NEOM, the sustainable region taking shape in northwest Saudi Arabia, has signed a landmark investment agreement with GMT Robotics, one of Europe’s emerging innovators in advanced construction technology.
Headquartered in Copenhagen, Denmark, GMT Robotics is a specialist in robotic technology tailored specifically to the rebar market. The company’s robotic rebar cage assembly and handling systems deliver significant advancements in efficiency and workplace safety for the construction industry.
By reducing onsite workforce requirements by an average of 90% through offsite prefabrication, GMT Robotics enhances productivity while maintaining high safety standards.
Spearheaded by the NEOM Investment Fund (NIF), NEOM’s strategic investment arm, the agreement aims to accelerate the delivery of the region’s expansive capital project programme through the use of construction robotics.
The initiative underscores NEOM’s position as a pioneer in modern construction techniques, including automation, said the developer of Saudi futuristic city in its statement.
NEOM Investment Fund CEO Majid Mufti said: "Our investment in GMT Robotics reflects NEOM’s commitment to driving transformative technologies that will unlock next-generation industries. By localizing this advanced technology, we are laying the groundwork for sustainable development, high-skilled jobs, and the growth of commercially viable sectors."
"It is through partnerships like these that NIF will turn visionary goals into reality and establish NEOM as a global hub for innovation," he noted.
On the strategic collaboration, Bandar Ashrour, the Sector Head of Design and Construction at NEOM, said: "Enabling construction technology start-ups to align with NEOM’s ambitions is fundamental to what we do. GMT’s agility and expertise in harnessing robotics for construction bring unparalleled efficiency, consistency, and sustainability."
"We look forward to a dynamic collaboration that paves the way for a safer and more sustainable next generation of NEOM-built assets," he noted.
According to him, the partnership will localize this technology, with rebar cages produced in NEOM-based factories. It also opens new opportunities for Saudi engineers to leverage robotics in other construction applications.
With the global construction robotics market valued at $168.2 million in 2022 and expected to reach $774.6 million by 2032 - a growth of over 360% in 10 years - the benefits of robotics applications within the construction sector are extensive.
These include enhanced task efficiency, reduced operating costs, improved health and safety, and greater design flexibility.
According to Mufti, the partnership marks another milestone in NIF’s series of strategic investments.
"It reflects the Fund’s commitment to supporting NEOM’s sector strategy by enabling innovative technologies, establishing new businesses, and creating job opportunities to support NEOM’s growing economy," he added.-TradeArabia News Service