WSP Anticipate Podcast

As the Arabian Peninsula experiences shifts in weather patterns and faces more intense and frequent rainfall events, the demand for effective flood mitigation strategies has never been more critical. In this episode of the WSP Anticipate Podcast, Daymion Jenkins, Advisory Director - Environment & Sustainability is joined by Nariba Gittens, Associate Director – Water and Dr Farhad Jafari, Project Director at WSP in the Middle East to explore the role of design in flood management. They also discuss the challenges facing flood mitigation programs and explore the strategies, solutions and technologies that are reshaping the landscape of flood resilience across the GCC region.Unable to listen to the full episode? Fast-forward to the key discussion points via the players above or read the key takeaways: Discussion Points00:00 Introductions and a discussion on climate changes in the GCC03:24 The impact of urban planning and design on flood manifestation06:07 Building Future-Ready infrastructure in new masterplans and developments10:46 Incorporating climate change predictions in drainage modelling and design13:35 Variability in climate change application in the GCC22:40 Technology and innovation in flood management26:54 How to maximise water management efficiency38:15 Using rainwater for groundwater recharge and aquifer ProtectionKey Takeaways· Climate change is leading to more intense and frequent rainfall events in the Arabian Peninsula, necessitating effective flood mitigation strategies.· Future-ready infrastructure that can adapt to changing weather patterns is crucial for flood resilience.· The incorporation of climate change predictions in drainage modelling is important, but there is variability in its application across the region.· Regulation, policy, and guidance play a key role in promoting flood resilience.· Technology and innovation, such as remote sensing and smart systems, can enhance flood management.· Water management and efficiency, including the beneficial use of water resources, are essential in a water-scarce region.· Groundwater recharge and aquifer protection are critical for maintaining water resources.·  Education and training are important for promoting sustainable water practices and ensuring the longevity of infrastructure.Want to hear more insights from leading industry experts? Subscribe to our podcast via Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and SoundCloud to stay up to date.

Artificial Intelligence, or AI, is more than just a rapidly evolving futuristic technology. It is already an integral part of our daily lives, from the recommendations on your favourite streaming service to the algorithms that power critical business decisions. But what is AI exactly, and how does it work? How can we use it to create smarter, safer, and more sustainable solutions for our industry and the built environment? In this episode, James Mcallister, Smart Design Lead at WSP in the Middle East, is joined by Massimo Dragan, Unit Leader Digital Innovation, at WSP Italia to discuss artificial intelligence (AI) and its impact on the built environment. They explore the differences between AI and machine learning, the benefits of integrating AI into business operations, and the challenges of ensuring responsible and ethical use of AI. They also highlight how WSP has already leveraged AI tools in their processes and discuss the potential impact of AI on job displacement. The conversation concludes with a discussion on emerging trends and the future of AI in the built environment.Want to hear more insights from leading industry experts? Subscribe to our podcast via Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and SoundCloud to stay up to date.

Atlantis The Royal Resort and Residences is the new Dubai landmark on The Palm and one of WSP’s most exciting recent projects in the region. But what makes Atlantis The Royal so special, and what does it take to create a project of such scale?  In this episode of the Anticipate Podcast, Liam O’Connell, Associate Director of Building Services, is joined by Andy Veall, Senior Technical Director at WSP in the Middle East, and John Shamon, Chief Technical Officer at Atlantis The Royal, to share their comprehensive insights into the making of this ultra-luxury experiential resort.  This discussion explores the unique structural challenges, innovative design elements, and the exceptional teamwork that went into creating this architectural wonder, now ranked among the world's best 50 hotels. Our guests also discuss their personal experiences and pivotal moments during the project, offering an insider’s view of what it takes to bring such a grand vision to life.Want to hear more insights from leading industry experts? Subscribe to our podcast via Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and SoundCloud to stay up to date.

In today's modern world, people spend most of their time indoors where air quality is found to be two to five times worse than outdoor air. But this is only one aspect of our indoor life and there are many more additional aspects that require our immediate attention.In this episode of the Anticipate Podcast, Dalia Abdalla, Service Lead of Sustainable Development and Healthy Living at WSP Middle East, is joined by Tekha Selim, Vice President, Global Market Development & Head of MENA Region, at Delos to explore these aspects and explain how buildings significantly influence our health and productivity. From the integration of eco-friendly materials to the implementation of wellness-focused design principles, Dalia and Tekha explore the intricate relationship between the spaces we inhabit and our overall well-being and discuss the power of design in transforming our work, living, and communal spaces.Want to hear more insights from leading industry experts? Subscribe to our podcast via Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and SoundCloud to stay up to date.

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has set ambitious targets to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050, making it the first Middle Eastern and North African nation to do so. In this episode of the Anticipate Podcast, Eman Husain, Senior Consultant ESG Advisory and Muhammad Qureshi, Manager - Energy Advisory, are joined by Dr. Hassan Javed, Energy Service Leader at WSP Middle East to explore the strategic dimensions driving the UAE towards a sustainable future in the energy sector.The talk breaks down the UAE's current position and future direction, unravelling the complexities of the UAE's energy landscape and demystifying the transformative initiatives driving the nation's commitment to a sustainable and resilient future.Want to hear more insights from leading industry experts? Subscribe to our podcast via Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and SoundCloud to stay up to date.

How can we protect and restore nature while also creating value for businesses and society? This is the question that many leaders and organisations are grappling with, especially after the ambitious Global Biodiversity Framework was adopted at COP 15 in 2022. The framework aims to safeguard at least 30% of the world's land and ocean ecosystems by 2030, among other goals.To explore this topic, we have invited four of our WSP experts to share their insights and experiences. These are Daymion Jenkins, Advisory Director at WSP in the Middle East; Ludo Pittie, Landscape Director at WSP UK; Jenny Merriman, Technical Director at WSP UK; and Alex Cockerill, National Executive at WSP Australia.In this podcast, our experts discuss the concept of natural capital, demystify how its approaches are being applied in different contexts and sectors, and what opportunities and challenges exist from incorporating nature conservation and restoration into business operations and strategy.Unable to listen to the full episode? Fast-forward to the key discussion points via the players above:00:40 - Discussion on the assessment of natural capital, its importance, and different approaches02:17 - The importance of incorporating natural capital value into decision-making processes05:34 - Exploration of mechanisms for accounting biodiversity values and the complexities involved09:34 - The benefits of natural capital assessment17:43 - The environmental benefits of natural capital and the importance of the Conference of the Parties23:26 - Financing opportunities for natural capital projects35:11 - How to address biodiversity loss and accelerate relevant initiatives38:37 - Emerging opportunities for financing and investment in natureWant to hear more insights from leading industry experts? Subscribe to our podcast via Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and SoundCloud to stay up to date.

Prioritising mental health in the workplace isn't just compassionate; it's a fundamental investment that can foster productivity, resilience, innovation, and a culture where everyone can thrive both personally and professionally.The public surveys conducted in the MENA region in 2021 indicate a significant prevalence of stress among respondents, with approximately 40% reporting ongoing periods of stress in their lives. Within the GCC, recent surveys reveal that a substantial portion—no less than 30%—of employees are grappling with burnout symptoms. These symptoms encompass severe fatigue and a diminished capacity to regulate their emotions effectively.In this episode of the Anticipate Podcast, Stephen Longworth, Digital Lead at WSP in the Middle East is joined by Stephen Haynes, Director of Wellbeing at the British Safety Council and Simon Cutts, Director of Health, Safety, and Environment at WSP in the Middle East. Together, they shed light on the organisational best practices for nurturing a mentally healthy work environment and the steps that both individuals and organisations can take to elevate mental health in the workplace.Want to hear more insights from leading industry experts? Subscribe to our podcast via Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and SoundCloud to stay up to date.

In this episode of the Anticipate Podcast, Tariq Shehabaddin meets with a diverse panel of experts, Saudi engineers, and graduates to uncover the inspiring journeys of Saudi professionals within WSP’s dynamic Accelerated Graduate Programme (which has recently evolved and been rebranded into ‘Al Masar’). The episode also explores how national talents are driving change and fostering innovation in the Kingdom and the role of the private sector in propelling their careers forward. Want to hear more insights from leading industry experts? Subscribe to our podcast via Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and SoundCloud to stay up to date.

In this enlightening podcast episode, we delve into the depths of WSP's groundbreaking Future Ready programme. Hosted by Sophia Key, Head of Future Ready for WSP in the Middle East, and featuring the insights of David Symons, Climate Change and Sustainability Director at WSP in the UK, this episode demystifies the evolution, implementation, and impact of Future Ready® across the organisation.From its humble origins to its current global reach, David shares how the program was inspired by the need to anticipate future megatrends and their implications on WSP's long-lasting designs, ranging from towering buildings to intricate transport systems. The episode explores how WSP's forward-thinking approach not only benefits clients around the world but also attracts top talent, all while addressing complex challenges like climate change, societal shifts, and resource availability. Tune in to uncover the fascinating journey of WSP's Future Ready® program and discover how it's shaping the future of resilient design.Want to hear more insights from leading industry experts? Subscribe to our podcast via Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and SoundCloud to stay up to date.

With COP28 around the corner, the question that looms large is whether the world's leaders will rise to the occasion and take bold, decisive actions to address the pressing challenges of climate change.In this episode of the Anticipate Podcast, Dana Darwish, ESG Advisory Consultant, and Maitha Alremeithi, Graduate Consultant - Sustainable Development and Healthy Living at WSP in the Middle East, are joined by a distinguished guest, Raidan AlSaqqaf, Economist and Technical Lead for COP28 preparations at the United Nations Resident Coordinator’s office for the UAE. The episode pulls back the curtain on the inner workings of COP28 and the intricate web of climate agreements and disagreements. It also uncovers some of the untold stories propelling the fight against climate change and explores the potential for transformative change.The UN Resident Coordinator's Office shoulders the responsibility of coordinating UN engagements with their counterparts in the UAE, the designated host country for COP28. It also supports the UAE in the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).Want to hear more insights from leading industry experts? Subscribe to our podcast via Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and SoundCloud to stay up to date.

Over the past five years, the mobility sector has witnessed an unparalleled surge in the adoption of Artificial Intelligence. However, alongside this remarkable progress, we must recognise that significant technological advancements bring not only opportunities but also challenges. In this episode of the Anticipate Podcast, Terry Smith, Intelligent Mobility Lead at WSP Middle East, is joined by Dr Raj Kamalanathsharma, Intelligent Mobility Advisor, to unravel the intricate web of AI-powered innovations and discuss the challenges and opportunities they present. The talk also delves into envisioning a future where mobility seamlessly integrates with advanced intelligent systems.Want to hear more insights from leading industry experts? Subscribe to our podcast via Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and SoundCloud to stay up to date.

From ports and harbours to marinas and offshore wind farms, marine structures facilities play a crucial role in protecting our coastlines. But as we confront the challenges of climate change and rising sea levels, it's more important than ever to ensure that these structures are sustainable, resilient, and environmentally friendly.In this episode of the Anticipate Podcast, Vishal Krishnan, Maritime Structures Service Lead –and Benjamin Hall, Maritime Planning Service Lead, at WSP Middle East, dive into the world of green marine facilities and explore the latest innovations in eco-friendly designs. The episode is hosted by Amr Abdelnaeim, Senior Marketing & Communications Manager at WSP in the Middle East.Want to hear more insights from leading industry experts? Subscribe to our podcast via Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and SoundCloud to stay up to date.

With the adoption of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), many countries have begun to invest in health and safety transformation programs. In Saudi Arabia, Vision 2030 highlights the importance of health and safety as key factors in achieving sustainable development. The common factor between the UN SDGs and Saudi Vision 2030 is thus their emphasis on adopting a holistic approach to health and safety, addressing H&S issues at individual and organisational levels.In this episode of the Anticipate podcast, Georges Faraj, Senior Health & Safety Management Consultant, is joined by Tahir Qadir, Health & Safety Service Lead, to explore the latest trends in H&S transformation and the main drivers behind H&S transformation programmes with a special focus on Saudi Arabia.Want to hear more insights from leading industry experts? Subscribe to our podcast via Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and SoundCloud to stay up to date.

While urbanisation continues its momentum in our region, our cities are under pressure to maintain a high level of livability and productivity. A smart city is where traditional networks and services are made more efficient with the use of digital solutions for the benefit of its inhabitants and the city as a whole. Smart cities go beyond the use of just digital technologies, as they aim to create a better experience, stronger resilience, and enhanced sustainability. In this episode of the Anticipate Podcast, Nizar Jegham, Digital Director, at WSP Middle East, is joined by Richard Dib, Chief Digital Officer at the Royal Commission of Al Ula. The talk uncovers the differences and similarities between two smart cities in the region in terms of their strategies, codes and guidelines.  Want to hear more insights from leading industry experts? Subscribe to our podcast via Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and SoundCloud to stay up to date.

Saudi Arabia has been pushing the boundaries of innovation with its futuristic developments and cities while still keeping a firm focus on its culture, identity, and natural environment. From the Kingdom's Capital, Riyadh, to its new mega-city Neom in the Tabuk province and the newly announced Mukaab, Saudi Arabia is on a mission to create a diverse range of hubs that can attract investment and talent. Saudi engineers are driving these exciting new projects and are also contributing to keeping the Saudi nature and identity intact. In this episode of the Anticipate Podcast, Tariq Shehabaddin is joined by Bjarne Michael Iverson, Operations Director for Project Management Services at WSP in Saudi Arabia, along with several Saudi engineers to explore how they play a significant role in preserving the culture, identity, and nature of Saudi.Want to hear more insights from leading industry experts? Subscribe to our podcast via Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and SoundCloud to stay up to date.

In recent years, the Saudi government has undertaken a number of reforms aimed at modernizing the Saudi economy and improving the country’s social welfare. These reforms have included increasing access to education and healthcare, promoting women’s rights, and diversifying the economy away from oil.Saudi engineers are at the forefront of this massive economic and social transformation. From developing new infrastructure to designing innovative and future-ready assets, they are helping to shape the future of the Kingdom.In this episode of the WSP Anticipate Podcast, Tariq Shehabaddin, is joined by Walid Mahmoud, Country Director – KSA at WSP in the Middle East, to envision the future of Saudi and reflect on the role of Saudi engineers in the current transformation. The talk also unveils an array of fresh perspectives across various disciplines as Tariq Shehabaddin speaks to Ishraq Raml, Assistant Engineer, Omar Al Somali, Consultant - ESG Advisory, Mostafa Mandourah, Senior Engineer - Infrastructure Supervision, and Ammar Al Harbi, Graduate Engineer – Digital, about the value they add to their respective disciplines and their anticipation of the developments to happen in the engineering industry as a result of the current Saudi transformation.Want to hear more insights from leading industry experts? Subscribe to our podcast via Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and SoundCloud to stay up to date.

The 2015 Paris Agreement committed nearly 200 nations to limit global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius. However, the pledges countries made in Glasgow’s COP26 put the world on track for a temperature increase of 2.4 degrees Celsius by the end of the century!Was COP27 successful in reviving the 1.5 degrees goal and in turning climate pledges into action? In this episode of the Anticipate podcast, our Marketing & Communications Manager for Advisory Services, Bushra Nassar, is joined by May Faraj, Senior Advisory Director and Mahmoud Hashish, Associate Director - Environment & Sustainability at WSP Middle East to answer this question and highlight the main outcomes of COP27. The talk also explores the implications that these outcomes have on our region and industries, as well as mapping out the journey to COP28.Want to hear more insights from leading industry experts? Subscribe to our podcast via Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and SoundCloud to stay up to date.

Efficient transport, mobility, and infrastructure are key factors in the successful hosting of major international events. This is mainly because of the significant role that these elements play in creating positive and memorable experiences for guests.But the challenge is being able to strike a balance between providing these essential elements for major events while still providing a smooth guest experience with infrastructure that will continue to create benefits for the destination well into the future.In this episode of the Anticipate Podcast, Crystal Mcclelland, Content Developer, discusses with several experts from WSP in the Middle East how they help host cities develop and deliver sustainable and future-ready systems and events infrastructure.Want to hear more insights from leading industry experts? Subscribe to our podcast via Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and SoundCloud to stay up to date.

In November 2022, as world leaders and industry experts gather at the 27th annual session of the UN Climate Change Conference, known as COP27, WSP experts will be on-site to work alongside delegates as they seek to accelerate climate action.This follows from COP26 and the Paris Agreement of 2015, which aligned signatories to curb temperature rise to 1.5°C, although that increase will result in more than 4 billion people being impacted by frequent climate shocks. So, what progress has been made in the seven years since that historic agreement was reached? And what do we need to see at COP27 if we are to make real strides toward averting catastrophic climate change?In this episode of the Anticipate podcast, Sophia Kee, our Head of Future Ready is joined by David Symons, Climate Change and Sustainability Director at WSP in the UK to discuss the significance of COP27 as a key event in the fight against climate change and anticipate its implications for our planet, region, industry. They will also take a look at the anticipated key outcomes that could be in store from the summit.Want to hear more insights from leading industry experts? Subscribe to our podcast via Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and SoundCloud to stay up to date.

In today's fast-paced, high-stress work environment, it's more important than ever for organisations and individuals to priotise mental health. However, for many of us, this is easier said than done. We often put the needs of our jobs ahead of our own well-being, leading to burnout, anxiety, and depression. Organisations find it difficult to address mental health issues because of the stigma around them.The public surveys implemented in 2020 in the MENA region suggest that nearly 30 percent of the region’s population suffer from at least one form of mental health ailments. In response to that some countries including, for example, Saudi Arabia have increased their funding for mental healthcare. However, businesses also have a role to play.In this episode of the WSP Anticipate Podcast, Blair Boyd, our Senior HSE Manager, is joined by Dr. Karen McDonnell, Occupational Safety and Health Policy Adviser at the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents. The episode explores the factors that affect employee mental health and highlights how organisations can bring peace and well-being into their workplaces.Want to hear more insights from leading industry experts? Subscribe to our podcast via Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and SoundCloud to stay up to date.