Muammar Al-Atawi stands as a towering figure in Saudi Arabia’s construction industry, serving as the Chairman and CEO of Shahm Contracting Company. Based in Jeddah, Shahm has become a cornerstone of the kingdom’s infrastructure and housing development under his leadership. With a blend of architectural expertise, project management acumen, and a vision for sustainable growth, Al-Atawi has guided Shahm to deliver projects that meet the needs of a rapidly growing nation and align with Saudi Arabia’s ambitious Vision 2030. His contributions have earned him a spot on the Construction Week Middle East Power 100 list, recognizing his influence in the region’s construction sector.
Muammar Al-Atawi earned a bachelor’s in architecture from King Abdulaziz University (1993–1999), gaining strong design skills. He later completed a Master’s in Engineering Science (project management) at UNSW, Australia (2004–2006), blending creativity with project execution expertise—key to his success in managing complex developments.
A Career Built on Collaboration and Leadership
Before taking the helm at Shahm Contracting, Muammar Al-Atawi built a robust career that showcased his commitment to the construction and real estate sectors. He served in key roles at the Jeddah Chamber and was a member of the National Contractors Committee at the Council of Saudi Chambers. These positions allowed him to influence industry standards and foster collaboration among stakeholders in Saudi Arabia’s construction landscape. Additionally, his tenure at Al Dyar Alarabiya, a real estate development company, provided valuable insights into the interplay between construction and real estate markets. These experiences equipped him with the skills and network needed to lead Shahm Contracting to new heights.
Driving Shahm Contracting’s Success
Founded in Jeddah in 2006, Shahm Contracting Company has grown into a powerhouse in the construction industry under Al-Atawi’s leadership. The company specializes in housing, infrastructure, and commercial projects, delivering results that meet the kingdom’s growing demands. Al-Atawi’s strategic vision has ensured that Shahm remains at the forefront of innovation, incorporating cutting-edge technologies and sustainable practices into its operations.
Notable Projects
Shahm Contracting’s portfolio is a testament to Muammar Al-Atawi’s ability to manage large-scale, high-impact projects. Among its most significant achievements are three major residential developments with a combined value exceeding $800 million (SAR 3 billion). These projects, which reached 90% completion by 2022, demonstrate Shahm’s capacity to deliver on ambitious timelines. Additionally, the company has constructed over 1,500 residential units across various cities in Saudi Arabia, addressing the kingdom’s housing needs.
In the commercial real estate sector, Shahm has delivered more than 20 projects, including luxury residential buildings, palaces, and offices. The company has also ventured into educational projects, industrial warehouses, infrastructure developments, and road construction, showcasing its versatility. Two standout projects include:
- Bouvardia View, Jeddah: A residential development near the Obhur waterfront, this project highlights Shahm’s ability to create modern, community-focused living spaces.
- Masjid Sajdi: Completed in 2023, this mosque, with a land area of 3,000 m² and a capacity for 430 worshippers, was executed in just nine months, reflecting Shahm’s efficiency and commitment to cultural projects.
| Project | Location | Details |
| Bouvardia View | Jeddah | Residential development near Obhur waterfront, north of Red Sea Bride Airport |
| Masjid Sajdi | Saudi Arabia | Land area: 3,000 m², mosque area: 1,292 m², capacity: 430 worshippers, completed in 2023 |
| Residential Projects | Multiple Cities | Over 1,500 units constructed across Saudi Arabia |
| Commercial Real Estate | Saudi Arabia | Over 20 projects, including luxury buildings, palaces, and offices |
| Infrastructure & Roads | Saudi Arabia | Multiple projects, including educational facilities and industrial warehouses |
Financial Growth and Vision 2030 Alignment
Under Muammar Al-Atawi’s stewardship, Shahm Contracting has achieved significant financial success. In 2021, the company reported revenues exceeding $213 million (SAR 800 million), with projections to surpass $270 million (SAR 1 billion) in 2022. This growth reflects Shahm’s strong market position and its ability to secure and execute high-value contracts.
Al-Atawi’s leadership extends beyond financial metrics. He has positioned Shahm to align with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, a national initiative to diversify the economy and develop world-class infrastructure. Shahm’s commitment to sustainability, use of advanced construction technologies, and focus on environmental preservation ensure that its projects contribute to long-term development goals. By prioritizing quality and innovation, Al-Atawi has made Shahm a key player in transforming Saudi Arabia’s construction sector.
A Recognized Industry Leader
Muammar Al-Atawi’s contributions have earned him recognition in the Construction Week Middle East Power 100 list, where he was featured in the contractors’ sub-category. This accolade highlights his influence in shaping the region’s construction industry and his role in driving Shahm’s success. His leadership style, characterized by a focus on collaboration, quality, and timely delivery, has fostered a culture of excellence within the company.
Looking Ahead
As Saudi Arabia continues its journey toward modernization, Muammar Al-Atawi and Shahm Contracting are poised to play a pivotal role. With a pipeline of over 5,000 housing units and a commitment to sustainable development, Al-Atawi’s vision ensures that Shahm remains a leader in the industry. His ability to blend architectural expertise with strategic project management has not only built structures but also laid the foundation for a brighter, more connected future for the kingdom.
