ZIGURAT Institute of Technology held its first Middle East Local Hub in Riyadh, bringing together nearly 100 professionals, students and alumni to explore how digital transformation and artificial intelligence are reshaping the construction sector. Hosted at Olaya Center under the theme “Unlimited Possibilities with Digital Transformation & AI in AEC” and sponsored by GRAPHISOFT, the event reflected Saudi Arabia’s rapid push to develop digital capabilities under Vision 2030.
ZIGURAT CEO Pau F. Aldomà opened the event by highlighting the importance of talent development and collaboration with Saudi partners. The programme featured panel discussions, networking sessions and student project showcases from the International Master in BIM Management.
The first panel explored how digital transformation is redefining construction delivery in Saudi Arabia, with speakers calling for closer alignment between university teaching and on-site requirements. Experts emphasised the need to embed BIM, AI and Digital Twins into academic curricula to prepare the next generation of professionals. One speaker described the trio as “BIM the skeleton, AI the brain, and Digital Twins the nervous system” of future construction.
A second panel focused on AI’s practical applications in project management. Attendees heard case studies and real workflows already being used across organisations, illustrating how AI is automating processes and improving efficiency. While the panel agreed on AI’s value in augmenting work, they also stressed the need for professional judgement, ethics and emotional intelligence, underscoring that critical decisions must remain with qualified practitioners.
The event concluded with a structured networking challenge and prize raffle, showcasing strong community engagement — including attendees who travelled more than 300 kilometres to participate. ZIGURAT framed the Riyadh Local Hub as part of its global AECO education mission and its growing presence in the Middle East, noting that education, collaboration and innovation remain essential to Saudi Arabia’s urban development and infrastructure goals.
