Saudi Projects Issue 46

ISSUE 44 ISSUE 46

With news brought to you by The Red Sea Development Company

MAY 2021 / ISSUE 46

BUILDING SAFER, FASTER, AND GREENER. THE AMANA WAY VISION 2030 THE MOST IMPORTANT ACHIEVEMENTS FIVE YEARS AFTER ITS INCEPTION

JOHN PAGANO WORK WITH US WHAT TRSDC & AMAALA LOOKS FOR IN A PARTNER

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Editors Foreword

SUCCEEDING FOR THE BENEFIT OF SOCIETY IT IS A PLEASURE TO WELCOME YOU TO THIS NEW ISSUE OF SAUDI PROJECTS. AS THE WORLD CONTINUES TO RECOVER FROM THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC, THE NEED TO ACHIEVE EXCELLENCE IN DESIGN, CONSTRUCTION, ENGINEERING, ENERGY – IN FACT, ALL AREAS OF BUSINESS - FOR THE BENEFIT OF SOCIETY IS MORE CRITICAL THAN EVER. Saudi Arabia is at the forefront of all of these fields of endeavour and, in the pages of this SPM, we look at a number of projects and solutions that will continue to drive the Kingdom forwards.

We speak to Andrew Tyson, Executive Director – Project and Construction Management,

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

The Red Sea Development Company (TRSDC) – about the infrastructure requirements

ISSUE 44 ISSUE 46

With news brought to you by The Red Sea Development Company

on The Red Sea Project, the world's most ambitious luxury tourism development.

Ash T Arshad, General Manager at Resa Gulf Scaffolding, joins us too, explaining how

MAY 2021 / ISSUE 46

the company's enlightened business philosophy, coming up with bespoke solutions for individual problems, is helping it to take on the big boys of the industry.

Looking at Phase One of the King Salman Energy Park (SPARK) project, the region's only fully integrated energy hub, we discover that 80% of the work on the infrastructure, land paving, road construction, service delivery and administrative office buildings is now complete.

The Saudi Water Conversion Corporation (SWCC) is also in the news, having picked up a Guinness World Record for the lowest energy consumption for a water desalination plant, with an impressive 2.27 kW/h per cubic meter of desalinated water.

We also look to the future of food production, including the fact that chemicals fertilizers mask the problem of degraded soil. Since chemical agriculture became mainstream in the 1970s, the Earth has lost one-third of its topsoil, resulting in desertification. As a result, we now need to grow crops with greater efficiency and fewer resources.

In addition, there are stories on World

BUILDING SAFER, FASTER, AND GREENER. THE AMANA WAY VISION 2030 THE MOST IMPORTANT ACHIEVEMENTS FIVE YEARS AFTER ITS INCEPTION

JOHN PAGANO WORK WITH US WHAT TRSDC & AMAALA LOOKS FOR IN A PARTNER

RESA GULF SCAFFOLDING THERE ARE NO PROBLEMS ONLY SOLUTIONS

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

SOCIAL MEDIA  @saudiprojectsmag  @saudiprojectmag  @saudiprojectmag

Health Day, the construction chemicals market, the future of infrastructure in Saudi Arabia, the new bus network being developed in Makkah, plus news and project updates. And don't forget, this is your magazine, so if you've got news you'd like to share about your company, product or project, get in touch!

Rod Millington EDITOR

All our publications are printed using recycled paper.

BECAUSE WE CARE

5

Contents

6

COVER STORY

44

AMANA GROUP

HOW TO BUILD SAFER WORKPLACES FEATURES

30

76

FUTURE OF INFRASTRUCTURE

ANDREW TYSON - TRSDC

90

112

PACE

NESMA WATER & ENERGY

Contents

8 SAUDI VISION 2030 ALSO IN THIS ISSUE

16

32

NEWS

GETTING TO KNOW ASH T ARSAHD

76

78

SAUDI TOURISM GEA

GIGA PROJECTS

7

8

Vision 2030

THE KINGDOM’S VISION 2030'S MOST IMPORTANT ACHIEVEMENTS FIVE YEARS AFTER ITS INCEPTION

CONVEYING HIS GRATITUDE TO THE CUSTODIAN OF THE TWO HOLY MOSQUES, KING SALMAN BIN ABDULAZIZ AL SAUD, FOR THE SPECIAL CARE AND GREAT SUPPORT HE IS PROVIDING TO THE KINGDOM'S VISION 2030, HIS ROYAL HIGHNESS CROWN PRINCE MOHAMMED BIN SALMAN BIN ABDULAZIZ, DEPUTY PRIME MINISTER AND CHAIRMAN OF THE COUNCIL OF ECONOMIC AND DEVELOPMENT AFFAIRS CONFIRMED THAT THE VISION 2030 PROGRAMS HAVE MADE GREAT STRIDES AND ADDRESSED STRUCTURAL CHALLENGES WITHIN ONLY FIVE YEARS.

Vision 2030

9

addition, obtaining housing assistance is now immediate, whereas it previously took up to 15 years before the launch of the Vision.

The Council noted indicators related to the growing interest in archaeological and heritage sites, which had a direct impact on registering new Saudi sites in the World Heritage List of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO). The number of heritage sites that can be visited in the Kingdom in 2020 has risen to 354 sites, compared to 241 sites in 2017. The Council also reviewed efforts to strengthen Saudi national identity and enhance its presence globally, evidenced by the increase in the number of intangible cultural heritage elements registered in the UNESCO to eight elements, compared to only three elements before the launch of the Vision. The number of urban heritage sites registered in the National Cultural Heritage has also reached 1,000 locations in 2020, compared to only 400 sites in 2016.

The Council discussed the Vision's success in increasing the Kingdom's capacity to receive and accommodate pilgrims to the holy sites by expanding the system of services at the Two Holy Mosques and the holy sites, in addition to automating the process of obtaining an

H

Umrah visa within only five minutes, which is Royal Highness also expressed

THE REVIEW COVERED THE VISION'S

previously took 14 days. This is in addition

his appreciation for the efforts

THREE MAJOR THEMES AS FOLLOWS:

to the issuance of the 'Electronic Tourist

of all governmental authorities for

(1) Vibrant Society

Visa' that can be obtained electronically

overcoming many challenges in recent

The Council reviewed achievements aimed at

within minutes. This has made it easier to

months, praising the invaluable experiences

raising the quality of life within the framework

visit tourist destinations and monuments

gained, which enhanced confidence in

of an attractive and distinctive environment

in the Kingdom and has contributed to

achieving the objectives of the Vision.

to make the Kingdom a leading global

revitalizing the tourism sector and raising its

destination. This included facilitating access to

contribution to the Gross Domestic Product

remains to be done on various fronts

HRH also confirmed that much more

emergency health services within four hours,

(GDP). Furthermore, developing various tourist

to achieve Vision 2030's goals.

at the rate of more than 87%, compared to

destinations, it has created job opportunities

The Council of Economic and Development

36% before the inauguration of the Vision;

for male and female citizens. The Kingdom's

Affairs has reviewed the achievements of the

reducing the percentage of traffic accident

tourism sector has become the fastest-growing

Kingdom's Vision after five years of its inception.

fatalities annually to 13.5 deaths per 100,000,

sector in the world, with a growth of 14%.

The Vision has focused over the past five years

previously 28.8; and increasing the percentage

on establishing an empowering infrastructure,

of people who participate in sports activities

of the Vision's programs over the past five

building the institutional and legislative

at least once a week to 19% in 2020, compared

years towards improving the quality of life

structures, establishing general policies,

to 13% before the launch of the Vision.

in the Kingdom via attracting and organizing

and supporting initiatives. The next phase of

The Council also reviewed the most notable

The Council also noted the contributions

several world-famous sporting events. In

the Vision will focus on the continuation of

achievements in the housing sector, as the

addition, it also highlighted sports, cultural

implementation, ensuring greater participation

percentage of home ownership increased

and volunteer events, which attracted more

by citizens and the private sector.

to 60%, compared to 47% five years ago. In

than 46 million visitors through 2020.

10

Vision 2030

The number of companies operating in the entertainment sector has doubled, reaching

Home ownership increased

Public Investment Fund assets

more than 1,000 and generating more

to 60%, compared to

have doubled to approximately

than 101,000 jobs by the end of 2020.

47% five years ago

SAR1.5 trillion in 2020, from

The Council also reviewed achievements

SAR570 billion riyals in 2015

related to the preservation, sustainability,

The number of urban

and protection of the environment,

heritage sites has reached

Foreign direct investment

including establishing seven Royal natural

1,000, compared to only

increased to SAR17.625

reserves in 2018 and 2019 to preserve

400 sites in 2016

billion, an increase of 331%

various plant and animal species.

Access to emergency health

The Kingdom advanced to the

production of desalinated water too. The

services within four hours, at

24th position globally in the

Kingdom topped the global production of

the rate of more than 87%,

Global Competitiveness Report

desalination of saline water with the highest

compared to 36% before the

2020, after ranking 39th in 2018

production capacity reached by the Saline

inauguration of the Vision

It has achieved global milestones in the

Water Conversion Corporation (SWCC), which

Saudi women's participation

reached 5.9 million m per day in 2020. The

Reducing the percentage

in the workforce increased

replacement of thermal technologies and

of traffic accident fatalities

to 33.2% in 2020, compared

the expansion of environmentally friendly

13.5 deaths per 100,000,

to 19.4% in 2017

technologies contributed to a reduction in

down from 28.8

3

carbon dioxide emissions of 28 million tons

Acceleration in the growth of

per year. In addition to announcing mega-

People who participate in sports

the non-oil GDP ratio to 59% in

projects to preserve the environment during

at least once a week up to 19%

2020, compared to 55% in 2016

the same period, the recently announced Saudi

in 2020, compared to 13%

Green Initiative and the Middle East Green

before the launch of the Vision

initiative will raise vegetation cover, reduce carbon emissions, combat pollution and land degradation, and preserve marine life.

(2) Prosperous Economy

which included the Saudi Stock Exchange

past five years since its establishment to

The Council reviewed initiatives aimed at

(Tadawul) joining the emerging market indices

support the general budget of the Kingdom

establishing an environment that supports

MSCI and Standard & Poor's Dow Jones, which

by approximately SR897 billion.

business potential and broadens the economic

made it easier for foreign investors to invest

The Council discussed the achievements

base. It also noted that the assets of the Public

in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, as the value

made in generating jobs for the future and

Investment Fund have doubled to reach

of their holdings in the market increased by

supporting innovation by encouraging small

approximately SR1.5 trillion in 2020, after not

195.9% to reach SR208.3 billion by the end of

and medium enterprises as one of the most

exceeding SR570 billion riyals in 2015. It should

2020, with an ownership rate of 12.8% of the

important engines of economic growth. It noted

be noted that the rate of international foreign

total value of shares. Moreover, the Fintech

with interest that the Kingdom's has moved

investment flows has decreased by 58% since

Saudi Center was established to open financial

up to the 12th rank in the Venture Availability

2015. In contrast, foreign direct investment

services to new types of entities in financial

of Capital Index in the Global Competitiveness

inflows in Saudi Arabia increased to reach

technology and developing funds, accelerators,

Report 2020 and ranked third globally in

SR17.625 billion, an increase of 331%, given it

and incubators that focus on financial

Minority Investor Protection Index. Moreover,

was SR5.321 billion before the launch of Vision

technology to provide venture capital and

the Kingdom advanced to the 24th position

2030. These initiatives also included launching

equity financing to stimulate an entrepreneurial

globally in the Global Competitiveness Report

major projects that contribute to the welfare of

environment. These achievements contributed

2020, after ranking 39th in 2018. Meanwhile,

society, provide jobs and attract international

to making Tadawul one of the 10 largest

in addition to passing laws that protect

investments, the most important of which are:

financial markets around the world.

and enhance their rights at the personal

NEOM, Qiddiya, Red Sea projects, and others.

The Council reviewed achievements related to the development of the financial sector,

The Council reviewed the performance

and professional levels, Saudi women's

of the National Debt Management Center,

participation in the workforce increased to

as the center has managed during the

33.2% in 2020, compared to 19.4% in 2017.

Vision 2030

Non-oil revenues increased

In localizing military industries,

to SAR369 billion in 2020,

as the Kingdom's Vision 2030

compared to SAR166 billion

programs were able to increase

in 2015, an increase of 222%

the rate to reach 8% by the end of 2020, compared to 2% in 2016

The number of factories increased by 38% to 9,984

The number of judicial

compared to 7,206 before

sessions held between 2015

the launch of the Vision.

and 2020 reached more than 10 million sessions,

3.5 million homes in urban

compared to 2.7 million judicial

areas were covered by optical

sessions from 2009 to 2014

11

THE NUMBER OF URBAN HERITAGE SITES REGISTERED IN THE NATIONAL CULTURAL HERITAGE HAS REACHED 1,000

fiber networks in 2020, up from 1.2 million in 2017

The number of Power of

other cities by deploying more than 12,000

Attorney issuance increased to

towers that support 5G technology.

The Kingdom also ranked sixth among the

The number of universities

11 million notaries from 2015 to

and colleges reached 63,

2020, compared to 2.2 million

G20 states in the Global Cybersecurity Index

while the published scientific

notaries between 2009 and 2014

of the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), and in the expansion of optical

research reached 33,588 compared to 15,056 in previous

The number of volunteers

fiber network coverage, as 3.5 million homes

years, an increase of 223%

in 2020 reached 409,123,

in urban areas were covered by optical fiber

compared to 23,000

networks in 2020 after it was only 1.2 million in

volunteers in 2016

2017. Furthermore, the Kingdom attracted the

The enrolment rate in kindergartens has increased

largest technology investments in the Middle

to 23%, compared to 13%

East and North Africa, with deals that exceeded SAR6 billion in the cloud computing sector.

In the field of energy, the Council reviewed the most important achievements made since

The Council also discussed the acceleration in the growth of the non-oil GDP ratio to reach 59% in 2020, compared to 55% in 2016. Nonoil revenues also increased to reach SAR369 billion in 2020, compared to SAR166 billion in 2015, an increase of 222%. The number of factories increased by 38% to 9,984 factories compared to 7,206 factories before the launch of the Vision. This coincided with the launch of pioneering initiatives, including the Made

the launch of Vision 2030, which included

THE PERCENTAGE OF HOME OWNERSHIP HAS INCREASED TO 60%

distinguished achievements at the national and international levels. The Kingdom, which founded the OPEC Plus grouping of nations, reached a historic achievement in 2020 represented by the largest reduction in production the oil market has ever known.

This contributed to restoring stability and balance to global markets and addressing the effects of the Covid-19 pandemic on the

in Saudi program, the 'Shareek' program

global economy. The Kingdom also encouraged

to strengthen partnership with the private

the concept of a circular carbon economy

sector and increase the pace of GDP growth,

adopted by the G20, demonstrating the

establishing an export-import bank, and the launch a mining investment system.

In the field of the digital economy, the Council reviewed the initiatives that propelled the Kingdom to first place in digital competitiveness at the level of the G20, achieving first place in the world in 5G Internet speed, and covering more than 60% of major cities and 45% of

THE NUMBER OF VOLUNTEERS REGISTERED REACHED 533,950

Kingdom's commitment to protecting the environment and combating climate change within the framework of the Paris Agreement and relevant international conventions.

Furthermore, the first of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques projects for renewable energy was also inaugurated, including Sakaka plant to produce electricity.

12

Vision 2030

Other projects to produce electricity

The maturity rate of digital

The replacement of thermal

from solar energy have been announced

government services

technologies and the expansion

in different regions of the Kingdom, and

increased to 81.3%

of environmentally friendly

some of these projects have achieved

technologies contributed

new records represented in registering

The Kingdom's tourism sector

to a reduction in carbon

the lowest cost of purchasing electricity

has become the fastest-

dioxide emissions of 28

produced from solar energy in the world.

growing sector in the world,

million tons per year

The total capacity of these projects was

with a growth of 14% In the field of the digital

estimated at more than 3600 megawatts.

These projects will provide energy for more

Sports, cultural and volunteer

economy, the Council reviewed

than 600,000 housing units. This is in addition

events attracted more than 46

the initiatives that propelled

to several clean energy projects to produce

million visitors through 2020

the Kingdom to first place in digital competitiveness at the

hydrogen and ammonia. Renewable energy projects will contribute to diversifying the

Companies operating in

level of the G20, achieving first

energy mix used in electricity production, so

the entertainment sector

place in the world in 5G Internet

that electricity production from renewable

doubled to more than 1,000,

speed, and covering more than

energy and gas will be 50% each by 2030,

generating more than 101,000

60% of major cities and 45%

resulting in the displacement of approximately

jobs by the end of 2020

of other cities by deploying more than 12,000 towers that

one million oil-equivalent barrels of liquid fuel.

The electricity sector also witnessed clear

The Kingdom topped the global

support 5G technology

and deliberate steps towards enhancing its

production of desalination

efficiency, effectiveness and sustainability,

of saline water with the

The Council reviewed the

such as the restructuring of the sector, the

highest production capacity

qualitative leaps of the

issuance of the new electricity system, and

reached by the Saline Water

achievements made in

the reorganization of the Water and Electricity

Conversion Corporation

the judiciary, as the rate

Regulatory Authority. In addition, more than

(SWCC), which reached 5.9

of enforcement courts'

ten million smart electronic meters have been

million m3 per day in 2020

achievement increased to 82%

installed, a step towards digitizing the sector.

The Saudi petroleum industry also witnessed the approval of the development of the Jafurah gas field, the discovery of five new oil and gas fields, and the continued integration of

Kingdom, a program of licenses to engage in

in 2017, which contributed significantly to

the petroleum and petrochemical sectors.

military industries activities was launched,

the improvement of services being provided

whereby 91 local and international companies

for citizens and residents of the Kingdom.

were licensed, with 142 foundation licenses.

The Council reviewed what has been achieved

The Council reviewed the contributions of the vision programs in creating an environment

in terms of combating corruption and enhancing

conducive to developing skills and continuing to invest in education and training, as the

(3) Ambitious Nation

integrity, as the culture of accountability has

number of universities and colleges reached

Within the framework of improving regulations

been entrenched at the level of the government

63, while the published scientific research

and services and expanding communication

apparatus and among citizens, the total

reached 33,588 compared to 15,056 in

channels between government agencies,

money recovered by the public treasury

previous years, an increase of 223%.

citizens and the private sector, the Council

following anti-corruption settlements reached

The enrolment rate in kindergartens has

reviewed the achievements of the initiatives that

SAR247 billion in the past three years. This

also increased, to 23%, compared to 13%

made major transformations in the effectiveness

represented 20% of the total non-oil revenues,

The Council reviewed the achievements in

of government work. These included the

in addition to tens of billions of non-cash

localizing military industries, as the Kingdom's

issuance of more than 197 legislations in

assets transferred to the finance ministry.

Vision 2030 programs were able to increase

various fields, including laws, regulations,

The Council reviewed the qualitative

the rate of localization in the sector to reach

bylaws and organizational arrangements.

leaps of the achievements made in the

8% by the end of 2020, compared to 2% in 2016. For the first time in the history of the

The maturity rate of digital government services increased to 81.3% compared to 60%

judiciary, as the rate of enforcement courts' achievement increased to 82%.

Vision 2030

13

The rate of personal status courts' achievement increased to 59%, along with strengthening the specialized judiciary system, the activation of litigation at two degrees and the activation of electronic litigation, as the number of judicial sessions held between 2015 and 2020 reached more than 10 million sessions, compared to 2.7 million judicial sessions from 2009 to 2014. The number of Power of Attorney issuance increased to 11 million notaries from 2015 to 2020 compared to 2.2 million notaries between 2009 and 2014.

The number of localization agreements was signed and entered into effect with various supervisory authorities to increase the localization rates in various sectors, contributing to the employment of more than 422,000 male and female citizens since the beginning of 2019.

THE MATURITY RATE OF DIGITAL GOVERNMENT SERVICES INCREASED TO 81.3%

The Council discussed what has been achieved in the non-profit sector and social responsibility. The number of volunteers in 2020

THE NEXT PHASE IN REALIZING THE

Third: Transferring the initiatives of

reached 409,123 male and female volunteers in

KINGDOM OF SAUDI ARABIA'S VISION 2030

'promotion of national character', 'leading

more than 156,000 volunteering opportunities

The Council took several recommendations

national companies' and 'strategic

compared to 23,000 volunteers in 2016.

necessary to move to the next stage of

partnerships' to the relevant entities and

The number of male and female volunteers

the process of realizing the Kingdom's

under their programs. This comes after

registered in the volunteering platform

Vision 2030, which was launched at the

these initiatives have achieved most of

reached 533,950, with the economic value for

beginning of this year 2021, and continues

their goals in the first five years of the

individual volunteering increased from 0.6

until 2025, which is the phase of advancing

Vision, absence of the need to preserve

riyals per hour in 2016 to 21.27 riyals per hour.

achievement and maintaining the momentum

its independence in the next phase.

In addition, the Council discussed providing adequate housing for those covered by social

required to continue the reforms.

This includes making development

The next phase of the Kingdom's Vision 2030 is set to be marked by the continued

security services according to the ownership

updates on the vision realization

development of promising and new

or the right of usufruct system, through

programs to ensure its consistency with

sectors. The acceleration of achievement

integration and partnership with the non-profit

the targets, increase the efficiency of

in implementing the vision realization

sector and more than 350 social association

spending and respond to economic

programs will contribute to promoting

by providing more than 46,000 housing units

developments through three basic areas:

economic growth and supporting local

First: Restructuring some of the current

content, increase its contribution to the

platform of 'Joud' for housing was launched to

programs and creating others that are in line

economic development in the Kingdom,

involve the community in providing a helping

with the requirements of the next phase, such

and facilitate the business environment.

hand for charitable giving housing through

as establishing a health sector transformation

It will also further strengthen the role of

a reliable platform and in cooperation with

program that aims to restructure the

citizens and the private sector in achieving

121 charitable societies. This platform has

health sector to be a comprehensive health

the Vision through more empowerment to

contributed to supporting more than 23,000

system to realize the vision aspirations.

employ capabilities and invest the potentials

with society's contributions exceeding SAR400

Second: Giving flexibility to the

to achieve more success and progress.

million through two tracks: the provision of

implementation schedules of some programs,

housing and the support of citizens who are

setting priorities for implementing initiatives,

defaulting on payment for housing rental.

and enabling changes in legislative policies.

all over the Kingdom's regions. Besides, the

14

News

SAUDI ARABIA REPORTS SHARP RISE IN INWARD INVESTMENT $1.87 BILLION IN FOREIGN DIRECT INVESTMENT (FDI) WAS ATTRACTED IN THE FOURTH QUARTER OF 2020

The Kingdom has reported its highest rate of inward investment for four years, with the Central Bank of Saudi Arabia revealing in its latest set of monthly statistics that $1.87 billion in foreign direct investment (FDI) was attracted in the fourth quarter of 2020.

That was up 72% on the previous quarter and up 80% on the same period a year earlier. It also saw the highest level of quarterly FDI since Q4 2016, when inflows

THE TOTAL FIGURE FOR 2020 REACHED $5.49 BILLION

of just over $2 were recorded billion.

The total figure for 2020 reached $5.49 billion, 20% higher than in 2019 and the biggest fullyear total since 2016, when it was $7.45 billion.

NEOM has Become a Global Partner of AFC from 2021-2024 major AFC national team competitions, including, but not limited to, the AFC Asian qualifiers, featuring 12 football nations, NEOM and the Asian Football

and Asia’s flagship

Confederation (AFC)

national team competition,

have announced a global

which is set to take place in

partnership agreement for a

China in 2023, as well as the AFC

period of four years starting,

Women’s Asian Cup in 2022 and

from 2021 through to 2024.

all Asian club championships

The agreement encompasses

until the end of the 2024 season.

SAUDI ARABIA SETS NEW PLAN FOR TACKLING CARBON EMISSIONS During its G20 presidency, Saudi Arabia launched a

something useful and integrating renewable resources.

global platform for the circular carbon economy

Included in its work, KAUST is looking to find

(CCE), a system where carbon emissions are

ways to reduce CO2 emissions by improving

reduced, reused, recycled and removed (4R).

the ability to harness the sun’s energy.

This closed-loop was inspired my how nature

A team led by Ian McCulloch from the KAUST

works, with the King Abdullah University of

Solar Center, in partnership with researchers

Science and Technology (KAUST) now aiming

from the US and the UK, has developed hydrogen

to change the carbon narrative to 4R.

evolution photocatalysts (HEPs) made from two distinct semiconducting materials. They integrated

In December 2020, KAUST launched a CCE

these materials into organic nanoparticles that can

initiative that focuses on increasing energy efficiency, capturing and storing carbon, transforming carbon into

be tuned to soak up more of the visible light spectrum.

Digital Transformation Unit Releases Annual Report The National Digital Transformation

Sign-On' service, while the Twakkalna

Unit has released its annual report,

application has more than 19 million users.

which sheds light on the most important

According to the global competitiveness

digital transformation achievements in

yearbook, internationally, Saudi Arabia is

Saudi Arabia, considered a cornerstone

ranked second in corporate cybersecurity

for achieving the Kingdom's 2030

and seventh in financing technical

vision for a vibrant society thriving

development. Saudi Arabia is ranked

economy and an ambitious nation.

seventh globally on average mobile Internet

The report highlights extraordinary 'smart

speeds, with more than 54.66 MB /s. In

government' success, including having

addition, it won the ITU's (International

more than 300 million authentication

Telecommunication Union) Award for

processes done via 'the National Single

Government Leadership in 2020.

The Twakkalna application has more than 19 million users Saudi Arabia is ranked seventh globally on average mobile Internet speeds

News

15

OPEC Fund Welcomes Saudi Arabia's Newly Announced Environmental Initiatives

KPMG, the leading provider of

are keen on exploring the impact

audit, tax and advisory services

of cloud led digital transformation

The OPEC Fund for International

in Saudi Arabia, has signed

across their businesses, can now

Development has welcomed

an agreement with Oracle

benefit from the joint capabilities

the Saudi Green Initiative

to accelerate the adoption

of KPMG’s Insights Centre and

and the Middle East Green

of cloud-based emerging

Oracle Innovation Hub in Riyadh.

Initiative, which call for

technologies in the Kingdom

Leading Saudi organizations,

regional cooperation to

to support the growth of the

including Ma’aden, Saudi Railway

tackle the environmental

country’s digital economy in

Company (SAR), Saudi Ground

line with Saudi Vision 2030.

Services (SGS), King Abdullah

challenges facing the region.

KPMG, ORACLE COLLABORATE TO SUPPORT SAUDI DIGITAL ECONOMY

in line with our development

Under this initiative, Saudi

Dr Abdulhamid Alkhalifa

mandate.” To date, the OPEC

organizations across the public

Centre (KAIMRC), Arabian

commented: “We look forward

Fund has approved more than $1

and private sector, or from the

Centres Company and many

to helping to drive socio-

billion in finance for renewable

start-up community that are

more, are driving major digital

economic progress in the region,

energy projects in 68 countries.

already on a digital journey and

transformation with Oracle Cloud.

OPEC Fund Director-General

International Medical Research

SAUDI ISLAMIC FINTECH MARKET SET TO HIT $47.5 BILLION BY 2025 The Saudi Islamic financial technology (fintech) market is the largest globally, estimated to be worth $17.8 billion in transaction volume, and projected to grow by 22% annually to reach $47.5 billion by 2025, according to an industry report.

The Global Islamic Fintech (GIFT)

Central Bank and the Capital Market

Report was conducted jointly by

Authority, was pleased about Saudi Arabia

DinarStandard, an Islamic economic

being recognized as having the largest

management consultancy, and Elipses,

Islamic fintech market size. “Fintech

a finance advisory and investment

Saudi continues to work with all the

firm, and looks at the fintech market

relevant stakeholders in the Kingdom

across the Organization of Islamic

to develop an environment in which

Cooperation (OIC) countries.

Islamic fintech companies can prosper

Nejoud Almulaik, director of Fintech Saudi, an initiative launched by the Saudi

Emirates Becomes First Airline to Operate A380 to Terminal 1 at Jeddah's King Abdulaziz International Airport EMIRATES HAS MADE ITS FIRST A380 TOUCHDOWN AT TERMINAL 1 IN JEDDAH'S KING ABDULAZIZ INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT (KAIA), MAKING IT THE FIRST AIRLINE TO OPERATE THE DOUBLEDECKER AIRCRAFT TO THE KINGDOM OF SAUDI ARABIA'S LATEST AVIATION LANDMARK. EK FLIGHT 2803 LANDED IN JEDDAH ON 29 MARCH AND WAS GREETED WITH A WATER CANNON SALUTE.

and become global leaders in driving Islamic fintech innovation,” she said.

16

News

NEOM, Tabuk Fisheries to Develop Largest Fish Farm across MENA LOGIPOINT AND UNITED WAREHOUSING COMPANY SIGN STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIP AGREEMENT

In the presence of the Minister of Environment, Water and

LogiPoint and United Warehouse Company Ltd. (UWC) have

aquaculture industry in the region, both within artificial lakes and

signed a strategic partnership contract under which LogiPoint

natural waters, and establish a solid infrastructure in the Kingdom, in

will build a dedicated multipurpose built-to-suit facility for

line with Vision 2030, which aims to diversify the country's economy

UWC in Jeddah. It will be developed in LogiPoint's Logistics

and sources of income.

Hub located in the heart of Modon, Jeddah Industrial City 1.

The new facility will be built over a 15,000m2 area and will include a 12,000 covered warehousing space.

This will be a state-of-the-art facility designed to include frozen, chilled, ambient, and dry sections. Therefore, it will enable United Warehousing Company to

THE NEW FACILITY WILL BE BUILT OVER A 15,000M2 AREA JEDDAH LOGISTICS HUB (JLH) IS A 120,000M2 FULLY INTEGRATED LOGISTICS PLATFORM

Agriculture Abdulrahman AlFadley, NEOM Company, and Tabuk Fish Company signed a Memorandum of Understanding to expand local aquaculture production and apply the new generation of aquaculture technologies in the NEOM region.

The MoU included developing a fish farm to promote the

The hatchery will operate with a capacity of 70 million fingerlings, which makes it the largest in the Middle East and North Africa region.

It will focus on improving the production of local fish species in the Red Sea to contribute to achieving the Kingdom's goal of producing 600,000 tons of fish products by 2030, placing the Kingdom at the forefront of the pioneering countries in sustainable aquaculture.

Dr Ali Al-Sheikhi, the CEO of the National Fisheries Development Program and Director General of the General Department of Fisheries at the Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture, explained that this agreement is a fundamental turning point. It is particularly so with the entry of significant companies such as NEOM Company to

cater to the full spectrum

invest in the aquaculture industry, seen as one of the most promising

of warehousing clientele, from meat and poultry to dairy to

and effective industries for supporting economic growth and

foodstuff to raw materials for manufacturing.

achieving food security.

ACWA POWER INAUGURATES KSA’S FIRST UTILITY SCALE RENEWABLE ENERGY PROJECT

Abdulaziz Al Saud, Saudi Minister of Energy,

a pivotal moment in the continued energy

said: "The private sector plays a fundamental

diversification and development plans of

role in the development of renewable energy

Saudi Arabia. The project was awarded to an

ACWA Power, a leading Saudi developer,

projects in the Kingdom. The Sakaka project we

ACWA Power led consortium at a world record

investor and operator of power generation

are inaugurating today was developed by ACWA

tariff, at the time. This has paved the way for

and water desalination plants, has

Power, together with various Saudi companies

subsequent projects of the National Renewable

announced the 300MW Sakaka PV IPP's

that have worked alongside ACWA Power to

Energy Program (NREP) to lower the cost

official inauguration, KSA's first utility-

make this remarkable achievement a reality.”

of clean solar electricity in the Kingdom.

scale renewable energy project, at an

The inauguration of Sakaka PV IPP marks

investment value of SAR 1.2 billion.

Commenting on the milestone, His Royal Highness Prince Abdulaziz Bin Salman Bin

THE 300MW PV PLANT EXEMPLIFIES THE ROLE OF PPPS IN ENABLING SOCIO-ECONOMIC PROGRESS IN KSA

News

INTRODUCING ARAMCO LIFE Aramco LIFE is a comprehensive mobile app experience and information marketplace that empowers and engages the people of Aramco, transforming the company's internal

17

“BY LAUNCHING ARAMCO LIFE, WE ARE CREATING A 21ST CENTURY PLATFORM TO HOUSE OUR VARIOUS TITLES”

communications.

Initially, the assignment for AKQA was to simply digitize Aramco's weekly newsletters and magazines. But to do justice to the company's strong culture spanning more than eight decades and its rich contribution across multiple communities much more was needed.

And so, Aramco LIFE was born.

Aramco LIFE is a combined app and website based on the Sitecore platform. A content hub and information marketplace for news, articles, and updates. It provides a digital version of the company's publications and content, grouped by topic and publication. The channel includes user engagement, social feed, personalization of content, and content segmentation for employees and the public.

Aramco LIFE is available for download now in Apple App Store and Google Play.

URBAN FORESTRY: the Future of Cities Even in Arid and Torrid Areas "We have entered a new phase of human history, in which we will finally see a new alliance between forests and cities, two environments that our species has always kept separate as an expression of, respectively, one of the maximum of artifice and the other of the maximum of naturalness,” says architect and urbanist Stefano Boeri, founder of Stefano Boeri Architetti and the author of the globally renowned Vertical Forest in Milan that has contributed to the development of the concept of Urban Forestry worldwide.

THE PROJECT AIMS TO BUILD 500,000 HECTARES OF NEW URBAN FORESTS LANDSCAPING WITH NATIVE PLANTS CAN MITIGATE CLIMATE CHANGE THE CITIES OF THE WORLD PRODUCE ABOUT 70% OF THE CO2 PRESENT IN THE ATMOSPHERE

Boeri has been involved in many international working tables, and committees from the Urban Forestry of Milan to the Great Green Wall of Cities presented during the last United Nations Climate Action Summit.

Several examples show methodologies and techniques to achieve excellent results in arid and hyper-arid climates; for example, the Vertical Forests in Cairo, which will host 350 trees and more than 14,000 shrubs and perennials belonging to 100 different species.

18

News

KPMG TO ASSESS CYBERSECURITY POSTURE FOR ENERGY GIANT ARAMCO’S SUPPLIERS

KPMG Professional Services in Saudi Arabia has signed an agreement with Aramco, one of the largest energy and chemicals companies in the world, to examine and strengthen cybersecurity compliance checks.

The agreement stipulates that KPMG is to assess Aramco's third parties and suppliers, as per the CCC framework, and issue certificates verifying their complete adherence to the Saudi Aramco Third-Party Cybersecurity Standard (SACS-002).

The types of suppliers who need to obtain the certificate include general vendors, outsourced infrastructure, customized software, network connectivity and critical data processors. Issued certificates will be valid for two years.

THE TYPES OF SUPPLIERS WHO NEED TO OBTAIN THE CERTIFICATE INCLUDE GENERAL VENDORS, OUTSOURCED INFRASTRUCTURE, CUSTOMIZED SOFTWARE, NETWORK CONNECTIVITY AND CRITICAL DATA PROCESSORS

Samsung Engineering Wins $653 million AGIC PDH & UTOS Project

Samsung Engineering, one of the world’s leading engineering, procurement, construction and project management (EPC & PM) companies, has announced that it has received a contract from Advanced Global Investment Company (AGIC) for a $653 million PDH (Propane Dehydration) and UTOS (Utilities and Off-sites) project. It will be located in Jubail Industrial City in the east of the Kingdom, 100km north of Dammam. AGIC is a 100%-owned Advanced Petrochemical Company (APC) subsidiary.

The PDH plant will be able to produce 843,000 tonnes/year of propylene and Samsung Engineering will construct the UTOS work related to the PDH plant. The PDH plant and the UTOS work are expected to be completed in 2024.

THE PDH PLANT WILL BE ABLE TO PRODUCE 843,000 TONNES/YEAR OF PROPYLENE

ROYAL COMMISSION FOR ALULA CONFIRMS $15 BILLION MASTERPLAN OPPORTUNITY FOR PUBLIC-PRIVATE PARTNERSHIPS With an estimated total development value of

featuring a UNESCO World Heritage Site,”

over $15 billion, The Journey Through Time

stated Amr AlMadani, Chief Executive Officer

Masterplan is an important opportunity to

of the Royal Commission for AlUla. “With

showcase AlUla’s full potential. By de-risking

USD 3.2 billion reserved for priority primary

investment opportunities through our $2 billion

infrastructure, the development of AlUla will be

(SAR 7.5 billion) seed funding and creating a

anchored in building strong foundations as well

robust governance framework, we have created

as safeguarding AlUla’s cultural and heritage

a platform for responsible and sustainable

assets.”

development to regenerate a unique location

$3.2 BILLION (SAR 12 BILLION) TO BE DEDICATED TO THE DEVELOPMENT OF PRIORITY PRIMARY INFRASTRUCTURE WITH OPPORTUNITIES FOR PRIVATE INVESTMENT

News

DAR AL ARKAN REVEALS EXCLUSIVE VILLAS IN SHAMS AR RIYADH

19

YORK Accompanies the Guest of Allah inside the Two Holy Mosques with Cool Fresh Air With the pandemic still posing a threat to the lives of many, the government of Saudi Arabia has set strategic plans to implement all necessary precautionary measures at the Two Holy Mosques for this year's Ramadan to ensure the health and safety of the Guests of Allah.

Al Salem Johnson Controls (YORK), a leading 'one-stop destination' for integrated solutions, including HVAC, Building Management and Control Systems and Aftermarket Services, stated that the HVAC System is a vital part of these precautionary measures. It will control temperature, humidity and the purity and freshness of cold air inside the Two Holy Mosques for infection control and prevent its spread.

YORK’S AIR HANDLING UNITS ALSO GUARANTEE THE COMFORT OF PILGRIMS AND WORSHIPERS THE TWO COOLING PLANTS FOR THE HOLY MOSQUE IN MAKKAH AND THE PROPHET’S MOSQUE IN MEDINA ARE AMONG THE LARGEST COOLING PLANTS IN THE WORLD In a unique collaboration, Dar Al Arkan, the leading real estate company in Saudi Arabia, introduces exclusive co-

In a continuous cycle, the air moves around the Two Holy Mosques,

branded villas with global designer Elie Saab to be part of the

absorbing heat from the atmosphere and the pilgrims’ bodies,

Kingdom’s Shams Ar Riyadh project.

catching dust particles and some airborne bacteria or microbes

THE SHAMS AR RIYADH PROJECT IS LOCATED IN A STRATEGIC AREA NORTH OF RIYADH, EXTENDING OVER AN AREA OF MORE THAN 5 MILLION SQUARE METERS

on its way to the YORK Air Handling Units. Inside the Units, this air first passes through several highly efficient filtration stages to trap the dust and microbes, and then it flows over the cooling coils containing the chilled water. The filtered, fresh, cooled and dehumidified air then blows out of the Units into the Mosque to repeat its cycle. The YORK Air Handling Units control the fresh air

Reflecting the sophisticated elegance and exceptional detailing

flow rates through several technologies, including partial closure

that Elie Saab is recognized for in the haute couture world, the

of the air outlets or through a Variable Speed Drive connected

villas have the Elie Saab signature style with exquisite designs,

to the fans for speed control, thus the flow rates as needed.

setting a new standard for modern luxury living in the Kingdom.

The Shams Ar Riyadh project is located in a strategic area north of Riyadh, on the King Khalid Road, extending over an area of more than 5 million square meters. Residents of ELIE SAAB villas can also enjoy the idyllic environment of the wider community, which includes world-class shopping, dining, entertainment and cultural amenities, as well as beautifully landscaped gardens and parks that summon a life of peace and tranquillity. The community is within easy access to the city’s prime lifestyle destinations, business centres, and top attractions that Riyadh offers.

20

Appointments

Atkins appoints Campbell Gray as CEO for the Middle East and Africa Atkins, a member of the SNC-Lavalin

Pacific, will position the business well for the

Group, is pleased to announce the

future. Campbell went to Currie & Brown in the

appointment of Campbell Gray as Chief

fourth quarter of 2019 and is now returning to

Executive Officer (CEO) for the Middle

Atkins, a member of the SNC-Lavalin Group.

East and Africa, effective August 2021, leading the business's end-to-end advisory, design and engineering and project management services under the Atkins, Faithful+Gould and Atkins Acuity brands.

THE COMPANY IS TRANSFORMING THE WAY IT DELIVERS PROJECTS, USING NEW DIGITAL AND DATADRIVEN TOOLS AND TECHNOLOGIES

Campbell is an experienced executive in leading both businesses and projects. His strong ability to drive growth and deliver operational excellence, gained during his 24-year career with Faithful+Gould and Atkins in the Middle East & Africa, the UK and Asia

Gary Player Unveiled as Newest Golf Saudi Ambassador Nine-time Major Champion, Gary Player, has joined Golf Saudi as its latest and most influential ambassador to date. One of the most decorated golfers of all time, Mr Player will work with Golf Saudi to help implement a shared vision for golf and its future development within the Kingdom.

As part of his role as an ambassador with Golf Saudi, Gary Player will share his views on how health and well-being are integral to the game's long-term success and sustainability.

THE COMPANY HAS A TRACK RECORD OF DELIVERING AND SUPPORTING FLAGSHIP PROJECTS IN THE MIDDLE EAST

He will support and champion Golf Saudi's growth plans to bring golf to the wider population within Saudi Arabia.

As a renowned golf course designer, Gary Player has also had initial conversations with Golf Saudi about how to develop the Kingdom's infrastructure further and deliver on the scale of the organisation's ambition when it comes to playing its part in Saudi Arabia's transformation and meeting Vision 2030 targets, particularly regarding the socio-economic benefits golf course development can bring to the country.

THREE-TIME MASTERS WINNER AND ICON OF THE GAME JOINS GOLF SAUDI AS THE ORGANIZATION’S INTERNATIONAL AMBASSADOR

Appointments

HKA Appoints Majdi Al-Madani

Accounting and Commercial Damages (FACD)

HKA, the world's leading consultancy of

is a pleasure to join the HKA family. We are

choice for multi-disciplinary expert and specialist services in risk mitigation and dispute resolution within the capital projects and infrastructure sector, has announced that Majdi Al-Madani has joined the firm as Partner, based in Saudi Arabia.

Majdi will play a critical role in the further development and growth of the firm's Forensic

service offering in the Middle East across a wide variety of industries, jurisdictions and forums.

Commenting on his move, Majdi said: "It aiming to add value to support our clients and partners to reach their targets. Our vision is to build a robust business environment."

MAJDI HAS AN ESTABLISHED RECORD OF WORKING FOR OVER 10 YEARS AT FOUR MAJOR BANKS IN SAUDI ARABIA

Qiddiya Appoints Abdullah AldaWood as Board Member and Managing Director Qiddiya Investment Company (QIC), a project

He will be working under the leadership of the

of the Public Investment Fund (PIF) of Saudi

board of directors and in cooperation with the

Arabia, has announced the appointment

executive management led by Philippe Gas,

of Abdullah bin Nasser Aldawood as

Qiddiya’s CEO, in which he will contribute to the

board member and Managing Director.

development of Qiddiya and achieve its goals.

Aldawood is an industry veteran who holds a wealth of knowledge and experience in complex enterprises and transformation and growth journeys.

New Saudi Condair Sales Manager

Rajaee, who joins Condair as a highly

Condair, humidity control and evaporative

Ovivo and Aquatreat in Jordan, Saudi

cooling specialist, has appointed Rajaee Karasneh as its new Business Development Manager for Saudi Arabia. Based out of Riyadh, Rajaee takes on the responsibility for expanding sales of Condair's humidifiers, dehumidifiers and evaporative cooling systems across the region.

experienced sales manager in the engineering and construction sectors, working for international companies such as Veolia, and UAE, commented: “I feel very proud to have been given this opportunity to lead Condair's operations in the region and expand the company's sales.”

21

22

Appointments

BINLADIN INTERNATIONAL HOLDING GROUP ANNOUNCES KEY APPOINTMENTS Binladin International Holding Group (BIHG), the parent company of Saudi Arabia’s largest construction conglomerate, the Saudi Binladin Group (SBG), announced the expansion of its executive leadership team with the appointment of Balaji Prasad as Group Chief Financial Officer and Roberto Liuzza as Group Chief Organisation Excellence Officer.

Prasad and Liuzza are recent appointments made at a senior level to overhaul the organisation’s governance and operations. Other appointments included Ahmed Al Sanie as Group Managing Director; Abdulrahman Bajunaid as CEO of Real Estate; and Samer Khawashki as CEO of Investments over the past year.

BALAJI PRASAD Prasad brings 24 years of experience across the

& Gas. Past appointments include CFO of Abu Dhabi listed developer Manazel PJSC

region with a focus on

as well as leadership positions in blue-chip

debt restructuring,

companies such as TYCO, Reliance Industries,

corporate

Pentair, Sobha Group, KEF Holdings and

turnaround, business

Suhail Bahwan Group, as well as Indian Oil.

transformation and complex fundraising across diverse industries such as Contracting,

Appointments made at a senior level to overhaul the organisation’s governance and operations.

Real Estate, Manufacturing, Trading and Oil ROBERTO LIUZZA Liuzza has 27 years of experience across Europe, the Middle East, and

MNEs, government institutions, industry regulators, and private equity funds.

Established in March 2019, BIHG oversees and

the Far East in complex

manages the affairs of numerous subsidiaries

transformation and

across its portfolio, including SBG – Saudi

turnarounds across

Arabia’s largest construction company and

various industries, with an emphasis on

one of the world’s largest contractors. It is currently undergoing a transformation

performance improvement, strategic

programme in order to establish a strong

planning and change management. Past

financial and operational platform from

appointments include Senior Director of

which it can capitalise on the sizeable market

Corporate Strategic Planning at BHC, senior

opportunity for major construction projects in

positions in primary management consulting

Saudi Arabia. BIHG has identified a significant

firms (namely Booz & Company, Booz Allen

market opportunity, with c.SAR 1 trillion of

Hamilton and Accenture), serving blue-chip

new contract awards expected by 2025 alone.

Appointments

Saudi Arabia’s Real Estate Development Fund Appoints Mansour bin Madi as CEO

Mansour bin Madi possesses more than 30 years of leadership and practical experience in the financial sector. He has worked on strategising, planning and launching various financial and funding products and solutions, as well as spearheading digital projects on both local and international levels, a statement said.

Mansour bin Saeed bin Madi has been

The appointment was approved by the

appointed as the CEO of Saudi Arabia’s

fund’s board of directors, headed by Majid

Real Estate Development Fund.

bin Abdullah Al-Hogail, the Minister of Municipal Rural Affairs and Housing.

Esraa Al-Buti join WEF's global leaders class The World Economic Forum (WEF) has

Having become the first-ever woman partner

announced its 2021 class of Young

in EY’s Saudi member firm in 2019 (as well as

Global Leaders – a group of “remarkable

the youngest ever partner), Esraa Al-Buti has

people under 40” that are committed

become a role model for female leadership and

to making the world a better place.

empowerment in the Kingdom. Today, she leads

Each year, WEF goes through a rigorous

EY’s Tax Controversy practice in Saudi Arabia.

selection process to select leaders from

Her work includes advising multinational

different communities and industries

groups and local family businesses on tax

worldwide. This year, a cohort of 112

advisory assignments and tax- and zakat-

leaders welcomed to the network.

compliance matters. She also provides

Among the group working at professional

international tax structuring advisory

services firm Ernst and Young KSA is

services to Saudi Arabian inbound and

Esraa Al-Buti. According to the WEF, the

outbound clients and investors, and has

EY leader “exemplifies what we need

gained experience with tax due diligence

most today: hope, empathy, authenticity

assignments for private equity and corporate

and the drive to develop solutions that

clients for transactions in Saudi Arabia.

can change the world for the better.”

23

24

Appointments

SNC-LAVALIN’S ATKINS EXPANDS IN SAUDI ARABIA Atkins, a member of the SNCLavalin Group, is expanding its design and engineering services in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) to meet the needs of the country’s growing mixed-use developments, leisure and entertainment industries.

This sees the appointment of new senior positions to support the Company’s existing projects and new market opportunities.

David Manfredi, Director of Architecture

setting new industry standards. This will

and Building Engineering, Saudi Arabia,

help set a new precedent for Atkin’s creative

is leading Atkins’ KSA-based Building Design

services in the theming and entertainment

team, working closely with the regional

sectors. Bradley comes with 25 years’

business and global team of experts to

experience across the US, Asia Pacific and

understand and deliver clients’ visions. David

the Middle East, and has founded several

is an award-winning architect possessing a

creative companies over the past decades.

uniquely balanced range of conceptual, project

More recently, leading a team of writers,

delivery and business skills. His approach

designers and architects, he conceptualized

embraces design concept and critique,

the show design for seven major attractions

technical delivery, studio culture and team

for the Ocean Flower Island currently under

development, and the exploitation of digital

construction off the north coast of Danzhou,

transformation. He has 25 years of experience,

Hainan, China. He also provided his creative

18 of which have been in the Middle East. He

expertise to Sony Entertainment, Walt Disney

has run his own practice, has been a tutor

Studios, EA, Activision, LucasArts, Paramount

and lecturer in design, construction, and

Studios & Universal Studios, to name a few.

professional practice, and has worked on projects across the GCC, Asia and Australia.

“WE ARE COMMITTED TO CONTINUE SUPPORTING SAUDI ARABIA’S VISION 2030 BY BRINGING WORLDCLASS TALENT TO THE KINGDOM”

In addition, Edward McIntosh, who is leading Atkins’ Architectural Design team in the Middle East, is currently based in Saudi Arabia to support the design business expansion and provide in-country strategic advisory to major projects. Edward has 18 years of experience leading international architectural design teams and projects in

We are pleased to announce Bradley Caruk to

sports, commercial, retail, residential, and

the newly formed role of Creative Project

hospitality markets in South America, the UK,

Director, Saudi Arabia. Working closely

China, South East Asia, and the Middle East.

with Atkins’ Design teams, Bradley brings

He started his career in Ecuador, where he

international expertise in spearheading major

delivered several commercial and hospitality

innovations in the creative themed leisure

projects incorporating innovative low-carbon

and entertainment destinations, championing

construction materials. He also worked for

cutting-edge technologies and concepts

six years at Populous in London, where he

that redefine the customer experience and

successfully led the design of more than two

Appointments

25

dozen arena, stadia and sports masterplan

class talent to the Kingdom and providing our

provide both recreational and professional

projects. He also led the Grimshaw’s South

engineering and design expertise to nurture

opportunities to the Saudi population and

East Asia design team focusing on retail,

local capabilities through our Riyadh Design

boast a number of record-breaking attractions.

hospitality, workplace, transit-oriented

Studio and Training Academy,” said Ian

development and sports projects.

Redmayne, Managing Director of Atkins KSA,

career professionals master technical and

Engineering, Design and Project Management,

soft skills in engineering, design, and project

Planning, Middle East, has been with Atkins

SNC-Lavalin. “Our country-focused design

management and gain the knowledge needed

for 12 years and has led the urban design team

leadership team is key to expanding our market

to progress in their careers. Over the past six

to deliver world-class projects across the GCC.

offering and delivering 360 creative, sustainable,

months, the academy has trained more than

She is leading flagship master plan projects in

and data-driven design and architecture

500 employees in Saudi Arabia with specialized

the Kingdom, including King Abdullah Financial

solutions that meet the needs of growing

programmes designed to develop their skills.

District and Diriyah Gate project that aim to

mixed-used developments in the Kingdom.”

Vasushree Mohta, Design Director, Master

create the leisure, culture and entertainment

With over 50 years’ presence in the Middle

focal points within mixed-use urban precincts.

East, Atkins has established a proven track

Atkins is spearheading urban master plans

record of designing some of the region’s

that emphasize user experience and draw in

most iconic projects ranging from full-scale

design experts early in the process to create

communities to individual buildings that

urban districts that are cohesive, synergetic

blend aesthetic and functional elements while

and deliverable with a clear focus on the

promoting human interaction and sustainable

project vision as the main driving force.

impact. Currently, Atkins is providing lead

“We are committed to continue supporting Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 by bringing world-

The Company’s Training Academy helps early

WITH OVER 50 YEARS’ PRESENCE IN THE MIDDLE EAST, ATKINS HAS ESTABLISHED A PROVEN TRACK RECORD OF DESIGNING SOME OF THE REGION’S MOST ICONIC PROJECTS

design consultant services for the Six Flags Qiddiya theme park project, which will

 DAVID MANFREDI Director of Architecture and Building Engineering, Saudi Arabia, Atkins, a member of the SNC-Lavalin Group

B RADLEY CARUK Creative Project Director, Saudi Arabia, Atkins, a member of the SNC-Lavalin Group

 EDWARD MCINTOSH Regional Design Director, Middle East, Atkins, a member of the SNC-Lavalin Group

V ASUSHREE MOHTA Design Director, Master Planning, Middle East, Atkins, a member of the SNC-Lavalin Group

(Photo : AETOSWire)

(Photo : AETOSWire)

(Photo : AETOSWire)

(Photo : AETOSWire)

26

JOHN PAGANO INTERVIEW

SP: When tendering, timing is often crucial, so how long do you like a contractor's presentation to be?

JP: It is a case-by-case scenario. Every project is different, unique in its own way, which requires adapted approaches. At TRSDC, each

WORK WITH US

THE RED SEA DEVELOPMENT COMPANY (TRSDC), THE COMPANY BEHIND THE WORLD'S MOST AMBITIOUS REGENERATIVE TOURISM PROJECT, HAS A MISSION TO REIMAGINE AND INNOVATE IN ORDER TO CREATE A UNIQUE, LUXURY DESTINATION THAT EMBRACES NATURE, CULTURE AND ADVENTURE, WHILE SETTING NEW STANDARDS IN SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT. SUCH A GRAND VISION, OF COURSE, REQUIRES BROAD EXPERTISE, NOT ONLY FROM WITHIN TRSDC ITSELF, BUT ALSO FROM OTHER SPECIALIST COMPANIES THAT CAN OFFER THE RELEVANT SKILLS, QUALITY, AND SERVICE REQUIRED.

tender is governed by a multi-disciplinary Tender Committee that will carefully evaluate the proposals. We always make sure the market understands our approach, engaging long before our tenders reach them, which we have found to be the best way to ensure that the responses to our requests are optimal.

The timing is indeed crucial. Our significant progress against our timeline can be explained by the agility and efficiency of our procurement processes. The completion of the Public-Private Partnership for our Utilities Package is an interesting example. It was a complex process involving more than 2,000 documents per bidder. We have developed sophisticated online management systems that facilitate the bidders' submissions, the coordination of our evaluation teams, bidder selection, and negotiation.

This enabled us to go from publishing the Request for Proposals to commercial close and contract signature in under 18 months.

B

ut how do these companies get

Still, we make sure we don't ask for the

The process timeline, running from June 2019

involved; what is TRSDC searching

impossible. Our approach is based on realistic

to November 2020, was directly impacted

for? We spoke to John Pagano, CEO at

expectations on technical capabilities and

by the Covid-19 pandemic and the need

TRSDC and AMAALA, to gain a little insight

a reasonable allocation of scope and risk.

for lockdowns. Still, we adapted to the

into what TRSDC looks for in a partner.

challenging circumstances by completing Procurement aligns with our corporate strategy

the procurement process entirely online. The

Saudi Projects: What type of tendering

to be an instrumental contributor to KSA's Vision

outcome is a highly sophisticated commercial

does TRSDC/AMAALA typically use –

2030 and a catalyzer in the global transition

instrument, a utility package financed by

open tendering, selective tendering,

to regenerative sustainability. That means we

local and international investors to provide

negotiated tendering etc. – and why?

actively consider how we impact the market,

100% renewable energy 24/7. We are now on

John Pagano (JP): The Red Sea Development

acting like a leader who encourages all kinds of

track to become the world's largest tourist

Company's (TRSDC) tendering is always

industries to go one step further and step out of

destination powered exclusively by renewable

fair, equitable, transparent, and a driver for

our comfort zones. As I said, we know what we

energy day and night, supported by the largest

free competition in all its projects. We have

want, which makes us quite prescriptive, and

installed battery storage facility in the world.

a clear mandate and vision of what we are

as a business, we remain very much involved in

Business continuity planning has been a key

looking for in the market, and we engage

the development of the project at all stages. We

focus during 2020, ensuring that we continue

early to ensure the 'buildability' factor in our

are a vertically integrated real estate developer

destination development with minimal

innovative and sometimes pioneering requests.

with the capacity to manage interfaces at all

diSARuption, and this includes procurement.

We understand we often ask suppliers to

supply chain levels proactively. Our suppliers

do things that have previously never been

truly become our partners in delivering the

done before using methods never attempted.

best possible outcome for the project.

JOHN PAGANO INTERVIEW

WE ARE CONSTANTLY LOOKING FOR INDUSTRY CHAMPIONS THAT CAN ADD VALUE AND CONTRIBUTE TO OUR PROJECTS

J OHN PAGANO CEO THE RED SEA DEVELOPMENT COMPANY AND AMAALA

27

28

JOHN PAGANO INTERVIEW

We have awarded over 500 contracts

innovate and are willing to work with us to help

destination and guests can become part of it.

worth more than SAR 15 billion, including

us deliver on our ambitious regenerative goals.

Sustainability commitments are of utmost

critical developments like the airport, road infrastructure and jetties, and our first hotels.

SP: Do you include pre-qualification

importance when choosing the right supplier We know we will have to work together

for one of our projects. A potential contractor

with our partners to lead the way, and we

must be willing to engage with the same level

factor that into our evaluations too.

of commitment as we do. Sustainability is non-

questionnaires or carry out

negotiable and a deal-breaker at any stage of

pre-tender interviews?

discussions or during the delivery of a contract.

JP: We actually do both. We are constantly looking for industry champions that can add value and contribute to our projects.

Potential vendors can register online at any time via our website, and more than 3,000 companies have already completed this process. After registration, companies are contacted by our technical and commercial

WE ARE PROUD THAT OVER 70% OF OUR CONSTRUCTION CONTRACT VALUE HAS BEEN AWARDED TO SAUDI COMPANIES

experts for an evaluation and final approval as

Pioneering large-scale regenerative sustainable development means that some of our standards are yet to exist in the market. We have decided to fully control sustainability matters, from setting new standards to designing the best strategies and procedures to meet them. Our role during construction is sometimes dual, acting both as the client and the contractor. We prescribe and request goals, and we support

a potential supplier. Then, once an opportunity

Giga-projects like The Red Sea Project and

and follow third parties' efforts to achieve

arises, they can apply to pre-qualify. This is

AMAALA are opportunities for any company

them, constantly evaluating performance and

part of our ongoing conversation with the

involved in construction, real estate, energy,

the contractor's capacity to evolve towards the

market, which we believe is crucial to staying

transport, hospitality, and many other

levels of excellence we demand. We believe that

connected with industry and technological

industries to grow strategically. These kinds of

this is the way to drive industry innovation.

trends, interests, and challenges.

projects are hard to find anywhere else in the

SP: What do you look for when a

world. Companies can learn how to scale up,

SP: What are you looking for when

innovate and be more competitive globally.

it comes to employee welfare

contractor demonstrates its capability,

when taking on a contractor?

such as systems to be used etc.?

Finally, we are proud that over 70% of our

JP: We believe that if we take great care of the

JP: All our procurement processes are led by

construction contract value has been awarded

workers, they, in turn, will build with great care.

a dedicated Tender Committee. They rely on

to Saudi companies on both projects. The mix

We aim to protect and enhance the destination

well-defined, strict evaluation criteria that

of Saudi and international organizations will

as we develop it, and as such, it makes sense

apply to all candidates. Having technical

enrich and diversify the national industrial

to ensure that we protect and enhance the

capabilities and a solid record of high-

fabric, one of the critical goals of Vision 2030.

wellbeing of those more directly involved in

standard project delivery in this region and internationally is undoubtedly important.

building the place. Taking care of their physical SP: How do you measure how sustainability-

and mental wellbeing is very important, least

focused a potential contractor is?

of all because it is the right thing to do, but

But as I said earlier, we have a clear mandate.

JP: Similarly to the evaluation of other

because happy, healthy workers are more

Our mission is to lead the global transition into

capabilities, we'd be looking at records and

productive. The more care and attention you

regenerative development. We are a driver for

company capacity. But for us, sustainability

put in, the greater the return you can expect.

paradigmatic change, redefining luxury tourism,

is much more than a skillset. It's a principle, a

We have a moral mandate to set standards

development, and even considering our natural

transversal obligation, a culture. We are meeting

on workers' welfare and set an example to

capital when evaluating our investment returns.

the highest sustainability standards you can

follow as we do in so many other areas.

find in tourism development and beyond, We are pioneering large-scale sustainable

and in fact, seek to set new standards in this

Existing international standards like those

development, which means some of the

area. Our drive is regenerative sustainability,

from the International Finance Corporation

solutions we are looking for are not yet

an approach inspired by the living-systems

(IFC) are a valid reference to create adequate

available in the market or have never been

theory that aims to conserve, protect and

living conditions for workers. In practice,

implemented before on this scale. In that

enhance the destination's environment. We

this looks like shared rooms with bunk

case, previous track records or size are not

don't design just buildings or infrastructure. We

beds, shared external toilet facilities,

the only relevant variables when considering

design for human, ecosystem, and planetary

and essential medical care provision.

new partners. We will look for companies that

health, blending with nature so that our

JOHN PAGANO INTERVIEW

29

and assistance for up to 28,000 construction workers at peak operation, including general practitioner and occupational health doctors and nurses, pharmacists, ambulance drivers, and emergency evacuation capacity.

Additionally, we have a helicopter available on-site ready to transport patients to larger hospitals in Jeddah or Tabuk, for example, and being based in a remote location, readily available medical assistance to this degree could quite literally a lifesaver for us.

In summary, it is our camp, with our standards and conditions, and we request contractors to host all their workers in it. Consequently to this approach, we demand from all contractors full compliance with respecting workers' health, safety, and wellbeing at all times.

SP: If unsuccessful, do you welcome debriefings so that a contractor can understand where they went wrong and perhaps correct it for next time?

John Pagano: Definitely - as part of our proactive relationship with the market and the learning process the giga-projects represent for the industry, we provide feedback whenever requested. The projects will keep

PIONEERING LARGE-SCALE REGENERATIVE SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT MEANS THAT SOME OF OUR STANDARDS ARE YET TO EXIST IN THE MARKET

offering numerous opportunities during the construction and operation phases. Therefore lesson learning is a valuable exercise for potential contractors, TRSDC and the industry.

SP: If you had one piece of advice for a contractor who wants to work with TRSDC/AMAALA, what would it be?

John Pagano: I'd tell them to be bold and

But we want to go one step further and

room is shared by a maximum of three workers

dare to think outside of the box. Be innovative,

chose to exceed IFC standards, setting

and is equipped with partitions between beds

pioneer new ways of doing things, and most of

a new global industry benchmark.

for privacy and en-suite bathrooms with shower.

all, believe they can be part of this opportunity

There are 12 landscaped neighborhoods, sports

to grow together with TRSDC and our projects.

Similar to our approach to other crucial

pitches, gyms, recreational facilities, including

We want companies of all types and sizes to get

project factors, the best way to do that is

television, games rooms, cinema, a minimarket,

involved and contribute to our goals and the

by taking complete control of workers'

and a barbershop, among other amenities.

realization of these groundbreaking projects.

welfare, requesting all contractors to

We invite them to follow our principles, buy

host their workers in our facility.

Importantly, last month we opened a Central

into our ethos, and join us in this exciting trip

We designed and built the Construction Village,

Medical Facility managed by our partners

towards regenerative sustainability, Saudi

which accommodates up to 10,000 workers

International SOS. The facility, coupled

Vision 2030 and the global future of tourism.

comfortably, which we now operate with our

with several satellite clinics, ensures we are

partners Red Sea International and FMCO. Each

providing the highest quality medical care

30

Future of Infrastructure

THE FUTURE OF INFRASTRUCTURE IN SAUDI ARABIA INFRASTRUCTURE IS NOT THE MOST EXCITING WORD IN ARCHITECTURE. THERE ARE NO CELEBRITY ARCHITECTS PROUDLY DISCUSSING THEIR BELOW-GROUND WASTE SYSTEMS WITH THE MEDIA. INDEED, BY ITS VERY NATURE, INFRASTRUCTURE IS USUALLY OUT OF SIGHT, BUT OUR TOWNS AND CITIES COULDN'T EXIST WITHOUT IT. WHAT'S MORE, WITHOUT FINDING WAYS TO IMPROVE IT, OUR FUTURE URBAN ENVIRONMENTS WILL STRUGGLE TO SURVIVE.

Not surprisingly, technology is coming to

Estimated to grow at a CAGR of approximately

For instance, the Qiddiya project, situated

the rescue, helping us adapt to everything

6% to 2026, Saudi Arabia’s infrastructure

45km west of Riyadh, is being developed

from extreme weather conditions to grid-

sector was buoyed by the announcement

as a city for entertainment, sports and the

locked highways. Technology, of course,

of a trillion-dollar pipeline of projects

arts, with a completion date of 2022 for the

has been shaping cities for millennia, with

that will help to position the Kingdom as

first phase. Initial infrastructure costs are

Rome, for instance, creating aqueducts to

a global hub for investment and logistics.

approximately $8 billion, with the project

transport water to its citizens and, in doing

This development programme has created

requiring additional investment to achieve its

so, created the first mega-metropolis.

opportunities in a variety of new areas, such

objective of 17 million visitors per year by 2035.

as smart cities, tourism and clean energy.

Today, though, we are facing up to new challenges, not least climate change and population growth. Yet if there is one thing that the Covid-19 pandemic has allowed us all to do, it's to re-appraise... everything. It has delivered an intense economic shock, with governments clambering to stabilize markets with a rush of stimulus and job protection packages.

A TRILLION-DOLLAR PIPELINE OF PROJECTS As the world begins to recover, Saudi Arabia's construction sector will return to positive growth during 2021 following its backward move throughout 2020 amid the Covid-19 pandemic's initial economic impact.

The long-term outlook remains strong, with efforts to diversify the economy away from oil offering opportunities for residential and non-residential projects and significant transport infrastructure.

ESTIMATED TO GROW AT A CAGR OF APPROXIMATELY 6% TO 2026

Future of Infrastructure

31

100% DIGITAL DESIGN The digital revolution is playing its part too.

AECOM, the world's leading infrastructure consulting firm, is designing the transport and utilities backbone infrastructure for NEOM, another giga-project and a new model for urbanization and sustainability.

Bill Price, program director at AECOM, said: "In order to accelerate the delivery of this transformative project, our global team will be using the latest innovations to deliver a 100% digital design. Digital tools will play a vital role in the collaborative approach and stakeholder engagement, with quickly produced visualizations that are built from live design data that is geospatial accurate, enabling and unlocking the power of a data-driven design."

SAUDI ARABIA ALSO PLANS TO INVEST $66.67 BILLION IN HEALTHCARE INFRASTRUCTURE

Digital will perform a crucial role in delivering

HEALTHCARE INFRASTRUCTURE

And while evolving customer demands

the core scope of services within the program

Saudi Arabia also plans to invest $66.67 billion

and accelerating technological innovations

requirements, in addition to achieving the

in healthcare infrastructure and enhance

will transform the way the world buys,

vision for technological advancement. The

private sector involvement from the existing

sells and regulates electricity, the sector

delivery team will adopt a data-led process,

40% to 65% by 2030. It is estimated that

will be challenged by the transformation's

providing information-rich 3D models and

the Kingdom's population will grow from

rapidity. This will see the Kingdom's

geospatial data. The digital delivery processes

34.3 million in 2019 to 39.4 million by 2030

energy sector witness an era of high-speed

will also facilitate collaboration across global

and rise to as high as 45 million by 2050.

digital transformation as an investment

teams and make available to them the tools

Robust growth in the GCC healthcare sector,

of $90 billion fast-tracks its Vision 2030

to efficiently design for construction.

driven by a surge in medical devices and

sustainability, R&D and manufacturing aims.

the developing branded generics market,

THIS WILL SEE THE KINGDOM’S ENERGY SECTOR WITNESS AN ERA OF HIGHSPEED DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION

will ensure that an estimated 40-50% of

Across all sectors, the demographics of Saudi

planned healthcare investment is likely

cities hold great significance, not just for

to be on infrastructure until 2025.

deciding the fate of swiftly urbanizing cities, but also for their potential contribution to achieving

HIGHER LEVELS OF URBAN LIFESTYLE

Saudi Arabia's medium-to-long term vision for

Other planned projects aim to address a specific

delivering a sustainable economy. Within this

social challenge. For example, to tackle the

vision and the national transformation program,

shortage in affordable housing, the housing

Saudi Arabia aims to improve its infrastructure

ministry has set up the Sakani programme,

and attain higher levels of urban lifestyle for its

which provides Saudi nationals with access to

people. This effort will be supplemented by a

residential plots, self-construction residential

$500 billion investment, which will be focused

housing, prefabricated housing units, among

on modernizing the infrastructure of the

other options. All of these require the necessary

existing 285 municipalities across the Kingdom.

infrastructure, including electricity.

32

GET TO KNOW ASH ARSHAD OF RESA GULF SCAFFOLDING

THERE ARE NO PROBLEMS, ONLY SOLUTIONS RESA GULF SCAFFOLDING (RGS), PART OF TAMIMI ENERGY (A DIVISION OF TAMIMI GROUP) AND GRUPO RESA, A WORLDWIDE LEADER IN SCAFFOLDING BASED IN SPAIN, WITH A PRESENCE IN OVER 20 COUNTRIES WORLDWIDE, IS A DIFFERENT KIND OF COMPANY. ITS SINGLE MOST DEFINING CHARACTERISTIC UNDERLINES THIS - ITS PRIMARY FOCUS IS ON COMING UP WITH BESPOKE SOLUTIONS FOR INDIVIDUAL PROBLEMS. IT IS A UNIQUE APPROACH IN WHAT IS A FAIRLY TRADITIONAL INDUSTRY.

contracting," says Ash. "We're the first to come in with a high-spec galvanized product that we take all the way through, from design to installation."

Resablok ringlock system is manufactured by Resa and is becoming increasingly popular with discerning customers. Aramco, for instance, is now very impressed with the system, having

"Like most companies, we are customer-

So the solutions we provide revolves

seen it in operation for many years, and tends

orientated," explains Ash T Arshad, General

entirely around the customer and their

not to want to go back to some of the older

Manager at RGS, "but we also approach the

specific needs and requirements."

systems such as 'cuplock' and 'tube and fitting'.

industry a little differently. We offer a multi-

"The older stuff still does a job," Ash says, "but

disciplined solution, frequently going outside

RGS is different in several other ways, including

it looks tardy and worn out because it's not the

of our sphere of product and service offering.

the fact that it holds internal competitions

same quality. You can't erect it as quickly, either.

What this means is that if there is a problem

between its designers and value management

We did a test on all three systems. Our system,

or challenge on a project, 99 times out of 100,

team to develop the best designs for clients.

Resablok, proved to be 50% quicker than tube

we can support the customer. We can do this

In doing so, it saves on materials and

and fitting and 30% quicker than cuplock.

because we have a strong team locally and have

human resources and minimizes risk by

access to specialists outside of our group who

introducing a health and safety perspective.

can assist, so we can provide a more rounded

A CALCULATED RISK RGS operates in both the industrial and

plan, instead of 'here's the scaffolding' or

FROM DESIGN TO INSTALLATION

construction sectors and now has its eyes set

'here's something from our parent company'.

The company's services are comprehensive

on getting involved with some of the Kingdom's

We don't do that. We go outside. For example,

and include the complete value chain from

giga-projects. These include NEOM, the Red Sea

we have sister companies such as Enerco to

scaffolding structural design and analysis

Project, and Qiddiyah – projects that will run

provide generators and TAFGA who provide

through to safety analysis, installation and

for the next six, seven or even ten years. "This

portable cabins and modular buildings.

disassembly. This broad expertise has seen

is something we are aiming for, as well as other

RGS serve a wide range of diverse industries

sizeable projects, including major shopping

"We have formed alliances and partnerships

and market sectors, including oil and gas,

malls and other big developments," Ash says.

– so we call on different companies, including

petrochemical, pipeline, naval, and construction.

our competitors, to provide a solution for

Of course, moving forwards has not been

our customers, such as Global Construction

"Most companies just sell or rent their equipment

easy for anyone over the last year, yet those

Company, and then we project manage it.

and have no involvement with the actual

with a bit of forward planning have prospered

GET TO KNOW ASH ARSHAD OF RESA GULF SCAFFOLDING

WE MANAGED TO KEEP AROUND 95% OF OUR SITES OPERATIONAL

A SH T ARSHAD GENERAL MANAGER

33

34

GET TO KNOW ASH ARSHAD OF RESA GULF SCAFFOLDING

OUR SYSTEM SCAFFOLD, RESABLOK RINGLOCK, PROVED TO BE 50% QUICKER THAN TUBE AND FITTING AND 30% QUICKER THAN CUPLOCK WATCH RESA GULF SCAFFOLDING VIDEO

better than most, as Ash explains: "We did

We minimized the impact, but it's all

BALANCING THE PORTFOLIO

remarkably well with the Covid pandemic. We

to do with forward planning."

'Going the extra mile' has not gone unnoticed

were fortunate enough to realize that things

either. The company has received two

would go downhill, and we understood there

As with most businesses, RGS suddenly found

awards from Saudi Aramco; for health and

was a risk to the business. So I chaired a very

itself having lots of meetings via Zoom and had

safety and scaffolding performance. And this

small – four/five people – committee for risk

to realign its sales approach and rethink its

constant quest for excellence and a point-

analysis, and we quickly identified the areas

marketing to stay in touch with its customers.

of-difference has seen RGS post an increase

that were a risk to us, not least that we had

But, as Ash explains, the company was

in business revenues by 32% in 2020, driven

different projects in different cities. It was almost

adopting new technologies before the crisis:

by continuous improvement program and

impossible to travel at one stage. So we put

"We had started to roll out a collaboration and

a genuine desire to exceed expectations.

men and materials into sites that we thought

communication tool that connects employees

might go into lockdown. It was a calculated

via an internal social network. We are also

"2020 turned out to be remarkable; we

risk. Thankfully it paid off with projects that

digitizing our handover certificates. So basically,

managed to pay out bonuses and keep our

wanted to keep going, such as Aramco, SWCC,

once we build our scaffolding, the customer

staff happy amidst the Covid-19 pandemic.

Sadara Chemical Plant. We managed to

needs a copy of the certificate and can easily

Now, in 2021, the bar has been raised, and

keep around 95% of our sites operational.

access a digital copy directly from our system.

the first quarter has been good. I think 2021 will be good in general, and in 2022 I believe the construction sector will improve.

This is where we're looking to balance our portfolio of market segments. We're too heavily focused on industrial at the moment and want to shift increasingly over to construction as we have specialist products to suit this sector. As we do that, the market should open up. The future is quite exciting for RGS," Ash concludes.

IF THERE IS A PROBLEM OR CHALLENGE ON A PROJECT, 99 TIMES OUT OF 100, WE CAN SUPPORT THE CUSTOMER

GET TO KNOW ASH ARSHAD OF RESA GULF SCAFFOLDING

35

RGS POSTED AN INCREASE IN BUSINESS REVENUES BY 32% IN 2020

RESA GULF SCAFFOLDING T: +966 13 8126611 E: info@rgsksa.com www.rgsksa.com



38

THE PUBLIC INVESTMENT FUND (PIF)

HRH Prince Mohammed bin Salman Announces Soudah Development Company H

is Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown

Prince, Deputy Prime Minister and Chairman of the Public Investment Fund (PIF), has announced the launch of Soudah Development Company (SDC) in the Asir region in Saudi Arabia. The new entity, fully owned by the Public Investment Fund (PIF), will lead the development of a luxury mountain destination with immersive cultural experiences and celebration of the natural assets

INVESTMENT OF $3 BILLION IN TOURISM INFRASTRUCTURE AND ATTRACTIONS PLANNED DEVELOPMENTS INCLUDE 2,700 HOTEL ROOMS AND 1,300 RESIDENTIAL UNITS THE COMPANY AIMS TO ATTRACT OVER TWO MILLION VISITORS ANNUALLY

empowering the local and national economies.

Launched to be a key driver of the kingdom’s

of the location, which is a rich amalgamation of

Vision 2030 ambitions, SDC will infuse $3 billion into

identity, heritage and experience. Through careful and

infrastructure and tourism projects, aimed at enhancing

considerate development, (SDC) will provide yet another

the visitor experience in Soudah and parts of Rijal

remarkable destination in the diverse and growing

Alma’a Governorate in the Asir region of Saudi Arabia.

portfolio of Saudi Arabia’s experiences capturing the

The planned developments include 2,700 hotel rooms,

imagination of a broad range of investors and travelers.”

1,300 residential units, and 30 unique commercial

The Public Investment Fund (PIF) will inject at least $40

and entertainment attractions. SDC aims to develop

billion a year into the local economy and aims to grow

the project area into a repeat, year-long sustainable

assets under management to over $2 trillion by 2030.

destination for residents and visitors that will contribute

The destination adds another dimension to

an estimate of $8 billion to the kingdom’s cumulative

Saudi Arabia’s ambitious tourism goals and

GDP by 2030. SDC intends to partner with the local

complements destinations being created on the Red

community and investors to build a robust and diverse

Sea coast and around the capital city of Riyadh.

network of offerings across the hospitality, residential,

SDC aims to create a roadmap to transform

commercial and entertainment sectors. It aims to

the region’s vast public areas to highlight the

attract over two million visitors annually and create

region’s distinct culture, geography and verdant

8,000 direct and indirect permanent jobs by 2030.

nature. Preserving the environmental integrity

HE Yasir Othman Al-Rumayyan, Governor for the

of the destination will be a priority, and the

Public Investment Fund, said: “Our investment in the

development will follow a rigorous regulatory

Asir region reflects our confidence in the character

framework and urban planning code.

THE PUBLIC INVESTMENT FUND (PIF)

39

PIF REACHES MAJOR MILESTONE IN SOLAR PV PROJECT PIF Signs $15 Billion Multicurrency Revolving Credit Facility The Public Investment Fund (PIF) has signed a US$ 15 billion multicurrency revolving credit facility agreement with a group of 17 leading global financial institutions from Asia, Middle East, Europe, the United Kingdom and the United States.

The PIF said in a statement that loans and

The Public Investment Fund (PIF) has reached a major milestone in its renewable energy program with the launch of the Sudair Solar PV plant in Sudair Industrial City, with a PIF-backed consortium signing a power purchase agreement with the Saudi Power Procurement Company for 25 years. This represents a significant step within the renewable energy program that is being implemented under the umbrella of the National Renewable Energy Program.

AN INVESTMENT VALUE OF APPROXIMATELY SAR 3.4 BILLION With an investment value of approximately SAR 3.4 billion, Sudair PV IPP

debt instruments are one of PIF’s four sources

will be capable of powering 185,000 homes and offsetting nearly 2.9 million

of funding as part of its strategy. The statement

tons of emissions per year. The project has also recorded the second-lowest-

added that the multicurrency revolving facility

cost globally for Solar PV electricity production (1.239 US cents/kWh).

reflects PIF prudent asset-liability management

The PIF-backed consortium is led by ACWA Power, in

and flexibility, and forms part of PIF’s diverse and

which PIF holds a 50% stake, which has partnered with

sustainable funding strategy within PIF’s Vision

Badeel, a 100%-owned PIF portfolio company.

Realization Programs 2018-2020 and 2021-2025.

MULTICURRENCY REVOLVING CREDIT FACILITY AGREEMENT WITH A GROUP OF 17 LEADING GLOBAL FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS The facility provides PIF with access to additional capital that can be deployed at speed when convenient.

PIF continues to act as a partner of choice globally, and will continue to drive the economic diversification of Saudi Arabia, investing SAR 150 billion (US$ 40 billion) into the domestic economy per year, the statement concluded.

WATCH PUBLIC INVESTMENT FUND FUNDING NEW HUMAN FUTURES

40

THE PUBLIC INVESTMENT FUND (PIF)

PIF TO SUPPORT CORPORATE CREDIT GROWTH R

atings agency S&P Global Ratings has said that investments by

The Saudi Central Bank has extended a deferred payment program to support

Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund

private sector financing until 30 June as

(PIF) will support credit growth amongst

part of measures to restrict the impact of

companies throughout the Kingdom.

the Covid-19 pandemic on the economy. It

An SAR 1500 billion investment channel,

also said a guaranteed financing program

PIF is at the heart of economic reforms to

had been extended for a further year until

change the economy in a manner that moves

1 March 14 2022, in order to encourage and

it away from oil-dependency. It plans to

support small and medium enterprises.

inject at least SAR 150 billion annually into

Domestic credit growth in the Kingdom, the

the local economy until 2025 and to amplify

largest Arab economy, is expected to remain

its assets to SAR 4 trillion within four years.

robust in 2021 and 2022, following a 14%

S&P explained: "The Public Investment

year-on-year increase in 2020, S&P said. One

Fund has recently announced investment

reason for this growth is the escalating demand

initiatives that we expect will spur corporate

for housing from Saudi nationals, which has

credit growth, mostly in construction-

been a shot in the arm for mortgage growth.

related industries. This will offset the

"Over the next couple of years, we

gradual lifting of support aimed at

forecast that mortgage portfolios will

easing the impact of the pandemic."

expand by about 30% a year," said S&P.

“INVESTMENT INITIATIVES THAT WE EXPECT WILL SPUR CORPORATE CREDIT GROWTH, MOSTLY IN CONSTRUCTION-RELATED INDUSTRIES” THE FUND PLANS TO INJECT AT LEAST $40 BILLION ANNUALLY IN THE LOCAL ECONOMY UNTIL 2025

Sustainability

41

SWCC SETS NEW WORLD RECORD FOR LOWEST ENERGY CONSUMPTION THE SAUDI WATER CONVERSION CORPORATION (SWCC) HAS PRODUCED A NEW GUINNESS WORLD RECORD FOR THE LOWEST ENERGY CONSUMPTION FOR A WATER DESALINATION PLANT, WITH AN IMPRESSIVE 2.27 KW/H PER CUBIC METER OF DESALINATED WATER.

SWCC has been investing in its engineering and research expertise to drive design innovation further than ever before, with a company spokesperson commenting: "Our objective is to supply high-efficiency, low-energy consuming and flexible desalination plants, by utilizing the

This new triumph is the most recent of several records and milestones that SWCC has

efforts of our national cadres who were at the

reached, further strengthening its international standing as a leader in the desalination

center of this new global record that enhanced

industry. It is now fully committed to continuing to move forwards to carry out the

the operational efficiency and reduced energy

objectives of the Kingdom's long-term Vision 2030 strategy by utilizing local content and

consumption to unprecedented levels.

expertise in all its current and future expansion projects, said a statement from SWCC.

"The new eco-friendly reverse osmosis plants were designed using the latest global standards and will complement the supply chain and further reduce operational costs.

"The entire system is operated by an integrated control system employing the latest technologies and specifications and is highly mobile, given the ease and flexibility of the assembly process of its various units."

UTILIZING LOCAL CONTENT AND EXPERTISE IN ALL ITS CURRENT AND FUTURE EXPANSION PROJECTS

42

Project Focus - King Salman Energy Park

KING SALMAN ENERGY PARK PHASE ONE WORK 80% COMPLETE A

lmost 80% of the work on the

land is now ready for investment, and 35

the regional energy sector, amounting

infrastructure, land paving,

investment applications have been approved

to something like SAR6 billion.

road construction, service delivery and

for companies and their support services.

administrative office buildings within

"Despite the challenges and exceptional

Phase One of King Salman Energy Park

Contracts have already been signed with 23

circumstances that have occurred as a

(known as SPARK), the region's only fully

other companies. In early March, SPARK had

result of the pandemic, we were able to

integrated energy hub, has been completed.

signed two strategic agreements with the

achieve more progress in construction

Industrialization and Energy Services Company

operations in line with the goals set

SPARK is a new mega-project located

(Taqa) and the Arab Minerals Company (Amco).

for July of this year, especially after

between Dammam and Al-Ahsa in the Eastern

Under the agreement, Taqa is looking to

adopting advanced and environmentally

Province of Saudi Arabia. This project is being

develop its local operations through the Taqa

friendly building solutions," he said.

developed, operated and managed by Saudi

Industrial Complex, with an initial investment

Aramco in partnership with the Saudi Authority

of up to SAR300 million. Amco is investing

"SPARK is the first in the Middle East

for Industrial Cities and Technology Zones.

SAR260 million to create a new city center.

region to adopt such innovative solutions to ensure that sustainability remains a

With work moving along on schedule, Phase

Chairman Dr Muhammad Yahya Al Qahtani

primary focus for the development of

One is due for completion later in 2021. This

said the investments of the project's first

the project," Dr Al Qahtani concluded.

advanced stage means that the allotted

phase would form a 'global gateway' to

Project Focus - King Salman Energy Park

WATCH THE KING SALMAN ENERGY PARK (SPARK)

AMCO IS INVESTING SAR260 MILLION TO CREATE A NEW CITY CENTER PHASE ONE IS DUE FOR COMPLETION LATER IN 2021 INVESTMENTS OF THE FIRST PHASE, AMOUNTING TO SOMETHING LIKE SAR6 BILLION

SPARK has also launched 'green building' solutions to enhance sustainability and support the circular carbon economy, as well as enhancing safety levels on-site and reducing time spent and materials used in construction, he added.

SPARK aims to attract local and international industry investors across five strategic sectors, including upstream, downstream, petrochemicals, power and water treatment.

Investors will benefit from its wide range of services to help them achieve success and sustainability of their projects.

SPARK’s readily available industrial project sites offer high-quality infrastructure, which include internal road networks, an advanced network of electrical power, water, natural gas, sanitation systems, rainwater drainage and the most modern communication network in the Kingdom.

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Cover Story - How to Build Safer Workplaces

HOW TO BUILD SAFER WORKPLACES

SAFETY EXCELLENCE BENEFITS INDIVIDUAL EMPLOYEES AS WELL AS THE ORGANIZATION AS A WHOLE. BUT AS HEALTH AND SAFETY MOVE TO THE TOP OF THE POST-PANDEMIC AGENDA, IT IS IMPORTANT TO ENSURE IT DOESN'T BECOME JUST ANOTHER BOX TO BE TICKED. TRUE HEALTH AND SAFETY EXCELLENCE IS ONLY POSSIBLE THROUGH AN ENGAGED, COMMITTED WORKFORCE AT ALL LEVELS.

Cover Story - How to Build Safer Workplaces

45

external training hour rate. It recorded a total of 51,643 total training hours that translates into 6.35 training hours per employee per year. The safety education program witnessed more than 200 managers and engineers from all levels train along with site supervisors.

A COLLABORATIVE APPROACH The nature of construction makes it an industry fraught with dangers. Working at height, electrical work, falling objects, confined spaces, mechanical hazards, and moving equipment (heavy mobile equipment, tools, high pressure and hydraulic tools) all entail significant risks. Additionally, soil, air, and water contamination impact environmental safety.

At Amana, health and safety training is built on a two-pronged strategy. First, understanding the major risk-prone areas and secondly, adopting practices to address those areas and developing guidelines to follow on a day-to-day basis.

Trainees are also taken for frequent

J IHAD JOSEPH BSAIBES PRESIDENT AND CEO OF AMANA CONTRACTING AT AMANA GROUP

safety management tours for a first-hand experience of the risks faced by workers so

F

they can come up with specific solutions. or the region's construction companies,

the C-suite – is accountable. As such, they

Additionally, a behavioral-based safety

safety has become a project-critical

all need to be sensitized and trained.

program notes worker behavior, risk

aspect since the pandemic. As a regional

This has been backed up by numerous studies

mitigation strategies and seeks feedback

leader in the design-build construction of

which recognize that focusing organizational

from workers. This 360 degree-approach

industrial and commercial facilities across

effort to nurture a culture of involvement and

exemplifies an organization-wide safety

the GCC, workplace safety has always been a

participation can result in zero injuries. Rather

culture. Workers can convey their suggestions

priority for Amana. The results of this long-

than being just a regulatory requirement,

to top management for changes in risk-prone

time prioritization of health and safety have

health and safety should be the happy

areas that help prevent mishaps on sites.

stood it in good stead during the lockdown and

by-product of a collaborative process.

These initiatives have contributed tremendously

subsequent months. The company’s safety

Everyone participates and understands

in creating a better understanding of health,

culture has translated into multiple awards and

their role in making the workplace safer.

safety and environment (HSE) rules and

industry recognition. So how does it do it?

regulations related to work activities, better The proof of this collaborative approach

and quick reporting of accidents, near-misses,

LEADERSHIP SUPPORT

can be seen in Amana's impressive record.

and hazards, to line supervisors and the HSE

When safety culture permeates the whole

Having clocked a record 20 million work-hours

team. Workers are more acquainted with the

organization, every person – from the

with no lost time injury (LTI) in 2020, Amana

right tools for the right job and follow electrical

labourer on-site to the leadership teams in

also works to maintain its high internal and

safety requirements today than ever before.

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Cover Story - How to Build Safer Workplaces

They participate effectively in HSE initiatives such as toolbox talks, mock drills, risk assessment communication meetings etc.

Amana's in-house safety awards recognize and celebrate HSE achievements and excellent performance by employees, including subcontractors. Held monthly, the awards are intended to promote positive attitudes towards Health and Safety, a commitment to high standards by senior management and line supervisors, motivating employees towards proactive, safe behavior, and improving the overall HSE culture.

Clearly, incentivizing and recognizing safety works.

AMANA HAS CELEBRATED ONE MILLION (1,000,000) LTI FREE MAN-HOURS AT PROJECTS. THESE SAFETY MILESTONE CELEBRATIONS ARE ATTENDED BY TOP MANAGEMENT AND PROJECT MANAGEMENT Amana is also licensed to provide safety training on IOSH Managing Safely (UK), IOSH Working Safely (UK), IOSH Managing Occupational Health and Wellbeing (UK), and the British Safety Council online training program.

A RECORD 20 MILLION WORK-HOURS WITH NO LOST TIME INJURY (LTI) IN 2020

Cover Story - How to Build Safer Workplaces

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Cover Story - How to Build Safer Workplaces

TOP FIVE TOP FOUR

HEALTH & SAFTEY HAZARDS ON CONSTRUCTION SITES 1

HEALTH & SAFTEY PRACTICES FOLLOWED BY 1

2

Falls

163

Electrocution

3

4

Fires & Explosions

Falling debris

(objects or materials)

5

Machinery accidents (getting hit by vehicles or getting caught in-between objects)

2

safety recognition programs implemented in 2020

313

annual safety management tours conducted in 2020

3

51,643

training man-hours of the behavioural based safety program

4

In-house training centers for: A. IOSH Managing safely (UK) – 190 attendees, 4,560 training man-hours.

B. IOSH Working safely (UK) – 73 attendees, 1,752 training man-hours C. IOSH Managing occupational health and wellbeing (UK) – 263 attendees, 6,312 training man-hours D. British safety council online training program – 2,822 attendees or training man-hours E. In-house online safety training that covers OSHA outreach program

Cover Story - How to Build Safer Workplaces

49

IT IS ESTIMATED THAT SHIFTING 85% OF TRADITIONAL LABOUR ACTIVITY TO A CONTROLLED MANUFACTURING FACILITY CAN BRING DOWN THE RATE OF HEALTH AND SAFETY-RELATED INCIDENTS BY UP TO 70%

THE ROLE OF TECHNOLOGY Technology adoption on the region's construction sites was accelerated by the pandemic. Newer construction technologies, such as modular construction – which involves manufacturing modules constructed off-site and put together on-site later – not only trims labour requirements by 30% and potentially reduces material waste by 30%, it also significantly improves work safety and occupational health.

It is estimated that shifting 85% of traditional labour activity to a controlled manufacturing facility can bring down the rate of health and safety-related incidents by up to 70%.

This is just the beginning. The focus on building safe workplaces and the quest for innovative solutions to achieve them will continue in the future too. However, any technology is only as good as its implementation.

Understanding the risks posed by 'the human factor' and training people on an ongoing basis goes a long way in mitigating dangers and preventing accidents before they occur.

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COver story - Building safer, better and greener

BUILDING SAFER, FASTER, GREENER. THE AMANA WAY TO BETTER UNDERSTAND HOW MODERN CONSTRUCTION METHODS CAN FUEL HEALTH, SAFETY AND SUSTAINABILITY, WE SPEAK TO ZIAD ABBOUT – SENIOR HEALTH, SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENT MANAGER AT AMANA GROUP.

COver story - Building safer, better and greener

51

Saudi Projects: In recent years, there have been major improvements to health and safety in the construction industry.

However, modular building can help improve health and safety even further – so can you share the top three health and safety benefits of modular construction?

Ziad Abbout: Modular construction creates a safer building environment by reducing manpower requirements by 30%. It allows for much lower waste rates than an open construction site, and it improves worker safety by up to 70%. Furthermore, as modular construction shifts up to 85% of construction to a factory environment, on-site repetitive and hazardous activities can be automated, resulting in improved health and safety.

 ZIAD ABBOUT SENIOR HEALTH, SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENT MANAGER AT AMANA GROUP

SPM: How many accident-free hours has Amana enjoyed on the TRSDC projects, and how does this compare to more traditional construction?

ZA: Amana Group reported 20 million manhours worked which was also the number of man-hours worked with no lost time injury (LTI) in 2020. For The Red Sea Development Company projects, Amana Group reported 2,285,229 man-hours worked: the same number of accident-free hours. Thus, for all man-hours worked, Amana and TDRSC projects have reported no accidents. This stellar safety record with zero incidents or accidents reported would be unheard of in a traditional

MODULAR CONSTRUCTION CREATES A SAFER BUILDING ENVIRONMENT

BY REDUCING MANPOWER REQUIREMENTS BY 30%

construction project of this size and scale.

SPM: Does the company work to international standards such as ISO 14001, and how does Amana continue to raise the bar?

ZA: Definitely. Amana Group has ISO 14001, ISO 9001 and ISO 45001 certifications. We continue to raise the bar by constantly aiming to build smarter, safer, quicker, better and greener.

SPM: What is Amana most proud of as a company concerning health & safety?

ZA: Amana Group prides itself in its ability to maintain a significantly high internal and external training hour average in the construction industry, with 51,643 total

SPM: Explain a typical day at work for

training hours or 6.35 training hours per

health & safety personnel at Amana?

employee, per year. We follow a top-to-

ZA: Amana Group's health and safety team

Inspections of firefighting equipment, ladder

bottom safety culture that includes senior

perform a wide range of tasks on a regular

inspections, scaffolding inspections, light

and mid-level management in its safety

basis. Morning meetings with the foreman and

vehicle inspections and first aid box inspections

education program. Over 200 managers

supervisors are held to discuss the day's work.

are some of the safety procedures that make

and engineers at all levels receive IOSH

a day's work for Amana’s health and safety

managing safety training, while supervisors

Risk evaluations are carried out with the

staff. Moreover, the training matrix and site

are trained in IOSH working safety training.

aim of lowering the risk. Employees are

Health Safety and Environment inductions

mandated to obtain a permit to work (PTW)

are used to perform in-house training. HSE

Amana subsidiary DuBox is a specialist in

alongside all relevant paperwork such as

personnel at Amana are responsible for

modular construction, which means that a

job-specific risk assessments. Regular site

ensuring that on-site and laydown area welfare

majority of work is done off-site. This model of

inspections to ensure safety procedures

services are available, as well as leading the

construction, by default, improves worker safety

are implemented and adhered to.

accident investigation team when required.

by up to 70%, which is an achievement in itself.

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COver story - Building safer, better and greener

AMANA GROUP HAS ISO 14001, ISO 9001 AND ISO 45001 CERTIFICATIONS SPM: How do you encourage employees to go the extra mile with health & safety – do you recognize individuals and reward them in any way?

ZA: Amana Group ensures health and safety by implementing incentive and safety appreciation systems, initiating regular safety management tours with employees and workers, and implementing a behavior-based safety program. IOSH Managing Safely (UK), IOSH Working Safely (UK), IOSH Managing Occupational Health and Wellbeing (UK), The British Safety Council online training program, and in-house online safety training covering the OSHA outreach program are all available via Amana Group, which is licensed to provide these safety trainings.

Our employees are certified with the HSE certificate and are also incentivized with H&S corporate gift bags to promote a healthy work culture.

SPM: How did the Covid-19 pandemic affect Amana, and what steps did it take to ensure the safety of its workforce?

ZA: As Covid-19 was realized in our markets, we saw that the real threat to business continuity was not the pandemic but the uncertainty it created. Amana’s culture is built on simple beliefs. One of them is: “We take every effort

on how the project could be managed in view

The above exercise held over April and May

not to surprise others, and equally expect

of the unprecedented circumstances and

gave us reasonable clarity. As a company,

that we are not surprised by others.”

support them with a detailed cash flow forecast

Amana approached the challenge as ‘one

so they could make well-informed decisions.

community’. It was decided that no employee

We have a basic belief built on clarity,

Through this quick, candid and thorough

would lose their job for those two months.

supported by candid communication

communication approach, we had clarity on 45

Every employee would contribute 30% of

and based on objective planning.

running projects across the GCC and could see

their pay as unpaid leave to support during

how best they could be managed to serve the

these times of uncertainty. As of May end,

To deal with the uncertainty, we pivoted to

common interests of clients, contractors and

unpaid leave was stopped. In December

quick communications by phone and email

supply chains. The annual budget was revised

2020, the full 30% contribution was

with all stakeholders (clients for now) to better

down 30% for the year 2020 and was later met

returned to staff. In January 2021, a bonus

understand their intent to continue with their

profitably. Based on our clients’ responses, we

was released in full to all entitled staff.

jobs. Our conversations with our clients were

maintained transparency with our supply chain

to reassure them that we are still here, to check

as risk is best managed by those closest to it.

COver story - Building safer, better and greener

FOR ALL MANHOURS WORKED, AMANA AND TDRSC PROJECTS HAVE REPORTED NO ACCIDENTS.

53

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COver story - Building safer, better and greener

2020

HEALTH & SAFETY ACHIEVEMENTS

At the coastal village residential buildings for The Red Sea Development Project.

1,293,739

man-hours worked with no lost time injury (LTI)

0%

injury or illness rate

819

workers on site

WINNER of the International Safety Award 2021, with distinction.

1.56

hours of safety induction training per employee for the year 2020

1,561

regular site inspections to ensure safety procedures are implemented and adhered to: Inspection of firefighting equipment Ladder inspection Scaffolding inspection Light vehicle inspection First Aid Box Inspections

COver story - Building safer, better and greener

51,643 TOTAL TRAINING HOURS OR 6.35 TRAINING HOURS PER EMPLOYEE, PER YEAR SPM: What are the ultimate aims and

SPM: How would you sum up the company’s

objectives at Amana concerning health &

general health & safety philosophy?

safety in areas such as risk assessments,

ZA: Health and safety of all workers

responsibilities, Methods, plans of

across all levels of the organization are of

action, induction, training & supervision,

utmost priority. People are our greatest

safety standards, hazard management,

asset, and we ensure they are protected

emergency procedures, safe work

at all times through a collaborative and

practices, safe systems of work.

people-focused approach to safety.

ZA: Amana Group's ultimate goal is to protect

At Amana Group, all construction activities

its workers and employees from all work-

are considered high risk, with varying risk

related health and safety risks. We aim to

and severity levels. As a result, a standardized

provide a safe working environment for all

risk rating methodology is used, which

workers and subcontractors while adhering

includes international, local, and internal

to relevant legal and regulatory requirements.

metrics as well as published statistics.

We are also working towards developing

Amana Group maintains high health and

AMANA GROUP LIMITED.

an HSE community in the workplace, which

safety standards and strives to improve with

T: +971 4 885 4448 Ext: 4451

should come to fruition in the near future.

continued health and safety training.

E: cor.comm@amanabuildings.com

WATCH AMANA GROUP VIDEO

www.amanabuildings.com

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THE RED SEA DEVELOPMENT COMPANY - NEWS

TRSDC is committed to setting new standards in worker welfare and was awarded the Excellence in Health and Employee Safety award at Big Project Awards 2020 for their Covid-19 Health and Safety Plan, which demonstrated the efforts employed to maintain the health and safety of their workforce during the pandemic, whether on-site or at their headquarters.

“We are honored to have won this contract with The Red Sea Development Company,” said Nawaaf Alshalani, CEO of MachinesTalk. “It shows real forwardthinking and care for employees when a company wants to implement these solutions at such scale. Using IoT technologies will keep the workforce safer and support secure and more efficient operations.”

The new technology aims to address four key

THE RED SEA DEVELOPMENT COMPANY AWARDS FIRST IOT CONTRACT TO MACHINESTALK FOR ‘VEHICLES’ SMART LOCATOR The Red Sea Development Company (TRSDC) has awarded a contract to leading national IoT service provider, MachinesTalk, for the provision of smart wearable technology and wireless tagging solutions for its construction workforce and fleet of vehicles at its site on the west coast of Saudi Arabia.

MachinesTalk will be tasked with deploying a LoRaWAN network to cover more than 3,500km2, implementing a state-of-the-art IoT platform, and providing smart badges for up to 36,000 construction workers and wireless tags for up to 3,000 vehicles.

“Delivering a project of this scale against an ambitious timeline while aiming to meet and exceed the highest international standards for health, safety and sustainability requires innovative solutions,” said John Pagano, CEO of TRSDC. “Our partnership with MachinesTalk will play an important role in ensuring the welfare of our workers, given their proven track record providing smart construction technology and alignment with our business goals.”

SMART LOCATOR BADGES WILL EVENTUALLY BE WORN BY UP TO 36,000 CONSTRUCTION WORKERS

considerations for TRSDC’s core construction site area of 3,500km2: site security, worker safety, access control, and process efficiency.

“We asked ourselves how we could enhance security on our site and enable an efficient construction process at the same time, while considering upwards of 36,000 workers across 3,500km2,” said Ian Williamson, TRSDC’s Chief Projects Delivery Officer.

“How could we ensure worker safety in case of health emergencies or prevent workers from getting lost in remote locations in the desert or on islands?

THE RED SEA DEVELOPMENT COMPANY - NEWS

How could we control access and track the 3,000 vehicles of multiple contractors across the construction site, delivering materials, tools and transporting employees?”

MachinesTalk’s smart badges and tags allow TRSDC to identify workers and vehicles and secure the construction area against unauthorized individual and vehicle access.

57

THE RED SEA PROJECT UNVEILS CENTRAL MEDICAL FACILITY

Individual access rights will be granted based on role, responsibility, category and group of workers. In addition, the possibility of identifying vehicles remotely, geo-fencing perimeters and setting up alerts based on worker and vehicle access breaches will further enhance security.

MORE THAN 3,000 VEHICLES WILL BE TAGGED TO ENSURE SAFETY AND SECURITY A panic button will enable workers in distress to send an SOS signal back to

A new 700m2 central medical facility was

The central ‘hub’ medical facility, as

TRSDC’s security and emergency response

officially opened on 24 March 2021 in The

well as satellite clinics at construction

centre, allowing response teams to be

Red Sea Project’s Construction Village

worksites across the development, are

sent directly to the location of the worker

Housing Complex. Delivering dedicated

being created, managed, and operated by

without losing potentially life-saving time.

medical care, including primary health

International SOS – Al Rushaid. Medical

From a process efficiency perspective,

care and emergency care, the facility

services at remote sites are being delivered

all tagged vehicles will have an estimated

has an emergency room, laboratory,

through mobile containerized facilities,

arrival time (ETA) to ensure no delays

and pharmacy. Medical services will be

which can easily be relocated across the

between required tasks. In addition, alerts

provided through a centralized operator

development as construction progresses.

will be triggered for idle workers or vehicles

and delivered by a full suite of doctors

This approach allows TRSDC’s workforce

to enable improved worker supervision.

and nurses operating according to

to access facilities as required and leaves

Saudi and international standards.

little to no impact on the environment.

The technology MachinesTalk provides will apply to all TRSDC’s contractors, who will be able to register their workers and vehicles and receive accreditation for them as required. Real-time and map-based remote tracking of workers and vehicles with heat maps and counts will allow for

TRSDC IS GOING BEYOND INTERNATIONAL GUIDELINES AND SETTING NEW STANDARDS FOR THE WELFARE OF WORKERS IN THE REGION

more effective resource allocation across locations within TRSDC’s construction area.

Given the criticality of the solution and the

TRSDC has also opened a dedicated fire station serviced by two fire trucks.

ensuring their happiness and well-being.

The Central Medical Facility is part of

In every area of endeavour, TRSDC is

TRSDC’s effort to set a new standard by

the smart badge and tag’s operability will be

going beyond international guidelines

creating a full-service community in the

actively monitored with exchanges of devices

and setting new standards for workers’

Construction Village Housing Complex,

with low battery and remote deactivation

welfare in the region. It achieves this by

which is intended to lead the way in

in cases of loss or misappropriation.

ensuring that the environment its people

setting a high level of living standards for

work in is safe and comfortable, thereby

construction workers across the region.

ranging temperatures experienced on-site,

58

THE RED SEA DEVELOPMENT COMPANY - NEWS

THE RED SEA PROJECT SECURES FIRST STAGE OF LEED PLATINUM CERTIFICATION

The Red Sea Development Company

“We look forward to working with the U.S

USGBC benchmarks current performance

(TRSDC), the developer behind the

Green Building Council as we continue to

and establishes targeted metrics that enable

world’s most ambitious regenerative

develop our world-class destination, ensuring

continuous improvement and demonstrate

tourism project, has completed the first

we protect, preserve and enhance our natural

a commitment to sustainability, human

stage of the LEED for Cities (Leadership

environment throughout our construction

health and economic prosperity.

in Energy and Environmental Design)

period and beyond,” Mr Pagano added.

platinum certification in the ‘Plan and Design’ criteria for The Red Sea Project.

The award recognises TRSDC’s

LEED for Cities is an internationally recognised urban sustainability rating system and certification programme that provides third-

execution of practical and measurable

party verification of the current performance

strategies and solutions to improve the

of built-out cities and communities.

sustainability and standard of living for those involved in the project.

“As part of our ambition to become standard-bearers in luxury ecotourism, we are proud to have passed this first stage of LEED accreditation. The award is a recognition of our efforts to go beyond the current expectations associated with sustainable tourism, and to become one of the first global destinations to demonstrate a regenerative approach to tourism,” said John Pagano, CEO of TRSDC.

THE PROJECT HAS SECURED THE U.S. GREEN BUILDING COUNCIL’S (USGBC) HIGHEST LEVEL OF CERTIFICATION

TRSDC IS COMMITTED TO DELIVERING A 30% NET CONSERVATION BENEFIT BY 2040

THE RED SEA DEVELOPMENT COMPANY - NEWS

As well as the destination-wide final certification set for award in Q2 2021, TRSDC

59

TRSDC AND SOURCE GLOBAL, PBC, JOIN FORCES TO SET NEW STANDARDS FOR SUSTAINABLE BOTTLED WATER

is working with the USGBC to achieve certification on a number of hero buildings on-site, including 15 hotels, an international airport and staff accommodation buildings.

Mahesh Ramanujam, president and CEO of USGBC said: “The work of cities and communities such as The Red Sea Project is a driving force in ensuring a more sustainable future for all. Cities and communities that achieve LEED certification are lowering carbon emissions, creating a healthier environment and striving to improve the quality of life for their residents. The Red Sea Development Company is setting the standard for what it means to be a

In response to growing consumer demand

“As we push the boundaries and set

high performer, and their efforts and

for sustainable products and travel

new global standards for sustainable

achievements should be an example for all.”

experiences, The Red Sea Development

development, we are adopting cutting-

Company (TRSDC) – the developer

edge technology and business practices

was recognised during the assessment process;

behind the most regenerative tourism

that are in harmony with nature.

specifically, the master plan, informed by

project in the world – and SOURCE®–the

a comprehensive Marine Spatial Planning

earth’s first renewable, sustainable

makes us the only destination in the

(MSP) exercise. This initiative helped identify

water brand, have come together to set

world with truly regenerative bottled

priority conservation areas and ensured 75%

a new global standard in bottled water.

water and reflects our commitment

TRSDC’s commitment to regenerative tourism

of the islands within The Red Sea Project

TRSDC is the first company to collaborate

Our partnership with SOURCE Global

to operate using only renewable

area were left untouched, with nine islands

with SOURCE Global, PBC, as it launches

energy and free of single-use plastics,”

designated as special conservation zones.

its sustainable bottled water brand,

said John Pagano, CEO of TRSDC.

making The Red Sea Project the first

UPON COMPLETION IN 2030, THE RED SEA PROJECT WILL COMPRISE 50 HOTELS

destination on Earth to offer bottled water made purely from sunlight and air.

SOURCE water is produced using patented solar technology that draws pure water vapor out of the air and converts it to premium, mineralized drinking water. Water created

SOURCE GLOBAL, PBC LAUNCHES THE WORLD’S FIRST TRULY RENEWABLE BOTTLED WATER BRAND

Moreover, TRSDC is committed to delivering

from these hydropanels will be bottled at a

a 30% net conservation benefit by 2040. As

plant that also runs on solar energy, creating

As the official bottled water of The Red

part of this, it is creating the world’s largest

the largest solar-powered facility of its kind.

Sea Project, SOURCE will initially serve the

battery storage facility to enable the entire

Located on-site at The Red Sea Project,

Coastal Village, a residential and commercial

site to be powered by renewable energy 24

the SOURCE facility will have a capacity

area that will house the 600 employees and

hours a day, including the island sites.

of two million 330ml bottles annually

operators working at the site. When the first

and will initially produce 300,000 bottles

hotels begin opening in 2022, SOURCE will

will comprise 50 hotels, offering up to 8,000

a year. The reusable glass bottles will be

be the only bottled water served to guests,

hotel rooms and around 1,300 residential

refilled on-site as part of a fully circular

further extending the sustainable experience.

properties across 22 islands and six inland

sustainable distribution model. Water

sites. The destination will also include a luxury

harvesting and bottling will generate zero

marina, entertainment and leisure facilities.

carbon and zero single-use plastic bottles.

Upon completion in 2030, The Red Sea Project

60

THE RED SEA DEVELOPMENT COMPANY - NEWS

A REGENERATIVE APPROACH TO AGRICULTURE T

HE WAY THE WORLD FEEDS ITSELF IS NOT SUSTAINABLE. EVERY DAY WE CONTINUE ON THIS PATH, WE DAMAGE THE VERY ECOLOGY ON WHICH WE ARE DEPENDENT. THIS PROBLEM HAS BEEN EXACERBATED OVER THE LAST HUNDRED YEARS AS THE DEMAND FOR FOOD HAS RISEN CONSIDERABLY, INCREASING PRESSURE ON FOOD PRODUCERS TO GROW CROPS WITH GREATER EFFICIENCY AND FEWER RESOURCES.

THE CHALLENGES OF DESERT AGRICULTURE

desert. Despite this, TRSDC, which is building

Modern agriculture was not designed for

the world's most ambitious regenerative

the betterment of nature. One of the key

tourism destination, The Red Sea Project, on

challenges food producers face when using

the western coast of the Kingdom of Saudi

solutions like chemicals fertilizers is that they

Arabia, has committed to meeting these

mask the problem of degraded soil. Since

challenges with regenerative solutions. To do

chemical agriculture became mainstream

this means growing and serving food in a way

in the 1970s, the earth has lost one-third

that is not harmful to the environment and, if

of its topsoil resulting in desertification.

possible, even improves it.

Through desertification, fertile areas become increasingly arid, posing a problem for food

Equally, TRSDC aims to ensure that food

production.

production protects the environment and contributes to its socio-economic sustainability

Another challenge is the availability of water

goals by ensuring that local farmers are among

in the desert. It is hard to imagine that just 50

the first to benefit from the uptick in demand.

years ago, there were approximately 500 cubic kilometers of water beneath the Saudi desert.

When employees and guests alike arrive at

However, in recent years 21 cubic kilometers

The Red Sea Project in Q4 2022, the demand

has been pumped out annually for agriculture

for food will rise significantly. Beyond the

use, causing an 80% reduction in the

estimated one million guests per year expected

availability of the original underground water.

by 2030, a permanent new town for the 14,000 employees who will operate the destination is

As a result, the desert now has a negative water

being built.

balance which leeches nutrients and leaves salt deposits in the soil. The lack of nutrients and

The company seeks to take advantage of

salt deposits make for a hostile environment

the latest sustainable agriculture research

for organic matter to grow, causing the soil to

and technological advances to help meet

become thin and infertile.

this demand and is investigating high-tech solutions like Hydroponics and Aeroponic

R OBA ALJOHANI CONTENT DEVELOPMENT SPECIALIST

SMART AND SUSTAINABLE

Farming. In this production method, plants are

There is no shortage of challenges to overcome

grown in a nutrient solution rather than in soil.

when creating sustainable food resources in the

THE RED SEA DEVELOPMENT COMPANY - NEWS

This will be coupled with indoor and vertical

Most of these locally run businesses are

farming, using climate-controlled temperatures

growing organic edible crops such as citrus

which limit a plant's exposure to outdoor

fruits, dates, mangoes, guava, figs, olives and

temperatures and pests and diseases, reducing

moringa. Local farmers also cultivate herbs

reliance on pesticides.

such as rosemary and henna. The company also believes that by utilizing local produce

In addition, Aquaculture, also known as aqua

and traditional plants, herbs and even seafood

farming, is being explored. This will allow the

unique to the area and present in local

farming of fish, crustaceans, mollusks, aquatic

cuisine, they will be able to offer guests a truly

plants, algae, and other aquatic food organisms

immersive cultural experience.

in freshwater and saltwater tanks under controlled conditions.

By respecting nature and local communities and actively working together, it is possible to

INNOVATION IN PRACTICE TRSDC is no stranger

COLLABORATION IS KEY

overcome the difficult challenge of producing

to using technology

While innovative technologies will solve part

a sustainable food supply at scale in the

of the puzzle of creating food sustainably, the

desert. By collaborating with local farmers and

to tackle complex

real answer is right on the doorstep. TRSDC

exploring new and innovative technologies,

is laser-focused on collaborating with a local

TRSDC remains committed to delivering a

partnering with SOURCE

network of 900 farms within a two-hour drive of

nutritious food supply that is developed in line

the project to realize opportunities to create a

with its regenerative approach.

Global, PBC, to produce

larger supply to feed guests and employees.

challenges, recently

bottled water from sunlight and air. The Red Sea Project will be the first destination on earth to use the patented solar technology that draws pure water vapor out of the air and converts it to premium, mineralized drinking water. Through this partnership, the SOURCE facility being established on site will initially produce 300,000 bottles per year using reusable glass bottles.

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THE RED SEA DEVELOPMENT COMPANY - NEWS

THE RED SEA DEVELOPMENT COMPANY SECURES SAR 14.120 BILLION LOAN AND FIRST EVER RIYAL-DENOMINATED GREEN FINANCE CREDIT FACILITY “The scale of this project is unmatched anywhere in the world and we are setting new standards in regenerative tourism at every turn. By applying a unique approach to design, utilizing more sustainable methods of construction and using groundbreaking technology, we are not only reducing our impact on the environment but helping to deliver on our commitment to achieve a 30 percent net conservation benefit by 2040. It is this pioneering approach that has helped us secure the first ever Riyal-denominated Green Finance credit facility,” said John Pagano, CEO of TRSDC.

THE RED SEA PROJECT ACHIEVES GREEN FINANCING ACCREDITATION THANKS TO STANDARD SETTING APPROACH TO REGENERATIVE TOURISM

Jay Rosen, Chief Financial Officer at TRSDC, said: “This is another milestone for the Red Sea Project and Vision 2030, and we are pleased to have secured our debt financing and capital commitment for our initial phase.

The Red Sea Development Company (TRSDC), the developer behind the world’s most ambitious regenerative tourism project, announced today that it has closed a SAR 14.120 billion (USD 3.76 billion) term loan facility and revolving credit facility with four Saudi banks.

Banque Saudi Fransi, Riyad Bank, Saudi British Bank and Saudi National Bank acted as Mandated Lead Arrangers. HSBC served as Green Loan Coordinator on the transaction.

Green Financing accreditation was awarded due to TRSDC’s market leading approach to social and environmental sustainability and the Red Sea Project’s international recognition as a green project. The financing is the first Riyaldenominated credit facility to receive Green Financing accreditation.

THE RED SEA DEVELOPMENT COMPANY - NEWS

J AY ROSEN CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER AT TRSDC

to issue green loans and other green financial instruments and allows TRSDC to identify,

63

J OHN PAGANO CEO of TRSDC

select, manage and report on eligible projects and assets in line with principles. DNV provided an independent, Second Party Opinion on TRSDC’s Green Finance Framework, confirming its alignment with these internationally recognized principles.

Through this credit facility, the four participating banks are demonstrating their Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) credentials, while TRSDC is able to establish itself as a world-leader in sustainable development.

“We aim to lead the international luxury tourism industry’s transformation into a more sustainable model, including environmental and social sustainability. This Green Finance classification is the latest proof that we are setting new standards in ecotourism and This financing adds another level of credibility

showing the industry that things can be done in

by having the banks support the project.

a different way both here in the Kingdom, and

With a fully secured capital structure our project will become more attractive to investors.”

The Green Financing accreditation is

globally,” said Mr. Pagano.

The Red Sea Project has already passed significant milestones and work is on track to

hotel rooms and more than 1,000 residential

governed by a Green Financing Framework

welcome the first guests by the end of 2022,

properties across 22 islands and six inland

aligned with the Green Bond Principles (2018)

when the international airport and the first

sites. The destination will also include luxury

and Green Loan Principles (2020) set out by

hotels will open. Phase one, which includes 16

marinas, golf courses, entertainment and

the International Capital Markets Association

hotels in total, will complete in 2023.

leisure facilities.

(ICMA) and the Loan Market Association’s (LMA) respectively. The framework enables TRSDC

Upon completion in 2030, The Red Sea Project will comprise 50 resorts, offering up to 8,000

64

THE RED SEA DEVELOPMENT COMPANY - ANDREW TYSON INTERVIEW

BROAD VISION, CAREFUL THOUGHT

Chatting with Andrew Tyson, Executive Director – Project and Construction Management, The Red Sea Development Company (TRSDC)

THE RED SEA DEVELOPMENT COMPANY - ANDREW TYSON INTERVIEW

“OUR MASTER PLAN FOR THE PROJECT PREDICTS A 30% NET CONSERVATION BENEFIT BY 2040”

 Coastal Village development is underway to house 14,000 employees and their families

I

nfrastructure, a term used by

with the architectural firm WATG and

plastics, once operational, zero-waste-to-

architects, engineers, and urban

integrated engineers and consultants Buro

landfill and an aspiration to achieve 100%

planners to describe essential facilities and

Happold. It includes unique infrastructure

carbon neutrality across the entire project.

services for communal use, is at the heart

elements designed to protect and enhance the

of any major development. But The Red Sea

environment surrounding the destination.

We are currently working on phase one of the project which is targeted for completion

Project is taking infrastructure to a new

Before development started on site, the

level, driven by a commitment to utilize

plan was informed by an extensive Marine

rooms across five islands and two inland

solely renewable energy, a feat that has

Spatial Planning (MSP) exercise, which helped

resorts, as well as commercial, retail and

never before been achieved on this scale

us to decide which areas of the 28,000km2 site

leisure facilities and other infrastructure.

anywhere in the world. We speak to Andrew

would be developed. We were able to model

The first few hotels will be completed by

Tyson to find out more about the objectives

the environmental impact of the development

the end of 2022, along with our dedicated

and challenges of developing infrastructure

and operation of the destination. Based on

international airport, with the remainder of

for this most ambitious of giga-projects.

this, our Master Plan for the project predicts a

phase one completing by the end of 2023.

30% net conservation benefit by 2040 based

in 2023 and offers 16 hotels and 3,000

SP: At what stage is the project

Saudi Projects (SP): What is the brief

on the design, approach to construction

now in terms of infrastructure,

for the design of the infrastructure on

and future operations of the destination.

and what is the timeline?

The Red Sea Project, what elements are involved, and in how many phases?

Andrew Tyson (AT): The Master Plan for the project has been developed in partnership

Specific initiatives are in place to not

AT: Despite the difficult circumstances

only protect but also to further enhance the

surrounding the pandemic, we have

environment, including a 100% reliance on

continued to make significant progress on

renewable energy, a total ban on single-use

the ground, and there are 500 contracts

65

66

THE RED SEA DEVELOPMENT COMPANY - ANDREW TYSON INTERVIEW

worth over SAR 15 billion now awarded

ground on-site and continuing to move forward

to local and international partners.

with our plans to welcome the first guests by

The 100-hectare Landscape Nursery,

the end of 2022. Upon completion in 2030,

the largest in Saudi Arabia, which will

there will be 50 hotels, offering up to 8,000

provide more than 15 million plants for the

hotel rooms and more than 1,000 residences

destination, has been operational since early

across 22 islands and six inland sites.

2020. There are more than 6,000 workers currently on-site, and the first 80km of new roads are near complete. The Construction

SP: How are you ensuring sustainability and environmental awareness?

AT: Nature is the world's most important

Village, which is set to house 10,000 workers,

asset, and we all have a part to play in

is already open, and development is also

protecting it, which is why we have been

progressing well at the Coastal Village, which

deliberately ambitious in aiming for TRSDC to

will be home to around 14,000 people who

become the world's first regenerative tourism

will eventually operate the destination. This

destination. Regenerative tourism means going

includes a 3-star management hotel, the

beyond sustainability to not only protect but

first accommodation and our new offices.

enhance the environment, the habitats, and the

Last year, we marked a significant milestone

surrounding communities for years to come.

in the construction of our eco-friendly Red Sea

As mentioned above, our Master Plan

International Airport. We awarded a substantial

predicts a 30% net conservation benefit by

contract to an all-Saudi JV between Nesma &

2040, which will be achieved by enhancing

Partners and Almabani for airside infrastructure

biologically diverse habitats, including

works ahead of the airport opening in 2022.

mangroves, seagrass, corals and land

This includes the design and building of a Code

vegetation. Careful selection of areas for

F Runway 3,700 meters long, Code B Seaplane

development is another way in which we will

Runway, Parallel & Link taxiways and pavement

achieve this; we're leaving 75% of our island

works, Aeronautical Navigational Aids,

archipelago untouched and designating

Aerodrome Ground Lighting, Airside utilities,

nine islands as special conversation zones.

helipads, roads and associated buildings.

We are also developing less than 1% of

We have an exciting year ahead at TRSDC. As we move into a post-Covid world, we are creating more partnerships, breaking new

the destination's total 28,000km2.

Environmental considerations inform every decision we make, and technology has the potential to not only support our ambitions but help us to track our goals. Part of our environmental enhancement aim will be achieved by exploring new technologies, such as 3D coral printing and coral farming processes to boost coral populations. We are also investigating suitable carbon sequestration techniques to help us reduce our overall carbon footprint, such as marine algae farms and mechanical trees, as well as sustainable drinking water production technology.

Partnering with others is also helping us to deliver on our ambitious sustainability commitments. In 2019, we partnered with King Abdullah University for Science and Technology (KAUST) to launch The Red Sea Project's turtle tagging program through which we have tracked the endangered Green and

 The nursery at The Red Sea Project will provide more than 15 million plants

Hawksbill Turtles species native to the area.

So that we can continue to measure and track

THE RED SEA DEVELOPMENT COMPANY - ANDREW TYSON INTERVIEW

67

 Construction Village at The Red Sea Project housing 10,000 workers

our progress, we are deploying around 2,500

SP: What are some of the unique

dramatically reduce our environmental

Internet of Things (IoT) sensors throughout

aspects with regards to infrastructure

impact. Switching from standard concrete

the coral reefs, lagoons, and turtle nesting

on The Red Sea Project?

cement to specially designed green concrete

locations to constantly monitor these sites.

We are working on extremely sensitive

AT: The location of the project is particularly

(made from recycled materials) is allowing

unique, and we have a variety of landscapes

us to significantly reduce our overall carbon

areas, which means planning and construction

and topographies to consider. From the

footprint. This work is already underway, and

work needs to be carefully considered in

mountain resort we are building, to the

we are now able to produce around 1,200 cubic

order to avoid harm to the environment and

overwater villas, no two parts of the site are

meters of green concrete per day on site.

protect the flora around the destination. For

the same, which is why the infrastructure must

instance, the access roads at our Desert Rock

adapt. For instance, in order to create our

to do at The Red Sea Project has never been

location are designed to wind in-between

Desert Rock Mountain Resort, we're having to

done before in Saudi Arabia or anywhere else

trees, shrubs and other protected areas to

physically build the rooms and hotels into the

in the world - our approach to infrastructure

avoid destroying any natural habitat.

mountainside around huge rocks and valleys.

is very new. This not only challenges us but

We also route boats around the lagoon as

Last year, we also had to complete significant

A large proportion of what we are trying

also challenges the contractors we work

opposed to directly through it. These routes

land raising and ground improvement works

are not selected for their speed but to minimize

for the 1.5 million square meter Coastal

impact on the environment. To save time

Village area, which will house the workers,

entail? I understand that sustainability is

elsewhere, we must be extremely efficient

staff and management of The Red Sea

being approached in quite a unique way?

with the loading, sailing full, offloading, and

Project. This required raising the ground

sailing empty cycle with little room for errors

3.5 meters above sea level and transporting

infrastructure was one of the first major

or breakdowns. We also have special lookouts

2.6 million cubic meters of fill by extracting

construction contracts we awarded at The Red

on board each boat to maintain vigilant visual

soil and other material from a nearby hill.

Sea Project to our partner Archirodon. We have

inspection in the water for turtles and other mega-fauna to avoid potential collisions.

In addition, we're using innovative 'green concrete' across the destination to

with to come up with new solutions.

SP: What does the marine infrastructure

AT: The enabling works for marine

strict sustainability commitments in place, which means that in any infrastructure works

68

THE RED SEA DEVELOPMENT COMPANY - ANDREW TYSON INTERVIEW

we carry out, we must ensure that no coral

differently. For instance, often the provision

transmission, wastewater treatment and

and marine life are harmed in the process.

of water is hard to come by as not every hotel

centralized district cooling for the 16 hotels,

Archirodon assisted us in constructing two

is connected to a main supply, and we've also

international airport and infrastructure

causeways as part of the 3.3km crossing to

had to run a substantial length of subsea cable

that will be developed in phase one.

Shurayrah, the main hub island for the first

to provide utilities to the most remote hotels.

phase of The Red Sea Project, which will

Protecting the coral is also something

Under the PPP, we will power assets, infrastructure and utility systems that make

eventually be connected by a bridge span. The

we have considered extremely carefully.

up phase one of the project with 100%

crossing will connect the hub island, which will

There have been months of planning to

renewable energy. We will use solar panels

feature 11 hotels as well as retail, leisure and

ensure that our methods don't damage

and wind farms to do this, with no connection

entertainment amenities, to the mainland.

the reefs, which was a huge challenge.

to the national grid. We expect that 210MW of

The crossing route was modeled to ensure

SP: It seems to be time to say goodbye

energy will be generated initially and that this

water flows and marine life were not impacted.

to the traditional car on The Red Sea

will be expanded in line with development

Rather than taking the shortest route to the

Project; tell us more about the road and

up to 650,000MWh. The resulting saving in

island, it makes use of existing landmasses and

transport infrastructure, including the

was carefully located to avoid corals and to

CO2 emissions to the atmosphere will equate

80km road network that is replacing

protect the surrounding ecosystems. The initial

the single highway you inherited?

structure will later be built upon to provide

AT: Working on such a huge site, road

to around half a million tons per year.

The partnership is a significant step forward for The Red Sea Project, as it will become the

the permanent crossing to the hub island

and transport infrastructure had to be one

region's first tourism destination powered

when the destination opens, further limiting

of the first components we put in place to

solely by renewable energy. A tourism

the environmental impact of construction.

allow our workforce to travel from A to B.

project of this size with the ability to operate

SP: With regards to hotel infrastructure

Currently, 79km out of the total 80km of our

completely off-grid has never been achieved

work, I understand you are doing this at

road network is completed, and we are on

on this scale anywhere in the world, and

the same time as off-site manufacturing

course to finish this by the end of April.

we are building the world's largest battery

to be efficient and meet tight deadlines

We are working with Binyah to develop

storage facility as part of the program.

– can you talk about this and what

the construction of the coastal and inland

benefits and challenges it presents?

connecting road links at the destination. This

that limits the environmental impact through

We want to create a tourist destination

AT: Off-site manufacturing has been a

includes a 10km highway, a 13km airport

the provision of zero-carbon emitting and

real game-changer for us in terms of driving

access road, interconnecting roads within

zero-waste generating utility services, and

efficiencies and ensuring the project timeline

the destination and an access road to the

this partnership promises exactly that.

remains on target. However, the key reason

crossing connecting the main hub island.

SP: Can you talk about the new

why we decided to undertake this process

Last year, we awarded a contract to global

waste management centre that has recently been opened?

was to minimize the environmental impact of

engineering firm Mott MacDonald to provide

construction – something which is our utmost

consultancy services to determine the optimal

priority. Off-site manufacturing methods

sustainable vehicle and fleet configuration

contract award to a joint-venture between

are helping us to reduce waste, as well as

at the destination. The company is set to

leading waste management company, Averda

lessen the human impact of construction

deliver a comprehensive and robust analysis

and the Saudi Naval Support Company (SNS) to

activities on-site, such as noise, ground

of the total land, sea and air transport

help us recycle and re-use waste responsibly.

disturbance and vehicle movements.

needs for the development and operation.

The partnership involves collecting and

Additionally, our construction sites

AT: Last year, we awarded a solid waste

This will involve a strategy for destination-

recycling waste generated by administration

will produce much less pollution, making

wide clean mobility using electric and

offices, residential facilities, and construction

them considerably less diSARuptive. With

hydrogen vehicles, boats and aircraft.

activities, meeting the high environmental

substantial elements of the hotel construction

SP: How are the utilities being

taking place off-site, it means we can focus

handled, including aspects such as PPP

attention on the infrastructure network we

being utilized for renewable energy,

want to put in place at the same time.

centralized district cooling etc.?

However, as unique as the locations of the

AT: At the end of 2020, we announced

standards set for the project and with the goal of 'zero waste to landfill.

Both companies have supported us in designing, building, and operating Municipal Solid Waste (MSW) and Construction and

hotel projects are, they present a challenge.

a public-private partnership (PPP) with

Demolition Waste (CDW) plants. The recyclable

Some hotel suites are in the mountains, while

a consortium led by ACWA Power – our

material that is recovered from both the

others are in the desert or on islands 30km

highest value contract to date. ACWA Power

MSW and CDW stream is then transferred for

out to sea. When it comes to implementing

will deliver environmentally responsible

further processing or, where possible, re-used

infrastructure plans, we need to think

renewable energy, water generation and

as construction material on the project.

THE RED SEA DEVELOPMENT COMPANY - ANDREW TYSON INTERVIEW

We also have a composting unit, which turns organic-rich waste into compost to be used for the project's landscaped areas and in the site nursery. Finally, incinerators are used for processing any non-recyclable waste, and the ash generated is mixed with cement for the production of bricks.

In addition to the above partnership, we also prioritize the management of our water consumption to achieve a near-zero water discharge target, and in line with our water strategy, we have structured our water management approach around four categories: potable, irrigation, stormwater and wastewater.

SP: How would you describe the entire infrastructure philosophy in 25 words or less?

AP: We're breaking new ground: setting new standards in sustainable construction, testing the market and raising the bar in terms of quality, delivery and efficiencies.

“WE ARE NOW ABLE TO PRODUCE AROUND 1,200 CUBIC METERS OF GREEN CONCRETE PER DAY ON SITE.”

69

70

The red sea development company - Putting People First at The Red Sea

BETTER HEALTH THROUGH BETTER LIVING AT TRSDC WORLD HEALTH DAY WAS COMMEMORATED GLOBALLY, UNDER THE THEME 'TOGETHER FOR A FAIRER, HEALTHIER WORLD', WITH A CALL GOING OUT FOR URGENT ACTION TO ELIMINATE HEALTH INEQUITIES AND MOBILIZE ACTION TO ATTAIN BETTER HEALTH FOR ALL AND LEAVE NO ONE BEHIND. THIS IS A MISSION THAT IS ALREADY CENTRAL TO THE RED SEA DEVELOPMENT COMPANY'S (TRSDC) BUSINESS PHILOSOPHY, WHICH REVOLVES AROUND ENSURING THAT EMPLOYEES ARE NOT ONLY FIT AND HEALTHY BUT HAPPY AND CONTENT TOO, WITH EVERYONE'S PHYSICAL, MENTAL AND EMOTIONAL NEEDS TAKEN INTO ACCOUNT.

THIS IS A GENUINE COMMUNITY

WATCH VIDEO

The red sea development company - Putting People First at The Red Sea

T

71

his was underlined on World Health Day, when TRSDC celebrated the event

in a number of ways, not least by hosting a webinar in tandem with Jensen & Hughes, a global leader in safety, security and risk-based engineering and consulting. "The topic was how we anticipate and respond to a crisis," explains Brian Spraker, Executive Director Health, Safety and Security at TRSDC. "There was someone from Jenson & Hughes who spoke on this particular subject. And the purpose of the webinar was to educate and help our staff and employees understand some of the things our business is looking at and preparing for and what families should do. We're in the middle of a global crisis right now that's affected all of

There's a lot of opportunity for a healthy lifestyle.

A big part of what we do here at the Health &

us. So it's really about raising awareness and

And it's not just the management that has access

Safety Department is set goals and objectives

educating employees and their families on

to all of this – it's the carpenters, labourers,

for health and wellness, and we'll be

how to prepare for any crisis in their lives."

masons, electricians, truck drivers, everybody."

introducing some new health initiatives this year. This includes activities like sponsored

‘Family' is at the heart of the TRSDC ethos,

"In terms of making the workplace a healthier

cycle rides and step challenges. We'll get a

with Mick James, Health and Safety Director,

place to be, here at the TRSDC Base Camp

bit of competition going – perhaps create

saying: "Whenever someone new joins us,

and the Construction Village Housing (CVH)

a league table and offer some prizes."

we say "welcome to the family," and we

community, we have access to a fully functional

mean it. It does feel more like a family than

gymnasium, we have bicycles available for

Indeed, TRSDC not only encourages a healthy

a place to work. The big thing for us is that

the staff to use," adds Health and Safety

lifestyle, it provides everything to achieve

we're really proud of our welfare structure

Director Simon Horner. "That's something I

one. Recently, for instance, the company

and how we've set new standards for the

do myself, get out there and do a bit of cycling

sponsored three boats - two with divers and

industry. We really care about the workforce."

out in the very expansive countryside and

one with snorkelers - and stayed out for the

scenery that Saudi Arabia has to offer.

day, visiting one of the islands. Those breaks

BUILDING A HEALTHY TEAM

"Both Base Camp and CVH are really

are good for both physical and mental fitness.

One only has to look at the Construction Village

superbly equipped communities that

to understand where Mick is coming from.

promote a healthy lifestyle.

This is a very modern community with lots of green space, as well as recreational areas such as cricket and football (soccer) pitches, and volleyball and basketball courts. Instead of just being a workers' camp, which usually has a pretty negative connotation, this is a genuine community. And in many cases, people are living in better accommodation in the Construction Village, with access to better primary medical care, than they would in their country.

Employees are not confined to the Village either, with Mick continuing: In the area people can go out biking, kayaking, diving, hiking and participate in numerous other outdoor activities.

'FAMILY' IS AT THE HEART OF THE TRSDC ETHOS

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The red sea development company - Putting People First at The Red Sea

INTEGRATIVE HEALTH AND WELLNESS TRSDC has contracted International SOS – Al Rushaid, one of the world's blue-chip health and security companies, to provide its site-wide medical services. "We have a central medical facility at our Construction Village housing community," says Brian.

"It's a 700m2 facility where we have doctors, nurses, an x-ray machine, pharmacy, primary and emergency care services, a laboratory, and it's all available to our entire workforce. This is for Red Sea employees, construction workers, visitors – anyone associated with this project has access to this facility."

"The other thing we're working on with International SOS," Brian adds, "is an annual physical protocol for our employees based on age and any medical conditions. So if we have employees who have diabetes or respiratory issues, something like that, we would have a standard physical that each one of those individuals would have.

“Furthermore, from a health emergency standpoint, because of the remoteness of some of the sites, we have seven different remote medical facilities across the project, all equipped with ambulances. There is also an EMS helicopter if fast transport is required to get someone to a hospital in Yanbu, Jeddah or another city.

"IT'S UNDOUBTEDLY THE BEST COMPANY I'VE EVER WORKED FOR” ONE BIG HAPPY FAMILY A good way to describe TRSDC would be 'a big company with a small company attitude'. "We are a global family," explains Brian.

"We've got a very diverse ethnic group of individuals - around 30 different nationalities - from Peruvians and Argentineans through to Egyptians, Filipinos, Brits, Americans, Indians, Spaniards , Bosnians, the list goes on. We have all of the different cultures and religions, so if it's Easter, it's 'Happy Easter', if it's Ramadan, it's 'Ramadan Kareem’, if it's Diwali, it's 'Happy Diwali'.

Everyone recognizes everyone's holidays and special days.

Muslims take the Eid period off; Christians take Christmas etc.

"It's undoubtedly the best company I've ever worked for; it's the only place where the entire team is here to make each other successful instead of being on their own personal agenda. The company has done a really good job of recruiting people with the right attitude. I've never had a team of people who were this solid and had each other's backs. It's universal across the company."

The red sea development company - Putting People First at The Red Sea

73

A CARING, SHARING ATTITUDE World Health Day 2021 is being celebrated during one of the most challenging times in recent history, and it is interesting to ponder whether Covid-19 will make people more responsive to the message? Mick thinks it probably will, saying: "I'd like to say, yes. Certainly, my family and I are more focused on wellness, particularly the health side. So I'd like to think that people would be more drawn towards World Health Day than ever."

Around 60% of the TRSDC workforce has received at least the first Covid-19 jab. But it's not only the medical side of things where the company excels. "I think the other thing we do well out here," says Brian, "is we realize that not everyone gets a chance to go and see their families as much as they would like. So we watch out for each other and do a pretty good job of inviting people to different events and activities.

We had a dinner recently for the team, which was just a very pleasant evening. It's important to recognize the social and mental health aspect of what we do. We support each other."

THIS IS A GENUINE COMMUNITY DESERVED SUCCESS The TRSDC health strategy goes across the entire business, including the digital business stream, so the company is utilizing technology as well as more traditional routes to ensure the health and wellbeing of its workforce.

Therefore, it should come as no surprise that TRSDC was presented with the Excellence in Health and Employee Safety award for its Covid-19 Health and Safety Plan at the Big Project Middle East Awards on 26 January at the Ritz Carlton JBR in Dubai. This celebrated its efforts to maintain the health and safety of its workforce during the pandemic, whether on-site or at the company's headquarters.

Also picking up The Developer of the Year award at the same event, TRSDC is setting standards right across the board and has put the health and wellbeing of its workforce right at the top of its list. And in a world so often run by accountants and people with little or no imagination, this is to be applauded.

The Red Sea Project is unique and, I would suggest, for one very good reason – it is run by unique people who care.

TRSDC is not only a company that will succeed because of the quality of its projects; it will succeed because it deserves to.

74

Saudi Tourism

DOMESTIC TOURISM SPEND TO HIT $25.2 BILLION BY 2025 A

ccording to a new

Not withstanding the

report, inbound

dismal global picture, the

tourism spending in Saudi

Saudi Ministry of Tourism

Arabia will reach $25.3

announced in September that

billion by 2025, recovering

internal tourism saw a notable

from the impact of the

rise in traveler numbers,

Covid-19 pandemic.

exceeding official projections.

"World inbound tourism

During the 2021 Budget

spending collapsed by 57% in

Forum in December, Saudi

2020, and our forecast expects

Arabia's Minister of Tourism

it to rebound by 82% in 2021,"

Ahmed Al-Khateeb explained

Caroline Bremner, head of

that the Kingdom is aiming

travel and tourism research

to attract new tourism

at Euromonitor International,

investments worth SAR220

said, continuing: "In our

billion ($58 billion) by 2023

most pessimistic scenario,

and more than SAR500 billion

spending growth is predicted

by the end of the decade.

to rise by 40% in 2021,

In 2019, Saudi travelers

leading to a more prolonged

spent $22 billion traveling

recovery timeline, returning

overseas. One of the ways

to pre-crisis levels by 2024."

the ministry aims to expand

Saudi domestic tourism

the Kingdom's tourism

outperformed expectations

revenues is to encourage

throughout the pandemic,

Saudis to spend some of

despite the UN World Tourism

their tourism cash at home.

Organization (UNWTO)

"We have reduced the

describing 2020 as "the

leakage," Al-Khateeb told

worst year on record in

Arab News in December.

the history of tourism."

"In 2019, we launched 11

In December, figures from

'seasons' in Saudi Arabia

the UNWTO revealed that

and reduced travel outside

destinations welcomed 900

by 30%. If we continue to do

million fewer international

this, we will definitely reduce

tourists between January

the leakage - Saudis will like

and October, compared with

to stay at home, and they

the same period in 2019 - a

will enjoy the offering."

72% year-on-year slump.

SAUDI DOMESTIC TOURISM OUTPERFORMED EXPECTATIONS THROUGHOUT THE PANDEMIC

Saudi Tourism

75

THE KINGDOM IS AIMING TO ATTRACT NEW TOURISM INVESTMENTS WORTH SAR220 BILLION BY 2023

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Saudi Tourism - General Entertainment Authority

GEA PROMOTES DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION THROUGH THE TARFEEH PORTAL THE TARFEEH PORTAL, LAUNCHED BY THE GENERAL ENTERTAINMENT AUTHORITY (GEA), FOR DEVELOPING AND ORGANIZING THE ENTERTAINMENT SECTOR AND SUPPORTING ITS INFRASTRUCTURE, HAS STOOD OUT AMONG MORE THAN 800 DIGITAL PROJECTS AFTER BEING CHOSEN BY THE NATIONAL COMMITTEE FOR DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION.

Saudi Tourism - General Entertainment Authority

Since its launch, the Tarfeeh Portal has allowed investors and companies operating in the entertainment sector

77

IN 2020, GEA ISSUED, THROUGH THE TARFEEH PORTAL, 117 PERMITS FOR ENTERTAINMENT EVENTS

to acquire licenses, permits and apply for accreditation certificates for

In 2020, GEA issued, through the Tarfeeh

international arena for digital transformation.

entertainment events and activities.

Portal, 117 permits for entertainment events,

According to the National Digital Transformation

219 licenses for operating entertainment

annual report for 2020, the Kingdom ranked

The Tarfeeh Portal project comes

venues, and 398 permits for live shows at

first worldwide in four of those achievements.

as part of GEA's efforts to support

restaurants and cafés. The portal has also

digital transformation in the Kingdom

allowed 188 investors to acquire licenses

Notably, GEA solidified its significant role in

through automating all procedures,

to manage and develop talents and artists.

supporting digital transformation in the Kingdom

services and internal operations

Additionally, the number of restaurants and

by achieving ISO/IEC 20000 certification for

supplementing the various systems

cafés registered on the portal for obtaining

the excellence of its information technology

for licenses and permits. The portal

permits for live shows reached more than 410.

(IT) service management framework from the

further streamlines business operations

British Standards Institution (BSI), which is

and processes for investors and those

In parallel, the Kingdom edges ever closer to a

accredited by the International Organization for

interested in offering entertainment

full-scale expansion of its economic foundation

Standardization. This milestone highlights GEA's

services through four main avenues:

and keeps pace with global digital advancement.

top performance in technical solutions, which

In doing so, the Kingdom has secured its position

contribute to developing the entertainment

1. Permits for entertainment events

among the top digitally-advanced countries,

sector's framework in line with global standards.

2. Licences for entertainment activities

especially after being recognized 15 times in the

3. Registration services for restaurants and cafés 4. Facilities for service providers.

RECOGNIZED 15 TIMES IN THE INTERNATIONAL ARENA FOR DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION

78

GIGA PROJECTS - AlUla

DISCOVERY CHANNEL JOURNEYS DEEPER INTO ALULA PAST A

t the forefront of the Vision 2030,

Digital & Creative, EMEA Pay TV & Global

the AlUla project is the cornerstone

Brands at Discovery, commented: "An

of the Kingdom's cultural and touristic

untouched desert Kingdom, Saudi Arabia

ambitions, an archaeological, cultural and

has retained some of the most stunningly

tourist complex - an open-air living museum

well-preserved evidence of ancient

- in a region roughly the size of Belgium.

civilizations. As the global leader in real

And the project recently received significant

life entertainment, Discovery is delighted

international exposure when the Discovery

to be able to continue its longstanding

Channel took a behind-the-scenes look

commitment to the region by uncovering

at one of the most important discoveries

the history of this ancient masterpiece and

of modern history in a new documentary,

sharing it with viewers around the world."

revealing that human civilization's first

Robert Kirwan, the Executive Producer/Editor

building blocks were set in place in AlUla.

of the documentary, said: "The weeks we spent

Narrated by Academy Award, Tony Award,

in AlUla filming alongside the archaeological

Golden Globe and Emmy Award winner

team were a life-altering experience for

Jeremy Irons, 'The Architects of Ancient

me and the rest of the crew. The startlingly

Arabia' journeyed into Saudi Arabia's

spectacular landscape is like nothing I've

deeper past, following teams of leading

ever seen. And the stone structures, literally

international and Saudi archaeologists

thousands of them dotting the area, have

and a local historian as they revealed new

sat untouched for thousands of years. We

wonders in the previously unexplored land.

were walking among the ghosts of unknown

Some of the most important survey and

ancients, and we could feel their presence,

excavation work in modern history has

their yearning, to have their story told."

been taking place in the region, revealing

The documentary was made by

the distant past of AlUla. Specialist teams,

Discovery in association with The Royal

for instance, are seeking to make sense of

Commission for AlUla (RCU) and produced

the activities connected with ancient stone

by Powderhouse Productions.

structures they are excavating surrounding the AlUla oasis, with their findings aiming to expand and intensify the historical legacy of the Kingdom and ancient Arabia. In the documentary, the archaeologists uncover evidence for an ancient ritual, wholly unexpected and extraordinary, as they continue to piece together AlUla's rich history in time to welcome guests from around the world.

Henry Windridge, Senior Director: Marketing,

“THE STARTLINGLY SPECTACULAR LANDSCAPE IS LIKE NOTHING I’VE EVER SEEN” OBERT KIRWAN, R EXECUTIVE PRODUCER/EDITOR

GIGA PROJECTS - AlUla

WATCH ALULA THE PLACE OF HERITAGE FOR THE WORLD

A REGION ROUGHLY THE SIZE OF BELGIUM

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80

GIGA PROJECTS - NEOM

NEOM AWARDS CONTRACT TO BUILD AND OPERATE WELLNESS CENTRE N

EOM, Saudi Arabia's revolutionary

Commenting on the appointment, Dr Maliha

supports Neom's ambition to be a world

$500-billion city, has appointed

Hashmi, Executive Director of Neom's

leader in health and wellbeing," she stated.

Burj Al Shifa Medical Complex to

Health and Wellbeing Sector, said: "We are

design, construct and operate a new

pleased to be working with Burj Al Shifa

Rasheed A Al Rushaid, Vice Chairman and

health and wellness center.

Medical Complex to deliver a best-in-class

President of Al Rushaid Group, explained:

This high-tech and sustainable primary

international standard of healthcare at Neom.

"Our commitment to Saudi Arabia's 2030

healthcare center, known as the Neom

Vision and our dedication to improving the

Community Advanced Health Center, will offer

"Their ability to draw on the global experience

quality of healthcare and wellbeing in the

health and wellbeing services to local residents

of International SOS as well as the capabilities

Kingdom has paved the way for Al Rushaid

and is scheduled to open during the first half

of Al Rushaid Construction Company, an Al

Group to be a natural partner to Neom.

of 2021. Burj Al Shifa Medical Complex will

Rushaid Group company and one of the largest

"Neom invest in people and choose to

then operate and maintain the center for three

construction companies in Saudi Arabia, to

implement the latest and most advanced

years, with a potential extension of 18 months.

deliver the construction phase of the project,

technologies. This, combined with an alliance

GIGA PROJECTS - NEOM

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"AT ITS PEAK, THE NEOM COMMUNITY ADVANCED HEALTH CENTER WILL SERVE A POPULATION OF APPROXIMATELY 2,000 OVER THE COURSE OF THE THREE-YEAR PROJECT,"  Sunset in NEOM

with the global leader in providing healthcare

"We're proud to be selected by Neom and

Neom to work on this incredibly important

services in remote areas, our partner

honored by the trust they're putting in us; we

and fascinating project in the Kingdom.

International SOS, is positioning us through our

shall draw our strength from the four decades

subsidiary, Burj Al Shifa Medical Complex, to

of achievements and gained experience to

"At its peak, the NEOM Community Advanced

support Neom in building the most challenging

accomplish Neom's entire satisfaction," he said.

Health Center will serve a population of

and exciting project of the next decades and

approximately 2,000 over the course of

contribute to realizing the vision of HRH Crown

General Manager of International SOS-

Prince Mohammed Bin Salman," he stated.

Al Rushaid, Joerg Buenzel, commented:

the three-year project," he concluded.

"We share Neom's desire and aspiration He explained that a few of Al Rushaid Group's

to develop state-of-the-art health and

subsidiaries are involved in this enterprise

wellbeing services using the latest

too, and are committed to providing their

technologies to support its community. It

best efforts to achieve Neom's vision.

is a real privilege to have been invited by

SCHEDULED TO OPEN DURING THE FIRST HALF OF 2021

82

GIGA PROJECTS - AL DIRIYAH GATE

‘FEELING THE STONES’ UNVEILED AS CREATIVE THEME FOR INAUGURAL EDITION OF SAUDI ARABIA'S AD-DIRIYAH BIENNALE T

he Ad-Diriyah Biennale

Life Program and overseen by the

Foundation has announced

Ad-Diriyah Biennale Foundation,

the theme for Saudi Arabia’s first

it will present two Biennales

contemporary art Biennale entitled

alternating each year: contemporary

‘Feeling the Stones’. It is inspired

art (2021) and Islamic arts (2022).

by the idea of ‘crossing the river

The exhibition will unfold in six

by feeling the stones’, a slogan

sections, examining themes that

that emerged during the 1980s as

include memory and preservation,

a metaphor for action at a time of

cultural transmission, social

social and economic transformation.

engagement, the anthropocene, and

Set to open from 7 December 2021

the spiritual. It aims to create new

to 7 March 2022, the Biennale will

connections between the Saudi and

take place at JAX district in Diriyah.

international art worlds, bringing new

Philip Tinari, Director and Chief

trends in global contemporary art to

Executive of UCCA Center for

Saudi Arabia’s burgeoning cultural

Contemporary Art in Beijing and

scene with nearly 70 artists exhibiting.

the curator of the Biennale, said:

“Saudi Arabia’s first art Biennale is an

“We hope that this exhibition will

important milestone and builds on the

expose new generations of viewers

unprecedented cultural transformation

to global contemporary art, not just

underway in the Kingdom,” said Aya

as a mode of visual expression but

Albakree, CEO of Ad-Diriyah Biennale

as a space for critical thinking. The

Foundation. “It is part of a wider

art scene in Saudi Arabia finds itself

plan to transform Ad-Diriyah into a

at a crucial juncture, and art has an

global arts destination and encourage

important role to play in reflecting

dialogue between artists from around

on key issues of the moment.”

the world in a dedicated environment

The Biennale will take place in a

that supports creative expression.”

27,000m2 area located in the recently

The Biennale curatorial team also

developed creative district of JAX

includes Wejdan Reda, founder of

in Diriyah. Initiated by the Ministry

Sahaba art consultancy, Jeddah;

of Culture as part of its efforts to

Shixuan Luan, curator at UCCA; and

support the Kingdom’s Vision 2030

Neil Zhang, assistant curator.

strategic framework and Quality of

SET TO OPEN FROM 7 DECEMBER 2021 TO 7 MARCH 2022

FEATURING OVER 70 INTERNATIONAL AND NATIONAL ARTISTS AT THE NEWLY CONVERTED JAX CREATIVE DISTRICT IN DIRIYAH

GIGA PROJECTS - AL DIRIYAH GATE

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84

GIGA PROJECTS - QIDDIYA

WORLD’S FASTEST ROLLER COASTER BEING BUILT AT SIX FLAGS THEME PARK A

new roller coaster being developed at Six Flags Theme Park, Qiddiya is

destined to set new records as the world's fastest, transporting passengers at speeds of in excess of 250+ kilometers per hour!

The ride, named 'Falcon's Flight', will also be the world's longest and tallest roller coaster, carrying passengers almost 4 kilometers.

The ride will incorporate a vertical cliff dive maneuver and a parabolic airtime hill that will provide a 'weightlessness airtime experience'. The whole ride will last more or less three minutes.

Philippe Gas, CEO of Qiddiya, commented: "Falcon's Flight will dominate the skyline at Qiddiya, weaving all the way around our destination, right out of the theme park, up the cliffside and down the cliff face - the greatest drop of any ride in the world. It won't be for the fainthearted."

At present, the world's fastest roller coaster is the Formula Rossa at Ferrari World Abu Dhabi, which hits a maximum speed of 239km/h, according to Roller Coaster Database. The US holds the record for the current tallest coaster, the 418-foot-tall Kingda Ka at Six Flags Great Adventure in Jackson, New Jersey. Kingda Ka is also presently the world's second-fastest coaster, reaching speeds of 205km/h.

GIGA PROJECTS - QIDDIYA

THE WORLD’S LONGEST AND TALLEST ROLLER COASTER, CARRYING PASSENGERS ALMOST 4KMS Intamin, the company that is designing Falcon's Flight, also worked on Formula Rossa and various other prestigious rides around the world.

The 79-acre Six Flags Theme Park will consist of 28 rides plus other attractions such as sports arenas and concert venues.

Falcon's Flight is set to be unveiled in the first phase of the development, which is expected to open in 2023. The park is being built in a valley beside Tuwaiq Mountain, which features spectacular 650-foot cliffs.

"The worldwide unique setting and heights such as the natural cliff will enable us to design an architectural masterpiece in steep," said Daniel Schoppen, Vice President of Design and Development at Intamin.

WATCH FALCON'S FLIGHT SIX FLAGS QIDDIYA

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86

Giga Projects - Amaala

AMAALA INKS MOU WITH SAUDI CONTRACTORS AUTHORITY AMAALA, THE ULTRA-LUXURY DEVELOPMENT LOCATED ALONG SAUDI ARABIA’S NORTH WESTERN COAST, HAS ANNOUNCED THE SIGNING OF A MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING (MOU) WITH THE SAUDI CONTRACTORS AUTHORITY (SCA), A GOVERNMENT SUBSIDIARY AUTHORITY OF THE MINISTRY OF MUNICIPAL AND RURAL AFFAIRS.

2030 strategy forward successfully. Working with AMAALA and their existing contractors in this capacity will also allow us to further enable the uptake of our localization programs which incentivize organizations to empower Saudis through training and employment.”

In line with the ambitions of both organizations

us to better connect with Saudi people

and the wider Vision 2030 goals, the MoU

and businesses, which will, in turn, enable

contracting sector by encouraging contractors

sets forth a preliminary pact for cooperation

us to meet our ambitious Saudization

engaged with AMAALA to benefit from

in a number of fields, including allowing

targets, whilst connecting the association

SCA’s localization programs and incentives.

access to an online ‘Project Participation

with contractors already engaged on

AMAALA is central to many growing industries

Platform’ which will enable AMAALA to share

our project to drive awareness of their

and, once completed, the destination will

projects in its pipeline with members of the

important programs” added Pagano.

support more than 50,000 direct, indirect

SCA and receive information of qualified and interested parties intending to bid.

THE DESTINATION WILL SUPPORT MORE THAN 50,000 DIRECT, INDIRECT AND INDUCED JOBS

A PRELIMINARY PACT FOR COOPERATION IN A NUMBER OF FIELDS, INCLUDING ALLOWING ACCESS TO AN ONLINE ‘PROJECT PARTICIPATION PLATFORM’

Efforts will be aligned to localize the

and induced jobs providing opportunities to people throughout the country.

This MoU follows efforts to strengthen relationships with local private and public sector organizations. Similar MoUs creating partnerships, outlining collaborative ways of working and providing cross-development

“Saudi Arabia is undergoing an exciting

The MoU also outlines a framework of

opportunities have already been signed with

transition towards a new and diversified

joint cooperation between both entities,

the Saudi Council of Engineers, Ministry of

economy,” said John Pagano, CEO at AMAALA.

including establishing staff training courses

Tourism, Ministry of Environment, Water and

“AMAALA is a key driver of change, bringing

and sharing of studies and statistics

Agriculture and MOMRA. AMAALA has recently

with it a wealth of opportunities for the

relating to the local construction sector.

awarded several construction contracts to

private sector, and it is our ambition to ensure

Eng. Thabet Al-Sawayeed, Governor at

Saudi companies, including Al-Tamimi Group,

we support Saudi businesses to participate

SCA, said: “This partnership is a key step

HASCO and Saudi Real Estate (Binyah). Work

and benefit from the development of this

towards achieving our goal of aiding Saudi

is well underway on-site to progress the

significant destination from the outset.”

contractors to participate in the new landscape

enabling infrastructure and groundwork

of projects established to drive the Vision

required to develop the destination.

“This new partnership with SCA will help

Giga Projects - Amaala

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88

ARCHITECTURE

LIKE NO OTHER AIRPORT ON EARTH THE AIRPORT IS DESIGNED TO BE POWERED BY 100% RENEWABLE ENERGY

T

he Red Sea International

spas and restaurants. Between the

by 100% renewable energy and

Airport, currently being

pods, spaces filled with greenery will

constructed and operated using a

constructed on the west coast of Saudi

be created for the initial stage of the

zero single-use plastic philosophy.

Arabia, is yet another architectural

arrivals process. Each of the quintet of

marvel designed by Foster +

pods can be operated autonomously as

The terminal's roof shells will extend

Partners, inspired by the colours and

a 'mini terminal', dictating that parts of

from the building to shade both the

textures of the desert landscape.

the airport can be closed through low

airport's landside and airside areas.

demand periods to reduce energy usage.

Scheduled for completion in 2022 and

The general shape of the terminal building

designed to reach a capacity of one

Two wings extending from either side

has been planned to shelter the internal

million passengers a year by 2030, the

of the main terminal will enclose the

environment from solar gains and, as a

new airport will almost exclusively

airport's ancillary spaces, including

result, significantly reduce the overall

serve tourists visiting The Red Sea

hangers, logistics bags and baggage

energy demand for cooling in the building

Project tourist development.

handling facilities. This arrangement will

through self-shading. Moreover, with most

reduce the overall envelope and energy

of the glazing facing north, there will be

Reducing Energy Demand

demand when compared to traditional

increased daylight penetration without

The visuals are fascinating, showing a

stand-alone ancillary buildings.

compromising solar performance.

radially around a central drop-off and

Foster + Partners is aiming for a LEED

Along with the main terminal building, a

pick-up space. Each pod will house a

Platinum sustainability rating, with

runway and dedicated seaplane runway

departure lounge that will incorporate

the airport designed to be powered

and three helipads are under construction.

series of five dune-like pods arranged

ARCHITECTURE

SAUDI ARABIA TO PARTICIPATE IN VENICE BIENNALE

SAUDI ARCHITECTS REVIVE SCHOOLS IN UNDERDEVELOPED AREAS OF JEDDAH

I

hyaa, a word that means 'to

revive' in Arabic, is a social enterprise founded by budding architects and engineers back in 2015.

They began by renovating schools in underdeveloped neighbourhoods of Jeddah to inspire hope and support less fortunate areas in the city.

Although this initial renovation project started as a volunteer initiative, the team said the positive feedback they received made it clear that communities needed more than they realised. They even started getting inquiries from nearby schools for renovations.

Ihyaa Group has now completed eight other school renovations and community projects Ihyaa Group has now completed eight other school renovations and community projects, affecting over 1,000 students' and teachers' lives. And in 2021, the team The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia will participate in the Venice Biennale of Architecture,

is more dedicated than ever

which will be held from 22 May to 21 November 21, 2021, under the banner of 'How Will

to their vision, with two of

We Live Together?' Three architects have been chosen to represent the Kingdom.

the founding members even

The Architecture and Design Commission is responsible for supervising the pavilion due

having left their corporate

to its supportive roles for the architecture and design sector of the Kingdom and its efforts

positions to pursue this

to promote international cultural exchange between Saudi Arabia and the world.

social work full time.

89

90

ARCHITECTURE - PACE

EXPERIENCE YOU CAN TRUST, QUALITY YOU CAN COUNT ON A LEADING REGIONAL MULTIDISCIPLINARY CONSULTANCY FIRM, PACE PROVIDES A FULL SUITE OF INTEGRATED ARCHITECTURE, ENGINEERING, AND PLANNING SERVICES TO A WIDE RANGE OF PUBLIC AND PRIVATE SECTOR CLIENTS.

 Jazan Waterfront

ARCHITECTURE - PACE

91

92

ARCHITECTURE - PACE

 Jazan Waterfront

F

ounded in Kuwait in 1968, Pace

minds, coming together from a broad range

Diversifying its portfolio across planning,

is considered a trusted partner

of backgrounds and across all design,

property and infrastructure, as well as

across the entire Middle East and Africa,

architecture, and engineering disciplines to

developing a project management consultancy,

contributing with multiple globally awarded/

deliver its all-inclusive and integrated portfolio

Pace's operations across the GCC led it to

nominated national landmarks and enduring

of services with seamless cohesion. With

establish two regional offices: one in Bahrain

infrastructure developments that have

over 750 professionals, Pace plans, designs,

and one in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia,

had a long-lasting positive impact on the

manages and constructs solutions, whether

from where it has overseen key projects that

societies and environments they serve.

it's the concept for a new city, the detailed

include Riyadh Metro Line-3, Bawabat Mecca

design of a rail network, a skyscraper, the

Master Plan, and Jazan City Waterfronts.

The firm's multidisciplinary capabilities

modeling of a flood defense system, or the

are demonstrated through its diverse and

improvement of a management process.

talented team of professionals and creative

ARCHITECTURE - PACE

MAXIMUM QUALITY AND PERFORMANCE

benefit from improved project efficiencies,

Pace has successfully built a reputation over

reduced environmental impact, and savings

the past five decades as a firm that designs for

in operational and management costs.

speed and opulence, whilst employing the latest

The firm constantly ensures that the latest

design and construction technologies. This

developments in digitized design technology

allows it to deliver world-class developments

are always incorporated into its practices,

with optimum long-term value, highest quality,

increasing the scope and location of projects

cost management and fast-track proficiency.

on an international scale and across all

93

disciplines. Its latest Building Information Continuing to push the boundaries of design and

Modeling (BIM), ‘digital delivery’, design

architecture with every project it takes on, Pace

processes supported the move to Revit as its

is able to generate groundbreaking concepts

technical production software platform.

and master functional designs, with a deep and

When it comes to construction and delivery,

pragmatic understanding of project needs, in

big jobs require big players. The firm's

order to provide solutions that have far-reaching

50-year legacy delivering mega projects

benefits for both clients and project users.

worldwide, with hard-earned field expertise, extensive knowledge of building techniques,

Pace is also known across the region for its

and strong multidisciplinary capabilities,

'early adoption' of advanced new design

enables it to confidently come forth with

technologies and construction methodologies,

impeccable technical proposals, and guarantee

offering new opportunities for innovation

maximum quality and performance.

and quality for clients who, as a result,

 Jazan Waterfront

PUSHING THE BOUNDARIES OF DESIGN AND DRIVING INNOVATION

96

ARCHITECTURE - PACE

BIG PROJECTS, BROAD EXPERTISE Pace is currently working on several large and important projects throughout the Kingdom.

The Riyadh Metro, for instance, is a mega-project that is part of the Riyadh Public Transport Project (RPTP), which comprises construction

WITH OVER 750 PROFESSIONALS, PACE PLANS, DESIGNS, MANAGES AND CONSTRUCTS SOLUTIONS

of a metro, a bus system and other transport services in Riyadh. Pace is the local consultant

At present, for instance, it is working on

for undertaking the design and relocation of

a framework project as part of delivering

services and utilities for Line 3 – a 42 km line

Qiddiya's vision to drive cultural change in Saudi

(above and below ground) for a total of 23

Arabia through the creation of a mega-hub

stations and 17 sections between the stations,

of entertainment. The framework agreement

passing through populated areas and residential

essentially sees Pace with the opportunity to

zones. An expert in transport infrastructure,

provide its full range of construction supervision

delivery mega road projects, Pace has also been

consultancy services in 2021 to support the

mandated with on-ground engineering support,

ongoing progress of the infrastructure projects,

upgrading infrastructure where required, liaising

ranging from design review, inspection and

with authorities to facilitate approvals and

project management through to technical

permits, and coordination of project teams to

consultancy and commissioning.

streamline communication and workflow.

Infrastructure has always been a key sector

Road development projects continue to be

and a major focus for Pace. Its work includes

among the most significant infrastructure

the regionally and globally award-winning

investments in Saudi Arabia, with ambitious

'Jahra Road and Jamal Abdul Nasser

plans to develop mega infrastructures. Driven by

Street' developments, which led to further

the Saudi Vision 2030, the Ministry of Transport

involvement with large-scale infrastructure

has completed a number of road projects across

work across the Middle East and Africa.

various regions of the Kingdom during 2020.

 Qiddiya

IT IS WORKING ON A FRAMEWORK PROJECT AS PART OF DELIVERING QIDDIYA'S VISION TO DRIVE CULTURAL CHANGE IN SAUDI ARABIA

 Riyadh Metro Line 3

ARCHITECTURE - PACE

 Riyadh Metro Line 3

 Riyadh Metro Line 3

97

ARCHITECTURE - PACE

99

Pace is also working on redevelopment of Wadi Hanifah Park. As part of the Diriyah Gate Development Authority's vision to transform the historically important Diriyah region into a global gathering place, the authority has embarked on an extensive development program. One of four key developments of the program is the redevelopment of Wadi Hanifah Park, an expansive 2,359,406m2 green belt valley on the western and southern sides of the Diriyah Gate development.

WADI HANIFAH PARK, AN EXPANSIVE 2,359, 406M2 GREEN BELT VALLEY ON THE WESTERN AND SOUTHERN SIDES OF THE DIRIYAH GATE DEVELOPMENT The firm has been commissioned with the design and construction supervision of The Spine area, which is an essential part of the entire program, connecting many parts of the project. It was awarded this contract towards the end of December 2020. Pace has conducted the traffic, hydrology and environmental studies. Submission of concepts has been completed, and construction works

 Wadi Hanifa Infrastructure Spine

should commence by September 2021.  Waldorf Astoria

TIGHT SCHEDULES, SUPERIOR WORKMANSHIP The tourism sector has been witnessing exponential growth, driven by cultural shifts and the Kingdom's desire to expand tourism beyond religious visits. With the Saudi Vision 2030 in place, aiming to double hotel sector opportunities, Pace is, in turn, being offered plenty of projects, including blue-chip developments such as the Waldorf Astoria, Hilton Garden Inn, and Arraya. With the DUR Group, Pace has been awarded a crucial job - as a firm that designs for speed - and that is to undertake subsequent works for a project that wasn't meeting its deadline and managing its on-time delivery as much as possible.

100 ARCHITECTURE - PACE

 J ahra Road and Jamal Abdul Nasser Street

ARCHITECTURE - PACE 101

 Jazan Waterfront

So far, tight project timeframes and acquiring

area to improve its economic and social growth

authority approvals are some of the major

whilst reducing the negative impacts on a

challenges within this project, in addition to

range of issues, including wildlife and flora.

streamlining communication and coordinating between the range of contractors that the firm

The study also assessed the climate and

working alongside to deliver the project.

environment of Jazan City to provide necessary design solutions to support the

A RANGE OF DESIGN OPTIONS

development of neighboring areas of interest,

The Jazan City Waterfronts project is

including Jazan University, heritage village,

a masterplan for social, economic and

sport city, and citadel. Pace's scope of work

environmental prosperity. Pace has been

entails master and transport planning

commissioned with the study and design of the

and public realm and urban design.

north and south waterfront, shelterbelts and marine sidewalk areas for the port of Jazan

The project had been nominated for the Ministry

city in the southwest corner of the Kingdom.

of Municipal & Rural Affairs (MOMRA) awards

The project's objective is to provide a range

as Best Waterfront Design Project in 2015.

of design options for the development of the

 Jahra Road and Jamal Abdul Nasser Street

102 ARCHITECTURE - PACE

PUSHING THE BOUNDARIES OF DESIGN AND DRIVING INNOVATION

 Medina Museum

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Sounds Beautiful

The student struggling to hear. The businessperson trying to concentrate. The couple wanting an intimate conversation over dinner out. Focusing on their wellbeing inspired our beautiful range of colours and styles, so now places that sound great, can also be uplifting, calming or inspiring.

And it expanded our vision to create fire safe, hygienic, and even light reflecting solutions for healthier, happier workspaces.

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ARCHITECTURE - PACE 103

THINKING GLOBALLY, ACTING LOCALLY

Additionally, its strict and inclusive quality

Environmental sustainability plays a major

assurance measures guarantee buildings

role in Pace's design philosophy. As strong

that require very little maintenance.

advocates of sustainable practices, and LEED-certified specialists, it has always

DREAMS MADE REAL

been keen on adopting green building

Pace is currently enjoying success with

solutions and technologies in both

its involvement in some of the Kingdom's

its designs and pre, during, and post-

largest developments, such as the Qiddiya

implementation and project completion.

and Wadi Hanifa projects. It is clear to

The firm's skills and technical know-how

everyone that Saudi Arabia's cultural change

in utilizing effective waste management

and ambitious development plans are

systems, shading and lighting solutions,

driving major opportunities across all the

along with innovations in heating and water

different sectors, including entertainment,

reutilization, and using locally sourced

hospitality, education, infrastructure and

materials whenever possible, help create

healthcare. Through its presence in the

buildings with a positive impact on the

Kingdom and as partners of development,

environment and the spaces they occupy.

Pace looks forward to further collaborations

Pace also deliver smart buildings by

with public and private sector clients.

constructing smart infrastructure, employing the latest energy conservation systems with smart metering/monitoring equipment.

MAKING ITS MARK ON HISTORY As part of the Kingdom's efforts to preserve cultural identity while still demonstrating its forward-looking drive towards modernity, the Saudi Commission for Tourism and National Heritage (SCTH) has collaborated with Pace to manage the construction of five museum projects located in different areas. These are the Medina Museum in Medina, Ahsa Museum in Hofuf, Qassim Museum in Buraidah, Arar Museum in Arar, and Tayma Museum in Tayma.

The museum buildings similarly comprise components such as exhibition halls, theaters, libraries, gift shops, cafes and administrative offices. Each museum's exhibits and artifacts focus on local heritage within Saudi Arabia, with halls of ancient and Islamic history, contemporary and modern history and heritage of civilization.

 Medina Museum

PACE E: communications@pace-me.com www.pace-me.com



104 Benefits of Acoustics at Work

HOW TO MAKE AN OFFICE SOUND QUIET OPEN-PLAN OFFICE LANDSCAPES SHOULD SUPPORT EMPLOYEES’ WORK ACTIVITIES AND ENHANCE THEIR WELLBEING. SO, START TO THINK ACOUSTICALLY AND REMOVE ANY HARMFUL NOISY DISTURBANCES: THIS GUIDE WILL REVEAL THE ACOUSTIC MEASURES YOU SHOULD CONSIDER TO MAKE AN OFFICE PLEASANT AND QUIET.

Benefits of Acoustics at Work 105

WHY IS NOISE CONSIDERED A DANGEROUS FEATURE IN OPEN OFFICE SPACES?

START TO THINK ACOUSTICALLY AND

Nowadays, more and more modern office designs have polished concrete floors

REMOVE ‘CONVERSATIONAL DISTRACTIONS’

and exposed ceilings. The design of workspaces accommodates different needs

When considering an indoor acoustic

and support employees’ work activities, but have you considered that an excessive

environment, it is important to consider the

noise level can harm productivity and the wellbeing of employees?

source of the noise, its path, and the receiver

Hard and smooth surfaces look good, but every sound wave is reflected

who hears in order to reduce noise pollution.

and harms the acoustic environment. This, in tandem with a demand for a

Modular acoustic ceiling tiles or wall

social connection between colleagues, creates a noisy workplace.

panels are textile art that can reduce the auditory disturbance of sound reflection.

RESEARCH SHOWS THAT BAD ACOUSTIC environments with no sound absorption will decrease productivity by 66 %, which means that nearly one in

Therefore, the four C’s can be useful to look at

every three employees are losing one or more hours of productivity.

as they refer to the dynamic within the office.  Contemplation

We take noise seriously as it impacts our health. Around 51 % of office workers

 Collaboration

complain about concentration problems while working in an open office and

 Communication

around 36 % of workers have experienced annoyance or frustration.

 Concentration

“We are seeing trends for collaborative spaces, learning and performance spaces that are starting to find synergies.

We are creating a variety of areas that support different human functions. When we look at the office, employees want to be on their own, but in a social context, and I think that those are some of the exciting things.”

Tiago Pereira (ARCHITECT FROM SCHMIDT HAMMER LASSEN)

But there is no one size fits all answer, as it depends on the type of people who work in the office and the kind of work that is being done. But it is highly beneficial to create office spaces that sound as beautiful they look.

The benefits of acoustic comfort are:  48 % increase in task focus  51 % decrease in ‘conversational distractions’  10 % drop in errors during performance  27 % reduction in employees stress level Despite the challenges and health issues, employees prefer open office spaces as they reflect their need for social context.

To combat these challenges and remain productive, an office with excellent acoustics can create a healthier and more attractive indoor environment, allowing employees to be more creative and productive.

106 Benefits of Acoustics at Work

HOW TO MAKE AN OFFICE SOUND QUIET When sound waves hit a hard surface like walls, floors and windows, the audible energy wave will be reflected into the room as the materials don’t absorb the noise. This causes the overall noise level to rise in the room. Therefore, the right acoustic materials can provide better sound and a healthier indoor environment.

STEP 1: The office design and the occupants The first step in creating an office that sounds quiet is to figure out the diverse needs of the office workers. How do they like to work, what design solution will benefit their work performance, and do they want a collaborative approach in the office?

Once you know what measures to include in the interior design, you can take the next step and look at the sound solutions.

STEP 2: What sound solution fits your layout the best?

The quality of sound absorption available in different rooms is determined by the layout of the space and what materials are being selected. In our acoustic tiles and panels, the core material is stone wool as it has by nature a high sound absorption.

If you choose the right acoustic products, you can create flexible, private and

 Low reverberation time

STEP 4: The aesthetic touch

engaging environments that combine

Creating an acoustic environment

The office design should reflect the brand

the benefits of great sound insulation

also reduces reverberation time and

and, therefore, it should be attractive

and superior sound absorption.

echoes. Sound absorption materials

and comforting. Architects and designers

will balance the sound level and create

aim to create a more interactive and

STEP 3: Balance your office

a dynamic environment with a focus

dynamic workspace, and that’s what

Design with great acoustics

on employee wellbeing and privacy.

the right ceiling design can inspire,

Acoustic comfort should provide perfect

 Proper sound insulation

transforming the artistic expression.

harmony between employee wellbeing and

To prevent sound from one activity

Find the right balance between style,

privacy while the environment continues

transmitting and disturbing people in the

comfort and top-grade solutions to produce

to be collaborative and dynamic.

next room, you should consider proper

elegant spaces that inspire employees.

 Proper sound absorption

sound insulation. Soundproofing relates

Proper sound absorption controls the

to the overall ability of a building element

ambient sound pressure level in a room.

to reduce the level of distractions and

And it will create comfortable environments

the harmful effects of noise between

where people can concentrate and

a room and a neighbouring space.

work productively without noiseinduced irritation or stress. It also has

Create flexible, private, and engaging

other benefits as it increases speech

environments with our acoustic product

intelligibility, making presentation and

range, with great sound insulation

conversation easier to understand.

and superior sound absorption.

Benefits of Acoustics at Work 107

108 Benefits of Acoustics at Work

Benefits of Acoustics at Work 109

WHAT BENEFITS WILL YOU GET OUT OF AN ACOUSTIC INVESTMENT? Building materials need to meet the long-term needs of users without expensive upkeeping due to maintenance or repair. Demands for functionality, reliability and durability are key performances of a desirable acoustic product.

Investment in acoustic ceiling solutions is an investment in employees.

Improved satisfaction  79 % of building owners witnessed an improvement in employee

WATCH ROCKFON ACOUSTIC SOLUTIONS VIDEO

satisfaction and engagement.[3] Higher value

AN ACOUSTIC DESIGN WITH A UNIQUE

it be in the office design? Modularity refers

PERSONALITY HAS OTHER ADVANTAGES

to the degree to which the ceiling system

impact on the building’s value, meaning

Every building has its unique personality and a

can be recombined with the benefit of

that the building’s sustainable features

unique set of needs to consider. Office buildings

flexibility. When thinking about an acoustic

can potentially affect the resale rate.[4]

can be different in nature and functionality,

ceiling solution, it’s crucial to consider the

presenting different challenges that create

flexibility with modular ceilings or moveable

Improved productivity

crucial demands on building materials. The

partition walls to create acoustic comfort.

 75 % of building owners witnessed an

acoustic ceiling design is no different. Now

A modular ceiling gives absolute control of the

improvement in indoor lightning conditions

you have the acoustic comfort in place, let’s

noise and safety of the spaces and ensures a

after installing acoustic ceilings.[5]

see the other advantages you will achieve.

smoother integration of services and fittings.

 62 % of building owners saw a positive

Our acoustic solutions integrate harmoniously Durability:

with the other building materials for a holistic

If a product is durable, it can endure

design as we offer a variety of colors, formats,

continued use over a long period. Durability

edges to address different artistic designs.

is a crucial factor when selecting materials as it will reflect on the level of maintenance.

The quality of light:

A durable construction product consumes

Light is an essential part of our life, and light

fewer resources, creates less waste, and

determines how we experience a space. But

its manufacturing impact is spread over

it’s also crucial for our wellbeing. For the best

long periods. Durability supports eco-

quality of light, the office should be illuminated

efficiency and secures progress towards

by as much natural sunlight as possible. The

sustainable consumption and production.

natural light should be spread equally through the room to minimize the usage of electricity

Modularity is key:

and artificial light. It’s an important aspect,

Now we have considered how to reduce

as office workers prefer to be near windows

distraction and create flexible, private and

because they provide good natural daylight.

engaging workspaces. But how flexible can

SOUNDS BEAUTIFUL [1] https://cdw-prod.adobecqms.net/content/dam/cdw/on-domain-cdw/brands/poly/poly-perils-ebook.pdf [2] Sykes, David; M., PhD, ”Productivity: How Acoustics Affect Workers’ Performance in Offices and Open Areas. https://mpsllc.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/10/Productivity.pdf [3]Dodge Data & Analytics, “Smart Market Report”, 2016 Pg. 06 [4] Dodge Data & Analytics, “Smart Market Report”, 2016 Pg. 07 [5] Dodge Data & Analytics, “Smart Market Report”, 2016 Pg. 06

ROCKFON T: +971 4 214 6280 E: rockfonme@rockfon.com ae.rockfon.com

110 Building Materials

CONSTRUCTION CHEMICALS MARKET TO REACH $1.09 BILLION BY 2027 A

n increase in demand from the infrastructure and construction industry, in tandem with a rise

in demand for green buildings, has been a boon to the growth of the Kingdom's construction chemicals market.

A report, published by Allied Market Research, said that the Saudi construction chemicals market was $741.1 million in 2019 and is anticipated to touch $1.09 billion by 2027, increasing at a CAGR of 6.9% from 2020 to 2027.

Despite this, a lack of awareness on the topic of concrete surface retarders impedes the market

C

growth. However, a swell in construction activities

M

is expected to open rewarding opportunities for

Y

companies within the industry in the years ahead.

CM

MY

DiSARuption of the Supply Chain

CY

Due to the Covid-19 pandemic and the lockdown,

CMY

construction activities and shipping of goods were

K

temporarily halted to help control the virus's spread.

This hurt the demand for construction chemicals.

The drawn-out lockdown resulted in diSARuption of the supply chain and raw material procurement.

What is more, the unpredictability of raw material prices further weighed down demand.

Product and Application Saudi Arabia's construction chemicals market is divided based on product and application. Based on product, the market is categorized into areas such as, but not limited to, concrete admixture, waterproofing and roofing chemicals, protective coatings, adhesive and sealants, industrial flooring, and asphalt additives.

The waterproofing and roofing chemicals segment is expected to display the highest CAGR of 7.5% throughout the forecast period.

Concerning application, the market is divided into residential, industrial/commercial, and infrastructure.

The residential sector had the most significant share in 2019, contributing to just about half of the market.

Furthermore, it is estimated that it will record the highest CAGR of 7% for the duration of the forecast period.

SAUDI CONSTRUCTION CHEMICALS MARKET  $741.1 million in 2019  T o touch $1.09 billion by 2027  C AGR of 6.9% from 2020 to 2027  Waterproofing and roofing chemicals to hit CAGR of 7.5%

“ILF is proud of having been engaged in most of the key Water Transmission Systems in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia since 1977”.

www.ilf.com ilf.ksa@ilf.com

112 Nesma Water & Energy

DIVERSIFIED SERVICES, UNVARYING QUALITY WITH THE UTILITY MARKET BOOM IN 2010, THE NEED FOR A REGIONAL COMPANY TO LEAD THE WATER AND ENERGY SERVICES SECTOR IN SAUDI ARABIA BECAME ESSENTIAL. AS A RESULT, JUST ONE YEAR LATER, IN 2011, FOLLOWING CAREFUL CONSIDERATION BY SH. SALEH AL TURKI, ENG. MAHMOUD FALLATAH AND ENG. ABDUL AZIZ GABEL, NESMA WATER & ENERGY OPENED ITS DOORS FOR BUSINESS, QUICKLY EVOLVING INTO A LEADING REGIONAL PLAYER IN THE UTILITY AND INFRASTRUCTURE SECTOR.

NW&E partners with international technology providers for advanced technical solutions as per its current business model, providing them with the required local infrastructure and logistics support and becoming their civil arm to execute various projects.

A GROWING FOOTPRINT

A

NW&E has recently completed the fourth subsidiary of the Nesma Group,

Nesma is still operating the BWRO plant in

infrastructure project in King Abdullah

a privately owned Saudi Arabian

Dawadmi.

Economic City (KAEC) – the IV4 project

company established in 1979, Nesma Water

after successfully completing the IV2/

& Energy's (NW&E) first contract was for NWC

ADVANCED TECHNICAL SOLUTIONS

IV3 /Muruj projects. This underlines the

JCBU's Water Meters House Connections

With corporate headquarters in Jeddah and

confidence that customers have in the

project. This led to the prestigious Riyadh

branch offices in all major cities of the Kingdom,

capabilities and capacity of the company.

Water Supply Enhancement project

NW&E is a Class One contractor offering a full

award by NWC, with a total capacity

range of commercial construction, in addition to

It has also completed its ninth year in the

of 65,000 cum/day, 13 borewells, and

operation and maintenance services to support

cities of Dawadmi and Affif, starting with the

reservoirs with associated networks.

clients in both government and private sectors.

operation and maintenance of the cities and their surrounding villages in a span of 230km

This was a challenging task, with the

These services include, but are not

from 2011 to 2018, and ending in operating the

company contracted to complete the project

limited to:

BWRO treatment plant from 2018 up to now.

in a timeframe of just six months. NW&E

 Seawater desalination.

The project is owned by NWC/MEWA. With the

rose to this challenge admirably, delivering

 Water distribution network and

same client, the company has recently been

the project successfully, named the Best

wastewater collection

awarded 90,000 cum/day STP of Tabuk O&M.

Global Water Summit Project for 2014 by

 Water and wastewater treatment plants

GWI, and was well received by NWC.

 Storm water drainage systems

NW&E has crossed borders, too, venturing

 Concrete and steel reservoirs

into other GCC countries. Its initial success has

NW&E also successfully operated and

 Infrastructure and transmission systems

come from Bahrain, where it has won a contract

maintained Afif and Dawadmi total city

 Information and control systems

with the Electricity and Water Authority.

wastewater management, which comprised

 Operation and maintenance services

Apart from these, the company's first success

25 pumping stations, 20 borewells, and one

 Sludge and solid waste reuse

in PPP business has come in the water and

thousand kilometers of network pipelines

 Build Operate Own Transfer

wastewater sector at the Yanbu 4 Desalination

over an area of 230kms, 20 filling stations, and water meters for a period from 2012 to 2018.

(BOOT, BOO … etc.)

Plant, an SWRO to serve the Madina region.

Nesma Water & Energy 113

A VAST RESOURCE POOL

According to a recent survey, it is one of largest construction companies

NW&E has established a diversified portfolio of key technology and

in the Kingdom and, although the after effects of the Covid-19

international partners, allowing it to respond quickly to a dynamically

pandemic will continue to impact the world for the next couple of

changing marketplace. Through its partnerships and joint ventures,

years at least, NW&E looks at this as an opportunity to streamline

NW&E today offers a full range of commercial construction and 'operation

its operations and continue on a growth path. The impact on the

& maintenance services to support clients in both the government and

business world in the Kingdom is not so severe as elsewhere, and

private sectors. NW&E is a mid-size subsidiary with a total workforce of

from the beginning 2021, the 'curve' has been moving upwards.

less than 500 and an annual turnover in the region of 150-200 million SAR. PROVIDING ‘PEACE-OF-MIND’ AS STANDARD However, the Nesma Group employs more than 30,000 people, spread

'Nesma' is a well-known and highly respected brand name in Saudi Arabia,

out across the entire Kingdom, with an annual turnover exceeding 10

having more than 40 companies in different segments of the market

billion SAR. This gives it a depth of resources and expertise that allow it

that cater to the needs of a diversified client base. Moreover, with more

to attract blue-chip that refuse to compromise on quality workmanship.

than four decades of experience, it has accumulated a level of expertise that provides customers with confidence and total peace of mind.

These clients include leading names such as SWPC, NWC, MEWA, MODON, KAEC, and EWA-Bahrain. The company has

Looking to the future, the company is moving into the PPP market in

traditionally been focused on executing projects in Saudi Arabia

the water and wastewater industry and is focused on being a leading

but is now slowly expanding its operations further afield.

regional player throughout the entire GCC in this sector, becoming a principal developer and EPC contractors over the next five years.

MOVING BEYOND THE PANDEMIC Even with the impact of Covid-19, Saudi Arabia is continuing to move forwards by announcing many IWPs, ISTPs and other infrastructure

NESMA WATER AND ENERGY

projects. Nesma, as one of the leading conglomerates in the Kingdom,

T: 966 12 234 6213

is fully poised to take full participation in this ongoing growth.

nesmawater@nesma.com www.nesmawae.com www.nesma.com

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