With a legacy spanning more than 8 decades, C.A.T. Group is an international contractor renowned for its agility and technical expertise. Launched by Emile Bustani and two partners in 1937, the organisation has always been willing to adapt, whilst never compromising on its commitment to quality, safety, and innovation. In 2025, with a workforce of more than 18,000, C.A.T. Group continues to deliver critical projects across multiple sectors, including energy, water, infrastructure, and civil works.
C.A.T. Group’s strength lies in our ability to execute technically and logistically complex projects with certainty,” explains Managing Director Ricardos Najm. “We are drawn to developments that require unique differentiators among contractors, where we focus not on competition, but on helping clients overcome special challenges and complexities. Our deep regional knowledge, combined with global best practices, enables us to navigate complex regulatory, environmental, and operational landscapes with ease.”
Saudi Arabia has long been a cornerstone of C.A.T. Group’s business, and the company has played a pivotal role in the Kingdom’s economic development and diversification. Over the course of more than sixty years of activity in the country, C.A.T. Group has harnessed its engineering, procurement, construction, and commissioning capabilities to deliver numerous large-scale projects. Specifically, the organisation counts the East-West Pipeline and Master Gas System Phase II as two of its most notable achievements.
“C.A.T.’s success in Saudi Arabia has been built on the trust and support of our clients, as well as our long-term investment in the Kingdom,” Ricardos adds. “Alongside delivering exceptional projects, we have remained committed to developing local talent, ensuring that Saudi professionals are at the heart of our operations, and contributing to the nation’s long-term growth.”
Culture of Continuous Improvement
Despite its success in the nation, C.A.T. Group has still experienced its fair share of challenges when operating in Saudi Arabia. Fluctuating economic conditions, evolving regulatory frameworks, talent retention, and geopolitical factors have all presented their own obstacles and forced the company to adapt. As history proves, however, adaptation is an area where C.A.T. Group thrives.
“Our approach is rooted in adaptability and strategic foresight,” Ricardos declares. “We invest in leveraging advanced project management tools, high safety standards, and construction technologies to enhance efficiency and reduce risk.
“Our strong relationships with clients, government entities, and local partners allow us to anticipate regulatory changes and align with national development goals. Additionally, we foster a culture of continuous improvement, ensuring that lessons learned from each project strengthen our future performance.”
As evidenced by its work in Saudi Arabia, C.A.T. Group’s commitment to in-country value is far-reaching and thorough. By utilising domestic supply chains and partnering with local suppliers, the company fosters sustainable economic growth within the communities it serves. This strategic investment is accompanied by tangible investment in fabrication yards, accommodations, equipment, and training centres.
“We actively integrate a local mindset into our operations,” Ricardos says. “This approach ensures that our projects not only meet the highest international standards but also contribute meaningfully to the national economies in which we operate.”
Strategic Investment
Another key differentiator for C.A.T. Group is its selective approach to project acquisition. The company maintains a strong financial position by being highly strategic in the contracts it undertakes, providing it with the robust financial stability to execute challenging lump-sum turnkey contracts. This selective approach also benefits the organisation’s relationship with its clients, suppliers, and subcontractors, who have long recognised C.A.T. as a contractor that can always be relied upon.
“We deploy our assets and resources strategically in the fields our clients are developing, ensuring seamless project execution,” Ricardos states. “Whether working with clients or subcontractors, we foster partnerships founded on trust and successful delivery. Our reputation in the market is built on honouring our commitments, no matter the challenges or costs involved. As a family-owned business, our reputation comes first, and we firmly believe that, in the long run, this commitment pays off.”
Considering its family roots, C.A.T. Group’s focus on the importance of people – both internal and external to the organisation – is no surprise. Through a rigorous talent acquisition strategy and extensive development opportunities, the company both honours its person-centred beginnings and strengthens the prospect of a bright future.
“People are at the heart of our success,” Ricardos says. “Our talent acquisition strategy prioritises technical excellence, leadership potential, and a deep understanding of our industry. In Saudi Arabia, we take great pride in training and employing Saudi talent across all levels and disciplines, including launching pioneering initiatives such as training and certifying the first Saudi female welders and inspectors. Our investment in staff extends beyond recruitment – we offer continuous learning programs and hands-on training to ensure our teams remain at the forefront of industry advancements.”
Family Roots
With the firm’s centenary just over a decade away. Under the guidance of its new CEO Mr. Christopher Bush, C.A.T. Group’s people will now be tasked with leading the organisation to this major milestone and beyond. Saudi Arabia will remain a core part of the organisation’s upcoming activities, and the Kingdom’s Saudi Vision 2030 initiative provides an exciting opportunity for growth.
“We are aligning our growth strategy with Saudi Arabia’s infrastructure, energy, and industrial expansion,” Ricardos reveals. “With the support of our CEO, we are actively strengthening our presence in the Kingdom by taking on more ambitious projects in sectors such as water, oil & gas, and civil infrastructure. Additionally, we are focusing on integrating more sustainable construction practices, digitalizing our operations, and expanding our local workforce development initiatives.”
C.A.T. Group’s impressive track record suggests the company will continue to adapt and evolve in the future, while remaining a leading international contractor that clients can trust. Technical prowess and seamless execution will always be a vital part of the company’s practice, but C.A.T.’s dedication to creating positive change and lasting value in its communities will shape the years ahead.
“Our commitment to the safety and wellbeing of our people, and our community initiatives, including workforce nationalization and sustainability, are not just business imperatives – they are part of our DNA,” Ricardos concludes. “We are excited about the future and look forward to continuing our legacy of construction excellence in Saudi Arabia and beyond.”
