NEOM signed an agreement to establish a joint venture with Samsung C&T to unlock an initial investment of more than SAR 1.3 billion in construction robotics.
The agreement will accelerate the development and deployment of cutting-edge construction automation technology in Saudi Arabia, NEOM said in a statement.
The JV aims to automate rebar cage assembly through advanced robotic welding and tying techniques, enabling the assembly of large, pre-manufactured reinforcement cages.
Through automation, adoption of rebar assembly technology can reduce manual workforce hours by up to 80%, based on global average installation metrics for traditional construction methods, improving safety and quality, reducing material waste and reducing cage assembly costs by up to 40%.
NEOM's Investment Fund, the strategic investment arm of NEOM, led this agreement.
The agreement will establish rebar cage assembly factories in NEOM, creating more than 2,000 highly skilled job opportunities locally, while meeting the extensive requirements for construction of THE LINE and other key developments in the region.
With soaring international demand for rebar fabrication, progress in automated rebar technology will drive efficiency and productivity gains across the global construction sector.
Through its growing design and construction sector, NEOM is establishing itself as a frontrunner in advancing modern construction methods by capitalizing on emerging technologies and collaborating with key industry players.