Middle East Construction & Real Estate Podcast
Jonathan Eveleigh
- 10
- Episodes
- 2023
- First episode
About Middle East Construction & Real Estate Podcast
The Middle East is one of the world's most discussed and revered construction and real estate marketplaces. This podcast features some of the industry's foremost individuals and will cover a range of topics, projects, initiatives, and trends affecting the industry. Hosted by Jonathan Eveleigh With 23 years experience working in the Middle East for leading contractors Laing O'Rourke and Khansaheb, as host of the MECRE podcast I will be joined by experts from leading organisations in the property and construction industry to share their knowledge, views and advice on a range of key subjects, projects, new developments, market trends and other topics
- Publisher
- Jonathan Eveleigh
- Category
- news
- Language
- en
- Explicit
- No
- First episode
- 10 Aug 2023
- Latest episode
- 2 Aug 2024
Latest episodes
10 episodes in the feed.
2 Aug 2024
Exploring the Future of Co-Living in the Middle East with Bass Ackerman, Founder of Hive Coliv
Ever wondered how modern communal living can transform urban life? Discover the future of co-living in the Middle East with Bass Ackerman, founder of Hive. Join us as Bass shares his incredible journey from South Africa to Dubai, and how his passion for real estate led to the creation of Hive. Learn about Hive's pioneering project in Jumeirah Village Circle (JVC), where Bas breaks down the vision, development process, and the unique challenges they overcame to bring the first co-living development to the UAE. Co-living spaces offer a unique blend of affordability and community-centric living, and we discuss how this innovative housing solution is reshaping urban living. Smaller, fully furnished private units with expansive shared amenities provide a vibrant, engaging environment. By bridging the gap between student accommodations and traditional apartments, co-living becomes an attractive option for young professionals priced out of the conventional rental market. Bass highlights the key benefits of co-living such as all-inclusive payments, ready-to-move-in spaces, and flexible lease options, making it a brilliant choice for those seeking affordability and community. We also dive into the strategic considerations behind fostering a diverse tenant base and the rigorous vetting process to maintain this diversity. Bass sheds light on why co-living spaces have been slower to catch on in the UAE compared to the UK and the US, and how Hive's design approach maximizes utility while catering to community needs. The episode wraps up with a forward-looking discussion on the growth potential of co-living in the UAE and Saudi Arabia, addressing housing affordability and urban density challenges. Tune in to gain a comprehensive understanding of co-living's past, present, and promising future in the Middle East! LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/bass-ackermann-04844737/) Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/hivecoliv/?hl=en) Email: bass@hivecoliv.com (mailto:bass@hivecoliv.com) https://mecrepodcast.buzzsprout.com/ (https://mecrepodcast.buzzsprout.com/)
27 Jun 2024
Exploring Facilities Management in the UAE with Stuart Harrison, CEO of Emrill
Unlock the secrets of modern Facilities Management with Stuart Harrison, the CEO of Emrill, in our latest episode! Stuart shares his remarkable journey and provides invaluable insights into the evolution of the FM industry, from traditional maintenance tasks to the adoption of cutting-edge technologies like AI and computer-aided systems. Discover the distinct characteristics of the UAE's FM market, shaped by its personal, family-oriented business culture and a heightened focus on efficient building management in a post-COVID world. We also discuss the emerging trends that are redefining facilities management. Learn the difference between soft and hard FM services and get a clear understanding of Total Facilities Management (TFM) and Integrated Facilities Management (IFM). Stuart offers a balanced view on whether to outsource FM services or keep them in-house, highlighting how outsourcing can free up businesses to focus on their core competencies while ensuring their facilities are expertly maintained. If you've ever been puzzled by the intricacies of FM services, this episode is your guide. Finally, we dig into the practical side of maintaining critical assets, touching on preventive, reactive, and condition-based strategies to optimize resource use and minimize disruptions. From energy-efficient innovations like variable speed chillers to the role of technology platforms such as TechSphere, discover how the latest advancements are transforming facilities management. Stuart's expertise offers a comprehensive look at how these strategies contribute not only to operational efficiency but also to sustainability goals. Don't miss this enlightening episode packed with actionable insights and forward-thinking strategies in the world of Facilities Management. https://mecrepodcast.buzzsprout.com/ (https://mecrepodcast.buzzsprout.com/)
15 May 2024
Mastering Commercial Management and Dispute Resolution in Construction with Suzannah Newboult of DLA Piper
Unlock the secrets of dealing with commercial management in the construction industry with Suzannah Newboult, partner at DLA Piper. Suzannah is a seasoned legal expert with a decade of expertise in the Middle East. She talks to us about about contract administration, from valuing work and managing supply chains to mastering cost control and contract law. Our candid discussion sheds light on the perils of late payments, poor cashflow, while offering solutions through education, legislative reforms, and financial instruments such as project bank accounts - all aimed at keeping your projects sufficiently funded and on schedule. Dive into a deep analysis of procurement methods and their direct correlation to construction disputes. Suzannah dissects the nuances of lump sum versus remeasurement and cost-reimbursable contracts, unraveling their effects on projects. We also venture into alternative procurement strategies, such as TargetSum and alliance contracting, a shared risk and success model. We address the aspect of risk allocation in contract management, underscoring the necessity for risks to be identified, priced, and managed by those most capable. As we examine the burgeoning role of claims consultants in the UAE and across the Middle East, we debate their influence on facilitating amicable resolutions. The episode culminates in a call to embrace innovative contract terms with pioneering dispute resolution mechanisms, navigating the ever-evolving landscape of commercial management in construction — all the while ensuring the project's progress and eventual financial outcomes are successful. https://mecrepodcast.buzzsprout.com/ (https://mecrepodcast.buzzsprout.com/)
22 Apr 2024
Unveiling life as one of Saudi Arabia’s leading architects, with BSBG’s Bart Leclercq’
Ever wondered what it's like to swap tulips for sand dunes and embark on a career adventure in the heart of the Arabian Peninsula? This episode's special guest, Bart Leclercq, head of Studio for Brewer Smith Brewer Group (BSBG), shares his captivating journey from the Netherlands to the rapidly transforming landscape of Saudi Arabia. As he recounts his transition, we get an insider's view of the Middle Eastern construction boom and BSBG's strategic expansion into the Saudi market. Bart's personal anecdotes about settling into life in Riyadh, from navigating the bustling streets to the warmth of its people, paint a vivid picture of a land rich with opportunity and cultural depth. Navigating the lively kingdom of Saudi Arabia comes with its own set of challenges and adjustments, a reality Bart articulately brings to life. The discussion turns to the professional hurdles encountered, like securing a Saudi 'iqama' and mastering local business practices, while also highlighting the exciting potential seen in the region's construction and real estate sectors. Reflecting on his experiences, Bart provides a nuanced understanding of the local culture's impact on both lifestyle and architectural design, offering listeners a rare glimpse into the day-to-day reality of working in one of the world's most dynamic development landscapes. As we round out our conversation, technology's transformative role in Saudi Arabia's construction industry comes to the fore. Bart emphasizes how BSBG leverages Building Information Modeling (BIM) for unprecedented international collaboration, and he discusses the innovative construction methods being adopted to meet the unique challenges of Saudi Arabia's growth. Our dialogue offers a comprehensive look at the Saudi market, from understanding the nuances of doing business to adapting to the fast pace of development, ensuring this episode is a treasure trove of insights for professionals intrigued by the promise and potential of this vibrant corner of the world. https://mecrepodcast.buzzsprout.com/ (https://mecrepodcast.buzzsprout.com/)
17 Feb 2024
The Digital Transformation of Construction and Interior Design with Kathryn Athreya
Prepare to have your perspective on design irreversibly transformed as we sit down with Kathryn Athreya from Roar Design to navigate the thrilling confluence of digital and physical realms in interior design and construction. Kathryn unveils the psychological intricacies and economic potential that the metaverse introduces, and we examine how generative AI is revolutionizing industry practices. From the amplification of accessibility through hybrid events to the avant-garde use of NFTs in digital galleries, this episode is an expedition into the heart of innovation, guided by the experiences of those constructing within Decentraland and the challenges they conquer. Venture deeper with us into the digital frontier as we dissect the role of AI and the metaverse in reshaping communication and collaboration across industries. Discover how tech behemoths are spearheading virtual meetings that transcend geographic boundaries and how virtual training is redefining skill acquisition. Listen to our firsthand account of developing a virtual art gallery for a bank's regional art competition and learn about the transformative potential of AI in design and construction. With every anecdote and insight, we unravel how these advancements are not just altering industry standards but are paving the way for a new chapter of creativity and efficiency. As we conclude our exploration, we spotlight the remarkable concept of digital twins and their monumental impact on both consumer engagement and construction precision. From Samsung's remarkable 837x in Decentraland to advanced BIM integrations in predictive analytics, we break down the complexity and benefits of these digital replicas. This conversation is an essential listen for anyone eager to comprehend the financial and skill-related implications of investing in metaverse technologies and for those poised to adapt and thrive in this swiftly evolving digital epoch. Join us for an episode that's not just about predicting the future of design but actively shaping it. https://mecrepodcast.buzzsprout.com/ (https://mecrepodcast.buzzsprout.com/)
3 Jan 2024
Forecasting the next few years of the Middle East's property and construction sectors with Colin Foreman
Unlock some of the secrets behind the thriving Real Estate and Construction industry as we sit down in discussion with Colin Foreman, the keen journalistic mind behind MEED’s editorial intelligence, for an eye-opening finale to our first series. Get ready to understand the record-smashing GCC projects market where a staggering $178 billion in contract awards has set a new benchmark. We dissect the monumental contributions of Saudi Arabia's giga-projects and Dubai's thriving real estate landscape, offering a panoramic view into the regional powerhouses and the evolving trends that will shape the Middle East’s skyline through 2024 and beyond. The breathtaking pace of construction in Saudi Arabia comes with its own set of hurdles as well as ‘golden tickets’. We scrutinize the shifts in the contractor terrain, the impact of supply chain challenges, and the banking sector's caution with project financing. With the likes of Arabtec and other major contractors fading into the annals of history, we probe the strategic manoeuvres of the remaining contractors and consultants, who seek to master the balancing act of growth risk with reward. As Colin helps us to cast our eyes to the future, the ambition of Saudi Arabia's projects, such as NEOM, The Red Sea Project, Diryah Gate, heralds an era of virtual endless potential, somewhat reminiscent of Dubai's boom periods. Colin offers his expertise on the intricate challenges in nurturing talent in remote yet burgeoning hubs, the dynamic nature of GCC post-Al Ula accord, and the profound influence of regional development on sectors like transport and utilities. Join us for a profound exploration into the forces driving the Middle East’s construction and real estate narrative as we look ahead to the unfolding story of 2024 and beyond. https://mecrepodcast.buzzsprout.com/ (https://mecrepodcast.buzzsprout.com/)
31 Oct 2023
The Future of Data Centres in the Middle East: A Conversation with John Rippingale, Managing Director of Sudlows Consulting
Get ready to navigate the digital landscape of the Middle East as we sit down with John Rippingale, the Managing Director of Sudlows Consulting, who is about to demystify the world of data centres for us. Ever wondered about the driving forces behind the data centre industry? Well, you're about to learn all about it - from the explosion of cloud computing and the migration of government services, to the insatiable everyday demand for data. John Rippingale, a seasoned expert, walks us through the intricate process of designing and commissioning these high-performance data centres. He shares invaluable insights on the critical need for reliable power supply, temperature control, and robust ERs. Furthermore, we delve into the future of these facilities as John enlightens us on the importance of future-proofing data centres to cater to the growth needs of this rapidly evolving sector. Finally, we dive into the green side of the data centre industry as we explore the impact of sustainability and green technology on this market. We discuss how adopting sustainable design principles and tailoring temperature ranges can significantly reduce the carbon footprint of these centres. As we wrap up, John offers a glimpse into the lucrative future of the Middle East Data Centre market, a must-hear for any tech enthusiast or investor eyeing this booming sector. This episode promises a wealth of knowledge and insights that you don't want to miss! https://mecrepodcast.buzzsprout.com/ (https://mecrepodcast.buzzsprout.com/)
8 Oct 2023
Exploring the opportunities for more efficient delivery of mega projects, with Kez Taylor CEO Alec
Ready to understand why construction lags behind other sectors in terms of productivity? Keen to discover how to recapture a trillion dollars in wasted value worldwide? Then this episode is your gateway to the answers. We've got Kez Taylor, CEO of Alec, on board to help us unravel the complexities and potential of the construction industry. We kick off by dissecting the current state of the industry, particularly in the Middle East, shedding light on the trials and triumphs of mega projects and the opportunities Dubai presents as a potential leader in global construction efficiency. Moving away from the traditional approaches, we dive into the potential of modern construction methods, like off-site manufacturing, to revolutionize the sector. Kez brings a wealth of knowledge to the table, emphasizing the significance of collaboration, early contractor involvement, and fostering a culture of innovation. We also navigate through the challenges surrounding mega construction projects and the strategies to manage them. Trust us, you don't want to miss out on this conversation about trust's pivotal role in the industry and the tactics to attract, motivate, and retain top talent. So, gear up for a deep dive into the world of construction and its promising future. https://mecrepodcast.buzzsprout.com/ (https://mecrepodcast.buzzsprout.com/)
3 Sept 2023
Exploring Sustainable Construction and Decarbonization with Louise Collins, JLL's Regional Director of Energy and Engineering
What would you say if I told you that 40% of the world's annual carbon emissions originate from the built environment? Shocking, isn't it? In our latest conversation with Louise Collins, JLL's Regional Director of Energy and Engineering, we take an enlightening journey into the heart of the construction and real estate industry, examining its monumental role in responding to climate change. We delve into the intricate relationship between the concepts of net zero, decarbonisation, and sustainability and how they pertain to the built environment. Louise unveils the possibilities of designing and constructing buildings that are not only low in operation but are also high in maximizing and offsetting renewables. This episode is more than an enlightening talk – it's a call to action for real estate developers and occupiers. Have you ever considered how your building can contribute to sustainability? We discuss the transformative potential of energy-efficient technology, smart building tech, and life cycle assessments, and how they can dramatically reduce environmental impact and help save money. We then explore the potential impact of government regulations and incentives on businesses following COP 28. By the end of this episode, you'll see the construction and real estate industry through a fresh lens of sustainability and net zero goals. Tune in, learn, be challenged, and let's change the world, one building at a time. https://mecrepodcast.buzzsprout.com/ (https://mecrepodcast.buzzsprout.com/)
10 Aug 2023
An Insightful Journey into Middle East Real Estate with Rob Devereux, CEO of Brookfield Properties
We're thrilled to bring you insights from none other than Rob Devereux, the Chief Executive Officer of Brookfield Properties, Middle East. Buckle up as we embark on Rob's whirlwind journey through the construction and real estate industry, spanning continents from South Africa to the UK, from Australia to his current realm, the Middle East. This episode peels back the layers of the complex ICD Brookfield Place project, a collaborative effort between Brookfield Properties and Investment Corporation of Dubai, transforming Dubai's skyline. No sector has been left untouched by the COVID-19 pandemic, and construction is no exception. Gain an insider's perspective as Rob shares his experience navigating this challenging time, and learn how technology, specifically AkinX, became a game changer in keeping information flowing smoothly. But that's not all! Rob also gives us a sneak peek into what's coming next for Brookfield Properties, detailing ongoing projects and future ambitions. This episode is sure to leave you with a richer understanding of the Middle East's construction and real estate world, and the instrumental role Brookfield Properties plays in shaping it. Don't miss out on this enlightening conversation. https://mecrepodcast.buzzsprout.com/ (https://mecrepodcast.buzzsprout.com/)
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