Mowaffaq Balish, exclusive interview with The Emirates Times
In an exclusive interview with The Emirates Times, Mowaffaq Balish, a seasoned director and market expert with over 27 years of experience in the GCC construction and urban development sectors, shares his insights on the region’s booming construction market in 2025. With a career dedicated to understanding market dynamics, regulatory frameworks, and emerging trends, Balish provides a comprehensive overview of the challenges, opportunities, and transformative forces shaping the industry.
The Emirates Times: Mr. Balish, thank you for joining us today. To begin, could you provide an overview of the current state of the GCC construction market in 2025?
Mowaffaq Balish: Thank you for having me. The GCC construction market is experiencing robust growth in 2025, driven by ambitious infrastructure projects, economic diversification initiatives, and strong government support. Key sectors such as housing, renewable energy, and transportation have seen significant investments. Initiatives like Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 and the UAE’s Net Zero 2050 strategy are fueling development, positioning the region as a global hub for innovation and sustainable urban planning.
The Emirates Times: What factors are contributing to this positive outlook in the GCC construction market?
Mowaffaq Balish: Several factors are driving this growth. First, ongoing mega-projects like NEOM in Saudi Arabia and Expo City Dubai are setting new benchmarks for innovation and scale. Second, improved business regulations and policies have attracted increased foreign investments. Third, public-private partnerships (PPPs) are on the rise, enabling large-scale projects to move forward efficiently. Additionally, the growing emphasis on green and sustainable construction aligns with global ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) goals, while urban population growth is driving demand for affordable housing.
The Emirates Times: How is technology shaping the construction industry in the GCC?
Mowaffaq Balish: Technology is revolutionizing the sector. Building Information Modeling (BIM) is enhancing project planning and efficiency, while prefabrication and modular construction techniques are reducing timelines and costs. Drones, robotics, and AI are being deployed for project monitoring and safety, and smart city initiatives are integrating IoT and AI to optimize urban living. These advancements are making construction more efficient, sustainable, and cost-effective.
The Emirates Times: Sustainability is a key focus globally. What role does it play in the GCC construction market’s growth?
Mowaffaq Balish: Sustainability is a cornerstone of the GCC construction market in 2025. Governments are mandating green building codes, and developers are increasingly integrating renewable energy sources like solar and wind into their projects. There’s a strong focus on energy-efficient buildings, waste reduction, and water-saving technologies. These efforts not only address climate change but also align with global investors’ expectations for environmentally responsible projects.
The Emirates Times: What challenges does the GCC construction market face, and how are they being addressed?
Mowaffaq Balish: The market faces challenges such as supply chain disruptions, rising material costs, and a shortage of skilled labor. However, these are being addressed through various strategies. Localizing supply chains is reducing reliance on imports, while investments in workforce development and training programs are bridging the skills gap. Advanced construction technologies are also helping to offset labor shortages, and regional collaboration is promoting resource and expertise sharing.
The Emirates Times: Finally, what opportunities exist for investors in the GCC construction market in 2025?
Mowaffaq Balish: The opportunities are vast. Renewable energy infrastructure, particularly solar and wind projects, is a major area of growth. Affordable housing developments are in high demand due to urban population growth. Smart city technologies and sustainable urban planning are also key areas of interest. Additionally, transportation projects, including metro systems and airports, present lucrative opportunities. With government-backed guarantees and strategic market positioning, the GCC remains an attractive destination for both regional and international investors.
The Emirates Times: Mr. Balish, thank you for sharing your valuable insights with us today. Your expertise provides a clear picture of the GCC construction market’s trajectory and its potential for growth and innovation.
Mowaffaq Balish: Thank you for the opportunity. The GCC construction market is truly a dynamic and exciting space, and I look forward to seeing how these trends continue to evolve in the coming years.
About Mowaffaq Balish:
Mowaffaq Balish is a highly regarded expert in the GCC market with over 27 years of professional experience in the construction and urban development sectors. Known for his in-depth knowledge of market dynamics, regulatory frameworks, and emerging trends, Balish has established himself as a trusted voice in the industry. His insights continue to shape the future of construction and urban planning in the region.
Stay tuned to The Emirates Times for more exclusive interviews and insights into the region’s most dynamic industries.