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Day 2

MENA Construction Summit 2025

Reimagining Project Delivery

Exploring the future projects, trends and technologies leading the change of Saudi Arabia’s construction industry

21 May 2025
  • Hilton Riyadh Hotel & Residences, Saudi Arabia
  • Free

Saudi Giga Projects & MENA Construction Summit - Highlights Video

Why attend?

What to expect for 2024?

The 5th Annual MENA Construction Summit will be hosted at Hilton Riyadh Hotel & Residences, Saudi Arabia on Tuesday 14 May, 2023. Expert-led insight and peer-to-peer networking.

30+

Speakers

150+

Companies represented

450+

Summit Attendees

54%

Director / C-level

36%

Technical leaders

30+

Speakers

150+

Companies represented

450+

Summit Attendees

54%

Director / C-level

36%

Technical leaders

Showcase your expertise

Participants can showcase the best of their innovative products and solutions and use the opportunity to gain a better understanding of the newest and best practices in the industry

Partner with us

As a sponsor or speaker at the MENA Construction Summit 2024, you will be making a strategic investment that offers many benefits for your brand, business and industry. We value your participation and want you to recognise the great value it brings.

Testimonials

    Agenda

    • 21 May 2025
    Expand All

    Streams

    Stream one

    Main Summit Stage - Programme Agenda

    Stream two

    Workshop Session Area - Programme Agenda

    8:30 AM

    General Registration Open & Networking Coffee

    10:30 AM

    An Audience With ‘’New Murabba‘’

    ‘An Overview of the The Mukaab District Project’

    This session will give you access to meeting one of the key changemakers driving the Saudi Vision 2030 in this ‘exclusive’ session. Learn more about the Makaab District project vision, future scopes of work, and critical timeframes directly from the leading project stakeholder. Find out first-hand how to get involved! The session will be strictly limited in attendee numbers!

    The session will provide the Makaab project overview and the scale of the project pipeline / phases of development to come. Additionally covered, will be a detailed breakdown of the work to be tendered over the next 18 months including: capex / budget plans, timeframes, material, and supply requirements to meet both short and long-term objectives, attributions of what an ideal partner must have and how organisations can register and prequalify.

    Agenda

    10:30 Welcome Remarks and Introductions
    Facilitated by: Sonia Kerrigan, Group Commercial Director, MEED

    10:35 Presentation: The Makaab District – The Vision & Future Scope of Work
    Thomas Nilsson, Executive Director Delivery - Mukaab District, New Murabba

    11:00 Q&A Session
    Facilitated by: Sonia Kerrigan, Group Commercial Director, MEED

    11:30 Close of Session

    Speakers

    11:30 AM

    Networking, Refreshment & Prayer Break (Prayer break – 11:50)

    12 PM

    Registration Open & Networking Coffee

    12:30 PM

    An Audience With ‘Riyadh Region Municipality’ (1.5 hours)

    This session will give you access to meeting one of the key governmental changemakers driving the Saudi Vision 2030 in this exclusive workshop session. The session will be strictly limited in attendee numbers!

    2 PM

    Close of session

    2:10 PM

    Lunch, Networking & Prayer Break (Prayer break – 15:15)

    8:30 AM

    Registration Open & Networking Coffee

    10 AM

    Opening Welcome and Remarks by the Chairman

    Speakers

    10:20 AM

    Keynote Opening Fireside Chat: The Transformation of Riyadh City under Saudi Vision 2030

    This 1-1 fireside chat will encapsulate and explore Riyadh Region Municipality’s innovative and sustainable urban planning strategies, in alignment with giga & mega project developments, and the goals of Saudi Vision 2030.

    Speakers

    10:40 AM

    Keynote leaders panel discussion: Building Resilient and Sustainable Smart Cities of the Future

    • Reimagining sustainable design, build and operate - exploring the future of design practices and energy efficiencies
    • Infrastructure and technology integration to enhance efficiency, reduce resource consumption, improve services etc
    • Optimising real time insights, predictive analytics and simulation capabilities to improve urban infrastructure
    • Resilience building design planning to withstand and recover from pandemics, natural disasters, climate related challenges etc

    Speakers

    11:20 AM

    Fireside Chat: Business Insights on the Investment Opportunities and PPP in Saudi Arabia Driving the Future Economic Growth of the Kingdom

    This 1-1 fireside chat will focus on the pipeline activity opportunities that lie ahead in Saudi for investors and the private sector for 2024-25 and beyond.

    Speakers

    11:40 AM

    Networking, refreshment & prayer break (Prayer break 11.50)

    12:10 PM

    Fireside Chat: Transforming Delivery Excellence

    This fireside chat will comprehensively explore strategies, technologies, and best practices to optimise supply chains for supporting the Giga Projects in Saudi Arabia.

    Speakers

    12:30 PM

    Presentation: Saudi Giga Projects – Streamlining Automation in Construction

    Speakers

    12:40 PM

    Fireside Chat: Building with Efficiency

    This 1-1 fireside chat will discuss the benefits of the use of modular and offsite fabrication, whilst improving sustainability efforts and helping to solve delivery challenges.

    Speakers

    1 PM

    Panel discussion: Navigating the future– exploring offsite and industrialised construction

    • What are the opportunities and challenges for the approach of offsite construction?
    • Discussing best practices for designing, manufacturing, and delivering offsite projects to maximise productivity, better quality control and minimise wastage / environmental impact
    • Examining the latest Industry 4.0 construction technologies and techniques that are being used in offsite and industrialised construction – BIM, Digital Twins etc

    Speakers

    1:50 PM

    Lunch and MEED Projects Subscriber Briefing & Networking Reception Announcement

    Speakers

    2 PM

    Lunch, Networking & Prayer Break (Prayer break – 15:15)

    3:30 PM

    Panel Discussion: The Future of Sports & Entertainment Infrastructure in Saudi Arabia

    • What are the future opportunities for the development of sports and entertainment infrastructure in Saudi Arabia?
    • What are the latest trends and innovations in stadium design and arena projects of the future?
    • What were the lessons learnt from recent regional and global case studies?

    Speakers

    4:10 PM

    Fireside Chat:

    Speakers

    4:30 PM

    Panel Discussion: Increasing Skill Capabilities to Meet the Critical Needs of Delivering Giga Projects in Saudi Arabia

    This session will explore and discuss the below points led by an expert panel.

    • What are the main challenges to boosting the skill capabilities to meet the required needs of the construction sector?
    • Identifying the key skills and competencies needed for the successful delivery of the giga project program – developing the next generation of professionals today in line with the National Vision 2030
    • How can sizable organisations overseas (contractors, consultants etc) be attracted into Saudi – what needs to be identified, championed and improved – showcasing Saudi Arabia and its success story
    • Empowering abilities – promoting inclusive employment opportunities

    Speakers

    5:10 PM

    Closing Remarks by the Chairman

    Speakers

    5:15 PM

    Close of Summit

    5:30 PM

    MEED Subscriber Briefing

    Speakers

    6:15 PM

    MEED Reception

    7:30 PM

    Close of Networking Evening

    8:30 AM

    Registration, Coffee, and Networking

    9:30 AM

    Chairman Welcome Remarks

    Speakers

    9:45 AM

    Fire Side Chat: Construction Sector

    Speakers

    10:50 AM

    Panel Discussion: Decarbonising and shaping cities of the future through energy efficiency

    This panel session will discuss building resilient, sustainable, and smart cities of the future.

    • How can the construction industry contribute to achieving net zero carbon emissions? – accomplishing Saudi’s vision and ambitious sustainability goals
    • Achieving decarbonisation through energy efficient technologies and choice of materials – the need to prioritise efficiency and cost-saving opportunities
    • Discussing government plans and energy initiatives / targets towards a more sustainable future
    • Exploring building retrofitting programmes for sustainable cities
    • The race to deliver the visions – meeting the measurables / delivery for net zero

    Speakers

    11:30 AM

    Coffee, Networking and Prayer Break

    12 PM

    Opening Presentation: The War for Talent

    Speakers

    12:40 PM

    Case Study Presentation – The Platform Journey – Unlocking Value across the Project Life Cycle from Planning to Design to Construction to Operation

    Speakers

    1 PM

    Opening Presentation: Pioneering Off-Site & Modern Methods of Construction Technology

    Speakers

    1:10 PM

    Panel Discussion: Offsite and Industrialised Construction

    • What are the opportunities and challenges for the approach of offsite construction?
    • Discussing best practices for designing, manufacturing, and delivering offsite projects to maximise productivity, better quality control and minimise wastage / environmental impact
    • Examining the latest technologies and techniques that are being used in offside and industrialised construction – BIM, modular, 3D printing

    Speakers

    1:40 PM

    Case Study Presentation: Exclusive Business Critical Research & Insights – The Current State of Technology Adoption and Confidence in Digital Transformation

    Speakers

    2:25 PM

    Lunchtime Announcement

    2:30 PM

    Lunch, Networking & Prayer Time

    3:30 PM

    Case Study Presentation and Fire Side Chat: The Use of Remote Quality Control and Progress Monitoring in Mega Projects – Building an Innovative Ecosystem amongst Project Stakeholders

    This case study presentation and insightful Fire Side Chat will explore how important solutions can help to empower project stakeholders and build an innovative ecosystem.
    Key discussion points will include:

    • How can project stakeholders manage projects remotely, monitor quality, mitigate risk, and make better informed decisions
    • What is the only type of pioneering solutions that can combine design, reality capture, schedule and project communications whilst ensuring full project visibility

    Speakers

    4 PM

    Case Study Presentation: Digital Technologies to Transform and Decarbonise the Construction Sector – Turning Vision 2030 into Reality

    Speakers

    5:20 PM

    Closing Remarks by the Chairman

    Speakers

    9 AM

    Chairman Welcome Remarks

    Ed James, Head of Content & Research MEA, MEED / GlobalData, UAE

    2024 Speakers

    Select a speaker to learn more

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    Pierre Saunal
    co-founder, airc.digital

    After graduating as an architect and urban designer from Toulouse Architecture School in 2006, Pierre developed his career in Toulouse, Paris and London, working on international projects. Together with growing-up in Scotland and Ivory-Coast, the progression of his career gave him an open-mind which he considers essential to design meaningful places. His experience includes cultural, education, health, hospitality, industrial, mixed use, office, residential, retail and urban design projects.

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    Ihab Mouallem
    Group CEO, Albaddad

    He is a renowned veteran with over 25 years of experience in the aluminum and metals industry, specializing in system designs. Throughout his career, he has collaborated with private and investment companies, honing his skills in managing mega international projects.

    In 2023, he assumed the role of CEO at ALBADDAD Group, where he leads the organization with a focus on strategic direction and day-to-day operations. His expertise spans strategic and operational management, budgeting, cost controls, export, supply chain, and technical oversight. Additionally, he is adept at driving strategic business development initiatives, restructuring efforts, and facilitating new market acquisitions to enhance overall performance and growth.

    He was honored to be recognized as one of the top 10 at the "Top CEO Conference and Awards" under the category of Mining, Metals, and Chemicals.

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    Edward McIntosh
    Regional Design Director MEA, Atkins Realis
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    Naji Atallah
    Head of Construction and Manufacturing - EMEA Emerging, Autodesk

    Naji Atallah leads the Construction and Manufacturing industries for Autodesk across EMEA Emerging Countries. He focuses on defining the regional vision for the industries, cultivating and sustaining the firm's relationships with strategic industry leaders and associations as well as enabling regional designers, builders and makers to innovate through the use of technology. He evangelizes purposeful digital transformation as a roadmap for companies to make more with a less negative impact on the plant necessary to sustain the demographic changes of the future.

    His research interests focus on advanced technologies such as Generative Design and the effect of those technologies on the design process and outcomes. He is a peer-reviewed published author on the topic.

    Naji has been in the engineering technology sector for nearly 25 years. Prior to joining Autodesk in 2013, he served as the Middle East Regional Manager for AVEVA Solutions and as a Project Engineering Lead for Petrofac. He holds a Master’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering from the American University of Beirut, Lebanon.

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    Lewis Watts
    Global Major Project Development Executive, Autodesk

    Throughout his career Lewis has established a well-rounded understanding of design, construction, and operational requirements. Understanding the impacts across the business and supply-chain has enabled him to better define consistent, efficient, and cost-effective processes and technological solutions as the business or project requires. With experience spanning architectural design, project management, model coordination and BIM strategy, Lewis has developed a strong working knowledge of industry standards, guidance documentation and practical application, with a wealth of experience defining and implementing digital strategy, workflows, processes, standards, supporting documentation and templates within large infrastructure and aviation organisations.

    Prior to joining Autodesk, Lewis led the BIM strategy and Asset Information Management team at London Gatwick Airport, and during his time there founded the ‘Connected Airport’ events which is now facilitated by Autodesk. This long-standing focus group now consists of 165+ international airports and was designed to support airport owners looking to advance their capital delivery and campus management with BIM-based workflows. The aim is to provide a greater understanding of how BIM processes and principles from capital projects can integrate and enhance the ongoing Airport facilities management whilst exploring how Airport Digital Twins have a critical role to play.

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    Mikhael Al Kurdi
    Construction Business Development Manager, BEC Arabia
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    Hani Rizkallah
    President - KSA Infrastructure, Bechtel

    Hani Rizkallah is the President of Infrastructure for the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, in this role, he spearheads the country’s business development and activities, including construction and project management services across several mega projects like the NEOM projects (Spine & Connector, Regional Infrastructure, and Trojena), the Riyadh Metro Project, New Murabba, and Jubail.

    Hani joined Bechtel over 25 years ago as a graduate hire. He has since taken on progressive leadership on civil engineering projects for railways, highways, and infrastructure. Prior to his current role, he was the Program Director at NEOM for three years which began after a successful period as the executive assistant to Bechtel’s Chairman/CEO and Chief Operating Officer (COO).

    Hani held several positions in business development and functions managing multidisciplinary teams. Between 2014 and 2019 Hani was the Delivery Director for Underground Stations on Bechtel’s Riyadh Metro Project in Saudi Arabia. He oversaw the engineering, procurement, and construction of the Deep Underground Stations, as well as the quality and safe delivery on budget and schedule.

    Hani has extensive knowledge in forming and maintaining stakeholder relationships with various customers. He worked in the UK from 2004 to 2014 on a number of iconic rail jobs. He was Project Manager on Bechtel’s Vauxhall Station Upgrade project, and the Project Manager on Liverpool Street Station for Bechtel’s Crossrail Project Delivery Partner (PDP) project.

    Hani’s experience in the construction industry also involves four years on London’s Tube Lines upgrade program delivering more than thirty station upgrades over the entire Jubilee, Northern, and Piccadilly Lines network, managing overall costs and schedules for a portfolio of concurrent modernization projects. Hani also supported the Civil Building Unit that specialized in building hotels and building infrastructures around the Middle East.

    Hani holds a Bachelor of Science in Construction Engineering and a master’s in business administration from the American University in Cairo (AUC). Bechtel elected Hani as Principal Vice President in 2019 and Senior Vice President/Partner in 2023. He is fluent in Arabic and English and is married with two children.

    • Strategic senior leader with proven infrastructure, engineering, rail, and construction experience.
    • Spearheading the delivery of projects aligned with Saudi Arabia’s ambitious Vision 2030.
    • Holds a Bachelor of Science in Construction Engineering and a master’s in business administration from the American University in Cairo (AUC).
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    Steven Mifsud MBE
    Group CEO, Direct Access

    Steven Mifsud MBE is a global leader in the field of accessibility establishing accessibility consultancy Direct Access in 2004. Under his leadership, Direct Access has won several international awards including the MEED Editors Award in 2019. Steven has worked on some of the world’s most iconic projects including world expositions, Olympics and UNESCO World Heritage Sites. For Expo 2020 Dubai, Steven was appointed Director of Accessibility responsible for all aspects of access and inclusion during the construction and operation stages of the event. He has led teams working with a diverse range of Saudi projects including Qiddiya, Neom, Ilmi, Diriyah Gate and Seven. In 2021 he was awarded the MBE by Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II for creating a more accessible world.

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    Dr. Bandar Alkahlan
    General Director, Advanced Manufacturing Technologies Institute, King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology (KACST)

    Bandar is the General Manager (GM) and a Researcher at the Advanced Manufacturing Technologies Institute (AMTI) at the King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology (KACST). KACST is both the Saudi Arabian national science agency and its national laboratories. Before being named GM in December 2022, Bandar was the director and a researcher at the National Center for Advanced Materials Technologies (NCAMT) and at the National Center for Building and Construction Technology (NCBCT), contributing leadership skills in the scientific and technical elements of major projects.

    Bandar earned a Bachelor of Science in Architecture and Building Technology from King Saud University (KSU) in Riyadh and a Master of Architecture from the Southern California Institute of Architecture (SCI-Arc) in Los Angeles. His master’s thesis project “New Flexibility and the Architecture of Time” researched the possibility of designing adaptable buildings that evolve over time in response to their users’ needs and requirements. Bandar received his Ph.D. from Virginia Tech in which his research focus and interest is in the area of Automation in Construction.

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    Dr Abdulrahman Albawardi
    Asst Professor, King Saud University
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    Chris Seymour
    Managing Director & Member of RICS Governing Council, Mace MEA

    Christopher Seymour BSc FRICS Managing Director Middle East and Africa – Mace

    Chris Seymour has more than 30 years’ experience in the industry and over 15 years based in the Middle East working in most of the major cities in the region.

    Currently heading up the Mace business in ME & Africa, Chris is also the former managing director of the Mott MacDonald Middle East operation. Professionally he is a member of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) Governing Council and also an independent advisor on the Investment Committee of ENBD Real Estate Investment Trust (REIT).

    Having spent many years in PFI and PPP procurement practising in both UK, Europe and Middle East, he also advises many clients on strategy, risk, commercial and technical advice for major programmes & investments.

    A familiar face at conferences and industry events, Chris was awarded Construction Executive of the Year in 2020 by Construction Week magazine.

    Prior to moving to the Middle East Chris worked for Arcadis and was a member of the strategic advisory board to the Group, advising on mergers and acquisitions, divestments, strategy changes and shareholder presentations.

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    Ed James
    Head of Content & Research MEA, MEED / GlobalData

    A well-known and respected thought leader in MENA affairs, Edward James has been with MEED for more than 19 years, working as a researcher, consultant and content director. Until September 2008 he was MEED’s Gulf Bureau Chief, after which he moved over to head up the consulting arm of the business. From 2015-2021 he was responsible for content and research at MEED Projects, the region’s leading projects tracking service. Today he heads up all content and research produced by the MEED group. His specific areas of expertise are construction, hydrocarbons, power and water, and the petrochemical market, and is considered one of the world’s foremost experts on the MENA projects market. He is a regular guest commentator on Middle East issues for news channels such as the BBC, CNN and ABC News and is a regular speaker at events in the region. He has an honours degree in Arabic and Middle East Politics.

    Social Links:

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    Colin Foreman
    Editor, MEED

    Colin Foreman is Editor and a Specialist Construction Journalist for news and analysis on MEED.com and the MEED magazine. He has been reporting on the region since 2003, specialising in the construction sector and its impact on the broader economy. He has reported exclusively on a wide range of projects across the region including schemes such as Dubai Metro, the Burj Khalifa, Jeddah Airport, Doha Metro, Hamad International Airport, and Yas Island. Before joining MEED, Colin reported on the construction sector in the Middle East and Hong Kong. He has a bachelor’s degree from Newcastle University and a master’s degree from the University of Reading.

    Social Links:

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    Yasir Iqbal
    Construction Editor, MEED
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    Salman Badr
    VP – Infrastructure Advisory, National Centre for Privitization & PPP (NCP)

    Salman Badr currently held the position of the Executive Vice President, Infrastructure Advisory in the National Center for Privatization & PPP since January 2021. Prior to that Salman served as Director of Investments at The Saudi Industrial Investments Company (Dussur), an industrial investment and development company.

    Salman’s experience also includes an executive leadership role in an international defense logistics company, as well as private equity and infrastructure investment execution in a global emerging markets private equity firm.

    Salman holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Economics and Political Science with Honors from the University of Toronto, Canada, 2005.

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    Sherief Elabd
    Director - Industry & Innovation Strategy, Oracle

    Sherief is currently working for the Global Industry Strategy & Innovation team at Oracle, and part of Oracle’s Industries Innovation lab.

    Sherief is an industry’s digital transformation speaker, as well as sitting on the judging panel of the region’s prestigious innovation start-ups accelerator programmes.

    Sherief comes from a construction project management background with 17 years of experience in Enterprise Project Portfolio Management automation. Prior to joining Oracle, he used to develop business and project manage implementations for enterprise-wide project management solutions for large organisations in the Middle East.

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    Varun Kharbanda
    Managing Director, Protiviti Saudi Member Firm for Management Consultancy

    Varun Kharbanda, Managing Director, Protiviti Member Firm for the Middle East

    Varun is Regional Middle East & India Leader for Real Estate, Infrastructure Industry & Capital Projects Advisory Vertical within Protiviti Member Firm. He leads a team of professionals responsible for providing end to end solutions for mega and complex Capital Projects and Programmes from concept to operational stabilization phase across varied range of project portfolios.

    He has extensive international experience of 19 years across US, Europe, Middle East, Southeast Asia and India sub-continent in leading Project, Program & Portfolio level engagements with C-suite stakeholders.

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    Lucien Ziegler
    Managing Partner - RedSalt Advisory Company, Founder and Co-Host - The TWENTY30, Principal and Director MENA- Pilatus Capital

    Lucien Zeigler is a venture capitalist, strategic advisor, podcast host, and public speaker with over 15 years of experience working with and living in Saudi Arabia. Lucien is Managing Director at RedSalt Advisory Company, a boutique business development and strategic advisory firm with clients in the U.S., Europe, and the Middle East, principal and director for the MENA region at Pilatus Capital, a deeptech venture capital fund based in Silicon Valley, California, and Vice President of the non-profit Saudi-US Trade Group based in Washington, D.C.

    Lucien is founder and co-host of The TWENTY30 Podcast, the number one bi-weekly podcast show and Youtube channel in English covering Saudi Arabia featuring interviews with changemakers leading Saudi Arabia’s transformation, topical deep dives into the news driving the day, and more.

    Previously, Lucien was co-founder and CEO of the media startup Outlit, the venture-backed social publishing network and micropayments platform.

    He is a frequent public speaker and event moderator. Among Lucien’s recent Saudi Arabia public speaking engagements include the Saudi Public Investment Fund (PIF) Private Sector Forum in 2023 and 2024, the Human Capability Initiative launched by the Saudi Ministry of Education, events at the King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Center, and others.

    Lucien splits his time between Riyadh, Saudi Arabia and Washington, D.C., USA.

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    Faisal Butt
    Group Head of Planning & Controls, Red Sea Global

    Faisal leads and oversees our project governance and compliance, project controls, quality management, reporting, project risk management and project management information systems.

    He has undertaken both strategic and operational roles over the last 13 years across several industries focusing on planning and development of large-scale projects in the Middle East and North America.

    Prior to joining Red Sea Global, Faisal worked with Arcadis within their business advisory practice where he led business transformation projects in the UAE and Qatar. He holds a Bachelor of Commerce degree with a major in Finance and Economics from McGill University, Canada.

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    Fahad AlSolaie
    Deputy Mayor for Digital Transformation & Smart Cities, Riyadh Region Municipality
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    Dr Hossam Abdel Gawad
    Vice President of Technology & Innovation, SETS

    Dr Hossam Abdel Gawad is SETS' VP of Technology and Innovation and an Associate Professor of Traffic and Highway Engineering at Cairo University. He has a PhD in Intelligent Transport Systems (ITS) from the University of Toronto and over 20 years of experience in the Middle East, Africa, and North America. He has published over 50 publications in international journals and has focused his career on transport planning and optimization, Intelligent Transport Systems, Artificial Intelligent applications in transportation, smart cities and smart mobility, as well as data-driven innovation in transportation and spatial data management and warehousing.

    Dr Hossam Abdel Gawad has worked on a variety of projects that leveraged his deep knowledge on mobility technology, integrated multi-modal mobility, shared mobility systems, smart transport systems, data driven transportation management, as well as micro-mobility & non-motorized Transport. He has worked on numerous projects for clients including the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, City of Toronto, City of Hamilton, Ministry of Transport of Ontario, as well as several in the MENA region and Saudi Arabia, including: RCMC, RCRC, MoTLS, Qiddiya Investment Company, NEOM, Riyadh Municipality.

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    Arsanios Mousa
    CEO, Singularity

    Arsanios is a seasoned digital leader with extensive knowledge of all aspects of digital transformation, strategy, and tactical operations. He has special interest in automation research and development to modernize the industry. Arsanios is an expert in building and training digital teams on new methods and enjoys challenging current workflows. He is also a selected speaker for New York Build and other industry forums.

    Arsanios founded Singularity AEC to help companies reach their full digital potential. Along with his team at Singularity, Arsanios is pushing technological boundaries by offering unique design technology services and customized tools to the Architecture, Engineering and Construction industry.

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    Dr. Mohammed Al-Surf
    Founder & President, Sustainability Professionals of Saudi Arabia (SPSA)

    Mohammed S. Al Surf, holder of PhD. in Sustainable and Green Construction. Founder & President of the Sustainability Professionals in Saudi Arabia Network (SPSA) reaching 5000 members. First Saudi to become a USGBC® Faculty, an ISSP® Sustainability Associate and a TRUE® Advisor. LEED® Accredited Professional in BD+C, ENV SP credential and a Green Classroom Professional. Author of the books titled “Sustainable Housing in Saudi Arabia: Opportunities & Challenges” and “10 Steps to Become a Sustainability Professional”. Member of several local and international professional entities such as the U.S. Green Building Council, the Saudi Council of Engineers (SCE), the Pacific Rim Real-Estate Society (PRRES), Asian Real-Estate Society (AsRES) and Project Management Institute (PMI). Dedicated to applying a systematic approach to Green Construction and Sustainable methods applied on projects in Saudi Arabia to induce quality of life while preserving the depleting supply of natural resources.

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    Advisory Board

    Select a board member to learn more

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    Chairman of the Advisory Board – Ed James
    Head of Content & Research MEA, MEED / GlobalData

    A well-known and respected thought leader in MENA affairs, Edward James has been with MEED for more than 19 years, working as a researcher, consultant and content director. Until September 2008 he was MEED’s Gulf Bureau Chief, after which he moved over to head up the consulting arm of the business. From 2015-2021 he was responsible for content and research at MEED Projects, the region’s leading projects tracking service. Today he heads up all content and research produced by the MEED group. His specific areas of expertise are construction, hydrocarbons, power and water, and the petrochemical market, and is considered one of the world’s foremost experts on the MENA projects market. He is a regular guest commentator on Middle East issues for news channels such as the BBC, CNN and ABC News and is a regular speaker at events in the region. He has an honours degree in Arabic and Middle East Politics.

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    Nasim Alahmad
    Executive Manager, ARCHIRODON

    Nasim Alahmad is the Executive Manager of ARCHIRODON in Saudi Arabia since March 2021 and has more than 35 years of diverse experience in business development, investment, construction and management of different portfolios across the Middle East region. Throughout his career, Nasim has held a succession of executive leadership, operational, and general management positions. His broad experience in project development and EPC execution ranges from smaller-scale projects to mega projects across multiple industries, including mix use, retail, healthcare, education, hospitality, and public facilities.

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    Paul Pring
    Executive Director, Infrastructure, Diriyah Company

    Paul Pring is Executive Director, Infrastructure at the Diriyah Company, leading the organization’s infrastructure delivery team for its Phase One masterplan development.

    Paul has 42 years’ experience managing major international business changes across transportation, power, civil engineering, and construction sectors and successfully delivering major strategic programmes to tight timescales. His work has led him to Africa, Australasia, Canada, East Asia, Europe, the Middle East, Russia, and the US.

    Prior to joining Diriyah Company in 2020, Paul was Managing Director of Bittaford Consulting in the UK and Canada, where he led on change and innovation on multiple high profile infrastructure projects. Before that, Paul was Director of Infrastructure, Rail at Babcock International where he was responsible for delivering engineering and telecommunications electrification across railway lines in the UK, including the Southern Region New Trains Program, where construction was completed in 15 months on a live operating railway. He also held various roles over 15 years at Mott McDonald Group, spearheading business growth throughout a variety of sectors.

    Paul holds a BSc in Quantity Surveying from Thames Polytechnic and an MA in Building Rehabilitation from the University of Greenwich. He is additionally a Fellow of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors, a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport, a Fellow of the Association for Project Management and was one of the first 500 individuals globally to be an accredited Chartered Project Professional.

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    Ashraf Alameria
    COO, El Seif Engineering Contracting
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    Engr. Hussein Hamdy
    Co-Founder & CEO IEO Group

    Engr. Hussein Hamdy is an industry professional in Structural Engineering, an alumnus of the Ain Shams University (Cairo-Egypt), with a phenomenal journey of 18 years of experience focused on design management, project management, tenders and proposals management. He is commended for his significant contributions in an array of mega-projects including high-rise buildings and mixed-use developments, also affiliated with the Egyptian Syndicate of Engineers and the Saudi Council of Engineers.

    Engr. Hussein transitioned from the multinational consulting sector to construction. With his vast knowledge in business development, he plays a crucial role in achieving business success at the optimum level. His expertise has resulted in him cultivating excellent relationships with new prospects, existing clients, as well as local and international stakeholders. He steers the Group's business growth through his acute comprehension of real estate development projects, competitive analysis, market trends, fundraising initiatives, and his methodical approach in leading a full cycle projects' phase, whilst implementing and introducing the highest level of technical
    knowledge.

    His exceptional track record in Business Development Management, Proposal Management, and Project Support renders him an instrumental figure at BEC Arabia. He is recognized for his strategic revenue planning, risk management, and the cultivation of robust professional relationships. His proficiency fosters a positive impact on the organization's vision, business objectives, and overall operational success.

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    Dale Chadwick
    Chief Development Officer, King Salman Park Foundation

    Dale Chadwick is the Chief Development Officer (CDO) of the King Salman Park Foundation (KSPF). Building on his extensive expertise in urban planning and project management, he is responsible for managing the masterplan and overseeing the project design and delivery of one of the largest urban parks in the world, King Salman Park.

    Chadwick brings with him 25+ years of experience and an outstanding delivery track record in the construction and consulting industries. His successful career in managing large-scale construction projects across Asia includes some of the most iconic integrated resorts in the region. From conception through procurement to final handover and operation, he has delivered in excess of $17 billion of mixed-use resort and developments throughout his career.

    Before joining KSPF, Chadwick was the Executive Project Officer at Macetpm where he successfully led teams in winning, managing, and delivering several high-profile projects in the Philippines. These include the largest and most advanced data center in the country, the PLDT Campus Headquarters Development in Makati, the SM-ASH Cebu arena and convention centre development, and the construction of the largest IKEA store at SM's Mall of Asia property. Chadwick also played a key role in The Estate residential and BDO’s banking headquarters towers, both being unique structures.

    Prior to that, Chadwick served as Vice President Asia for Venetian Cotai Limited, managing the design and construction of several major integrated resorts in Macau and Singapore, including the Marina Bay Sands, Venetian Macau, Sands Cotai Central, The Parisian and the Four Seasons developments. Chadwick's expertise was also called upon for the design and construction documentation of two further Cotai Development parcels.

    Previously, Chadwick oversaw the construction of two Disney-themed hotels in Hong Kong and was a Senior Project Manager for CMInternational overseeing the development of TVB’s Broadcasting Ltd television studio complex.

    Chadwick began his career with Ove Arup and Partners HK, where he worked on major projects such as the KCRC West Rail and the Hong Kong Air Cargo Terminal Limited. Chadwick holds a BEng (Hons) in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Exeter.

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    Fahad Alhashem
    Real Estate Managing Director, Ministry of Investment Saudi Arabia (MISA)
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    Chris Seymour
    Managing Director & Member of RICS Governing Council, Mace MEA

    Christopher Seymour BSc FRICS Managing Director Middle East and Africa – Mace

    Chris Seymour has more than 30 years’ experience in the industry and over 15 years based in the Middle East working in most of the major cities in the region.

    Currently heading up the Mace business in ME & Africa, Chris is also the former managing director of the Mott MacDonald Middle East operation. Professionally he is a member of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) Governing Council and also an independent advisor on the Investment Committee of ENBD Real Estate Investment Trust (REIT).

    Having spent many years in PFI and PPP procurement practising in both UK, Europe and Middle East, he also advises many clients on strategy, risk, commercial and technical advice for major programmes & investments.

    A familiar face at conferences and industry events, Chris was awarded Construction Executive of the Year in 2020 by Construction Week magazine.

    Prior to moving to the Middle East Chris worked for Arcadis and was a member of the strategic advisory board to the Group, advising on mergers and acquisitions, divestments, strategy changes and shareholder presentations.

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    Khaled Alohali
    Executive Chairman, MZ Engineering

    Khaled Alohali is the Executive Chairman at MZ Engineering Consultancy Company, and he works with private sector companies and public sector organisations to provide Business & Industrial Engineering Consultancy Services, Advisory and Solutions.

    Previously to this, he held senior positions at Saudi Arabian Mining Company – Ma’aden Holding from 2014 – March 2022, as Senior Vice President – Corporate Strategic Affairs, Vice President – Corporate Affairs and Vice President – Corporate Strategy, Planning and Development.

    He has also worked in C-Level suite positions at Charles River Associates International – C.R.A.I, the National Industrial Clusters Development Program – NICDP, National Air Services – NAS Holdings, and the Saudi Arabian Economic Offset Program – EOP.

    Since starting his working life, with a BS in Mechanical Engineering - Honors from the University of Petroleum and Minerals, Saudi Arabia (now KFUPM), he has been determined to make a distinctive added-value to every task he executes. At the same time, he is a productive and collaborative member of the society through work and in life.

    Through the past 28 years, he has been involved with extraordinary leadership, advisory and analytical tasks including; leading two start-up companies, several organisational structuring, strategies planning and implementation (national and corporate), investments evaluation, dealing with multinational companies, local firms and government agencies, promoting Saudi Arabia with global investors, calculating the impact of the Kingdom’s hydrocarbon and non-hydrocarbon incentives, planning for industrial infrastructure development, assessing economic impact of future mega industrial projects, measuring national economic progress using metrics other than GDP, and articulating several cases-for-change aimed at adjusting some public policies or proposing new ones.

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    Colin Foreman
    Editor, MEED

    Colin Foreman is Editor and a Specialist Construction Journalist for news and analysis on MEED.com and the MEED magazine. He has been reporting on the region since 2003, specialising in the construction sector and its impact on the broader economy. He has reported exclusively on a wide range of projects across the region including schemes such as Dubai Metro, the Burj Khalifa, Jeddah Airport, Doha Metro, Hamad International Airport, and Yas Island. Before joining MEED, Colin reported on the construction sector in the Middle East and Hong Kong. He has a bachelor’s degree from Newcastle University and a master’s degree from the University of Reading.

    Social Links:

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    Jennie Bishop
    Head of Production, MEED
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    Richard Kupisz
    Executive Advisor – Knowledge and Capability Enhancement, National Center for Privatization & PPP (NCP)

    Richard Kupisz is an Executive Advisor at the National Center for Privatization & PPP (NCP), where his responsibilities encompass development of the policy framework for Private Sector Participation, capacity building across the public sector, economic analysis and research. He has more than 30 years’ experience as an advisor to governments and private sector clients on infrastructure strategy, planning and transactions in a wide range of sectors, including energy, water, transport, tourism and telecoms. Richard has been based in the MENA region since 2004.

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    Andy Tyson
    Operational General Manager - Construction, Red Sea Global

    Andy is Head of Construction at Red Sea Global (RSG), the developer behind The Red Sea and Amaala, two ambitious tourism projects set along the western coast of Saudi Arabia. These destinations will play key roles in the realization of Vision 2030, the Kingdom’s blueprint for economic diversification and sustainable development.

    Since joining RSG in July 2018, he has been responsible for leading the Project and Construction Management team’s on-site delivery of The Red Sea.

    Andrew has over 40 years of international experience in project and construction management, across hospitality, leisure, retail, infrastructure, commercial, and industrial developments, including several major building and infrastructure projects.

    After initially working for main contractors in the UK, Andrew relocated to Hong Kong where he worked as a Project Manager for a large management contractor for eight years.

    Since moving to the Middle East in 2004, he has held senior leadership roles for the project delivery of prestigious ventures, such as Ski Dubai and Etihad Rail Phase 1. He also led the 175-strong Construction Management team developing Atlantis The Palm.

    He was previously the Vice President of Construction at MGM Hospitality. When he joined AECOM in 2011, he led a team of 500 project and construction management and supervision resources across the UAE and Oman.

    Andrew holds a Bachelor's Degree in Building and Construction Management from the University of Reading, UK.

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    Abdul-Rahman Al-Ghabban
    President, Saudi Arabian Bechtel Company (SABCO) and Regional Manager, Bechtel Middle East

    Abdul-Rahman Al Ghabban is a dynamic, highly engaging Senior Strategy and Business Development Professional with proven executive-level experience in developing and driving strategic planning, project development, team development, and business growth within the energy, infrastructure, and manufacturing markets, nationally and internationally.

    Abdul-Rahman has worked for several government agencies, including the King Abdullah City for Atomic and Renewable Energy, the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, and the Saudi Arabian General Investment Authority, among other private-sector companies.

    In 2013, he joined Bechtel as the business development manager for Bechtel’s Power Global Business Unit. After two years, he was appointed deputy country manager for Saudi Arabia in 2015. In recognition of Abdul-Rahman’s strong in-country experience and effective leadership, Abdul-Rahman was promoted to Country Manager Saudi Arabian Bechtel Company in 2017 where he spearheaded the company’s growth and expansion in the region.

    He moved to Houston, USA in January 2019 to support Bechtel’s Oil, Gas and Chemicals’ downstream and chemical business development. In early 2020, he moved on to be the Deputy Manager of Corporate Business Development. Abdul-Rahman became the Marketing and Business Development Manager for Bechtel’s Manufacturing & Technology in 2022.

    Abdul-Rahman returned to the Kingdom in mid-2013 as Vice President of Bechtel’s KSA Infrastructure. In this role, he led the company’s regional business strategy, stakeholder and customer engagement, talent management, and project operations for the company’s Public Infrastructure business line.
    Most recently, Abdul-Rahman was appointed president of Saudi Arabian Bechtel Company and regional manager for the Middle East Region. In this role, he will support the Bechtel’s business development and project execution in Saudi Arabia and the Middle East.

    Abdul-Rahman is a registered professional engineer, he holds a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering from King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals, Executive Education Emerging Leaders from London Business School, and an Executive Masters in Energy Management from BI Norwegian School of Business Management.

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    Dr. Mohammed Al-Surf
    Founder & President, Sustainability Professionals of Saudi Arabia (SPSA)

    Mohammed S. Al Surf, holder of PhD. in Sustainable and Green Construction. Founder & President of the Sustainability Professionals in Saudi Arabia Network (SPSA) reaching 5000 members. First Saudi to become a USGBC® Faculty, an ISSP® Sustainability Associate and a TRUE® Advisor. LEED® Accredited Professional in BD+C, ENV SP credential and a Green Classroom Professional. Author of the books titled “Sustainable Housing in Saudi Arabia: Opportunities & Challenges” and “10 Steps to Become a Sustainability Professional”. Member of several local and international professional entities such as the U.S. Green Building Council, the Saudi Council of Engineers (SCE), the Pacific Rim Real-Estate Society (PRRES), Asian Real-Estate Society (AsRES) and Project Management Institute (PMI). Dedicated to applying a systematic approach to Green Construction and Sustainable methods applied on projects in Saudi Arabia to induce quality of life while preserving the depleting supply of natural resources.

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    Richard Compton
    SVP Area Director, Saudi Arabia Parsons Limited
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    Plan Your Visit

    Plan Your Visit to the MENA Construction Summit:

    The MENA Construction Summit is an exciting event that brings together industry leaders, innovators, and investors to explore the latest trends, technologies, and opportunities in the MENA construction sector. To make the most of your visit, we recommend following these simple steps:

    1. Choose Your Dates: The MENA Construction Summit is a 2-day event that takes place at the Crowne Plaza – RDC, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
      To know more details regarding each day, please visit the below websites:Day 1: 13 May – Saudi Giga ProjectsDay 2: 14 May – MENA Construction Summit
    2. Register Online: Once you have selected the date you plan to attend, purchase your pass on the respective event website. This will give you access to the event schedule, exhibitor list, and other important information.
    3. Book Your Travel: Make travel arrangements to attend the event. If you are traveling from outside the city or country, you may need to book flights, hotels, and transportation.
    4. Saudi Visa: You may require a visa to visit Saudi Arabia. The process is incredibly easy, typically taking 5-30mins. Our event team have got multiple entry visas via the online application system. E-visas have to be obtained prior to departure at httos://www.visitsaudi.com/en/travel-regulations
    5. Plan Your Schedule: Review the event schedule and identify the sessions and speakers that are most relevant to your interests. Make a plan for which sessions you want to attend and when.
    6. Follow our social media handles: Follow our social media handles to stay up-to-date on the latest event information, schedule changes, and announcements.
      LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/meed/
      Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MEEDdubai
    7. Network: Take advantage of the networking opportunities at the event. Connect with other attendees, exhibitors, and speakers to exchange ideas, learn about new technologies, and build relationships.
    8. Follow Up: After the event, follow up with the people you met and the exhibitors you spoke with. This will help you stay connected and potentially lead to new business opportunities or collaborations.

    Attending the MENA Construction Summit is an excellent opportunity to learn about the latest trends and technologies in the construction sector in the Middle East. By following these simple steps, you can make the most of your visit and have a productive and enjoyable experienceThe MENA Construction Summit is an exciting event that brings together industry leaders, innovators, and investors to explore the latest trends, technologies, and opportunities in the MENA construction sector. To make the most of your visit, we recommend following these simple steps:

    Sponsors

    Discover opportunities as a sponsor of MENA Construction Summit 2024!

    - Explore ongoing contracting and supplier opportunities
    - Learn about the major construction and infrastructure projects in Saudi Arabia and the wider region
    - Facilitate unique networking opportunities
    - Establish business relationships and collaborations
    - Participate in the summit and exhibition

    2024 Sponsors

    Diamond Partner

    Platinum Partner

    Gold Partner

    Silver Partner

    Contracting Partner

    Consulting Partner

    Design Partner

    Bronze Partner

    Attending Partners

    2024 Partners

    Media Centre

    Register to be a media partner and gain exclusive access to the MENA Construction Summit 2024, where you will be able to capture compelling content and conduct interviews with key stakeholders.

    Why partner with us?

    – Guaranteed media coverage

    – Exclusive insights & interviews

    – Forge valuable connections with industry leaders and experts

    – Media partners logo in promotional materials and websites

    Become a media partner

    Enquiry

    Contact Us

    Thank you for showing interest to partner with MENA Construction Summit 2024.​

    Please contact us using the contact information below, and one of our team will be in touch.

    Sponsorship Enquiries

    Nishant Sehgal

    Sponsorship Advisor

    Speaker Enquiries

    Jennie Bishop

    Head of Production

    Delegate Enquiries

    Marissa Bautista

    Account Manager

    Sponsorship Enquiries

    To enquire about sponsorship opportunities, please contact:

    Nishant Sehgal

    Sponsorship Advisor

    Speaker Enquiries

    To enquire about speaking opportunities for the summit, please contact:

    Jennie Bishop

    Head of Production