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The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 is unfolding at a critical juncture for the planet, a time where the entire world is facing the devastating realities of climate change, environmental damage caused by human activity like mass tourism and the impacts of unchecked industrial growth. If sustainable practices aren’t prioritised now, the region risks severe repercussions, from dwindling natural resources to loss of biodiversity, potentially compromising the very goals Vision 2030 seeks to achieve.

In Saudi Arabia, the challenge is clear: to drive forward its ambitions while fully aligning with environmental directives, such as the Saudi Green Initiative and the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This balance is essential to foster economic growth without compromising the natural heritage and environmental health of the nation. Achieving this requires an innovative, collaborative approach that not only involves government mandates but also mobilises the private sector and NGOs towards a shared commitment to responsible, sustainable development.

Saudi has every opportunity at its door, to forge for themselves a positive position as a world leader in balancing growth with sustainable practises. Vision 2030, a transformative blueprint designed to position the country as a global leader in tourism, infrastructure, and economic diversification, is merely the springboard for even greater achievements. The challenge is in ensuring that today’s developments remain resilient, sustainable, and future proof. As we move forward, we must really be considering: what will Vision 2050 look like?

Quick wins for long-term solutions

Saudi Arabia can take steps now to implement ‘quick wins’ that yield immediate benefits while setting the stage for long-term sustainability. For example, adopting stricter operational guidelines and clear, measurable metrics will hold stakeholders accountable throughout a project’s lifecycle. International best practices, such as Europe’s lifecycle assessments and the UK’s Net Zero standards, can offer valuable lessons and could be adapted to fit Saudi’s specific context.

The private sector will also play a critical role in achieving these goals. By creating incentives – whether through ESG targets, carbon taxes, or science-based approaches – Saudi can motivate businesses to actively prioritise sustainability. While the government has already made significant infrastructure investments, private companies are equally vital in ensuring projects meet both today’s demands and future challenges.

Saudi Arabia is already making strides in this direction. The Saudi Green Initiative demonstrates the country’s commitment to sustainability. However, to truly establish itself as a global leader in sustainable tourism and infrastructure, there must be tighter regulations, more comprehensive reporting, and stronger incentives to encourage widespread adoption of sustainability practices.

Circular economy: The cornerstone of sustainability

At the heart of long-term sustainability is the concept of the circular economy, which emphasises reusing, recycling, and reducing resource consumption. For Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, which involves resource-heavy projects, a circular economy is critical to alleviating environmental strain and ensuring long-term viability.

European nations like the Netherlands have implemented robust frameworks designed to reduce waste and boost recycling efforts, setting a standard for sustainable economic models. Japan, too, has pioneered circular economy principles through its Sound Material-Cycle Society initiative, focusing on waste reduction, resource recovery, and eco-friendly product design.

These global examples illustrate how a well-executed circular economy can deliver both environmental and economic benefits. For Saudi Arabia, embedding these principles will not only meet current sustainability targets but also ensure that future generations inherit a resilient and sustainable economy.

The economic case for sustainability

One common misconception is that sustainability comes at a higher cost. However, investing in sustainable practices often results in long-term savings by reducing resource dependency and lowering operational expenses. For example, implementing renewable energy solutions in tourism developments not only cuts emissions but also provides a reliable, cost-effective energy source for decades to come.

Building the infrastructure needed to support a circular economy is also not just a sustainability initiative; it is also a smart economic investment. Creating the infrastructure for a circular economy – waste collection, treatment and recycling centres, for example, all contribute to the economy. In reducing waste and optimising resource use, Saudi Arabia can bolster its economic resilience while meeting environmental targets.

The role of the private sector

While the government should drive sustainability mandates, the private sector must turn these into action. Everyone has a collective responsibility to protect and improve our planet for generations to come. This should be evident in the entire lifecycle of projects, from design to long-term operations, align with stringent environmental standards.

Advisory and consultancy businesses can craft the sustainability roadmaps, ensuring large-scale projects balance growth with environmental responsibility. International developers accustomed to strict sustainability regulations in other markets should bring the same diligence to their work in Saudi, even as local directives evolve and ensure the transfer of their knowledge and experience to local enterprises. This also ensures that the workforce is sustainable, creating career paths through roles in ESG for future generations.

Companies with specialised expertise in sustainable operations as well as an advisory offering, like +impact, can guide both public and private stakeholders in creating future-proof infrastructure. Early engagement with the private sector will encourage all of this and ensure projects not only meet ESG standards but exceed them.

Saudi’s Vision 2030 offers an unprecedented opportunity to set a global example of how rapid development can coexist with sustainability. By implementing responsible roadmaps from today, Saudi can ensure its infrastructure and tourism developments achieve their ambitious goals and help to design a sustainable future for the country and set an example for the region and world.

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ALEC Engineering & Contracting (ALEC) and Dubai Cares have joined forces once again and have signed a new three-year agreement for Dubai Cares’ ‘Volunteer Emirates’ initiative. The move follows a successful collaboration with Dubai Cares to revamp the classroom and playground facilities at the National Charity School for Girls and Boys in Ajman last year.

As part of the new partnership, ALEC is committing an additional US $163,000 towards enhancing the learning environment at three UAE-based non-profit schools by 2026, bringing its total contribution to $218,000 and a total of four schools in the UAE.

As part of this extended partnership, ALEC supported the refurbishment of the National Charity School Primary in Dubai, where 130 volunteers came together on 9 November to assemble classroom desks, relocate new school furniture, equip the teachers’ lounge with new desks, chairs and cabinets, as well as set up a new sensory room for the students of determination with sensory and educational tools and paint educational murals across the school walls.

This collaborative effort aims to give the National Charity School Primary in Dubai a facelift, creating a learning environment that empowers students to reach their full potential. The enhancements will not only improve the school’s overall learning environment, but also establish a nurturing space where students can truly flourish, said a statement from ALEC.

Dubai Cares plays a key role in helping achieve the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 4, which aims to ensure inclusive and quality education for all and promote lifelong learning by 2030. ALEC is a participant of the United Nations Global Compact initiative that fosters responsible corporate citizenship and promotes universal social and environmental principles to address the challenges of globalisation, the statement added.

“As a participant in the United Nations Global Compact, ALEC’s values resonate deeply with those of Dubai Cares, making our partnership especially impactful,” said Abdulla Ahmed Alshehhi, Chief Operating Officer at Dubai Cares.

He added, “Our collaboration this year at the National Charity School Primary in Dubai is a testament to what we can accomplish together. ALEC’s support has led to meaningful enhancements, from providing high-quality desks and educational tools to adding vibrant murals that bring life to the school’s spaces and setting up a sensory room for the students of determination. These improvements create a supportive and inclusive learning environment where students feel encouraged and empowered to reach their full potential. We extend our heartfelt thanks to ALEC for their ongoing commitment and to each volunteer who contributed their time and effort to make this initiative a success.”

“Equitability, and the opportunity for continuous development are values we proudly champion in our own workforce at ALEC, and our support of the incredible initiatives by Dubai Cares are an extension of this commitment to the wider community. I thank Dubai Cares for giving us the opportunity and look forward to seeing our partnership flourish as together, we drive impactful change and benefits to communities,” stated John Deeb, CFO & COO at ALEC.

In addition, ALEC has committed to Dubai Cares’ ‘Adopt a School’ initiative. Over a nearly three-year period, Dubai Cares will utilise the funds to construct a three-classroom school at a village in the Western Region of Nepal, and then offer quality primary education to 90 girls and boys from underprivileged backgrounds. Additionally, this programme will include adult education and literacy classes, benefiting 40 adults from the local community.

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Dubai’s commercial office market is reaching new heights, with demand driving occupancy rates and rental growth across prime business districts, as per Savills’ Q3 2024 Dubai Office Market report. Driven by a rise in new business registrations and expansion activities by existing firms, including those in finance and technology sectors, the city’s real estate landscape is more competitive than ever, positioning Dubai as a top global business destination, said a statement.

According to the report, over 24,000 new businesses were registered in the first half of 2024, marking a 5% year-on-year growth. This surge underscores the economic momentum fuelled by the Dubai Economic Agenda (D33) and highlights the emirate as a hub for international trade and innovation. Key business areas such as DIFC, Downtown, and Business Bay now boast occupancy rates between 95% and 97% reflecting robust demand for high quality office spaces.

Average Grade A rental values surged by 25% year-on-year, with specific locations like Business Bay and Downtown experiencing jumps of 44% and 36%, respectively. DIFC’s properties lead the market, reporting rent increases as high as 25%, while new developments such as DIFC Square and Immersive Tower are set to add over 10m sqft of premium office space by 2028, the report outlined.

“Dubai’s office market growth underscores its appeal as a global business hub, bolstered by ease of setup, favourable tax conditions, and a strategic location. Businesses are establishing or expanding their presence here, recognising the value of high-quality office spaces that support talent attraction and growth. This demand signals further market evolution in the years ahead,” said Toby Hall, Head of Commercial Agency at Savills Middle East.

Paula Walshe, Director of Transactional Services at Savills Middle East added, “The unprecedented rental increases and high occupancy rates demonstrate Dubai’s standing as a premier destination for global business expansion. We’re seeing strong interest from international firms, especially in finance and technology, prioritising flexible office spaces to meet their ambitious growth targets and align with Dubai’s strategic vision.”

In addition, the rise of hybrid working models has led to a growing demand for flexible workspaces, with companies opting for open-plan layouts and co-working solutions like those offered by Executive Centre and Cloud Spaces. These spaces are particularly attractive for startups and new entrants seeking flexible lease terms and a rapid operational setup.

Demand for office space is concentrated in areas with prime offerings, yet more affordable options are also experiencing significant rental increases, as seen in Dubai Science Park and Dubai Investments Park, which recorded a 37% year-on-year rise. Expo City is emerging as a competitive option, offering high-quality facilities with strong transport links at a lower price point than the central business districts.

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Property Monitor has appointed Henry Bacha as its Chief Executive Officer. The appointment comes as Property Monitor enters a new phase in its growth, with expansion plans across the UAE and ventures into new markets, said a statement from the company.

Bacha, who previously held the position of CEO at Property Monitor’s parent company – Cavendish Maxwell – has more than 25 years’ experience in the Middle East and Europe through senior roles in real estate advisory, financial services, tourism and media.

He is said to be a leader in innovation, strategy, marketing, business development and property technology. Bacha’s previous positions include Chief Commercial Officer and Chief Marketing Officer at Abu Dhabi Finance and a range of consultancy roles serving the banking and finance sector.

“Property Monitor has gone from strength to strength since its commercial launch in 2018, with ongoing enhancements and services that provide real estate stakeholders and decision makers with unrivalled tools, information and intelligence.  We are proud to play a key role in the continued success of Dubai’s property sector, and, as we further evolve the business, look forward to bringing more products to market both here in the UAE and the wider Middle East,” said Bacha.

Jay Grant, Founder of Cavendish Maxwell added, “Henry is a born leader whose skills, dedication and expertise have been pivotal to the Cavendish Maxwell success story – and are now fundamental to Property Monitor’s continued expansion and development. I am confident that with Henry at the helm, Property Monitor will not only retain its market leading position in the UAE but will evolve to become the market leading source for real estate intelligence in the MENA region.”

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The Middle East Consultant (MEC) team has unveiled the shortlist for the 2024 edition of the annual Middle East Consultant Awards (MEC Awards). The gala event willis scheduled to take place on 14 November at the Ritz Carlton JBR, Dubai.

As before, the awards categories have been segmented into three main categories: Company; Project and People. Over 140 nominations were submitted across the Awards’ various categories and 23 winners will be recognised on the night of the awards.

The MEC team also confirmed that the gala night will be split into two distinct segments; the ED&I Awards shortlist and winners will be revealed only on the night of the awards, ahead of the MEC Award winners. A short networking break will separate the two Award programmes on the day. The MEC team confirmed that they were combining the ED&I Awards and MEC Awards on 1 October, with the goal of exposing ED&I winners to the broader MEC audience.

The full short list of the 2024 MEC Awards is as follows:

Interior Design Company of the Year

• KEO Design
• SAY Studio

Architectural Company of the Year

• Boozhgan Architectural Studio
• Dewan Architects + Engineers
• Gensler Middle East
• Memar Architecture
• Mohamed Tabat Architects
• RSP

Cost Consulting Company of the Year

• AESG
• Baker Wilkins & Smith
• C-Quest International
• Northcroft Middle East LLC
• Omnium
• Turner & Townsend Middle East

Dispute Resolution Company of the Year

• HKA
• Secretariat
• Turner & Townsend Middle East

Gender & Ethical Employment Champion of the Year

• AESG
• AtkinsRealis

HR  + Wellness Champion of the Year

• AECOM
• Atkins Realis

Company of the Year

• AESG
• Al Ajmi Engineering Consultants
• Atkins Realis
• Dewan
• KEO International Consultants
• KPM

MEP Engineering Company of the Year

• AESG
• Al Suweidi Engineering Consultancy
• KPM

On-site Health & Safety Champion of the Year

• JLL
• Ministry of Culture, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

Specialist Consulting Company of the Year

• AESG
• KPM
• STONEX Consulting
• Tenable Fire Engineering Consultancy
• Turner & Townsend Middle East

Structural Engineering Company of the Year

• ASG NVS
• KPM

Project Management Company of the Year

• Aji Group
• Compass Project Consulting
• JLL
• Omnium

Sustainable Consultancy of the Year

• AECOM
• AESG
• AtkinsRealis
• Climatize
• Cundall
• JLL
• LWK + Partners

Project of the Year – Government & Infrastructure

• AECOM – Terminal A, Zayed International Airport
• Cundall – Greater Muscat Structure Plan
• DesignFit LLC– DIFC Courts

Project of the Year – Hospitality & Tourism

• AECOM – COP 28
• Atkins Realis – Qetaifan Island
• FSK & Partners – Anantara Santorini Abu Dhabi Retreat
• JT + Partners – LXR Island Resort by Hilton
• Kalbod Design Studio – Ice Cube Hotel
• KPM – JW Marriott Hotel and Residence
• MZ Architects – Teamlab Phenomena
• RSP – BAPS Hindu Mandir Complex
• Serco – Amaala Yacht Club
• Valcarce Architects – GAIA

Project of the Year – Residential & Commercial

• AECOM – Baccharat Hotel & Residences
• CSQ Project Development Consultancies – Cloud Spaces, Circle Mall
• Gensler Middle East – Ras Al Khaimah Central Premium Commercial Hub
• Godwin Austen Johnson – Serenia Living
• JT + Partners – The Pinnacle Tower
• Kalbod Design Studio – Zephyr House
• KPM – Azizi Venice
• MZ Architects – Sea La Vie
• Parsons – King Abdullah Financial District – Residential & Commercial Towers
• Serco – DAMAC Lagoons
• Serco – The Link, Masdar City
• Trust Engineering Consultancy – One Pearl GV101 Residential Building

Project of the Year – Retail and Public Facilities

• JT + Partners – The Office Headquarters
• Kalbod Design Studio – Dubai Art Museum
• Trust Engineering Consultancy – ECQ11 Corporate Office Building

C-Suite Executive of the Year

• AESG – Saeed Al Abbar
• Al Khoory Solutions LLC – Tabish Abrar
• Dewan – Ammar Alassam
• KPM – Kashif Fakih
• Serco – Engi Jaber

Under 30 Champion of the Year

• AECOM – Limi Suresh Engoor
• AtkinsRealis – Fathima Mubarak
• Baker Wilkins & Smith – Ahmed Alsaad
• CSQ Project Development Consultants – Laura Davies
• Godwin Austen Johnson – Hannah Alcantara
• JT + Partners – Muhammed Hisham
• Mirage – Hind Abusnana
• Omnium – Anel Seidakhmetova
• Serco – Hiba Ahmed
• Turner & Townsend – Uwais Paderwala

Multi-Discipline Consulting Company of the Year

• AECOM
• Aji Group
• AtkinsRealis
• CSQ Project Development Consultants
• Cundall
• FSK & Partners
• Jacobs
• KEO International Consultants
• TGP International
• Zutari Middle East

Read more about the MEC Awards by clicking here.

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Ahmed Darwish Al Muhairi, General Manager, Islamic Affairs & Charitable Activities Department said, “The opening of the first Net Zero emissions mosque in the Middle East is an achievement that reflects our deep commitment to the principles of sustainability and represents a significant shift in the field of environmental sustainability and highlights our fruitful collaboration with Majid Al Futtaim in implementing this initiative. It serves as a live example of a successful partnership between the public and private sectors, setting a new standard for responsible innovation in building and maintenance, it also aligns with the noble Islamic values that advocate for environmental preservation and protection.”

Muhairi added, “This project perfectly aligns with the United Arab Emirates’ Vision 2030, which focuses on achieving a balance between economic development and environmental conservation. We reaffirm our commitment to supporting this ambitious green agenda, and we hope that this project will inspire more initiatives across the region and the world. It encourages all sectors to adopt innovative solutions that contribute to building a sustainable environment, ensuring safety and prosperity for future generations.”

Ahmed Galal Ismail, Chief Executive Officer, Majid Al Futtaim Holding commented, “It is a great honour to inaugurate the Majid Al Futtaim Mosque, a symbol of our late Founder’s enduring legacy and a tribute to his commitment to serve the communities in which we operate. As the first Net Positive mosque in the region, this space has been thoughtfully designed as a cornerstone of the community, blending sustainable design principles with Islamic values.We would like to thank the Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department for their full support of this project, helping us to maximise our positive social and environmental impact.”

As a result of a series of key sustainable features, the Majid Al Futtaim Mosque is first project to achieve BREEAM certification. This recognises measures of performance, which are set against established benchmarks, evaluating the building’s specification, design, construction, and use.

The mosque’s construction incorporates advanced mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) systems, renewable energy sources, and sustainable building practices designed to achieve a net-positive status. Key features include a renewable energy system with  203 solar photovoltaic panels, providing a total installed solar capacity of 116.73kWp and generating over 204,121kWh annually, providing more than 115% of the mosque’s energy demand.

The excess green energy  is supplied back to the grid to be used across the community. Additional energy-efficient systems include a solar-powered hot water system, LED lighting, an efficient HVAC setup, EV charging stations and a Building Management System (BMS) to optimise energy consumption. Water efficiency, air quality, and non-toxic materials have been employed to ensure a healthy environment, with responsibly sourced, low-carbon materials prioritised to  reduce its overall carbon footprint.

The first of its kind structure reinforces Majid Al Futtaim’s commitment to building a cleaner tomorrow and aim to achieve Net Positive in carbon and water for all its operating companies by 2040, the statement concluded.

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Developer Rashed Darwish Al Ketbi (RDK) Group has unveiled Tower Two, a New Marriott International Branded Residences Tower in Al Barsha South, Dubai. Each apartment aims to offer a sophisticated lifestyle and views of landmarks, including the Burj Khalifa and Burj Al Arab.

Tower One is now 90% occupied, with Tower Two offering 137 fully furnished units across 24 floors, ready for immediate move-in. The units are said to feature luxury finishes, including Italian marble in the kitchens.

“At RDK Group, we are overjoyed with the launch of Tower Two, with ready to move in units, and the forthcoming opening of Tower Three at Marriott Residences Al Barsha South, Dubai. These properties set a new benchmark for luxury living in Dubai, something we are proud to play our part in delivering. Building on our ongoing partnership with Marriott International, this success paves the way for exciting projects ahead, including the upcoming launch of the Autograph Collection and The Westin Residences,” said Raja Zeidan, Chief Operations Officer of RDK Group.

The project features 24/7 reception and security services and a number of amenities including an outdoor pool and jacuzzi, a fully equipped gym, saunas, games room, kid’s playground, two well-equipped meeting rooms, and an exclusive residents lounge offering refreshments throughout the day and two well-equipped meeting rooms.

RDK Group has confirmed plans to launch Tower Three by the end of 2024. Having received significant interest from investors, RDK Group expects continued sales to reflect the high appetite for these state-of-the-art properties. Through its ongoing relationship with Marriott International, RDK Group is providing buyers with destination living that re-imagines the possibilities of comfort, luxury, and style, the statement outlined.

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HDR announced the appointment of Steve Feeney as Head of Transportation for the United Kingdom, a key growth area for the firm’s global multidisciplinary professional services consultancy.

In his new role, Feeney will expand HDR’s business in the UK’s transportation infrastructure markets including highways and bridges, transit and heavy rail, aviation, ports and maritime. He will leverage the firm’s extensive North American, Middle East, and Asia-Pacific experience to provide holistic advisory, architectural and engineering services to transportation clients across the UK.

Feeney has two decades of experience in the infrastructure industry, with a background spanning the UK, Asia and North America. His expertise includes project and programme management, commercial management, and organisational change.

Prior to joining HDR, Feeney held a senior leadership role at another infrastructure consultancy where he was responsible for securing rail consulting and design projects across Europe. He is said to have served as Programme Manager of Phase 1 enabling works for High Speed Two, a planned $72.3bn high speed rail network linking London with Birmingham.

“Working with HDR’s global transportation professionals, as well as the established UK team, we have a fantastic opportunity to offer clients innovative and sustainable transportation solutions. My main goal is to leverage HDR’s diverse multidisciplinary expertise and tailored approach to deliver the same level of excellence within the UK that HDR is known for in other markets and regions across the globe,” said Feeney.

“Steve’s considerable experience and background in the transportation industry will be a valuable asset for HDR’s clients in the UK. Our UK-based professionals are providing complete AEC project lifecycle advisory and design services to clients in numerous markets including commercial, real estate, telecom and data, health, power, and more. We’re excited to grow our portfolio and bring our diversified skillset and experience in the global transportation infrastructure market to improve mobility, strengthen economies, and enhance quality of life in communities across the UK,” added HDR Global Transportation President Tom McLaughlin.

Based in London, Feeney joins more than 300 HDR employees in the UK, and 13,000-plus employees worldwide. As the leader of the firm’s UK transportation practice, he will work with other regional leaders to strengthen the transport practice and partner with a worldwide network of technical leaders to offer streamlined multidisciplinary solutions. Feeney will also build strategic partnerships with other firms and be responsible for delivering an exceptional client experience, the statement concluded.

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