Booming economies, expanding populations and the most ambitious schemes anywhere in the world – the Gulf is undeniably the most exciting destination right now for construction. It’s not only growing at an extraordinary rate as markets around the world crumble, the way the industry works is also evolving almost as fast.

Expats going into Saudi, Qatar or Dubai only a few years ago may have found themselves dealing with cavalier site practices, sketchy planning and Byzantine bureaucracy. But developers in the Middle East have quickly built up an impressive body of experience in projects that have never been attempted anywhere else, and they’re highly skilled at augmenting it with the best advice that more developed markets can offer.

The plans are still getting bigger, but they’re getting much, much more detailed too, as you can find out in The Next Generation, and typified by the Gulf’s most progressive client, Aldar. That’s also reflected in the growing awareness of facilities management – another massive opportunity for UK firms.

In many ways, the Middle East is becoming the powerhouse of global construction and to recognise this, we’re pleased to announce the first Gulf States Building Awards, in partnership with the Emirates Green Building Council. The awards, to be held in November, will highlight the most outstanding projects and people in the region.

Postscript

Denise Chevin, editor of Building

Middle East 03 October 2008