Latest news with #MEFMA
Zawya
4 days ago
- Business
- Zawya
INTERVIEW: Future-proofing facilities management in the Middle East
From predictive analytics to artificial intelligence, digital tools are redefining how facilities management (FM) companies manage buildings and infrastructure. Nowhere is this shift more transformative than in the Middle East, where rapid urban expansion and ambitious sustainability goals are reshaping industry practices. As a premier industry body for the region's FM industry, the Middle East Facility Management Association (MEFMA) is supporting facility management companies, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), in adapting to an increasingly technology-driven sector. Jamal Lootah, President of MEFMA, said the industry must embrace technology and develop new skillsets to remain competitive in an increasingly data-driven environment. 'Technology is the most transformative force shaping the FM industry in the Middle East. To thrive in this new environment, FM professionals and organizations will need to embrace technology and cultivate new skillsets, including data interpretation, sustainability focused operations, and customer-centric service delivery.' According to Lootah, advanced technologies such as data analytics, AI, and machine learning are enabling FM professionals to gain deeper insights into facility behaviour, improving both service delivery and operational efficiency. He added that automation is helping reduce manual, labour-intensive processes, introduce real-time metrics, and raise overall service quality 'As automation becomes more integrated with operational support systems, companies can streamline workflows and reduce inefficiencies,' he said. MEFMA is actively bridging the gap between cutting-edge technology and practical implementation by connecting its members with technology providers, hosting educational programs, and fostering knowledge exchange. Lootah said: 'Our impact is seen through high-profile conferences, webinars, published case studies that share success stories from across the industry, and strategic partnerships. By setting professional standards and connecting decision-makers, practitioners, and policymakers, we help drive the industry toward a more sustainable, tech-enabled future.' He said smaller firms gain the knowledge and support needed to navigate digital transformation and compete more effectively through MEFMA's network, educational programmes, and knowledge-sharing initiatives. Championing sustainability The MEFMA president said sustainability is now a central pillar of FM strategies, with service providers playing a key role in achieving national and organisational ESG goals. 'FM service providers are well-positioned to influence everything from energy use and waste management to indoor environmental quality, making the FM industry a key enabler in achieving the region's broader sustainability ambitions,' Lootah said. He noted that MEFMA also encourages its members to embed sustainability into their operations, positioning the industry as a driver of climate goals and responsible development. The organisation also partners with government stakeholders across the region to co-develop policy frameworks that reflect real-world FM challenges while elevating industry standards. Lootah said engagement with stakeholders is crucial in raising awareness and implementing consistent standards across the region 'Our engagement with government stakeholders helps ensure that policies are aligned with operational realities and global best practices,' he said. 'We support our members in translating policies into action through expert consultations and workshops that help maximise their contributions.' Investment in future talent To address the global talent gap in the FM industry, MEFMA is actively investing in youth engagement to cultivate emerging talent and shape the next generation of industry leaders. 'We offer free student memberships, collaborate with universities, and host youth-focused events that introduce FM as a purpose-driven, future-forward career. By exposing students to real-world applications and creating clear pathways into the profession, we aim to build a resilient and passionate talent pipeline for the industry,' Lootah concluded. (Reporting by Dennis Daniel; Editing by Anoop Menon) (
Mid East Info
30-05-2025
- Business
- Mid East Info
Global Recognition for MEFMA Members in the Global FM Awards of Excellence 2025 - Middle East Business News and Information
The Middle East Facility Management Association (MEFMA) is proud to announce that three of its member organizations have been recognized at the Global FM Awards of Excellence 2025. This marks a significant milestone for the region's facility management (FM) sector and reinforces MEFMA's commitment to advancing institutional leadership, promoting professional excellence, and enhancing global recognition. The Global FM Awards of Excellence is an initiative by the Global FM Association, celebrating outstanding practices and achievements in FM worldwide. The awards aim to highlight the accomplishments of member associations and recognize individuals and teams who have made significant contributions to enhancing work environments and advancing FM standards. MEFMA nominated the winners as part of its ongoing efforts to spotlight regional success stories globally. The announcement of the winners coincided with the celebration of World FM Day, an annual occasion that honors FM professionals around the world and raises awareness of the sector's essential role in enhancing quality of life and organizational environments. MEFMA member winners included the Expenditure and Projects Efficiency Authority (EXPRO) from Saudi Arabia and Darwish Interserve Facility Management from Qatar, who were both awarded the Gold Award, along with Berkeley Services UAE LLC, which received the Highly Commended Award. On this occasion, Eng. Ali Alsuwaidi, Chairman of Global FM, said: 'The remarkable success of MEFMA members at the Global FM Awards highlights the region's pioneering role in shaping the future of facility management. This achievement reflects not only their excellence and innovation but also an unwavering commitment to driving sustainability and operational excellence on a global scale.' Jamal Lootah, MEFMA President, added: 'At MEFMA, we believe that excellence is never a coincidence — it stems from true collaboration, strategic planning, and continuous support. Our members' success in these global awards reflects our commitment to empowering talents and organizations in the region, enabling them to lead on the global stage.' With this latest achievement, MEFMA reaffirms its dedication to advancing the FM sector across the Middle East by offering specialized training programs, organizing regional events, and enabling its members to compete and make a lasting impact worldwide.
Zawya
27-05-2025
- Business
- Zawya
MEFMA CONFEX & Awards 2025 returns to Dubai this October backed by booming industry growth
Dubai, UAE: The Middle East Facility Management Association (MEFMA) announces the return of its flagship event, MEFMA CONFEX & Awards 2025, taking place from 28 to 30 October at JW Marriott Hotel Marina, Dubai. Now in its 12th edition, MEFMA CONFEX has become the Middle East's most influential and comprehensive event dedicated to the FM industry, bringing together visionary leaders, decision-makers, innovators, and experts from the region under one roof. With the GCC's Facility Management (FM) market projected to grow from USD 54.6 billion in 2023 to USD 72 billion by 2028, the sector is witnessing record momentum. This rapid growth is fueled by national development agendas, large-scale infrastructure projects, smart city initiatives, and a rising demand for sustainable and tech-driven asset management solutions. Over three days, attendees will engage in meaningful dialogue, explore cutting-edge technologies, and celebrate pioneering achievements at the 4th MEFMA Awards of Excellence—recognizing the highest standards of performance and innovation that are driving the industry forward regionally and globally. On this occasion, Eng. Jamal Lootah, President of MEFMA, said: 'MEFMA CONFEX 2025 will be a landmark gathering for the FM community, uniting industry leaders to drive transformation, forge strategic partnerships, and unlock the next wave of innovation shaping the region's-built environment. As the FM sector takes on an increasingly pivotal role in enabling smart, sustainable, and resilient cities, this event serves as both a celebration of how far we've come and a forward-looking platform to define what's next for the industry.' As the FM sector gains recognition for its vital role in delivering smart, livable, and efficient cities, MEFMA CONFEX continues to drive regional knowledge exchange, policy advocacy, and cross-sector collaboration. Don't miss your chance to be part of the region's most anticipated FM event. details on the speaker lineup and agenda will be announced soon.
Mid East Info
27-05-2025
- Business
- Mid East Info
MEFMA CONFEX & Awards 2025 returns to Dubai this October backed by booming industry growth - Middle East Business News and Information
Dubai, UAE, 27 May 2025: The Middle East Facility Management Association (MEFMA) announces the return of its flagship event, MEFMA CONFEX & Awards 2025, taking place from 28 to 30 October at JW Marriott Hotel Marina, Dubai. Now in its 12th edition, MEFMA CONFEX has become the Middle East's most influential and comprehensive event dedicated to the FM industry, bringing together visionary leaders, decision-makers, innovators, and experts from the region under one roof. With the GCC's Facility Management (FM) market projected to grow from USD 54.6 billion in 2023 to USD 72 billion by 2028, the sector is witnessing record momentum. This rapid growth is fueled by national development agendas, large-scale infrastructure projects, smart city initiatives, and a rising demand for sustainable and tech-driven asset management solutions. Over three days, attendees will engage in meaningful dialogue, explore cutting-edge technologies, and celebrate pioneering achievements at the 4th MEFMA Awards of Excellence—recognizing the highest standards of performance and innovation that are driving the industry forward regionally and globally. On this occasion, Eng. Jamal Lootah, President of MEFMA, said: 'MEFMA CONFEX 2025 will be a landmark gathering for the FM community, uniting industry leaders to drive transformation, forge strategic partnerships, and unlock the next wave of innovation shaping the region's-built environment. As the FM sector takes on an increasingly pivotal role in enabling smart, sustainable, and resilient cities, this event serves as both a celebration of how far we've come and a forward-looking platform to define what's next for the industry.' As the FM sector gains recognition for its vital role in delivering smart, livable, and efficient cities, MEFMA CONFEX continues to drive regional knowledge exchange, policy advocacy, and cross-sector collaboration. Don't miss your chance to be part of the region's most anticipated FM event. details on the speaker lineup and agenda will be announced soon.
