotion and support of this

Projects partnership, which will be a critical

impact, creating change for women by giving

vital work, WILD is teaming up with Saudi

catalyst for personal and professional growth

them a platform to use their voices and also

Projects, the leading resource for construction-

and development for women in Saudi Arabia.

creating a community for women to excel in

related market intelligence and networking

Our shared vision will see a number of events

their lives and careers. Saudi Projects is a natural

opportunities in the region, in a partnership

and initiatives for women in the Kingdom in line

fit for our WILD Growth and I can't wait to see

that will help to ensure that gender equality,

with the Saudi Vision 2030 promoting women as

what the future holds,” Emma concludes.

a core pillar of Vision 2030, remains at the

an important part of the Kingdom’s strength.”

forefront of people’s minds, continuing to be an ever-present issue. “I couldn't be more thrilled about the WILD and Saudi Projects partnership.

WILD seeks to inspire women to become agents of possibility

The ’Woman Transformational Leadership Day’ in October 2023 will show women in Saudi Arabia how to become powerful leaders,

EVENTS - WOMEN IN LEADERSHIP DELIVER

managing with authenticity and inspiring others. It will highlight how to become a

To find out more, visit www.wildwomenlead.com without delay!

role model, how to nail presentations and SHINE, and how to negotiate to WIN.

There are sponsorship opportunities up for grabs too, with the deadline set for 1 June. This really is a chance to get in on the ground floor and become involved with

Attendees will come away knowing how to be

a very special day that will help to fire up the future of women in Saudi Arabia.

seen, heard and understood, beaming with confidence both in and out of the meeting room

FOR SPONSORSHIP AND SPEAKING OPPORTUNITIES, PLEASE CONTACT

while pursuing their goals and dreams, and

SAUDIPROJECTS@TPG.MEDIA, AND FOR INFORMATION ON ATTENDING

creating UNSTOPPABLE success. Ultimately, this

THE EVENTS, CONTACT EMMA@WILDWOMENLEAD.COM. TO VIEW MORE

day will help you to break through fears that

INFORMATION, PLEASE VISIT WWW.WILDWOMENLEAD.COM

hold you back, leaving you TRANSFORMED! Saudi Arabia will never have seen a day like it, so add this to your diaries now!

Are you ready to learn confidence and essential leadership qualities, ready for Saudi Vision 2030? Are you ready to RISE up and lean in? Success awaits you.

WILD WOMEN COLLECTIVE VISIT WEBSITE

The ’Woman Transformational Leadership Day’ in October 2023 will show women in Saudi Arabia how to become powerful leaders

27

28

EVENTS - GBB HOSPITALITY INNOVATION SUMMIT

UNLOCKING THE FUTURE OF HOSPITALITY INNOVATION & TRANSFORMATION THE HOSPITALITY AND INNOVATION SUMMIT 2023, SAUDI ARABIA AND UAE, WHICH TOOK PLACE 15-16 MARCH 2023, FEATURED WORLD-CLASS KEYNOTE SPEAKERS AND ENGAGING PRESENTATIONS BY INDUSTRY LEADERS WHO SHARED VALUABLE INSIGHTS INTO THE KEY OPPORTUNITIES AND CHALLENGES IN THE INDUSTRY.

EVENTS - GBB HOSPITALITY INNOVATION SUMMIT

T

he Hospitality Innovation Summit,

Ensure Relevance Today and Tomorrow’,

organized by Global Business to

Laurent A Voivenel, Senior Vice President,

29

Business (GBB), was the perfect platform for

Operations & Development, EMEA & India,

finding the right products, right projects, right

and Senior Vice President, Group Human

people, and the right services, with an exclusive

Resources & Talent Development, Swiss-

pool of project holders, a host of innovative

Belhotel International, gave one of the most

global suppliers, an intelligent match-

fascinating talks, highlighting the potential

making process, and intriguing knowledge-

benefits and risks of Artificial Intelligence (AI).

sharing sessions to ensure the event was not only informative but also practical.

The panel was moderated by Christopher Lund, Executive Director and Head of Hotels

In all, there were 70+ suppliers, 120+ buyers,

for the MENA region at Colliers International,

35+ speakers, 1,000+ meetings, and 800+

with other speakers on the panel including

minutes of networking. All of this, of course,

Imran Changezi, Development Senior

was fuelled by Vision 2030, arguably the

Director of the Diriyah Gate Development

most ambitious project a country has ever

Authority; Ian Wilson, Regional Director

undertaken anywhere in the world. Targeting

for Hospitality at The Line, NEOM; and

100 million visitors annually, the hospitality

Chadi Hauch, Regional VP Lodging

sector is one of the flagbearers of this program,

Development ME at Marriott International.

so it came as no surprise that the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia was the host of this summit,

“While AI has emerged as a powerful tool for

as it has one of the largest pipelines of hotels

productivity enhancement through automation

in the world, worth over $110 billion.

and virtual assistance, consumer behavior analysis, and personalization of services, it is

A STELLAR CAST

important to understand its risks too. Like any

The inaugural address was given by

technology, it is vulnerable to many dangers,

Wahdan Alkadi, Chief Business Officer at

and users must take into account the downside

the Tourism Development Fund, while the

related to data privacy and security breaches,

welcome address was presented by Yousuf

as well as the centralization of power in a few

Lootah, CEO of the Corporate Strategy and

companies. While it presents an opportunity, it

Performance Sector at the Department

also comes with a responsibility,” Laurent said.

of Economy and Tourism, Dubai.

Speaking about how hotels can draw in top Keynote Presentations were delivered by

talent, Laurent explained: “It is undoubtedly

Cedric Sala (MEA Hotel Segment Sector,

becoming extremely challenging to attract

Schneider Electric): Net Zero Carbon Hotel –

and retain the best talent in our industry. To

Making Hotels of the Future a Reality Today;

attract top talent, hotels must offer competitive

Fillipo Sona (Co-owner at Wood Couture):

compensation packages with exciting learning

Date and Insights from 1.5 Million Rooms;

and growth opportunities for all-around career

Antonio Luca Maria Terrana (Head of Urban

development. It is important to provide the

Design at Luca Dini Design & Architecture):

right training for employees to learn new skills

From Yachting to Design – a Unique Value

and stay up to date with the latest trends in

Proposition for Luxury Hotels; Tamer

the industry to excel in their jobs and achieve

Desouky (Head of Sales at Seagate Ship

the highest guest satisfaction. Last but not

Building): Live the Ocean Dream; and Justin Wells (CEO, Wells International): Porsche

WATCH VIDEO

design Hotel – a Race of Luxury Lifestyle.

TRAINING STAFF ON TECHNOLOGY During the Hospitality Innovation Summit 2023 panel on ‘Hotel Innovation: How to

“It is critical for hotels to train their staff to use technology”

30

EVENTS - GBB HOSPITALITY INNOVATION SUMMIT

70+

suppliers

120+ buyers

35+

speakers

1,000+ meetings

800+

minutes of networking

least, it is necessary to create a positive

technology. Regular training and refresher

work culture with a supportive and inclusive

courses can help keep staff up to date with

environment where employees feel valued.”

the latest advancements and ensure that they can make the most of the technology

One question that arose was whether hotel

available to them. Hotels should invest in the

staff are being trained adequately in the

right infrastructure to support technology

use of technology. “Technology plays an

and AI, such as high-speed internet, cloud-

increasingly important role in improving

based systems, and robust data management

operational efficiency, enhancing the guest

systems. This will enable them to leverage

experience, and increasing revenue,” Laurent

technology effectively and efficiently.”

said. “Therefore, it is critical for hotels to train their staff to use technology, but it also

APPRECIATED BY ALL

depends on the budget provided by owners.

The Hospitality and Innovation Summit 2023 was a huge success, with Rui Angelo Sousa,

“The training process should begin by assessing

Executive VP of Sales at Gruppo Buoninfante,

the current level of technology proficiency

commenting: “ It was a great event. It was

among the staff. This will help the hotel

a really great opportunity for us and next

identify areas where training is most needed.

year we will be back again for sure.”

Hotels should also ensure that the training provided is ongoing and includes updates on new technology and changes in existing

EVENTS - GBB HOSPITALITY INNOVATION SUMMIT

31

“While AI has emerged as a powerful tool for productivity enhancement, it is important to understand its risks too”

“I think what is most unique about the event are the high-quality panelists and the intriguing topics”

Imran Changezi, Development Senior Director

Summits are a great opportunity to see how

people, which is valuable to our projects and

at Diriyah Gate Development Authority

far a company has come, learn what others are

also gives us a chance to form new networks,

agreed, saying: "It was a pleasure to be at the

working on, and identify where it is necessary

“ Samer Ibdah, Director of Engineering at IHG,

Summit. I think what is most unique about the

to focus attention more closely. The Hospitality

concludes. “Thank you GBB for your efforts.”

event are the high-quality panelists and the

and Innovation Summit 2023 provided all of

intriguing topics. It makes a nice combination

this and much more besides. “This is my third

of giving the platform to suppliers and

event and every time they surprise us with new

vendors who want to work in the industry.”

companies, new networking sessions and new

GBB CONSULTING SERVICES  +44 20 3868 2202 VISIT WEBSITE

32

Cover Story - Saudi Amana

Cover Story - Saudi Amana

33

SAUDI CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY GETS A BOOST FROM SAUDI AMANA, TAKING ANOTHER STEP CLOSER TO THE 2030 VISION SAUDI AMANA, ONE OF THE REGION’S MOST INNOVATIVE AND INFLUENTIAL DESIGN-BUILD CONTRACTORS, HAS CONSOLIDATED ITS LEADERSHIP IN MODULAR CONSTRUCTION WITH THE OPENING OF A NEW FACTORY IN RABIGH. THE FACTORY IS A RESPONSE TO THE SURGING DEMAND IN THE KINGDOM FOR THE OFF-SITE MANUFACTURING TECHNOLOGIES PROVIDED BY ITS SUBSIDIARY COMPANY, DUBOX, WHICH HAVE BECOME VITAL TO THE SUCCESSFUL PROJECT DELIVERY OF SAUDI ARABIA’S RAFT OF AMBITIOUS HOSPITALITY AND ENTERTAINMENT DEVELOPMENTS. DUBOX HAS NOW SHIFTED 85% OF CONSTRUCTION FROM ITS SAUDI GIGAPROJECT SITES, SUCH AS QIDDIYA AND RED SEA GLOBAL’S TOURISM DESTINATIONS, TO ITS RABIGH FACTORY.

WATCH VIDEO

34

Cover Story - Saudi Amana

 HATTAN GHAZI NAZER, VICE PRESIDENT KSA AT GROUP AMANA

Cover Story - Saudi Amana

F

irst opening its doors for business in 1993, Saudi AMANA has been at

the forefront of disrupting the construction sector for three decades, making it faster, safer, greener and smarter by leveraging technology and modular methodologies.

It has continually evolved and expanded over the years, establishing DuBox in 2010 and DuPod in 2020, allowing it to develop a whole portfolio of intelligent solutions and new technologies that have revolutionized the construction industry in the region. Through Saudi AMANA Manufacture, DuBox has delivered 130,000m2 of construction in the Kingdom since 2012 and, over the past three years alone, AMANA Manufacture has also completed in excess of 2,500 pods and designed over 50 units using DuBox and DuPod. PRECISION ENGINEERED Overall, modular construction reduces the need for manpower by up to 30%, with up to 85% of construction being able to be completed off-site in a factory, ensuring stricter quality standards in a controlled environment. Modular buildings can also be constructed within up to 50-70% of the time of a conventional project of comparable size, 50% less construction waste, and up to 70% improved work safety environment.

Hattan Ghazi Nazer, Vice President KSA at Group AMANA said: “AMANA has been a pioneer in adapting modular construction to solve complex challenges, streamline efficiencies and build greener. We are well-positioned to support the country’s Saudization efforts by sourcing materials locally and supporting talent development. We are humbled to be a part of the Kingdom’s marquee projects, deploying modular construction for positive socio-economic and environmental impact.”

All of this is of course whilst these building can be easily erected and dismantled making relocation quick and easy.

Nearly half of the talent employed at the Rabigh factory are Saudi nationals

35

36

Cover Story - Saudi Amana

DuBox, an AMANA company, has shifted 85% of construction from its Saudi sites to the new Rabigh factory The economies of scale realized in a factory environment drive significant cost savings in modular construction. DuBox develops, manufactures and assembles complete structures at its Rabigh facility, which spans 70,000m2. It can make 12 modules per day, and the factory has adequate production to assure repeatability, learning, consistency in quality, and volume savings on procurement.

Cover Story - Saudi Amana

BRINGS A WHOLE NEW DIMENSION TO THE WORLD OF CONSTRUCTION The Rabigh factory not only ensures smoother logistics, ensuring modules reach project sites in record time, but it has also created opportunities to retain and develop Saudi talent. Saudi AMANA is deeply invested in reskilling and upskilling local talent, so as to facilitate the shift from traditional construction to a digitalized manufacturing environment.

Group AMANA delivered a total of 50 projects from January to December 2022, and as projects across the region race to completion, modular construction has emerged as a viable solution. It offers a safer building environment, decreasing the need for manpower and making it an ideal solution for the post-pandemic environment. Modular construction also has far lower wastage rates than an open construction site. Moreover, the final products are easily relocatable, further enabling the client to shift and relocate in sync with market demands.

Ian Williamson, Group Chief Projects Delivery Officer, Red Sea Global, explained: “We selected DuBox based on their innovation and proven track record in delivering prefinished modular units to a very high standard of quality. These capabilities will allow us to provide the residents of our newly constructed town on the Red Sea coast with stand-out accommodation while maintaining our commitment to protecting the environment, even during the construction phase.”

The founding of this factory is aligned with the Kingdom’s Vision 2030, which prioritizes economic diversification and sustainability

SAUDI AMANA: BRINGING TOGETHER MULTIDISCIPLINARY ENGINEERING EXPERTISE TO SOLVE COMPLEX CHALLENGES AND INCREASE PROJECT EFFICIENCY.

GROUP AMANA  +971 2 642 8383 VISIT WEBSITE

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38

SMART CITIES FOCUS

THE FUTURE IS SMART SAUDI ARABIA PUTS ITS FOOT ON THE PEDDLE AND ACCELERATED TO WARP SPEED WHEN VISION 2030 WAS ANNOUNCED, WITH A WHOLE SERIES OF AMBITIOUS 'GIGA' PROJECTS POISED TO ALTER THE WAY CITIES RUN, WHICH IS EXCITING NOT ONLY FOR THE KINGDOM BUT FOR THE WORLD.

SMART CITIES FOCUS

39

40

T

SMART CITIES FOCUS

he Middle East, particularly Saudi

the world's first zero-carbon region, with no

the Kingdom. In Riyadh, for instance, an artificial

Arabia, has caught everyone’s attention

automobiles and no conventional roadways.

intelligence-based adaptive signaling project

with its action-not-words approach to smart

and a multibillion-dollar public transit project

cities, and in doing so is creating a new future for

This pioneering project will also see a smart

human habitation. The most notable example

water distribution network, which will reduce

of this is NEOM, slated to be the world’s most

water loss to less than 3%, compared to 30-60%

NUMEROUS OPPORTUNITIES

user-centric, environmentally friendly and

in cities throughout the world where antiquated

By 2050, metropolitan regions are expected

technologically advanced ecosystem, a blueprint

infrastructure is prone to often-undetected leaks.

to play host to around 80% of the world's

for tomorrow in which humanity progresses without compromising the health of the planet

population, or 6.3 billion people. There is, And while NEOM is making the headlines, other

therefore, an unmistakable opportunity to

smart projects are being introduced throughout

develop future green and resource-efficient

NEOM aspires to focus on active, autonomous, electric, shared, and smart mobility options that will enable on-demand urban passenger mobility, in addition to introducing a new model for urban sustainability driven by 100% renewable energy. It promises to be

with driverless trains have caught the headlines.

smart cities, as well as resilient and sustainable

NEOM promises to be the world's first zero-carbon region, with no automobiles and no conventional roadways

urban infrastructure and services.

According to the UAE Ministry of Economy, the worldwide smart cities market is expected to nearly double to $873.7 billion by 2026

SMART CITIES FOCUS

The worldwide smart cities market is expected to nearly double to $873.7 billion by 2026

rather than current standalone solutions will

in Abu Dhabi, provides an environmentally

benefit from this transformation drive too.

friendly self-driving shuttle service. Abu

41

Dhabi Airports has inked an agreement SMART MOBILITY

with France's Groupe ADP to investigate the

Governments in the GCC are implementing

possibility of advanced air mobility, which

smart mobility into urban planning to reduce

uses electric vertical take-off and landing

traffic congestion, accidents, and pollution.

aircraft to transport passengers and freight.

Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, both of which have had significant population growth

Meanwhile, away from the GCC, Egypt intends

over the past 10 years, are likely to invest almost

to establish 15 new fourth-generation cities

$50 billion in smart city initiatives by 2025.

over the next few years in order to provide residents with first-class facilities and

On the whole, it is estimated that the

services, be a magnet for investment and job

transportation sector is responsible for up to

opportunities. A new administrative capital

50% of emissions in developing countries,

in Cairo Governate, which it is expected 6.5

compared to roughly 30% in industrialized

million people will call home, is being built as a

countries. One of the primary reasons

smart city, with infrastructure to monitor traffic

for this is the poor utilization of public

and buildings that automatically ascertain the

transportation in developing countries.

most effective methods to save resources.

In Dubai, public transportation accounts for

Fourth-generation cities are urban projects that

17.5% of daily journeys, while in Riyadh it is

use modern infrastructure and Information

8.75%, and in Abu Dhabi 4.9%. Across other

and Communication Technologies (ICT), which

GCC cities, public transportation is used by

ultimately assist them in meeting the various

even fewer people, and in comparison to

issues associated with climate change.

other major cities in the world, such as New York (59%), London (37%) and Tokyo (33%), is

IT’S TIME

lagging some way behind what is required in

City officials are discovering, after many years

the modern world, taking into account climate

of learning and experimentation, that the heart

crisis and other environmental concerns.

of a smart city is the people, not the technology.

The whole process is much more than simply

The transportation sector is responsible for up to 50% of emissions in developing countries

Smart mobility has the potential to revolutionize

incorporating digital interfaces into aging

cities by making automobiles and transportation

infrastructure or elevating civic operations. It is

infrastructure technology-enabled and data-

also about consciously exploiting technology

informed, with solutions such as autonomous

and data to make improved decisions and

vehicles, shared mobility, adaptive traffic

deliver a higher quality of life. This quality

signals, micro-mobility, and even flying taxis.

of life, of course, has many facets, from the air that people breathe to how safe they

GETTING SMART THROUGHOUT

feel walking around their neighborhood.

from $457 billion in 2021, at a compound

THE MIDDLE EAST

annual growth rate (CAGR) of 13.8%.

Today, Dubai is a little like Los Angeles in

In the end, smart city technologies enable cities

that the car is king. But the government is

to make better use of their assets, whether

Growing demand for various forms of green

committed to moving 25% of transportation to

they have substantial legacy systems or are

technology in the smart building market creates

autonomous modes by 2030. This initiative is

developing from the ground up. The need to

numerous opportunities for companies such

aimed at earning $6 billion in income per year by

invest in physical assets and upkeep cannot be

as solar installers, battery manufacturers,

reducing transport costs, carbon emissions, and

avoided, but smart technologies can provide

Artificial Intelligence (AI) platforms that

accidents, as well as increasing the productivity

new capabilities as fundamental components

optimize energy usage, and businesses

of people who spend their days stuck in traffic.

are upgraded. The time has come – let’s step

that can unearth imaginative techniques to

into the future with confidence and optimism.

reuse water. Businesses that can connect

Masdar City, a pioneer in sustainability

smart mobility platforms into ecosystems

and a hub for research and development

42

Infrastructure

NEOM AWARDS INFRASTRUCTURE CONTRACT FOR INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

NEOM HAS AWARDED A MULTI-YEAR CONTRACT TO AECOM, A US-BASED INFRASTRUCTURE CONSULTING FIRM, FOR THE PROVISION OF PROJECT MANAGEMENT CONSULTANCY SERVICES FOR NEOM INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT.

A

ECOM’s scope of works will include

“This contract is a testament to our leadership

of development work and registration by

project management for master

position in the region and to our continuous

the International Air Transport Association,

planning, design and construction services,

commitment to NEOM and the goals of Saudi

Saudi Arabia's General Authority of Civil

through to testing, commissioning, operational

Arabia’s Vision 2030,” added Hamed Zaghw,

Aviation opened NEOM Bay Airport in 2019.

readiness, activation and transition.

Chief Executive at AECOM Middle East and Africa.

In March, flyDubai became the first UAE-based

Lara Poloni, AECOM’s President, commented: “

airline to fly to the airport, with the budget

We are very pleased to be part of this innovative

IMPROVING ACCESS

carrier operating the Dubai to NEOM flights

project, which is set to transform travel

In the meantime, NEOM intends to improve

twice a week on Thursdays and Sundays.

between NEOM and the world. Our track record

direct access to the future metropolis

Saudia, the Kingdom's flag carrier, partnered

delivering large-scale infrastructure projects

as part of a larger strategy to support

with NEOM in May 2022 to begin weekly

in the region, as well as our mobilized global

the continued development of the giga-

services to overseas destinations from the

aviation resources and project management

project, which is being created by local,

city, marking the airport's commercial launch.

experts will help ensure the successful

regional, and worldwide enterprises.

In June 2022, Saudia began flying direct

delivery of NEOM International Airport.”

Following the conclusion of the first phase

flights to certain regional and international

Infrastructure

43

The contract’s scope includes project management for master planning, design and construction services, through to testing, commissioning, operational readiness, activation and transition

BUILDING AN AIRLINE AND AIRPORT FROM SCRATCH NEOM is going to have its very own airline and airport system, with the objective being to overhaul current travel processes. According to its CEO, Klaus Goersch, NEOM Airlines plans to begin operations as early as the end of next year, initially with current aircraft. However, Goersch hints that the carrier will transition to ‘new innovative aircraft’ - maybe with electric or other types of propulsion - beginning in 2026, with ‘next-generation interiors’ and cutting-edge in-flight entertainment.

“We are already in discussions with interior and seat manufacturers,” Goersch says, going on to explain that the company will focus on enabling tourism and commercial travel to NEOM, firstly from the NEOM Bay Airport, before taking advantage of the new international airport. “Due to the strategic geographical location and the level of economic activity here, destinations, including Dubai International

we expect that we will have a global aviation

Airport, with intentions to expand to London.

hub on our hands as time goes on,” he said.

Aircraft flying to selected destinations will

Goersch went on to say that commercial air

sport a NEOM-Saudia livery, promoting the

travel “leaves a lot to be desired”, and that

brand to the rest of the world. The Kingdom has

the NEOM project provides the opportunity

recently launched Riyadh Air too, a premium

to build an airline and airport “from scratch”,

airline that it is anticipated will also fly to NEOM.

with the freedom to “personalize the customer experience”, capitalizing on biometrics, artificial intelligence, and other advanced

NEOM is going to have its very own airline and airport system

technology. “This legacy-free approach is how we are working at NEOM. We have no outdated infrastructure or business models to protect, meaning we can provide  HAMED ZAGHW, AECOM

a personalized service,” he concludes.

44

KNIGHT FRANK - FLAGSHIP 2023 SAUDI REPORT

KNIGHT FRANK - FLAGSHIP 2023 SAUDI REPORT

SAUDI HOME OWNERSHIP APPETITE SLOWS AS PRICES CLIMB 45% IN TWO YEARS STRONG HOUSE PRICE GROWTH ACROSS SAUDI ARABIA OVER THE LAST TWO YEARS, SPURRED BY VISION 2030, IS DAMPENING THE DEMAND TO PURCHASE A HOME IN THE KINGDOM, ACCORDING TO GLOBAL PROPERTY CONSULTANT KNIGHT FRANK’S FLAGSHIP 2023 SAUDI REPORT.

S

trong house price growth across

THE AFFORDABILITY CHALLENGE

Saudi Arabia over the last two years,

Faisal Durrani, Partner - Head of Middle East

spurred by Vision 2030, is dampening the

Research explained: “The rapid escalation in

demand to purchase a home in the Kingdom,

house prices has undoubtedly cooled demand to

according to global property consultant

purchase a home. With villa prices in Riyadh rising

Knight Frank’s flagship 2023 Saudi Report.

by 45% over the last two years to over SAR 5,000 per square metre - the highest level in at least

In its survey of 1,014 Saudi households, carried

seven years - the dream of homeownership, as

out in partnership with YouGov, Knight Frank

well as the desire to own a second home is forcing

has found that Saudi households’ appetite to

households into a holding pattern. Indeed, the total

purchase a home, either as first-time buyers or

number of homes sold in Riyadh fell by 34% last

as second homeowners, has slowed over the last

year, while in Jeddah there has been a fall of 16%.

12 months. Demand to buy a home in 2023 has slipped to 40%, compared to 84% last year.

45

46

KNIGHT FRANK - FLAGSHIP 2023 SAUDI REPORT

“An extraordinary 69% of Saudi respondents claim that they are likely to purchase a branded residence in 2023”

“We have been tracking the ratio of house prices

Saudi stood at these levels was in 2016, which

and the government’s desire to achieve a

to household incomes and with villas in Riyadh

also coincides with the last market peak.”

home ownership rate of 70% by the end

and Jeddah standing at 13.3 and 15.1 times

of the decade, from around 65% today,

annual incomes, affordability thresholds have

Knight Frank does not expect an imminent

through programs such as Sakani, which have

been exceeded. A globally accepted level of

decline in house prices, but rather a stagnation

already aided over 1.4 million households to

‘affordability’ is usually six times annual income.

in values as demand continues to build.

transition to home ownership, are expected

Furthermore, the last time affordability ratios in

Heightened levels of domestic migration

to remain cornerstones of demand.

KNIGHT FRANK - FLAGSHIP 2023 SAUDI REPORT

Demand to buy a home in 2023 has slipped to 40%, compared to 84% last year

47

contributed to the substantial price increases registered recently. And so, the opportunity?

The development of a vibrant, high-quality, community-centric build-to-rent market

Riyadh, 42% in Dammam, and about a third

(BtR), to cater to this young, seemingly

in Jeddah. Clearly not all of these ‘career

footloose, career-hungry generation of Saudis,

migrants’ will be keen to buy a home in their

without disrupting the sales market.

adopted cities, but 68% claim they would move home should the right job arise.

“There is still a vibrant market for developers too. Those who call some of the Kingdom’s

“The critical consideration for the country’s

biggest cities home still have a very strong desire

developers will be how to cater to this typically

to own a property in their hometowns. Indeed,

young and footloose generation of Saudis,

our analysis shows 84% of Riyadh residents

many of whom are finding themselves priced

and 85% of Jeddah residents are interested

out of the home ownership market.”

in purchasing a home in their respective cities this year, but high costs have become a

Knight Frank highlights the untapped

barrier, with 28% citing this as a key hurdle.”

opportunity that developers have to better understand the needs of this group of Saudis.

BRANDED RESIDENCES

With 56% of the population below the age of 35,

Knight Frank’s research also highlights while

it will become increasingly important to build

the strains of a rapidly growing market are clear

homes that match market demand dynamics.

in the mainstream residential market, those with higher budgets appear underserved. Like

Durrani added: “The challenge for developers is

elsewhere in the world, the appetite to own

clear: soaring land prices, coupled with growing

and invest in branded residential units is on

costs of raw materials and a shortage of labor is

an upward trajectory across the Kingdom.

making it ever more challenging to offer homes that are classed as ‘affordable’. The opportunity

These properties are commonly popular

for the market we see in the mainstream

among high-end buyers, who are looking for

residential sector is to build smaller homes”.

iconic designs, along with world-class services, amenities and facilities, typically offered through

SMALL IS BEAUTIFUL

adjoining luxury hotel brands, says Knight Frank.

Historically, largely due to cultural reasons, Knight Frank says, the emphasis has always

De Jong explained: “An extraordinary 69%

been on large family homes. However, with

of Saudi respondents claim that they are

household sizing declining as young Saudis

likely to purchase a branded residence in

fly the nest at an increasingly younger age

2023. The most common reason for the

in search of employment opportunities in

attractiveness? ‘Service provisions and physical

the Kingdom’s larger cities, most (74%) are

amenities’ (42%), followed by ‘maintenance’

looking for smaller homes. 47% of those

(25%) and ‘brand identity’ (24%).

surveyed were born outside Riyadh and consider themselves temporary residents

“Interestingly, 45% of the respondents are

and, overall, 62% would rather rent than own

interested in using a branded residential

a home, suggesting they already own in their

unit as their main residence and 37% are

Harmen de Jong, Partner - Head of Real

hometown or are not yet prepared to commit

interested in making it their second home,

Estate Strategy & Consulting, Saudi Arabia,

to homeownership in their adopted city.

presumably for use as a holiday home, while

commented: “Domestic migration has been a

the remainder of our sample considers it an

key driver of housing demand in the Kingdom.

Durrani continued: “Some vendors have

investment. This figure is broadly in line with

Our surveys have helped us to estimate that

cottoned on to this trend and moved their

our findings in 2022 and underscores the

the level of domestic migration could be as

homes from the sales market to the rental

depth of the Kingdom’s second homes market,

high as 47% of the total number of Saudis in

market, eroding sales stock, which has

which stands at about 37% of households.”

48

THE SHAREEK PROGRAM

THE SHAREEK PROGRAM ANNOUNCES THE FIRST WAVE OF SUPPORTED PROJECTS THE FIRST WAVE OF PROJECTS SUPPORTED BY THE SHAREEK PROGRAM, THE KINGDOM’S DEDICATED PROGRAM FOR LARGE COMPANIES, HAS SEEN THE SIGNING OF FRAMEWORK AGREEMENTS FOR 12 PROJECTS THAT HAVE BEEN APPROVED ACROSS EIGHT COMPANIES, IN A NUMBER OF STRATEGIC SECTORS. DESIGNED TO HELP UNLOCK THE FULL POTENTIAL OF SAUDI ARABIA’S PRIVATE SECTOR, AND CONTRIBUTE TO ACHIEVING THE NATIONAL TARGETS DEFINED BY VISION 2030, THE PROGRAM TAKES IN INVESTMENTS WORTH SAR 192.4 BILLION, OF WHICH SAR 120.23 BILLION WILL BE SPENT BY LARGE COMPANIES BY THE END OF 2030.

THE SHAREEK PROGRAM

KNOW MORE ABOUT SHAREEK

WATCH VIDEO

49

50

T

THE SHAREEK PROGRAM

hese projects will help the Kingdom's economy flourish through various

SHAREEK WILL AIM TO DELIVER

industries, encouraging innovation and expanding public-private partnerships, assisting eligible enterprises in accelerating planned projects and identifying new possible collaborations and investment opportunities.

The Shareek program has been a popular choice for large private sector organizations, as proven by the 12 initiatives it has enabled across four industries. The SAR 120 billion to be spent by large companies by the end of 2030 is estimated to result in GDP growth of more than SAR 466 billion by 2040.

Tailored support to secure specific enablers for each participating large company

Proactive partnership with the private sector to eliminate barriers to growth and prosperity Fast track application processes to secure enabling packages

Adherence to existing local and international treaties, policies and regulatioons

Shareek will assist Advanced Petrochemical Company in producing methionine through a joint venture THE 12 CHOSEN PROJECTS The announcement includes Aramco getting support to accelerate the development of five projects that will create over 10,000 jobs, including a joint venture steel plate manufacturing project that aims to

Enabling ambitious companies to increase their overall contribution to the economy

Driving diversification across multiple sectors

make Saudi Arabia 100% self-sufficient in steel plate demand by 2030.

Meanwhile, a cloud project will bring Google Cloud services to the Kingdom and position Saudi Arabia as a leader in innovative cloud computing technology.

A further project to manufacture engines that will contribute to the development of

In line with Vision 2030, Shareek will help the Kingdom develop a resilient economy and become an even stronger investment by 2030.

a sustainable maritime industry and unlock higher value from the metals and machinery sectors, which are critical to diversified industrial development, has also been announced, in

More information can be found at: https://www.shareek.gov.sa/Portal/

addition to a casting and forging project in Ras Al Khair that will improve the integration of the Kingdom's industrial supply chains.

Also in the energy sector, ACWA Power

Arabia's potential as a green energy pioneer.

The Amiral Petrochemical Complex

will receive Shareek funding to build the

Saudi Arabian Mining Company (Ma'aden)

project has also now been given the

world's largest green hydrogen plant, which

will receive support to fast-track its Phosphate

green light, which will contribute to the

will be created in collaboration with NEOM

3 project in Wa'ad Al Shamal, which is expected

localization of chemical production, with

Green Hydrogen Company and Air Products

to position the company as the world's third-

the aim to strengthen the Kingdom’s global

Qudra. In support of the Kingdom's net zero

largest producer of phosphate fertilizers by

leadership in the petrochemical industry.

aspirations, the project highlights Saudi

2029 and strengthen the Kingdom's position

THE SHAREEK PROGRAM

R

Unparalled scale and longterm scope to support lasting collaboration

51

"The importance of the Shareek program is not just limited to enhancing the role of the private sector in sustaining the growth of our national economy. We see it as a long-term investment in the future and prosperity of the Kingdom that is based on a powerful spirit of collaboration and partnership between the public and private sectors" H.R.H. CROWN PRINCE, MOHAMMED BIN SALMAN BIN ABDULAZIZ, The Crown Prince, Prime Minister

Creating jobs for Saudi citizens across developed and developing sectors

KSA's first catalyst manufacturing cluster.

which will provide ammonia transport

Shareek will assist Advanced Petrochemical

services for the first time in the Kingdom,

Company in producing methionine through

reducing reliance on international vessels and

a joint venture, which will contribute to

ramping up content in the logistics sector.

boosting food security in the Kingdom

Shareek seeks to unlock SAR 5 trillion in

and increasing food security efficiency.

domestic private sector investments by

stc will construct an EMC cable project in

2030, contributing to Vision 2030's targets of

the developing telecommunications industry,

increasing private sector GDP contribution to

enhancing the Kingdom's position as a MENA

65% and non-oil exports from 16% to 50%.

region digital hub and dependable route for data traffic. In addition, Zain Saudi Arabia in the world's agricultural value chain,

will expedite a data center project that

thereby assisting global food security.

will aid in the Kingdom's transformation

Within the Kingdom's petrochemicals

into a digital economy by assuring

sector, industry leader SABIC has obtained

readiness for future IT breakthroughs.

financing for a catalyst project aimed at

Bahri, the Saudi logistics giant, will increase

reducing Saudi Arabia's reliance on imports and

its capacity for ammonia transportation

strengthening its export position by developing

through a project supported by Shareek,

PROGRAM: SHAREEK VISIT WEBSITE CONTACT SHAREEK

52

Red Sea Global - ROSANNA CHOPRA, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Red Sea Global - ROSANNA CHOPRA, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

53

TAKE THE PLUNGE:

EXPERIENCE LIFE AT THE RED SEA CRAFTING A WONDERFUL EXPERIENCE IS BOTH AN ART AND A SCIENCE, AS IT INVOLVES ENTICING PEOPLE AND BRINGING THEM IN, CAPTURING THEIR ATTENTION AND NARROWING THEIR FOCUS AWAY FROM ALL OF LIFE'S DISTRACTIONS. AND THIS IS THE KEY OBJECTIVE OF RED SEA GLOBAL (RSG), WHICH IS DEDICATED TO METICULOUSLY CURATING A PROGRAM OF UNFORGETTABLE EXPERIENCES FOR ITS GUESTS SO THAT THEY WILL WANT TO RETURN FOR MORE AND TELL EVERYONE ABOUT IT!

W

ith this in mind, RSG has

terrestrial terrain, and so very quickly we

revealed two new brands,

resolved the best way to protect it was

WAMA and Galaxea, which are set to

to own and operate entities ourselves,

deliver incredible guest experiences,

because that’s the way we can scale

prioritizing stringent sustainability

to protect people and the planet.

standards that set a new benchmark in the hospitality industry. “ When I first

“If you bring in third parties and they

visited the site, I was struck by how

make a level of investment, they have

overwhelmingly beautiful it was, and as

to get their budget approved by their

part of the RSG family, you also become

board, and if they’re not hitting their

overwhelmed with the responsibility to

targets and not generating the type

protect it,” explains Rosanna Chopra,

of revenue they promised, the very

Executive Director of Destination

first thing that gets compromised is

Development, Red Sea Global.

volume, which results in excessive use. The aim of having our own

“Having traveled around I’ve seen some

operating entities is that we can

destinations that do incredible things,

keep quality high, be able to charge

but they also tend to start to almost

proportionately because the experience

sweat their assets. Our asset is this

is so extraordinary, and in all ways be

untouched, pristine archipelago, but

able to protect our land and sea.”

also unwalked, unchallenged, unclimbed

54

Red Sea Global - ROSANNA CHOPRA, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

EXTRAORDINARY MOMENTS AND BEAUTIFUL MEMORIES John Pagano, Group CEO of RSG, recently underlined the important and sometimes overlooked fact that creating experiences is just as important as building hotels, noting that “WAMA and Galaxea will create extraordinary moments and beautiful memories that last a lifetime.”

Equally importantly, these two brands have been fashioned and developed with sustainability at the forefront, in line with RSG’s commitment to delivering a regenerative approach to tourism development and operations. “When we consider people, planet, product and process alongside visitors, community and marine life, we must look to how we protect these best while ensuring our environment can still flourish. By owning and operating water sports and diving activities we can grow in line with the strategy defined by RSG and implemented across all our destinations,” Rosanna says.

“Through the creation of strong brands, we will enjoy dynamic relationships with industry partners, federations, brand partners, activity-specific groups and event IPs. We will continuously look to the latest innovations both in natural power and hydro and electrically powered equipment and hope to become a hub and a home for sport to grow.”

Eventually, it is hoped that both WAMA and Galaxea will become standalone brands operating at destinations all around the world.

In line with this approach, Galaxea is working closely with Saudi Water Sports & Diving Federation, alongside PADI International to ensure that all diving facilities operated by Galaxea lead in regenerative tourism standards and set the blueprint for future diving development around the world.

DRIVING ACCESSIBLE TOURISM WAMA, a combination of the word ‘water’ in English and Arabic, is responsible for creating invigorating water sports adventures, from stand-up paddleboarding through the destination’s mangrove forests to sailing the Red Sea’s soft swells.

“At WAMA we’ve got some really cool things lined up, leading the way in the future evolution of such sports as paddleboarding, flyboarding, skimboarding and kitesurfing,” Rosanna says. “And we have a very high procurement standard, so while we want to speak to everyone that moves within that space, in all

WAMA and Galaxea will lead exclusive water sports and diving activities for guests at The Red Sea and Amaala

Red Sea Global - ROSANNA CHOPRA, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

55

instances we have a minimum requirement

irrespective of guests’ ability or disability. That is

of sustainability that must be applied to

why three of the team members we have hired

manufacturing as well as distribution.”

at Galaxea are qualified for those who have children who have ADHD and autism, as well

Galaxea is named after a bold and vibrant coral

as other people who have physical disabilities

prevalent in the Red Sea and will offer diving

because the water not only provides buoyancy

experiences that let guests explore life below

but is proven scientifically to hold a child’s

the water, with Rosanna explaining: “Galexea

attention, maintain their focus and give them a

is our diving brand and we have some of the

positive experience. Water is a great leveler.”

most extraordinary dive sites up and down the Red Sea - even if you just snorkel and poke

REAL ADVENTURES

your head beneath the water, it’s sensational,

Last year, an eleven-month-long research study

and some of our outer reefs haven’t been dived

of the Al Wajh lagoon revealed an exceptionally

at all. But in order for us to protect it, we have

rich diversity of habitats, flora, and fauna. These

decided to own and operate the brand.

include a significant number of endangered and critically endangered species such as the Halavi

“The technology in diving and the equipment

Guitarfish, Hawksbill Sea Turtle and Sooty Falcon,

that is available now wasn’t necessarily on

as well as a thriving, eight-meter-high single coral

the market several years ago, and it allows

colony estimated to be around 600 years old.

divers to stay underwater for longer and reach new depths. This is why we wanted

It is hoped that future divers will also be able

to lead the way, operating standards that

to explore an 18th-century ‘merchantman’

open, intelligently, incredible dive sites.

shipwreck that is currently the most intact and best-preserved wooden shipwreck in the Red

“We are looking to drive accessible tourism too –

Sea. But that’s just the beginning, with Rosanna

it’s an absolute commitment now for RSG to ensure

saying: “The shipwreck is more towards Amaala,

that we have equal equity at our destinations,

but in the Red Sea, people will be diving and

56

Red Sea Global - ROSANNA CHOPRA, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

finding pottery, say, from the Byzantine era, so we’re putting together heritage dives. I also remember saying very early on, I don’t want to over-curate our programs or excursions because of how wonderful it will be if guests are allowed to come and discover with us, and in doing so become more connected, feel more a part of everything we’re doing. If you just turn up and say I want to go diving, it feels a bit pedestrian, but we want to allow guests to come on a real adventure with us, to discover things that have been perhaps hidden for centuries.”

DELIVERING UNIQUE EXPERIENCES RSG has been hiring for roles across WAMA and Galaxea and expects to employ more than 250 people by 2026. This includes Sailing and Water Sports Instructors, Divemasters, Technicians and Dive Boat Captains, plus roles for those

Red Sea Global - ROSANNA CHOPRA, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

57

The Ocean Race has provided the ultimate test for sailing teams since 1973 “We had around 4,500 applicants in just two

across the world and has created legends

weeks from all over the world. These were

of the sport throughout the years.

professional water sports enthusiasts who wanted to be part of what is an extraordinary

The partnership is intended to not only drive

opportunity to deliver unique experiences to

benefits for the natural environment but to

the guests of some of the leading hotel brands

help inspire the next generation of Saudi

in the world,” Rosanna says. “If you speak to

sailors, promoting a new sport to a Kingdom

some of the hotel operators, for them this is

that has enjoyed a crucial and historic

going to be the absolute jewel in their portfolio,

relationship with the sea for over 4,000 years.

so there’s an expectation on our quality of

Both brands are owned

by Red Sea Global and are the first subsidiary businesses announced since its mandate expanded last year

execution, but huge excitement amongst the

Of course, when it comes to pristine

team that they are going to have this quality of

environments such as that along the Red Sea

guest. So when we started looking at developing

coast, sustainability is a moving target, but RSG's

programs, whether they are cadet weeks or

enlightened philosophy means that it is all in

international parasailing competitions or

good hands, with Rosanna concluding: “We’ve

yacht clubs, we realized it was a really wide

done everything we can to be sensitive and

level of experience and expertise we were

intelligent as a developer and we need to mirror

looking for … and it hasn’t been a hard sell.”

that sensitivity and intelligence as an operator.”

When can you take your first dive? As

SENSITIVITY AND INTELLIGENCE

early as this May – it’s time to experience

RSG recently revealed an exciting partnership

the Red Sea, not just visit it!

with The Ocean Race, born of a shared entering the industry for the first time who wish

commitment to ocean health and a vision

to discover a new career at the highest level of

to drive the regeneration of life above and

service and standard. Successful candidates

below water. The Ocean Race has provided

will have the opportunity to live at Turtle Bay,

the ultimate test for sailing teams since

the brand-new sustainable community RSG

1973. Known as ‘sailing's greatest round-

created for employees and their families.

the-world challenge’, it is widely recognized as the pinnacle of achievement for sailors

RED SEA GLOBAL VISIT WEBSITE

58

RED SEA GLOBAL - AUTONOMOUS VEHICLES

SMART MOBILITY DRIVING RSG’S FUTURISTIC OUTLOOK

By Andreas Flourou, Executive Director, Operations & Mobility at Red Sea Global THE ROAD TO RECOVERY HAS BEEN PAVED WITH URBAN DEVELOPMENTS, WITH THE WORLD ECONOMIC FORUM EXPECTING THE SHARE OF THE WORLD’S POPULATION LIVING IN CITIES TO RISE FROM THE CURRENT 55% TO 80% BY 2050. THIS RATE OF GROWTH UNDOUBTEDLY PUTS PRESSURE ON HEALTHCARE, HOUSING, GOVERNANCE, AND PUBLIC TRANSPORT. BUT EQUALLY UNDERSCORES THE IMPORTANCE OF SMART CITIES AND SMART INFRASTRUCTURE TO BIND THEM TOGETHER.

RED SEA GLOBAL - AUTONOMOUS VEHICLES

59

60

RED SEA GLOBAL - AUTONOMOUS VEHICLES

Each historic project is primed to drive economic diversification unlike any the world has seen before

RED SEA GLOBAL - AUTONOMOUS VEHICLES

61

 ANDREAS FLOUROU, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, OPERATIONS & MOBILITY AT RED SEA GLOBAL

SMART MOBILITY THROUGH THE SAUDI LENS

The roadmap for this journey is still

Saudi Arabia is keeping abreast of these

unfolding. But, when successful, it would

projections with its own proactive measures.

place Saudi Arabia as a major entity in the

The most notable developments in this

future generational transport category. When

arena are of course the iconic giga-projects

weighed against the backdrop of the giga-

taking shape across Saudi Arabia.

projects, these targets make the Kingdom the proving grounds for new mobility and the

Each historic project is primed to drive

advancement of AVs through development,

economic diversification unlike any the world

regulation, and legislation. Red Sea Global,

has seen before - driven by vital pillars of

in particular, is willing and able to take

sustainability, health, luxury living, and smart

on testing and development of electric

mobility. The main objective, however, is to fuel

vehicles, AVs, and other advanced mobility

economic growth and improve quality of life.

products from manufacturers, in synergy with the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030.

Against the backdrop of this advancement, we at Red Sea Global see our role accelerated even

PIONEERING CARBON-NEUTRAL SMART

further toward pioneering cleaner, greener,

MOBILITY ACROSS THE RED SEA

and smarter mobility. And even more so

As we embarked on a journey to becoming

with the Kingdom’s recent announcement to

the only developers in the world to achieve

convert at least 15% of its public transport and

sustainable smart mobility across land, sea,

25% of goods transport to advanced mobility

and air (at the same time), we realized almost

vehicles including autonomous (AVs) by 2030.

immediately that there is no one-size-fits-all approach – particularly as true zero-carbon mobility hasn’t yet been attempted at scale.

62

RED SEA GLOBAL - AUTONOMOUS VEHICLES

In terms of sustainable mobility at sea, the introduction of electric boats keeps us at the peak of maritime technology

RED SEA GLOBAL - AUTONOMOUS VEHICLES

As pioneers in this regard, much like our

and Landing (eSTOL) across The Red

overarching destination development

Sea and Amaala are cases in point of

strategy, it was imperative that our

a complete ecosystem of connectivity

mobility strategy also places people

along the west coast of Saudi Arabia.

63

and planet at the center. Guided by this commitment, we are constantly

Indeed, these milestones wouldn’t

scrutinizing and finetuning our smart

be possible without the supporting

destination goals to expertly cater to our

infrastructure. Our electric vehicle charging

different audiences, from guests to staff,

capabilities will be one of the largest-ever

while decarbonizing mobility in line with

discrete deployments of its kind across

our wider ambitions to deliver 100%

the Kingdom, servicing a 28,000km2

carbon-neutral operations across both our

resort. Our advanced infrastructure will

destinations, The Red Sea and Amaala.

support the creation of a skilled cadre of technicians who can repair and maintain

Not only have the masterplans for this rollout already been established, but we have also cemented partnerships with some of the industry’s leading players. We have partnered with luxury electric vehicle manufacturers and bus manufacturers to deploy a next-generation fleet of zeroemission electric buses for employee transportation and luxury electric vehicles for guest mobility across The Red Sea. And we’ll soon take receipt of bespoke electric vehicles that will offer unparalleled luxury for guests, while helping us remain

both electric and hydrogen vehicles.

Our advanced infrastructure will support the creation of a skilled cadre of technicians who can repair and maintain both electric and hydrogen vehicles

committed to our zero-carbon principles.

Across the rest of the Kingdom, electric

THIS IS ONLY THE BEGINNING

cars are already on the roads, with more

The exciting news is that we are not done

and more charge points being installed,

yet. Well-coordinated efforts from our

and the first electric buses starting

partners across the value chain – whether

operation in Jeddah earlier this year.

original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) or technology firms – will continue to

In terms of sustainable mobility at sea, the

drive us in the right direction. The door

introduction of electric boats keeps us at

is also open for local, regional, and

the peak of maritime technology, while

international innovators to join us in

eliminating the fallout from fuel spills

incubating and accelerating smarter

and an adverse environmental impact

transport solutions and rise to the forefront

on the seascape. Renewable hydrogen

of sustainable mobility across all three

energy will also be used across our marine

modalities. This is an important step as

technology as early as next year, as well

we welcome the world to witness our

as for our aircraft further down the line.

remarkable destinations later this year.

We are also evaluating futuristic and holistic solutions through our advanced air mobility program, in keeping with

RED SEA GLOBAL

Vision 2030 objectives. Innovations in Electric Vertical Takeoff and Landing (eVTOL), and Electric Short Takeoff

VISIT WEBSITE

64

RED SEA GLOBAL - AMAALA

AMAALA UNVEILS FIRST BRAND WITH FOCUS ON LUXURY AND LONGEVITY RED SEA GLOBAL (RSG) HAS ANNOUNCED A PARTNERSHIP WITH THE LEADING LONGEVITY CLINIC AND WELLNESS BRAND, CLINIQUE LA PRAIRIE. THE PARTNERSHIP INVOLVES THE DEVELOPMENT OF A HIGH-END 36,115M2 CLINIQUE LA PRAIRIE HEALTH RESORT WITHIN AMAALA, WHICH IS LOCATED ON SAUDI ARABIA’S NORTH-WESTERN COASTLINE. THE EXCLUSIVE RESORT WILL OFFER 13 VILLAS, AS WELL AS HOUSING 52 ROOMS AND SUITES.

RED SEA GLOBAL - AMAALA

“Clinique La Prairie’s world-renowned facilities

The resort also features a diagnostics

by 100% renewable energy. Respect for flora

and health and wellness experiences, set against

lab, museum, beach club, workshop and

and fauna also runs through every aspect of

Saudi Arabia’s extraordinary natural landscapes,

training rooms, private dining space, and

the resort’s design. For instance, Amaala’s

will take our visitors on transformative personal

even a cooking school, ensuring visitors

buildings have been brought around 100

journeys inspired by arts, wellness, and the

can embark on an inimitable journey

meters back from the coastline to avoid

purity of the Red Sea. The resort’s subtle beauty

of rejuvenation and self-discovery.

interference with the natural habitat of the

– a product of Islamic architecture and modern

65

Red Sea’s fragile turtle populations. Lighting is

craftsmanship – will deliver a serene place in

Landscaping around the property is vital

also carefully used to protect the night sky and

which to unwind, meditate and rejuvenate,”

to architect John Heah’s vision for the

limit the impact of artificial light on wildlife.

said John Pagano, Group CEO, Red Sea Global.

resort. Idyllic gardens are used to establish

EXCEPTIONAL ARCHITECTURE

a sense of place and tranquillity and add

Simone Gibertoni, CEO of Clinique La Prairie,

to the connected journey for visitors.

stated: “At Amaala, we are creating the most

Clinique La Prairie’s approach to wellbeing

important health and longevity-focused

prioritizes longevity. This is symbolized by

TAKING GUESTS TO A NEW STATE OF MIND

resort ever developed. We’re delighted

the central ‘Longevity Plaza’ leading to four

Clinique La Prairie has a unique approach to

to be building our very first full-scale

distinctive areas of the resort corresponding

wellbeing, combining leading preventative

destination in such an extraordinary setting

to each one of the property’s pillars – medical

medicine, genetics and epigenetics with

and to help bring Red Sea Global’s vision of

care, nutrition, movement and wellbeing.

bespoke lifestyle and nutrition plans always

regenerative, ultra-luxury tourism to life.”

These sections will host a vast array of

grounded in the latest sciences. Using the

activities and facilities, including all the

CLP Longevity MethodTM, medical specialists

Phase one of the destination is well

latest technologies developed over 90 years

and holistic experts will provide guests with

underway and expects to welcome its first

by Clinique La Prairie to enable clients to

highly personalized revitalizing, immune-

guests in 2024. It will consist of eight resorts

live a longer, healthier, and fuller life.

boosting and transformative itineraries

offering upwards of 1,300 hotel keys.

over one week or longer stays, to embrace health and life to its fullest potential.

Upon completion, Amaala will be home to more than 3,000 hotel rooms across 25 hotels,

The clinic’s experts will work to slow time,

and approximately 900 luxury residential villas,

as well as restore visitors’ internal balance

apartments, and estate homes, alongside

and remedy a wide range of conditions,

high-end retail establishments, fine dining,

including fatigue, anxiety, digestive disorders,

wellness, and recreational facilities.

insomnia, diabetes, and more. Cuttingedge science and ancient healing practices combine to offer holistic practices.

Clinique La Prairie will offer synergistic treatments to rejuvenate inside and out. The medical pillar will include advanced diagnostics lab and radiology, physio, neuroscience, dermo, aesthetics, and dentistry. On the wellbeing side, the destination will provide a cryo-chamber, hyperbaric suites, IV infusions and a series of next-generation therapies to be unveiled, all of which contribute to Amaala’s standing as a distinctive wellness destination.

CLINIQUE LA PRAIRIE

RESPECTING SURROUNDING ENVIRONMENTS Sustainability is a cornerstone of Amaala, with the entire destination set to be powered

VISIT WEBSITE

66

RED SEA GLOBAL - ROSEWOOD AMAALA

RED SEA GLOBAL - ROSEWOOD AMAALA

67

ROSEWOOD AMAALA TO BRING AN ULTRA-LUXURY AND REGENERATIVE ESCAPE TO THE SHORES OF THE RED SEA ROSEWOOD HOTELS & RESORTS®, A GLOBAL LEADER IN LUXURY TRAVEL AND LIFESTYLE EXPERIENCES, HAS BEEN SELECTED BY RED SEA GLOBAL (RSG) TO MANAGE ROSEWOOD AMAALA IN ONE OF THE WORLD’S MOST PRISTINE ENVIRONMENTS, THE RED SEA REGION OF SAUDI ARABIA.

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RED SEA GLOBAL - ROSEWOOD AMAALA

The property has been crafted at every level to prioritize longevity

A

n area considered to be at the center

Rosewood Hotels & Resorts has shown

of the world’s most ambitious

a considerable commitment to bringing

regenerative tourism projects, the Red Sea

affluential explorers to this region as

is situated along the country’s west coast

Rosewood Amaala joins the brand’s

and is home to some of the most diverse and

expansive pipeline in the Middle East.

delicate natural environments. Rosewood Amaala will be part of RSG’s Amaala destination, an integrated wellness haven.

Rosewood Hotels & Resorts expands further into this stunning stretch of coastline with a resort focused on sustainability and wellness

RED SEA GLOBAL - ROSEWOOD AMAALA

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The focal point of the Resort’s wellness offering is the Asaya Spa WELLNESS AND TRANQUILITY Where ocean and land meet, Rosewood Amaala will be surrounded by the world's fourth-largest reef and the scenic Hijazi mountains. RSG is aiming to not only protect the environment but to also enhance the natural ecosystems actively through regeneration and destination development. Rosewood Amaala will focus on the wellbeing of its guests, the community, and the native flora and fauna while recognizing the integral connections between the three.

Rosewood Hotels & Resort’s, guiding philosophy, A Sense of Place®, will be represented in every detail of the property’s 110 well-appointed guest rooms and suites, and its luxury 25 Rosewood Residences.

Designed by renowned architecture firm, Antonio Citterio Patricia Viel (ACPV Architects), the inspiration of the design aims to go beyond enhancing to implementing a spectacular landscape for guests to enjoy.

The property has been crafted at every level to prioritize longevity, while also creating a physical structure that will foster an environment of wellness and tranquillity.

The resort will explore what it truly means to be regenerative, with unique experiences that weave together wellness and sustainability - an embodiment of RSG’s understanding that the future of hospitality is rooted in both people and the planet.

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RED SEA GLOBAL - ROSEWOOD AMAALA

Sustainability will be at the cornerstone of the property’s entire design and the larger Amaala development has set meaningful targets toward zero impact. The entire destination will be powered by 100% renewable energy and aims to have a zero-carbon footprint, with plans to send zero waste to landfill. Additionally, the endangered Hawksbill and Green Turtles have many nesting sites around the Rosewood Amaala beaches, meaning all construction and design work has been centered around ensuring the turtles are left uninterrupted. For instance, no construction will take place around the nesting areas, and the lighting strategies have been designed to ensure no bright lights shine in the area to avoid disruption.

TIMELESS ARCHITECTURE “We are deeply honored to partner with Red Sea Global on Rosewood Amaala and work together to offer a more regenerative model of hospitality for future generations,” says Sonia Cheng, Chief Executive Officer at Rosewood Hotel Group. “Rosewood’s values of prioritizing both people and planet through impactful offerings connects seamlessly with the development’s larger vision, and we look forward to embracing our role of providing a wellness oasis nestled within this ambitious project.”

From the moment guests enter the resort, they will be immersed in a world of contrasts.

Hidden amongst the verdant green landscapes and the drama of the Red Sea coast, a timeless architecture immerges to delight and inspire. The property will offer an array of distinctive culinary experiences, including fine dining, casual eateries and beachinspired club lounges, all taking advantage of the Red Sea views. To protect the precious coral reefs that wrap around the resort, the property will provide two rock pools, allowing guests safe access to the water and sand.

Families can enjoy the programs available at the resort’s Rosewood Explorer’s Club, which aims to curate meaningful child-friendly experiences with the hopes of inspiring the next generation of conscious travelers.

RED SEA GLOBAL - ROSEWOOD AMAALA

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RELAX AND REJUVENATE The focal point of the Resort’s wellness offering is the Asaya Spa. The Spa is discretely hidden away amongst the rolling landscape, providing a sanctuary for meditation, tranquillity, and wellbeing. Complete with private treatment pavilions set around a protected green oasis, this refuge will embody Asaya’s commitment to creating thoughtfully designed spaces where guests can relax and rejuvenate.

John Pagano, Group CEO of Red Sea Global said: “We are truly proud to reveal this partnership with Rosewood Hotels & Resorts - an iconic and world-renowned brand that shares our values in protecting people and planet, and belief in the potential of tourism as a force for good. Rosewood Amaala has been meticulously designed to seamlessly integrate indoor and outdoor living while offering guests a level of privacy and exclusivity often found in an all-villa resort. Together, we want to create a lifestyle oasis for our guests that aims to welcome a regenerative era of travel, while shining a positive light on this diverse corner of the globe.”

Supporting Rosewood’s goal of thoughtful expansion that leaves guests and communities with a measurable positive impact, this partnership is a truly organic way for Rosewood’s pipeline to grow. Rosewood Amaala joins the brand’s strong pipeline of projects set to open in the Middle East, including Rosewood Doha (2023), Rosewood Riyadh (2025) and Rosewood Red Sea (Future Opening.)

Rosewood Amaala will be surrounded by the world's fourth-largest reef and the scenic Hijazi mountains ROSEWOOD AMAALA  +852 2138 2222 VISIT WEBSITE

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GIGA PROJECTS - ALULA

GET READY FOR THE EXTRAORDINARY! EXPLORE THE SPECTACULAR LANDSCAPES AND UNIQUE EVENTS AND FESTIVALS AVAILABLE YEAR-ROUND IN ALULA - A YEAR FULL OF ART, WELLNESS, HERITAGE, ADVENTURE, SPORTS, AND MUSIC. THESE ARE JUST A FEW THAT YOU WILL WANT TO ATTEND THROUGHOUT 2023.

ALULA SKIES FESTIVAL

EXTREME ADVENTURE ALULA

26 April – 13 May

7 June – 10 June

50 colorful balloons will fly high over the

Extreme Adventure AlUla presents a series of

UNESCO World Heritage Site of Hegra. Together

physical challenges and hurdles to maximize

with the balloons, there will be a number of

the incredible surrounding landscapes

immersive events honoring the majestic ancient

of AlUla. In a high adrenaline and high

desert and the heavens above, such as elevated

heat setting, try abseiling, hiking, cycling,

stargazing experiences and much more.

dune buggies, rock climbing, and other activities that form a part of AlUla's DNA.

GIGA PROJECTS - ALULA

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ALULA WELLNESS FESTIVAL 20 October – 5 November This festival, which brings the finest of the worlds of health, recuperation and relaxation to AlUla, is the largest wellness event in the region. The Five Senses Sanctuary, the flagship event, will return with acclaimed practitioners, delivering yoga, meditation, fascinating talks and fitness routines in the gorgeous surroundings of the oasis.

SUMMER IN ALULA 1 July – 1 September Summer has always been a unique season in

ANCIENT KINGDOMS FESTIVALS

AlUla, with both locals and visitors seeking

17 November – 3 December

sanctuary in the luscious AlUla Oasis. As the heat

Explore the relationship between the three

rises across the Arabian Peninsula, AlUla's green

interrelated ancient oases of Northwest Arabia

oasis grows fruits, provides shade, and serves

- AlUla, Khaybar, and Tayma - in this second

as a place of leisure and relaxation, becoming a

edition of the Ancient Kingdoms Festival.

must-visit destination of the Arabian Peninsula.

Increasingly immersive experiences and AZIMUTH FESTIVAL

dazzling events will highlight the historic and

22 September – 25 September

natural settings of these timeless landsca

Azimuth returns to AlUla after a hugely successful 2022 edition that featured DJ Snake, Parov Stellar, BKR and many more regional and international DJs. This music celebration, which will take place once again over the Saudi National Day Holiday, will feature a combination of music, art and more, all on a one-of-a-kind Sand Floor.

EID AL-ADHA 8 July – 13 July AlUla is a wonderful setting to spend the Eid

TO FIND OUT MORE, VISIT WWW.EXPERIENCEALULA.COM/EN/ALULA-MOMENTS

Al-Adha holiday, surrounded by breathtakingly spectacular natural surroundings, engaging history and culture, and innovative dining concepts. So why not do something different this Eid, from exploring Hegra to trying your hand at rock climbing?

AlUla is a wonderful setting to spend the Eid Al-Adha holiday

WATCH VIDEO

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GIGA PROJECTS - ALULA

PEOPLE WILL COME

UNTIL A FEW YEARS AGO, FEW PEOPLE OUTSIDE OF THE MIDDLE EAST HAD HEARD OF ALULA, AN AREA BRIMMING WITH SAND DUNES, DESERT OASES, AND ANCIENT RUINS, SOME DATING BACK TO THE NEOLITHIC PERIOD OF THE STONE AGE.

H

owever, the country's notable and

Kingdom since it opened its doors in 2018, but

should come as no surprise. The location

swift arrival into the film industry has

it was also the first to be shot entirely in Saudi

is spectacular. Nevertheless, in reality, the

seen AlUla become an influential presence at

Arabia, with much of it taking place in AlUla.

emphasis is on developing the creative business

nearly all major festivals, with large investments

The plot revolves around Tom Harris (Butler),

around the screen sector. It is impossible to

having been made to attract international

an undercover CIA operative, who is stuck

establish a creative enterprise based solely on

productions, establish infrastructure, and create

deep in hostile territory in Afghanistan.

outdoor locations. Thus there is now a built-in

a fully-fledged moviemaking hub where there

When an intelligence leak exposes his

environment, similar to studios. Even more

was previously no film industry whatsoever.

identity and mission, he must fight his

crucial is the development of below-the-line

Things have certainly changed. Indeed, history

way out, alongside his Afghan translator,

workers. A studio facility can be built relatively

will be made later this year, on 23 May, when the

to an extraction point in Kandahar.

fast, but personnel, especially skilled crew,

first major Hollywood movie to shoot in AlUla is

Around 18 months ago, there was a lot of

takes years to establish. This is obviously

released. Kandahar, starring Gerard Butler, is not

vision and determination, but now there is

ongoing, but will ultimately mean that AlUla

only the first big-budget movie to arrive in the

tangible traction on the ground. And that

will not be totally dependent on flying crew in.

GIGA PROJECTS - ALULA

There are plenty of projects in the pipeline,

and not always both ways. And naturally, if

not only from international filmmakers but

you have a crew of, say, 180, then you could

also from potential Middle Eastern movies,

lose 180 days, so there are still challenges as

which are now looking at AlUla with fresh eyes

the industry moves forward. Nevertheless,

and genuine enthusiasm. It’s so assessable

because AlUla is such a fabulous and welcoming

too, with direct flights from Dubai, Paris, Cairo

location with excellent facilities, to quote one

and Amman, but these are not every day

famous movie line, “people will come”.

History will be made later this year, on 23 May, when the first major Hollywood movie to shoot in AlUla is released

WATCH VIDEO

A studio facility can be built relatively fast, but personnel, especially skilled crew, takes years to establish

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Giga Projects - Qiddiya

SAUDI’S KEIR INTERNATIONAL AWARDED $18.3 MILLION CONTRACT FOR QIDDIYA WATER THEME PARK SAUDI CONSTRUCTION AND UTILITY SERVICES COMPANY KEIR INTERNATIONAL HAS ANNOUNCED THAT IT HAS SECURED A SAR 68.91 MILLION ($18.36 MILLION) CONTRACT FOR QIDDIYA WATER THEME PARK PROJECT.

T

he scope of works includes engineering, design, electrical, communications, civil

and electromechanical works, the company said in a statement to the Saudi stock exchange.

The Qiddiya-Keir agreement is the latest in a string of agreements for the entertainment gigaproject. Dewan, an architectural, engineering, and planning firm, was confirmed as the principal design consultant for the Qiddiya destination in April 2022. Dewan stated that it had completed the design and was overseeing the physical building of the property.

The Qiddiya water park is part of the overall giga-project and is budgeted to cost in the region of $750 million.

The Qiddiya-Keir agreement is the latest in a string of agreements

KIER INTERNATIONAL VISIT WEBSITE EMAIL US

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GIGA PROJECTS - NEOM

NEOM NAMED AS TOP TARGET FOR SAUDI BUYERS AND GCC-HNWI NEOM HAS BEEN NAMED AS THE MOST PREFERRED GIGA PROJECT TO BUY A HOME AMONG SAUDI BUYERS AND GCC-BASED HIGH-NET-WORTH INDIVIDUALS (HNWI), ACCORDING TO GLOBAL PROPERTY CONSULTANT KNIGHT FRANK’S FLAGSHIP 2023 SAUDI REPORT.

K

to be more affordable as well as those which have been recently announced or have shared development updates in recent months.

“Positively for giga project developers, however, the proportion of those keen on acquiring

night Frank has found that NEOM is

has slipped to fifth place and this is most

a home in any of the new Saudi cities of the

the most preferred giga project among

likely due to the fact that it is among one

future remains virtually unchanged on last

Saudi homebuyers, while GCC-based buyers

of the most advanced giga projects, in

year at 86%, with up to two-thirds willing

are also eyeing the new Saudi supercity.

terms of its development - it is increasingly

to spend up to SAR 1.5 million. And Al-Ula

Faisal Durrani, Partner - Head of Middle

clear that it is a luxury holiday destination,

has the distinction of attracting the biggest

East Research explained: “For the second

with an emerging high-end second homes

spenders, with the historical city attracting

consecutive year running, NEOM is being viewed

market. Similarly, Diriyah Gate, which fell to

the largest proportion of would-be purchasers

by Saudis as the Kingdom’s ‘crown jewel’.”

sixth place overall, is also being positioned

willing to spend upwards of SAR 5.5 million”.

The rest of the giga projects ‘popularity’

as a high-end residential destination.

league table has seen a significant shake-

“With average home prices rising exponentially

up. Last year, The Red Sea Project and

over the last two years - 54% for apartments

Diriyah Gate were positioned in second and

and 32% for villas in Riyadh - households are

third place, respectively. For 2023, Jeddah

being forced into a holding pattern while they

Central (19%) and King Salman Park (10%)

save increasingly larger deposits and at the

are now the new favorite home purchase

same time contend with rising interest rates.

targets, behind NEOM, says Knight Frank.

It is perhaps unsurprising to see demand

Durrani continued: “The Red Sea Project

pivoting to those projects that are perceived

For 2023, Jeddah Central (19%) and King Salman Park (10%) are now the new favorite home purchase targets, behind NEOM

GIGA PROJECTS - NEOM

“Households are being forced into a holding pattern while they save increasingly larger deposits”

79

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GIGA PROJECTS - NEOM

ATKINS SECURES DELIVERY PARTNER ROLE FOR THE LINE, NEOM’S FLAGSHIP URBAN DEVELOPMENT ATKINS, A MEMBER OF THE SNC-LAVALIN GROUP, HAS BEEN APPOINTED AS A DELIVERY PARTNER ORGANIZATION FOR THE LINE AT NEOM IN THE KINGDOM OF SAUDI ARABIA. A CIVILIZATIONAL REVOLUTION THAT WILL HAVE NO ROADS, CARS OR CARBON EMISSIONS, THE LINE IS SET TO PROVIDE AN UNPRECEDENTED URBAN LIVING EXPERIENCE.

A

linear development, THE LINE, once completed, will be 170 kilometers

long and only 200 meters wide; a cognitive city run on 100% clean energy. It will eventually accommodate nine million residents and will be built on a land area of 34 square kilometers - a footprint unheard of compared to other cities of similar capacity. Designed around nature rather than over it, THE LINE will be surrounded by large world-class protected areas as 95% of the surrounding NEOM

design, procurement, construction, testing

“THE LINE is a truly ground-breaking,

region will be protected for conservation.

and commissioning of the project, together

world-first project and we are proud to

Atkins has been awarded a five-year contract

with the management of the critical interfaces

have the opportunity to bring our global

under a framework agreement for consultancy

that the linear city shares with adjacent

engineering, digital and net zero expertise to

services on THE LINE. In collaboration with

NEOM projects and logistics. The project has

help create a lasting legacy for the Kingdom

NEOM and other Delivery Partner organizations,

adopted a highly collaborative delivery model

and its people,” said Philip Hoare, President,

Atkins will provide project and construction

in response to its scale, complexity, supply

Atkins. “As a Delivery Partner organization,

management consultancy services for the

chain and requirements for innovation.

we will work closely with NEOM and our

GIGA PROJECTS - NEOM

81

Atkins has been awarded a fiveyear contract under a framework agreement for consultancy services on THE LINE

partners to seamlessly connect people, data

“With over 50 years’ presence in the Middle

possible by helping clients manage climate

and technology to drive innovation, value,

East, Atkins has played a key role in supporting

risks and build climate resilience. Through

efficiency and certainty on the project. Our

the region’s transformation by delivering some

its consulting, advisory and environmental

combined intent is to radically transform

of its most iconic and complex projects,” said

services, the company is also helping clients

the way major infrastructure projects are

Campbell Gray, Chief Executive Officer, Middle

to unlock project value and transform

delivered and THE LINE, with its vision and

East & Africa, Atkins. “Saudi Arabia is one of

outcomes by adopting advanced real-time

complexity, provides a great opportunity to

the world’s most dynamic growth markets and

data analytics, machine learning and AI, to

demonstrate what our industry can achieve.”

we are committed to supporting the country’s

enhance prioritization of tasks, support earlier

THE LINE offers a new approach to urban

ambitions through our global engineering

decision making and enhance collaboration.

design. The idea of layering city functions

expertise, our in-depth local knowledge, and

With a steadfast commitment to supporting

vertically while giving people the possibility

our investment in the Kingdom’s future talent.

Saudi’s economic growth, Atkins has expanded

of moving seamlessly in three dimensions

As a Delivery Partner organization, we will

its local presence in the Kingdom with regional

(up, down or across) to access them is

work closely with NEOM to drive value and

offices in Riyadh, Jeddah, Al Khobar and

a concept referred to as ‘Zero Gravity

efficiency by adopting innovative technologies

AlUla, supporting clients in buildings and

Urbanism’. The development’s infrastructure

and world-class sustainability standards.”

places, transportation, energy and water

will be embedded with sustainable smart

Globally, SNC-Lavalin has developed the

sectors. Some of the Company’s key projects

technology containing essential utilities

‘Engineering Net Zero’ (ENZ) program, which

in Saudi Arabia include Diriyah Gate, Six

and transportation services, generating

focuses on leading the engineering industry

Flags Qiddiya theme park, Riyadh Metro,

car-free communities and public realms.

to achieve Net Zero Carbon as rapidly as

and King Abdulaziz International Airport.

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Revealed: Images of the Interior of The St. Regis Red Sea Resort The St. Regis Red Sea Resort, located on a pristine private island, offers a rare vision of exquisite living. The destination, created from one of the world's lesser-known natural treasures, ingeniously combines the brand's innovative spirit, astonishing style and customized service with a progressive new benchmark for sustainable development.

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Moreover, it is now possible to see how all of this is coming together thanks to the very first interior images of the project being released, as The St. Regis Red Sea Resort gears up to welcome its first guests.

Marking the brand’s introduction into Saudi Arabia as part of its continual growth in the Middle East, The St. Regis Red Sea Resort is reported to feature 90 overwater and beachfront villas, three signature restaurants, each with a unique concept, an outdoor pool, a high-tech fitness center, a spa, and a children’s club. Furthermore, every stay is enhanced by the celebrated St. Regis Butler service, which is designed to transcend the ordinary.

There are multiple room categories – one, two, three, and four bedrooms - including a Coral Villa Sea View and Coral Villa Sunset View, each with round bathtubs facing the stunning vista outside. The Dunne Villa Sea View and Dunne Villa Sunset View offer bright, airy rooms with large floor-to-ceiling windows.

The location of The St. Regis Red Sea Resort provides the perfect environment for guests to chill out and soak in tailored services and innovative designs.

This is certainly apparent in the new images, which showcase a modern, elegant aesthetic with beige, creams, and white.

Indeed, this luxury destination is creatively blending parts of the natural surroundings into its own inimitable style with, for instance, the restful bedrooms featuring shimmering blue accents that appear to be inspired by the dazzling Red Sea. There’s not much of a wait before guests can visit The St. Regis Red Sea Resort either, as it will be one of the three first resorts to open to the public in May of this year.

What’s more, it looks as if it will reach a level of pleasure beyond expectation that the whole family can enjoy. Some temptations are too great to ignore!

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The St. Regis Red Sea Resort is reported to feature 90 overwater and beachfront villas

Creatively blending parts of the natural surroundings into its own inimitable style

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Transforming the Retail Experience in the First Al Bustan Store in Abha

86

There is no doubt that effective design can have a tangible and far-reaching impact on a retail business, and at the Al Bustan store in Abha, altavia.odg has set a new benchmark for the industry, creating a destination that provides a complete sensory experience for customers.

The nuts counter, which combines the benefits of self-service and serve-over solutions, is one of the store's distinguishing features

altavia.odg's retail design team went above and beyond to ensure that the store was not only visually distinct from a traditional nuts store, but also that the overall store design was as adaptable as possible. The furniture and design, for instance, allow for cross-category interchangeability, making it simple and straightforward to change elements and price tags.

Al Bustan Company is a pioneer in the roasting and trading of coffee, and one of the largest producers of roasted seeds, in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

The brand, known for the quality of its products, innovation, and creativity, approached the design team at altavia. odg with the goal of rebranding and upscaling its store. altavia.odg responded with a distinctive, aesthetically pleasing, and experiential retail space.

The nuts counter, which combines the benefits of self-service and serveover solutions, is one of the store's distinguishing features, allowing for counter cross-merchandising, and thus making the shopping experience more fluid and efficient.

The store is divided into three primary categories: chocolate, nuts, and coffee, with gifting and personalization options that align with the standards of premium stores.

Refusing to settle for ‘things as they are’, altavia.odg’s innovative retail design means that customers can now enjoy a store infused with fresh, new energy, helping to take its client’s business to the next level.

Indeed, the Al Bustan store has been a huge success, with the company planning to roll out new stores across Saudi Arabia.

This project demonstrates how retail design can elevate a brand and make a store into a destination, allowing retailers to build a distinct and memorable customer experience by focusing on the user and maximizing design agility and responsiveness, resulting in everything and anything except the ordinary.

altavia.odg responded with a distinctive, aesthetically pleasing, and experiential retail space

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Experience Unmatched Excellence in Commercial Fit-Out Solutions with i2D Interiors

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Whether it is F&B, corporate, health and fitness or retail premises, i2D Interiors has the perfect solution for your precise requirements, providing stylish yet functional designs with quality and efficient fit-out processes.

FALLA, MIRDIFF CITY CENTRE

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i2D Interiors can provide a turnkey project that is completed on time, to budget, and in line with the client’s vision

Committed to being the number one interior turnkey fit-out solutions provider in the MENA region, i2D Interiors collaborates closely with its clients to understand all of their individual needs and goals, believing that the better the firm understands the client’s business, the better the results.

This allows it to strive to provide the best project delivery possible and, regardless of the age or location of the building, its innovative design and fit-out processes will maximize the use of the space.

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Put simply, i2D Interiors can provide a turnkey project that is completed on time, to budget, and in line with the client’s vision.

FILLI GLOBAL HEADQUARTERS, BURJUMAN

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i2D Interiors collaborates closely with its clients to understand all of their individual needs and goals

Unparalleled Expertise With Saudi Arabia's interior fit-out industry continuing to expand rapidly, i2D Interiors recently took the decision to expand its own business operations in KSA to cater to the ever-growing demand fuelled by visitors who wish to go and see treasured monuments and take pilgrimages throughout the Kingdom.

FALLA, AL ZAHIYA CITY CENTRE

With higher investments in the sector and advancements in designer products and service equipment, the Saudi Arabian interior fit-out market is set to experience exponential growth in the upcoming years. With this in mind, you are invited to join i2D Interiors on its exciting journey in the Saudi marketplace and experience the rewards of unparalleled expertise and innovative solutions. i2D Interiors - your trusted partner in bespoke workspace solutions across the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

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The Power of Place: Uncovering the Link between Environment and Wellbeing

92

There is no doubt that effective design can have a tangible and far-reaching impact on a retail business, and at the Al Bustan store in Abha, altavia.odg has set a new benchmark for the industry, creating a destination that provides a complete sensory experience for customers.

Industry leaders in architecture, design,

Laila Al Yousuf: The importance

facilities and HR management gathered

of in-depth briefing stages

to talk about the complex relationship between the built environment and

Laila Al Yousuf, Design Director & Partner

wellbeing throughout the region.

at SAY Studio, discussed the importance of wellness and company culture in various

The panel, entitled ‘The Power of Place:

environments, particularly post-pandemic.

Uncovering the Link between Environment

She emphasized the importance of taking

and Wellbeing’ examined the influence of

time during the briefing and concept

architects, designers, HR managers and

development stages of a project to

personal habits on our overall welfare.

understand how a space will function and meet the needs of the people using it: "The

The panel featured Laila Al Yousuf from

briefing process may span just two or three

SAY Studio, Scott Armstrong from

weeks, but its effects can be felt for five

mentl, Nuno Teixera from Bluehaus

to 10 years. To truly grasp its functioning,

Group, Emma Davies from Masafi, Engr.

it's crucial to have a comprehensive

John-Aziz Maalouf from Clemenceau

understanding of the users' needs within the

Medical Center, Sanjay Trisal from Fakeeh

space and how to optimize their experience

University Hospital, UAE, and Marina

compared to their previous environment."

Mrdjen from Inteliers as the moderator.

Herman Miller’s Health and Wellbeing Summit gathered key stakeholders to discuss the intersection of environment, health, and workplace wellbeing.

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"Sometimes, mental wellbeing can be a taboo topic depending on the cultures you work with”

On the subject of mental wellbeing, Sanjay

"Employee wellbeing isn't something

noted: "Sometimes, mental wellbeing

off on the side; it actually needs to be

can be a taboo topic depending on the

designed into the whole process now."

cultures you work with. Not everyone comes forward if they face an issue, so we have

Armstrong cited studies showing that

She shared her experience working on the

to ensure that there are both formal and

engaged employees can increase

first WELL Platinum project in the region,

informal ways of encouraging people to

productivity and profitability by 8-20%.

PwC, and how it impacted employees'

step forward and address the issues they

However, he also highlighted the risks

lives: “The WELL aspect takes into

face regarding their mental wellbeing."

of disengagement: "Here in the UAE,

consideration nutritional values, access

according to Gallup’s latest study, we're

to water, and active furnishings within a

Discussing the FUH’s design, Sanjay said:

losing $1.175 million an hour through

space, offering a holistic approach to an

"Our atrium facility features a cafe, a

disengaged employees." He argued that

individual's wellbeing, from their mind

restaurant, and extensive open spaces,

investing in wellbeing can yield significant

and body to their interactions with others

including a piano for anyone to play.

returns: "For every dollar we invest in this

and the community. This comprehensive

Patients, their families, and employees can

space of wellbeing, you get $4 back."

focus then extends into their personal lives,

visit the atrium to unwind and alleviate

fostering a sense of balance and wellness.”

stress. The atrium boasts a green wall with

He also highlighted the connection between

real plants, which, combined with the music,

well-designed spaces and company

Al Yousuf emphasized that when companies

creates a soothing atmosphere. Open

success: "If we are designing spaces

invest in their employees’ wellbeing, it

spaces naturally have a calming effect."

and offices that reflect the company

sends a powerful message that they are valued and respected as individuals.

culture and values, amplifying them, By concentrating on the four pillars of

then productivity science tells us the

wellbeing and incorporating them into

benefits of this approach lead to increased

Sanjay Trisal, Chief Human Resources

facility design, Sanjay Trisal believes

engagement and ultimately more revenue."

Officer at Fakeeh University Hospital,

that organizations can cultivate a

UAE, highlighted the significance of the

healthier and more productive work

Emma Davies, Chief People and Culture

workplace environment, stating: "For me,

environment for their employees.

Excellence Officer at Masafi, emphasized

94

some key takeaways include recognizing

the importance of listening to people when

the importance of wellness and wellbeing,

Scott Armstrong, CEO & Founder of mentl,

designing workspaces, as it leads to a

not just in isolation but also in connection

emphasized that employee wellbeing should

more inclusive environment. "Your culture

with the facilities we work in."

be integrated into the entire design process:

is what you live and breathe, and how you

altavia.odg responded with a distinctive, aesthetically pleasing, and experiential retail space

lobby, you have natural light, and the nurse

Peace and quiet are important." He

station is on your right. You might as well

emphasized that these factors contribute

just have a completely open space. So, one

to both the performance and mood

big central station that can oversee most

of the people using the space.

patient areas and then little places to touch are. If you've got an awful office, I do think

base on the side. So that was one of the

Herman Miller workspace solutions:

it has a really detrimental effect on your

best decisions we made," he concluded.

A designer's day of discovery

enclosed spaces and wonder why you're

By incorporating mental health and

As part of the Herman Miller Health &

not getting creativity, there's so much

wellbeing into the design process, John-

Wellbeing Summit 2023, six interior

research around why that doesn't work."

Aziz Maalouf believes that organizations

designers from Dubai-based studios -

can create spaces that encourage

Vince Palapal from Broadway Interiors,

Davies shared her experience of

better communication, collaboration

Nemanja Ribic from Bluehaus Group,

removing physical barriers, like glass

and overall employee satisfaction.

Noura Khater from Swiss Bureau Interior

culture. Actually, if you have people in dark,

partitions, to promote communication

Design, Ibrahim Alamassi from EHS,

between employees. She mentioned

Nuno Teixera: Designing Spaces for

Regina Mathew from Allen Architecture

an ‘Inspiration Station’ designed with

People and Social Interaction

Interiors Design, and Emanuel Marreiros

input from employees, which has

from Summertown Interiors - spent a

resulted in increased interaction and

Nuno Teixera, Head of Architecture at

full day exploring Herman Miller's latest

idea-sharing across departments. "We

Bluehaus Group, shared his insights on the

workspace solutions at their office.

started listening to people. We made

importance of designing spaces that cater

it better for people to come to work

to the needs of the people who use them.

This immersive experience allowed

and made it a better place to be."

He emphasized that input from various

them to understand the impact of

perspectives, such as HR and facilities

different settings on productivity and

operators, is essential in the design process.

comfort in modern workplaces while

For Davies, an open-door policy is more about approachability and genuine

providing valuable user feedback.

listening than physical spaces: "Policy

Teixera explained the importance of

isn't about doors. It's about being and

understanding a company's culture and

The day kicked off with breakfast

feeling and listening to your people."

vision when designing spaces: "More and

followed by the above-mentioned

She believes that office design should

more talking with the client is fundamental

panel discussion. The designers then

prioritize employees' working styles and

to understand not only the company

worked from various locations within

preferences rather than job titles and

culture but also the people." He provided an

the office, experiencing firsthand the

should involve continuous feedback to

example of a project in Kuwait where they

benefits of well-designed workspaces.

ensure everyone feels heard and valued.

spent four months interviewing stakeholders,

Engr. John-Aziz Maalouf, Director of Facility

students, and staff to align the design with

A ‘lunch and learn’ session with Herman

the company's vision and the users' needs.

Miller’s team offered insights into

& Clinical Engineering at Clemenceau

health, wellbeing and best practices for

Medical Centre, discussed the importance

He stressed the significance of promoting

creating healthier spaces. Afterward,

of designing spaces for both patients and

social interaction in workspaces: "You

they continued to explore different

staff in a hospital setting, explaining that

spend most of your day at work, so it's

environments within the office.

even small changes, such as creating staff

important that you also know people

pantries, can have a significant impact

because you're a social being." Teixera

The day wrapped up with a sound healing

on wellbeing. "The good thing is what

described creating open spaces with no

session, emphasizing the importance

we've done here very well are the patients'

corridors, designing a large staircase to

of wellbeing, and offering a chance to

space and the staff pantries. I mean this

encourage movement, and fostering a

reflect on the day's experiences.

was a very small but very significant

sense of community within the building.

aspect of the design," he added.

Teixera also highlighted the importance John shared an anecdote about an

of natural light and acoustics in creating

impromptu decision to create an open nurse

a comfortable environment: "It's a

station, which improved the flow and feeling

combination between the performance

of comfort in the space. "You walk into the

of light and also moods of light.

“If you've got an awful office, I do think it has a real detrimental effect on your culture”

Interiors brought to you by

Desalination Plant to Become Arts Centre English designer Thomas Heatherwick’s studio, which has a team of around 200 problemsolving designers dedicated to making the physical world around us better for everyone, has been tasked with conceiving the Jeddah Central Museum, which will be situated in a former desalination plant alongside the Red Sea.

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The inside of the building will retain the site's industrial feel

Heatherwick will turn the desalination plant into a souk for artisans as part of a new waterfront neighborhood focused on art and craftsmanship. Its main turbine hall will be converted into a dramatic exhibition space, with the inside of the building designed to retain the site's industrial feel.

The museum will play an important role in the city's transition from a fossil-fuel-based economy to an economy based on creativity, helping to unleash the potential of its young population.

SK-Design Unveils Stunning New Showroom Interior Design Service SK-Design, a leading interior architecture and FF&E studio, has announced the launch of its latest service, ‘Showroom Interior Design’. The goal of this service is to make great showroom experiences that match the brand and vision of the client.

The team at SK-Design has worked hard to come up with new designs that show off their skills and knowledge. The interior design service for showrooms is very flexible, making sure that each client's unique ideas are brought to life with care and precision. The showroom interior design service started with extensive research on showrooms worldwide, from large furniture chains to boutique shops all over Europe and North America. Through this research, the team was also able to find common trends in the industry, which helped them come up with something unique for its clients in Saudi Arabia.

The Showroom Interior Design service started with extensive research on showrooms worldwide