Drake & Scull: A Global Force in Engineering, Energy, and Sustainability

Based in the Middle East since 1966, the engineering and construction firm, Drake & Scull, has grown to become one of the leader companies, initially starting as an Abu Dhabi office to eventually becoming a global player. With projects across the Middle East, Europe, and North Africa, the firm played a crucial role in shaping some of the region’s most important landmarks. Today, Drake & Scull is doing leads for innovative solutions in engineering, oil & gas, and water treatment—nothing matched in the industry, rather setting new standards.

The firm’s history dates back to 90 years ago in the United Kingdom; however, crossing borders to the Middle East in 1966 was the point at which the firm began moving toward expansion. From humble beginnings in Abu Dhabi, Drake & Scull International is today the leader with its one-stop-shop, best-of-class packages of construction and engineering that can satisfy any requirement. DSI operates projects throughout Europe and North Africa.  Today, it operates out of its offices in all the key markets being Dubai, Kuwait, Egypt, Jordan, Algeria, and India. This impressive reach indeed speaks of the company’s expertise, innovation, and adaptation to the shifting demand of the global market.

Drake & Scull is one of those stalwarts of the Middle East and beyond in continuous leadership and working on some of the iconic infrastructure projects around the region. The company is segregated into three main operating companies: Drake & Scull Engineering DSE; it serves Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing MEP solutions. Further, the company has Drake & Scull Oil & Gas DSOG; for the oil industry and facility-specific services onshore and offshore. It also houses Passavant Energy & Environment PE&E, which offers up-to-date water and wastewater treatment solutions. Such distinctions have enabled Drake & Scull to gain the reputation for quality and efficiency, which has subsequently allowed the company to successfully execute large-scale projects across vast sectors such as residential, commercial, industrial, and hospitality.

In just five decades, Drake & Scull has grown from a regional engineering firm into a global, multi-billion-dollar organization. A landmark moment in the company’s history would be in 2008, where it floated 55% of its shares to the public through an Initial Public Offering (IPO). The IPO was very successful with the oversubscription running over 101 times. It was consequently recognized by Ernst & Young that ranked it within the top 20 global IPOs of the year. This has made Drake & Scull a company that records sustainable profitability and growth even during challenging times. The company attributes this through innovative business models, strategic expansion, and commitment to quality standards.

As the core of Drake & Scull’s operations include a commitment to sustainability, safety, and quality. The company’s Integrated Management Systems align with international standards on quality management that include ISO 9001:2015, environmental management or ISO 14001:2015, and occupational health and safety management or ISO 45001:2018. It ensures adherence to high-rating building and safety regulations and sound environmental and energy management practice. Drake & Scull has gone a long way in becoming environmentally friendly. This is further delivered by the PE&E division, offering cutting-edge water treatment and waste management solutions. Focusing on sustainable practices, this company is not only working to address current environmental challenges but also strives for ensuring a better future for generations to come.

Strong adaptability and innovation have been at the forefront of Drake & Scull’s success in its great growth. The company has expanded significantly in recent years by focusing on digital transformation and technological advancements, hence enabling improved efficiencies and better project delivery at reduced operational costs. Such new technology assists Drake & Scull in remaining at the forefront of the engineering and construction industry and indeed a new benchmarking mark for quality and performance.

Guided by a vision for future growth and a firm commitment to excellence, Drake & Scull is geared to continue to be the global leader in engineering. Its portfolio of projects has diversity that ensures its focus on sustainability and innovation leads to it being a big player in the future of this region.