The huge increase in the size of the Big Construct Saudi exhibition this year matches the colossal developments in the kingdom’s construction industry, says a senior official of dmg events, the organiser of the show.

Big 5 Construct Saudi will enhance the diversity of its offerings with the participation of local and international exhibitors bringing together ground-breaking ideas, innovative technologies and unparalleled expertise, Muhammed Kazi, Vice President – Construction at dmg events, tells Gulf Construction.

At this year’s event, participating companies will showcase the latest construction technologies that are driving the construction industry forward, thus offering a holistic exhibition experience that covers all aspects of the construction industry, from design to completion, he states.

Kazi ... holistic exhibition experience.

Big 5 Construct Saudi plays a vital role in contributing to the growth and transformation of the construction sector. By featuring the latest technologies, sustainable practices and cutting-edge solutions, the event empowers the industry to embrace innovation and modernisation, he adds.

Excerpts of the interview:

Big 5 Construct Saudi is a major event in the region’s construction calendar. What are your main goals and expectations for this year’s edition in Riyadh?

Returning for its 12th edition this year, Big 5 Construct Saudi is the largest construction event to be ever held in the kingdom. The event focuses on bringing together industry professionals, showcasing the latest technologies and innovations, providing a platform for networking and business opportunities, and addressing key challenges and trends in the Saudi Arabia construction landscape.

Bringing together the biggest names in the kingdom’s construction market, Big 5 Construct Saudi features 1,300-plus local and international exhibitors, recording a strong 55 per cent increase compared to last year’s edition, from more than 40 countries to connect with 55,000+ construction professionals.

Doubling in size to match the colossal developments in the kingdom’s construction industry, Big 5 Construct Saudi enhances the diversity of offerings with the participation of local and international exhibitors bringing together ground-breaking ideas, innovative technologies and unparalleled expertise.

This year, the trade exhibition hosts 20 country pavilions. As international presence grows at Big 5 Construct Saudi bringing together prominent industry players, it provides a collaborative platform for stakeholders to build new partnerships boosting the growth of the kingdom’s construction sector.

At a time when Saudi Arabia won the bid to host the Riyadh Expo 2030 and the Fifa World Cup 2034, our event continues to bridge international collaborations as stakeholders gear up to deliver the requirements stemming from the multi-billion-dollar ongoing and upcoming mega and giga projects in the kingdom.

New sectors have been introduced this year including Concrete, Construction Technologies and Steel and Urban Design and Landscape. Please comment on why these new sectors have been introduced and how they complement the event’s existing product sectors.

As it contributes to the future of the kingdom’s construction sector, Big 5 Construct Saudi showcases more than 20,000 products and services under nine product sectors in 2024. 

Products and services from more than 40 countries will be promoted at the event.

Product sectorisation is a central element of the four-day show this year, with a focus on new sectors such as steel fabrication, concrete, urban design and landscape, technology, etc. The steel and concrete sectors will bring the latest advancements in materials and their applications in construction, while the urban design and landscape sectors will provide insights into the planning and execution of green and sustainable projects.

Big 5 Construct Saudi’s focus on product sectorisation this year is a timely response to the evolving needs of the Saudi construction market. By bringing together industry players from specific sectors, the event offers a valuable platform for networking, knowledge-sharing, and exploring new business opportunities. We believe that this targeted approach will help drive innovation and growth in the construction industry.

With Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 emphasising technological advancement, how is Big 5 Construct Saudi showcasing cutting-edge construction solutions?

Vision 2030 places a significant emphasis on sustainability, and Big 5 Construct Saudi features innovative and sustainable construction materials, techniques, and practices that contribute to reducing environmental impact and aligning with global sustainability goals. At this year’s event, participating companies will showcase the latest construction technologies, such as intelligent construction solutions, construction software, 3D printing, VR in construction, smart building solutions, intelligent building systems, energy-efficient technologies, and more.

With technology driving the construction industry forward, the event will showcase the latest innovations, including artificial intelligence, automation, and digital construction solutions. Big 5 Construct Saudi offers a holistic exhibition experience that covers all aspects of the construction industry, from design to completion, with the addition of these sectors.

The impressive growth of the building and construction sector has attracted more than 1,300 companies from 40+ countries. In addition, the co-location of four specialised events HVAC R Expo Saudi, FM Expo Saudi, Stone & Surface Saudi Arabia and Windows, Doors & Facades Event Saudi makes Big 5 Construct Saudi an unmissable event providing innumerable opportunities and business prospects for investors and trade buyers to secure the best technologies, products and services and solutions for their needs.

Please comment on Big 5 Construct Saudi’s role in bridging the gap to address the specific needs of the Saudi market. What role do you see Big 5 Construct Saudi playing in supporting the Kingdom’s ambitious development goals?

Big 5 Construct Saudi serves as a platform that brings together key stakeholders in the construction industry, providing a unique opportunity for industry players to showcase their innovations, products, and services tailored to the Saudi market. This event acts as a bridge, connecting local and international businesses, fostering collaboration, and facilitating the exchange of ideas and expertise.

In the context of Saudi Arabia’s ambitious development goals in line with Vision 2030, Big 5 Construct Saudi plays a vital role in contributing to the growth and transformation of the construction sector. By featuring the latest technologies, sustainable practices, and cutting-edge solutions, the event empowers the industry to embrace innovation and modernisation.

The event not only facilitates business networking but also acts as a catalyst for collaboration between local and international companies. This aligns with Saudi Arabia’s vision of diversifying its economy and creating a vibrant business ecosystem.

Moreover, Big 5 Construct Saudi serves as a knowledge hub, hosting Big 5 Talks programmes that provide insights into industry trends, regulations, and best practices. This educational aspect is essential for industry professionals to stay informed and aligned with the Kingdom’s evolving requirements.

In summary, Big 5 Construct Saudi plays a pivotal role in supporting the specific needs of the Saudi Arabian construction market. By fostering collaboration, promoting innovation, and providing a platform for knowledge exchange, the event contributes significantly to the kingdom’s journey toward achieving its ambitious development goals.

Beyond the official programme, what are some hidden gems or unique experiences attendees shouldn’t miss at Big 5 Construct Saudi? What are the new features at this year’s event?

Big 5 Construct Saudi hosts a content programme, Big 5 Talks. Designed in collaboration with top industry experts, distinguished associations, and esteemed knowledge partners, the talks represent a platform for education, networking, and development with every session acting as a catalyst for progress in the construction industry.

Visitors will hear from construction leaders to innovators, architects to project and facilities management practitioners as well as technologists. The talks provide insightful takeaways under 13 streams. These include concrete, sustainability, technology innovations and digital transformation in construction, contracting strategies, risk management and legal, decarbonisation, HVAC R, architecture and design, facilities management, giga project updates, intelligent buildings, project management and leadership.