The CIOB is stepping up its presence in the Middle East in response to the huge influx of professionals and the region’s need for internationally recognised qualifications.

Early next year, a CIOB office will open in Dubai’s Knowledge Village. This follows the establishment of ‘hubs of activity’ in Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Oman, with Qatar and Bahrain to follow.

The hubs are run by committees of volunteer members who work with the head office to promote the Institute and are open to members, potential members or other relevant organisations interested in CIOB activities. Members can tap into the CIOB’s resources for professional qualification reviews, best practice and activities, including CPD events, seminars, conferences.

‘Our aim is to increase the profile of the CIOB in the Middle East by supporting industry professionals and to service huge development projects there,’ said Fabio Casula, head of international projects at the CIOB. ‘This will also create a link with the Indian sub-continent, another key strategic area of interest for us. The centres will help members develop qualifications as well as promote standards in construction including health and safety and sustainability.’

Anyone with suggestions or wanting to serve on the committee can contact centre chair John Nelson at: john.nelson@macegroup.com.

The lure of the Gulf was highlighted last month when Laing O’Rourke said it would be more than doubling its Middle East staff next year by employing at least another 4,000 technical and professional workers.

Source

Construction Manager