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Construction

Mohamed Amer, managing director of ICC MENA. (Image source: ICC)

The International Code Council (ICC) continued its robust program of industry engagement in September, having participated earlier in two of Saudi Arabia’s leading events: the Building Envelope Design and Insulation Conference (BEDIC) and the MEP International Conference (MEPIC).

The month concluded with ICC’s participation in Intersec Saudi Arabia at the end of September. Together, these platforms underscored ICC’s active role in advancing the Kingdom’s sustainable construction sector, strengthening building safety, and promoting best practices in efficiency and innovation.

Paul Sincaglia, Chief Fire Protection Engineer at ICC, and Beth Tubbs, Vice President of Codes Development at ICC, participated in Intersec Saudi Arabia, the Kingdom’s premier platform for the fire, safety, and security industry.

The event drew more than 27,000 professionals, including government leaders, agencies, and organisational heads. Discussions explored both the human and regulatory dimensions of building safety in Saudi Arabia.

What the future holds

One focus highlighted women breaking new ground in fire protection and life safety, showcasing how leadership and innovation are reshaping a traditionally male-dominated field and inspiring future professionals.

Additionally, there was a discussion examining the latest updates to the Saudi Building Code (SBC), with specific insights on the Saudi Fire Code (SFC), outlining their impact on industrial facilities and offering strategies for effective compliance. Together, these sessions highlighted the Kingdom’s progress in advancing both inclusion and regulatory operational excellence in the built environment.

ICC worked closely with regional partners to promote excellence in design and construction.

Through strategic collaborations with the Saudi Building Code Center (SBCC) and the Ministry of Municipalities and Housing (MOMAH), ICC supported the Kingdom’s efforts to develop and implement building codes tailored to local needs and priorities.

ICC welcomed visitors and industry professionals at Intersec to exchange insights and collaborate with global experts on shaping the future of safe, resilient, and energy-efficient buildings.

“Saudi Arabia is rapidly advancing its fire and life safety framework as part of building smarter and more resilient cities,” said Mohamed Amer, MENA managing director at ICC. “At Intersec, ICC is committed to sharing global expertise in fire protection, building safety, and risk management, while showcasing innovative solutions that enhance resilience and support the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 ambitions.”

XCMG delivers 200 advanced heavy machines to West Asia and North Africa, enhancing efficiency and sustainability. (XCMG Machinery)

XCMG Machinery, a global leader in construction machinery, has reached another milestone in its international expansion by delivering a fleet of over 200 units of advanced heavy equipment to clients in West Asia and North Africa

This delivery underscores the company’s dedication to providing reliable, efficient, and sustainable solutions for construction and mining projects worldwide.

The latest shipment features XCMG's flagship models across essential equipment categories, each designed for superior performance and durability in the toughest working conditions globally:

Excavator – XE380G: Equipped with a Cummins 9L engine and 180 main pump system, the XE380G combines high productivity with low fuel consumption. Its reinforced frame, advanced filtration system capturing 99% of dust particles, and reliable cooling performance ensure durable operation even in extreme climates of up to 52°C.

Wheel Loaders – XC988H and LW700HV: The XC988H, with an 8.5-ton rated load and 5m³ bucket, is engineered for heavy-load mining applications, delivering stability and efficiency through its 250kW engine. The LW700HV features a 7.4-ton rated load with a 4.5m³ bucket and a 210kW engine, offering durability and operator comfort for demanding operations.

Dump Truck – XGA3251D5WC: Tested across 1.8 million km in over 100 working scenarios, this model ensures exceptional reliability. Its ECE R29-03 compliant cab, reinforced steel frame, and premium Weichai-Fast-Hande powertrain provide safety, strength, and transport efficiency across various terrains.

Motor Grader – GR2605: With intelligent control systems and ergonomic design, the GR2605 delivers precision grading with reduced fuel consumption. Its load-sensing hydraulics, adaptive fan system, and wet-type brake axle enhance efficiency and longevity, while the spacious cab with integrated air ducting maximises operator comfort.

“Every machine we deliver represents XCMG's dedication to quality, innovation, and customer success,” said Kang Jian, general manager of XCMG Middle East and North Africa. “With this new fleet delivery, we are once again demonstrating our ability to meet the evolving needs of global partners while contributing to more efficient, sustainable, and safe construction practices worldwide.”

As XCMG continues to broaden its global presence, the company remains committed to delivering advanced solutions that enable customers to address the challenges of modern infrastructure development and mining with confidence.

In collaboration with Technical Review Middle East and African Review, Liebherr has released a comprehensive industry outlook exploring how mining, construction, logistics, and energy sectors across Africa and the Middle East are undergoing rapid transformation.

The study highlights the urgent need for these high-risk industries to raise productivity, improve safety, and strengthen infrastructure against increasingly complex challenges. From isolated mining operations in central Africa to fast-growing urban hubs in the Gulf, businesses must contend with volatile regulatory conditions, extreme climates, and infrastructure gaps.

Liebherr’s latest report underlines how its broad portfolio of machines, including cranes, excavators, mining trucks, and material handling systems, is engineered to deliver consistent performance under such demanding circumstances. With a strong focus on safety systems, digitalisation, and sustainability, the company is helping customers minimise downtime, cut emissions, and maintain resilience.

Inside the report:

  • Explore how Africa and the Middle East are reshaping high-risk industries through large-scale infrastructure, mining, and logistics projects.

  • Learn from case studies demonstrating how Liebherr technology supports major developments, from new port facilities to rail corridors and airport expansions.

  • Gain insights into Liebherr’s investment in local skills through regional service hubs, operator training, and technical development programmes.

  • Discover how next-generation solutions, such as connected fleet management, automation, and digital monitoring, are giving companies greater control over complex operations.

  • Understand the company’s sustainability roadmap, which includes fuel-efficient engines, partial electrification, and eco-driving practices designed to lower carbon footprints.

  • See how long-term partnerships with local distributors and contractors are enabling businesses to adapt, innovate, and grow sustainably across the region.

Positioned as both a supplier and a strategic partner, Liebherr emphasises that progress in high-risk industries depends not just on machines, but on knowledge transfer, innovation, and collaboration.

This exclusive report offers valuable insights for decision-makers, providing a roadmap for navigating operational risks while driving industrial growth across Africa and the Middle East.

Download the full report now.

 

The new machines are all about getting more done — faster, smoother, and with less effort. (Image source: Volvo)

If you're in the business of moving heavy materials, operating under pressure, and meeting tight project timelines, the new generation of Volvo wheel loaders is built for you. Designed with smart, time-saving features and built-in efficiencies, these machines are all about getting more done — faster, smoother, and with less effort.

Smarter control for smoother operation

Manual operation is becoming a thing of the past. The latest Volvo wheel loaders come standard with cutting-edge automation to simplify your workday and boost performance.

• New Smart Control engine mode, means you can lower fuel consumption without compromising on productivity. This intelligent feature helps you stay on top of demanding schedules. Spend less time on repetitive tasks and more on what really counts – delivering results.
• For consistent, efficient bucket fills every time, the Auto-Bucket Fill feature is a game-changer – especially in rehandling work. At the push of a button, the system automatically fills, curls, and lifts the bucket while managing the throttle for you. It’s ideal for both seasoned pros and newer operators, helping reduce fatigue, extend tire life, and keep productivity high all day long.
• The latest wheel loaders also come equipped with Load-sensing hydraulics for ultra-responsive handling and automatic bucket leveling for precise and consistent operation
Built for performance and productivity
Whether you're working on construction sites, in quarries, or in material handling operations, time is money.
• L150 & L180: Now equipped with direct lock-up shifting for faster response and more efficient power delivery. By eliminating torque converter slip, you get smoother shifting, quicker cycles, and better fuel economy – ideal for load-and-carry work.
• L220 & L260: Tackle tough ground with Automatic Traction Control, which automatically engages the front axle differential lock for extra grip when you need it. It cuts wheel slip, reduces tire wear, and keeps you moving confidently through rough conditions. Automatic Traction Control is also available as an option for rear axles.
• Volvo’s OptiShift technology with patented Reverse by Braking reduces cycle times, improves fuel efficiency, and increases torque output at lower speeds. That means stronger performance when and where you need it most.

Prioritising operator safety, always

Volvo work smarterSafety is non-negotiable. Volvo’s next-gen loaders come equipped with:
• 360° Volvo Smart View camera system
• Collision Mitigation System for safer reversing
• Enhanced all-around visibility with an upgraded cabin design

These innovations help keep operators and on-site teams protected, no matter how tough the conditions.

The new generation of Volvo wheel loaders includes the L150, L180, L200 High Lift, L220, and the L260. From all-round versatility to maximum lifting power, there's sure to be a model to fit your specific worksite needs.

The C32B delivers up to 895 kW. (Image source: Caterpillar)

Caterpillar has launched the Cat C32B diesel engine, a redesigned power platform offering best-in-class power density and improved durability for large off-highway machinery.

Available globally through Cat dealers, the 32.1-litre, 12-cylinder engine introduces several design upgrades aimed at boosting performance, extending time between rebuilds, and ensuring reliability across demanding industrial applications.

The C32B delivers up to 895 kW (1,200 hp) and 5,861 Nm (4,323 lb-ft) for U.S. EPA Tier 4 Final and 839 kW (1,125 hp) and 5,499 Nm (4,056 lb-ft) for EU Stage V. For less regulated regions, a peak rating of 1,007 kW (1,350 hp) and 6,166 Nm (4,548 lb-ft) is available. Its wide-ranging applications include loaders, cranes, dredgers, trenchers, forestry equipment, hydraulic power units, compressors, pumps, and drill rigs.

“For nearly 20 years, the Cat C32 engine platform has set the standard for premium power and endurance in construction, mining and other industrial applications,” said Steve Ferguson, senior vice president of Caterpillar Industrial Power Systems. “The new Cat C32B builds on this field-proven reputation with a series of upgrades and new technologies that will drive the superior performance of off-highway equipment for years to come.”

Key enhancements include a new cast-iron alloy block for added structural strength, an induction-hardened crankshaft with larger journals, and redesigned connecting rods for optimised bearing performance. An upgraded lubrication system with a higher-capacity oil pump, improved oil cooler, and piston cooling jets boosts wear resistance and reliability. The engine also features thicker shim gaskets, redesigned pistons, optimised cylinder head geometry for heat transfer, and valve updates to reduce wear and extend service life.

For protection, the C32B introduces dual-sensor coolant leak detection and incorporates a dual-can diesel oxidation catalyst (DOC) aftertreatment system. This passive, maintenance-free solution removes the need for regeneration or thermal management, offering operational efficiency and flexible mounting options to reduce package size and installation costs.

Compatible with renewable fuels such as 100% hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO), the engine also supports factory-built industrial power units (IPUs) with pre-mounted aftertreatment and cooling packs, helping OEMs lower validation and installation expenses.

With these advancements, Caterpillar positions the C32B as a next-generation solution that combines durability, flexibility, and sustainability to power large-scale industrial operations for years ahead.

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