ConTech Star of the Year

Amarnath Patnam is Head of Design Technology for Sobha Realty. He has been an integral part of Sobha Realty since its inception in developing innovative solutions that have helped build the organisation’s digital capabilities.

Amarnath has spearheaded an ecosystem of technologies, processes, and policies that revolutionise project lifecycle management through innovative design technology. Leading the implementation of BIM across multiple divisions including Architecture, Structural Engineering, MEP, Interior Design, Urban Design, Landscape, Façade, Pod, and Urban Design he has enhanced collaboration, improved communication, and streamlined information exchange across teams.

Amarnath's efforts have accelerated project schedules, improved risk assessment, and fostered cost efficiency by enabling early involvement of specialist design teams and leveraging fabrication-level drawings earlier in the project lifecycle. His efforts led to BIM being perceived as a technology stream, and the resulting innovation was recognised as an independent value and used in marketing efforts.

His role in digitisation and technology adoption has not only transformed Sobha Realty's operations but has also set a new benchmark in the real estate industry for utilising digital technology in construction.

Mahmoud has been a catalyst for innovation and new ways of working in the built environment, leveraging technology, digital tools, and data-led approaches to drive transformative outcomes. He championed the adoption of AI-driven generative design, digital twins, and cloud-based collaboration platforms, optimising workflows and enhancing decision-making. These innovations reduced design iteration times by 30%, improved cost estimation accuracy by 20%, and increased productivity by 50%.

A strong advocate for data-led approaches, Mahmoud implemented automated clash detection and lifecycle analysis, reducing on-site rework by 40%. His efforts in promoting cloud-based collaboration improved communication, reduced disputes by 30%, and expedited approvals by 25%, ensuring smoother project execution.

Mahmoud fostered a culture of innovation by establishing innovation hubs and encouraging teams to test new ideas. Training programs upskilled employees in emerging technologies like VR/AR, increasing client feedback positivity by 35%.

Sustainability was another key focus, with BIM simulations achieving a 20% reduction in energy costs and earning LEED certifications, cutting carbon footprints by 30%. Mahmoud’s thought leadership at industry forums positioned the organisation as a pioneer in digital transformation, securing 15% more bids for complex projects. His contributions have set new benchmarks for efficiency, sustainability, and client satisfaction in the industry.

Siraj Maeen leads the PMIS department at Rua Al Madinah Holding (RUA), a wholly-owned subsidiary of Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF). He undertakes holistic development projects to enrich the experience of residents and visitors in Madinah.

Siraj has been an integral part of the department since its inception, leveraging over 13 years of experience and expertise across the GCC, Europe, and Asia. Upon joining RUA, he conducted an in-house digital assessment and collaborated with the development sector to re-engineer processes, establish the Work Breakdown Structure, implement a document numbering system, laying the foundation for digital transformation.

His leadership has been instrumental in developing a digital development strategy (PMIS, BIM, GIS, Timelapse & Analytics), driving PMIS implementation, and leading historical big-data migration to enhance efficiency, governance, and project delivery. He has streamlined process automation, governance, and digital workflows, ensuring seamless collaboration and data-driven execution.

Additionally, he has supported BIM integration, CDE structuring, and aligning digital workflows with project execution.