NEOM, December 20, 2024 — In a landmark move towards revolutionizing the construction industry, NEOM, the groundbreaking sustainable development project in the northwest of Saudi Arabia, has announced a joint venture (JV) agreement with Samsung C&T Corporation to invest over SAR 1.3 billion in the development and deployment of construction robotics. This agreement marks a significant step forward in NEOM’s commitment to pioneering innovation and sustainability, aligning with the Kingdom’s vision to lead in advanced technology and infrastructure development.
The newly formed JV aims to accelerate the adoption of cutting-edge construction automation technology in Saudi Arabia, with a primary focus on automating the rebar cage assembly process. Rebar cages, which are essential components in reinforced concrete construction, typically require significant manual labor for assembly. However, through advanced robotic welding and tying techniques, this technology will streamline the process by enabling the assembly of large, pre-manufactured reinforcement cages. This technological advancement is poised to reduce the manual workforce hours required for rebar assembly by up to 80%, based on global average installation metrics for traditional construction methods.
The benefits of this automation are far-reaching, with the potential to significantly enhance the efficiency, safety, and quality of construction projects. Not only will the technology reduce the labor-intensive nature of the process, but it will also help minimize material waste, a key factor in sustainable construction. Additionally, the use of robotic systems is expected to cut rebar cage assembly costs by as much as 40%, providing a more cost-effective approach to construction while improving overall project timelines and safety standards.
In a statement, Majid Mufti, CEO of the NEOM Investment Fund, highlighted the importance of sustainability in the development of NEOM. "Sustainability at NEOM is a core principle that drives not only what we build but how we build it. By automating labor-intensive processes through robotics, we are pushing the boundaries of construction innovation," Mufti said. This initiative is part of NEOM’s broader strategy to integrate innovative technologies into every aspect of the project, from its energy systems to its transportation infrastructure, ensuring that it serves as a global model for sustainable urban development.
The joint venture between NEOM and Samsung C&T will establish rebar cage assembly factories within the NEOM region, a move that is expected to create more than 2,000 highly skilled job opportunities for the local workforce. These jobs will not only contribute to the local economy but also support the ambitious construction projects underway in NEOM, including the highly anticipated THE LINE, a revolutionary smart city designed to be a model of sustainability, connectivity, and modern living. In addition to THE LINE, the automated construction technology will support the wider development of NEOM and other key infrastructure projects in the region.
This partnership between NEOM and Samsung C&T underscores the growing global trend of integrating advanced robotics into construction, reflecting both companies’ commitment to driving sustainable development through innovation. As NEOM continues to evolve, this collaboration serves as a testament to Saudi Arabia’s vision of becoming a leader in the adoption of futuristic technologies and sustainable urban design.
