The Middle East and Africa (MEASA) region is witnessing a transformative phase in its urban landscape as the Big 5 Global recently concluded its 45th edition in Dubai, an event that has become pivotal in shaping the construction and infrastructure sectors. This year’s Big 5 Global provided a significant platform for discussions centred on innovation and sustainability, directly aligning with the region's ambitious urban development goals amidst a massive $9 trillion construction pipeline.
Organised by dmg events, the Big 5 Global has evolved to adapt to the growing needs of urbanisation in this dynamic region, introducing new initiatives like LiveableCitiesX, GeoWorld, and Future FM. Josine Heijmans, Senior Vice President at dmg events, in her reflections on the event, outlined how these new platforms aim to enhance urban liveability, integrate geospatial advancements, and improve facilities management in line with national aspirations such as ‘We the UAE 2031’ and ‘Saudi Vision 2030’.
The World Bank’s recent projections indicate that by 2080, 80 per cent of the global population is expected to reside in urban areas, with MEASA playing a crucial role in this demographic shift. The Big 5 Global served as a hub for coordination between the public and private sectors to foster sustainable urban solutions tailored to the region's unique needs.
Among the highlights of this year’s exhibition was the presentation of various innovative technologies aimed at supporting net-zero and sustainable construction practices. The event featured a range of advancements, including green building materials, superior energy-efficient systems, and technologies designed to lower carbon emissions. Notably, innovations in geospatial solutions, climate-resilient facilities management services, and scalable modular and 3D printing technologies were showcased to address the urgent demand for eco-friendly construction.
Collaboration was a key theme throughout the event, with summits such as the Big 5 Global Leaders’ Summit and GeoWorld Summit bringing together thought leaders, policymakers, and industry experts from urban planning, facilities management, and construction sectors. These platforms facilitated discussions around how technologies like Building Information Modelling (BIM), robotics, Artificial Intelligence (AI), and Augmented Reality (AR) are significantly enhancing project efficiency and fostering collaboration.
BIM, along with robotics and automation, has been identified as instrumental in improving project accuracy, reducing errors, and facilitating teamwork across projects. Similarly, the integration of AI and machine learning is proving effective in optimising timelines and managing costs by forecasting potential delays and shortages in resources. The exhibition also showcased AR and VR technologies as valuable tools for design validation and safety training, contributing to expedited project delivery while upholding high safety and quality standards.
The influence of the Big 5 Global extends beyond mere technological showcases, as evidenced by recent partnerships formed during this year’s event. Noteworthy collaborations included a multi-million-euro agreement between BAUER Maschinen GmbH and Pinnacle International Piling for a new piling rig, and a partnership between Saudi-based WhiteHelmet and India’s SB Scaffolding, which is set to introduce advanced construction technologies to the Indian market. Additionally, local developments such as Dubai-based Deyaar Development's announcement of Park Five—a luxury residential community—demonstrate the event's tangible role in advancing sustainable urban spaces in the region.
Looking to the future, the Big 5 Global is poised to maintain its status as a leading platform for innovation, sustainability, and collaboration within the construction and urban development sectors. As the largest gathering of construction professionals in MEASA, it remains committed to addressing the challenges posed by rapid urbanisation and supporting the transition towards sustainable city development through ongoing knowledge exchange and strategic partnerships.
Source: Noah Wire Services