Infrastructure works in Saudi Arabia are expected to post a 4 per cent growth in 2011 and increase at an average rate of 3.97 per cent annually through 2015, said the organisers of an upcoming building event in Riyadh.

Saudi Build 2011, the 23rd international construction technology and building materials exhibition, will run from October 16 to 19 at the new Riyadh International Convention and Exhibition Center.

Key drivers for the construction boom include a growing population with almost 70 per cent under 25 years of age and strong demand for infrastructure to sustain the Kingdom’s position as the region’s largest economy.

The significant number of contracts in the tendering phase has heightened regional and global investor interest in Saudi Arabia, with many developers now seeking platforms to learn more about local market conditions and opportunities.

Moreover, the ninth Development Plan for Saudi Arabia that was announced last year has allocated $385 billion for infrastructure development between 2010 and 2014.

“Saudi Arabia recognizes the key role of infrastructure development in transforming the country into a regional economic powerhouse,” said Mohammed Al Hussaini, deputy general manager, Riyadh Exhibitions Company.

“We can thus expect more infrastructure projects to be announced in the future and an accompanying increase in demand for technologies, services and expertise required by these projects.”

“Saudi Build is an important medium for construction companies that either want to focus on local business or use the country as a springboard for establishing a broader regional presence,” he added.

The event will gather companies from Europe, Africa, the Middle East and Asia to showcase the latest and the best construction products and services. Participants will also learn about key trends affecting the Saudi market.

Visitors can expect the latest in building materials & equipment; architectural finishing; construction tools and technology; engineering services; infrastructure materials; and security & safety systems.

Saudi Stone-Tech 2011, the 14th international stone and stone technology show, will run concurrently with Saudi Build 2011. Saudi Stone-Tech will feature cutting-edge stone products, including marble, granite, travertine and stone derivatives, as well as cutting, polishing and manufacturing machinery.

The event is supported by VeronaFiere (Verona Trade Fair Company), Italy’s top trade show organizer, and the Italian Marmomacchine Association, a technical and promotional organization for Italy’s stone and allied industries. – TradeArabia News Service