JEDDAH – Saudi Arabia's construction projects valued at $613 billion are expected to be completed over the next five years, a report from Zawya commissioned by The Big 5 Saudi 2013 revealed. The four-day exhibition that opened Saturday will see significant participation from international companies looking to capitalize on opportunities within the Kingdom's construction market. Held under the patronage of Jeddah Mayor Dr. Hani Mohammad Aburas, The Big 5 Saudi takes place for the third consecutive year at Jeddah Centre for Forums and Events. The commissioned report, Saudi Construction Market: Unveil Opportunities Ahead, revealed that Power & Water and Real Estate represented the most significant sectors of current construction in the Kingdom, with 32.9 percent and 32.2 percent of the total respectively. “The influence of the Saudi construction market on the industry as a whole is unquestionable,” said Andy White, group event director, The Big 5. “We launched the Saudi event in 2011 with unprecedented success and have seen consistent year-on-year growth with international companies representing a majority share of our exhibitors.” “We see a real interest from the international market, with many looking to find out more about the market, key trends as well as present their products and services to potential buyers,” he added. This year's Big 5 Saudi host more than 550 exhibitors from 36 countries, as well as a series of certified educational workshops taking place alongside on topics including LEED and Concrete Repair. Each specialized sector will be located in a particular area of the exhibition, with the concrete zone bringing together the very latest products and technologies in concrete from around the world. The event is open1600-2200 daily. – SG
