Dubai: From liveable, connected cities to the world's first block-laying robot that delivers tenfold productivity and a record-sized water storage tank, the second day of Big 5 Global at Dubai World Trade Centre focused on smart, sustainable solutions to global construction and development opportunities. With more than 20 halls filled with visiting delegates and exhibitors, attendees heard about the importance of government and industry alignment in accelerating the delivery of cities optimized for the future.
According to Emirates News Agency, Eng Abdulla Mohamed Al Blooshi, Acting Director General of the Urban Planning and Permits Centre at DMT, emphasized the significance of events like the Summit in showcasing the benefits cities gain when stakeholders work collaboratively. He remarked, "Events such as Big 5 Global demonstrate that when government and industry align on consistent regulation, smarter infrastructure planning, and measurable project performance, we accelerate the delivery of liveable, sustainable cities," citing Abu Dhabi's urban transformation as an example.
The LiveableCitiesX Summit featured discussions on maximizing time in the modern world. Notable speakers included Nada Taryam, CEO of BEEAH Real Estate, Eng Nasser bin Salem Al Wadai, General Manager for Projects at the Riyadh Region Municipality, and Dr. Nadine Bitar Chahine, Vice-President of the International Federation of Landscape Architects.
On sustainability, Taryam highlighted BEEAH's operations, which include 50 recycling facilities, with non-recyclable materials being converted to energy at a plant powering nearly 100,000 homes. She stated, "Our participation at Big 5 Global underscores our commitment to advancing integrated, low-impact, and human-centered cities."
The opening day of the Big 5 FutureTech Summit examined how AI, data, and robotics are transforming the construction and smart build industry. Eng Naser Al Shaibani of Dubai Municipality discussed how Dubai is becoming one of the most advanced construction ecosystems globally. Following this, Charlie Sheridan from Nemetschek Group explained how AI-powered tools are enhancing creativity and productivity across the design-to-build lifecycle.
The day included discussions on innovation, featuring Douglas Zuzic of Innovo Group, who noted that innovation is driven by client expectations, evolving regulations, and efficiency needs in real estate and infrastructure projects.
New product launches also marked day two, including Buildroid AI's introduction of its block-laying robot, promising significant productivity and cost savings. Additionally, dss+ launched its Next-Generation Safety Excellence Programme for Construction, with Ehsan Akhavan presenting on the importance of safety and construction excellence.
Al Bassam was recognized for creating the world's largest plastic water tank, using advanced technology and recyclable materials, reflecting a commitment to sustainability. The Guinness World Records presented the award at Big 5 Global.
Josine Heijmans, Senior Vice President of dmg events, remarked, "Today saw the launch of the second edition of our LiveableCitiesX Summit, which spurred conversations around the need for government and industry collaboration to accelerate sustainable, smart city projects." She added that the event showcased product launches and announcements that will promote tech adoption in the industry.