The answer depends on how an organization approaches it.

Companies that treat compliance as a mere legal requirement often see it as an expense. They focus on the immediate costs of documentation, audits, permits, contractual obligations, labour regulations, and safety standards. However, this perspective overlooks the far greater costs of non-compliance.

In reality, compliance protects businesses from contractual disputes, financial penalties, project delays, reputational damage, and legal liabilities. More importantly, it builds trust with clients, consultants, regulators, investors, and employees.

In the Saudi Arabian construction sector, where projects are becoming increasingly sophisticated and regulatory expectations continue to evolve, compliance has become a competitive differentiator. Organizations with strong governance and compliance frameworks are better positioned to win high-value projects, manage risks effectively, and maintain long-term client relationships.

Compliance also strengthens internal operations. Clear procedures improve accountability, enhance procurement transparency, reduce commercial disputes, and support ethical decision-making throughout the project lifecycle.

The most successful organizations no longer ask, “What is the minimum we need to comply?” Instead, they ask, “How can compliance create value for our business?”

When embedded into company culture, compliance transforms from a legal obligation into a strategic asset. It enables sustainable growth, strengthens corporate reputation, and creates resilience in an increasingly regulated business environment.

Ultimately, compliance is not a burden imposed by the law—it is a discipline that protects businesses, empowers ethical leadership, and creates long-term value.

The post Compliance with the Law: A Boon or a Burden? appeared first on INC.

After six and a half years delivering landmark projects across the Kingdom, Ahmed Al Amleh moves into a new role, one built on the relationships he has spent his career quietly forging.

When INC first opened its doors in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in 2019, Ahmed Al Amleh was there. Not just as an employee, but as a cornerstone, helping the company navigate the complex bureaucracy of setting up a business in a new market, and quietly building the client relationships that would become pillars of INC’s regional identity. Since then, Ahmed has served as a Project Manager, leading the delivery of over 18 major client engagements with a track record that speaks for itself. Six and a half years on, he steps into an exciting new chapter. Effective 1 June, Ahmed takes on the role of Senior Client Development Manager.

The move is a natural evolution. Before joining INC in February 2020, Ahmed spent two and a half years at Optima, complementing a Bachelor’s Degree in Civil and Infrastructure Engineering from Al Zaytoonah University of Jordan, earned in 2016. He is also a registered member of the Saudi Council of Engineers, a credential that has underpinned his credibility on some of the region’s most prominent projects.

His project portfolio at INC reads like a who’s who of global enterprise, and consistently praised by the clients he has served. Engagements include Amazon, Standard Chartered, Navantia, Ashurst, DLA Piper, AbbVie, KornFerry, BNP Paribas, and Vertex, alongside landmark Public Investment Fund initiatives including PIF Shareek and PIF sarcc. Across each, Ahmed’s ability to deliver on time and on brief has been a defining constant, earning glowing feedback from clients time and again.

In his new role, Ahmed’s focus will centre on nurturing those long-standing client relationships while actively identifying and pursuing new market opportunities, a dual mandate that plays directly to his strengths.

Mulligan also highlighted the significance of Ahmed’s delivery track record to the new chapter ahead. INC’s Raqim Wahed, meaning number one, status in KSA, a distinction built on a philosophy of consistent, on-time delivery, has been a cornerstone of the company’s regional reputation, and one that Ahmed has helped shape through his project work. That discipline, Mulligan notes, will be a valuable asset as Ahmed steps into client development.

For a company that opened in KSA just six years ago and has since built an enviable client roster, having someone of Ahmed’s institutional knowledge and relational depth in this role is both a strategic move and a reflection of the culture INC has worked to build. One where loyalty, expertise, and long-term thinking are recognised and rewarded. It is a culture that has earned INC its standing as the region’s leading fit-out firm, a position most recently affirmed by being named Fit-Out Firm of the Year 2026 at the Design Middle East Awards, for the third consecutive year. Ahmed’s new role is both a personal milestone and a clear signal of the ambition that continues to drive INC forward.

The post A New Chapter: Ahmed Al Amleh Takes On Senior Client Development Role at INC KSA appeared first on INC.

With this in mind, INC Group is proud to announce Alex Chapman as Managing Director of INC UK. With over 15 years of experience in Design & Build working in some of the leading firms in London, Alex brings a wealth of experience, a passion for engaging clients on their workplace journey, and embraces the personable and cultural lead approach that has formed the basis of INC’s success. Alex’s role will focus on continuing to build a connected client network for INC, prioritising a reactive approach, identifying genuine value, and ensuring a collaborative and enjoyable experience for our clients, underpinned by exceptional delivery.  

This positive step fully establishes INC as a genuine EMEA offering, whilst leveraging the various skill sets across the group to ensure progressive development of our teams, and to enable future innovation in design, delivery and technology. 

We are confident he will go above and beyond expectations, given his wealth of experience within the industry.

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In the world of interior design and fit-out, every project presents a delicate balance: delivering value without compromising quality. At INC Group, this balancing act between value engineering (VE) and quality assurance (QA) is central to how we operate across the Middle East’s fast-paced, high-spec construction landscape.

Value Engineering: Smart, Not Cheap

Value engineering is often misunderstood as “cost-cutting,” but for us, it’s about intelligent optimisation, rethinking materials, methods, and specifications to reduce unnecessary costs while maintaining the core design intent and performance.

Clients expect more than just aesthetic finishes, they demand functionality, durability, and long-term return on investment. That’s why our VE process is not about stripping down scope but about adding value through smarter alternatives, local sourcing, and leaner execution strategies.

Quality Assurance: Non-Negotiable

While VE focuses on cost-efficiency, QA ensures that every delivered element meets or exceeds project standards. At INC Group, quality is embedded from day one, starting with material selection, subcontractor vetting, mock-up reviews, and on-site supervision.

We operate in a market where the project stakeholders hold increasingly high expectations, particularly in premium office & hospitality spaces. Our QA protocols are therefore not just internal checks, they’re part of a wider commitment to reliability, brand integrity, and lifecycle performance.

Striking the Balance: Collaboration is Key

In many UAE  and Saudi projects, timelines are aggressive, design revisions are frequent, and budget constraints are real. Balancing VE and QA in such environments requires close collaboration with stakeholders, consultants, project managers, and end users alike.

We don’t view VE as a post-tender firefight but as a strategic dialogue that begins early. The earlier we are engaged, the more aligned we can be in maintaining design vision while building in constructability and cost-efficiency, without letting quality slip.

Lessons from the Ground

At INC Group, we’ve successfully delivered projects where the original budget constraints demanded creative VE solutions. But in every case, we held firm on one principle: quality is not optional. When value engineering is done in isolation, without input from quality and technical teams, the risk of rework, defects, and reputational damage increases significantly.

Case in Point: One Offices, One Za’abeel 

A longstanding client of INC, One Za’abeel, approached us to deliver the fast-track fit-out of the business centre in their iconic development. Across two floors, the project included a feature staircase, which required slab-cutting, tensioning and strengthening before the structure could be fabricated on site.

Our involvement began at the Schematic Design stage, briefed to partner with the Lead Design Consultant, to maintain the Hospitality level look, feel and quality, whilst undertaking a significant value engineering exercise to align with the client budget and timeline expectations. 

Through numerous workshops and close collaboration, a 20% cost saving was achieved, whilst the construction timeline was reduced by 50%. 

With quality uncompromised, the INC teams effort was recognised achieving “Office Fit-Out Project of the Year” at the 2025 Workspace Awards

Final Thoughts

The fit-out industry in the UAE is evolving rapidly, with clients expecting more transparency, accountability, and value. The balancing act between VE and QA is no longer an internal concern, it’s a visible part of how contractors are measured.

At INC Group, we embrace this balance as a core part of our delivery model, ensuring that every dirham saved is not at the cost of quality, but because of it.

INC Group: Interior Design and Fit-Out Specialists, UAE, Saudi Arabia, Africa

Enquiries: Info@inc-solutions.com

The post The Balancing Act Between Value Engineering and Quality Assurance appeared first on INC.

The courses completed include:

1. Chief Operating Officer (COO) Program
2. Designing and Building AI Products and Services
3. Internet of Things (IoT): Design and Applications

Delivered by the globally recognised Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), these programmes are tailored to upskill senior leaders in digital transformation, strategic operations, and emerging technologies, key capabilities in today’s design and construction sector.

“As we expand our design and build services in dynamic markets like the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Africa, these programmes offer the tools to lead smarter, innovate faster, and create more value for clients,”
said Ciaran.

With increasing demand for high-performance interior fit-outs in sectors such as corporate offices, hospitality, retail, and healthcare, INC Group is uniquely positioned to lead. By embedding AI and IoT thinking into project delivery, the company is driving next-level efficiencies in turnkey fit-out projects, supporting clients from concept to completion.

Recognised as an award-winning firm in the region, INC Group continues to elevate its offering by investing in both talent and technology, delivering intelligent, scalable, and future-ready spaces across the Middle East and Africa.

About INC Group

INC Group is a multi-regional design and build specialist, delivering high-quality, end-to-end fit-out solutions across the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Africa. Known for excellence in project execution and a collaborative approach, INC partners with global brands, developers, and architects to transform spaces.

The post INC Group’s COO Completes MIT xPRO Programmes, Driving Innovation in Design and Build Across UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Africa appeared first on INC.

We’re proud to share that INC Group has been awarded Gold in the ‘Best Company to Work For – Medium’ category at the Employee Happiness Awards 2025 – a recognition that celebrates organisations putting people and well-being at the heart of the workplace.

This milestone highlights INC’s commitment to cultivating a positive, engaging, and growth-oriented environment where our people can do their best work and thrive.

Commenting on the win, Bronwyn Thomson, CHCO at INC Group said:

“This award is a reflection of our team’s passion and our people-first mindset. At INC, we believe that a strong culture is built through everyday actions and we’re incredibly proud of the care, collaboration, and drive that our people bring to work every day. This recognition belongs to every member of our team.”

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By Andrew Mulligan, Managing Director, INC KSA

Saudi Arabia is experiencing one of the most transformative economic and regulatory shifts in the world and the legal sector is paying close attention. In the past two years, INC has witnessed a growing wave of international law firms establishing operations in the Kingdom, driven by regulatory reform, commercial opportunity, and a desire to cement their regional presence as early movers.

Across the group, INC, has had the opportunity to work with many of the world’s leading names in legal.

With over 25,000 m² of legal projects delivered across the Middle East, INC draw not only on regional capability but on global experience. Members of our senior team have collectively led the delivery of more than 215,000 m² of law firm spaces worldwide, primarily in the United States. This depth of sector-specific expertise, particularly in professional services environments, informs every decision we make on the ground in Saudi Arabia.

Most recently, we were proud to have delivered the new Riyadh office for Norton Rose Fulbright, designed by global architecture and design firm AAID and PMC Turner & Townsend. A prime example of collaboration between expert design and proven local delivery.

Regulatory Reforms Are Opening the Legal Market to the World

The catalyst for this influx lies in Saudi Arabia’s landmark reforms, especially the new Investment Law, which took effect this year. Designed to attract foreign direct investment, the law introduces enhanced protections for international investors, simplified remittance processes, and significant tax incentives. According to MEED (May 2025), these changes are core to the Kingdom’s strategy of achieving $100 billion in annual Foreign Direct Investment by 2030, a bold target, but one that is already reducing its reliance on oil through diversification.

As Tariq Sheikh, Partner at Klyse Advisory, noted in a recent piece on LinkedIn (2025), 

“The global legal market is undergoing a seismic shift in focus. Where Greater China once dominated the expansion strategies of major international law firms, the Middle East, particularly Saudi Arabia, now stands out as the new epicentre of growth.” INC are seeing this play out in real time.

Another key driver is Saudi Arabia’s Regional Headquarters Programme, which mandates that international companies must have established their regional HQ in the Kingdom by 2024 to be eligible for government contracts. For law firms with public sector clients or ambitions to expand into advisory and regulatory work, this shift has moved market entry from a strategic option to a business necessity.

Riyadh’s Office Market: Competitive, Compressed, and Strategic

The rise in legal activity coincides with skyrocketing demand for high-quality office space. Riyadh’s Grade A market remains consistent, with 98% occupancy since Q4 2024. Rents maintained an upward trend, increasing by 12% year-on-year. Key districts such as Zone A and Zone C recorded annual rental growth of 16%, reflecting elevated interest and limited supply in high-performing areas, according to the Savills Riyadh Office Market Report Q1 2025.

This is further backed by JLL’s Q1 report “Riyadh’s city-wide vacancy rate reached a low of 1.3% in Q1 2025, indicating an extremely tight market. This scarcity of available space is driving intense competition among tenants, particularly for prime locations”.

Interestingly in Q1, around 70% of enquiries were for office spaces under 1,000 m2. This reflects the legal sector’s preference for compact, high-impact environments that balance flexibility and efficiency. It also reflects the pressure, securing the right space, in the right tower, at the right time.

Fit-Out Delivery in KSA: What Law Firms Need to Know

Establishing a new office in Riyadh goes beyond design. It involves navigating a distinct approval ecosystem, coordinating closely with landlords, and working within a tightly regulated construction framework, all while adhering to brand and operational requirements set by regional and global stakeholders.

That’s where INC comes in. We specialise in delivering traditional or turnkey design and build solutions, with a strong local team based in Riyadh and regional support from the UAE and Africa. Our value lies not only in creativity and execution but in our fluency in both local compliance and international expectations.

Our expertise has been recognised with two significant accolades this year: Fit-Out Firm of the Year 2025 by Design Middle East, and Sustainable Contractor of the Year 2025 at the Sustainable Innovation Summit. These awards reflect our ongoing commitment to innovation, excellence, and environmentally responsible delivery.

Whether it’s acoustic privacy for client confidentiality, high-tech meeting room configurations, or integrating global brand guidelines, we build with purpose and always with a full understanding of what legal teams need to function, grow, and lead.

Early Movers Are Gaining Ground

Riyadh is now home to over 540 licensed regional headquarters (Savills, 2025), and that number continues to rise. For law firms, the message is clear: local presence is no longer optional, it’s fundamental.

And the firms that invest early in space, in people, in infrastructure are the ones most likely to shape and lead the future of legal practice in Saudi Arabia.

We believe that creating a professional, future-ready space is not just a tactical move it’s a strategic one. And at INC, we’re proud to be transforming the spaces where that future begins.

See why the world’s top law firms choose INC – Contact info@inc-solutions.com to receive our 2025 Legal Portfolio. For enquiries in Saudi Arabia, contact Niall Edmondson nedmondson@inc-solutions.com

The post The Rise of International Law Firms in Saudi Arabia appeared first on INC.

In today’s complex and fast-evolving construction environment, securing the timely delivery of materials is no longer a matter of efficiency, it’s a fundamental pillar of successful project execution. Across the Middle East, where ambitious timelines and high-specification expectations define many developments, the traditional procurement model is under increasing pressure. Delaying key purchasing decisions can result in missed deadlines, uncontrolled cost escalations, and strained client relationships.

As a contractor actively delivering large-scale fit-out and construction projects across the Middle East and Africa, INC Group has witnessed the growing impact of external global forces on local delivery. Procurement can no longer be treated as a downstream function; it must be embedded early in the project life cycle, aligned closely with design development and programme planning.

Here’s why early procurement is no longer optional:

Volatility in Global Supply Chains

In recent years, international sourcing has become significantly more unpredictable. From European timber and Italian marble to specialised electrical and mechanical components, securing these materials has become more complex. Disruptions caused by geopolitical instability, export restrictions, and production backlogs can limit availability with little warning.

By engaging procurement early, contractors are better positioned to place firm orders before markets tighten, or suppliers reprioritise allocations to other regions. In a global environment where demand often outpaces supply, acting early is the most effective way to maintain control.

Uncertainty in Freight and Logistics

The reliability of international freight routes has deteriorated due to global tensions and shifting geopolitical dynamics. The Red Sea, once a standard trade corridor for goods entering the Gulf, has become less dependable, leading to vessel rerouting, longer transit times, and cost premiums.

Early procurement enables contractors to mitigate such risks by factoring in extended shipping durations, reserving container slots in advance, and avoiding peak congestion periods. When logistics are confirmed early, site sequencing can proceed with greater confidence.

Improved Cost Management

Early engagement with suppliers allows both the contractor and client to stabilise costs before price fluctuations take hold. Commodity prices, freight charges, and foreign exchange rates have proven highly volatile. Waiting too long to procure key items can expose projects to financial strain through escalating post-contract variations.

Securing prices earlier in the project life cycle also provides a clearer commercial framework, supporting better cash flow planning and helping contractors maintain margin integrity.

Protecting Programme Milestones

Modern construction schedules are often compressed, leaving minimal tolerance for delay, particularly on projects involving bespoke finishes or imported systems. Critical path activities can be severely impacted by the late arrival of long-lead items such as air handling units, switchgear, specialist furniture, decorative lighting, or imported floor finishes.

Aligning procurement timelines with the early stages of design ensures that these long-lead elements are identified and secured in advance, preserving programme certainty and reducing the need for costly re-sequencing or provisional workarounds.

Strengthening Client Confidence

Clients and developers today expect certainty of cost, of timeline, and of outcome. A contractor who proactively addresses procurement risk from the outset is better equipped to offer this assurance. Transparent engagement with the supply chain and early commitment to key packages demonstrate foresight, discipline, and risk management competence.

This approach not only safeguards project outcomes but also fosters trust and long-term relationships with clients and consultants.

In a region defined by rapid development and high delivery expectations, early procurement is more than a risk mitigation tool, it’s a strategic enabler. It allows contractors to take control of volatile variables and shift from reactive problem-solving to proactive planning.

At INC Group, we collaborate closely with our design teams, supply chain partners, and client stakeholders to secure critical packages at the earliest feasible stage. This forward-thinking procurement model supports smoother site execution, clearer cost tracking, and stronger overall delivery outcomes.

The post Procure to Perform: Why Early Buying Is a Strategic Must appeared first on INC.

Fast Facts

• Location: One Za’abeel, Dubai
• Size: 1200 sqm
• Construction Timeline: 3 months
• Project Type: Design & Build
• Key Stakeholders: INC UAE design and project team, One Za’abeel management, local suppliers, and artists

Project Objectives

The primary objective of the project was to activate various spaces within the concourse, each with its own distinct identity and vibe, while ensuring a seamless journey through the main thoroughfare. The concourse connects multiple high-traffic areas within One Za’abeel, including an office lobby, a hotel lobby, nightlife and F&B entrances. The challenge lay in harmonising these distinct environments while upholding the building’s high standards of design and functionality.

Design Challenges and Solutions

One of the defining characteristics of the project was its multifunctional nature. The concourse serves as a central connector, accommodating a variety of functions and activities. Several key challenges were addressed throughout the design and construction process:

1. Creating Distinct Yet Cohesive Spaces

• The concourse needed to reflect different identities while maintaining a seamless transition between areas.
• The design strategy involved using subtle yet effective design elements to delineate each space while ensuring visual continuity.

2. Addressing Structural and Lighting Constraints

• The space featured high ceilings but lacked natural light, requiring innovative lighting solutions.
• A combination of ambient, accent, and decorative lighting was integrated to create a warm and inviting atmosphere.

3. Working Within a Tight Programme

• Completing a high-end design and build project within three months required meticulous planning and execution.
• Locally sourced, high-end materials were selected to align with the project’s accelerated timeline while ensuring a luxurious finish.

4. Managing a Live Environment

• The project was executed in a fully operational environment, with adjacent hotel, nightclub, office, and residential spaces.
• Noise restrictions meant that construction activities had to be carefully scheduled, with significant coordination required to avoid disruptions.

5. Stakeholder Collaboration

• The project involved multiple stakeholders with varying interests, requiring careful coordination and negotiation.
• A structured communication strategy was implemented to ensure alignment, address concerns efficiently, and maintain the integrity of the overall vision.

Incorporating the Client’s Vision

Understanding and realising the client’s vision was central to the success of the project. The brief required an elevated experience in line with One Za’abeel’s luxury, exclusivity, and business-leisure integration. The INC UAE team worked closely with the client and stakeholders to ensure:

• Each space within the concourse had its own unique identity while maintaining a cohesive experience.
• High-end, locally available materials were used to ensure design consistency with other areas of the building.
• Local artistry was incorporated, adding a distinctive cultural touch and enhancing the visual appeal of the space.

Project Features and Innovations

The project integrated several notable features that contributed to its success:

• Showcasing Local Art: The inclusion of artwork by regional artists added cultural significance and a unique character to the concourse.

Acknowledgements

• Client: One Za’abeel
• INC Project Manager: Ahmed
• INC Site Team: Ben and Jishnu
• INC Lead Designer: Annabelle
• INC Client Relations: Tom
• Lighting: Huda Lighting
• Art Consultant: Bureau Safavid
• Furniture Supplier: Stulo. 
• Rugs: ICE International B.V. 
• Joinery: Pinkline Vogue 
• Metals Works: Amzan Neon  
• MEP: Iwin 

Final Outcome

The Concourse at One Za’abeel stands as a testament to INC UAE’s expertise in delivering high-end, complex projects. The space is now fully activated, connecting key areas of the building in a seamless and visually stunning manner. It has become a landmark F&B and hospitality destination, reflecting INC UAE’s commitment to design excellence, innovation, and efficiency.

Expanding Our Presence at One Za’abeel

INC UAE has now delivered approximately 10,000 sqm of space in One Za’abeel, including the high-end fit-out of the executive offices on Levels 5 & 6. This milestone further underscores our expertise in executing high-end projects within prestigious developments.

View more of our projects across the UAE, Saudi Arabia and Africa here:
https://www.inc-solutions.com/projects/ 

The post Project Case Study: Concourse at One Za’abeel appeared first on INC.

INC Group is honoured to announce that INC KSA has been awarded the prestigious title of ‘Design and Build Firm of the Year’ at the Commercial Interior Design Saudi Awards 2025.

Watch the evening’s highlights here.

This accolade is a testament to the dedication and passion of our 130+ team members in Riyadh, who have successfully delivered over 600,000 sq. ft. of projects in the last 12 months. Our team’s unwavering commitment to excellence is evident in every project we undertake. But our dedication goes beyond just our projects.

We actively support local and global communities through various initiatives:

• COOP programmes with Saudi universities: Providing valuable opportunities for students to gain practical experience. You can read more on how we nurture young talent here. 
• Recycling partnerships with Tadweer: Promoting sustainability and environmental responsibility. Learn more on this here.
• Fundraising for charities such as Orphan Care: Giving back to those in need.

We are also proud to participate in industry events, continually striving to share knowledge and foster creativity. Our involvement in these events helps us stay at the forefront of the industry and set new standards of excellence and integrity.

About the Commercial Interior Design Saudi Awards

The Commercial Interior Design (CID) Saudi Awards celebrate outstanding achievements in design, architecture, and creativity within Saudi Arabia. Held annually, the awards recognise the best projects, firms, and visionaries across various categories. The event brings together over 250 industry leaders to honour the creative milestones and trailblazing talent in the region.

What Winning Means to the INC Group

Winning this award is not just a recognition of our hard work and dedication; it is a significant milestone for the entire INC Group. It reinforces our position as a leader in the design and build industry, inspiring us to continue pushing the boundaries of creativity and excellence. This accolade also strengthens our commitment to delivering exceptional quality and service to our clients, while fostering a culture of excellence within our team.

Moreover, such recognition motivates us to further our efforts in community engagement and sustainability initiatives, ensuring that we make a positive impact both locally and globally. It is a proud moment for everyone at INC Group, and we are excited to build on this success in the years to come.

Congratulations to all the winners and highly commended firms. A special thank you to voco Riyadh for hosting, our lovely guests for joining us, and to CID for their exceptional organisation.

Together, we continue to set new benchmarks in the industry, driven by our passion for excellence and our commitment to making a positive impact.

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