The three-day Global Project Management Forum (GPMF) 2025 commenced today in Riyadh, under the patronage of Majid Al-Hogail, Minister of Municipalities and Housing. The forum, themed “Next-Gen Project Management: The Power of People, Processes, and Technology,” convenes government officials, industry pioneers, innovators, and global thought leaders to explore the future of project management.
Badr Burshaid, Chairman of the forum, highlighted the transformative role of artificial intelligence (AI) in the sector. “Artificial intelligence is no longer a future trend; it is now one of the most transformative forces in project management,” Burshaid stated. He noted that the GPMF 2025 will feature live demonstrations of AI tools, including predictive analytics, which McKinsey estimates can enhance project efficiency by 30 percent, and real-time resource optimization systems. These innovations, he emphasized, are already reshaping workflows across various industries.
Burshaid cited Gartner’s prediction that AI will support or lead 80 percent of project management functions by 2030, clarifying that “AI is not here to replace human leadership — it is here to enhance it.” He also underscored the significance of digital twin technology, referencing its success in saving “hundreds of millions in maintenance costs” for major projects like London’s Crossrail. Furthermore, he pointed to the increasing importance of hybrid governance models that integrate agile and predictive approaches in today’s complex project environments.
Highlighting the GPMF’s global impact, Burshaid asserted, “These conversations aren’t theoretical — they’re catalytic. GPMF is not just responding to change; it is architecting it.” He also emphasized the forum’s strategic focus on developing future talent through initiatives such as the Project Management Challenge for students and partnerships with universities to align education with industry demands. “Talent cultivation is not aspirational — it’s operational,” Burshaid affirmed, citing certifications and mentorship programs as evidence of the GPMF’s commitment.
Burshaid further connected the forum’s agenda to Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, emphasizing the pivotal role of Project Management Offices in achieving national objectives. Case studies from Saudi Arabia’s mega-projects will showcase the impact of digital tools and performance monitoring in driving progress. “GPMF doesn’t just reflect Vision 2030, it propels it forward,” he said.
Addressing the balance between automation and human judgment, Burshaid argued that “technology can accelerate processes, but only people can provide vision, context, and values.” Sessions at the event, including “Leadership Under Pressure,” will guide professionals in effectively integrating AI tools with ethical oversight and empathy. “GPMF stands for a future in which innovation is deeply human-centric,” he concluded.
