Artificial intelligence is transforming the construction industry in Dubai, yet human workers will continue playing a crucial role. According to Barry Lewis, CEO of Alec Holdings, recent advancements in technology are enhancing efficiency but cannot replace the invaluable skills and judgment of human labor on construction sites.
Innovative Technologies in Construction
Alec Holdings, known for projects like SeaWorld Abu Dhabi and the Bvlgari Resort, is exploring cutting-edge tools like robotic dogs and drilling bots to streamline operations. During an interview with The National, Lewis highlighted that while these technologies are beneficial, the true power of AI lies in optimizing backend processes rather than front-end operations. “Being an early adopter of AI is essential; it helps us refine mundane and repetitive tasks,” he explained. By leveraging AI, the company seeks to facilitate data management and eliminate the need for manual entries, significantly enhancing productivity.
Another significant innovation is modular construction, whereby components of projects are manufactured in a factory setting before being transported to the construction site. This method not only enhances efficiency but also allows construction firms to meet multiple project commitments simultaneously. Furthermore, Alec has introduced task-specific watches to track workers’ productivity, providing real-time data to analyze efficiency against set benchmarks.
Performance Tracking and Worker Productivity
According to Lewis, data collected from these watches indicates that workers, particularly plumbers, are only productive 35 to 45 percent of the time on-site. In contrast, when these tasks are performed in a factory setting, productivity rates skyrocket to approximately 85 percent. This suggests that construction firms must find ways to replicate factory efficiencies on job sites. Alec aims to reduce workforce numbers from around 10,000 to just 2,500 by shifting more tasks to a controlled factory environment to improve productivity.
While this enhanced level of monitoring raises questions about worker privacy, Lewis contends that the real-time data is utilized to reward productivity. “We incentivize our workers; if they improve their productivity levels, they receive additional compensation,” he noted. As of now, the company has equipped about 7,000 workers with these tracking devices, with plans to more than double that number in the near future.
The Future of Construction Automation
Despite advancements in technology, Lewis doesn’t foresee a future where construction is completely automated. Automated systems thrive on consistency and volume—a hallmark of car manufacturing, for example—but the construction industry often deals with unique projects. “We don’t build the same thing every day,” he pointed out. The economic feasibility of automated solutions diminishes in construction projects that vary widely.
Alec witnesses immense potential within the construction market, especially in sectors like data centers and hospitality. The company recently raised 1.4 billion UAE Dirhams ($381.2 million) through an oversubscribed public offering, which reflects strong investor confidence. Lewis emphasized the substantial opportunities ahead in the UAE and Saudi Arabian markets, suggesting that there is still room for growth.
In conclusion, while technology plays an increasingly prominent role in construction, the human element remains irreplaceable. The ongoing integration of AI and other innovations provides ample opportunities for efficiency and productivity, but skillful manpower continues to be the backbone of successful construction projects. As Alec Holdings charts its course in this rapidly evolving landscape, balancing technological advancements and human resources will be key to their future success.