The Middle East and North Africa’s (MENA) construction industry is at a crossroads. The region’s unprecedented infrastructure and development boom offers immense opportunities and significant challenges. As ambitious initiatives like Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 and the UAE’s “We the UAE 2031” shape the region’s future, the sector must adopt innovations that improve efficiency, enhance safety, and drive sustainability. Cordless tools are a key transformation driver, offering more than convenience and redefining the modern construction site.
MENA’s construction sector is growing rapidly. According to GlobalData’s Construction Project Momentum Index, the region continues to outperform global averages, driven by mega-projects. However, with growth comes the need for smarter, safer, and more sustainable practices. The adoption of advanced technologies, such as cordless tools, is no longer a luxury but a necessity.
Cordless tools are a paradigm shift in how construction professionals’ work. By eliminating the constraints of cords, these tools empower developers to operate efficiently across large, complex sites, free from the logistical challenges of managing power sources. In an industry where time is money, this flexibility can make the difference between meeting deadlines and costly delays.
Safety on Site: Reducing Trip Hazards
Safety will continue to be of paramount importance, particularly in the fast-paced environments of MENA’s mega-projects. One of the most pervasive site hazards is tripping over cords and cables. According to the International Labour Organization (ILO), falls are among the leading causes of construction-related injuries and fatalities. Cordless tools help mitigate this risk by eliminating the need for cumbersome cables, creating safer workspaces.
The shift to cordless solutions also reduces the risk of electric shock — a significant concern when working in diverse and challenging environmental conditions.
Sustainability and Efficiency: The Power of Cordless
MENA nations have committed to reducing their carbon footprints and promoting green construction practices and cordless technology supports these goals. By eliminating the need for constant grid power or fuel-powered generators, cordless tools reduce energy consumption and emissions associated with construction activities.
Research from the IVL Swedish Environmental Research Institute shows that while lithium-ion batteries have an environmental footprint during production, they result in significantly lower greenhouse gas emissions over their lifecycle compared to corded alternatives. For construction managers, this means more sustainable projects without compromising on performance.
Efficiency is another critical cordless benefit. On sprawling job sites, the ability to work without relying on fixed power sources saves time and enhances productivity. Workers can move freely, adapt to site conditions, and complete tasks more quickly, reducing overall project timelines and labor costs.
Achieving ESG Goals
As Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) frameworks become increasingly important for construction firms, cordless technology provides a practical pathway to achieving these goals.
Cordless tool hit the Environmental (E) mark by supporting reduced carbon emissions through lesser reliance on fuel-powered generators and grid electricity. They also minimize waste by eliminating damaged cables and the need for frequent replacements.
Cordless also scores on the Social (S) requirement by enhancing jobsite safety, contributing to a healthier and safer environment for workers.
This technology also enables Governance (G) as companies that adopt cordless technology demonstrate a commitment to forward-thinking practices, aligning with international standards and regulations for sustainability and worker safety.
Adoption of cordless tools shows a proactive approach to sustainability, safety, and operational efficiency, positioning users as leaders in responsible business practices, enhancing corporate reputation and providing a competitive advantage when bidding for projects that prioritize ESG compliance.
Cordless and the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals
The construction sector’s shift towards cordless solutions aligns closely with several of the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). They address SDG 9’s call for industry innovation and infrastructure supporting the development of resilient infrastructure.
They meet SDG 8’s appeal for decent work and economic growth by improving safety and efficiency, thereby creating better working conditions for construction professionals. They align with SDG 12’s demand for responsible consumption and production by reducing waste associated with damaged cords and minimizing energy consumption.
SDG 13 – Climate Action – is also in the cordless sights by delivering lower emissions while SDG 3’s call for Good Health and Well-being is met by the enhanced site safety cordless delivers when helping to protect workers from injuries and fatalities.
The Future Is Cordless
MENA’s construction boom is set for long-term transformation. To sustain this growth, the industry must innovate and adopt practices that prioritize safety, efficiency, and sustainability. Cordless tools are at the forefront of this shift, offering a solution that meets the demands of modern construction while supporting the broader vision of a greener, safer future.
By Vivien Luttenschlager, Commercial Director at Stanley Black and Decker