Chebel Bsaibes: Pioneering Design-Build Construction with Amana Contracting and Steel Buildings

Chebel Bsaibes stands as a transformative figure in the Middle East’s construction landscape, having founded Amana Contracting and Steel Buildings in 1993. With over four decades of experience in industrial project design and construction, Bsaibes has steered Amana to become a regional powerhouse in design-build construction, delivering over 1,500 buildings across the UAE, GCC countries, Egypt, and Sri Lanka. His vision for innovative, client-focused, and sustainable construction has positioned Amana as a leader in the industry, known for its fast-track, turnkey solutions.

Founding and Growth of Amana Contracting and Steel Buildings

Amana Contracting and Steel Buildings began as a division of Zamil Steel in Abu Dhabi, UAE, on September 12, 1993, under the leadership of Chebel Bsaibes. Initially focused on installations for industrial clients, Amana quickly expanded its scope to become a full-fledged general contractor with a strong emphasis on design-build capabilities. This evolution allowed the company to tailor solutions to the specific needs of factory owners and other clients, setting it apart in a competitive market.

Today, Amana operates across the UAE, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and Sri Lanka, employing over 13,000 professionals and generating an annual turnover exceeding $680 million. The company’s decentralised model, with engineers stationed at each project site, ensures that every project delivers custom-designed, cost-effective solutions. This approach has given Amana a competitive edge, enabling it to meet the diverse demands of clients in industries such as food processing, retail, manufacturing, logistics, oil and gas, and utilities.

Notable Projects

Amana Contracting and Steel Buildings has built an impressive portfolio of projects that demonstrate its technical expertise, innovation, and commitment to sustainability. The company has completed over 1,500 buildings, ranging from industrial facilities to educational and commercial structures. Below is a table highlighting some of Amana’s most significant projects:

These projects highlight Amana’s versatility and ability to deliver complex, high-profile developments. For instance, the Turtle Bay Hotel and Coastal Village Residential Buildings showcase Amana’s expertise in modular construction. Chebel Bsaibes emphasised the flexibility of this approach, stating, “With schools, the investment is big. You don’t start with 2,000 students; you start with 500. With our modularity, we can build a base size and build on to it. Every year, they can add 20 classes—plug and play”. This modular approach, exemplified through Amana’s DuBox arm, allows for scalable and efficient construction, revolutionising how projects are executed.

Amana’s efficiency is further demonstrated by its production capacity. Bsaibes noted, “We can produce 350 modules per month. Take a hotel, for example, that could contain 700 modules—for us, it’s a two-month process”. This capability underscores Amana’s ability to deliver large-scale projects swiftly without compromising quality.

Achievements and Recognitions

Amana Contracting and Steel Buildings has earned numerous accolades for its excellence in construction, sustainability, and safety. The company’s commitment to quality is reflected in the following awards:

• Dubai Quality Appreciation Program (DQA) Certificate in 2009, awarded by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, recognizing Amana’s contributions to the construction field.

• CSR Label by The Dubai Chamber of Commerce in 2014, acknowledging Amana’s efforts in corporate social responsibility.

• GCC Industrial Project of the Year for the EMAL Smelter Project in 2012, highlighting Amana’s prowess in industrial construction.

• LEED Gold Certification for Grandweld Shipyard’s Dubai Maritime City facilities, accredited by the US Green Building Council, showcasing Amana’s commitment to sustainable building practices.

• Distinction Level from the British Safety Council in 2017, recognizing Amana’s dedication to safety excellence.

• Certificate of Appreciation from Dubai Municipality’s Health and Public Safety Department for safety excellence in labor accommodations in 2009 and 2010.

These awards reflect Amana’s holistic approach to construction, prioritizing technical excellence and environmental and social responsibility.

A Vision for the Future

Chebel Bsaibes’ leadership has been pivotal in Amana’s rise to prominence. His emphasis on persistence and credibility has been a cornerstone of the company’s success. As Bsaibes stated, “Through persistence, you develop acceptance and trust. Had it not been for Amana’s credibility in the market … Nobody’s going to accept a start-up trying this business”. This philosophy has guided Amana to build a reputation that attracts top talent and fosters long-term client relationships.

Amana’s innovative ventures, such as the launch of DuBox, a modular building arm, demonstrate Bsaibes’ forward-thinking approach. By investing Dh50 million in research and development, Amana has pioneered modular construction techniques that allow for safer, quicker, and higher-quality builds, revolutionising the industry.

Chebel Bsaibes has transformed Amana Contracting and Steel Buildings into a regional leader in design-build construction, delivering over 1,500 projects that showcase innovation, quality, and sustainability. From the DHL Gateway & Logistics Centre to The Red Sea Project, Amana’s portfolio reflects its ability to tackle diverse and complex challenges. With a strong foundation built on Bsaibes’ vision and expertise, Amana continues to set benchmarks in the construction industry, driven by a commitment to excellence and client satisfaction. As the company expands its reach and embraces new technologies, it remains a testament to Bsaibes’ enduring legacy in shaping the built environment of the Middle East.