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ISSUE 44
FEBRUARY 2022 / ISSUE 48
WHITESPACE ARCHITECTS
BEAUTY IN FORM VALUE IN FUNCTION HKA CRUX REPORT A REGIONAL ANALYSIS OF CLAIMS AND DISPUTE CAUSATION
BPD SUPPLY SOLUTIONS MAKING COMPLEX LOGISTICAL PROBLEMS SIMPLE
QIDDIYA SAR 3.75 BILLION CONTRACT AWARDED FOR SIX FLAGS
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Editors Foreword
SAUDI ECONOMY REMAINS BUOYANT AS WE MOVE THROUGH THE FIRST QUARTER OF 2022, THE GLOBAL ECONOMY CONTINUES TO FACE OBSTACLES, INCLUDING DISRUPTED SUPPLY CHAINS, INFLATIONARY PRESSURES, AND NEW COVID-19 VARIANTS, ALL OF WHICH HAVE POSED A DANGER TO ECONOMIC RECOVERY. SAUDI ARABIA'S ECONOMY, THOUGH, HAS BEEN ABLE TO REMAIN BUOYANT THANKS TO A SUCCESSFUL VACCINATION DEPLOYMENT AND OTHER CONTAINMENT MEASURES, WHILE RISING INTERNATIONAL OIL PRICES HAVE AIDED A WIDER RECOVERY. Indeed, there is a genuinely positive feel across the Kingdom, and in this issue of Saudi Projects, we reflect that with a broad array of features and news. These include an interview with Tim Martin, Managing Director of Gensler, an integrated architecture, design, planning, and consulting firm with 5,500+ professionals networked across 49 offices. He tells us about the firm’s philosophy of making the world a better place
WANT YOUR COMPANY TO APPEAR IN THE KINGDOM'S LEADING TRADE PUBLICATION
through the power of design, focusing on its ever-growing business in Saudi Arabia. With news brought to you by The Red Sea Development Company
ISSUE 44
We also speak to Raed Al Basseet, Group Chief Environmental and Sustainability Officer for TRSDC and AMAALA, about the challenges and often radical responses to sustainability and the environment on these groundbreaking giga-projects.
FEBRUARY 2022 / ISSUE 48
Talking of giga-projects, we see how the Diriyah Gate Development Authority (DGDA) has officially unveiled its vision for Diriyah Square, the commercial heart of its SAR 190 billion project on the edge of Riyadh. We also pop into AMAALA and discover its hardworking, creative team, focusing on the mini-video series, #IamAMAALA, which conveys the attributes and aspirations of the ‘believers’ working together to deliver on its promise. King Salman Energy Park (SPARK) is also on our radar, and we learn how the Affordable House Co., a subsidiary of Abdullah Bin Saedan & Sons Real Estate Group, a leading real estate developer, has signed an agreement for the development of a state-of-the-art staff residential complex at SPARK. Defining what a ‘smart city’ is and how it has
WHITESPACE ARCHITECTS
BEAUTY IN FORM VALUE IN FUNCTION HKA CRUX REPORT A REGIONAL ANALYSIS OF CLAIMS AND DISPUTE CAUSATION
BPD SUPPLY SOLUTIONS MAKING COMPLEX LOGISTICAL PROBLEMS SIMPLE
QIDDIYA SAR 3.75 BILLION CONTRACT AWARDED FOR SIX FLAGS
reached its apex in NEOM, Saudi Arabia’s new vision of what the future could be, we look at both local developments and the wider global picture, including the Smart City Expo World Congress in Barcelona. So, while businesses are set for a tough start to 2022 as they grapple with the spread of Omicron and rising inflation, it is clear that Saudi Arabia is in an excellent position to move forwards, as it
05
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continues to take its rightful place at the centre of international trade, commerce and tourism.
Rod Millington EDITOR
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BECAUSE WE CARE
06
Contents
COVER STORY
20
WHITESPACE ARCHITECTS
BEAUTY IN FORM, VALUE IN FUNCTION FEATURES
28
54
MAKING THE WORLD A BETTER PLACE
A CARBON NEUTRAL LUXURY DESTINATION
56
68
DARING TO BE A FORCE OF NATURE
GIGA PROJECTS - QIDDIYA
Contents
38
BPD SUPPLY SOLUTIONS
MAKING THE COMPLEX SIMPLE ALSO IN THIS ISSUE
17 NEW APPOINTMENTS
48 AFFORDABLE HOUSING CO. AND BIN SAEDAN TO BUILD STAFF RESIDENTIAL COMPLEX IN SPARK
46 SAAS ELEVATES HOW BUSINESSES INTERACT WITH THEIR CLIENTS
60 GIGA PROJECTS - AMAALA
07
08
News
KINGDOM TO AUCTION UP TO THREE MINING LICENCES IN 2022 AS PART OF VISION 2030, THE GOVERNMENT HAS SAID IT AIMS TO CREATE MORE THAN 200,000 DIRECT AND INDIRECT JOBS IN THE MINING SECTOR OVER THE NEXT EIGHT YEARS. WITH THIS IN MIND, IT PLANS TO AUCTION UP TO THREE MINING LICENCES, INCLUDING THE KHNAIGUIYAH MINES, WHICH ARE EXPECTED TO HAVE ZINC AND COPPER DEPOSITS OF ROUGHLY 26 MILLION TONNES.
T
he licences will be issued under a new
power programme, the Kingdom's energy
mining law that took effect in January
minister said at the same conference.
2021, which aims to boost foreign investment
There will be a designed legal framework
in the industry as part of the country's efforts to
for those licences, the minister said.
diversify its economy away from hydrocarbons.
"So there will be certain activities that
"Khnaiguiyah will be first," Bandar Alkhorayef, Saudi Arabia's Mining and Industry Minister said, adding that the bidding process
will be offered by the bidder and that's how we will evaluate the bids." Bidders can choose between focusing
would start by the end of this quarter, or
on technology, making a contribution to
the beginning of the second quarter.
the local community, or other criteria, he
The minister, speaking to Reuters on
said. He said the formula is complicated,
the sidelines of an international mining
but it allows the government to analyse
conference in Riyadh, said the bidding
alternative offers based on multiple elements
process would take about six months,
and KPIs (key performance indicators).
including the pre-qualification phase. He also stated that two additional locations would be auctioned pending technical validation, stating that they were aiming for "three... more or less, but yes, this requires some technical validation." Riyadh's efforts to diversify its economy away from oil and government subsidies include exploring massive undiscovered
The bidding process will take about six months, including the pre-qualification phase
amounts of bauxite, the primary source of aluminium, as well as phosphate, gold, copper, and uranium. The government estimates the Kingdom's unused mineral resources to be valued at SAR 5 trillion ($1.33 trillion). Saudi Arabia, the world's largest supplier of crude oil, plans to exploit its massive uranium resources to establish a nuclear
Riyadh has said it aims to create more than 200,000 direct and indirect jobs in the mining sector by 2030
News
09
10
News
AL YAMAMAH STEEL AWARDED $47.6 MILLION CONTRACT
Al Gihaz Awarded $137.4 Million NEOM Contract Saudi Electricity Company (SEC) has awarded the construction of the NIC Circle 380/132kV substation project in NEOM to the Al Gihaz Contracting Company. The value of the contract is SAR 515 million ($137.4 million). The scope of works includes the construction of a new indoor 380/132kV Gas Insulated Substation (GIS) to be known as NIC Circle BSP. Major equipment includes 380kV GIS, 132kV GIS, 502MVA power transformers, reactors, protection and control system, substation automation system, telecommunication system, security system, cyber security, civil
Al Yamamah Steel Industries Co. has
Electrical Transmission Line Construction Co
and electro-mechanical works. The scope
announced that a contract for the delivery
Ltd (AETCON), and as part of the contract,
of works of this project also includes the
of steel towers for 380 kV transmission
the company will supply the steel towers
expansion of the Dhuba Green Substation.
lines has been awarded. The contract is
for constructing a 380 kV link between
worth SAR 178.6 million ($47.6 million).
Buhirah Station and Tabarjal Station.
The project was awarded by the Arabian
The contract will last for 12 months.
The scope of works includes the construction of a new indoor 380/132kV Gas Insulated Substation
THE COMPANY WILL SUPPLY THE STEEL TOWERS FOR CONSTRUCTING A 380 KV LINK BETWEEN BUHIRAH STATION AND TABARJAL STATION
News
DAR AL ARKAN ANNOUNCES STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIP WITH COMPASS PROJECT CONSULTING
Dur Hospitality Awards $22 Million Residential Compound THE FIRST PROJECT DEVELOPMENT AND SUPERVISION CONSULTANCY IN SAUDI ARABIA BACKED BY ONE OF THE REGION’S LARGEST REAL ESTATE DEVELOPERS
Dur Hospitality has
electromechanical work.
awarded the contract
The project is distinguished
related to the construction
by its proximity to the
of a luxurious residential
northern gate of Riyadh's
compound on King
diplomatic quarter, as
Khalid Road in Riyadh to
well as the offices of some
Al Murshid Contracting
of the country's most
Group Co. The value of
powerful government
the contract is SAR 82.5
agencies and ministries.
Dar Al Arkan and Compass
Ziad El Chaar, Vice Chairman
million and the total
Project Consulting have
of Dar Al Arkan, said: “We
area to be developed is
established a partnership
are extremely proud of this
approximately 30,000m2.
to build one of the most
progressive partnership which
progressive real estate
brings together two industry
the building of 75 luxury and
development consultancies
leaders who are best in their
distinctive residential villas
in Saudi Arabia and the GCC.
field. This will allow Dar Al
of various sizes, as well as
For the first time, a leading
Arkan to power Compass with
landscape works, and will be
Saudi developer will be
expert development insight and
built according to the most
bolstering a regional Project
the opportunity to reach new
up-to-date specifications
Management Consultancy,
heights. Dar Al Arkan will provide
and requirements for smart
enhancing property
development, procurement,
villas. The contract includes
acquisition, development
business development services
the completion of all
and supervision offerings.
for the new partnership.”
construction, finishing, and
The project will consist of
The project will consist of the building of 75 luxury and distinctive residential villas of various sizes
11
12
News
AGREEMENT TO OPEN RITZ-CARLTON AND LUXURY COLLECTION HOTELS IN NEW CULTURAL HUB Marriott International, Inc. has signed an agreement with Diriyah Gate Development Authority to open two luxury hotels as part of the Diriyah Project. Situated around the UNESCO World Heritage Site of At-Turaif, the properties will bring modern and distinct views on luxury to the historic town of Diriyah, set to become one of the world’s most admired cultural and heritage cities. “We are delighted to be working with the Diriyah Gate Development Authority and look forward to elevating the luxury experience of the Diriyah Project with these two iconic and celebrated brands,” said Jerome Briet, Chief Development Officer, Europe, Middle East & Africa, Marriott International.
THE LUXURY HOTELS WILL MARK A NEW ERA OF UNRIVALLED ELEGANCE
ROSHN SELECTS RETAL TO ESTABLISH RESIDENTIAL NEIGHBORHOOD
NWC and UAQ Sign SR 495 Million Agreement
ROSHN has announced the signing
edge housing options for modern,
of a partnership with Retal Urban
upmarket urban neighbourhoods.
The National Water Company (NWC) and Umm Dl-
villas and townhouses within
“At ROSHN we have a firm
Qura for Development and Construction (UAQ), the
the first phase of SEDRA, the
commitment to work closely with
owner and master developer of the Masar Destination
company’s first living community
private sector developers, and I am
'Pathway Destination' project in Makkah, have signed
project in Riyadh.
a strategic agreement to build and supply drinking
Development for a new residential neighborhood consisting of 103
Commenting on the partnership, ROSHN Group CEO David Grover said:
very happy to see Retal joining us as our first
Retal was chosen for
water, provide sanitation services, and interconnect
the project for its
the internal networks for the 'Masar Destination'
track record of
projects in Makkah at a cost of SR 495 million.
creating fantastic
working closely Retal and all our
The general plan of Masar, according to UAQ, aims
homes, as well
to raise the level of urban and service development to
as for technical
become one of the best models of global development,
and commercial
and this agreement fits into that framework by providing
reasons. The
water and sanitation services that meet environmental,
company is
social, and corporate governance standards.
dedicated to developing cutting-
such partner. I look forward to
ROSHN and Retal share a vision of housing that is both environmentally friendly and technologically advanced
future partners in our journey of delivering great communities across Saudi Arabia.”
News
13
YORK SIGNS MOU WITH KING ABDULLAH PORT In line with Saudi Arabia's
of local content and
Vision 2030 goal to
the National Industrial
develop the capabilities
Development and Logistics
of the marine sector
Program (NIDLP) and
in the Kingdom, the
provide technical support for
Ports Development
establishing a marine office
Company (PDC), the
and the required facilities
owner and developer
to offer vessel maintenance
of King Abdullah Port,
and repair services at
signed a Memorandum of
King Abdullah Port.
Understanding (MoU) with
The agreement also
Al Salem Johnson Controls
includes the provision to
(YORK), the leading
strengthen the cooperation
provider of integrated
between both parties to
solutions in HVAC-R, fire,
provide the necessary
safety, security systems
solutions to facilitate
and building management
the comprehensive
systems and controls.
diversification of the services
“The main objectives of the memorandum are to support the development
The agreement aims to improve the Kingdom’s marine services by providing marine vessel maintenance and repair services
at King Abdullah Port.
14
News
SNC-LAVALIN AWARDED CONTRACT BY THE ROYAL COMMISSION FOR RIYADH CITY SNC-LAVALIN WILL PROVIDE PROGRAM AND PROJECT MANAGEMENT SERVICES INTEGRATED WITH DIGITAL SOLUTIONS
SNC-Lavalin has been awarded a program
for Riyadh City on this significant project that will
management office (PMO) consultancy
transform the art and culture scene in Riyadh
services contract by The Royal Commission
and enhance the life of its citizens as part of
for Riyadh City (RCRC) to support its
Saudi Vision 2030 goals,” said Mohamed Youssef,
Architectural Projects Program (APP)
Senior Vice-President, Middle East and North
Department. The program will play a key role
Africa, Infrastructure, SNC-Lavalin. “By providing
in the transformation of iconic architectural,
our program and project management expertise
landscape and urban planning projects that
combined with digital solutions, The Architectural
will benefit the wider society and help position
Projects Program will feature state-of-the-art
Riyadh as one of the top 100 cities in the world.
innovative applications that will accelerate
“We are proud to support The Royal Commission
Saudi Re Maintains A3 Rating from Moody’s
efficiency and elevate quality in project delivery.”
VALARIS Announces Jackup Contract
Saudi Reinsurance Company (Saudi Re) has announced that Moody’s has maintained its Insurance Financial Strength Rating (IFSR) at A3 with a stable outlook. Based on Moody’s report, Saudi Re’s A3 IFSR rating reflects its strong market position and brand in Saudi Arabia as the sole professional reinsurer in the Kingdom, combined with its asset quality
Valaris Limited has announced that it
heavy-duty modern jackup VALARIS 116, and
strength as manifested in its conservative
has been awarded new bareboat charter
standard-duty modern jackups VALARIS 143
investment portfolio, along with its
agreements with ARO Drilling for several
and 146 will each begin three-year extensions
growing presence in the target markets
jackups. ARO Drilling has signed contracts
to their bareboat charter agreements.
of Asia, Africa, and Lloyd’s in the UK.
with Aramco for the same period.
The stable outlook rating is expected to
Following the completion of their existing
Aramco has also given ARO Drilling's rigs ARO 3003 and ARO 3004 five-year contract
further strengthen Saudi Re’s competitive
bareboat charter agreements with ARO
extensions, which began after their current
position and increase business growth
Drilling in December 2021, the heavy-duty
contracts expired in December 2021.
opportunities in the global markets.
harsh environment jackup VALARIS 250,
PIF News
AIRPORT OPERATORS TO TRANSFER TO THE PIF
KKR INVITES PIF TO BACK TELECOM ITALIA BID
fund is still in talks and hasn't decided whether or not to join the KKR partnership. KKR made a preliminary
According to reports, KKR &
takeover proposal for Telecom
Co. has reached out to Saudi
Italia in November valued
Arabia's national wealth
at around $12.2 billion. The
fund in search of co-investors
private equity firm said that
for its proposed acquisition
it’s pursuing a friendly bid
of Telecom Italia SpA.
and wants to work to gain the
According to the head of Saudi
also indicated that airports
Arabia's General Authority of
in Taif and Qassim are being
Civil Aviation, the country aims
considered for privatization
PIF to gauge its interest in
to turn its airport operators
and that requests to invest
providing capital for the
into holding companies and
in the Kingdom's aviation
bid. It has also held talks
transfer them to its Public
sector are being considered.
with other sovereign wealth
Investment Fund (PIF), with
The Kingdom's 22 airports will
funds and infrastructure
the goal of privatizing some
be reorganized into airport
investors about teaming up.
of them in the future.
holding companies that will
According to sources, the
Abdulaziz al-Duailej said that
15
KKR approached the
be in charge of construction,
PIF would play a minor part
Abha International Airport is
operation, and management.
in any transaction. The Saudi
currently being put on “the
They'll then be transferred to
privatization path” and is
the Public Investment Fund
going through final technical
(PIF), where they'll be placed
and economic studies. He
on the market at a later date.
board’s support for its offer.
KKR made a preliminary takeover proposal for Telecom Italia in November valued at about $12.2 billion PIF ANNOUNCES OIL PLATFORM THEMED TOURISM PROJECT, ‘THE RIG’ The Public Investment Fund
including extreme sports. In
(PIF) has developed a new
addition, steps will be taken
tourism concept inspired by
to ensure the long-term
‘offshore oil platforms’.
preservation of the ecosystem
The project, dubbed 'The Rig,'
in the project's proximity.
SAUDI PIF RANKS EIGHTH AMONG WORLD’S TOP SWFS
will cover more than 150,000m2
The Rig is part of the
and offer accommodation and
PIF's 2021-2025 strategy
aquatic sporting experiences.
to push innovation in
It will be the first tourism
Saudi Arabia's tourism and
According to current data from the SWF Institute, Saudi Arabia's
destination on offshore
entertainment industries, as
Public Investment Fund (PIF) remained in eighth place among the
platforms in the world.
well as provide development
world's largest sovereign wealth funds (SWFs) at the end of 2021.
Located in the Arabian Gulf,
prospects to foster economic
The assets of the Kingdom's sovereign wealth fund increased by $30
it will include three hotels,
diversification in line with
billion to $480 billion in October 2021, up from $450 billion.
restaurants, helipads, and a
Saudi Vision 2030 goals.
By 2025, the PIF wants to have a total asset volume of more than SAR 4 trillion, or $1,066 trillion. Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has announced that the fund wants to reach SAR 10 trillion ($2.7 trillion) in assets by 2030.
By 2025, the PIF wants to have a total asset volume of more than SAR 4 trillion
variety of exciting activities,
16
PIF News
PIF Subsidiary JADA Backs Saudi Energy Technologies and Services Private Equity Group
SAUDI CROWN PRINCE UNVEILS $20 BILLION PLAN TO TRANSFORM JEDDAH The master plan for the SR75 billion Jeddah Central Project, formerly known as New Jeddah Downtown, has been unveiled by Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud. The massive project will be erected over 5.7 million square metres of land facing the Red Sea and will be financed by the Public Investment Fund, as well as local and international investors. The launch of the master plan comes as part of the Crown Prince’s efforts to develop all regions and cities of the Kingdom. The initiative aims to create a world-class attraction in the centre of Jeddah,
JADA Fund of Funds, wholly owned by the Public
overlooking the Red Sea, and will boost the city's economy, the Crown Prince
Investment Fund (PIF), has become the anchor
explained.
investor of Saudi Arabia-based Energy Capital Group’s
The massive project will be erected over 5.7 million square metres
(ECG) new fund. The new fund has been
the creation of National
formed with a merger
Champions in energy
between ECG and
and energy-related
Cayan Holdings. ECG
technologies.
SECONDARY PUBLIC OFFERING REACHES SAR 12 BILLION
and Cayan Holdings led
Ali Abdulaziz Alturki
multiple private equity
commented that the
funds, which invested
fund’s strategy is aligned
in regional and global
with Saudi’s Vision 2030
A secondary public offering has been completed successfully by the Public
energy and technology
and Aramco’s IKTVA
Investment Fund (PIF) and Saudi Telecom Company (stc), Saudi Arabia's premier
companies. From 2008,
program. The main goal
ICT provider, whose ordinary shares are listed on the Saudi Stock Exchange.
the previous private
is to acquire leading
120 million shares representing 6.0%
equity funds, launched
local companies to
and exited, achieved
develop local content
impressive multiples
and bolt-on cutting-
and provide a proven
edge technologies
track record of growing
for transfer to Saudi.
portfolio companies,
The fund will focus on
primarily within Saudi
establishing a solutions
of stc’s share capital were offered to local and international institutional investors as well as retail investors through a secondary public offering, the first of its kind in the Saudi Capital Market. The total offering size reached SAR
The successful offering was oversubscribed by retail and institutional investors
Arabia and the GCC.
and technology-oriented
12 billion ($3.2 billion), which makes
The new fund between
National Champion
it the largest equity capital markets
both groups will target
across the energy sector.
transaction in Saudi Arabia since the IPO of Saudi Aramco, the largest secondary follow-on transaction in EMEA in the last three years, and the largest secondary follow-on transaction in Central and Eastern Europe, Middle East, and Africa in nearly 10 years.
The main goal is to acquire leading local companies to develop local content and bolton cutting-edge technologies for transfer to Saudi
Appointments
17
HKA Continues to Expand its Global Footprint with New Appointment HKA has announced Ahmad Chit has joined
From North America to Europe, Africa, Asia
the firm as Director, based in Dubai, as it
and the Middle East, Ahmad has extensive and
continues to expand its Forensic Accounting
diverse investigation and dispute experience.
and Commercial Damages (FACD) practice
As a forensic expert, Ahmad has worked on a
worldwide, which now includes over
variety of engagements for regulatory bodies,
55 FACD Experts and Consultants.
law enforcement agencies, courts and tribunals,
Ahmad will play a critical role in the further development and growth of the firm’s FACD
legal counsel, and large financial institutions. Commenting on his move, Ahmad said:
service offering in the Middle East across a wide
“I’m excited to join HKA at a key time for
variety of industries, jurisdictions and forums.
the forensic field in the MENA Region.
Haroon Niazi, Partner and Head of the Middle
Sentiments about fraudulent activity are
East said: “We are delighted to welcome
rapidly shifting from being viewed as “just
Ahmad to HKA and look forward to working
the cost of doing business” to a much more
with him to help grow our FACD offering
urgent and nuanced understanding of the
throughout the Middle East. With many of our
need to manage and combat such risks. HKA
clients requesting assistance in dealing with
has the track record and established experts
forensic accounting, fraud and investigation
across the region and beyond to assist clients
matters, we are pleased that with the growth
with this critical risk mitigation” he added.
of our team, we are now in a stronger position to advise and to grow this practice.” Ahmad is a qualified Chartered Accountant from Canada with over 13 years of experience in the forensic, assurance, and compliance fields. He is experienced
BAHMAD IS A QUALIFIED CHARTERED ACCOUNTANT FROM CANADA WITH OVER 13 YEARS OF EXPERIENCE IN THE FORENSIC, ASSURANCE, AND COMPLIANCE FIELDS
in providing forensic accounting, fraud analysis, quantification of damages and accountants’ negligence assessments.
Serco Middle East Welcomes Growth Director International public services company, Serco, has welcomed Natasha Bothma as Growth Director as it eyes significant growth across the region. As Growth Director, Natasha will join Serco Middle East’s Executive Leadership team and work to deliver an effective business growth strategy for each of the company’s key sectors; transport, citizen and government services, defence, healthcare and justice & immigration.
Natasha will work alongside the business development team and operation directors as well as lead Serco’s ExperienceLab, with particular focus on strategy execution, key account management, external communications and proactive stakeholder engagement. Natasha joins the business from NATS services in Asia Pacific where she most recently held the title of Operations Director. A previous Serco employee, her Middle East experience spans over 10 years.
NATASHA WILL WORK ALONGSIDE THE BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT TEAM AND OPERATION DIRECTORS
WE ANTICIPATE. WE INVESTIGATE. WE RESOLVE.
MAKING THE BEST POSSIBLE OUTCOMES A REALITY, EVERY TIME
HKA.COM
HKA decodes complexity to manage risk, uncertainty and disputes so as to achieve the best possible outcomes for our clients, every time.
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HKA is the leading global consultancy in risk mitigation and dispute resolution, using multi-disciplinary expertise to provide a comprehensive set of specialist services.
• • •
Expert, Claims and Advisory services for the capital projects and infrastructure sector. Forensic Accounting and Commercial Damages services for all types of contracts, including commercial and investment treaty disputes, fraud and financial investigations.
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countries
Consulting services to support companies in relation to Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA) matters.
HKA brings a proud record of excellent service and high achievement to bear on today’s challenges. As trusted independent consultants, experts and advisors, we help clients manage disputes, risk and uncertainty on complex contracts. Our KSA direct experience proudly expands over 20 years. We have a permanent in-Kingdom team with offices strategically located to ensure that we can better serve our clients and anticipate their needs.
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Our clients HKA has long-standing, established relationships with government agencies, blue-chip clients, contractors, legal firms and other professional service providers, as well as owners and operators, financial institutions and insurers. Clients have access to leaders and problem-solvers who decode complexity through collaborative working and innovative thinking.
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KSA projects analysed for CRUX 2021*
Our industries HKA’s global portfolio includes some of the world’s largest and most prestigious projects. We have vast first-hand experience spanning all major industries and covering the world’s most complex mega projects, as well as an international track record of achieving successful outcomes. *Visit hka.com/crux-interactive-dashboard to find out the main causes of claims and disputes on engineering and construction projects in KSA.
HKASAUDI@HKA.COM
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experts in the WWL ranking
DECODING COMPLEXITY
20
Cover story - Whitespace Architects
WHITESPACE ARCHITECTS:
BEAUTY IN FORM, VALUE IN FUNCTION
WHITESPACE ARCHITECTS IS AN INTERNATIONAL TEAM OF ARCHITECTS, DESIGNERS, ENGINEERS AND CREATIVE THINKERS OPERATING WITHIN THE FIELDS OF ARCHITECTURE, URBAN DESIGN, ENGINEERING, AUGMENTED REALITY, VISUAL REALITY, AND DEVELOPMENT. THIS BROAD ARRAY OF EXPERTIZE ALLOWS IT TO PROVIDE EXCELLENCE IN ARCHITECTURE, URBANISM AND ENGINEERING SERVICES.
T
he firm’s multicultural team, with its collective experience, supports a mature stance for projects that look to heritage and
culture, as well as the contemporary world. From its regional offices in the UAE, Netherlands and Egypt, Whitespace has managed to complete a diverse and sizable number of successful projects with the most reputable developers and individuals in the Middle East and Europe. Whitespace Architect's global footprint provides staff with immense local knowledge and understanding, supplemented by access to a wealth of well-connected worldwide experts in many areas of design. This means that the firm can provide hands-on experience when delivering robust architecture and buildings in the region, bringing remarkable value to projects. This global and local understanding is a key factor in not only designing the buildings, but also knowing how to progress the design through collaborative partnering with local authorities and achieving the pre-requisite quality during the construction phase to ensure sustainability. RETHINKING TRADITION FOR A CONTEMPORARY LIFESTYLE Whitespace Architect's philosophy is based on the careful analysis of how contemporary life constantly evolves and changes. As a result, the architecture it seeks is a reflection of the many influences that society encounters through multicultural exchange, global economic flows and communication technologies, all of which come together to promote new ways of architectural and urban organization. At Whitespace Architect's, they believe that in order to deal with today’s challenges, architecture should move into new unexplored arenas, where it can blossom and become once again the true manifestation of man’s modern needs. The primary mission of the firm’s projects, then, is to achieve a balance between the effects of size and programmatic fusion on the triple bottom line of social, economic, and ecological outcomes.
Cover story - Whitespace Architects
WHY WHITESPACE ARCHITECTS?
WHITESPACE ARCHITECT'S APPROACH TO PROJECT AND PROGRAM MANAGEMENT GENERATES PERFORMANCE AND INNOVATION BEYOND THE QUANTITATIVE MEASURES OF TIME, COST, QUALITY, SUSTAINABILITY, AND SAFETY, AND THE FIRM BRINGS EXCEPTIONAL BENEFITS AND ADDS RECOGNIZABLE VALUE BY:
21
Designing state-of-the-art projects
These key features are hallmarks of
Robust expertise, globally and locally
Whitespace’s distinctive culture and will be
Time and budget security
ever-present throughout its appointment on
Quality Optimization
a project. The firm’s goal is to blend these
Technology-driven methodology
features with the key project stakeholders’
Effective communications and briefings,
requirements, to form one homogeneous
cultivating a two-way understanding
project team that is set up to succeed.
throughout the project lifecycle Win-win teams that work collectively with each other and put the project first
UNIQUE SOLUTIONS FOR LIFE MASDAR CITY will be a symbol of Abu Dhabi's exploration of, and commitment to, sustainable development. With the intent of becoming the physical manifestation of the Masdar initiative within Abu Dhabi, it is important to create a coordinated plan, and one which meets the vision for sustainability. The creation of two development squares means that the best design practices in different design situations can be demonstrated, with the large square including the higher density central business district and the small square achieving low-density residential communities.
As an integral part of the GREEK HARBOUR COMMUNITY, the mosque aspires to be a model of openness, reflective of contemporary Islamic aspirations in the region. The idea of openness extended beyond the formal manifestation of visual porosity, accessibility and climatic openness, to the embracing of different needs within the Muslim community. At the urban scale, the massing strategy seeks to create more porosity and human scale. This physical porosity allows a visual connection to the neighborhood and extends its spatial field beyond its boundary, but also imparts the sanctity and threshold expected of a mosque. Nestled along Egypt's coast with a pristine location 50 metres from the beach lies AL ALAMEIN HOTEL. A prime location for summer homes, El Alamein features distinctively designed houses, from beachfront villas to apartments and chalets. Set to be a retro-themed destination, Al Alamein hopes to attract a lively audience and provide entertainment activities. With 11 years of operating in the GCC and over 150 successfully completed projects, Whitespace invests heavily in proactive research and development ideas. Working closely with the client and end-users, the firm experiments and innovates to identify the optimum program, site, and context of a project. The result is architecture that enhances the human experience and meets clients’ goals, priorities, lifestyles and tastes.
11
AMSTERDAM
YEARS OPERATING IN GCC
140+
CAIRO DUBAI ABU DHABI
COLLECTIVE EXECUTIVE EXPERIENCE YEARS
150+ PROJECTS SUCCESSFULLY DELIVERED
8+
4
INTERNATIONAL LANGUAGES SPOKEN
OFFICES IN 3 CONTINENTS
TEAM CAPABILITIES
Architecture
Interiors
Master Planning
Engineering
Renovation
Sustainability
Project Management
WHITESPACE ARCHITECTS Whitespace Architects
wsa.architects
Whitespace Architects
www.whitespace.ae
+971 (0) 4451 6868 +31 (0) 61927 9288
24
Smart Cities
A ROADMAP TO THE FUTURE SMART CITIES ARE MORE THAN SIMPLY AN IDEA OR A PIPE DREAM. MANY ARE ALREADY OPERATIONAL AND MORE ARE COMING ONLINE THANKS TO REVOLUTIONARY SOLUTIONS PROVIDED BY THE INTERNET OF THINGS. IT’S NOT A NEW CONCEPT EITHER; AMSTERDAM WAS RANKED AS THE FIRST SMART CITY IN 1994.
So, what is a smart city? A smart
a single virtual platform to better manage
city is a framework for developing,
city operations, often collaborating with
deploying, and promoting sustainable
technology companies to take advantage of
development strategies to solve
already developed products or software.
growing urbanisation concerns. It is predominantly made up of information
This approach can be seen in new cities,
and communication technologies (ICT).
such as NEOM in Saudi Arabia, Songdo in South Korea and Masdar in the United Arab
Smart cities are associated with top-down or
Emirates, which have all used a top-down
technology-centric methods. Cities that take
approach, building from the ground up
this approach become smart by combining
utilising technology-enabled infrastructures.
data from various types of sensors (such
However, older cities all over the world are now
as water meters and CCTV cameras) into
becoming ‘smart’ to address the requirements
Smart Cities
and desires of its citizens. They do this by
NEOM
expanding on the capabilities of IoT-enabled
This vision of the smart city probably
devices, so instead of just marvelling at the
reaches its apex in NEOM, Saudi Arabia’s
possibilities of your laptop communicating
new vision of what the future could be.
with your doorbell, smart city designers and developers make sure that all of those
Saudi Arabia aspires to provide a high-
networked products and systems get along.
quality lifestyle to its residents through the development of NEOM, which includes
Smart cities demonstrate that technology
modern architecture, a smart mobility system,
and success extend beyond infrastructure
appropriate water and energy, public systems,
innovation and data management. Cities are
and lush green spaces. The city is also being
responsive. Companies and residents can
envisioned by the Kingdom as a future
examine how they are operating, discover
center for nine industries: energy and water,
methods to increase their desire to live
mobility, technology and digital sciences,
sustainably, and implement their feedback to
food, biotech, advanced manufacturing, media
improve their living and working conditions.
and media production, entertainment, and living (education, housing and healthcare).
The Kingdom's temperature and wind velocity are ideal for powering NEOM with 100% renewable energy
25
26
Smart Cities
NEOM will be a place where technology will
SMART CITY INDEX 2021
For the first time, Smart City Expo World
replace a lot of mundane jobs, while sensors
For the second year in a row, Abu Dhabi and
Congress and Tomorrow Mobility were
will enable the data-gathering process, allowing
Dubai have been ranked as the smartest
jointly held with PUZZLE X, the latter a
the city to constantly monitor how people live
cities in the Middle East and North Africa
new event aimed at grasping the potential
and consume in a smart city environment.
region, as per the Smart City Index 2021.
of Frontier materials to solve some of the challenges that society is facing
The Kingdom's temperature and wind velocity
While Abu Dhabi is ranked 28, Dubai
are ideal for powering NEOM with 100%
is close behind at 29, out of 118 cities.
On their first hybrid edition, SCEWC and
renewable energy. The average wind speeds
Compared to 2020, both the emirates
TMWC also registered 16,000 digital attendees
are 10.3 meters per second, which is more than
climbed up 14 places globally.
who followed the three days of content and
enough because wind power plants require
interviews broadcasted through Tomorrow.
wind speeds of around six meters per second
The top three smart cities are:
City, the event’s digital platform. Over 50% of
to generate electricity. Of course, Saudi Arabia
1. Singapore
in-person attendees came from overseas.
possesses a lot of solar power potential too.
2. Zurich 3. Oslo
Furthermore, the transportation system will be
WORLD SMART CITY AWARDS The city of Buenos Aires received the City award
fully automated and environmentally friendly,
The annual IMD-SUTD Smart City Index,
of 2021 at the Smart City Expo World Congress.
and will effectively reduce traffic congestion.
now in its third edition, was produced
The recognition for the Argentinian capital
by the International Institute for
was announced during the 2021 World Smart
NEOM will be a smart city created from the
Management Development and Singapore
City Awards ceremony hosted in Barcelona.
ground up. It will be a utopia for people who
University of Technology and Design.
Eight more awards were given to the most
wish to innovate and bring fresh creations into the world - something truly unique.
outstanding initiatives and projects in the urban In July 2021, 15,000 people from 118 cities around the world were polled. They were
SAUDI VISION
asked how their cities fared in terms of health
Saudi Arabia has been working towards
and safety, mobility, activities, employment
creating more interconnected, smart
and educational prospects, and governance
cities for several years now.
- the results created the rankings. One of the most notable points to come out of the
The Kingdom published its Vision 2030 strategy
survey was the fact that people’s attitudes had
in 2016 and has made significant progress in
sharpened regarding digital transformation
the technology sector since then. Indeed, it has
and smart cities due to the pandemic.
been actively working on smart city projects in 10 cities as part of the plan and was ranked
SMART CITY EXPO
second among G20 countries in the Digital
The progress of the smart city concept
Competitiveness Report for the year 2021.
was recently witnessed at the Smart City Expo World Congress (SCEWC), the leading
There are many initiatives currently underway
international summit for cities and smart
that aim to enhance digital infrastructures, such
urban solutions organized by Fira de
as the National Industrial Development and
Barcelona, and the Tomorrow Mobility
Logistics Program (NIDLP), which will develop
World Congress (TMWC), which came
advanced infrastructure for 35 cities globally.
together to reconnect the urban innovation ecosystem for three days in Barcelona.
THE ASIAN INFRASTRUCTURE Investment Bank (AIIB), which began operations in
With over 14,000 attendees from 120
2016, has the Kingdom as a founding
countries, 400 cities and 350 experts, the
member, too. The AIIB was established
events spurred again the global debate
to promote economic development and
on urban transformation with resiliency,
infrastructure connectivity in Asia and
sustainability and liveability as the key
beyond by investing in environmentally clean,
topics in a post-pandemic landscape.
sustainable, and innovative infrastructure.
innovation and transformation industry.
Smart Cities
27
The city of Buenos Aires received the City award of 2021 at the Smart City Expo World Congress
Saudi Arabia was ranked second among G20 countries in the Digital Competitiveness Report for the year 2021
Carlos Moreno, was recognized for “his 15-minute cities vision and also for bringing new perspectives to urban challenges.”
Buenos Aires was awarded
The remaining awards - Enabling
for its Municipal Solid Waste
Technologies, Governance and
Management Plan. Since 2012,
Economy, Living and Inclusion,
it has been implementing an
Energy and Environment, Safety
Integrated Municipal Solid
and Security, Mobility and
Waste Management Plan that
Innovation Recovery - were
promotes waste reduction,
presented to the Digital Urban
encourages waste segregation
European Twins by the Digital
and is consistently reducing waste
Flanders Agency (Belgium), the
disposition in local landfills.
G20 Global Smart Cities Alliance on Technology Governance at
Benedetta Tagliabue and Carlos
the World Economic Forum, the
Moreno jointly received the
innovative implementation of
Leadership award for their
online governance in Chengdu
significant contributions to
(China), Living Lab Scheveningen
advancing smart city projects
in The Hague (Netherlands),
worldwide during the last 10 years.
Cisco’ deployment of a secure
According to the jury, the Italian
infrastructure for the Albuquerque
architect Benedetta Tagliabue
Bernalillo County Water Utility
received the award for “bringing
Authority (USA), the Smart Mobility
beauty and liveability to cities
Analytics developed by the Port
through the redesign of public
of Barcelona (Spain), Wuhan
spaces and urban buildings.”
City’s (China) use of Big Data
The scientist and Mayor of Paris’
Intelligence to promote recovery
special envoy for Smart Cities,
after the pandemic, respectively.
28
GETTING TO KNOW Tim Martin, Gensler
MAKING THE WORLD A BETTER PLACE S
TIM MARTIN, MANAGING DIRECTOR, GENSLER
erving more than 3,500 active
Saudi Projects: How long has Gensler
TM: Yes, it is. There’s a lot of investment,
clients in virtually every
been operating in Saudi Arabia?
research and diversification, so it’s a very
industry across the world, Gensler
Tim Martin: The firm started back in 1965
key part of our overall growth. We like
has shown itself to be a positive force
and we’ve now got 50 offices globally,
to say we’re the leaders in shaping the
for change in the architecture, design
but we’ve been present, with a physical
iconic structures and skylines and defining
and planning arena. The firm puts
base, in the Middle East since 2007,
the cities and communities, so it’s a very
tremendous effort into promoting
although we completed projects in the
pivotal market for Gensler at present.
greater sustainability in the built
Kingdom and the wider region before
environment and is committed
that. Our drive for opening up Dubai
SP: Why do you think Gensler is such
to promoting the best design for
when we first started was the Dubai
a good fit for the Kingdom, because
every building – environmentally,
International Finance Centre (DIFC)
it is a very different market isn’t it?
aesthetically and functionally.
project, which is now one of the world’s
TM: It is a different market, but I think it
Moreover, over the past 18 months,
most advanced financial centers; we did
goes back to the whole Gensler mission of
Gensler has sharpened its climate
the building and the master planning.
making the world a better place through
action focus with fresh research and
the power of design. We’re incredibly
new design capabilities, and has
We’re very much a practice area driven
committed to shaping the future of world
updated its priorities to meet the
firm, and currently, here in the Middle
cities. A really important aspect, and I
firm’s goal of achieving a net zero
East we’re working in quite a few of
think this is where we really help in the
carbon portfolio by 2030. We speak to
those practice areas – I would say
Middle East, is climate change, and how
Managing Director, Tim Martin, to find
primarily hospitality, workplace, mixed-
we can design and ultimately build in
out more about Gensler’s philosophy
use and retail are our biggest spheres
a highly sustainable and reliant way.
of making the world a better place
of continued growth at the moment.
through the power of design, focusing
At the moment we’re looking at the
on its ever-growing business in
SP: And is this an increasingly
future of mobility in cities, along with
Saudi Arabia and the wider region.
important market for the company?
technology and smart cities. I believe we
GETTING TO KNOW Tim Martin, Gensler
29
SP: What is Gensler working on
THROUGHOUT OUR WHOLE PORTFOLIO, WE’RE DOING A LOT OF REALLY EXCITING MASTER PLANS AND URBAN PLANS
in KSA at the present time? TM: We’re working on multiple projects, not just in Riyadh but across the whole Kingdom. It’s very hard to talk about specifics, but we’re working on numerous giga-projects on the Red Sea as well as being active in the capital. Throughout our whole portfolio, we’re working on many exciting master plans and urban plans, all the way through to workplace projects. It’s not about size or scale for us; we’re very much a client-focused business and we do whatever projects our clients require. One of the key projects and one I can talk about is the new 1364 development. This is in the Diplomatic Quarter in Riyadh with our friends at Unified Real Estate. It’s opening up next year and will be a unique lifestyle center. We are working closely with His Highness and the Unified team to try and reflect the unprecedented change that is taking place in Saudi society. I believe they call it an ‘oasis of luxury in a bustling part of the Diplomatic Quarter’ – so that’s something that’s really exciting for us. It’s great to see this thing being
have a very unique viewpoint, fuelled by
TM: People were just talking about it
built. So, we’re working on large schemes,
our own research institute and around
a lot in the past, but Gensler is already
obviously in KAFD, and the majority of the
50 researchers with really diverse
forging ahead into the new era of smart
giga-projects in some way, shape or form.
backgrounds, everyone from architects
sustainability, using technology to solve
to lawyers. It’s about how we lead the
design issues. We’ve also introduced
SP: There does seem a healthy
conversation. Again, our group globally
a new practice area focused solely on
pipeline of projects?
is very diverse, and we think that’s
sustainability and net zero energy.
TM: Yes, it’s a really bright future in the
particularly important in Saudi Arabia.
Looking globally, our 2020 portfolio
pipeline. And I think that comes back to
is already designed to save over 17
Gensler leading the conversation. I have
In terms of practice areas – we have 28
million metric tonnes of CO2 from being
10 or 12 of my global offices working
now – we’re focusing on specific expertise
emitted on an annual basis. Net zero
alongside me in the Kingdom, and
for those various fields of knowledge.
energy buildings are a real pillar of our
we’ve got 70+ people based in the UAE.
And that helps us to understand what’s
approach at the moment; we’re trying
We’re looking at how we can grow that
going on globally, but just as important,
to leverage renewable energy sources
throughout the region, too. Collaborating
what’s happening locally as well. One
and efficient design choices, so the next
with so many global offices allows us to
of our 10 key mission statements is that
generation of buildings can achieve
have a deep pool of expertise, and we
you can’t be global unless you’re local.
net-zero energy status. We’ve been
promote this ‘borderless design firm’
doing this for some time. We’re part
approach. It’s not just about where the
SP: You mentioned building in
of the net zero global campaign, and
project is located, it’s about what’s the
a sustainable manner, and the
ultimately every building we produce
best expertise we can bring to the table
desire for sustainability has really
will be net zero and free of all the fossil
that’s right for the client and right for the
moved on in the last few years – it
fuels, and that will compensate for a
setting and social setting of the project.
used to be more of a buzzword?
structure’s annual energy consumption.
30
GETTING TO KNOW Tim Martin, Gensler
EMAAR DHE
HIPSI VIETTEL HQ
EMAAR DHE
HIPSI VIETTEL HQ
SP: Looking back, what are you most proud of? TM: We’ve been very fortunate. We’ve had the opportunity to work with the biggest names, as well as some start-up companies in many different industries. By combining our design knowledge with the rich history and philosophies of the Middle East, we’ve been lucky enough to
EMAAR DHE
WE’RE WORKING IN SEVEN OR EIGHT COUNTRIES AROUND THE MIDDLE EAST AT THE MOMENT AND WE’RE SEEING A VERY STRONG MARKET DEMAND
projects. Going back to our ethos, we have the global knowledge but we are genuinely local and understand the nuances of the region and society. SP: I guess you win projects through word-of-mouth, too? TM: A lot of our projects are recommendations from existing clients,
create some of the region’s best works.
We’re concentrating at the moment on
and that’s a testament to what the
The DIFC I think has to stand out there;
creating some new technologies that
team has done here for many years
it’s a multi-award winning project and
will focus on enhancing the wellbeing of
now. It’s good to be busy, but it’s even
set the stage for a lot of design across
communities – obviously concern for the
better when a client comes through a
the region. The Avenues in Kuwait was
environment is key to everything we do.
recommendation. It’s a reconfirmation
another very significant project, and I
that what we’re doing is the right path
think changed the landscape of those
Probably the biggest thing we are proud
forward. We’re here to challenge our
particular countries and developments.
of is having so many repeat clients.
clients, not just to take a brief and
But what we’re most proud of is how we
They have that trust in Gensler and
design it. We want to make it the best
continue to grow and evolve our practice
the incredible team we have here, and
for the client, the economy, for return
areas, our people and our knowledge.
we keep delivering these world-class
investments and the environment.
GETTING TO KNOW Tim Martin, Gensler
WE’RE INCREDIBLY COMMITTED TO SHAPING THE FUTURE OF WORLD CITIES SP: How has the Covid-19
31
SP: So there have been some positives
Gensler is incredibly committed to the
to come out of Covid for Gensler?
Middle East; we see it as a very long term
TM: It hit everyone, but yes, overall
and key part of our business, and in the
it goes back to what a great firm
region, we only see positive growth. We’re
Gensler is, to be honest; how we
extraordinarily fortunate to be part of the
can adapt, grow and learn.
Middle East right now. I think it’s a really
pandemic affected Gensler,
important time to be here, with the region
and how has it changed the
SP: What is the company doing
continuing to rise on the global scene.
company philosophy, if at all?
well at the moment, and where is
We’re growing our team and expanding
TM: It was a fascinating time in a business
there an opportunity for growth?
our practice areas, which is basically
sense, as it was for the rest of the world.
TM: We’ve seen a lot of our practice areas
enabling us to be future-ready. And we’re
The whole firm went from working in the
evolve and transform into proprietary
excited to continue to partner with our
office to working at home overnight. To be
computational design tools. I think it’s all
friends and clients, and I think there’s
honest, it worked incredibly well. We’re a
about the process and process innovation,
going to be continued growth and success
very connected group anyway, globally,
and how we look at that moving into
for everyone for quite some years to come.
and I think in this part of the world we’re
the future. Another part of that, going
used to jumping on calls with other parts
back to the Gensler research institute, is
SP: Finally, going for net zero, is the
of the firm. But we took time to digest
our data-driven insight, which helps to
region a good place to be at the moment
everything and, from day two, look at
predict what’s coming up and what the
compared to other places in the world?
what the post-Covid world would look like.
trends are. This has allowed us to stay
TM: The Middle East has a real chance
Going back to climate change, we then
one step ahead, providing counsel to
to make some significant gestures and
started to look at how the Middle East
our clients and extending our analysis.
significant changes, and a lot of the
has started to be remarkably proactive
projects we are working on are in the
in developing smart cities. How the
early concept stage. It’s not necessarily
technology was taking an increasingly important role within everything we’re doing in the region. We’re always a company that adapts and learns, and Covid gave us that pause, that moment to focus the firm on the direction that we are taking and reaffirming that direction,
WE CAME OUT OF COVID STRONGER, WITH LOTS OF NEW INITIATIVES AND GOALS AND SOME GREAT NEW TECHNOLOGIES
and how we can enhance what we are
the regeneration of an existing city; that will be more complex to do. But a lot of the projects that are coming out of the ground, if you are in early enough, sustainability becomes part of that project ethos. So, yes, I think the Middle East is truly committed to growing and I think it is a good place to be for that reason.
doing. We’ve found some great new
Our teams focus on designing
ways to collaborate with clients – having
sustainability, and by using fewer
meetings on the screen instead of face-
resources that do less or no more
to-face, for instance, gave us the ability
damage to the environment, it’s really
to get decisions made quite quickly.
progressing the whole concept into
Putting things on the screen made it
the future. Our goal is to have net zero
a more collaborative process, and we
design in everything we do by 2030.
saw that people who are usually a little quieter face-to-face had more robust
I think the construction and engineering
viewpoints on an interactive forum.
sectors here are set for a great recovery. The government stimulus will help that
And with six thousand Gensler people
and it’s an exciting place to be. Gensler
GENSLER
around the world being able to draw
has grown consistently since it started
+971 (0)4 356 1300
from our pool even deeper was a great
and we continue to increase that global
facebook @GenslerDesign
experience. We came out of Covid
footprint. Furthermore, we’re working
Instagram @gensler_design
stronger, with lots of new initiatives and
in seven or eight countries around the
Linkedin @Gensler
goals and some great new technologies
Middle East at the moment and we’re
twitter @gensler_design
that we’re beginning to implement now.
seeing a very strong market demand. www.gensler.com
32
Getting to know Iryna Akulenka, HKA
WHAT MAKES A GREAT CONSULTANT CONSULTANTS ARE EMPLOYED FOR TWO REASONS: THEIR EXPERTISE AND THEIR ADVICE. BUT WHAT DISTINGUISHES AN EXCELLENT CONSULTANT FROM A MEDIOCRE ONE? WELL, FIRST OF ALL, THERE IS A LOT OF EXPERTISE AROUND, WITH NEARLY EVERYONE KNOWING SOMETHING THAT OTHERS VALUE. HOWEVER, GIVING GOOD ADVICE IS MORE DIFFICULT, SINCE IT REQUIRES THE DELICATE SKILL OF CONNECTING YOUR EXPERTISE TO A CLIENT'S CONCERNS AND OFFERING REAL-WORLD SOLUTIONS. AN AVERAGE CONSULTANT OFFERS ADVICE, WHILE A GREAT CONSULTANT OFFERS PRECISION, PERCEPTION, AND ENCOURAGES ACTION. IRYNA AKULENKA IS JUST SUCH A CONSULTANT, WITH A TRACK RECORD THAT PLACES HER AT THE TOP OF HER PROFESSION.
I
ryna’s aspirations, intelligence
requires. We've been successful by taking
For instance, there is clear evidence that
and accomplishments make her
into consideration our clients' perspectives
Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) impacts
and soliciting feedback," Iryna explains.
bottom line profits, and as a member of the
stand out in a fiercely competitive industry. Over the past 12 months alone, she has
EDI committee at HKA, Iryna is one of the key
been promoted to the position of Senior
Besides being a Senior Consultant at HKA, Iryna
movers behind launching the HKA Internship
Consultant, HKA, undertaking six projects
takes on several external roles, underlining the
Program. Working on internship programs
worth billions of dollars in total value across
fact that she is a lifelong learner committed to
and the moot competitions has seen her build
six different countries in the MENA region,
staying on top of the best current and emerging
and develop mutually beneficial relationships
Gulf, and Europe. In addition, Iryna has been
business practices and wants to pass on this
with the British University in Dubai (BUiD)
elected to the Chair of the UAE Branch of the
knowledge to her colleagues and peers.
and the Middlesex University Dubai.
Talking about Iryna taking the Chair in the
Iryna is also one of the ambassadors/
Chartered Institute of Arbitrators (CIArb). An effective communicator and motivator
UAE Branch of the CIArb, Kate Blotskaya,
leadership board members of the HKA Africa
who identifies and leverages assets to reach
Senior Consultant at FTI Consulting, said:
Training Academy initiative, which operates
organizational goals, Iryna is a potent decision-
"She keeps inspiring me, and I believe all
as an extension to HKA's global claims and
maker and outstanding client relationship
members, to further develop, and provides
dispute business. Her expertise and passion
builder. She has extraordinary skills in planning
motivation for undertaking new challenges.
have helped support the launch of the
and thinking laterally too, and has a formidable
In addition, she promotes diversity and the
Academy, which includes various course
sense of curiosity, which helps her seek out
empowerment of women in the industry."
offerings, webinars and masterclasses.
for the status quo, Iryna asks challenging
BROAD EXPERTISE
In addition, Iryna is one of the champions
questions and explores different avenues.
Iryna has a long track record of
and regional representatives of the CRUX
new opportunities. Rather than settling
achievements, including many in the past
report, which provides valuable insight into
"We develop a lot of our services through
year that have fuelled not only the success
claims and dispute causation from major
identifying what the market is missing or what
of HKA but also that of many individuals
capital projects around the world. Iryna co-
isn't being done correctly. Then, we look at
and organizations throughout the world.
authored the Middle East chapter of this year’s
what our customers want and what the industry
CRUX report ‘Operating in Uncertain Times:
Getting to know Iryna Akulenka, HKA
33
IRYNA AKULENKA, SENIOR CONSULTANT, HKA
Iryna asks challenging questions and explores different avenues
Iryna is also one of the ambassadors/leadership board members of the HKA Africa Training Academy initiative
ATTENTION TO DETAIL
claim in the right time and manner. It helped
Over the past year alone, Iryna has taken on
us to save more than SAR 80 million".
a number of commissions for HKA, including: a major oil refinery, a five star resort, a major
Other clients have been equally effusive about
power plant, airport facilities, a mix-use
Iryna's abilities, with external counsel on a
project, and a potable water supply project.
5-star project in Dubai commenting: "Iryna is a great technical expert who can digest complex
A Regional Analysis of Claims and Dispute
The latter project was of significant importance
technical information and distil it into simple
Resolution'. On 23 February, Iryna is taking
to the client and crucial for the supply of
written evidence. She is excellent, responsive,
part in a panel discussion on the topic of ‘How
drinking water to the airport facilities in a
capable of getting to grips of technical issues,
can the Middle East construction industry
sustainable way. This was the first project
and pays careful attention to detail."
adapt to a ‘new normal?‘ organized by RICS
built for the client based on a PPP structure
World Built Environment Forum, HKA and
between the airport authorities and the
If you want a succinct description of a
moderated by Heriot-Watt University Dubai.
private sector. Iryna was able to prepare
great consultant, that’s probably it!
several persuasive claims advanced under Away from HKA, Iryna undertakes several
a very complex concession contract.
external roles, including Chair of the CIArb UAE Branch, and a member of the Global Advisory
These included an extension of time and
Board, ICDR Young & International (Y&I). In this
associated costs, other financial claims, and a
latter role, Iryna primarily organizes events/
claim for deemed completion on a specific date.
webinars on the salient topics in Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR). She has prepared
Mr Majeb Alodayani, CEO of the client's
a number of events, and in November 2021
organization, said: "Ms Iryna, being the right
co-organized and co-moderated a panel
person who understands the construction
on 'Delay, Disruption and Acceleration'.
phase very well in all project stages, did great help in achieving to complete the project
“It helped us to save more than SAR 80 million"
34
GETTING TO KNOW NICHOLAS BYRNE, VMI STUDIO
VMI STUDIO: THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN THE ORDINARY AND THE EXTRAORDINARY WHEN WE MEET SOMEONE IN PERSON, WE ASK QUESTIONS TO LEARN MORE ABOUT THEM. WE PAY ATTENTION TO THEIR STORIES, THOUGHTS, OPINIONS, AND CONVICTIONS. WE STRIVE TO LEARN MORE ABOUT THEM AND TELL OUR OWN TALE. THE ULTIMATE GOAL IS TO MAKE A CONNECTION. THE RULES OF BUSINESS ARE THE SAME. BUILDING A BRAND OR MARKETING A PRODUCT REQUIRES YOU TO TELL YOUR STORY. IT AIDS IN THE SHAPING OF PEOPLE’S PERCEPTIONS OF YOU AND ALLOWS CUSTOMERS TO BEGIN TO FORM A BOND WITH YOU AND YOUR ORGANISATION.
T
hat is why VMI Studio, which produces
slightly more focused on architecture and
This project illustrates perfectly VMI Studio’s
stunning visual imagery, animations
engineering. We’re more experientially focused,
point-of-difference: it is a creatively driven
and virtual reality experiences, is pushing the
so we do a lot of virtual reality, augmented
firm where each project is non-diagnostic,
boundaries of creativity in a broad array of
reality and installations, quite a few of the
with the team looking closely at each task
sectors, from property development through
latter in art galleries and museums.”
and deciding upon the best approach
to the art world and entertainment – creating stories that attract, enthral and engage viewers.
and technology to apply to it. There is no THERE IS NO ‘COOKIE-CUTTER’
‘cookie-cutter’ and nothing is off the table.
AND NOTHING IS OFF THE TABLE Working with groundbreaking tech, VMI Studio
For instance, VMI Studio worked on an
LOOKING INTO THE FUTURE
likes to do things differently, too, and isn’t afraid
exhibition at Somerset House in London with a
Nicholas began his working life studying the
to try new ideas. And because Saudi Arabia
renowned artist by the name of Matt Collishaw.
past as an archaeologist, working on many sites
has such an amazing vision of the future, it is
When in an art gallery, of course, visitors can
in Europe and the Caribbean, including Ostia
looking to quickly develop its presence in the
lose themselves in the Parisian nightlife of Henri
Antica, an archaeological site and harbour of
Kingdom, taking on ever more challenging
Toulouse-Lautrac or the mesmersing polka
ancient Rome, and St Kitts and Nevis sugar
projects and opening a new office in Riyadh. So
dots of Yayoi Kusama, all within the confines
plantations. “I took an interest in the 3D
if you’re ready to collaborate with other great
of four walls. However, a new dimension is
reconstruction of those sites, and myself and
minds and have your voice heard, read on!
emerging, one that expands physical space into
my professor at the time carved out a bit of a
an experimental virtual environment, and in the
speciality reconstructing scenes from the past.”
GOING BACK IN TIME
case of Somerset House recreate William Henry
Led by co-founder and director Nicholas
Fox Talbot’s first photography show, which took
Soon, though, Nicholas very much had his
Byrne, VMI Studio is a mission-driven,
place in Birmingham in 1839. Visitors were able
eye on the future, opening up an office in
culture-first company, where its people are
to put on their VR goggles and go into a virtual
Little Russell Street, opposite the British
its number one resource. Indeed, this is a
room where they could observe the artwork on
Museum, in London, leading to work with
business whose success is not only measured
the walls, as well as the glass display cabinets
some of the biggest names in the world,
by economic returns, but by executing
and equipment, exactly as they would have
including Foster + Partners. Nicholas
brilliant, successful projects that drive their
been presented approximately 180 years ago.
explains: “Today, we’re visualising the future
clients’ businesses forward, and that’s what the VMI Studio team really care about.
and crafting captivating storylines for new “We were visualising a scene from the 19th
developments all over the world, working
century, and we ended up having 60,000
with some amazing clients and providing
VMI Studio differentiates itself in a number
visitors attend; that’s the sort of traction you
a service that we believe is simply hard to
of important ways, with Nicholas explaining:
can gain from building more experiential
beat in terms of creativity and execution.”
“In our industry, we have, for want of a better
installations around a subject,” Nicholas said.
term, more straightforward firms that are
GETTING TO KNOW NICHOLAS BYRNE, VMI STUDIO
35
Those storylines have been seen in locations
“We were tasked with visualising this project
That is why VMI Studio, which produces
as diverse as Saudi Arabia, the UAE, the
using computer graphics, film, VR applications,
stunning visual imagery, animations and virtual
UK, the US, Australia and Europe, with
and worked really closely with the artist to
reality experiences, is pushing the boundaries
around 70% of its work being for high-end
show how this amazing artwork would look.
of creativity in a broad array of sectors, from
property developers, and the remainder
It was an astonishing project to work on
property development through to the art
for the arts and entertainment sectors.
because we had to visualise the Thames at
world and entertainment – creating stories
night, create the whole river in a 3D model,
that attract, enthral and engage viewers.
“The typical kind of project we work on is high-
get the animation working, the lighting
end residential in somewhere like Manhattan,”
accurate. It was a very technical, complex
Working with groundbreaking tech, VMI Studio
says Nicholas. “Just recently, we worked on
project, but also very artistically driven.”
likes to do things differently, too, and isn’t afraid
visualising a major tower in Times Square,
to try new ideas. And because Saudi Arabia
and the intention was to make the largest
It is little surprise, therefore, to discover
has such an amazing vision of the future, it is
experiential retail building in the world. There
that VMI Studio is very busy at present, with
looking to quickly develop its presence in the
are many large players looking to move into
most of its projects being in super-prime
Kingdom, taking on ever more challenging
that building, and our job was to visualise what
residential, as well as a number of large
projects and opening a new office in Riyadh. So
it would be like to be inside it, to visualise all of
retail projects in Manhattan, including a
if you’re ready to collaborate with other great
the activations and how the retail floor would
development on one of the world’s most
minds and have your voice heard, read on!
appear, what the hotel would look like, all
prestigious streets, Fifth Avenue.
the technology that would be applied. It was bringing to life something that didn’t exist, and
When we meet someone in person, we ask
also elevating that scheme to make it more
questions to learn more about them. We pay
impressive than other projects in Times Square.”
attention to their stories, thoughts, opinions, and convictions. We strive to learn more about
On the artistic front, VMI Studio worked on
them and tell our own tale. The ultimate goal
the ‘Illuminated River’ project in London,
is to make a connection. The rules of business
which transforms the capital at night,
are the same. Building a brand or marketing
bathing the bridges that cross the River
a product requires you to tell your story. It
Thames in environmentally-friendly LED
aids in the shaping of people’s perceptions
light. “We worked with an artist by the name
of you and allows customers to begin to form
of Leo Villareal to create this permanent art
a bond with you and your organisation.
installation – the longest geographical art installation in Europe,” Nicholas explains.
There is no ‘cookiecutter’ and nothing is off the table
36
GETTING TO KNOW NICHOLAS BYRNE, VMI STUDIO
GOING BACK IN TIME
and deciding upon the best approach
experiential retail building in the world. There
Led by co-founder and director Nicholas
and technology to apply to it. There is no
are many large players looking to move into
Byrne, VMI Studio is a mission-driven,
‘cookie-cutter’ and nothing is off the table.
that building, and our job was to visualise what
culture-first company, where its people are
it would be like to be inside it, to visualise all of
its number one resource. Indeed, this is a
the activations and how the retail floor would
business whose success is not only measured by economic returns, but by executing brilliant, successful projects that drive their clients’ businesses forward, and that’s what the VMI Studio team really care about. VMI Studio differentiates itself in a number of important ways, with Nicholas explaining:
Around 70% of its work is for high-end property developers, and the remainder for the arts and entertainment sectors
“In our industry, we have, for want of a better
appear, what the hotel would look like, all the technology that would be applied. It was bringing to life something that didn’t exist, and also elevating that scheme to make it more impressive than other projects in Times Square.” On the artistic front, VMI Studio worked on the ‘Illuminated River’ project in London, which transforms the capital at night, bathing
term, more straightforward firms that are
LOOKING INTO THE FUTURE
the bridges that cross the River Thames in
slightly more focused on architecture and
Nicholas began his working life studying the
environmentally-friendly LED light. “We worked
engineering. We’re more experientially focused,
past as an archaeologist, working on many sites
with an artist by the name of Leo Villareal
so we do a lot of virtual reality, augmented
in Europe and the Caribbean, including Ostia
to create this permanent art installation
reality and installations, quite a few of the
Antica, an archaeological site and harbour of
– the longest geographical art installation
latter in art galleries and museums.”
ancient Rome, and St Kitts and Nevis sugar
in Europe,” Nicholas explains. “We were
plantations. “I took an interest in the 3D
tasked with visualising this project using
For instance, VMI Studio worked on an
reconstruction of those sites, and myself and
computer graphics, film, VR applications,
exhibition at Somerset House in London with a
my professor at the time carved out a bit of a
and worked really closely with the artist to
renowned artist by the name of Matt Collishaw.
speciality reconstructing scenes from the past.”
show how this amazing artwork would look.
When in an art gallery, of course, visitors can
It was an astonishing project to work on
lose themselves in the Parisian nightlife of Henri
Soon, though, Nicholas very much had his
because we had to visualise the Thames at
Toulouse-Lautrac or the mesmersing polka
eye on the future, opening up an office in
night, create the whole river in a 3D model,
dots of Yayoi Kusama, all within the confines
Little Russell Street, opposite the British
get the animation working, the lighting
of four walls. However, a new dimension is
Museum, in London, leading to work with
accurate. It was a very technical, complex
emerging, one that expands physical space into
some of the biggest names in the world,
project, but also very artistically driven.”
an experimental virtual environment, and in the
including Foster + Partners. Nicholas
case of Somerset House recreate William Henry
explains: “Today, we’re visualising the future
It is little surprise, therefore, to discover
Fox Talbot’s first photography show, which took
and crafting captivating storylines for new
that VMI Studio is very busy at present, with
place in Birmingham in 1839. Visitors were able
developments all over the world, working
most of its projects being in super-prime
to put on their VR goggles and go into a virtual
with some amazing clients and providing
residential, as well as a number of large
room where they could observe the artwork on
a service that we believe is simply hard to
retail projects in Manhattan, including a
the walls, as well as the glass display cabinets
beat in terms of creativity and execution.”
development on one of the world’s most
and equipment, exactly as they would have been presented approximately 180 years ago.
prestigious streets, Fifth Avenue. Those storylines have been seen in locations as diverse as Saudi Arabia, the UAE, the
“We were visualising a scene from the 19th
UK, the US, Australia and Europe, with
century, and we ended up having 60,000
around 70% of its work being for high-end
visitors attend; that’s the sort of traction you
property developers, and the remainder
can gain from building more experiential
for the arts and entertainment sectors.
installations around a subject,” Nicholas said. “The typical kind of project we work on is highThis project illustrates perfectly VMI Studio’s
end residential in somewhere like Manhattan,”
point-of-difference: it is a creatively driven
says Nicholas. “Just recently, we worked on
firm where each project is non-diagnostic,
visualising a major tower in Times Square,
with the team looking closely at each task
and the intention was to make the largest
“Working with us is a completely different experience from working with other firms”
GETTING TO KNOW NICHOLAS BYRNE, VMI STUDIO
37
Two of the projects undertaken by VMI Studio in Saudi Arabia have been quite groundbreaking: the first sees people don VR headsets and fly around one of the Kingdom’s giga-projects, while the second is a large real-time installation that features the apartment of the future. Visitors can walk through the space and turn on a holographic AV system, allowing them to start to buy different assets and even design their apartment digitally first, own the 3D model rights, and then get the project created. This is one of the primary benefits of working with such things as CGI, film and animation – it’s possible to market and sell off-plan before construction has begun. But whether the client is a property developer or an art gallery, VMI Studio is visualising something that does not yet exist. Moreover, all of the images it produces are hyper-real, you really can’t tell the difference between them and the real thing. A UNIQUE CULTURE VMI Studio’s culture is very creative, but at the
“I do feel our approach is very suited to Saudi
same time, it is extremely disciplined. “When
Arabia – the Saudis seem to be a little more
we receive a brief, we spend several hours just
open to creating something quite powerful and
sketching out ideas and hypothesising how
a bit disruptor. There’s the opportunity to do
we can approach it. We have a questionnaire
stuff a little bit more unusual. That’s why we
that we ask ourselves: Is the client, for
will be opening up an office in the Kingdom in
example, really assessing this opportunity;
the next couple of months, building up a team
are they assessing what they can do with it? Then we go back to the client, usually with hand-drawn illustrations, illustrating what
PLAY VIDEO
of project managers that will allow us to utilise our phenomenal technology to visualise the past, present and future in many different ways
we think the project journey can be like.
for great clients that are looking to go beyond
We endeavour to understand the project
the norm. It just feels like the right place at
from an architect’s viewpoint, the client’s
other firms. You’re going to get something
the right team, with Vision 2030, alongside
viewpoint, and the end user’s standpoint. We
more creative, a little bit left of field, but
the tremendous foresight and entrepreneurial
consider all stakeholders,” Nicholas says.
still maintaining a high degree of quality.”
spirit in the Kingdom, dictating that this is the place to be,” Nicholas concludes
“I’m very proud of the team we have built
GOING BEYOND THE NORM
and I feel that our approach to projects is
VMI Studio has already successfully carried
quite unique, especially in the earlier phases,
out a few projects in Saudi Arabia, and it’s
“he continues. “We never just say we’ll do
already beginning to feel like home in a creative
great animation and Computer Generated
sense. “Effectively, our work is visualising
Images (CGI); that would make life rather
the future, and the 2030 Vision really piqued
dull. We always look to reinvent the wheel
our interest,” says Nicholas. “We visualise
VMI STUDIO
in each project. I think what I’m most proud
the future, and in some instances visualise
+44 (0) 208 8773 287
of is our approach to projects, the creativity,
the past. So, I think we are very much on the
info@vmistudio.com
and a lot of the technological IP we’ve built
same page as Saudi Arabia, a country that
Instagram @vmistudio
in-house. Working with us is a completely
is setting entirely new standards in large
Linkedin @VMI Studio
different experience from working with
high-end projects and sustainability.” www.vmistudio.com
38
BPD Supply Solutions
BPD SUPPLY SOLUTIONS: MAKING THE COMPLEX SIMPLE
BPD Supply Solutions
B
PD Supply Solutions has
GOING BEYOND LOGISTICS
financial advisor,” Sam says. “The
adopted the term ‘We make
Sam discovered through his vast
client is limited by the product range a
the complex simple’ because it
experience in the industry, including
freight forwarder sells, so the solution
encapsulates what the company
delivering world events such as the
offered may not be what’s wanted or
does. So, while it’s true that logistics
Winter Olympics in Korea, creating
needed. I act as an independent entity
planning operations are rarely, if
temporary power stations across some
on behalf of the client. I look to provide
ever, straightforward, BPD has the
very remote locations, and being able
clarity where clarity is lacking. So I work
skill-set and expertise required to
to respond immediately to support
with the client - consulting, training,
be able to help businesses enhance
humanitarian aid in crisis hit areas, that
mentoring, to help them build the
their operational efficiency and
there is a misunderstanding about the
capabilities within their organisation.”
gain a competitive advantage.
relationship between the shipper and the freight forwarder, and what can and
BIG OR SMALL, BPD CAN HANDLE IT ALL
Founded by Sam Hardwick, who has
cannot be done. “My job is to act as the
Often, clients turn to BPD when they
been in the logistics industry for 25+
‘translator’. I know what services both
have hit a bit of a brick wall, and the
years, BPD, a new, dynamic company
the shipper and the freight forwarder can
company then has the resources,
created to provide balance in an
offer, and it’s not quite as simple as 1+1 =
skills and knowledge to ‘get people
increasingly convoluted and multifaceted
2. It can often be quite confusing. Indeed,
out of jail’. However, it is preferable if
world, has risen to the challenge of
I’ve found that when I’ve built various
the client calls before the wall is hit,
turning the complex into a simple,
projects over the past few years that
because planning is an evolutionary
streamlined and affordable service.
I’ve had to take on more responsibility
process, and once costs start to spiral
from both sides to ensure what has been
it can become aggressive. BPD’s ability
committed to is delivered,” he explains.
to create value and solve problems,
This is especially relevant for small/ medium companies that do not have an
39
though, can help clients in any situation.
established supply chain themselves,
Companies that want to optimise their
but they have a good product and
business know that making complex
want to compete in a new and different
logistics processes as simple as possible
marketplace. BPD’s strength is that it can
is one of the best ways to accomplish
help the client without them having to
this goal. “It’s like the difference between
take on more people or long-term costs.
a financial advisor and independent
BPD’S STRENGTH IS THAT IT CAN HELP THE CLIENT WITHOUT THEM HAVING TO TAKE ON MORE PEOPLE OR LONG-TERM COSTS
40
BPD Supply Solutions
BPD’S FOCUS IS TO CONTINUALLY IMPROVE THE LOGISTICS PROCESS AND ADD VALUE
BPD Supply Solutions
41
FRUSTRATION AND COMPLEXITY ARE REPLACED BY EASE AND SIMPLICITY
SAM HARDWICK, FOUNDER, BPD SUPPLY SOLUTIONS
needs, and at BPD we are always delighted to arrange a personal consultation to discuss these needs in more detail.” As companies compete in an ever-changing and challenging world the ability to have responsive and effective supply chains that continue to meet clients’ demands has never been more critical. There is a spotlight on logistics that has raised a global awareness and has created an opportunity for companies to elevate their thinking of what is possible. The logistics sector has a chequered history of value creation, but as the world continues to change, BPD is taking the opportunity to challenge companies to look into whether their strategies will meet and outperform market expectations. There is no doubt that performed correctly, effective logistics can drive part of a company’s strategy and value proposition, allowing for a new and more confident outlook that allows businesses to outperform the market. Simply put, BPD’s focus To achieve this, a broad skill-
COMPLETELY IN TUNE WITH THE CLIENT
is to continually improve the logistics process
set is utilised, including:
As jazz great Charles Mingus once said:
and add value… with the client in mind.
Planning and traditional
“Creativity is more than just being different.
consultation services
Anybody can plan weird; that’s easy. What’s
Execution: taking the plan devised by
hard is to be as simple as Bach. Making the
BPD, or someone else’s plan, and utilising
simple, awesomely simple, that’s creativity.”
BPD’s own people to act as the supply chain department of the client, and
This quote serves as a good reminder that just
therefore acting directly on their behalf
adding ideas or people to a project does not guarantee that it will run smoothly. Breaking
Support: looking to serve clients who
something down to its base components and
have a question but don’t have the
expressing it clearly and concisely is the best
answers, empowering them to use
way to achieve success. And this is exactly
the resources they already have to
what BPD does, no matter what the cargo or
achieve excellence more quickly!
where in the world it has to be transported.
To find out how BPD can help your business to improve efficiency and gain a genuine cost-effective and competitive advantage with a quality, customised solution, telephone Sam Hardwick direct on +971 56 162 8299 or email sam.h@bpdsupplysolutions.com.
BPD SUPPLY SOLUTIONS Frustration and complexity are replaced
“Our client-base is anyone who is looking
+971 56 162 8299
by ease and simplicity. People, processes,
to create value from their products – it
ask.us@bpdsupplysolutions.com
and systems seamlessly link to ensure
could be freight forwarders, but most of
@BPD Supply Solutions
cargo is delivered on time, every time, and
the time it is the owners of the cargo,”
revenues and profits rise as a result of this.
Sam says. “But every client has different
www.bpdsupplysolutions.com
42
VMI STUDIO - VISION 2030
BRINGING VISION 2030 TO LIFE THROUGH THE LATEST IN VISUAL INNOVATION WITH OVER 10 YEARS OF EXPERIENCE IN THE HIGHEST QUALITY ARCHITECTURAL VISUALISATIONS, ART INSTALLATIONS AND PHOTO-REALISTIC COMPUTER GENERATED IMAGES (CGI), VMI STUDIO HAS EVOLVED INTO ONE OF THE INDUSTRY’S MOST SOUGHT AFTER AND CREATIVE FIRMS.
CANARY WHARF, LONDON
VMI STUDIO - VISION 2030
V
43
MI Studio’s approach sets it apart from the competition by combining
a thorough understanding of architecture and construction with cutting-edge CGI techniques to create realistic and engaging visuals. CGIs are a wonderful method to keep potential customers involved, and the studio has worked on projects all around the world, including the United Arab Emirates, the United Kingdom, the United States, and Australia. And VMI Studio is now swiftly establishing a reputation for itself in the Saudi Arabian market, where it has already completed a few pioneering projects, producing worldclass CGIs and artist impressions that bring property developments to life and assist potential buyers in visualising the end result.
SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA
EXPERIENTIALLY FOCUSED
HYPER-REALITY
Known for its high standards, scrupulous
One of the primary benefits of working with CGI,
attention to detail, and exceptional customer
film and animation is that it’s possible to market
service, VMI Studio is a mission-driven,
and sell off-plan before construction has begun.
culture-first company, where its people are its number one resource. Indeed, this is a
CGI and related imagery help property
firm whose success is assessed not only in
companies thrive in a competitive and
terms of financial returns but also in terms of
very cyclical industry, with an animation
completing dazzling, successful projects that
walkthrough being a great way to showcase
propel their clients’ businesses forward, which
a new building, so clients can envision
is what the team is most passionate about.
the property before its construction.
VMI Studio stands out in many ways, not the
Designers can also employ precisely scaled
least of which is that it is more experientially
images and virtual reality to undertake
focused than the industry as a whole, creating
walkthroughs to understand the ramifications
a lot of virtual reality, augmented reality
of various solutions or choices, such as how
and installations for clients as diverse as
natural light appears at different times of the
property developers and art galleries.
day or whether a room would feel too confined.
The firm never just says it will create great
It can also be used as a training tool, allowing
animation and CGI, either – it looks to reinvent
personnel to practise doing tasks before
the wheel every single time. And with the VMI
entering potentially hazardous environments.
Studio’s creativity and technological IP, much of which has been built in-house, it offers clients a
Away from the world of development and
completely different experience to working with
construction, visualisations can also be utilised
other firms: more creative, a little bit left of field,
in art galleries, museums, and historical sites,
but still maintaining a high degree of quality.
where installations can transform artwork or
VMI is now swiftly establishing a reputation for itself in the Saudi Arabian market
44
VMI STUDIO - VISION 2030
An animation walkthrough being a great way to showcase a new building
MIDTOWN, NEW YORK
VMI is now swiftly establishing a reputation for itself in the Saudi Arabian market
SRI LANKA
a location into something truly mesmerising
designers and artists, each of whom is
and unique. VMI Studio, for instance, worked
dedicated to creating visualisations that
on the ‘Illuminated River’ project in London,
attract, engage and often surprise.
which transforms the capital at night, bathing the bridges that cross the River Thames
The firm’s design philosophy requires
in environmentally-friendly LED light.
collaboration and communication, and the most important thing that it builds is relationships.
Whatever the project, VMI Studio starts with an
VMI Studio’s team are the people who build
exploration of client needs, and evolves from
those relationships, and many of its clients
the budget, location and context without the
come back to engage with it again and again.
imposition of preconceived styles or solutions.
These long-term relationships are a source of
Moreover, all of the images it produces
pride for the firm – a clear indication that it
are hyper-real, you genuinely can’t tell the
has earned the trust of the people it serves.
difference between them and the real thing. In a collaborative studio setting, all members THE TEAM
of the team offer project ideas and inspiration.
With offices in London, New York and
Each person’s ingenuity and commitment
soon Riyadh, VMI Studio has assembled
are critical to the success of projects.
a team of over 40 extremely talented
VMI STUDIO - VISION 2030
45
In a collaborative studio setting, all members of the team offer project ideas and inspiration
MIDTOWN, NEW YORK
such blue-chip names as Foster + Partners,
There are no ‘cookie-cutter’ solutions,
Berkeley, Galliard Homes, Toll Brothers, TFC,
and nothing is off-limits.
British Land, and Battersea Power Station.
Property developers are increasingly relying on CGI to accurately portray their concepts to customers, planners and the general public
Property developers are increasingly MULTI-SENSORY EXPERIENCES
relying on CGI to accurately portray their
In a firm where the culture is very creative,
concepts to customers, planners and the
but also extremely disciplined, VMI Studio
general public so that they may visualise
creates visualisations that encourage
how the designs will look when completed.
multi-sensory experiences that shape
They are crucial in many elements of the
light, create texture and layer colour.
process, including concept design, planning applications, marketing imagery, and the sale
Its main point of differentiation is that it
or acquisition of financing for a project.
is a creatively driven firm, with the team examining each task carefully and deciding
WITH VMI STUDIO, SUDDENLY,
on the best method and technology to use.
YOU STAND OUT!
CLIENTS The typical kind of project that VMI Studio work on is high-end residential in major cities such as London, New York, San Francisco and Melbourne. The firm approach each job with a new perspective and a sincere commitment to providing the best product possible for its client. It works hard to make the process enjoyable for everyone involved. Many of its clients become lifelong friends. VMI STUDIO VMI Studio listen to understand specific goals
+44 (0) 208 8773 287
and approach each project as collaborators
info@vmistudio.com
and translators, agents of a vision, carefully
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evolving it from concept to fully-fledged
Linkedin @VMI Studio
visualisation.That is why the firm has attracted such a wide array of clients, including
SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA
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46
SaaS
SaaS Elevates How Businesses Interact with their Clients VILDANA KARALIĆ-AVDIĆ, HEAD OF MARKETING MENA, INFOBIP
VILDANA KARALIĆ-AVDIĆ, INFOBIP’S HEAD OF MARKETING MENA, DISCUSSES HOW THE COMPANY’S BUSINESS HAS ADAPTED TO MEET THE DEMANDS OF THE DIGITAL ECONOMY, THE ACCELERATION OF DX SINCE THE ONSET OF THE PANDEMIC, AND THE CURRENT CYBERSECURITY CLIMATE.
C
an you outline to us
how they engage with their clients.
This is where we help businesses
how your company has
After all, the digital economy is
meet those demands, by ensuring
demonstrated its ability to leverage
about connecting individuals
their end users get the most
its technological expertise to
and companies. By empowering
value in real-time and through
help business transform their
businesses and making them
their preferred channels.
day-to-day operations to adapt,
more accessible to their client
evolve, and meet the demands
base through our SaaS and CPaaS
Digital Transformation has
of the digital economy?
solutions, we are enabling them to
accelerated rapidly since the onset
adapt to shifting trends in customer
of the pandemic in 2020, but as
We are particularly proud of how
engagement and evolving business
an IT leader and expert, what are
our full stack of SaaS solutions
operations. Customers today want
the key principles and processes
built around the AI segment has
to communicate with brands and
businesses need to define and
played a pivotal role in pushing
businesses over platforms that
determine before embarking on their
businesses forward by elevating
are familiar, fast, and reliable.
digital transformation journey?
SaaS
CUSTOMERS TODAY WANT TO COMMUNICATE WITH BRANDS AND BUSINESSES OVER PLATFORMS THAT ARE FAMILIAR, FAST, AND RELIABLE
47
I would say that it will all revolve around
When looking for an omnichannel solutions
effortless experiences and communication.
provider, one of the essential determining
It will come down to creating solutions
factors that need to be evaluated is the
and technologies that are making
service provider’s security. Infobip is putting
people’s lives easier in a nutshell. We
a lot of focus on the security, protection, and
are incredibly excited about what’s next
privacy of data. We have very strict security
on Infobip’s horizon in that sphere.
and privacy policies and standards in place.
For us, it’s all about frictionless omnichannel
This makes it possible for us to provide a
solutions that aim to elevate the customer
truly frictionless experience for the end-user.
journey and overall experience.
Therefore, it is important for businesses to look for solutions that are agile and
Data-driven solutions are part of the
adaptable in terms of growth strategy and
way forward where SaaS and CPaaS play
meeting security requirements. Technical
an integral role with the overall aim of
competency, or lack thereof, is another
Let me start with an important step, in
further product optimization to enhance
challenge. Businesses must invest in providing
my opinion. That is ensuring you have
the customer experience at every step.
regular training to empower their staff and
top management buy-in, vision, and willingness to make the switch.
ensure security measures are being followed.
of mindset and in terms of operations.
MAINTAINING STRINGENT AND EVOLVING SECURITY MEASURES PLAY AN INTEGRAL ROLE IN AN ORGANIZATION’S STRATEGY
The next step is to observe your current
Lastly, we project that more businesses will
growth strategy and evaluate what tweaks are
make the necessary shift to cloud-based
needed to accommodate the transformation.
contact centers to ensure that clients receive
For example, if you want to integrate cloud-
the support they need when they need it,
based communication solutions, do you have
and over the channels they use daily.
Before embarking on this journey, you need to invest in a growth mindset, an internal culture ready to make the shift. The next step is to assess your internal readiness in terms
a solid communication strategy? Have you embraced a customer-centric approach?
We know that cybersecurity is a major challenge in the current IT ecosystem,
Lastly, when it is time to make the
and we have seen the damage done by
change, it is crucial to invest in a platform
a series of ransomware attacks over the
that is easy to manage and seamless to
last number of months. In your expert
integrate with different channels.
opinion, what are the biggest challenges facing businesses in today’s climate?
At Infobip, we were also pushed to diversify our portfolio of products and solutions and tailor
Maintaining stringent and evolving security
them further to help businesses and customers
measures play an integral role in an
stay afloat and thrive during the challenging
organization’s strategy. IT decision-makers
pandemic times. It all boils down to being
need to double their efforts to identify
agile and ready to embrace the change.
solutions that address their changing business needs and keep ongoing security threats at bay. INFOBIP
We know that technology is advancing more now than it has ever done so in the past, but what is your vision for the future in terms of the tech trends that are going to drive change and foster further innovation in the next 3-5 years?
IT ALL BOILS DOWN TO BEING AGILE AND READY TO EMBRACE THE CHANGE
facebook Instagram Linkedin twitter youtube @infobip www.infobip.com
48
Spark
AFFORDABLE HOUSING CO. AND BIN SAEDAN TO BUILD STAFF RESIDENTIAL COMPLEX IN SPARK with SPARK to help put in place the infrastructure needed for a dynamic community where residents can lead a healthy and happy lifestyle. Our experience in the Kingdom spans nearly a century and has lasted over many innovative projects. The signature of this agreement is a cornerstone achievement for our company with the aim of accelerating the expansion of our presence in the Eastern Province. We are also committed toward SPARK
K
ing Salman Energy Park (SPARK), a global energy hub in
Saudi Arabia and Affordable House Co., a subsidiary of Abdullah Bin Saedan & Sons Real Estate Group, a leading real estate developer, have announced the signing of an agreement for the
The facility has a capacity of 8,000 beds and spreads over an area of more than 110,000m2
development of a state-of-the-art
and the Kingdom and look forward to successfully making this project a first of its kind while setting a new standard.” Founded in 2018, industry experts see SPARK, which spans an area of 50 square kilometres, as a catalyst for Saudi Arabia’s ambitions to diversify its economy beyond oil and place it as a global energy, industrial and technology
staff residential complex at SPARK.
that attracts international investors and
Saudi Projects: How long has Gensler
supports the success of Saudi society
been operating in Saudi Arabia?
depends not just on our strategic location
will be divided into five regions, catering
hub with a thriving private sector. When the project is completed, SPARK
but on the fact that the city is built around
for electricity and equipment, general
the unique design of the SPARK staff
the concept that all people working here,
manufacturing, liquids and chemicals,
residential complex seamlessly integrates
no matter the function they perform,
metal formation and industrial services.
green technologies while setting a new
can access spaces where they can live,
It is not only meant to become a
sustainability standard. It will offer first-
work and play. Bin Saedan’s design is
prime destination for manufacturing,
rate, safe and competitive amenities for
future-facing and sustainable while being
petrochemicals and energy, but is
the wellbeing of SPARK tenants and its
competitive. It will enable our tenants
also going to host residential, hotel
occupiers. Planned to be developed in
to safely lodge their employees while
and leisure facilities, as well as a dry
phases starting in 2022, the facility has
offering first-class amenities, which is
port with an annual storage capacity
a capacity of 8,000 beds and spreads
paramount for their sustainable growth
of 8 million metric tonnes of cargo.
over an area of more than 110,000m .
and localisation value creation. We are
In line with the Saudi Green Initiatives,
2
According to a statement, the project is
SPARK is the first and only industrial
also pleased to highlight Affordable
city in the world to achieve Silver LEED
the first step in SPARK’s mega residential
House Co. / Bin Saedan’s commitment to
certification. Expected to be completed
and commercial program that aims
incorporating advanced systems within
by 2035, it will create 100,000 direct
to accommodate more than 50,000
the design, construction and operation
and indirect jobs in addition to an
residents on project completion.
to make the facility the first of its kind.”
annual increase in GDP by $6 billion.
Saif S Al Qahtani, President and CEO
Mohammed Abdullah Bin Saedan,
at SPARK, said: “The success of SPARK
Managing Director of Affordable House
in becoming a sustainable ecosystem
Co., added: “We are proud to partner
50
THE RED SEA DEVELOPMENT COMPANY - NEWS
THE RED SEA DEVELOPMENT COMPANY PARTNERS WITH RED SEA FARMS
T
HE RED SEA DEVELOPMENT COMPANY (TRSDC) HAS PARTNERED WITH RED SEA FARMS, A SAUDI ARABIAN AGTECH BUSINESS, TO DEVELOP A SUSTAINABLE FOOD SUPPLY FOR THE RED SEA’S FLAGSHIP DESTINATION USING SUNLIGHT AND SALTWATER.
groundwater, or desalinated water. This saves up to 300 litres of fresh water per kilogram of produce – a 95% saving compared with other AgTech systems. The technology has been
Red Sea Farms will build and operate the
designed and developed in Saudi Arabia for use
indoor farm, growing crops to sustainably
in often challenging environmental conditions.
feed guests and residents at The Red Sea
This means a reduced impact on the
Project. It will become a main supplier to the
environment and a significant cost
luxury destination’s resorts and restaurants.
saving for growers. It also results in more
"At TRSDC we believe in embracing new innovations to solve the challenges we face as
nutritious crops, while also providing a richer taste, flavor and texture.
we attempt to improve our relationship with
This is the first time an agreement has
the environment. Red Sea Farms’ technology
been reached to roll out the technology
is novel, exciting and has the possibility of
on such a large scale in Saudi Arabia and
helping to tackle food scarcity globally. This
makes TRSDC the first organization to
partnership means we’re meeting our own
recognize its commercial potential.
sustainable and regenerative ambitions, and once again demonstrating to the wider industry that tourism development can be done in a more considerate and responsible way," said John Pagano, CEO of TRSDC. The innovative technology uses sunlight and saltwater to cool greenhouses and grow crops, instead of relying on rainfall, fresh
TRSDC HAS SET ASIDE A 50 SQUARE HECTARE FOOD DEVELOPMENT AREA AND IS INVITING LEADING COMPANIES FROM AROUND THE WORLD TO SET UP PRODUCTION FACILITIES
THE RED SEA DEVELOPMENT COMPANY - NEWS
51
By 2023, The Red Sea Project will welcome 300,000 guests annually and upwards of 14,000 employees and once fully operational in 2030, up to one million guests per year and home to around 35,000 employees. Feeding this many people in a remote, largely desert environment presents huge logistical challenges. By working with Red Sea Farms, TRSDC is developing a self-sustaining and ecologically friendly food supply, which will be built within TRSDC’s wider sustainable food park zone. TRSDC has set aside a 50 square hectare food development area and is inviting leading companies from around the world to set up production facilities as well as pilots of cutting-edge food technologies that can someday be used on a commercial scale. The Red Sea Farms indoor farm will produce a diverse range of fresh leafy greens, herbs, vine crops, fruit including berries; and vegetables. Following the pilot, Red Sea Farms will have
RED SEA FARMS WILL BUILD AND OPERATE AN INDOOR FARM, GROWING CROPS TO SUSTAINABLY FEED GUESTS AND RESIDENTS AT THE RED SEA PROJECT
the option of expanding the farm to up to 100
TRSDC not only shares our sustainability
sustainably produced seafood. The first phase
hectares in the future, which would make it the
ethos, it also understands the great challenge
of the project will be implemented as a 3,500m2
largest sustainable farm of its kind in the world.
diminishing resources will play in the future.
pilot, to assess whether conditions at The
Our ambition is to use Red Sea Farms’
Red Sea Project are suitable for the solution
said: “We are committed to tackling one
technology to feed the world sustainably
to work effectively and efficiently. This will be
of the world’s greatest challenges: food
and this partnership moves us to the next
the first land-based Automated Recirculating
security. That challenge can only be
stage of making that a genuine possibility.”
Aquaculture (LARA) system pilot in the
Ryan Lefers, CEO at Red Sea Farms,
overcome through collaborative efforts between like-minded companies.
TRSDC also partnered with Blue Planet Ecosystems in a regional first to deliver
Middle East to undergo a commercial trial.
52
THE RED SEA DEVELOPMENT COMPANY - NEWS
SAUDI’S FIRST UNDERWATER EXCAVATION ON RED SEA COAST
Partnering with the Ministry of Culture in the fields of archaeology, heritage, history and sustainable tourism along Saudi Arabia’s Red Sea coast, TRSDC has signed two Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) with the Heritage Commission and the Museums Commission. The coastal waters of the Red Sea
Indian Ocean trade. The preserved
contain significant points of historical
wooden structure represents unique
interest and the partnership facilitates
evidence of massive and expensive
an expedition led by the University
boatbuilding construction, previously
of Napoli L’Orientale to deliver the
unknown in the region," explained Dr
Kingdom’s first underwater excavation
Chiara Zazzaro, Director of Red Sea
on an 18th-century shipwreck.
Shipwreck Excavation and Associate
"The shipwreck is currently the most
Professor of Maritime Archaeology at the
intact and best-preserved wooden
University of Napoli ‘L'Orientale’, Italy.
shipwreck in the Red Sea. With its
The shipwreck is located in Al
spectacular cargo of jars, porcelain and
Wajh lagoon. All artefacts will be
spices, this 18th-century merchantman
preserved, catalogued, and stored
testifies the intense trading activities
in the Red Sea Museum in Jeddah,
going on in the Red Sea before the
while some pieces will be displayed
opening of the Suez Canal, and its
for visitors of The Red Sea Project.
articulated connection with the wider
MARRIOTT INTERNATIONAL SIGN AGREEMENT WITH TRSDC
“These milestone signings illustrate Marriott International’s commitment to the growth of the tourism sector in the Kingdom”
Marriott International, Inc. has
footprint across the Kingdom
Chief Development Officer, Europe, Middle
announced it has signed an agreement
where it currently has a portfolio of
East & Africa, Marriott International.
with The Red Sea Development
over 30 properties with more than
“These milestone signings illustrate
Company to develop two luxury hotels
9,000 rooms across ten brands.
Marriott International’s commitment
as part of the highly-anticipated Red
“We are excited to be working with
to the growth of the tourism sector in
Sea Project in Saudi Arabia. The St.
The Red Sea Development Company to
the Kingdom and highlight increased
Regis Red Sea Resort and The Red
introduce St. Regis Hotels & Resorts and
demand for lifestyle and luxury
Sea EDITION are expected to further
EDITION to one of Saudi Arabia’s most-
accommodations and experiences.”
enhance Marriott International’s
anticipated projects,” said Jerome Briet,
28 - 31 MARCH 2022
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54
THE RED SEA DEVELOPMENT COMPANY - NEWS
A CARBON NEUTRAL LUXURY DESTINATION By
ROBA Aljohani
T
HE RED SEA PROJECT IS BLESSED WITH THRIVING CORAL REEFS, BEAUTIFUL BEACHES, DESERT CANYONS, DORMANT VOLCANOES, OVER 90 PRISTINE ISLANDS, AND MORE THAN 200 KILOMETERS OF COASTLINE. THE DEVELOPMENT IS BEING ESTABLISHED IN A SPECIAL ECONOMIC ZONE THAT IS BEING CREATED FOR INTERNATIONAL INVESTMENT AND NATIONAL ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION PURPOSES. IT ENSURES THAT OUR VERY AMBITIOUS STANDARDS OF ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AND, IN OUR CASE, ENVIRONMENTAL ENHANCEMENT, WILL BE MONITORED AND WELL MET.
“Our two biggest sustainable goals are the 30% increase in biodiversity over two decades and the zero net carbon emissions during development and operation” The foundation of this luxury regenerative
We are taking a fundamentally different
tourism destination is its environmental
approach because the real draw for
setting. The draw for our visitors and
our tourism is the spectacularly rich
our residents is a natural beauty and the
abundance of biodiversity at our
wildlife, so we must ensure those not
destinations – bound to attract many
only remain intact but improve. We are
visitors from all over the world to come to
trying to build our destination with world-
visit. As a result, we have very significant
leading science and technology so that the
and ambitious standards in regenerative
environment is enhanced throughout the
tourism, and we are trying to enhance our
development.
natural environment in a way that makes economic sense as well.
Development carried out all over the world has typically had very significant
Dr Rusty Brainard, the Chief Environmental
negative impacts on the environment and
and Sustainability Officer for the Red Sea
biodiversity. Science dictates a negative
Project and AMAALA, reiterates the key
impact. But we are twisting that concept
goal of regeneration, saying: “Our two
around to say that the development won’t
biggest sustainable goals are the 30%
cause negative environmental impacts and
increase in biodiversity over two decades
will leave the area better than it would be
and the zero net carbon emissions during
in a ‘business as usual’ scenario.
development and operation.
THE RED SEA DEVELOPMENT COMPANY - NEWS
55
We are 100% reliant on renewable energy - using solar only
Everything designed at The Red Sea Project and AMAALA is essentially recycled to some other form
food needed to be imported from other places. And we are 100% reliant
For us, as a tourism business, the latter is extremely ambitious because
our manufacturing offsite to minimize the environmental footprint. In
our business relies on people flying in from all over the world.
addition, we are planning a clean and zero-carbon mobility fleet. We are
on renewable energy - using solar only. Moreover, since solar is available during the day, it will be used to charge our very large battery banks, which are planned to become the largest battery sourced system in the world, powering our entire community, even during the night. We are adapting sustainable construction techniques as we do much of
shifting towards electric and hydrogen vehicles - not exclusively for our “We are looking and experimenting with numerous technologies and
cars and land vehicles but also for our boats and short-distance aircraft.
approaches that help with sequestering the carbon associated with all the visitors and everything that they consume and use at the site - we
With regards to carbon sequestration, Dr Rusty explains how we are
need to sequester about two and a half million tons of carbon. How are
currently in discussion with numerous companies and institutions
we going to sequester all that carbon? By embracing the principle of a
around the world for pioneering the use of microalgae. “It is the most
circular carbon economy or cartel de cartel economy.”
efficient way to capture and sequester carbon,” he says. “We are really in the conceptual phase of how we make this the most cost-effective way to
Everything designed at The Red Sea Project and AMAAA is essentially
sequester carbon while producing other useful microalgae products such
recycled to some other form. The destinations are also considering
as food products, pharmaceutical products, bio plastics, bio fuels, and
producing a third of their food sustainably at the site to minimize the
even sustainable aviation fuels for our longer-distance aircraft.”
56
Amaala Company Interview - Raed Al basseet
R AED AL BASSEET GROUP HEAD OF ENVIRONMENT AND SUSTAINABILITY AT THE RED SEA DEVELOPMENT COMPANY & AMAALA
DARING TO BE A FORCE OF NATURE
Amaala Company Interview - Raed Al basseet
THE RED SEA PROJECT IS ONE OF THE WORLD'S MOST AMBITIOUS REGENERATIVE PROJECTS, COVERING 28,000 SQ. KM. ON SAUDI'S WEST COAST, THE DESTINATION WILL OFFER A NEW TYPE OF BAREFOOT LUXURY EXPERIENCE FOR VISITORS FROM AROUND THE WORLD.
T
Highness the Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia to develop immersive luxury hospitality experiences on the Red Sea. They will deliver new levels of service excellence, using technology to enable a seamless personalized experience that will position Saudi Arabia on the global tourism map. We speak to Raed Al Basseet, Group Chief Environmental and Sustainability Officer for TRSDC and AMAALA, about the
he AMAALA Project is located in
challenges and often radical responses
the northwest of Saudi Arabia on
to sustainability and the environment on
the coast of the Red Sea, covering an area of 2,800sq.km and will include a wide
57
From the point of view of a real estate developer, TRSDC has embedded Environment and Sustainability into every phase, as well as into our corporate governance
these groundbreaking giga-projects. Saudi Projects: You operate a pioneering
Development Company and AMAALA, I am
range of infrastructure components to
bespoke environmental governance
responsible for every aspect of the environment
support relevant Masterplan Development
and management system designed to
of some 32,000km2 of the projects’ area.
Zones. One of the main masterplan zones
integrate environmentally sustainable
Our Environment and Sustainability
to be developed across the AMAALA
content into TRSDC’s world-class
commitment is paramount to everything we
region is in an area called Triple Bay.
development agenda. Can you tell us
do as a company. From the point of view of a
about this ambitious endeavour?
real estate developer, TRSDC has embedded
Both projects are financed by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF) and have been mandated by His Royal
Raed Al Basseet: As Group Chief Environment and Sustainability Officer at The Red Sea
Environment and Sustainability into every phase, as well as into our corporate governance.
58
Amaala Company Interview - Raed Al basseet
Consider the many layers incorporated into
and Projects. This SPMS is tracking our
such a large-scale destination: pre-concept,
performance across a range of Environmental,
master planning, design, delivery, and
Social and Economic KPIs and metrics.
operations. The level of integration is not a
During 2021, we achieved ISO14001
usual one for a real estate developer; we go
certification for our environmental
above and beyond to protect and enhance
management system, across our corporate
our environment and ensure a sustainable
offices and development projects. In doing
positive impact on it and the surrounding
so, we became the first of Saudi’s giga-
local communities and economy. We are
projects to achieve such an accreditation.
striving with our regenerative ambitions to
We also received the results of our second
have a ripple effect here in the Kingdom, on
year of participating in the ‘Green Real Estate
the real estate development sector, and the
Sustainability Benchmark’ (GRESB). Our 2021
global travel and luxury tourism industries.
GRESB assessment achieved an overall score
To fulfil this huge scope, we built a team
of 91 out of 100 in this year’s ESG-assessment
of environment and sustainability experts
and benchmark exercise by Global Real Estate
to deliver on the promise and ensure the
Sustainability Benchmark (GRESB) – exceeding
delivery of the world’s most ambitious
the score of 84 it accomplished last year,
regenerative tourism project. Our team has
making us the first ‘Five Star’ rated entity.
a huge mix of specialities, nationalities, ages, and personalities, and we have a multitude of niche expertise across all areas. The members of our team span from freshly graduated juniors to directors who have 15 years plus experience in managing environmental and sustainability across all business disciplines. We are all environmental and sustainability leaders, advocates, and ambassadors. We are inspired by nature and are implementing regenerative development techniques to protect it, not only for ourselves
As of today, the project has surpassed significant milestones, with over 700 contracts signed to date, worth over SAR 19bn ($5.06bn)
today but for future generations to come. SP: Are you tracking, reporting
Becoming a five-star rated entity is
and reducing your energy,
particularly important to us because it
waste and water usage?
recognizes that we are paving the way for
RAB: Our progress is aligned with the UN SDGs
sustainable tourism in Saudi Arabia. By
and IFCs to ensure that the development that
pioneering a new approach to regenerative
we are keen to deliver has a positive impact
tourism, our hope is that our work will set an
and blends with its thriving ecosystem. Last
example for the rest of the world to follow.
year, we issued our first Sustainability Report, which is publicly available on our website. This 2020 Sustainability Report has been
SP: What are your key sustainability measures? RAB: As a company, we recognize that
sustainable district energy systems across our TRSP destination, a system powered fully by
prepared in accordance with Global Reporting
developing within a pristine natural setting
renewable power, including district cooling
Initiative (GRI) standards. Subsequent annual
brings huge responsibility. In response, we
and battery energy storage systems with no
Sustainability Reports that we issue will include
have made a groundbreaking commitment
connection to the KSA National Grid. The
increasing disclosures on our Environmental
to go beyond sustainability at TRSP and
avoided CO2 emissions to the atmosphere are
and Social performance, as we progress with
to have a regenerative impact on the local
equivalent to nearly half a million tons each
implementing our Sustainability Performance
environment, society and economy. Here is a
year and the destination will be the first tourism
Management System. In 2021, we launched
brief outline of how this is being achieved:
project of its size, to be powered solely by
our Sustainability Performance Management
- A pledge to be carbon neutral once fully
renewable energy. This system will include the
System, which is now tracking Sustainability
operational. As part of this, we signed a
largest battery energy storage system in the
KPI/metrics across both our Corporate
contract with ACWA Power in 2021 to provide
world that is procured under a PPP agreement.
Amaala Company Interview - Raed Al basseet
We are now in the process of establishing similar PPP agreements across AMAALA. A ban on single-use plastics
Less than 1% of the destination’s
RAB: Our aim is to set new standards in
total 28,000km will be developed.
sustainable development, respecting the
Capping the yearly number of visitors
natural world, creating opportunities for
2
59
once fully operational.
to The Red Sea Project at one million
the local communities and protecting the
A 30% net conservation
based on the environmental carrying
destination for the future. Where the technology
capacity of the destination.
does not yet exist to realize our ambitions, we
benefit by 2040 target. Completing a Marine Spatial Planning
SP: Are you using ‘leading indicators’
will work with innovators to develop them.
(MSP) exercise, which led TRSDC to
(i.e., from a formal operational excellence
leave 75% of the island archipelago
program) to drive your sustainability
have in place an ambitious sustainability
untouched and for nine islands to be
efforts instead of relying on the lagging
strategy. At the heart of this strategy, is
designated as special conversation zones
indicators found in the Global Reporting
our Sustainability Vision, where we aim to
ahead of construction beginning.
Initiative and other sustainability indices?
create a positive impact by conserving and
In terms of ‘leading indicators’, we
60
Amaala Company Interview - Raed Al basseet
Amaala Company Interview - Raed Al basseet
other destinations and supporting the conservation
to grow together with TRSDC and our projects. SP: How are you addressing social equity? RAB: We are committed to creating
of multiple coral
opportunities for local communities too.
reef eco-systems.
Our year-round destination will offer a real
In October, Saudi
61
opportunity to the people and businesses
Arabia announced
in local communities in the form of jobs
ambitious goals
and growth for businesses in the area. This
such as net zero
is coupled with our ongoing contribution
emissions by 2060
to creating growth and employment
and the Kingdom is
opportunities within the Saudi Arabian
aiming to plant 10
construction sector and partnering with a
billion trees under
company that will help us realize these goals.
the Saudi Green
The projects are expected to create up to
Initiative. In the next
70,000 new direct and indirect job roles.
few years, 50 million
SP: On a personal note, how are you
hectares of Saudi
enjoying working on these giga-projects?
enhancing natural capital, delivering a carbon-
Arabia will be rehabilitated and redeveloped
neutral contribution to climate change and
to prevent land degradation. The Kingdom will
opportunity for anyone within my field to have
building a prosperous local economy.
plant 1% of the global tree plantation target
the chance to join such a world-class initiative.
RAB: This is a rare, once in a lifetime
So we are being led by this strategy, which
and TRSDC is a major contributor to this, with
We are a development company, developing
includes leading indicators across all divisions
25 million plants and trees set to be grown in
our destinations so they fit into their natural
of the company. This strategy sets the
our onsite landscape nursery, the largest in the
surroundings, as well as raise living standards
sustainability priorities, programs, initiatives
region and fully operational since early 2020.
for our local communities. As one of the earliest
and targets, which guide all our activities
SP: How do you engage your supply
environmental staff engaged on the projects,
across development, operations and services.
chain in your sustainability efforts?
I have had the free rein to build a strong
Our projects are grounded in sustainability
Do you require your contractors and
team, who are truly committed to achieving
and regenerative tourism in their fullest
suppliers to adhere to a ‘Code of
our sustainability vision. I feel honored to
sense. We will showcase these results in
Conduct’ that helps them operationalize
be leading this team and it is enjoyable to
transformative experiences that reimagine the
sustainability in their businesses?
work within such a highly knowledgeable
future of sustainable luxury - where our guests
RAB: At all stages of the developments,
and residents take care of themselves and the
we seek partners with an uncompromising
planet, safe in the knowledge that their stay
commitment to sustainability. All partnerships
is our leadership. From HRH Mohammed bin
with us is an investment in a sustainable future.
embarked upon must ensure that the
Salman, through to John Pagano, our CEO,
Our masterplans are being informed by the
and professional bunch of people. What motivates me and encourages me daily,
pristine environment of our destinations,
for these projects, the sky is the limit. I am
largest marine spatial planning simulation
with their clear turquoise waters, white sand
so proud that I can bring something to the
ever undertaken, modelling the environmental
and abundance of coral reefs, will remain
table. People working for this initiative are not
impact of developing and operating the
immaculate. Sustainability commitments
joined in minds alone, but in their hearts.
destination. This includes protecting the
are of utmost importance when choosing
environment and the species that call it home,
the right supplier for one of our projects. A
as well as supporting the local communities
potential contractor must be willing to engage
living in close proximity to the destination.
at the same level of commitment we do.
We are committed to aligning the project with
Sustainability is non-negotiable, a deal-breaker
all 17 of the UN Sustainable Development
at any stage of the project. As of today, the
Goals. Tourism, properly harnessed, can and
project has surpassed significant milestones,
must serve the needs of the environment
with over 700 contracts signed to date, worth
THE RED SEA DEVELOPMENT COMPANY
if it is to be sustainable in the long term.
over SAR 19bn ($5.06bn). We want potential
facebook @TheRedSeaDevelopmentCompany
Technology can be a huge asset, monitoring
partners to think outside of the box but also
linkedin @The Red Sea Development Company
and thus protecting the environment.
share the same values as us. Be innovative,
twitter @theredseaSA
Knowledge gained and lessons learned will
pioneer new ways of doing things, and most of
Youtube @The Red Sea Development Company
be shared with the rest of the world, inspiring
all, believe they can be part of this opportunity
www.theredsea.sa/en
62
Giga Projects - AMAALA
I AM AMAALA I transform, I enrich and I inspire
PLAY VIDEO
O
UR PEOPLE ARE THE ESSENCE OF MOVING AMAALA FORWARD, GOING BEYOND A VISION AND A CONCEPT. OUR MOST IMPORTANT ASSET, OUR TEAM, IS WORKING IN HARMONY TO TRANSFORM A BEAUTIFUL DREAM
INTO A STUNNING REALITY. AT AMAALA, WE USE OUR DIVERSITY AS POWER, AND IT IS THIS STRENGTH THAT IS SOWING THE SEEDS FOR A DESTINATION UNDERPINNED BY AMAALA’S BRAND AND PILLARS (WELLNESS & SPORTS, SUSTAINABILITY, ARTS & CULTURE, AND SEA, SUN & LIFESTYLE). THE MINI-VIDEO SERIES, #IAMAMAALA, CONVEYS THE ATTRIBUTES AND ASPIRATIONS OF THE BELIEVERS WORKING TOGETHER TO DELIVER ON OUR PROMISE.
Giga Projects - AMAALA
SHURUQ ALGHAMDI
BASMA SENDI
Wellness Specialist
Governance Manager
I have always been passionate about the
One of the many reasons why I chose to
tourism sector but found a career difficult
work for AMAALA was the chance to be
to pursue as people around me voiced
part of a globally recognized giga-project
their beliefs that there was no future for
directly connected to Vision 2030. AMAALA
women in the Kingdom’s tourism sector.
focuses on wellness and natural experiences,
SALEM BINRABBA SUSTAINABILITY SPECIALIST
which is something I am passionate about. But then Vision 2030 and the giga-projects
I aim to pursue this passion by becoming a
were announced, changing the whole
governance specialist in these sectors.
perspective and allowing my dream to become a reality. I then pursued my master’s
AMAALA’s dramatic landscapes, pristine eco-
degree in Tourism, Hospitality and Events
systems, rich biodiversity and dedication to
Management at The University of Queensland,
protecting marine life inspired me to take
Australia, and immediately joined the Misk/
diving lessons. My urge to explore allowed
AMAALA Corporate Internship Program.
me to discover one of the few thriving coral reefs left in the world and one of the
AMAALA is a fully integrative family wellness
world’s largest barrier reef systems.
SALEM BINRABBA Sustainability Specialist
destination and it is where I found my passion for wellness tourism. I am now working with
Diving had a big impact on me as it enabled me
Given my background in architectural
experts in tourism, hospitality and above
to deal with work pressures and stress more
engineering, designing sustainable
all wellness. To support this new path of
effectively. It helps reduce my stress levels
projects was of interest to me and
mine, I enrolled in five courses specializing
and boost my creativity during work. It has
I was keen to explore further.
in spa management, knowing this would
contributed to building my trust, confidence
take me to the next level and help me deliver
and self-esteem. Diving in AMAALA provided
Knowing that this is a new sector in the
AMAALA as a global wellness destination.
me with the opportunity to discover the world
Kingdom and realizing the potential it has to set new standards in how sustainable
S HURUQ ALGHAMDI WELLNESS SPECIALIST
destinations are built, I decided to pursue my career in this field, especially given that sustainability plays a major role in shaping the Kingdom in its next phase. At AMAALA, I was given the opportunity to pursue this passion and be part of developing an ultra-luxury regenerative tourism destination that implements international sustainable best practices in design, construction, and development.
B ASMA SENDI GOVERNANCE MANAGER
Gratefully today, after a year working for AMAALA, I am a MOSTADAM Accredited Professional, which is the equivalent to LEED in Saudi Arabia. My goal is to have a role in introducing an innovative Saudi sustainable solution or model to the world. I hope to achieve this with AMAALA and become one of the top national sustainability experts and have my own distinct impact on helping the Kingdom achieve its Saudi Vision 2030.
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Giga Projects - AMAALA
Working for AMAALA has opened my eyes to infinite creative possibilities SARA BIN SAEED
Interior Design Manager
S ARA BIN SAEED INTERIOR DESIGN MANAGER
N OURA KILABI HEALTH AND SAFETY PROJECT MANAGER
Giga Projects - AMAALA
You almost never get the chance to be part of an ultra-luxury sustainable destination that is inspired by wellness FAHAD ALMANSOURI Project Delivery Specialist
65
One of the many reasons why I chose to work for AMAALA was the chance to be part of a globally recognized gigaproject directly connected to Vision 2030 BASMA SENDI
Governance Manager
F AHAD ALMANSOURI PROJECT DELIVERY SPECIALIST
SARA BIN SAEED
NOURA KILABI
project that contributes directly
Interior Design Manager
Health and Safety Project Manager
to delivering Vision 2030.
AMAALA was a dream for me as it is
I joined AMAALA because it is a source
not just any luxury destination. It
of Saudi pride and I wanted to be
Working at AMAALA has rapidly elevated
is a luxury sustainable destination
part of the team and people who
my skills and experience curve. It put
inspired by wellness; how often do
contribute to delivering Vision 2030. I
me on the right track and actualized
you get to see one of those? I would
didn’t want to just have a job; I wanted
my career path in the tourism, luxury
have to say the answer is never.
a job that will make a change.
real-estate and mixed-use development industry. You almost never get the chance
Working for AMAALA has opened my eyes
I now work with the project delivery’s
to be part of an ultra-luxury sustainable
to infinite creative possibilities, where
Health and Safety team at AMAALA, which
destination that is inspired by wellness.
you get inspired by wellness while using
makes me one of the few Saudi women
The combination itself is mind-blowing.
sustainable textile, fabrics, and materials.
working in this field. This was made
The level of professional and experienced
possible after I received my 30 Hour OSHA
It is my absolute pleasure to be
and completed numerous related courses.
part of the AMAALA team. My goal
people here at AMAALA has enriched my
is to deliver as many high-quality
knowledge and expanded my horizons.
My goal is to become the first female
masterplans inspired by wellness and
I learned how to use concepts like
Saudi national Project Manager
sustainability within the stipulated given
biophilia that guides the destination’s
and I know that with my drive and
timeframe, to continue contributing
natural design principles to bring the
determination, and guidance from
to our country’s development.
outside world in, whilst positively
my mentor, I will achieve this goal.
influencing guest wellbeing. FAHAD ALMANSOURI I am excited to be part of the design
Project Delivery Specialist
AMAALA
team that is working towards achieving
I joined AMAALA because it was an
Instagram @amaala_sa
Vision 2030 and looking forward to when
opportunity to be part of a forward-
Linkedin @AMAALA
I will get to transfer my knowledge and
thinking project and deliver high
Twitter @AMAALA
learning to newcomers in this field.
substantial masterplans. This is
Youtube @AMAALA
not just a giga-project; this is a
www.amaala.com
66
Giga Projects - Neom
80 CLIMBERS JOIN THE FIRST EDITION OF NEOM’S ‘RISE 100’ CHALLENGE D
EVELOPING 100 SPORT AND TRADITIONAL ROCK-CLIMBING ROUTES ON THE SANDSTONE PILLARS OF JABAL HISMA, NEOM IS SET TO EMERGE AS THE LATEST WORLD-CLASS CLIMBING DESTINATION. CREATING A NEW HOME FOR ADVENTURE SPORTS IN THE ARABIAN PENINSULA, NEOM HOSTED OVER 80 CLIMBERS FROM SAUDI ARABIA AND THE REGION TO TRIAL THE NEW ROUTES AND DISCOVER THE NATURAL BEAUTY OF NEOM.
Jan Paterson, Managing Director of Sport
Harrington was also joined by fellow female
at NEOM, explained: “NEOM is a diverse
climber and pioneer, Yasmin Yousef Gahtani,
and expansive region with unlimited
the executive director of the Saudi Climbing
opportunities for adventure sport for
and Hiking Federation (SCHF) and the first
everyone. With the establishment of
Saudi-certified Climbing Wall Instructor.
these rock-climbing routes, we are more
Yasmin Yousef Gahtani, Managing Director
Rise 100 sets the stage for NEOM’s diverse adventure sport offerings rooted in its wider regenerative philosophy, educating adventure seekers beyond just the sport
dedicated than ever to creating an adventure
of the Saudi Climbing and Hiking Federation,
playground where people can become
said: “Rock climbing is a fast-growing sport
completely immersed in the incredible
in Saudi Arabia and the region, and we are
natural beauty of NEOM, while engaging in
happy to work with NEOM to develop this
activities that promote physical activity and
incredible new destination for both local and
wellbeing. We aim to be a fully adaptive and
international climbers. As a Saudi climber
completely sustainable adventure sports
who’s climbed across Europe and the US since
meters, with numerous climbing options for
environment for everyone. Rise 100 is an
2013, I am excited to be a part of this journey
all seasons. With its soft sand base and iconic
incredibly exciting kick-off for us, and we are
to create a new rock-climbing destination in
rock structures, this picturesque canyon is
so pleased that we are delivering this with
the Kingdom and share the wonders of my
especially appealing in the winter months.
the Saudi Climbing and Hiking Federation.”
own country with the rest of the world.”
The crag features desert sandstone that offers
The Hisma crag sits at an altitude of 1,000
unique features and phenomenal texture,
Participating at the pilot rock climbing event, renowned international climber Emily Harrington delivered an exclusive inspirational speech, while scaling several of the new Grade 8a routes
while catering to diverse climbing styles. The pilot sport climbs in the Hisma crag were equipped in June 2021 by NEOM following the guidelines established by the Saudi Climbing and Hiking Federation. The area is being developed by a team, including project leader and author Read Macadam, as well as
The 100 world-class routes, range in difficulty
NEOM has prioritized sustainability in the
accomplished climbers and route developers
from French Grades 5 to 8a, and will attract
new climbing area, or ‘crag’, ensuring that care
Carlo Giuliberti, Piergiorgio Lotito and Alex
both beginners and experienced climbers alike,
for the local environment takes precedence
Ruscior. Once the trials are complete, it is
with multiple areas developed specifically
over development in the area. It has also
expected that the crag will be open to climbers
to support the training of new climbers and
involved local communities in the planning
from around the world towards the end of 2022.
discover the natural beauty of NEOM.
and maintenance of the crag. Both natural
NEOM has committed 95% of its land area for
Joining the line-up of participating global
and historical heritage of the surrounding
natural preservation and regeneration, and its
athletes was five-time US national champion
areas will be clearly marked, and visitors in
new climbing destinations are located within
climber, Emily Harrington, completing
the future will be asked to maintain strict
the NEOM Nature Reserve, which is dedicated
multiple routes over the three days,
adherence to guidelines for their preservation.
to the protection and restoration of nature to
including a grade 7b+ challenging route.
showcase the best of Arabian biodiversity.
Giga Projects - Neom
NEOM Facebook @neom
Twitter @NEOM
Instagram @discoverneom
Youtube @NEOM
Linkedin @discoverneom
www.neom.com
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68
Giga Projects - Qiddiya
QIC ANNOUNCES SAR 3.75 BILLION CONSTRUCTION CONTRACT TO BUILD SIX FLAGS QIDDIYA
Giga Projects - Qiddiya
69
T
HE QIDDIYA INVESTMENT COMPANY (QIC) HAS ANNOUNCED THE AWARD OF A SAR 3.75 BILLION CONTRACT, TO BUILD SIX FLAGS QIDDIYA, TO BOUYGUES BÂTIMENT INTERNATIONAL (BBI) - A SUBSIDIARY OF BOUYGUES CONSTRUCTION - AND SAUDI ALMABANI GENERAL CONTRACTORS, IN A JOINT VENTURE BETWEEN THE TWO CONSTRUCTION COMPANIES. The agreement was signed during a
the city of Riyadh. The theme park will
ceremony attended by officials from both
cover an area of 320,000m2 and will feature
companies at the Qiddiya Experience
28 rides and attractions of which 10 will
Center and was followed by a ground-
be thrill rides, with 18 rides designed
breaking inauguration to simultaneously
for families and young children.
mark the official start of construction. As the Kingdom’s future capital of
Abdullah Aldawood, Board Member and Managing Director, Qiddiya Investment
Entertainment, Sports and the Arts, visitors to
Company, explained: “With this signing,
Qiddiya will enjoy a wide spectrum of offerings
we are embarking on major steps towards
that include Sports and Wellness; Nature and
building the Kingdom’s future destination
Environment; Parks and Attractions; Motion
for Entertainment, Sports and the Arts. We
and Mobility; and Arts and Culture. Situated
are pleased to collaborate with leading
on the outskirts of the Saudi capital, Qiddiya
construction companies, like Bouygues
is a destination city that is currently under
Bâtiment International, and we look forward to
development and, when open, will become a
building Six Flags Qiddiya together, delivering
disruptive destination that offers innovative
a world-class theme park with several exciting
experiences in entertainment, sports and arts.
new ride concepts. Six Flags Qiddiya will be
Six Flags Qiddiya will serve to be a key entertainment attraction for Qiddiya and
a key entertainment attraction for Riyadh, the Kingdom and the world at large.”
70
Giga Projects - Qiddiya
RIDES AND ATTRACTIONS All rides and attractions have been designed exclusively for Qiddiya and embody the rich cultural heritage of the location as well as Saudi Arabia. The theme park will be home
The central hub of the park will be the Citadel which will be covered by a billowing canopy form inspired by traditional Bedouin tents
to five signature rides that will break ten
lands: The City of Thrills, Discovery Springs,
The City of Thrills is the embodiment of
world records, including Falcons Flight, the
Steam Town, Twilight Gardens, Valley
Vision 2030: a forward-looking, boundary-
world’s tallest, fastest and longest coaster;
of Fortune and Grand Exposition.
pushing, future city anchored in Arabic
Sirocco Tower, the world’s tallest, free-
The central hub of the park will be the Citadel
design motifs. Here, visitors will find Six Flags
standing shot tower ride; Gyrospin, the
which will be covered by a billowing canopy
Qiddiya’s most recognizable and anticipated
world’s tallest pendulum ride; Spitfire, the
form inspired by traditional Bedouin tents.
thrill rides including the record-breaking
world’s tallest inverted top hat coaster; and
Home to a wide range of cafes and shops, the
Falcons Flight, inspired by the Kingdom’s
Iron Rattler, the world’s tallest tilt coaster.
venue will transform into an interactive show
iconic raptor and the Sirocco Tower.
The rides and attractions at the theme
space throughout the day. From here, visitors
park will be spread across six immersive
will find gateways to each of the themed lands.
Giga Projects - Qiddiya
71
designed for younger visitors and their families. This enchanted land’s key features include the Twilight Express Coaster, which takes passengers through a majestic garden, the Critter Chase, an interactive dark ride set in a 3D environment, and the Kaleidoscope hot air balloon ride. Valley of Fortune is an exciting land of adventure that takes place amidst timeworn architectural ruins of old Arabian masonry, enlivened by the activity and trade of fortune seekers from around the world. This land’s signature attraction is Spitfire, a triple-launch coaster, which will take guests into a sky roll before an acrobatic stall and a breathtaking dive back to the valley floor. Other attractions include Skywatch, a hydraulic boom ride where riders are lifted into the sky, the auto-themed Treasure Trail, and the
All rides and attractions have been designed exclusively for Qiddiya
Canyon Charters, a family plane ride that swings and rotates freely above the park. Grand Exposition is a celebration of innovation combining the nostalgia of traditional World Expos with the greatest feats of science and technology such as the Gyrospin Pendulum,
Discovery Springs is an aquatic wonderland of
which swings riders to record heights. It is
waterfalls, aqueducts and geysers as well as
also home to Six Flags’ classic and most loved
exotic plants and trees. This oasis offers visitors
coaster Colossus, a gravity-driven wood-
relief from the summer heat by creating the feel
steel hybrid coaster that stretches over an
of a dense rainforest in the middle of the desert.
800-meter track. The land also features the
It will be home to an interactive ride called the
Arabian Carousel, where Arabian horses march
Sea Stallion, where riders are propelled over
in a circular parade, the Expo Flyer swinging
rivers, behind waterfalls, and through trees
ride and the Roundabout featuring a bumper
along a custom-designed course, as they control
car attraction themed as London cabs.
the speed and acceleration of their vehicle. Steam Town is themed around mechanical marvels and a collection of dynamic
Six Flags Qiddiya’s master plan has been carefully designed to ensure the guest experience is unparalleled and memorable.
contraptions. Its signature ride is the Iron Rattler Mine Train which features a hydraulic lift that releases passengers into a freefall plunge through a narrow, steam-filled mineshaft. Other key attractions include the Steam Town Falls Water Coaster which combines a roller coaster track with a splashing boat ride, a spinning mechanical ride called the Bull Rider and a custom-themed climbing structure called the Treehouse Trek. Twilight Gardens is an oversized landscape
QIDDIYA
of the imagination filled with colorful
Instagram Linkedin Twitter Youtube
flowers and friendly creatures, all exclusively
@qiddiya www.qiddiya.com
72
Giga Projects - ALUla
MYSTERIOUS ANCIENT TOMBS REVEAL 4,500-YEAROLD HIGHWAY NETWORK A
RCHAEOLOGISTS FROM THE UNIVERSITY OF WESTERN AUSTRALIA (UWA) HAVE DETERMINED THAT THE PEOPLE WHO LIVED IN ANCIENT NORTH-WEST ARABIA BUILT LONG-DISTANCE ‘FUNERARY AVENUES’ – MAJOR PATHWAYS FLANKED BY THOUSANDS OF BURIAL MONUMENTS THAT LINKED OASES AND PASTURES – SUGGESTING A HIGH DEGREE OF SOCIAL AND ECONOMIC CONNECTION BETWEEN THE REGION’S POPULATIONS IN THE 3RD MILLENNIUM BCE.
Publication of the findings in the journal
inspired by the way our mission reflects
The new article is the UWA team’s
The Holocene caps a year of tremendous
their mindset: they lived in harmony with
fourth publication in less than a year
progress by the UWA team, working
nature, honoured their predecessors, and
in a peer-reviewed scientific journal
under the Royal Commission for AlUla
reached out to the wider world. The work
on research at AlUla and Khaybar:
(RCU), in shedding light on the lives of
done by our archaeological teams in 2021
In August in the journal Arabian Archaeology
the ancient inhabitants of Arabia.
demonstrates that Saudi Arabia is a home
and Epigraphy the team dated the pendant-
for top-flight science – and we look forward
shaped tombs of the Khaybar Oasis to the
to hosting more research teams in 2022.”
3rd millennium BCE – the first published
The existence of the funerary avenues suggests that complex social horizons existed 4,500 years ago across a huge swathe of the
Dr Rebecca Foote, Director of Archaeology
radiocarbon evidence dating the tombs.
Arabian Peninsula. The finding adds to the
and Cultural Heritage Research for RCU,
This was also the first article in a peer-
steady progress by archaeologists working
said: “Projects that have been conducting
reviewed journal regarding the Bronze Age
under the auspices of RCU in understanding
fieldwork in AlUla and Khaybar for over three
in Khaybar. Archaeological exploration of
the hidden story of the ancient kingdoms
years, such as the UWA team, have started
and earlier societies of north Arabia.
publishing their results, and it is terrific to
The UWA team’s work is part of a wider
the mysteries of Khaybar is still in its infancy. In April the team wrote in the journal
see how analyses of the data are elucidating
Antiquity that the monumental
effort that includes 13 archaeological
so many aspects of life from the Neolithic to
structures known as mustatils are
and conservation project teams from
the Bronze Age in north-west Arabia. These
much older than previously believed,
around the world collaborating with
articles are just the beginning of the many
dating as far back as 5,200 BCE, and
Saudi experts in AlUla and neighbouring
publications that will advance our knowledge
Khaybar counties in Saudi Arabia.
of prehistoric to modern times and have
Amr Al Madani, CEO of RCU, said: “The
significant implications for the wider region.”
appear to have had a ritual function. In March the team reported in the Journal of Field Archaeology that they
more we learn about the ancient inhabitants
had discovered the remains of the oldest
of north-west Arabia, the more we are
known domesticated dog in Arabia.
Giga Projects - ALUla
73
THE UWA TEAM’S WORK IS PART OF A WIDER EFFORT THAT INCLUDES 13 ARCHAEOLOGICAL AND CONSERVATION PROJECT TEAMS FROM AROUND THE WORLD The UWA team’s latest research, with Dr Matthew Dalton as lead author, used satellite imagery analysis, aerial photography, ground survey and excavation to locate and analyse funerary avenues over an area of
They recorded more than 17,800 ‘pendant’ tombs in their primary study areas of AlUla and Khaybar counties
and abroad is deepening and nuancing The Journey Through Time narrative of the region and providing a foundation for the Kingdoms Institute, a world-class centre for archaeological and conservation research with a focus on
at least 160,000km2 in north-west Arabia.
working across AlUla and Khaybar shows
They recorded more than 17,800 ‘pendant’
how important the archaeology of this region
tombs in their primary study areas of AlUla
is for our understanding of the Neolithic
research organisation, will open its doors to
and Khaybar counties, of which around
and Bronze Age across the Middle East. Our
the public as a permanent physical presence
11,000 formed part of funerary avenues.
findings demonstrate that these structures
at AlUla by 2030. Its most prominent buildings
Whether on basalt plains or mountain
AlUla’s 200,000 years of human history. This flagship institution, now active as a
linked various populated oases, situated
will be established at the red sandstone
passes, the densest concentrations of
across a vast area, and that the funerary
mountains opposite the archaeological site of
funerary structures on these avenues are
avenues were established around 4,500
Dadan, with design inspired by the Dadanite
located near permanent water sources. The
years ago. They are especially dense around
civilisation that prospered during the heyday
direction of the avenues suggests that many
Khaybar, which is one of the densest visible
of the incense trade in the 1st millennium BCE.
were used to travel between major oases,
funerary landscapes anywhere in the world.”
including those of Khaybar, AlUla and Tayma.
The RCU has embarked on a 15-year
José Ignacio Gallego Revilla, RCU’s Archaeology, Heritage Research and
Other avenues fade into the landscapes
masterplan, The Journey Through
Conservation Executive Director, said: “There is
surrounding oases, suggesting they were
Time, to regenerate AlUla and parts of
much more to come in 2022 and the years ahead
used to move herds of domestic animals into
Khaybar as a leading global destination
as we reveal the depth and breadth of the area’s
nearby pastures during periods of rain.
for cultural and natural heritage.
archaeological heritage, which for decades was
Dr Hugh Thomas, project director, said: “The research by the UWA team and our colleagues
The archaeological research in AlUla and Khaybar counties by teams from Saudi Arabia
underrepresented but which will finally have the showcase it deserves in the Kingdoms Institute.”
74
Podcasts
LISTEN UP: PODCAST CONSUMPTION IN SAUDI ARABIA 2021 THE FOLLOWING REPORT HAS BEEN PROVIDED BY RISING GIANTS NETWORK, A PODCAST COMPANY DEDICATED TO ‘MOVING PODCASTS FORWARD’ IN THE MIDDLE EAST AND BEYOND. TO UNDERSTAND THE PLAYING FIELD IN SAUDI ARABIA, IT CONDUCTED A WIDE-RANGING STUDY, AND THE MOMENTUM IS CLEAR; PODCASTS ARE AT AN ALL-TIME HIGH AND CONTINUE TO GROW WITH IMMENSE SPEED YEAR ON YEAR.
30% of survey respondents said
once a week or more, however, over half
to podcasts once a week or more,
that they listen to podcasts on daily
of both male and female podcast listeners
followed by those who live in the Eastern
basis, while 22% said they listen to
say their consumption has increased in
region and then those living in the
podcasts around three times a week.
2021 compared to 2020, showing that
Western region. Across the regions, the
there is no particular skew across genders.
increase in podcast consumption for
Overall, 67% of podcast listeners
Notably, just 17% of female consumers
podcast listeners this year compared
tune in at least once a week.
surveyed say they never listen to podcasts.
to last year remains similar (52%-56%), suggesting this is a truth across the
Demonstrating the increasing demand
Age Trends
for podcasts is that over half (54%) of
Consumers aged 25-34 are the most
podcast listeners surveyed say their
likely to listen to podcasts once a week
consumption has increased in 2021
or more (72%), closely followed by those
compared to 2020, compared to less than
aged 45-54 (71%). Similarly, podcast
Although Apple remains the biggest
a fifth (17%) who say it has decreased.
listeners aged 25-34 are the most likely
podcasting platform with over 80% of
Just over a quarter (26%) of podcast
to say their podcast consumption
podcast listeners getting their podcasts
listeners say their consumption has
has increased in 2021 compared to
from the platform, Anghami is up-and-
remained the same this year as last year.
2020. Given the age demographic,
coming in KSA and changing perceptions.
this could indicate popularity among
This could be due to Anghami’s investment
young working professionals.
in exclusive shows, namely the show
PODCAST PREFERENCES
whole of KSA, regardless of location. CONSUMPTION PREFERENCES
they did with Arab pop sensation Elissa. Gender Trends
Regional Trends
Male consumers are more likely than
Consumers who live in the Central
These come over platforms such as
female consumers to listen to podcasts
region are the most likely to listen
Google Podcasts, Castbox, Deezer,
Podcasts
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Podcasts
Podeo and Audioboom. Furthermore,
content while 20% tune in due to the
most podcast listeners engage with
host and 17% due to interesting guests.
audio podcasts, over video who use video or both audio and video (35%).
Female podcast listeners are more likely than their male counterparts to say the
A higher percentage of those who
main language of their favourite podcast
consume podcasts via audio than
is in Arabic (85% versus 70%), albeit both
those who use video say their ideal
genders are more likely to say Arabic than
length would be 20 minutes or less.
English. Female podcast listeners are
Furthermore, for those that actively listen
most likely to listen to a podcast while
to podcasts, the average ideal length
doing housework or chores (51%) while
of a podcast episode is 27 minutes.
male podcast listeners are most likely to listen to a podcast while driving (41%).
Gender Trends Female podcast listeners are more
Age Trends
likely than male podcast listeners to use
Podcast listeners aged 25-34 are the most
Anghami, while male podcast listeners
likely to say the main language of their
are more likely than female podcast
favourite podcast is Arabic, followed by
listeners to use Spotify. When it comes
35-44-year-olds and 16-24-year-olds.
to format, male podcast listeners are
Podcast listeners aged 25-34 and 16-24
more likely than female podcast listeners
are most likely to listen to a podcast
to consume their podcasts via video.
while doing housework or chores while podcast listeners aged 35-44 are most
Age Trends
likely to listen to a podcast while driving.
It’s worth noting here, that 25–34-year-olds are the age group consuming the most
Regional Trends
podcasts and the most frequently. Younger
Podcast listeners in the Western region are
audiences (16–24) are more likely to
the most likely to say the main language of
respond to video formats of the podcasts.
their favourite podcast is Arabic, followed by the Central region and then the Eastern
Language Preferences and
region. Podcast listeners who live in the
Listening Habits
Central or Western regions are more
Podcast listeners surveyed overwhelmingly
likely to say they listen to podcasts while
say that the main language of their
driving than those in the Eastern region.
favourite podcast is Arabic. For context, a fifth say the main language of their
PERSONAL PREFERENCES
favourite podcast is English. For podcast listeners, entertainment, Exploring when podcasts are
with all of its subgenres, came in the
listened to, the top times podcast
lead in terms of preferred content,
listeners tend to tune in are:
followed by art, sports, religion, news,
41% while doing housework/chores
wellbeing, current affairs, education,
36% while driving
comedy and finally technology.
31% on the way to work
28% getting ready in the morning
54% of podcast listeners said they preferred narrative-driven shows, 31%
59% of podcast listeners tune into
of which preferred a storytelling format,
the show for the theme or the topics
and 23% enjoyed documentary
covered in the podcast, showing that
series. About 39% enjoyed
people are more attracted to valuable
conversations and interviews.
Podcasts
77
The main thing that attracts podcast
Regional Trends
listeners to a podcast is the specific
The most favoured genre is entertainment
episode topic, followed by the overall
across all three regions, however, looking
theme/genre of the series, the hosts and
at the second most favoured genre, these
the guests. When considering this data
differ. For example, for podcast listeners
point alongside the fact that entertainment
who live in the Central region, the second
(a broad genre) is the favourite genre, it
most favoured genre is religion, whereas
could suggest that podcast listeners look
for the Eastern region it’s sports and
more specifically for episodes they want to
for the Western region it’s art. While
listen to, over loyalty to particular hosts.
podcast listeners across the three regions agree that the specific episode topic is
Gender Trends
what attracted them most to a podcast,
Male podcast listeners equally favour
respondents living in the Central region
entertainment and sports genres the
are most likely than those in the Western
most, whereas female podcast listeners
and Eastern regions to say the hosts are
favour self-help, mental health and
what most attracts them to a podcast.
wellbeing as well as entertainment. While female podcast listeners selected
Conclusion
storytelling as their favourite format, male
Some overall trends do not differ much
podcast listeners selected documentary
when exploring demographics – such as
series formats as their favourite.
length preference (around 26 minutes), language preference (Arabic), and genre
Age Trends
preference (entertainment). However,
For podcast listeners aged 16-24, the
there are some variables that the research
top three most favoured genres are
has shown across the demographics,
entertainment, art and true crime. For
which should be considered for successful
podcast listeners aged 25-34, while the
audience targeting. For example, the
most favoured is also entertainment, the
youngest generation preferring video
second favourite is news and the third
formats and Spotify as a platform, as
is current affairs. Bucking the trend, the
well as differences between male and
most favoured genre for podcast listeners
female consumers when it comes to
aged 35-44 is art, and this is followed by
when they listen. Overall, what’s clear
sports and then entertainment. While
from the research is the continued and
all age groups of podcast listeners say
growing popularity of podcasts in KSA.
that the specific episode topic is what attracted them most to a podcast, respondents aged 25-34 and 35-44 are more likely than those aged 16-24 to say the overall theme/genre of the series most attracts them to a podcast.
Report and data provided by Rising Giants Network
CONSTRUCTION 78
CRUX Report HKA
ENGINEERING & CONSTRUCTION
OPERATING IN UNCERTAIN TIMES A REGIONAL ANALYSIS OF CLAIMS AND DISPUTE CAUSATION
2021
CRUX Report HKA
REBOUNDING CONSTRUCTION RISKS RISING TOLL OF LOST TIME AND CASH CRUX INSIGHT 2021 WARNS OF LONG COVID LEGACY OF CLAIMS AND DISPUTES
79
The construction and engineering industry may also learn from other changes in ways of working – often involving closer collaboration – to be more agile and productive in future. UNCERTAIN TIMES
The astounding scale of cash and time lost on
CAUSES & COVID EFFECTS
Ominously, however, COVID has compounded
construction and engineering projects around
These hugely damaging impacts arise from a
underlying industry weaknesses, intensifying
the globe is revealed in a new analysis of claims
web of underlying causes that is recurrent and
the risk of claims and disputes as the industry is
and disputes, which heralds a long COVID
global. The most dominant drivers of claims
rebounding and governments across the world
legacy of heightened uncertainty and risks for
and disputes are: changes in scope, conflicting
press ahead with ambitious infrastructure and
capital projects.
interpretation of contracts, design failures, and
development plans.
mismanagement of subcontractors. CRUX Insight 2021 distils real-world intelligence
The fourth annual CRUX Insight – themed
on more than 1,400 projects across 94 countries
CRUX Insight 2021 also explores the market
Operating in Uncertain Times – reports how
to show how they faced overruns approaching
and cultural factors in different regions
skills shortages, supply chain disruption, cost
half their capital value and three quarters of
determining their patterns of causation.
inflation, increased market volatility, and the
their scheduled programmes.
These has been distorted by COVID-19 as
climate crisis are impinging on projects and
the pandemic restricted access to sites and
increasing the potential for conflict in the
Consultants at HKA – the leading global
labour, constricted cashflow, and exposed
claims and disputes environment.
specialist in consulting, expert and advisory
the limitations of contract provisions on force
services – investigated these claims and
majeure and changes in law. By August 21 – the
Skills: More than one in three projects
disputes first-hand. The fourth annual CRUX
CRUX data cut-off – only one in six projects
(35.6%) were hindered by gaps in the skills
report combines a regional analysis of this
(16%), begun since the pandemic, generated
and experience of their management and
unique empirical knowledge bank with insights
COVID-related claims, though many more are in
delivery teams, and associated deficiencies in
from industry-leading consultants in the field,
the pipeline.
workmanship. These shortcomings inflated
who also propose actionable measures to secure better project outcomes. CRUX 2021 FACTS AND FINDINGS
the costs claimed on 499 projects, to $95 Benign effects are revealed too. Enhanced
million on average – 47.8% of planned outturn
levels of reporting have helped curb spurious
expenditure.
claims and deficient workmanship in some areas. Advanced technologies such as drones
Headline statistics from this year’s report include: 1,401 projects analysed $2 trillion – combined capital expenditure $73 billion – total value of claims $100 million – the average disputed costs per project 46.3% – the value of claims as a proportion of planned cost 17 months – the average time extension claimed 71.4% – the typical prolongation for programmes 750 years – the cumulative overruns faced by all projects
and digital modelling gained new advocates.
80
CRUX Report HKA
Supplies: Late delivery of materials and equipment impacted one in nine projects (11.3%), and proportionally more in Africa, the Middle East and the Americas (even before the report’s August 2021 cut-off). Sharp hikes in prices and delivery lags now being reported across all regions are eroding margins and budgets, with increased risk of time and cost overruns. Climate: A tenth of projects too (10.3%) were blown off course by exceptionally adverse weather. But that proportion varies both by region – rising to 12.3% in Oceania, and 15.8% in the Americas – and by sector: 17.6% for resource extraction projects globally. Like the other global uncertainties, the climate emergency requires recalibration of capital project delivery risks. “Capital projects are haemorrhaging billions of dollars each year to recurrent, predictable and often avoidable claims and disputes,” said Renny Borhan, CEO of HKA. “CRUX Insight 2021 not only diagnoses these failings and quantifies the impacts, but also identifies corrective actions to stem these losses. “The stakes are rising for all involved in delivering capital projects as global pressures increase in parallel with construction activity. Individually and collectively, project stakeholders and the industry can learn lessons from CRUX Insight to operate more effectively amid this heightened uncertainty and deliver better project outcomes. I encourage them to make good use of our analysis and insight along with the CRUX Interactive Dashboard.”
Americas: The push to design and build is
resolution mechanisms, but there is a cost-
having unintended consequences. A more
effective alternative for avoiding escalation.
REGIONAL ANALYSIS AND ACTION
proactive approach to risk assessment and
CRUX Insight 2021 maps out the most pressing
allocation, with checks on design progress
Europe: Claimed costs, averaging 58.3% of
challenges in each region and practical
and constructability and designer price
project values, are the highest of all regions.
measures to address them.
adjustments, can limit scope creep and design
Design errors have overtaken change in scope
clashes.
atop the region’s causation ranking. More of
Africa: A maturing of the claims culture is
these conflicts are being defused by earlier
overdue. Adopting best-practice protocols for
Asia: At every stage of the project lifecycle,
recourse to independent technical expertise.
delay and disruption and forensic schedule
risk registers rarely used in the region can
Well-defined handling processes would also
analysis is a priority, alongside upskilling of
mitigate impacts that are not being anticipated.
facilitate earlier settlement.
employers’ and contractors’ teams.
The culture is also resistant to formal dispute
CRUX Report HKA
ENGINEERING & CONSTRUCTION
OPERATING IN UNCERTAIN TIMES A REGIONAL ANALYSIS OF CLAIMS AND DISPUTE CAUSATION
2021
Middle East: Projects face the longest time
The latter’s unprecedented A$110 billion
overruns, equivalent to an average 84.7% of
pipeline demands a paradigm shift, involving
schedules. Early contractor involvement – in
collaborative working and an integrated
design development, aligned with robust
infrastructure strategy, to deal with the looming
scheduling, and employer stress-tests of
challenges in contracting capacity, skills and
buildability – can pave the way for more
the supply chain.
DOWNLOAD THE FULL REPORT:
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systemic change and investment in people and project governance.
HKA hkasaudi@hka.com
Oceania: Booming construction is stressing the
facebook @HKAGlobal
projects ecosystem of the two major economies
linkedin @ hka-global
– New Zealand and Australia.
twitter @ HKAGlobal www.hka.com
81
Work Panda
82
WORKPANDA SETS EYES ON SAUDI ARABIA HIRING SPREE WORKPANDA, A LEADING CONSTRUCTION HEADHUNTING FIRM, SEEKS TO SUPPORT THE KINGDOM’S PUBLIC DEVELOPERS, INTERNATIONAL CONSULTANCY FIRMS AND LOCAL CONTRACTING COMPANIES IN SOURCING WORLDLEADING TALENT.
T
he Dubai-based recruitment firm
on expats to fill such skills gaps. Furthermore,
(58%), followed by ‘contracts ending’ and ‘lack
specializes in technical roles across
there is a mismatch between the outputs of
of career opportunities’ (both 10%); ‘insufficient
construction, design, and engineering. It offers
higher education and the requirements of
pay/rewards’ (8%); and ‘lack of job security’
clients and candidates alike a more insightful,
the job market, said 82% of respondents.
(3%). Other reasons were cited by 13% of survey
When it comes to the nationalities of
participants. Additional comments highlighted
knowledgeable, and mature approach to their niche chosen sectors. WorkPanda’s
expatriate talent, 68% of employers said they
founding team are former technical delivery
recruited most of their staff from India; 49%
professionals, which gives it an unparalleled
from the UK/Europe; 34% from Pakistan;
(and attract) staff include reward and
advantage over its regional competitors.
32% from the US; 29% from Egypt; 20% from
recognition schemes, cultural and wellbeing
A spokesman for WorkPanda said: “Our
Jordan; 17% from the Philippines; 12% from
programs (some involving flexible working)
Australasia; and the same from Turkey.
and positive use of social media.
team have over 10 years’ experience on the front line delivering complex construction
Sudan, 7% from Bangladesh, 5% from Sri
positions at Saudi development companies
Lanka, and the same number from both
and international consultancies and have
Syria and Palestine. A total of 2% of recruits
been involved in building and scaling project
came from Yemen and the same number
teams. We understand first-hand what it
from Indonesia, while 12% of employers
takes to resource projects in the region
mostly recruited from other countries. Unsurprisingly, given the strong emphasis on Saudization in government policy and
BENEFITS MENTIONED THAT HELP RETAIN STAFF INCLUDE REWARD AND RECOGNITION SCHEMES According to a recent study, over half of Saudi employers (53%) struggle to recruit and retain
Benefits mentioned that help retain
In addition, 10% were recruited from the
projects across the region. We’ve held senior
– this gives us first move advantage.”
‘high competition’ as a contributory factor.
related incentives and penalties, 81% of
WorkPanda is aligned to Vision 2030 and is committed to developing the national workforce. If you’re interested in a new role or looking for a niche recruitment firm to support your hiring efforts, please contact hiring@workpanda.io or visit www.workpanda.io
respondents would like to increase the number of nationals employed in their business.
OVER HALF OF SAUDI EMPLOYERS (53%) STRUGGLE TO RECRUIT AND RETAIN STAFF
staff. Technical and job-specific skills were the
WORKPANDA hiring@workpanda.io facebook instagram twitter @WorkPandaHQ Linkedin youtube
hardest to find (65%), followed by leadership
WHY DO PEOPLE CURRENTLY LEAVE JOBS?
skills (62%). 80% of businesses recruit a mixture
The most common reason for staff to leave
of national and expatriate workers, often relying
their jobs is that they are ‘moving elsewhere’
@WorkPanda www.workpanda.io