CIOB Continues to See Interest in the Middle East

Wednesday, 23 March 2011 12:00 AM

The growth in worldwide construction is expected to rise by almost 70% from $7.2 trillion today to $12 trillion by 2020. Before the global recession the Middle East was touted as the number one hotspot for construction activity. But as the world's financial order is restructured some areas within the UAE have suffered.

In stark contrast to the perceived slowdown the Chartered Institute of Building has seen an influx of construction professionals into the Middle East. And with more than 500 members actively working across the region the CIOB has opened its first full-time office in Dubai to offer support.

Amy Gough, Head of International at the CIOB said; "The expectation is that China, India and Eastern Europe will be the new magnets for construction activity. But we are still seeing our own members, and other construction professionals, migrate towards the Middle East.

"Certainly, in the case of China we have vast experience and support for members seeking those opportunities and connections. However, we recognise that whilst we have been scaling up our presence in the Middle East through a range of centres and local support our members need something more substantial and permanent. The new Dubai branch is in direct response to that demand and it also gives us greater capacity for growth in line with future construction activity. People on the ground will see a more active CIOB that will be promoting the value of professionalism at industry, government and education levels."

The CIOB will use its new foothold in Dubai to launch a number of initiatives that connect together its existing presence in Abu Dhabi, Oman, Qatar and Saudi Arabia. The Institute estimates regular growth in demand for professionally qualified construction managers throughout the region.

The CIOB's strategy involves working together with Universities offering degrees in construction management, graduates, middle/senior managers in construction and both contractors and consultants; with the aim of promoting the benefits of an internationally recognised professional qualification and network.

ENDS

NOTES TO EDITORS

The Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB) represents for the public benefit the most diverse set of professionals in the construction industry.

Our Mission

To contribute to the creation of a modern, progressive, and responsible construction industry; able to meet the economic, environmental and social challenges faced in the 21st century.
Our 7 Guiding Principles

. Creating extraordinary people through professional learning and continuous personal development.

. Promoting the built environment as central to the quality of life for everyone everywhere.

. Achieving a sustainable future, worldwide.

. Advocating exemplary ethical practice and behaviour, integrity and transparency.

. Pursuing excellence in management practice, and technological innovation rooted in evidence based science.

. Being socially responsible and working responsibly.

. Enabling our members to find an emotional resonance with the Institute; their success is our success.

We have over 47,000 members around the world and are considered to be the international voice of the building professional, representing an unequalled body of knowledge concerning the management of the total building process.

Chartered Member status is recognised internationally as the mark of a true, skilled professional in the construction industry and CIOB members have a common commitment to achieving and maintaining the highest possible standards within the built environment.

Further information is available by contacting Saul Townsend CIOB Press and Communications Manager on t: 01344 630 766 or e: stownsend@ciob.org.uk.

Kind Regards

Saul Townsend MCIPR
Press & Communications Manager
The Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB)
t: + 44 (0) 1344 630 766 f: + 44 (0) 1344 630 770
e: stownsend@ciob.org.uk Twitter: CIOBsaul
w: www.ciob.org www.artofbuilding.org

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