The annual ranking of the top 30 Saudi Arabian construction contractors returns in 2023, profiling the biggest and most relevant firms in the kingdom.
As delivery schedules intensify and work ramps up on the gigaprojects fuelling Vision 2030, Construction Week Saudi speaks to the companies helping to drive Saudi Arabia’s transition, via their work on thousands of project sites across the country.
The list was compiled by reaching out to home-grown contractors in the kingdom and sharing a questionnaire that focused on key criteria: Major Successes over the last 12 months; Projects completed within the 2022-2023 calendar year; Current Backlogs; and 2022 revenue.
The editorial team then collated the information, utilised publically available information, and their own assessment of the kingdom’s most active construction firms, to produce the final result.
Here is the list of the top 30 construction firms in Saudi Arabia in 2023:
| KSA Construction Firms | KSA Construction Firms |
|---|---|
| 1. Nesma & Partners | 16. Al-Rashid Trading and Contracting Company (RTCC) |
| 2. AlBawani | 17. AlFouzan Construction |
| 3. El Seif Engineering Contracting | 18. Saudi Pan Kingdom Company (SAPAC) |
| 4. Almabani | 19. Saudi Arabian Trading and Construction Company (SATCO) |
| 5. IHCC | 20. Masah Specialised Construction |
| 6. Shahm Contracting Company | 21. Saudi Arabian Baytur Construction Company |
| 7. Construction and Planning Co. (C&P) | 22. Shihb Al Jazira Contracting Company |
| 8. Al-Ayuni Investment & Contracting | 23. Saudi Real Estate Infrastructure Company (Binyah) |
| 9. Contracting and Construction Enterprises (CCE | 24. Haif Company |
| 10. Kabbani Construction Group | 25. Red Sea International Company |
| 11. Umm Al Qura for Development & Construction Company | 26. BEC Arabia |
| 12. AlKifah Contracting Company | 27. Mohammed Al Rashid Contracting Company (MARCO) |
| 13. Saudi Binladin Group (SBG) | 28. Tamimi Global |
| 14. Mofarreh | 29. Freyssinet Saudi Arabia |
| 15. Makkah Construction and Development Company | 30. Abdulali Al-Ajmi Company |
1. Nesma & Partners
Established in 1981, Nesma & Partners is a leading contractor in Saudi Arabia offering full-fledged services in sectors, including industrial, O&G, civil and buildings, and infrastructure, as well as significant electro-mechanical capacities.
The company, which has achieved phenomenal growth over the last 40 years, has implemented a new business strategy designed to support its continued growth and sustainable success in an evolving industry. Today, Nesma & Partners is one of the largest contractors in Saudi Arabia and has earned its reputation with a track record of over 200 completed projects.
In the past year, Nesma & Partners has accomplished various notable achievements. They have formed a local joint venture called NesmaKent with engineering firm Kent, enabling the company to become an EPC player in the O&G sector for Saudi Aramco. As part of this partnership, they have committed to establishing an independent engineering centre of excellence within the kingdom in the next five years. Additionally, Nesma & Partners has obtained multiple ISO certifications. Furthermore, the contractor was one of four companies to receive a combined $1.3 billion investment from the PIF.
The company’s completed projects demonstrate its versatility and expertise across various sectors. In 2022, the firm undertook the design and build of the AlUla Valley Infrastructure and Ashar Tented Resort project and the Bujairi Car Park project with Diriyah Gate. It has also fulfilled multiple assignments within the NEOM City program.
Currently, the firm is engaged in several ongoing construction projects, including the MASAR Makkah project, due for completion in 2023, encompassing over 1.2 million m2 of infrastructure works and a Grand Pedestrian Boulevard. The scope of work also includes two metro stations, 5.7 km of metro tunnels, multiple road structures and parking spaces. The firm is also working on The Avenues Riyadh Mall’s phase one, which covers 1.5 million m2 of built-up area, including three levels shopping mall, basement-level parking, substation buildings, and other infrastructure and external works.
In addition, it is involved in various building and infrastructure projects with DGDA and within the NEOM project, as well as Aramco.
In 2022, the firm celebrated over 85 million safe hours without lost-time injuries across its projects. The company is also meeting its digital transformation roadmap objectives to continuously improve and adopt the latest technologies in the construction industry.
Under the guidance of its President and CEO, Samer Abdul Samad, Nesma & Partners remains dedicated to expanding its capabilities across core business areas while exploring opportunities aligned with its commitment to sustainability.
2. AlBawani
Established in 1991, AlBawani has become one of Saudi Arabia’s premier construction companies, known for its resilience, steady growth, and diversification. The contracting giant operates across various industries and collaborates with government, semi-government, and private enterprises, all while supporting the kingdom’s Vision 2030 goals.
Over the past 12 months, the contractor has achieved significant milestones, including its strategic partnership with the Public Investment Fund (PIF). This investment will enable the company to scale up capacity, expand capabilities, stimulate growth, and drive the adoption of advanced technologies, ultimately enhancing local supply chains for current and future projects in the kingdom.
Key projects completed by AlBawani in the past year include the RSAF Secured Communication Facility, data centre projects in Qassim and Jeddah, phase two of KAFD Towers, work for the Red Sea Coastal Village, the Granada Mall expansion project, the MADAC building, Aramco Innovation Centre, SAR project in Qurayyat, and the Diriyah project’s Bujairi public realm and infrastructure works.
The contractor’s ongoing projects include SEVEN entertainment, in addition to the NEOM Hospital and Olayan Hospital. Additionally, AlBawani is also working on the Sports Boulevard project, the Royal Commission for AlUla, production plant for Lucid, and RSGT – MENA, among many other projects. The company has handed over 27 schools in Jeddah, out of a total of 60 schools planned for Jeddah and Makkah in the Wave 1 project.
AlBawani is also deeply committed to digital transformation and technological adoption, having initiated these activities at an early stage. Under CEO Fakher Alshawaf, the firm’s commitment and change management practices have facilitated seamless transitions while modifying group processes, business models, and existing technologies.
AlBawani’s reputation as a top contractor in Saudi Arabia is built on a foundation of strong credentials, timely project delivery, sound management, innovation, embracing technology, corporate governance, social responsibility, and an enhanced Health , Safety, and Environment culture.
Furthermore, the company prides itself on client satisfaction, a geographical presence spanning the entirety of KSA, and access to a vast pool of resources, which ultimately enables the firm to attract international and local joint venture partners. This also positions the company as a significant player in realising Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030.
3. El Seif Engineering Contracting
Securing third spot on the list is the Riyadh-based El Seif Engineering Contracting, a member of the El Seif Group. Since its establishment in 2004, the contractor has delivered projects which have transformed the region’s skylines and urban centres including skyscrapers, modern hospitals, residential developments, airports, and more.
Led by Khaled Musaed El Seif, the company chairman, the contractor has completed a number of projects including the 302-metre-high Kingdom Tower in Riyadh, several towers at King Abdullah Financial District (KAFD), infrastructure works for Diriyah Gate Development Authority, and 2,000 villas for Abu Dhabi’s Aldar Properties.
In addition to general contracting, El Seif also offers design and build services, international procurement, logistics, project construction management, as well as operation and maintenance contracts covering an extensive list of project types. As the company continues to grow, it is shifting its priority to upskilling its manpower, upgrading its construction equipment, and utilising technology to tackle major projects.
El Seif is one of the few Saudi contractors that combines three main certifications in quality management, health and safety, and environmental management systems (ISO 9001, ISO 14001, and OHSAS 18001).
4. Almabani
Coming in at number four is Almabani, a Jeddah-based contractor known for its work on some of the biggest mega- and giga-projects in the kingdom. Following its 50th anniversary in 2023, Almabani announced its partnership with the Public Investment Fund (PIF) to support and enable key strategic sectors in line with Vision 2030.
Over the past 12 months, the contractor was a successful bidder of eight new projects, all with a total value of $1.7 billion. Almabani was also awarded contracts for the execution of projects within Riyadh’s Sports Boulevard development. Some of its most notable projects include Six Flags Qiddiya, The Red Sea International Airport, Riyadh Metro Project, King Abdul Aziz International Aiport Phase 1, and more.
In terms of digitalisation, Almabani is engaging several resources to advance and innovate its construction technologies. According to the company, these innovations will bring about more developments and advancements, increasing Almabani’s market competitiveness. Having recorded a strong 2022, the company revealed a backlog of $2.93 billion and a revenue of $614 million.
5. IHCC
IHCC is an integrated construction solutions contractor specialising in healthcare, education, and mixed-use developments in Saudi Arabia, having proven its capabilities through financial stability and its adoption of technology.
Among its many accomplishments in the last 12 months, IHCC has played a major role in developing gigaprojects and large-scale social infrastructures across the country, delivering and handing over projects with a built-up area of 400,000 m2 in healthcare, education, mixed-use, hospitality, industrial and other major developments.
IHCC has also been awarded several complex projects, including LEED Platinum developments in various regions, and has multiple ongoing luxury hospitality projects as part of the PIF’s gigarojects. In the past year, IHCC has completed projects worth over $1.12 billion, of which the advanced Medical City in Makkah, with a built-up area of 160,000 m2 and value exceeding $400 million, is a notable project.
IHCC also recognises that digitisation is crucial for advancing the kingdom’s infrastructure. While implementing the latest technologies to provide its services, IHCC has also developed solutions supporting integration and the high-performance buildings concept. As a result, proactive measures can be taken to keep buildings more sustainable, cost-efficient, reliable, healthy, and safe by monitoring building energy, water, air, maintenance, solar, waste, people, occupancy, and security.
IHCC has become a leading player with a wide range of in-house services, including design & engineering, turnkey construction, MEP, finishing & fit-out, energy efficiency, sustainability solutions, facilities management, and public-private partnerships (PPPs).
Emphasising the organisation’s growth, Sultan Sobhi Batterjee, chairman and CEO of IHCC, said: “We have successfully delivered prestigious contracts that include large-scale hospitals, medical cities, educational facilities, mixed-use developments, hospitality, luxury residential complexes, and industrial facilities across all regions of the kingdom and the Middle East.
“Our expansion plans align with the country’s Vision 2030, as we support the goal of exporting local content beyond the kingdom. Currently, we are delivering mega projects in the UAE, Egypt, and Morocco. Our proven track record, capabilities, growth, experience, and future plans have positioned us as a leading integrated solutions turnkey contractor in the kingdom and the MENA region for the present time and the years to come.”
6. Shahm Contracting Company
Shahm Contracting Company (Shahm) is a renowned construction firm based in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. Founded in 2006, Shahm is committed to contributing to the reconstruction of Saudi Arabia. The company specialises in housing and infrastructure project development and is widely recognised for its ability to deliver projects quickly
and efficiently.
Shahm’s most significant achievements in recent years include the delivery of the Shams Al Dyar project and the delivery of over 600 units in Luluat Al-Dyar and 1,000 units in Bouvardia City, Jeddah.
In 2022, Shahm completed several projects, including the Diyar Tower project located in front of the King Abdullah Financial District (KAFD). In addition, it also received several contracts in Jeddah
and Riyadh.
Furthermore, the contractor has also started construction work on projects such as Dyar Alharam and Bouvardia View.
The contractor recognises the importance of digital transformation in the construction industry and has adopted a digital mindset, promoting innovation, agility, and collaboration. The company understands that digital transformation is not just a technological change but a cultural shift in the way they work and conduct their business. Therefore, they have implemented digital solutions to track project progress, analyse data, and make
data-driven decisions.
The company also emphasises the importance of sustainability and collaboration, aiming to create value for its customers, employees, and stakeholders. In addition, drawing from their extensive experience in the industry, the company has leveraged their expertise to produce exceptional work that aligns with the goals of Vision 2030.
Moreover, as the contracting sector in the kingdom rapidly transforms, the company recognises the need to develop building systems that meet the requirements of Vision 2030. Therefore, they prioritise sustainability in their buildings and implement the latest construction technologies to ensure high-quality execution and adherence to
project timelines.
The firm, under the leadership of its chairman Eng Muammar Al-Atawi, is transforming the contracting sector in the kingdom to compete with global markets. The main reasons for the firm’s success as one of the top developers are its commitment, quality and the synergy between its teams.
7. Construction and Planning Co.
The Saudi-based mega construction company, Construction & Planning Co. (C&P), is one of the most sought-after contractors in the kingdom due to its strong reputation for delivering turnkey solutions of unparalleled quality.
Since its inception in 2004, the company has been led by co-founders and managing partners Faisal Bouzo and Tarek Al Ajlani to offer comprehensive solutions that encompass every aspect of the construction process, from structural to MEP and finishing, as well as landscaping.
C&P’s backlog of projects currently holds a combined built-up area of over 230,000 m2. In 2022, the company was appointed as the main contractor to deliver its bespoke fit-out services for the new headquarters (HQ) of Saudi Stock Exchange (Tadawul), which comprises a staggering 18,000 m2.
Additionally, C&P is the main contractor for multiple commercial centres, one of which is Alinma Invest’s The TwentyFive Mall in Riyadh, and another one is the La Perle Mall in Jeddah, which is owned by one of C&P’s sister companies, The First Avenue Real Estate Development.
Furthermore, the C&P group of companies extends beyond contracting; for instance, The First Avenue company develops commercial and residential projects, while another entity City Heights Real Estate Development Co. was founded to develop premium residential properties.
Another sister company of C&P is SMEP, a specialised MEP company that focuses solely on industrial and electromechanical projects. BACH Industrial, another vertical, is an entity dedicated to providing exceptional metal industrial works.
These significant developments demonstrate C&P’s ongoing commitment to expanding an already impressive portfolio and pushing the boundaries of the construction industry. The company’s kingdom-wide presence also ensures seamless project execution and is complimented by the additional support it derives from its back offices in Cairo, Egypt.
In 2022, C&P delivered several key projects, including Saudi National Bank’s new HQ in Riyadh’s King Abdullah Financial District, Saudi Downtown Company’s HQ, Saudi AZM’s HQ, Alamar Domino’s HQ, as well as multiple AMC cinemas around the kingdom, and a roll-out of EL&N London’s shops.
8. Al-Ayuni Investment & Contracting
Maintaining its rank from last year’s list is Al-Ayuni Investment & Contracting, a Riyadh-based contractor operating since 2006. Known for its roads, concrete works, railway, and bridge projects, Al-Ayuni serves both public and private sectors with a team comprising various well-coordinated and professional individuals across the country.
The contractor employs more than 8,000 multinational workforce and possesses a line of over 6,000 machinery and equipment. Up until now, Al-Ayuni has successfully delivered more than 500 projects for over 50 clients. Some of its completed projects include the Sharma to Tabuk road upgrade, the Tabuk Madina expressway flyover at Old Madina Road, and the Wadi Hanifa.
Currently, Al-Ayuni is working on a number of projects such as the development of infrastructure and utilities at Jeddah Oasis industrial area, the site development for city centre Markaz Al-Idari, and Phase 2 of the Dareen East Beach in Jubail.
9. Contracting and Construction Enterprises (CCE)
Established in 1992, Contracting and Construction Enterprises (CCE) is a privately owned general contracting firm that has established itself as a leading engineering, procurement and construction firm based in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
Regarded as a reliable and reputable provider of large-scale EPC contracts, CCE works with private and public sector clients throughout the Kingdom and the region, such as Saudi Aramco, SABIC, BACS Riyadh Metro Project, Saudi Electric Company, and more. In addition, it has completed projects under joint venture with international firms such as Samsung C&T.
Over the course of 2022-2023, CCE has worked on several eye-catching projects, such as The Red Sea Project, delivering the 1.5 million sq. m Coastal Village in mid-2022. In addition to its long track record of successfully delivering projects, the company has established itself as one of the leading HSE-focused contractors in the region, with its commitment to safety extending beyond its own employees, to cover its subcontractors, clients, and other project stakeholders.
10. Kabbani Construction Group
Kabbani Construction Group (KCG) was founded in 1972 and has grown to become one of the region’s leading construction companies. The company has a strong reputation for delivering high-quality projects on time and within budget, and it specialises in commercial and residential buildings, hotels, hospitals, and industrial facilities.
KCG is highly regarded for its expertise in project management, engineering, and construction, and its strong commitment to quality, safety, and sustainability.
The contractor has accomplished several key milestones in the past 12 months, including joint ventures with international companies like CONCORD, MARIDIVE, and other construction firms to establish businesses in different regions. In addition, KCG expanded its portfolio by adding the IK Energy unit, which provides sustainable solutions for the built environment and has established a specialised department for tendering to better serve its customers in this market.
The firm completed several notable projects in the past 12 months, including the Infinity Bridge in Dubai, a water tunnel for a water transition sector organisation in KSA, the refurbishment of the Doha West Sewage Plant, and the rehabilitation of a massive reservoir in Makkah.
It also completed MEP works for King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Riyadh Metro, as well as the supply and application of concrete pavement at AlUla Airport. In addition, the firm noted that it handled the design, build, procurement, testing, commissioning, and handover for the construction of the car park and the four skywalk bridges at King Abdullah Financial District.
Furthermore, it has established a new division, the Digital Construction Unit (DCU), to lead the digital transformation of the construction industry in Saudi Arabia. The company upholds a set of core values that are integral to the company’s operations, including diversity, integrity, progressive development, and collaboration, among others. These values are crucial to KCG’s success as a leading construction firm in the region.
11. Umm Al Qura For Development & Construction Company
Spearheaded by CEO Yasser Abuateek, Makkah-headquartered Umm Al Qura for Development & Construction Company was established with a developmental vision in mind. Having been active in the kingdom for over 20 years, the company has successfully immersed itself in planning a series of synergistic real estate developments in Jeddah and Mecca.
Some of Umm Al Qura’s most notable projects include the King Abdul Aziz Road Development and 10 new residential towers at its Masar development within Makkah City. Located on a 1.25 million m2 area, the Masar project comprises of a 3,650 metre-long boulevard that acts as a natural extension of the Makkah mosque.
Moreover, Umm Al Qura also saw a significant achievement in the past 12 months after the launch of Alinma Makkah Real Estate Development Funds carrying an investment value exceeding $4.5 billion. The launch announced the development and construction of seven hotel towers and two commercial complexes within the Masar development.
12. AlKifah Contracting Company
A contractor that has successfully developed its reputation throughout the years, AlKifah Contracting Company, was founded more than 35 years ago and has persistently maintained the same foundation of integrity today. KCC has proved its resilience over the years, not only through its wide spectrum of services, but also because of its highly qualified teams.
During the past year, AlKifah secured construction contracts that put them on the radar. Currently, the company is working on the King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals Business Park, a $1.5 billion megaproject located in Dhahran, KSA.
Some of its other projects include EPC industrial building works in Riyadh, and nine apartment buildings in the Jubail development.
On another note, AlKifah also proved its resilience after working, delivering, and closing projects during the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite difficulties encountered in terms of labour, logistics, and supply, AlKifah was able to handle operations by digitising its supply chain and simplifying its goals.
13. Saudi Binladin Group (SBG)
Securing the number 10 spot is Saudi Binladin Group (SBG), a Jeddah-headquartered contractor associated with some of the biggest projects in the kingdom. Established in 1967, SBG was a subsidiary of the Binladin International Holding Group (BIHG), which was founded in partnership with Istidama Holding Company, an entity related to Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Finance.
Rooted in the Binladin family’s 90-year construction legacy, BIHG was formed to navigate the family’s robust portfolio through a new era in Saudi Arabia’s history.
The group has been undergoing a transformational programme in order to establish a hefty financial and operational platform from which it can capitalise on the sizeable market opportunity for major construction projects. BIHG has identified a significant market opportunity, with approximately $266.6 billion of new contract awards expected by 2025 alone.
Some of its most notable projects include the Holy Mosque expansion, King AbdulAziz International Airport, King Abdullah Economic City, Al-Faisaliyah Tower, among others.
14. Mofarreh
Mofarreh Al-Harbi & Partners Co. (Mofarreh) is a leading contracting company based in Dammam, Saudi Arabia, with branches across the country, including in NEOM and Riyadh. With over 200 projects completed for clients such as Saudi Aramco, Ma’aden, RCJY and PIF, the contractor has been expanding its structure and expertise, since its establishment in 1977, while maintaining a focus on delivering high-quality services that exceed client expectations.
The company achieved several significant successes in 2022, including the completion of 13 projects. It also has 23 projects under its supervision, at present.
Over the last 12 months, the firm has completed 12 projects for various clients. These projects included early works for SEVEN in Madina, Tabuk, Yanbu, Abha, and Riyadh. In NEOM, the contractor has carried out massive earthworks for The Line, as well as infrastructure and road works for The Spine, luxury villas in Sindalah, and turnkey offices for the developer’s airport. It has also carried out earthworks for Oxagon, and site preparation works at the Gulf of Aqaba.
Other projects included road and bridge work in Jubail and environmental earthworks in Ras Al Khair, among others.
In 2022, the firm also focused on digital transformation and technology adoption, including establishing a new department with an expert team for digital transformation, improving drone surveying technology, using BIM for all new projects, and developing a quality management system, amongst a number of other initiatives.
The company also assigned a sustainability manager in the NEOM area and pursued a modern orientation of prefabricated workshops while providing a scoring system/classifying according to the quality and merit of each department’s input to track performance.
According to Mofarreh’s senior management, commitment to providing excellent customer service and aligning projects with Vision 2030 initiatives has helped the company tremendously.
In addition, the firm has also committed to responsible business practices, such as implementing green construction methods and sustainable energy usage, to contribute positively towards building a better future while creating jobs and protecting the environment simultaneously.
15. Makkah Construction and Development Company
Makkah Construction and Development Company was established in 1988 with initial capital of US$360.6 million, which was then increased to $438.7 million. The objectives of the company are to build up the areas around Makkah Holy Mosque, and to own, develop, operate, and invest into real estate around the Mosque. The company has been tasked with carrying out all engineering work, surveying, demolishment, and construction works for company projects. It is currently constructing the 1st Commercial and Residential complex, which is located in the surrounding areas of Makkah Holy Mosque. It contains a commercial centre, a prayer hall that can hold 20,000 people, towers, and a hotel.
Makkah Construction and Development Company is also the biggest shareholder in Jabal Omar Development Company, the company in charge of executing the Jabal Omar project, which is located on Ibrahim Al-Khalil Street in Makkah.
In March 2023, the company announced that it had opened candidacy for the Board of Directors for the 12th season of the company. It stated that the positions will run for a period of three years, starting from June 10th, 2023 and running through to June 9th, 2026.
16. Al-Rashid Trading and Contracting Company (RTCC)
Established in 1957, Al-Rashid Trading and Contracting Company (RTCC) is a highly regarded general contractor in Saudi Arabia, with clients such as the Ministry of Health, Ministry of Education, Ministry of Interior, Ministry of Water and Electricity, Saudi Railways, the Ministry of Finance, and the Public Investment Fund.
RTCC has the ability to undertake and execute all major trades, and projects executed by the company broadly fall into three categories: Building Sector (Residential, Healthcare, Educational, and Commercial); Water Sector (Water Transmission, Pipelines, and Refinement); and Railway Sector.
In 2022-2023, the company was part of a major EPC contracts award by Saudi Aramco for new energy projects in the kingdom, as part of a major expansion of its Namaat industrial investment programme. The six JVs involved in the deal included: Kent & Nesma; L&T and Gulf Consolidated Contractors; Samsung Engineering and Al Rushaid Group; Hyundai and Al Rashid Trading and Contracting Company (RTCC); Saipem and Nasser S. Al-Hajri Corporation (NSH) and Sinopec Shanghai Engineering Company (SSEC) and Abdel Hadi Abdullah Al Qahtani & Sons (AHQ).
17. AlFouzan Construction
AlFouzan Construction was founded in 1974 and has organically grown into an entity capable of taking on large and complex projects. It has previously been ranked at number 12 amongst the fastest growing companies in Saudi Arabia. It specialises in general construction, including infrastructure and underground utilities, residential, healthcare facilities, and educational projects.
Since its inception, the company has focused its efforts on reshaping the face of construction and development in Saudi Arabia, led by chairman Mohammed A. AlFouzan. The company’s portfolio of projects includes Jeddah Economic City, Dar Al Hijra Madinah, King Abdullah Medical City in Makkah, and King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre.
Focused on contributing to Vision 2030, the company aims to create iconic landmark projects, commercial properties, and key infrastructure and residential developments. It has also pledged to incorporate and promote the latest construction technologies and techniques, while also complying and exercising the highest standards of safety and environmental welfare.
18. Saudi Pan Kingdom Company (SAPAC)
With more than 30 years of operational experience in the kingdom, Saudi Pan Kingdom Company (SAPAC) is a major players in the construction sector.
Specialising in roads, buildings, bridges, tunnels, water networks, sewage works, treatment plants, and micro tunnelling, the company has been involved in the engineering, procurement, and construction of medium to giga-sized projects in both the public and private sectors in the kingdom.
Some of the companies that SAPAC has worked with over the course of 2022-2023, are: NEOM, Qiddiya Investment Company (QIC), Royal Commission for Riyadh City, The Red Sea Development Company (TRSDC), AMAALA, Diriyah Gate Development Authority (DGDA), Ministry of Housing, and Saudi Aramco, among others.
Today, the company has more than 16 branches across the country, including Riyadh, Arar, Hafer-aI-Batin, Tabouk, Makkah, Madinah, Yanbu and Eastern Province. In addition, the company has established a production unit for Asphalt, while its Cement Industries have been established in different regions to support Construction Operations.
19. Saudi Arabian Trading and Construction Company (SATCO)
Established in 1975, Saudi Arabian Trading and Construction Company (SATCO) began operations by representing foreign companies in the kingdom, covering sectors such as Construction, Airport Support Services, Catering, Landscaping, and Systems Control. With the country going through a major construction boom in the 1980s, the company formed joint ventures with a number of the foreign companies it was representing. When they exited, SATCO reorganised by acquiring the assets from the JVs and transferring their employees into divisions of SATCO.
With around 5,000 employees, SATCO has established a reputation as a reputable general contractor, working on a number of high-profile aviation projects, such as King Khalid International Airport, and domestic airports across the country.
In October 2022, the company was awarded two projects in NEOM on a design and build basis.
These were Construction Villages for 1,576 residents, and 10,000 residents, respectively. The scope of work for these projects include structure concrete and steel work, topographic, geotechnical, and hydrological works, and infrastructure works, amongst much more. Furthermore, due to a high demand for specialised construction services, SATCO has expanded its portfolio of offerings to target more specific solutions.
20. Masah Specialised Construction
Masah Specialised Construction was established in 2006 and has quickly grown to become an established name in the Saudi construction landscape.
Registered as a Saudi company under SAGIA, the contractor has built a number of hospitals, high-rise towers, and other projects with varied scopes of work, ranging from site preparation, through to infrastructure, MEP, and exterior design.
Masah has had a busy 2022-2023, with the company having acquired a number of new projects, including an airport and hotel belonging to the PIF-backed Red Sea Global.
It is also working on Aramco gas stations, and a number of towers and projects across the kingdom.
One of its most prominent projects scheduled to be completed in 2023 is the Dr Sulaiman Al Habib Hospital project in northern Riyadh.
The firm currently has projects worth more than one and a half billion Saudi riyals underway.
Also in 2022, Masah and Danube Home, the Dubai-based home retailer, announced a strategic partnership for Project Business in Saudi Arabia. Under the terms of the partnership, the two entities will collaborate on a number of construction projects across the educational, hospitality, and other prominent sectors.
21. Saudi Arabian Baytur Construction Company
Saudi Arabian Baytur Construction Company was established in 2008 as a Saudi-Turkish partnership, but became 100% Saudi-owned in 2016. Focused on specialised, high-quality execution of contracts for construction, installation, and maintenance works, civil construction works (such as high-rises, residential, commercial, and educational, hospitality, healthcare, industrial and cultural buildings, airports, and other infrastructure related projects.
It is ranked as a Grade-A contractor in the kingdom.
In 2022-2023, the company won a contract from Umm Al Qura for Development & Construction Co to build part of its Masar mixed-use development in Makkah. This was followed by a strategic alliance with FullStack Modular, a specialist firm in the design, manufacture, and construction of mid-and high-rise modular buildings in urban environments.
The alliance will see the two companies pursue opportunities for Vision 2030 together, with large-scale hospitality and urban tourism development initiatives a primary focus. The company is also currently working on phase two of the Jabal Omar project, with four hotel buildings containing 1,402 rooms in total.
22. Shihb Al Jazira Contracting Company
During its 58 years in the construction business, Shibh Al Jazira Contracting Company (SAJCO) managed to expand its reach and fields of operations, becoming a leader in its industry, and securing major and principal contracts for the construction and maintenance of roads, bridges, tunnels, underpasses, dams, sewage and water-supply networks, dewatering, water and fuel strategic reservoirs, and piling works. SAJCO is also a long-standing name in the manufacturing field, supplying pre-cast concrete units, aggregates, asphalt, concrete mixes and all types of tiles, of high and strict standards.
By being dedicated to diligent and efficient performance, SAJCO has achieved the successful handover of chief private and governmental projects. SAJCO was an essential contractor for the following projects: Taibah University, University of Hail, Maraba Dam, Al Qassim and Hail Highway Road, the construction of main roads in Madina, and others.
SAJCO was awarded two contracts from Qiddiya, the latest relate to constructing storm-water drainage, roads and bridges as part of a $186.4 million, three-year contract, involving a 6.5 million cu m excavation to complete the work, which is set for a handover by May 2023 utilizing the skills of over 1000 workers.
23. Saudi Real Estate Infrastructure Company (Binyah)
Entering the market in early 2017, the Saudi Real Estate Infrastructure Company (Binyah) is a subsidiary of Tadawul-listed Saudi Real Estate Company (Al Akaria), which is owned by the Public Investment Fund (PIF) through 60% of shares, with a market cap of SAR4.5 million.
The company is considered a pioneer in infrastructure, specializing in roads, bridges, tunnels, oil and gas pipelines; constructing stations, and main lines for water distribution, sewage stations and projects sewage networks and pumps, constructing port docks, and demolishing. Along CEO Fahad Almesfir, the company depends on a committed and quality-oriented team to achieve its mission of delivering world class infrastructure projects through innovation and cost-effective high-quality services
Some mentionable road and infrastructure projects done by Binyah include Golf Course Early Works at Wadi Safar for Diriyah Gate Development Authority, and Designing and Building Coastal Inland Roads part of Wadi Protection Project for the Red Sea Development Company.
Early this February, Al Akaria confirmed that Binyah will be involved in the designing and construction of the Northern Cultural District’s P3 car park, a $145 million project covering an area of 100,000 sqm for the Diriyah Gate Company; the second contract following a $99.5 million project to execute the enabling works at DG II area.
24. Haif Company
Beginning its contracting operations in 1976 under the leadership of Haif Bin Mohammed Bin Abboud Al Qahtani, today Haif offers its comprehensive solutions and services to the Saudi market as a first-grade specialised contractor and quality-conscious manufacturer; the company has also expanded into the hospitality business, delivering major furnishings and responding to current industry demands.
Well engaged in major contracts, and with a labour force exceeding 8,000 employees, the company has completed handovers of projects for private and government enterprises ranging from construction, rock-blasting and steelworks to interior design and landscaping, including animal and plantation farms.
In an exciting partnership with Freyssinet Saudi Arabia, Haif has won two construction contracts. One being a three-year, $292.2 million project to construct roads and bridges in the upper plateau to facilitate access to the city centre and the entertainment resort for Qiddiya, the other is an equally massive $585.8 million affair of constructing the infrastructure works for King Salman Park.
The company also signed a contract in 2022 with AMAALA for the infrastructure development of the accommodation at the destination’s employee village in Triple Bay.Haif was also a leading contractor on various projects like the Yanbu Silos project, Jeddah Hilton Hotel, 152 clinics in Makkah, and King Abdul Aziz University’s four-story Engineering and Science faculty building.
25. Red Sea International Company
With more than four decades worth of international experience in the global contracting market, the Red Sea International, a joint stock company headquartered in Jeddah with a market cap totalling $207.7 million, is a full-service housing solutions provider.
One of the leading names in the modular contracting industry, the company has established itself by providing building solutions through its three main divisions: Industrial Housing, Building Materials solutions, and Affordable Housing in more than 65 countries, serving several sectors including oil and gas, mining, and power.
Chaired by Amr Al Dabbagh, the Red Sea International company currently employs more than 1000 employees locally and across its many subsidiaries over the globe. Leading the company’s operations is newly appointed CEO Khalid Mohammed Faqih, having succeeded Tareq Mohammed Telmesani, who had filled the position since 2020.
RSI was recently awarded a $51.1 million contract from The Royal Commission for Al Ula to construct a turnkey housing complex. This comes after the modular contractor completed its work on Al Ula Film Camp project, designing and building 150 residential suites. RSI was also a key contractor for MDL Beast Soundstorm22, building and installing four-story buildings with 60 modules to accommodate the festival’s VIP guests.
26. BEC Arabia
Debuting in the Top 30 list this year is Saudi-based contractor, BEC Arabia. Having emerged in the market in 2010, BEC Arabia has transformed into a dynamic regional organisation offering turnkey projects that comprise civil construction, electromechanical works, infrastructure, landscaping, engineering, and more.
Over the past 12 months, the contractor gained recognition after signing contracts worth $3.5 billion with Saudi Arabia’s PIF-funded projects, Amaala and NEOM, in addition to another $1.95 billion contract with KSA’s Ministry of Education, and Saudi Telecom Company, Aqalat.
According to BEC, the company differentiates itself by prioritising the upskilling of its workers, increasing operational effectiveness, and optimising value engineering skills to help clients achieve all development-related pillars. It also uses an innovative design approach to tackle its projects by utilising construction technologies such as Digital Twins, 3D BIM modelling, IoT sensors, and Virtual Reality, amongst others.
Some of its most recently completed projects include the $800 million Wadi Alhada residential project, five contractual projects with NEOM, five offices, 125 single housing units, a mobility hub, and the $90 million Hurmah Project in Riyadh.
27. Mohammed Al Rashid Contracting Company (MARCO)
Founded by Eng. Mohammed Al Rashid in 1982, Riyadh-based MARCO is a top-rank construction solutions provider, and holder of a first-class contracting classification, a distinction that allows it to bid on big projects. The company is passionate about delivering projects through its accumulated experience in carrying out work for industrial facilities, infrastructure jobs, and construction of residential, commercial and governmental buildings, and architecture fit-out, all while adhering to ISO and OSH standards.
Achieving with the talents of more than 2000 employees, MARCO has won $798.8 million worth of project contracts over the last three years. Noteworthy handovers include General Auditing Bureau Headquarters, consisting of seven floors with a total built up area of 34,500 sq m; Al Diriyah Art Centre for Diriyah Gate Development Authority, a 15-month contract requiring the supply, construction, installation and start-up testing of the centre; and the Supporting Academic Area and Car Parking for Al Imam University, featuring six above-ground floors and three underground levels.
28. Tamimi Global
Demonstrating its well-rounded professionalism since 1977, Tamimi Global (TAFGA), a subsidiary of Al Tamimi Group, has been working with some of the most elite companies in the kingdom, like Saudi Aramco, Saudi Electricity Company, SABIC, and AMAALA, delivering a variety of services, such as facility management, commercial and residential construction, industrial construction and maintenance, catering, and prefabricated building, the latter of which has established TAFGA as a forefront contractor in the modular construction industry. Operating with the strength of 17,000 workers, in 200 locations around Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, and Qatar, TAFGA also has quality-defining accreditations guiding its performance such as ISO-9001:2008, 18001:2007, and HACCP.
Working with Saudi Arabian Trading & Construction Co (SATCO), Tamimi Group secured a contract to build and operate the Construction Village for NEOM. In an area designated for more housing projects, the finished project would accommodate 30,000 workers that are a part of the main force developing sites of the $500 billion giga-project. Contracted for the first stage of another major housing project, the group has similarly found a role in designing and building the AMAALA Construction Village.
29. Freyssinet Saudi Arabia
Founded in 1978, Freyssinet Saudi Arabia has successfully completed a variety of turnkey projects amounting to several billion Saudi Riyals. And although it started out as a contractor in pre-fabricated and pre-stressed concrete, FSA has developed into a leading general contracting and engineering name, broadening its list of activities to include value engineering, feasibility studies, project management, and project maintenance.
Bringing its positive and dynamic team of highly qualified personnel, and adopting advance and innovative solutions, the company made its name as a specialised contractor building complexes, hospitals, industrial projects, commercial centres, bridges, and different structures.
Since 2020, FSA has worked on a $292.9 million contract with Qiddiya Investment Company, in collaboration with Haif Contracting, to construct major roads and bridges on the upper plateau of the Qiddiya giga-project. The company also started site-wide infrastructure works at King Salman Park, in another joint venture with Haif Contracting, which was also signed at $292.9 million.
Building on its successful handovers, FSA added a $78.2 million infrastructure works contract for the Ministry of Housing to its portfolio, as well as a $74.8 million restoration project for the Royal Commission for Riyadh City, and a Najdi-style mock-up design and build contract for the Diriyah Gate Development Authority.
30. Abdulali Al-Ajmi Company
Established in 1980, Abdul Aali Al Ajmi Company is a repeated choice largely by government and semi-government entities requiring a specialised contractor, experienced in major road and bridge construction and maintenance. And while its portfolio shows a number of infrastructure projects, the company offers a much wider range of services that covers petroleum services, surface treatment and road safety, electricity works, building construction, water and sanitation works, among others.
Working as a classified first-grade contractor, Al Ajmi Company has managed to fulfil the requirements of some eminent organisations such as Saudi Aramco, the Ministry of Transport, the Border Guard, the Ministry of Municipal and Rural Affairs, and the Ministry of Water and Electricity.
The company’s resources, comprising a trained team to operate a series of crushers, concrete & asphalt mixers, alongside its decades-long industry discipline, allowed it to bid on the Rua Al Madinah project, a large-scale development with a total of 4.9 million sq m in the holy city of Madinah.
Similarly, the contractor can be seen at the site of a Jizan refinery, where it’s executing work for a $65.2 million contract from oil giant Saudi Aramco.
Its completed projects include the implementation of infrastructure in Jazan for the National Housing Company, the water line project in Abha for the Ministry of Water and Electricity, and the completion of the Ring Road in Al Ahsa for the Ministry of Transport, which was valued at $58.5 million.
