Saudi Projects Interviews Eng. Nasser Abouelazayem, Controls Director at BEC Arabia.
Saudi Arabia’s construction sector is experiencing a transformation driven by large-scale infrastructure projects aligned with Vision 2030. At the heart of this transformation is BEC Arabia’s Eng. Nasser Abouelazayem, Controls Director at BEC Arabia, shares insights into the company’s expertise, the challenges of delivering complex projects, and the innovative control systems that are shaping the industry.
Saudi Projects: Can you share an overview of your role as Controls Director at BEC Arabia and how it aligns with the company’s vision and objectives?
Eng. Nasser: As Controls Director at BEC Arabia, I oversee the implementation of robust control systems that ensure our projects are delivered efficiently, within time & cost, and to the highest quality and safety standards. My role involves monitoring cost control, scheduling, risk management, resource allocation, and compliance with Quality, Health, Safety & Environmental (QHSE).
Our company’s vision is to lead the construction sector through operational excellence, and my team plays a pivotal role in ensuring that each project aligns with these high standards.
Saudi Projects: What inspired you to pursue a career in controls and engineering, and how has this shaped your leadership approach at BEC Arabia?
Eng. Nasser: My passion for problem-solving and optimising complex systems drove me to pursue a career in controls and engineering. I have always been intrigued by the way data-driven decision-making can transform construction projects. At BEC Arabia, I focus on fostering a culture of precision, proactive planning, and collaboration. Leadership, for me, is about empowering my team to think critically, innovate, and adapt to the ever-evolving construction landscape.
Saudi Projects: BEC Arabia is known for its engineering and control solutions. What unique strengths does the company bring to the Saudi construction market?
Eng. Nasser: BEC Arabia stands out due to our comprehensive EPC and turnkey solutions across diverse sectors, including hospitality, residential, commercial, and infrastructure projects. We began our journey 25 years ago in the UAE and expanded into Saudi Arabia in 2010. Over time, we have diversified into real estate development and management, leveraging our expertise to become co-developers and financial partners in select projects.
Our cutting-edge technologies enhance collaboration and scalability
Our workforce of over 10,000 employees ensures seamless execution across multiple domains. By operating specialised subsidiaries for concrete solutions, landscaping, infrastructure, and electromechanical systems, we have established ourselves as a dominant player in Saudi Arabia’s construction market.
Saudi Projects: How does BEC Arabia integrate advanced control systems to enhance operational efficiency and meet customer expectations?
Eng. Nasser: We are introducing advanced technologies such as Building Information Modeling (BIM), a robust documentation management system, and an integrated ERP solution within our controls system. BIM enhances 3D visualization, improving design accuracy and coordination. Our documentation management system streamlines collaboration and accessibility, while ERP integration ensures seamless data flow and informed decision-making. By creating a unified digital environment, we enhance our reporting system to reflect near real-time project status, allowing us to exceed client expectations with improved efficiency and transparency.
Saudi Projects: How do BEC Arabia’s controls and automation solutions address the challenges in Saudi Arabia’s construction industry?
Eng. Nasser: Cost management, project efficiency, quality, health, safety & environmental (QHSE) compliance are the top challenges in Saudi Arabia’s construction sector. Our real-time cost control systems enable precise budget tracking and financial risk mitigation. Automation streamlines workflows, reducing human error and improving productivity. QHSE compliance is enhanced through real-time monitoring and alert systems, ensuring adherence to local and international QHSE regulations. Our solutions are customised to address the unique environmental and regulatory landscape in Saudi Arabia, making us a trusted partner in the industry.
Over 10,000 employees driving project success
Saudi Projects: Can you highlight a recent project where your team’s expertise in controls contributed to its success?
Eng. Nasser: The Sindalah Island Project is a prime example. By incorporating advanced 4D and 5D BIM, we improved project planning, scheduling, and resource allocation. Our focus on automation, data-driven decision-making, and real-time coordination significantly enhanced project efficiency, allowing us to meet key milestones ahead of schedule while maintaining exceptional quality standards. in addition we obtained 2 Platinum lead certificates.
Another notable project is the STC Square Project, where our team played a crucial role in implementing rigorous cost control measures, procurement strategies, and scheduling precision.
By integrating real-time tracking and risk management, we maintained financial discipline while supporting the project’s smart, sustainable, and health-focused vision. Our structured approach to controls played a key role in delivering a Greener, Smarter, and Healthier urban development.
Saudi Projects: Sustainability is a key focus in Vision 2030. How does BEC Arabia incorporate sustainable practices into its control solutions?
Eng. Nasser: Sustainability is a core pillar of our operations. We integrate energy-efficient smart control systems to optimise resource consumption and reduce carbon footprints. Our projects utilise renewable energy sources, including solar-thermal and photovoltaic panels, to enhance energy efficiency. Predictive maintenance and advanced waste management strategies help extend equipment lifespan, minimise waste, and reduce environmental impact.
These measures align with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 goals of promoting sustainability in infrastructure development.
Saudi Projects: What are the biggest challenges facing the controls and engineering sector in Saudi Arabia, and how is BEC Arabia addressing them?
Eng. Nasser: One of the biggest challenges is managing the scale and complexity of mega-projects. We address this by deploying AI-driven automation, and cloud-based collaboration platforms. Another challenge is the industry’s growing demand for sustainable solutions. We proactively integrate green technologies and energy-efficient control systems into our projects. Additionally, workforce development is crucial. BEC Arabia invests in continuous training programs to equip our teams with the latest industry knowledge and technical expertise.
“Sustainability is at the core of Vision 2030”
Saudi Projects: How has the expertise of key personnel at BEC Arabia contributed to overcoming major project challenges?
Eng. Nasser: Our leadership team comprises highly skilled professionals with extensive experience in large-scale infrastructure projects. Their deep industry knowledge enables us to anticipate challenges and implement strategic solutions proactively. Collaboration between project managers, engineers, and control specialists ensures that every project is executed efficiently. Our commitment to training and professional development allows our team to stay ahead of industry trends and technological advancements, driving continuous improvement in our processes.
Saudi Projects: Looking ahead, what opportunities do you see for BEC Arabia to further support the Kingdom’s construction and infrastructure projects?
Eng. Nasser: Vision 2030 presents immense opportunities for infrastructure development, and BEC Arabia is well-positioned to contribute. As Saudi Arabia continues to focus on smart cities, sustainable urban planning, and large-scale tourism projects, we aim to play a key role in delivering innovative and high-quality solutions.
By aligning our strategy with national development goals, we are committed to driving economic growth, fostering job creation, and setting new benchmarks in the construction sector.
BEC Arabia continues to lead the way in integrating advanced control solutions, automation, and sustainable practices into Saudi Arabia’s construction industry. By leveraging cutting-edge technologies and a highly skilled workforce, the company ensures that its projects align with the Kingdom’s ambitious Vision 2030 goals. To learn more about BEC Arabia’s expertise and services, visit their website or reach out to their team for further insights.
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