Construction Business News ME - March 2024

WOMEN IN CONSTRUCTION

Celebrating women who make unending contributions to the construction sector

DRIVE THE NEW WAY

NEW IVECO T-WAY: HIGH PRODUCTIVITY AND SAFETY ON OFF-ROAD TERRAINS

With a complete line-up of AWD and PWD versions and the the 16-speed HI-TRONIX automated gearbox, the IVECO T-WAY features a host of functionalities such as Rocking Mode, Off-road Mode, Creeping Mode and 4 reverse gears to tackle with ease the toughest off-road conditions. The new architecture of the EBS system, combined with disc brakes on all wheels, greatly improves the vehicle’s performance and the driver’s safety in the most demanding applications.

NEW IVECO S-WAY: HIGH TECHNOLOGY AND EFFICIENCY FOR ON-ROAD MISSIONS

The new IVECO S-WAY, with a completely redesigned and reinforced cab, offers a wide choice of Euro III/V diesel engines, a delivering class-leading power from 360 HP to 560 HP Euro III / 570 HP Euro V and superior fuel-saving devices, such as anti-idling feature, Ecoswitch, Ecoroll and Smart Alternator. 12-speed HI-TRONIX automated transmission with the most advanced technology in its category, electronic clutch and best-in-class torque-to-weight ratio.

Pillars of Real Estate Awards 2024

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RESILENT CITIES

KEY TO THE CITY

Paolo Testolini, Principal, Global Sector Leader - Cities and Places at Woods Bagot, discusses resilience and why it is the most important survival tool for modern cities.

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INTERVIEW

WOOD SHOWS 2024

#Candid with Walid Farghal on Dubai, Cairo, and Saudi Wood Shows

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TECHNOLOGY

CONSTRUCTING AN INCLUSIVE FUTURE

Empowering the Next Generation with Programmes Supporting Women in Construction

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WOMEN IN CONSTRUCTION

#LIGHTS ON: CELEBRATING WOMEN’S EXCELLENCE

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TALKING POINT

LEADING THE WAY

The role of women leadership in shaping the future of real estate

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TECHNOLOGY

TRANSMUTING WITH ADVANCEMENTS Georges Calas, CEO of Lifesize Plans Dubai shares the Benefits of Advanced PreConstruction Technology

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TALKING POINT #WATCHOUT

Five ultra-luxury real estate trends with the potential to go mainstream

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Want

Ripple Effect

At 10 p.m., a cool wind caresses my face as I sit down to compose this editor's note. The damp air, slightly scented with sand from the morning's downpour, makes me reflect on how quickly this year has flown by. The last few weeks—or rather, months—have been extremely busy. We are halfway through the third month of this year, and it seems like yesterday to me that New Year's Eve was just yesterday. How? I'm still not sure.

As I say this, time is flying by since work has been moving along at a breakneck pace. In the midst of all of this hustle, we hope to meet new people. Some may not even catch my attention, but others leave a lasting impression. Having said that, as the jazz music keeps playing in the background, I started to brainstorm a list of some of the things that influence people to leave a lasting impression.

There will be a certain amount of spillover from this effect. It might be good or bad. Good can mean two things: either a personality will knock you off your seat and leave you in awe, or on the other hand, you've drawn attention to one by not sitting well in the eyes with your actions. Both, in my opinion, imply that you've made an impression. Of course, the wrongdoings are the cause of the negative perceptions. However, what's fascinating is that we can all imagine our interpretations of it, whether positive or negative. For me personally, I love reading people. I can engage in this activity at any time and from any location. I, therefore, tend to create a persona in my head when I see people around me based on their actions, body language, and self-portrayal; this persona may or may not be good. Only my head knows.

Coming to this issue, we have touched on a topic that is very close to my heart—women. We have discussed how women are paving the way for themselves in a field that is dominated by men, and they have all offered some insightful advice. We also celebrate the winners of the Pillars of Real Estate Awards 2024, along with a ton of other exciting content. Happy reading!

Vibha Mehta Editor-in-Chief vibha@bncpublishing.net

Vibha Mehta vibhamehta01 @vibhamehta01

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EGYPT AND SAUDI-EGYPTIAN ALLIANCE SIGN MOU ON REAL ESTATE DEVELOPMENT

The Egyptian government, represented by the Arab Organization for Industrialization (AOI), signed in Cairo today a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with a Saudi-Egyptian alliance, represented by the companies Alupco ‘Olayan Group,’ Okta International, and City Edge Developments. The collaboration was solidified by signing an MoU on logistical supply for real-estate development projects in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to be implemented by the alliance.

The ceremony was graced by the Saudi ambassador to the Arab Republic of Egypt, Osama bin Ahmed Nugali, AOI President Major General Eng. Abdel Rahman Abdel Azim, and embassy Commercial Attaché Anwar bin Hasusa.

In his remarks after the signing, Ambassador Naqli expressed the Kingdom’s warm welcome and strong

support for initiatives that enhance cooperation between the two countries. He also emphasized the importance of opening up investment opportunities for Egyptian companies and fostering the exchange of experiences and integration between both sides, benefiting both nations.

Eng. Abdel Azim expressed his appreciation for the cooperation between the Saudi and Egyptian alliances. He confirmed his eagerness to enhance this cooperation through various investment projects that aim to strengthen the partnership between the two countries. Moreover, these projects will create significant job opportunities and attract investments.

Eng. Abdel Azim clarified that the purpose of the MoU is to provide logistical support for real-estate development ventures in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The alliance plans to execute projects worth approximately $1 billion shortly.

NESMA & PARTNERS AND KING FAHD UNIVERSITY OF PETROLEUM & MINERALS SIGNS A MOU

Nesma & Partners, the leading contracting company in Saudi Arabia, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with King Fahd University of Petroleum & Minerals (KFUPM), a prestigious University and Research Institute in Saudi Arabia. The MoU aims to establish cooperation between both parties to achieve constructive, fruitful collaboration in the academic, scientific, training, research, and development fields.

The MoU was signed by Rami AlTurki, the Executive Committee chairman and a board director at Nesma & Partners, and Dr Muhammad M. Al-Saggaf, President of KFUPM, under

the patronage of HRH Prince Abdulaziz Bin Salman Bin Abdulaziz, Minister of Energy. This collaboration will focus on areas of mutual interest, including research in construction, engineering, innovative materials and technologies, AI, robotics, and smart materials.

Regarding the collaboration, Rami AlTurki stated: “We are excited to partner with KFUPM to foster innovation and drive research in critical areas of the construction industry. This MoU strengthens our commitment to excellence and reinforces our position as the leading contracting company in Saudi Arabia.”

Dr Muhammad Al-Saggaf, President of KFUPM, expressed

optimism about the collaboration, saying: “Our partnerships are a crucial part of our university’s strategic transformation, aimed at preparing our students not only to succeed but also to be key contributors to the growth of future economies in line with Vision 2030. Through our partnerships, we’re enhancing education and research to ensure our university will play a pivotal role in supporting the goals of our government and industry partners.”

The signing of this MoU marks an important milestone in the strategic collaboration between Nesma & Partners and KFUPM, providing a solid foundation for future joint initiatives and projects.

BURO HAPPOLD APPOINTS DEEPAK CHOTWANI AS REGIONAL MANAGING DIRECTOR

Global engineering, design and advisory practice Buro Happold has appointed Deepak Chotwani as Regional Managing Director of India.

As a Partner and member of the Global Leadership Team, Deepak takes responsibility for the overall business across Buro Happold’s India region, leading key strategic and growth initiatives and developing the company and its people.

Deepak has held several senior leadership roles at Buro Happold since 2013. He is a business-focused transformational leader with a wide variety of experience over 20 years spanning four continents.

He previously managed Buro Happold’s business in APAC, working with the regional teams to develop the Hong Kong & China business and providing strategic direction to the regional leadership. Deepak has an MBA in finance and marketing from the University of Wales UK and a degree in finance from the University of Rajasthan.

Buro Happold continues strengthening its capabilities in India as part of a global sustainable growth programme. It has been operating in India for 15 years and now has offices in Mumbai, Hyderabad and Bengaluru.

Buro Happold’s integrated and innovative approach to the built environment means it has a proven track record of delivering highquality engineering design solutions for commercial clients in India. Notable projects include the World Towers in Mumbai, Omkar 1973 Worli and Lodha Clariant.

Deepak Chotwani, Regional Managing Director, India, said: “I am thrilled to accept the appointment as the Regional Managing Director of India for Buro Happold. Being named Managing Director of this growing region allows me to contribute to Buro Happold’s success and India’s evolving story. India will continue to grow exponentially, which means the opportunities it will present and the impact India has on the global economy will only continue to increase.”

“I am excited to work with the partners in India and the global leadership team to take our India practice to the next level. I aim to diversify our offering in India and leverage Buro Happold’s global expertise. I look forward to making our regional business even more sustainability-focused, helping our clients resolve their issues, investing in our people, and making this business an even happier and more exciting workplace.”

As a Partner and Buro Happold’s Global Leadership Team member, Deepak will report to CEO, Oliver Plunkett.

Oliver Plunkett, Buro Happold CEO, added: “India is one of Buro Happold’s most exciting locations due to its rapid growth of urban areas, so it’s fantastic that Deepak’s appointment will only accelerate our ambitions. Led by Deepak, our team of experts will continue to help clients across India create

a lasting legacy within the built environment. We already have strong working relationships with the region’s leading architectural firms and developers, so we look forward to further strengthening these as we expand our service offer.”

“Following seven years of leading our India business, former Regional MD Krishnendu Mukherjee has taken on a new role within Buro Happold, focusing on our client relationships and leading exceptional projects for the practice. I want to thank him for his fantastic contribution.”

For more than 45 years, Buro Happold has been involved in some of the most iconic projects across the globe, including Singapore’s Jewel Changi Airport, Museum of the Future in Dubai, The High Line in New York, Tottenham Hotspur Stadium and Battersea Power Station in London, Varso Tower in Warsaw, and SAP Arena in Munich.

DEEPAK CHOTWANI, Regional Managing Director of Buro Happold

AEDAS-DESIGNED HUANGGANG SKYSCRAPER REDEFINES THE SHENZHEN URBAN LANDSCAPE

Acting as the southern gateway to China and an essential node of GBA, Shenzhen is a modern metropolis located immediately north of Hong Kong, which is significant in steering the economic growth of both cities and creating a transportation hub that connects the communities. Standing 247m tall, the Huanggang Port Headquarters is set to be the new landmark for the Shenzhen Technology and Innovation Park and Shenzhen Hong Kong Cooperation Zone.

Drawing inspiration from the surrounding landscape and reflecting the regional characteristics, the design is based on the imagery of stacking stones and rivers. A simple, fluid architectural form signifies flowing water, while the cantilevered canopy at the tower’s entrance signifies splashes. It has adopted a ripple-like cascading form, echoing the overall shape of the building. The vertical lines of the façade pour from the crown to the lobby, unifying the architectural language from top to bottom. Visitors also get to experience an arrival experience of grandeur and warmth with the 13-metre tall, light-filled lobby, which has utilised a transparent glass panel wall to bring vitality to the city as the cornerstones of the GBA cities.

The plane design follows a rigorous and symmetrical geometric form. Through the superposition of four circles, the façade has adopted round corners formed by four arcs; the building space is made regular and efficient, optimising the landscape view and creating a vibrant architectural form to greet the city.

Dividing the lateral floorplan into four, the interior is flexible and offers 10-14 metres of office depth to cater to corporations of different sizes and needs. There are also some open offices near the crown of the building, which facilitates communication and interaction by introducing indoor-outdoor spaces. The greenery-adorned sky lobbies and featured roofs are destined for recreational use, allowing workers to connect and unwind while enhancing the development’s aesthetics and

porosity. It also provides an active and vibrant towerscape, where workers may enjoy a panoramic view that overlooks the nearby superior landscape resources.

The design has achieved a high assembly rate that optimises construction resources and time. Vertical fins have been adopted to create an environmentally friendly tower to provide sufficient shading and low reflection energy-saving curtain wall panels to minimise our carbon footprint. The integrity of the tower’s appearance has been preserved through an integrated system of ventilation solutions, achieving a low-carbon design.

“Built based on the principles of ‘high quality’, ‘customisation’ and ‘sustainability’, we envision a harmonious layout of simple geometric shapes together formed by the tower and Huanggang Port that contributes to the development of the Shenzhen-Hong Kong Cooperation Zone,” says Chris.

Aedas is the world’s only local and global architecture and design practice driven by the worldwide sharing of research, local knowledge and international practice. Our 1,100 creative minds with design studios across the globe create world-class design solutions with a deep social and cultural understanding of the communities we design for. We create world-class design solutions that are tailored to the needs of cities and communities around the world.

RUA AL MADINAH HOLDING SIGNED CONTRACTS WORTH MORE THAN 300 MILLION

Rua Al Madinah Holding signed two contracts worth more than 300 million riyals with several international consultancy firms specializing in designs, engineering consultations, and supervision of several hotels within the fourth and fifth Super Blocks of the Rua Al Madinah project. This occurred during the company’s participation in the second edition of the PIF Private Sector Forum, held on February 6-7, 2024, at the King Abdulaziz International Conference Center in Riyadh, aiming to strengthen partnerships between fund-affiliated companies and the private sector to achieve local economic growth. Rua Al Madinah Holding provided several opportunities for investors during the forum.

Under the first contract with Jacobs, design services will be provided for 12 hotel brands in the fourth Super Blocks, along with large spaces to support the establishment of restaurants and cafes managed by various global operating companies, making this block one of the most attractive and largest within Rua Al Madinah project, containing more than 8000 rooms. According to the second contract, the KEO International Consultant will oversee the

implementation of the fifth Super Block and deliver it according to the highest international standards and specifications targeted by the project.

Furthermore, the CEO, Engineer Ahmed W. Al Juhani, stated that 25% of the infrastructure works for the Rua Al Madinah project have been completed. As part of the company’s endeavour to develop a comprehensive urban and developmental system within the Rua Al Madinah project, it seeks to engage pioneers and experts in all its sectors of the real estate sector to provide a unique experience for visitors and guests. He affirmed that this would significantly impact the status of Madinah as a prestigious destination with a modern architectural system characterized by a high quality of life and rich cultural experience.

It is worth noting that the Rua Al Madinah project is one of the most critical projects of Rua Al Madinah Holding, spanning a total area estimated at 1.5 million square meters. It aims to provide 47,000 hospitality units accommodating 149,000 visitors by 2030, in line with the objectives of the Hajj & Umrah sector and Vision 2030 of facilitating the hosting of 30 million visitors.

OMAN CABLES INDUSTRY WELCOMES ERKAN AYDOGDU AS NEW CEO

Oman Cables Industry (OCI), the leading cable solutions provider in the Sultanate of Oman, part of the Prysmian Group, has appointed Erkan Aydogdu as its new Chief Executive Officer.

This decision comes as Cinzia Farisè, the current CEO, transitioned to a higher strategic role at the Prysmian Group headquarters with global responsibilities, as disclosed to the Muscat Stock Exchange. The Board of Directors recognized Cinzia Farisè for her significant contributions, services, and accomplishments made during her tenure as CEO. The board extends its best wishes for her ongoing success in the new global role, where she is expected to provide support and guidance to the company.

At the same time, Oman Cables Industry highlighted Aydogdu’s strong capabilities in areas including logistics, continuous improvement, research and development, quality assurance, and management. The

Board voiced its confidence that Aydogdu’s multifaceted experience will contribute significantly to the industry. Having served as the CEO of Oceania and Southeast Asia at the Prysmian Group since 2019, and previously CEO of Türk Prysmian Kablo, Aydogdu, brings a wealth of experience from his various roles within the company. His tenure and expertise are set to contribute to OCI Group’s continued success and growth.

Erkan Aydogdu. said: “I am both humbled and inspired by the opportunity to steer OCI Group into its next stage of evolution. Together with the Board and our leadership team, I am committed to driving sustainable value and yielding solid results. As I embrace this new role, I look forward to leading our organization towards growth and providing value to our customers and partners throughout the region.”

OCI Group looks forward to continued success under the leadership of Erkan Aydogdu.

KEY CITY TO THE

PAOLO TESTOLINI, Principal, Global Sector Leader - Cities and Places at Woods Bagot, discusses resilience and why it

is the most important survival tool for modern cities.

Venice and cities in the Middle East provide valuable lessons in resilience – the most vital survival tool for the modern city. A city is a multi-layered thing. Named for gods, lovers, conquerors and new beginnings, cities across the world are imbued with the dreams of people long past, the ambitions of the present, and the hopes of generations to come.

As the world faces the realities of overpopulation, global warming, climate change, energy crisis and desertification, many cities will fall under threat of becoming uninhabitable. Over the next 50 years, 1 to 3 billion people are projected to be left outside the climate conditions that have served humanity well for the past 6,000 years .

As stewards of the built environment, architects must consider how liveable, people-centric spaces can be created, adapted, and made more resilient. While the continuing technological feats of the Fourth Revolution will contribute to future solutions globally, inspiration for a way forward also lies in our past. Synergies between Venice and cites across the Middle East – both home to incredible feats of innovation in the face of extreme elements at different points in time – have a lot to teach us about resilience.

A CASE FOR SAVING CITIES.

Cities are the seeds from which societies grow. Their undeniable pull saw a young Leonardo Da Vinci move to Florence from the countryside during the 1500s and is still the reason younger generations will choose to live in a small flat in a crowded city over more generous living conditions in the country. For young and old, cities are tantalizing hubs of innovation, community, and connection.

Even in recent times, the call of the city remains clear. While the early days of the pandemic were rife with predictions of the ultimate death of cities, fears of a global urban exodus proved overstated. Big cities emerged resilient, and the people who left them returned. Almost 60 percent of the world’s population, 4.4 billion inhabitants, live in cities today – and nearly 7 out of 10 people are predicted to live in cities by 2050 .

DREAMS SET ON WATER: VENICE.

The 1600-year tale of Venice is a remarkable story of innovation and imagination. An exceptional example of human ingenuity, the man-made city’s astonishing location over the very northern corner of the Adriatic Sea was honed to provide protection, tactical advantage, and the basis for a maritime golden age.

But, in recent centuries, Venice’s story turns from triumphant to cautionary. The city’s tale takes a turn for the worse in two senses: physically, because of rising sea levels and the related ruin of its ancient structures, and fundamentally, because its long-held spirit of reinvention and innovative edge has waned.

Tourism has been Venice’s main source of income since the end of the 18th century. The city hosts 30 million visitors a year – more than two-thirds of which only come for the day – while the number of permanent residents threatens to drop below 50 000. Facing a city that no longer feels like theirs, the remaining inhabitants of Venice’s historic centre say they fear becoming like “relics in an open museum.” Last August, UNESCO threatened

Based in Dubai studio, PAOLO oversees the firm’s global masterplan and Urban Design team to deliver holistic and sustainable design solutions. With more than 20 years of experience leading architecture, urban planning and environmental design projects, Paolo’s ethos is based upon a sensible business case for the proposed mix of uses and sustainable agenda.

CITY WALK is an open, design-inspired neighbourhood in the heart of Dubai with hundreds of exclusive shops, restaurants and leisure activities set among 34 low-rise residential buildings, tree-lined avenues and a stunning a collection of contemporary street art murals.

THE HUMAN COMPONENT: 4IR AND BEYOND.

Though our sources change – steam propelled the original Industrial Revolution; electricity the second; preliminary automation and machinery the third; and cyberphysical systems (intelligent computers) the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) – humankind’s inventiveness pushes the bounds of possibility reliable forward.

4IR’s advancement of technology pushes forward at an unimaginable pace, enhancing existing potential with artificial intelligence, robotics, the Internet of things, autonomous vehicles, 3D printing, nanotechnology, biotechnology, materials science, energy storage, and quantum computing and hologram technology.

While the phrase ‘innovate or die’ all but litters business and entrepreneurial circles, it does aptly express the idea that we must embrace the unconventional to survive. The fall of Venice and the rise of the modern Middle East reinforce the fact that cities must continue to push boundaries and embrace new discoveries – putting people first all the while.

to put Venice on its list of World Heritage Sites that are at risk due to “insufficient efforts” to preserve the city – speaking to the risks for cities that mistake exploitation for exploration, forgoing progress in the name of preservation.

DREAMS SET ON SAND: MIDDLE EAST METROPOLISES.

The modern interpretations of Venice’s long history of human ingenuity, will and wealth lie across the Atlantic Ocean in the Middle East, where cities like Dubai, Qatar and Riyadh push entrepreneurial thinking to incredible heights. Heat is for Dubai as water was for Venice –the harsh environmental element has become a tool for boosting entrepreneurial thinking and bringing innovation to the heart of each city’s growth.

This innovation-led resilience is an immediate necessity for these cities. Expecting more than ten times the current frequency of heatwaves per year by 2050 , the region faces an ever-growing list of challenges. But, like the Venice of old, Dubai, Qatar and Riyadh exhibit a collective determination that takes the idea of harmonising with the environment to unfathomable new heights.

The exploration of emerging technologies and new urban typologies in cities across the Middle East provides ways to keep designers focused on the future – promoting unconventional ways of design thinking, solving problems, and challenging the status quo.

Designed as an oasis in the heart of the city, the masterplan for the Dubai Design District (d3) seeks to seeks to provide businesses, entrepreneurs, and individuals with a community where they can collaborate and create.

Located in Sharjah, the Aljada Development Masterplan is a vibrant mixed-use precinct that integrates living, working and entertainment. The approach was create a healthy and appealing urban environment through the allocation of sufficient green open spaces, contemporary architecture, safe pedestrian networks and public realm and an efficient vehicular network.

WOOD SHOWS 2024

#CANDID WITH WALID FARGHAL ON DUBAI, CAIRO, AND SAUDI WOOD SHOWS

Director General

In this interview, Walid Farghal, Director General at the Annual Investment Meeting, highlights the Wood Shows taking place in Dubai, Cairo, and Saudi Arabia. He gives an overview of the woodworking market, how the industry has advanced recently, and much more.

Can you provide an overview of the Dubai, Cairo, and Saudi Wood Shows and their significance in the woodworking industry?

Dubai Wood Show, Cairo Wood Show, and Saudi Wood Show are pivotal events in the woodworking industry, serving as essential platforms for manufacturers, suppliers, and decision-makers to exhibit wood and woodworking machinery technologies and products while fostering invaluable networking and business opportunities.

Dubai Wood Show, one of the largest in the Middle East and GCC region, drives innovation in wood and woodworking across the region and is considered the hub for international partners and associations worldwide to participate in our platform.

Cairo Wood Show contributes to the growth of Egypt’s woodworking sector and surrounding regions in North Africa and the Levant region by showcasing the latest trends in the wood and woodworking industry to attract neighbouring countries to join our exhibition.

The Saudi Wood Show is critical in promoting the woodworking industry in Saudi Arabia and the GCC region, facilitating international-local collaborations in a rapidly developing wood market. Together, these exhibitions significantly impact the wood and woodworking industry’s development, making them vital for decision-makers and businesses in the field.

How has the woodworking industry evolved in these regions, and what role do these events play in its development?

The woodworking industry has significantly evolved in various regions, driven by factors and pivotal events. In the past, woodworking was primarily a localized and traditional craft, mainly handmade. However, with the

WALID FARGHAL,

at the Annual Investment Meeting

advent of industrialization and technological advancements, it has transformed into a sophisticated and globalized industry.

For instance, introducing modern woodworking machinery and tools has revolutionized the industry. Automation, CNC (Computer Numerical Control) machines, and advanced software have increased efficiency and precision in woodworking processes. These technological advancements have made it possible to mass-produce high-quality wooden products.

Furthermore, e-commerce and digital marketing have changed how woodworking products are marketed and sold. Online platforms allow artisans and businesses to reach a global audience, expanding market opportunities. Thus, our exhibitions serve as essential events in the woodworking industry. These events provide a platform for networking, showcasing innovations, and sharing knowledge. They play a crucial role in keeping industry professionals updated on the latest trends and technologies.

Dubai has been a significant hub for trade and commerce. How does the Dubai Wood Show contribute to the growth of the woodworking industry in the Middle East?

For twenty years, the Dubai Wood Show has served as a critical catalyst for the growth and development

of the woodworking industry in the Middle East, leveraging Dubai’s position as a prominent trade and commerce hub in several ways.

Firstly, it provides a central platform for industry professionals, manufacturers, and suppliers worldwide to converge and showcase their latest innovations, products, and technologies in the wood and woodworking machinery industry. This facilitates knowledge exchange, networking, and business collaborations, fostering industry-wide growth.

Secondly, the event is pivotal in promoting sustainability within the woodworking sector by highlighting environmentally responsible practices and showcasing sustainable wood sourcing and manufacturing techniques. This aligns with Dubai’s commitment to sustainability and positions the Middle East as a region actively engaged in ecoconscious woodworking.

Additionally, the Dubai Wood Show facilitates access to a wide array of woodworking

machinery and equipment, fostering technological advancements and efficiency improvements within the industry. Furthermore, the event’s role in attracting investors and entrepreneurs to the region amplifies the woodworking industry’s potential for expansion and economic diversification. In essence, the Dubai Wood Show serves as a vital platform that stimulates growth and projects Dubai and the Middle East as influential players in the global wood and woodworking landscape.

Egypt has a rich history in woodworking and craftsmanship. How does the Cairo Wood Show embrace this heritage and promote it internationally?

Cairo Wood Show effectively bridges Egypt’s illustrious history in woodworking and craftsmanship within the global stage, specifically in North Africa, creating a platform that celebrates and promotes this heritage internationally and locally. The event showcases

Egyptian woodworking traditions, including intricate designs, carving techniques, and artisanal craftsmanship. It allows local artisans and businesses to display their skills and products to an international audience, preserving Egypt’s cultural legacy and highlighting its relevance in the contemporary woodworking landscape.

Moreover, the show often collaborates with international and local wood and woodworking experts and organizations, creating a cultural exchange and collaboration platform. This helps Egyptian craftsmen and businesses learn from international best practices while showcasing their unique contributions.

Overall, the Cairo Wood Show effectively merges Egypt’s rich woodworking history with contemporary woodworking trends, promoting this heritage globally.

Saudi Arabia has been undergoing significant economic transformation.

WOOD

CBNME INTERVIEW

How does the Saudi Wood Show align with the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 and its goals for diversifying the economy?

Saudi Wood Show aligns closely with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, a comprehensive plan to diversify the Kingdom’s economy and reduce its dependence on oil revenue. Our exhibition will be pivotal in advancing these goals in several ways. Firstly, it promotes entrepreneurship and innovation within the woodworking and related sectors, supporting the Vision’s objective of nurturing a vibrant and diversified private sector. By attracting local and international wood industry professionals, the show fosters partnerships, investments, and business opportunities in Saudi Arabia, contributing to economic growth.

Secondly, the Saudi Wood Show emphasizes sustainability and environmental responsibility, aligning with Vision 2030’s goals to enhance environmental protection and resource management. Through its focus on sustainable wood sourcing and manufacturing practices, the show encourages the adoption of eco-friendly approaches within the woodworking industry. Lastly, the event promotes knowledge transfer and technological advancement, which aligns with Vision 2030’s aspiration to drive research and development in critical sectors.

Overall, the Saudi Wood Show is a valuable tool in advancing Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, supporting economic diversification, sustainability, and innovation within the Kingdom.

What are some notable trends in the woodworking industry that these Wood Shows aim to showcase or address?

As previously mentioned, Dubai, Cairo and Saudi Wood Shows each serve unique dynamic showcase of critical trends in the wood and woodworking industry, spotlighting themes such as sustainability, artisanal craftsmanship, sustainable materials, design aesthetics, and global market access. They provide a unique platform where industry professionals, exhibitors and visitors can explore

innovative technologies, sustainable practices, and evolving consumer preferences. Also, these events foster collaboration and knowledge exchange, helping businesses adapt to the changing landscape while promoting the importance of responsible and eco-friendly wood and woodworking practices on a global scale.

Considering the global emphasis on environmental responsibility, how do these exhibitions incorporate sustainability and innovation in woodworking practices?

Our exhibitions are pivotal in leading sustainability and innovation within the wood and woodworking industry, recognizing the pressing need for environmental responsibility on a global scale. In addition, these shows dedicate substantial floor space to exhibitors who champion sustainable practices. They spotlight the utilization of responsibly sourced wood, often certified by organizations like FSC (Forest Stewardship Council), and demonstrate how it aligns with the circular economy concept by ensuring minimal waste and maximal resource utilization. Secondly, the exhibitions feature cutting-edge innovations that significantly reduce the environmental impact of woodworking processes. This includes energy-efficient machinery that minimizes electricity consumption and integrates automated systems to optimize material use. Additionally, visitors can explore advanced finishing techniques and coatings that are environmentally friendly, low in VOCs (volatile organic compounds), and contribute to the longevity of wood products, reducing the need for replacements.

Furthermore, these events promote sustainable materials beyond wood, such as engineered wood products and alternatives, demonstrating their viability as eco-friendly options. On top of that, they often host specialized sessions and panel discussions where experts discuss eco-conscious strategies like recycling wood waste into new products or bioenergy and using renewable energy sources within woodworking facilities. By serving as comprehensive knowledge and innovation hubs, these exhibitions actively drive sustainability and innovation, instilling a deep sense of environmental responsibility within the woodworking industry and fostering its transition towards a more sustainable future.

What advice would you offer for businesses and individuals planning to participate in these Wood Shows to maximize their experience and benefits from attending?

Businesses and individuals should meticulously plan their objectives, register early, and research exhibitors of interest to make the most of their participation in our esteemed Wood Shows. Bringing impactful marketing materials, actively networking, and attending our talk shows to enhance their experience. They are exploring new technologies, emphasizing sustainability, and considering partnerships to present avenues for growth. After the event, promptly following up with contacts and leads is crucial. Also, being informed about industry trends post-event will ensure they maximize the benefits of these exhibitions, which serve as invaluable platforms for networking, innovation, and business growth within the wood and woodworking industry.

CONSTRUCTING AN INCLUSIVE FUTURE

Empowering

In 2023, the worldwide construction market reached a valuation of 11.9 trillion USD, and it is anticipated to reach 17.2 trillion USD by 2030, exhibiting a CAGR of 5.4 per cent from 2024 to 2030. The projected size of the UAE Construction Market is approximately 41 billion USD in the year 2024, and it is anticipated to expand to USD 50.40 billion by 2029. This growth trajectory signifies increased development within the construction sector in the UAE, reflecting ongoing trends and opportunities in the market during this specified timeframe. Here, Atousa Aslaminezhad, Assistant Professor, School of Energy, Geoscience, Infrastructure and Society at HeriotWatt University Dubai, deep dives into how encouraging the next generation through initiatives will Help Women in Construction.

As we look ahead to 2024, a notable transition is underway in the UAE’s construction sector, marked by a visible shift towards sustainable and environmentally friendly practices. This evolution is propelled by the nation’s steadfast commitment to environmental conservation. The UAE is actively embracing cutting-edge green building technologies, encompassing smart energy systems, streamlined waste management, and integrating renewable materials to curb the carbon footprint and foster a more sustainable future.

The construction industry has been traditionally seen as a male-dominated field, with women only constituting a small fraction of the workforce. However, the world is changing rapidly, and there is a growing recognition of the importance of diversity and inclusivity in all sectors, including construction. Empowering the next generation of women in construction is a matter of equality and a strategic move to address the industry’s skills shortage and foster innovation. The sector is currently experiencing a major shift towards prioritising environmental sustainability and adopting advanced

technologies. This transformation is expected to improve efficiency, accuracy, and safety throughout all construction project phases, including planning, design, and execution. Technological advancements like advanced Building Information Modelling (BIM), robotics, and autonomous construction equipment will revolutionise the industry, leading to expedited project completion and effective cost management.

Considering these developments, the construction landscape presents a surge in job opportunities across various facets of the industry. Moreover, this shift creates a conducive environment for women to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of construction. The emphasis on sustainable practices and technological advancements opens doors for diverse skill sets and underscores the importance of inclusivity within the workforce. As the industry evolves, women can seize the opportunity to contribute further, bringing their unique perspectives and skills to the forefront of a sustainable and tech-driven future for construction. One of the main difficulties women encounter when entering the construction industry is the widespread gender stereotypes. To tackle this issue, various programmes have been designed to break down these stereotypes and encourage the notion that construction can be a feasible career choice for women. Outreach initiatives, career fairs, and awareness campaigns aim to challenge conventional perceptions and showcase the broad range of roles available within the construction sector. For instance, JLL, a prominent professional services company focused on real estate, investment management, and development consultancy, introduced the ‘Women in Construction Drive’ in 2022, commemorating International Women’s Day and Women in Construction Week. As a component of this effort, JLL collaborated with various stakeholders to organise visits to schools in Dubai, aiming to raise awareness about careers

in construction and enhance the participation of women in the industry.

Empowering women is a collective effort, beginning with education. Numerous programmes provide educational opportunities through scholarships, mentorship, and tailored curricula, aiming to establish a diverse and skilled workforce. Apprenticeships and training modules designed for women offer hands-on experience, collaborating with supportive construction companies to bridge the gender gap in the field. Networking and mentorship also play crucial roles in career development, and programmes facilitating events and workshops empower women to navigate industry challenges. These initiatives create a community where experiences are shared, advice is given, and a supportive environment is fostered among women in construction.

Furthermore, leadership development initiatives recognise the need for more women in managerial and executive positions. They contribute to a more inclusive and innovative industry by cultivating skills and confidence. Advocacy programmes address systemic barriers, gender bias, and fair hiring practices, collaborating with stakeholders and policymakers to create an environment valuing women’s contributions in construction.

Highlighting success stories and role models is another crucial aspect. Programmes showcasing the achievements of women in construction inspire the next generation, challenging stereotypes and demonstrating that women can thrive in diverse roles. By celebrating these accomplishments, these programmes actively change the narrative surrounding women in the construction industry, encouraging more women to pursue and excel in construction careers. As these initiatives continue to gain momentum, the hope is that more women will be encouraged to pursue fulfilling and successful careers in construction, ultimately reshaping the industry’s landscape for the better.

On February 26, 2024, the Pillars of Real Estate Awards winners were announced at Habtoor Palace, LXR Hotels & Resorts. This is the first-ever real estate awards tailored to the real estate and developer sector, organised by BNC Publishing and Construction Business News Middle East.

The Middle Eastern real estate market is one that is constantly expanding, bringing with it both a number of challenges and more exciting prospects. The industry’s overwhelmingly positive reaction to the Pillars of Real Estate Awards is impressive and shows how quickly this sector is coming to look forward to this highly anticipated event.

The region’s real estate professionals were honoured for their achievements at the awards ceremony. It recognised business accomplishments and successful projects. Businesses were invited to submit nominations in a variety of categories for which they are particularly proud.

We would like to thank our Gold Partner: Numai Real Estate and Category Partner: MIE Events for joining us in this celebration. The most outstanding achievers in the real estate world were celebrated.

Once again, congratulations to all the winners for their contributions to the industry.

WATERFRONT PROJECT OF THE YEAR

ARMANI BEACH RESIDENCES PALM JUMERIAH – ARADA

This project, which is one of the most premium residential neighbourhoods in the world, is situated on the famous man-made islands in Dubai, setting a new benchmark for ultra-luxury living.

With expansive, all-encompassing views of

the Arabian Gulf and Dubai’s iconic skyline, the property aims to create a harmonious blend of architecture, the surrounding landscape, and the senses. Setting the tone, the breathtaking elevated entry experience offers inhabitants lavish ocean views from various perspectives.

MIXED-USE PROJECT OF THE YEAR

QUATTRO DEL MAR – RAK PROPERTIES

The winner is expected to transform Ras Al Khaimah’s urban environment by fostering community spirit, connectedness, and seamless integration of urban architecture.

Skywalks connecting the four towers provide breathtaking views, and an integrated platform makes reaching the

building’s hallmark features simple. These include retail stores, a miniature golf course, promenades, a safe and imaginative space for children to play, courts for recreational play, pet parks, a state-of-the-art gymnasium for fitness enthusiasts, a yoga studio surrounded by nature, a Zen Garden, sky pools, and cinemas both indoors and outdoors.

AFFORDABLE LUXURY DEVELOPMENT OF THE YEAR

HADLEY HEIGHTS – LEOS DEVELOPMENT

This project is a custom-built residential neighbourhood that our winner in Dubai introduced. In a prime area at the centre of Jumeirah Village Circle, residents will have quick access to everything the city offers. With 216 apartments and retail spaces, the

contemporary JVC project aims to provide a customised lifestyle experience where elegance, luxury, and design harmoniously coexist. Situated in a well-established residential neighbourhood, the apartments offer inhabitants ample living spaces, luxurious amenities, and the best of city living.

LUXURY RESIDENTIAL TOWER

THE52 BY AL SEEB + BG GROUP

The winner is a prominent architectural project from the Al Seeb Real Estate Development + BG Group team. Nestled on the prestigious Sheikh Zayed Road, with a stunning view of the Palm Jumeirah, this property establishes a new benchmark for sophisticated living. This building, which promises unparalleled views and an openplan lifestyle, embodies luxury

amidst Dubai’s ever-changing skyline.

Furthermore, by raising the bar for upscale villa living in the sky, this project seeks to create a “New Standard” of luxury living within Dubai’s dynamic real estate market. It aims to redefine the pinnacle of opulent city life with its unmatched views and state-of-the-art finishes.

BRANDED RESIDENCES OF THE YEAR

ADDRESS GRAND CREEK HARBOUR – KEO INTERNATIONAL CONSULTANTS

Located prominently on the Dubai Creek Waterfront, the winner is a premier luxury hotel and residential complex. The project comprises two tall, slender towers with 65 and 53 stories of hotel and serviced apartments. They are situated on

two lots that cross a significant commercial and pedestrian thoroughfare.

Our winner is in complete cooperation with all stakeholders to guarantee the project’s successful completion through promoting a culture

of collaboration, promoting candid communication, and cultivating enduring bonds with stakeholders. Mott Macdonald created the side-wide CEMP, and they were also in charge of the waste management plan and the Construction Environmental Management Plan (CEMP).

PRIVATE VILLA PROJECT OF THE YEAR

HARRISONI LA MER – ALMAL REAL ESTATE INVESTMENTS

The winner is the perfect example of combining traditional Arabic elements with Miami-style architecture. Inspired by the Falaj system and Mashrabiya shading, the design skillfully incorporates cultural themes. The villa combines contemporary luxury with cultural heritage through motorised screens and water elements.

The home, redefining the standard for luxurious living, has a double-height entry, motorised shading screens, and a sunken sitting area by the pool that faces an acrylic wall. Nestled in the elite La Mer enclave of Dubai, it has an unmatched location with spectacular panoramic views of the sea, skyline, and famous buildings like the Burj Khalifa.

PROJECT WITH THE BEST ARCHITECTURE

ICONIC TOWER – MERED

The winner, created with the illustrious Italian design firm Pininfarina, redefines Dubai’s skyline as a symbol of avant-garde aesthetics and architecture. Located in the Dubai Internet City, this building offers more than simply ultra-luxury living—it is a tasteful blend of state-of-the-art technology and avant-garde design features, masterfully constructed to influence Dubai’s urban living landscape going forward. Its unique

design and astute, progressive building methodology established a new standard for the city’s interior and architectural refinement.

The tower’s many top-notch amenities are intended to improve the lives of its occupants. These include various shops, restaurants, a fully-stocked fitness centre, a lounge for adults only, a kids’ play area, and an infinity pool with breathtaking views.

MASTERPLAN OF THE YEAR

AL AREEN BY AL AREEN HOLDING

The Al Areen masterplan encompasses a substantial mixed-use development project located in the emerging Southern region of the Kingdom of Bahrain. The development offers a new township

of nearly 2 million square meters of land, accommodating approximately 25,000 people. It comprises 16 major clusters: commercial offices, retail units, restaurants and hotels, health and education facilities, and residential communities.

DIVERSIFIED REAL ESTATE PORTFOLIO

AYANA HOLDING

Recognized for being Dubai’s Multifaceted Real Estate Ecosystem.

The winner is an established international company with its main office in Dubai. They are a holding company that comprises a varied portfolio of companies that operate in the real estate industry – boasting a broad range of businesses working under its management,

each specializing in a specific area of the real estate industry.

Furthermore, it offers governments and real estate developers worldwide end-to-end industry-centric solutions; it also fosters industry collaboration and offers all-inclusive solutions, which significantly impact the real estate market in Dubai and internationally.

INNOVATIVE REAL ESTATE DEVELOPER OF THE YEAR

SAMANA DEVELOPERS

The winner is a real estate development business centred in Dubai that specialises in creating opulent residential buildings in the city, renowned for its sophisticated interiors, avant-garde styles, and integrated amenities. Recognised for its dedication to sustainability, innovation, and quality.

Praised for its commitment to quality, innovation, and sustainability. The developer provides high-quality real estate, and its carefully planned projects attract investors looking for substance and extravagance. Additionally, the company pledges to complete projects on schedule and under budget.

SUSTAINABLE REAL ESTATE DEVELOPER OF THE YEAR

FAKHRUDDIN PROPERTIES

Founded in 2003, The winner is a global company with offices in Uganda, the UAE, and the United Kingdom. They provide a wide range of services from development and management to brokerage and consulting, covering the whole real estate lifecycle. The winner also prioritises sustainable techniques in their creations.

The developer places a high value on developing

sustainable living spaces that reduce their adverse effects on the environment and enhance the well-being of their occupants. By providing comprehensive solutions and prioritising sustainable development, they significantly shape the real estate landscape across their operational regions. They incorporate water-saving fixtures, energy-efficient appliances, and green spaces to minimise environmental impact and create healthier living environments.

5 - 7 March 2024

Dubai World Trade Centre United Arab Emirates

The Leading Platform for Wood, Furniture Accessories & Woodworking Machinery Industry in the Middle East

12 - 14 May 2024

The Arena for Exhibitions, Riyadh, KSA

www.woodshowglobal.com/dubai

28 - 30 November 2024

Cairo International Convention Centre, CICC, Egypt

BEST COMMUNITY DEVELOPER

AZIZI DEVELOPMENTS

The winner prioritises providing accessible and reasonably priced housing options, serving a broader demographic of inhabitants, and promoting inclusive communities.

They use cost-effective building techniques, clever design decisions, and competitive pricing. They are providing a wide range of residential

projects across Dubai that suit different budgets and lifestyles. There are townhomes, villas, and apartments here, ranging in price from modest choices to opulent complexes. To provide residents with convenience and a sense of community, the developer incorporates a variety of amenities such as playgrounds, retail areas, gyms, swimming pools, and green spaces into their developments.

REAL ESTATE CONSULTING COMPANY OF THE YEAR

BG PROPERTIES

The winning company was founded in 2023 by a group of forwardthinking executives and is a crucial segment of a well-known turnkey construction company.

The winner provides complete consulting and brokerage services that are customised to fit the exacting needs of our prestigious clientele. They are driven to redefine the real estate landscape and

are committed to excellence. Specialise in offering a wide range of brokerage and consulting services for real estate that are intended to meet the various demands of their clients. Their extensive service offerings include financial brokerage services, research and analysis of the market, strategic planning and development, and more. They work hard to establish enduring bonds based on mutual respect, trust, and shared success.

OUTSTANDING CONTRIBUTION IN REAL ESTATE SOBHA REALTY

The efforts made by our winner go beyond simply creating homes. They work hard to build high-quality, sustainable homes, meet the needs of a wide range of consumers, and support the general expansion and development of the real estate industry. As a result, they significantly influence the real estate market in Dubai. Their projects draw inhabitants and investors by advancing the

growth and diversification of the metropolis.

Our winner stands out from the competition for various reasons, including providing a wide range of residential and commercial properties in different areas, meeting a range of needs and budgets, staying current on market trends, and customising their offers to suit the changing demands of investors and purchasers.

#LIGHTS ON: CELEBRATING WOMEN’S EXCELLENCE

Now that women have been making their way into several formerly maledominated fields, they have finally had the opportunity to take centre stage. Like many other traditionally male-dominated industries, the

construction industry has seen a surge in women breaking down barriers and making substantial progress in recent years.

Despite the perception, women are increasingly finding success and opportunities in various

roles within the industry. Several projects and organizations have been crafted to support women in construction. These include advocacy campaigns, networking organizations, mentoring initiatives, scholarship programs, and programs designed to encourage gender diversity and inclusion in the sector. Considering, women provide the construction sector with unique perspectives, abilities, and capabilities. They frequently possess strong communication, detail-orientedness, problem-solving, and teamwork skills—all essential for building projects.

Correspondingly, the industry is beginning to understand the importance of diversity and inclusion. Copious amount of companies are focusing energy towards creating concerted efforts to establish more welcoming work environments where women can flourish and fully utilize their abilities. In addition, promoting education and training in construction-related

disciplines for young girls and women has turned out to be essential to boosting representation in the sector. In this context, initiatives to support STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) education for females are has/will be playing a fundamental role.

All things considered, women are making significant progress in the construction sector, lending their knowledge, experience, and leadership to projects worldwide despite obstacles still to overcome. In addition to helping women, promoting greater gender diversity and inclusion in the construction industry will result in more creative and successful outcomes in the industry as a whole. In order to show our appreciation, we have compiled an exhaustive list of women who are making a difference in the construction sector…

Words by: Vibha Mehta

FARIDA FARAG

Lead of Business Strategy and Operations, Land Development Middle East | AtkinsRéalis

Influenza

Although there are still challenges to overcome, women’s influence in construction is more vital than ever. Women are increasingly playing a pivotal role in shaping the construction industry’s future through their presence across all levels of organizations. Women have made a visible impact in construction through the fundamental skills needed to successfully deliver projects efficiently, such as project and stakeholder management, problemsolving, and multitasking. More importantly, one of the most critical ways women influence the construction

industry is by serving as role models for younger generations. By witnessing successful women leaders working in this field, younger talents are inspired to pursue careers in a traditionally male-dominated industry.

Gender Equality

Gender equality in the construction sector in the Middle East is a work in progress. However, over the past few years, AtkinsRéalis have seen more appreciation among corporate leaders and organizations for diversity as key to economic growth and innovation. AtkinsRéalis ‘ Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (ED&I) program is central to their sustainable business strategy and benefits people, clients, and communities worldwide. At an industry level, action-oriented initiatives are needed to inspire and encourage more women to work in the construction industry. Targets, goals and measurable metrics must be put in place for gender equity in the workplace to happen. What gets measured gets done. Furthermore, to ensure the continuity of women’s inclusion, organizations must take the necessary steps to enhance the attraction of talented women and empower their career growth and development. More importantly, it is not only organizations that have a role to play, but women leaders can also foster a culture of camaraderie and empowerment for young talent to grow and make an impact.

Futuristic Scope

The construction industry is an ever-changing landscape; every day has its own set of challenges and solutions. One continuously learns and transitions across projects. Staying up to date with the latest trends and best practices means that one is constantly growing. It is an exciting time to join the industry and evolve, with many large-scale and first-of-its-kind projects taking shape in the Middle East region.

Golden Words

“Trust that you can establish a successful career, and don’t let anyone convince you otherwise. Join the industry from a position of confidence and power.”

STATIA BREEN

Head Of People & Culture | ALEC

Influenza

Women exert a growing influence on the construction industry through increased participation, leadership roles, and advocacy for diversity and inclusion. As more women pursue careers in construction-related fields, they are breaking barriers and taking on positions as project managers, architects, engineers, and executives. Their presence brings fresh perspectives and innovative ideas to the industry and fosters a more inclusive and supportive environment. Through networking, mentorship, and educational initiatives, women actively promote opportunities for other females to enter and thrive in what has traditionally been male dominated. As a result, women are playing a vital role in shaping the construction industry’s future, driving progress, and contributing to its continued growth and success.

Gender Equality

She believes that while as an industry wants to think that all are embracing equality in the industry, we still have a way to go. Rather than focusing on % of women in the workforce, one should look to creating environments where women, and men also for that matter, can succeed. Agile working methods must be embraced to attract women to the job market. There is a need to create more awareness around STEM subjects in early education to create a platform for more women in the construction industry. One also needs to be very aware of our unconscious bias towards roles in the industry,

Futuristic Scope

While everyone is focused on women in the industry, Statia believes that the work that one believes that needs to be done to attract women into the industry needs to be done to attract young people in general into it. There’s a real shortage of fresh graduates in our industry, resulting in a war for talent – this is what she believes will drive the industry to adopt more agile and innovative ways for delivering our project, which ultimately will create an environment that makes it more attractive to women.

MONA AL-TAMIMI

Vice President of Marketing and Corporate Communications | DEYAAR

DEVELOPMENT PJSC

Influenza

For thousands of years, women have been the pillars of almost every society in the world and a driving force behind the progress of families and nations. Yet, they did not enjoy the same rights and privileges as men and even the ownership of assets, for example, agricultural land. As the world progressed with the industrial revolution and digital revolution, and thanks to the global campaigns for gender equality, more opportunities were created, and women started being recognized and becoming integral parts of industries across different sectors. However, as we navigate through the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) –which includes AI, IoT, etc., there is still a long way to go before we achieve global gender equality.

Achieving general equality on a global level is not easy, as there are numerous challenges, including the lack of financing. For example, to achieve gender equality by 2030, there’s a USD 360 billion annual deficit in spending on gender-equality measures. To raise more awareness about this huge deficit and gender equality as a whole, this International Women’s Day also calls for investing in women and accelerating progress.

Gender Equality

While some sectors have made progress in narrowing the gender gap, sectors like construction still rank behind, showing the highest percentage of gender disparity. For instance, the Global Gender Gap Report 2023, citing the LinkedIn Economic Graph, revealed that in the construction sector, women’s representation in entry-level positions stands at 25%, compared to 57% in Consumer Services and 12% for C-suite positions, compared to 38% in Consumer Services. Therefore, more efforts are needed to design programs that attract more women to the sectors such as construction.

Futuristic Scope

It’s good to see that more women are now driving towards sectors like construction, breaking stereotypes and scaling to roles that were traditionally male-dominated. They bring diverse perspectives and skills to the industry and hold vital technical positions in project management, architecture, engineering, design, and administrative departments, including marketing, communications, and human resources.

To achieve more progress on gender parity in the construction industry, especially in the Middle East, one

must design programs and initiatives to encourage more women to pursue careers in these sectors. This includes in-house capacity development programs to improve women’s skills, programs in universities and colleges, and special fellowship programs to train women to meet current and future industry demands. They also need to make robust policies that support women’s advancement and equal treatment in any workplace, including strengthening the work-life balance.

Golden Words

“As we look ahead, the construction industry is poised for remarkable growth, which is expected to be driven by the increasing need for residential and commercial spaces, especially in countries like the UAE and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. This growth also brings innovation and sustainability as industry leaders strive to meet demands while minimizing environmental impact. In addition, there is a greater focus on efficiency and cost reduction while tapping the potential of innovative technologies. As we embrace these advancements in the construction industry and shape the future of nations, let us create a more inclusive construction industry, keeping women at the centre of policies and strategies as they bring diverse perspectives and skills to the table that will help enhance decision-making and drive innovation.”

ALICE KIM

Director of Project Controls and Reporting | Red Sea Global

Influenza

Alice is proud to stand at the intersection of innovation and sustainability in the construction industry. At Red Sea Global (RSG), their commitment to diversity has enriched the corporate culture, and she has witnessed firsthand the transformative impact of diversity on the construction industry.

When she first started in the construction industry more than 18 years ago, she began in Kuwait with KBR, and their client was the US Military, so you can imagine the rarity of having a female at all, much less in a PMO and Project Controls team that supported the various functions within their company and managing the expectations and requirements of the US Military. She was part of a delegation of the KBR Project Controls team in the Middle East that spent a month in Afghanistan, during a very cold Christmas, to train and standardize tools and processes and take part in the negotiations of what was one of the most significant military logistics contracts of that time. She was the only female in that room, trying to absorb everything around her. With each new project and company throughout her career, Parsons/Abu Dhabi Airport Company, Expo2020, Turner & Townsend/Schiphol, to now with Red Sea Global, women are no longer the only female in the room taking notes; they are leading negotiations, becoming the go-to subject matter experts (SMEs), the leaders, and even CEOs (ADAC, Expo2020).

Gender Equality

Regarding gender balance, Red Sea Global proudly says that one in four employees are women. While the construction sector is traditionally male-dominated, they are committed to increasing their female workforce to 30% in 2024. This goal aligns with the belief in equal opportunities for all and is a critical step towards achieving gender equality within the industry and across the Kingdom, where development is happening rapidly.

A key aspect of their diversity strategy is Saudization. Currently, 40% of their employees are Saudi nationals, and they aim to increase Saudi representation to 45-50% in 2024, further solidifying their dedication to contributing to the Kingdom’s growth and development.

Futuristic Scope

Their efforts extend beyond just hiring practices. They are invested in creating an environment where all employees have equal opportunities to thrive and lead. She strongly believes in mentoring and that RSG

provides several channels for senior colleagues to step up and share their experiences, teach, and build the confidence of those seeking to advance their careers. She primarily sees it every day with other women at RSG.

There is a bond shared between women from different cultures, with leaders taking their juniors by the hand and including them

in workshops or meetings with leadership to gain exposure. They then see those juniors or Elites (Graduate development program employees) taking on more responsibilities because their leads have empowered them. RSG is genuinely the first company where she has visibly seen so many women thrive, be respected, and support each other positively. Through policies, practices, and a culture that promotes advancement and leadership, they are not just talking about equality but living it.

Golden Words

“As we look to the future, the construction industry stands on the brink of a new era. The shift towards sustainable and regenerative development opens new avenues for careers that make a tangible difference for people and the planet. From project management to sustainability consulting, the potential for impact is vast and varied.”

NASREEN AL-DOSSARY

Group Chief Human Resources Officer | ROSHN

Influenza

Women’s increasing participation in the construction industry is transforming the sector, and the shift has been a breath of fresh air. As Group Chief Human Resources Officer (GCHRO) at ROSHN, Nasreen Al-Dossary sees how empowering women to participate in their projects – onsite, in the office, or in the boardroom - has fostered innovation in their operations and reinforced their sustainable construction practices. Women’s increased involvement at ROSHN is a tangible result of commitments to diversity and inclusion, but women also make them a more agile and adaptable company in a rapidly changing industry. They benefit from a variety of thought in decision-making and problem-solving that would otherwise be lacking, making them more resilient and more representative of the wider society’s values.

Gender Equality

Challenges always mark change, and pursuing gender equality is no exception. At ROSHN, they have embraced gender equality through targeted recruitment, development programmes – such as our HIMAM graduate

initiative – and leadership opportunities. ROSHN currently boasts a 31% female workforce, with 22% in managerial or executive roles. Their embrace of the RETURN programme also ensures that women can re-enter the workforce after a career break and puts them on track to exceed the Vision 2030 target of a 30% female workforce. These steps make the industry a more attractive place to work for innovators and align the company with the ambitions of our future employees in the younger generation.

Futuristic Scope

Historically, technological advancement catalyses a shift in the construction industry, and they are witnessing this in the increasing emphasis on sustainability. Additionally, they are building more innovative, greener, and more efficient today, with diverse teams of skilled men and women who bring their wealth of knowledge and perspectives to the table. ROSHN’s approach to building resilient, sustainable destinations is powered by this collaborative, future-facing philosophy, which unlocks the best in every team member. Fostering this open environment, where diversity of thought is valued, best positions the construction industry for the complex challenges they must take on to foster healthy and prosperous societies.

Golden Words

Opportunities for women have never been more varied and impactful than in today’s construction industry. The sector now offers women opportunities to thrive in their specialisation alongside numerous paths to leadership. “We are all the richer for women’s participation societally, but also as an industry. Investing in developing skilled women pays dividends in our ability to tackle increasingly complex challenges. With this in mind, we aim to increase the number of our female managerial roles by 5%. In addition to our talent development programs, The ROSHN Way is a dynamic corporate culture that prizes diversity and well-being, which is constantly improved by employee surveys and feedback. This inclusive approach ensures our industry maintains the innovative, collaborative ethos necessary to build resilient projects that address society’s current needs and future ambitions.”

SUHA ALYAMI

Chief of Staff | Al Bawani Group

Influenza

Women are increasingly making their mark in the construction industry by bringing diverse perspectives, innovative ideas, and strong leadership qualities. Their presence reshapes workplace dynamics, fosters more inclusive environments, and drives positive changes in company culture. Women excel in traditionally maledominated roles, assume leadership positions, influence decision-making processes, and drive business growth through their expertise and vision.

Gender Equality

Gender equality remains a crucial focus in the construction industry, and significant strides have been made towards achieving it. Companies increasingly recognise the value of diversity and inclusion, implementing policies and initiatives to support women’s advancement and create equal opportunities. However, work must be done to address gender disparities, ensure fair representation at all workforce levels, and eliminate barriers that hinder women’s progress in the industry. By championing gender equality initiatives, fostering supportive work environments, and promoting inclusive leadership, we can create a more equitable sector for women to thrive.

Futuristic Scope

The construction industry continuously evolves, driven by technological advancements, sustainability initiatives, and changing market demands. With a growing emphasis on digitalisation, automation, and innovative construction methods, the industry is enhancing efficiency, productivity, and safety like never before. Sustainability is also increasingly integral, focusing on green building practices, renewable energy solutions, and environmentally conscious design. Additionally, collaboration and partnerships play a crucial role in driving industry progress as companies leverage collective expertise and resources to address complex challenges and capitalise on emerging opportunities. Together, these factors transform the construction industry and inspire it to reach new heights.

Golden Words

The construction industry presents numerous opportunities for women to excel in various roles across diverse disciplines. These roles range from engineering and project management to design, sustainability, and leadership positions. “As the industry continues to evolve, there is an increasing demand for diverse talent, and companies actively seek to attract and retain skilled women professionals. By embracing opportunities for career development, networking, mentorship, and continuous learning, women can unlock their full potential and make significant contributions to the dynamic and vibrant landscape of the construction industry.”

SANGEETHA SUKANTH

Specification Manager | CMS Global

Influenza

HVAC is a vital sector of the UAE economy that is essential to maintaining residential and commercial clients’ ambient temperatures, healthy and ideal air quality, and enough ventilation. Given the extensive use of HVAC systems, it is imperative that cost-effectiveness, sustainability, insulation, and energy efficiency all work together harmoniously to prevent further strain on the environment. Reduction of waste of any kind is important, as is making every effort to reuse and recycle. Sangeeta is attempting, therefore, to emphasize the measures taken by CMS Global to be responsible global citizens and to instil this in all of their dealings to the greatest extent feasible. She also considers it an honour to represent a business that can be environmentally friendly and retrofitted in existing systems.

In addition to her specification position, she ensures that clients are well informed and educated about the finest systems that meet project requirements while maintaining equipment life expectancy. Additionally, she works with several UAE government agencies, including the Abu Dhabi Civil Defense, Dubai Civil Defense, and ESL, to obtain all necessary certifications for the various components and ensure that all of the offers comply with the UAE’s regulations and safety requirements.

Gender Equality

Sangeeta primarily caters to MEP consultants and clients, a predominantly male-dominated industry. She will usually be rushing from a consultant office to a building site, meeting with the sales team, preparing the docket for project specifications, providing training and having conversations with clients and consultants, visiting factories with consulting engineers, etc. This comprehensive list continues to grow as industry forums, conferences, and meetings are added. An extensive component of firefighting is responding to unforeseen circumstances. She was sometimes the only woman in the room full of seasoned guys who worked in this industry. She frequently has to extend this to the weekends as well, depending on the exigencies of the moment, and all of this necessitates a small amount of time sacrifice from her schedule. She may miss some beautiful times spent with her family at home, but she relaxes by spending time with her husband and two children, the other Trois Mousquetaires, after surviving these fights.

Futuristic Scope

She has worked in this industry and this world’s region for almost ten years, climbing the ladder on pleasant and occasionally turbulent journeys. However, she relishes every second of the trip and can get her hands grimy with various products and solutions by immersing herself in them. In this sector, where men predominate, one must be technically sound and have a compelling mix of abilities to avoid being overbearing. Because they believe ‘women’ might not be able to handle challenging or technical problems, some patricians still prefer to have a man in the group to handle such kinds of issues. Without diminishing the el hombre, she wants to stress that women who have put in the time and effort are just as capable of using their fire and passion to achieve the necessary outcomes.

Golden Words

“Even though there could be times when you feel a little burned out, my parents’ encouragement and ideals kept me motivated to keep working harder. Above all, the most motivating factor in my sprint that has enabled me to become the person I am today was the CMS team’s and management’s faith in me.”

MAYA BAKIR

Corporate Sustainability Manager | Nesma & Partners

Influenza

As a professional woman with extensive experience in Health, Safety, Environment, and Security (HSES) within the GCC’s oil and gas and construction sectors, Maya is eager to shed light on the evolving and increasingly crucial role that women are playing in this dynamic field.

When she embarked on her career in the construction industry, she encountered many challenges stemming from the traditional male dominance within the sector. However, thanks to dedicated training initiatives and unwavering support from clients and top management, significant advancements have been made over the past years. These collective efforts have allowed women to assume more prominent positions and contribute significantly to the construction industry.

Gender Equality

Presently, females are leaving a tangible mark on the construction landscape. Their presence is not only reshaping the workforce’s composition but also instigating positive transformations in industry practices. Including women fosters diverse perspectives and innovative problem-solving techniques and strengthens collaborative efforts, which propels the industry towards incredible growth and success.

As the construction sector continuously evolves, a noticeable paradigm shift exists in how females are perceived and embraced within the industry. Organizations are increasingly realizing the immense value of fostering a diverse workforce and actively striving to leverage the untapped potential of women in construction roles.

Future Scope

This shift is ushering in many new opportunities for women to excel across diverse segments of the construction industry, spanning from project management to engineering and beyond.

In conclusion, females’ paths in construction have been characterized by remarkable progress and hold promising prospects for the future. By steadfastly championing principles of inclusivity, diversity, and gender equality, the construction industry is poised to reap immense benefits from women’s invaluable contributions. This collective effort propels the sector towards more incredible innovation and nurtures a more vibrant, sustainable future for all stakeholders involved.

She holds firm confidence that this positive momentum will continue to shape the future landscape of the construction industry, fostering an environment where women can not only succeed but thrive and make meaningful contributions. The industry’s commitment to embracing diversity and providing equal opportunities underscores its dedication to progress and the pursuit of excellence.

She firmly believes that fostering discussions and spearheading initiatives that highlight the pivotal role of women in construction is paramount to advancing this transformative journey. It is imperative to underscore the significance of cultivating an inclusive and empowering atmosphere that empowers women to showcase their unique skills and expertise at the forefront of the industry.

Golden Words

“I am wholeheartedly committed to contributing to this transformative journey. Through collaborative efforts and unwavering dedication, we can drive substantive change and position the construction industry as a beacon of diversity, equality, and boundless opportunity for all.”

LEADING

THE WAY

The role of women leadership in shaping the future of real estate

The real estate sector, historically maledominated, is undergoing a significant transformation with increasing female leadership. In 2022, Dubai saw a substantial rise in women’s involvement, with female investors making real estate investments worth over AED58.8 billion, a growth of over 50% from 2021. This shift towards a more inclusive, innovative, and sustainable future in real estate is crucial.

Women are significant in Dubai’s real estate sector, making up over 60% of the realtor workforce. However, this strong presence contrasts with the representation in senior and leadership positions, which predominantly feature male dominance. This scenario is not a transitional shift but a persistent mismatch that needs addressing. To harness the industry’s full potential, it is crucial to foster an environment of inclusive hiring, mentorship, and community support. Women bring a distinctive blend of leadership qualities to real estate that is human-centric, flexible and adaptable, often displaying a combination of transformational, participative and democratic leadership.

Embracing these changes will recognise and strengthen the pivotal role of women’s leadership in shaping the future of the real estate.

Cultivating ambitious mindset: Women leaders, dispelling myths of lesser ambition, show equal career dedication as men, with 96% valuing their careers. In real

estate, women executives stand out for their strategic vision, adeptly anticipating market trends and adapting to industry changes. Their dynamic approach in team dialogues fosters a culture of innovation, extending beyond traditional boundaries to broaden perspectives, form partnerships, and uncover novel solutions. This forward-thinking navigates evolving landscapes and propels innovation, identifying new opportunities and challenges.

Creating a balanced workplace: Gender balance, global diversity, and work-life harmony is crucial in teams and leadership. Recognizing individual strengths and weaknesses, women leaders excel in creating inclusive environments that encourage open communication and teamwork. This is vital in real estate, which involves multiple stakeholders. Women executives adeptly blend diverse perspectives, fostering innovative problem-solving. This leads to more efficient, creative project outcomes, demonstrating the importance of a balanced, collaborative approach in driving success.

Human-centric approach: Women are known to be more empathetic than men and are revolutionizing leadership with a human-centric approach, focusing keenly on employees as

Originally written by Diana Nilipovscaia, CEO at MERED.

Edited by Vibha Mehta.

individuals with valuable opinions. This style excels in understanding the needs and concerns of employees, clients, and stakeholders. This builds strong, trusting relationships and nurtures a supportive environment for innovation and collaboration. Echoing Elton Mayo’s human relations theory, this approach challenges traditional hierarchies, emphasizing individual characteristics and needs. Leaders coordinate, harmonize, and provide feedback in this holistic system, valuing each team member’s creativity and input while responsibly making critical decisions.

Open communication: Women executives excel in effective, adaptive communication, skillfully conveying complex ideas to diverse audiences, from clients to partners. This clarity in messaging facilitates innovation and allows team members to showcase their strengths. Their commitment to integrity and transparency in all business dealings fosters a culture of trust and respect, enhancing team loyalty and confidence. Additionally, women often have a passion for

mentorship, actively nurturing the development of emerging leaders, thus fostering a culture of continuous learning and growth within the industry.

Promoting sustainability: Studies show a strong correlation with and commitment to sustainable development in women leaders. A European Investment Fund report reveals that women-led firms score higher in environmental, social, and governance aspects, and businesses with more women in leadership are more likely to adopt eco-friendly practices. In real estate, this translates into more innovative projects and sustainable practices. Women are leading the charge in green building initiatives, focusing on communitycentric urban development, reshaping cities, and making them more livable and environmentally responsible.

Challenges and Barriers

Despite the progress, women in real estate face significant barriers. Gender bias, pay disparity, and a lack of mentorship opportunities are prevalent issues. The World Economic Forum’s 2023 Gender Gap Report highlighted that the economic participation and opportunity gender gap will take 131 years to close at the current rate of progress.

McKinsey & Company’s report proves this as companies with over 30% women in senior roles outperform less gender-diverse ones, with the top gender-diverse companies exceeding the least by 48%. Yet, women often face the substantial challenge of proving their capabilities and earning the same level of respect and recognition as their male colleagues.

EY’s report ‘Tapping into the talent of our women in the Middle East’ highlights three key challenges women face in workplaces in the region: visible and hidden barriers and external societal pressures. Women

often receive more mentoring but less sponsorship, crucial for career advancement as sponsors advocate for them in their absence. Flexible working options, vital for work-life balance, remain inconsistently available and can negatively impact perceptions of commitment. Additionally, the gender agenda often excludes men despite their crucial role, especially in male-dominated leadership.

Future Outlook

Real estate is about redefining the skyline, not just reaching it. Inspirational figures in the industry exemplify the change women leaders drive, and women’s influence in real estate is set to grow, shaping the industry’s future.

A Goldman Sachs report indicates that eliminating the gender gap could enhance GDP by 10% in developed markets and up to 13% in emerging markets. The time is ripe for the real estate sector not just to acknowledge but actively embrace the role of women in shaping its future. Their leadership, marked by empathy, collaboration, and innovation, is beneficial and essential for the industry’s sustainable growth and evolution.

Transmuting With Advancements

Georges Calas, CEO of Lifesize Plans Dubai shares the Benefits of Advanced Pre-Construction Technology

Technology in construction is advancing wholly and rapidly transforming how building projects run. Significant technological advancements have improved productivity and resource management and made the process much simpler and more costeffective. Understanding technology’s considerable role in the construction, architecture, real estate and interior design industry is essential. From groundbreaking software solutions to cutting-edge simulation tools, these advanced pre-construction technologies are reshaping how we plan, design and execute construction projects.

Pre-construction technology allows contractors, architects, engineers and property developers to collaborate to design future projects and allows easy, data-driven decision-making. Integrating pre-construction technology during the

project’s pre-construction phase enables more accurate cost estimations and project timelines and encourages individuals to identify and mitigate potential risks before they escalate into costly delays and waste of time and valuable resources.

Cost Effectiveness and Optimization of Resources

Through advanced preconstruction technology, individuals and professionals in the industry can anticipate potential risks and challenges associated with the project and optimize resource allocation as needed to minimize significant budget overruns. By leveraging

and incorporating cutting-edge pre-construction technology during the pre-construction stage of the project, individuals can analyze accurate cost estimations and meticulously plan to minimize the likelihood of costly delays and avoid facing huge building variation costs once the construction has been completed.

Easy Decision Making due to Precision and Accuracy in the Planning Stage

Pre-construction technology brings precision and clarity during construction, making room for seamless and quick decision-making. Through refined

software solutions and cuttingedge technology, individuals can visualize their future projects more accurately, allowing them to be more aligned with the project’s outcome. Specific pre-construction technology encourages users to visualize their future projects and get an accurate look and feel of the property before it is built. This instils confidence in the individuals, which later ensures a successful project.

Streamlined Collaboration and Communication

Ensuring successful construction projects’ completion is streamlined collaboration and clear communication throughout a project’s pre-construction and construction stages.

Advanced pre-construction technology facilitates seamless communication among all the stakeholders involved in the project. Using applications and technology designed specifically for collaboration and communication encourages better and quicker decisionmaking. This reduces errors and conflicts and fosters a culture of transparency and accountability. With cloud-based platforms, Building Information Modeling (BIM) software, integrated projection technologies, etc., architects, construction professionals, engineers, interior designers, property developers and prospective clients can collaborate in real-time, ensuring alignment of vision and goals throughout the competition of the projects so that the project runs smoothly.

Time Efficient and Increased Productivity

Incorporating advanced preconstruction technology speeds up the construction process for

stakeholders involved as it brings a clear idea of what the project will look and feel like once completed, which increases efficiency, improves productivity and saves overall time required to complete a construction project. Projects can be executed with incredible speed and accuracy through automated workflows, digital documentation, cutting-edge integrated projection technology to project floorplans on a real-life 1:1 scale, and other valuable pre-construction technology, ultimately accelerating the project delivery.

Machine learning and artificial intelligence are instrumental in the construction industry as they help refine large amounts of available data to get meaningful insights. Companies also apply AI to identify the aspects of a process where time wastage occurs. Construction companies can then work on these areas to improve the overall efficiency of their operations.

Sustainability in PreConstruction Planning Advanced pre-construction technology plays a pivotal role in bringing sustainability to construction practices. By leveraging innovative and advanced pre-construction technology and software, project teams can optimize building designs with maximum energy efficiency while minimizing environmental impact and

maximizing long-term durability. Some advanced simulation tools also enable engineers to assess the structural integrity of a building under various scenarios, ensuring that it can withstand the forces of nature and the test of time.

Although there are various benefits and advantages to using and incorporating preconstruction technology in the project’s pre-construction phase, several challenges may also arise. The industry needs ongoing education and training to ensure that all professionals are equipped with the necessary skills to leverage these technological tools effectively. New technology brings a competitive advantage only if the users are skilled, which is why training is crucial to maximize the use of technology.

Overall, pre-construction technology continues to revolutionize the construction, architecture, and design industry by enhancing precision, collaboration, sustainability, risk management, time and cost efficiency and productivity. By harnessing the power of innovative technology, there is an opportunity to redefine the possibilities of what can be achieved in the construction, architecture and design space and ensure a seamless process while building future homes and projects.

#WATCHOUT

Five ultra-luxury real estate trends with the potential to go mainstream

One of the things I love most about my work is that the ultra-luxury real estate landscape is forever shifting and evolving. Indeed, staying abreast of the latest sector trends is crucial to my role as AHS Properties’ CEO.

That said, some things never change. One such constant is that when it comes to high-end real estate, only the very best will do. It is common for high-net-worth individuals (HNWIs) to spend tens of millions of dollars on a single property, so it is perfectly understandable for them to have exacting standards.

The need to continuously raise the ultra-luxury benchmark can also positively affect other market segments. Just as electricity and hot running water were once considered the height of decadence, many of today’s premium property features may become commonplace.

Here are five ultra-luxury real estate trends with the potential to go mainstream.

Smart homes

Many homeowners already have access to a range of basic smart home devices. This is a prime example of a trend that originated in the premium property space before expanding to other segments.

Today, the priority within ultra-luxury real

estate is for cutting-edge technologies to be seamlessly integrated with a property’s design and architecture – a focus that I expect to shift to other markets.

The scale and scope of such technologies have grown enormously in recent years, encompassing everything from smart mirrors to interactive surfaces and immersive entertainment systems. These are bound to become more widespread as cost efficiencies and economies of scale come into play.

Eco-conscious features

Green building techniques and design choices now represent the norm within the ultra-luxury real estate market, as HNWI buyers demand homes that offer opulence without negatively impacting the environment.

At present, cost is the primary barrier to adoption regarding sustainability, meaning the most environmentally responsible innovations are often limited to luxury homebuyers. Options such as eco-conscious materials, energyefficient design features, and automation are still in their infancy, so those who wish to incorporate these elements into their properties must be willing and able to pay a premium.

Nevertheless, such innovations are bound to become more inexpensive over time, and I find it encouraging to think that the eco-conscious construction and design we are currently

Abbas Sajwani.

Vibha Mehta

Edited

Abbas Sajwani. Edited

Vibha Mehta Originally

ABBAS SAJWANI, Founder and CEO of AHS Group and Board Member at DAMAC Group

CBNME

witnessing in the ultra-luxury space have the potential to become mainstream over the longer term.

Advanced security and privacy

Security and privacy have been influential in ultra-luxury real estate for many years. When someone is investing millions of dollars in a property, the least they expect is to feel comfortable and safe in their home.

Indeed, we’ve seen peace of mind become a key selling point for HNWI buyers in prime markets like London, with concierge security, stateof-the-art CCTV, biometrics, and – again – smart home technologies all becoming non-negotiables. With the growing affordability of related innovations, increasing numbers of homeowners in other price ranges will also look to incorporate these elements within their properties.

Health-focused amenities

Wellness features such as fitness centres, spa and sauna areas, and meditation zones have long been staples among ultra-luxury homebuyers. In recent years –particularly after the COVID-19 pandemic – we have seen a growing trend towards including additional niche features, including in-house medical facilities, advanced air filtration systems and other health-focused amenities.

While I am not suggesting that every home in the future will have its cryogenic chamber, we are likely to see a broader market shift towards more health-conscious construction and design choices with the potential to mitigate the effects of – or even prevent – future pandemics.

Personalisation

One trend that characterises the

ultra-luxury segment above all else is the ability to customise every aspect of a property to make it truly the buyer’s own.

For me, personalisation permeates every element of the premium homebuying experience, as HNWIs look to tailor each feature of their property to suit their specific requirements. Need a hyperbaric chamber, spa, sauna and meditation

space? No problem. Want to add the latest biometric identification system to your front gates? Of course. Would you like AI to automate heating and cooling in each room of your house based on individual family members’ preferences? We can do that.

Technologies such as additive manufacturing are enhancing our ability to produce interoperable

construction components, which will, in turn, provide opportunities to develop bespoke properties from standardised ‘building blocks’. So, while the level of specificity prevalent in the ultra-luxury space may never fully expand to other market segments, I do think the ability to tailor a home’s features – from its layout down to its surface finishes – will proliferate during the coming years.

Predicting future trends is challenging in any sector, and real estate is no exception.

Nevertheless, based on my experience and the market’s current trajectory, I’m quietly confident that some, if not all, of my forecasts will hold up to scrutiny over the long term.

It would be more surprising—and a real shame—if AI-controlled, eco-conscious smart homes tailored to occupants’ specific needs didn’t become mainstream. In the meantime, my team and I at AHS Properties will remain focused on exceeding the expectations of ultra-luxury homebuyers and anticipating their future requirements.