As sustainability mandates strengthen across the region, contractors and developers are increasingly turning to the potential of modular construction in the GCC techniques to reduce carbon emissions in their processes. Modular construction is emerging as a significant trend in the Middle East. But what exactly is it? This innovative method shifts construction from traditional building sites to controlled factory environments, where components are manufactured before being transported to the site for assembly.
This approach enhances efficiency by consolidating processes under one roof. Modular sections, or ‘modules,’ adhere to the same standards as traditional construction, using familiar materials. The result is a building that matches the original design intent and specifications of its architect.
Modular construction offers a promising solution to the complexities of on-site construction and represents a step towards a smarter, more efficient future for the construction industry in the Gulf. The permanent modular construction industry in GCC countries reached $2.9 billion in 2020 and grew to $3.4 billion in 2023, with projections nearing $5 billion by 2029.
Helal Uddin, Manager at Sky Crest Building Construction LLC, discusses embracing modular construction. Construction and Engineering in Dubai, is actively using this technique. According to Helal Uddin, Managing Director at Sky Crest, modular construction moves building processes to a factory setting: ‘It is a different method of making buildings.’
Modular construction not only enables faster project timelines and cost efficiency but also aligns with environmentally friendly practices. As Helal notes, ‘If you want to reduce carbon, go fast, and maintain good quality, modular construction is the way forward.’
Advantages of Modular Construction
Modular construction significantly shortens project timelines by allowing simultaneous on-site groundwork and module fabrication. This method also improves coordination among disciplines like structural work and MEP (mechanical, electrical, and plumbing engineering), enhancing communication and interaction.
Cost Efficiency and Sustainability:
While initial costs might be higher, modular construction reduces potential delays and cost overruns. It also promotes sustainability by minimizing waste. Traditional construction often loses up to 30% of building materials as waste, whereas modular construction can reduce waste to as little as 1.8%, according to WRAP (Waste & Resources Action Programme). The controlled factory environment allows for better sorting and recycling, improving waste management and cost efficiency.
Relying on a Single Company:
A key challenge is depending on one company for the entire project. This company must demonstrate both capability and financial stability, as construction payments are often made upon material delivery.
Skilled Workforce and Infrastructure:
Modular construction requires a workforce with high digital literacy and collaboration skills, as well as robust transportation and logistics infrastructure. While strides have been made in places like Saudi Arabia, further development is necessary.
Architectural Flexibility and Compliance:
Standardized modules may limit architectural flexibility, complicating compliance with local building codes. Obtaining permits can be more challenging due to the method’s novelty.
Supply Chain Dependence:
Modular construction relies heavily on a network of suppliers for the timely delivery of prefabricated modules. Disruptions in the supply chain can significantly impact project timelines and financial viability.
Transportation Logistics:
Transporting modules involves size and design constraints, and vibrations during transport can compromise structural integrity, adding complexity to logistics.
The Future of Modular Construction in the Gulf
Modular construction is gaining momentum in the Middle East. The UAE and Saudi governments are promoting sustainability through modular facilities, which reduce the construction industry’s environmental impact. The region’s relatively straightforward regulatory landscape compared to places like the UK and US is beneficial, and efforts are underway to enhance specific regulations for modular construction.
Private sector involvement will be crucial in advancing modular construction. The combined efforts of government support and private sector engagement will be key to improving regulations and promoting adoption.
Sky Crest Building Construction LLC secured a modular construction license from the Dubai Municipality for a G+12 project, marking a significant milestone. Helal Uddin highlights the potential for high-rise modular buildings, asserting that the method can scale beyond six floors to 20, 30, or even 50 floors.
In modular construction, the sky’s the limit!
