AI to Power Saudi Arabia's Smart City Vision - FM Expert

Saudi Arabia’s ambitious giga projects are rapidly reshaping the real estate sector, introducing state-of-the-art developments that challenge traditional building management practices. With this unprecedented growth, facility managers face both complex challenges and remarkable opportunities. The demand for forward-thinking, tech-savvy FM professionals has never been higher.

The Essential Role of Advanced Technology

Managing these futuristic structures requires cutting-edge technology, making it imperative for facility managers to understand how smart buildings operate. Efficiency, sustainability, and safety must be optimised through intelligent systems, ensuring seamless operations in line with the kingdom’s ambitious vision.

AI: A Necessity, Not a Luxury

Artificial intelligence is no longer a futuristic concept but an essential tool in modern facility management. As Saudi Arabia moves toward the widespread adoption of smart cities, AI will play a crucial role in meeting expectations and driving operational excellence.

“AI is revolutionising building maintenance by optimising operations, reducing costs, and enhancing the safety and comfort of tenants. With the integration of IoT, machine learning, predictive analytics, and automation, AI can offer a wide range of benefits, that improve the efficiency and effectiveness of building management systems,” said Javeria Aijaz, Managing Director of Middle East-based HITEK, part of the Farnek group of companies.

Key Tech Trends Shaping Saudi FM in 2025

The Saudi Arabian FM sector is poised for a technological revolution in 2025. Key trends include:

- AI-driven predictive maintenance and operations to enhance equipment reliability.

- Growing demand for smart and green buildings to meet sustainability goals.

- The rise of digitalisation and smart HSEQ management for improved safety and compliance.

- IoT-powered connected workforces for enhanced efficiency and coordination.

- AI-driven sustainability reporting to track environmental impact and align with green objectives.

AI-Powered Predictive Maintenance

AI-integrated systems analyse real-time data from IoT sensors and Building Management Systems (BMS) to anticipate equipment failures before they occur. AI also optimises automation by adjusting lighting, HVAC, and security systems based on real-time sensor inputs, weather conditions, and occupancy trends.

“Adopting AI minimises downtime, extends asset life, and reduces operational costs. AI-integrated systems can monitor HVAC systems to predict failures and schedule proactive maintenance. AI-powered sensors can detect drops in indoor air quality, triggering HVAC systems to increase ventilation and ensure that air quality is within a predetermined healthy range, which is particularly important in hospitals and office buildings,” said Aijaz.

Sustainability at the Core of Vision 2030

Smart technology plays a pivotal role in aligning buildings with Saudi Vision 2030’s sustainability objectives. AI-driven systems help optimise energy consumption, water usage, and waste management, ensuring compliance with green building standards and advancing Net Zero goals.

“AI can help to reduce carbon footprints and promotes energy efficiency. Automated lighting and HVAC systems are routinely adjusting based on occupancy levels and real-time environmental conditions,” added Aijaz.

Enhancing Health & Safety with AI

Safety is a top priority during the construction of Saudi’s mega projects. AI-based digital tools are transforming HSEQ (Health, Safety, Environment, and Quality) management by automating compliance tracking, audits, and incident reporting. AI-powered predictive analytics identify potential hazards before they materialise, enabling proactive risk mitigation.

“This will enhance safety, environmental monitoring, and regulatory compliance. AI-powered dashboards can monitor workplace safety, environmental metrics, and real-time hazard alerts. AI systems can forecast when and where accidents are most likely to occur based on historical data, environmental conditions, and employee behaviour, enabling proactive measures such as safety training and or equipment inspection,” commented Aijaz.

IoT-Enabled Workforce Management

The integration of IoT devices and digital platforms enhances workforce efficiency and safety. AI-powered wearables monitor employees’ health, fatigue levels, and environmental conditions in real time. These devices track vital indicators such as heart rate, temperature, and stress levels to prevent accidents and ensure worker well-being.

Saudi Arabia’s giga projects are redefining the future of facility management. By embracing AI, IoT, and digital transformation, FM professionals can navigate the complexities of these high-tech developments while ensuring optimal performance, sustainability, and safety.

“This increases efficiency, safety, and response times. Mobile workforce management apps can assign tasks dynamically based on location and skill. In high-risk industries like construction or mining, AI-powered wearables can detect signs of heatstroke, excessive fatigue, or abnormal vitals, and trigger alerts to supervisors or medics for immediate intervention,” said Aijaz.

AI-powered analytical tools track energy consumption, water usage, waste management, and carbon emissions in real-time, generating detailed sustainability reports.

“This helps FM companies meet green building standards, reduce their impact on the environment and comply with Saudi regulations. AI systems can provide practical insights to optimise energy consumption and achieve sustainability targets.”

“With the rate of growth in smart buildings, added to the rapid advances in technology, it is blatantly clear that AI will revolutionise the Saudi FM market. It is no longer an option for FM professionals, they will need to embrace these trends quickly, otherwise they are going to be left behind,” concluded Aijaz.