Saudi-based Unified Real Estate Development has joined forces with IFA Real Estate Services Group, a key global player in the hospitality building services sector, to set up a new venture, Sahalah Facilities Management (FM), aimed at providing integrated facilities management solutions across the kingdom.

Sahalah FM covers six core areas of the real estate management and servicing industry ranging from concierge and security, through public area cleaning to a highly experienced asset and building management function covering waste, utility and environmental efficiency.

By combining these core functions, asset owners and managers witness value gained and build a true partnership with their management service provider.

Headquartered in the Saudi capital Riyadh, Unified Real Estate Development is one of the largest real estate companies in kingdom with 46 shopping centres spread across the kingdom.

IFA Real Estate Services operates and manages commercial, residential and hospitality assets over a diverse geographical base across four continents.

Sahalah FM unites one of the kingdom’s principal real estate development and holding companies with one of the foremost exponents of hospitality building services and contract facilities management companies in the UAE, remarked Prince Bandar bin Khaled Al Saud, the president of Unified Real Estate Development, after signing the deal with Joe Sita, the chief executive of IFA Real Estate Services.

"In fusing both local knowledge and international expertise, most specifically with the introduction of a hospitality focus, the Sahalah approach to facilities management and property services combines all support services into an integrated solution," remarked Prince Bandar.

"Our local experience coupled with a renowned international operating group brings a unique offer to the kingdom. The new venture is already starting to generate interest from asset owners and we are positive even in these nascent stages," he added.

On the partnership, Sita said: "We are delighted to be partnering with Unified Real Estate Development on this new enterprise."

"Their strength and diversity, coupled with our vision of providing best-in-class service to property owners in Saudi Arabia, supplements our overall vision for regional expansion," he added.-TradeArabia News Service