Saudi Projects Issue 54

ISSUE 44

MAY 2024 / ISSUE 54

ADVENTURES BEYOND IMAGINATION WELCOME TO SINDALAH BY NEOM BUILDING SUCCESS STORIES ALMOOSA DOORS LIFELONG SOLUTIONS SPECIALITY DOORS

SL RASCH CEO INTERVIEW MUSTAFA RASCH

GROUP AMANA DUBOX MODULAR CONSTRUCTION

Speciality Doors

First impressions count 40 years experience, 52 branches and over 700 specialist

employees all with the the single purpose of providing you the best solution to meet all your needs.

Editors Foreword

HONORING CRAFTSMANSHIP: CELEBRATING THE ARTISTRY BEHIND EVERY STRUCTURE WELCOME TO THE VIBRANT WORLD OF SAUDI PROJECTS, WHERE CREATIVITY MEETS ENGINEERING, AND INNOVATION INTERTWINES WITH TRADITION. IN THE PAGES OF THIS MAGAZINE, YOU WILL EMBARK ON A JOURNEY THROUGH THE DYNAMIC LANDSCAPE OF THE KINGDOM’S MOST AMBITIOUS PROJECTS, EXPLORING THE LATEST TRENDS, GROUNDBREAKING TECHNOLOGIES, AND THE VISIONARY MINDS SHAPING OUR BUILT ENVIRONMENT. The Rig is an epic offshore destination, in the heart of the Arabian Gulf. It’s no mere theme park either; it’s an extreme destination, an entirely new playground for adventure tourism, and is the result of imagination, determination, and collaboration.

WANT YOUR COMPANY TO APPEAR IN THE KINGDOM'S LEADING TRADE PUBLICATION? EMAIL NOW

In these pages, you’ll also encounter the stories of architects and designers pushing ISSUE 44

boundaries, engineers harnessing the power of sustainable practices, and builders mastering their art. There is even a story about something as rare as the abominable snowman,

MAY 2024 / ISSUE 54

aesthetically pleasing telecom towers!

The construction industry is in the midst of a profound transformation, propelled by technological advancements that are reshaping the way we build. From 3D printing to drones, virtual reality to artificial intelligence, the tools at our disposal are revolutionizing every aspect of the construction process, from planning and design to execution and maintenance. In this issue of Saudi Projects we home on one of the most beneficial aspects of this change, modular construction, talking to leading industry professionals and looking

ADVENTURES BEYOND IMAGINATION WELCOME TO SINDALAH BY NEOM

into the improvements in quality and speed that this method brings.

We also home in on island developments and the challenges and opportunities presented, centered not only on a whirlwind of innovation, but the timeless values that have guided builders for centuries: integrity, quality, and a relentless commitment to excellence. As we embrace the future, we also honor the wisdom of the past, drawing inspiration from the architectural marvels of antiquity and the enduring principles of craftsmanship.

Saudi Projects is more than just a publication; it is a testament to the power of collaboration, a platform

BUILDING SUCCESS STORIES ALMOOSA DOORS LIFELONG SOLUTIONS SPECIALITY DOORS

SL RASCH CEO INTERVIEW MUSTAFA RASCH

GROUP AMANA DUBOX MODULAR CONSTRUCTION

CONTACT info@tpg.media https://saudi.tpg.media

SOCIAL MEDIA  @saudiprojectsmag  @saudiprojectsmag  @saudiprojects.mag

for dialogue, and a source of inspiration for all those who believe in the transformative potential of the built environment. Whether you are a seasoned industry professional or an aspiring newcomer, we invite you to join us on this journey of discovery, as we explore the ever-evolving world of Saudi Arabia together.

Rod Millington EDITOR

03

All our publications are printed using recycled paper.

BECAUSE WE CARE

The First and Only in the World from VitrA: 100%* Recycled Ceramic Washbasins The new VitrA 100%* Recycled Washbasin, designed

VitrA's eco-friendly washbasin, which breathes new

It reduces VitrA’s environmental impact on global

usage, is the outcome of the VitrA's unwavering

to the circular economy.

resources, and maximizing its contribution to the

with sustainable living and environmental awareness.

life into recyclable materials and offers prolonged

warming by 30% per product, maximizing contribution

commitment to minimizing waste, using fewer circular economy.

*The entire basin is produced from nearly 100% recycled waste materials that are generated and disposed of during the CSW manufacturing process.

Attractive and Durable Designs In addition to being eco-friendly, VitrA 100% Recycled Washbasins also offer long-lasting use like all VitrA products. It adds a completely different atmosphere to bathrooms with its matte beige colour and 5 different designs in round, rectangular, oval, TV and asymmetrical TV forms.

VISIT WEBSITE

06

Contents

COVER STORY

110 KRISTINA ZANIC CONSULTANTS SPATIAL DESIGN AT THE ST. REGIS RIYADH FEATURES

14

34

$94 BILLION IN CONTRACTS 2023

RED SEA GLOBAL - ISLAND DEVELOPMENT FOCUS

50

124

DUBOX BY AMANA - MODULAR CONSTRUCTION

VITRA - UNPARALLELED QUALITY

Contents

56

BEC ARABIA

THE STORY OF BEC ARABIA ALSO IN THIS ISSUE

11

76

ALEC - PLANS FOR EXPANSION

SL RASCH CEO - MUSTAFA RASCH

88

144

ALMOOSA DOORS COO - YOUSEF ALMOOSA

DIRIYAH - UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE SITE

07

BUILDING TOMORROW, TODAY BEC Arabia stands at the forefront of the construction world. Over a quarter-century of industry experience, the company has built a reputation as a vital regional entity. Their expertise encompasses a breadth of turnkey projects—civil construction, electromechanical services, infrastructure development, landscaping, and comprehensive engineering services.

Discover what makes BEC Arabia the preferred partner in construction excellence. www.becarabia.com | +966 11 216 6633 | +966 50 192 4000

10

News

NEW 5.6 MILLION SQUARE METER ADEL DISTRICT ANNOUNCED Adel Real Estate has announced the launch of the completed blueprints of Adel District. Spanning around 5.6 million square meters, the project is strategically

Key infrastructure and public works have been 100% completed

located in Dammam, in the Eastern Province of Saudi Arabia, and will be up for auction in the first quarter of 2024.

Designed by Adel Real Estate, Adel District is a plot-based urban development and will comprise approximately five residential neighborhoods, accommodating about 50,000 people. It has been extended with a full range of facilities, which include residential buildings, office spaces, mosques, shopping malls and retail centers, health centers, educational and recreational facilities, as well as creativity and innovation incubators and green spaces (Adel Park). A key feature in Adel District…

READ FULL ARTICLE HERE

$270.5 MILLION CONTRACT AWARDED Eastern Province Cement Company has acquired the board’s endorsement to construct a new production line with a daily capacity of 10,000 tonnes. This $270.52 million project is slated to replace certain low-efficiency production lines in the company’s plant to maximize the benefit of the existing plant infrastructure.

Eastern Province Cement has awarded the project to Sinmoa CDI, a leading Chinese company in the cement industry, with the two parties expected to sign the contract…

READ FULL ARTICLE HERE

New production line with a daily capacity of 10,000 tonnes

Eastern Province Cement has awarded the project to Sinmoa CDI

News

SERCO MIDDLE EAST WORLD-CLASS FIRE RESCUE TRAINING International public services company, Serco Middle East has been accepted by the General Authority for Civil Aviation (GACA) to become an authorized Fire and Rescue Services (FRS) training authority in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

This milestone makes Serco the first international vendor to be recognized by GACA… READ FULL ARTICLE HERE

CONSTRUCTION GIANT ALEC ANNOUNCES FURTHER PLANS FOR EXPANSION Following the establishment of its Saudi headquarters in Riyadh last year, ALEC Engineering and Contracting LLC (ALEC) has announced that it has achieved 150% year-on-year growth in the Kingdom through 2023, highlighted by its successes in winning bids for four projects, and investing to significantly increase its Saudi workforce. Building on this momentum, the company has identified further investment and expansion in Saudi Arabia among its top business priorities for 2024 as it sees clear potential for the country to become a global hub for construction excellence and innovation.

READ FULL ARTICLE HERE

150% year-onyear growth

11

12

News

EMERSON OPTS FOR SAUDI AMANA TO CONSTRUCT ITS HUB IN SPARK Leading construction company, the Saudi Amana Group, has been nominated by Emerson to build its industrial manufacturing hub at the King Salman Energy Park (SPARK).

This marks one of Emerson’s largest investments in the MENA region.

The new facility, slated to be operational by the end of this year, will serve as a hub for industrial customers in the region, offering an across-the-board portfolio of services, including control systems engineering, staging and testing, manufacturing of differential pressure (DP) transmitters and control valves, pressure relief valve assembly, and solenoid valve assembly.

The hub will be developed in line with environmental sustainability principles…

READ FULL ARTICLE HERE

Emerson, a global automation technology and software company, is looking to build an innovation and manufacturing hub at SPARK

RIYADH CHAMBER EXPLORES INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITIES IN MADAYN’S INDUSTRIAL CITIES A Saudi business delegation, led by the Riyadh Chamber and representing over 70 Saudi companies, surveyed the investment landscape and varied investment prospects during a visit to Samail Industrial City.

These opportunities extend over a number of industries, including dairy and juice production, date products manufacturing and packaging, breakfast cereal production, dolomite processing, water leakage prevention solutions, copper bars and sheets manufacturing, gypsum production, electrical conductors manufacturing, glossy ceramics production, HVAC equipment manufacturing, electrical switch manufacturing…

READ FULL ARTICLE HERE

Opportunities extend over a number of industries

News

ALFANAR WINS CONTRACT TO DEVELOP HVDC CONVERTER STATION The Saudi Authority for Industrial Cities

This collaboration signifies the company’s

contract, the two will assist in converting

and Technology Zones (Modon) and Alfanar

commitment to strengthening and enhancing

the power generation assets of SEC to

Projects, a premier project developer and

the Kingdom’s grid infrastructure and energy

natural gas, which has a lower carbon

supplier of engineering, construction,

transition and follows on from Alfanar’s

intensity than the crude oil and distillate

and technology solutions, have reached a

project win last month from Saudi Electricity

that run the plant at the moment.

strategic agreement for the development

Company (SEC) as a consortium with GE

of an HVDC (High Voltage Direct Current)

Vernova for its Power Plant 10 (PP10) in Riyadh.

converter station for Tabuk Industrial City.

In accordance with the terms of the SEC

This collaboration signifies the company’s commitment to strengthening and enhancing the Kingdom’s grid infrastructure and energy transition

READ FULL ARTICLE HERE

13

14

News

KSA RECORDS A STAGGERING $94 BILLION IN 2023 CONTRACT AWARDS

In the annals of construction history, there

an ongoing diversification strategy. The

energy sources and combat climate change.

are few rivals to the surge in contract

transport and industrial sectors collectively

Moreover, advancements in construction

awards in Saudi Arabia in 2023 reaching $94

comprised approximately 15% of the

technology are revolutionizing the industry,

billion, the highest in a decade, driven by

total contract awards, with noteworthy

driving efficiency gains and cost savings.

initiatives aligned with Saudi Vision 2030.

emphasis on strategic rail projects.

Building Information Modeling (BIM), robotics,

This is not only reshaping skylines but

One of the primary drivers of this

and prefabrication techniques are streamlining

also laying the groundwork for economic

modern surge is rapid urbanization. As

the construction process, reducing waste, and

revitalization, societal transformation,

populations continue to flock to cities in

accelerating project timelines. Additionally,

and technological innovation.

search of economic opportunities and

the integration of smart technologies, such

The construction boom has spurred

better standards of living, the demand for

as IoT sensors and AI-driven analytics, is

unparalleled technological advancements.

new infrastructure, residential spaces, and

enabling the creation of more intelligent and

Innovations in products, materials,

commercial developments has skyrocketed.

responsive built environments, enhancing

and evolving construction techniques,

Simultaneously, the Saudi government is

both functionality and user experience.

such as modular construction, have

prioritizing infrastructure investment as a

In conclusion, the rise in contract awards

revolutionized the way buildings are

means to stimulate economic growth and

reflects a dynamic and interconnected

being designed and constructed, enabling

address pressing societal challenges. Large-

landscape, driven by urbanization,

architects to dream bigger and bolder.

scale transportation projects, such as high-

infrastructure investment, technological

The utility sector was at the vanguard

speed rail networks and airport expansions,

innovation, and sustainability imperatives. As

concerning notable advancements last

are being pursued to enhance connectivity

cities and societies evolve, the construction

year, followed by urban contracts, including

and facilitate trade and tourism. Investment

industry plays a pivotal role in shaping

large-scale projects. In the oil & gas sector,

in renewable energy infrastructure, including

the built environment of the future…

in excess of 75% of awards were directed

solar parks, is also on the rise as the Kingdom

towards downstream projects, reflecting

strives to transition towards more sustainable

READ FULL ARTICLE HERE

News

15

LWK + PARTNERS CELEBRATES LEADERSHIP PROMOTIONS TO DRIVE REGIONAL GROWTH

FRANKLIN TEMPLETON LAUNCHES OPERATIONS IN SAUDI ARABIA

Mithun Varghese, with his background in

Kourosh’s designs are characterized by their harmonious integration with their surroundings

Franklin Templeton has

diverse architectural landscapes, steps into

announced that it has officially

the role of Director. Mithun’s approach to

launched operations in Riyadh

design is rooted in a deep understanding

after receiving its ‘Managing

of space and culture, ensuring that each

Investments and Operating Funds’

project resonates with its users and

and ‘Advising’ licenses from the

context. He emphasizes the importance

Michael Naguib, their new Head of Digital

Capital Market Authority.

of co-creative processes, stating: “Design

Design, is a visionary in integrating digital

thrives when multiple perspectives

innovation with aesthetic design. Michael’s

intertwine to craft a unified narrative.”

unique skillset is set to enhance the studio’s

Franklin Templeton is one of the world’s largest global asset management companies

Ahmed Fahmy, promoted to Dubai

digital design capabilities, aiming to create

Studio Director, brings his unique blend

immersive and intuitive experiences

of management styles to their studio.

that evoke emotions and forge lasting

With a special focus on complex projects,

connections.Kourosh Salehi, elevated to

Ahmed believes in the power of teamwork

the role of Global Design Principal, brings

to overcome challenges and bring visions

a unique fusion of urban design principles

Jenny Johnson, President & CEO,

to life. He mentors designers to “embrace

and architectural finesse to the table.

Franklin Templeton commented: “The

collaborative teamwork spirit and let it

Kourosh’s designs are characterized by

Middle East is a key region for Franklin

manifest designs, but always remain receptive

their harmonious integration with their

Templeton. We are delighted that

to innovation and new ideas” he advises.

surroundings. He believes in the power of

Saudi Arabian investors now have local

architecture to tell stories that resonate with

access to the firm’s global strength

the ethos of a place and its people. “I strive

through its robust global platform and public and private market offerings …

READ FULL ARTICLE HERE

Michael’s unique skillset is set to enhance the studio’s digital design capabilities

for a confluence of form, functionality, and folklore in each endeavor,” reflects Kourosh.

READ FULL ARTICLE HERE

16

News

ALTERNATIVE WORK MODELS KEY TO EMPOWERING SAUDI WOMEN’S RETURN TO THE WORKPLACE Women professionals returning to the workforce in Saudi Arabia face considerable challenges, such as being ‘mommy-tracked’ or having their resumes rejected due to career gaps. These findings are part of a report entitled ‘Navigating the path back: Women returners in KSA’.

The report surveyed more than 1,200 women in countries like the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Egypt, Bahrain, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, and Oman and features critical perspectives from leading regional CEOs. Key findings of the survey have also indicated that 52% of Saudi women have had their resumes rejected due to gaps in their careers, while more than 83% of Saudi women consider returnship programs that offer a structured pathway for re-entry, including training and tailored support, to be essential for their successful reintegration into the workforce.

The report, the first in the ‘The Case for Diversity’ series, explores the challenges that women in Saudi Arabia face when trying to return to work after taking a career break. More than half (55%) of the women surveyed in Saudi Arabia had taken career breaks, higher than the 44% of their peers in the MENA region. But only 40% of Saudi women were likely to return to work after a break, lower than the regional average of 43%.

The survey shows 52% of financial independence Saudi women to be a key incentive for women returners have had their to the workforce resumes rejected in Saudi Arabia due to gaps in (42%) compared their careers to their peers The study further

found the desire for

in the MENA

region (38%).

The majority (67%) of the surveyed women in Saudi Arabia who took career breaks were in experienced, senior management and C-level roles, with caregiving responsibilities among the key reasons prompting these breaks.

However, unlike in the rest of the MENA region, women in Saudi Arabia also considered caring for their own mental or physical well-being…

READ FULL ARTICLE HERE

News

CONTRACTS AWARDED FOR THE AL KHUZAMA COMPLEX

17

The Al Khuzama contract is in keeping with PIF’s declared strategic goal of developing a portfolio of significant hospitality projects

The Egyptian company Hassan Allam Holding has been awarded a contract by Saudi Entertainment Ventures (SEVEN) to build a major entertainment complex that will occupy an area of 160,000m2. The complex, which will be constructed in Al Khuzama in the Al Kharj region of Central Saudi Arabia, is a substantial hospitality project for PIF. Engineering firm Gensler and Lebanon’s Dar Al Handasah are the project consultants for the Al Kharj entertainment complex, while UK-headquartered Mace Group is the project management consultant.

The Al Khuzama contract is in keeping with PIF’s declared strategic goal of developing a portfolio of significant hospitality projects. It comes after an earlier commitment to invest in a large recreational center that is situated close to Abha International Airport, sandwiched between the cities of Abha and Khamis Mushait.

READ FULL ARTICLE HERE

In a significant move toward fostering innovation in the construction and real estate sectors, Startup Wise Guys (SWG), in partnership with SEEDRA Ventures and sponsored by the National Technology Development Program (NTDP), has announced the launch of the first Construction Tech Specialized Fund and Accelerator Program in Saudi Arabia.

The Construction Tech specialized fund, spearheaded by Startup Wise Guys, boasts two seasoned General Partners, Jourdan Younis and Aya Zaghnin. “We are thrilled to

GLOBAL FUND STARTUP WISE GUYS LAUNCHES CONSTRUCTION TECH SPECIALIZED FUND AND ACCELERATOR PROGRAM IN SAUDI ARABIA

pioneer this transformative venture in Saudi Arabia’s …

“We are steadfast in our commitment to nurturing an environment primed for innovation and expansion” READ FULL ARTICLE HERE

18

News

CREATING A COMPLETE EXPERIENCE OF SPACE

At the interface between people and

The Bauhaus

a decade – became the head of architecture

environments, there’s Knoll. This is a

Founded in 1919 by architect Walter Gropius

at the Illinois Institute of Technology (IIT).

company built on its belief that when

in Weimar, Germany, the Bauhaus sought

Florence Knoll (then Schust) interned in the

furniture relates to the architectural

to unite the creative efforts of art, design,

office of Gropius and Breuer, and studied

setting, and the interior is choreographed

and industry until they became, as Gropius

architecture at IIT, where Mies became a

as a harmonious succession of forms and

described it, “inseparable components of

valuable mentor. He, along with Gropius and

finishes, the result is a space where people

a new architecture”. The designers who

Breuer, instilled in her a lifelong belief in the

want to be. Since 1938, Knoll has been

connected here, and the ideas they brought

principle of Total Design – design not as the

revolutionizing how people experience

to the United States, had a profound influence

creation of single objects, but rather as a

office, hospitality, and residential

on the firm that was to become Knoll.

‘total architecture’. The relationship between

interiors by excelling in three areas:

Forced out of Germany by the Nazis in the 1930s, Walter Gropius and Bauhaus

 Total Design Planning

designer Marcel Breuer opened an office in

 Designer Collaborations

Massachusetts, USA, and Ludwig Mies van der

 Color, Material, Finish (CMF)

Rohe – director of the Bauhaus for more than

Florence Knoll and her trusted mentors continued well into her career, and it was…

SAL SAUDI LOGISTICS TO BUILD NEW AIR CARGO TERMINAL IN MADINAH SAL Saudi Logistics Services Company has secured a lease for a land plot at Prince Mohammed bin Abdulaziz International Airport in Madinah, where it plans to construct and enhance an air cargo terminal.

The agreement was formalized with Taiba Airports Operation Company, as disclosed in a statement to the Saudi Stock Exchange.

Covering an area of 3,500m2 initially, the lease extends for 16 years

Covering an area of 3,500m2 initially, the lease extends for 16 years. Additionally, there is a provision for an additional 4,000m2 for expansion over the first three years. According to the statement, SAL intends to invest SAR 12 million ($3.2 million) in the development of the new terminal.

READ FULL ARTICLE HERE

READ FULL ARTICLE HERE

News

SAUDI ARABIA UNVEILS THE WORLD’S FIRST 3D-PRINTED MOSQUE

Saudi Arabia recently

of 3D printing equipment. This

commemorated the opening

innovative approach made it

of the first mosque in history

easier to build the large 5,600m2

to be constructed using

building, which exquisitely

groundbreaking 3D printing

combines originality and heritage.

technology in Jeddah. Tucked

She clarified that the mosque

away in a suburb of Al-Jawhara,

represents architectural elegance

this mosque bears the name

and that its layout will encourage

of the late Abdulaziz Abdullah

a spirit of peace and welcome

Sharbatly, as a profound tribute

among worshippers. Notably,

from his wife, the celebrated

Saudi Arabia is a leader in the

Saudi businesswoman

use of cutting-edge technology

Wajnat Abdulwahed.

in the construction industry and

Abdulwahed, the head of Fursan

this revolutionary mosque is a

Real Estate, oversaw the project

bold move towards a sustainable

and employed state-of-the-art

and progressive future.

3D printers from Guanli, a wellknown Chinese manufacturer

FIRST CONSTRUCTION MILESTONE REACHED AT SHARAAN RESORT

READ FULL ARTICLE HERE

ZAIN KSA UNVEILS 100% SAUDI-MADE FLEET MANAGEMENT SYSTEM Zain KSA, the leading

enhances road safety and security across

telecommunications and digital

the transportation and logistics sectors,

services provider, has launched

empowering decision-makers with

the first 100% Saudi-made fleet

crucial insights through comprehensive

management system for the business

reports based on accurate data. This

sector. This comprehensive solution

allows for informed decisions that boost

incorporates state-of-the-art tracking

operational efficiency and save costs.

devices designed, manufactured, and assembled locally. Leveraging the advanced capabilities of Zain Cloud and hosting all data locally, Zain KSA becomes the first telecom operator in the Kingdom to offer At the Sharaan Resort project in AlUla, the first rock

a fleet management solution for

excavations have taken place, marking a significant

the ‘Made in Saudi’ Program.

project milestone. 38 uniquely designed suites

The Fleet Management System is a

will be sculpted out of the sandstone mountains,

comprehensive cloud-based platform

creating wellness facilities, family-friendly amenities,

that helps businesses of all sizes

dining options, and unique panoramic views.

streamline their logistics operations,

Using the ancient Nabataean practice of creating spaces

improve travel routes, and reduce

within rock, the Royal Commission for AlUla (RCU) and its

fuel consumption, thereby lowering

contractor partners have devised construction procedures

carbon emissions, safeguarding

that use modern engineering skills to create liveable …

the environment, and promoting

READ FULL ARTICLE HERE

19

sustainability. By offering real-time GPS tracking, this innovative system

ZAIN KSA UNVEILS 100% SAUDI-MADE FLEET MANAGEMENT SYSTEM

READ FULL ARTICLE HERE

20

PIF News

BLACKROCK TO LAUNCH SAUDI INVESTMENT FIRM AFTER $5 BILLION DEAL WITH THE PIF BlackRock, the world’s largest

(MoU) under which BlackRock will set up a

based professionals managing funds that will

asset manager, is to launch a new

Riyadh-based multi-asset investment platform,

be invested principally in Saudi Arabia but

investment platform in Saudi Arabia,

BlackRock Riyadh Investment Management

also the rest of the MENA region. The aim is

backed by up to $5 billion from the

(BRIM), anchored by PIF’s initial cash injection,

to attract additional overseas capital to Saudi

Public Investment Fund (PIF).

subject to certain agreed milestones being met.

Arabia and strengthen its capital markets…

BlackRock and PIF have stated that they

BRIM will be a wholly owned subsidiary of

have signed a Memorandum of Understanding

the $10.5 trillion BlackRock, with Riyadh-

READ FULL ARTICLE HERE

BRIM will be a wholly owned subsidiary of the $10.5 trillion BlackRock

PIF PROVIDES INITIAL PRICING GUIDANCE FOR THREE-PART BOND OFFERING The Public Investment Fund (PIF) has

price guidance of 175 bps over US Treasuries

J.P. Morgan are working as joint global

announced initial pricing indications for its

for its 10-year bonds, accompanied by a

coordinators for the bond offerings, and it is

three-tranche US-dollar-denominated bond.

three-month par-call provision. Finally,

anticipated that the issuance will receive a

The first, maturing in 2029, suggests a

the third option, maturing in 2054, points

Fitch rating of A+ in keeping with the agency’s

spread of 150 basis points over US Treasuries

towards a spread of 235 bps over the same

Government-Related Entities Rating Criteria

for its five-year bonds, featuring a par call

benchmark for its 30-year option, along

which categorizes PIF as an entity…

option exercisable after one month. The

with a par call option of six months.

second tranche, maturing in 2034, advocates

Citi, Goldman Sachs International, and

READ FULL ARTICLE HERE

PIF News

21

PIF-BACKED ROSHN GROUP, EVIQ TO POWER EV ADOPTION The Kingdom’s leading real estate developer and PIF-owned giga-project ROSHN Group has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the EV charging solutions provider, Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Company (EVIQ).

Under the terms of the MoU, ROSHN Group and EVIQ will unite in evaluating, assessing, and developing direct-current infrastructure solutions for EVs within the developer’s residential communities and commercial properties.

READ FULL ARTICLE HERE

BIG INVESTMENT TO KICK OFF INCURSION INTO SEMICONDUCTORS Abdullah Alswaha, Saudi Minister of Communications and Information Technology, explained in an interview at the World Economic Forum in Davos that the PIF is looking at making a “sizable investment” into the semiconductor industry, “They plan to make an announcement on a particular champion within the space to lead the Saudi efforts,” he said, demurring on giving additional details.

The fund will also look to create a national space company Alswaha, also chairman of the Kingdom’s Space Agency, did day that the fund will also look to create a national space company to invest…

READ FULL ARTICLE HERE

ROSHN Group and EVIQ will unite in evaluating, assessing, and developing directcurrent infrastructure solutions

22

PIF News

THE RIG: AN OFFSHORE OIL RIG-STYLE ADVENTURE HUB The Public Investment Fund (PIF) has

and Berri Oil Field in the Arabian Gulf.

extensive selection of water activities, including

presented the masterplan for ‘The Rig’,

It is envisaged that The Rig will attract over

a diving center, in addition to an amusement

the world’s first adventure tourism

900,000 annual visitors by 2032, appealing

park, splash park, an E-sports center, an

destination to be built on an offshore

to a broad array of domestic, regional, and

immersive theater, and a multi-purpose arena.

platform, which is destined to redefine

international visitors, taking in everyone from

The project is in line with PIF’s strategy

the water sports and leisure experience

adrenaline seekers and explorers through to

and the Kingdom's Vision 2030 objectives

while celebrating the legacy of the

holidaymakers and pursuers of relaxation.

of contributing to the growth of the

Kingdom’s rich oil and gas heritage.

The variety of hospitality, leisure,

tourism sector, directly and indirectly

The project will be developed by PIF’s

entertainment, and accommodation options

contributing to employment opportunities,

subsidiary the Oil Park Development Company

on The Rig will include three hotels totaling

and diversifying the economy.

(OPDC) and will cover a gross floor area of

800 rooms, along with 11 restaurants, an

in excess of 300,000m2. It will be located 40

extreme sports and adventure park, a world-

km from the coastline, near Al Juraid Island

class marina, and helipads. It will feature an

PIF News

PLAY VIDEO

It is envisaged that The Rig will attract over 900,000 annual visitors by 2032

VISIT WEBSITE

23

24

Appointments

Amit Midha Appointed as Global CEO of Alat The Alat Board of Directors, Chaired by

and transformed businesses in leadership

His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed

roles across the globe including China,

bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud,

the US, India, and Singapore, and who

Crown Prince and Prime Minister, and

joins from Dell Technologies where he was

Chairman of the Board of Directors

responsible for Dell’s growth in Asia Pacific

of the Public Investment Fund (PIF),

and Japan, overseeing a multi-billion-dollar

announces Amit Midha as its global CEO.

business spanning more than 40 countries.

He is a global business leader who has built

CONNECT ON LINKEDIN

He has built and transformed businesses in leadership roles across the globe AtkinsRéalis Appoints New President

CONNECT ON LINKEDIN

AtkinsRéalis, a fully integrated professional

throughout her career, she brings a distinctive

services and project management company

global perspective and background which

with offices around the world, has

will enrich our strategic approach,'” said Ian L

announced the appointment of Christine

Edwards, President and CEO of AtkinsRéalis.

Healy, a seasoned global executive, as

Ms Healy’s primary focus will be on advancing

President for Asia, Middle East, and Australia

AtkinsRéalis’ engineering services offering,

(AMEA).

spanning infrastructure, transportation, and

“We are delighted to welcome Christine to

clean energy segments. She will report to the

this new leadership role. With her wealth of

President and CEO and will also be a member of

experience and exposure to diverse regions

the Executive Committee.

Yamin Shihab Appointed as the Managing Director for Colliers Project Leaders- Middle East

CONNECT ON LINKEDIN

Diversified real estate services provider,

will now oversee new business development

Colliers Project Leaders- Middle East, has

and business operations across the Middle

elevated Yamin Shihab to Managing Director.

Eastern region. Several regional markets

Yamin joined the firm in 2011 in Calgary,

are witnessing high demand for real estate

Canada, and went on to lead the Middle East

assets across different segments (mixed-use,

business of Colliers Project Leaders in 2015.

hospitality, retail, office, industrial, residential,

Proficient in budgeting, project planning,

and several alternative asset classes are steadily

risk management, regulatory compliance,

growing), and being an established leader

and strategic guidance, he has successfully

with a deep understanding of the business and

led large-scale, complex assignments for

market, Yamin Shihab has been appointed to

global and domestic clients over the years.

build scale and strengthen business ties in the

Moving into a more comprehensive role, Yamin

region.

Appointments

25

Geidea Reinforces Leadership with Key Appointment

CONNECT ON LINKEDIN

Geidea, a frontrunner in the fintech sector,

than 30 years of ground-breaking leadership

proudly announces the joining of Mr

experience in finance, technology, and

Abdulmalik AlSheikh to its team in Saudi

innovation. He played an instrumental role in

Arabia. The announcement reflects Geidea’s

driving the development of the Saudi financial

commitment to spearheading fintech

system, in particular the national payment

innovation with seasoned talent and re-

ecosystem since established by the Saudi

enforces the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia as its

Central Bank. Moreover, he took an active role

core market.

throughout his career in various working groups

Mr AlSheikh is appointed to the board of

linked to the G20, the International Monetary

directors at Geidea in Saudi Arabia as an

Fund, and the World Bank.

independent member. He brings to Geidea more

Gensler Appoints Design Director to Build KSA Studio Gensler, the world’s largest architecture,

program, Gerhard will play a pivotal role in

design, and planning firm, has announced

the development of Gensler’s presence in

the appointment of Carlos Gerhard as

the Kingdom. Gerhard has over 30 years of

Principal and Design Director for Gensler

professional experience, an extensive global

KSA.

portfolio of architectural designs, and a

With a large expansion plan over the next 18

passion for mixed use and commercial office

months, including a rapidly growing office in

developments

Riyadh aligned with the Kingdom’s Saudization CONNECT ON LINKEDIN

Kate Fleetwood Appointed as Serco’s Head of Operations for West Coast, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

CONNECT ON LINKEDIN

Serco has announced the promotion of Kate

supporting the Saudi Government and Vision

Fleetwood to the role of Head of Operations,

2030, with a special focus on enhancing the

for the West Coast of the Kingdom of Saudi

safety and readiness of projects across the

Arabia.

West Coast region and echoing the company’s

The promotion of Kate into this newly

continued commitment to impact a better

created role reaffirms Serco’s commitment to

future for the region’s residents and visitors.

26

Appointments

CONNECT ON LINKEDIN

CONNECT ON LINKEDIN

CONNECT ON LINKEDIN

CONNECT ON LINKEDIN

AtkinsRéalis Strengthens its Advisory, Planning and Design Services with Strategic Appointments in the Middle East AtkinsRéalis, a fully integrated professional

Architecture. He brings a wealth of over 30

over 25 years, she has advised public and

services and project management company

years of experience across the UK, Asia, and the

private sector clients on how to sustainably

with offices around the world, has

Middle East, and a broad portfolio of aviation,

plan and execute their programs and projects

announced key leadership appointments to

rail, hospitality, and residential projects.

across the built environment, transport, and

support its advisory, planning, and design

In addition, Andre Mourinha has

infrastructure industries.

services business growth in the Middle East.

joined AtkinsRéalis as Regional Head of

Furthermore, Adam Crozier has been

The new appointments are set to strengthen

Masterplanning and Urban Design. With an

appointed Regional Head of Strategic Planning.

the company’s regional footprint while

extensive and dynamic career spanning more

With over 20 years’ experience in the UK,

meeting clients' and projects’ evolving needs

than 16 years, he has been at the forefront of

Europe, Asia, and the Middle East, Adam has

to achieve sustainable growth.

pioneering award-winning projects in Europe,

in-depth project expertise and knowledge in

To help bring clients’ visions to life,

Asia, Africa, and the Middle East.

regional and city-scale development strategies,

AtkinsRéalis is investing in its design capabilities

AtkinsRéalis’ approach to providing

combining social, economic, environmental,

by establishing an architecture studio that

seamless end-to-end capabilities in transport,

and physical best practices to create purposeful

brings together top-notch talent and embeds AI

infrastructure and buildings and places

urban places.

tools and purposeful design practices to create

is further strengthened by establishing a

livable, sustainable, and adaptable places fit

dedicated Strategy and Advisory Business led

for the future. This sees the appointment of

by Johanna Staples, Regional Head of Advisory

Maxwell Connop as Regional Practice Lead,

Services. With an international career spanning

Pearl Group Strengthens C-suite and Boosts Operational Efficiency with COO Appointment Leading polyurethane (PU) systems solutions

With an impressive background, including senior

provider Pearl Group has appointed Leslie

roles at BASF AG, Sika AG, Holcim Group, and

Gyertson as its new Chief Operating Officer.

Enerpac Tool Group, and responsibilities in

Gyertson, a seasoned executive with over

Europe, LATAM, South-East Asia, and the Middle

28 years of experience in manufacturing

East, Gyertson brings a wealth of knowledge

operations, supply chain, global procurement,

in transforming operations functions to

and business development, joins Pearl to drive

enhance business growth and profitability.

operational excellence and spearhead the CONNECT ON LINKEDIN

establishment of new international plants.

FREE OF CHARGE

MULTIMEDIA COMPANY BROCHURE A PERFECT OPPORTUNITY TO PRODUCE A COMPANY BROCHURE, COFFEE TABLE BOOK, VIRTUAL TOUR OR PROJECT SITE VIDEO TO USE TO SEND TO YOUR LONGSTANDING CUSTOMERS, VIP'S & POTENTIAL NEW CLIENTS. FOR MORE INFORMATION, EMAIL: INFO@TPG.MEDIA OR CALL LAURA: +971 58 633 5225

FIND OUT MORE

28

Cover Story - NEOM's Sindalah

ADVENTURES BEYOND IMAGINATION: DIVE INTO YOUR DREAM DESTINATION! WELCOME TO SINDALAH – THE GATEWAY TO THE RED SEA AND A YEAR-LONG LUXURY DESTINATION METICULOUSLY FASHIONED TO REDEFINE THE ART OF LEISURE. TECH-DRIVEN, WHERE LAIDBACK ISLAND CHIC MEETS NEW-AGE OPULENCE AND ECO-CONSCIOUS DESIGN, SINDALAH PROVIDES INCOMPARABLE EXPERIENCES TAILORED SPECIFICALLY FOR THE WORLD’S MOST DISCERNING CLIENTELE. EXPLORE A PLAYGROUND OF UNPARALLELED FREEDOM AND DISCOVERY, INCLUDING A WORLD-CLASS MARINA AND ​YACHT CLUB, GOLF CLUB, BEACH CLUB, SPA, AND THREE LUXURY HOTELS WITH EXCLUSIVE APARTMENTS, WHILE ENJOYING A​HOST OF SOPHISTICATED CULTURAL EVENTS, GRAND SPORTING SPECTACLES, AND GLAMOROUS SOCIAL CELEBRATIONS THROUGHOUT THE YEAR.

Cover Story - NEOM's Sindalah

29

30

F

Cover Story - NEOM's Sindalah

eaturing exquisite facilities and

BEYOND THE WAVES, BEYOND COMPARE:

exclusive offerings surrounded by

EXPLORE LIMITLESS HORIZONS

a stunning and diverse ocean environment

Led by Italy’s Luca Dini Design & Architecture,

that is home to over 1,100 marine species,

the island’s design is inspired by the coral reefs

15% of which are endemic to the Red Sea,

and waterscapes of the Red Sea that surround

Sindalah spans approximately 840,000m2

it. It comes as no surprise, therefore, that IGY

of breathtaking landscapes, integrating

Marinas is partnering with NEOM to develop

opulent accommodation and world-class

and operate what will be, in all probability, the

amenities to create an unforgettable

most prestigious marina in the Middle East.

haven for discerning travelers.

So, whether seeking a romantic getaway, an adventurous journey, or simply a serene retreat, Sindalah promises an enchanting escape where luxury and nature converge to create memories that linger long after the journey ends.

Sindalah spans approximately 840,000m2 of breathtaking landscapes

86 berths for

51 luxury retail

414 ultra-premium

38 culinary

1,100 marine species

300 top-end serviced

Yachts up to 50m

hotel rooms

boutiques

offerings

apartments

Cover Story - NEOM's Sindalah

31

Perfectly positioned as a glamorous gateway to the Red Sea, Sindalah will be the closest ultra-prime superyacht marina to Europe and the Mediterranean. Expected to become an iconic destination for the world’s yachting community, the maritime facility will offer 86 berths for yachts up to 50 meters and additional serviced offshore buoys for superyachts up to 180 meters.

A luxury escape where enhanced nature and inspiring architecture converge

 TOM MUKAMAL, CEO OF IGY MARINAS

Tom Mukamal, CEO of IGY Marinas, said: “Sindalah perfectly integrates with IGY’s global vision to connect the world’s most incredible yachting destinations across our growing marina network. The addition of NEOM to the IGY platform provides superyacht owners, captains, and charter guests with unrivaled destinations, service, and convenience. IGY is tremendously excited about the opportunity to promote this amazing new destination to the international yachting community.”

32

Cover Story - NEOM's Sindalah

Autograph Collection Hotels property, will

The Red Sea’s longawaited first ultra-prime superyacht destination

offer exquisite accommodation experiences.

Opening in 2024, there is no doubt that

of-the-art facilities for holistic rejuvenation.

Sindalah will be a new destination for one-

From invigorating spa therapies to yoga

of-a-kind nautical and yachting experiences,

overlooking panoramic ocean vistas, every

which goes a long way to explaining why

corner is designed to soothe the mind, body,

the global leader in superyacht concierge

and soul. For the adventurous souls, a myriad

and maritime agency services, BWA

of activities await, such as exploring the vibrant

Yachting, is establishing an office there.

coral reefs with guided snorkeling excursions.

Appointed as the ‘Key Partner Superyacht

Culinary experiences at Sindalah are just as

Agency in NEOM,’ BWA Yachting’s office

exciting: a fusion of global flavors and local

will provide services for the world’s most

delicacies curated by world-renowned chefs

spectacular luxury vessels as Sindalah

in some of the finest restaurants in the region.

becomes the Red Sea’s long-awaited first

Indulge in gastronomic delights at oceanfront

ultra-prime superyacht destination.

fine dining restaurants, where the freshest

Indulgence knows no bounds at Sindalah, with guests being able to immerse themselves in a world of unparalleled leisure, boasting state-

catch of the day meets innovative culinary Paschalis Patsiokas, CEO at BWA Yachting,

techniques. And that’s just the beginning.

said: “We are honored and excited to be

Whatever you desire, Sindalah is where

invited by NEOM to establish our presence

nature's bounty meets gastronomic artistry

within this groundbreaking project. At BWA

to create an unparalleled dining experience.

Yachting, we are committed to providing world-class services to superyachts visiting

HOSPITALITY REDEFINED

Sindalah and eagerly look forward to creating

The island hosts over 400 ultra-premium

captivating NEOM itineraries and delivering

hotel rooms and 300 top-end suites, a

extraordinary experiences for our clients

Beach Club, a glamorous Yacht Club,

in this spectacular new destination.”

and 38 unique culinary offerings.

CURATING EXPERIENCES, NOT JUST STAYS

Four Seasons' upcoming resort at Sindalah,

On land, Sindalah will be home to leading

for instance, will be a one-of-a-kind project,

hotel brands, restaurants with cuisine curated

blending the natural wonders of the Red Sea

and managed by global Michelin-starred

with the future-forward technologies on which

chefs, designer fashion and luxury retail with

this new, exciting destination is being built.

futuristic and experiential offerings, and one

Bart Carnahan, President, Global Business

of the most exotic golf courses in the world.

Development and Portfolio Management,

For leisure seekers, Sindalah’s Beach Club will be like no other, hosted by the region’s top entertainment icons, while the Sports Club will provide adventures that include guests being able to experience the magical marine life below the surface of the Red Sea. The club will also feature a deluxe gym, an Olympic-size swimming pool, spa facilities, and various sports courts. Three luxury hotels, including a Four Seasons Resort and Saudi Arabia’s first Marriott International

 BRIET JEROME, CHIEF DEVELOPMENT OFFICER, EUROPE, MIDDLE EAST, & AFRICA, MARRIOTT INTERNATIONAL DAN

Cover Story - NEOM's Sindalah

Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts, commented:

by a 280-meter driving range and state-

“We are proud to be part of the ambitious

of-the-art golf practice suites featuring

vision that our partners at NEOM have for

advanced ball tracking technology.

33

transforming the future of hospitality in the region and look forward to welcoming guests

The Sindalah Golf Academy will complement

to discover a new part of the Kingdom.”

these offerings with its pioneering performance studios, providing the most

The resort will feature 225 guest rooms and

up-to-date golf-learning technology.

suites with terraces overlooking the beaches of the Red Sea, as well as 52 villas with one

THE RED SEA’S NATURAL PARADISE:

to four-bedroom configurations with plunge

EXPLORE RESPONSIBLY, LEAVE INSPIRED

pools and beach views, with the Presidential

Protection and preservation of the natural

and Royal Villas offering private swimming

landscape sits at the core of NEOM’s

pools, gyms and access to private yacht docks.

model. Surrounded by some of the region's most biodiverse and unspoiled waters,

Marriott International has also announced

Sindalah will offer guests and residents

that it will open three properties on

an unparalleled nature experience in the

Sindalah, including the Kingdom’s first

Red Sea, exploring its diverse marine

Autograph Collection Hotels property as

environment and resilient coral reefs.

well as two Luxury Collection properties.

Below the surface, Sindalah is home to “NEOM is one of the most highly anticipated

both colorful reef fish and larger marine

developments in the world, and we look

life, including dolphins, turtles, manta

forward to working with its team to develop

rays and whale sharks. Endangered

these three exciting properties,” said Jerome

dugongs also swim in these warm waters,

Briet, Chief Development Officer, Europe,

offering a special encounter for diving

Middle East, & Africa, Marriott International.

enthusiasts lucky enough to meet them.

“The Luxury Collection and Autograph Collection Hotels properties will express their

Sindalah is where guests embark on an

own unique personalities inspired by the

unforgettable journey to a paradise where

exceptional natural landscapes of NEOM.”

luxury meets authenticity, where sumptuous experiences are enjoyed amidst breathtaking

SWING INTO LUXURY: WHERE EVERY

landscapes, allowing visitors to explore hidden

ROUND IS A MASTERPIECE

treasures, dive into thrilling adventures,

Sindalah, in partnership with IMG Golf Course

and savor the diverse flavors of the region's

Services, will also be home to an innovative

culinary tapestry. Discover, explore, and

nine-hole beachfront golf course. Engaged

delight in the spirit of this astonishing

to oversee management services for the Golf

destination—a gateway to extraordinary

Club, IMG Golf Course Services is set to elevate

moments and cherished experiences.

the golfing experience in the Middle East.

Designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr., an American golf course architect, the 6,474yard par 70 golf course will boast nine

SINDALAH

holes and 18 teeing points, accompanied

Below the surface, Sindalah is home to colorful reef fish and larger marine life

NEOM

VISIT WEBSITE

34

Interview with KARIM EL-JISR, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR RED SEA GLOBAL

 ST REGIS RED SEA RESORT SUNSET CORAL VILLA

THE ART OF ISLAND DEVELOPMENT RECONNECTING WITH NATURE: WHERE EVERY STAY SUPPORTS ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AND ENHANCEMENT ISLAND DEVELOPMENTS PRESENT UNIQUE CHALLENGES, INCLUDING ENVIRONMENTAL SENSITIVITY AND LIMITED RESOURCES. BALANCING DEVELOPMENT WITH PRESERVATION IS CRUCIAL, REQUIRING SUSTAINABLE PRACTICES AND CAREFUL PLANNING TO PROTECT FRAGILE ECOSYSTEMS. INFRASTRUCTURE DEVELOPMENT CAN BE COSTLY DUE TO REMOTE LOCATIONS AND TRANSPORTATION DIFFICULTIES. HOWEVER, ISLAND DEVELOPMENTS OFFER UNPARALLELED OPPORTUNITIES FOR TOURISM, ECONOMIC GROWTH, AND CULTURAL EXCHANGE. THEY OFTEN BOAST STUNNING NATURAL BEAUTY AND PROVIDE A DISTINCT LIFESTYLE APPEAL. WITH PROPER MANAGEMENT, ISLAND COMMUNITIES CAN THRIVE, FOSTERING INNOVATION, RESILIENCE, AND A HARMONIOUS COEXISTENCE WITH NATURE.

K ARIM EL-JISR, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR FOR SUSTAINABILITY PERFORMANCE AND ACCREDITATION RED SEA GLOBAL

Interview with KARIM EL-JISR, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR RED SEA GLOBAL

35

36

Interview with KARIM EL-JISR, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR RED SEA GLOBAL

Saudi Projects: How do developers adapt

Saudi Projects: How do you go about this?

to and mitigate the impact of environmental

Karim El-Jisr: Before any construction work

factors unique to islands, such as weather

is carried out, it is important to carefully

conditions, and local flora and fauna?

evaluate an area’s natural biodiversity, not

Karim El-Jisr: Islands present a unique

only mitigating against environmental threats

range of environmental considerations,

but also actively enhancing natural habitats.

especially large archipelagos with complex ecosystems. Developers can overcome

For us, this included The Red Sea’s

these obstacles through an intelligence-

extraordinary island archipelago, now home

led approach that embeds sustainable

to the St Regis Red Sea resort, which opened

principles at the heart of every initiative.

last year and recently welcomed the legendary footballer Cristiano Ronaldo and his family.

At the very beginning, Red Sea Global undertook a marine spatial planning

At the very beginning, we undertook a marine

simulation with King Abdullah University

spatial planning simulation with King Abdullah

of Science and Technology (KAUST), to

University of Science and Technology (KAUST),

understand the flora and fauna in and around

to understand the flora and fauna in and

these islands, including the unique Al Wajh

around these islands, including the unique Al

Lagoon, and the wider Red Sea coastline. The

Wajh Lagoon, and the wider Red Sea coastline.

study helped to establish a baseline against

The study helped to establish a baseline against

which our commitment to deliver a 30% net

which our commitment to deliver a 30% net

conservation benefit will be measured.

conservation benefit will be measured.

The RSG Environmental Planning and Assessment team also conducted the largest environmental and wildlife study of the Red Sea coastline ever undertaken by a major developer. Over 11 months, the Environmental Baseline Survey uncovered a rich array of habitats, flora, and fauna, including a significant number of endangered species such as the Halavi Guitarfish, Hawksbill Sea Turtle, and Sooty Falcon.

At the very beginning, we undertook a marine spatial planning simulation with King Abdullah University of Science and Technology

 THE ST. REGIS RED SEA RESORT

K ING ABDULLAH UNIVERSITY OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY (KAUST) FLORA AND FAUNA SPATIAL PLANNING

 THE ST. REGIS RED SEA RESORT

Interview with KARIM EL-JISR, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR RED SEA GLOBAL

 THE ST. REGIS RED SEA RESORT

37

38

Interview with KARIM EL-JISR, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR RED SEA GLOBAL

We also conducted the largest environmental

Overall, by prioritizing intensive research

clean mobility, waste management, and

and wildlife study of the Red Sea coastline

at the beginning, developers can ensure

ecological impact, beautifully encapsulated

ever undertaken by a major developer.

that they strengthen natural environments

by the LEED for Cities and Communities

Over 11 months, our Environmental

for generations to come, as well as provide

rating system. In fact, we are pursuing

Baseline Survey uncovered a rich array

unforgettable memories for visitors.

green building certifications for up to

of habitats, flora, and fauna, including

100 assets which will result in one of the

a significant number of endangered

Saudi Projects: What role can developers play

species such as the Halavi Guitarfish,

in promoting sustainable development on

Hawksbill Sea Turtle, and Sooty Falcon.

islands, considering factors like committing to

We knew that it would be impossible to deliver

green building standards and energy efficiency,

a truly regenerative destination without clean

The insights we have obtained through both

waste management, and ecological impact?

energy. We promised that our destinations,

studies have helped us ensure our destinations

Karim El-Jisr: Historically, land and property

which include The Red Sea, AMAALA, and

support rather than disrupt surrounding flora,

developers have contributed to climate

Thuwal Private Retreat, would all benefit

fauna, and ecosystems. They have influenced

change and environmental degradation. At

from 24/7 renewable power. This might have

decisions such as designing the eye-catching

Red Sea Global, we wanted to demonstrate

sounded ambitious when we started given

Shura Island Bridge Crossing as a graceful

that it is possible for developers to have a net

the enormous scale of our destinations,

curve, avoiding any interference with the

positive impact instead by adopting bold and

but, through procurement innovation and

area’s stunning natural coral formations.

radical approaches to energy consumption,

design expertise, we have delivered.

 CORAL BLOOM

largest green asset clusters in the world.

Interview with KARIM EL-JISR, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR RED SEA GLOBAL

39

P OWERED BY FIVE SOLAR FARMS AND 760,000 PHOTOVOLTAIC PANELS

The Red Sea, which welcomed its first

helped to minimize noise, ground disturbance,

visitors late last year, is powered by five

and vehicle movements that could otherwise

solar farms and 760,000 photovoltaic panels

disrupt the underwater ecosystem.

while being supported by one of the world’s

Across our destinations, we have also sought to work with the natural environment rather than against it

largest off-grid battery storage facilities to

As responsible developers, we understand

optimize energy delivery. We are leveraging

the importance of preserving the natural

our learnings in The Red Sea to design,

environment for future generations whilst

build, and operate similar energy farms to

still providing exceptional experiences for

power AMAALA. Combined, these renewable

our guests. While not every developer will

energy farms will avoid up to 1 million

benefit from the same natural resources,

tCO2e per year when fully commissioned.

we strongly believe that much can be achieved by thinking ambitiously and

Saudi Projects: The Red Sea Global

drawing on technological innovation.

philosophy takes in more than optimizing energy delivery, though, doesn’t it?

Saudi Projects: How do island

Karim El-Jisr: Across our destinations, we

destinations determine and manage

have also sought to work with the natural

their tourism carrying capacity to avoid

environment rather than against it. At Shura

overcrowding and negative impacts on local

Island, we have implemented an innovative

communities, culture, and ecosystems?

Coral Bloom design concept, which carefully

Karim El-Jisr: To manage tourism

blends in with the pristine natural beauty

carrying capacity, developers should

of its surrounding landscapes rather than

consider technological innovation,

disrupting it. At Sheybarah Island, we partnered

partnership, and careful management of

with Grankraft to remotely prefabricate our

natural capital. This includes enhancing

stainless-steel overwater villas, a method that

the land and marine ecosystem through

40

Interview with KARIM EL-JISR, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR RED SEA GLOBAL

T HUWAL PRIVATE RETREAT

The Red Sea, which welcomed its first visitors late last year, is powered by five solar farms and 760,000 photovoltaic panels

 THE ST. REGIS RED SEA RESORT

We have created 20 acres of wetlands to treat 8,000m3 of effluent every day

T HUWAL PRIVATE RETREAT

 DIVERSE MA

ARINE LIFE PRESERVATION A PRIORITY

Interview with KARIM EL-JISR, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR RED SEA GLOBAL

environmental improvement, creating

Karim El-Jisr: Waste is a major problem in

economic opportunities, and improving

the tourism sector, but through adept use

the quality of life of local communities.

of technology and careful management of

41

resources, the issue can be overcome.

At Red Sea Global, this was a key concern

At Red Sea Global, we are acutely aware of

from the beginning of our work, and our

the huge quantities of waste that tourism

marine spatial planning simulation was

produces across the world, which is why

conducted in part to understand how

we are committed to zero waste to landfill

we could prevent over-tourism from

across our portfolio. We are addressing the

threatening the island archipelago’s pristine

issue through innovative solutions, which we

environments. As a result of the study, we

are confident will drive wider change across

set aside several islands in Al Wajh Lagoon

the industry. For example, by screening our

to protect their sensitive biodiversity.

suppliers, we can select products with lesser and greener packaging thus reducing the

The simulation led us to develop only 22 out

total waste volume. We have also built a

of more than 90 islands in the region to ensure

state-of-the-art waste management facility

we do not exceed the islands’ maximum

in The Red Sea to treat incoming waste from

carrying capacity, nor endanger the natural

all our operations, producing compost and

environment, and ensure that local people

dry waste streams that become feedstock

and their livelihoods are protected and

for recycling industries in the Kingdom.

prioritized. Specifically, our destinations were designed to accommodate up to 1.5 million a

We have worked on reducing our waste and

year, minimizing the threat of overtourism.

educating our visitors (and employees) to ‘leave no trace behind’. We are also drawing on

Saudi Projects: How will you follow

innovation to cut plastic waste, such as the use

up on this commitment?

of cleaning robots to reduce the amount of litter

Karim El-Jisr: As more resorts open across

on beaches. These extraordinary devices can

The Red Sea and, next year, AMAALA, we will

cover 3,000 m2 in a single hour and will ensure

carefully review their impact on the natural

that they remain pristine for all our visitors

environments across land and sea. Specifically,

to enjoy. Our commitment to circularity also

and using smart city approaches, we will

extends to water resources. We have created

monitor environmental resources and measure

20 acres of wetlands to treat up to 8,000m3 of

the sustainability performance of our assets,

effluent every day, as part of the wastewater

so that we continue to drive progress towards

facility at The Red Sea, which has been

our 30% net conservation benefit goal.

delivered in partnership with ACWA Power. And all treated effluent is reused in our landscape

Our work demonstrates the critical importance

nursery and across landscaped areas.

of planning from the very beginning of a development rather than trying to

Ultimately, we know that the beauty of the Red

address over-tourism once work has been

Sea coastline is our most precious asset, and we

carried out. To prevent ecological damage,

will continue to deploy innovative technologies

preventative measures need to be modelled

to ensure that everyone can continue to

and implemented at the design stage.

enjoy the Kingdom’s natural treasures.

Saudi Projects: What strategies can be implemented to manage the increased waste generated by tourism, including plastic

RED SEA GLOBAL

pollution, and how can islands promote responsible waste disposal and recycling?

VISIT WEBSITE

42

Modular Construction

THE RISE OF MODULAR CONSTRUCTION: REVOLUTIONIZING THE BUILDING INDUSTRY IN RECENT YEARS, THE CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY HAS WITNESSED A SIGNIFICANT PARADIGM SHIFT WITH THE ADVENT OF MODULAR CONSTRUCTION. THIS INNOVATIVE BUILDING TECHNIQUE, ALSO KNOWN AS OFF-SITE OR PREFABRICATED CONSTRUCTION, IS GAINING TRACTION GLOBALLY FOR ITS EFFICIENCY, SUSTAINABILITY, AND COST-EFFECTIVENESS. IN THIS ARTICLE, WE EXPLORE THE KEY ASPECTS OF MODULAR CONSTRUCTION AND ITS TRANSFORMATIVE IMPACT ON THE TRADITIONAL BUILDING PROCESS, LOOKING AT LEADING PLAYERS IN THE INDUSTRY SUCH AS LINQ, PART OF THE ALEC GROUP, AND DUBOX AND DUPOD, PART OF GROUP AMANA.

Modular Construction

43

44

Modular Construction

This approach is perfect for the many gigaprojects that are now under development

DEFINING MODULAR CONSTRUCTION

the final structure. In Saudi Arabia, blue-

such as Qiddiya, The Red Sea, and NEOM.

Modular construction involves the creation

chip companies such as AMANA, ALEC,

Modular construction is a desirable alternative

of building components or modules in a

and Spacemaker are all pushing back the

for these projects since they frequently call

controlled factory environment, away from

boundaries in modular construction to

for the rapid construction of a significant

the actual construction site. These modules,

provide clients with solutions that are timely,

number of buildings and infrastructure.

often complete with walls, floors, ceilings,

sustainable, quality-led, cost-effective, and

and even fixtures, are then transported to

versatile when it comes to design parameters.

the site for assembly. The assembly process

At Sindalah, for instance, two ALEC companies provided their unique breadth of expertise:

is akin to piecing together a puzzle, with

This approach is perfect for the many giga-

LINQ, which specializes in providing top-

modules interlocking seamlessly to form

projects that are now under development,

quality manufactured modular hotel

Modular Construction

45

solutions, and AES, which provides turnkey

Sindalah with an innovative and eco-friendly

building envelopes for a broad portfolio

product, a board made of date palms. Graham

of bespoke and complex projects.

Petty, Operations Manager at LINQ, explained: “Whenever we can, we use sustainable

The LINQ factory runs six modular production

materials. For Sindalah, we suggested to NEOM

lines in a fully controlled environment that

that we use sustainable date palm board

is well-ventilated and out of the sun. Many

because we were trying to avoid using concrete

other modular manufacturers don’t have

because of the not-insignificant amount of

facilities like these and have to work outside,

emissions it produces. Utilizing completely dry

contending with summer working hours

construction also helps with our production

and other related challenges, so in terms of

sequencing because it means we don’t have

productivity, LINQ has the ideal facilities.

to wait for the concrete to cure, determining that the production line moves faster.”

Renowned for its innovation and creativity, LINQ has utilized a completely dry system at

Construction timelines can be shortened by up to 50%

Q IDDIYAH OFFICE COMPLEX

The modular construction process is characterized by meticulous precision and quality control T URTLE BAY HOTEL

46

Modular Construction

LINQ’s sister company, AES, has also been active at Sindalah, with its in-house façade designers and engineers bringing architectural concepts to life. Presently, AES is working on two major projects for NEOM, the iconic Sindalah Gold Course Clubhouse and the installation of a state-of-the-art façade for 11 modular buildings for Marriott Hotels.

Micael Quinn, Operations Manager at AES, says: “The state-of-the-art façade will feature a multi-layered approach, beginning with a highly insulated and waterproof sandwich panel. This will be seamlessly clad with a leather-coated Glass Reinforced Plastic (GRP) panel both internally and externally, creating a distinctive aesthetic that harmonizes with the natural beauty of the surroundings.”

COMPLETED 30% FASTER DuBox, a division of AMANA, is another company that leads the field in offsite manufacturing construction in the GCC, delivering reduced costs, increased quality, faster completion times, and a sustainable construction model. Nearly 85% is designed, manufactured, and assembled offsite in a controlled environment at a DuBox factory before traveling by road to the project site.

Numerous savings have been made; a 30% reduction in labor costs; a 50% - 90% reduction in overall waste and a 30% reduction in solid waste.

The project will be completed 30% faster than traditional construction, producing numerous environmental, HSE, and economic benefits.

At AMANA, all QA and QC processes and inspections are completed in its production bays throughout the manufacturing process to ensure consistent quality. DuBox follows a double testing procedure, in the factory and on-site once the modules are assembled, ensuring only the highest quality manufactured product is delivered to the client, with an AMANA spokesperson saying: “The modules undergo flood testing to ensure water tightness and MEP pressure testing in the factory before dispatch.

This enables any rectifications required to be conducted in a factory environment rather than during the traditional on-site works.”

Modular Construction

47

Shorter construction timelines mean fewer labor hours, reduced financing costs, and earlier occupancy Modular construction aligns with the growing

PRECISION AND QUALITY CONTROL

emphasis on sustainable building practices

The modular construction process is

too. The controlled environment of the factory

characterized by meticulous precision and

allows for meticulous resource management,

quality control. In a factory setting, each

reducing material waste. Additionally, the

module is constructed to exact specifications,

reduced on-site construction time translates to

ensuring consistency and accuracy. This

less disruption to the surrounding environment

precision is often challenging to achieve

and communities. As the construction

on traditional construction sites where

industry seeks greener alternatives, modular

variations can occur due to weather, human

construction emerges as a promising solution

error, or other external factors. The strict

to minimize its ecological footprint.

quality control measures inherent in modular construction contribute to buildings with

The AMANA spokesperson said: “At AMANA,

higher structural integrity and uniform quality.

we prepare a Construction Environmental Social Management Plan (CESMP): It lists

While the initial perception may be that

environmental management controls required

modular construction is more expensive, the

for the work to be carried out under the

overall cost-effectiveness becomes evident

contract, and environmental management

when considering the reduced construction

tasks such as reporting, inspections, and

time and increased efficiency. Shorter

training. The objectives of this CESMP are

construction timelines mean fewer labor hours,

to identify the potential environmental

reduced financing costs, and earlier occupancy,

impacts that can result from the planned

translating into substantial savings. Moreover,

construction activities and identify measures

the controlled factory environment minimizes

to control or avoid these impacts.”

material waste, optimizing resource utilization and further contributing to cost-effectiveness.

48

Modular Construction

Moreover, contrary to the misconception

CONCLUSION

that modular construction leads to

Modular construction stands at the

cookie-cutter buildings, this method

forefront of a transformative era in

offers considerable versatility in design.

the building industry. Its efficiency,

Architects and designers can create

sustainability, cost-effectiveness, and

diverse and aesthetically pleasing

versatility make it an appealing choice

structures by combining various

for developers, builders, and architects

modules. From residential homes to

worldwide. As technology advances and

commercial spaces and educational

the demand for more sustainable building

institutions, the adaptability of modular

practices increases, modular construction

construction allows for a broad spectrum

is poised to play a pivotal role in shaping

of design possibilities, meeting the

the future of the construction landscape,

diverse needs of different projects.

enabling the digitalization of design and construction processes, which

CHALLENGES AND CONSIDERATIONS

is a stepping stone to industrializing

While modular construction offers

construction. The success stories of

numerous advantages, it is essential to

projects embracing modular construction

acknowledge the challenges associated

underscore its potential to revolutionize

with this innovative approach.

the industry and provide a blueprint for

Transportation of large modules to

a more efficient and environmentally

the construction site requires careful

conscious approach to building.

planning, and site logistics must be well-coordinated to ensure smooth assembly. Additionally, some traditional construction stakeholders may initially resist the shift to modular methods, emphasizing the importance of industrywide education and collaboration.

Modular Construction

49

The region's leading design & build off-site volumetric concrete construction solution.

groupamana.com

50

DUBOX BY AMANA - MODULAR CONSTRUCTION

BUILDING FOR THE FUTURE WITH DUBOX MODULAR CONSTRUCTION SOLUTIONS OFF-SITE MANUFACTURING, ALSO KNOWN AS PREFABRICATION OR MODULAR CONSTRUCTION, HAS EMERGED AS A TRANSFORMATIVE FORCE IN THE CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY, REVOLUTIONIZING TRADITIONAL BUILDING PRACTICES AND UNLOCKING NEW OPPORTUNITIES FOR EFFICIENCY, SUSTAINABILITY, AND INNOVATION. THIS APPROACH INVOLVES THE FABRICATION OF BUILDING COMPONENTS OR ENTIRE MODULES IN A CONTROLLED FACTORY ENVIRONMENT, AWAY FROM THE CONSTRUCTION SITE, BEFORE TRANSPORTING AND ASSEMBLING THEM ONSITE, WITH DUBOX, AN AMANA COMPANY, LEADING THE FIELD IN THE GCC, DELIVERING REDUCED COSTS, INCREASED QUALITY, FASTER COMPLETION TIMES AND A SUSTAINABLE CONSTRUCTION MODEL.

DUBOX BY AMANA - MODULAR CONSTRUCTION

51

52

DUBOX BY AMANA - MODULAR CONSTRUCTION

"Investment in bespoke mega-cranes, codesigned with leading European manufacturers, will lead to further automation and an increase in production, allowing DuBox to continue to support the ambitions of Vision 2030.” These cranes are more than 20 meters in height and enhance AMANA’s continuous improvement to industrialize construction. They are currently 85% manufactured and will be en route for operational use in H2 of 2024".

A

ctive on major giga-projects for blue-

Off-site construction commences before the

This, along with other innovations, has seen

chip clients such as AMAALA and NEOM,

site is ready and it takes place in parallel to site

DuBox make numerous savings; a 30% reduction

DuBox is unlocking new efficiencies, driving

clearance, landfilling, and substructure works.

in labor costs; a 50% - 90% reduction in overall

greater value, and creating buildings that are

This is fueled by the company’s use of volumetric

waste, and a 30% reduction in solid waste.

better designed, built, and operated. Nearly

concrete, with materials such as aggregates,

Projects can be completed 30% quicker than

85% of projects are designed, manufactured,

cement, water, and additives being batched

traditional construction, producing several

and assembled off-site in a controlled

and mixed on-site rather than at a centralized

environmental, HSE, and economic benefits.

environment at a DuBox Assembly Yard before

plant. This process involves using volumetric

traveling by road to the project site. Each

concrete mixers, which are specialized vehicles

By shifting the site activities off-site and,

module is built in pre-cast concrete and is

equipped with separate compartments for

due to the innovative system DuBox

fully constructed and fitted out, including all

storing and proportioning the raw materials.

brings to developers, by default it is able

MEP work, before reaching the site. QA & QC processes and inspections are completed in our production bays throughout the manufacturing process to ensure consistent quality.

to achieve LEED/MOSTADAM ratings.

DUBOX BY AMANA - MODULAR CONSTRUCTION

53

Each module is built in pre-cast concrete and is fully constructed and fitted out, including all MEP work

The project will be completed 30% faster than traditional construction

INTEGRATING TECHNOLOGY FOR ENHANCED

The planning of activities for this project involved

EFFICIENCY IN MODULAR CONSTRUCTION

a team of multiple engineers engaging virtually

Digitalization lies at the heart of

on a concept, design, and execution plan,

everything that DuBox undertakes; from

considering successes and many lessons learned

design to execution, all processes are

from previous projects in the DuBox database.

operated on cloud-based platforms.

Planned completion of engineering and procurement tasks before commencing the off-

BIM technology allowed DuBox to design and integrate all of NEOM’s delivery team with engineers in different offices and countries to design and build in real-time as both design and construction progressed, enabling it to deliver the project in record time.

site construction was crucial to avoid any delay.

54

DUBOX BY AMANA - MODULAR CONSTRUCTION

STRIVING FOR PERFECTION THROUGH TOTAL QUALITY MANAGEMENT By shifting construction activities to a controlled Assembly Facility setting, projects can benefit from improved productivity, enhanced quality, and reduced labor costs. The assembly-line production of building components allows for greater precision and standardization, minimizing waste and rework. Additionally, the ability to work concurrently on multiple modules or components can dramatically shorten project timelines, enabling faster delivery and occupancy of buildings.

Indeed, guided by a relentless pursuit of excellence, DuBox pioneers transformative solutions that redefine the industry, engineering tomorrow’s breakthroughs today. Embracing challenges as opportunities, the company has delivered 3,635 modules to KSA and 9,627 modules to the wider GCC region since its Rabigh yard was established in 2019.

At present, 1,160 modules are in production, with the yard turning out 16 modules per day (800m2).

DuBox is also committed to ‘parallelism’, thus reducing overall duration, optimizing resource utilization, and minimizing the idle time between tasks. “This ensures that we can work on several floors at the same time while the site is being prepared to receive the modules,” explains Jihad Bsaibes, CEO at Group AMANA: “Investment in bespoke mega-cranes, codesigned with leading European manufacturers, will lead to further automation and an increase in production, allowing DuBox to continue to support the ambitions of Vision 2030.”

These cranes are more than 20 meters in height and enhance AMANA’s continuous improvement to industrialize construction. They are currently 85% manufactured and will be en route for operational use in H2 of 2024.

BIM technology allowed DuBox to design and integrate all of NEOM’s delivery team with engineers in different offices and countries

DUBOX BY AMANA - MODULAR CONSTRUCTION

MANUFACTORING QUALITY QA & QC processes and inspections are completed in DuBox’s production bays throughout the manufacturing process to ensure consistent quality. The company follows a double

55

In addition to efficiency and quality benefits, DuBox off-site manufacturing offers environmental advantages that align with sustainability goals

testing procedure in the factory and on-site once

construction. Advanced technologies such

DuBox off-site manufacturing represents a

the modules are assembled, ensuring the highest

as Building Information Modeling (BIM) and

paradigm shift in the construction industry,

factory-quality product is delivered to the site.

robotic automation enable architects and

offering a host of benefits including speed,

engineers to explore creative design solutions

cost-effectiveness, quality, sustainability, and

In addition to efficiency and quality benefits,

and optimize building performance. The

innovation. As the demand for faster, smarter,

DuBox off-site manufacturing offers

modular nature of prefabricated components

and more sustainable construction solutions

environmental advantages that align with

allows for greater flexibility and customization,

grows, prefabrication is poised to play an

sustainability goals. The controlled factory

accommodating diverse architectural styles and

increasingly prominent role in shaping the

environment allows for better management

functional requirements. This versatility opens

built environment of the future. By embracing

of resources and waste, with opportunities for

up opportunities for architects, developers,

off-site manufacturing techniques, stakeholders

recycling and reuse of materials. Furthermore,

and building owners to realize their vision while

across the construction value chain are enjoying

the precision engineering and modular design

maximizing efficiency and cost-effectiveness.

efficiencies and quality enhancements that are

inherent in prefabrication enable optimization

setting a new benchmark for the entire industry.

of building performance, including energy

PROACTIVELY ENSURING QUALITY

efficiency and thermal comfort. As sustainable

IN PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT

building practices become increasingly

AND MANUFACTURING

important in addressing climate change and

Continuous R&D in the box design and handling

resource depletion, DuBox provides a viable

is core to DuBox’s culture of innovation, and this

solution for reducing the environmental

is reflected in the lessons learned and feedback

footprint of the construction industry.

of its clients, allowing it to strive for continuous

GROUP AMANA

improvement in its efforts to ‘productize’ Off-site manufacturing also fosters innovation and customization in building design and

its construction delivery to the market.

VISIT WEBSITE

56

BEC ARABIA - INTERVIEW WITH MR BAKHIT, MANAGING PARTNER

UNLOCKING THE MINDS OF CONSTRUCTION VISIONARIES: THE INSPIRING JOURNEY OF BEC ARABIA BEC ARABIA STANDS AS A VIBRANT AND INCLUSIVE ORGANIZATION THAT PROVIDES COMPREHENSIVE, TURNKEY SOLUTIONS IN THE FIELDS OF CIVIL CONSTRUCTION, ELECTROMECHANICAL OPERATIONS, INFRASTRUCTURE DEVELOPMENT, LANDSCAPING, AND ENGINEERING SERVICES. AS A VERSATILE ENTITY OFFERING A WIDE ARRAY OF SERVICES TO CATER TO VARIOUS NEEDS, BEC ARABIA HAS EARNED ITS REPUTATION AS ONE OF THE MOST TRUSTED AND ESTEEMED CONTRACTORS IN THE REGION. AT SAUDI PROJECTS, WE WERE CURIOUS TO DISCOVER THE SECRETS BEHIND ITS SUCCESS AND UNCOVER ITS CORE BUSINESS PHILOSOPHY AND VISION, AND SO WE HAD THE PRIVILEGE OF INTERVIEWING BEC ARABIA'S MANAGING PARTNER, BAKHIT ALDOSRI.

BEC ARABIA - INTERVIEW WITH MR BAKHIT, MANAGING PARTNER

57

 MR BAKHIT AL DOSARI, MANAGING PARTNER

58

BEC ARABIA - INTERVIEW WITH MR BAKHIT, MANAGING PARTNER

 HAMPTON’S HOTEL, NEOM

"The overarching vision of BEC Arabia is to provide innovative engineering and construction solutions that empower us to undertake ambitious projects.

Since our establishment in 2010, we have been committed to delivering large-scale projects that enhance the nation's infrastructure and cater to the needs of prestigious clients such as the Ministry of Housing, Education, and Interior. Our consistent success in executing these projects has not only earned us recognition but also opened doors to key opportunities in KSA's major gigaprojects, including NEOM and Red Sea Global & the Royal Commission of Al Ula", Bakhit elaborates.

"Guided by Vision 2030, we are committed to leveraging our expertise and resources to drive innovation and foster economic diversification for the Kingdom. With a strong emphasis on sustainable construction practices, investment in human capital development, and support for the tourism sector, we are dedicated to contributing to a greener and more resilient future. Bakhit, articulates a compelling vision that aligns strategies with long-term objectives, empowering employees to unleash their creativity. This leadership cultivates adaptability, resilience, and sustainable growth amidst dynamic market landscapes.

"Fostering a foundation of trust, honest communication, and responsibility is my top priority," Bakhit shares passionately.

"We pride ourselves on providing generous salary packages, enticing incentives, and pathways for professional growth to not only draw in exceptional individuals but also to keep them flourishing with us. Our goal is to cultivate prosperous narratives and support our team, all while solidifying our position as the employer of choice in the construction field. By inspiring our employees to share their insights and outlooks, we ignite a spark of collective brilliance and imagination."

Having a workforce that is both highly experienced and qualified has resulted in a culture characterized by mutual support, accountability, and continuous improvement. When equipped with cuttingedge technology, this dynamic environment becomes a breeding ground for innovation and a significant boost in productivity.

BEC ARABIA - INTERVIEW WITH MR BAKHIT, MANAGING PARTNER

59

60

BEC ARABIA - INTERVIEW WITH MR BAKHIT, MANAGING PARTNER

EVALUATING AND ENHANCING INNOVATION

"A prime example of this proactive stance is

AND SAFETY PERFORMANCE

our instrumental role in the development of

From initial planning to final execution, BEC

the Hampton's hotel, located in the futuristic

Arabia places a strong emphasis on quality

city of NEOM. This particular venture marks the

craftsmanship, meticulous attention to detail,

first permanent asset in NEOM, exemplifying

and ensuring client satisfaction across all

our ability to deliver ahead of schedule, which

facets. Setting itself apart with innovative

was evidenced by its timely handover to the

solutions, flexibility to accommodate

client. This accomplishment underscores

towards evolving project needs, and

not only our dedication to innovation and

strict adherence to safety protocols.

excellence but also showcases our significant contribution to the region's development."

Bakhit remarks, "Our company stands out for its proactive approach to funding initiatives and securing equity stakes in pioneering projects.

 THE HEALTH AND SAFETY TEAM

BEC Arabia places a strong emphasis on quality craftsmanship, meticulous attention to detail, and ensuring client satisfaction across all facets

BEC ARABIA - INTERVIEW WITH MR BAKHIT, MANAGING PARTNER

61

 TRANSPLANTING NATIVE AND HERITAGE PALM TREES

BEC Arabia is at the forefront of sustainable building practices, incorporating ecofriendly solutions into every project

PRINCIPLES AND PRACTICES FOR

However, sustainability is not the only challenge

SUSTAINABLE CONSTRUCTION

facing the modern construction industry.

As a company engaged with multiple leading

Other hurdles include labor shortages and

organizations like NEOM, BEC Arabia is at the

the integration of technology. "A particular

forefront of sustainable building practices,

challenge we faced was managing project

incorporating eco-friendly solutions into every

delays caused by unforeseen events," explains

project. "Sustainability and social responsibility

Bakhit. "Through the implementation of

are fundamental to our operations," states

agile project management techniques,

Bakhit. "One of our significant projects involved

improved communication channels, and a

a large landscaping endeavor in NEOM, focusing

focus on proactive problem-solving along

on transplanting native and heritage palm trees.

with flexibility, we successfully overcame

This initiative demonstrates our commitment

this obstacle. Our ability to adapt and drive

to biodiversity conservation and environmental

projects forward underscores our resilience and

sustainability, highlighting our role as a

dedication to delivering outstanding results."

responsible player in the construction sector."

62

BEC ARABIA - INTERVIEW WITH MR BAKHIT, MANAGING PARTNER

"This project showcases our ability to deliver grandscale, luxury projects that elevate the region's prosperity and reputation." T HE SINDALAH ISLAND PROJECT, NEOM

BEC ARABIA - INTERVIEW WITH MR BAKHIT, MANAGING PARTNER

63

NEOM'S BOLD VISION REALIZED: THE FUTURE UNFOLDS The Sindalah Island project in NEOM shines brightly as a testament to BEC Arabia's remarkable influence within the region.

Championing this endeavor, Bakhit shares his journey: Serving as the principal contractor for the majority of the clusters, from exquisite resorts to world-class golf courses. "This project exemplifies our proficiency in delivering grand-scale developments of luxurious standards, enhancing both the region's prestige and advancement."

BEC Arabia emerges as a beacon of triumph in the industry, grounded in a legacy of innovation, integrity, and unwavering dedication to excellence. Fueled by visionary leadership and a stellar team, the company has surmounted challenges, surpassed expectations, and cultivated enduring partnerships. Its adeptness in embracing cutting-edge technologies and evolving market dynamics exemplifies its resilience and forward-thinking ethos, ensuring its position as a trailblazer that continuously redefines benchmarks and inspires greatness.

“ Our resilience and commitment to delivering excellence are highlighted by our capacity to adapt and uphold project momentum.”

BEC ARABIA +966 11 216 6633

VISIT WEBSITE EMAIL US

64

BEC Arabia - Interview with Dr Donia Dowidar, Head of Legal & Director of Shared Services

SYNERGY IN ACTION: DRIVING EXCELLENCE THROUGH SHARED SERVICES AS THE HEAD OF LEGAL & DIRECTOR OF SHARED SERVICES, DR. DONIA DOWIDAR’S ROLE IS MULTIFACETED, REQUIRING A BLEND OF LEGAL ACUMEN, OPERATIONAL INSIGHT, AND LEADERSHIP PROWESS. BY SPEARHEADING INITIATIVES THAT HARMONIZE LEGAL REQUIREMENTS WITH STREAMLINED SHARED SERVICES, SHE DRIVES ORGANIZATIONAL SUCCESS THROUGH INNOVATION AND METICULOUS ATTENTION TO DETAIL. SAUDI PROJECTS SPOKE TO DR. DOWIDAR TO DISCOVER HOW HER COMMITMENT TO FOSTERING A COLLABORATIVE ENVIRONMENT LEADS TO LEGAL INTEGRITY AND OPERATIONAL EXCELLENCE.

BEC Arabia - Interview with Dr Donia Dowidar, Head of Legal & Director of Shared Services

 DR. DONIA DOWIDAR, HEAD OF LEGAL & DIRECTOR OF SHARED SERVICES

65

66

BEC Arabia - Interview with Dr Donia Dowidar, Head of Legal & Director of Shared Services

SAUDI PROJECTS: Can you describe your role with BEC Arabia and your vision to take Shared Services forward?

DR. DONIA DOWIDAR: My role as the Shared Services Director centers on optimizing operational efficiencies and enhancing service delivery across all departments within the organization. I envision implementing innovative technologies and streamlined processes to foster seamless collaboration and support for every business unit. By fostering a culture of continuous improvement and leveraging data-driven insights, I aim to elevate Shared Services to a strategic level, driving organizational growth and success.

This entails aligning our efforts to optimize efficiency, drive cost-effectiveness, and exceed stakeholder expectations, enhancing the effectiveness of our support services across the organization and its subsidiaries.

SAUDI PROJECTS: What challenges do you typically encounter in managing Shared Services, and how do you address them?

DR. DONIA DOWIDAR: Managing Shared Services comes with its set of challenges.

These typically include integrating systems and processes across diverse departments and subsidiaries, aligning stakeholders’ needs, efficiently allocating resources, navigating change management, and ensuring compliance and risk management across all entities.

To tackle these challenges, streamlined processes and technology solutions can be implemented to improve efficiency. Engaging stakeholders through open communication and feedback loops helps ensure alignment and address concerns. Continuously assessing resource allocation optimizes task prioritization and resource utilization. In managing change, involving employees, providing training and support, and communicating benefits aid in gaining buy-in and mitigating resistance.

Lastly, staying updated on regulations, conducting regular risk assessments, and implementing robust controls help ensure compliance and mitigate risks effectively.

BEC Arabia - Interview with Dr Donia Dowidar, Head of Legal & Director of Shared Services

At BEC Arabia, we prioritize gender diversity in recruitment and talent development

67

68

BEC Arabia - Interview with Dr Donia Dowidar, Head of Legal & Director of Shared Services

We actively participate in industry forums, conferences, and networking events, engaging in meaningful discussions with thought leaders SAUDI PROJECTS: What are the key

initiatives and supporting strategic decision-

within our organization, we have implemented

performance metrics you use to measure

making to enhance operational effectiveness

a range of initiatives aimed at creating

the effectiveness of Shared Services?

and deliver value to the organization.

an inclusive and supportive environment

DR. DONIA DOWIDAR: At BEC Arabia, we

SAUDI PROJECTS: How do you promote

utilize a range of key performance metrics to

gender diversity and the empowerment

We prioritize gender diversity in recruitment and

gauge the effectiveness of our Shared Services.

of women within BEC Arabia?

talent development, actively seeking qualified

where women can thrive and excel.

These include Service Level Agreements

women for leadership roles. We offer tailored

(SLAs), cost savings, and process efficiency

DR. DONIA DOWIDAR: Promoting gender

mentorship programs, leadership training, and

indicators such as turnaround time, error rates,

diversity and empowering women is not just

networking opportunities to support women’s

and employee productivity. These metrics

a goal, but a fundamental commitment at

professional growth. We actively promote

offer valuable insights into the efficiency,

BEC Arabia. We believe that diversity fuels

work-life balance initiatives, flexible working

quality, and overall performance of our Shared

innovation, fosters creativity, and drives

arrangements, and family-friendly policies to

Services, driving continuous improvement

sustainable growth. To empower women

support the diverse needs of our employees,

BEC Arabia - Interview with Dr Donia Dowidar, Head of Legal & Director of Shared Services

We’ve developed in-house applications tailored to the specific needs of Shared Services

69

DR. DONIA DOWIDAR: At BEC Arabia, we encourage open communication and idea-sharing among team members, creating a safe space for individuals to propose new ideas, share feedback, and suggest process improvements.

Furthermore, we prioritize ongoing learning

repetitive tasks, utilizing data analysis and

and development by offering training programs,

machine learning algorithms to optimize

workshops, and resources focused on new

processes, integrating AI technologies to

technologies, best practices, and emerging

improve decision-making, and upgrading

trends relevant to our field. This not only

our ERP system for streamlined operations.

equips team members with the necessary skills

Additionally, we’ve developed in-house

and knowledge to drive innovation but also

applications tailored to the specific needs

instills a mindset of curiosity and exploration.

of Shared Services, further enhancing our capabilities and driving continuous

SAUDI PROJECTS: How do you stay informed

improvement. These tools have enabled us to

about emerging trends and best practices in

make data-driven decisions, improve resource

Shared Services management, and how do

allocation, and enhance overall performance.

you incorporate them into your strategies?

SAUDI PROJECTS: How do you foster

DR. DONIA DOWIDAR: We actively participate in

collaboration and communication

industry forums, conferences, and networking

between Shared Services and other

events, engaging in meaningful discussions with

departments or business units?

thought leaders. This ensures we gain insights into leading practices and trends. Additionally,

DR. DONIA DOWIDAR: We foster collaboration

we leverage technology and data analytics

and communication between Shared Services,

to gain deeper insights into our operations,

other departments, and subsidiaries through

enabling proactive adaptation of strategies and

various initiatives. Regular cross-functional

processes to meet evolving business needs.

meetings and forums provide opportunities for representatives from different departments

By combining these approaches, we drive

and subsidiaries to come together, discuss

continuous improvement and stay ahead of

ongoing projects, share updates, and address

the curve in Shared Services management,

any challenges or concerns collaboratively.

ensuring our organization remains agile and

This fosters a culture of transparency,

responsive in a dynamic business environment.

teamwork, and mutual support. including working mothers. By championing gender diversity, we enrich our organization and

In addition, we leverage technology platforms

contribute to a more equitable society where

such as collaborative workspaces and project

every individual has the opportunity to thrive.

management tools to facilitate seamless communication and information sharing across

SAUDI PROJECTS: Can you provide examples

teams, including subsidiaries. These platforms

of recent process improvements or innovations

enable real-time collaboration on shared

BEC ARABIA

implemented within Shared Services?

documents, tasks, and projects, irrespective of

+966 11 216 6633

geographical locations or time zone differences.

DR. DONIA DOWIDAR: In Shared Services, we’ve recently implemented several

SAUDI PROJECTS: How do you promote

innovative solutions to enhance efficiency

a culture of continuous improvement and

and effectiveness. These include leveraging

innovation within the Shared Services team?

Robotic Process Automation (RPA) to automate

VISIT WEBSITE EMAIL US

70

A TALK ON THE WILD SIDE WITH SAMAR ALAMRO

A Talk on THE WILD SIDE WILD FOUNDER AND CEO EMMA BURDETT TALKS TO SAMAR ALAMRO

A PIONEERING PATH: INSIGHTS FROM A VISIONARY FEMALE EXECUTIVE IN THIS ISSUE OF SAUDI PROJECTS, EMMA BURDETT, FOUNDER OF WILD (WOMEN IN LEADERSHIP DELIVER) TALKS TO SAMAR ALAMRO, DIRECTOR OF CORPORATE SERVICES & SUSTAINABILITY MIDDLE EAST AT ACCENTURE REGIONAL HEADQUARTERS, TO EXPLORE THE COMPELLING JOURNEY OF SAMAR, A TRAILBLAZING FORCE IN THE BUSINESS WORLD, CELEBRATING NOT ONLY HER ACCOMPLISHMENTS BUT ALSO INSPIRING OTHER FEMALE LEADERS TO SEEK THEIR OWN LEADERSHIP HEIGHTS.

A TALK ON THE WILD SIDE WITH SAMAR ALAMRO

71

72

A TALK ON THE WILD SIDE WITH SAMAR ALAMRO

Emma: You come from a corporate background, tell us about your industry journey.

Samar: During the first 13 years of my career I was in the public sector as a government employee, and I shifted my career to the private sector joining SAP Middle East in 2010, when they were establishing the Saudi branch. This is where I grew my knowledge and experience in the technology and digital sector and moved further to a leadership role with Accenture in 2018, which was another big shift in my career.

EMMA BURDETT Founder and CEO of WILD - Women in Leadership Deliver, keynote

Emma: What inspired your drive to pursue a career in a male-dominated industry?

speaker, leadership coach and gender equality specialist.

Samar: It was a new era of transformation in the Saudi job market, it was not very common to leave

WILD is the first and only women's network

a Government job to join a private company but I

to launch in KSA and offers a suite of

was looking for new learning and exploring how

solutions for females to rise as leaders in

I could grow my career in a very new field. It was

the pursuit of gender equality. This includes

very challenging for me personally to enter a new

leadership training programs, leadership

organization and a completely new role, but I think

coaching and memberships as well as

that was the best motivation for me to challenge

impactful events across the region.

myself and get out of my comfort zone ... and I think it was the right time to join the private sector.

“I feel privileged to be immersed in the female leadership landscape in KSA. I am impressed by the level of intelligence, ambition and

Emma: What has been your biggest career achievement to date?

talent of the women I have had the pleasure of engaging with. This is the beginning for WILD

Samar: My achievements include:

KSA. I am proud to be at the helm, providing a platform for women’s voices, whilst offering

• First Saudi female leader to join Accenture

unique and valuable learning experiences.

Middle East, the leading corporate function and

Our recent MoU with the United Nations

sustainability company in the Middle East and

Global Compact, KSA, will not only provide

Turkey since 2018.

world class leadership solutions for women in the region, we will be utilizing Saudi talent

• Part of the first cohort of the INSIAD Saudi Digital

in alignment with the vision requirements

Academy Digital Leadership Program hosted by

and to be relevant to local needs.”

the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology of Saudi Arabia.

Saudi Projects and WILD have partnered to bring you a series of interviews: A Talk on the WILD Side, with inspiring

• Leading the project of setting up and building of the hospitality lounge at Expo 2020

women from across the KSA region.

On a personal level, I am proud of my achievements as a mother of three amazing children (adults WILD: WOMEN IN LEADERSHIP DELIVER

now): one daughter graduated from Prince Sultan University Business School in Marketing and is now

VISIT WEBSITE

working with a semi-government entity. She became a mother recently of a beautiful baby girl. I also have two sons (twins) who are very artistic and passionate

Women in Saudi Arabia are now equally contributing to the GDP of the Kingdom

A TALK ON THE WILD SIDE WITH SAMAR ALAMRO

73

about their talents in choreography, designing and

Accenture harnesses its diverse team’s expertise

performing contemporary dance in theaters and

in areas such as inclusion and diversity consulting,

shows with the Ministry of Culture and ‘Terhal’.

leadership alignment, and training. This approach draws from the company's internal successes and

Emma: What changes have you seen for women in

external client collaborations.

KSA over the last 4-5 years?

We champion and advocate gender diversity and Samar: Women in Saudi Arabia are now equally

inclusion through strategic partnerships with third-

contributing to the GDP of the Kingdom, with

party organizations such as everywomanNetwork

workforce participation rising to 33.6% in Saudi

and Catalyst to encourage self-development.

Arabia in Q1 2022: Report published in https://www. arabnews.com/node/2151926/business-economy

At Accenture, we have built an environment where members are encouraged to call out biases in

Saudi Arabian women now drive economic growth in

the workplace and can have an open and honest

a variety of industries, from aviation to banking, as per

dialogue with the company’s leaders.

the article published in The National News: https:// www.thenationalnews.com/business/economy/

Emma: What challenges do women still face in the

how-saudi-arabia-s-women-are-pushing-into-the-

workplace?

workforce-and-transforming-the-economy-1.1236956 Samar: Gender bias is one the main challenges Emma: What notable changes have you seen in the

we as women face in the workplace, although the

workplace for women?

national agenda of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is promoting women’s roles in leadership positions we

Samar: Deep-rooted in Accenture’s ethos is a culture

are still facing some discrimination and gender bias

of diversity, equity, and inclusion that enriches the

throughout our career growth in all levels.

company's daily operations. In recent times, the workplace landscape for women has undergone

When I think back, the nature of the jobs that were

significant transformations, as exemplified by

accepted by our Saudi society were very limited (the

Accenture’s progressive approach: With a resolute

education sector and medical sector were not very

vision, Accenture is actively pursuing gender parity

popular, and in banking, there were limited jobs in

by 2025. This mission involves implementing

women’s branches ) and this gave me the courage

gender-smart solutions that foster an inclusive and

and enthusiasm to move to a totally new ‘private

just workplace, offering equal opportunities for all

sector digital and technology client engagement’.

individuals to flourish.

The social barriers were always there (I can call them At Accenture, our thinking and approach to diversity

cultural barriers) but with the support I had from my

and inclusion have progressed to a point where we

husband and extended family, I was able to overcome

can do away with prefixes such as ‘male’ and ‘female’

those challenges.

and view the industry irrespective of gender. We strongly believe that the future workforce is governed

Emma: How do you suggest companies in KSA attract

by equality and we have set bold goals to accelerate

and retain the best female talent?

gender equality.

Samar: Attracting and retaining the best female

Today, more than 300,000 women work at Accenture

Today, more than 300,000 women work at Accenture.

talent is a critical focus for companies in today’s

Additionally, 50% of our board of directors and 27% of

hypercompetitive corporate landscape. Research and

our global management committee are women.

evidence emphasize the significance of mentorship and a gender-neutral approach, both of which play

Accenture ensures comprehensive support for 100%

pivotal roles in this endeavor.

of its female members throughout various career stages, underscoring the company's dedication to

According to global research, 70% of Fortune 500

nurturing their professional growth.

companies have mentoring programs.

74

A TALK ON THE WILD SIDE WITH SAMAR ALAMRO

WILD is a great initiative and community for women in KSA. The events see a variety of diverse female role models come together to share their stories and experiences.

racial backgrounds across every country of operation.

This approach ensures that everyone has equal opportunities to belong, advance, and thrive.

Accenture's culture of equality not only attracts, develops, and rewards top talent but also fosters an environment that cultivates innovation and optimal

This statistic is very telling of the importance and

The Accenture Women’s Network—an employee

performance. This culture results in better solutions

direct impact of mentorship on the success and

group across more than 150 locations globally—

for clients.

growth of a company’s employees. Further research

serves as an in-person and online resource for our

and studies state that mentoring improves both

women to network, learn, grow, and connect through

By establishing mentorship and sponsorship

the promotion and retention of diverse groups by

everyday experiences.

programs, along with employee resource groups

15%-38% compared to non-mentored minorities.

(ERGs), Accenture is providing structured avenues

However, there is a misconception that mentorship

Emma: Have you seen any benefits of cross-

for individuals of diverse backgrounds to grow, share

is only crucial and instrumental at the start of your

functional teams working together, such as men and

knowledge, and contribute effectively. Additionally,

career; mentors are a trusted ally for mentees at

women from different races and ethnicities? If so, do

fostering diversity and inclusion can help companies

the workplace all through their careers and more so

you have an example?

attract top talent and better understand and serve

when they are about to take on leadership roles.

diverse customer segments, further strengthening Samar: Cross-functional teams that include men,

their position in the market. Regular diversity

A gender-neutral approach, especially at the

women, and individuals from diverse racial and

assessments enable companies to monitor their

leadership level, isn’t just a tick-box exercise; you

ethnic backgrounds bring together a wealth of

progress, identify areas for improvement, and ensure

need to genuinely embrace it to get the most out of

unique perspectives and experiences.

that inclusivity remains a core principle.

is promoting women at all stages of their careers

These differences can be harnessed to drive business

Accenture supports its global workforce of 738,000

and investing in targeted support, flexible work

success and attain a competitive edge.

individuals to remain connected by valuing and

the benefits it brings to a company. Hence, Accenture

arrangements, and comprehensive training programs to help women thrive at Accenture.

preserving their distinct local cultures while Accenture’s inclusive view of diversity encompasses people from different cultures, faiths, ethnicities, and

upholding the company's global core values.

A TALK ON THE WILD SIDE WITH SAMAR ALAMRO

70% of Fortune 500 companies have mentoring programs

Samar: I am enjoying the transformation in my country; I used to say facing the challenges but now I am proudly saying finding opportunities.

Emma: What has been the biggest challenge for you and how have you overcome this?

Emma: Do you see differences between generations?

For instance, are older generations more resistant to

Samar: The first 20 years of my career was a series of

change?

challenges on a professional and personal level, but with support and persistent investment in myself I

Samar: We (the old generations) were always ready

am now harvesting the results of my seeds.

for change. The new generation sees it as the future, not a change, so between the wisdom and experience

Emma: What advice would you give to a younger

of the old generations and the enthusiasm of the new

Saudi female starting their career?

generation the change force is unstoppable.

Samar: Do what you are good at, don’t be shy or Emma: KSA has a high percentage of youth, with

refrain from taking challenges, and be patient.

65% of the population being under 35, do you see a different mentality with this generation?

Emma: How important do you feel the WILD network is for women in the region and why?

Samar: Of course, there will always be a mentality gap between the two generations, but the gap is

Samar: WILD is a great initiative and community for

breached through knowledge transfer, sharing

women in KSA.

experiences, and mentorship.

The events see a variety of diverse female role models Emma: What is your personal intention and

come together to share their stories and experiences.

motivation?

WILD also allows women to connect with other women, helping to expand the network across GCC by exchanging knowledge and promoting inclusivity.

Samar: Cross-functional teams that include men, women, and individuals from diverse racial and ethnic backgrounds bring together a wealth of unique perspectives and experiences.

75

Conversations that Matter: Reach Out and Connect A Talk on the WILD Side has been created in partnership with Saudi Projects to help amplify women’s voices, providing meaningful insight and candid conversation with diverse women from across the Kingdom. It provides a platform for women to have a voice, deep diving into all things pertaining to leadership, presenting untamed ideas and inspiration, and paving the way for a sustainable future for women across the region.

DO YOU LIVE AND WORK IN KSA? WOULD YOU LIKE TO BE INTERVIEWED BY EMMA BURDETT FROM WILD FOR A TALK ON THE WILD SIDE? REACH OUT AND TALK TO US NOW AT:

SaudiProjects@tpg.media LET’S GET THE CONVERSATION STARTED! Would you like to know more about how WILD can support your female talent?

Get in touch www.wildwomenlead.com

76

SL RASCH - INTERVIEW WITH MUSTAFA RASCH, CEO

LESS WEIGHT, MORE IMPACT: PIONEERING MEANINGFUL CONSTRUCTION WITH EVERY BUILD IN THE BUSTLING METROPOLIS, WHERE CONCRETE JUNGLES DOMINATE THE SKYLINE, SL RASCH EMERGES AS AN ARCHITECTURAL AND SPECIALIST CONTRACTING FIRM THAT TRANSCENDS TRADITIONAL PARADIGMS. WITH AN UNWAVERING COMMITMENT TO COALESCING HUMAN HABITATS WITH THE NATURAL WORLD, SL RASCH STANDS AS A TESTAMENT TO THE POSSIBILITY OF A SYMBIOTIC EXISTENCE BETWEEN ARCHITECTURE AND NATURE.

 UMBRELLAS ENSURING CLIMATIC COMFORT, MEDINA

SL RASCH - INTERVIEW WITH MUSTAFA RASCH, CEO

77

78

F

SL RASCH - INTERVIEW WITH MUSTAFA RASCH, CEO

ounded in the early 1980s and with vast experience within the

led by Mustafa’s father, Dr Mahmoud Bodo Rasch, the intention was to

Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, SL Rasch has a vision: not just to

revolutionize the construction industry with buildings that blend into

create beautiful buildings but also to harmonize them with their natural

their surroundings, being environmentally conscious. Its approach

surroundings in an interdependent relationship. Mustafa Rasch, CEO at SL

was to integrate renewable and lightweight materials, energy-efficient

Rasch, explains: “The philosophy of the company from the beginning was

design, and innovative technologies to minimize the ecological impact.

to create architecture that works with nature. Humankind has generally

“However,” Mustafa continues, “it quickly became apparent that the

put its constructions ‘onto’ nature, obstructing it massively, and we

projects we were looking to develop were not feasible. It was getting

have all seen the catastrophic results of this, with rising temperatures,

too expensive and too difficult to find contractors who could build the

deforestation, pollution, and depletion of resources like water.

kind of structures we wanted. So we decided to transform ourselves more into a main contractor, a specialized contractor, taking over

“Our approach or calling is to find the right building form and try

the overall project responsibility rather than just the planning.”

to ensure that it can work in harmony with nature. That is a very big challenge; it’s not easy to develop such structures, and I would

Through its commitment to setting high standards for responsible

say it’s an ongoing search, but this is what we’re striving for.”

construction and demonstrating that the enduring power of architecture could not only inspire awe but also foster a deeper

TIMELESS MAJESTY: AN ICONIC CLOCK TOWER IN MAKKAH

connection with the natural world, SL Rasch soon became highly

From day one, when the firm was just a small architectural practice

sought after by discerning and forward-looking clients.

T HE CLOCK TOWER IN MAKKAH, ALSO KNOWN AS THE ABRAJ AL-BAIT CLOCK TOWER

SL RASCH - INTERVIEW WITH MUSTAFA RASCH, CEO

M USTAFA RASCH, CEO AT SL RASCH

79

80

SL RASCH - INTERVIEW WITH MUSTAFA RASCH, CEO

The Clock Tower in Makkah, also known as

REDEFINING CONSTRUCTION WITH

the Abraj Al-Bait Clock Tower, is a soaring

LIGHTWEIGHT MATERIALS

landmark located near the Masjid al-Haram,

Operating in the Kingdom for over 40 years (in

the holiest mosque in Islam, in the city of

fact, Mustafa’s father lived in Saudi Arabia for

Makkah. Completed in 2012, it stands at a

several years before the business was even

height of 600 meters and is a prominent feature

established), SL Rasch has seen the nation

of the Abraj Al-Bait complex, which includes

evolve into one that is now one of the most

luxury hotels, shopping malls, and residential

open-minded in the world when it comes to

apartments. “Initially, it was only going to be

design and construction. “They are always

400 meters, without the clock, but a decision

happy to try new things, and we are delighted

was taken to climb to 600 meters because,

to be working in line with Vision 2030 and the

right in front of the holiest site in Islam, stood

ambitious projects that it is spawning – pressure

a rather traditional hotel constructed primarily

always makes you perform to your best!”

in concrete. The decision was therefore taken to make the tower more prominent,

Yet, SL Rasch’s vision extends far beyond

so something special was needed for the top

individual projects. Collaborating with

overlooking the Haram. It was a challenging

research institutions and universities, the

predicament, but then Mahmoud Bodo Rasch

firm advocates for lightweight structures,

came up with the idea of a clock tower, which

green infrastructure, and urban planning

would give the structure some substance

initiatives that prioritize ecological health.

and meaning. But there was a problem.

“The materials are chosen specifically for each “The foundations had already been completed

individual project, and if you have a large

for a tower teaching 400 meters,” Mustafa

span, for instance, membrane and steel are

explains, “and the client, who had faced a

the most efficient materials to use,” Mustafa

certain amount of criticism, needed a solution.

says. “The materials are chosen according

After many discussions, it was decided to

to the physical needs of the building and the

make the building taller by a full one-third and

desire to minimize or optimize the material

place the biggest clock in the world within

input if you want the lightest weight possible.

it. The Clock Tower would be the minaret – a structure that plays a multifaceted role in Islamic architecture, serving practical, symbolic, and cultural purposes – for the whole of Makkah. Of course, to increase the height of the tower, it had to be extremely lightweight, so we devised a steel structure clad with glass-fiber composite panels to give a very durable and lively finish. It’s around 35,000 tonnes in total, including the clock and a state-of-the-art sound system. It may sound very different at first, but it is ultra-lightweight.”

Other features of the Clock Tower are the 23-meter-diameter crescent on top, five stories of offices, and an astronomy exhibition that brings together the findings of modern science with the time-honored teachings of Muslim scientists, demonstrating that there are no real contradictions between science and the Islamic tradition.

“The philosophy of the company from the beginning was to create architecture that works with nature”

SL RASCH - INTERVIEW WITH MUSTAFA RASCH, CEO

“A very simple example of this is the large-

lower lifecycle costs. This includes factors

scale umbrellas that we’re producing. With

such as lower maintenance, repair, and

umbrellas of this size, you cannot work with

replacement costs over the building’s lifespan,

wood, concrete, or glass, which is why we

resulting in overall savings for the owner.

specify a high grade of steel. To form the actual roof of the umbrella, you need a material that

“Companies that prioritize maximizing profits

is capable of folding and withstanding wind

over quality and sustainability may resort

forces, rainwater, and all different weather

to investing less in buildings themselves,

conditions. The material we found to be the

potentially leading to several negative

best during our long period of research was

consequences. Low-quality construction can

Teflon – it’s the strongest material to withstand

diminish the market value of a property and

weather conditions for a long time. Pure Teflon

make it less attractive to potential buyers or

yarn is woven into membranes that are attached

tenants. Buildings constructed with cheap

to the umbrella arms to create an optimal

materials and substandard workmanship may

shading device and convertible roof structure.”

struggle to compete in the real estate market

ACHIEVING SUPERIOR CONSTRUCTION

and command lower rental or sale prices.

THROUGH THOUGHTFUL INVESTMENT

Furthermore, prioritizing profits over quality

The benefits are there for all to see, but what are

and sustainability raises ethical concerns about

the cost implications? “Investing a little more

the welfare of workers, communities, and the

in design and construction can yield significant

environment. Construction companies have

cost benefits over the long term,” Mustafa says.

a responsibility to uphold ethical standards,

“By investing in durable, lightweight materials

ensure worker safety, and minimize the

and advanced construction techniques,

environmental impact of their activities.

buildings can have longer lifespans and

81

82

SL RASCH - INTERVIEW WITH MUSTAFA RASCH, CEO

SL RASCH - INTERVIEW WITH MUSTAFA RASCH, CEO

83

“We are delighted to be working in line with Vision 2030 and the ambitious projects that it is spawning” “While spending a little more in construction

firm remains at the forefront of lightweight

may require a higher initial investment, the

building practices, pushing the boundaries

potential benefits in terms of quality, durability,

of what is possible in architectural design.

energy efficiency, property value, occupant satisfaction, risk mitigation, and reputation

“It’s a very special team,” says Mustafa, “and

can far outweigh the upfront costs and lead

some have been with us for 40 years, while

to long-term success and profitability for the

others are much younger people who come

project and the stakeholders involved.

with new ideas and approaches. Technically, it’s a very advanced and broad-based team.

“That does not mean that SL Rasch is

Plus, we have a big network of consultants

disproportionately expensive, though; we’re

and companies that we work with to facilitate

completely cost-effective. We have to be

the special projects we undertake. In the end,

because we tender against competition

the key is to find the right type of production

to win jobs. We are not the cheapest, but

companies, the right arm of the industry,

we’re not the most expensive either, we’re

that can benefit a certain project. We work

in the middle somewhere. We don’t have

together with great manufacturers, which,

clients with bottomless pockets, but we

with the umbrella project, for instance,

do have clients who appreciate quality

know hydraulic systems to the last bolt. This

workmanship, an eco-friendly approach,

knowledge and expertise help us to develop

and genuine value for money.”

the most efficient umbrella structures.”

LASTING STRUCTURES, LATEST TOMORROW

SL Rasch has team members and associates

Central to SL Rasch’s success is its

who all share a common vision, mission, and

multidisciplinary team of architects,

values. This has established a positive team

engineers, and computer experts who share a

culture based on mutual respect, trust, integrity,

passion for sustainable innovation. Through

and accountability, encouraging open dialogue,

ongoing research and experimentation, the

creativity, and continuous improvement.

84

SL RASCH - INTERVIEW WITH MUSTAFA RASCH, CEO

THE ROLE OF MODERN CONSTRUCTION

“We create awareness for people to see how

IN EARTH’S PRESERVATION

things can be done in a better way. There is

The Saudi market has always been very

a responsibility to take care of the planet,

important for SL Rasch; it has been operating

and we must develop it correctly instead

in the market for around four decades, and

of abusing it for greed and profit, which is

the company has now decided to focus mainly

unsustainable and detrimental for several

on work within the Kingdom. The company

reasons, including environmental degradation,

recently underpinned this commitment by

climate change, resource depletion, and

setting up a branch in Saudi. It currently has a

loss of biodiversity,” Mustafa concludes.

number of projects ongoing in Riyadh, as well as in Medina, Makkah, and on the Red Sea coast.

By proving that architecture and construction can be a force for positive change, SL Rasch

The team enjoys working in Saudi Arabia

inspires and allows us to envision a future

because the Kingdom is so open to new

where humanity and nature coexist in perfect

and visionary solutions. Moreover, this is a

harmony. With each project, the company

team that ‘walks the talk’, firmly believing

reaffirms its commitment to building a more

in balancing environmental responsibility

meaningful world, one elegant design at a time.

with economic prosperity and social equity in all aspects of its operations.

AT SL RASCH, IT’S NOT JUST A BUSINESS PHILOSOPHY; IT’S A PHILOSOPHY OF LIFE.

Indeed, the people at SL Rasch like to disseminate this passion to clients and suppliers, as well as the world in general.

“Low-quality construction can diminish the market value of a property and make it less attractive to potential buyers or tenants”

SL RASCH - INTERVIEW WITH MUSTAFA RASCH, CEO

“We create an awareness for people to see how things can be done better”

SL RASCH +49 711 9011 480

VISIT WEBSITE EMAIL US

85

86

SL Rasch - Redefining Pilgrimage Comfort for Every Traveler

REDEFINING PILGRIMAGE COMFORT FOR EVERY TRAVELER AS PILGRIMS TRAVEL TO MEDINA FROM ALL OVER THE WORLD TO EXPERIENCE THE SPIRITUAL HEART OF THIS BLESSED TIME IN WHAT IS A UNIQUE LOCATION. IN THIS HALLOWED SPACE, SHIELDED FROM EVERY FORM OF WEATHER, THEY PRACTICE THEIR HOLY RITUALS.

B

ut have you ever wondered who is

The sliding domes and umbrellas,

SL Rasch is a company that raises fundamental

responsible for the pleasant climate

conceptualized and realized by SL Rasch,

questions about the development of holistic

outside the Holy Mosque of the Prophet?

are unique structures that fuse cutting-edge

and individual solutions for new projects

The answer is SL Rasch GmbH, a leading

engineering with the more fundamental goal

while creating a symbiosis between nature

design and build contractor whose work

of ensuring climatic comfort. The striking

and architecture. As a result, throughout

centers on the design and construction

structures, which balance form and function,

their visit to Medina, pilgrims engage in acts

of innovative lightweight architecture.

not only enhance the square’s aesthetic appeal

of devotion, reflection, and remembrance

but also provide a secure area for interactions.

in a safe and comfortable environment.

SL Rasch - Redefining Pilgrimage Comfort for Every Traveler  UMBRELLAS ENSURING CLIMATIC COMFORT, MEDINA

87

Unique structures that fuse cutting-edge engineering with the more fundamental goal of ensuring climatic comfort and safety

88

ALMOOSA DOORS - YOUSEF ALMOOSA, COO

Y OUSEF ALMOOSA, COO, ALMOOSA DOORS

ALMOOSA DOORS - YOUSEF ALMOOSA, COO

89

ALMOOSA DOORS: PASSING DOWN WISDOM, BUILDING FUTURES ALMOOSA DOORS STANDS AS A FORMIDABLE EXAMPLE OF A THRIVING BUSINESS EMPIRE THAT ORIGINATED FROM THE VISION OF A SINGLE FAMILY MEMBER. FOUNDED IN 1984 BY ABDULAZIZ ALMOOSA, WHAT BEGAN AS A SMALL FAMILY BUSINESS FOCUSING ON CURTAINS, WALLPAPER, AND CLADDING HAS EVOLVED INTO A MAJOR GROUP WITH INTERESTS IN DOORS AND WINDOWS, HEALTHCARE, AND EDUCATION.

T

his success can be attributed to the pioneering spirit of its founder

and the group’s commitment to innovation and social responsibility, and it all began in a small fit-out shop in Al-Asha.

“It was 40 years ago that Abdulaziz began operating from his small shop,” explains AlMoosa Doors Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, Yousef AlMoosa. “Married with two young children, at this time he was also building his first house. Of course, there were no real estate developers around back then, so he acquired a piece of land, employed an architect, and project managed the entire process from start to finish.”

This was much more of a challenge than it would be in this day and age, with no internet

 ABDULAZIZ ALMOOSA, FOUNDER IN THE EARLY DAYS.

and very few exhibitions for building materials.

However, Abdulaziz had an entrepreneurial

through a construction related magazine,

This new automatic garage door became not

mindset and was curious about new

Abdulaziz discovered an Australian company,

only the talk of the neighbourhood but of the

technologies and building materials, seeking

Glidrol Doors, that manufactured remotely

entire city. “It was like rocket science! Everyone

creative solutions to problems, and was not

controlled automatic residential garage doors.

was asking what it was, how much it cost, and

afraid to challenge traditional methods. This

This technology was not new back then, but it

who manufactured it. The big question he

quest for knowledge led him to subscribe to

didn’t exist in Saudi Arabia, except in airports,

was asked, though, was why he didn’t stock

a construction related magazine, with Yousef

some royal palaces, and military facilities. But

it in his shop. So he began to research this

AlMoosa continuing: “Abdulaziz was skilled

for someone who didn’t like the idea of getting

opportunity, again communicating with Glidrol

at making the most of available resources.

out of his car every time he returned home,

Doors, explaining that there was demand in

Whether it was financial capital, human capital,

this was an opportunity too good to miss!”

Saudi Arabia and that he would be interested

or time, he prioritized efficiency and was adept at finding imaginative solutions to challenges.

in importing stock to satisfy that demand.”

INNOVATIVE AUTOMATION FOR MODERN LIFESTYLES

Consequently, in 1986, Abdulaziz signed an

“Naturally, because of this, he was good at

Abdulaziz started to communicate with the

official agreement to be a distributor and

spotting gaps in the market, unmet needs,

manufacturer and soon arranged to ship an

transfer the know-how to Saudi Arabia.

or areas for improvement, viewing these as

entire door from Australia to his new home

That was the beginning of a fascinating and

potential business opportunities. Indeed, one

in Al-Ahsa, and, as Yousef AlMoosa points

productive journey, initially offering just one

of those areas for improvement led to a huge

out, “It’s still operating perfectly today.”

product to an eager marketplace. Fast-forward

business opportunity because, while going

to AlMoosa Doors today, and that single

90

ALMOOSA DOORS - YOUSEF ALMOOSA, COO

1 986 ABDULAZIZ ALMOOSA SIGNS AGREEMENT IN AUSTRALIA

product has grown into an entire portfolio,

enough, more than 75% of the components

permeates the entire group, with a combination

including a broad array of doors, parking poles,

are now manufactured locally (it used to

of creativity, risk-taking, adaptability, and

and window shutters. Moreover, the company

be 100% shipped in from Australia), and

a relentless drive to turn opportunities

now boasts a 20,000m2 manufacturing facility

AlMoosa Doors employs over 750 personnel,

into successful ventures, ensuring ongoing

that produces more than 60,000 doors

28% of whom are Saudi nationals.

evolution and growth. This includes moving

annually. There are also 52 branches of the

into the ‘special purpose’ door market, with

company located throughout the length and

SPECIAL PURPOSE DOORS: SAFETY,

products being engineered to meet specific

breadth of the Kingdom, each incorporating a

EFFICIENCY, AND BEYOND

requirements, standards, or regulations

point-of-sale, distribution hub, and sometimes

Entrepreneurial thinking is, of course, fueled by

based on the environment, industry, or

a warehouse to help distribute right the way

a deep passion for a business idea or venture,

application in which they will be installed.

through a specific area. And if all that were not

and the founder’s entrepreneurial zeal now

ALMOOSA DOORS - YOUSEF ALMOOSA, COO

AlMoosa Doors has demonstrated a commitment to environmental responsibility through various sustainable practices and initiatives “In Saudi Arabia, there is a huge demand for special-purpose doors, from blast-resistant doors, common in industrial settings and military facilities, through to bullet-resistant doors, employed in high-security locations such as banks, government buildings, or police stations,” Yousef AlMoosa explains.

“Involvement in this specialist sector began when we became a distributor for a leading player in the industry in the Middle East, which was quickly followed by the signing of a license production agreement to manufacture products in our Al-Asha facility.

Today, the whole portfolio, with regard to engineering and manufacturing quality, has been transferred to us. It’s been a long journey, but it’s been a good journey and well worth all of the effort we put into it.”

INNOVATIVE ECO-FRIENDLY PRODUCTS AND SERVICES Looking to the future, there is still plenty of room for further growth and expansion, particularly with all of the giga-projects, which are being rolled out at quite a pace.

Naturally, competition is fierce, with companies from all over the world wanting to be involved in the Kingdom’s ambitious growth plans. Nevertheless, AlMoosa Doors has experience, expertise, and knowledge of the local market in its favor, including in the area of sustainability, which is so important to developers in Saudi Arabia today.

ALMOOSA

AlMoosa Doors has demonstrated a

+966 92 001 7000

commitment to environmental responsibility through various sustainable practices and initiatives. It prioritizes the use of sustainable materials in its manufacturing processes and places a strong emphasis on energy efficiency in its manufacturing operations.

VISIT WEBSITE EMAIL US

91

92

AlMoosa Doors - access solutions

CUSTOMIZABLE AUTOMATIC DOOR DESIGNS FOR EVERY ENVIRONMENT IN THE BUSTLING REALM OF MODERN ARCHITECTURE, WHERE FUNCTIONALITY INTERTWINES SEAMLESSLY WITH AESTHETICS, ONE COMPANY STANDS AT THE FOREFRONT OF INNOVATION, SHAPING THE WAY WE INTERACT WITH OUR SURROUNDINGS. MEET ALMOOSA DOORS, A PIONEERING FORCE IN THE REALM OF AUTOMATIC PEDESTRIAN DOORS. WITH A COMMITMENT TO ACCESSIBILITY, SAFETY, AND CUTTING-EDGE TECHNOLOGY, ALMOOSA DOORS HAS TRANSFORMED THE LANDSCAPE OF ENTRANCES AND EXITS ACROSS SAUDI ARABIA.

AlMoosa Doors - access solutions

93

“Working together with our esteemed Spanish partner at AlMoosa Doors, Manusa, we prioritize maintaining high quality in every stage of the process,” explained a company spokesman.

“Quality, for us, isn’t just a box to tick; it’s woven into the very fabric of AlMoosa Doors - from the initial design stage to meticulous manufacturing and onto careful packaging, storage, reliable delivery, and accurate installation. It doesn’t end there, though. As a company, we pride ourselves on the aftercare we provide for our clients.

“Our commitment to excellence extends beyond mere compliance. Our products proudly carry the highest international certifications. The automatic pedestrian doors supplied by Manusa fall under the EN 16005 certificate. It ensures that we comply with safety standards for automatic pedestrian doors. This covers the entire spectrum of design, installation, and maintenance, including the incorporation of essential safety features and sensors.

“In addition, with our supplier, Manusa, we actively oversee the Environmental Product Declarations (EPD) process, aligning with ISO guidelines such as ISO 14025, ISO 21930, and ISO 15804. These declarations aim to furnish quantitative insights into the environmental impacts of our products throughout their lifecycle.

“Moreover, we go above and beyond by rigorously testing our products beyond the requirements necessary for certification. This commitment ensures that choosing AlMoosa Doors and Manusa isn’t just about getting a product; it’s also about investing in a simple blend of craftsmanship, trust, and assurance.”

“Quality, for us, isn’t just a box to tick; it’s woven into the very fabric of AlMoosa Doors”

94

AlMoosa Doors - access solutions

for malls and revolving doors for hotels and

To enhance the door experience, the company

hospitals. “The doors we choose for each

also offers a selection of accessories. These

location are based on the relevant codes

include night shields for revolving doors,

and standards. We’ve got automatic sliding

concave or convex glass for curved doors, and

emergency exit doors too. These doors act like

main profiles in sizes like 430cm or 590cm.

Clients receive an app allowing them to control the door, grant access, provide virtual keys, track usage, schedule doors, and change operating modes

like regular doors under normal conditions.

What is more, while some installers use basic

response for our clients. Whether it’s tricky

And we’ve got some doors that barely have

key patch locks on sliding doors to save money,

technical problems, sales puzzles, or complex

a visible frame, so they’re super sleek and

AlMoosa Doors uses premium materials to

installations, we’ve been there and nailed it.

don’t mess with the ambiance of a project.”

ensure quality, functionality, durability, and

NOT JUST DOORS, BUT TECH WIZARDS!

Each door comes with a choice of aluminum

AlMoosa Doors’ Access Solutions Department

profiles, catering to various sizes and colors,

offers a wide range of pedestrian automatic

including options from the RAL color palette.

doors, including automatic sliding doors

superheroes in an emergency but still slide

unrivalled aesthetics. Besides not looking

“We never just sit back and relax. We are

Dealing with fire means acting quickly,

great, the cheaper, lower-quality option makes

always looking for opportunities to learn

and AlMoosa Doors can supply an entire

the space to walk through smaller, as well as

and grow. It’s what we do to stay in the

system – automation, aluminum profile,

not letting clients enjoy the benefits of new

loop with the latest trends. Our combined

and glass – certified and ready to respond

technology. Automatic doors are all about

experience and commitment to staying

immediately in an emergency.

being easy – no keys, safe, and super simple.

ahead of the game mean we tackle technical

“Our Manusa doors aren’t just high quality,

All AlMoosa Doors products come in an

they’re like tech wizards. Our Visio+ operator

attractive silver anodized finish too, and they

The company passes on this vast experience

brings IoT Wi-Fi remote access, inverter

can be customized to any color from the RAL

and expertise to its clients, advising on

technology, Triphasic AC tech for motors, and

palette. Its doors feature mechanical leaf

all aspects of pedestrian doors, including

high-tech motion and presence detectors.

holders, eliminating the need for silicone

budget, as the AlMoosa Doors spokesman

challenges with confidence and skill.”

inserts or glass drilling, resulting in superior

explains: “I have noticed that many buyers,

“We’ve got something special for hospital

aesthetics and durability. Additionally, electro-

project managers, and aluminum providers

ICUs too – semi-fixed doors. They slide in

mechanical locks are cleverly integrated

often opt for cheaper doors. While the lower

normal situations, but when a nurse needs

into the system, allowing remote control of

price tag may be tempting, it’s essential to

more space for a bed, they swing open.

the doors. This advanced locking system

consider all factors, including pre-and-after-

Nowadays, when it comes to pedestrian

allows clients to control doors remotely..

sales services, before making a decision.”

– size, profile, color, you name it. Whatever

STAYING AHEAD OF THE GAME

When it comes to automatic pedestrian

you need, we’ve got you covered!”

With a reputation for unparalleled

doors, there are two phases to

craftsmanship and unwavering dedication to

consider: before and after delivery.

doors, we can tweak them to suit any project

AlMoosa Doors has a variety of door options

quality, AlMoosa Doors’ team of engineers,

designed to handle different widths, weights,

salespeople, installers, and support specialists

Before delivery, a client must ask whether

and heights. Its range includes curved,

represents the pinnacle of expertise in the

the cheaper door they are considering comes

revolving, sliding, swinging, one-way corridor

industry. Everyone comes with a wealth of

with the necessary guidance for their specific

doors, and even specialized hospital doors.

knowledge and is fully supported in their

project. For instance, does the provider

continued professional development.

offer AutoCAD drawings to scale, clear

All AlMoosa aluminum profiles come in an attractive silver anodized finish, and can be customized to any color from the RAL palette

manuals, and adhere to safety standards for “Training is a big thing for us. Whether it’s right

sensors? Are they using the cheapest sensors

here in Saudi Arabia or attending meetings

possible, even if they don't meet safety

with our vendors abroad, we’re always

standards? And will they have a skilled team

learning. We also have training materials

to install the door and deliver it on time?

available at all times, including weekly tests.

We pursue a threat forecasting program that allows us to mitigate any risk in the event of an incident with minimal cost and rapid

AlMoosa Doors - access solutions

G EORGES MARDINY, ACCESS SOLUTIONS MANAGER

95

96

AlMoosa Doors - access solutions

These factors may seem small, but

outside regulations and standards, ensuring no

But it doesn't end there. Every six months

they can make a big difference in

compromises on safety, aesthetics, and quality.

during the warranty period, AlMoosa Doors

the overall success of a project.

provides a free preventive maintenance visit A door lacking a safety sensor isn't truly

to check the door. During this visit, the client

After project delivery, it’s equally important

safe. Similarly, a door without sufficient

can request any changes to door parameters.

to consider the ongoing maintenance and

finger protection space or an emergency

service needs of automatic pedestrian doors.

battery isn’t the safest option. Features like

“Each client is assigned a unique door service

Does the provider offer instructions on how

fire alarm connections, motors capable

number, and they can reach us anytime on

to operate and maintain the door? Do they

of bearing the installed leaf’s weight,

our 24/7 unified service number. This number

provide preventive maintenance services to

and correct door functionality are crucial

automatically generates a claim request,

ensure optimal performance? What is the cost

for maintaining safety. Neglecting any

and clients can also track the progress

of spare parts, especially the board and the

of these aspects puts safety at risk.

of their claim through email updates. We

motor, and how long is the warranty period?

are committed to ongoing support and

What are the most consumable parts of the

“Remember, investing in the right automatic

door, and how long are they designed to

pedestrian door can help you achieve the best

last? What will happen if some parts fail?

results for your project. Don’t let a cheaper

AlMoosa Doors ensures the safety and

price tag be the only factor you consider when

convenience of its clients through

While cheaper automatic pedestrian doors

making a decision. And never forget, when you

various features in its systems. Firstly,

may seem like a bargain, they can end up

buy cheaper, you will end up paying more.”

it installs emergency batteries in all

costing more in the long run. Investing in

satisfaction throughout the entire process.”

systems, guaranteeing several door

a quality door that comes with excellent

DEDICATED 24/7 CUSTOMER SERVICE

openings during a blackout to prevent

pre- and after-sales service can help

FOR UNINTERRUPTED SUPPORT

anyone from being trapped.

save money and time in the long run.

AlMoosa Doors’ constant quest for quality in both product and service dictates that the

Moreover, the company incorporates IoT

Clients should not make decisions solely

installation process always begins with a

smart Wi-Fi modules and Door Management

based on ‘numbers’; while important,

site survey, with a sales coordinator visiting

Systems (DMS). Clients receive an app allowing

they must align with value and quality.

the site to note all client requirements,

them to control the door, grant access,

thereby ensuring that the correct solution

provide virtual keys, track usage, schedule

Furthermore, there’s a widespread lack of

is offered. Following this, the installation

doors, and change operating modes – all

awareness regarding how automatic doors

and commissioning are completed, and

accessible through their mobile or web app.

can impact the overall user experience, safety,

a detailed installation report is finalized.

security, electricity bills, and pedestrian flow.

The client is not asked to sign the report

“Our systems are equipped with advanced

Clients should reject installations that fall

until they are completely satisfied.

safety features and motion detection

AlMoosa Doors - access solutions

Every six months during the warranty period, AlMoosa Doors provides a free preventive maintenance visit to check the door technology. We use top-notch safety and

“This early involvement allows us to

TAILORED SOLUTIONS: PERSONALIZED

understand the specific needs of the

SERVICE FOR EVERY CLIENT

project and tailor our solutions to meet the

In a world where accessibility, safety, and

architectural vision. Early-stage involvement

convenience are paramount, AlMoosa

is also needed to ensure seamless integration

Doors stands as a beacon of excellence,

of automatic doors in the overall design, both

providing seamless access solutions that

aesthetically and functionally, by ensuring

elevate the experience of every building

that the doors not only meet safety and

user. With its unmatched expertise,

functionality standards but also contribute

unparalleled quality, and unwavering

positively to the overall design aesthetics.

commitment to customer satisfaction,

motion sensors from Europe, integrating the

97

AlMoosa Doors is the trusted partner for all

latest technologies to ensure the doors open

“Also, the early coordination will allow

in the safest way with minimal faults. Clients

us more efficient coordination with other

appreciate the robustness of our products.

construction elements such as structure

To find out more and discover how your next

Out of three system options, two come with

engineers, electrical systems, and finishing

project can enjoy superior design, quality

double-inverter triphasic AC motors. This not

contractors. This will help us prevent unwanted

workmanship, and a level of customer

only provides redundancy in case of motor

issues and enhance the overall success of

service that has set a benchmark for the

failure but also ensures powerful, speedy,

the project by delivering on time, on budget,

industry, visit Al-Moosa Doors at your earliest

and quiet operation for our clients. We are

and as per requirements and standards.”

convenience. You’ll be made very welcome.

your automatic pedestrian door needs.

dedicated to delivering reliable and innovative solutions to meet our clients’ needs.”

And whatever the challenge, AlMoosa Doors has learned from experience that clients

SEAMLESS INTEGRATION OF AUTOMATIC

demand not only good prices but also speed of

DOORS WITH BUILDING ARCHITECTURE

delivery. “We keep products in stock in Saudi

Among these clients are a number of

Arabia, use efficient systems for managing our

the region's leading consultants and

supplies, and work with experienced suppliers

architectural firms, with the company’s

who know the market well. Our planning and

spokesman explaining: “We prefer to be

forecasting systems help us predict what the

part of the project from the early stage,

market needs, so we can have products ready

ideally during the initial planning and design

when they’re needed. We also make sure we

phase. By being part of the projects at this

have a variety of products in stock that others

early stage, we can provide architects and

might not have. This helps us get products to

consultants with valuable insights into the

clients faster than many of our competitors.”

integration of automatic pedestrian doors.

AlMoosa Doors ensures the safety and convenience of its clients through various features in its systems.

98

AlMoosa Doors - access solutions

AlMoosa Doors - access solutions

99

Abdulaziz had an entrepreneurial mindset and was curious about new technologies and building materials This approach and philosophy go a long way toward explaining why it has successfully completed many LEED projects for a broad range of blue-chip clients. By integrating sustainable practices into its operations, AlMoosa Doors exemplifies a manufacturing company that is not only focused on producing high-quality products but also on minimizing its environmental footprint.

EXPLORING LUCRATIVE VENTURES AND STRATEGIC BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES There are challenges at the current time, such as unstable prices for raw materials, logistics, instability in the Red Sea, and the post-Covid shipping crises, but AlMoosa Doors is navigating them by being ever more efficient and innovative.

However, the opportunities are out there and will continue to grow. Efficiency, a critical driver of success for companies, is the key to influencing financial performance, competitiveness, customer satisfaction, and the overall ability to adapt and thrive in a dynamic business environment. By focusing on efficiency, AlMoosa Doors will continue to build a foundation for long-term success and resilience.

ALMOOSA DOORS +966 92 001 7000

VISIT WEBSITE EMAIL US

100 MIRAGE - the Zone Riyadh

MIRAGE: GLOBAL REACH, LOCAL EXCELLENCE NESTLED AT THE HEART OF THE BUSTLING CITYSCAPE OF RIYADH STANDS ONE OF THE LARGEST COMMERCIAL COMPLEXES IN THE CAPITAL, A 50,000M2 DESTINATION WITH LUXURY SHOPPING AND FINE DINING, THE ZONE. EPITOMIZING MODERNITY AND CONVENIENCE, ITS SLEEK APPEARANCE REFLECTS THE VIBRANCY OF THE SURROUNDING URBAN LANDSCAPE, DRAWING IN PASSERSBY WITH PROMISES OF ENDLESS EXPLORATION AND INDULGENCE.

 THE ZONE, RIYADH

MIRAGE - the Zone Riyadh 101

102 MIRAGE - the Zone Riyadh

S

urrounded by leafy palm trees with

Beyond its commercial offerings, The Zone

commerce, culture, and community converge

a dancing fountain in the middle

serves as more than just a shopping destination

to create an unforgettable experience for all.

that mesmerizes visitors with its shows

– it’s a cultural hub that fosters creativity and

and delightful colors, The Zone exudes an

connection. It’s a place where locals gather to

Naturally, such a high-end destination

ambiance of sophistication and vitality.

celebrate, to discover, and to simply revel in

requires high-end designers, manufacturers,

Glancing around, one is greeted by a plethora

the vibrant tapestry of urban life. In essence, it

and contractors, and at The Zone, Italian

of enticing storefronts, each offering a

transcends the traditional notion of a shopping

company Mirage was at the top of the list of

kaleidoscope of merchandise ranging

center, evolving into a dynamic microcosm

the firms it chose to turn to, a business that

from haute couture to artisanal crafts.

of contemporary society - a place where

has been designing and producing porcelain

C USTOM-MADE PRODUCT FOR THE FLOOR AT THE ZONE, RIYADH

MIRAGE - the Zone Riyadh 103

The Zone serves as more than just a shopping destination

stoneware floor and wall tiles for clients in

Mirage is recognized for its innovative designs

more than 160 countries for over 50 years.

and contemporary aesthetics. Its tiles often feature modern patterns, textures, and colors

The Zone was a multifaceted project in terms

that appeal to architects and designers

of both its concept and construction, with

seeking stylish and sophisticated options for

Mirage creating a custom-made product for

their projects. Whether it’s contemporary,

the floor - each tile measuring 45cm x 90cm

classic, or eclectic, Mirage offers tiles to suit

and having a thickness of 20mm – while also

every taste. At The Zone, its skilled craftsmen

providing technical and operational support.

became one with their materials, creating a

Indeed, Mirage endeavors to create a ‘complete

work of art that will stand the test of time.

project’ whatever it is working on, covering everything from the creation of designer materials with a low environmental impact to offering broader solutions focused on creativity, social well-being, and sustainability.

Mirage is recognized for its innovative designs and contemporary aesthetics

MIRAGE +39 05 362 9611 VISIT WEBSITE

Interiors

H EALTHCARE INTERIOR DESIGN

Healing Spaces: The Crucial Role of Interior Design in Healthcare

104

When it comes to healthcare, interior design is frequently the unsung hero operating in the background while advances in medicine and cutting-edge technology take center stage. It is impossible to overestimate the importance of thoughtful and functional interior design in healthcare settings because, beyond aesthetics, it is essential to the creation of healing environments that support staff productivity, advance patient well-being, and enhance the patient experience in general.

The influence on patient outcomes is among the core principles of healthcare interior design. Empirical studies regularly indicate that a well-planned environment has an advantageous impact on the recuperation of patients. A stress-free atmosphere is enhanced by natural light, soothing colors, and welcoming furnishings, and

it has been connected to quicker healing periods and higher levels of patient satisfaction overall. Clinical facilities can be transformed by interior design into healing havens that provide patients with a sense of security and comfort during their frequently difficult recovery journeys.

Apart from the health of the patient, interior design is essential for the support of medical staff. Healthcare facilities are hectic places where employee and patient health are closely related. Enhancing staff morale and productivity can be achieved by designing spaces that offer ergonomic workstations, support efficient processes, and integrate natural elements.

A well-designed workspace can help healthcare professionals feel less stressed, which improves workplace morale and, in turn, the standard of care given.

Empirical studies regularly indicate that a well-planned environment has an advantageous impact on the recuperation of patients

Complying with Guidelines In order to reduce the transmission of diseases, interior design elements such as readily cleaned surfaces, well-placed hand hygiene stations, and functional ventilation systems are essential. A wellplanned interior for a healthcare facility guarantees that the physical surroundings comply with strict cleaning guidelines and infection control procedures.

In addition, for patients and their families, interior design plays a big part in making the experience enjoyable and memorable. The provision of comfortable waiting rooms, well-marked pathways, and visually appealing surroundings all enhance the feeling of concern and care for the health and welfare of patients.

Award-Winning Design The award-winning interior design at the Cleveland Clinic Lou Ruvo Center for Brain Health in Las Vegas, Nevada, USA, designed by world-renowned architect Frank Gehry, is an excellent case in point.

The design, characterized by unconventional angles, stainless steel, and iconic shapes,

contributes to creating a memorable and uplifting environment for patients, with calming color schemes, natural light, and open spaces to promote a positive and healing atmosphere.

The hospital incorporates art and nature into its design to enhance the overall healing environment, creating a facility that not only meets the functional requirements of a medical institution but also goes above and beyond to prioritize the wellbeing and experience of its patients.

Encouraging Healing and Well-being In summary, interior design has a considerably more significant role in healthcare than just aesthetics. It is a tactical instrument that can improve staff well-being, have a favorable impact on patient outcomes, and add to a satisfying healthcare experience for everyone involved. Recognizing and investing in the potential of careful interior design is not only a luxury but also a requirement in creating environments that genuinely encourage healing and well-being as the healthcare landscape in Saudi Arabia continues to evolve.

The hospital incorporates art and nature into its design to enhance the overall healing environment

Interiors

Explore the Top Emerging Trends Shaping Office Spaces in 2024 with MillerKnoll Workplaces have been reshaped to incorporate not only working within the office but also accommodating those working remotely. Therefore, organizations now are directed to design spaces that provide flexibility and can adopt the hybrid model.

This year, eco-friendly designs are viewed as a growing trend. These designs include energy-saving LED lighting, motion sensors, timeless designs, and modular and adaptable furniture, which are progressively being recognized as a requirement.

106

E CO-DRIVEN DESIGNS - BOA TABLE BY HAY ILLUMINATION FOR PRODUCTIVITY - FINE SUSPENSION LAMP BY MUUTO CLUTTER-FREE ORGANIZATION - SIDEBOARD STORAGE BY NAUGHTONE

Thoughtfully designed breakout areas that drive engagement, creativity, and renewal through experiential spaces promoting informal connection are all part of the new office designs that firms are looking at.

“Eco-driven designs in workplaces play an important role in reducing the carbon footprint and promoting sustainability.

It’s also seen to have a better effect in promoting employee wellbeing, leading to overall satisfaction,” said Stacy Stewart, MEA Regional Director, MillerKnoll.

T ECHNOLOGY INTEGRATION - ONDO BY CBS

“Eco-driven designs in workplaces play an important role in reducing the carbon footprint and promoting sustainability”

T ECHNOLOGY INTEGRATION - ONDO BY CBS

Nonetheless, creating strategic office lighting elevates engagement to upholding wellness and safety. The importance of lighting includes mitigating eye fatigue risks that help employees focus, quality lighting systems reinforce alertness and concentration throughout dynamic workdays.

“Using illumination that mimics natural daylight, such as cool tones, provides a bright, crisp light that helps employees feel more alert and energized while reducing eye strain,” Stewart said.

MillerKnoll, a workplace design company, believes that this year there will be some of the most interesting designs that reflect that they are future-ready workplaces centered on connection, well-being, and change.

 ENERGISING BREAKOUT ZONES - KNOLL WOMB CHAIR AND PLATNER COFFEE TABLE

“Dedicated breakout zones provide the opportunity for informal discussions, where conversations can spark creativity. Outside of informal meetings, they are a great way for employees to relax and take a break from their screens,” explained Stewart.

“The idea behind strategic furnishings is that they can create a balance of professionalism with relaxation to enable recharging and relationship building.”

MillerKnoll identified the top six emerging trends shaping office spaces this year, showcasing different priorities that empower companies to embrace conscious design attuned to modern needs.

For more information please visit MillerKnoll.

VISIT WEBSITE

Specialists in the supply of finishing materials from high-end customized products to stock for commercial projects.

Sophistication in the heart of Saudi Arabia since 1994.

At Nesma Orbit, we have shaped a legacy of sophistication in the heart of Saudi Arabia by fostering strong relationships, trust, and a commitment to superior quality since 1994.

We specialize in high-end finishing materials to meet the diverse needs of clients by offering luxurious customized products to stock for commercial projects.

Our range includes porcelain and ceramic tiles, decorative items, natural stones, sanitary fixtures, wood flooring, door handles, and mosaics. Featuring top-tier Italian porcelain suppliers like Atlas Concorde, bringing a unique style that enriches spaces with the beauty of Italian design.

We have successfully executed diverse projects from highend palaces, residential compounds, hotels, private villas to other types of commercial spaces, such as, shopping centers, restaurants and beauty salons.

Contact us today to see how we can add value to your business or project.











orbitksa.com

Nesma Orbit Locations: Jeddah Tel: +966 12 669 6789 Riyadh Tel: +966 11 217 9138 / 217 9108 Al-Khobar Tel: +966 13 887 1076

110 INTERIORS - KRISTINA ZANIC CONSULTANTS

NARRATIVE THREADS: STORIES WOVEN INTO SPATIAL DESIGN AT THE ST. REGIS RIYADH IN THE REALM OF HOSPITALITY, AN AUTHENTIC DESIGN IDENTITY CAN SIGNIFICANTLY IMPACT MARKET POSITIONING. IT HELPS DIFFERENTIATE THE PROPERTY FROM COMPETITORS AND ATTRACTS PEOPLE WHO RESONATE WITH THE NARRATIVE. THIS CONNECTION CAN LEAD TO INCREASED VALUE AND CUSTOMER SATISFACTION, AS GUESTS FEEL A SENSE OF BELONGING AND ATTACHMENT TO A SPACE THAT GOES BEYOND ITS PHYSICAL ATTRIBUTES.

S TELLA SKY LOUNGE

INTERIORS - KRISTINA ZANIC CONSULTANTS 111

112 INTERIORS - KRISTINA ZANIC CONSULTANTS

S

audi Projects spoke to Marina Krasnobrizhaya, General Manager,

The St. Regis Riyadh, and Kristina Zanic, CEO, Kristina Zanic Consultants, first asking what sets The St. Regis Riyadh apart from other Marriott (and St Regis) properties.

Marina Krasnobrizhaya: The St. Regis Riyadh marks the debut of the brand in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and with it brings its iconic traditions and signature hallmarks to the country. The opening ushers in a new benchmark of luxury in the capital, offering a new viewpoint on anticipatory service and avant-garde design, which are synonymous with St. Regis globally and set it apart from other properties. The debut of the brand marks Marriott’s commitment to bringing new luxury experiences to Saudi Arabia, in line with the country’s Vision 2030.

The St. Regis brand’s founding family, the Astors, were known for seeking out exquisite

 THE ST REGIS RIYADH

locations around the globe for their collection of homes, and The St. Regis Riyadh reflects their love for residential properties. It is the first boutique-style luxury hotel in the capital featuring 83 luxurious guestrooms, including 21 exquisite suites and an expansive two-bedroom Royal Suite. The hotel brings a different level of bespoke service with the legendary St. Regis Butler Service, a personalized hallmark of the brand for more than a century, which ensures that each guest’s individual preferences are considered at every turn. The hotel’s design also sets it apart, cast from ancient Tuwaiq mountain stone found in the south of the country, the hotel embodies Salmani architecture; and modernity while celebrating local design.  DELUXE KING ROOM WITH GARDEN VIEW

INTERIORS - KRISTINA ZANIC CONSULTANTS 113

 KRISTINA ZANIC

 MARINA KRASNOBRIZHAYA

Saudi Projects: How did the locale inspire the design? Talk us through the design narrative, where it started, and how it came to life.

Kristina Zanic: The hotel’s style epitomizes the luxurious aesthetic that is synonymous with the St. Regis brand, but it also draws inspiration from its local setting. Because the property is located within the new shopping and dining district of Via Riyadh with its lively piazza-like ambiance, it is perfectly positioned to be at the heart of the city’s flourishing social scene.

“The St. Regis brand’s founding family, the Astors, were known for seeking out exquisite locations around the globe”

narrative we created revolves around Riyadh’s emerging ‘La Dolce Vita’ lifestyle—a phrase meaning ‘the sweet life’ and embodying a lavish and dynamic urban way of life.

This lifestyle has always traditionally been rooted in a city’s bustling avenues and chic boulevards where the ‘it’ crowd shops, dines and socializes at its leisure. So we drew inspiration from the interlacing of streets in this urban landscape and their rhythmic

This urban dynamism was something we

geometry and integrated this theme into

wanted to mirror in the design of the hotel.

the interior design and art direction.

Riyadh itself is undergoing a significant

With these considerations in mind, we set

These linear and geometric patterns feature

transformation, as it evolves into a

about to create a refined ambiance that allows

prominently throughout the property as

cosmopolitan hub on the international stage.

guests to savor life’s luxuries. The design

a common design thread, appearing in

Also considering the broader context,

114 INTERIORS - KRISTINA ZANIC CONSULTANTS

J ACKIE RESTAURANT

S TELLA SKY LOUNGE

 ST. REGIS BAR

INTERIORS - KRISTINA ZANIC CONSULTANTS 115

Marina Krasnobrizhaya: As the debut of the brand in Saudi Arabia, The St. Regis Riyadh is an important addition to our luxury portfolio.

When selecting a design partner for the project we knew it would require a passion for local design and art, plus a deep understanding of the brand and its design nuances.

Throughout the hotel, the Kristina Zanic team has integrated nods to the region’s storied past and evolving future with St. Regis’ sophisticated modernity.

Saudi Projects: What was the design brief for the interior and why?

Kristina Zanic: Our brief from the St Regis team, in collaboration with the developer SELA, was to create an interior that embodies modern sophistication and stays true to the St Regis brand, while also blending with the adjacent Via Riyadh district. The design brief provided a lot of flexibility, giving us the freedom to develop a unique vision for the hotel. This vision was grounded in our understanding of the immediate locale and wider culture, as well as our familiarity with the design essence of the St Regis brand.

Saudi Projects: What was the brief for the rooms and suites?

Kristina Zanic: Our vision for the guest rooms and suites was to create contemporary luxurious retreats, that invite guests into a comfortable and indulgent atmosphere. We wanted these spaces to exude an airy, bright ambiance that complements the expansive views. aspects such as the angled ceilings of the

considered development by SELA reflects the

guestrooms, geometric screens in the

level of premium and dynamic destinations

lobby, wall, and floor patterns, as well

that are being developed in the country and

as motifs in the art and accessories.

sets the tone for luxury destinations. The St. Regis Riyadh is the only hotel in the heart of

Saudi Projects: What was it about

Via Riyadh and compliments the destination’s

this area/development that was

curated mix of luxury boutiques, dining, and

the right fit for the brand?

entertainment offerings. We believe it is the best address for the first St. Regis in the capital.

Marina Krasnobrizhaya: Via Riyadh is a new landmark destination and a hotspot

Saudi Projects: Why was Kristina Zanic

for residents and global travelers. The well-

Consultants the right fit for this project?

“Throughout the hotel, the Kristina Zanic team has integrated nods to the region’s storied past and evolving future”

116 INTERIORS - KRISTINA ZANIC CONSULTANTS

S PA RELAXATION LOUNGE

INTERIORS - KRISTINA ZANIC CONSULTANTS 117

The use of pitched ceilings was a deliberate design choice because they accentuate the sense of roominess while aligning with the angular design motif.

In terms of furnishings, we curated a selection of stylish lounge furniture for a relaxed feel.

The rooms feature custom-made rugs with a sumptuous finish and an abstract pattern in a calm blue palette. The tall headboards are upholstered in geometric patterned leather and add a focal point to the room design.

Polished wood cabinets are decorated with semi-precious stone handles and subtly evoke a jewellery-inspired theme – one that is further accentuated by the faceted glass bedside lamps, that are elegantly suspended from the ceiling.

We also extended this sense of luxury into the generously sized bathrooms, featuring cream-colored marble walls and floors, and bronze accents and fixtures. The Royal Suite in particular boasts an additional touch of opulence with a bathtub in a translucent amber hue from Italian brand Antonio Lupi.

Saudi Projects: Talk us through the material selections and color palettes within the hotel interiors.

Kristina Zanic: The color palette we selected embraces quiet neutral tones punctuated with vibrant accents. Throughout the property, we’ve used intense blues and warm ambers, weaving them into the design of guestrooms, bar, and banquet spaces.

In the drawing room, we integrated touches of powder pink and deep plum, while the rooftop lounge Stella, welcomes guests with an inviting mix of copper, clay, and midnight blue tones, creating a cozy and engaging atmosphere.

We employed reflective finishes like glass, mirror, bronze, and copper, to step up the opulence in line with the overarching theme of high fashion and glamour.

118 INTERIORS - KRISTINA ZANIC CONSULTANTS

Our flooring choices predominantly feature cream-colored marble, cut into various geometric patterns. Additionally, elements such as wooden wall paneling and tall bronze geometric screens

“The rooms feature custom-made rugs with a sumptuous finish and an abstract pattern in a calm blue palette”

add an element of sophistication.

Saudi Projects: What would you say the stand-out spaces are within the property, and what inspired the design?

Kristina Zanic: The hotel has several eyecatching and distinct features. The luxurious vibe is set right from the entrance, with a lavishly decorated double-height lobby.

A sculptural staircase with a minimal sinuous form conveys a sense of modern luxury. The statement chandeliers in the lobby and function areas also add to the grandeur, showcasing graceful flowing forms and intricate glass ‘leaves’.

One of the standout features of the design is the St. Regis Bar mural, which is a hallmark of the St. Regis brand. This was entirely

 SUITE

handmade and took four months to create.

It stands five meters tall and is a custom textile art piece made by intricately layering various materials such as twisted and embroidered fabric, metal, glass, and beads.

These elements come together seamlessly to create a stunning backdrop for the drinks bar, while also emphasizing the impressive height of the space. The mural’s shades of blue and amber blend in with the existing color scheme of the lounge and bar furniture.

Another highlight is the restaurant, Jackie’s, which makes a striking style statement and draws inspiration from the glamour of Jackie Onassis. This is a dramatic space featuring a six-meter-tall ceiling and a grand staircase that descends alongside an elegant black and white gallery wall. We created seating nooks through alcoves that are enveloped in antique mirrors and that frame blue velvet seats, all adding to the classic elegant style. And the perfect finishing touch in this luxurious space comes in the form of a grand piano, custom painted in a vibrant blue.  GUESTROOM BATHROOM

INTERIORS - KRISTINA ZANIC CONSULTANTS 119  ST. REGIS BAR

“We employed reflective finishes like glass, mirror, bronze, and copper” Marina Krasnobrizhaya: Jackie's is spread

appeal but also creates a holistic experience

over two floors and is a place for family

for those interacting with the space.

gatherings sharing dishes spread over a large oak table or more intimate moments in its

In conclusion, the design narrative at the

elegant carved ceiling alcoves. Alternatively,

St. Regis Riyadh serves as the foundation

Stella, on the rooftop, is a lively place; by

for creating an authentic design identity,

day guests can laze on sunbeds around the

weaving together the threads of history,

pool, and by night take a seat indoors to

purpose, and experience. It is a powerful tool

enjoy live entertainment, sheesha, and live

that elevates the property from a structure

culinary stations. The hotel also features

to a unique and meaningful environment,

an expansive St. Regis Spa and Ballroom,

fostering connections and leaving a

catering to 650 guests with private access, a

lasting impression on its occupants.

banquet area, and an elegant bridal suite.

Artistry in Every Detail: Craftsmanship

KRISTINA ZANIC CONSULTANTS

and Bespoke Design

+971 4 288 2440

The design narrative at the St. Regis Riyadh

VISIT WEBSITE

contributes to a consistent and harmonious aesthetic throughout the property. This cohesiveness not only enhances the visual

EMAIL US

Speciality Doors

First impressions Count 40 years experience, 52 branches

and over 700 specialist employees all with the the single purpose of

providing you the best solution to meet all your needs.

122 INTERIORS - NESMA ORBIT

INTERIORS - NESMA ORBIT 123

TIMELESS CRAFTSMANSHIP FOR DISCERNING TASTES NESMA ORBIT FOR INDUSTRIAL PROJECTS AND COMMERCE HAVE BEEN SHAPING A LEGACY OF SOPHISTICATION IN THE HEART OF SAUDI ARABIA

BY FOSTERING STRONG RELATIONSHIPS, TRUST AND A COMMITMENT TO SUPERIOR QUALITY SINCE 1994. WE SPECIALIZE IN HIGH-END FINISHING MATERIALS THAT SATISFY THE DIVERSE NEEDS AND OFTEN EXCEED THE EXPECTATION OF CLIENTS. WE HAVE A WIDE COLLECTION OF MARBLE, GRANITE, LIMESTONE, SEMI-PRECIOUS STONES, TRAVERTINE AND OTHER NATURAL STONES. OUR RANGE ALSO INCLUDE PORCELAIN AND CERAMIC TILES, MOSAICS, WOOD FLOORING, IRONMONGERIES, SANITARY FIXTURES AND ACCESSORIES. WE ENSURE HIGH LEVELS OF PRECISION, IN FIT AND FINISH, USING VARIOUS ADVANCED TOOLS AND TECHNIQUES, INCLUDING BOTH MANUALLY AND DIGITALLY PROGRAMMED SAWS, WATER JETS, CNC AND TUMBLING MACHINES.

N

esma Orbit has successfully delivered

One of our premium collections is Marvel

diverse projects spanning from

Travertine from Atlas Concorde. Travertine

luxurious palaces, high-end residential

has been an elegant constant in architecture

compounds, prestigious hotels, private villas to

since ancient times. Marvel Travertine

public and commercial spaces, such as banks,

inherits its grandeur in a contemporary

shopping centers, leisure parks, restaurants

key, replicating its look but transforming it

and even airports and other industrial

into a versatile, durable, high-performance

projects. Our reputation is built on over two

surface, both for indoor and outdoor

decades of collaborating with professionals

spaces, taking full advantage of the qualities

in the industry such as Architects, Engineers

and characteristics of porcelain tiles.

and Designers. We extend our support further by assisting individuals from value

Other superb tiles we have come from Marca

engineering, material selection to installation.

Corona, featuring Arkiquartz, Deluxe, Fiemme and other collections. They produce wide

We are driven by innovation and thrive

range of colors and formats that meet the

in nurturing ideas with groundbreaking

needs of various designs and themes while

solutions, infusing a unique visual language

fulfilling the most demanding technical

into every project. Our customized services

requirements like durability and substance

go beyond material selection, as we take

resistance with utmost regard to safety,

pride in providing high-quality materials and

practicality and environmental preservation.

an exceptional showroom experience for our clients by offering valuable advice on design

Keeping both great aesthetic flexibility

solutions and installation procedures.

and reliable performance, we dress up spaces with passion.

Distinguishing ourselves further, Nesma Orbit proudly features top-tier Italian porcelain and ceramic manufacturers like Atlas Concorde, Fiandre, Marca Corona, Mutina and many others, bringing unique styles that enrich spaces with beauty of various designs.

NESMA ORBIT VISIT WEBSITE EMAIL US

124 INTERIORS - VITRA

SUSTAINABILITY IN ACTION: TODAY, TOMORROW, TOGETHER VITRA, ECZACIBAŞI BUILDING PRODUCTS’ (EBP) FLAGSHIP BRAND, STANDS AS A BEACON OF INNOVATION AND CRAFTSMANSHIP IN THE REALM OF BATHROOM DESIGN AND MANUFACTURING; THE ONLY COMPANY IN THE WORLD TO CREATE EVERY COMPONENT OF THE BATHROOM ECOSYSTEM IN-HOUSE, ENSURING UNPARALLELED QUALITY AND COHESION IN EVERY ASPECT OF ITS PRODUCT PORTFOLIO.

INTERIORS - VITRA 125

126 INTERIORS - VITRA

F

rom sleek faucets to luxurious bathtubs, from innovative

WCs to state-of-the-art showers, VitrA handles every stage of production with precision and expertise. This vertically integrated approach allows for seamless coordination between design, engineering, and manufacturing, resulting in products that not only meet but exceed the highest standards of performance and aesthetics.

Embracing cutting-edge technologies and sustainable practices, and driven by a passion for pushing the boundaries of design and engineering, VitrA consistently explores new materials, technologies, and concepts to create products that redefine the modern bathroom experience.

ATTRACTIVE AND SUSTAINABLE OPTIONS: WASHBASIN TRENDS Choosing a sink for the bathroom is not only crucial for creating a functional space but also for making a statement with the decoration, resulting in a well-designed bathroom. By considering both personal preferences and needs along with the washbasin trends, it’s possible to create a more modern, functional, and even environmentally friendly space. In this article, we will discuss washbasin trends for those who prioritize bathroom decoration.

THE YEAR OF NATURAL MATERIALS Washbasin models produced from natural materials such as ceramic and marble are among the most prominent washbasin trends.

Pairing these washbasins with bathroom furniture made from natural elements like wood is crucial to maintaining the integrity of naturalness. Besides, the use of these sinks and bathroom furniture together with brass or recycled lavatory faucets can capture a highly trendy and decorative reflection in the space.

In summary, as in other parts of the living spaces, products and furniture inspired by nature are also at the forefront in bathrooms.

Of course, being made from natural materials alone is not enough for a product to be environmentally friendly. Clean production,

Washbasin models produced from natural materials such as ceramic and marble are among the most prominent washbasin trends

INTERIORS - VITRA 127

128 INTERIORS - VITRA

Instead of glossycolored washbasins, matte-colored washbasin designs are another standout feature in current washbasin trends have clear corners, such as rectangular and square, can adapt to the latest trends if they are designed with curved corners.

Complementing minimalist and curved designs with countertop sinks, bowl sinks, and washbasins with shelves, can enhance the modern look of bathrooms, making these stylish washbasin categories even more eye-catching.

According to the 2022 Sustainability Report, VitrA has prevented waste and created a positive environmental impact by recycling 86.6% of the tonnes of waste produced

MATTE COLORS Instead of glossy-colored washbasins, mattecolored washbasin designs are another standout feature in current washbasin trends.

This is especially true with colors such as white and beige, which can create a natural and soft effect and can also be successful in making

conscious consumption and sustainable

MINIMALIST AND CURVED DESIGNS

living require more than that. At this point,

Modern, minimalist designs are frequently

concepts such as circular economy, recycling,

seen in the most trendy washbasin models of

With its matte beige color and five different

and waste management gain importance.

recent years. In addition to these, products

forms, including round, oval, rectangular,

bathrooms look larger and more spacious.

designed with curved, elegant, smoothly

asymmetric, and TV, the VitrA 100% Recycled

The VitrA 100%* Recycled Ceramic Washbasin

transitioning designs and fine lines also attract

Washbasin has a design that reflects trends

is produced from waste generated during the

attention in the fashionable world of bathroom

with both its color and curved lines.

production process, including broken ceramics,

washbasins. Currently, round-oval forms are

which would normally go to disposal. This

particularly prominent. Forms that normally

VitrA environmentally friendly washbasin, the first and only 100%* recycled washbasin in the world, prevents waste, reduces the need for new resources in production, and ensures energy efficiency. It aims to achieve a 38% improvement in electricity consumption per product and save approximately 5 kg of raw materials per product. Furthermore, according to the Life Cycle Assessment conducted in accordance with ISO 14040:2006 and 14044:2006, using waste in production improves the global warming potential by 30%.

INTERIORS - VITRA 129

DOUBLE SINKS The use of side-by-side double sinks has become a popular option not only in offices but also in homes with sufficient space. Double sinks allow for the creation of a practical and modern-looking area, where countertop sink varieties can be utilized to create storage space and, at the same time, save space. Of course, when choosing double sinks, opting for matte-colored alternatives with natural materials, curved lines, and minimalist designs can achieve a trendier look.

From the VitrA 100% Recycled Washbasin to other washbasin varieties that reflect trends with their practical, modern designs, durability, and eco-friendly features, VitrA offers a range of options. use of existing resources and the reduction

a sustainable future. This is why the VitrA

CIRCULAR ECONOMY, ITS BENEFITS

in the need for new raw materials, both

100%* Recycled Washbasin, the first and

AND ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS

energy and cost savings are achieved.

only 100%* recycled ceramic washbasin in

The circular economy is a concept that

the world, is such a remarkable product.

seeks to transform our traditional linear

WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN

economic model into a more sustainable

CIRCULAR ECONOMY AND LINEAR ECONOMY?

INNOVATION FOR SUSTAINABILITY,

and regenerative one. In this new model,

Like the circular economy, the linear

IMPACT FOR GENERATIONS

resources are used efficiently throughout

economy is also one of the most commonly

According to the 2022 Sustainability Report,

their lifecycle, with products designed for

heard concepts and is an economic

VitrA has prevented waste and created a

durability, repairability, and recyclability.

system that represents traditional

positive environmental impact by recycling

Instead of being disposed of, materials are

production and consumption.

86.6% of the tonnes of waste produced

recovered and reused in new products, closing the loop and minimizing waste.

throughout the year, including gypsum mould, The most obvious difference between the

waste ceramic products, and core sand used

circular and linear economies is that the

in the cement industry. The implemented

Consequently, sustainable living is

principles of the circular economy are ‘Reduce,

Treated Water Usage Project also adopts

supported, the impact on global warming

Reuse, Recycle’, while in the linear economy,

a process that aims to reduce freshwater

and environmental pollution is minimized,

these principles are ‘Take, Make, Waste’, and

consumption and utilize treated water instead.

and contributions are made to ecological

planning is structured accordingly. In other

Again, according to the 2022 Sustainability

balance. In addition, thanks to the effective

words, the linear economy is the journey

Report, approximately 40% of the water used

of the product that is produced with new

in VitrA production processes is treated water.

raw materials, put into use, and becomes waste at the end of its life cycle. The focus of

If you want to learn more about the VitrA 100%*

this economic system is to produce and sell

Recycled Washbasin and explore this innovative

as much product as possible, i.e. to direct

product, please visit the product page.

it towards consumption. In the circular economy, on the other hand, the materials that can be considered waste have come

VITRA

full circle and returned in a new guise.

+971 4 547 8045

As a brand that continues production with

VISIT WEBSITE

innovative practices, VitrA is aware that the circular economy model is a necessity for

EMAIL US

130 RED SEA GLOBAL - FOUR SEASONS AT TRIPLE BAY AMAALA

RED SEA GLOBAL AND FOUR SEASONS ANNOUNCE NEW LUXURY WELLNESS RESORT AND RESIDENCES AT AMAALA TRIPLE BAY RED SEA GLOBAL (RSG), THE DEVELOPER BEHIND THE REGENERATIVE TOURISM DESTINATIONS AMAALA AND THE RED SEA, AND LEADING LUXURY HOSPITALITY AND BRANDED RESIDENTIAL COMPANY FOUR SEASONS, ANNOUNCES THE DEVELOPMENT OF A NEW LUXURY WELLNESS RESORT AND PRIVATE RESIDENCES AT TRIPLE BAY AMAALA.

RED SEA GLOBAL - FOUR SEASONS AT TRIPLE BAY AMAALA 131

132 RED SEA GLOBAL - FOUR SEASONS AT TRIPLE BAY AMAALA

Four Seasons Resort and Residences AMAALA at Triple Bay will include a luxury spa

M

arking a new chapter for comprehensive

core. With uninterrupted views of the Hijaz

on building highly personalized itineraries dedicated to wellness seekers worldwide.

wellness tourism, Four Seasons is the

Cove, Four Seasons Resort and Residences

latest luxury hospitality brand to be announced

AMAALA at Triple Bay is designed to allow

at Triple Bay, the pinnacle of luxury wellness

guests and residents to get back to nature,

“Our new Resort and Residences in AMAALA

tourism along Saudi Arabia’s northwestern

recharging their mind, body, and soul,” says

at Triple Bay will perfectly complement Four

coast. Four Seasons Resort and Residences

John Pagano, Group CEO of Red Sea Global.

Seasons growing collection of properties

AMAALA at Triple Bay will feature 220 keys

within the Kingdom’s dynamic destinations,

comprising of rooms and suites, as well as villas

Aligned with AMAALA’s commitment to

and marks our second collaboration with Red

with their own private pools, and 26 branded

sustainability and well-being, wellness is a

Sea Global,” says Bart Carnahan, President,

residential villas, all thoughtfully designed to

central pillar supporting the destination’s vision

Global Business Development, Portfolio

offer breathtaking bay and sea views, setting the

of people and planet first. Ideally complemented

Management and Residential, Four Seasons.

stage for Four Seasons renowned luxury service

by the company’s Four Seasons For Good

“We’re honored to be part of this exceptional

and experiences for guests and residents alike.

program, and its longstanding commitment

development, creating a new luxury lifestyle

to well-being across the entire guest and

experience for guests and residents, further

“AMAALA is creating a new category of coastal

resident experience, Four Seasons Resort and

expanding Four Seasons footprint within Saudi

lifestyle with regeneration and wellness at its

Residences AMAALA at Triple Bay will focus

Arabia’s fast-growing tourism industry.”

RED SEA GLOBAL - FOUR SEASONS AT TRIPLE BAY AMAALA 133

741 Acres 27 Hole Oceanfront Golf Course

220 Keys 26 26 Branded

Residential Villas

550m Ballroom

2

FOUR SEASONS RESORT AND RESIDENCES

FOUR SEASONS RESORT AND RESIDENCES

AMAALA at Triple Bay will include a luxury

AMAALA DESIGN CONCEPT

spa nestled within its garden of tranquility

The Resort and Residences are being designed

and inspiration featuring a sculptured

by acclaimed architects U+A, inspired by the

waterfall. The Organic Spa Garden will be

destination’s unique setting nestled between

a focal point and treatment experience set

the foothills of the rugged Hijazi Mountains

to stimulate the senses, offering extensive

and the tranquil blue waters of Hijaz Cove

therapeutic remedies including halotherapy,

on the Red Sea coast. The Resort will take

cryotherapy, and advanced skin therapies.

full advantage of its spectacular vistas using

For fitness enthusiasts, the property will

the terrain to offer guests rooms, villas, and

offer a bespoke collaboration with fitness

penthouses with uninterrupted views of their

trainer Harley Pasternak to seamlessly merge

natural surroundings. Lush landscapes adorn

high-performance training with the limitless

all parts of the Resort balancing shade, light,

potential of Triple Bay’s 300 hectares (741

color, and texture, interspersed with pools and

acres) of untouched hills, wadis, and beaches.

water features that provide guests with points

The pristine terrain includes trails perfect for

of interest, discovery, and contemplation.

canyoning and exploring the rugged cliffs and

The aesthetic will be one of refined elegance,

valleys. Guests and residents can also take part

drawing on the influences of traditional

in an array of guided hikes, mountain biking,

architecture, interior design, and craftsmanship

equestrian bridle trails, or work on their game at

to deliver a contemporary design style.

the spectacular 27-hole oceanfront golf course.

Guests will be greeted on arrival with a In addition to the myriad wellness offerings,

grand entry that opens onto the manicured

the new property will feature six restaurant

grounds and an expansive panoramic view

and bar outlets, meetings and event spaces, an

capturing Hijaz Island and the spectacular

expansive Kids For All Seasons program, and

sunsets of the Red Sea. A variety of rooms

a Discovery Center for guests and residents

and villas will provide guests with a range of

to learn about the local surroundings.

space and configuration options, interspersed by beautifully designed outdoor spaces, including the Water Garden, Cascade Garden, and the Wellness Garden.

 LUSH LANDSCAPES ADORN ALL PARTS OF THE RESORT

 JOHN PAGANO, GROUP CEO OF RED SEA GLOBAL

 BART CARNAHAN, PRESIDENT, GLOBAL BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT

134 RED SEA GLOBAL - FOUR SEASONS AT TRIPLE BAY AMAALA

Four Seasons is the la collection of luxury hospit introducing the brand’ Saudi Arabia’s new be

atest brand to join the tality partners at AMAALA, ’s legendary service to eachside development

RED SEA GLOBAL - FOUR SEASONS AT TRIPLE BAY AMAALA 135

136 RED SEA GLOBAL - FOUR SEASONS AT TRIPLE BAY AMAALA

“Nature is a key part of this resort, as it is for the ethos of Four Seasons luxury properties around the world” Martin Dufresne, Design Principal at U+A

RED SEA GLOBAL - FOUR SEASONS AT TRIPLE BAY AMAALA 137

Martin Dufresne, Design Principal at U+A, says: “Nature is a key part of this resort, as it is for the ethos of Four Seasons luxury properties around the world. We used landscaping unsparingly, yet very deliberately, to frame the spectacular views of the bay, to guide guests and residents between the different amenities, and to create feelings of calm and serenity throughout the property.”

After a day of new experiences, a Four Seasons  MARTIN DUFRESNE, DESIGN PRINCIPAL AT U+A

Sleep Concierge will offer à la carte turndown menus with a choice of bath products, pillow scents, custom turndown music, mattress and pillow filling, pre-set vibrating and adjustable bed settings complete with circadian light automated settings.

The Resort will also feature a 550 square meter (5,920 square foot) ballroom with an adjacent event lawn offering panoramic views of Hijaz Cove, perfect for weddings and other celebrations.

The 26 Private Residences will comprise exquisite villas ranging from 320 square meters (3,444 square feet) to more than 650 square meters (6,996 square feet), each with its own pool and beautiful ocean views.

Four Seasons Resort and Residences AMAALA at Triple Bay will be the latest in Four Seasons growing portfolio in the Kingdom, joining Four Seasons Hotel Riyadh at Kingdom Centre, as well as upcoming projects at The Red Sea on Shura Island, Jeddah at the Corniche, NEOM at Sindalah, and Diriyah.

Phase One of AMAALA – focused on the Triple Bay masterplan – is well underway, with the first guests set to be welcomed in 2025. It will consist of 12 resorts offering upwards of 2,000 hotel keys. Once complete, AMAALA will be home to more than 3,900 hotel rooms across 29 hotels, and approximately 1,200 luxury residential villas, apartments, and estate homes, supporting high-end retail, fine dining, wellness and recreational facilities.

RED SEA GLOBAL VISIT WEBSITE

138 RED SEA GLOBAL - TELECOMS TOWERS

SEAMLESS INTEGRATION: HARMONIZING TECHNOLOGY AND THE ENVIRONMENT TELECOMMUNICATION TOWERS OFTEN APPEAR UNSIGHTLY DUE TO THEIR UTILITARIAN DESIGN, CHARACTERIZED BY METAL LATTICE STRUCTURES DEVOID OF AESTHETIC CONSIDERATION. THEIR PRIMARY FUNCTION PRIORITIZES FUNCTIONALITY OVER VISUAL APPEAL. HOWEVER, RED SEA GLOBAL (RSG) HAS, WITH A COMBINATION OF THOUGHTFUL DESIGN, ARTISTIC EXPRESSION, AND CAMOUFLAGE, SIGNIFICANTLY ENHANCED THE VISUAL APPEAL OF TELECOMMUNICATION TOWERS, TRANSFORMING THEM FROM MERE INFRASTRUCTURE INTO LANDMARKS THAT CONTRIBUTE POSITIVELY TO THEIR SURROUNDINGS. SAUDI PROJECTS SPOKE TO THE GROUP HEAD OF TECHNOLOGY AT RED SEA GLOBAL, DR. AHMED ALSOHAILY, TO FIND OUT MORE.

 AHMED ALSOHAILY, GROUP HEAD OF TECHNOLOGY AT RED SEA GLOBAL

RED SEA GLOBAL - TELECOMS TOWERS 139

Dr. Ahmed Alsohaily: The towers are energy efficient by design, with careful thought being put into the choice of frequencies, radios, and antennas to eliminate the need for air conditioning in many of the tower cabins and to transmit using just enough power to achieve area coverage targets. The metals, fiberglass, and fabrics used in the towers are all recyclable.

Saudi Projects: Can you provide information on the tower's resilience to extreme weather

“The towers are energy efficient by design”

events and natural disasters, considering the increasing challenges posed by climate change?

Dr. Ahmed Alsohaily: All tower materials

Saudi Projects: Which materials and

constructed on hills and covered by 3D printed

used have a high tolerance to all

construction methods were used in the

camouflaging to preserve the guests’ views.

weather conditions of the region.

telecom towers to ensure sustainability

On the other hand, minimalistic towers were

and minimize environmental impact?

leveraged to blend in with the surrounding

Saudi Projects: How do the telecom

buildings at RSI airport and the Turtle Bay

towers support and enable sustainable

Dr. Ahmed Alsohaily: Our destinations offer

Village hosting RSG employees. Ummahat

communication practices, such as efficient

astonishing diversity and landscapes spanning

Island, hosting the St. Regis and Ritz-Carlton

network sharing or the promotion of eco-

coral beaches, sand dunes, majestic mountains

resorts, used special fabrics to blend in with

friendly telecommunication devices?

and even dormant volcanos; which meant

the resort designs and sandy beaches.

there wasn’t a one-size-fits-all solution when it

Dr. Ahmed Alsohaily: All towers are being

comes to telecom towers. Subsequently, every

Saudi Projects: How do the telecom towers

shared by service providers with both passive

tower was meticulously designed, positioned,

incorporate renewable energy sources

and active sharing are being utilized. We also

and installed to perfectly blend in with its

to reduce their carbon footprint?

use the lowest possible power levels. Where

surrounding environment. For example at the Southern Dunes, rooftop antennas were

“Every tower was meticulously designed, positioned, and installed to perfectly blend in with the surrounding environment”

possible, we tend to rely on local contractors and Dr. Ahmed Alsohaily: The towers, along

local materials/manufacturing. We are extremely

with the entire Red Sea destination, are

proud to have members of the local community

powered by the world’s largest zero-carbon

on our implementation team as well. We had to

grid, comprising 760,000 solar panels

put in great efforts and do things that go beyond

and a 1 GWH battery storage system.

what you would imagine (such as putting a 4-ton foundation on top of a mountain). The

Saudi Projects: Tell me about the

end results were extremely satisfying and all the

energy efficiency of the towers and

towers look great. The most rewarding moment

end-of-life considerations?

was when we started to see others follow our lead to do towers in the elegant way we have.

RED SEA GLOBAL VISIT WEBSITE

140 RED SEA GLOBAL - BIO FUEL

RED SEA GLOBAL BECOMES FIRST SAUDI COMPANY TO USE ONLY SUSTAINABLE FUELS IN ALL SUPPLY CHAIN VEHICLES RED SEA GLOBAL (RSG), THE MULTI-PROJECT DEVELOPER BEHIND THE WORLD'S MOST AMBITIOUS REGENERATIVE TOURISM DESTINATIONS, THE RED SEA AND AMAALA, HAS TAKEN ANOTHER GROUNDBREAKING STEP IN ITS COMMITMENT TO SUSTAINABLE TRANSPORTATION BY USING ONLY LOW-CARBON BIOFUEL IN ALL ITS DELIVERY TRUCKS. RSG'S ENTIRE FLEET OF LAND VEHICLES IS NOW POWERED EITHER BY ELECTRICITY OR BIOFUEL, MAKING IT THE FIRST SAUDI COMPANY TO OPERATE SUCH AS AN ECO-CONSCIOUS SUPPLY CHAIN.

RED SEA GLOBAL - BIO FUEL 141

142 RED SEA GLOBAL - BIO FUEL

 MICHAEL STOCKDALE, GROUP HEAD OF SUPPLY CHAIN AND LOGISTICS - RED SEA GLOBAL

I

n line with RSG's vision for a greener future, sustainable biofuel powers

every truck transporting goods to The Red Sea’s four hotels -- Turtle Bay Hotel, Six Senses Southern Dunes Resort, St. Regis Red Sea Resort, and Nujuma, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve – as well as to Red Sea International Airport. The shift from regular diesel to biofuel not only slashes carbon emissions, but also extends the engine life of these vehicles, providing both environmental and operational benefits.

The biofuel is produced from used cooking oil sourced within the Kingdom.

The type RSG has adopted emits only 0.17kg of carbon dioxide equivalent (CO2e) per liter, compared with 2.7kg CO2e per liter from regular diesel.

RED SEA GLOBAL - BIO FUEL 143

Red Sea Global currently operates a fleet

vehicles, RSG’s land transportation fleet now

of six 8-ton refrigerated trucks and three

emits only a minuscule amount of carbon.

3.5-ton refrigerated trucks, all of them running on biofuel. The vehicles serve a

This milestone also supports RSG's long-

wide range of facilities and play a vital role

term ambition to transition to green

in RSG's far-flung supply chain network,

hydrogen throughout its mobility sector.

ensuring the seamless transportation of goods to all the company’s projects.

By 2030, Red Sea Global aims to have between 700 and 800 vehicles in its sustainable vehicle

To minimize the efficiency of this eco-

fleet, revolutionizing the way goods are

friendly approach, RSG deploys cutting-edge

transported in Saudi Arabia and setting a new

technologies. Each vehicle is equipped

benchmark for sustainable supply chains.

with a chip that measures the amount of biofuel it uses daily. This data enables the fleet’s managers to analyze and optimize fuel consumption, further enhancing the sustainability of RSG's operations and

RED SEA GLOBAL

strengthening its environmental stewardship.

VISIT WEBSITE

Because Red Sea Global already uses only 100% solar-sourced electricity to power its electric

144 Giga Projects - Diriyah Gate

DIRIYAH GATE DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY TO SPEND $10 BILLION IN 2024 THE DEVELOPER BEHIND AN AMBITIOUS PLAN TO TRANSFORM A HISTORIC SAUDI TOWN INTO AN EXTENSIVE TOURISM DESTINATION, IS SET TO INVEST A FURTHER $10 BILLION IN 2024.

T

100 restaurants, and a golf course, with the project one of many that the government is bankrolling to showcase Saudi Arabia as a travel hotspot.

he $63 billion project at Diriyah, a

to be the largest pedestrian-friendly cultural

Unesco World Heritage site, is set to

heritage city, and I’ll spend $10 billion in

The Public Investment Fund oversees the

feature dozens of hotels and thousands of

2024.” He added that the first hotel is set to

Diriyah Gate Development Authority, which it

homes, with the Diriyah Gate Development

open this year.

plans to list on the country’s stock exchange

Authority spending $7.5 billion building out

by 2027. Inzerillo expects the company to

the infrastructure at the 14 square-kilometer

The development will comprise around

generate $100 million in revenue this year,

project. CEO Jerry Inzerillo said: “It’s meant

30,000 homes, 42 hotels, nine museums,

and while banks have been hired to advise on

Giga Projects - Diriyah Gate 145

30,000 42 Homes Hotels 9 Museums

100 Restaurants

Inzerillo expects the company to generate $100 million in revenue next year

preparations for the share sale, any IPO will

Two developments within the project, which

likely happen after the company has built a

will include single-family homes and exclusive

“very substantial revenue base”.

villas, will be sold to investors ahead of construction. The company is in talks with

It is envisaged that most of the 86 main assets,

private developers from across the GCC who

including hotels, museums, and performing

are looking to take part in the project.

arts centers, will be completed by 2030.

The first hotel is set to open this year

Construction at Diriyah Square, set to feature thousands of homes, will finish by 2027.

DIRIYAH GATE VISIT WEBSITE EMAIL US

146 GIGA PROJECTS - NEOM

MARRIOTT INTERNATIONAL AND NEOM TO BRING APARTMENTS BY MARRIOTT BONVOY TO SINDALAH MARRIOTT INTERNATIONAL HAS SIGNED AN AGREEMENT WITH NEOM TO BRING APARTMENTS

BY MARRIOTT BONVOY TO SINDALAH, THE LUXURY ISLAND DESTINATION IN THE RED SEA OFF SAUDI ARABIA’S NORTHWEST COAST. APARTMENTS BY MARRIOTT BONVOY WILL OFFER PREMIUM AND LUXURY APARTMENT-STYLE ACCOMMODATIONS TO MEET THE INCREASED DEMAND FROM FAMILIES AND YOUNGER TRAVELERS, WHO NOW SEEK MORE SPACE AND HOMELY AMENITIES WHEN STAYING AWAY FROM HOME.

GIGA PROJECTS - NEOM 147

Designed to cater to travelers seeking more residential amenities

“Marriott International has deep insights

Designed to cater to travelers seeking

into the continuously evolving preferences

more residential amenities, Apartments

of global travelers. It positions them as a

by Marriott Bonvoy Sindalah will feature

perfect partner for us as we look to develop an

units ranging from studios to one, two, and

array of accommodation options to meet the

three-bedroom apartments, all equipped

needs of Sindalah visitors. We are excited to

with a separate living room, full kitchen,

Located near the promenade close to

strengthen our partnership by introducing their

and in-unit washer and dryer. The property,

culinary experiences and luxury fashion,

new brand to the region, which will elevate

set to open in 2024, is also slated to offer

Apartments by Marriott Bonvoy will meet

the guest experience for a growing number of

a fitness center and swimming pool.

those needs to linger longer, for a comfortable

groups traveling together,” said Chris Newman, Executive Director, NEOM Hotel Division.

and luxurious stay. We are excited to “We are proud to be introducing the first

start welcoming guests so that they can

Apartments by Marriott Bonvoy to the

experience all that Sindalah has to offer.”

“We continue to strengthen our collaboration

Middle East adding another tier to our luxury

with NEOM with the signing of our first

accommodation offering,” said Antoni Vives,

The signing of Apartments by Marriott Bonvoy

Apartments by Marriott Bonvoy in the Middle

NEOM’s Chief Urban Planning and Islands

Sindalah marks the fourth collaboration

East,” said Chadi Hauch, Regional Vice

Officer. “We understand the desires of our

between NEOM and Marriott International

President, Lodging Development, Middle

guests traveling with family or a group of

on the luxury island, which will also

East, Marriott International. “We continue to

friends to have more space to relax.

include two Luxury Collection properties

see a growing desire for premium and luxury apartment-style accommodation among travelers. Apartments by Marriott Bonvoy will be a great fit for Sindalah which is anticipated to offer our guests and members exciting, year-long travel experiences on the island.”

and an Autograph Collection Hotel.

The agreement marks the first signed property under ‘Apartments

by Marriott Bonvoy’ in the Middle East

The Luxury Collection properties will include a beach resort offering a mix of 70 luxury rooms and suites with private pools. The second Luxury Collection project will be an all-suite property offering, situated in the heart of the retail and marina district.

The Autograph Collection property is anticipated to offer 66 rooms and suites, multiple dining options, and a spa.

Sindalah is the first island to be developed in NEOM and is set to be among the most alluring destinations in the Red Sea. A yachting paradise, Sindalah is just a 17-hour sail from the Mediterranean and will be home to a prestigious 86-berth marina. The island will also include over 400 ultra-premium hotel rooms and 300 top-end suites, a beach club, a glamorous yacht club, and a golf course which will deliver two unique ninehole experiences, 51 luxury retail boutiques along with 38 unique culinary offerings.

NEOM VISIT WEBSITE

148 GIGA PROJECTS - NEOM

NEOM ANNOUNCES AQUELLUM: A FUTURISTIC LIFESTYLE COMMUNITY WITHIN A MOUNTAIN HAVEN AQUELLUM, A LUXURY AND EXPERIENTIAL SPACE EMBEDDED WITHIN THE MOUNTAINS, IS THE LATEST STRIKING ADDITION TO THE ONGOING REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT IN NORTHWEST SAUDI ARABIA. WITH ITS FOUNDATIONS STEEPED IN CUTTING-EDGE TECHNOLOGY, AVANT-GARDE ARCHITECTURE, AND FORWARD-THINKING CONCEPTS, AQUELLUM WILL OFFER GUESTS A TASTE OF FUTURISTIC LIVING THROUGH ITS ARRAY OF PIONEERING EXPERIENCES.

C

oncealed from the outside along the

innovators, and creative thinkers, offering a

Gulf of Aqaba coastline, Aquellum is

platform where the future is reimagined.

hidden within a breathtaking, 450-meter-high mountain range and represents a futuristic

An omnidirectional internal transit system

ecosystem that is harmoniously integrated

facilitates easy access to upper floors,

into the natural surroundings. Crafted to

transporting residents and visitors to their

inspire originality and imagination, Aquellum

homes and hotels, ascending to rooftop

will push the boundaries of conventional

gardens with breathtaking coastal views.

design and construction possibilities.

Guided by its unwavering commitment to To access Aquellum, visitors will embark on

crafting spaces in nature that epitomize

an extraordinary journey, beginning at the

the future of luxury, innovation, and

world's first floating marina. Here, guests will

lifestyle, Aquellum stands as a testament

board a specially designed vessel to enter

to the fusion of cutting-edge design

Aquellum through a concealed underground

and construction techniques.

canal, unveiling a hidden community that offers an incredible sensory journey.

Aligned with NEOM's commitment to conservation and innovation, Aquellum

Once inside, visitors will be treated to

complements its coastal location. This new

an exhilarating, 100-meter-high vertical

development follows recent announcements

experience with an impressive courtyard

of Leyja, Epicon, Siranna, Utamo, and

space stretching from the water to the sky.

Norlana, which are also sustainable tourism

This subterranean digitalized community

destinations located in the Gulf of Aqaba.

creates vibrancy and interconnectivity by seamlessly blending hotel accommodation, apartments, retail spaces, leisure and entertainment zones, and innovative hubs.

A dynamic boulevard winds through the

NEOM

courtyard, connecting diverse social spaces, world-class hospitality, immersive arts, events, shopping, and dining. A signature space, dubbed ‘The Generator’, houses unique research labs for disruptors,

VISIT WEBSITE

GIGA PROJECTS - NEOM 149

‘The Generator’, houses unique research labs for disruptors, innovators, and creative thinkers

Aquellum will offer guests a taste of futuristic living through its array of pioneering experiences

150 GIGA PROJECTS - ROSHN GROUP

ROSHN GROUP RECOGNIZED AS NO.1 BEST PLACE TO WORK IN SAUDI FOR 2023 ROSHN GROUP IS ‘THE BEST PLACE TO WORK IN SAUDI ARABIA’ FOR 2023 ACCORDING TO BEST PLACES TO WORK, A GLOBAL EMPLOYER OF CHOICE CERTIFICATION PROGRAM. THE RANKING IS BASED ON ANONYMOUS SURVEYS OF ROSHN EMPLOYEES BY THE BEST PLACES TO WORK GROUP AS PART OF ITS RIGOROUS ASSESSMENT METHODOLOGY. ROSHN GROUP TEAM MEMBERS GAVE THE GROUP OUTSTANDING SCORES, WITH 94% OF EMPLOYEES ENDORSING ROSHN GROUP, UNDERSCORING THE GROUP’S DEDICATION TO CRAFTING AN EMPOWERING EMPLOYEE EXPERIENCE. THE ASSESSMENT SHOWED YEAR-ON-YEAR INCREASES ACROSS CRITERIA, NOTABLY A REMARKABLE POSITIVE FEEDBACK IN THE OVERALL CERTIFICATION, HR PRACTICES ASSESSMENT EMPLOYEE EXPERIENCE.

GIGA PROJECTS - ROSHN GROUP 151

ROSHN Group is ranked in the top 5 Best Places to Work in the Middle East for 2023

“We are proud to be recognized as the overall Best Place to Work in Saudi Arabia for 2023, reflecting our commitment to be a regional benchmark for corporate excellence and a future-focused leader that is setting the bar for sustainable, people-first development. As we receive this recognition,

2030 ambitions while also fulfilling their own

our colleagues, customers, and partners

personal and professional potential. Special

can be confident that they are working with the industry’s best, delivering the best.

 DAVID GROVER, ROSHN GROUP'S CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

thanks are due to our Senior Leadership Team for their commitment to establishing such a

David Grover, ROSHN Group's Chief Executive

positive culture within ROSHN Group. I would

We look forward to welcoming new members

Officer.ROSHN Group is focused on creating

also like to recognize the Marketing and

to our growing ROSHN Group family as we

a standout employee experience through

Communications department and the efforts

enable Vision 2030, creating sustainable and

several initiatives that foster a supportive work

of the HR team for their project management

vibrant communities that continuously raise

environment. Among its initiatives is ROSHN

and the exceptional results they delivered

the bar for real estate in the Kingdom,” said

Group’s Day Away events which are designed

in enhancing this culture and securing this

to enhance teamwork, communication, and

certification,” said Nasreen Al Dossary, Chief

collective responsibility amongst departmental

Human Resources Officer at ROSHN Group.

teams. Notably, the Group supports young talent through ROSHN Group’s Youth

The Best Places to Work certification is based

Committee and HIMAM Graduate Program,

on anonymous ratings provided by employees,

empowering the next generation of Saudi

and supported by an HR assessment of the

leaders through mentorship and training that

company’s people practices. Close to 20

provide essential skills and experience. Another

workplace culture categories were measured

noteworthy initiative is ReTurn, a pioneering

as part of the assessment, including work-life

certification program in Saudi Arabia that

balance, leadership, professional development

is designed to support career development

opportunities, compensation, and perks and

by reintegrating talented women who have

benefits. Best Places to Work is one of the most

taken a career break back into the workforce.

authoritative ‘Employer of Choice’ certifications

ROSHN Group’s dedication to fostering an

in the world. Its model is built on over 30 years

environment where team members embody

of research in workplace excellence along with

ROSHN’s core values of trust, empowerment,

the best practices collected annually from

and responsibility supported its recognition as

over 5,000 certified companies worldwide.

the best place to work in the Kingdom. ROSHN

ROSHN Group has been certified by the

Group’s commitment to diversity is showcased

organization in 2021, 2022, and 2023, earning

with a nearly 30% female representation,

the overall #1 position in 2022 and 2023.

including 43% in managerial positions.

ROSHN Group achieved outstanding scores on employee experience, engagement, and HR practices “At ROSHN Group, everyone is dedicated

ROSHN GROUP VISIT WEBSITE

to creating an environment that empowers success, excellence, and achievement for every colleague; contributing to our nation’s Vision

EMAIL US

152 GIGA PROJECTS - ROSHN GROUP

GIGA PROJECTS - ROSHN GROUP 153

ROSHN GROUP FORGES NEW STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIPS AT ROSHN SUPPLY CHAIN FORUM ROSHN GROUP CONCLUDED THE SUPPLY CHAIN FORUM, WHICH SAW 800+ LOCAL AND INTERNATIONAL SUPPLY CHAIN LEADERS GATHER TO EXPLORE OPPORTUNITIES FOR COLLABORATION WITH ROSHN GROUP IN TRANSFORMING SAUDI ARABIA’S REAL ESTATE SECTOR. THE FORUM WITNESSED THE SIGNING OF EIGHT NEW PARTNERSHIPS, SYMBOLIZING ROSHN GROUP’S COMMITMENT TO ADVANCING SAUDI VISION 2030 AND BOOSTING QUALITY OF LIFE. IN A FURTHER SHOWCASE OF COLLABORATION THAT DEFINES THE GROUP’S ENDEAVORS, REPRESENTATIVES FROM SAUDI ARABIAN PARSONS, CHINA HARBOUR, SAPAC, AE SEVEN, AND BCC WERE RECOGNIZED CELEBRATING THE EXCELLENCE THEY HAVE DELIVERED ACROSS ROSHN GROUP’S DEVELOPMENTS.

T

he eight agreements signed at

4. ROSHN Group and Pure.Tech have signed

manufacturing facility in Saudi Arabia

the Forum create frameworks

an agreement to explore a partnership

and have established a framework

for collaboration across supply chains,

opportunity for sustainable construction

for future collaboration in mutually

manufacturing, licensing, and training to

solutions, including the manufacturing

agreed upon areas. Schüco is one of

enhance ROSHN Group’s development of

and utilization of Pure.Tech’s CO2

the leading suppliers of high-quality

innovative, integrated, and sustainable real

absorbing additives in ROSHN Group’s

windows, doors, and façade systems

estate projects while contributing to Saudi

projects and other developments across

made from aluminum, PVC-U, and steel.

Vision 2030 goals of economic diversification

KSA. Pure.Tech’s additive product can be

and attracting foreign direct investment:

used in varied construction materials,

8. ROSHN Group and Lixil / Grohe will study

textiles, and polymers to reduce primary

a partnership opportunity for a localized

greenhouse gases in our atmosphere.

production and manufacturing facility

1. ROSHN Group and the Ministry of Industry and Mineral Resources (MIM) will collaborate on establishing market

for sanitaryware and sanitary fixtures.

5. ROSHN Group and Saudi Emaar are

Germany-based GROHE is a leading

intelligence and knowledge exchange;

investigating a potential agreement to

global brand for complete bathroom

facilitating the issuance of industrial

expand factory capacities, with a focus on

solutions and kitchen fittings. It is part

licenses for ROSHN’s manufacturing

manufacturing internal wooden doors for

of the portfolio of Lixil, the Japanese

facilities and real estate projects; and

ROSHN properties alongside modernizing

pioneer in water and housing products.

capitalizing on the National Center for

machinery and upgrading manufacturing

Industrial and Mining Information’s

capacity. Saudi Emaar is a prominent

ROSHN Group Supply Chain Forum was

intelligence and databases.

emerging player in the Kingdom’s wooden

an opportunity for local and international

furniture manufacturing sector.

consultants, contractors, and manufacturers

2. ROSHN Group and the Saudi Contractors

to explore the rich array of opportunities for

Authority (SCA) have agreed to align

6. ROSHN Group and Connected Innovations

on prequalification requirements and

will explore the possibility of collaborating

supply chain professionals from around the

processes for contractors, alongside

on the manufacturing and distribution of

world came together to learn more about the

aligning SCA’s private sector classification

Smart Sockets, designed to enhance safety

opportunities to partner with ROSHN Group

system with ROSHN’s requirements to

and energy efficiency in ROSHN projects

as it delivers its transformational real estate

optimize the contractor selection process.

and throughout the Kingdom. Connected

developments in support of Saudi Vision 2030.

collaboration with ROSHN Group. At the Forum,

Innovations is a company that has been 3. ROSHN Group and Partanna have agreed to

founded to provide assured and secure

collaborate on a state-of-the-art carbon-

smart technology solutions that drive

negative concrete facility in Saudi Arabia

up global safety standards in homes.

using Partanna’s innovative CO2-absorbing

ROSHN GROUP VISIT WEBSITE

concrete. Partanna is the pioneer of the

7. ROSHN Group and Schüco International

world’s most nature-positive concrete,

KG will work together to examine the

made without Portland cement.

possibility of developing a PVC-U profile

EMAIL US

154 GIGA PROJECTS - ROSHN GROUP

ROSHN GROUP SHOWCASES NEW WAY OF LIVING AND FORMALIZES NEW PARTNERSHIPS AT PIF PRIVATE SECTOR FORUM ROSHN GROUP, SAUDI ARABIA’S LEADING REAL ESTATE DEVELOPER AND A PIF-OWNED GIGA-PROJECT, JOINED THE SAUDI PUBLIC INVESTMENT FUND (PIF) PRIVATE SECTOR FORUM TO SHOWCASE ITS MULTI-ASSET DEVELOPMENTS ACROSS THE KINGDOM, REVEAL NEW COLLABORATIONS AND FURTHER PARTNERSHIP OPPORTUNITIES, AND HIGHLIGHT ITS VISION 2030 CONTRIBUTIONS.

GIGA PROJECTS - ROSHN GROUP 155

R

OSHN Group took part in the forum, held at the King Abdulaziz

International Conference Centre in Riyadh from 6-7 February, in its role as a PIF-owned giga-project and vital enabler of Vision 2030 goals, including private sector expansion, job creation, and economic diversification.

ROSHN Group’s immersive booth at the event, featuring LED map tables, showcased its transformative mixed-use developments that are bringing a new way of living with integrated amenities and cutting-edge technology.

ROSHN Group signed three contracts with Saudi partners to enhance the delivery of forthcoming projects and showcased further opportunities for private-sector partnerships

These partnerships build on recent agreements, including ROSHN Group’s multi-million SAR commercial partnerships with Saudi companies including PC Marine Services and Saudi Pan Kingdom Company.

The PIF Private Sector Forum is part of PIF’s Private Sector Engagement Strategic Initiative to showcase opportunities for investors and suppliers in PIF portfolio company projects. Over 80 PIF portfolio companies attended, alongside over 8,000 private sector

Riyadh, the agreements we have announced

representatives and 20+ Saudi government

ROSHN Group was also there to highlight the

will accelerate our ability to deliver new ways of

ministers. ROSHN participated in the forum

opportunities it is creating for local, regional,

living, economic growth and diversification, and

through its role as a PIF-owned giga-project

and international private sector companies

a higher quality of life for all in the Kingdom.”

developing transformative mixed-use real

to become part of Saudi Vision 2030-enabling

estate coast-to-coast across the Kingdom. The

strategy for long-term growth through

ROSHN Group signed three contracts with

unprecedented scale and speed of ROSHN

partnerships. ROSHN Group’s commercial team

local partners at the forum, formalizing

Group’s developments are creating numerous

conducted a demand-signalling workshop

new collaborations to enhance its

opportunities for partnerships, ranging from

that engaged with private sector entities to

delivery of transformative real estate

construction to consultancy, as the Group works

showcase opportunities to work with ROSHN

developments across the Kingdom:

to fulfil its mission and Vision 2030 mandate.

Group while providing further insight into the values that guide its work and partnerships,

 Alayuni Investment & Contracting

answering questions directly from attendees.

Company to design and build 400+

The team also offered insight into the Group’s

single-family homes and public

strategy, ambitions, and future plans that will

amenities and facilities in the F1 and D1

create yet more partnership opportunities.

neighbourhoods of ROSHN’s ALFULWA community in the Eastern Province.  ANSAB General Contracting Company to design and build potable water and sewage pipelines; CEC plots, landscaping, and infrastructure; and data collection and studies in ALFULWA.

ROSHN Group participated in the forum in its role as a PIF-owned giga-project, showcasing its mixed-asset development portfolio and Vision 2030-enabling partnerships strategy

 Saudi Ceramics Company to cooperate D AVID GROVER, ROSHN GROUP'S CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

and collaborate in the realm of ceramic products, including tiles, sinks, bathtubs,

“We are proud to join PIF at the private sector

and water-saving toilets to ROSHN

forum to showcase and create our partnership

Group developments. The agreement

opportunities,” said David Grover, Group CEO

builds on ROSHN Group’s existing

of ROSHN. “With our mandate to transform

water and energy conservation efforts

urban living in the Kingdom and contribute to

that already go above and beyond the

Vision 2030’s goals, partnerships are vital to

mandated Saudi Building Code.

ROSHN GROUP

our success as we seek to grow Saudi Arabia’s economy, create jobs, and raise domestic

ROSHN Group’s partnerships further contribute

capacity and capabilities in line with Vision 2030

to its Vision 2030 commitments to build

goals. As we at ROSHN build momentum on

a dynamic, diverse, and localized Saudi

our projects across the Kingdom, while gearing

economy, with growing new industries, strong

up for the global spotlight of Expo 2030 here in

investment, and space for entrepreneurs.

VISIT WEBSITE EMAIL US

156 GIGA PROJECTS - ROSHN GROUP

PARTANNA INITIATES COLLABORATION WITH ROSHN GROUP ON WORLD’S FIRST CARBON-NEGATIVE CONCRETE PRODUCTION PROCESS ROSHN GROUP, SAUDI ARABIA'S PREMIER REAL ESTATE DEVELOPER, HAS ENTERED A PARTNERSHIP WITH PARTANNA ARABIA, A RIYADHHEADQUARTERED CLIMATE TECHNOLOGY COMPANY, TO COLLABORATE ON THE POTENTIAL CONSTRUCTION OF A STATE-OF-THE-ART CARBON-NEGATIVE CONCRETE PRODUCTION FACILITY.

T

he facility is planned to initially deliver

In Saudi Arabia, desalination plants produce

carbon-negative pavers and has the

70% of the country’s drinking water. Partanna's

potential to produce blocks, tile, precast, and

technology is poised to make a monumental

pour-in-place solutions over time. This will

environmental impact that will bolster ROSHN’s

help ROSHN Group with its mission to build

commitment to conserving natural resources

over 400,000 homes, 1,000 kindergartens and

and reducing waste. Its technology converts

schools, and more than 700 mosques by 2030,

waste brine, generated by desalination plants,

positioning Saudi Arabia at the forefront of

into a non-toxic, usable material, diverting

innovation in carbon-negative construction.

vast quantities from reaching waterways, and causing damage to marine ecosystems.

The facility is expected to support over 100 jobs, helping Saudis build lasting careers

The new facility will also help to realize the

in the growing sustainable construction

Kingdom’s Vision 2030 sustainability ambitions,

sector, whilst laying the foundations for the

including Saudi’s commitment to achieving Net

Kingdom’s ambitious construction pipeline.

Zero by 2060. The construction industry is one of the hardest to abate industries, contributing

Partanna’s proprietary concrete formula,

38% of global carbon emissions. Saudi

which can be made from recycled ingredients,

Arabia’s construction industry is currently the

including brine, does not require any Portland

strongest in the world, according to the Royal

cement or heating during the production

Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS),

process. The company’s patented mixing

underlining the need for innovative solutions.

process unlocks new compounds that react and passively absorb CO₂. By avoiding

Partanna estimates that if 100,000 homes

emissions associated with clinkering, and by

were built with Partanna material, they would

utilizing waste materials made in the Kingdom,

avoid or remove the equivalent CO₂ of the

Partanna materials quickly become carbon-

annual emissions of over one million cars.

negative, without the need for expensive CCUS technology (carbon capture, usage,

Operating at full capacity, the planned

and storage). Through this process, buildings

facility has the potential to generate

and infrastructure made with Partanna

1.3 million carbon credits annually.

actively heal the planet, by repurposing waste materials and removing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere – like a tree.

 RICK FOX, CEO OF PARTANNA

GIGA PROJECTS - ROSHN GROUP 157

Carbon-negative building materials represent a transformative shift in the construction industry and are key in embedding sustainable technologies in the Kingdom’s urban landscape

These high-quality grey-carbon credits – so-called because they emanate from the grey, built environment – can be sold to Saudi businesses looking to offset their own emissions.

Rick Fox, CEO of Partanna said: “This is a partnership of pioneers.

Partanna has developed the world’s first and only carbon-negative concrete production process. ROSHN has long been recognized as a champion of utilizing ground-breaking technologies, such as ours.

“Together, we’re going to show the world that you can build sustainably without compromise. Together, we’re going to delink Saudi Arabia’s development from pollution. Together, we’re going to change the way the world builds – for good.

“I am grateful to be starting 2024 with this announcement, and our signing of a historic Heads of Agreement with the Government of The Bahamas. Thanks to the leadership of Prime Minister Philip Brave Davis, Partanna is scaling globally from the frontline of climate change to frontier emerging markets.”

ROSHN Group is investing in the creation of sustainable and self-sufficient communities. Their partnership with Partanna underscores a shared commitment to sustainable development and showcases their dedication to implementing green technologies in their expansive housing projects.

The agreement with Partanna comes just months after Partanna launched its first carbon-negative ‘home for the world’ in The Bahamas, which is the first of 1,000 to be delivered in partnership with the Bahamian Government. In 2023, Partanna signed a long-term supply agreement with Red Sea Global and has already delivered over 11,000 paving slabs to the developer. In addition, Partanna also has a collaboration agreement with the Diriyah Gate Development Authority.

FOR MORE INFORMATION ON ROSHN GROUP’S NEW WAY OF LIVING VISIT ROSHN.SA

ROSHN GROUP

PARTANNA

VISIT WEBSITE

VISIT WEBSITE

EMAIL US

EMAIL US

158 GIGA PROJECTS - ALULA

THE WORLD’S LARGEST BATTERY-OPERATED TRAMWAY TO RUN IN ALULA

ALSTOM, HAS RECENTLY SIGNED AN IMPORTANT DEAL WITH THE ROYAL COMMISSION FOR ALULA TO BUILD THE WORLD’S LONGEST BATTERYOPERATED TRAMWAY, TRAVERSING 22.4KM.

T

his trailblazing project, which

Featuring 17 strategically positioned stations,

Under this contract, Alstom will supply power

this tramway system will include 20 advanced

and warehouse equipment, and deliver

Citadis trams equipped with the Mitrac B

comprehensive maintenance services for 10

battery solution. It will also incorporate

years, using the HealthHub, a new predictive

an innovative, rapid, and unobtrusive SRS

maintenance tool that can monitor the

ground-based static charging system, along

health of trains, infrastructure, and signaling

with power supply, signaling, communication

assets using cutting-edge data analytics.

systems, and depot equipment.

Alstom will also provide dedicated training

will entertain, educate, and thrill

programs for the tram staff to ensure operating

passengers with a fascinating journey

Described as a fusion of historical routes

through time, takes in access to UNESCO

with climate-adapted trams, the tram system

World Heritage sites and seamlessly aligns

will provide unparalleled access to AlUla’s

with the Royal Commission’s commitment

five main historical districts: AlUla Old Town

to sustainability and the Saudi Vision 2030.

(District 1), Dadan (District 2), Jabal Ikmah

efficiency is always at an optimum level.

(District 3), Nabataean Horizon (District 4), and Hegra Historical City (District 5).

ALSTOM

Featuring 17 strategically positioned stations, this tramway system will include 20 advanced Citadis trams

VISIT WEBSITE

REGISTER NOW!

TAP INTO BUYERS FROM SAUDI ARABIA'S TRILLION DOLLAR CONSTRUCTION MARKET REGISTER YOUR INTEREST TODAY Top Saudi Projects Represented

Pre Determined Requirements

Pre Matched Buyers And Suppliers

Focused Face To Face Meetings

Decision Makers Only

Strategized Networking

Thought Provoking Agenda

Inspiring Industry Experts AsSpeakers

GBB - EXTRAORDINARY SUMMITS CREATING EXTRAORDINARY OPPORTUNITIES. CREATING VALUE.

4 - 5 JULY 2024

Palau de Congressos de Palma, Palma de Mallorca, Spain marketing@gbbventure.com

+44 20386 82202

160 GIGA PROJECTS - ALULA

ALULA TO BECOME A DESTINATION FOR DESERT POLO LEADING ARGENTINE POLO TEAM LA DOLFINA AND THE ROYAL COMMISSION FOR ALULA (RCU) HAVE FORGED A NEW STRATEGIC ALLIANCE TO TRANSFORM THE ANCIENT SAUDI CITY INTO AN INTERNATIONALLY RECOGNIZED DESTINATION FOR HERITAGE AND EQUESTRIAN SPORTS, INCLUDING DESERT POLO.

GIGA PROJECTS - ALULA 161

T

he agreement was signed at

La Dolfina players, who are from the

the third edition of the Richard

province of Buenos Aires, will offer high-

Mille Desert Polo tournament, which

level professional, technical, and advisory

took place in AlUla from January 17–20.

support to AlUla's polo community in

It establishes the technical framework

addition to promoting participation in the

for future additions to the elite equine

game, developing skills, and assisting in the

sport and its continued success.

creation of new business opportunities.

La Dolfina will help RCU establish a new Polo

Ziad Alsuhaibani, Chief Sports Officer at the

Academy in AlUla in addition to organizing

Royal Commission for AlUla, commented:

and carrying out instructional courses for

“We are delighted to announce the signing

locals, guests, and Saudis who are keen

of a new strategic partnership with the La

to learn the game under the guidance

Dolfina polo team that will greatly support

of some of the world's top players and

the growth and development of desert polo

coaches. In addition, La Dolfina will supply

in AlUla and establish northwest Arabia as the

horses for AlUla polo competitions.

number one winter destination for equestrian sports. Having La Dolfina join our network of

Adolfo Cambiaso is a prominent player for

international partners, who will share their

La Dolfina and one of the all-time great

years of knowledge, sporting achievement,

polo players, and he and his teammates,

and experience of winning major international

along with the technical staff, will

tournaments, will help to elevate equestrian

contribute their wealth of expertise and

sports in AlUla to a greater level of

experience to the growth of polo in AlUla.

sophistication, participation, and excitement.”

The new strategic partnership with La Dolfina will accelerate the introduction of robust technical developments, boosting AlUla's standing as the top winter destination for equestrian competitions and drawing players, teams, enthusiasts, and more

La Dolfina will help RCU establish a new Polo Academy in AlUla

to the region and its quickly changing landscape of facilities and purpose-built infrastructure, like the Al Fursan Village.

La Dolfina players, who are from the province of Buenos Aires, will offer high-level professional, technical, and advisory support

ALULA VISIT WEBSITE

162 GIGA PROJECTS - QIDDIYA

CROWN PRINCE UNVEILS QIDDIYA CITY PLANS CROWN PRINCE MOHAMMED BIN SALMAN, WHO ALSO SERVES AS THE CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD OF QIDDIYA INVESTMENT COMPANY, HAS UNVEILED THE URBAN PLAN FOR THE CITY OF QIDDIYA, SLATED TO BE ONE OF THE WORLD’S MOST EXCITING NEW DESTINATIONS FOR ENTERTAINMENT, SPORTS, AND CULTURE.

W

ith contracts worth $2.6 billion awarded to date, Qiddiya City

is also expected to create more than 325,000 jobs and a create a nominal GDP of $34 billion per annum.

Highpoints in Qiddiya City will take in a gaming and esports district, a speed park track, golf courses, a water park, Six Flags Qiddiya, and a multipurpose stadium. Once completed, it will be the world’s largest entertainment city, even surpassing the iconic Walt Disney World in Florida.

Philippe Gas, a Disney veteran and the former CEO of Qiddiya, commented, “This is a super exciting project. It is the world’s biggest venture when it comes to entertainment, sports, and arts, all together and integrated. This has never been done before. So the complexity of it is exciting. It is almost three times the size of Walt Disney World. It is huge. This is a place that will, by its size, offer people days of entertainment.”

Qiddiya City is under construction with contracts worth $2.6 billion awarded

GIGA PROJECTS - QIDDIYA 163

‘FUTURISTIC’ CLIFFTOP 2034 WORLD CUP STADIUM REVEALED A FIFA CONGRESS IS SET TO CONFIRM THAT SAUDI ARABIA WILL HOST THE 2034 WORLD CUP TOWARDS THE LATTER END OF 2024, AND THE KINGDOM IS NOW PUSHING AHEAD WITH PLANS THAT INCLUDE A HIGH-TECH STADIUM ON THE CREST OF A 200-METER-HIGH CLIFF NEAR RIYADH. To be named the Prince Mohammed bin Salman Stadium, the 45,000-seat venue will feature a retractable roof and field, plus an LED wall with hundreds of meters of screens to create an immersive experience for fans. The QIC, wholly owned by the Public Investment Fund, also stated that the new stadium is intended to become the home venue of Saudi ProLeague clubs Al-Nassr and Al-Hilal.

The 45,000-seat venue will feature a retractable roof and field “The futuristic venue aims to reinvent the traditional stadium concept,” said the Qiddiya Investment Company (QIC), and will be a centerpiece of the Qiddiya City project, 30 miles from downtown Riyadh.

The architect attached to the new Prince Mohammed bin Salman Stadium project is the globally renowned firm Populous, which worked on Olympic stadia in Australia and Russia and designed the 62,850-capacity Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, which was purpose-built for NFL games as well as football matches.

164 GIGA PROJECTS - QIDDIYA

QIDDIYA ANNOUNCES SPECTACULAR MOTORSPORT TRACK QIDDIYA CITY WILL BE HOME TO A GROUNDBREAKING NEW RACETRACK THAT AIMS TO ELEVATE SAUDI ARABIA TO THE PINNACLE OF MOTORSPORT BY BECOMING ONE OF THE WORLD’S LEADING MOTORSPORT VENUES, THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF THE QIDDIYA INVESTMENT COMPANY HAS ANNOUNCED.

L

ocated in the heart of Qiddiya City,

The Speed Park Track has multiple

When it comes to spectating, motorsport

the configurable Speed Park Track

configurations with two distinctive sections,

enthusiasts will enjoy one of the most

will blend functionality, state-of-the-art

including a street circuit section and the fast

thrilling and immersive race experiences

technology, and unique customer experience

open track section, which are fully integrated

in the world with multiple vantage

and is poised to host an impressive roster of

into Qiddiya’s neighboring attractions, bringing

points for fans and viewing terraces at

the world’s most prestigious racing events.

entertainment, sports, and culture together.

the edge of and within the track.

The track, which will sit at the center of an area dedicated to motorsports, will also boast some of racing’s most recognizable track design features.

Commenting on the launch, Abdullah Aldawood, Managing Director of Qiddiya Investment Company said: “The Speed Park Track will be a true embodiment of Qiddiya’s power of play philosophy and position Qiddiya City as the home of Saudi motorsport and one of the world’s leading motorsport venues.

“Visitors and spectators will be treated to one of the most unique race experiences in the world with a pioneering track that will be ready to host some of the world’s biggest motorsport events.”

Designed by Austrian former Formula One driver Alex Wurz and German circuit designer Hermann Tilke, the fast-flowing track has been designed by race drivers, for race drivers, and pushes boundaries to the extreme, featuring 21 corners and utilizing Qiddiya City’s dramatic landscape to create over 108m of elevation gain per lap.

Its centerpiece will be the pioneering ‘Blade’ at turn one – an awe-inspiring elevated section of the circuit that dramatically rises more than 20 stories above the ground.

GIGA PROJECTS - QIDDIYA 165

An awe-inspiring elevated section of the circuit that dramatically rises more than 20 stories above the ground

Adrenaline-fueled attractions, experiences, and events will also surround the circuit, blending the thrills of motorsports with the vibrancy of cultural and entertainment hubs – drawing on Qiddiya’s power of play philosophy.

21 Corners 108m Elevation gap per lap

To add to the excitement and unrivaled

for human cognitive development, emotional

experience, the track will be seamlessly

expression, social skills, creativity, and

integrated with surrounding attractions, with

physical health. Studies have demonstrated

the ‘Blade’ turn rising above a music venue

the positive effects of recreational activities

below and drivers racing alongside Falcon’s

on society, their ability to bridge differences

flight, the world’s tallest rollercoaster located

between individuals and enhance levels

at the neighboring Six Flags Qiddiya City.

of empathy and social cohesion.

Sections of the track will also run alongside

The Blade at turn one climbs 20 stories in height

a water theme park located in the city.

The unveiling of the track also follows the announcements of the Qiddiya City

Qiddiya’s power of play concept leverages

Gaming & Esports District and the Prince

decades of research showing that play is vital

Mohammed bin Salman Stadium.

The fast-flowing track has been designed by race drivers, for race drivers

QIDDIYA VISIT WEBSITE

166 WILD - Pioneering Female Leadership Mastermind, Breaking Barriers

PIONEERING FEMALE LEADERSHIP MASTERMIND - BREAKING BARRIERS THE MUCH ANTICIPATED WILD LEADERSHIP MASTERMIND KICKED OFF IN MID-FEBRUARY AND HAS ALREADY CAUSED A STIR IN THE MARKET. WILD GROUP WITNESSED A GAP IN THE MARKET TO BRING TOGETHER SENIOR FEMALES AND BUSINESS HEADS.

 EMMA BURDETT, FOUNDER AND CEO OF WILD - WOMEN IN LEADERSHIP DELIVER

WILD - Pioneering Female Leadership Mastermind, Breaking Barriers 167

168 WILD - Pioneering Female Leadership Mastermind, Breaking Barriers

“Having been in the region for over 10 years and leading the WILD community for six years, I have been privy to many conversations with female leaders. More often than not, many women have endured an arduous journey of challenges to reach

"I aim to harness the power of fashion to amplify my leadership impact and drive positive change for women."

a senior position. In particular, bullying, less access to resources, being talked over in meetings, and less

The WILD Leadership Mastermind supports my

pay than male counterparts.”

personal purpose here in KSA, and I am proud to be part of this dynamic think tank of female leaders.”

Emma explains that women at the top care about

The WILD Leadership Mastermind has diverse female

creating change for future generations of female

leaders from various backgrounds joining.

talent.

“This think tank represents diversity with a variety “Women in these senior positions care about making

of different backgrounds. I can't wait to see the

a difference and creating change for the younger

results, it is an exciting time for WILD and our WILD

women climbing the ranks in their careers. We

community of female leaders in the region right

want to ensure they don’t have to go through the

now.’ Says Emma, WILD Founder.

challenges we did.”

The WILD Leadership Mastermind, in partnership

 SOMY MAVLAVIZADA, FOUNDER, SOMY LONDON

with Saudi Projects, is a think tank for high-level female leaders to come together and challenge the status quo. This compelling initiative has garnered support from like-minded females in the private sector, such as Jena Ladhani, the newly appointed Managing Director at CBRE in Saudi Arabia (Part of Dar Al Riyadh).  EMMA WITH JENA LADHANI, MANAGING DIRECTOR AT CBRE IN SAUDI ARABIA

One participant is joining from London. A wellknown fashion designer originally from Afghanistan and who grew up in Saudi Arabia, Somy has built a fashion brand fueled by resilience and originated from adversity. Somy weaves in her personal journey, using her platform as a canvas for change.

“WILD deeply inspires me, and I am excited to be a part of the Leadership Mastermind as it offers a “This collaboration with WILD enables the

powerful forum for senior women to break barriers

culmination of a powerful manifesto for change,

and redefine norms”, says Somy.

challenging the status quo, ensuring we are creating and supporting the future leaders of the Kingdom

“I hope to bring a different perspective to this unique

of Saudi Arabia aligning perfectly with CBRE values

group through the lens of fashion. I firmly believe

– Respect, Integrity, Service and Excellence and

that dressing fashionably isn't just about looking

Dar Al Riyadh compass of People, Accountability,

good; it embodies the confidence to pursue our

Collaboration, Trust & Integrity, Excellence.

dreams fearlessly.

WILD - Pioneering Female Leadership Mastermind, Breaking Barriers 169

 PAULA NEWBY, FOUNDER OF CEO, PREDIXA

I aim to harness the power of fashion to amplify my leadership impact and drive positive change

“As a leader, I care deeply about creating sustainable, inclusive growth, supporting talent, and using technology in the solutions of the future.  TESS VEENBOER, REGIONAL SALES OPERATIONS DIRECTOR, MIDDLE EAST, JACOBS

for women.”Adding a different perspective is Paula Newby, Founder of CEO of PREDIXA (An AI diagnostic tool to assess the DEI gap analysis of a company).

“I am thrilled to be part of the WILD Leadership Mindset program since gender equality is needed in today's business landscape now more than ever.

Diversity brings different perspectives and ideas to the table that can be further enhanced through the correct use of new technologies. Moreover, the evidence is clear - equality promotes fairness and social justice, contributing to a more inclusive and better society. The momentum continues, and the WLM is part of this movement.'

Saudi projects will document and publish the various findings, closely keeping track of the leadership mastermind's findings.

“Being part of this think tank means being part of a community that is committed to making a difference,

ARE YOU A DISTINGUISHED FEMALE LEADER BASED IN THE UAE OR KSA? ARE YOU INTERESTED IN JOINING LIKE-MINDED HIGH-LEVEL FEMALE LEADERS TO INNOVATE, EVOLVE, AND LEARN TOGETHER? IF SO, CONSIDER APPLYING FOR THE WILD LEADERSHIP PROGRAMS HERE

and I am keen to contribute to this purpose.”

WILD LEADERSHIP MASTERMIND “As a leader, I care deeply about creating sustainable, inclusive growth, supporting talent, and

APPLY NOW

using technology in the solutions of the future. The Middle East has always been a place of opportunity and growth, attracting professionals worldwide and developing talent. By recognizing and valuing our

LEADER IN YOU GROUP COACHING PROGRAM APPLY NOW

unique strengths, we can collectively contribute to building prosperous communities.

WILD: WOMEN IN LEADERSHIP DELIVER

Being part of this think tank means being part of a community committed to making a difference, and I am keen to contribute to this purpose.”

VISIT WEBSITE

We turn your dream into reality

We turn your dream into reality INDUSTRIES WE SERVE SeraCon International Contracting LLC is a global company specializing in design, architecture and fit-out works to renovate and build up projects in swimming pools, hotels waterparks, spa, restaurants, landscaping requirements and many more in MENA & GCC region.

WE OFFER QUALITY SERVICE We are the largest company in hotel’s room, restaurant, entertainment, pool and spa renovating and contracting.

All kinds of design, architecture and construction works •

Hotel’s Room Renovation

•

Restaurant and entertainment areas

•

Pool and spa renovation

We will be happy to work with you by examining your requests. For further information info please contact us!

OUR LOCATIONS United Arab Emirates +971 50 156 4403 or +971 54 765 9040 Saudi Arabia +966 56 385 6193 Qatar +974 6671 9128 Egypt +20 102 330 0859 Turkey +905 32492 8567 Office location in Dubai: Sheraton Grand hotel, Burj Al Salam offices, Floor 37, office Number 03, Dubai, UAE

VISIT WEBSITE