logo
Saudi Arabia gears up for mega Big 5 Construct expo

Saudi Arabia gears up for mega Big 5 Construct expo

Zawya06-02-2025

Driven by the exponential growth of the Saudi construction sector and the kingdom's ambitious Vision 2030, this year's edition of Big 5 Construct Saudi will feature a larger-than-ever exhibition space, dedicated sectors, and a robust conference programme, offering unparalleled opportunities for networking, knowledge sharing, and business development within the industry, according to the organisers.
In an exclusive interview with Gulf Construction, Firas Abou Ltaif, Portfolio Director – Construction at dmg events, shares insights into the expanded two-week format of Big 5 Construct Saudi 2025.
Excerpts of the interview with Firas Abou Ltaif:
Big 5 Construct Saudi is expanding to a two-week format in 2025. What prompted this significant change?
In its 13th edition, the decision to expand Big 5 Construct Saudi into a two-week format was driven by the exponential growth of Saudi Arabia's construction sector and the increasing demand and opportunities in the kingdom's multi-trillion-dollar pipeline of mega and giga projects. With Vision 2030 fuelling the $1.7 trillion construction industry, we saw an opportunity to better serve the industry by expanding the event into two focused weeks due to the growing demand from our international and local potential exhibitors to participate in the event.
First Week (15-18 February) will be dedicated to 'Strong Foundations: From Design to Build,' covering essential elements like heavy construction, concrete, HVAC and general contracting. Second Week (24-27 February) will focus on 'Transforming Projects: From Fit-Out to Services', featuring windows, doors, facades, finishing materials, marble and stone, hospital design, urban planning and facilities management. By splitting the event, we allow exhibitors and attendees to engage deeply with their specific sectors while optimising their business and networking opportunities.
What can visitors expect from this year's event in terms of scale and new offerings?
The 2025 edition of Big 5 Construct Saudi will be our largest yet, covering 140,000 sq m, double the size of previous editions, and welcoming over 2,000 exhibitors from more than 60 countries. We are also introducing new specialised events:
•Totally Concrete Saudi Arabia (First Week): Focused on precast, cement and advanced concrete solutions;
•Heavy Saudi Arabia (First Week): The largest outdoor exhibition of heavy construction machinery and equipment in Saudi Arabia; and
•Urban Design & Landscape Saudi Arabia (Second Week): A dedicated platform for urban planning and sustainable landscape solutions.
Additionally, attendees will benefit from more than 100 expert-led Big 5 Talks sessions, covering critical industry topics such as digital transformation, sustainability, project management and modular construction.
Some of the other visitor features include Concrete Dash Block, where visitors can show their grip strength and endurance by carrying a concrete block with one hand for the maximum distance; and
The Architects' Club, an exclusive programme designed for top architects taking place during the Second Week of the event, providing architecture professionals with networking, learning and growth opportunities. Furthermore, the Vetrotech GlassSmash Challenge will test participants' strength by attempting to break Vetrogard glass.
Winners will receive vouchers redeemable at over 150 outlets across Saudi Arabia. Visitors will also have an opportunity to compete against an AI-powered goalie and explore the technology shaping Saudi Arabia's stadiums, from smart infrastructure to sustainable designs at the World Cup Zone.
For further details, visit https://www.gulfconstructiononline.com

Orange background

Try Our AI Features

Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:

Comments

No comments yet...

Related Articles

Saudi Arabia Ministry of Hajj and Umrah announces start of new Umrah season
Saudi Arabia Ministry of Hajj and Umrah announces start of new Umrah season

Arabian Business

timean hour ago

  • Arabian Business

Saudi Arabia Ministry of Hajj and Umrah announces start of new Umrah season

The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has officially announced the commencement of the Umrah season for 2025 (1447 of the Islamic calendar), beginning on Tuesday with the opening of visa applications for international pilgrims. As part of its ongoing mission aligned with Saudi Vision 2030, the ministry aims to streamline and enrich the Umrah experience. Welcome, Guests of Allah 🕋🇸🇦 The 1447H Umrah season officially begins today with the issuance of visas for pilgrims arriving from outside Saudi Arabia. Starting tomorrow, Umrah permits will be available through the #Nusuk app. #Ease_And_Tranquility — Ministry of Hajj and Umrah (@MoHU_En) June 10, 2025 Starting Wednesday, pilgrims from abroad can secure their permits via the 'Nu s uk' app, Saudi Arabia's centralised digital gateway for Hajj and Umrah services. The platform simplifies the process of permit acquisition and offers a suite of digital tools designed to support and guide pilgrims throughout their journey. The ministry affirmed that extensive operational and technical preparations were made in advance, in coordination with relevant authorities, to ensure a smooth and efficient start to the season. As part of its broader vision, the ministry is also expanding multilingual digital tools and awareness initiatives to better serve pilgrims. These efforts are designed to maintain exceptional standards of care and security, underscoring the Kingdom's dedication to those making the sacred journey to Makkah and Madinah.

Nissan achieves 10% growth in Fiscal Year 2024 across the Middle East, driven by SUV demand and iconic nameplates
Nissan achieves 10% growth in Fiscal Year 2024 across the Middle East, driven by SUV demand and iconic nameplates

Web Release

time5 hours ago

  • Web Release

Nissan achieves 10% growth in Fiscal Year 2024 across the Middle East, driven by SUV demand and iconic nameplates

Nissan has announced a 10% year-on-year growth in the Middle East region for fiscal year 2024 (April 2024 – March 2025). Spanning over 18 markets, including the Gulf states, Saudi Arabia, Levant, Iraq, and CIS, the brand's regional business unit achieved strong results, fueled by increased demand for SUVs and crossovers, which accounted for more than 55% of total sales. SUV sales rose 17% year-on-year, led by the World Premiere of the All-New Nissan Patrol in Abu Dhabi, which saw a 21% increase in sales. Closing FY24, Nissan expanded its SUV range with the Magnite, a compact SUV introduced regionally in Saud Arabia, offering a value-driven option for city living. Saudi Arabia remains Nissan's largest market in the Middle East, contributing over 35% of total regional sales in FY24. The Kingdom continues to be a key pillar in Nissan's regional strategy, with the SUV portfolio including Pathfinder with a 27% increase, and KICKS with a 10% increase, resonating strongly with Saudi consumers. This market remains pivotal to Nissan's growth, especially in the SUV segment, which has seen strong demand in recent years. Thierry Sabbagh, President of Nissan Middle East and INFINITI and Divisional Vice President for KSA, Middle East, and CIS, said 'FY24 marked a strategic turning point for Nissan in the region. Amid shifting market dynamics and heightened consumer expectations, we remained focused on what drives long-term value, strong partnerships, competitive product lineup, and operational agility across our markets. Our performance in Saudi Arabia, our largest market, reflects the strength of our product strategy and the trust we continue to build with customers and dealers alike. As we look ahead, we see clear opportunities for growth, particularly across the SUV segment, supported by a robust FY25 product pipeline and closer collaboration with our trusted partners across the region.' Beyond Saudi Arabia, Gulf markets played a key role in driving regional sales growth. These markets saw a 16% uplift in sales, with Qatar emerging as standout performer with a 32% increase. The UAE registered a 16% increase in sales, while Bahrain posted an 11% rise. The Patrol saw impressive gains in these markets, with sales surging 80% in Qatar and over 30% in both the UAE and Bahrain. Additionally, the X-TRAIL recorded strong double-digit growth across several key markets, including a 32% increase in the UAE, and 25% in Kuwait. Product performance across the region also showcased the strength of Nissan's portfolio. The Pathfinder achieved a remarkable 96% year-on-year increase, driven by robust demand in the UAE. Meanwhile, the KICKS saw a 28% regional increase, with particularly strong performances in the UAE and Bahrain This momentum was further boosted by the February 2025 launch of the all-new KICKS, which featured upgraded features and a refreshed design, reflecting its popularity among younger, tech-savvy urban drivers. Entering FY25, Nissan stands on a solid foundation, having reinforced its product lineup with both iconic models and exciting new introductions. Building on its momentum, FY25 will see the continuation of Nissan's product offensive strategy, with new models and nameplates set to launch across the region. With the recent introduction of the new Magnite and KICKS strengthening Nissan's SUV offering, the brand remains focused on meeting the growing customer demand for SUVs and crossovers. Guided by a commitment to innovation, quality, and customer engagement, Nissan is poised for sustained growth in the evolving Middle East market.

UAE's large scale projects signal ambition towards a sustainable economy
UAE's large scale projects signal ambition towards a sustainable economy

Khaleej Times

time19 hours ago

  • Khaleej Times

UAE's large scale projects signal ambition towards a sustainable economy

The UAE remains buoyant and forward-thinking, with large-scale transformation initiatives signaling the government ambition to create a sustainable economy for citizens and visitors alike, an industry veteran said. 'The UAE's government is strategically deploying investment into sectors that promise long-term value creation, including infrastructure, tourism, clean energy, digital innovation, and advanced logistics — all of which are catalysts for sustainable economic growth,' Phil Malem, CEO Serco Middle East and +impact, said in an interview. In the UAE, non-oil GDP is being buoyed by increased private sector participation and a push toward becoming a global hub for innovation, trade and talent, he added. It is also noteworthy to look at Saudi Arabia, a country which is in the midst of one of the most ambitious economic diversification programmes in the world under Vision 2030. 'Projects like NEOM, Qiddiya, and the Red Sea Development are not just infrastructure investments; they represent a new economic model based on knowledge, creativity, and future-ready service ecosystems. These megaprojects demand not only advanced service delivery models but also strategic advisory capabilities, and partners who can think, design, and operate at scale. This is where our value proposition is strongest: in delivering outsourced services that are deeply integrated, culturally aligned, and capable of flexing across both the operational and advisory spectrum,' Malem said. Serco has a long established record in the aviation sector, and Malem believes that Dubai's announcement to fully transition airport operations to Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC) over the next decade marks a pivotal moment in the future of global aviation. 'DWC is not just an airport expansion, it is the foundation of a new aviation ecosystem for the UAE. With a projected capacity of 260 million passengers annually, this is a bold redefinition of what global connectivity, passenger experience, and aviation infrastructure can look like. It will reshape air traffic flows, logistics strategies, and the entire passenger journey across the region,' Malem said. For us at Serco, this is a natural alignment with its capabilities and legacy. 'We have long been embedded in the region's aviation sector (supporting Dubai Airports and Sharjah Airport with multiple different services), from managing complex air traffic control operations to delivering end-to-end airport and passenger services. The DWC transformation presents an opportunity to rethink how airports are operated: how data, automation, and talent can be optimised to meet evolving passenger needs, safety standards, and sustainability goals. It also reinforces the need for a highly skilled, locally grounded workforce, which is why our investments in nationalisation, such as training Emirati air traffic controllers and operational leaders, will continue to scale in line with the country's ambitions,' Malem said. Public-private collaboration remains fundamental to the success of national transformation agendas in the region, the Serco Middle East CEO said. 'Given that many of the region's largest organisations are government-owned or backed, the ability of private sector partners to operate in true alignment with public sector goals is what determines long-term impact. Governments are not just looking for service providers, they are looking for partners who understand the national vision, share their values, and bring both global expertise and local commitment to the table. This is particularly critical in sectors like aviation, transport, defence, and citizen services, where the outcomes affect millions of lives and require long-term strategic thinking,' Malem said. Serco has invested significantly in building a pipeline of local talent, not through box-ticking, but through structured programmes that upskill, train, and provide meaningful, international-standard experience to Emirati and Saudi nationals. 'Collaboration, when built on trust and mutual purpose, becomes a multiplier. It allows us to move faster, operate smarter, and create shared outcomes. In this region, where ambition is high and transformation is constant, public-private partnerships, grounded in capability and integrity, are the engine that will power sustainable progress,' Malem said. As artificial intelligence becomes increasingly part of our day-to-day lives, the expectations around customer experience are evolving at an unprecedented pace. 'For companies operating in the UAE and across the GCC, the challenge is twofold: how do you harness cutting-edge technology like AI, while maintaining the empathy and understanding that truly great experiences are built on? I believe the answer lies in blending technological innovation with human insight, which is exactly what we've set out to do through our recently launched company, +impact, Serco's advisory business,' Malem said. Through +impact, Serco is focused on delivering measurable, purpose-driven outcomes. 'One of our core services at +impact is advisory within the customer experience space, and we bring deep expertise in behavioural insight, service design, and user experience, enabling us to map real customer journeys and design solutions that anticipate needs - not just respond to them. It allows us to embed empathy and innovation directly into service delivery, creating experiences that build trust, satisfaction, and long-term loyalty,' Malem said. But AI alone isn't enough. It must be paired with strong human understanding and strategic advisory capability. 'This is where I see this convergence of AI, data, design, and operational excellence as the future of service delivery. We are proud to make an impact across governments and organisations across the region as they lead the way in defining what exceptional, human-centred experiences look like in the digital age,' Malem said.

DOWNLOAD THE APP

Get Started Now: Download the App

Ready to dive into the world of global news and events? Download our app today from your preferred app store and start exploring.
app-storeplay-store