A new wave of urban development is sweeping across the Middle East, characterized by mega projects, smart cities, and daring futuristic architecture. Such ambitious ventures naturally require innovative engineering and exacting execution. Strudco, being a structural engineering consultant in Saudi Arabia, recognizes that every single project in the region carries its own set of challenges and opportunities. The rapid development and demand for sustainable and smart designs have raised the bar for engineering companies to quicken their pace and catch up with the situation.

Diverse environmental conditions in the Middle East are one of the major difficulties that engineering companies have to overcome in their work. Difficult climates, extremely high summer temperatures, and the desert basically require specially made materials and designs that will not only last long but also consume less energy. The engineers have to walk the tightrope between giving the building a cutting-edge look and functionality that lasts for decades. And this is exactly when teaming up with the top architectural designers in Saudi Arabia proves to be beneficial. Only through this cooperation will engineers and architects together be able to provide structures that are both striking to the eye and structurally sound. The harmony between design and engineering shapes a whole new identity for the cities, from Riyadh to Dubai. With rapid growth comes also the fact that many projects are fast-tracked, which leaves little room for error. One of the toughest tests for any structural consultant is to perform the job in time, without compromising safety and quality. Planning and coordination, software, and workers are the keys to operating software projects efficiently.

Increased digital transformation has made BIM an inseparable tool in the construction planning process. For instance, advanced facade BIM services in Saudi Arabia involve the engineers and architects through the 3D visualization of designs, the early detection of clashes, and the production of components. The accuracy of this model guarantees that the digital technology is applied to produce and build with very little time and cost, besides the standard of accuracy. Although BIM did coordinate, it also opened a door to the exposure of larger projects. Nowadays, stakeholders can easily work together, keep track of developments, and make decisions based on the latest information. In a region that is gradually turning to automation and smart systems for its future, engineering firms are positioning BIM as a winning factor for their competitiveness.

The Middle East is no doubt a region with enormous potential, but at the same time, companies engaged in structural engineering are also sharpening their skills and capabilities worldwide. Strudco’s global experience is a direct result of working with clients across Asia and globally. We continue to engage with structural BIM service companies in Singapore to share knowledge and drive best practices globally, along with advanced modelling techniques for our projects. This global perspective helps us maintain high standards of quality and innovation. Given that sustainability is now the main criterion for every design, it is predicted that architects will come up with structures that not only consume less energy but are also eco-friendly. The government policies are pushing the green construction and smart building initiatives, which is a trend in the way that technology and creativity are combined, and therefore, a lot of opportunities are opened.

Our philosophy is that every challenge is an opportunity for us to grow. The region’s infrastructure and architectural works development on a large scale will always demand to be supported by reliable, high-quality, and versatile engineering solutions. The Middle East is undergoing a swift change, and those who support the change, leverage technology, and partner with others will reap the benefits. The story of structural engineering in this region is yet to be told, starting with the site preparation and continuing with the planning of the future skyline, and Strudco is very proud to be part of this journey.