The integration of technology into every facet of construction and supply-chain management is a non-negotiable for a modern construction firm, according to Samer Ibrahim, CEO of Urbacon Saudi Company, the local affiliate of Qatar’s Urbacon Trading & Contracting Company.

"Tools such as building information modelling, artificial intelligence-driven procurement systems and real-time tracking platforms transform how we plan, monitor and execute complex projects," said Ibrahim, speaking at the MEED Saudi Gigaprojects 2025 Summit in Riyadh.

"The need for synchronised planning, transparent communication and shared accountability has never been greater. Projects of national significance require integrated supply-chain strategies that bring all players to the table early, align expectations and ensure resilience against disruptions," he added.

Collaboration must be embedded not only in contracts, but also in the culture of how a firm operates.

"At Urbacon, we are actively working to foster strategic partnerships across the supply chain, from local manufacturers to global technology providers. This approach enables greater predictability in materials sourcing, faster issue resolution and enhanced agility in responding to project changes," Ibrahim said.

"Stakeholders must move from transactional relationships to long-term alliances built on trust, data sharing and mutual goals. Only through this can we overcome delivery challenges and elevate standards across the industry."

As an example of Urbacon's use of construction technology, Ibrahim noted that the firm is implementing three-dimensional printing on several school projects in Qatar.

Urbacon is playing a key role in Saudi Arabia's gigaprojects programme. In July last year, Urbacon Saudi Company, in partnership with a local firm, won an estimated SR8bn ($2bn) contract to construct assets in the Wadi Safar development, one of the three main schemes at the Diriyah gigaproject.

In addition, in February 2023, Saudi Entertainment Ventures (Seven) awarded contracts totalling SR2.4bn ($640m) to a joint venture of Urbacon Saudi Company and the local Al-Bawani for the construction of three entertainment complexes in Saudi Arabia, in Tabuk, Yanbu and Medina.