Jan 6, 2025
Know more on the companies that are staying ahead of the game and continuing to influence the future of the built world
(Disclaimer: This list is not a ranking. All companies are placed in alphabetical order)
As the built environment continues to evolve at an unprecedented pace, innovation, sustainability, and customer-centricity emerge as the defining pillars of success. Across the globe, industry leaders are pushing boundaries to redefine how we design, manage, and interact with our spaces. From implementing cutting-edge technologies like IoT, AI, and VR to integrating ESG principles into everyday operations, these companies are not just meeting today’s demands but shaping the future of facilities management, interior design, and construction.
The UAE and Saudi Arabia, as regional hubs of development and innovation, stand at the forefront of this transformation. Companies like Al Bonian, Berkeley Services, Better Communities, Ejadah, Emrill, Facilio, Muheel Facilities Services, HTS Interiors, and OCS Facilities Management exemplify what it means to drive impactful change. Their achievements in energy efficiency, digital transformation, strategic partnerships, and customer- focused solutions are setting new benchmarks for excellence in the industry.
As we look towards 2025, these organisations are not only addressing critical industry challenges but also demonstrating an unwavering commitment to enhancing the places we live, work, and thrive. Their ability to innovate, adapt, and lead underscores why they are the companies to watch in the coming year, promising a future where functionality meets sustainability and where technological advancement coexists with human-centric design.
This feature celebrates their vision, resilience, and determination to redefine the built environment for a better tomorrow.
MUHEEL: INNOVATION AND SERVICE EXCELLENCE IN SAUDI ARABIA'S FACILITIES MANAGEMENT LANDSCAPE
Muhammad Irfan Khokhar
Acting CEO, Muheel Facilities Services
Muheel is a leading Integrated Facilities Management (IFM) company in Saudi Arabia, driven by a vision of "Helping to Create Better Places to Work and Live." A joint venture between Al Muhaidib Group and Abdul Latif Jameel, Muheel brings over four decades of IFM expertise. Offering more than 45 service lines, including Hard and Soft Services, FM Technical Consultancy, and Energy Management, the company serves key sectors such as government, commercial, residential, industrial, banking, oil and gas, retail, education, aviation, healthcare, and hospitality. Through innovation and operational excellence, Muheel plays a pivotal role in supporting Saudi Arabia’s evolving economy with effective and efficient IFM solutions.
2024 HIGHLIGHTS
In 2024, Muheel achieved an impressive 90% client retention rate while expanding its existing client businesses by 38%, reflecting the trust placed in its technical expertise and service excellence. The company secured numerous prestigious contracts and won two Gold Awards at the SACWFM for Best Use of FM Technology and Health & Safety Initiative.
Key advancements included upgrading ERP and CAFM systems with a focus on Contract Performance Management, Asset Life Cycle Management and launching the Muheel Link App, which streamlines access for clients and end users. Additionally, Muheel made significant strides in Saudization, achieving a 5% increase in the representation of Saudi nationals in core organisational roles.
FOCUS AREAS FOR 2025
Muheel’s strategic focus for 2025 centers on advancing its portfolio of over 45 Integrated Facilities Management (IFM) services through vertical integration, reinforcing its position as a comprehensive, one-stop solution provider. Additionally, the company seeks to expand its B2C operations under the "Yella Fix" brand. As part of its digital transformation strategy, Muheel is launching two key platforms in Q1:
“Ustad”, designed to enhance staff upskilling.
“Iraha”, a grievance management platform aimed at prioritizing worker welfare.
The company is also committed to strengthening its Energy Management capabilities, entering into a partnership with an international brand to introduce an Energy Management Platform and an IoT-based system. These innovations are intended to optimize energy usage, improve system performance, and enable predictive maintenance.
Furthermore, Muheel aims to accomplish a 10% increase in Saudization by 2025.
FLAGSHIP PROJECTS
Muheel manages several flagship contracts, prioritising
partnerships with organisations that align with its vision. Notable projects include:
Total Facilities Management (TFM) for the King Salman Convention Centre since 2018
TFM services for Ajdan Walk since 2019
Soft Services for SATORP since 2019
Additionally, Muheel successfully renewed a three-year TFM contract with the Economic Cities and Special Zones Authority (ECZA), expanding the scope of its services.
STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIPS
Muheel collaborates closely with clients to deliver optimal solutions that balance quality and cost while enhancing building and asset life cycles through sustainable delivery models. Over the past year, the company transitioned multiple input-based contracts to output- based agreements by demonstrating clear value propositions.
Muheel also partners with educational institutions to drive workforce development through upskilling initiatives and nurtures young talent through its Young Leaders Programme, offering opportunities to fresh graduates.
OUTLOOK
What sets Muheel apart is its strong focus on innovation, sustainability, and customer experience—key drivers of its growth and success. By delivering tailored, cost effective, and value-added solutions underpinned by decades of industry expertise, Muheel is well positioned to meet the evolving demands of Saudi Arabia’s dynamic FM landscape.
The company is dedicated to fostering a people-centric culture, prioritizing workforce development through continuous training and skill enhancement, while ensuring the retention of top talent through career progressions.