The inaugural project will improve water-handling facilities in the South Ghawar Area, supporting Aramco’s strategy to sustain crude oil production. Credit: Skorzewiak/Shutterstock.

NesmaKent Energy (NKJV), a joint venture between Nesma & Partners and Kent, has secured a contract with Aramco, marking the start of the National EPC Champion Initiative’s first phase.

This engineering and construction management services contract signifies NKJV’s integral role in advancing Saudi Arabia’s energy infrastructure.

The project will improve water handling facilities in the South Ghawar Area, supporting Aramco’s strategy to sustain crude oil production and meet maximum sustainable capacity targets.

Aramco’s National EPC Champion programme aims to bolster the national economy by creating jobs and enhancing the kingdom’s gross domestic product.

NKJV combines local and global engineering standards, becoming a transformative force in the country’s engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) sector.

The partnership will streamline the transition from the Design Basis Scoping Paper to the front-end engineering design, reducing bidding periods and accelerating project delivery.

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NKJV’s approach prioritises operational excellence and risk management, ensuring efficient project execution and accountability.

The company is also dedicated to national workforce development, offering training and knowledge transfer to support Saudization and in-kingdom value addition (IKVA).

Advanced digital solutions will be deployed to optimise resource use and adhere to international best practices throughout the project’s life cycle.

NKJV is also committed to advancing sustainability and renewable energy initiatives, aligning with Saudi Vision 2030’s environmental goals.

The project will also enhance supply chain efficiency and promote economic diversification within Saudi Arabia’s industrial sector.

NKJV general manager Ahmad Hamadah said: “Our partnership with Aramco under the National EPC Champion Programme reflects our unwavering commitment to excellence, innovation, and sustainability. With a combination of local market knowledge and world-class engineering expertise, we are not only delivering projects but actively shaping the future of Saudi Arabia’s energy sector.”