An analysis of data from AtkinsRéalis, the Canadian engineering, consulting, major projects and nuclear energy company, indicates that the firm is gradually shifting its operations from Saudi Arabia to the United Arab Emirates following the scaling back and cancellation of a number of Saudi projects linked to the company.

The transition appears to be underway and could ultimately lead to a complete withdrawal from Saudi Arabia within the coming months.

AtkinsRéalis began operating in Saudi Arabia in 2019, securing contracts tied to several flagship Vision 2030 projects. However, as a number of those projects encountered delays, reductions or cancellations, the company’s contracts were affected accordingly.

Among the projects awarded to the company that were subsequently cancelled or reduced were:

▪️ Planning and design work for the Mukaab project in Riyadh.

▪️ Parts of the Qiddiya development.

▪️ Parts of the NEOM project.

Speaking during an official meeting, the company’s Chief Executive, Ian Edwards, said: “We are shifting our focus towards the UAE.”