AI in architecture, industry innovations take center stage at Big 5 Construct Saudi

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Updated 01 March 2025
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AI in architecture, industry innovations take center stage at Big 5 Construct Saudi

The second week of Big 5 Construct Saudi continues to draw visitors from all over the Kingdom, with a focus on circular economy in architecture, an important strategy for promoting sustainability in the built environment.

Adopting a circular economy in architecture enables sustainable, adaptable and resource-efficient buildings, emphasized one of the speakers on the closing day of the Architect Leaders Forum Saudi. 

During the session, Shahira Fahmy, founder and principal of Shahira Fahmy Architects stressed that by prioritizing material reuse, circular design and advanced technologies, architects could reduce waste, extend building lifecycles and measure environmental and social impact, ensuring long-term resilience and value.

“While industry leaders shared key insights on sustainable architecture, exhibitors showcased innovative solutions shaping Saudi Arabia’s built environment,” said Muhammed Kazi, senior vice president — construction, dmg events. “From AI-driven design tools and smart technologies to integrated facilities management and windows, doors and facade solutions, the exhibition floor continues to buzz with activity, reflecting the rising demand for eco-friendly, resource-efficient construction.”

As AI in architecture remained a key topic of discussion, one of the panels featuring Mark Ruppert, director of architecture + design at Mawarid Holdings International; Faiyad Peterson, country director KSA at Cundall; Tomasz Wozny, partner & general manager KSA at Foster + Partners; and Anas Sawalqa, KSA director at SAY Studio, highlighted how AI could complement both creativity and efficiency while still ensuring that the human element remains central to every design.

“We must guide AI to assist us. It should not be left to operate in isolation; it must be trained and practiced,” stressed Sawalqa. Fellow panelist Peterson noted: “While AI can optimize building efficiency and reduce material waste, we must use it responsibly. Designing with awareness and integrity is key, and AI should amplify this approach.”

In addition to the insightful discussions, Big 5 Construct Saudi also featured a wide array of innovative product showcases that are setting new benchmarks for the construction industry. Exhibitors displayed new technologies and solutions aimed at enhancing sustainability, efficiency and performance in the built environment. These products align with the growing demand for resource-efficient, smart and sustainable construction practices, supporting the Kingdom’s commitment to Vision 2030.

One such exhibitor, at Saudi FM & Clean, co-located with Big 5 Construct Saudi, AlMajal AlArabi Group is showcasing its integrated facility management solutions and leadership in the industry. Highlighting projects like the Riyadh Metro and Two Holy Mosques, MAG demonstrates its wide-reaching operations across 13 regions in the Kingdom, reinforcing its commitment to driving excellence in the sector.


GIB Capital strengthens regional leadership with $2.1bn ICM transactions

Updated 15 December 2025
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GIB Capital strengthens regional leadership with $2.1bn ICM transactions

GIB Capital, one of the region’s leading financial and investment banking advisers, has announced the successful execution of three major international capital markets transactions in November, underscoring the firm’s growing influence and distribution strength across global debt markets.

In a single month, GIB Capital acted in joint lead manager roles across three landmark issuances — supporting clients in the banking, aviation and government sectors — and attracting an aggregate of more than $4.6 billion in investor demand from the Middle East, Europe, Asia, the UK and the US. These transactions, which collectively raised over $2.1 billion, further demonstrate the confidence international investors place in GCC issuers and the strategic value GIB Capital brings to each mandate.

The firm began the month by serving as joint global coordinator, joint lead manager and bookrunner on the inaugural ICM issuance for GIB — Saudi Arabia. The $500 million perpetual non-call 5.5-year additional Tier 1 instrument was priced on Nov. 5 and generated an impressive $1.3 billion in orders, achieving a 2.6-times oversubscribed orderbook. The strong participation from regional, UK, Asian and European investors reflect the bank’s robust credit fundamentals and GIB Capital’s ability to deliver global reach for its clients.

On the same day, GIB Capital also acted as joint lead manager and bookrunner for AviLease’s first-ever ICM transaction — an $850 million bond offering that attracted exceptionally strong interest, closing in at over 3.7 times oversubscribed orderbook. The transaction drew participation from a diverse pool of regional, US, UK, European and Asian investors, highlighting the appeal to Saudi Arabia’s fastest-growing aviation leasing company. 

Further reinforcing its leadership in Islamic finance, GIB Capital concluded the month as joint lead manager and bookrunner on the government of Sharjah’s $750 million sukuk issuance, priced on Nov. 18. The transaction secured $2 billion in orders, representing a 2.6-times oversubscribed orderbook, with interest coming primarily from regional, UK and European accounts. This issuance marked government of Sharjah’s first US dollar public issuance in 2025 and benefited from strong investor confidence toward Sharjah’s credit story and in GIB Capital’s advisory expertise.

Commenting on the milestone month, Osamah Mohammed Shaker, CEO of GIB Capital, said: “These three successful issuances reflect the depth of trust our clients place in GIB Capital and the strength of our distribution network across global markets. The robust oversubscriptions and high-quality investor participation are clear indicators of the continued confidence in GCC credit stories and the resilience of the region’s economic outlook. We remain committed to delivering best-in-class execution, innovative structuring, and strategic advisory that enable our clients to access international liquidity efficiently and competitively.”

With a growing portfolio of successful mandates, GIB Capital continues to expand its presence as a leading provider of debt capital markets solutions, capital markets advisory, mergers and acquisitions, debt advisory, asset management and brokerage services. Combining deep regional insight with global investor connectivity, the firm remains committed to supporting clients across sectors with innovative, tailored, and high-impact financial solutions.