Why Bim Is Essential For Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030

By Author: Arpita Singla
Total Articles: 2
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BIM as the Backbone of Modern Construction
Building Information Modelling (BIM) is a digital representation of the physical characteristics of modern infrastructure projects. It acts as a common platform for all stakeholders such as engineers, contractors, etc making the process of collaboration seamless. Essentially, the entire project cycle from the conceptualisation phase to the actual construction can be optimised and integrated by the BIM system easily.

Infrastructure Revolution with Vision 2030
Vision 2030 aims at transforming Saudi Arabia, emphasizing economic diversification sustainability, and urbanization. This plan involves mega projects like NEOM, The Red Sea project, Qiddiya, etc.
● NEOM: It is a 500 billion-dollar project that is directed to the development of a smart city that focuses on Renewable energy and Sustainability.
● The Red Sea Project: A tourism initiative aimed at creating an eco-friendly destination.
● Qiddiya: It is an entertainment city aimed to become the recreational and cultural hub of the kingdom.
These projects require an innovative approach ...
... that only intensifies the relevance of BIM.

What Would Be The Outcomes Of BIM Infrastructural Saudi Arabia?
● Increased Collaboration: BIM can help ease the process of collaboration and communication among various parties which include architects, engineers, contractors, and other clients. The shared information amongst the relevant parties would allow all of them to interact in real time which would assist them in making informed decisions and mitigate the chances of friction.
● Cost and Time Efficiency: BIM can help in avoiding pricey reworks with clash detection in the initial stage of the project. It can help in the automation of repetitive tasks making the process faster and cost effective.
● Energy Efficiency: Sustainability is one of the core emphases of Vision 2030. BIM can help in energy simulations and accurate calculation of the materials required which can help in reducing waste. BIM supports the green building practices which are particularly critical for the Red Sea Project.
● Risk Mitigation: BIM can help identify the risks before construction begins through predictive analysis and modelling. This is important for large-scale projects where a small mistake can lead to major risks and financial setbacks.
● Lifecycle Management: BIM facilitates efficient operation and maintenance because a digital record of a building can be easily maintained, aligning with the long-term goals of Vision 2030.

Case Studies
● NEOM: NEOM being one of the most ambitious projects under the vision 2030, leverages BIM to manage its vast scale and complexity. The integration of BIM and AI helps in ensuring sustainable construction and optimised design.
● King Salman Energy Park (SPARK): BIM helped the project achieve operational efficiency and a significant decrease in cost by simulating workflows.

BIM Implementation and Overcoming Challenges
While BIM has its benefits, its implementation in Saudi Arabia is facing some issues:
● Data Standardization: The data formats and protocols should be homogeneous throughout the project. Standardization of data across various BIM systems is essential for facilitating its integration.
● Skill Gap: BIM works with Digital construction. To be able to use that technology and model, a professional is required to be skilled and trained in digital tools.
● Initial Cost: Although BIM reduces long-term costs, its initial implementation can be very expensive and resource-intensive.

For the smooth implementation of BIM, the Saudi government has demonstrated strong commitment and taken some commendable steps.
● Issuing the decree which requires BIM application for new construction projects the public sector.
● Localising the engagement with global technology firms to enhance local BIM capacities.
● Promoting the curriculums in universities that are BIM-focused.

Future of BIM in Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030
The role of BIM is bound to grow as Saudi Arabia accelerates its infrastructure development. Emerging trends like BIM 4D and BIM 5D, i.e., the integration of time and cost in the project along with the physical properties, promise to further enhance project outcomes. The integration of Augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) along with AI can change the course of visualisation and engagement of the stakeholders.

Conclusion
Building Information Modelling (BIM) is not just a tool rather it is an innovative approach that aligns with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030. It is a vital and valuable asset that will help the Kindom achieve its Vision 2030. BIM ensures that these grand ambitions of the Kingdom in terms of infrastructure development are rolled out with precision, technological advancement, optimum efficiency, and sustainability. BIM will be the core of the ambitious journey of the Kingdom to further construct a resilient and sustainable economy.

Author’s Note
Arpita Singla, a BIM architect at 18 Infratech is dedicated to showcasing the company’s innovative use of BIM and its impact on the AEC industry. 18 Infratech is a leading