Al Laith’s Jason English on supporting the region’s evolving events sector

As Al Laith Group celebrates nearly 30 years of success in the Middle East, it remains a key player in sectors ranging from construction to events management, renowned for its work on marquee projects like Expo 2020 Dubai and COP28. Al Laith is part of the larger CG Tech conglomerate, a diverse group operating in the entertainment, oil & gas, industrial and tech sectors.

In this interview with CEO Jason English, we explore how Al Laith has sustained its leadership by adapting to the region’s evolving needs, leveraging technology and innovation, and prioritising sustainability across its operations. English’s insights reveal the company’s approach to navigating the region’s dynamic events calendar, fostering employee wellness, and driving future-focused initiatives in partnership with global leaders.

Al Laith has been a prominent player in the Middle East market for many years. Could you share some of your biggest achievements in the region?

Al Laith Group has been in the region for almost 30 years and established itself as a leading player in the Middle East, and this has been achieved through a combination of strategic projects, innovative services, and a deep commitment to quality and safety.

Al Laith has reinforced its leadership position through several key achievements. Our involvement in flagship projects, such as Expo 2020 Dubai, the F1 Abu Dhabi and Saudi Arabia Grand Prix, the Pope’s visit, COP28, the Saudi Dakar Rally, and major sporting events like the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championship, showcases our capability to deliver essential infrastructure under tight deadlines and challenging conditions. We consistently integrate cutting-edge technology, leveraging AI, IoT, and advanced tools to enhance project efficiency and provide innovative solutions.

Our diversified service offerings across construction, events, and industrial sectors allow us to meet a wide range of client needs while stabilising our business against market fluctuations. By continuously investing in our people, technology, and processes, Al Laith has consolidated its niche in the Middle East market.

The events industry always gets the busiest during Q4 with various events. How do you see the end of 2024 and the beginning of 2025 shaping up for Al Laith?

As we approach the end of 2024 and the start of 2025, Al Laith is gearing up for an incredibly dynamic season in the events industry. The Q4 schedule is packed with high-profile events that not only highlight our capabilities but also reinforce our position as a leader in event management.

First off, we’re excited to be involved in the DP World Tour, which promises to attract golf enthusiasts from around the world. Following that, the Abu Dhabi Formula 1 will undoubtedly be a highlight, bringing together motorsport fans in an electrifying atmosphere.

Union Day celebrations will be a significant cultural event for us, showcasing the rich heritage of the UAE. Then, we have the Rugby 7s, which is not just about the sport; it’s an incredible social event that draws huge crowds and creates a vibrant community spirit.

We’re particularly looking forward to the Calvin Harris concert, which is expected to be a major draw for music lovers, offering an unforgettable experience. The Abu Dhabi Golf Championship will further solidify our involvement in the sporting calendar, attracting top-tier talent and global media attention.

In January, the Liwa Festival will be a fantastic opportunity to celebrate the region’s culture and traditions, while the Soundstorm MDL Beast event will once again elevate our music scene with international acts and a lively festival atmosphere.

Lastly, the Neom Beach Games will be a groundbreaking addition to the roster, promoting sports and wellness in a stunning setting. All these events create a fantastic synergy, and we’re committed to ensuring they run seamlessly, showcasing our expertise and dedication to excellence.

Overall, the end of 2024 and the beginning of 2025 is set to be an exhilarating time for Al Laith, filled with opportunities to innovate and create memorable experiences for our clients and attendees. We’re ready to rise to the challenge and make each event a resounding success.

So many sporting events coming to the Middle East, how do you think the region is developing as a sports hub for international events?

The Middle East is rapidly establishing itself as a major sports hub, fuelled by significant investments in infrastructure, government support, and a strategic vision for the future. Countries like the UAE, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia have developed world-class facilities, including iconic stadiums that showcase innovative architecture and cutting-edge technology. The region has successfully hosted high-profile events, such as the FIFA World Cup 2022 and the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, while also embracing diverse sports like MMA and esports, appealing to a broader audience.

Government initiatives, such as Saudi Arabia’s Vision and the UAE’s Vision, emphasise the role of sports in boosting tourism, health, and international recognition, backed by substantial funding from both the public and private sectors. This growth not only enhances tourism and job creation across various industries but also fosters cultural exchange and the development of local talent through training programs.

While challenges such as climate adaptation and sustainability remain, advancements in stadium cooling technologies and eco-friendly practices are paving the way for a promising future in the region’s sports landscape. Especially the UAE is now becoming the first choice for global sports organisers.

The Middle East’s transformation into a sports hub is a result of strategic investments, government support, and a vision to leverage sports as a means of economic and social development. As the region continues to host and bid for prestigious events, it is poised to solidify its position as a key player in the global sports arena. This growth not only enhances the region’s international standing but also contributes to its economic diversification and cultural richness.

Are there any particular events and projects you are excited about or working on that you could share with us?

We are all excited about the upcoming concert/event season in the UAE. We have Martin Garrix coming for a concert in Dubai next month along with all the heavyweights of the sporting calendar like F1, Rugby 7s and the DP World Tour.

One interesting key project we have been awarded and are particularly excited about is in Uzbekistan. We have to construct a remote operation camp housing around 512 people with 64 units which is a new area for us from a services perspective that we are excited about.

Al Laith also works significantly in the construction section. To carry out your construction work quicker and more efficiently, you’ve partnered with Pilosio. Can you elaborate on the strategic partnership between Al Laith and Pilosio and what makes the FlyDeck system a game-changer for the construction industry in the Middle East?

The strategic partnership between Al Laith and Pilosio focuses on enhancing construction efficiency and safety in the Middle East through innovative solutions. Pilosio, a leading Italian company known for its construction equipment and scaffolding systems, brings its advanced technologies and expertise to the region. This collaboration allows Al Laith to leverage Pilosio’s cutting-edge products, including the FlyDeck system, to improve project delivery and performance.

In our partnership, Al Laith benefits significantly from Pilosio’s innovative construction solutions, which integrate advanced European technologies into the Middle Eastern market. This collaboration enhances project delivery through the FlyDeck system, streamlining processes to reduce timelines and costs while improving resource efficiency. Pilosio’s focus on safety ensures compliance with international standards, minimising risks and protecting workers on-site.

Comprehensive training and support for Al Laith’s personnel maximise the benefits of the FlyDeck system, which is versatile and adaptable for various construction needs. Its rapid installation and dismantling capabilities reduce labour costs and project duration, while advanced safety features and cost efficiencies contribute to overall project viability. Additionally, the system promotes sustainability by lowering environmental impact and aligning with modern construction practices.

Al Laith has implemented several sustainability measures in recent projects. How does sustainability fit into your overall business strategy, and what future initiatives can we expect?

Sustainability is a core component of our business strategy and we work with it as a business value in all of our key projects.

Integrating sustainable practices into our operations is essential for creating value for our stakeholders while minimising our environmental impact. In our business strategy, we prioritise environmental responsibility by adopting eco-friendly construction methods, utilizing sustainable materials, and implementing energy-efficient technologies. We’re also committed to social responsibility, ensuring safe working conditions and engaging in community development. Ultimately, we recognise that sustainability contributes to our long-term economic viability, driving growth through reduced operational costs and improved efficiency.

Recently, we’ve implemented several measures to enhance our sustainability efforts, including green building practices that use recycled materials and energy-efficient systems. Our waste management protocols minimise and recycle construction waste, while we’re incorporating renewable energy sources like solar panels to reduce fossil fuel reliance.

Looking ahead, we plan to adopt advanced energy management systems, build a sustainable supply chain, and pursue LEED certification for our major projects. We’re also investing in employee training on sustainable practices and enhancing community engagement through local initiatives that promote environmental awareness.

With the introduction of new technologies like FlyDeck and your role in The Virtulab, how do you see technology transforming the construction and events industry?

Technology is transforming the construction and events industry, and Al Laith is leading this evolution with innovative solutions like FlyDeck and our participation in The Virtulab. These technologies enhance efficiency and productivity by streamlining processes and reducing manual labour, allowing for quicker project completion. Additionally, advanced safety features in equipment, like those found in FlyDeck, minimise risks on-site. The integration of data analytics and IoT enables real-time monitoring and data-driven decision-making, improving project management and safety oversight. Tools from The Virtulab leverage virtual and augmented reality to enhance project planning and collaboration while promoting sustainable practices through optimised resource use.

Looking ahead, automation and robotics will increasingly handle repetitive and dangerous tasks, boosting efficiency and precision. Digital twin technology will facilitate real-time monitoring and predictive maintenance, enhancing asset management. Blockchain will improve transparency and accountability in projects, ensuring all stakeholders access reliable information. Innovations in materials science will lead to advanced construction materials, while smart technologies in the events industry will enhance attendee experiences through personalised services and efficient logistics.

Al Laith is committed to driving this technological transformation by setting industry benchmarks with tools like FlyDeck and fostering collaborative innovation through The Virtulab. We prioritise training and development to equip our workforce with the skills needed to adapt to these advancements, ensuring we stay at the forefront of an evolving industry

As an entrepreneur overseeing companies such as Al Laith and CG Tech, you have been an advocate for health and wellness among your employees during those busy times. What strategies do you use to implement this, and how has it impacted your companies?

Implementing health and wellness strategies is essential for fostering a productive work environment, especially during busy periods. At Al Laith and CG Tech, we have adopted comprehensive wellness programs that include fitness challenges, mental health resources, and nutrition workshops, catering to our employees’ diverse needs. Our flexible work arrangements promote work-life balance, while access to health resources, such as on-site fitness facilities and regular health check-ups, ensures our team stays informed about their wellbeing.

The impact of these initiatives has been significant. Healthier employees are more engaged and productive, leading to increased efficiency and reduced absenteeism. Our focus on mental health and a supportive workplace culture has boosted morale, making us an attractive employer for recruitment and retention. Team-building activities further enhance cohesion, creating a positive environment where employees feel valued and motivated. Ultimately, our commitment to health and wellness has led to better work-life balance and higher job satisfaction, contributing to the overall success of our companies.

Implementing health and wellness strategies at Al Laith and CG Tech has been instrumental in creating a supportive and productive work environment. These initiatives not only benefit our employees’ well-being but also contribute to the overall success and growth of our companies. By prioritising health and wellness, we ensure that our employees are equipped to handle the demands of their roles, leading to sustained excellence in our operations.

How have your experiences shaped your vision for your companies, and what personal values or philosophies guide your leadership style?

Having lived and worked in diverse regions like South Africa and the UAE, I appreciate cultural diversity and aim to make our companies inclusive and globally competitive. My commitment to innovation, exemplified through projects like the FlyDeck system and The Virtulab, positions us at the forefront of technological advancements in our industry.

Sustainability is also a core value of mine, driving our strategic initiatives to adopt green building practices and efficient resource management. I believe that a company’s greatest asset is its people, which fuels my advocacy for health and wellness in the workplace. This focus shapes our work environment to support professional growth and work-life balance.

Integrity and transparency are cornerstones of my leadership style, fostering a culture of trust and accountability. I emphasise empowerment and collaboration, encouraging my team to take initiative and work together. By remaining resilient and adaptable, I ensure that we navigate challenges effectively while aligning our strategic vision with both global trends and local needs.

Ultimately, my commitment to sustainability influences our business practices, ensuring we operate responsibly and positively impact our communities