Saudi Projects Issue 45

ISSUE 45 44

With news brought to you by The Red Sea Development Company

FEBRUARY 2021 / ISSUE 45

CORAL BLOOM

A TRULY IMMERSIVE BAREFOOT LUXURY EXPERIENCE

SAUDI AMANA CONTRACTING COMPARING MODULAR CONSTRUCTION TO CONVENTIONAL BUILD

QIDDIYA JACK NICKLAUS TO DESIGN KINGDOM’S FIRST GOLF COURSE

GIGA PROJECTS EXPLORE PROJECTS TAKEN TO A WHOLE NEW LEVEL

Editors Foreword

SET TO BECOME THE WORLD'S NEW HOLIDAY HOTSPOT OVER THE LAST FEW YEARS, SAUDI ARABIA HAS PUT IN A LOT OF EFFORT TO DIVERSIFY ITS ECONOMY FROM OIL. AFTER OPENING ITS DOORS TO TOURISTS IN 2019, IT IS SEEMINGLY READY TO BECOME THE NEW TOURIST FORCE OF THE REGION. AND WITH $64 BILLION OF INVESTMENTS IN CULTURE, LEISURE AND ENTERTAINMENT PROJECTS OVER THE NEXT DECADE, IT WILL UNDOUBTEDLY HAVE PLENTY TO SHOW OFF. For instance, several massive projects are emerging on the western coast, such as The Red Sea Project and AMAALA, the latter also called the ‘Middle East Riviera’. All of the projects currently being developed aim to retain Saudi tourists in the kingdom, rather than see them travel to places such as the UAE, as well as attracting international visitors.

WANT YOUR COMPANY TO APPEAR IN THE KINGDOM'S LEADING TRADE PUBLICATION With news brought to you by The Red Sea Development Company

ISSUE 45 44

Aside from these giga-projects, which also include Neom, Qiddiya, Ad Diriyah, and Al Ula,

FEBRUARY 2021 / ISSUE 45

the kingdom has an exceptional biodiversity. Yes, the greater part of the kingdom is desert, but then there are the soaring, juniper-clad, 3,000 meter high mountains of the Asir in the south-west, the azure reefs of the Red Sea, the date palm oasis of Al-Hofuf, and the meandering backstreets and spice markets of Jeddah. It is a holidaymaker’s dream, so it is no surprise that the world's eyes have turned to the kingdom - it has plenty to show off.

So where will I head first? It’s a case of being spoiled for choice. But, as a bit of a ‘culture vulture’, I have to say that Mada’in Salih will be very close to the top of my list. A collection of 111 spectacular tombs carved into rocky outcrops, and one of four UNESCO world heritage sites in the kingdom, Mada’in Salih was built by the Nabataeans. This is the same civilization that created the much better-known settlement at Petra in Jordan. Having said that, a month at Coral Bloom, (part of The Red Sea Project) is quite enticing too! Where’s my passport?

Rod Millington EDITOR

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CORAL BLOOM

A TRULY IMMERSIVE BAREFOOT LUXURY EXPERIENCE

SAUDI AMANA CONTRACTING COMPARING MODULAR CONSTRUCTION TO CONVENTIONAL BUILD

QIDDIYA JACK NICKLAUS TO DESIGN KINGDOM’S FIRST GOLF COURSE

GIGA PROJECTS EXPLORE PROJECTS TAKEN TO A WHOLE NEW LEVEL

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

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Contents

06

COVER STORY

36

CORAL BLOOM

A TRULY IMMERSIVE BAREFOOT LUXURY EXPERIENCE FEATURES

30

32

POWER & ENERGY FOCUS - RIYADH CABLES

SUSTAINABILITY

48

52

ALKIFAH CONTRACTING COMPANY

SAUDI AMANA CONTRACTING

Contents

34 THE PUBLIC INVESTMENT FUND (PIF) ALSO IN THIS ISSUE

8

26

NEWS

GETTING TO KNOW - KANOO INDUSTRIAL & ENERGY

66

76

GIGA PROJECTS

URBAN DESIGN & LANDSCAPING

07

8

News

WILL DOUBLE ANNUAL CONTAINER THROUGHPUT CAPACITY TO 5.2 MILLION TEUS BY 2023 A 70-METER REACH AND A 52-METER HEIGHT BY 2023, RSGT WILL DEPLOY 24 SUPER POST-PANAMAX QUAY CRANES PLANS ARE UNDERWAY FOR A TOTAL INVESTMENT OF $1.7 BILLION

RSGT TAKES DELIVERY OF TWO STS CRANES AND 10 HYBRID-RTGS RED SEA GATEWAY TERMINAL (RSGT) HAS TAKEN DELIVERY OF TWO STATE-OF-THE-ART REMOTECONTROLLED SHIP-TO-SHORE (STS) CRANES, AND 10 HYBRID-RUBBERTYRED GANTRY CRANES (RTGS), AS PART OF THE LATEST STEPS IN THE PLANNED EXPANSION OF JEDDAH PORT'S PREMIER FACILITY TO DOUBLE ANNUAL CONTAINER THROUGHPUT CAPACITY TO 5.2 MILLION TEUS BY 2023.

and capability to meet the different levels of customer needs for next-generation vessels", stated RSGT CEO Jens Floe.

The new 65-ton twin-lift capacity STS

status condition monitoring systems.

The new hybrid-RTGs will enhance environmentally sustainable terminal and yard operations by automatically switching to

cranescan accommodate the latest generation

battery power from diesel power to optimise

of Ultra-Large Container Ships (ULCS) of

efficiency by reducing fuel consumption and

24,000+ TEU capacity, with a 70-meter reach

harmful greenhouse gas emissions during

and a 52-meter height. RSGT is the only

container handling operations. . By 2023, RSGT

terminal at the Port of Jeddah capable of

will deploy 24 Super Post-Panamax quay cranes

accommodating the ULCS class's mega-

and 67 Rubber-Tyred Gantry Cranes (RTGs)

ships. Manufactured by ZPMC in Shanghai,

Plans are underway for a total investment

China, the new semi-automated STS cranes

of USD $1.7 billion on infrastructure,

feature advanced technology such as

equipment, and improvements in line with

"This is another key milestone in RSGT's

remote control, Optical Character Scanning

RSGT'S commitment to Jeddah's future,

commitment and continuous investment

capability; chassis alignment, and automatic

ultimately increasing annual container

to enhance our world-class terminal

landing systems; vessel profiling, gantry, and

throughput capacity to 8.8 million TEU.

services. As well as increase the efficiency

trolley positioning systems; and intelligent

News

IHG SIGNS AGREEMENT FOR HOLIDAY INN JEDDAH CORNICHE IHG® Hotels & Resorts, one of the world’s leading hotel companies, has signed a

156 ROOMS OPENING JAN 2022

Management Agreement with Saleh Alsalamah and Partner Companies, to open Holiday Inn Jeddah Corniche. Having signed Holiday Inn

JEDDAH'S 3RD HOLIDAY INN

Riyadh Al Malaz last year with the same partner, this latest development is part of IHG’s dedicated efforts to increase its midscale portfolio in the region.

Once completed, Holiday Inn Jeddah Corniche will be IHG’s third Holiday Inn hotel in Jeddah, joining Holiday Inn Jeddah Gateway and Holiday Inn Jeddah – Al Salam. Expected to open in January 2022, the 156-room property will be strategically located behind the Corniche Road, near Jeddah Waterfront, InterContinental Jeddah and Crowned Plaza Jeddah. The hotel is also in close proximity to one of the city’s must-see attractions, Jeddah Corniche, offering long stretches of sandy beaches, a winding pier and lush parklands, making it the ideal destination for business and leisure travellers alike.

HILL INTERNATIONAL SELECTED AS THE FM MANAGING CONSULTANCY FOR TATWEER BUILDING COMPANY Hill International, the global leader in managing construction risk, has announced it has been awarded the contract to provide Facilities Management (FM) consultancy services to act as the Managing Agent for the Tatweer Building Company (TBC), which represents the Saudi Ministry of Education. This award consists of three main projects: two prestigious headquarters buildings in Riyadh, Riyadh schools and associated administrative buildings, which consist of more than 2,000 facilities, and Eastern Province schools plus administrative buildings totaling another 2,000 facilities.

Hill International’s project staff will mobilise to deliver each of the above projects to the highest international FM standards and practices. Though similar, each project presents unique challenges, from geographical dispersion to local service provider management.

“As education is important to all of us, we are very pleased with this great opportunity to enable us to showcase our FM skills and raise the bar in the delivery standards within the region by applying our best international practices,” says Brian Murphy, Hill’s Director of Facilities Management.

9

10

News

WORLD LEADING FINTECH POWERHOUSE BRINGS IRISH INNOVATION TO THE KINGDOM Irish FinTech firms leading the charge

worked with Saudi Aramco, Cisco and Oracle.

with innovation in FinTech globally are

Mr Alherz commented: "The arrival of

increasingly looking to the Middle East

a global FinTech leader in the employee

to invest in and expand their services.

ownership sector is great news for Saudi

One such firm, internationally leading

Arabia and the wider region, and it's

Global Shares has boosted its investment

also exciting for Global Shares. Saudi

in the region and opened an office in

Arabia has a large, strong economy with

Saudi Arabia's capital, Riyadh.

a population of 33.7 million and a GDP of

The company – which manages the

$790,000,000,000. Our country is highly

employee share plans of some of the world's

diverse: 32% of the population is made

biggest companies – is headquartered in

up of ex-pats, and 66% of the population

Ireland but has 16 other offices across Europe,

is youthful, both of which will help form a

America and Asia. The Riyadh office houses

long-term incentive plans perspective".

the hub region's service team and is a base for

The concept of sharing the company's

its new Managing Director of the Middle East,

wealth with its employees through share

Abdulhadi Alherz, who has more than 15 years'

ownership is being examined by an increasing

experience in digital transformation, innovation

number of businesses in the Middle East.

SAUDI ARABIA'S GDP $790 TRILLION POPULATION 33.7 MILLION 32% EX-PATS 66% YOUTHFUL

and financial services, and has previously

INTERTEK LAUNCHES IN-COUNTRY FIRE TESTING AND CERTIFICATION SERVICES FOR BUILDING MATERIALS IN SAUDI ARABIA Intertek, a Total Quality Assurance

as fire doors, walls, glazed partitions,

provider to industries worldwide,

and ceilings. The laboratory, located in

has announced the launch of a new

Al Khobar, is ISO 17025 accredited and

in-country service for fire testing and

approved by the Saudi Civil Defence, and

certification of building products

also tests fire performance of load-bearing

in Saudi Arabia, to support the

elements, skylights and roof assemblies.

increasing demand for fire resistance

Featuring a combination furnace, the

testing from customers in the region.

facility will allow Intertek to test and

Intertek is the first certification body

certify both vertical and horizontal

to offer end-to-end fire resistance

products such as doors and ceilings.

testing and certification of building materials within the kingdom.

The launch of the new service will benefit companies based in Saudi

The new service offers testing and

Arabia by eliminating the need to

certification of building products such

ship samples abroad for testing.

News

“Safe Space was created out of a need for people to have somewhere to go where they can feel heard. A place where they can show their true selves without feeling judged and somewhere, they will also find practical and professional answers to the questions that matter to them the most, covering topics such as relationships, personal finance and much more.

“There are many proven studies to show that talking through our problems reduces stress when carried out under the correct supervision. Therapy can often prove expensive and sharing with friends or family can present its own set of challenges. Our solution provides those struggling with a tangible space to learn new coping strategies without

SAFE SPACE MAKES MENTAL HEALTH SUPPORT ACCESSIBLE THROUGH NEW ‘VIRTUAL DROP-IN’ SERVICES Mental health start-up Safe Space provides

effects on productivity. The 2020 Covid-19

companies with tools to maintain mental

pandemic has not only changed the way we

wellbeing. Consulting businesses on

work, but it’s also said to have negatively

strategy, creating content and delivering

impacted our mental health, making it

customised workshops. Safe Space’s

more important to focus on than ever.

ethos is quite simply to make mental

Support that is Tailored to Suit You

health and wellbeing accessible.

and Your Employees’ Needs

With the introduction of a new ‘virtual

first in Saudi Arabia to create a unique service

more affordable avenues for companies

offering in this form, to offer high quality

and employees to access a ‘safe space’ to

and affordable support. Their anonymous

discuss their mental health and wellbeing.

platform creates a safe space for employees

Through live webinars and uplifting content,

to ‘drop-in’ on a virtual platform to lighten

Safe Space provides employees with

their load on the work and personal front with

new strategies to help them live happier,

a panel of experts across a range of topics.

The World Health Organisation estimates the global economy loses US$1 trillion per

privacy,” says co-founder Helen Hope.

Safe Space believes they are among the

drop-in’ service, Safe Space is creating

healthier, and more productive lives.

denting their savings or violating personal

Safe Space works with individual companies to create a comprehensive solution that suits their requirements.

annum due to poor mental health and its

The ‘virtual drop-in’ service launched on 1 February 2021 and more information can be found through www.wearesafespace.com.

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12

News

U20 ENGAGEMENT GROUP ANNOUNCES A GLOBAL URBAN RESILIENCE FUND THE URBAN 20 (U20), A G20 ENGAGEMENT GROUP HAS ANNOUNCED THAT IT IS WORKING TO CREATE A GLOBAL URBAN RESILIENCE FUND, THE FIRST FUND OF ITS TYPE DEVELOPED BY CITIES, FOR CITIES.

S

time, it is necessary to pool resources and create new tools. The Global Urban Resilient Fund represents an intelligent way to meet these needs, and the commitment of

peaking about the announcement U20

The Fund comes as a response to the

the next Italian U20 Presidency will be to

Chair, His Excellency Fahd Al-Rasheed,

findings of the U20 Special Working Group

carry this forward and make it concrete.”

President of the Royal Commission for Riyadh

(SWG) on Covid-19, which was set up by

City, noted: “We have the opportunity right

the U20 Chair city, Riyadh, together with

Horacio Rodríguez Larreta, Mayor of Buenos

now to learn from the impact of Covid-19,

co-chair cities Rome and Buenos Aires.

Aires, the founding city of the U20, said:

to study how to build cities which are more

Mayor of Rome Virginia Raggi commented:

“Local government budgets will not be

resilient and agile. The cities of the U20

“The challenge of our times is the fight

enough to carry out the sustainable urban

have taken the lead to develop a fund for

against the pandemic. A struggle that is not

reconstruction and job creation that will need

city action to combat the pandemic and

only a challenge to restore the best health

to take place in the coming years. We need

mitigate future urban shocks. The goal of

conditions; but, more, it is remedying the

to use our collective voice to facilitate cities’

the fund is to accelerate the transmission

economic consequences of the pandemic.

access to stimulus and recovery packages and

of new learning and ideas for a more

Cities cannot tackle this alone: solid support

to support innovative financial instruments

secure future for all urban residents.”

from states is needed, but, at the same

that favour ‘green’ financing, such as the

News

“THE GOAL OF THE FUND IS TO ACCELERATE THE TRANSMISSION OF NEW LEARNING AND IDEAS FOR A MORE SECURE FUTURE FOR ALL URBAN RESIDENTS.”

13

The goals of the Global Urban Resilience Fund are to:  Act as a shared and accessible Fund for cities, governed by cities  Provide agile disaster response funds for cities for effective, transparent and rapid emergency actions  Provide access to critical infrastructure investments that increase the resilience of cities  Provide financial products and instruments including grants and loans to cities while providing new opportunities for investors The ultimate aim is to unlock and develop new financial instruments and funding mechanisms for cities currently unavailable through international finance architecture.

Resources will be disbursed to cities through multiple financial products, such as:  Grants for providing technical assistance for the early stages of the project cycle, including conception, feasibility studies and project preparation.  Low interest loans for the later stages of the project cycle, including construction and implementation.  Partial or full guarantees for cities with a relatively low credit standing, or with the need of a national government guarantee.

Global Urban Resilient Fund."

Covid-19 which gathered 32 case

The Special Working Group brought

studies and surveyed 21 cities covering

by earmarked earnings coming from specific urban

together a further ten member cities:

a population size of over 75 million.

infrastructure projects within individual trust funds,

Amsterdam, Helsinki, Houston, Izmir,

In its report, the Special Working

offering attractive yields to international financial market

Los Angeles, Madrid, Mexico City, Rio

Group recommended the creation

De Janeiro, Sao Paulo and Tshwane,

of a Global Urban Resilience Fund

along with seven Knowledge Partners:

to address the dual challenge

with leading international insurance companies to create

the University of Pennsylvania,

that the while the pandemic crisis

specific insurance coverage for unprecedented future

Coalition for Urban Transition,

has hit all cities, all cities are not

shocks.

the Chicago Council on Global

financially empowered to respond

Affairs, OECD, International Finance

or build resilient city infrastructure

The U20 is currently working to define the details and

Corporation (World Bank Group),

of the magnitude required.

modalities of the Fund, which will be announced by the end

Agence Française de Développement

 Securitization, through the issuance of securities backed

investors.  Services like Resilience Insurance for cities by partnering

of the year.

and Université Gustave Eiffel.

The need for a cities fund arose from the Special Working Group on

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION VISIT: www.urban20riyadh.org/knowledge-hub

14

News

A 1.3% POINT UPTICK IN GDP FOR SAUDI ARABIA BY ENABLING AND STRENGTHENING ITS WORKFORCE OF THE FUTURE Reducing the mismatch between the skills a

The report points to the need for a more

workforce possesses and the work tasks that

human-centric approach to education and

it needs to perform is critical to increasing

employment, with said Dr Leila Hoteit, the

overall productivity. Addressing the skills

global leader of BCG’s education, employment,

mismatch that affects approximately half

and welfare sector and co-author of the

of Saudi Arabia’s workforce will bring

report, explaining: “In a world where more

significant benefits for the kingdom and

than 1.3 billion people globally work in jobs

enable more than 1.3% additional GDP

for which they are either under-qualified

growth per year, according to market-

or overqualified, The Kingdom of Saudi

specific insights from Boston Consulting

Arabia has a tremendous opportunity to

Group (BCG)’s report titled Alleviating the

address the skills mismatch challenge to

Heavy Toll of the Global Skills Mismatch.

bring a significant upside to the kingdom.

The report shows that the skills mismatch is

Produced through careful analysis, strategic

the key barrier to human capital development

thinking, and partnerships, our new insight

in Saudi Arabia – where 50% of the workforce

underlines the demand for a human-centric

don’t realise their working potential in

approach and the need for education systems

full. Their skill-set is either insufficient for

to adapt to new market requirements.”

their work or exceeds its requirements.

Golf Saudi Puts People First Proof of golf's growing impact on the people

Fund in November 2020, the NSS was conceived

Agenda programmes announced at Royal

of Saudi Arabia was revealed following the

with three pillars, giving particular focus

Greens during the Saudi International, which

conclusion of the third Saudi International,

to the enrichment of Saudi's Environment

took place from February 4-7, include an

as Golf Saudi announced a number of

(The Green Agenda), delivering benefit

internship scheme for new graduates within

new programmes connected to The Social

to the national economy (The Economic

Golf Saudi and an access programme for

Agenda, part of the newly-launched

Agenda) and providing opportunities for the

disabled people and the children of veterans at

National Sustainability Strategy (NSS).

domestic population (The Social Agenda).

golf courses around the country.

Unveiled during the Aramco Saudi Ladies International presented by Public Investment

Centred upon the creation of education, employment and leisure activities, early Social

News

ONLY COMPANIES WITH A HQ IN THE KINGDOM WILL BE AWARDED CONTRACTS FROM 2024

presence in the kingdom's capital, Riyadh, fuelled by Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman pushing an $800 billion strategy to double the city's size and turn it into a global hub.

The decision highlights the regional competition over global

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Saudi Arabia Elevator and Escalator Market Share Current and Future Industry Trends, 2020-2025 5% Year on Year Growth

commerce and talent that has

According to a recent study

of residential buildings,

From 1 January 2024, the

intensified as Prince Mohammed

entitled 'Saudi Arabia

corporate offices, hotels, and

Saudi government and

opens the kingdom's economy

Elevator and Escalator

retail malls will augment

state-backed institutions

while promising $6 trillion

Market Analysis, 2020',

the demand for elevators

will stop signing contracts

in investment

the Saudi Arabia elevator

in the coming years.

with overseas companies

opportunities

and escalator market

that do not have a base in the

over the

is projected to record

commercial segments secured

kingdom. This is intended

next

a yearly growth rate of

a considerable portion of the

to promote job creation and

decade.

5% over 2020-2025.

Saudi Arabia elevator and

limit 'economic leakage'.

This is the latest measure

PLANS TO DOUBLE SIZE OF RIYADH

Both residential and

Increasing government

escalator market share in 2019

initiatives for infrastructure

and will accrue significant

designed to encourage

development, in line with

gains in the upcoming years.

companies to increase their

growing establishment

Alstom Innovates Towards a Sustainable Future for Rail Transport & Mobility in Saudi Arabia

enhance the kingdom's interconnectivity

signalling system. As a leader in improving

and major rail and metro development

the environmental performance of rail across

projects, in line with its Vision for 2030.

the region, Alstom has also implemented

By 2024, Saudi Arabia is expected to

highly advanced and innovative HESOP™

have spent over $48 billion on rail projects.

(Harmonic Energy Saver) technology in the

At the forefront of this major investment

project. HESOP™ recovers the electrical energy

in rail transport is the Riyadh Metro, with

generated by trains during braking, which,

lines 4, 5 and 6 having been built from

in addition to reducing operational costs,

Alstom, a global leader in rail transport

scratch by Alstom and its civil partners,

will cut about 3 million kilograms of carbon

and sustainable mobility, is proving to

as part of the FAST consortium.

emissions and decrease power consumption

be a key supporter and facilitator of Saudi Arabia's goal to comprehensively

Alstom has supplied 69 Metropolis™

by 6.6 million kilowatts per annum.

-based Riyadh Metro trains and an Urbalis

BY 2024, SAUDI ARABIA IS EXPECTED TO HAVE SPENT OVER $48 BILLION ON RAIL PROJECTS THROUGHOUT THE KINGDOM

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News

Academia and Industry Join Forces to Diversify Fuel Sources for a Post-oil

MDMS SIGNS AGREEMENT WITH MSKANK COOPERATIVE SOCIETY

Maximiliano Development Management

Under the agreement, Maximiliano will

Services (MDMS), a key player in the

provide full development services for

growing real estate development industry

Mskank residential projects, which include

Saudi-based engineering group, Jubail

in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, has signed

planning, design and land development,

Pearl, has joined forces with Rochester

an agreement with Mskank, a reputable

financial and design studies, project

Institute of Technology (RIT) Dubai

housing cooperative society that works

management, implementation program

to establish a long-term partnership

to provide the necessary housing and

management, and all marketing and

that aims to generate sustainable fuel

services for residential communities.

sales services plans and execution.

sources to help diversify the region's energy supply for a post-oil era.

The collaboration was sealed with the recent signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). It will begin with

GOVERNMENT’S FOCUS ON BALANCING GROWTH AND STABILITY TO BUOY KSA PROPERTY MARKET

the production and commercialisation of

While much of 2020

a sustainable biofuel, generated from the

was prioritising

waste of the region's vast palm tree crop.

the response to

The technology is the culmination of

Covid-19, Saudi

years of scientific research initiated by a

Arabia remained

scientific team led by Dr Yousef Al-Assaf,

focused on growth

formerly Dean of the engineering college at the American University of Sharjah and now

and stability, long-term economic sustainability,

2021 BUDGET $264 BILLION 84% LOANS GROWTH 90% LOANS VALUE GROWTH 60,000 UNITS HANDED OVER

President of RIT Dubai. The collaboration

diversification and an enhanced quality of life for

with Jubail Pearl will see the installation of

its people, according to JLL's KSA 2020 Year

a manufacturing plant in the Energy and

in Review report released today.

Sustainability Research Centre within the

This was especially evident in the SAR 990 billion ($264 billion) budget for 2021,

new RIT Dubai campus at Dubai Silicon

which emphasised health and social development, as well as education spending,

Oasis, where final experimentations and

with each allocated SAR 186 billion and SAR 175 billion respectively.

small scale production will take place, before scaling up towards full commercialisation.

Following further testing and certification,

Given the strong government support for the sector, demand for KSA's residential properties remained active in 2020. According to Saudi Arabia Monetary Agency (SAMA), this was reflected in the mortgage growth rate figures for the year-to (YT)

the team will be seeking government

September 2020, which saw an 84% growth in the number of loans and a 90% growth

authorisations to use the fuel locally in the

in loan values over the same period last year. In addition, construction activity

coming months and it is anticipated that it

remained active, with around 60,000 units handed over in 2020. This brings the total

could be available as a commercially viable

residential supply to 1.3 million and 835,000 in Riyadh and Jeddah, respectively. While

heating product as early as next year.

the total stock for Makkah and DMA stands at 400,000 and 363,000, respectively.

News

NEW ARAR AIRPORT OPEN FOR BUSINESS

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Arar Airport can serve more than one million passengers per annum, and features six travel gates, with two passenger bridge gates in the new terminal that can accommodate four aircraft at any one time. Four further gates can serve aircraft parked airside. In addition, there are 10 check-in and 12 passport control counters in the arrival area, plus eight counters in the departure area. The main passenger terminal is equipped with 900 seats.

The airport has an ‘advanced’ luggage handling system with two conveyor belts and a car park to accommodate 616 vehicles.

Design-wise, the airport’s exterior forms the letter ‘Al-Ain’. This symbolises

Located in the northern borders regions,

field of air transport for the northern

the first letter of the city of Arar, as

the new Arar Airport has been officially

border region”, according to Saudi’s

well as the shape of the eye.

opened, with the capacity to handle

General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA).

more than 10,000 flights per year.

It will cater to the growing number

and from Riyadh operated by Saudi Arabian

of travellers and the development of

Airlines (Saudia), with plans to introduce

new destinations in the region.

other domestic routes and carriers.

Built at a cost of SAR382 million, the airport marks a “qualitative shift in the

The airport will initially have flights to

When completed, the complex will be one of the largest shipyards in the world.

It will be automated using a range of Honeywell technologies designed to make the facility’s operations safer, more efficient and secure. The suite of systems will be integrated into the complex by SEPCO, the project’s main engineering procurement and construction contractor.

“Our global presence enables us to work closely with international engineering, procurement and construction companies, including our valued partners SEPCO, to deliver highly innovative infrastructure projects around the globe. We are proud to extend our relationship with both SEPCO

HONEYWELL SYSTEMS SELECTED FOR ONE OF THE WORLD’S LARGEST SHIPYARDS

and Aramco on this landmark development,” said Norm Gilsdorf, President for Honeywell, High Growth Regions, Middle East, Russia, Turkey, Central Asia, Customs Union and ASEAN. “Through the combined capabilities of Honeywell, Aramco and SEPCO, the

Honeywell has been awarded a major contract by SEPCO Electric Power Construction

King Salman International Complex for

Corporation (SEPCO) to supply connected control, telecommunications, safety and

Maritime Industries and Services is set to

security systems for the King Salman International Complex for Maritime Industries

become one of the most advanced, efficient,

and Services shipyard being developed by Aramco in Ras Al-Khair, Saudi Arabia.

innovative facilities of its type in the world.”

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News

ARAMCO TIES UP WITH SAP FOR ERP DIGITALISATION A strategic alliance between Aramco and SAP Saudi Arabia has been announced; an agreement that fuels Aramco’s digital transformation journey, paving the way for further integration of new technologies in a rapidly evolving technological landscape.

The SAP Enterprise Resource Planning

artificial intelligence, advanced analytics

will be improved through job creation,

(ERP) system will deepen the deployment

and Internet-of-Things solutions.

training, localising supplier services and

of pioneering IR4.0 technologies, including

By extending the strategic alliance with

R&D. As well as enabling greater efficiencies,

cloud-based services, embedded

SAP Saudi Arabia, Aramco’s contribution

SAP’s Data Centre in will offer new cloud

analytics, mobility, machine learning,

to the in-kingdom business ecosystem

solutions to Aramco and other companies.

SAUDI SPACE COMMISSION SIGNS AGREEMENT WITH THE UNIVERSITY OF ARIZONA ON SPACE-RELATED PROJECTS AND ACTIVITIES

The Saudi Space Commission has virtually signed today an executive program with the US University of Arizona

$132 MILLION PROJECT VALUE

Metito Awarded Jubail-II SWRO 400,000m3/d Seawater Desalination Plant Project

to exchange space-interested students, university

The project for the design, engineering and procurement of the new

staff, administrative personnel, and researchers.

400,000m3/day Jubail II Seawater Reverse Osmosis (SWRO) plant by

The agreement, which was signed by the Director for

SEPCO Electric Power Construction Corporation (SEPCO III) has been

International Relations Abdulaziz Al-Ghurayeb, on the Saudi

awarded to Metito, a global leader and provider of choice for total

side, and Brent White, Vice Provost for Global Affairs and Dean

intelligent water management and alternative energy solutions. The

of Global Locations at the University of Arizona, encourages

Saline Water Conversion Corporation (SWCC) will commission this

the enrolment of Saudi students to high-level space-related

state-of-the-art SWRO project worth $132 million (SAR495 million).

studies, short-summer programmes in the field of space sciences

The Jubail II SWRO plant is a 24 month project and a commissioning

and engineering, and the creation of research opportunities

date set for February 2022. The plant will serve Jubail city in the

among Saudi students and their counterparts in the USA.

Eastern province of KSA, home to the world's largest industrial city.

News

19

SDAIA and Philips Partner to Drive AI in Saudi Arabia’s Healthcare System The Saudi Data and Artificial Intelligence Authority (SDAIA) has announced it has partnered with Royal Philips, a global leader in health technology, to support further Saudi Arabia's goal of becoming a leader in driving Artificial Intelligence (AI) in healthcare. The Memorandum of Understanding between Philips and the SDAIA, which underpins the partnership, is in line with the kingdom's Vision 2030 blueprint for diversifying the economy and enhancing public service sectors, including healthcare, by employing the most advanced technologies available.

The joint effort will create an AI ecosystem that incorporates education, science and technology, supported by knowledge sharing and worldwide collaborations.

The collaboration, which includes a scientific exchange programme and investment in local training, aims to empower Saudi Arabia's data scientists and healthcare professionals with the latest health technologies. This will enable them to pass on AI's healthcare benefits to the kingdom's citizens, making Saudi Arabia one of the world's most technologically advanced countries.

Apply now and build your career with the Qimam Fellowship!

UNLOCKING POTENTIAL IN SAUDI ARABIA

Abdullah Saidan, an Associate Partner at

Qimam is a fellowship program that aims to identify, develop, and empower the most promising and distinguished UNIVERSITY STUDENTS in and from KSA to help them achieve their full potential

DEADLINE:

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www.qimam.com

PARTNERS: 37 companies and 300+ executives

have had the opportunity to enrol 150 fellows, 55% of whom are women, from more than 40 universities in Saudi and abroad. Three things set these fellows apart: they are distinctive

Arabia or abroad are eligible to apply.

The Qimam Fellowship programme was founded by McKinsey & Company and Dr Annas

academically, they have demonstrated

BENEFITS

edition of its highly selective leadership

bachelor's and master's programme in Saudi

committed to nurturing local talent and transformation. Over the last three years, we

applications are now open for the fourth

from across the kingdom participating in

deep roots in this region, we are deeply helping them contribute to Saudi Arabia's

The Qimam Fellowship has announced that

development programme. Students

McKinsey Middle East, said: "As a firm with

One-on-one mentorship with senior leaders from public and private sector

Leadership training by professionals from renowned companies

Visits to leading national and international companies

strong initiative, and they have exhibited

Sharing of fellow profiles with senior HR leaders in KSA

WHO CAN APPLY

Membership in the Qimam Alumni Network

Qimam Award for HighPotential Leaders

SELECTION CRITERIA

Bachelor’s or master's students at KSA universities

Academic performance

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a strong sense of social responsibility in their own communities. We believe talent is abundant in the kingdom, and we couldn't be more excited to continue this journey with current and future Qimam fellows."

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Abedin, a McKinsey Alumnus and entrepreneur, on the premise that Saudi is rich with untapped local talent with great potential to contribute to the kingdom's ambitious transformation.

Applications are now open until 28 February 2021, and the 12-day intensive programme will take place from 8-19 June 2021. The application form and more details about the Qimam Fellowship can be found on www.qimam.com.

20

Saudi Electricity Company News

SAUDI ELECTRICITY COMPANY ANNOUNCES NEW CHAIRMAN AND VICE CHAIRMAN Saudi Electricity Company announces that the Board of Directors has made the following resolutions at its recent meeting.

ALFANAR SUBMITS LOWEST BID OF SAR 258.3 MILLION FOR AMAALA 380/132KV SUBSTATION Bid results for the construction of the 380/132kV substation at AMAALA, the ultra-luxury destination located along the north-western coast of Saudi Arabia, have been announced by the Saudi Electricity Company (SEC).

The project involves the construction of a new indoor 380/132kV gas insulated substation, named as AMAALA BSP. It includes protection, control, communication and SAS/

H.E. DR KHALID BIN SALEH AL-SULTAN

DR NAJEM BIN ABDULLAH ALZAID

SCADA systems. The project scope of works

as Chairman of the Board of Directors

as Vice Chairman of the Board

also includes 380kV GIS expansion at Al Wajh BSP along with all other required material.

AL-BABTAIN SUBMITS LOWEST BID OF SAR 267.8 MILLION FOR KING SALMAN PARK 380/132/13.8KV SUBSTATION SEC Wins Corporate Governance Index Excellence Award Saudi Electricity Company (SEC) powered its way to the Corporate Governance Index Excellence Award at the Second Annual Corporate Governance Conference.

Held at the Corporate Governance Center of Alfaisal University in Riyadh, the conference saw SEC ranked among the top 10 publicly traded non-financial corporations on the Corporate Governance Index for the second year running.

Saudi-based Construction firm Al-Babtain

The project involves the construction of a

Contracting Company has submitted

new indoor 380/132/13.8kV gas insulated

the lowest bid of SAR 267.8 million

substation, named 9083 BSP. It includes

($71.4 million) for the construction

protection, control, communication and SAS/

of King Salman Park 380/132/13.8kV

SCADA systems. The project scope of works

substation in Riyadh, Saudi Electricity

also includes 380kV GIS expansion at 9047

Company (SEC) has announced. In all,

BSP along with all other required material.

11 companies submitted proposals.

Saudi Electricity Company News

21

SEC SIGNS MOU WITH JBIC Saudi Electricity Company (SEC) recently announced the signing of a memorandum of understanding with the Japan Bank for International Cooperation (JBIC). This will

The signed MoU comes as part of Saudi-

both parties plan to have regular mutual

see financial collaboration on SEC’s on-going

Japan Vision 2030, which is a comprehensive

discussions, share and exchange information

and future projects that could contribute

cooperation framework for heralding a new

and develop solutions to address SEC’s

to energy transition and environmental

era of strategic partnership between the

challenges, while working on promoting

and social sustainability in the power

two countries in the spirit of mutual benefit

energy transition and environmental and

sector in the kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

and co-prosperity. As per the signed MoU,

social sustainability in the power sector.

TDP Company Submits Lowest Bid for 380kV Switching Substation

The construction of 380kV switching

submitting the lowest bid of SAR 287 million

station, 9097, in Riyadh, has seen

($76.5 million). The project involves the

the bid results announced by Saudi

construction of a new indoor 380kV gas

Electricity Company (SEC).

insulated substation, and includes protection,

NCC AWARDED 380KV SUBSTATION EXPANSION PROJECT IN NARIYAH Work on the 'Expansion of Narlyah North 380kV Substation' project in Narlyah, in

Ten bidders submitted proposals,

control, communication and SAS/SCADA

with Saudi-based construction firm

systems. The scope of works also includes the

Trading Development Partnership (TDP)

reinforcement of the existing 9020 substation.

SEC’S INDUSTRIAL SECURITY SECTOR IS FIRST IN MIDDLE EAST TO OBTAIN RECOGNIZED FOR EXCELLENCE’ CERTIFICATE

the eastern region of Saudi Arabia, has been awarded to Saudi-based National Contracting Company (NCC), Saudi Electricity Company (SEC) has stated.

The value of signed contract is SAR 43,900,000 ($11,706,666), and the scope of works takes in the major equipment – 380kV gas insulated switchgear expansion, protection and control system modifications, civil, electrical-mechanical works at the existing Nariyah North 380kV substation.

NEC shall perform on a lump sum turnkey basis the following services: the design,

Saudi Electricity Company (SEC)

Electricity the first company in the Middle

engineering, materials procurement, quality

has obtained three ‘Recognized for

East to obtain this certificate in this

management, factory inspection/testing,

Excellence’ certificates at once from

sector, and the company’s Distribution

transport and delivery to site, installation,

the European Foundation for Quality

and Customer Services – Southern Sector

construction, site inspection, testing and

Management (EFQM). The SEC’s industrial

and Human Resources Development

commissioning, all associated work and services

security sector received Recognized for

Sector received the same certificate.

until final handing over of substation works in a

Excellence certificate, making the Saudi

satisfactorily working and operating condition.

22

POWER & ENERGY FOCUS - SAUDI ELECTRICITY COMPANY

SAUDI ARABIA'S ELECTRICITY SECTOR UNDERGOES COMPREHENSIVE TRANSFORMATION Sweeping reforms will ensure the

 Transition to the optimal energy mix for

 Increase the sector's Transmission

long-term health and sustainability

electricity production in the kingdom,

and Distribution network security and

of the entire electricity sector and,

with a shift to renewable energy and

reliability to enable effective integration

efficient natural gas sources; and

of renewable energy and interconnection

considered a crucial stepping stone in achieving the Ministry of Energy’s

 Increase system efficiency and

objectives, are in line with the goals of

the reduced use of liquid fuels

Vision 2030, including the following:

for energy production; and

with neighboring countries; and  Greater environmental compliance to reduce the sector's carbon footprint

Country Company Total Assets - USD bn, 2019 SGCC

580

EDF

359

Enol

203

KEPCO

178

Duke Energy

159

Iberdrola

145

CSPG

133

SEC

128

Southern Company

119

E.on

117

TEPCO

115

PLN

112

CFE

95

Rosetti

86

National Grid PLC

79

Enegie

68

Electrobrazil

52

ESKOM

50

NTPC

39

Hydro One

27

J-Power

26

Origin Pampa Energia

19 4  $45 billion Shariah equity like shareholder instrument

POWER & ENERGY FOCUS - SAUDI ELECTRICITY COMPANY

23

The comprehensive reform package

"Moreover, the reforms aim to increase

and Cogeneration Regulatory Authority

of measures includes establishing a

the reliability and quality of service of

(ECRA). Importantly the company will operate

revenue requirement mechanism for

the Kingdom's electricity transmission

under a predictable, transparent, and stable

sector service providers and a tariff

network and to facilitate the production of

regulatory framework with clear arm's length

balancing account to compensate for

electricity from renewable energy sources,

commercial relations amongst sector players

the difference between the efficient cost

bringing it in line with the kingdom's optimal

and participants. The reforms also include the

to serve and the income from tariffs.

energy mix for electricity production."

cancellation of government fees the company

His Royal Highness Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Minister of Energy, Saudi Arabia, said: "This

His Excellency Dr Khaled bin Saleh Al Sultan, Chairman of Saudi Electricity Co., said: "With this historic comprehensive

had been paying and the reconciliation of the company's net legacy Government liabilities and the restructuring of its balance sheet.

announcement is a major achievement

reform program, SEC's balance sheet will

for Saudi Vision 2030 and for the Ministry

become more robust enhancing SEC's

commented: "The creation of this financial

of Energy's ambitious goals for creating a

ability to fund projects and enabling it

instrument and the introduction of

sustainable, reliable, and diverse power

to execute on its strategy to contribute

an international standard regulatory

sector. The reforms are considered the largest

to the development of a stronger, more

framework should enable SEC to maintain

and most extensive on a global scale. These

sustainable, and diverse electricity sector."

a more sustainable capital structure.

reforms lay critical foundations by helping

For Saudi Electricity Company (SEC),

HSBC, the financial advisor to SEC,

Through the Balancing Account, the

to create a more solid and financially viable

specifically, the reforms mark the company’s

Government is expected to continue

sector attracting the required investments.

entry into a regulatory framework with clear

supporting the sector and SEC on a more

The expected outcomes of this sweeping

rights and obligations. In return, the company

structured and transparent basis.

reform program include more efficient

will have the right to receive a fair rate of

power generation, reduction in the use of

return of 6% (WACC) on its regulated asset

liquid fuels for electricity generation and

base and fully recover its efficient cost-to-serve

increased environmental protection.

as determined by the regulator, Electricity

24

POWER & ENERGY FOCUS - SAUDI ELECTRICITY COMPANY

"These reforms will help improve the sector's efficiency while providing a fair rate of return on invested capital.

Furthermore, the restructuring also supports a key policy objective of a safe, secure and reliable power sector that is financially sustainable and able to invest in projects that could enhance consumer service and improve reliability. Overall, these announcements are expected to create an attractive environment for investment in the electricity sector and contribute to the economic development of Saudi Arabia, in line with the Vision 2030 program."

The magnitude of the reform is a momentous landmark on multiple fronts; it is the:  Largest Islamic financial transaction to be executed globally with issuance of a $45 billion Mudaraba instrument (interest of 4.5%) by Saudi Electricity Co. and the single largest conversion to a non-dilutive equity-like instrument from debt.  SEC will have the largest regulated asset base of any utility in the MENA region and will have a regulated asset base comparable to the largest utility companies in G20 countries.  The immediate deleveraging of the USD 128 billion balance sheet of Saudi Electricity Co. from a debt-to-equity-ratio of 2.2 to a ratio of 0.6, in line with what is generally considered to be healthy debt levels for a utility company of its scale.

Strategy&, a global strategy consulting business and part of the PwC network, and advisors to the Ministry of Energy for the restructuring of the electricity sector, added: "This demonstrates how the reforms hit the reset button on the legacy of decades of ad-hoc methods of addressing the financial challenges of the electricity sector, and put in place a robust, transparent, and stable regulatory framework that will ensure the financial sustainability and health of SEC and their ability to meet all their commercial obligations including fuel payment, debt service, and dividends. It also provides SEC, the eight largest utility globally by asset size, the

SWEEPING CHANGES WILL ENSURE LONG-TERM SUSTAINABILITY OF THE ELECTRICITY SECTOR

financial strength to raise the funds necessary to invest in strengthening the electricity grid, enhancing the network security and reliability.

"The power system in the kingdom could not achieve its ambitions without a fundamental redefinition of the sector's financial foundation and operating model.

At this important juncture, however, the expectations from the Saudi Arabian power sector are much higher than ever before. The reforms have created important instruments for achieving the policymaker's objectives for modernizing and transforming the utility sector as part of the Kingdom's Vision 2030."

Kanoo P&IP, a division of Yusuf Bin Ahmed Kanoo offers the following supplies and services to power plants, IWPPs and IPPs. . Air Preheater -supplies and services . Gas to Gas Heat Exchangers . Power Boiler related services . Expansion Joints supply & repair services . Gas generation plants H2 & Co2 . Hypochlorite generation plants . Gas Turbine components – Supply and Repair . Air Inlet Filtration retrofits . Electrical Diagnostic & Condition Assessment services for Motors , Generators, Switchgear & Cables . Transformer Oil Regeneration & filtration services . Fuel Management Systems . Controls & Automation . Power Rentals . Renewable Energy . Specialty Lubricants for Maintenance, Repairs & Overhauls . Inventory Preservation & Mothballing . Personal Protection Equipment (PPE) . Industrial Workwear . Working at Height Solutions . On site Stores . CovId Solutions

Quality Products, Services & Solutions | Efficient Supply Chain Network www.kanoo.com

26

Getting to know - Kanoo Industrial & Energy

130 YEARS OF CONSISTENT AND SUSTAINABLE EXCELLENCE WE SPEAK TO ABRAR KHAN, EXECUTIVE GENERAL MANAGER OF POWER AND INDUSTRIAL PROJECTS – GULF, A BUSINESS DIVISION OF KANOO INDUSTRIAL & ENERGY, TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT THE COMPANY, INCLUDING ITS STRENGTHS, SUSTAINABILITY AGENDA AND FUTURE INITIATIVES.

A

AK: Kanoo Power & Industrial Projects (P&IP) has offered engineered products and services for over four decades. It provides sustainable solutions to utility companies and the GCC industrial sector as a whole.

Through its strategic partnerships and

division of YBA Kanoo, which can

with many of the world's leading companies.

alliances with leading companies around

trace its roots back over 130 years,

Over the years, YBA Kanoo has also become

the world, Kanoo P&IP supplies and services

the partner of choice for regional businesses.

products such as gas turbine parts, spares

Kanoo Industrial&Energy provides leading solutions and supply of equipment and

YBA Kanoo's framework for commercial

and consumables; turbo-machinery controls;

materials to major projects, utility companies,

success is governed by a strong commitment

electrical equipment; diagnostic equipment

refineries, petrochemical companies and

to ethics, social responsibility and economic

and services for predictive maintenance, life

general industries right across the GCC

progress. We strive to continuously raise our

assessment and motion control products.

region, serving blue-chip organisations

standards and achieve greater success each

such as Saudi Aramco, SEC, SABIC, Ma'aden,

step of the way. Our dedicated workforce

leaders throughout the Kingdom of Saudi

ADNOC, BAPCO and PDO Oman.

The division is a pioneer, and one of the

continues to accumulate industry awards in

Arabia, in power rental solutions and the

SPM: How would you describe the core

recognition of their achievements across the

operation and maintenance of diesel-based

business philosophy of the Kanoo Group?

sectors and geographies in which we operate.

power plants. It also supplies fuel treatment

Abrar Khan: YBA Kanoo pursues growth and

SPM: What do you offer to clients,

systems; speciality lubricants; MRO products;

expansion through the consistent delivery of

and what do you feel is the biggest

corrosion inhibitors; machine tools; hand

sustainable excellence. Solid, long-term joint-

strength of the Power and Industrial

tools; personal protection equipment and

venture partnerships have been established

Projects division right now?

height safety gear. In addition, the division

Getting to know - Kanoo Industrial & Energy

from over the next five years?

AK: The division primarily operates in

involvement in renewable energy?

AK: The company's top management

Saudi Arabia, UAE and Bahrain. Saudi

is committed to renewable energy and

Arabia and UAE are expected to be the

the need to move toward increased

growth markets going forward. The areas

sustainability. We have set up a Renewable

where we can expect the maximum growth

Energy department to design and execute

are MRO, Safety and Renewables.

solar projects within the company and

SPM: How has the Covid-19 crisis

also for other discerning customers to

impacted your business, and how will

help reduce dependence on fossil fuel.

you recover from its aftermath?

As part of our commitment to the environment, we have established, implemented and maintain an effective OHS and Environment management system based on ISO 45001 and ISO 14001 standard requirements.

SPM: How do you maximise the potential of your workforce?

AK: Our workforce has been our biggest strength, and this has been further strengthened by systems that encourage initiative and innovation. Department managers have the independence to work freely, in the areas of their choice, and this has fostered a sense of belonging furthering ownership in all that they do.

SPM: What upcoming initiatives do you find particularly exciting?

AK: Our foray into renewables seems promising and is looked upon with a lot

offers an extensive range of consultancy,

AK: Even though Covid-19 has dampened

of excitement in the company. Renewable

commissioning and installation services. An

sentiments worldwide, our division

energy and the reduced dependence on

independent project team handles repair,

weathered the storm and came out relatively

fossil fuel is the need of the hour and has a

refurbishment, installation and commissioning.

unscathed. This is primarily due to the fact

bright future in the middle term. We believe

Security products and services provided by

that we operate in critical sectors that need

our active involvement in the sector would

P&IP include physical and electronic safety to

to function regardless of the state of the

play a small but significant part of the vision

international standards. As part of its Marine

current economic environment. The fact that

shown by the kingdom's leadership.

unit, qualified engineers undertake the repair

a majority of our services are MRO related

of marine navigation equipment and sales.

has also added to this relative stability.

Our biggest strength is our human resources and their ability to design and execute tailored solutions to suit every client.

SPM: How does the division differ from its biggest competitors?

SPM: How has technology played its part in the company's evolution?

AK: In today's scenario, where travel

OEM solutions that provide customers with a

area, P&IP has brought in cutting-edge

trusted viable alternative. That, and the fact

technology, dictating that machines can

that the company that has been present in

be accurately monitored remotely. This is

this region for 130 years, is one of the biggest

in line with the Industrial Revolution IOT.

in, and where do you see growth coming

the kingdom, a segment that Kanoo will also be actively involved in.

companies are limited with the availability of a skilled workforce in the diagnostic

SPM: Which territories do you operate

to localise and start manufacturing in

has been impeded, and most service

AK: Kanoo P&IP offers competitive non-

distinguishing factors from most other players.

The kingdom today offers multiple opportunities to various companies

SPM: How does the company ensure

KANOO POWER AND INDUSTRIAL PROJECTS

sustainability and high environmental

E: INFOPOWER@KANOO.COM

standards? Please tell us about its

WWW.KANOO.COM

27

     

POWER & ENERGY FOCUS - RIYADH CABLES

30

POWERED BY EXPERTISE, DRIVEN BY VALUES

 NEOM

AFTER MORE THAN 37 YEARS OF INDUSTRY-LEADING PERFORMANCE IN THE PRODUCTION OF WIRE AND CABLES, THE RIYADH CABLES GROUP HAS GAINED THE TRUST AND RESPECT OF BLUE-CHIP CLIENTS BOTH LOCALLY AND INTERNATIONALLY. ITS PORTFOLIO, WHICH COVERS INNUMERABLE APPLICATIONS AND SPANS DIVERSE SECTORS, INCORPORATES, BUT IS NOT LIMITED TO, ELECTRICAL WIRE; LOW, MEDIUM, HIGH AND EXTRA-HIGH VOLTAGE CABLES UP TO 400KV; FIBER OPTICS, TELEPHONE AND CONTROL CABLES; INSTRUMENTATION CABLES AND OVERHEAD LINES.

W

This is testament to Riyadh Cables' ongoing professionalism and quality workmanship, as well as its ability to find answers to the most challenging of briefs.

Riyadh Cables' primary focus is the GCC market, where its large local production footprint is mainly in Saudi Arabia, the UAE and Iraq. In addition, its renowned priority export programme helps it to sell products

hatever the product, Riyadh Cables

Riyadh Cables has many other ongoing projects,

to clients on five continents, underlining

is built around four main pillars:

having obtained a reputation not only as a

the company's status as a global leader.

highly trained and skilled people, superior

manufacturer but also as a solution provider.

products, an advanced framework (SAP),

LEADING THROUGH INNOVATION

and an active research and development

A CUSTOMER-CENTRIC APPROACH

With facilities that allow the company to

department. This allows the company always

Focused on the customer, Riyadh Cables

control every stage of production, Riyadh

to stay one step ahead, providing clients with

continually improves its products' effectiveness

Cables can guarantee high standards of quality

products and solutions that are both pre-

to satisfy the market's needs and expectations.

across the board from design to delivery. Its

eminent in their class and cost-effective.

What's more, with technical support just

facilities, including a state-of-the-art research

a call away at all times, the company

and development laboratory, use the latest

manufacturer of local renewable energy

still manages to offer a very attractive

cable equipment in the world, including

cables, part of the Saudi SKAKA power plant

price point and short delivery times.

the latest CV lines, copper and aluminum

Indeed, Riyadh Cables was the first

development's first renewable project.

This allows Riyadh Cables to work with

smelters, PVC production facilities, extruders,

Moreover, the company has recently produced

clients across a broad range of sectors,

tandem lines, assembly machines, drawing,

additional 400KV high voltage cables, which

including utility, construction, oil & gas,

stranding, insulation, screening, inner sheathing,

secured the Saudi Electricity Company's

industry and OEM. The company has retained

armoring, and outer jacketing lines.

approval in 2019, making Riyadh Cables

its position in all of these markets, despite

the key local manufacturer for the product,

the volatility each has seen over the years.

previously imported from overseas.

POWER & ENERGY FOCUS - RIYADH CABLES

31

 King Abdullah Financial District

THE FIRST MANUFACTURER OF LOCAL RENEWABLE ENERGY CABLES

to continue to move forwards even under the most challenging of conditions.

Nevertheless, changes have occurred due to the pandemic, most notably the stringent health and safety procedures in place across all Riyadh Cables' operation, including meetings that are nowadays more virtual than face-to-face.

The company believes that its dedicated R&D

been identified and actioned as objectives

The main growth over the next several years

team is the cornerstone of its current and future

in various areas of product development,

will remain primarily within the GCC countries,

success. In recent years, the products and

production and processes at all levels. Advanced

Riyadh Cables' traditional and longstanding

technologies developed give Riyadh Cables

statistical monitoring methods, like 6 Sigma

marketplace. Still, there is also a noticeable

a competitive advantage by creating new

analysis, is applied wherever applicable.

growth in Africa, with the company looking

products that meet up-to-the-minute market requirements, such as renewable energy.

Riyadh Cables also use quality raw materials,

Moreover, Riyadh Cables' raw materials, processes, factories and products undergo rigorous inspections by specialists from

to increase its presence on the continent by opening an office in Egypt in 2020.

Additionally, if the political climate allows it,

insulation and sheathing, to produce varieties

customers and overseas independent inspection

Riyadh Cables will explore potential new markets

of cables. Furthermore, it tests products at

agencies such as KEMA (Netherlands), ERA

in countries such as Yemen, Syria, Libya and Iraq.

every stage of production as per international

Technologies (UK), BASEC (UK), Kinectrics

There is genuine excitement flowing through

standards, as well as client specifications.

Inc. (Canada), KSU High Voltage Lab. (KSA),

the company when considering opportunities

Every process is controlled, and all the critical

CPRI (India), SGS inspection services, Lloyds

over the next 10 years, particularly in regard

process and performance indicators are

Register of Saudi Arabia, and TUV (Germany).

to Saudi Vision 2030. This is already fueling

monitored closely to ensure compliance to specifications and delivery schedules.

BRINGING OUT THE BEST IN EACH OTHER A pioneer within the industry, Riyadh Cables employs more than 3,000 workers; each fully committed to ensuring that the company grows and expands. Every day, they ask themselves what they could do more to better the workplace

EVERY PROCESS IS CONTROLLED AND ALL THE KEY PROCESS AND PERFORMANCE INDICATORS ARE MONITORED CLOSELY

and their performance. Even though the

BUSINESS WITHOUT BOUNDARIES

company's production facilities of cables is

Looking to the future, there is plenty of potential

spread over two million square meters, it has

growth on the horizon for Riyadh Cables. Of

maintained its unity, creating a close-knit working

course, like many other businesses across the

community that strives towards one objective

world, it has been impacted by the Covid-19

– providing a unique product and service.

pandemic. However, this impact has been

Any potential areas for improvement are

growth in the market through giga-projects such as NEOM, The Red Sea Project, Al Qiddiya, and The Line. Therefore, when also taking into account intensive government support for local manufacturing, with local added-value in all projects announced, the future for Riyadh Cables and the kingdom as a whole is genuinely exciting.

THE COMPANY STILL MANAGES TO OFFER A VERY ATTRACTIVE PRICE POINT AND SHORT DELIVERY

limited, particularly because of the unrestricted

identified on a routine basis and handled

support provided to the local manufacturing

as per procedure, resulting in continual

industry by the Saudi government. In addition,

improvement. Over the last few years, more

a long list of pre-pandemic initiatives had

than 200 improvement opportunities have

already been introduced, allowing business

RIYADH CABLES E: RCGC@RIYADH-CABLES.COM WWW.RIYADH-CABLES.COM/EN

32

SUSTAINABILITY

Innovation at the Heart of SPARK's Sustainability Agenda KING SALMAN ENERGY PARK (SPARK) IS DEPLOYING MULTIPLE INNOVATIVE CONSTRUCTION SOLUTIONS THAT PROMOTE SUSTAINABILITY. MANY ARE BEING ADOPTED IN SAUDI ARABIA FOR THE FIRST TIME, AS SPARK SPEARHEADS A DRIVE FOR MORE ENVIRONMENTALLY-FRIENDLY BUILDING TECHNOLOGIES THAT SUPPORT THE CIRCULAR CARBON ECONOMY FRAMEWORK. THEY INCLUDE 'GREEN' CONCRETE THAT INCORPORATES RECYCLED MATERIALS, MODULAR STEEL CONNECTIONS AND GLASS FIBRE REINFORCED POLYMER (GFRP) REBAR IN BRIDGE DECKS.

S

PARK Chairman Dr Mohammad Yahiya Al-Qatari said: "SPARK is proud to

announce a wide range of sustainability initiatives that are being deployed for the first time in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

These practices reflect our approach to construction that utilises the latest advances

GREEN CONCRETE, MODULAR STEEL CONNECTIONS AND GLASS FIBRE NON METALLIC REPLACEMENTS WILL MINIMISE ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT

in technology to maximise efficiency, minimise environmental impact and create a world-class energy ecosystem."

Already recognised as the first industrial city in the world to obtain LEED Silver Certification, SPARK has become the first organisation in Saudi Arabia to use Podzolic green concrete, a newly developed building material that uses local recycled materials as a partial replacement for cement. Material produced as a by-product of local manufacturing processes is assimilated, while still offering the equivalent properties and durability.

Capturing locally produced waste-materials and reemploying them in construction will help reduce landfill disposal and reduce CO2

 Dr Mohammad Yahiya Al-Qatar, SPARK Chairman

GFRP REBAR REDUCES THE WEIGHT OF STEEL REINFORCEMENT BY 70% 400 TONS ERECTED IN TWO WEEKS

BY SPARK WOULD NORMALLY HAVE TAKEN AT LEAST SIX WEEKS

SUSTAINABILITY

33

emissions associated with cement production.

Additionally, in a first for the Middle East

clay to be bound to sand particles, thereby

SPARK has also become the first entity in Saudi

and Africa, SPARK has deployed Glass

creating a soil that allows plants to flourish

Arabia to pilot ConXtech steel connection

Fibre Reinforced Polymer (GFRP) rebar

in hyper-arid areas where they otherwise

technology for a commercial building.

as a non-metallic replacement for epoxy

would not survive. LNC enriches sandy soil to

Incorporated into SPARK's administration

steel reinforcement in bridge decks. This

qualities comparable with high-quality black

building, it is a modular method for steel

is a lighter, stronger, and easier to handle

farming soil, retaining nutrients and high

erection allowing beams to be interlocked

material that will not corrode, thus reducing

water levels, and minimising water wastage.

using non-metallic materials and slotted

waste and maintenance. Using GFRP rebar

into position - rather than welding and

at SPARK will reduce the weight of steel

is in line with the Circular Carbon Economy,

bolting steel beams together. The benefits

reinforcement on bridges by 70%.

a concept championed by Saudi Arabia and

include increased construction efficiency,

Meanwhile, as part of its effort to maximise

The construction approach adopted by SPARK

endorsed by G20 countries that aim to reduce,

reduced material waste and improved site

the use of natural resources and improve

reuse, recycle and remove carbon emissions,

safety - and the 400 tons erected in two

the quality of the local environment, SPARK

as part of ongoing efforts to mitigate climate

weeks by SPARK would have taken at least

is evaluating the use of Liquid Nano Clay

change and create climate-friendly energy

six weeks using conventional methods.

(LNC). This process allows nano-particles of

systems that support sustainable development.

The Public Investment Fund (PIF)

34

PIF LAUNCHES FIVE-YEAR STRATEGY T

he Public Investment Fund (PIF)

as it helps to realise the Kingdom’s Vision

considerable progress over the past four years

has announced the launch of its

2030. Among the most significant initiatives,

at a time of immense uncertainty in the global

five-year strategy, including its Vision

PIF will invest a minimum of $40 billion per

economy. The strategy comes as an extension

Realisation Programme (VRP) 2021-2025.

annum in domestic projects and investments.

to these achievements, looking to make the

Following on from the success of its VRP

It will also contribute $320 billion to non-

Fund the principal catalyst for Saudi Arabia’s

2018-2020, this strategy will make sure

oil GDP cumulatively through its portfolio

economic transformation and diversification.

that PIF continues to grow as a global

companies, grow assets under management

His Royal Highness also stated that PIF would

investment powerhouse and partner of

to over $1.07 trillion, and generate 1.8 million

continue to invest in businesses and sectors

choice for innovative businesses worldwide.

direct and indirect jobs by the end of 2025.

that would play a part in driving the kingdom's

It will also facilitate new industries and opportunities that will shape the future global economy while driving Saudi Arabia’s economic transformation.

Having fashioned 10 new sectors, launched more than 30 new companies, and created 331,000 jobs in Saudi Arabia over past four years, PIF plans to expand its assets under management to $1.07 trillion by the end of 2025 and contribute $320 billion to Saudi Arabia’s non-oil GDP. The VRP forms a roadmap for PIF as it propels Saudi Arabia’s economic diversification and bolsters its position as a global investment powerhouse.

PIF looks to focus on funding new human futures by:  Improving the quality of life domestically and internationally  Driving environmental and economic sustainability  Developing new sectors and creating new job opportunities The five-year strategy was approved in the course of a recent PIF Board meeting chaired

by His Royal Highness Mohammad bin Salman Al-Saud, Crown Prince, Deputy Prime Minister, Chairman of the Council of Economic and Development Affairs and Chairman of PIF. His Royal Highness, the Chairman of PIF, believes the strategy will function as a roadmap for the Fund over the next five years

His Royal Highness added that PIF had made

future, which in turn will drive world-

The Public Investment Fund (PIF)

pioneering funding of new human futures.

PIF will focus on 13 sectors as part of

Al-Rumayyan, Governor of PIF, explained.

“And as part of our strategy, we

its core domestic strategy: Healthcare;

will continue to drive the economic

Utilities & Renewables; Telecoms, Media

transformation of Saudi Arabia and

& Technology; Food and Agriculture;

enable the private sector. We also partner

Automotive; Transport & Logistics; Real Estate;

with innovative, transformative and

Aerospace & Defence; Construction & Building

disruptive companies around the world to

Components and Services; Entertainment,

consistently serve as an important catalyst

Leisure & Sports; Financial Services; Metals

for the development of the industries and

& Mining; and Consumer Goods & Retail.

opportunities of the future. Core to our

“Over the last four years, PIF has

WATCH THE 2021-2025 FUND PROGRAM VIDEO

35

strategy is our focus on funding new human

demonstrated its important role in

futures by improving quality of life, driving

contributing to the kingdom’s economy,

environmental and economic sustainability,

in line with the ambitions of Vision 2030. Up to

and developing new sectors and jobs.”

the end of 2020, we were able to triple assets

A crucial component of PIF’s success has

under management to nearly $400 billion,

been the strategic economic partnerships

create 10 new sectors and generate 331,000

it has developed with many of the world’s

direct and indirect jobs, His Excellency Yasir

foremost investors and businesses. The VRP 2021-2025 will enhance these partnerships, providing investors with access to unexploited investment opportunities, creating synergies and value for the global community. PIF will also continue to employ partnerships to drive knowledge transfer and localisation.

This stratagem will produce direct benefits to the Saudi economy and people.

PIF WILL INVEST A MINIMUM OF $40 BILLION PER ANNUM IN PROJECTS AND INVESTMENTS $320 BILLION WILL GO TO NON-OIL GDP 1.07 TRILLION WORTH OF ASSETS WILL BE GROWN UNDER MANAGEMENT 1.8 MILLION DIRECT AND INDIRECT JOBS WILL BE GENERATED BY THE END OF 2025

36

Project Focus - Coral Bloom

Coral Bloom HRH Crown Prince Launches Stunning Nature-Inspired Designs for Gateway Island at The Red Sea Project

Project Focus - Coral Bloom

Watch The official launch video

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Project Focus - Coral Bloom

 Hotel

The Red Sea Development Company (TRSDC) has unveiled the hotel designs for its main hub island Shurayrah, focusing on the unique colours, patterns and materials that the natural world holds in order to integrate the surrounding environment with the hotels’ various buildings.

His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman, Crown Prince, Chairman of TRSDC, has approved the designs created by lead architect Foster + Partners, which are inspired by the pristine coral reefs that surround it and use a wide variety of shapes and structures to create a stunning paradise for guests. The island will feature 11 hotels and a new lagoon, and has been designed to enhance the island's biodiversity, while protecting existing habitats.

Project Focus - Coral Bloom

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“The materials we use and the low impact they have ensures that the pristine environment is protected”

C oral Bloom from the air

"Today, I am excited to present to you the designs for Shurayrah Island, Coral Bloom,” explains John Pagano, CEO of TRSDC. “Taking inspiration from the incredible flora and fauna found uniquely in Saudi Arabia, these visionary designs demonstrate The Red Sea Development Company's commitment to sustainability and regenerative tourism. These plans will not only protect the untouched landscape but actually enhance what is already there.

"We expect guests to be awed by what they see when they first arrive at The Red Sea Project, enjoying a truly immersive barefoot luxury experience. The Coral Bloom designs promise to make that vision a reality.”

TRSDC is committed to delivering a 30% net conservation benefit by 2040. As part of this, it is creating the world's largest battery storage facility to enable the entire site to be powered by renewable energy 24 hours a day, including the island resorts.

The master plan was informed by an extensive marine spatial planning exercise, which helped identify priority conservation areas. The end result leaves 75% of the islands within the project area untouched, with nine islands designated as special conservation zones.

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Project Focus - Coral Bloom

“Gerard Evenden, Head of Studio at Foster + Partners, said: "Our Coral Bloom vision is inspired by the island's natural state, with the hotels designed to give the impression that they have washed up on the beaches almost naturally like driftwood. The materials we use and the low impact they have ensures that the pristine environment is protected, while the additions we make to the island serve to enhance what is already there – hence the name, Coral Bloom."

The designs will ensure that Shurayrah Island is not only protected but that steps are taken to actively enhance it. This includes using sand moved from the new lagoon to provide a defensive layer in the middle of the island where building works will take place. The resorts themselves will be created using lightweight materials with a low thermal mass and are manufactured off-site, meaning more energyefficient construction and less impact on the environment.

"Shurayrah Island is the gateway to The Red Sea Project, so it's important that it sets the standard in groundbreaking architecture and sustainable design. Not just for our destination, but globally too by going beyond simply protecting the environment to applying a regenerative approach," said John Pagano.

The Red Sea Project has already passed significant milestones, and work is on track to welcome the first guests by the end of 2022 when the international airport and the first four hotels open. The remaining 12 resorts scheduled for completion in Phase One will open in 2023, delivering 3,000 rooms across five islands and two inland resorts.

Upon completion in 2030, The Red Sea Project will comprise 50 resorts, offering up to 8,000 hotel rooms and around 1,300 residential properties across 22 islands and six inland sites. The destination will also include luxury marinas, golf courses, entertainment and leisure facilities.

Project Focus - Coral Bloom

 Lounge and pools

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The island will feature 11 hotels and a new lagoon

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Coral Bloom - Ian Williamson

Where Innovation, Imagination and Sustainability Meet Urban design and landscaping is complex no matter what the project. To be successful, it has to blend planning, landscape architecture and civil engineering with a macro and micro understanding of the local environment. When it comes to a giga-project on the Red Sea coast and its newly launched concept, ‘Coral Bloom’, the challenges become even more multifaceted and intricate.

With this in mind, we spoke to Ian Williamson, Chief Projects Delivery Officer at The Red Sea Development Company (TRSDC), to find out more about this groundbreaking project.

 Ian Williamson, Chief Projects Delivery Officer at The Red Sea Development Company (TRSDC)

Saudi Projects: If a member of the public asked what you were trying to achieve in terms of urban design and landscaping on The Red Sea Project, how would you answer them in 25 words or less?

Ian Williamson: Our aim is to blend human ingenuity with The Rea Sea’s pristine natural environment, to achieve unique outcomes while preserving and enhancing the natural environment.

SPM: How would you describe the general philosophy of the urban design and landscaping stratagem?

IW: The Red Sea Development Company is committed to a regenerative approach to tourism - protecting and enhancing the destination has been our philosophy from day one.

We create designs and plans that don’t just avoid harming the environment but aim to actively enhance it for generations to come, as part of our commitment to delivering a 30% net conservation benefit by 2040. This approach runs through all stages of the project, including our original master plan and future design and landscaping work.

For instance, our ‘Coral Bloom’ concept, created by lead architect Foster + Partners and located on our main hub, Shurayrah Island, was designed to blend with the island’s pristine natural environment.

Biodiversity considerations take centre stage, with the plan designed to avoid disruption of the island’s landscape, mangroves and other precious habitats, and provide natural defences from erosion and rising sea

levels. Through landscaping work, new habitats will also be created to enhance the island’s natural state.

SPM: What brief was given to architects/designers, and how do you work with them to get the best outcome?

IW: We wanted the final Coral Bloom concept to be inspired by the beautiful nature of the island, and we worked closely with Foster + Partners to turn that vision into a reality.

Shurayrah Island is the gateway to The Red Sea Project, so it’s important that it sets the standard in groundbreaking architecture and sustainable design. We want our guests to be awed by what they see when they first arrive at The Red Sea Project, and we believe our plans will deliver just that.

Coral Bloom - Ian Williamson

We select partners who are aligned with our vision for sustainability; Foster + Partners understand our ambitions for the destination, not only aesthetically but from a sustainability perspective, and we’re continuing to work collaboratively to achieve our goals.

SPM: What influences are being tapped into in a design sense?

IW: The Red Sea is a rich and unspoiled area of extraordinary natural beauty and diversity. The site encompasses an archipelago of more than 90 pristine islands, beautiful coral reefs, sweeping desert dunes and dramatic landscapes that include volcanoes, lagoons and canyons. We are using this stunning natural environment as our inspiration for our designs throughout the destination.

For our Coral Bloom designs, we took inspiration from the incredible flora and fauna found uniquely in Saudi Arabia, and this is what the final designs were based on.

As the vision for Shurayrah is based on enhancing the island’s natural state and providing an immersive barefoot luxury experience for guests, the hotels are designed to give the impression that they have always been there among the dunes. The island’s natural perimeter landscape will be enhanced to dramatic effect with all 11 hotels and villas nestled within landscaped dunes. The use of low-rise buildings will ensure the spectacular vistas remain uninhibited, while creating a sense of mystery for guests as the island slowly reveals itself.

SPM: How will renewable energy be utilised?

IW: Our ambition is to be the region’s first tourism destination powered solely by renewable energy, 24 hours a day. For context, a tourism project of this size, powered solely by renewable energy, has never been achieved on this scale anywhere in the world.

To help achieve this, at the end of 2020, we awarded our largest contract to date to an international consortium led by ACWA Power to design, build, operate and transfer The Red Sea Project’s utilities infrastructure. Under the agreement, we will be creating the world’s largest battery storage facility to guarantee the provision of renewable energy from solar and wind sources 24 hours a day. This, in itself, represents a saving in CO2 emissions to the atmosphere of around half a million tonnes per year.

This is an incredible milestone for us. Powering the destination with 100% clean and renewable energy will dramatically reduce our impact on the environment and set the standard for what can be achieved for future destinations.

SPM: How will the development affect the eco-system?

IW: We have taken active and measurable steps to minimise the potential impact caused by our activity at the site. Close collaboration with our partners and investment into smart construction techniques like off-site manufacturing will continue to assist in protecting the local environment.

Before construction even began, we partnered with the King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) to deliver an ambitious Marine Spatial Planning simulation (MSP) to map out conservation areas at our site. The entire destination was divided into grids, and each grid was given a conservation value.

As a result, only 22 of the 90 plus islands in our archipelago will be developed with nine designated as special conservation zones.

Shurayrah was one of the islands deemed suitable for development.

However, we are still determined to ensure that there is as minimal disruption as possible to marine habitats, and as such, we have also adapted our marine construction techniques. Night-time working is minimised in order to preserve

43

the extremely sensitive ecological environment of coral, nesting birds, nesting turtles and other species.

The aim is to reduce noise and light disturbance above and below water to avoid confusing the wildlife.

While we work, we always maintain vigilant visual inspection in the water for turtles and other megafauna to avoid potential collisions.

SPM: What materials will be used on Shurayrah Island to ensure sustainability and environmental awareness?

IW: We will use lightweight materials with a low thermal mass that are manufactured off-site, meaning more energy-efficient construction and less impact on the environment.

These techniques and materials help us to deliver on our commitment to preserving and enhancing the Red Sea’s pristine environment.

Additionally, we are using green concrete where possible, which has a lower carbon footprint when compared to the standard product.

Using green concrete reduces the CO2 emissions significantly, from 0.96 kg/ton to 0.11 kg/ton, respectively.

Given the scale of development at the project, site-wide use of this product has the potential to make a significant overall impact on the destination’s environment.

Last year, we partnered with concrete experts, AlFalah Ready Mix, to supply the destination with structural lowcarbon concrete, manufactured using recycled raw materials. This partnership is well underway and is currently producing around 1,200 cubic meters of concrete per day.

The designs aim to use timber and other sustainable materials, which are not only more sustainable but are inspired by local traditions and create natural, earthy, low-carbon buildings. The idea is also to provide good thermal insulation using materials that will age gracefully.

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Coral Bloom - Ian Williamson

SPM: Can you explain what is meant by ‘regenerative tourism’?

IW: All too often, tourism has been disruptive for destinations, negatively impacting its inhabitants' well-being and the natural environment's conservation status. TRSDC believes that nature is the world’s most important asset, and we all have a part to play in protecting it.

The Landscape Nursery, the largest in the region at one million square metres, is fully operational and set to provide over 15 million plants required to landscape the destination.

untouched, with the aim of achieving a 30% net conservation benefit in the next two decades. These are bold ambitions and no mean feat for a project of this size.

There are more than 5,000 workers currently on-site, and more than 70km of the planned 80km of new roads are now complete.

Regenerative tourism is the commitment to implement policies that don’t just minimise harming the environment, but which actively enhance it. We believe that protecting the environment is no longer enough, and we need to contribute to its regeneration. This includes local, natural and cultural assets as well as the quality of life of local people. This is why the company has pledged to contribute a 30% net conservation benefit by 2040 to not only protect but actively enhance the local area.

We received our first off-site manufactured (OSM) units in 2020 to provide homes and amenities for employees at the Coastal Village when the first phase of the destination opens. Our Construction Village, capable of housing some 10,000 workers and designed to set new standards in worker welfare, is open.

We are developing a regulatory framework that comprises of innovative policies and strategies to facilitate our ambitious sustainability and regeneration commitments.

This includes the regulation of fisheries, removal of invasive species in the area, conservation zones and the expansion of green and blue habitats to encourage regeneration and carbon sequestration.

SPM: How are things progressing at present?

IW: This is a huge project and considering its size and our strict regenerative approach, we are pleased that we have made an incredible amount of progress in a very short space of time.

The Red Sea Project has already passed significant milestones, and work is on track to welcome the first guests by the end of 2022 when the first hotels will open.

The remaining hotels planned in phase one will open in 2023.

Upon completion in 2030, The Red Sea Project will comprise 50 resorts, offering up to 8,000 hotel rooms and over 1,000 residential properties across 22 islands and six inland sites. The destination will also include luxury marinas, golf courses, entertainment and leisure facilities.

We have signed over 500 contracts to date, worth some SAR 15 billion ($4 billion). Around 70% of the total value of key contracts has been awarded to Saudi firms, and we are committed to boosting the domestic economy in line with Vision 2030, Saudi Arabia’s longterm plan for economic diversification.

SPM: What has been the biggest challenge in the area of urban design and landscaping?

IW: Our commitment to go beyond sustainability and set new standards in regenerative tourism often requires a more complex way of working to ensure we are preserving and enhancing the natural environment for generations to come. We’re leaving 75% of our island archipelago

We have undertaken many studies on the use of pesticides, herbicides and controlled irrigation methods to ensure landscaping meets our regenerative tourism vision.

Many of the world’s leading landscape architects, local academic institutions and KSA Government (MEWA) have worked collaboratively with TRSDC to establish a plant palette and landscape design that are aimed to optimise the use of water.

Delivering a 30% net conservation benefit by 2040 We have signed over 500 contracts to date, worth some SAR 15 billion We’re leaving 75% of our island archipelago untouched The Red Sea Project will comprise 50 resorts, offering up to 8,000 hotel rooms and over 1,000 residential properties

Coral Bloom - Ian Williamson

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 Hotel

Additionally, the remote nature of the project’s location and lack of basic infrastructure has posed challenges for us as we look to progress with our development plans, whilst ensuring we protect our natural environment at all costs. As such,

we’ve invested heavily in innovative construction methods such as offsite manufacturing. This consists of building units in a modular fashion off-site in Saudi Arabia or beyond, and then transporting them to the project site for final assembly.

The technique not only boosts efficiency and quality but also helps us reduce the number of people on the ground and the human impact on the natural environment.

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Foster + Partners - Gerard Evenden

From Concept to Better Living The dolphin-shaped Shurayrah Island, which will serve as the hub island for Saudi Arabia’s luxury Red Sea Project, has been designed as a sustainably-focused new holiday hotspot, offering breathtaking resorts and incredible natural landscapes. We spoke to Gerard Evenden, Head of Studio at Foster + Partners, to find out about the architectural challenges and creative pleasure of working on such a gamechanging development.

 Gerard Evenden, Head of Studio at Foster + Partners

Saudi Projects: What was your initial brief for the Shurayrah Island project?

Gerard Evenden: The vision for the Shurayrah Island project has been based on three main tenets – creating an exquisite luxury destination around one of the world’s hidden natural treasures, setting new standards in sustainable development, and positioning Saudi Arabia on the global tourism map.

SPM: What are the biggest challenges

and attractions of the project in an architectural and design sense?

GE: The Red Sea Project is a unique opportunity to work with one of the best-preserved coral reefs in the world and put the region on the global luxury tourism map. The research being carried out on these coral reefs could help preserve and revive others around the world. We challenged ourselves to develop a design approach which is aligned

to the idea of creating a sustainable vision for the future with an aim to preserve the natural beauty of the region. The project is also symbolic of Saudi Arabia opening up to the world, offering an incredible opportunity for both locals and international tourists to experience the exceptional natural beauty of the country.

Foster + Partners - Gerard Evenden

The Red Sea Project is a unique opportunity to work with one of the best-preserved coral reefs in the world

Given the remote nature of the site, a complex project such as this requires a considerable degree of off-site manufacturing. Maintaining a consistent quality of building is a real challenge. We believe the scale and ambition of the Shurayrah Island project can lead to real breakthroughs in the quality of construction globally.

SPM: Can you explain a little of your general design philosophy of the Shurayrah Island development?

GE: A key part of the brief was to develop a coherent and consistent approach to the design of the island and its constituent parts. Coral reefs by their nature are made of several different elements, but they come together to read as a singular entity. This was the inspiration for our masterplan, where each of the resorts offers a different experience and appeals to a varied audience, but the entire island embodies a collective identity as Coral Bloom.

The design responds to the local palette of colours – the pale hues of the sand, the indigenous vegetation and the spectacular shades of the sea.

Each resort is carefully curated to be a unique place, while neatly fitting in with the larger sustainable vision for the islands. The palette of materials is also inspired by nature and will be low-impact and light-touch.

SPM: Can you explain how your designs have evolved? How much freedom were you given to create your designs?

GE: At the competition stage, we looked at the island holistically and generated our initial design proposals.

Following our first site visit, we realised the importance of the island’s edges in terms of biodiversity, while

the middle was relatively barren. This led us to design a lagoon that creates new beaches towards the middle that can be used by visitors, leaving the existing beaches on the island’s perimeter relatively untouched.

We also wanted to produce a scheme that could offer a variety of experiences so that guests can continue to visit the island through different life stages – from exclusive retreats to large family holidays.

SPM: In what ways does your design respond to the area’s natural environment and heritage?

GE: The proposals are respectful of the extreme environmental sensitivity of the region, taking a ‘light-touch’ approach that will have the least detrimental impact on the wonderful biodiversity of the island. Using off-site manufacturing, the project seeks to maximise its sustainable credentials by reducing construction timeframes and waste, while ensuring the highest levels of quality. The project will investigate appropriate construction technologies that will carry out most of the disruptive construction work off-site using sustainable materials and processes.

The projects will be powered by 100% renewable energy and provide a unique opportunity to establish a design approach that produces less waste while also creating environmentally responsive buildings.

SPM: Which natural materials will be used – how important is it to feel a connection with nature on this project?

GE: The entire project is underpinned by a commitment to going beyond the current concept of sustainability, focussing squarely on creating a circular economy that produces

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energy from fully renewable sources.

Designed to reflect local culture and traditions, the masterplan leverages existing construction methods with the latest prefabrication building techniques and cutting-edge environmental technology to minimise the impact on the fragile ecosystems.

We aim to use timber and other sustainable materials, deriving inspiration from the historical tradition of basket weaving in the region to create natural, earthy, low carbon buildings. The idea is also to provide good thermal insulation using materials that will age gracefully.

SPM: How many Foster + Partners staff are working on the Shurayrah Island project, for how long, and where are they located?

GE: For the last two years, we have had a team of over two hundred people working on the project across several studios at the practice.

SPM: How important is it that we begin to travel and build more sustainably on a global scale, and does the Shurayrah Island show the way forwards?

GE: The future of the planet depends on our ability to develop a sustainable approach to everything, including construction and travel. This project will enable Saudi Arabia to develop a tourism industry that is sensitive to the flora and fauna of the region and create a new model for sustainable tourism. The project also aims to have a regenerative effect on the natural habitat, creating more mangroves and coral reefs. It will be a truly spectacular place that will firmly occupy a spot on the list of global luxury tourism destinations.

The entire project is underpinned by a commitment to going beyond the current concept of sustainability

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AlKifah Contracting Company

Masters of Consistency and Quality AlKifah Contracting Company is a leading builder across diverse market segments and is renowned for undertaking large, complex projects, fostering innovation, embracing emerging technologies, and making a difference for its clients, employees and the communities in which it operates. A part of the AlKifah Group of Companies, it is committed to building smarter and cleaner, encouraging the use of environmentallyfriendly materials to ensure that its work today will help to see tomorrow transformed.

It was no surprise, therefore, that when The Red Sea Development Company (TRSDC) awarded an engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) contract for 40 apartment buildings at The Red Sea Project's Coastal Village community, it was, following a competitive tendering process, AlKifah Contracting that won the day.

“We employ one of the largest and most experienced skilled workforces in the region," says Eng. Osama AlAfaleq, Chairman at AlKifah Contracting. "We strongly believe that we were awarded this important project because of the synergies we offer, with all of our different divisions being able to come together to provide one high-quality, cost-effective solution."

Precise Coordination, Extraordinary Results The project will take 18 months to complete, with around 3000 workers dedicated to its successful conclusion. These workers will be active on-site and in an AlKifah Contracting production facility, where modular construction will be utilised for various elements of the project. "Modular construction is a process whereby a building is constructed off-site," says Osama, "and we are building a number of components in this manner, which provides several benefits. Modular construction,

because it takes place in a factory, is never affected by weather conditions, it is quick, environmentallyfriendly, and allows us to work to very close tolerances.

Furthermore, because we are manufacturing the precast concrete panels at a facility in the project area, around 10 million kilometres of transportation will be avoided, which in turn will reduce many tonnes of Co2."

The Red Sea Project, of course, has the environment and sustainability at its heart and AlKifah Contracting is committed to playing its part in protecting and preserving the natural environment on this project. And with this in mind, AlKifah Contracting will utilise sustainable materials wherever possible, including 'green concrete' on-site, which will help reduce emissions during the construction process. "It's not only the materials, though," Osama explains, "it's the way the project is handled and how we work within the local environment.

“These apartment buildings will combine an ecofriendly design with a high-quality finish, supporting The Red Sea Project's ambition to become a premier tourist destination, which will have a net-conservation benefit on the natural environment. And we are proud to be playing our part in achieving this objective."

AlKifah Contracting Company  Eng. Osama Al-Afaleq, Chairman of AlKifah Contracting Company

“Around 10 million kilometres of transportation will be avoided, which in turn will reduce many tonnes of Co2"

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AlKifah Contracting Company

The project will take 18 months to complete, with around 3,000 workers dedicated to its successful conclusion.

AlKifah Contracting Company

Listening Better, Planning Better, Building Better Naturally, with a project of such size and scope, there are numerous challenges, not least the supply chain and tight deadlines. However, as Osama points out: "Construction, in general, is quite challenging, particularly with aspects such as costs and safety during the current pandemic. But we pride ourselves on the training and safety of our workforce and collaborate with clients and architects to streamline operations. Moreover, we have a track record of working on large, complex projects, and this experience and expertise ensures that we navigate through any challenges smoothly and efficiently."

Osama sees the company's business approach as very much in line with how the kingdom is moving forwards.

"This country has a unique vision, as it changes from being an oil-based economy to a more knowledgebased economy. This means that it needs an exceptional construction industry that provides high-quality workmanship consistently. What's more, the many giga and mega-

51

projects currently being planned and constructed means that the industry must work hand-inhand with the Public Investment Fund (PIF); it's a joint effort, and at AlKifah Contracting we really enjoy this type of partnership."

Yet although the company has a proud and notable past, it is always looking to improve and attract the best people to propel the business forwards, as Osama explains: "What's most exciting about AlKifah Contracting is our future.

Indeed, AlKifah Contracting is no stranger to large, prestigious projects, with the role that it plays in the kingdom's progress reflected in the completion of blue-chip developments such as Jazan Economic City Port (AlKifah Contracting is the first Saudi company to create a port of this size), KFUPM Business Park in Dhahran, and 12 buildings for Saudi Aramco's Ajyal project.

We are always building something new and introducing new construction technologies, and we are constantly adding talented members to our team. Our passionate and enthusiastic people are our most valuable asset, keeping our core values at the centre of every project they take on."

“We employ one of the largest and most experienced skilled workforces in the region"

Therein lays AlKifah Contracting's core philosophy: fostering an environment where its work has real meaning, not only for the company itself and its clients but also for its employees and the forward-thinking population of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

Which is why we feel confident in saying, the best is yet to come!

ALKIFAH CONTRACTING COMPANY T: +966 13 845 9502 E: INFO.KCC@ALKIFAH.COM WWW.ALKIFAHCONT.COM



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SAUDI AMANA CONTRACTING

Modular Construction: Quicker, More Cost-effective, and Kind to the Environment Although modular construction is not new, it is no surprise that interest in this method is gaining traction. "How does modular construction compare to conventionally built structures?" is a question that is frequently asked.

AMANA Contracting Group, which has extensive expertise in this field, including the construction of a 150-room hotel for The Red Sea Development Company (TRSDC), offers a variety of superior solutions via its increasingly popular DUBOX Precast Products range. These solutions come with a long list of benefits, not least the ability to complete a building in 30% less time than more traditional construction methods.

The reason for this is simple: modular buildings are completed in manufacturing plants. Consequently, they are never delayed by weather conditions and are always completed within a set timeframe.

Site preparation can take place while the modular building is being constructed and, because they are typically completed in shorter timeframes,

SAUDI AMANA CONTRACTING

costs can be less too. The material tolerances are also much better, since everything is done with the proper tools in a controlled environment.

Furthermore, modular buildings are environmentally-friendly, with components being manufactured and assembled in a factory. This delivers a number of benefits, not least the fact that the recycling and reduction of waste, along with energy efficiency measures, reduces operating costs in both the immediate and long-term.

when identifying critical aspects that impact sustainability performance, starting with the initial design and onto construction activities.

This all comes under ‘long-term environmental stewardship’, and adapting new methods, such as offsite modular construction, is helping the hospitality sector to reduce its carbon footprint considerably.

Put simply, flexibility, quality finishing and cost-effectiveness of modular construction often outweigh other options.

With regards to the hospitality sector, the entire value chain and lifecycle of a building must be considered

Investing in New Production Facilities Therefore, it is no surprise that modular construction is really taking

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off in Saudi Arabia, underlined by AMANA's decision to build a state-ofthe-art, 94,000m2 factory in Rabigh.

The decision to invest in a new production facility was in response to the changes being embraced by the Saudi construction industry, where technological advancements and innovation have driven growth throughout the sector. The new production facility also meets the demand for the sizeable projects the company has been awarded.

It has allowed AMANA to manufacture DUBOX modular precast products in a controlled environment that shifts 85% of construction activities from

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SAUDI AMANA CONTRACTING

A controlled environment that shifts 85% of construction activities from the site to the factory

the site to the factory, minimising the impact on the environment. So successful has the factory been that AMANA is now looking to further expand its off-site manufacturing operations by establishing a second factory in the kingdom with a total area of 80,000m2. This will double the company's production capacity.

A Full Design and Build Solution With a comprehensive list of services, which includes all those you would expect from an established, allinclusive building company, AMANA offers clients a full design and build solution. This is advantageous in several ways, including the overlap of design and construction, thereby reducing the overall project delivery time. The client is also able to engage with AMAMA early in the design process to ensure a more practical and buildable solution.

The fact that there is a single point of responsibility for the client to deal with once the contract is awarded can also make things simpler and more straightforward.

With in-house capabilities to develop a project from conception through construction and onto completion, AMANA, which is currently working with leading blue-chip partners such as TRSDC and Qiddiya, is now the regional leader in the design-build of industrial and commercial facilities, with over 1,500 buildings constructed across the region. Indeed, having won the ‘BIG PROJECTS ME’ Award for Sustainable Project of the Year for the Coastal Village for TRCDC in January 2020, as well as being recognised among the winners of the Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Business Innovation Awards in 2018, the company's ability to offer shortened construction times, an inherently green construction process, energy-efficient solutions and design flexibility, have made AMANA the 'go-to' contractor for discerning clients throughout the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

The ability to complete a building in 30% less time than more traditional construction methods

SAUDI AMANA CONTRACTING

A new state-of-the-art, 94,000m2 factory in Rabigh

Watch Watch Video Industralized Construction  Mr. Hattan Ghazi Nazer, General Manager AMANA KSA

SAUDI AMANA CONTRACTING T: +971 4 885 4448 E: CONTACTUS@AMANABUILDINGS.COM WWW.AMANABUILDINGS.COM



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The Red Sea Development Company - News

First On-Site Employment Seminar TRSDC hosted its first on-site seminar to explore employment and training opportunities for the communities living close to the development. The session also identified potential cooperations between TRSDC's partners, non-profit organisations and government agencies with a successful history in training and employment within the area.

The seminar took place on 31 January at TRSDC's Base Camp facility between the towns of Umluj and AlWajh on the west coast of Saudi Arabia. It was attended by TRSDC's partners and leaders and representatives from the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development, Human Resources Development Fund (Hadaf), and the training organisation Maximus Gulf.

"We are only at the beginning of Saudi Arabia's exciting transition to a new and diversified economy, a change that brings with it a wealth of opportunities for Saudis. At TRSDC, we are committed to empowering the communities surrounding our project to ensure that they are among the first to benefit from the development, through job creation and training," said John Pagano, CEO of TRSDC. TRSDC seeks to surpass existing environmental and socio-economic sustainability standards, and the identification and delivery of key social development initiatives are central to achieving this goal. In addition to delivering various training programmes, the project itself is expected to create about 70,000 direct, indirect and induced jobs by 2030.

"We are extremely proud to host our first gathering with government agencies, non-profit organisations and TRSDC's partners to create a long-lasting positive impact on our local communities. We have worked tirelessly to provide highquality community development and social responsibility programs -including providing employment, training, education and volunteering opportunities for the citizens of Umluj and AlWajh," said Eng. Ahmed Darwish, Chief Administrative Officer at TRSDC. The Red Sea Project has already passed significant milestones, and work is on track to welcome its first guests by the end of 2022 when the international airport and the first four hotels will open. The remaining 12 hotels planned in phase one will open in 2023.

Upon completion in 2030, The Red Sea Project will comprise 50 hotels, offering up to 8,000 hotel rooms and around 1,300 residential properties across 22 islands and six inland sites. The destination will also include a luxury marina, entertainment, and leisure facilities.

The Red Sea Development Company - News

TRSDC appoints Red Sea International and FMCO

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TRSDC Appoints Killa Design for Overwater, Inland Villas on Sheybarah Island Dubai-based Killa Design, Architecture Firm has been appointed by The Red Sea Development Company (TRSDC) to design overwater and inland villas on Sheybarah Island.

Contracts have been awarded to two Saudi firms, Red Sea International and Facilities Management Company (FMCO),

by The Red Sea Development Company (TRSDC) to provide all maintenance, security, administrative and laundry services at the Red Sea Project's Construction Village on the west coast of Saudi Arabia.

The two companies will each be responsible for the accommodation of up to 5,000 construction workers and ensuring the facility is managed in adherence to the highest living standards, whether employed directly by TRSDC or by contractors. A dedicated 24/7 helpdesk will also be in operation for workers staying at the village.

“Our Construction Village is an important element of the Phase One development. In order to continue with the rate of progress we’ve seen to date, we must first and foremost ensure that our workers are healthy, happy and safe,” said John Pagano, CEO of TRSDC. Accommodation exceeds International Finance Corporation (IFC) guidelines, ensuring residential buildings and facilities are both comfortable and safe. Rooms in the village are equipped with partitions between beds for privacy, bathrooms and showers in the same building, personal safes for belongings, and Wi-Fi

coverage, allowing workers to stay in touch with family and friends.

Red Sea International and FMCO will also play an essential role in creating a sense of community in the village, managing the neighbourhoods formed between the living and recreational areas.

Workers can enjoy the use of cricket pitches, volleyball and basketball courts, football pitches, gyms and cinemas. A supermarket and barber shop will also be provided on-site for workers to use.

Abdulhakim Al Khaldi, Chairman of FMCO, one of the affiliates of Al Yamama Group, concluded: “We are delighted to embark on this new partnership with The Red Sea Development Company and together we will work to bring the latest technology, efficiencies and sustainable practices to ensure world-class standards are met for worker welfare, which is our joint focus. We are confident that we will play a central role in delivering this vision as this ambitious destination is brought to life.”

Designs of the overwater villas take inspiration from the natural environment, particularly the corals, which make up a circle effect, representing unity, integration and wholeness. These coral-inspired villas, emerging from the water's surface, will be constructed with polished steel and will reflect the sea, the sky, and one of the most stunning parts of the project, the reef below.

The inland villas are inspired by sand dunes, with each villa being set apart to give guests a sense of privacy.

Sheybarah Island is the furthest from the mainland, located in the archipelago's south-east in the Red Sea. It features a 30 to 40-metre reef drop-off in very close proximity from the beach, so will quickly become the ultimate diving spot. Sheybarah Island will undoubtedly attract a lot of attention.

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The Red Sea Development Company - News

It is clear that hydrogen as an energy source is still in its infancy

The Future of Hydrogen in Renewables

By Roba Aljohani Hydrogen is the energy source of the moment, and companies worldwide are waking up to its multiple uses. From enabling mobility through hydrogen-fuelled vehicles to reducing carbon emissions, significant investment in research and development is uncovering its full potential.

However, as a relatively new enabler of renewable energy, people are still trying to understand the complexities of the production process. Today, 96% of the world's hydrogen production is generated by fossil fuels, and only 4% is produced from the 'greener' process of electrolysis. Meanwhile, green hydrogen - hydrogen from renewable energy through electrolysis - is not yet widely adopted. With challenges around cost, efficiency and market availability to overcome, can we really rely it as a go-to source in the near future?

At The Red Sea Development Company (TRSDC), we have bold ambitions to be the world's first regenerative tourism destination. To achieve this, our development will be self-sufficient with an off-grid energy strategy that maximises the use of renewable technologies. The entire site will be powered by renewable energy generated from solar and wind, 24 hours a day, a promise enabled by the creation of the world's largest battery storage facility.

 Roba Aljohani - Content Development Specialist

In theory, green hydrogen as a power source is a viable option for us; the electricity comes from a renewable energy source such as wind, hydropower, or solar energy. Our sustainability principles are embedded throughout every part of the project, and we are continually researching and exploring new processes which are considerate of the natural environment.

However, when comparing green hydrogen to battery-electric technology, this method still has some way to go when it comes to investment vs efficiencies.

Currently, battery-electric technology is more advanced and widely adopted.

For instance, hydrogen vehicles are still significantly more expensive when compared to battery electric vehicles, and there is much less market availability.

The same issue is more prevalent in marine and aviation where hydrogen vehicles are even less developed.

Taking a closer look at energy output, and electric technology is still more efficient than hydrogen. The process of

electrolysis to create green hydrogen is labour intensive and only 75% efficient.

Further energy is then lost when the gas is compressed, chilled and transported so by the time you reach the end result a considerable amount of energy is lost.

It is clear that hydrogen as an energy source is still in its infancy, but with ongoing collaboration between suppliers and learnings shared across sectors, this could very well change. Battery technology is a prime example of how the development of new solutions can serve age-old problems; just look at the exponential growth of electric vehicles in the last five years.

At TRSDC, our beautiful site is our most prized possession, and we're continually looking for new, proven ways to protect and enhance it. Who is to say that next week there couldn't be a breakthrough in the hydrogen production process, putting it in the top spot as a serious option for us? Until then, we're keeping our eyes peeled for the next innovation.

The Red Sea Development Company - News

What it Means to be Green 'Going Green' is no easy feat, especially on a project that covers an area roughly the size of Belgium. Yet this is the commitment made by The Red Sea Development Company (TRSDC), the driving force behind potentially the most ambitious, sustainable project in the world today. Indeed, The Red Sea Project is underpinned not only by a commitment to protect the environment at the site, but to actively enhance it.

This ambition was designed into the destination's very foundations with the master plan, informed by a vast Marine Spatial Planning Exercise, promising a 30% net conservation benefit over the next two decades. This regenerative approach to sustainable development and tourism is truly groundbreaking, not just in the kingdom, but globally.

One of the steps taken to support these efforts was a partnership with Al Falah Ready Mix, which was awarded a contract for the supply of structural low-carbon concrete. This is manufactured utilising recycled raw materials to meet existing and upcoming project demand while adhering to its environmental sustainability goals.

Last summer, the partners celebrated the successful pouring of their first concrete trial mix at the Al Falah

batching plant. The batching plant produces around 1,200m3 of green concrete per day, consisting of 1520% fly ash and 5-8% silica fume.

Typically, a standard concrete cement has a CO2 emission of 0.96 kg/ton. In contrast, the green mix alternative material being used at The Red Sea Project has a CO2 emission of only 0.11 kg/ton. This is a substantial difference which contributes to the broader ambitions of the project.

The concrete is not only green but secure. These structural grades of concrete, screeds and mortars are highly durable and hold up to 100 years of service life. They can easily withstand the very severe exposure conditions in the region.

Approximately 700,000m3 of concrete will be required for the destination's

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initial construction work, including accommodation for 10,000 workers, a management hotel, residential buildings, utilities, and infrastructure.

The contract with Al Falah Ready Mix highlights once again how TRSDC is setting new standards in sustainable development. Its sustainability targets include a 100% reliance on renewable energy and complete carbon neutrality in the destination's operations.

Low carbon concrete heralds a new era for 'green' construction, and TRSDC is leading the way in its use for destinationscale development. Furthermore, green concrete extends beyond being merely a lone product. It represents a new focus on sustainability within the construction industry in areas from exterior materials to solar products.

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The Red Sea Development Company - News

TRSDC award Al Kifah Contract for Employee Accommodation at Coastal Village TRSDC has awarded one of its largest value contract to date for engineering, procurement and construction of an additional 40 apartment buildings at the Coastal Village community.

After a competitive tendering process, the contract was awarded to Saudi firm Al Kifah Contracting Company, showcasing TRSDC's commitment to supporting local businesses and strengthening the Saudi economy.

"People are at the heart of this project, and the Coastal Village will become the central hub for employees to live, work and relax. Designed around the latest concepts in co-working and community living, it will become a vibrant neighbourhood for residents, plus their family members and visitors," said John Pagano, CEO of TRSDC. The 40 apartment buildings will consist of 40 blocks of single and double occupancy units, located at the destination's Coastal Village. This new town will eventually become home to the 14,000 employees set to operate the destination when it opens its doors by the end of 2022.

Al Kifah will use precast concrete panels, prepared at a new dedicated precast manufacturing facility being built in the project area. This will help localise jobs and greatly reduce the site's carbon footprint by avoiding approximately 10 million kilometres of transportation, which will save 10,000 tons of CO2.

"The beauty of this agreement,"

added John Pagano, "is that all 40 of the residential apartment buildings will utilise elements of off-site manufacturing and prefabrication techniques. These approaches enhance efficiency, quality and safety, while reducing the number of construction workers needed onsite to minimise our environmental footprint during construction."

In addition to manufacturing off-site, TRSDC uses eco-friendly, sustainable 'green' concrete on-site to minimise emissions throughout the construction process.

"These apartment buildings will combine an eco-friendly design with a high-quality finish, supporting The Red Sea Project's ambition to become a premier tourist destination, which will have a net-conservation benefit on the natural environment," said Eng. Osama Al Afaleq, Chairman of Al Kifah Contracting Company.

"With the destination set to begin welcoming guests in less than two years, the efficient delivery of these units is key to guaranteeing that comfortable homes are available to the employees needed to operate the destination. Our approach to using off-site manufacturing will ensure we meet the tight timelines ahead of us."

The 1.5 million m² Coastal Village area

includes management offices, villas, townhouses and apartments, and a 144-room hotel. Envisaged as a vibrant community and set in a prime location on the waterfront, it will offer a range of amenities such as hospitals, schools and leisure facilities including fitness centres, beach clubs and dining outlets.

Delivering quality homes and a community of this calibre, rich with activities and facilities, is central to TRSDC's corporate social responsibility efforts. This development exceeds the usual standards of design, construction and ultimately, the lifestyle provided to the employees of such a destination.

In a bid to further minimise the environmental footprint at the site, the Coastal Village housing will initially be utilised to house the workers building the destination. This eliminates the need to build extra accommodation for these workers, which would later have to be demolished, adding another layer of efficiency to the plans.

Significant progress has already been made at the Coastal Village, all of which meets TRSDC's stringent environmental standards. The first 10 residential buildings and the construction of a new corporate office building are nearing completion.

The Red Sea Development Company - News

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These first elements of the community are set to open by the end of the first quarter of 2021. They will be home to TRSDC staff overseeing the construction of the destination, closely followed by the management of the hotel, which will welcome its first guests in the second quarter.

The Red Sea Project also recently celebrated the significant milestone of signing more than 500 contracts to date, worth over SAR 12 billion and with winning bidders spanning 24 countries. Over 70% of the total value of construction contracts has been awarded to Saudi firms, further highlighting TRSDC's commitment to strengthening the local economy.

In November, TRSDC awarded its highest-value contract to date to a consortium led by ACWA Power to design, build, operate and transfer The Red Sea Project's utilities infrastructure. The PPP agreement will deliver 100% renewable energy for the first phase of the project and includes the construction of the world's largest battery storage farm.

Work is on track to welcome the first guests by the end of 2022 when the international airport and the first four hotels open. The remaining 12 hotels in Phase One will open in 2023, delivering a total of 3,000 rooms across five islands and two inland resorts.

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The Red Sea Development Company - News

TRSDC Awards Contract to Mott MacDonald

Mott MacDonald awarded contract to provide consultancy services to determine the optimal sustainable vehicle fleet configuration at the destination Mott MacDonald will deliver a comprehensive and robust analysis of the total land, sea and air transport needs for the development and operation of the 28,000km² site, from its opening in 2022 to its completion in 2030. This will involve a strategy for destinationwide clean mobility using electric and hydrogen vehicles, boats and aircraft.

“We believe that environmental regeneration and commercial development do not have to be mutually exclusive. Our destination is one of extraordinary natural beauty, which we have a responsibility to protect

and enhance for future generations,” said John Pagano, CEO of TRSDC. “We’re looking forward to working with Mott MacDonald, who are well aligned with our strong sustainability ambitions to deliver a green mobility plan and will support us with our commitment to become a carbonneutral destination,” he added.

The company will also be required to identify the most appropriate supporting infrastructure, such as electric and hydrogen vehicle charging stations, in line with TRSDC’s ambitions to power the destination with 100% renewable energy.

Two Key Contracts Awarded For Hotel Construction Saudi company Al Bawani and Swiss firm Blumer Lehmann win contract to support the development plans and structural work of TRSDC luxury hotels and resorts.

The two companies will play pivotal roles in the construction of hotels across The Red Sea Project. Al Bawani will be responsible for civil and structural works across 40 hotel villas on the Southern Dunes site. Blumer Lehmann will be responsible for timber construction planning and fabrication, plus supply works, for a hotel situated on Ummahat Al Shaykh Island.

"The Red Sea Development Company has made significant progress in terms of the design and construction of key infrastructure to enable the development of hotel assets," said John Pagano, CEO of TRSDC. "It is exciting to award these contracts, which signify the start of a new phase for us as we move into the build of our stunning resorts both inland and on one of our key islands.

The two companies will play pivotal roles in the construction of hotels across The Red Sea Project We feel confident that Al Bawani and Blumer Lehmann will help turn our vision into a reality."

Both awards reflect the remarkable progress being made at the destination.

The Red Sea Project has already passed significant milestones, and work is on track to welcome the first guests by the end of 2022 when the international airport and the first four hotels will open.

The Red Sea Development Company - News

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Watch The project launch video

daa International appointed by TRSDC Airfield and terminal operations, aviation services, facilities management and commercial activities, as well as corporate and financial service will all be provided by daa International.

“Our state-of-the-art “The Red Sea International airport will provide a Airport will become a unique gateway for fundamental part of each guests arriving at our visitor’s journey to this  John Pagano and Nick Cole destination, and this unique destination, announcement is and we believe their an important step holiday experience in bringing the should start from experience to life the moment they ahead of welcoming land,” said daa visitors by the end International Chief of 2022,” said John Executive, Nick Cole.

Pagano, CEO of TRSDC. “That is why we “daa International intend to deliver was selected because we a seamless airport are confident that they can experience for passengers, deliver not only an airport experience underpinned by a commitment worthy of our luxury destination but to achieving TRSDC’s stringent for their commitment to ensuring sustainability goals. We’re pleased our sustainability goals are met.” to play our role in helping to open up daa International will manage the this new destination and wonderful operations of the airport during three country to the rest of the world.” separate stages. Stage one will involve The Red Sea International Airport ensuring that all airport designs benefit is accessible by 80% of the world’s the customer. Stage two covers planning population in less than eight hours. It a full and seamless operational model for is set to serve one million passengers the airport when it opens to the public. annually by the project’s completion The final stage will be to manage in 2030, with a peak capacity of 900 and operate this plan, maintaining passengers per hour. Visitor numbers the highest standards in customer will be limited to one million, based experience and sustainability, and on the environmental carrying prioritising safety and security. capacity of the destination.

The entire transport network at the site, including the airport, will be powered by 100% renewable energy. In line with TRSDC’s commitment to set new standards in regenerative tourism, the airport is designed to include shaded areas and natural ventilation that minimises reliance on air-conditioning.

TRSDC awarded the airport design contract to international architecture firm Foster + Partners in October 2019, after it presented exciting designs that are explicitly informed by the natural Saudi landscape.

TRSDC also awarded a contract for construction of a Code F runway, Code B seaplane runway, aprons, taxiways, helipad, roads and navigation aids to a Saudi joint-venture, Nesma + Partners and Almabani, earlier this year and work is well underway at the site.

Upon completion in 2030, The Red Sea Project will comprise 50 hotels, offering up to 8,000 hotel rooms and around 1,300 residential properties across 22 islands and six inland sites. The destination will also include a luxury marina, entertainment and leisure facilities.

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Tourism

 Al Ula

 AMAALA

 NEOM

 Qiddiya

TRACKING TOURISM'S CONTRIBUTION TO ECONOMY SAUDI ARABIA’S STATISTICS AUTHORITY WILL BEGIN TRACKING THE TOURIST INDUSTRY’S CONTRIBUTION TO ITS ECONOMIC OUTPUT, WITH THE TOURISM ESTABLISHMENT SURVEY PROVIDING DATA THAT WILL INCLUDE THE NUMBER OF EMPLOYEES, PAY AND REVENUE, AND EXPENDITURE. THIS WILL HELP IN CALCULATING THE SECTOR’S SHARE OF GROSS DOMESTIC PRODUCT (GDP) AND ESTABLISH GROWTH RATES FOR ACTIVITIES.

S

audi Arabia, a final frontier when it comes to travelling for many potential

kingdom is also home to five UNESCO sites.

attracts millions of European tourists on

The birthplace and spiritual home of

the opposing Egyptian shoreline, remains

overseas visitors, is making a determined effort

Islam, Saudi Arabia is therefore rich in

mostly untouched on the Saudi side. Also,

to increase tourism. Of course, Saudi Arabia has

attractions and symbolism, but work is now

the kingdom being the birthplace of Islam

a rich collection of both natural and historical

also underway on a number of large-scale

and the cradle of Arab civilisation would

attractions, ranging from the mountain

tourism and entertainment projects.

be attractive to overseas visitors looking

destinations of Taif through to a magnificent

The Saudi Minister of Tourism, His

for history they’ve yet to encounter.

display of prehistoric Nabatean tombs and

Excellency Ahmad bin Al Khateeb, has

the colourful coral reefs in the Red Sea. The

recently pointed out that the Red Sea, which

Tourism

WELCOMING THE WORLD

the size of the Disney World in Paris. Targeting

New giga tourism projects will occupy an area

local, regional, and international tourists, Qiddiya

in excess of 64,634 sq km over the next decade,

will include a Six Flags theme park, water parks,

while recently Saudi Arabia’s sovereign fund

motorsports, cultural events, and vacation homes.

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announced it had formed a company called Cruise Saudi to develop a local cruise industry.

AD DIRIYAH – DIRIYAH GATE A UNESCO World Heritage site, Ad Diriyah is a

THE GIGA-PROJECTS IN QUESTION INCLUDE:

north-western suburb of the capital Riyadh and used to be home to the Saudi royal family. Known

NEOM

as the ‘Pearl of Saudi Arabia’, it is set to become

A $500 billion high-tech city, NEOM is the flagship

a major tourist destination, encompasses several

project of the kingdom’s post-oil diversification

luxury resorts, including major international hotel

programme and, located in north-western Saudi

brands, and dining and entertainment options.

Arabia, will be the main entrance to the King Salman Bridge, linking Asia and Africa. Its landmass

AL ULA

(26,500 sq km), 35 times the size of Singapore, will

An ancient city, in Saudi Arabia’s north-western

extend along the Egyptian and Jordanian borders,

Medina region, Al Ula was once an important

rendering it the first private zone to span three

crossroads on the vast incense trade route which

countries, and contain over 450 km of coastline.

spanned from the Mediterranean to India and northern Africa. The city and surrounding area ares

RED SEA PROJECT

now looking to attract millions of visitors a year to

The Red Sea Project is an ultra-luxury tourist

its ancient monuments and UNESCO World Heritage

destination, designed with a strong focus on

Site, Hegra, where the remains of a settlement

heritage, culture and conservation, and will

built more than 2,000 years ago by the Nabataean

provide 8,000 new hotel rooms once completed.

kingdom can be seen remarkably well preserved.

The project will feature luxury resorts across an area of 34,000 sq km and will be spread across

AN ARCHAEOLOGICAL TREASURE CHEST

an archipelago of 50 islands. In particular, the

As it opens to tourists as part of Vision 2030, which

Red Sea Project will mitigate carbon dioxide

looks to reduce the kingdom’s dependence on oil, Saudi

emissions, waste production, and light and

Arabia hopes to increase international and domestic

noise pollution, maintaining the destination at a

visits to 100 million, contributing up to 10% of its GDP.

level equivalent to a Marine Protected Area.

NEW GIGA TOURISM PROJECTS WILL OCCUPY AN AREA IN EXCESS OF 64,634 SQ KM

AMAALA

Malaysia, Singapore, Australia, the US, and Europe

Set to become the ‘Riviera of the Middle East’, AMAALA

who are especially interested in culture and

will sit alongside NEOM and the Red Sea Project within

history. This is because the country has remained

the Prince Mohammed bin Salman Natural Reserve,

fundamentally untouched and is therefore

helping establish a unique tourism ecosystem. The

considered an archaeological treasure chest.

development will add 2,500 hotel rooms to the

THE KINGDOM IS ALSO HOME TO FIVE UNESCO SITES

Overnight, Saudi Arabia has opened its doors to

kingdom's growing hospitality market and feature

Western tourism. The government believes this is an

700 private residential villas and a retail area with 200

opportunity that was "previously missed" and will

outlets. The 3,000 square kilometre project, which

result in a tremendous economic boost for the country.

will be spread across the three sites, will have its own

A $500 BILLION HIGHTECH CITY, NEOM IS THE FLAGSHIP PROJECT OF THE KINGDOM’S POSTOIL DIVERSIFICATION PROGRAMME

Most of all, Saudi Arabia wants to catch the attention of people from China, Japan, Russia,

airport and target the top tier of global luxury travellers.

So whether it's camping on 980-feet cliffs, snorkelling along a pristine coral reef in the Red Sea, or enjoying the last word in luxury in the

QIDDIYA

kingdom’s new hotels and resorts, Saudi Arabia

Qiddiya, set to be Saudi Arabian’s pre-eminent

has a lot to offer tourists who are looking for

entertainment, sports and cultural destination,

something authentic and just a little bit different.

about an hour’s drive from Riyadh, is being built on a 334 sq km site, making it two and a half times

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GIGA PROJECTS - NEOM

NEOM

THE LINE How Big Can You Dream?

GIGA PROJECTS - NEOM

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GIGA PROJECTS - NEOM

SAUDI ARABIA'S CROWN PRINCE MOHAMMED BIN SALMAN, CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF NEOM, HAS ANNOUNCED THE LAUNCH OF 'THE LINE' IN THE CITY OF NEOM, WHICH WILL CONSIST OF A 170-KILOMETRE BELT OF HYPER-CONNECTED COMMUNITIES, DESIGNED WITHOUT CARS OR ROADS AND IN CONCERT WITH NATURE.

D

escribed as a 'revolution in urban living', this giga-project has been

put forward as a blueprint for how people can co-exist in harmony with the planet. To help achieve this, the various communities will be powered by Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology, which is designed to learn and improve residents and businesses' lives.

"Throughout history, cities were built to protect their citizens. After the Industrial Revolution, cities prioritised machines, cars and factories over people. In cities that are viewed as the world's most advanced, people spend years of their lives commuting.

By 2050, commute durations will double.

By 2050, one billion people will have to relocate due to rising CO2 emissions and

sea levels. 90% of people breathe polluted air," the Crown Prince explained.

"Why should we sacrifice nature for the sake of development? Why should seven million people die every year because of pollution? Why should we lose one million people every year due to traffic accidents? And why should we accept wasting years of our lives commuting?"

A city of a million residents, THE LINE will be

and autonomous mobility solutions will make

essential utilities and transportation services.

powered by 100% clean energy and preserve

travel easier and allow residents to spend more

All businesses and communities on THE

95% of the natural world within its boundaries.

of their time on health and wellbeing. It is

LINE are hyper-connected through a digital

Furthermore, it will generate around 380,000

expected that no journey will be longer than 20

framework incorporating AI and robotics that

job opportunities and contribute 180

minutes. A new airport will also be constructed

continuously learns and grows. Over 90% of

billion riyals ($48 billion) to the kingdom's

and will become one of the largest in the world.

the data in NEOM will be analysed to provide

gross domestic product (GDP) by 2030.

a predictive system with ever-improving

THE LINE is the first time in 150 years that a

DREAM, CREATE, INSPIRE

services to residents and businesses.

major urban development has been designed

THE LINE will reshape the traditional concept

THE LINE will allow NEOM to become a hub

around people, not roads. Walkability will

of urban life, enabling NEOM to become an

for innovation, where global business and

define life on THE LINE; all essential services,

economic engine for Saudi Arabia, the region,

emerging players can research, incubate

such as schools, medical clinics, leisure

and the world. It will be supported by an

and commercialise groundbreaking

facilities, as well as green spaces, will be within

invisible and seamlessly integrated physical

technologies to accelerate human progress.

a five-minute walk. Ultra-high-speed transit

and digital infrastructure layer containing

GIGA PROJECTS - NEOM

THE LINE WILL BE POWERED BY 100% CLEAN ENERGY

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70

GIGA PROJECTS - NEOM

NEOM WILL BE A DESTINATION AND A HOME FOR PEOPLE WHO DREAM BIG

GIGA PROJECTS - NEOM

By integrating commerce and industry into the heart of communities, THE LINE will help re-imagine supply chains and facilitate new and better ways of working. It will foster innovation and empower entrepreneurs.

Each community on THE LINE will be self-sufficient and reflect the personality of its residents, the region and the industries within it.

POWERING WHAT'S NEXT NEOM is a bold and audacious vision of what a new future will look like. In fact, NEOM means 'new future' – the first three characters, NEO, are derived from the Latin word for 'new', while the last character, M, is an abbreviation of the

WATCH THE LAUNCH VIDEO

Arabic word, 'Mostaqbal', meaning 'future'.

It is something that has never been done before at a time when the world needs fresh thinking and new solutions. NEOM will be a destination and a home for people who dream big and want to be part of building a new model for creating an exceptional lifestyle, prosperous businesses, and new ways of looking at sustainability.

Construction is set to get underway on THE LINE in the first quarter of this year as part of ongoing development work at the NEOM site.

IDEAS FOR LIFE

NEOM, a development located in the

NEOM is an embodiment of the Saudi

northwestern Tabuk Province, spans the

Agreements have been signed with AECOM

Vision 2030 plan to grow and diversify

kingdom's Egyptian and Jordanian borders,

and Bechtel to develop an advanced transport

the kingdom's economy and play a

rendering it the first private zone to extend

infrastructure, making THE LINE one of the

leading role in global development. It

out to three countries. A new model for the

largest and most complex projects of its

will offer an array of opportunities and

future of urban societies aimed at ensuring

type in the world. Other agreements include

encompasses some impressive key facts:

a balance with nature, NEOM is being built

those with Air Products and ACWA Power, to

 The natural world will be

from the ground up as a 'living laboratory'.

build a world-scale green hydrogen-based ammonia production facility powered by renewable energy, and with stc to establish

within a five-minute walk from

Eventually, it will comprise towns and

every point on THE LINE

cities, ports and enterprise zones, research

 THE LINE connects four distinctive

centres, sports and entertainment

a 5G network infrastructure that will

ecologies: coastal, coastal desert,

venues, and tourist destinations.

accelerate NEOM's digital ambitions.

mountain and upper valley

Moreover, there will be other significant

Nadhmi al-Nasr, CEO of NEOM, said: "Four years ago the Saudi Crown Prince launched

 There will be over one million residents and five million tourists by 2030

developments to complement THE LINE. NEOM will create a new approach to developing a future model for a core

the initial vision of NEOM, a dream back in

 Perennial solar resources (20 MJ/

2017. The world has been asking what we

m2) and ideal wind speeds (an

manufacturing and industrial centre.

have been doing over the course of the last

average of 10.3 m/s) provide

Additional developments in NEOM at

four years. We worked for more than two

abundant green energy

a later date will include coastal and

years to change this dream and vision into a

 40% of the world's population

set of strategic plans. The team worked with

will be able to reach NEOM

form of prestigious residential and

experts from all around the world to ensure

in less than four hours

commercial communities, and tourist

that this vision is turned into strategies."

mountain areas that will take the

attractions built around sustainability.

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72

GIGA PROJECTS - QIDDYA

GOLFING LEGEND TO DESIGN SIGNATURE CHAMPIONSHIP GOLF COURSE AT QIDDIYA JACK NICKLAUS, THE GLOBALLY RENOWNED GOLF COURSE DESIGNER AND THE GREATEST CHAMPION IN THE GAME'S HISTORY, WITH A RECORD 18 PROFESSIONAL MAJOR CHAMPIONSHIPS TO HIS NAME, HAS CONFIRMED THAT HE IS DESIGNING HIS FIRST-EVER COURSE IN SAUDI ARABIA: A CHAMPIONSHIP GOLF COURSE FOR QIDDIYA - SAUDI ARABIA'S CAPITAL OF ENTERTAINMENTS, SPORTS AND THE ARTS. THE COURSE, LOCATED 40 MINUTES FROM THE SAUDI CAPITAL OF RIYADH, IS UNDER DESIGN AND IS AWAITING COMMENCEMENT OF CONSTRUCTION.

J

ack and Nicklaus Design are creating

integrate the natural environment and

the championship course for a

the beautiful Qiddiya landscape, bringing

private golf and country club, set within

together green spaces and mountainous

an exclusive residential community in the

terrain to form a picturesque canvas for both

heart of the Qiddiya development, just

a beautiful and challenging golf course."

outside Riyadh, with ground expected to be

Construction began on the Qiddiya project

broken later this year. The majestic Tuwaiq

in 2019, and the golf development will include

mountain range will frame the golf course.

a high-end resort hotel and spa, as well as

Commenting on Jack Nicklaus' involvement,

exclusive residences, that once finished will

His Excellency Yasir O. Al-Rumayyan, Chairman

position the development as both the premier

of Golf Saudi and the Saudi Golf Federation

Golf and Country Club and number one course

said: "To have the greatest-ever golfer commit

in the Kingdom. It will be constructed to the

to making his mark upon our developing golf

highest standards, with a view to hosting the

landscape in Saudi Arabia and at a project as

most prestigious international championships

significant as Qiddiya gives us great pride.

in future years, challenging elite golfers while

To be part of the Nicklaus legacy will be

providing casual players with an opportunity

something that we will always cherish,

to enjoy the sport and develop their skills.

especially knowing the positive impact

"By being involved in this project, we hope

it will have on growing awareness of the

to promote the development and enjoyment

sport at a domestic level, whilst increasing

of the game in the Kingdom," Nicklaus said.

our national visibility as a vibrant new

"We not only want to entice Saudi residents

golf destination. We are looking forward

to take up the great game of golf, but

to welcoming Mr Nicklaus for his first visit

we also hope this presents employment

to Saudi Arabia in the coming months."

opportunities for citizens of the Kingdom

Nicklaus, the most decorated player in the game's history, commented: "I am excited by this project and my first golf course design

that are within or related to the golf industry.

This mirrors the vision of Qiddiya."

Qiddiya has undertaken the planning of the

in the Middle East. To be selected as one of

course in consultation with Golf Saudi. The

the first international designers to work in

Nicklaus-designed course is the centrepiece of

the Kingdom is a great honour. I've already

what has been positioned as the most exclusive

spent time looking at the topography of the

golf residential community in the Kingdom.

land, images of the backdrop and terrain,

Further expanding the sport of golf in

and discussing with our design team a

the Kingdom, Qiddiya will be seeking

strategy for the course. The design will fully

designers for a second course.

 Nicklaus Design Confirmed For Qiddiya

GIGA PROJECTS - QIDDYA

73

 J ack Nicklaus With Qiddiya Designs

Together, the two courses will provide top-notch golfing facilities for residents and day visitors to Qiddiya, from elite players to those just learning the sport. CEO of QIC, Philippe Gas commented; "The underlying philosophy behind this entire development is to introduce a new, active lifestyle to the people of Saudi Arabia.

This project has been carefully planned to ensure an unmatched resort experience for both golfers and regular guests. We expect the Jack Nicklaus Signature Golf Course and residential offering to provide the most entertaining challenge for golfers and the most appealing homesteads for residents seeking an extraordinary lifestyle."

"BY BEING INVOLVED IN THIS PROJECT, WE HOPE TO PROMOTE THE DEVELOPMENT AND ENJOYMENT OF THE GAME IN THE KINGDOM"

74

GIGA PROJECTS - Al Ula

WINTER IN THE WORLD’S MASTERPIECE AL ULA, THE WORLD'S MASTERPIECE, IS A LIVING MUSEUM THAT HOLDS 200,000 YEARS OF LARGELY UNEXPLORED HUMAN HISTORY. THE VAST DESERT LANDSCAPE FEATURES PRESERVED TOMBS, SANDSTONE OUTCROPS, HISTORIC DWELLINGS AND MONUMENTS, BOTH NATURAL AND HUMAN-MADE.

T

his winter, Al Ula also offers a range of

Al Ula's new zipline experience has caused quite

new adventure and nature experiences

a stir among adventure-seeking travellers. One of

which will appeal to those looking for the

the longest in the world, visitors will race along

thrill of something new, knowing that their

to a speed of over 100km/h while enjoying the

health and safety comes first. Al Ula's outdoor

incredible scenery of the Hijaz Mountain range –

experiences continue to operate in line

this one is not for the faint-hearted. Operated by

with the Ministry of Health guidelines with

experienced adventure tourism operator, Warrior

strict Covid-19 safety measures in place.

Group, it is the Kingdom's most thrilling zipline.

Fair temperatures during the day and chilly

Also new from Warrior Group is the exciting

nights make winter the perfect time to try

Al Ula Bike Park. This purpose-built bump and

Al Ula's newest experiences, be it one of the

pump track offers hours of fun for the whole

longest ziplines the world, a fun bump and

family no matter what skill level. Wooden beams

pump bike track with the mountains as the

have been seamlessly blended with the terrain

backdrop, or a night under the stars.

on this looped track where instructors are on hand to make sure you're at the right skill level. The venue has a scenic viewing deck and coffee shop for those who prefer to spectate.

Operated by Husaak Group, the one-hour Al Ula

AL ULA OFFERS NEW WINTER EXPERIENCES FOR TRAVELLERS LOOKING FOR SPACE, RELAXATION OR ADRENALINFILLED FUN

Cycling Trail is a more leisurely ride on special desert bikes. The 14km trail across the sand dunes passes by some of Al Ula's unique rock formations.

Far away from city lights in the vast open space of Al Ula's remote Gharameel desert lands, a magical evening of stargazing is a must-do experience for nature lovers. Led by a star expert, visitors will learn about the constellations and their relation to the ancient land's culture and history as they marvel at the brilliance of the dark sky sprinkled with infinite stars. The Bedouin-style camp, surrounded

by Gharameel's mystical rock formations, includes a dinner of traditional food and drinks.

Al Ula's vast open spaces provide the perfect backdrop for safe, fun, exploration with more experiences opening up over the coming months.

Find out more: www.experienceAl Ula.com

GIGA PROJECTS - Al Ula

WATCH AL ULA THE WORLDS MASTERPIECE

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URBAN DESIGN AND LANDSCAPING

 Madrid Rio Downtown, Spain

Image credit: LucVi / Shutterstock.com

LIVING LIFE IN BALANCE CREATING INSPIRATIONAL CITIES AND PLACES TO LIVE AND WORK REQUIRES AN ABILITY TO RESPOND TO THE COMPLEXITY OF URBAN, RURAL AND REMOTE DEVELOPMENT, CREATING SPACES AND LANDSCAPES THAT RESPOND TO THE INTERACTION OF PEOPLE AND NATURE.

E

very scheme, such as Saudi Arabia's very own The Red Sea Development

project, seeks to generate its own unique design solution in response to 'place', requiring a multidisciplinary approach involving environmental science, art, ecology, and much more, including groundbreaking technology,  Shenzhen, Hong Kong

sometimes leading to extraordinary results such as restoring endangered wetlands.

URBAN DESIGN AND LANDSCAPING

77

The end result leaves 75% of the islands within the project area untouched, with nine islands designated special conservation zones.

So often, including developments in the Middle East, 'glitz and glamour' have taken precedence over nature. With its futuristic urban design and landscaping, the Red Sea Project shows how destinations of the future should be designed and constructed.

It is a genuine game-changer and will set a new benchmark for sustainability and environmental awareness.

The focus will be on people, not cars,

 New Road, Brighton

However, Martha Schwartz, a Professor in the Practice of Landscape Architecture at the Harvard University Graduate School of Design, explained that no matter how advanced the technologies used in a project, if people don't feel connected to the landscape it won't be successful. "How people use open space in the Middle East is

too, something that other developments

“HOW PEOPLE USE OPEN SPACE IN THE MIDDLE EAST IS VERY DIFFERENT FROM HOW THEY USE IT IN CHINA”

throughout the world are moving towards.

For instance, Paris has become a leading city when it comes to promoting user-friendly spaces, with Place La République just one example of how a special place in the city has been transformed into a wonderful, relaxing space. With very few interventions and strong attention to detail, it is now a people's place; a great square that offers Parisians increased

very different from how they use it in China.

Pedestrian bridges, parks, pine trees, the

So if you don't really understand people's

hierarchy of spaces, and various altitudes

cultural values, you'll get it wrong," she says.

are just some of the diverse experiences this

KEEPING PEOPLE IN MIND

In other words, what does an urban

opportunities for activity and enjoying life.

design offers. And while the scale is rather

'Smart city' has become a buzzword

landscape want to be, and how will it relate

big, the designers have thought of particular

nowadays, and while this is important, the

to the residents and visitors who utilise it?

details that make these spaces wonderful no

most important thing is to create a 'happy

matter how many times you've visited them.

city'. But what does that mean? The answer

INSPIRED DESIGN FOR THE FUTURE

is cities that people actually want to live in.

Many urban designs incorporate landscape, but

A GAME-CHANGER

In England, Brighton is an excellent example

in Shenzhen, Hong Kong, they did something

The Red Sea Development Company's giga-

of a place that has created a shared space

just slightly different, creating an urban

project, Shurayrah Island, is another scheme on

that satisfies the needs of everyone who

community farm in the middle of a metropolis.

a colossal scale. Although the kingdom is home

lives in and visits the town – New Road.

This challenges the way we look at our cities,

to many archaeological sites, pristine beaches

particularly as this particular farm is also in

and excellent diving, it is not currently a holiday

'Cultural Mile', but had become rather run-down

proportion to the city's number of inhabitants.

destination like Egypt's Red Sea resorts or

and was failing to attract small businesses or

This acts as a reminder of the amount of land

the city of Petra in Jordan. Shurayrah Island,

visitors. However, an innovative project led to a

needed to feed them, so it's educational too.

alongside other major projects currently being

new type of street: Brighton now has England's

undertaken in Saudi Arabia, will change that.

first shared space street where cars are

The great German philosopher Martin Heidegger, known for contributions to

Part of the mammoth Red Sea Project,

New Road lies at the heart of Brighton's

welcome – but on people's terms. And studies

phenomenology, hermeneutics and

Shurayrah Island will be a sustainability-

conducted by the City Council showed that

existentialism, once said that "the places

focused new holiday hotspot, offering

86% of Brighton citizens would like to see more

make it possible for a space to exist, and

incomparable experiences, awe-inspiring

and more areas developed like this in the city.

the distinguished character of the places is

resorts and extraordinary natural landscapes.

So what is good urban design and

gathering and being together." The Madrid

Powered by 100% renewable energy, the

Rio design is an excellent example of this, a

Red Sea Project encompasses an extensive

the relationship between people and the

massive project in terms of scale, but very

marine spatial planning exercise, which has

environment, and always remembers

contextual in each minor part of it, making

helped identify priority conservation areas.

that a design isn't finished until

it very welcoming and attractive for visitors.

landscaping? Put simply, it focuses on

someone is using – and enjoying – it.

78

Architecture - Jean Nouvel

Jean Nouvel Designs Resort Concealed Within Rock Dwellings FRENCH ARCHITECT JEAN NOUVEL, RENOWNED FOR HIS EXPERIMENTAL DESIGNS, HAS LONG SINCE EARNED HIMSELF A PLACE IN THE PANTHEON OF ARCHITECTURAL SUPERSTARS. SO IT IS NO SURPRISE THAT ONE OF HIS LATEST CREATIONS, A SUBTERRANEAN RESORT CARVED INTO A SANDSTONE HILL IN THE AL ULA AREA OF SAUDI ARABIA, HAS CAUSED SOMETHING OF A STIR.

Architecture - Jean Nouvel

79

THE RESORT WILL INCLUDE 40 GUEST SUITES, THREE VILLAS, AND 14 PRIVATE PAVILIONS

N

amed Sharaan by Nouvel, the resort

era in design where every future detail

Protecting the unique landscape, while

takes a modern perspective on

will tell a story of the landscape's past.

introducing contemporary ways of living, the

millennia-old ways of living, with monumental

As Nouvel explained: "Al Ula is a museum.

intervention will have minimal impact on

designs carved into the rocks that both

Every wadi and escarpment, every stretch

natural and urban landscapes. The architecture

respect and preserve the landscape.

of sand and rocky outline, every geological

will be carved within the landscape itself,

Inspired by the nearby Hegra, a UNESCO

and archaeological site deserves the

a typology inspired by the Nabateans'

World Heritage Site, and located in the

greatest consideration. It's vital we keep

way of interacting with their environment,

Sharaan Nature Reserve, the concept

all its distinctiveness and conserve its

building sustainable habitats away from the

takes a curatorial approach, bringing

attractiveness, which largely rests on its remote

summer's heat and the cold of the winter.

together landscape and history.

and occasionally archaic character. We have

Scheduled to be completed by 2024, the

Guests to Sharaan will discover the region's

to safeguard a little mystery as well as the

authentic character and be exposed to the

resort developed by the Royal Commission

promise of discoveries to come. Al Ula deserves

hundreds of archaeological sites within

for Al Ula (RCU), will include 40 guest suites,

to acquire a degree of modernity. Envisioning

Al Ula. As Nouvel stated: "This creation

three villas, and 14 private pavilions. It will

the future is a never-ending obligation that

genuinely becomes a cultural act."

take visitors on a vivid sensory and poignant

requires us to be fully alive to places in the

journey through time, ushering in a new

present as well as conjuring up the past."

Building Materials

80

SAUDI ARABIA PREFABRICATED BUILDING AND STRUCTURAL STEEL MARKET INDUCED

BY RISING DEMAND FOR URBAN HOUSING A PREFABRICATED BUILDING IS MANUFACTURED IN STANDARD PORTIONS OFF-SITE, AND THEN SHIPPED AND ASSEMBLED AT THE CONSTRUCTION SITE. ON THE OTHER HAND, STRUCTURAL STEEL FORMS THE SKELETAL FRAMEWORK OF THE BUILDING WHEREIN THE PREFABRICATED PARTS ARE INSTALLED. THESE CONSTRUCTION MATERIALS CAN BE DIVIDED INTO TWO TYPES, CONCRETE-BASED AND METAL-BASED. PREFABRICATED BUILDINGS ARE POPULAR IN THE COMMERCIAL SECTOR AND ARE ALSO GAINING PROMINENCE IN THE RESIDENTIAL SEGMENT.

I

MARC Group's new research report, entitled ‘Saudi Arabia Prefabricated

PRODUCT TYPE INSIGHTS

Building and Structural Steel Market: Industry Trends, Share, Size, Growth,

On the basis of type, the market has been categorised

Opportunity and Forecast 2019-2024’, estimates that the Saudi Arabia prefabricated

into prefabricated building and structural steel, wherein

building and structural steel market reached a value of more than $1.5 billion

prefabricated building accounts for the majority of

in 2018. The report further anticipates the market to reach a value of around

the total sales. This segment is further segregated

$2.0 billion by 2024, at a projected CAGR of 4.4% over the forecast period.

into roofs and floors, walls, staircases, and panels and lintels. Amongst these, roofs and floors represent the

SAUDI ARABIA PREFABRICATED BUILDING AND STRUCTURAL STEEL MARKET DRIVERS/

largest segment. On the other hand, structural steel is

CONSTRAINTS

divided into H-type beam, I-type beam, columns and

 The unavailability of affordable housing owing to population

angles. Currently, H-type beam dominates the market.

growth along with an influx of expatriates has encouraged the demand for prefabricated homes in Saudi Arabia.  Prefabricated buildings are environment friendly in comparison to conventionally constructed buildings as they do not produce any on-site

THE MARKET WILL REACH A VALUE OF AROUND $ 2.0 BILLION BY 2024

waste or require fuel for machines which emit harmful gases. Additionally,

APPLICATION INSIGHTS

they are cost-effective, time and energy-efficient, and quick-to-install.

Based on application, the residential sector dominates

 Rapid urbanisation and upcoming infrastructural projects are

the market, holding the majority of the market share. A

projected to further provide a thrust to the market for prefabricated

rise in the number of expatriates and rapid urbanisation

structures in Saudi Arabia during the forecast period.

are some of the factors stimulating the growth of this

 Factors such as lack of financing options and durability issues are expected to hamper the market growth in the region.

segment. The residential sector is followed by the institutional, commercial and industrial sectors.

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‫ﺗﻘﺪم ﺟﻮﺟﺮي ﻣﻴﺪل إﻳﺴﺖ ﺣﻠﻮل أرﺿﻴﺎت‬ ‫ﺻﻨﺎﻋﻴﺔ ﺧﺮﺳﺎﻧﻴﺔ ﻓﻌﺎﻟﺔ اﻟﺘﻜﻠﻔﺔ وذات ﻣﺴﺘﻮى‬ ٍ ‫ﻋﺎل ﻣﻦ اﻟﺠﻮدة‬ ‫إﻧﺸﺎء أرﺿﻴﺎت ﺳﻮﺑﺮ ﻓﻼت‬

‫ﺳﺎﺑﻘﺔ أﻋامل ﻣﺜﺒﺘﺔ ﰲ إﻧﺸﺎء )ﺗﺼﻤﻴﻢ وﺑﻨﺎء( أرﺿﻴﺎت ”ﺳﻮﺑﺮ ﻓﻼت“ ﻋﺎﻟﻴﺔ اﻟﺘﺤﻤﻞ‬.

‫أرﺿﻴﺎت ﺑﺘﻘﻨﻴﺔ اﻟﺘﺴﻮﻳﺔ ﺑﺎﻟﻠﻴﺰر‬

‫ﺑﻼﻃﺎت أرﺿﻴﺔ ﻛﺒرية ﻣﺼﺒﻮﺑﺔ ﻣﺴﻠﺤﺔ ﺑﺄﻟﻴﺎف اﻟﺼﻠﺐ )ﻟﺤﻠﻮل اﻷرﺿﻴﺎت دون ﻓﻮاﺻﻞ( أو‬ ‫ﺑﻮاﺳﻄﺔ ﺷﺒﻜﺔ اﻟﺼﻠﺐ اﻟﺘﻘﻠﻴﺪﻳﺔ‬

‫ﺻﻘﻞ اﻷرﺿﻴﺎت ﺑﺎﻟﻠﻴﺰر ﻟﻠﻤﻤﺮات اﻟﻀﻴﻘﺔ ﺟﺪً ا‬

‫ﺗﻌﺰﻳﺰ ﻣﺘﺎﻧﺔ اﻷرﺿﻴﺎت اﳌﻮﺟﻮدة ﺑﺎﻟﻔﻌﻞ ﻟﺰﻳﺎدة ﻣﺴﺘﻮﻳﺎت اﻷﻣﺎن واﻟﻜﻔﺎءة ﻟﻌﻤﻠﻴﺎت ﺷﺎﺣﻨﺎت‬ ‫اﳌﻤﺮات اﻟﻀﻴﻘﺔ ﺟﺪًا ﺑﺄﻗﻞ ﻗﺪر ﻣﻦ ﺗﻌﻄﻴﻞ اﻟﻌﻤﻠﻴﺎت‬

‫ اﻟﺼﻘﻞ ﺑﺎﻟﻠﻴﺰر ﴎﻳﻌﺔ اﻟﺘﻨﻔﻴﺬ‬/ ‫ﻋﻤﻠﻴﺎت اﻟﺘﺴﻮﻳﺔ‬

‫اﺳﺘﺨﺪام ﻃﺮﻳﻘﺔ اﻹﻧﺸﺎءات اﻟﻘﺎمئﺔ ﻋﲆ ﺻﺐ ﻛﻤﻴﺎت ﻛﺒرية ﻣﻦ ﺑﻼﻃﺎت اﻟﺨﺮﺳﺎﻧﺔ وﺗﻘﻨﻴﺔ‬ .‫اﻟﺘﺴﻮﻳﺔ ﺑﺎﻟﻠﻴﺰر إﺿﺎﻓ ًﺔ إﱃ ﺗﻘﻨﻴﺔ اﻟﺼﻘﻞ ﺑﺎﻟﻠﻴﺰر ﻹﻧﺠﺎز أي ﻣﻦ ﻋﻤﻠﻴﺎت اﳌﻤﺮات اﻟﻀﻴﻘﺔ ﺟﺪًا‬ ‫ﺑﺮﻧﺎﻣﺞ ﴎﻳﻊ اﻟﺘﻨﻔﻴﺬ وﻧﺘﺎﺋﺞ ﻣﻀﻤﻮﻧﺔ‬

‫ﻣﺴﺘﻮدﻋﺎت اﻟﺘﱪﻳﺪ واﻟﺘﺠﻤﻴﺪ‬

‫ مبﺎ ﻳﺸﻤﻞ اﻟﺘﺼﻤﻴﻢ واﳌﻮاﺻﻔﺎت‬،‫ﺗﻘﺪﻳﻢ ﺣﻠﻮل أرﺿﻴﺎت ﻣﺴﺘﻮدﻋﺎت اﻟﺘﱪﻳﺪ‬ ‫واﻟﺘﺨﻄﻴﻂ واﻹﻧﺸﺎء واﻻﺧﺘﺒﺎر‬

‫أﻋامل ﺗﺼﻠﻴﺢ اﻟﻔﻮاﺻﻞ‬

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