Riyadh, April 6, 2026 – Reinforcing its commitment to innovation and sustainability, Nesma & Partners has announced the launch of the “Sustainability and Innovation in Materials Engineering Research Chair” in partnership with Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University. The initiative builds on a Research & Development Memorandum of Understanding signed earlier this year with the University’s College of Engineering.

The signing ceremony was held at the University’s Natural and Health Sciences Research Center, in the presence of Acting President Dr. Fawziyah bint Suliman Al Amro. The agreement was signed by Dr. Hanan bint Abdullah bin Munqash, Dean of the College of Engineering, and Sami Al-Mulifi, Director of Administration at Nesma & Partners.

The Research Chair will focus on developing sustainable engineering materials, promoting smart and environmentally friendly alternatives, and advancing circular economy practices through engineering-based recycling solutions. It will also provide students and faculty with hands-on experience in applied research, while enabling Nesma & Partners to access innovative, scalable solutions applicable across its diverse project portfolio.

The collaboration further establishes a platform to empower Saudi women to lead advanced research initiatives by bridging academic excellence with real-world industry challenges, while encouraging greater participation in technical fields.

This initiative reflects the shared vision of Nesma & Partners and Princess Nourah University to foster knowledge exchange, strengthen research excellence, and build a knowledge-based society. By reinforcing collaboration between academia and industry, it supports sustainable development, advances the knowledge economy, and empowers the next generation of Saudi engineers. The Research Chair is expected to deliver tangible impact for both entities and the Kingdom by driving innovation in materials engineering and contributing to the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030.

About Nesma & Partners group

Nesma & Partners group is the leading provider of integrated project solutions in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. With a strong legacy in contracting, Nesma & Partners has grown its footprint both locally through its contracting and industrial services and globally through its wholly owned subsidiary, Kent, a renowned leader in engineering and project management services.

What began in 1981 as a contracting firm to meet the growing demands of an emerging economy in the rapidly developing Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, has evolved today into a diversified group delivering end-to-end, reliable, and innovative services across the energy, infrastructure, and building sectors, spanning consulting, engineering, construction, commissioning, operations, and maintenance.

Jointly owned by Nesma Contracting Limited, Alturki Holding, Rawabi Holding, and the Public Investment Fund (PIF), the group is deeply committed to Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030, driving national transformation through consistent innovation, strategic capacity building, and a firm dedication to sustainable growth.

Website:

https://www.nesmapartners.com

About PNU: Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University (PNU) is the world's largest women's university, located in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Established in 1970, PNU serves over 60,000 students through comprehensive programs in medicine, pharmacy, business, arts, and sciences. Our 8-million-square-meter campus combines world-class education with Islamic values, advancing women's empowerment and Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 through education, research, and community service