RIYADH — Accelerated adoption of digital technologies will be vital to achieving Saudi’s ambitious Vision 2030, Autodesk Converge, a high-level, first-of-its-kind strategic conference in Riyadh concluded.

Inaugural Autodesk Converge welcomed hundreds of innovators and leaders in architecture, engineering and construction fields in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Event, conceptualized for professionals involved in shaping country’s economic and industrial strategies at the highest levels, discussed some of the most pressing hurdles to accomplishing the Kingdom’s bold plans.

“Saudi Arabia is on the brink of the exponential growth driven by ambitions Vision 2030. In the next decade, the Kingdom will transform into the heart of the Arab and Islamic worlds, the investment powerhouse and the hub connecting three continents,” said Mohammad Saleh, Regional Manager at Autodesk. “To achieve growth of this magnitude, the country needs to begin disrupting core processes and practices whether it is buildings, products or services. Autodesk Converge is a platform for diverse stakeholder leadership to come together and discuss challenges and solutions related to Kingdom’s futuristic plans.”

Citing some of these challenges, Saleh added “the Kingdom’s population is expected to reach nearly 40 million by 2030 with 89% urbanization, which means an increasing demand for new construction. Coupled with shrinking limited natural resources, and an increasing need for sustainable development, this requires the industry to rethink the way we do things.”

With “Digitization of Construction” being the core theme of the event, attendees saw how their peers are using emerging technologies like generative design, augmented and virtual reality, robotics and additive manufacturing through presentations by companies like Red Sea Development Company, Dar Group and Falconviz. Attendees also had the opportunity to explore stories of exceptional design and engineering from across the globe that gave an in-depth look as to how Autodesk has helped talented individuals imagine, design, and make a better world.

In addition, Autodesk showcased how VR and real-time technologies are bringing architectural designs to life all while exploring insights in the Gulf region on the value of BIM, and what factors are holding back entities from adopting it.

In line with Vision 2030 and the National Transformation Program, where education and technology play key importance, Autodesk announced about signing of Letter of Intent with the Technical and Vocational Training Corporation (TVTC). Under the agreement, Autodesk and TVTC will collaborate on the development and implementation of industry standards and best practices and create awareness around latest technologies.

“Saudi Arabia is on the path of a bold and energetic approach to deliver best-in-class projects. Over the recent past, it has showcased several milestones to position the Kingdom as a global hub for future technology and we are delighted to be part of this journey by empowering the imaginative minds of the Kingdom,” Saleh noted. — SG