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THE DEFINITIVE GUIDE TO THE REGION'S CONSTRUCTION PROFESSIONALS MARCH 2022 | CBNME.COM MEP Power 25 Celebrating the best in the MEP industry with our top 25 rankings that showcases how each company is striving for growth, sustainability and innovation.
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CONSTRUCTION BUSINESS NEWS ME | MARCH 2022 | 3 MEP POWER 25 12 SUSTAINABILITY CONSTRUCTION EFFECT ON MARINE LIFE When we talk about construction, we hear progress being made, but what does it sound like to marine life? 14 LUXURY UPSCALE VIBES Lifestyle Developers teams with YOO Studio to deliver the exclusive globally branded residences in Jeddah 16 INTERVIEW TECHNOLOGY AS THE WAY FORWARD! Dimitri Papakonstantinou, managing director of Al Shafar Interiors (ASI) 18 CASE STUDY SUSTAINABILITY SECRETS BEHIND GERMAN PAVILION CAMPUS GERMANY at Expo 2020 Dubai 20 LAUNCH DEVELOPING ASSETS ON A LARGE SCALE Patrick Rouse stood out as the ideal person to lead LITE as Chief Development & Projects Officer 26 PROJECT INNOVATIVE WATER THEME PARK Qiddiya Investment Company announces USD 750mn construction contract to build KSA’s first and region’s largest water theme park 50 INTERIOR DESIGN MESMERISING CULTURAL DESERT EXPERIENCE Moustafa Sakr, Area General Manager of The St. Regis Hotels & Resorts, Abu Dhabi and The Luxury Collection Hotels & Resorts, Abu Dhabi 54 INTERVIEW HONEST AND UPFRONT Fadi Hatoum, CEO at UNIMAC company 60 ENERGY ENERGY TRANSITION In conversation with Azzan Mohammed, Exhibition Director, Global Energy & Utilities Forum and Middle East Energy Celebrating the best in the MEP industry with our top 25 rankings that showcases how each company is striving for growth, sustainability and innovation. 30 IN THIS ISSUE CBNME 12 60
MARCH 29, 2022 VIRTUAL EVENT As a celebration of women business leaders across the Middle East and Africa, Mastercard has partnered with Entrepreneur Middle East to present the first ever Women SME Leaders Awards 2022. We are inviting every women SME leader across all walks of life- individuals and organizations- to take part. There are no costs for attending or nominating at this event. Good luck to all and let’s celebrate women SMEs together! RECOGNIZING THE ACHIEVING WOMEN OF MIDDLE EAST AND AFRICA
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8 | CONSTRUCTION BUSINESS NEWS ME | MARCH 2022 WWW.CBNME.COM I had the privilege to attend the opening ceremony of the Museum of the Future on February 22nd. The event was showcased by a spectacular lighting show and showcased the vision of Dubai’s ruler H.H. Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum. Nine years in the making, the Museum of the Future is already recognised as the most beautiful building on earth. The 77-ft modern architectural marvel, which tells the narrative of the future through a series of interactive exhibitions, invites people to experience the technologies and trends that will shape the future of humanity. Spanning an area of 30,000 square metres, the pillarless structure also represents a novel global intellectual centre. It’s a “living” laboratory designed to foster a spirit of collaborative innovation among the Arab world’s leading scientists to inspire new out-of-the-box solutions to tomorrow’s greatest challenges and spur a new era of scientific discovery in the region and beyond. The Museum will create a global platform for pioneers, innovators and critical thinkers to exchange ideas, concepts and visions to accelerate sustainable socioeconomic development and shape a fair future that works for everyone. These landmark projects are setting the tone for what’s to come and the construction and architecture industry will be challenged to be more futuristic in their approach. EDITOR’S NOTE CBNME CEO Wissam Younane wissam@bncpublishing.net DIRECTOR Rabih Najm rabih@bncpublishing.net GROUP PUBLISHING DIRECTOR Joaquim D'Costa jo@bncpublishing.net +971 50 440 2706 BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR Rabih Naderi rabih.naderi@bncpublishing.net +966 50 328 9818 EDITOR Kasun Illankoon kasun@bncpublishing.net ASSISTANT EDITOR Jochebed Menon EDITORIAL DESIGN Christian Harb MARKETING EXECUTIVE Aaron Joshua Sinanbam aj@bncpublishing.net PHOTOGRAPHER Alexander Bungas Keep up to date with all the latest news, features and much more on our website and social media platforms CBNME.COM Kasun Illankoon Deputy Editor kasun@bncpublishing.net SUBSCRIBE subscriptions@bncpublishing.net For all commercial enquiries, contact sales@bncpublishing.net T +971 50 440 2706 All rights reserved © 2021. Opinions expressed are solely those of the contributors. Construction Business News ME and all subsidiary publications in the MENA region are officially licensed exclusively to BNC Publishing in the MENA region by Construction Business News ME. No part of this magazine may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means without written permission of the publisher. Images used in Construction Business News ME are credited when necessary. Attributed use of copyrighted images with permission. All images not credited courtesy Shutterstock. Printed by UPP PO Box 502511 Dubai, United Arab Emirates P +971 4 4200 506 | F +971 4 4200 196 CBNME @CBNME CONSTRUCTION BUSINESS NEWS ME THE FUTURE IS ALREADY HERE
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12 | CONSTRUCTION BUSINESS NEWS ME | MARCH 2022 WWW.CBNME.COM CBNME SUSTAINABILITY WHEN WE TALK ABOUT CONSTRUCTION, WE HEAR PROGRESS BEING MADE, BUT WHAT DOES IT SOUND LIKE TO MARINE LIFE? CONSTRUCTION EFFECT ON MARINE LIFE UMAH GANESHALINGAM MENG, MSC PROJECT MANAGER AT TURNER & TOWNSEND, UN VOLUNTEER WITH A BACKGROUND IN AUDIOLOGY Images courtesy of Oman / The Ocean Agency
CONSTRUCTION BUSINESS NEWS ME | MARCH 2022 | 13 G lacial ice sheets were a natural acoustic refuge for marine mammals such as whales and dolphins. With water temperatures on the rise, these cetaceans are al- ready under threat, but there is also a ‘silent killer’ on the loose. With the rapid melting of the ice sheets forcing marine mammals such as white- beaked dolphins to leave their expanse causing loss of species as it tips the biodiversity balance, noise pollution, a lesser-known threat, is now on the rise and similarly threatens the biodiversity of our oceans. Many aquatic and terrestrial species use sound to communicate, find prey, avoid predators, mate and navigate their way around the great blue sea. This echoloca- tion process is crucial to their existence, yet interference from noise pollution is causing marine life to lose their way and starve to death. Cetaceans have strong herding instincts. Whales for example, often refuse to leave a member of their pod behind if they are sick or jeopardised. In efforts to support a distressed member, a whole pod could strand themselves, despite human inter- vention to push them back out to sea. Regrettably, anthropogenic noise pro- duced from the construction industry is increasingly being linked to cetacean strandings all over the world. According to the US Environmental Protection Agency, sounds below 70 dBA (decibels) are considered safe. In con- struction, our activities are often deafen- ing, even to us! Welding averages at around 100 dBA, impact guns used in oil and gas explora- tion are approximately 120dBA, and sonar used in submarine navigation and communication, measures a whooping 235dB in water, which can cause internal haemorrhaging. A 2020 study found a strong associa- tion between both sonar used in military exercises and ocean exploration, and the death of beaked whales. If we don’t want scuba diving and coral reefs to be a thing of the past, we need to take action to minimise our noise foot- print now! Reducing our noise pollution. The UAE’s Net Zero by 2050 strategic initiative visualises a green future, it is a mammoth undertaking and focuses on a holistic approach to investing 600 billion dirhams in clean and renewable energy. But are we proposing the right solutions? For example, offshore wind farms may not be the silver bullet we thought it to be. Its operation is quiet, however, the construction is not. Current construction methods use piling, drilling and dredging to anchor the monopole wind turbines to the ocean floor. …And what about noise we make indi- rectly, are we factoring the supply chain into our sustainability plans? Shipping cargo for example, produces loud noise that is at the same low frequencies used in the songs of male whales. With in- creasing demands for construction mate- rial due to the rise of mega programmes, are we taking into consideration the additional threat that shipping activities pose to the survival of our marine life? With the UAE hosting COP 28, I hope to see noise pollution on the agenda. There’s a need for investment in a sound observatory to; research sound-related data capture, monitor noise pollution, and develop more stringent noise regula- tions. Act now Outlined below are steps we can take to play our part in protecting our sea life. > Short term: we can immediately make a difference by carrying out risk assess- ments on our sites, recording sound lev- els during construction activities, and by using sound barriers and bubble curtains to attenuate sound. > Medium term: Mega programmes need noise impact assessments and noise re- duction strategies. Major programmes should also consider bringing in pro- gramme advisory consultants to imple- ment noise strategies and explore innova- tive practice and construction methods. > Long term: Not only do we need to build quietly, we also need to influ- ence our supply chains to also take a greener approach in their own activities. If cargo ships were to reduce speeds by just six knots, the noise intensity would be halved! Designated marine protected areas are also necessary, with the added advantage of keeping tourism alive for decades to come. CONSTRUCTION EFFECT ON MARINE LIFE
16 | CONSTRUCTION BUSINESS NEWS ME | MARCH 2022 WWW.CBNME.COM CBNME LUXURY LIFESTYLE DEVELOPERS TEAMS WITH YOO STUDIO TO DELIVER THE EXCLUSIVE GLOBALLY BRANDED RESIDENCES IN JEDDAH L ifestyle Developers, the Saudi-based real estate developer committed to raising the standards of living in Saudi Arabia and the MENA region, announced today first-of-its-kind, The VUE residences in the city of Jeddah with upscale boutique waterfront living overlooking the stunning Obhur Waterfront Creek, offering a unique blend of beachside and cosmopolitan living with interiors inspired by the city’s serene coastal setting and rich heritage. Lifestyle Developers is a Saudi real estate development company. It is a full-service development company driven by an international team of talented real estate professionals whose combined breadth of experience includes acquisition, finance, design, development, construction, property management, marketing and legal. Part of Batterjee Group, the conglomerate group with business interests in healthcare, education, financing, investment, pharmaceutical industries, development, construction, wellness and sports, human capital, and IT solutions. UPSCALE VIBES
CONSTRUCTION BUSINESS NEWS ME | MARCH 2022 | 17 Established in 1999, YOO Design Studio is an award-winning design collective of architects, interior designers, and product designers under the creative direction of YOO Head of Design, Mark Davison. Designing landmark residential, hotel and private commission projects around the world, YOO Design Studio also facilitates the design visions of YOO’s collaborations with Philippe Starck, Jade Jagger, Marcel Wanders, Kate Moss, Steve Leung and Sussanne Khan. It is this experience which has developed a unique design intelligence that could only come from working with the world’s best. With a flexible approach to design, YOO Design Studio’s experience in over 36 countries has developed a strong appreciation for local culture, customs, and design requirements. Designed in collaboration with internationally celebrated YOO Studio, and IHCC, the 15-story bespoke residential building presents residents an opportunity to indulge in a seaside haven that features facilities witnessed for the first time in the Kingdom. The ongoing collaboration between Lifestyle Developers and YOO is not just about design; it’s about creating a lifestyle through multiple projects to be announced around the Kingdom with amazing amenity spaces and common areas where people can come together. The iconic “THE VUE” lifestyle residences on the bay, provide 36 exclusive units, from one to 5 bedrooms, including nine exclusive two-story sky villas with outdoor living rooms and private pools, all offering one-of-a-kind views overlooking the Red Sea, a true testament to the highly sought-after Jeddah lifestyle. The élite apartments at the VUE, include an array of sizes with different layouts that cater to all tastes and preferences. The unique facilities comprise of an intimate lobby, with a sculpture court on the ground floor and an array of amenities at the rooftop level including a cigar room, tea rooms, a luxurious private cinema, male and female gyms, and spas with private outdoor “Miami inspired” rooftop swimming pools designed to respect privacy and cultural needs. The VUE also features dedicated family and kids play areas with dynamic open spaces to experience a lifestyle at par with 7-star resorts. The waterfront- inspired sales center for the VUE project located in Jeddah, will allow visitors to experience the development through a unique journey including Virtual Reality rooms to walk through the whole project using the Oculus VR headset. On this occasion, the CEO of Lifestyle Developers, Sultan Sobhi Batterjee, commented, “We are dedicated to building projects with a purpose and delighted to be part of the progressive flourish witnessed in the Kingdom, our collaboration with YOO is aligned with our vision to create unique lifestyle concepts and uplifting living standards in KSA and beyond.” Similarly, YOO Group Chairman, John Hitchcox, added, “The principle behind YOO is to enhance lives through original design and generate thriving communities, we are delighted to be working with Lifestyle Developers and to be a part of this truly incredible lifestyle offering.” Expanding the Lifestyle Developers brand and collaborating with internationally renowned design studios is a testament to the success of Saudi companies in delivering unique projects in new markets. It comes at an opportune time with the great ambitions of Vision 2030, which will underline the investment. UPSCALE VIBES | LIFESTYLE DEVELOPERS & YOO STUDIO
18 | CONSTRUCTION BUSINESS NEWS ME | MARCH 2022 WWW.CBNME.COM CBNME INTERVIEW What reforms have you implemented at ASI, and how has this benefited the organisation? We set up a Project Management Office (PMO) a few months ago to strengthen our project reporting and controls, as well as our control of project delivery reports, so that we could be more agile in our decision-making. This is still work- in-progress, but I'm expecting to give live information and data on both our site operations and our joinery facility in the coming months. How challenging was it to work on the projects for Expo 2020, especially during COVID-19? Expo 2020 was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. As expected, the last months leading up to the inauguration were extremely difficult, but the excitement of the build-up to the 1st October opening day could be felt every day. COVID-19 introduced new obstacles that no one had ever faced before, both on Expo and non-Expo projects. Although the impact was likely felt more in 2020, the frequent disruption had a long-term influence on the initiatives. It necessitated frequent communication with all Dimitri Papakonstantinou joined ASI a subsidiary of ASGC construction in September 2018, headquartered in the UAE, ASI delivers turnkey fit-out solutions across the UAE and has a manufacturing facility as well as a complete in-house project. Amongst his previous roles, he was a founding member of Plafond Fit-Out in Dimitri Papakonstantinou, MANAGING DIRECTOR OF AL SHAFAR INTERIORS (ASI), DISCUSSES WORKING ON EXPO 2020 PROJECTS AND HOW THE COMPANY CAN BENEFIT IN THE FUTURE FROM THIS MEGA EVENT. Technology As the Way FORWARD! 2008, where he served as managing director since 2013. He has been involved in numerous successful projects and has a proven track record of increasing corporate revenues and profitability while managing teams of more than 1,700 employees. Papakonstantinou lifted the prestigious CEO of the Year trophy at Design Middle East Awards 2021. BY ROMA ARORA
CONSTRUCTION BUSINESS NEWS ME | MARCH 2022 | 19 TECHNOLOGY AS THE WAY FORWARD! | DIMITRI PAPAKONSTANTINOU stakeholders in order to keep them up to date on the situation. I believe we are fortunate that Expo and the UAE as a whole handled the pandemic in such a way that business and daily life could go on as usual. What was your approach for various Expo 2020 projects? How did you ensure that there was a sense of uniqueness while maintaining the greatest level of quality? Each project was distinct in that it reflected a country, its culture, innovations, food, and other aspects. We were involved in the design and construction of some of the pavilions we built from the beginning. This necessitated an awareness of the most significant feature that the specific participant wished to emphasise in order to provide advice on how to effectively spend their budget. How can these exceptional Expo 2020 projects benefit ASI in the industry? We created an exhibition department that was in charge of the creative development of the project's content and exhibition. This provided knowledge to our team that we did not previously have, as well as a new skill set that can be employed in future museum and exhibition projects. What kind of projects do you want to do now? It’s back to business as usual at the moment where most of our involvement is again in hospitality projects. We’re currently carrying out works on several hotels, entertainment, and retail. What are the challenges in the market at present? Although there are some positive signs in the market over the past few months, competition is still very tight. At the same time, rising raw material and shipping costs necessitate price increases, which clients are not always willing to accept. What is forming as your vision for ASI in the future? What do you want ASI to accomplish in the next few years? ASI is evolving, and I'd like us to concentrate as much as possible on technological advancements in our sector. Over the next 3-5 years, we want to grow into two new countries. Dubai Mall China Town Boulevard Expansion: The Dubai Mall Boulevard Expansion project includes the conversion of multiple levels of the existing car park to a double- height retail mall. BELOW Dream at Address Beach Hotel JBR is a sophisticated and provocative destination with curated dining, art, and entertainment experiences, offering guests unforgettable moments.
20 | CONSTRUCTION BUSINESS NEWS ME | MARCH 2022 WWW.CBNME.COM CBNME CASE STUDY Expo 2020 Dubai The main site of Expo 2020 Dubai is purpose-built precinct on a 438-hectare area (1083 acres), as large as 900 football pitches, located in the city of Dubai on the way to Abu Dhabi with three main themed districts; sustainability, mobility; and opportunity which are centred around the main event stage inside the focal point, Al Wasl Dome. For the first time in World Expo history, every participating country has its own pavilion, with over 192 countries. German Pavilion – CAMPUS GERMANY The German Pavilion, known as CAMPUS GERMANY, was designed to be a forward-looking place of knowledge, research, and human interaction SUSTAINABILITY SECRETS BEHIND GERMAN PAVILION CAMPUS GERMANY AT EXPO 2020 DUBAI Find out how advanced metal sandwich panel insulation containing polyisocyanurate rigid foam cores installed on the vast German Pavilion delivered a more cost-effective and sustainable solution
CONSTRUCTION BUSINESS NEWS ME | MARCH 2022 | 21 at the Expo 2020 Dubai. A range of sustainability-themed examples of innovation and ingenuity have been created to inspire visitors both young and old. Building use CAMPUS GERMANY features several interactive exhibits, special displays for children as well as information for adults, and a full-service restaurant. The German Pavilion reflects the underlying campus idea. Rather than being a building in the traditional sense, it is a vertical ensemble of building volumes, surrounded by a connecting element with a central atrium at its heart. Building insulation solution explained Metal sandwich panels are insulating panels for residential, commercial, industrial, and a broad range of construction purposes. These sandwich panels consist of metal facings and an advanced PIR (polyisocyanurate) rigid core formulated by Pearl Polyurethane Systems and delivered by Dubai-based panel manufacturer, Emirates Insulation Panel (EIP). This cladding product is lightweight and quick to fit, as well as offering excellent fire and smoke resistant properties. An advantage is that these panels are thin and easy to handle which makes them one of the most cost-effective methods for building insulation, while creating a smooth and sleek effect that is aesthetically pleasing. Why is polyurethane-based insulation more sustainable? Buildings are responsible for over 40 percent of global energy consumption and more than one-third of greenhouse gas emissions. Energy lost through walls, roofs and windows is the largest single waste of energy in most buildings. Polyurethane-based building insulation products provide a higher insulation value when compared to other comparable insulation materials such as mineral wool and fibreglass. Consequently, metal sandwich panels containing polyurethane are a more sustainable insulation solution due to the increased energy savings provided over a building’s lifespan. What makes polyurethane insulation so attractive is its robust nature and longevity, meaning that metal sandwich panels last longer and do not need to be replaced as quickly as other insulation or cladding products – this reduces unnecessary wastage which has a positive impact on the environment and the effects of climate change. Located in the Expo’s ‘Sustainability’ area, CAMPUS GERMANY’s ultimate client was the German Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy, while Koelnmesse was responsible for organisation and operations. Concept, planning and realisation of the German Pavilion was handled by the German Pavilion Expo 2020 Dubai Consortium, consisting of two companies, facts and fiction GmbH and NUSSLI Adunic. facts and fiction were responsible for concept, exhibition, and media design, NUSSLI Adunic for construction, while LAVA was responsible for the architectural implementation of the concept on behalf of the joint venture. SUSTAINABILITY SECRETS BEHIND GERMAN PAVILION INSULATION FAST FACTS PRODUCT > Metal sandwich panel insulation – rigid foam core Features > Excellent fire properties (PIR) > Insulation value > Rigidity > Durability > Ease of handling > Quick to fit Effect > Increased efficiency > Superior insulation properties > Aesthetically pleasing “HE GERMAN PAVILION, KNOWN AS CAMPUS GERMANY, WAS DESIGNED TO BE A FORWARD-LOOKING PLACE OF KNOWLEDGE, RESEARCH, AND HUMAN INTERACTION AT THE EXPO 2020 DUBAI.”
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“WE ARE IN A FORTUNATE POSITION THAT ELTIZAM GROUP HAS BEEN PLANNING THE ESTABLISHMENT OF LITE EVEN BEFORE OUR TEAM WAS ON BOARD, SO OUR PROGRESSION ON SECURING CONTRACTS IS WELL ADVANCED.” 24 | CONSTRUCTION BUSINESS NEWS ME | MARCH 2022
CONSTRUCTION BUSINESS NEWS ME | MARCH 2022 | 25 DEVELOPING ASSETS ON A LARGE SCALE C onstruction Business News ME caught up with Patrick who gives a deep dive into the launch of LITE and the unique offerings LITE can provide on development management, design management and project/construction services. Please introduce us to LITE and its purpose under the Eltizam umbrella. LITE is a development management services organisation and is in effect the final piece in the jigsaw in terms of Eltizam Group’s capability to offer a holistic ‘full lifecycle’ solution of development and physical asset management. From inception through design and delivery onto the management and maintenance of the built asset, Eltizam now offers the full spectrum of end-to-end services. With values based on excellence and innovation, our service offering is a major compliment to the Eltizam Group as a whole. Why is there a need to develop a specific company such as LITE? How do you see this brand filling a gap in the market? LITE has been created in order to provide development advice to clients and investors who don’t have the expertise or in-house teams to develop assets on a large scale. We believe that there is no other organisation in the market that can provide the comprehensive set of development services across all sectors that our experienced team can offer. For some organisations, they don’t want to have to invest in an in-house team as it’s not their core business and have often struggled with the traditional consultancy model. Since the inception of LITE, the feedback from the market is that there is a need for a company that applies the same focus on quality, delivery and end user consideration – whatever the size or value of project – and behave, both contractually and practically, like a true partner. What are the initial goals and objectives set out by LITE for 2022 and what are the growth plans put in place for the brand? 2022 is about establishing the brand and concentrating on our initial projects to ensure we hit the ground running and out-perform for our current clients. Our core leadership team of Salma Aboul- ela, Michael Harvey and John Poole and their central teams are now in place and we will continue to add members in the coming period based on our current workload. We have a number of additional exciting opportunities we are discussing at the moment and this will keep us very busy for the foreseeable future. While our initial focus for 2022 is primarily focused on the UAE and in particular Abu Dhabi, we are not limiting our horizons and will seek to explore future opportunities with key clients. We are in a fortunate position that Eltizam Group has been planning the establishment of LITE even before our team was on board, so our progression on securing contracts is well advanced. We look forward to updating the market on these contract wins as they get finalised throughout the year. Has LITE secured any projects and what type of services are you offering? LITE has been appointed as the developer for MIZA, an urban regeneration scheme in Port Zayed. LITE are responsible for the full development scope including Feasibility, Masterplanning, Procurement, Project and Commercial Management. We are honoured to be chosen as the custodian of this historic area of Abu Dhabi to create a distinctive mixed-use urban regeneration to build upon the legacy of the modern heritage of the area. We also have some additional project announcements coming in the not too distant future. By the end of Q1 we will have signed contracts to manage in excess of AED 1bn worth of developments. We are offering the With more than 20 years’ experience and a wealth of knowledge, Patrick Rouse stood out as the ideal person to lead LITE as Chief Development & Projects Officer. He has worked for clients, consultants and contractors alike combining an extremely broad range of knowledge and experience into an exceptionally comprehensive profile. DEVELOPING ASSETS ON A Large Scale >>>
26 | CONSTRUCTION BUSINESS NEWS ME | MARCH 2022 WWW.CBNME.COM CBNME LAUNCH full range of development management services from inception and feasibility to design, project and construction management alongside lifecycle cost management. In terms of the market overview, where have you identified opportunities? The UAE is now a diverse market with opportunities across the industry. Our team has significant experience in hospitality, residential, masterplanning, commercial, retail, industrial and infrastructure to name a few. There is a continual evolution in the hospitality field with lots of new operators entering the market, an area in which we have substantial and very relevant experience. On the technology side, the development of datacentres continues to be a much- needed growth industry within the UAE, again a sector LITE is well placed to add value to our clients. There is an increasing demand for asset management today – right from design to project, construction and post- delivery. How do you see this concept evolving further? With the exceptional vision and oversight provided by the leaders of the UAE, the economy will continue to expand exponentially and the market will continue its growth to maturity, bringing with it the increased interest from international institutional investors. This will drive the need for a higher quality product that has both functional and aesthetic designs that provide true lifecycle consideration for building owners and operators. Therefore, there is an opportunity for clients to really develop assets that give thorough contemplation to the end user experience. Whilst LITE intends to remain efficient on our headcount, focussing on quality over quantity, Eltizam as a group has over 6,500 employees with wide ranging expertise across the asset management spectrum – all available to support LITE and their clients. If we were to compare the development management scene in the West to the Middle East, what are the key differences in your opinion and where are we still lacking? How do you see LITE bridge that gap? The UAE has come a long way in a relatively short space of time with many globally recognised developments successfully completed. The next stage of progress will see an increase in the quantity and diversity of developers and an increase in the quantity of significant property transactions. Up to this stage, this has been mainly limited to the sale and purchase of individual residential units. The emergence of institutional investors would perhaps entice new investors/developers into the market as this will provide the opportunity for them to exit projects earlier and focus on their core business of development/ investment. One element that has driven the success in the UAE is the ability of its leadership to provide concise guidance allowing for quick decisions and implementation and this is an attribute that they must maintain. What are some of the key challenges and opportunities LITE foresees in this domain? Like any new company, brand recognition will be key to our success, however we have the full support of the Eltizam Group which is already a recognised leader in all of its current sectors of operation. Coupled with the backing of our shareholders IHC and ADQ, we believe that LITE will become a force in this domain in a short period of time. The opportunity exists in that we are truly the first of our kind in the market providing a bespoke individualised service to all of our clients. With an agile and experienced team, we are flexible in the models of delivery we can offer to clients depending on their requirements and desire for involvement. Tell us about your experience within the industry and what potential do you see with LITE. After spending 8 years in Ireland predominantly working for Ireland’s largest contractor John Sisk & Son, I moved to the UAE in early 2008. Since then I have been fortunate to work for some of the region’s largest developers including Emaar Properties and Al Futtaim Group, on iconic developments such as The Address Skyview and Il Primo in Downtown and both Dubai & Cairo Festival City Mall’s. Additionally, I have a broad range of experience within the industry and have overseen the development of regional shopping centres, luxury hospitality and residential towers, healthcare and commercial facilities to marinas and major infrastructure. It’s been an intense
CONSTRUCTION BUSINESS NEWS ME | MARCH 2022 | 27 DEVELOPING ASSETS ON A LARGE SCALE 14 years, but that’s why so many of us love working in the UAE – you can pack a whole careers worth of experience into a 10-year period! Hence, having worked for large established organisations, it is exciting to be part of a new venture in which we have the ability to reset the model on how developers should work free from the thought process of “this is how we do it”. The varied background of both my team and I, puts us in an excellent position to support in some of the most complex and innovative projects in the region. What attracted you to Eltizam and specifically LITE? I was immediately attracted to Eltizam because of the tremendous growth achieved by the organisation during the last eight years which has been driven by the energy and overall vision of our Group CEO, Chris Roberts. Once I sat with Chris and heard his plans for the company and the significant role that LITE needs to play in the development of the organisation, it immediately resonated with me as something I wanted to be part of. It is incredibly exciting being involved in a start-up and the opportunity afforded to me in leading this venture is something I couldn’t turn down. With your vast experience in the industry, how has construction evolved in the past 10 years and where do you see it going in the next decade? If we just consider the UAE, there has been significant changes across a number of sectors particularly in the quality and diversity of the assets now coming into the market. The selection of options available for end users in retail, hospitality, commercial and residential is unrecognisable from 10 years ago. During the first major building boom in the UAE it was led by the introduction of international contractors but as we look across the industry now there are very few remaining and they have been replaced by local contractors who now possess the skillsets and experience to deliver large scale projects. What are some of the key trends in the construction industry? A major focus of a lot of groups now is the introduction of modular construction and increased off-site production. The opportunities in this sector are significant for both large and small companies. Increased production in off-site and controlled facilities generally leads to a higher quality product and reduced construction times. Therefore, there are benefits for all parties in continuing to grow and advance this sector. Digitalisation is at the forefront of most companies’ thoughts at the moment. More and more organisations are investing resources to develop their digital processes and to drive efficiencies throughout their workstreams. Lastly, what steps can the construction industry take to be more sustainable? I believe the word sustainability is all too frequently monopolised by companies, with little substance behind it. To achieve sustainable development, you have to embrace it and instil a culture of innovation in the team from the outset. In order to really make an impact in sustainability in construction, there perhaps needs to be some initial form of incentivisation to the industry which over time can be removed once the long- term benefits are seen by clients and contractors alike. The age-old important tri-factor of “cost, time and quality” is still central but sustainability should be discussed in the same breath and we’re encouraged to find that this is a key driver in the aspirations of our current client base. litedevco.com
28 | CONSTRUCTION BUSINESS NEWS ME | MARCH 2022 WWW.CBNME.COM CBNME LEGAL NON-COMPETE ARRANGEMENTS IN CONSTRUCTION BETWEEN THE THEORY AND APPLICATION T he non-competition arrangements are not uncommon in employment contracts; it is an agreement between the Employer and the Employee, under which the former restricts the latter from directly joining a competitor or using the company’s data, records, information after termination. Such agreements, in their classic application, should not trigger a legal difficulty once the standard requirements are fulfilled, and the nature of the work, subject of protection, lacks any complexity of translating the non-competition arrangement and its purpose. However, the legal difficulties trigger when applying the concept in a complex and senior role. Said agreements are widely common in construction employment agreements due to the nature of the practitioners’ role and the data subject of the project. Thus, acts of breach should be meticulously examined to be detected. This article focuses on the non-compete arrangement in the construction industry by addressing the theory between the content of the non-compete agreement, the applicable law, as compared to the courts’ practice in the UAE. Purpose of non-compete agreements in the Construction industry The first question that might come across in that regard is why would it be necessary to have a non-compete agreement in the construction industry. Indeed, the construction industry includes various key participants with different commercial and business interests that need protection from their ex-employees. It is highly reasonable for all of them, in different meanings, to have a non-compete agreement to protect their respective businesses. For example, we have the Owner who seeks to protect its business after terminating his representative engineer on the project. Also, the contractor seeks to preserve its commercial interest after terminating his senior engineers. Many other examples that make the non-compete agreements are most desirable in the construction industry. The formation of the agreement There is no such standard formation of the non-compete agreement. It would be such (a) a standard clause that the employers most often enclosed in their standard employment contract, or (b) a separate agreement annexed to the employment contract. Practically, both forms are acceptable in terms of framing the arrangement. Nonetheless, it would BY AHMED ELSAYED, ASSOCIATE AT BSA AHMAD BIN HEZEEM & ASSOCIATES LLP
NON-COMPETE ARRANGEMENTS IN CONSTRUCTION be advisable for both parties to have a separate agreement, considering the reasons elaborated below. As to the subject of the arrangement itself, there are no such one-size-fits-all purposes. Thus, the parties, mainly the employer, based on the nature of the desired protected interest, should tailor the agreement to protect its commercial interest after terminating the contract with the employee The obstacles of applying the non- compete in the UAE In principle, the UAE employment legislator, under Article 127 of the UAE employment law, expressly recognizes the non-compete agreement. Nonetheless, the codified frame is insufficient, whereby, the courts to the furthest extent, intervene to decide whether to apply the concept or not. The problem starts when the court needs to activate the agreement practically. At the outset, the court needs to examine some of the requirements to be fulfilled to consider the non-compete clause in principle. Primarily, these requirements are collectively related to the reasonability behind the clause, such as, inter alia, (a) the reason for having the agreement, (b) the duration, and (c) the territorial application. > The rationale behind the non-compete In that regard, the court examines whether the non-compete agreement in the first place is reasonable to be applied or not. To do so, the court examines the consequences of breaching the agreement by the employee. Most often, the court to do this task evaluates the role and responsibilities of the ex-employee, whether he/she used to possess a high level of data/records/information that would affect the future employer’s business once leaked. > The duration For the activation of the non compete agreement, the jurisprudence requires the agreement to be similarly reasonable from the duration perspective. It is not acceptable for the court to see an indefinite or unreasonably long term non-compete agreement. The courts have established that the latter would nullify non-compete agreements in which the employers pursued compensation after a long period from terminating the employees, whereby the court assessed that such application of the clauses constituted an abuse of right. > The territorial application Lastly, the court must establish a reasonable territorial application of the non-compete clauses. The courts do not apply non-compete clauses without a pre-established territory, especially in instances where the employer’s business does not cover the whole UAE territory. After examining all the above elements, the activation of the non-compete clause remains within the court’s discretion. Here comes the uncertainty, where there is an effective non-compete agreement, but the court does not activate it. This is primarily due to the court’s need to establish the last brick in the wall, i.e., the substantial damages suffered/ to be suffered by the employer in case of a breach. Similarly to any tort claim, the employer needs to establish the three elements for claiming compensation, i.e., the violation by the ex-employee, the damage, and the causality. This task would be feasible for the employer once the claim is based on a comprehensive non-compete agreement that will highly assist the employer to present its case. Conclusion The construction industry is one of the main practice industries that the involved employers need to include non-compete arrangements to protect their respective commercial interests and trade secrets For having an enforceable agreement, the employer needs to have a comprehensive agreement that, besides the standard requirements, should include in-depth technical provisions such as the definition of the potential breach that the employee could conduct, the type of the sensitive data, records, and any other confidential information that the employee would benefit the competitor. Despite the importance of non- compete agreements, it is susceptible for employers to understand and abide by the court’s standard for enforceability thereof and ultimately have their non- compete agreements recognized.
30 | CONSTRUCTION BUSINESS NEWS ME | MARCH 2022 WWW.CBNME.COM CBNME PROJECT QIDDIYA INVESTMENT COMPANY ANNOUNCES USD 750MN CONSTRUCTION CONTRACT TO BUILD KSA’S FIRST AND REGION’S LARGEST WATER THEME PARK INNOVATIVE WATER THEME PARK
CONSTRUCTION BUSINESS NEWS ME | MARCH 2022 | 31 INNOVATIVE WATER THEME PARK Q iddiya Investment Company (QIC) announced the award of a SAR 2.8 billion ($750 million) contract to build Saudi Arabia’s first and the region’s largest water theme park. The contract was awarded to ALEC Saudi Arabia Engineering & Contracting and El Seif Engineering Contracting, in a joint venture between the two companies. The Qiddiya Water Theme Park will be one of the key entertainment attractions at Qiddiya, the future capital of Entertainment, Sports and Culture. The agreement was formally signed between Qiddiya’s Managing Director Abdullah bin Nasser Aldawood, ALEC’s CEO Kez Taylor and El Seif’s CEO Ahmed Al- Bassam at a ceremony held at the Qiddiya Experience Center, followed by a ground-breaking ceremony to mark the start of construction. The park will cover 252,000 square meters of land and will be home to 22 rides and attractions – including nine that will be world firsts. Visitors will also be able to enjoy nine innovatively designed zones – the Entry Gate, Camel Rock, Dub Grotto, Wave Wadi, the Den, Viper Canyon, Arabian Peak, the Herding Grounds and Surf Lagoon – inspired by the native animals that inhabit the area around Qiddiya. At the signing ceremony, Abdullah bin Nasser Aldawood, Board Member and Managing Director, QIC, commented: “The Qiddiya Water Theme Park will be a year-round immersive family entertainment destination, the first of its kind and offering experiences that have never before been offered in Saudi. We are pleased to be working with industry leaders like ALEC and El Seif, who will be using the latest in guest experience technologies to create what is certain to be one of the world’s greatest water theme parks. The park will offer our guests a chance to experience that in a welcoming and fun environment for everyone.” Visitors will embark on an unforgettable adrenaline- fueled adventure at the Water Theme Park which will also feature state-of-the-art competition water sports facilities and 17 F&B and retail outlets. The park design will incorporate advanced environmental systems to minimize the use of water through recycling and smart usage in line with QIC’s sustainability practices. This will maximize the fun for visitors whilst significantly reducing the amount of water needed to operate the park. Some rides have been designed to use 75% less water compared to the more conventional rides found in other water parks. In addition, rainwater that falls on the site will be captured, treated and reused for irrigating the destination. >>>
32 | CONSTRUCTION BUSINESS NEWS ME | MARCH 2022 WWW.CBNME.COM CBNME PROJECT The park will also integrate technologies to reduce water pressure in certain rides which will in turn reduce water evaporation by half. In addition, every pool in the complex will be based on a ‘run-out’ concept so that at the end of an exciting slide individuals will glide safely across a shallower pool that uses less water unlike traditional deeper pools used in other water parks. Kez Taylor, CEO of ALEC, added: “We are proud to work on this landmark project in collaboration with El Seif. ALEC’s established expertise in large- scale theme park projects, honed through the successful delivery of other iconic water parks in the GCC, combined with the local expertise of El Seif will ensure the rides and infrastructure at the Qiddiya set new standards for the region, offering adventure seekers of all ages truly one-of-a-kind experiences.” Ahmed Al-Bassam, CEO of El Seif, commented: “El Seif is one of the Kingdom’s leading engineering and construction companies that has built some of Saudi Arabia’s and the region’s best known iconic projects such as the Kingdom Tower, Princess Noura University and Haramain High Speed Rail Rabigh Station. El Seif and ALEC have formed a strategic alliance and are committed to be the JV of choice for large complex projects in KSA. We are thrilled to be awarded, with our JV partner ALEC, the contract for the Water Theme Park. We thank Qiddiya for its confidence in our JV and look forward to delivering a world-class entertainment facility together – the first in Saudi Arabia and the largest in the region.” Qiddiya’s offering will be based on five cornerstones: Parks & Attractions, Sports & Wellness, Arts & Culture, Motion & Mobility and Nature & Environment, along with a variety of real estate options and community services. The Water Theme Park will be one of the key attractions of the Parks & Attractions cornerstone.
iFM is a wholly owned Holding Company under Eltizam Asset Management Group. iFM is a tech focused facilities management company with entities focused on the full spectrum of physical asset classes. Delivering Exceptional Integrated Facilities Management Solutions with Comprehensive Global Standards
MEP Power C B N M E 25 The UAE’s mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) services market stood at $3,025.9 million in 2020, and it is expected to grow at a CAGR of 15.7% during the forecast period (2021–2030). The key factors responsible for the growth of the industry include the growing hospitality industry in the U.A.E. and increasing construction projects in the transportation sector. As a result of this continuous growth, Construction Business News ME decided to celebrate the best in the MEP industry with our top 25 rankings that showcases how each company is striving for growth, sustainability and innovation. 34 | CONSTRUCTION BUSINESS NEWS ME | MARCH 2022 WWW.CBNME.COM
CONSTRUCTION BUSINESS NEWS ME | MARCH 2022 | 35
36 | CONSTRUCTION BUSINESS NEWS ME | MARCH 2022 WWW.CBNME.COM F rom a humble beginning, AL SHAFAR UNITED FOR ELECTROMECHANICAL ENGINEERING LLC was a division of ASGC company under the direct supervision of Mr. Ashraf Botros. Having a 40-year solid background in his Engineering career combined with his loyalty and dedication, he carries forward and takes the responsibility to define the company’s success into reality. Now, he holds a prestigious role of a Managing Director he truly deserved. Today, our company has gone far and continuously received high ranking awards under Mr. Ashraf Botros strong leadership, and to be described, he is a visionary leader with commanding presence, a person with a good heart who is open to help many in his own way. He is fair in his judgement and makes a good decision towards its employees and business matters. The intelligence he possesses in his supervision brings out the best in every employee and builds confidence and trust towards the company. Being a socially responsible company, ASU strives to leave a positive impact on the environment and communities, that they operate in. ASU has left their mark in many iconic projects around Dubai that are part of the cultural, historical, and fundamental aspects of the UAE. All throughout the years this brings ASU a remarkable and stable result and one of the well-known and respected companies in the UAE. Al Shafar United completed projects over the past few years included iconic Expo pavilions such as Morocco Pavilion, Pakistan Pavilion, Sustainability Pavilion, and Thematic district: Opportunity Pavilion. Furthermore, Mohamed bin Rashid Library, Signature Residences/ Vivanta by Taj, Blue Waters, and Coca-Cola Arena. Al Shafar United ongoing projects includes Miral and SeaWorld Entertainment ‘SeaWorld Abu Dhabi, project, Sabis International School Phase 2 & 3, Moro 2.0 Data Center, Vida Hotel & Residences, and so much more. MANAGING DIRECTOR | AL SHAFAR UNITED ASHRAF BOTROS 01 MEP Power 25
CONSTRUCTION BUSINESS NEWS ME | MARCH 2022 | 37 S ince its inception in 2006, ALEMCO has pro- vided fully engineered electromechanical and building service solutions to construction projects. Its track record includes some of Abu Dhabi and Dubai’s most prestigious and iconic develop- ments, from hotels, resort spas and retail, to cinema, leisure, and exhibition spaces. ALEMCO has successfully completed 69 proj- ects for a total value of over AED1billion. Our company has a proven track record in delivering highly complex, quality projects to a select group of key clients and has built its reputation of successfully executing contracts within budget, on time and to the satisfaction of all significant stakeholders across all areas of its operations. Our ability to deliver projects is widely demonstrated through our commitment to developing long-standing rela- tionships with our clients. As a result of this business ethos, our clients use us repeatedly and have secured a good order book for 2021 – 22. Projects (completed and ongoing) that ALEMCO has worked on over the last 12 months include the Mobility Pavilion at EXPO 2020, Dubai International Airport, Adia Space Management Project, The Residences at Marina Gate III, DMY Club & East Marina, Dubai Harbour Bay Marina, BP Khazzan, Jumeirah Living at Marina Gate, One & Only Mirage Phase 3, Reel Cinemas - The Dubai Mall, Reel Cinemas - Al Ghurair Centre, Reel Cinemas - Springs Souq, Midfield Terminal Electrical Works (Labor) - Support Ser- vices, Dubai Airport - CUC6 Energy Optimization, Fairmont Hotel - Support Services, Louvre Abu Dhabi - Support Ser- vices, Al Maryah Central (AMC) Base Build Modifications, Liwa Plastics Ind. Complex HVAC Works, BCG Offices – DWTC, Department of Finance FIT-OUT, SAAB Office FIT-OUT, One & Only Summer Maintenance, and ADIB - Al Tayer Stock Labour Deployment. Nathan Hanns, General Manager, ALEMCO is a highly capable, results orientated GM with extensive experience of leading high-performance teams and of successfully increas- ing efficiency and productivity whilst reducing costs and inefficiencies. He joined ALEMCO in January 2006. The over 21 years’ experience of experience is a testimony to his commitment to service excellence in the field of MEP. He has proven how to nurture and grow a business, evalu- ate opportunities and risks and deliver innovative new solu- tions to challenges. He is service oriented which is evident in his excellent client facing and configuration skills and highly successful in helping define company direction, achieving goals and optimizing business. GENERAL MANAGER | ALEMCO Nathan is a highly capable, results orientated GM with extensive experience of leading high-performance teams and of successfully increasing efficiency and productivity NATHAN HANNS 02 MEP Power 25
38 | CONSTRUCTION BUSINESS NEWS ME | MARCH 2022 WWW.CBNME.COM W ith over 20 years’ extensive overseas experience in the management of corporate affairs and construction projects, Mr. Yu is currently the President & CEO of CSCEC ME and further oversees CSCEC’s direct regional operations in the GCC as well as in other countries in the Middle East. Under Mr. Yu’s leadership, CSCEC ME has become a recognized, presti- gious and respected company across the region. Mr. Yu has led the success- ful diversification of CSCEC ME from a conventional building contractor to a comprehensive total solution provider with proven capability in diverse sec- tors of the construction industry in the Middle East. After more than a decade’s development, the company now offers Clients a full range of services from Contracting, Design and Build to Project Financing, extending beyond Building and Infrastructure into MEP, Steelwork, Industrial, Oil and Gas and Rail projects. CSCEC’s goal is to provide profes- sional MEP services to building and infrastructure sectors utilizing latest technologies and methods. With MEP systems becoming more complicated to estimate, design, plan and deliver, they’ve set continuous competency develop- ment in technology and project management on top of our business priorities. CSCEC attract talent from all over the world and are proud to be cul- turally diverse organization with 18 nationalities currently working with us. The organization investment in HR Development never stops; be- cause this benefits our Clients, our Employees and our Society. They closely monitor our manage- ment systems to ensure compliance with Quality & Safety standards and Legal Requirements set by cor- porate and relevant authorities. MEP Subcontract packages delivered in past 20 years: > Expo Village > Deira Waterfront Plots 1&2 > Deira Water Plot 9 & 10 > Mid Field Terminal Airport Abu Dhabi > Silicon Park (Smart City) > Viceroy Palm (now called as FIVE Palm) > Arenco Hotels in Palm Jumeirah (TAJ , HILTION & MARRIOT ) > Five Jumeriah Hotel & Apartments > Deira Waterfront Plot 1 and 2 > Deira Waterfront Plot 9 and 10 > Mirkazz Mall > City of Lights, Abu Dhabi > Al Amal Hospital (First LEED certi- fied Hospital in UAE) > Akoya Artesia > Southern Sun Hotel, Abu Dhabi > Sky Courts Complex > Midriff Villas and Apartments (600 Villas and 42 Apartments) > Global Lake View ( JLT) > Lake View Tower (JLT) > Palm Jumeriah Villas YU TAO PRESIDENT AND CEO | CSCEC ME “CSCEC ATTRACT TALENT FROM ALL OVER THE WORLD AND ARE PROUD TO BE CULTURALLY DIVERSE ORGANIZATION WITH 18 NATIONALITIES CURRENTLY WORKING WITH US.” 03 MEP Power 25
40 | CONSTRUCTION BUSINESS NEWS ME | MARCH 2022 WWW.CBNME.COM N amed as MEP Middle East magazine’s #1 MEP Consultancy last year, as well as winning the MEP Consultant of the Year award at CBNME’s MEP Awards 2021, AECOM’s highly-experi- enced MEP team works to design with purpose, digitization and innovation. Leading the team is Jonathan Roberts. With over 25 years in the consulting industry, Jona- than’s experience spans across transportation, healthcare, telecommunications, retail, educa- tion and leisure. Believing that a client focus is key, Jonathan encourages this throughout the team; the design philosophy for MEP services encompasses the long-term operational requirements for the client as well as immediate short-term goals. With an excellent track-record of delivering large, complex projects across a wide-range of sectors, last year we deliv- ered MEP services for an exciting themed attraction and media zone in the UAE, provided comprehensive solutions in Qatar for the Ministry of Transport and Communication and worked on the prestigious Diriyah Square development in Saudi Arabia. The recently completed Mall of Oman was required to achieve a Gold LEED rating; our team exceeded client expectations by achieving Platinum, making it the largest building in Oman to be awarded this. With Sustainable Legacies, our strategy for reaching ambi- tious ESG objectives, we utilize our strengths of technical excellence, global collaboration and local engagement to drive innovation while leaving long-lasting impacts on com- munities and the planet. Our professionals strive to design solutions that maximise naturally occurring energy and minimize waste. From creation, completion and beyond, we help clients maximise project potential and combine creativ- ity and expertise to advise on the right sustainable solutions. At the heart of our operations, our team comprises a talented group of MEP engineers, as well as specialists in acoustics, fire and life safety and sustainability. The team has grown by over 60% in the last 12 months and we are looking forward to further growth in 2022 to support the delivery of exciting future projects, such as repeat work with Majid Al-Futtaim on the Mall of Saudi. Passionate about team development, Jonathan is leading the charge of ensuring the team keeps asking ‘how can we make this better’. Each year AECOM recruits promising graduate engineers across the region who bring fresh per- spectives and ideas. In turn, they are put on a path of great opportunity and longer-term career growth with AECOM. Our experts strive to find solutions that reduce an asset’s carbon footprint, during construction and operation. We are currently undertaking detailed designs of photovoltaic systems up to 9MWp capacity and are educating clients on electric vehicle charging infrastructure to ensure they can make informed, and future-proofed investment decisions. Looking ahead, the team looks forward to implementing ScopeX™, a first-of-its-kind initiative to reduce carbon through design that considers embodied and operational carbon across the project lifecycle. ScopeX™ considers ma- terials, site locations, logistics and construction methods to reduce/eliminate project impact on the natural environment. With ScopeX™, we’re set to minimize energy use, optimize renewable power sources and, where feasible, enhance natu- ral habitats to eliminate carbon emissions. We have invested in our digital transformation to not only design exceptional buildings, but to help clients integrate smarter and sustainable solutions into their operations, ensuring we leave a sustainable legacy. AECOM 04 MEP Power 25
CONSTRUCTION BUSINESS NEWS ME | MARCH 2022 | 41 I n the past year, Voltas limited has been involved in multiple projects of various scales. Some of them are in various stages of execution while others have been com- pleted. The cumulative value of all these projects exceeds USD 800 Million. Some of the important projects the company is currently working on in the UAE are the DEWA HQ building, Dubai Waste to energy, Dubai Uptown Tower, Zayed Tunnel, and Zayed National Museum. In other GCC countries, the company is working on the Com- mercial Boulevard district in Qatar and has completed the Oman Across Ages Museum in Oman. Voltas has also begun executing Solar projects in the region. The company contin- ues to book and execute refurbishment projects. There has been an endeavour in the last 4 years to make the company’s processes almost paperless by going digital and increasing use of automation in the offices and on site. All project management from planning to execution is highly integrated. The focus in 2022 is to consolidate our current market position in the region. Another target of ours for the year will be to extend our presence in the northern emirates. We are positive about the KSA and Bahrain markets and are looking to book some jobs in the region. We are also hopeful of booking more retrofit jobs in the UAE market. AR SURESH KUMAR VICE PRESIDENT & HEAD IOBG | VOLTAS LIMITED R oupen Sulahian is responsible for overseeing strategy and growth for Khatib & Alami’s Energy Division, part of the company’s strong international team of more than 750 MEP engineers. With vast experience of delivering critical infrastructure projects, Mr Sulahian continues to oversee K&A’s activities across the regional energy sector, including the delivery of power distribution masterplans, and the design and supervision of all manner of projects including power plants, electricity networks, building complexes and industrial schemes. Mr Sulahian has also helped to spearhead K&A’s emergence among the key regional players in the development of smart city solutions which embed sustainability into the fabric of projects and their operations. This includes integrating big data analytics to optimize efficiencies for operators and users, enhancing energy efficiency and waste management, improving housing and health care, optimizing traffic flow and safety, detecting air quality, and improving water and sanitation systems. An exemplar smart city project from K&A is the mixed-use Smart Square development in Riyadh, which will help achieve energy savings of 24%, indoor water savings of 38%, and outdoor water savings of 44% from non-potable sources. ROUPEN SULAHIAN VICE PRESIDENT – ENERGY KHATIB & ALAMI 05 06 MEP Power 25
42 | CONSTRUCTION BUSINESS NEWS ME | MARCH 2022 WWW.CBNME.COM A laa is an MEP professional with twenty years’ experience in the leadership, design, and delivery of MEP services on a wide range of projects. After obtaining his bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Alaa began his engineering career in Saudi Arabia and Egypt where he gained experience on a wide range of prestigious projects including the major CityStars hospitality develop- ment in Sharm El Sheikh, Fairmont Heliopolis and Jolie Ville, Luxor. On joining the GAJ team in 2017 as an Partner and key senior member of the practice, Alaa’s main responsibilities included the management and delivery of all MEP post- contract services and the management of the MEP delivery team. He has led the team in the technical delivery of several highly complex and challenging projects in a range of end market sectors including hospitality and education. Alaa has built a team that relishes change and thrives in different working environments, a unit that is constantly developing and learning to continue to meet the changing requirements of clients. Key to the success of his team is their agility. As part of a multidisciplinary firm there is a clear collabo- ration and coordination between the MEP team and archi- tects. There is an end-to-end quality from design through to construction and completion, something the firm has been doing for some years but which Alaa is particularly focused on in a bid to safeguard the client’s interest. ALAA ABDELMOHSEN SAYED PARTNER | GAJ ALAA HAS BUILT A TEAM THAT RELISHES CHANGE AND THRIVES IN DIFFERENT WORKING ENVIRONMENTS, A UNIT THAT IS CONSTANTLY DEVELOPING AND LEARNING TO CONTINUE TO MEET THE CHANGING REQUIREMENTS OF CLIENTS. 07 MEP Power 25
CONSTRUCTION BUSINESS NEWS ME | MARCH 2022 | 43 B uro Happold is an international, integrated consul- tancy of engineers, consultants and advisers, with a presence in 31 locations worldwide, over 70 partners and 1,900 employees. For over 40 years Buro Happold have built a world- class reputation for delivering creative, value-led solu- tions for an ever challenging world. As a truly inter-connected community of experts, they value human wellbeing, curiosity, embrace mutual respon- sibility and genuinely care about the impact and legacy of their work. Sustainability has been at the forefront of Buro Happolds work with the firm producing a Sustainability Handbook to communicate the sustainability ambitions of the scheme to all stakeholders. The handbook outlines a sustainability strategy built around five guiding principles – climate change, living quality, mobility change, energy transition and resource efficiency. To create better places for people and planet, Buro Hap- pold design or re-design buildings that minimise the impact on natural resources, perform well with regards to their CO2 footprint, operational cost and their influence on peoples‘ comfort, wellbeing and productivity. Buro Happold work with our clients on projects ranging from sustainable new build offices with a reduced carbon footprint, high rise buildings with energy efficient MEP through to retro-fitting offices for leading tech firms, allow- ing them to attract the best talent. Projects that came to fruition in 2021 were the Grand Egyptian Museum, Giza, Egypt, ONE Limassol, Limassol, Cyprus, Lankuaikei Agriculture Development (LAD) Head- quarters Shanghai, China. BURO HAPPOLD M ohamad Ballout has over 34 years of electrical engineering experience in Canada, USA, and Gulf countries in the design and engineering of electrical power distribution systems, lighting, life safety, fire alarm systems, lightning protection, earthing, and full gamut of electrical engineering challenges. Mohammad started with the KEO Kuwait office in 2008, he related to KEO Qatar and in 2016 moved to KEO’s UAE operations. As a Head of Electrical Department, his duties are to design, mentor and manage the MEP Engineers and BIM technicians. Mohamad has been involved with some major projects including the design development of the Mall of Qatar and the Hamad International Airport in Qatar, the Expo Village in Dubai, and a selection of confidential luxury hotels and resorts at the Red Sea Development in Saudi Arabia. Experience areas Include: Industrial, commercial, Data Centers, Healthcare, Research & Development, Educational (K-12 & Universities), Governmental, Retails, Aviation, Hospitality, Resorts, Entertainment and High-Density Resi- dential. Mohamad holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Electrical Engineering from Oklahoma State University (USA) and a Master’s Degree in Electrical Engineering from Wayne State University (USA). He is a registered professional Engineer in the State of Michigan, USA, Abu Dhabi Municipality and is a member of UAE Society of Engineers. MOHAMAD BALLOUT PE, HEAD OF ELECTRICAL DEPARTMENT KEO INTERNATIONAL CONSULTANTS 08 09 MEP Power 25
44 | CONSTRUCTION BUSINESS NEWS ME | MARCH 2022 WWW.CBNME.COM P eyman Mohajer founded WME with an office in Dubai in 2011. The company celebrated its 10th anniversary in 2021. WME currently has over 550 staff based in the UAE, KSA, India, Singapore and London, and in the last 12 months, its MEP head- count increased by 25%. To facilitate growth plans, it invested in new offices in Mumbai, London and Singapore and significantly expanded its delivery team in Bangalore with a collective focus on digital design and BIM automation. Peyman said, “2021 saw the opening of the UAE, Austria, Luxembourg and Emirates Pavilions at EXPO on which WME’s MEP team worked successfully and an increase in LDC projects in the UAE and Saudi Arabia where highly experienced design managers are leading multi-disciplinary design teams to deliver world-class projects.” Nicholas Byczynski, MEP Director, said “We are currently engaged in MEP projects covering the full range of the built environment, and our licences in the UAE and Saudi Arabia also enable us to act as AOR (Architect of Record). All projects are delivered in BIM and an innovative internal research programme developed processes and workflows that accelerated the delivery process and minimised errors.” In 2022, WME will continue to work towards its goal of becoming a net zero business and providing ever- more sustainable design solutions to clients worldwide. NICHOLAS BYCZYNSKI MEP DIRECTOR | WME GLOBAL 10 MEP Power 25
CONSTRUCTION BUSINESS NEWS ME | MARCH 2022 | 45 H elmi has more than 40 years of experience running and operating property contracting businesses in various regions with a focus on engineering design & cost modelling. From high growth emerging markets where property construction has been on the rise for more than a decade and continues be strong in mature markets. Helmi’s ability to understand the market condi- tions, competition and client’s needs provides an invaluable insight into the creation and sustainability of any newly formed or growth bound Electromechanical contracting venture. A Mechanical Engineer by education and a member of the US, Jordan, and UAE society of engineers, Helmi has been instrumental in starting two contracting businesses & managing them to growth where both claim multi mil- lion dollars in projects annually to this day. Starting in the power generation and water desalination field in Kuwait and previously with Fawaz Refrigeration & Menasco Electro Mechanical contracting, Helmi’s keen interest in global providers of Civil, HVAC, Plumbing, Electrical and Firefight- ing suppliers, established relationships, cost modelling skills and experienced engineering designs provides organizations the knowhow needed to create differentiation and market penetration. As the founder of MENASCO & H2 Capital Holdings, Helmi’s vision to create and sustain businesses in various market sectors that strive to create a unique difference in our world have been reinforced via recruiting top talent and subject matter experts for the various market sectors, par- tially &/or wholly financing new and established companies globally. The MMC vision is a guiding beacon for success and profitability. HELMI BADAWIYEH MANAGING DIRECTOR | MENASCO S ince Michael joined Ramboll in December 2020, during the global coronavirus pandemic, Ramboll’s focus was ensuring their delivery commitments were met and understanding clients’ changing priorities and needs. In addition to staying close to their clients, Ramboll worked closely with the team to ensure they were supported and engaged during remote working through digital platforms. Sustainability is one of Ramboll’s core values and over the last 12 months, Ramboll has seen increased client demand for enhanced sustainability solutions in developments, well above the minimum requirement. This demand together with their sustainability experts, who employ the latest technology has enabled the company to drive down carbon emissions in the pursuit of net zero. Furthermore, Ramboll has a digital innovation programme which supports efforts across the organisation to stimulate a common culture of innovation and sharing of ideas. Through this platform, the aim is to build on identifying and providing a set-up to test and accelerate new ideas, address a real client challenge or need, test the riskiest assumption associated with the idea and show the size of the market for this idea is big enough to make it commercially successful for Ramboll. MICHAEL RIMMER HEAD OF MEP | RAMBOLL MIDDLE EAST RAMBOLL WORKED CLOSELY WITH THE TEAM TO ENSURE THEY WERE SUPPORTED AND ENGAGED DURING REMOTE WORKING THROUGH DIGITAL PLATFORMS. 11 12 MEP Power 25
46 | CONSTRUCTION BUSINESS NEWS ME | MARCH 2022 WWW.CBNME.COM Elemec Group of Companies opened its doors for the first time in 1993 with the establishment of Elemec Electrical Contracting L.L.C in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. Elemec Electri- cal Contracting Company is one of the leading electromechanical contrac- tors in the U.A.E with branch offices at Mumbai in India, Muscat in the Sultanate of Oman, Doha in the state of Qatar and Abu Dhabi & Sharjah in the U.A.E. Elemec has been an exem- plary of an established MEP company in the region with a widely acclaimed reputation for excellence, innovation and cost effective engineering. Elemecs A/C Systems Industry LLC serves as a Manufacturing Unit of air conditioning ducts and air outlets with associated accessories such as volume control dampers, air filters and sound attenuators. The manufacturing unit is equipped with a wide range of modern machinery and equipment including computerized plasma cutting machines with a pro- duction capacity of more than 15000 square feet of duct per day. The Group has an in-house Low Current Systems division to cater to growing importance /need in MEP industry. Further an in-house testing & commissioning maintenance team completes the profile of the company as a One Stop Shop Solution for MEP works. K.D. GOPALAKRISHNAN CHAIRMAN & MANAGING DIRECTOR | ELEMEC ELECTRICAL CONTRACTING L.L.C Executing prestigious MEP Projects in various parts of the World viz. United Arab Emirates, Oman, Iraq, Libya, Jordan, Mauritius, Yemen, Sri Lanka and India for over 50 years. The first project executed by IEMS in the Middle East was the Palace at Muscat of His Majesty Sultan Qa- boos Bin Said, Sultanate of Oman. IEMS executed many prestigious projects all over the world including over 45 Five Star Hotels, Hospi- tals, Commercial and Residential Complexes, Mixed Use Buildings, High Rise Towers, Shopping & Recreation Centres, Airports, Container Terminals, Royal Guest Houses, Luxurious Villas, Banks and Municipal Headquarters, Museums, Research Centres, Public Works, Mosques, Factories, Sewage and Water Treatment Plants and Pump- ing Stations. The strength of IEMS lies in its dedicated team of qualified and experienced engineers and technical personnel, familiar with latest tech- nology and managerial techniques, who are capable of interacting and coordinating with clients and consul- tants from the conception stage to the final handing over of the project. INTERNATIONAL ELECTROMECHANICAL SERVICES CO. L.L.C (IEMS) ETTS, established since 1995, is seen as one of the leading companies specialized in the field of Electro-Mechanical Con- tracting with a Special Category Classification. The company offers a full range of services related to all types of HVAC Systems (Heating, Ventilation & Air-Conditioning), Electrical Works, Low-Voltage Systems, Plumbing Works, Fire Fighting Works, Gas/LPG Works, MEP Modular Systems, Retrofit Solutions and many more. ETTS has operated servicing both large and small projects in Building Construction and Industrial Applications. Ever since its inception, ETTS (Headquartered in Abu Dha- bi) has significantly grown and established a reputation as a leading MEP contracting company within the UAE backed by a team of highly experienced and qualified professionals. ETTS has experienced substantial growth over the years and shows no sign of slowing down. KRIKOR MASREHJIAN CEO | ETTS Thrasos Thrasyvoulou is the Chief Executive Officer, Managing Director and Managing Partner of Specon LLC. Under Thrasos’ leadership, Specon LLC and his core team have success- fully delivered mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) projects worth in excess of USD2.5 billion for landmark projects such as hotels & residential buildings, office & commercial towers, large-scale infrastructure develop- ments/mega-projects including airports, hospitals, sports complexes, military establishments and ports. Among the areas of specialization were high voltage turnkey projects (design & build) involving sub-station works, overhead lines, underground cabling, power, and water distribution networks. Thrasos has a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Surrey in England, graduating with First Class honours. He later completed a Master of Science in Refrigeration and Air conditioning from the University of London with a Mark of Distinction. THRASOS THRASYVOULOU CEO AND MANAGING DIRECTOR | SPECON LLC MEP Power 25 14 15 16 13
A WALKATHON FOR A GOOD CAUSE WE CARE FOR WHAT’S RARE wewalk.ae Get your tickets now! All proceeds will go to the UAE Rare Disease Society SAT 19 MAR 7AM - 12PM DUBAI SCIENCE PARK AL BARSHA SOUTH 2 Join us at this fun event Presents 3rd year edition In association with Partners
48 | CONSTRUCTION BUSINESS NEWS ME | MARCH 2022 WWW.CBNME.COM A s CEO of AESG, Saeed founded and built AESG into one of the Middle East and Europe’s larg- est and most respected specialist consultancy, engineering and advisory firms with a core focus on sustainable urban development. Under Saeed’s direction, AESG has de- veloped a strong reputation for deliv- ering the highest quality consultancy in sustainability, energy management, fire and life safety, façade engineering, environmental consultancy, waste management, commissioning, govern- ment advisory, project development and building consultancy and acoustic consultancy services. In his role at AESG, Saeed has been involved in managing and directing some of the world’s most prestigious projects through design, construction, commissioning and operation. Proj- ects have included large prestigious master plan developments, high rise buildings, housing development and critical infrastructure. As well as his professional role as CEO of AESG, Saeed also served as Chairman of the Emirates Green Building Council between 2013-2020 and has been a Board Member of the World Green Building Council be- tween 2015 – 2021 providing leader- ship to the global sustainable building movement. Saeed has been influential in the advancement of sustainable buildings and cities globally and in the MENA region by working with industry, academia and government departments to develop collaborative solutions to some of the world’s great- est challenges. SAEED AL ABBAR CEO | AESG SAHUL HAMEED GENERAL MANAGER | BIN DASMAL B in Dasmal Contracting is an ISO-certified company with more than four decades of experience in providing comprehensive civil, MEP, and HVAC services, including installations, refurbishments, retrofits, and maintenance for MEP and HVAC systems. BDC offer the dual expertise of Design & Build MEP, Facilities Management and Energy Management services under one Establishment. All these services are provided by a team of experienced senior engineering personnel and technicians who offer round the clock service. As part of the Bin Dasmal Group, the firm has access to a range of offerings, with the manufacturing, trading, contracting, and service divisions providing a one-stop solution for all aspects of HVAC sector. The Bin Dasmal Group began as a general trading company and gradually diversified into contracting, man- ufacturing and trading of a broad range of quality air- conditioning and refrigeration materials and equipment, automatic doors, lifting equipment and safety products, as well as third-party inspection and testing services. The Group of Companies – which encompasses Bin Dasmal General Trading, Trosten Industries, KAD Air Conditioning, Delta Duct Air Conditioning, EH Price Gulf, Bin Dasmal Contracting, Dutest, Saudi Dutest, Bin Dasmal Doors, Ghaf Tree Awnings Manufacturing, WAKS Paper Bags Manufacturing, and Dasmal Trading – are all ISO 9001, ISO 14001, and ISO 45001 certified, with the aim to drive future growth through excellent local and international partnerships. The Bin Dasmal Group of companies has supplied to numerous top projects in the UAE during the past 12 months, including Route 2020 metro stations connecting the Jebel Ali metro station with the Expo 2020 site, The Address Jumeirah Gate at JBR in Dubai, the UAE Pavil- ion at Expo 2020 Dubai, the UK Pavilion at Expo 2020 Dubai, the Reem Mall project on Abu Dhabi’s Reem Island, the landmark One Za’abeel project in Dubai, the DEWA Headquarters project in Dubai, and the SeaWorld project in Abu Dhabi, to name a few. In addition, Bin Dasmal Contracting is currently han- dling the supply, installation, testing, and commissioning of HVAC and MEP systems for various projects in Dubai, Sharjah, and Fujairah. 18 MEP Power 25 17
CONSTRUCTION BUSINESS NEWS ME | MARCH 2022 | 49 A rcadis announced changes to its operating structure to better serve the needs of the market and its growing client base. The changes are in line with its 2021 - 2023 business strategy to provide focus, global scale and strengthen the sustainable and digital offering to clients. The changes sees the creation of three new business areas – Resilience, Places and Mobility. Each business area will consist of globally diverse organizations that work together to bring focus and the very best of Arcadis’ collective exper- tise from around the world. With sustainability at the heart of everything Arcadis do, the focus is on maximizing the impact aimed at improving quality of life. The solutions developed address important societal challenges around resilience, places, and mobility. Leveraging data and technology, Arcadis have the capabili- ties and services to meet client demands driven by global trends. ARCADIS H ossein began his career in 1987 at Ian Banham and Associates in Dubai as a resident partner, after earning a Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering and Environmental Engineering from Southern Illinois University in Carbondale, Illinois, US. In 1990, he moved to the Canada and joined Torontec, and since then he has been with the Toronto headquartered MEP consultants, building services and HVAC system designer firm. When Totontec began operating in Dubai in 1993, Hossein, moved to Dubai as the managing partner. Hossein’s career spans 34 years in the M&E industry. At Torontec, he leads the team to utilise the latest develop- ments and innovations in environmental engineering, including green and sustainable building, renewable energy integration, and energy water conservation. Since 1977, Hossein has been a member of ASHRAE (American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air- Conditioning Engineers), and a member of UAE Society of Engineers since 1987.) HOSSEIN MOLTAJI MANAGING DIRECTOR | TORONTEC B EMCO (Bahrain & Emirates Elec- trical & Mechanical Contracting), established in 1990 has come a long way providing efficient ser- vices related to electro-mechanical works. Today the company can be looked upon as one of the most promising & professionally managed contracting company surpassing the tight competition in the industry. The company’s philosophy can be defined in simple words; on-time completion and full satisfaction of the clients. Bemco UAE has identified projects concerning data centres, infrastructure works, and community developments as its primary area of opportunities. BEMCO 19 20 21 MEP Power 25
50 | CONSTRUCTION BUSINESS NEWS ME | MARCH 2022 WWW.CBNME.COM A fter more than a decade of engineering experi- ence in India as well as the UAE, Sagar Kulkarni founded Consistent Engineering Consultants in Dubai in 2007. Weathering the Great Recession of 2008, he led the company to success, and even established a regional office in Mumbai, India. Taking his inspiration from the sustainable dwell- ings and lifestyle of the Ancient World, Sagar is also a strong advocate of sustainable development and building practices. Taking up the responsibility of contributing towards the UN Sustainable Development Goals, Brand Consistent has become an emerging voice for sustainability. He is a prominent member of many regional and international organizations such as the Emirates Green Building Council (EGBC), the US Green Building Council (USGBC), the Indian Green Building Council (IGBC), ASHRAE, and ISHRAE. He has also been an influential speaker and expert panelist at various global events in the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Oman, Kuwait, and India. T he A&P Group of Companies has been operating since the early 70’s, when the foundations for the ambitious industrial and infrastructure development programme of the Arabian Gulf and the Middle East regions were laid. The Group has been at the forefront of the electrome- chanical construction sector of the region and has been pro- viding superior quality integrated electromechanical services to large and complex residential and commercial projects, airports, hospitals, hotels and tourist complexes, educational facilities, industrial projects, power stations, complex de- fence facilities and major infrastructure projects. The company provides world class project management skills and state-of-the-art technologies coupled with accumu- lated expertise and strong financial backing. This enables us to undertake and successfully complete the most challenging projects anywhere in the Middle East and North Africa regions. A specialised firm in the mechanical, electrical, and plumbing industry for both onshore and offshore proj- ects Reliance Contracting Company is well known by highly qualified consultants, customers, and contrac- tors all over the UAE as one of the best professionally managed companies. Its top priority is to provide the best quality and highest performance on all its projects. Reliance also proudly main- tains a policy of delivering work on time. The company was established in 1991 and has earned an excellent reputation and the respect of its customers through their achievements. SAGAR KULKARNI FOUNDER & MANAGING DIRECTOR | CONSISTENT ENGINEERING CONSULTANTS A&P GROUP OF COMPANIES RELIANCE CONTRACTING COMPANY 23 24 MEP Power 25 22
SERVICE DELIVERED WITH PASSION For queries please call 800 DEYAAR ( 339227 ) www.deyaarfm.com Our services are available across all seven Emirates Deyaar Facilities Management is a company built on excellence and for over 16 years, it has delivered services with unparalleled commitment and highest international standards. Across the Emirates, it has won the hearts of its customers and various stakeholders along with industry accolades.
52 | CONSTRUCTION BUSINESS NEWS ME | MARCH 2022 WWW.CBNME.COM W idely regarded as an international industry expert in the field of polyurethane insula- tion solutions, Martin is a strong supporter of the increased use of polyurethane-based applications in a range of industrial and everyday uses, in particular the building and infrastructure insulation sector, due to its superior energy sav- ing benefits, sustainability attributes, and durability. With over a decade of polyurethane and insulation industry experience both in Germany and internationally with Bayer AG and Bayer Materi- alScience - now known as Covestro – Martin also held the position of Chief Operating Officer at Edelmann, a global provider of high-quality and innovative board and paper packaging solutions with over 3,000 employees, before joining Pearl Polyurethane Sys- tems as CEO and relocating to Dubai. In late 2021, Pearl’s R&D team over- seen by Martin won the Innovative Insulation Project of the Year 2021 award for the first R&D initiative of its type launched in the Middle East. The objective was to achieve an overall improvement of up to 20 per cent in insulation performance for polyurethane-based metal sandwich insulation panels compared to current regional industry standards. Winning this award is an important part of Pearl’s mission to raise aware- ness of sustainability issues and the improved energy saving benefits of polyurethane-based insulation panels as part of a regional and global solu- tion to reduce energy for heating and cooling purposes. In doing so, Pearl is enabling the construction industry to play its part in the fight against global warming. This is especially important because buildings are responsible for over 40 percent of global energy consumption and more than one-third of greenhouse gas emissions. Energy lost through walls, roofs and windows is the largest single waste of energy in most buildings, a problem that Pearl’s solutions seek to mitigate. Over the past 25 years, the company has supplied polyurethane insulation foam systems for several iconic district cooling projects in the Gulf region, including Palm Jumeirah and Down- town Dubai. Ski Dubai in Mall of the Emirates was one of the company’s earlier building insulation projects in the Middle East involving metal sandwich panel insulation and has proven to be an effective case study for the superior thermal insulation properties and du- rability of polyurethane. This cladding product is lightweight and quick to fit, as well as offering excellent fire and smoke resistant properties. Opened in 2005 and still going strong, Ski Dubai demonstrates the versatility and du- rability of polyurethane as a building insulation solution in terms of metal sandwich panel use and Pearl is proud to have been chosen as the PU supplier for this and many other landmark construction projects. More recently, advanced metal sandwich panel insulation containing polyisocyanurate rigid foam cores sup- plied by Pearl have been widely used at the Dubai Expo 2020, a purpose-built exhibition precinct on a 438-hectare area, as large as 900 football pitches, with over 192 country pavilions and three main themed districts; sustain- ability, mobility; and opportunity. Last year, Pearl embarked on an ambitious five-year growth plan under Martin’s stewardship, entitled PearlX2, with the objective of dou- bling the company’s size through innovation, international expansion and product diversification. Currently, the company is launching a range of innovative Pearl-branded products to be available locally and exported to customers globally. This is in line with the organisation’s higher purpose of contributing to industry and the wider community by continuing to develop Dubai as an internationally recognised polyurethane innovation hub. Martin also recently spearheaded a successful diversity and gender equal- ity drive at the company in what has otherwise been a largely male domi- nated industry. MARTIN KRUCZINNA CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER PEARL POLYURETHANE SYSTEMS 25 MEP Power 25
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54 | CONSTRUCTION BUSINESS NEWS ME | MARCH 2022 WWW.CBNME.COM CBNME INTERIOR DESIGN MESMERISING CULTURAL DESERT EXPERIENCE Deep within the desert landscape lies Al Wathba, a Luxury Collection Desert Resort & Spa, Abu Dhabi - an intimate retreat suffused with natural beauty and serene tranquility. With a distinct Spa as the hallmark of the hotel experience, guests can rebalance their equilibrium and embark on an individual wellness journey. Inspired by classical dwellings, the boutique resort’s 103 guest rooms and villas feature timeless local details, traditional artwork, and Arabesque accessories, alongside a range of dining destinations showcasing the dunes to panoramic perfection. Step away from it all into an exclusive natural environment, with the space to reconnect and the freedom to lose yourself. Moustafa Sakr, Area General Manager of The St. Regis Hotels & Resorts, Abu Dhabi and The Luxury Collection Hotels & Resorts, Abu Dhabi, speaks to Kasun Illankoon on the unique offerings provided by the resort and how the architecture and designs reflect the Al Wathba region.
CONSTRUCTION BUSINESS NEWS ME | MARCH 2022 | 55 MESMERISING CULTURAL DESERT EXPERIENCE Inspiration for the architectural and design features of the resort The design of the resort is inspired by the look and feel of a traditional Arabian village. Structured to blend seamlessly into the surrounding rolling dunes, it honours the history of the region and the Bedouin tribes. An immensely private boutique resort, it offers an immersive journey through the essence of Middle Eastern luxury and the warm and welcoming nature of authentic Arabian hospitality. Artwork and ornaments created by local artists and starring the most beautiful patterns and shapes of Emirati culture, add a special and unique touch to every suite, villa, restaurant, and relaxing public area. Properties distinctive features Our stunning new state-of-the-art suites are certainly one of the highlights. Available with one or two bedrooms, the private and elegant spaces are ideal for couples, families, and friends alike. Adorned with elegant, hand carved wooden furnishings, classical artwork, Arabesque lamps, delicate mesh windows and designs influenced by the treasured traditions of the UAE, each enchanting suite is guaranteed to instil an instant sense of calm and comfort. Providing every relaxing amenity imaginable, guests can unwind in their own exclusive jacuzzi or plunge pool and spend quality time together out on their own private balcony or terrace. Sheltered from the rest of the world with a bespoke decorative bamboo border and filled with luscious greenery, vibrant local flowers, sunbeds, comfortable seating and spaces for al fresco dining, the private and secluded ambiance ensures that everyone feels totally at ease and can switch off from reality. Plush king-sized beds, stylish stone bathrooms including double sinks, vast bathtubs and magnificent walk- in showers complete the exceptional facilities. While the intimate and exclusive experience can be further enhanced with a revitalising massage, or a sumptuous meal, ordered directly to the suite. Meanwhile, the 13 private villas are ideal for those who are looking for an exceptionally spacious setting for their private desert getaway, plus a more expansive selection of deluxe facilities. Available with one or two bedrooms, the grand villas are just as beautiful inside as they are on the outside. Emphasising the sensational views and stunning setting, each comes with its own private outdoor area that faces straight out onto the shimmering golden waves of the desert. Centred around a picturesque temperature-controlled plunge pool and surrounded by comfortable sun beds, cosy seating, and blissful spots from which to lap up the desert sun or curl up with a book in the cooling shade, the villas transport each guest to their own paradise. Surrounded by the awe- inspiring power of the desert dunes and infused with serenity, sophistication, and local artwork each villa contains a grand dining room complete with a large wooden dining table, a plush living room finished with Arabesque accessories and a widescreen TV, luxurious bathrooms and lavish bedrooms fitted with king sized and double beds. >>>
56 | CONSTRUCTION BUSINESS NEWS ME | MARCH 2022 WWW.CBNME.COM For those travelling as a large party, the three-bedroom Royal Villa ensures that everyone has their own space to unwind. Spanning over an enormous 360sqm/3874 ft², it includes a separate maid’s room, three bedrooms with private balconies, an exclusive gazebo, and a dining room suitable for up to 10 people. Finally, the Royal Compound contains everything required for a treasured, happy, heartfelt, and flawless family vacation. Contained within its own private walled area and entered via a separate gate, the stately compound contains four decadent villas – the three- bedroom Royal Villa, the one-bedroom villa, two two-bedroom villas - and a traditional Majlis. Of course, the vast palm-fringed infinity pool is another stand out feature. Surrounded by the rolling golden dunes it’s a special oasis of calm that leaves every guest totally enthralled. Reflecting the spirit of Al Wathba Region The bedouin tribes roamed the Al Wathba region for centuries, and the featured décor and designs of the resort echo their traditions wonderfully. As mentioned above, the rooms and suites feature Arabesque ornaments, lamps and intricately carved wooden furnishings adorned traditional Middle Eastern Designs. The neutral colour scheme also reflects traditional Middle Eastern culture, and every element has been designed to create the feel of an authentic desert village, infused with the highest levels of luxury and welcoming charm. Meanwhile, the beautiful Saray Spa also provides another fascinating insight into UAE culture. Offering the highest levels of luxury and privacy, the welcoming centre of wellness is inspired by the idea of the traditional Middle Eastern Caravanserai, a place where travellers from all over the world gathered to rest, recover and rejuvenate. At Saray Spa, desert travelers are invited to pause for a while and renew their energy levels before embarking on the journey ahead. Set within a magnificent and calming space, this enrapturing oasis of serenity contains a wonderful collection of pampering facilities including a sauna, steam room, whirlpool, salt room, ice bucket, hot and cold plunge pools and a snow cave. > The boutique resort has the one and only snow cave room at the Saray Spa in Abu Dhabi - what makes this snow cave room unique or special compared to others in UAE? Our snow cave is exceptionally special as it features real snow. Spending time immersed in real snow is proven to help boost metabolism and improve overall body circulation. Fitted with relaxing lighting and designed to help guests switch off and unwind, the snow cave is an unmissable feature that should be combined with every visit to our spa. > The location of the resort is unique as well - set in the lovely in an intimate retreat suffused with natural beauty and serene tranquillity and away from the metropolitan city - why does this setting make the resort a unique to Abu Dhabi? Most of Abu Dhabi’s many luxury resorts offer a beach or city break, but our setting is totally unique. Set out in CBNME INTERIOR DESIGN 56 | CONSTRUCTION BUSINESS NEWS ME | MARCH 2022
CONSTRUCTION BUSINESS NEWS ME | MARCH 2022 | 57 the endless expanse of the mesmerising desert, guests are free to relax in total privacy and peace and experience the ‘real’ essence of the UAE and explore its history. Whilst it makes guests feel like they have travelled a world away from the busy buzz of Downtown Abu Dhabi, Al Wathba Desert, a Luxury Collection Desert Resort & Spa is just less than an hour’s drive from the centre of the UAE capital. It combines intimacy, tranquillity, natural beauty, and a hint of adventure, all infused with elegant luxury and locally inspired details. Ideally positioned for an unforgettable stay, guests are only a short drive away from Al Wathba Wetland Reserve, an area of natural beauty that welcomes flocks of colourful flamingos throughout the year, and the elusive Al Wathba Salt Lake and majestic Al Wathba Fossil Dunes. Or, for guests looking to emerge themselves a bit further in local culture, the fascinating Sheikh Zayed Heritage Village is also within easy reach. Plus, honouring the region’s strong links to the world of horse riding, the resort is proud to own its own collection of wild Arabian horses. Free to roam in the hotel’s enclosed paddock, guests are invited to admire the beauty of these animals whilst enjoying a sumptuous meal in the Terra Secca restaurant. Cultural tourism in Abu Dhabi Whilst Dubai has countless amazing events, beaches, hotels and malls, tourists and residents can experience more culture in Abu Dhabi. Located within its own beautiful expanse of Arabian landscape, Al Wathba Desert Resort and Spa encourages hotel guests and outside visitors to learn about the heritage of the land by taking part in a curated choice of sports and pastimes. Providing the perfect opportunity to learn about the history of the local area and experience what it was like to roam with the indigenous Bedouin tribes, the boutique activities range from camel and horse riding through the dunes to tension-relieving massages infused with ingredients sourced from the Dead Sea. Or, if guests are craving something a bit more fast paced, adrenaline seekers can taste the exhilarating thrill of careering over the golden banks in a dune buggy or speeding down the slopes on a bike under the care of the resort’s knowledgeable guides. The archery classes encourage participants to switch off from their day-to-day concerns and work on their aim, and the FlowRider allows guests to have a go at learning to surf in the middle of the desert. Finally, the desert bonfire offers the opportunity to head out into the wilderness after sunset for a campfire under the stars accompanied by authentic Emirati refreshments and plenty of enrapturing local stories. Future vision of the resort As mentioned above, we very recently launched our brand-new suites, and we want to keep on building our customer experience over the coming years. We also opened our magical Al Mabeet desert camp for New Year’s Eve to great success, and we hope to host more events in the spacious venue in the future. Overall, we want to help as many guests as possible experience the essence of the Luxury Collection and all that it represents. We created Al Wathba Desert Resort & Spa as a place where global explorers can relax and experience the beauty of a unique boutique resort, while at the same time also learning about the local culture of the UAE through different dining experiences and activities. All of our hosts see themselves as guides who take guests on transformational journeys, showcase the UAE’s rich culture and encourage guests to connect to the region in a meaningful way. By providing a peaceful sanctuary and a total sense of privacy, we continue to help all of our guests discover new places and gather more unforgettable experiences. MESMERISING CULTURAL DESERT EXPERIENCE “LOCATED WITHIN ITS OWN BEAUTIFUL EXPANSE OF ARABIAN LANDSCAPE, AL WATHBA DESERT RESORT AND SPA ENCOURAGES HOTEL GUESTS AND OUTSIDE VISITORS TO LEARN ABOUT THE HERITAGE OF THE LAND BY TAKING PART IN A CURATED CHOICE OF SPORTS AND PASTIMES.”
58 | CONSTRUCTION BUSINESS NEWS ME | MARCH 2022 WWW.CBNME.COM CBNME INTERVIEW Tell us about the company’s goals and expectations for 2022 2022 is the beginning of an incredibly exciting chapter for UNIMAC. Over the past 43 years, UNIMAC has steadily built its capabilities and capacity to get us to where we are at this moment. Last year, we reached the pinnacle of infrastructure and asphalting projects – an FIA approved “grade 1” circuit capable of hosting the most exciting Formula 1 race on the calendar. Due to the difficulty and complexity of building a grade 1 circuit, there are only a few contractors in history who have succeeded in such a task. However, to do so in EIGHT months has never been done before and was considered near impossible. UNIMAC stood up to the challenge with confidence and steadfastness, and on December 3, 2021, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia had its very first Formula 1 race viewed by hundreds of millions of spectators worldwide. After accomplishing this, we look forward to showcasing new achievements in 2022 and beyond. Tell us about the latest projects that UNIMAC have delivered and are there any other upcoming projects in the pipeline? Our prize project was the Jeddah Cornice Circuit, executed under HONEST AND UPFRONT KASUN ILLANKOON SPOKE TO FADI HATOUM, CEO AT UNIMAC COMPANY THAT SPECIALIZES IN HEAVY CIVIL CONTRACTING COMPANY THAT FOCUSES ON THE DESIGN, CONSTRUCTION, AND MAINTENANCE OF INFRASTRUCTURE, ABOUT UNIMAC’S LATEST PROJECT, THEIR EXPECTATIONS FOR 2022, AND WHAT SETS THEM APART
CONSTRUCTION BUSINESS NEWS ME | MARCH 2022 | 59 HONEST AND UPFRONT | FADI HATOUM, CEO AT UNIMAC our Special Projects Division. We are proud to be the Official Circuit Construction Partner of the Jeddah Corniche Circuit, as well as an FIA-recognized Contractor. Resultantly, we now can build F1 circuits anywhere in the world. Considering motorsports is presently one of the fastest growing sports in the world, with dozens of tracks in the pipeline to be constructed over the next few years, UNIMAC is well positioned to take on a number of these projects that require our expertise and know-how. It has been the greatest of honor, as a local contractor in Saudi Arabia, to get this level of global recognition. We completed the entire 6.175km of the track in 8 months. To put that in perspective, this entailed 478,000m2 of demolition, 200,000m3 of excavation, 177,500 linear meters of LV/MV electrical cables, 212,000m2 of the most advanced asphalting in the world, and much more. There are several exciting projects for us in the pipeline, some of which will be tendered over the next few months. We are anxiously anticipating the tender for several new motorsports tracks to be constructed within the Kingdom, which includes the newest permanent F1 track at Qiddiya. Other projects include complete infrastructure works for some of the Kingdom’s GIGA developments, airports, and mega shopping centers. How has UNIMAC differentiated itself from other contractors and to become one of the leading contractors in KSA? UNIMAC is one of the few vertically integrated Class 1 contractors in the Kingdom. We produce our own construction materials, together with asphalt mix designs, and conduct all quality assurance procedures in our company laboratories. We also operate and maintain our own transportation fleet, machinery, and a staff of experienced and motivated specialists. UNIMAC is honest and upfront about what kind of company it is. We specialize and focus on infrastructure and motorsports projects. While the term “general contractor” is commonly used in the sector, UNIMAC selects projects that fall within its execution capabilities, and in doing so ensures the highest quality work. How do you view the role of technology and innovation in the construction industry? What technological or innovative implementations have UNIMAC done in projects? Technology and innovation are critical factors in the successful delivery of our projects, but not necessarily in the form that people may typically think of. Our investments lie in our engineering solutions and equipment to give our clients the very best finished products in the shortest execution time frame. One such example is our use of the latest Geogrid technologies during physical stabilization of soils. Instead of replacing enormous amounts of unstable soil, which could take months of work, UNIMAC deploys tailored Geogrid technologies to stabilize the earth in a fraction of the time. Not surprisingly, this application of new technology is also significantly more economical than conventional methods. Another winning application is the use of the most advanced multiplex systems in our asphalt pavers. This allows for the delivery of the smoothest surface finishes by global standards. Additionally, we have introduced new slot drains technologies in our projects to offer a near invisible drainage system capable of handling significant rainfall. Can you give us your view in the construction industry in KSA and what are the positive signs you see in 2022 and beyond? After having gone through a few years of reduced growth followed by a pandemic, Saudi Arabia’s economy is now going through a substantial growth phase. Much of this growth is a direct result of the significant resources the Saudi Arabian government is investing in the Kingdom’s infrastructure. With $1.1 trillion dedicated to this
60 | CONSTRUCTION BUSINESS NEWS ME | MARCH 2022 WWW.CBNME.COM effort, only about $240 billion has been allocated, leaving $860 billion worth of work upcoming in the pipeline. Saudi Arabia is presently experiencing an influx of international companies as most want to partake in the investment strategies, projects and goals set for the Kingdom. The projects are complex and massive, and contractors are gearing up for the works that have been set in motion. The most critical element looking forward is to ensure that these works are successfully implemented through proper and efficient management of supply chains. This will particularly be a challenge soon due to cost-push inflation, scarcity of materials, and procuring long lead items. Can you tell us more about the landmark Saudi Arabian Grand Prix project? The track is the second longest yet the fastest street circuit on the F1 calendar. The construction was so extensive that it is on par with a permanent track construction, despite it being planned as a temporary circuit of a three-to-five- year lifespan. The real victory for us is the high grip of the track surface which the drivers very much enjoyed. All components of the track’s asphalt and layers were locally sourced, including aggregates, bitumen, and additives except for the safety barriers and slot drains. Achieving these mix designs, and executing with tolerances in the millimeters, requires true expertise, superior equipment, knowledge of aggregates, and an understanding of the local climate and environment. Ultimately, the success of any racetrack is about the experience of the drivers and spectators. As we know, the Formula 1 race in Jeddah was a phenomenal success in that retrospect. The drivers spoke very positively about the track and the tarmac - even Sir Lewis Hamilton mentioned the noticeably high grip that was resultant of our mix design. And regarding the spectators, it was confirmed by Sky TV that the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix was watched by more viewers than any other F1 race broadcasted since it took over broadcasting rights 10 years ago. If that doesn’t translate to an absolute success of a project, I don’t know what does! We couldn’t be prouder to be Official Circuit Construction Partners, and to have been able to deliver such a track to the world. For the time being, we are very excited and looking forward to the upcoming races in March. We are certain that millions of anxious F1 fans are feeling the same! CBNME INTERVIEW “THE MOST CRITICAL ELEMENT LOOKING FORWARD IS TO ENSURE THAT THESE WORKS ARE SUCCESSFULLY IMPLEMENTED THROUGH PROPER AND EFFICIENT MANAGEMENT OF SUPPLY CHAINS.”
62 | CONSTRUCTION BUSINESS NEWS ME | MARCH 2022 WWW.CBNME.COM CBNME AIR PURIFIER HOW BLUEAIR’S DUSTMAGNET™ CAN ENSURE LESS DUST AND MORE CLEAN INDOOR AIR AT HOME L iving in the Middle East, the risk of dust within the home is a cause for concern for both the health of our families as well as its cleanliness. A study by the Environmental and Geophysical Sciences (Engeos) Laboratory at Khalifa University in Abu Dhabi and the Environment Agency Abu Dhabi founded that the UAE had an overall increase of up to 30 percent higher of tiny particles found in the air across Eastern Arabia since 2019, conclusive to the unusual escalation of sandstorms from Shamal winds. Although these dust particles may seem only a concern for those outside, the air knows no bounds and is therefore unconstrained to entering the home. Indoor spaces have been shown to contain particles, odors, VOCs and gases from household chemicals as well as other sources within the air at home. Many of them are a gateway to potential allergens and other health issues for both young and old. From gases such as nitrogen dioxide that is emitted when we cook on gas hobs, to pollutants from burning candles and toxins from household cleaning products, and of course dust allergens, by ALEXANDER PROVINS, DIRECTOR EMEA, BLUEAIR BLUEAIR’S DUSTMAGNET
CONSTRUCTION BUSINESS NEWS ME | MARCH 2022 | 63 BLUEAIR’S DUSTMAGNET indoor air quality faces constant deterioration, and effective measures are needed to address them. Air purifiers are increasingly being seen as an important tool to help protect our health. Wanting to take this a step further, Blueair has now developed cutting edge technologies designed to capture airborne dust before it settles onto surfaces and floors. Here, Alexander Provins, Director EMEA, Blueair shares four benefits of how an air purifier, and more specifically the new Blueair DustMagnet™, can ensure dust free and clean indoor air. 1. Designed for a life with less cleaning Dust can quickly accumulate on surfaces, regardless of how often you clean. Blueair’s DustMagnet™ technology is uniquely designed to attract airborne dust particles like a magnet before they settle on floors and surfaces in a slick Scandinavian design that blends into the home like any other furniture. Thanks to a powerful airflow in combination with two positively charged pre-filters, airborne dust is captured and removed, resulting in less time spent dusting and vacuuming. With smart connected features and geofencing technology, the DustMagnet™ also ensures a clean home wherever you are. Available in two sizes, the DustMagnet™ 5240i is independently verified to clean rooms between 20m² and 48m² in size while the DustMagnet™ 5440i is designed for rooms between 33m² and 79m² in size . Blueair always recommends using an air purifier based on AHAMs standard of 4.8 air changes every hour to ensure continuously clean air in your room. With its smart sensor, it will also monitor real-time air quality conditions and auto-adjust to optimise its cleaning performance. 2. Removes other household contaminants Indoor air is estimated to be up to five times more polluted than outdoor air, according to EPA. The air we breathe consists of, for example, bacteria, viruses, pollutants, pet dander, different types of dust particles and even microplastics, which can find their way into our lungs and lead to allergies, asthma and other health conditions. In addition to dust, the DustMagnet™ effectively inactivates bacteria and viruses and removes 99.97% of airborne particles down to 0,1 micron in size, like allergens, pollen, mould, pet dander and microplastics, from the air, thanks to Blueair’s HEPASilent™ technology. The activated carbon in the DustMagnet™ filter also removes unpleasant household odours and smoke. Thanks to a combination of electrostatic and mechanical filtration, Blueair’s unique HEPASilent™ filtration technology can use less dense filters than traditional air purifiers. 3. Removes toxic plastic microfibers that are harmful to children When plastic fibers, which occur in many raw materials in our homes, are tiny enough to enter the lungs, they’re unlikely to degrade. This is linked to a number of health issues for both children and adults. It is even more crucial for children as their organs are still developing, making them more vulnerable to diseases. An air purifier can be an effective measure to help filter out these harmful air chemicals, gases, and pollutants. And when it comes to a child’s environment, clean indoor air can improve learning conditions which can result in a better performance at school, enhanced abilities to concentrate and problem solving, as well as allowing for a good night’s sleep. 4. Better sleep Research suggests that air quality can significantly impact the quality of our sleep; microscopic dust, pollen, bacteria and chemical particles in your room may be the case. In addition to taking measures such as exercising more regularly, decreasing caffeine intake and keeping a regular sleeping- hygiene routine, improving the quality of air in your bedroom can go a long way towards helping achieve better sleep. With the Blueair’s unique HEPASilent™ filtration technology, DustMagnet™ can produce more clean air at less air pressure, meaning whisper silent operation and less energy use than a light bulb. Moreover, with the DustMagnet™”Night Mode”, the air will be cleaned at low fan speed with dimmed LED lights so you can enjoy a great night’s sleep. DustMagnet™ is available to buy from key retailers in the UAE, including Nia Home, Sharaf CG, Carrefour and Lulu Hypermarket, read more at www.blueair.com
64 | CONSTRUCTION BUSINESS NEWS ME | MARCH 2022 WWW.CBNME.COM CBNME ENERGY What are the highlights of the Middle East Energy this year, and what are the main trends? The show theme for 2022 is guiding you through the energy transition. Therefore, our focus is on providing energy leaders and professionals with a platform to meet live and in-person and enabling them to shape the future of the energy landscape by providing opportunities to recon- nect, discover the latest products, and showcase innovative solutions to deliver cleaner energy and sustainable power. In addition to welcoming an anticipated 18,000 visitors, 500 hosted buyers, 500 exhibitors, Middle East Energy will also feature three conferences, including the Global Energy & Utilities Forum, the Intersolar Middle East Conference and Technical sessions, each one delivering a program covering topics including solar, decarbonisation, investment, digitalisa- tion and technology. In addition to the conference sessions, the exhibition is also split into five dedi- cated product sectors, including Smart Solutions, Renewable & Clean Energy, Backup Generators & Critical Power, Transmission & Distribution, and Energy Consumption & Management. You recently released research highlighting the importance of investment in grids to accommodate renewable energy capacity, can you tell us more about this? The research, Clean Energy – Going Be- yond the Grid, a whitepaper prepared by Frost & Sullivan, highlighted the GCC could require nearly US$50 billion of grid-related investments to support pro- posed capacity additions from renewa- bles. At the very centre of harnessing renew- able energy and making it available for consumers is effective transmission and distribution networks, which is why the sector plays a prominent role at the Mid- dle East Energy exhibition and during dedicated conference sessions. With the value of the transmission and distribution equipment industry continu- ing to grow exponentially, a range of market leaders have already confirmed their attendance at Middle East Energy and will be showcasing the latest tech- nologies and innovations supporting the delivery of renewable energy to end-users and, ultimately, delivering on the regions net-zero commitments. Exhibitors, including DUBCAB, Lucy Electric, Rittal, Emirates Transformers, Eaton, Riyadh Cables, Tesar, and Bahra, will provide insights into the latest break- through technologies, upgraded services, and solutions driving higher efficiency and flexibility within the sector. Investment in green hydrogen has been steadily growing in recent years; why? Notwithstanding the fact green hydrogen could meet up to 25% of the world’s en- ergy requirement in less than 30 years and has a market value of over US$10 tril- lion, it is also one of the preferred routes to achieving net-zero carbon emissions. Therefore, governments and companies worldwide are investing heavily in green hydrogen technology to support their en- ergy transition away from coal and oil. ENERGY TRANSITION In conversation with Azzan Mohammed, Exhibition Director, Global Energy & Utilities Forum and Middle East Energy “THE RESEARCH, CLEAN ENERGY – GOING BEYOND THE GRID, A WHITEPAPER PREPARED BY FROST & SULLIVAN, HIGHLIGHTED THE GCC COULD REQUIRE NEARLY US$50 BILLION OF GRID-RELATED INVESTMENTS TO SUPPORT PROPOSED CAPACITY ADDITIONS FROM RENEWABLES.”
CONSTRUCTION BUSINESS NEWS ME | MARCH 2022 | 65 ENERGY TRANSITION | AZZAN MOHAMMED As part of the Middle East Energy ex- hibition, we will take a deep dive into hydrogen with several panel discussions scheduled to address topics such as the Middle East’s potential to emerge as a global hub for green hydrogen and am- monia, how projects will be financed and the price of producing green hydrogen, the importance of implementing hydro- gen strategies to support future green hydrogen projects, and the opportunities surrounding blue hydrogen. As a global hub for the energy industry, what will international participation look like this year? Regarding visitor attendance, the top represented international countries are Nigeria, Egypt and Saudi Arabia, with uptake from the latter witnessing a 40% increase in the number of visitors regis- tered for the exhibition. Interestingly, the number of delegates from Saudi is up 40% compared to 2020. In terms of visitor interest from the Saudi market, Transmission & Distribu- tion tops the agenda, followed closely by Renewable & Clean Energy, particularly Solar, Wind and Hydrogen, and Energy Consumption & Management. Overall, renewable & clean energy is the most popular product sector with vis- itors, with solar energy featuring highly. This is also evident with UAE visitors, with 70% stating they are specifically at- tending to learn more about solar, train- ing, batteries, and wind. Internationally, exhibitors from coun- tries including France, Germany, Italy, Saudi Arabia, China, the United King- dom, and the US will be participating, and a total of 13 international pavilions confirmed. We’ll also have representation from Algeria, Morocco, Kenya, Lebanon, Iraq, and Jordan from the MENA region. How will exhibitors benefit from participating in the event following the pandemic challenges? Middle East Energy provides an essential platform for regional and international exhibitors to build relationships with key stakeholders worldwide. In addition to being able to meet, debate and discuss with colleagues from the industry live, and in person, we also provide exhibi- tors with valuable industry insights and a platform for doing business with new contacts while reaffirming existing part- nerships. Azzan Mohammed, Exhibition Director, Global Energy & Utilities Forum and Middle East Energy.
66 | CONSTRUCTION BUSINESS NEWS ME | MARCH 2022 WWW.CBNME.COM KOHLER Statement and Anthem Showering Collection elevate the shower’s design and experience This collection includes four styles of hand showers, four unique rainheads, and two body sprays, all available in a range of sizes, shapes, finishes to best suit the décor and design environment yielding a natural interplay with other accessories and design elements. Defined by voluminous proportions and soft, organic designs the Statement showering collection brings form and finish to the forefront without overwhelming the space. Inspired by iconic furniture and home goods, the collection carries an underlying familiarity while creating striking aesthetics within the space. Statement Showering collection: The Evolution of Showering Inspired by iconic design forms, showering modules in this new collection offers an array of sensory stimuli. When bathrooms blend with living spaces. Kohler believes every shower is a canvas, and the Statement and Anthem showering collection is the ultimate palette. The Statement Showering Collection brings a range of unique shapes and an array of sizes to the shower, breathing new life into our showering experience. The new Anthem shower controls will transform the daily routine of showering into a customized corporeal event with the power to instill a sense of wellbeing and transform the day. ADVETORIAL
CONSTRUCTION BUSINESS NEWS ME | MARCH 2022 | 67 Within the thoughtfully crafted forms are signature spray experiences to create wholly immersive environments. An oblong showerhead results in enveloping water coverage for the whole body, and seven immersive spray experiences include options such as a Deep Massage spray composed of twisting jets that knead sore muscles or a Cloud spray that swathes the body in a warm mist. Create a World of Wellbeing: with indulgent sprays and inspired forms Anthem Shower Controls: The Beauty of Simplicity The sleek shower controls from KOHLER provide myriad combinations of temperature and spray control for hand showers, body sprays, rain heads, and showerheads, allowing unrestrained creativity and endless possibilities. The Anthem collection enables complete command over temperature, volume, spray experiences, and more in both digital and mechanical options by acting as the control center for six shower outlets. The buttons for each outlet pop open when pushed, converting into dials that allow users to set and adjust flow volume. Engineered for personalization: Founded in 1873, Kohler Co. is one of America’s oldest and largest privately held companies. With more than 50 manufacturing locations worldwide, Kohler is a global leader in the manufacture of kitchen and bath products; and owner/operator of two of the world’s finest five-star hospitality and golf resort destinations in Kohler, Wisconsin, and St. Andrews, Scotland. Kohler focuses on making everyday moments better through thoughtful design and intelligent technology, with homes becoming more connected. About Kohler Co. Explore more at: https://www.kohlerglobalshowers.com
68 | CONSTRUCTION BUSINESS NEWS ME | MARCH 2022 WWW.CBNME.COM CBNME MACHINERY D oosan Bobcat unveiled its new, all-electric Bobcat T7X compact track loader at CES® 2022, the world’s most influential technology event, held this month in Las Vegas in the USA. The T7X is the first machine of its kind to be fully electric, offering the full benefits of eliminating hydraulic systems, components, emissions and vibrations – all while providing a cleaner, quieter machine. The Bobcat T7X was honoured with two 2022 CES Innovation Awards in the categories of Vehicle Intelligence & Transportation and Smart Cities. The CES Innovation Awards programme recognizes recipients in a multitude of technology product categories and distinguishes the highest rated in each. The Bobcat T7X was developed for the North American market initially, but internal testing and the gathering of customer feedback is planned for the Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA) region to identify its commercial potential. Scott Park, President and CEO of Doosan Bobcat, said: “Doosan Bobcat is at the forefront of innovation, and we are proud to debut the all-electric technology of the T7X to help customers maximize both sustainability and productivity. Our focus remains on providing solutions and products that empower people to accomplish more and build a better world.” ELECTRIC COMPACT BOBCAT T7X – WORLD’S FIRST ALL-ELECTRIC COMPACT TRACK LOADER
NEW IVECO S-WAY: HIGH TECHNOLOGY AND EFFICIENCY FOR ON-ROAD MISSIONS The new IVECO S-WAY, with a completely redesigned and reinforced cab, offers a wide choice of Euro III/V diesel engines, a delivering class-leading power from 360 HP to 560 HP Euro III / 570 HP Euro V and superior fuel-saving devices, such as anti-idling feature, Ecoswitch, Ecoroll and Smart Alternator. 12-speed HI-TRONIX automated transmission with the most advanced technology in its category, electronic clutch and best-in-class torque-to-weight ratio. NEW IVECO T-WAY: HIGH PRODUCTIVITY AND SAFETY ON OFF-ROAD TERRAINS With a complete line-up of AWD and PWD versions and the the 16-speed HI-TRONIX automated gearbox, the IVECO T-WAY features a host of functionalities such as Rocking Mode, Off-road Mode, Creeping Mode and 4 reverse gears to tackle with ease the toughest off-road conditions. The new architecture of the EBS system, combined with disc brakes on all wheels, greatly improves the vehicle’s performance and the driver’s safety in the most demanding applications. DRIVE THE NEW WAY
Living on the Leading Edge of Design KOHLER For more details, please visit kohlercompany.com.