Construction Business News ME- August 2021

THE DEFINITIVE GUIDE TO THE REGION'S CONSTRUCTION PROFESSIONALS

AUGUST 2021 | CBNME.COM

FM GIANTS TECH INNOVATORS DISCUSS HOW THE IMPLEMENTATION OF TECHNOLOGY AND INNOVATION HAS IMPACTED THE FACILITIES MANAGEMENT INDUSTRY IN A POSITIVE WAY

IN THIS ISSUE

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50 Giants 24 FM Tech

Innovators CBNME sits down with the biggest FM Giants in the region to discuss how their implementation of technology has impacted the industry in a positive way.

10 CONCRETE

22 INTERVIEW

THE ROAD TO SUSTAINABILITY PASSES THROUGH CONCRETE MATTHEW SMITH, Associate Head of School, School of Energy, Geoscience, Infrastructure and Society at Heriot-Watt University Dubai, shares his thoughts and insights on improving sustainability in the concrete industry

SAFETY FIRST SAM ALCOCK, Dubai Director, Tenable Fire Engineering Consultancy, addresses the importance of hiring fire engineering professionals early in the concept phase, working closely with fit-out suppliers and designers, and the company’s expansion plans

12 HEALTH & SAFETY

42 FIT OUT

WHY METALLIC FITTINGS ARE THE WAY FORWARD RICHARD FRANKS, Gulf Business Unit Director at Conex Banninger, tells us about a safer alternative for the Building Services Industry

PROPORTION, SCALE & HARMONY In conversation with Ross Trivet, general manager and Fergal Reilly, project manager at Khansaheb Interiors, as they discussed the VOX Cinemas project at length

14 PROJECT

54 OP-ED

LUXURY SKYSCRAPER DEYAAR launches luxury AED 1bn skyscraper ‘Regalia’ in Business Bay

LEADERSHIP & INNOVATION ALASTAIR MULLIGAN joined Tabreed, the largest district cooling service provider in the GCC, 12 years ago. Today he’s the managing director of Tabreed Energy Services and he talks with Construction Business News ME about leadership and innovation – two of the most important foundations of any successful company.

16 INDUSTRIAL CONSTRUCTION DUBAI PLANS TO BUILD REGION’S LARGEST CARPET FACTORY State-of-the-art facility covers a total land area of 3 million sq. ft, total built-up area of 1.6 million sq. ft.

CONSTRUCTION BUSINESS NEWS ME | AUGUST 2021 | 3

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EDITOR’S NOTE

OMAN’S REAL ESTATE MARKET NEEDS TO SWIFTLY ADAPT TO CHANGING MARKET CONDITIONS 12 months after the pandemic, The Sultanate has significantly accelerated its Covid-19 vaccination programme in June with the intention of over 70% of the population being vaccinated by the end of the year. This is likely to be of significant benefit in re-opening the travel and tourism sector while allowing current restrictions on the retail sector to be significantly eased.

S

avills, the leading global real estate advisors, released its latest report analyzing the current state of the Oman’s real estate market. Ihsan Kharouf, Head of Savills Oman highlighted that the Sultanate is in a significantly improved position in comparison to this time last year, but headwinds remain for the real estate sector. According to Kharouf, landlords will need to be flexible, pro-active and move quickly to changing market conditions to attract and retain tenants.

Opportunities for successful development will need to be well considered and clearly focused on evident market gaps, opportunities, and needs.

Office market trends The pandemic and subsequent lockdown measures have negatively impacted the office market in Muscat. Office leasing activity was limited before the pandemic and the onset of travel restrictions and lockdown measures led to muted demand levels Almost all new office leases were observed from companies with an existing presence in Oman. Demand remains primarily focused on smaller, fully finished spaces.

In contrast to the demand dynamics, recent years have seen the introduction of a significant supply of new office space which has exceeded the limited demand for office space in the city. There is currently circa 100,000 sqm of office space under construction, while requirements more than 2,000 sqm are extremely rare.

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CONCRETE

THE ROAD TO SUSTAINABILITY PASSES THROUGH CONCRETE

Matthew Smith, Associate Head of School, School of Energy, Geoscience, Infrastructure and Society at HeriotWatt University Dubai, shares his thoughts and insights on improving sustainability in the concrete industry 10 | CONSTRUCTION BUSINESS NEWS ME | AUGUST 2021

T

he global population boom has resulted in rapid urbanisation in the last century. And urbanisation means a massive uptick in construction, which creates the rampant need for concrete, one of the most widely used materials in the Built Environment. In fact, according to ResearchGate, 10 billion tons of concrete is produced worldwide annually.

Furthermore, it is noted that after water, concrete is the most widely used substance on Earth.

All these statistics point towards one conclusion, as the world grows, so does our dependency on concrete. To the extent that production and usage of concrete is responsible for 8 per cent of carbon dioxide emitted in the atmosphere, a huge amount compared to 2.5 per cent of the aviation industry.

Concrete’s contribution of carbon dioxide is comparable to the entire agriculture industry, which is responsible for 9 percent of carbon emissions.

The concrete industry needs an overhaul, potentially through the coming together of the industry and governments, focusing on innovation, and enhancing product standards. As a growing industry, it is imperative for it to become sustainable and positively impact the environment.

The biggest challenge for the concrete industry is to serve the two key needs of the society - sustainability and the increasing need for building infrastructures. In this backdrop, Matthew Smith, Associate Head of School, School of Energy, Geoscience, Infrastructure and Society at Heriot-Watt University Dubai, shares his thoughts and insights on improving sustainability in the concrete industry.

LIFE-CYCLE ASSESSMENT OF CONCRETE The analysis of the overall environmental impacts of concrete manufacturing and its application in building projects requires a holistic approach that is known as life-cycle assessment (LCA).

Additionally, it is important to assess the life cycle of concrete structures to better understand its environmental impact. Cement, aggregate, and water WWW.CBNME.COM

THE ROAD TO SUSTAINABILITY PASSES THROUGH CONCRETE

are the key constituents of concrete.

Each of them comprises of raw materials that require energy consumption and have waste production. Which makes the manufacturing phase most crucial one for the environment. From concrete construction to its lifetime and demolition, the industry must focus on the entire life cycle of how concrete is produced, used, and demolished.

Life cycle assessments also support the potential reuse of old concrete. It can be recycled into aggregates after being crushed and processed. For example, concrete pavements can be broken and used as a base course for an asphalt pavement through a process called rubblization. Thereby, life-cycle assessments are key to conscious and sustainable usage of concrete.

USAGE OF SUPPLEMENTARY CEMENTITIOUS MATERIALS (SCM’S) The combination of cement and water which creates a paste is a key component of producing concrete. The paste works as the binder that keeps aggregates in place and provides concrete its industrial properties, making it a dependable and versatile construction material. However, the substance is not sustainable.

Although used traditionally for years, the construction industry has now seen the introduction of supplementary

“GREEN ALTERNATIVES ARE THE FUTURE OF A SUSTAINABLE WORLD. WHILE DIFFERENT SO-CALLED GREEN CONCRETES HAVE BEEN ON THE SCENE FOR MANY YEARS, IT IS ONLY NOW THAT THE WORLD OF CONSTRUCTION IS TAKING A MORE SERIOUS LOOK AT THE MATERIAL.” cementitious materials. These are natural materials or industrial byproducts that exhibit cementitious properties when combined with either only water or water and other compounds.

SCMs generated because of industrial manufacturing processes include fly ash, slag cement, and silica fume. Natural SCMs, created by applying heat and purifying processes to certain minerals, include calcined shale, calcined clay and metakaolin. Substituting components of the cement in concrete with SCMs, or making blended cement, is the swiftest short-term solution to decrease carbon emissions from the cement and concrete industry.

AN ALTERNATIVE MATERIAL IN GREEN CONCRETE Green alternatives are the future of a sustainable world. While different socalled green concretes have been on the scene for many years, it is only now that the world of construction is taking a more serious look at the material. Green concrete can be produced using waste

material as one of its components and production processes that are not harmful to the environment. The criteria for green concrete are that the materials used for making it should be sourced from sustainable or safe materials rather than non-sustainable components - a better solution to regular concrete in many ways. For example, it uses fly ash, a byproduct of coal combustion, as one of its main components. Other materials that form part of green concrete are silica fume, a byproduct of manufacturing silicon and ferrosilicon, recycled glass and ground granulated blast furnace slag, waste material in the production of steel and iron. There are many benefits to using green concrete. Due to its lower rate of shrinkage than regular concrete, green concrete lasts longer.

Structures built using this alternative material also have a better chance of surviving fires, as it can endure temperatures of up to 2400 degrees Fahrenheit.

Underpinning the above is the need to create a more sustainable future.

With investment in the development and deployment of the most efficient methods to combat the environmental damages of concrete, we will be able to witness a massive change in carbon emissions globally. While the world goes through massive urbanisation, and the population moves towards cities, governments, academia, and the industry must come together to make one of the most environmentally damaging industries less harmful.

Academia develops the research needs, the industry contributes to innovation, and governments drive policy change.

In fact, in 2019, students at Heriot-Watt University Dubai created a research solution for sustainable concrete production, which used recycled coarse aggregate and ceramic waste, both of which are widely available in the UAE, to develop green concrete.

CONSTRUCTION BUSINESS NEWS ME | AUGUST 2021 | 11

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HEALTH & SAFETY

WHY METALLIC FITTINGS ARE THE WAY FORWARD Richard Franks, Gulf Business Unit Director at Conex Banninger, tells us about a safer alternative for the Building Services Industry

12 | CONSTRUCTION BUSINESS NEWS ME | AUGUST 2021

W

hat is the purpose of a building? The construction of buildings stemmed from the basic human need for shelter.

However, as humans have evolved, so has the role of buildings. No longer are buildings simple structures that provide shelter. They are now so much more.

The buildings we construct are multifunctional spaces with the capability to enhance human health and wellbeing.

They are architectural artworks that exemplify human progress. They are, in essence, the centre of modern human life. It is therefore the collective responsibility of all those who operate in the Building Services industry to place health, safety and sustainability at the heart of every building project.

The pandemic further amplified the important role buildings play in our daily lives. The rise of remote working, for example, meant that people were spending more time indoors than ever before. COVID-19 has had a profound impact on human behaviour, provoking changes that are predicted to outlast the pandemic. So, if we have changed the way we use our buildings, shouldn’t we change the way we construct them too?

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WHY METALLIC FITTINGS ARE THE WAY FORWARD | RICHARD FRANKS

As we move forward, an increased focus on health, wellbeing and resilience is prevailing across industries, and the Building Services industry is no different. To create spaces that truly support occupants and wider communities, we must embrace a more holistic approach and use safer and stronger solutions from design through to the maintenance of our buildings. For HVAC and piping systems, thoughtful product selection is key to improving health and safety.

Material selection can have a significant impact on optimising HVAC systems within a building. I believe that metallic pipework is in fact the future of the regional Building Services industry. Using metallic pipes is best practice, namely Copper and Stainless Steel, because they are able to deliver increased strength, hygiene and sustainability. That’s why metallic pipework is currently the preferred choice in international markets such as UK, USA and Europe.

In my experience working with Conex Bänninger, metallic pipework can add value to building projects in many ways. For example, copper has antimicrobial properties.

The material is biostatic and impermeable, which means that it does not absorb unwanted contaminants or react to the chemicals used in dosing. When used in network installations, copper can prevent the growth of harmful bacteria such as Legionella and keep our water systems safer and cleaner.

In mission critical environments, such as hospitals, the performance of our HVAC systems is vital to life in the building. The use of systems that promote cleanliness and hygiene should not be an option but a requirement to protect human health and wellbeing.

Copper doesn’t just protect human health, but it also supports our planet. Copper is a 100% recyclable material.

Furthermore, it is a naturally occurring metal, whereas synthetic materials often require more manufacturing, thus contributing more to toxic emissions. As countries in the Middle East look to further their ‘green’ agenda, metallic solutions can help achieve global and regional sustainability goals.

While other materials degrade over time, copper maintains its core properties to deliver increased durability. Its inherent qualities result in pipework that is stronger and therefore needs less maintenance and repair.

Metallic pipes are able to deliver high-performing HVAC solutions, suited to projects in the region. The Middle East is known for its vast skyscrapers. However, high rise buildings can often have a higher operating pressure depending on their design. Copper performs well under extreme pressure, not only avoiding system issues but delivering flexibility at the design stage.

Another key benefit of metallic pipework is that it can be installed using press-fit fittings instead of brazing. Press-fit fittings do not require a heat source and instead use a mechanical press tool. The switch to a flame-free system can help to enhance health and safety on site by reducing the risk of fires and any associated damages to property or human health. Press-fit fittings also help achieve higher joint integrity, resulting in stronger and safer systems that are

Richard Franks, Gulf Business Unit Director at Conex Banninger

COPPER HAS ANTIMICROBIAL PROPERTIES. [...] WHEN USED IN NETWORK INSTALLATIONS, COPPER CAN PREVENT THE GROWTH OF HARMFUL BACTERIA SUCH AS LEGIONELLA AND KEEP OUR WATER SYSTEMS SAFER AND CLEANER. built to last and lead to less failures down the line.

When it comes to our projects, the truth is that there is no room for compromise. The pandemic has made it more evident than ever before that health and safety should be at the forefront of the construction industry. High performing solutions, such as metallic pipework, help to create safer and stronger spaces by increasing building resilience.

HVAC systems often go unnoticed - it is only when a problem arises in the system that we become aware of its importance. Using stronger systems reduces the risk of failures.

While the use of metallic pipework is on the rise in the region, other materials remain more popular. These materials are often selected over metals due to price, however, this does not necessarily mean they are more cost-effective.

In the region, it is common to approach product selection based on competitive pricing. However, lower price does not necessarily lead to lower installation costs. Not to mention, it can also lead to additional challenges and costs down the line as discussed earlier.

To truly create more resilient spaces, we must embrace a long-term approach and select solutions based on value, rather than price. This approach encourages us to use resources more efficiently, reduce costs and ultimately, better support health and safety.

CONSTRUCTION BUSINESS NEWS ME | AUGUST 2021 | 13

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PROJECT

LUXURY SKYSCRAPER Deyaar launches luxury AED 1bn skyscraper ‘Regalia’ in Business Bay

D

eyaar Development PJSC (“Deyaar”), one of Dubai’s leading property developers and real estate service providers, today announced the launch of Regalia, a AED 1bn luxury skyscraper in Business Bay offering a smart and highend urban lifestyle embodied by royalty and distinction.

Regalia will be the tallest tower Deyaar has ever built. The 70-storey premium residential building will feature smart home-enabled apartments. It offers a wide range of

14 | CONSTRUCTION BUSINESS NEWS ME | AUGUST 2021

recreational and wellness amenities, including an Olympicsize infinity pool with private cabanas and Jacuzzis, a state-ofthe-art family gymnasium, a yoga pavilion, and an outdoor winter cinema. The project also features social amenities, such as a BBQ and private dining areas, residents’ lounge and business centre, as well as indoor and outdoor children’s play areas. The amenities are nested within a wealth of organic landscape and great lawns providing the perfect environment for residents and owners to relax, unwind and enjoy quality time with their families and friends.

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NEW GENERATION FM TECHNOLOGY PLATFORMS HAVE THE KEY TO SOLVE CURRENT FM INDUSTRY WOES

“WE ARE PLEASED TO LAUNCH REGALIA, OUR FLAGSHIP SKYSCRAPER THAT WILL SET A NEW BENCHMARK FOR HIGH-END URBAN LIVING IN THE HEART OF THE CITY.”

Speaking on the announcement, Saeed Al Qatami, CEO of Deyaar Development, said: “We are pleased to launch Regalia, our flagship skyscraper that will set a new benchmark for high-end urban living in the heart of the city. We anticipate that the project will appeal to investors as it has been designed to the highest international standards with an unparalleled collection of premium

Nasser Amer, Vice-President, Sales at Deyaar

Saeed Al Qatami, CEO of Deyaar Development

lifestyle amenities. Residents and investors can expect sleek and expressive architecture, elegant interiors, smart city technologies and seamless connectivity to major thoroughfares such as Al Khalil Road and Sheikh Zayed Road. As always, we affirm our commitment to delivering projects on time and look forward to commencing construction of Regalia in August 2021.”

With sleek, expressive and opulent architecture, Regalia will become a stunning landmark in Dubai’s everevolving skyline. The elegant interiors combine timeless, contemporary design with high-level functionality and aesthetic beauty, open spaces, high ceilings and floor-to-ceiling windows.

“We are tremendously excited about the release of Regalia. The upscale development is expected to be completed in December 2024,” said Nasser Amer, Vice-President – Sales at Deyaar. “The project creates a sense of belonging to the community, through a range of carefully selected social, wellness and recreational amenities. The luxury apartments will also feature branded built-in appliances.

Investors can register and complete their purchase formalities with an initial upfront payment of just 10 per cent and enjoy attractive installments over a sevenyear plan. What’s more, we are running an exclusive launch offer including a

three-year service charge waiver and a full DLD waiver. There will not be a better time to invest in such an upscale development than now.”

For two decades, Deyaar has shaped the urban real estate landscape of Dubai.

Established in 2002, its meteoric rise is a testament to a limitless ambition. As one of Dubai’s largest property developers, it has successfully delivered more than 20 million sq. ft. of developments to cement Dubai’s position as one of the world’s greatest cities.

Listed on the Dubai Financial Market and majority-owned by Dubai Islamic Bank (DIB), Deyaar is one of Dubai’s leading developers, with real estate ventures spanning key growth corridors and prime locations within the emirate.

Over the years, Deyaar has delivered an extensive portfolio of commercial and residential properties with the highest levels of service and quality.

“WE ARE PLEASED TO LAUNCH REGALIA, OUR FLAGSHIP SKYSCRAPER THAT WILL SET A NEW BENCHMARK FOR HIGHEND URBAN LIVING IN THE HEART OF THE CITY.” CONSTRUCTION BUSINESS NEWS ME | AUGUST 2021 | 15

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INDUSTRIAL CONSTRUCTION

Dubai plans to build region’s

LARGEST CARPET FACTORY State-of-the-art facility covers a total land area of 3 million sq. ft, total built-up area of 1.6 million sq. ft.

S

tandard Carpets, the region’s largest producer and exporter of broadloom carpets, carpet tiles and artificial grass, has broken ground on a new manufacturing plant in Dubai Industrial City that will become one of the world’s largest carpet factories and the region’s biggest upon completion in 2023.

Covering a total land area of more than 3

million sq. ft, the state-of-the-art facility will allow Standard Carpets to increase production capacity by 40 per cent and produce an additional 400 tonnes of yarn per month in first phase of the development.

Expansion is an important milestone for both parties. It will boost Operation 300bn, promote high-quality Made in UAE products, enhance Dubai’s position as a global manufacturing hub and con-

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tribute to GDP growth. Upon completion, Standard Carpets will operate one of the world’s largest single-site flooring plants covering a total built-up area of 1.6 million sq. ft.

Abdulla Belhoul, Chief Commercial Officer of Dubai Holding Asset Management, said: “Increasing the contribution manufacturing makes to the UAE’s GDP is a national priority set by the vision of our leaders for economic growth and diversification. By combining advanced technologies with best-in-class design and sustainable innovation, Standard Carpets has become the country’s largest producer of broadloom carpets. This expansion will boost industrial activities in the country and cement Dubai’s position as a global trade hub.

“Global trust and confidence in highquality UAE products continue to grow quickly as local production and exports WWW.CBNME.COM

DUBAI PLANS TO BUILD REGION’S LARGEST CARPET FACTORY

expand empowered by our ease of doing business, advanced infrastructure, logistics network, availability of raw and packaging materials, as well as access to specialised talent. It has allowed Standard Carpets to trade with over 60 countries.

We look forward to working closely with them to successfully deliver this important new milestone.”

Saud Abu Al-Shawareb, Managing Director of Dubai Industrial City, said: “The UAE’s manufacturing industry has expanded rapidly in recent years to become a key driver of the country’s knowledge and innovation-based economy. With a wide range of competitive advantages, state-of-the-art infrastructure, ease of doing business and strategic proximity to some of the world’s largest markets, Dubai Industrial City is an attractive business ecosystem. As the first carpet producer in the country, we are pleased to see a company with such heritage build another large-scale factory in our business district. Standard Carpets’ expansion will consolidate Dubai’s position as a global hub for advanced manufacturing in line with the vision of our leaders.”

Mr Gulu Waney, Chairman, Standard Carpets, added: “We have enjoyed tremendous growth since establishing the region’s largest carpet factory in Dubai Industrial City in 2014. It has enabled us to successfully expand production capacity, increase our portfolio of superior quality products and reach new markets in more than 60 countries, including Australia, New Zealand, Saudi Arabia and the US.

Dubai Industrial City

Saud Abu Al-Shawareb, Managing Director, Dubai Industria

Breaking ground on our state-of-the-art expansion is another exciting milestone that demonstrates our long-term commitment to Dubai and our unwavering confidence in the UAE’s vision for the future.”

Standard Carpets’ new factory will be one of the world’s largest all-under-oneroof carpet factories. It will harness the latest advances in carpet-making equipment and technology with in-house yarn extrusion, twisting-cabling and heat-set facilities. It will generate enough renewable energy to meet more than one-third of its electricity consumption with a massive solar rooftop, divert waste away

from landfill and reduce water consumption with smart sustainability solutions.

Furthermore, it will significantly expand production, with the company already producing more than 1,000 flooring products in a selection of premium patterns and colours. The materials are also antimicrobial, fire-retardant and resistant to UV light.

Confidence and trust in locally-produced products has helped Dubai’s non-oil trade rise by 8 per cent in 2020, according to Dubai Customs. Everything made in Dubai Industrial City – from cement and carpets to personal care items, food or beverage and coffee – meets the highest international standards and successfully demonstrates how ‘Made in UAE’ exports compete on cost and quality with global brands in markets all over the world.

With more than 750 companies and hundreds of advanced factories employing fourth industrial revolution technologies, Dubai Industrial City is a strategic driver of the UAE’s vision to expand the industrial sector and enhance its role in stimulating economic growth.

Established in 2004, it is designed around a world-class masterplan that divides the business district into strategic sector-focused zones, including: minerals, base metals, food and beverages, trading and distribution, transport, chemicals, and machinery and equipment.

CONSTRUCTION BUSINESS NEWS ME | AUGUST 2021 | 17

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TECHNOLOGY

fishing industry, our partnership with MAT Filtration Technologies and MATKULING is a strategic step which will combine the strengths of both companies to provide a cost-effective, state-of-theart solution for aquaculture, thereby supporting the region’s longer-term, selfsufficiency targets. In addition, we will also be seeking to broaden our scope by looking at future water treatment projects and integrated filtration systems, thanks to MAT-KULING’s diverse range of technological solutions.”

“OUR PARTNERSHIP WITH MAT FILTRATION TECHNOLOGIES AND MAT-KULING IS A STRATEGIC STEP WHICH WILL COMBINE THE STRENGTHS OF BOTH COMPANIES TO PROVIDE A COST-EFFECTIVE, STATE-OF-THE-ART SOLUTION FOR AQUACULTURE, THEREBY SUPPORTING THE REGION’S LONGERTERM, SELF-SUFFICIENCY TARGETS.”

ALEC SIGNS REGIONAL PARTNERSHIP WITH LEADING RAS SUPPLIER ALEC E&C SIGNS PARTNERSHIP WITH MAT FILTRATION TECHNOLOGIES AND MAT-KULING FOR LAND-BASED AQUACULTURE, WATER TREATMENT PROJECTS AND WATER FILTRATION. EXCLUSIVE PARTNERSHIP TO COVER UNITED ARAB EMIRATES AND SAUDI ARABIA

A

LEC Engineering and Contracting L.L.C (ALEC), has signed an exclusive strategic partnership with Norwegianbased MAT Filtration Technologies and MAT-KULING for land-based aquaculture, water treatment projects and filtration throughout both the United Arab Emirates and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

Structured to provide a viable, turnkey solution for several of the region’s upcoming megaprojects, the partnership

will focus on supporting food security through the development of fisheries, which will utilise MAT-KULING’s Recirculating Aquaculture Systems (RAS), which are especially designed to require less fresh water, while retaining a healthy environment for the fish.

Speaking on behalf of ALEC, Kez Taylor, chief executive officer said: “With both the UAE and Saudi Arabia seeking to reinforce their national food security programs, in addition to the international challenges facing the global

18 | CONSTRUCTION BUSINESS NEWS ME | AUGUST 2021

With over a decade of experience in manufacturing filtration equipment, MAT-KULING’s product range has been uniquely fine-tuned to make it more operator-friendly focused, while remaining durable enough to cope with the harsh humid conditions of the Middle Eastern summers. Having integrated RAS technology into its offering, the new regional partnership is not only able to adhere to stricter environmental regulations in terms of energy consumption, but also through its materials, which are made from nonosmotic and ozone sustainable plastic materials.

The partnership comes after similar agreements have been reached in both countries. According to RAS Tech Magazine, Abu Dhabi Catalyst Partners recently closed a round of funding with 8F Asset Management’s land-based aquaculture fund, which also owns Pure Salmon and has multiple RAS projects in Europe, Japan and the United States.

In Saudi, NEOM is planning a fish farm with Tabuk Fish Company, which is anticipated to have a production capacity of 70 million eggs, making it the biggest hatchery in the MENA region upon completion.

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CBNME

INTERVIEW

Safety First

Sam Alcock, Dubai

Director, Tenable Fire Engineering Consultancy, addresses the importance of hiring fire engineering professionals early in the concept phase, working closely with fit-out suppliers and designers, and the company's expansion plans

Tell us the importance of getting Tenable FEC involved in the pre-construction phase of a project and how architects would benefit from seeking out your services?

In our experience, engaging with a fire engineering consultant during a project's concept phase has significant long-term benefits, specifically when preventing abortive works further down the line.

However, this is often overlooked as a critical component. For a lot of projects, we see developers, architects and main contractors having to significantly redesign a building before construction or, most commonly, during the construction phase, where significant and costly rectifications are required.

20 | CONSTRUCTION BUSINESS NEWS ME | AUGUST 2021

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LUXURY SKYSCRAPER | DEYAAR LAUNCHES ‘REGALIA’ IN BUSINESS BAY

Naturally, the design is most flexible during the concept phase, and this flexibility is vital when ensuring all the key fire and life safety code requirements are implemented. These can include the number of staircases and their location, arrangement of the core and, subject to the building's height, you may be required to provide a firefighting lift lobby arrangement. All of these components, and many more, must meet the relevant country fire and life safety codes and will vary depending on the type and size of a project.

For example, if a mall project doesn't consider corridor width during the design phase, the widths may need to be increased during the Authority approval stage, and potentially the developer will lose out on sellable square footage. This poses further problems if the retail units have already been sold and the size requirements subsequently change.

How do you ensure design intent while still adhering to the relevant fire and life safety codes?

Value engineering runs throughout each element of a project – we believe in cost efficiency without jeopardising overall safety. Respecting the architect's vision is a crucial part of our approach. However, preservation of life is our main focus and, with each project, we aim to guide the design team through the relevant code requirements while still keeping the design intent at the forefront. For this process to be a success, it takes compromise and communication. We will always explain the reasoning that drives our recommendations and a solution to non-compliances, thinking beyond the boundaries of the code when making rectifications. This approach helps with the current project and encourages the architect to apply fire and life safety principles when designing future projects by

bringing us on board as early as possible.

We are seeing more and more architects and designers engage with us during a project's pre-concept phase. They are beginning to see the value in identifying the potential pitfalls as early as possible to reduce the potential time and money wasted further down the line.

In terms of interior designs and fit-out projects - how does Tenable FEC work closely with designers to ensure an office or retail space is designed with adequate fire and life safety in mind?

Fit-out projects, in particular, rely on the base build design having adequate documentation in place.

For example, all buildings must have a fire strategy report in place alongside approved civil defence fire and life safety drawings.

These documents outline elements such as sprinkler system design, egress strategy, fire rating of walls and doors, etc. >>>

Oman Pavilion The eye-catching design of the pavilion is inspired

by Boswellia sacra, the tree from which the precious resin is harvested. With an asymmetrical, flowing form that is reminiscent of the tree’s low, shade-giving branches, the structure appears to envelop and protect life.

SAM ALCOCK, Dubai Director of Tenable Fire Engineering Consultancy

CONSTRUCTION BUSINESS NEWS ME | AUGUST 2021 | 21

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INTERVIEW

Warner Bros. hotel will be the world’s first Warner Bros. themed hotel, comprising 257 rooms over eight levels with a modern decor that celebrates the studio’s movies and television series

Provided these documents are in place and well-defined, and the fit-out is carried out in line with the base build, there shouldn't be any requirements to make any rectifications.

However, with offices, we often see base build information specifying one occupant load. Then the interior design layout shows the future usage of the space, which exceeds the approved occupant load. This is often due to open communal spaces such as team assembly areas and cafeterias, where more employees gather in a particular space than anticipated, especially if the office is split over two floors with a central communal space.

Similarly, with a mall fit-out, the information provided in the fire strategy is crucial. If, for example, an open space will house a gym, food court or general assembly area with a high occupant load, and the relevant metrics are not provided, there is the potential the project will run into delays and additional costs.

In addition to high occupancy levels, interior designers must also take the materials used for finishings into consideration.

While the majority of finishing materials comply with the relevant country codes, there are instances where this is not the case. If a selected material doesn't meet the code, it will not be granted civil defence approval.

How does Tenable FEC use technology and 3D modelling to assist with projects?

Specific projects require us to take a performance-based design approach. For example, a project may include an atrium, and the design requires a smoke management system to protect the space. In this instance, we will run a 22 | CONSTRUCTION BUSINESS NEWS ME | AUGUST 2021

Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) analysis to ensure the available extract and supply air provides a tenable environment.

There have also been projects where we have been brought on board at a later stage, only to find there were not be adequate staircases already in place post-construction. In this instance, we will run a CFD and an evacuation model to determine the time it will take for occupants to evacuate safely versus how long the area remained tenable. Provided the tenability time was longer than the evacuation time, the design is deemed safe.

What are Tenable's objectives and goals for the next 12 months?

There has been a recent internal restructure to enable our growth and expansion plans for the next twelve months and beyond. We are seeing a variety of projects coming through both our Dubai and Muscat offices. These range from new hotel and residential projects and fit-out projects to data centres and healthcare facilities.

Geographically, Saudi Arabia is a target growth market for us, and we are already engaged in elements of the key giga-projects such as The Red Sea Project's Coral Bloom, AMAALA, Diriyah Gate and NEOM. However, people are often quick to overlook the developments taking place in other parts of the Kingdom, and we are excited to be part of projects, ranging from Al Khobar down to Medina. Further afield and COVID-19 permitting, we aim to relaunch our London office in the coming months, which will enable us to work more freely on European projects.

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COVER STORY

FM GIANTS VENUE PARTNER

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ROUNDTABLE | FM GIANTS

TECH INNOVATORS CBNME sits down with the biggest FM Giants in the region to discuss how their implementation of technology has impacted the facilities management industry in a positive way.

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COVER STORY

Tarek Nizameddin Executive Director Ejadah Asset Management Group

Tarek currently holds the role of Senior Executive Director of Ejadah Asset Management Group where he drives the business development of Ejadah’s SBU. He also oversees the facilities management operations and manages Ejadah’s Abu Dhabi portfolio, in addition to leading unit services, soft services, and marketing departments.

Tarek has over 27 years of experience out of which 20 years are in facilities management, as I started my career in the field in 2002. Since then, Tarek has been committed to the improvement and advancement of the facilities management sector in the MENA region.

Tarek is an active member in multiple industry bodies, and has participated as keynote speaker in many industry’s events and wrote several articles in the industry press, and bulletins about facilities management standards and challenges.

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FM GIANTS | TECH INNOVATORS

Tell us how each company uses technology and software’s to better improve their services?

Ejadah is constantly racing to adopt and integrate cutting-edge technology. The latest endeavour in this regard is the OneApp. An employee self-service mobile app which allows Ejadah employees to view real-time information, raise HR requests, retrieve documents, print letters and pay-slips, and manage leave requests anywhere and anytime. To support HR management efforts, the app also comes with a host of manager tools to review and approve requests on the go.

Among other numerous digital transformation initiatives Ejadah boasts of, there is also the Shabaka App. An innovative B2C marketplace offering a comprehensive range of in unit-maintenance services including cleaning, mechanical, electrical, and others. Shabaka enables its customers to browse the service catalogue, schedule appointments, make online payments, and chat with virtual/real agents and much more.

Ejadah is also currently upgrading its cloudbased Maximo FM system to match evolving requirements and elevated standards, and to apply best practices in customer support, management of maintenance activities and performance, QHSE, customer agreements, fixed and variable billing. Thus, providing endto-end solutions productively and efficiently, optimising resource utilization, automating cost-allocation, digitising manual transactions, reducing human supervision, and enhancing reporting.

Moreover, Ejadah is pioneering Robotic Process Automation within HR, Finance and supply chain management for time consuming and repetitive transactions like bills reconciliation, issuance of POs, E-sourcing, and government relation activities, among others.

“The usage of technology and integration between the applications achieve big efficiency, operational efficiency, and cost reduction at the same time. Weather when it comes to tracking of the assets, tracking of the tools and equipment, the machinery management of the scheduled tasks.

We also use the smartwatches for tracking the scheduled tasks for technicians and cleaning operatives. They use the usage also of competitors the cloud and what we call the technicians Help Desk increase the efficiency of the operation.

Sometimes a technician on site does not have the required knowledge to troubleshoot the problem or to rectify the fault on site. So, connecting them to an expert that will give him online advice and provide them with the right advice. You can then send the technician the right spare part or right tools, if required, which will help reduce the cost and time,” said Tarek.

New digital trends will not be “disruptive” unless they create relatively more value in the market than the traditional way of doing business. IoT devices and machine learning based systems are the main digital trends to focus at in terms of value creation and value capture which shall be leveraged to build an FM effective digital strategy.

These digital disruptions will create new services to clients around energy management services including energy audits, energy management plans, targets, and guaranteed savings.

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COVER STORY

Technology is the only way forward in FM. When agility and productivity are the goals, yesterday’s FM spreadsheets and workflows will no longer apply. FM teams must become proficient at using technological tools to help the rest of the business respond quickly to changing conditions and be comfortable with using predictive analytics and business intelligence to inform decision-making.

Service Management shall be considered as a key component of the successful Facility Manager of the future. Strong leadership skills with the ability to create employee motivation, engagement, respect and development are vital ingredients in any successful service model. This will create a winning formula on how to differentiate a facility manager and how to a create long term sustainable value.

With the adoption of technologies and the dependency on systems especially the Robotic Process Automation, a lot of admin and office jobs will be obsolete. Moreover, with the introduction of robots, drones and AI in operation, the number of workforces required for most of the functions will be reduced.

The industry will require a different skillset to cater to these technologies such as: specialized technicians, robotics engineers and technicians, data analysts & scientists, cyber security experts, software developers, etc.

Ejadah are among the pioneers who are streamlining strategic innovation in such a changing digital world by moving to data-driven decision making and operations. That’s why Ejadah is racing to be the first movers in this space to capitalize on the size and value of data which will create a compelling value proposition in this digital disrupted world.

We believe that maintenance shall move from the traditional planned and preventive maintenance and top of the shelf standards such as SFG 20 and move to a smart predictive maintenance and a reliability-based maintenance (RBM) which is a step-by-step instructional tool for how to analyze a system’s all failure modes and define how to prevent or find those failures early. RBM will ensure greater safety and environmental integrity, improved operating performance and greater maintenance cost-effectiveness.

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Integrated Solution It is the time to have a product that will integrate all the software’s and systems required for FM operation under one platform.

While some companies are using a large number of software’s not only for operations that they have but we should look at the back offices as well such as comes HR, finance, procurement, logistics, contract management,

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ROUNDTABLE | FM GIANTS

“EJADAH ARE AMONG THE PIONEERS WHO ARE STREAMLINING STRATEGIC INNOVATION IN SUCH A CHANGING DIGITAL WORLD BY MOVING TO DATADRIVEN DECISION MAKING AND OPERATIONS.”

Tarek Nizameddin, Senior Executive Director, Ejadah

business development tracking, all these things need to come under one solution. For any company that wants to try to implement this it would take a huge investment and with our industry being unique it is important for facilities management software vendors that cater to the industry to come in and provide a holistic solution.

What are the benefits of a data-driven approach to customers?

This is the way forward and I think the top industry leaders are working and investing in this approach: data driven decision making tools for collecting the data, collecting the right data, cleansing the current data that is available, and the way you’re utilizing it through artificial intelligence and machine learning.

So, we do the analysis of the building performance and try to understand what is required to enhance the efficiency and extend the life cycle of the building. Technology has evolved now, and we don’t have to install a large number of sensors as we used to do in the past and that helps boost operational efficiency.

Now, you will be able to do benchmarking and comparison which will give you accurate results and will achieve predictive maintenance pro-

gram that will increase the efficiency reduce the break downtime. It will give the FM operation team insight about the procedures that need to be taken not only to reduce the energy bill, which is of course important from commer-

cial and environment aspect, but also enhance the lifecycle of the assets and achieve reduction on the dependency on manpower, reduce the break downtime and achieve the service-level agreements with the client.

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CBNME

COVER STORY

Jean Francois Chartain Chief Operating Officer | Tabreed

Tell us how Tabreed uses technology to better improve their district cooling plants? > Increasing level of services to our customers – innovating by optimising the cooling system at every step, from the plant to the building being served. > Within the plants themselves, equipment upgrades reduce energy and resource consumption, while increasing efficiency and reliability. > Implemented ASRAPS chemicalfree systems to treat cooling water, reducing scaling and improving heat transfer, also reducing maintenance costs.

How do your clients benefit by choosing Tabreed for their cooling services? > Lower lifecycle costs. > Additional physical space where plants are situated. > Better quality cooling, absolute reliability. > Environmental benefits are enormous – Dubai Metro alone reduces its carbon emissions by 36,000 tons a year because of our services. > We’re good for a company’s CSR – overall in 2020, Tabreed prevented the release of 1.35 million metric tons of CO2, equivalent to taking nearly 300,000 cars off the road.

Jean-Francois has over 18 years of experience in the field of Business Development, Engineering and Construction across various sectors such as utilities, energy and renewables, and environment industries across various geographies.

In his previous role as Technical Director with ENGIE ITALIA, he headed 3 separate departments; design, maintenance engineering, and energy efficiency. He was also responsible for leading the private development of the district heating scheme.

Jean-Francois holds a Bachelor Degree in Mechanical and Electrical Engineering from Ecole Nationale Superieure d’Electricite et de Mecanique, France, and a Master of Business Administration from European School of Management, Paris, France.

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Tell us about Tabreed’s R&D Department and what steps has the department taken to boost energy efficiency & sustainability?

As part of their efforts to boost energy efficiency and sustainability their R&D department have launched four pilot projects. These projects are part of Tabreed’s R&D funding commitment, which reinforces the company’s unwavering stewardship towards sustainability beyond just environmental benefits. This will also contribute to an improvement in Tabreed’s operational efficiency while enhancing district cooling plant life and reliability, with the funding expected to contribute towards increasing plant energy efficiency by 30% against comparable industry performance benchmarks as well as lowering overall plant lifecycle costs.

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ROUNDTABLE | FM GIANTS

“Future of Cooling” is the name of the first initiative. It aims to introduce new concept design and control philosophy as well as innovative and disruptive technologies into each district cooling plant, resulting in material improvements in plant performance as well as a prolonged life and lower plant lifecycle costs.

“Carbon NanoTube” is another R&D initiative by Tabreed which aims at drastically enhancing the performance and life span of plant and equipment as well as reducing plant and energy transfer station (ETS) footprints using carbon nanotube (CNT) material which has outstanding properties in terms of heat transfer. We are in discussion with a number of partners to provide us with the material and support such as ENGIE Lab CRIGEN in France, Sustainable Energy Development Research Group, and another reputed higher education institution in the region.

The third initiative, called “Wet Bulb Forecasting”, will aim to drastically enhance demand side management.

The initiative aims to more accurately forecast customer demand for the next 24 hours to allow for a more efficient operation by optimizing production of cooling, using AI. The first step is to rely on a stable weather forecasting system based on information updated in real time. The second step will be to use data science to develop models and correlations and finally, based on demand forecast, drive the plant performance.

The last initiative targets enhancing the district cooling plant’s condenser circuit and its cooling tower, which is one of the critical components in the plant and has a significant impact on the plant’s performance. Tabreed is currently redesigning the equipment to enhance its efficiency through improving water and air distribution as well as heat transfer, which will eventually impact the overall performance of the plant.

Tabreed’s announcement of its R&D and Innovation initiatives aligns with the commemoration of the UAE Innovation Week, which is being held under the slogan “UAE Innovates 2021”.

Tabreed commitment towards reduction of CO2 emissions is a priority for the Group. What is being done in terms of overall elimination or reduction in CO2 emissions?

In 2020, Tabreed added six new district cooling plants in its portfolio, and added over 50,000 new customer connections, resulting in the delivery of 1,403,819 RT across its operations.

The net result was the displacement of over 1.35m metric tons of CO2 emissions – equivalent to removing 193,129 passenger vehicles off the road over the course of the year – in addition to electricity savings of 2.26 billion kilowatt/hours – enough to power 128,443 homes every year. Furthermore: > Fully supporting the UAE’s targets for carbon neutrality by 2050 > We turn energy into cooling, so the more efficient our plants, the lower the demand for electricity, which in turn reduces CO2 emissions. > Tabreed also lessens the impact on the ozone layer thanks to its larger, centralised refrigerant capture units that prevent leakage.

What are your views/perception for the district cooling sector in the region? > District cooling enables normal life to go on, in one of the planet’s hottest regions. > Tabreed is Essential for Progress – without our services would be unimaginable.

> We cool many of the region’s most iconic landmarks, structures and facilities. > District cooling is better for the environment in many respects, even visually.

What are some of the future considerations that Tabreed or other stakeholders have to take into account to improve energy efficiency and waste reduction in the region? > Energy management is our core business and we are driven by energy efficiency. > Constantly looking to improve by developing and adopting new technology > The government sets ambitious environmental targets that we must be aligned with. > Important to have constant, open dialogue with legislators so we can advise on policy and react quickly to any developments or changes in direction.

“IN 2020, TABREED ADDED SIX NEW DISTRICT COOLING PLANTS IN ITS PORTFOLIO, AND ADDED OVER 50,000 NEW CUSTOMER CONNECTIONS, RESULTING IN THE DELIVERY OF 1,403,819 RT ACROSS ITS OPERATIONS.”

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CBNME

COVER STORY

MARC DALY

HEAD OF FMS | SERVEU

With over 10 years’ experience in the FM industry Marc has led FM operations in the UAE, KSA & UK with a keen eye on efficiency improvement on asset performance and service delivery.

With technology being the main driver for both these areas; Marc has played a leadership role in implementing technology in FM operations for leading clients to help deliver efficiency through their assets and achieve benefits to their budget bottom line.

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Technology Implementation ServeU announced the launch of a fully automated mobile application to eliminate human intervention and digitalize customer service.

A first for the regional industry, the move comes as part of the company’s efforts to use latest technologies for better service delivery, by optimizing internal processes, redefining customer touchpoints, and upgrading the interaction platforms, through the introduction of WhatsApp business and social media direct messaging services.

Key features of ServeU’s new mobile application will include: Business process mapping: The application will ensure current operations are fully automated – from start to end with zero human intervention.

Online Store: Moving away from the typical voice call customer service, the new application will allow for the adoption of self-service processes.

ServeU is introducing a new concept of ordering products and service from online stores, using built-in AI in the bastem. While pckend syurchasing a product from the store, customers will be provided with real-time access to resources, and upon checkout, an appointment will already have been booked with the technician.

Self-service concept: The application will mainly focus on three business processes – booking an inspection, buying an annual maintenance contract (AMC), and ordering a product from the store. All inputs will happen at the customer’s end in just a few clicks and the customer will be notified about the progress of tasks. In addition, the customer will be able to manually check the status of the job, provide feedback and also escalate issues to management, if required.

User Experience: The application will replicate human-like experience with minimal inputs, through its interactive and straightforward user interface. It will come with the latest set of features such as contactless payment, real-time resource tracking, live chat with helpdesk and much more to offer a seamless experience to customers.

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ROUNDTABLE | FM GIANTS

SERVEU CONTINUES TO PROVIDE SERVICES THAT OPTIMIZE RESOURCES FOR MAXIMUM EFFICIENCY TO DELIVER SEAMLESS, EFFICIENT, SAFE AND PERSONALIZED FM SERVICES TO ITS CLIENTS ACROSS MULTIPLE INDUSTRIES. ServeU continues to provide services that optimize resources for maximum efficiency to deliver seamless, efficient, safe and personalized FM

services to its clients across multiple industries.

In line with Smart Dubai 2021 plan and as part of ServeU’s digital roadmap to enhancing operational performances through integrating smart technologies and applications, the company upgraded CAFM to FSI Concept Evolution, in efforts to become one of the first FM service providers to utilize IoT, GIS, and BIM-enabled CAFM. As a reflection of the company’s digital adaptation, ServeU has proudly become the first company to implement NFC Tagging for the cleaning services it provides by enabling end-clients to monitor performance in

real-time through FSI-GO – which, in turn, enhances customer services and satisfaction.

The company takes pride in their self-starter initiatives from within the organisation to optimize major services by effectively managing resources, increasing efficiency and offering tailored facility management solutions to clients across a wide range of industries.

Aside from providing services in ‘Smart Security Systems’ including parking management, CCTV installations, and maintenance, ServeU also takes great pride in its initiative to serve its clients 24/7. >>>

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COVER STORY

What are the benefits of a data-driven approach to customers?

One of the catchphrases we hear a lot and see these days is that there can never be too much data, and in our industry that is fundamental to our operation. Because whether it’s the operation of an asset, and how that data gets captured it’s not just for your plan in the corrective maintenance, but also to do your predictive maintenance, that data is critical to everyone.

Also, how do you utilize the data is more important than actually capturing the data and that’s where we get these systems and software and there are so many of them in the market but then you need to make the right decision of what system you’re going to use for the right assets and the right building.

So, it is critical for us to capture the data, but how do we use the data to

IT IS CRITICAL FOR US TO CAPTURE THE DATA, BUT HOW DO WE USE THE DATA TO EXTEND THE LIFE CYCLE OF THAT ASSET AND BRING DOWN THE MAINTENANCE COST OF THAT ASSET IS WHAT IS CRITICAL FOR US FROM A DATA PERSPECTIVE. extend the life cycle of that asset and bring down the maintenance cost of that asset is what is critical for us from a data perspective.

What are the top 2-3 areas of focus for them after the pandemic in terms of business operations, technology?

One of our key priorities is to be resilient whether it’s the business environment, manpower, supply environment it has been fluid over the last 18 months.

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We need to be resilient and adapt to what the customer needs and what their market needs are.

In terms of technology this is where see the drive for that demand comes in. Implementing that technology to benefit both the customer and the implementation of good service delivery is what is critical, because whether it’s a corporate real estate, or residential real estate, and that is what we’ve got to focus on.

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GOPALA KRISHNAN OPERATIONS DIRECTOR | EMRILL

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Tell us how Emrill uses technology and software’s to better improve their services?

Emrill launched an efficiency-enhancing app, specifically designed to enhance, and refine the delivery of soft FM services in both horizontal and high-rise communities.

Via the app, staff are assigned optimised routes and task schedules.

As they move along the mappedout route, tasks pop up on their mobile devices, determined by proximity to the scheduled tasks.

As staff complete jobs, they upload photographs, which are automatically synced to the supervisor’s interface. This has increased transparency and visibility of supervision with improved quality assurance. This technology-driven approach to soft FM services has enabled us to pass on this valueadd to our clients.

The app is also having a positive effect on the environment.

As machine operators are using digital checklists along optimised routes, this has resulted in reduced paper and fuel consumption.

Furthermore, it has also led to the development of a digital work permit system, which is geo-fenced, ensuring compliance to statutory and regulatory requirements.

We ensure sustainable practices are applied to all areas of the business and provide solutions that help clients work towards carbon neutrality and sustainability. In 2018, we launched an organic vegetable garden, accessible to 5,000 residents living in 1,500 apartments. We also developed a 700 sqm plot of sand into a sustainability park. The newly laid grass and shrubs were fertilised with recycled food waste.

Further to providing a communal space in which residents can interact with nature and each other, these initiatives have a low carbon footprint, as the need to transport produce is eliminated. The garden also meets other sustainable objectives using organic fertiliser made from food waste, thereby WWW.CBNME.COM

ROUNDTABLE | FM GIANTS

“TECHNOLOGY HAS ALWAYS PLAYED A BIG ROLE IN SHAPING THE FACILITIES MANAGEMENT SECTOR. NEW TECHNOLOGY ENABLES FM SERVICES PROVIDERS THE OPPORTUNITY TO OFFER INNOVATIVE AND SUSTAINABLE SOLUTIONS THAT ADD VALUE AND DIFFERENTIATE FROM THE COMPETITION.”

minimising the project’s impact on the environment, increasing green spaces and reducing the community’s contribution to global warming.

We are innovating across multiple developments to reduce water use and wastage. We launched an initiative to use condensation water to clean carparks. This has enabled us to save 35,000 litres of water per month on various sites – that’s the equivalent of 1,000 showers every month per site.

We also mobilised the first and only CMAR street cleaner in the UAE. This machine significantly reduces the water required.

Technology has always played a big role in shaping the facilities management sector. New technology enables FM services providers the opportunity to offer innovative and sustainable solutions that add value and differentiate from the competition.

Furthermore, Emrill has expanded the use of technology to enhance service delivery with the launch of its TechCompanion app.

The app, which is currently being utilised by over 2,000 technicians, engineers and supervisors across multiple sites and shifts, empowers Emrill’s employees to access and utilise data and information to drive efficiencies across the company’s contracts and support

success for its clients’ projects and communities. In 2020, Emrill launched What’s Next Engineering, an initiative led by innovation and implementing new ideas, which the company encourages through its ongoing continuous improvement workshops.

Emrill’s TechCompanion app was developed under the umbrella of this initiative, in line with the company’s aim to be future-ready through harnessing new technology to redefine service delivery.

Accessible via iOS and Android mobile devices, Emrill’s TechCompanion app provides technicians with an all-in-one, multipurpose guidance, training, and maintenance toolkit with multilanguage capabilities.

It provides a centralised solution and single point of contact for each vendor, as well as an escalation matrix and database of contacts for each asset.

To guide and instruct technicians, all information related to assets, including service and technical manuals, is available on the app and can be accessed while employees are onsite via an easy-to-navigate up-to-date documentation and catalogues library.

Additionally, Emrill’s TechCompanion app functions as an education and development tool, providing technicians access to online courses and training.

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COVER STORY

Prabhu Ramachandran CEO and Founder | Facilio

Prabhu Ramachandran is the founder and CEO of Facilio Inc, a leading AI-based property operations platform that helps real estate portfolios aggregate building data, optimize performance in real-time, and control operations - all from one place. Headquartered in New York City with offices in Padova, Dubai, Chennai & Singapore, Facilio is a global company backed by leading investors including Accel Partners and Tiger Global Management.

Prabhu’s career spans over 20 years of product, business, and customer experience focused on enterprise-scale software for IoT-based connected services, sustainable building solutions, and telecom network management.

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ROUNDTABLE | FM GIANTS

Future of FM Operations and Datadriven Service Delivery The 2020s are an era we have approached with apprehension, excitement, uncertainty and ingenuity as technology races forward at breakneck speed. While the professional landscape has changed in the recent past, we still do the same work, but in a different environment and under different circumstances. As a result of this change, we see the role of FM service delivery and property operations as a whole, become more and more prominent, transitioning from an operational level to a data-driven strategic path.

This raises many questions on the future of facility operations and how operatives can stay nimble and flexible enough to respond to these changes?

Will COVID-19 mean the end of the firefighting mode in operations? How will relationships with service providers change? Will the pandemic alter the way we measure O&M (operations and maintenance) SLAs and KPIs? How do we design an operational roadmap that can help overcome these challenges?

Together with four facility experts from leading ecosystem organizations, we investigated the future of strategic data-led facilities management.

We asked Prabhu Ramachandran, Founder & CEO, Facilio Inc., a leading

AI-based property operations platform that manages over 70m sq. ft of commercial real estate portfolio globally, to weigh in on how technology is reshaping the future of real estate operations through powerful outcome-focused solutions.

What are the barriers to innovation in real estate operations & FM services today?

Legacy CaFM software has evolved considerably since their inception; expanding in scope to include inventory and asset management, cost analysis, and vendor management, etc. At a rudimentary level, CaFM adopters have successfully pivoted from paper-based systems to cloud-supported digital applications as much as possible.

However, the new reality of property operations demands products and services that are more flexible, scalable, and interoperable. Property operations are left grappling with time to switch between tools, chasing people for information exchange, dealing with multiple contractors and subcontractors, and receiving outdated reports.

Many of the legacy solutions are horizontal solutions, and not really built specifically for real estate. As a result, they are often underutilized. Commercial real estate portfolios can be com-

“PROPERTY OPERATIONS ARE LEFT GRAPPLING WITH TIME TO SWITCH BETWEEN TOOLS, CHASING PEOPLE FOR INFORMATION EXCHANGE, DEALING WITH MULTIPLE CONTRACTORS AND SUBCONTRACTORS, AND RECEIVING OUTDATED REPORTS.” plex, often involve multiple asset types, and frequently leverage single purpose automation technologies utilized in a siloed manner, which can result in a fragmented view of the portfolio and a lack of useful information. The cost of leaving this issue unaddressed is that O&M leaders are left dealing with blindspots, having to resort to reactive firefighting, and limited ammunition for innovation In contrast, imagine the ease of automating & digitizing multiple interactions, workflows, processes, and information exchange; within a single platform and a single place - without the integration bottlenecks and heavy price tags, typically associated with legacy and regular market solutions. The emerging data-driven O&M software platforms are designed to address issues for all stakeholders

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COVER STORY

and optimize all functions at the same time, while creating results where they matter most, which is the delivery of exceptional customer experiences How will a data-driven approach bridge this technology gap?

The new generation of data-driven FM software takes a workflow-driven approach to the O&M lifecycle. It creates a real-time and targeted context for maintenance schedules, which is easily accessible by stakeholders anytime, anywhere, with complete mobility. This real-time and across-the-board access creates optimal and multi-party stakeholder engagement, and with good data, benchmarking becomes easier, resulting in significantly improved service quality and delivery.

We can see the difference that access to quality, realt-ime data has made to sectors like e-commerce—in which players like Amazon have redefined the standards of delivery services; ride-sharing apps like Uber—which created immediate and quantifiable value for both end-users and drivers. The commercial real estate industry has a similar opportunity to introduce unprecedented services, efficiencies, and operational agility, by leveraging data.

With a unified software platform that enables the basic requisites of maintenance management, a modern integrated O&M approach enables port40 | CONSTRUCTION BUSINESS NEWS ME | AUGUST 2021

folios to set up unique workflows and approvals—algining provider services with end customer’s business processes, offering mobility, service desk, visitor management, contractor management, budget, stakeholder portals, real-time executive insights, and more.

Drivers of this change The sudden and dramatic nature of the COVID-19 pandemic was a wake-up call for O&M teams, making them realize the limitations of the legacy tools and processes they were using. At the same time, building occupants also became aware of the flexibility and adaptability limitations they were dealing with, leading to them wanting greater control over their environment, as well as up to

the minute information and frictionless services. Transformationally, the spotlight was on operational resilience, and O&M teams emerged as a foundational strategic function, to empower building owners and operators, and create a mechanism to address the concerns of tenants and occupants.

The industry has realized that it needs to shift to a more proactive and agile model, with nimble and empowered FM teams as a fundamental building block in a strong operations strategy. Earlier, owners would keep on acquiring new buildings to gain customers, and a huge focus was on the sales side of real estate. The focus is now on increasing the square feet leased by becoming more operationally efficient, and ensuring that tenants are happy, at a lower cost to the business. Owners also have a need to be more agile, to differentiate themselves, with end-user experience firmly at the core of measuring service quality, and brand identity.

From an innovation standpoint, how can you take this to the next level for larger efficiency gains across a portfolio?

Real estate portfolios are also setting themselves up for smart building success, when they choose a connected approach to CaFM operations. In its current form without real-time information from buildings, CaFM is vastly underutilized and at the risk of becoming redundant. The key is to create a Connected Ops environment where the software platform provides a hardware-

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ROUNDTABLE | FM GIANTS

“PUTTING IT SIMPLY, A DATA-DRIVEN APPROACH IS JUST THE SMARTER AND MORE COST-EFFICIENT WAY TO OPERATE PROPERTIES. AND THIS IS MEASURABLY APPARENT ACROSS THE ENTIRE SPECTRUM OF METRICS AND BUSINESS OUTCOMES.”

agnostic approach to connect real-time building data, with core O&M functions.

Besides streamlining workflows, you can now optimize them for maximum performance.

Failure to do this will relegate CaFM to its most basic version - that of keeping maintenance-related logs. If the value of the technology is to be optimized, it must have access to a common database that includes systems data points; like asset performance, energy usage metrics, FDD data, etc. The data quality - or the lack thereof - will have a direct bearing on deep-dive analysis, maintenance schedule, and therefore on service quality and associated cost.

Such transparency in building operations favours multiple stakeholders, and O&M leaders most of all; giving them real-time access to vital information - such as asset health, vendor accountability budget versus cost analysis, a single record of information, resource utilization, and overall gaps in operations - paving the way for fundamentally improving property operations.

Centralized and connected operations are another key area that will take portfolio scale efficiency gains to the next level. For instance, if a CRE business has procured 10 different applications, this constitutes a huge investment. By contextually integrating these functionalities onto a common centralized platform, the value unlocked becomes exponentially greater. So, such a centralized Command Center

allows businesses to optimize resources, operate with greater flexibility, and identify innovation gaps, through a single-window and granular real-time view, of their operations.

Benefits of a data-driven approach to customers Putting it simply, a data-driven approach is just the smarter and more cost-efficient way to operate properties. And this is measurably apparent across the entire spectrum of metrics and business outcomes. Our customers have reported workforce productivity improvements of up to 15 percent; a reduction in complaint escalations of

up to 90 to 95 percent; and an up to 50 percent reduction in asset downtime.

The reliance on a modern O&M solution for decision-making has increased significantly in recent years. And considering a major chunk of building life cycle costs can be attributed to workflows around maintenance, approvals, service requests, and occupant experience, this is not in the least bit surprising. The consensus around adopting integrated, data-driven O&M software has now crossed the tipping point within the industry; and the impact on operational bottom lines, asset performance, and end-user experiences, will be profound.

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CBNME

FIT OUT

Proportion,

scale,

& harmony

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PROPORTION, SCALE & HARMONY

Ross Trivet, general manager, Khansaheb Interiors

Fergal Reilly, project manager, Khansaheb Interiors

Leading fit-out specialist Khansaheb Interiors delivered Vox Cinemas at City Centre Al Zahia Mall in Sharjah. Know more about the fit-out journey to this project from start to finish.

In conversation with Ross Trivet, general manager and Fergal Reilly, project manager at Khansaheb Interiors, as they discussed the VOX Cinemas project at length:

Images courtesy of Khansaheb

COULD YOU TELL US MORE ABOUT THE VOX CINEMAS PROJECT FROM FIT-OUT POINT OF VIEW? The project is the fit-out of a shell and core cinema complex totalling approx. 5400sqm split across 3 levels within the new City Centre Al Zahia Mall in Sharjah (largest mall in the Northern Emirates). It compromises 16 auditoriums including two MAX screens and three GOLD screens. It also includes foyer and concourse areas, public toilets, back of house areas, three kitchens and two F&B outlets.

EXPLAIN THE SCOPE OF WORK? Scope of work compromises of all screeding and waterproofing, acoustic gypsum partitions and fire-lids, all floor, wall and ceiling finishes, fixed joinery counters, cabinets, servery counters and balustrades, marble and tiling works and decorative metals and mirrors. Works also considered all electromechanical fit-out works with approx. 14000sqm of AC ducting and HVAC services to be installed.

WHAT ARE THE DESIGN PRINCIPLES YOU FOLLOW FOR A CINEMA/MULTIPLEX? Proportion, scale, and harmony are key principles to achieve. The project was self-delivered by all of Khansaheb’s specialist divisions (MEP, Joinery, Metals and Interiors) allowing greater collaboration and maintenance of these principles.

WHAT ABOUT SAFETY CONSIDERATIONS? By their nature, auditoriums are usually quite large with ‘working at height’ a key safety consideration for the team. Appropriate management of material procurement and men working safely during summer working hours in mass acoustic boxes was a highly important safety consideration for the project team. As the mall was also a live construction site, the delivery of our materials to site through a constantly evolving environment was an element of work which required careful appreciation and forward planning identifying all possible risks to materials, existing works and our people. >>>

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FIT OUT

"VOX Cinemas City Centre Al Zahia exceeded expectations with regard to quality

of finish and ease of mobilisation

for the Client’s Operations team."

WHAT WAS THE MOST CHALLENGING PART OF THIS PROJECT? The key challenge was maintaining concurrent progress for both ID and MEP works considering the vast amount of birdcage scaffolding on site, also ensuring as much works were completed to negate the need to reerect scaffold at a later date. Building the team mindset that individual trades should not be looking to revisit works and areas post-handover ensured continuity of work fronts and ensured progress was maintained and aligned with client and programme expectations.

HOW IMPORTANT IS THE CLIENT’S FEEDBACK FOR YOU? The VOX Cinemas team and Majid Al Futtaim have a very clear vision of what their guests require from the endproduct. Their involvement throughout the design and delivery stage was essential to ensure the project completion was achieved. Khansaheb believe that the satisfaction of the end user is a gauge for how successfully a project has been delivered– and VOX Cinemas City Centre Al Zahia exceeded expectations with regard to quality of finish and ease of mobilisation for the Client’s Operations team.

HOW DIFFERENT WAS THIS PROJECT COMPARED TO PREVIOUS PROJECTS THAT YOU LED? Extremely challenging given the immense amount of technical coordination to be undertaken and the quantity of material to be installed. It requires strong site management and progressive scheduling of different trades to allow continuity of works in all areas.

HAVE YOU GOT ANY UPCOMING PROJECTS IN THE PIPELINE THAT YOU’RE ABLE TO SHARE WITH US? Some of the significant projects we are working on are Dubai Mall lower ground floor enhancement and atria upgrade and fit out works at One Zaabeel Link bridge – the largest cantilever link bridge in the world.

WHAT WOULD YOU SAY ARE THE DEFINING PHILOSOPHIES OF KHANSAHEB? We are a family business with family values. Our guiding principles are: First and foremost, delivering an excellent service for our customers, looking after our people which means keeping them safe, investing in training and development and enabling and encouraging our employees to have a long and happy career with Khansaheb.

Looking after our suppliers and sub-contractors is also very important to us. We try and ensure that they are treated fairly. We provide a professional service and aim to be fair and reasonable and easy to do business with. And at all times, in everything we do, we aim to live our values.

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SERVICE DELIVERED WITH PASSION

Deyaar Facilities Management is a company built on excellence and for over 15 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.

Our services are available across all seven Emirates

For queries please call 800 DEYAAR ( 339227 ) www.deyaarfm.com

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WORLD IMPACT

MAKING AN

IMPACT 46 | CONSTRUCTION BUSINESS NEWS ME | AUGUST 2021

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MAKING AN IMPACT | ABU DHABI FUND FOR DEVELOPMENT

Since its establishment in 1971, Abu Dhabi Fund for Development (ADFD) has been playing a leading role in translating into reality the UAE’s vision to strengthen the economies of developing countries, as well as supporting the national economy and enhancing its competitiveness at the global level

O

ver the past 50 years, the Fund has financed thousands of strategic projects in 97 countries, creating major social and economic impacts. The volume of ADFD’s financing and investments doubled to reach about AED150 billion.

SUPPORT AND DEVELOP THE NATIONAL ECONOMY Supporting the national economy and enhancing its competitiveness constituted a strategic objective for ADFD within the framework of the UAE’s pioneering policy of economic diversification. Over the past years, the Fund has launched initiatives and developed new tools that contributed to the growth of the national economy. This was done by

enhancing the role of the private sector as an effective strategic partner in the development process. One of the main tools adopted by the Fund within its policy to support the national economy, is to expand the scope of work of national companies by enabling them to implement and develop projects in ADFD beneficiary countries receiving financing all around the world.

ADFD launched the Abu Dhabi Exports Office (ADEX), to support national companies and build a diversified and sustainable economy by providing financing solutions and guarantees to importers of Emirati products and services. This has contributed to increasing national export rates and opening new markets for them. The establishment of ADEX falls in line with many ambitious initiatives and plans, such as the UAE Vision >>>

CONSTRUCTION BUSINESS NEWS ME | AUGUST 2021 | 47

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WORLD IMPACT

“TODAY, WE CELEBRATE THE HISTORICAL DECISION ISSUED BY THE LATE SHEIKH ZAYED BIN SULTAN AL NAHYAN, TO ESTABLISH THE ABU DHABI FUND FOR DEVELOPMENT. THROUGHOUT ITS NOTABLE HISTORY, ADFD HAS ACHIEVED KEY MILESTONES AND IS PREPARING FOR THE NEXT 50 YEARS WITH AN AMBITIOUS STRATEGY TO SUPPORT THE UAE’S ROLE IN ACHIEVING SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT LOCALLY AND GLOBALLY.” 2021, the Abu Dhabi Economic Vision 2030, and the UAE Centennial 2071, aiming to develop the national economy and achieve the policy of economic diversification.

climate change. Additionally, the Fund contributed to financing two initiatives to support energy projects in the 27 Pacific and Caribbean countries, with a total value of US$100 million.

PROMOTE RENEWABLE ENERGY SOLUTIONS To support the UAE’s policy aimed at promoting the adoption of clean energy at the global level and accelerating the pace of transition towards renewable energy, ADFD launched a global initiative to support renewable energy projects in cooperation with the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), valued at US$350 million. The initiative enabled developing countries to use renewable energy technologies, which lead to the reduction of greenhouse gases and harmful carbon emissions causing

MITIGATE THE IMPACT OF COVID-19 ADFD launched several initiatives to mitigate the impact of the pandemic on the economic activities in the UAE and developing countries. At the national level, an AED1 billion initiative was launched to support national companies operating in vital sectors that are mostly affected by the repercussions of the pandemic. Target sectors include health care, food security and industry. Globally, the Fund contributed to the pledge of the Arab Coordination Group to allocate US$10 billion to help develop-

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ing countries recover from the economic stagnation caused by the pandemic.

ADFD also launched a pioneering initiative that allowed the postponement of debt repayments by developing countries benefiting from the Fund’s loans during the year 2020. The initiative is in line with the position of the UAE government in support of the G20 resolution. It aimed at suspending debt payments owed by developing countries to help them meet their development needs, alleviating debt burdens and enabling them to address the effects of the pandemic without financial pressure.

HISTORICAL DECISION His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Presidential Affairs, and Chairman of the Board of Directors of ADFD, said: “Today, we celebrate the historical decision issued by the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, to establish the Abu Dhabi Fund for Development. Throughout its notable history, ADFD has achieved key milestones and is preparing for the next 50 years with an ambitious strategy to support the UAE’s role in achieving sustainable development locally and globally.”

HH Sheikh Mansour, added: “Under the leadership of Highness Sheikh Khalifa

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MAKING AN IMPACT | ABU DHABI FUND FOR DEVELOPMENT

bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, and the continuous follow-up of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, the Fund has become one of the most prominent development institutions in the world, and a key contributor to building the economies of developing countries, all the while positively supporting people’s lives.”

HH Sheikh Mansour commended ADFD’s management and employees on the golden jubilee of its establishment and thanked them for their outstanding efforts in reflecting the image of the UAE and consolidating its prestigious position in the international community. Concluding, HH Sheikh Mansour noted that the Fund contributed to the UAE’s global position as the first and largest donor for development aid, a source of pride for every Emirati.

BROAD PROSPECTS FOR COOPERATION His Highness Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, praised ADFD’s role in supporting and strengthening the UAE’s relations with many countries that created solid prospects for socioeconomic development across the world.

“Economic and social growth is a title for the development of countries and the progress and prosperity of their people. Over the course of five decades, we in the UAE have created a unique model for development, leadership and excellence that helped us achieve top rankings in global competitiveness and human development indexes,” he said.

HH Sheikh Abdullah, added that ADFD plays an important role in stimulating the economic growth of the UAE

and enhancing the ability and competitiveness of national companies and exports to access global markets. HH Sheikh Abdullah pointed out that looking to the future confirms our keenness to reach new horizons based on the ability of our national institutions to keep pace with developments and face challenges by applying international best practices to build a competitive economy based on knowledge and innovation.

STRATEGIC ECONOMIC PARTNERSHIPS Over the past 50 years, the Fund established crucial partnerships with regional and global financial institutions that enabled it to smoothly carry out its mission. These partnerships have also strengthened its position as a development institution and enabled it to achieve its economic objectives locally and globally. There is little wonder that UAE ranked first in the world for five consecutive years as an international donor of development aid, according to the Development Assistance Committee of the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD).

STRATEGIC PROJECTS The Fund works to strengthen partnership with the governments of developing countries to finance strategic development projects in vital sectors. It also manages and implements these projects in cooperation with the governments of the beneficiary countries to ensure their implementation in accordance with the plans set for them.

The Fund’s projects focus on major sectors that directly contribute to achieving sustainable development. They include education, housing, water and electricity, agriculture, transport, industry and renewable energy.

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CBNME

LANDMARK

STATE OF THE ART

LUXURY LIFESTYLE: TOP REASONS WHY ONE AT PALM JUMEIRAH WILL BE THE ONLY DESTINATION TO CALL HOME

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STATE OF THE ART | THE ONLY DESTINATION TO CALL HOME

A

s leaders in luxury lifestyle offerings, OMNIYAT is always at the forefront of high standard living.

Excelling its own reputation with the latest address of fully serviced luxury lifestyle experiences, One at Palm Jumeirah, Dorchester Collection, Dubai, is an embodiment of the highest standards of both design and service. The project presents stunning beachfront living, situated on one of Dubai’s most iconic landmarks and managed by world-renowned hospitality brand, Dorchester Collection. Brought to the region

by OMNIYAT, it is the first and only developer to offer such a heightened experience.

OMNIYAT presents five reasons why One at Palm Jumeirah, Dorchester Collection, Dubai, is the most iconic residential address to open in Dubai this year.

in the business suite, or break a sweat at the state of the art gym. To top off the luxury experience, the building has a private jetty that provides direct access to the property by boat or yacht, allowing you to be ferried across the Arabian Gulf.

HOMES MADE IN OPULENCE For seekers of opulence and the detail-orientated, One at Palm Jumeirah, Dorchester Collection, Dubai, is a luxury home made to last. Every detail has been designed by the world’s most passionate and talented pioneers in the field, from architecture to interiors. A beautiful contrast of colours, textures and design, the project’s arresting layout complements its minimalistic interior. Each residence is carefully designed to maintain >>>

EMBODYING THE EXTRAVAGANCE OF PALM JUMEIRAH Globally renowned and first of its kind, Palm Jumeirah is an iconic landmark that is instantly recogisable across the aerial view of Dubai. Glistening against the blue waters of the city, One at Palm Jumeirah, Dorchester Collection, Dubai, reflects both the beauty of its home and the lavish lifestyle of its namesake. The project overlooks the magnificent Dubai skyline and tantalising stretch of Palm Jumeirah, offering an enviable location coveted by luxury seekers worldwide. The project stands out in a collection of Dubai’s most luxurious resorts that call Palm Jumeirah their home.

MANAGED BY THE HALLMARKS OF BESPOKE SERVICE: DORCHESTER COLLECTION Dorchester Collection is the epitome of luxury, known for refined elegance and the highest level of bespoke services.

Leaders in luxury hospitality welcome One at Palm Jumeirah, Dorchester Collection, Dubai, to the first residential address managed by Dorchester Collection in the region. Demonstrating the meticulously tailored service of the brand, the project offers an ultra-premium offering for residents. Exclusive penthouses include a personal lobby and corridor, with no neighbours at all, for absolute privacy.

ENJOY UNPARALLELED AMENITIES AND FACILITIES With endless amenities available at your fingertips, One at Palm Jumeirah, Dorchester Collection, Dubai, is the number one destination for unfiltered luxury. Unwind at the in-house spa, complete with invigorating vitality pools and private treatment rooms. Dip into the refreshing 25meter/82ft temperaturecontrolled indoor vitality pool, as it seamlessly connects to the outdoor landscape, via visible full-height, operable glass doors.

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LANDMARK

RENOWNED FOR ITS ARCHITECTURE, THE DEVELOPMENT IS COMPLETELY UNIQUE IN DESIGN. OUTSTANDING TO LOOK AT, THE PROPERTY DEMANDS ATTENTION AND TRULY STANDS OUT AMONGST ITS NEIGHBOURS ON PALM JUMEIRAH. INTENDED TO MAXIMIZE SEA VIEWS, THE PROJECT IS ENTIRELY DESIGNED WITH THE GUEST AND RESIDENT’S EXPERIENCE IN MIND. ultimate privacy and optimum views of stunning scenery. Generously spacious throughout, from the residences and the exquisite public areas to the imposing lobby, One at Palm Jumeirah embraces the line where comfort meets luxury.

STRIKING ARCHITECTURE UNLIKE ANY OTHER Renowned for its architecture, the development is completely unique in design. Outstanding to look at, the property demands attention and truly stands out amongst its neighbours on Palm Jumeirah. Intended to maximize sea views, the project is entirely designed with the guest and resident’s experience in mind. The design also allows space for each apartment to share its lobby with up to only 1 neighbour, delivering only unmatched privacy that is now known to be expected of OMNIYAT. Absolutely unparalleled, One at Palm Jumeirah, Dorchester Collection, Dubai, is unarguably the only destination to call home. Highly anticipated, keep your eyes peeled for the opening very soon.

illustrious designs, and sheer luxurious living spaces.

The project’s every detail was conceptualized by a group of passionate pioneers in the field. Acclaimed New York-based architectural firm SOMA Architects, avant-garde Japanese interior designer Super Potato, internationally renowned studio Elicyon and landscape artist Vladimir Djurovic came together to create a masterpiece in the world of architecture and design, breaking barriers and new grounds along the way.

At the heart of One at Palm Jumeirah lies a beautiful contrast of textures, colors and designs. The project’s staggering layout perfectly complements its minimalistic interior. The backdrop of the development is equally surreal, with views overlooking the sparkling Dubai skyline and the Arabian Gulf.

Managed by iconic hospitality company Dorchester Collection, One at Palm Jumeirah residences offer a luxurious lifestyle experience like no other.

ONE AT PALM JUMEIRAH BY OMNIYAT Located on one of the world’s most astonishing landmarks, One at Palm Jumeirah embodies modern-day architecture at its finest. Reflecting the beauty of the manmade island it calls home, One at Palm Jumeirah perfectly captures the essence of Dubai beachfront living through state-of-the-art facilities, 52 | CONSTRUCTION BUSINESS NEWS ME | AUGUST 2021

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800 ADEEB

Hard Services & Soft Services

Facilities Management

ELV & Specialized Systems

IT Systems

Abu Dhabi | Dubai | Al Ain | Mussafah | Ajman | Western Region

MEP Contracting

FLS Systems

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OP-ED

LEADERSHIP & INNOVATION Alastair Mulligan joined Tabreed, the largest district cooling service provider in the GCC, 12 years ago. Today he’s the managing director of Tabreed Energy Services and he talks with Construction Business News ME about leadership and innovation – two of the most important foundations of any successful company. b y A L A S TA I R M U L L I G A N , MANAGING DIRECTOR OF TA B R E E D E N E R G Y S E R V I C E S

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LEADERSHIP AND INNOVATION | ALASTAIR MULLIGAN JOINED TABREED

W

hen Tabreed was established in 1998, it really was heading into uncharted territory as the first business of its kind anywhere in the UAE. The undisputed leader in its field, the company has expanded almost beyond recognition since taking those initial steps and commissioning its first district cooling plant in Sweihan, Abu Dhabi.

Now we own and operate 86 plants across the GCC, providing essential cooling to many of the region’s most famous, iconic and popular landmarks. If you’ve recently visited the Burj Khalifa, The Dubai Mall, the Dubai Opera or travelled on the Dubai Metro, you will have been kept cool by Tabreed. The same goes for Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Yas Mall, Ferrari World, Warner Bros. World, Louvre Abu Dhabi and many more incredible developments that have captured the hearts and minds of people all around the world.

As with the UAE in general, Tabreed’s incredible progress would not have been possible without having inspirational leadership and innovation as central pillars for the company. We have been fortunate to have benefitted from impeccable leadership by our board, CEOs and management team that have steered us in the right direction, resulting in Tabreed itself becoming a beacon of quality and an industry leader like few others.

Predictably, since Tabreed was established, rival companies have come along, so we have never been able to stand still.

We seize upon opportunities to expand our portfolio and, while growing our presence in the UAE, have expanded into new countries – initially Bahrain, before commencing operations in Oman and

“We have been fortunate to have benefitted from impeccable leadership by our board, CEOs and management team that have steered us in the right direction.”

Saudi Arabia, and recently we opened an office in India.

As Tabreed has grown, so too have its services. I head up its wholly owned subsidiary, Tabreed Energy Services, established in January 2020 to consolidate the group’s service businesses to provide customers with an integrated set of consultancy, operations and maintenance services, that will help them optimise the energy efficiency of their buildings and developments.

We enable building owners, both government and private sector, to access Tabreed’s deep expertise in optimising energy efficiency and in particular cooling systems, which are the largest driver of energy use in this region. Energy consumption is obviously a contentious subject all around the world, the accepted wisdom being ‘the lower, the better’ and this brings about a unique set of challenges in this part of the world.

The UAE is one of the world’s most difficult countries to cool, experiencing not only high ambient temperatures but high levels of humidity, too. Innovation, then, has been essential for Tabreed to do what it does effectively, efficiently and reliably, while maintaining commercial viability with a laser-like focus on environmental sustainability. In this respect, district cooling as a concept can be considered innovative, as it has meant that property developers can use the services of a centralised cooling plant, obtaining the benefits achieved through economies of scale which include reduced redundancy and power requirements within the development itself that traditional air conditioning schemes demand. >>>

CONSTRUCTION BUSINESS NEWS ME | AUGUST 2021 | 55

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OP-ED

TABREED’S EXPERTISE IN ENERGY EFFICIENCY IS UNRIVALLED, BRINGING HUGE COST BENEFITS TO PROPERTY OWNERS AND DEVELOPERS, AS WELL AS TO THE ENVIRONMENT, BECAUSE REDUCED ENERGY CONSUMPTION EQUALS REDUCED CO2 EMISSIONS.

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Tabreed’s expertise in energy efficiency is unrivalled, bringing huge cost benefits to property owners and developers, as well as to the environment, because reduced energy consumption equals reduced CO2 emissions. In fact, during 2020, Tabreed’s operations saved over 2.26 billion kilowatt/hours across the GCC – enough to power 128,443 homes every year – and prevented the release of more than 1.35 million metric tons of CO2 into the atmosphere, equivalent to removing approximately 300,000 vehicles from the road.

These savings are the result of Tabreed’s strategic collaborations with developers and the ways in which we have adapted the designs of cooling plants to this region’s specific characteristics. Each plant is designed according to customer needs, both present and potential, and the environment it is to be cited within. For instance, some of our plants supply coastal locations and, where we’ve been able, we’ve designed them to use sea water for cooling without negatively impacting marine ecosystems. To meet remote area cooling requirements, where grid power

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LEADERSHIP AND INNOVATION | ALASTAIR MULLIGAN JOINED TABREED

was not readily available, we have also integrated efficient electricity production into our plants to facilitate our customers’ requirements, along with the development of water polishing plants to utilise recycled water.

We have completely changed the commercial structure of cooling and energy services, which has brought enormous benefits, too. For instance, independent studies have proved that Tabreed reduces energy consumption by between 19 and 23% by giving customers the ability to sub-meter the cooling services in their buildings – another homegrown innovation.

As a resilient, agile organisation, we analyse each and every step of every single operation with the goal of maximising efficiency.

Through Tabreed Energy Services, we have formalised additional service offerings to our customers – lowering energy bills, increasing cooling comfort and allowing the outsourcing of HVAC operations, maintenance, and upgrade investments. Some of these service offerings include plate heat exchanger cleaning to optimise heat transfer and local ‘cooling as a service’ where Tabreed can own, operate and maintain traditional cooling facilities allowing customers to monetise or replace their cooling systems.

This provides many of the benefits of the outsourced cooling model that district cooling provides but for typically smaller facilities located on or within a building owner’s premises.

Any company that professes to be innovative must invest in R&D and, as you might expect, Tabreed

has some really inspiring projects underway. We recently announced the launch of four pilot projects to improve operational efficiency while enhancing district cooling plant life and reliability. ‘Future of Cooling’ will introduce new concepts and technologies in design and control philosophy to each district cooling plant, resulting in material improvements in performance, longer life and lower plant lifecycle costs.

‘Carbon NanoTube’ (CNT) is another, with the potential to drastically enhance the performance and life span of plant and equipment while reducing plant and energy transfer station (ETS) footprints using CNT material, which has outstanding properties in terms of heat transfer.

Then there’s ‘Wet Bulb Forecasting’, designed to drastically enhance demand side management, more ac-

‘Future of Cooling’ will introduce new concepts and technologies in design and control philosophy to each district cooling plant, resulting in material improvements in performance, longer life and lower plant lifecycle costs. curately forecasting customer demand for the next 24 hours to allow for a more efficient operation by optimising production of cooling. The fourth involves redesigning the district cooling plant’s condenser circuit and cooling tower, which is one of the critical components in the plant and has a significant impact on the plant’s performance.

As a respected leader and innovator, Tabreed is acknowledged to play a vital role in assisting the UAE’s and the region’s ambitious environmental targets, particularly regarding carbon neutrality. We are, and will remain, heavily involved in the drive for a sustainable future and that’s good news for everyone, everywhere.

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MACHINERY

WORKING

IN ENCLOSED SPACES

HOW MB CRUSHER’S EQUIPMENT CAN LEND A HAND ON CONSTRUCTION SITES IN ENCLOSED SPACES

I

t’s well-known how that working in enclosed spaces multiples problems: it means facing challenges every day such as lack of access routes, little room to maneuver, managing incoming and outgoing trucks, managing materials, and protecting workers. As a result of the challenges, time and the costs of labor increase, which puts companies in a difficult position. However, there are available solutions: knowing what they are means opening your eyes to a new way of managing tasks with excellent results and turning expenses into a revenue source.

HARD TO ACCESS AREAS AND LIMITED MANEUVERING ROOM IS NO LONGER A PROBLEM The most common challenges on construction sites in enclosed environments are hard to access and have limited maneuvering spaces. In quarries, tunnels, mines, and construction sites inside factories or warehouses, managing incoming and outgoing materials are complex. MB Crusher’s attachments have revolutionized the approach: they enter

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the tightest places and manage materials directly on site. The results are obvious: reduced waste, zero transportation costs, and increasing the yard’s profitability.

MB Crusher’s entire range is designed to work even where space is limited because each product attaches to any brand excavator, even mini-excavators, turning them into a powerful crusher.

MB Crusher’s drum cutters make it even easier to work in enclosed spaces. Making it the most effective solution to process only the material they needed with precision. Companies equipped with MB Crusher’s units can independently recover and process waste materials, reduce costs, and become more competitive.

EXTRACTING MATERIALS WITHOUT EXPLOSIVES Another critical point of working in enclosed spaces such as quarries and mines is managing the explosives and the workers’ safety. In these situations, MB Crusher’s units have changed methods and how profitable companies are.

For example, in a mine in Albania, extracting iron-nickel happened using

explosives, which comes with the costs of the explosives and the safety measures. None of the operators were aware of an equally effective alternative method. By inserting MB Crusher’s units, they abandoned using explosives, and extraction happens with the MB-R700 drum cutter installed on an 18,000 pound Bobcat 442. A drastic change for the company and also the entire sector.

The same attachment has been used in many quarries and mines, solving the problems surrounding using explosives for extraction.

Furthermore, MB Crusher’s drum cutters are the most effective answer to mill only the necessary material without generating waste material that they need to dispose of. They also avoid creating dangerous vibrations if they work underneath roads, excavations located in cities, or inside industrial warehouses close to other buildings.

In Mexico, as a recent example, for them to build a drainage tunnel underneath a busy road, they couldn’t use a hammer since it would have created too many vibrations. However, an MB Crusher MB-R500 drum cutter installed on a mini-excavator solved the job without creating vibrations or cracks in the walls – they only processed the material they needed.

IMMEDIATE OPERATIONAL AND ECONOMIC BENEFITS The units from MB Crusher’s range present a turning point for organizations working in enclosed spaces to become faster and economically advantageous.

Let’s look at an example of a job in South Tyrol in Italy, where an industrial warehouse’s floor had to be dismantled and redone. By inserting a BF120.4 crusher bucket on the Doosan excavator present on site, all of the inert material was crushed on-site and used to create the new layer for the new flooring.

Easy to install and operate, MB Crusher’s attachments transform any material into a resource, even enclosed environments or on construction sites that are hard to access. With their products, MB Crusher has revolutionized the process and turned construction sites into autonomous crushing centers that yield excellent performance and increase profitability.

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CBNME

REPORT

“54 PERCENT MORE APARTMENTS WERE SOLD IN H1 2021 COMPARED TO H2 2020 AND 49 PERCENT MORE VILLA/TOWNHOUSES. THE INCREASE WAS IN BOTH SEGMENTS, AND THE GROWTH OF THE ENTIRE RESIDENTIAL MARKET BY APPROXIMATELY 50 PERCENT.”

REAL ESTATE BOOST

H1 2021 HAD 27,373 SALES TRANSACTIONS WORTH AED 61.97 BILLION

A

fter record breaking monthon-month transactions and quarterly results for the Dubai property market, we took a look at the entire first six months of 2021. As expected, when comparing H1 2021 to H2 2020, the increase in numbers in the residential sector was across the board.

High sales transaction volumes from January to June 2021 accounted for a great first half of 2021 with a total of 27,373 transactions worth AED 61.97 billion (USD 16.89 billion). When comparing this to H2 2020, the volume of transactions increased by 40.2 percent and the value of transactions increased by 55.87 percent.

If we take a deeper dive into the data, in H1 2021 the Dubai real estate market had 17,434 secondary/ready transactions worth AED 46.88 billion and 9,939 off-plan transactions worth AED 15.09 billion. When compared to H2 2020, secondary/ready transactions increased by 44 percent and the value of secondary/ ready transactions increased by 56.28 percent. Off-plan transactions showed a slightly lesser increase when compared to the previous half year with an increase of 34.02 percent for volume of transactions and an increase of 54.61 percent in value of transactions.

Average transaction values for both secondary/ready and off-plan properties have also increased, showing an increase

60 | CONSTRUCTION BUSINESS NEWS ME | AUGUST 2021

in the average price per transaction. The average transaction price for secondary/ ready properties increased from AED 2.48 million in H2 2020 to AED 2.69 million in H1 2021. The average transaction price for off-plan properties increased from AED 1.32 million in H2 2020 to AED 1.52 million in H1 2021.

This shows an increase of 8.53 percent for secondary/ready properties and an increase of 15.36 percent for off-plan properties.

“54 percent more apartments were sold in H1 2021 compared to H2 2020 and 49 percent more villa/townhouses. The increase was in both segments, and the growth of the entire residential market by approximately 50 percent.” according to Lynnette A Sacchetto, Director of Research & Data.

According to proprietary Property Finder demand data, the top areas of transactions for villas/townhouses in H1 2021 were Mohammed bin Rashid City, Dubai Hills Estate, Dubai Land, Nadd al Sheba and the Green Community. As for apartments for the same period, the top areas of sales were Business Bay, Jumeirah Village Circle, Dubai Marina, Jumeirah Lakes Towers and Downtown Dubai.

Property Finder demand data also shows that sea view, upgraded, furnished, payment plan and pool were the top keywords used by people searching for properties across Dubai in H1 2021.

“This clearly shows a desire for quality amenities as people now care more about how they live and spend their money,” adds Sacchetto.

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