Market set to double by 2030 amid shift to smart, sustainable services

The Middle East's FM sector is undergoing a profound shift as digitalisation, sustainability mandates, and mega developments drive demand for integrated, outcome-based services. With market value set to nearly double by 2030, the GCC is emerging as a trendsetter in smart, efficient, and ESG-aligned building operations.

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THE facilities management (FM) industry across the region is on the cusp of a major transformation, with market size forecast to nearly double by the end of the decade, driven by infrastructure expansion, regulatory shifts, digital integration, and growing demand for sustainable building operations.

The FM industry is rapidly evolving from routine upkeep to a strategic, essential role, significantly impacting asset longevity, operational efficiency, and cost optimisation. This shift, highlighted in a MEFMA (Middle East Facility Management Association) published report done by Frost & Sullivan, means FM now drives core business objectives, aligning with sustainability, superior customer experience, and flexible work/living needs.

The industry is leveraging data-driven insights to deliver sustainable, user-centered solutions that cater to evolving demands for health, well-being, productivity, and environmental responsibility, according to the MEFMA report.

These trends will increasingly affect the GCC region, given the strong presence of global FM companies, though adoption rates will vary based on market maturity, infrastructure, and regulations.

According to Mordor Intelligence, the Middle East and Africa FM market is expected to grow from $170.77 billion in 2025 to $311.67 billion by 2030, representing a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 12.79 per cent. Much of this expansion is being led by countries in the GCC, where landmark projects and national development strategies are accelerating the adoption of integrated, outcome-based FM services.

The MEFMA report estimates that the total FM market across the GCC reached $54.6 billion in 2023 and is projected to grow to $72 billion by 2028 at a CAGR of 5.7 per cent.