With over 25 years of strategic leadership at Turner & Townsend, Alan Talabani has been a driving force in expanding the firm’s presence in the Middle East. Since assuming the role of Regional Managing Director in 2017, he has been pivotal in growing the workforce from 340 to over 1,000 employees across key markets such as the UAE, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia. Alan’s strategic acumen has led to a 20% increase in turnover and a 30% expansion in team size over the past year alone. His vision has been particularly impactful in Saudi Arabia, where he has driven an 88% growth, including establishing a new hub in NEOM, employing over 60 staff members.
Alan’s dedication to the region’s growth is not only reflected in his oversight of numerous high-profile projects but also in Turner & Townsend’s commitment to sustainability. The firm has diversified its services into sectors such as renewables, power, telecommunications, and culture and is a proud member of the Emirates Green Building Council, aiming for Net Zero by 2040. Alan’s leadership in this area earned him the ‘Executive of the Year’ award at the 2022 Middle East Consultant Awards, a testament to his significant industry contributions and the company’s inspiring values.
Turner & Townsend’s projects in the Middle East are unmatched globally in size and scale, with current engagements valued in the billions. The firm’s work in Saudi Arabia is particularly noteworthy, encompassing 14 giga projects that align with rigorous sustainability standards. These projects involve long-term collaborations with government and private sector clients, including key partnerships with NEOM, Diriyah Company, Public Investment Fund, Red Sea Global, King Salman Park Foundation, Misk Foundation, and ROSHN, underscoring the company’s commitment to sustainable development.
In the UAE, Turner & Townsend focuses on sustainability across various projects. Notably, the firm has completed commercial PMO and operational readiness projects for the new Midfield Terminal at Zayed International Airport, one of the most significant terminal buildings in the world. Designed to achieve the Estidama 3 Pearls rating for sustainability, this mega structure is poised to enhance Abu Dhabi’s tourism and trade, further solidifying Turner & Townsend’s reputation as a leader in creating sustainable cities and communities across the region.