Construction Business News ME April 2019

April 2019

Preferred Bank Partner

THE DEFINITIVE GUIDE TO THE REGION'S CONSTRUCTION PROFESSIONALS

Bauma Preview Daimler Trucks to be Showcased at Bauma 2019

Top MEP

Contractors P64 - This month's unsung hero is Olga Rowley of Cundall

CEO Wissam Younane wissam@bncpublishing.net Director

// contents April 2019 // Issue #50

Rabih Najm rabih@bncpublishing.net Group Publishing Director Joaquim D'Costa jo@bncpublishing.net +971 50 440 2706

8 Ed Note 14 NEWS

Latest updates from around the region

22 Interview 26 Cover Story

MEP companies give us a brief background on what they do and give us an update on the latest projects they are working on.

32 Trucks

Ford Trucks MEA, about their truck operation in the Middle East and about their latest award winning the truck the F-Max

36 FIT OUT FEATURE

We put together a list featuring the leading fit-out firms in the region based on their projects, accomplishments, and future plans

56 BAUMA

Daimler will be present at the 2019 Bauma expo under the slogan "Trucks@Work"

60 UNSUNG HEROES CUNDALL – OLGA ROWLEY

62 EVENTS www.cbnme.com

Sales Manager Vishvanath Shetty vish@bncpublishing.net +971 52 119 3077

Business Development Director Rabih Naderi rabih.naderi@bncpublishing.net +966 50 328 9818

Deputy Editor Kasun Illankoon kasun@bncpublishing.net Art Director Aaron Sutton aaron@bncpublishing.net Photography Dhananjay Shekar Poojari

SUBSCRIBE subscriptions@bncpublishing.net PO Box 502511 Dubai, United Arab Emirates P +971 4 4200 506 | F +971 4 4200 196 For all commercial enquiries related to Construction Business News ME contact sales@bncpublishing.net T +971 50 440 2706 All rights reserved Š 2015.

Opinions expressed are solely those of the contributors.

Construction Business News ME and all subsidiary publications in the MENA region are officially licensed exclusively to BNC Publishing in the MENA region by Construction Business News ME. No part of this magazine may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means without written permission of the publisher.

Images used in Construction Business News ME are credited when necessary. Attributed use of copyrighted images with permission. All images not credited courtesy Shutterstock.

Printed by UPP

construction business news me // April 2019 //

3

Own Your Dream Home In Dubai & Move In Today

Aed 80,000* 30 months

50% DLD

1,2,3,4

Post-Handover Payment Plan

Fee Waiver

Bedroom Apartment

MOTOR CITY

Call: 800 UPSALE | up.ae www.cbnme.com

*Terms and conditions apply

Simplify your business with Business Mobile Plan.

• National and international minutes • Free calls within the company • Devices with zero upfront

Visit du.ae/bmp

Business

// Editor's note

editor’s note

Market Expectations

Just a quick update on latest trends in the construction industry. Leading international real estate and construction consultancy Drees & Sommer has released the findings of the first in a series of studies addressing the issues impacting the construction industry.

The four key findings of the discussion included the importance of bringing representatives from across the industry into the early planning stages to maximise efficiency; the need for sustainability; the ease of tech use; and cost implications.

It was identified there is a desire by developers and investors to implement new technologies into their buildings, however, many are reluctant first, due to concerns related to maintenance of the smart systems throughout the service life of the building and second, the possibility of them becoming obsolete.

It was also outlined that developers can

no longer rely solely on a brand name on the quality of products and that Dubai tenants in future will be looking for added value, including savings on energy consumption that contribute to more sustainable living or operating a business.

In another report presented by Pinsent Masons, Companies in the GCC’s construction sector are expecting to receive more orders this year compared to 2018 – according to Pinsent Mason’s GCC Construction Survey. The survey reveals that 58 per cent of respondents have experienced an increase in their order books so far in 2019.

According to the annual survey, KSA is the number one market expected to deliver growth in 2019, with 55 per cent of respondents expecting the country to provide the most opportunity over the next 12 months, compared to 29 per cent in 2018.

On the web Keep up to date with all the latest news, features and much more on our website. www.cbnme.com

8

// construction business news me // April 2019

Kasun Illankoon Deputy Editor kasun@bncpublishing.net

Rely on our expertise to build your success When building a business, you need a partner that is equally

committed to your success. With more than 30 years of project financing experience, National Bank of Fujairah has played an

ongoing role in this industry, earning the trust of the construction community. Our experienced and dedicated team works with leading contractors in the UAE, offering tailored solutions across the board.

Talk to us and find out how we can build a successful partnership to support your business.

CONTRACTING FINANCE

CORPORATE AND INSTITUTIONAL BANKING

Call 8008NBF(623) to start our partnership nbf.ae

COVER THE CITY

Unlocking the Power of Digital Signage Advertising

WITH YOUR ADS

Visit www.lifeonscreen.com

// Update An update from around the region

For News, features and more, Visit www.CBNme.com Follow us on twitter for breaking news: @cbn_ME Follow us on Facebook for up-to-the-minute breaking news

Machinery

Raimondi Cranes to showcase three cranes onsite at Bauma 2019 Raimondi Cranes SpA, heritage manufacturer of precision heavy lifting machinery for more than 150 years, will showcase three cranes onsite at Bauma 2019. The cranes will be erected at the Raimondi Cranes (Raimondi) exhibit situated at FS 1102/2 in the event’s outdoor area at the Messe München Trade Fair Center. Raimondi’s full senior management team, together with its full official agent roster, will be welcoming visitors onsite for the duration of the event from April 8-14, 2019.

The first of the three cranes to be erected at Bauma, Raimondi’s first-ever luffing hydraulic LRH174 launched in 2018, will be positioned alongside the company’s two newest models across its luffing and flattop product ranges. The LRH174, a 10 tonne hydraulic luffer, has a tip load of 2,225 kg in Ultra-lift mode with two falls. The crane can also be utilized in one fall, which allows for a maximum capacity of 5 tonnes and a tip load of 2,476 kg.

“We are pleased to present the LRH174 at Bauma this year. While there are several LRH174s currently at work in both England and in Australia, we haven’t yet had the opportunity to properly acquaint our global customers with Raimondi’s premier hydraulic luffer,” said Eng. Mauro Masetti, Chief Com14

mercial Officer, Raimondi Cranes, remarking on the company’s decision to erect the crane onsite.

“We felt that showing this product, with its reduced out of service radius of only 10 meters, was the ideal complement to our two newest products in the lineup never before shown to the public.”

Masetti further elaborated that a traditional luffer requires minimum double the radius of the LRH174’s 10 meter out of service radius, one of the crane’s most attractive features.

Raimondi Chief Operations Officer, Eng. Domenico Ciano, added that the LRH174 boasts much easier installation – similar to that of flattop tower cranes – due to the lack of A-frame and tie

// construction business news me // April 2019

rods used in traditional luffers. “The jib is assembled at ground level in only one lift, so that the assembled jib and hoisting winch may be raised. Preparation of the jib, hoisting winch and rope reeving are all completed at ground level reducing work at height requirements, while the hydraulic system provides end users with smooth and speedy luffing movement,” he said, highlighting some of the product’s key benefits.

“We have impressive numbers to share for the LRH174: raising the jib to 85 degrees takes only 1.8 minutes due to the powerful hydraulic unit installed in the crane. In addition, this luffer houses the new generation Raimondi safety control system,” con-

tinued Ciano. Fully electronic with redundant sensors that allows the crane to operate at the safest possible levels, Raimondi’s safety control system capabilities exceed existing heavy lifting machinery industry standards, he explained.

“I am pleased to confirm that Raimondi will also unveil its two newest products at Bauma 2019, a luffing jib crane and a flattop tower crane. We are extremely excited to communicate about our two newest models that will be erected at our Bauma stand. We will be sharing information soon on what our visitors can expect to see in these cranes, including the technical advancements and the design engineering applied to Raimondi’s 2019 releases,” concluded Masetti.

Construction

ECC Group achieves 70% completion of Janayen Avenue & Nasayem Avenue

ECC Group has re-affirmed its position as one of the most established and diverse contracting companies in the region with significant progress on Mirdif Hills, the mixed-use project developed by Dubai Investments Real Estate Company, with 70% of construction achieved on Janayen Avenue and Nasayem Avenue, and 40% of construction achieved on Al Multaqa Avenue.

The project contract value is approximately AED 1,088,500,000 and includes the collaboration of ECC Group associated companies, including Prime Metal Industries (PMI), responsible for the supply and installation of steel and aluminium works, Abanos Fit-Out and Joinery responsible for www.cbnme.com

joinery and United Masters Electromechanical (UME) responsible for the Mechanical, Electrical and Plumbing (MEP) work.

The first phase of the Mirdif Hills project comprises three main residential clusters, Janayen Avenue, Nasayem Avenue and Al Multaqa Avenue. Mirdif Hills offers an assortment of studio, one, two and three-bedroom apartments plus three and fourbedroom duplex units, all built to the very best specifications to deliver optimal living space and wellbeing, set in landscaped grounds and equipped with ultramodern amenities. The three plots have a combined builtup area of approximately 3.3 million square feet, or

300,000 square metres.

Kareem Farah, CEO of ECC, said: “As one of the most diverse contracting companies in the United Arab Emirates, we are pleased with the progress we achieved for this landmark project on behalf of our client Dubai Investments Real Estate Company within budget and ahead of schedule; It has been a pleasure to have once again successfully partnered with ECC Group associated companies including PMI, Abanos and UME to deliver a project of the highest quality.”

Prime Metal Industries (PMI) also played a critical role in the project by designing, supplying and installing both aluminium and nonstructural steel in the three

plots. Mirdif Hills is the latest project that PMI and ECC Group have successfully collaborated on, having worked together on the recently completed Dubai World Trade Centre Car Park.

Tarek Iskandarani, General Manager of PMI, said: “Our historic partnership with ECC will once again bear fruit upon the completion of the Mirdif Hills project. We have successfully surpassed the initial deadlines laid out by both parties by delivering and installing all aluminium and steel works required ahead of schedule. As an associate company of the ECC Group we pride ourselves on unparalleled quality and deliverability at every stage of our projects.”

construction business news me // April 2019 //

15

// NEWS

Events

Saudi Arabia looking to grow regional & global portfolio through Cityscape Jeddah

Informa Exhibitions, Saudi, a newly opened country branch of Informa Exhibitions is looking to grow Saudi Arabia’s non-oil sector with its events in 2019. The expansion into KSA this year comes at a pivotal time as the country prepares for its Saudi Vision 2030 goals, a blueprint for economic diversification to usher the country into a post-oil era.

The Saudi branch will look at bringing world-class events into the Kingdom next year as well as establish their footprint in the exhibitions’ industry with their list of regional and global events. Among the events 16

billed for 2019 is the 8th edition of Cityscape Jeddah, expected to be Jeddah’s largest real estate exhibition, taking place from the 5-7 April at the Center for Forums and Events.

Part of the Cityscape portfolio, Cityscape Jeddah will bring together top local and international developers to showcase the latest real estate opportunities and unveil hundreds of new projects from across the property spectrum to investors and homebuyers, who represent over 50% of the visitors. Organisers are expecting more than 40 exhibitors and over 8,000 visi-

// construction business news me // April 2019

tors to the event next year.

Investors have remained optimistic about the real estate market following Saudi’s Vision 2030, which aims to diversify the economy away from oil. Reforms under the Vision 2030 are expected to create an attractive investment environment, especially for the real estate sector, which is predicted to double its contribution to the economy throughout the period to 2030.

“We see Saudi Arabia as a vital market for Informa’s global growth strategy and we are working on bringing several world-class events to the country. Over

the last few years, we have witnessed KSA make significant strides to attract foreign and local investment, implement various urban regeneration initiatives, and invest in infrastructure, factors that will no doubt transform the country into a global investment powerhouse.

As leaders in our field, we strongly believe that through our events we can drive investment and create a meeting point for regional and international leaders who can contribute towards Saudi Arabia’s Vision,” said Mohaned Yaman, Senior Exhibition Manager at Cityscape Jeddah.

Awards

Taqeef recognised for Best Green Building Project at Gulf Sustainability Awards 2019 Taqeef, the UAE’s leading cooling solutions provider, has won the prestigious Green Building Award at the Gulf Sustainability and CSR Awards 2019 for its Ain Al Fayda 5,000 villa VRF project.

The award was given to Taqeef for their innovative support for sustainable building solutions and their use of green design and technology in this iconic development.

The nine billion AED, 12.5 million-square metre Ain Al Fayda development forms a key part of the Emirati Family Housing Programme – a comprehensive, mixed-use, master-planned community catering to an estimated 60,000 population base. www.cbnme.com

By using Midea’s VRF technology for this ‘world-first’ project, the judges noted that Taqeef demonstrated support for sustainable growth through investment in clean energy and smart technologies as outlined in the UAE Vision 2021, The Green Growth Strategy, The Dubai Integrated Energy Strategy (DIES) 2030 and the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals.

The scope of this project – the largest VRF installation in the world – has already secured significant savings.

With 51% occupancy since January 2018, these include estimated power savings of 54,358,200 KWh, CO2 sav-

ings of 29,190,353 Kg and electricity bill savings of 21,743,280 AED. Speaking at the ceremony which took place at Jumeirah Creekside Hotel, Tariq Al Ghussein, CEO at Taqeef, commented: “We are thrilled to be recognised in this important category. This award is testament to the dedication of our team and partners in delivering innovative, large-scale cooling solutions that are designed to improve the efficiency of buildings and reduce the impact on both human health and the environment.”

He added: “While VRF wasn’t the simplest solution for this project, it was the most

sustainable, and so that made it an obvious choice to us.

Through the innovation of our product partners at Midea and that of our talented technical team, we were able to deliver a project that made a positive impact on our business, our region and our industry.

The Gulf Sustainability and CSR Awards provide recognition for companies and individuals implementing outstanding Sustainability and CSR initiatives across the region. It also acts as a vehicle for organisations and businesses to share best practice and to promote continuous improvement, learning and industry development.

construction business news me // April 2019 //

17

// NEWS

Contracts

Dubai Creek Harbour appoints ASGC to lead construction of Address Harbour Point Hotel

ASGC, one of the leading construction groups in the UAE, has been appointed as the main contractor of the Address Harbour Point project in Dubai Creek Harbour.

Located on Creek Island Dubai, the premier district where the first residents will move in this year, Address Harbour Point Hotel is also in close proximity to Creek Marina, which features yachting facilities, complete with a yacht club, three hotels, a promenade, 18

landscaped pedestrian walkways, art installations, gourmet restaurants, cafés and entertainment venues.

With the ASGC team onsite, construction works are already underway. Address Harbour Point comprises two towers, 65 and 53 stories each, which are located next to Creek Heights, a collection of luxury waterfront homes. Featuring 202 luxury rooms, it will offer a choice of 1, 2, 3 and 4-bedroom homes

// construction business news me // April 2019

and an exclusive ‘Sky Collection’ of 4- and 5-bedroom penthouses on the upper levels.

Address Harbour Point in Dubai Creek Harbour is just a short drive from Downtown Dubai and Dubai International Airport offering easy access to the city and some of its biggest global attractions.

Bishoy Azmy, CEO of ASGC, said: “We are confident that Address Harbour Point will be a signature

landmark. We will bring innovative technologies and deep sector experience to the project. We look forward to contributing to the wider Dubai Creek Harbour development and Dubai’s reputation as a global hospitality destination.”

For nearly 30 years, ASGC has been delivering turn key special projects across the UAE, employing more than 16,000 construction specialists and workers across the nation.

UNMATCHED PERFORMANCE

JLG® MID-SIZE BOOM LIFTS − GREATER CAPACITY AND LIFT SPEEDS Ramp up productivity with JLG’s midsize boom lifts. Faster lift speeds mean you’ll spend more time working, less time positioning. And the higher platform capacity and improved work envelope maximizes efficiency on the job. Get impact protection and a more modern look from the DuraTough hoods, which also allow for better serviceability.

Learn more at www.jlg.com/en-gb/destination/boom-lifts JLG Industries | JAFZA View | PO Box 262728 | LB 19, 20th Floor, Office 05 | Jebel Ali | Dubai | measales@jlg.com

// NEWS

Development

City Centre Deira’s AED 377 million redevelopment to transform visitors’ experience Majid Al Futtaim, the leading shopping mall, communities, retail and leisure pioneer across the Middle East, Africa and Asia, has embarked on an AED 377 million ($103 million) redevelopment project at its first flagship mixed-use shopping destination, City Centre Deira, to elevate the customer experience with a trendy and vibrant multiconcept food hall and new brands to suit their evolving needs and preferences.

To complement its recent expansion of entertainment and leisure options, including a larger VOX Cinemas and the opening of the Aloft Hotel last year, City Centre 20

Deira is pioneering innovative ways to engage visitors by becoming a “third place” that not only offers a social space to interact but makes them feel at home.

As part of the redevelopment project, which will end in in the first half of 2020, the mall will introduce 25 new homeware and fashion brands and 20 new F&B concepts that will take foodies on a unique culinary journey through its vibrantly designed food hall with homegrown restaurants, live cooking stations and deli counters. The mall will also enhance the shopping experience and improve access

// construction business news me // April 2019

for customers by optimising retail space, relocating some key brands for easier access, and improve mobility and the customer journey by introducing escalators to the second floor and enhancing traffic flow to the key courts of the mall.

“City Centre Deira’s transformation project is a result of our customers’ changing habits and preferences. We want to develop a communal space that extends a feelgood factor with tailored, convenient and multisensory experiences,” said Fuad Mansoor Sharaf, Managing Director for Majid Al Futtaim Properties, Shopping Malls

(UAE, Bahrain & Oman).

“As part of this change, we are very excited to be introducing the food hall concept, the first such dynamic Food Hub in the Majid Al Futtaim portfolio. We expect this space to become the focal point of social activities for families and millennials looking for an experiential dining experience that is delicious, authentic and handcrafted. Based on customer feedback, City Centre Deira is also enhancing access within the mall and reassessing its retail-mix to add the most relevant international brands for its regular shoppers,” added Sharaf.

COMMANDING POWER AND VERSATILITY

EXPLORE THE POSSIBILITIES OF OUR BACKHOE LOADERS At Bobcat, we develop loaders, excavators, telehandlers and more than 100 attachments to get your jobs done. 60 years ago, we started with our first skid-steer loader to support farmers in North Dakota with their daily jobs. Since then, we’ve developed our versatile backhoe loaders, which are designed to excel in the most demanding construction jobs BUT INSTEAD OF LOOKING BACK, WE FOCUS ON THE FUTURE. AND SO, WE’RE BRINGING YOU OUR MOST POWERFUL MACHINE WITH: best-in-class HP engine

8 - 14 April 2019

powerful and versatile for all your applications

Munich, Germany

2-year warranty on powertrain as standard

Visit us on stand FN.820

Discover the Bobcat family of construction machines.

Agility, durability and versatility all come as standard – but for extra peace of mind, benefit from our extended warranty and planned maintenance program.

FIND OUT MORE AT WWW.BOBCAT.COM Bobcat is a Doosan Company. Doosan is a global leader in construction equipment, power & water solutions, engines, and engineering, proudly serving customers and communities for more than a century. Bobcat and the Bobcat logo are registered trademarks of Bobcat Company in the United States and various other countries. © 2018 Bobcat Company. All Rights Reserved.

// Interview

United Together We get an insight into the services provided by Tornado Group and how their main strength is their ability to develop innovative and practical solutions for the clients

22

// construction business news me // April 2019

T

ornado Group is a multidisciplinary group of companies based in the United Arab Emirates, in addition to headquarters located in Abu Dhabi, the company has eight operational subsidiaries operating in Abu Dhabi, Al Ain, Dubai & Northern Emirates.

Established in 2001, the group now has more than 6,000 employees with running projects valued at over two billion dirhams. The company is committed to transforming the visions of its clients into reality by employing vast international experience, knowledge, resources, and expertise in all its operational fields.

Tornado Group is one of the fastest growing and largest construction companies in the region. The main strength is their ability to develop innovative and practical solutions for the clients. Over a span of short years, they have acquired a strong and loyal client base across both; the public and the private sectors. Consisting of several business units targeting different markets. Tornado Group continuously plays a vital role in the development of the UAE market by www.cbnme.com

supplying a wide range of products and services to various government, oil and gas and private entities. “Tornado Group envisions itself to be the single source for all competitive business enterprises. This vision is guided by our fundamental business principles which focuses on customer and market needs while maintaining attention to Quality, Health, Safety, and Environment,� said the General Manager of Tornado Building Contracting, Engr.

Mohammad S. Halalsheh.

Tornado Group had successfully completed four education-related projects valuing over 700 million dirhams. Furthermore, in 2018, Tornado had managed to open up new channels which had successfully secured new residential and retail projects. In 2019, Tornado aims to diversify its clientele list to include many of the major names in the development and construction business.

Tornado Group is diversified in its fields of operations. Below are the subsidiary companies with a brief of each of them: - Tornado Contracting - Tornado

Contracting's profile and competency are continuously enhanced due to its increasing number of construction and development projects such as Mixeduse Commercial and Residential, Educational, Ports, Industrial, Agricultural, and Transport Buildings, Infrastructures, Recreational and Specialized Facilities, Palace Amenities, Building Maintenance and more.

- Tornado MEP - Tornado MEP is the Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing business unit within Tornado Group. Tornado MEP provides the skill, experience, and resources essential to meet the demands of today's professional and fast track projects.

- Tornado Total Landscape - one of the banner umbrellas of Tornado Group was formed to undertake and execute projects that involve a full spectrum of landscape works from private villas to large scale development projects.

- Tornado Facility Management - is a leading local provider of integrated facilities management.

With over 1,200 employees, the number creates healthy, productive and sustainable environments so that people and businesses can reach their full potential. People and businesses achieve more when buildings and environments work better.

- Tornado Water Treatment - is one of the leading providers of water treatment services in UAE. This business unit provides services and solutions for all aspects of water treatment needs.

- Tornado Special Projects - is professionally managed by the swimming pool experts of Tornado Group. Each pool is uniquely designed, constructed and tested to meet international standards. Over the years, Tornado has maintained as eminent in swimming pools and water features delivering high quality and expertise throughout Abu Dhabi, Al

construction business news me // April 2019 //

23

// Interview

Ain, Dubai & Northern Emirates.

- Tornado Trading - executes projects that involve the supply, installation and complete service of Water Pumps for residential, commercial and private sectors.

The company employed and fully equipped team and experienced skilled technicians to provide the highest possible products’ quality with a guarantee of maintenance services whenever required.

“We are a team of dynamic, forwardthinkers and highly-experienced professionals with only one goal that serves as our core, and that is to achieve our clients’ needs. It is our commitment to transform our clients’ 24

vision into reality by employing our vast international experience, knowledge, right resources and expertise in the field of construction.

Adaptability and innovation in the ever-changing market conditions are the keys. We are armed with appropriate capitals, methods, and systems designed to qualitatively control and monitor workflows from beginning to end. Needless to say, we are prepared. We are ready to take up challenges. And those challenges fuel our mission to strive for excellence.

Emphasizing our Core: Realizing our clients’ vision is our working principle.

We give great importance to the satisfaction of our clients. And these are

// construction business news me // April 2019

achieved by bringing value in carrying out quality projects with the shortest possible turnaround.

Tornado Group as an employeeoriented company: We put value in the well-being of our people. We support their needs and aspirations.

Their growth will contribute to the growth of the company. Our ways and goals are headed to one direction: quality workmanship results in more growth and success for the company,” statement made by the Chairman of Tornado Group, Mr. Foad Jaffal.

Safety, Quality and Fast track projects are the signatures of Tornado Group. Since established, we have always regarded the safety of our

List of projects • Fatima College of Health Science. - Ajman

• Ajman Educational Zone Ajman

• Mohammed V University – Ajman

• Zayed Educational

Complex – Sharjah

• Bluewaters Retail

Enhancement - Dubai

• South Village by Emaar – Dubai

• Ghoroob Mirdif – Dubai • Higher College of

Technology – Abu Dhabi

people, quality of our deliverables and diversity as the key success factors for the sustainable growth, cited by Tornado Group CEO, Mr. Akram Salameh.

Tornado Building Contracting, a subsidiary of Tornado Group, recently announced the successful completion of casting a 16,000 cubic meter concrete raft foundation in Al Mizher School project in Dubai. The casting which commenced at 10:00 pm on Thursday 28th February 2019 and was completed at 05:00 pm on Saturday 2nd March 2019 at a rate of 370 cubic www.cbnme.com

meters per hour, is a testament to the company’s tremendous capabilities and the highest level of dedication and commitment to their clients. This outstanding achievement marks the launch toward a future with no limits and countless possibilities.

The aforementioned milestone is a direct result and a pursued development of last year’s successful track record of completed projects and acquiring new projects.

“As most companies believe in growth in the construction business due to reasons mentioned above,

we expect more companies to be introduced to the market which will present fierce competition for business. Tornado plans to be unique in all aspects of the business. We thrive to assure the satisfaction of our clients to secure an esteemed reputation that will stand out in the market,” remarked by Eng. Mohammad S. Halalsheh.

“Tornado Group is proud to have completed all of their projects ahead of time and mostly in record time.

We believe that this particular quality serves as a unique and important virtue that all clients would want to acquire,” added by Eng. Mohammad S. Halalsheh.

Expo 2020 of Dubai had helped increase the businesses for the majority of the Construction Companies in the region. Furthermore, we have always believed that 50% of our business is attributed to the fact that Dubai is hosting Expo 2020.

Tornado Group expects more growth in 2019 as Dubai Expo 2020 is fast approaching and definitely a lot of projects are on the horizon.

construction business news me // April 2019 //

25

// Cover Story

Top

Contr act o r s MEP Contracting Companies provides the skill, expertise, experience and resources essential to meet the demands of today’s fast track projects to deliver world-class quality of civil and infrastructure projects. MEP companies give us a brief background on what they do and give us an update on the latest projects they are working on.

26

// construction business news me // April 2019

Al Shirawi Electrical & Mechanical Engineering

No list of MEP specialists in the UAE would be complete without the industry pioneer Al Shirawi Electrical & Mechanical Engineering Company.

Originally founded just a few years after the formation of the UAE in 1971, the company has been one of the most trusted and reliable MEP contracting companies since 1974. The firm has flourished as an operation capable of delivering on multiple projects across different sectors and scale.

It is able to undertake and implement turnkey contracts encompassing dewww.cbnme.com

sign, engineering, supply, installation, testing and commissioning.

The company is able to deploy its 2,000 strong skilled labour force, qualified engineers, technicians, draftsman and experienced project managers to projects.

Recent projects it has worked on include its well-received presence at Deeyar Development’s Atria Tower at Business Bay, Zabeel Investment’s Tiara United Towers and Signature’s luxury development: The 118 in Downtown Dubai.

As part of the highly successful privately-owned Al Shirawi group of companies conglomerate (which also includes Al Shirawi Contracting, Al Shirawi Interiors, Al Shirawi Infrastructure Construction and Al Shirawi Facilities Management), it enjoys the financial support to complete demanding projects. It is also consequently plugged into a network of complementary businesses as well, including the UAE’s largest manufacturer of ductwork and the leading distributor of HVAC equipment.

construction business news me // April 2019 //

27

// Cover Story

ALEMCO

ALEMCO is a Mechanical, Electrical and Plumbing company providing skills, expertise, experience, and resources essential to meet the demands of fast track projects. It offers fully engineered electromechanical and building service solutions, facilities management and energy optimization to various sectors.

Whatever the needs of the project, ALEMCO will ensure that it delivers on time, within budget and to the highest standards. They have worked on a wide range of projects ranging from hotels, airports, residential, theme parks, retail and commercial.

Two recent projects have stood out for ALEMCO, and the highlights are Bvlgari Resort Hotel & Marina Village and One Za’abeel.

As stated by our General Manager Nathan Hanns, “having just finished the iconic Bvlgari Hotel & Residents, 28

we have now secured the One Za’abeel Office, Hotel and Private Residents Tower on Happiness St. When complete, One Za’abeel will dominate the Dubai Skyline with its unique connection bridge, the first of its kind in Dubai. We are delighted to secure yet another iconic project with our partner, ALEC.” He also mentioned: “we are also completing the Jumeirah Living Residences with ALEC which is the final tower of the three Marina Gate Residents Projects for Select Group.

Again the three new towers are standout modern buildings of high quality which complement the Dubai Marina East Side.” ALEMCO has secured works with ALEC Fitout on the Al Maryah Mall Project in Abu Dhabi for Gulf Related.

This project is significant for ALEMCO to maintain our presence in Abu

// construction business news me // April 2019

Dhabi with such a high-end client.

Growth in the MEP sector is a little stagnant at the moment, but Hanns feels that delivery focused trustworthy and cooperative contractors such as ALEMCO will always be in demand.

Our Senior Estimating Manager concludes, “We have had some success with securing major projects in 2018 and 2019. Our turnover for 2019 is secured, and it is partially secured for 2020. We will continue to focus on working with the clients we have worked with previously, and strengthening our relationships to deliver on time. Next year the MEP market will enter a difficult phase when the works of mega-projects are completed such as EXPO 2020 and Dubai Hills. We will continue to work hard and be as innovative as possible and adapt to the market conditions and our Clients requirements”.

Keep Your Business Running On Time, Every Time.

Envision a truck that could do more with ever y minute, hour and day. A truck so reliable, you’ll spend more time on the road thanks to longer ser vicing inter vals.

A truck with a cab designed to of fer more comfor t and driveabilit y, as well as on-board fuel coaching systems. A truck with the power to move fur ther, and the ef ficienc y to keep your business running like clockwork. With the all new Croner, we’ve turned that vision into a cut ting- edge realit y.

// Cover Story

Al Shafar United BK Gulf (BKG) The history of ASU begins in 1997, as MEP department of ASGC Group that can handle most of the construction cycle in-house, giving it a high degree of control on all projects.

Presently, ASU is one of the leading MEP contractors working on independent projects and also ASGC projects.

Being a socially responsible company, we strive to leave a positive impact on the environment and communities that we operate in. We proud to be attached on innovating and growing day by day, it is quite an honor for us at ASU to be part of the development of such a chronicle. We have left our mark in many iconic projects around Dubai that are part of the cultural, historical and fundamental for UAE, such as Al Etihad museum, Mohamed Bin Rashid library, Dubai Arena, Dubai International Airport which is one of the busiest airports in the world, Enterprises Command and Control Centre for RTA, Business Central Towers, Route 2020 (Metro red line), and engage with team operating in Expo 2020 in Sustainability pavilion and Thematic district Opportunity.

“ASU effective teamwork is the secret behind growth and success,” said Ashraf Samy Botros, Managing Director of ASU “The reason why we are being chosen for so many projects is that we always aim to provide quality. Cost does not bother us. If we can get a superior product to improve the quality of the project then we are willing to pay it. We have qualified engineers and technicians and they add to that quality,” added Mr. Ashraf.

30

// construction business news me // April 2019

Now into its fifth decade, BK Gulf (BKG) has been a leading contractor in the electrical, mechanical, instrumentation and building services markets in the UAE and the Middle East since it was formed as part of the Dutco Balfour Beatty joint-venture in 1978.

While Balfour Beatty announced its intention to sell its shares in the JV two years ago, the BKG continues to meet the specific requirements of its clients providing a complete contracting service including, design, installation, procurement, commissioning, project management, and facilities management services.

BKG has worked on some of the largest and most prestigious projects in the Middle East range from residential and commercial property and hotel resorts to infrastructure development and airport expansion projects; including Burj Al Arab, the Atlantis, DWTC, the recent upgrades to the container port at Jebel Ali and the Mall of Emirates.

It has earned a reputation for high professional standards of workmanship and service through efficient pre-planning, the use of highly skilled craftsmen, and the maintenance of permanent local teams. The company is committed to providing quality services to its clients, a healthy workplace to its employees and towards the safety and protection of the environment. The company employs more than 6,000 people in its four specialist divisions: BCL Fire Systems; BK Gulf Facilities Management; BK Gulf Extra Low Voltage Systems Division; and BK Gulf Modular Systems Division (formed in 2008).

The latter is at the forefront of the increasingly common use of modular construction in the UAE and BKG Modular Systems has created modules and modular wiring for a variety of projects such as Abu Dhabi New York University, Dubai Opera House, and Dubai Mall. Its 7,100sqm purpose-built facility is capable of delivering up to 1,800 modules per month.

EFECO

Emirates Falcon Electromechanical Co. (EFECO) is owned by Arabtec and was established in 2001 to serve the Electromechanical Building Services sector requirements of the construction industry in the Middle East and already has branches in Abu Dhabi (UAE), Amman (Jordan) and Riyadh (KSA). The company is engaged in the electrical, HVAC, drainage and plumbing installation in addition building maintenance facilities and, “is committed to raising the comfort levels of the buildings in which it works.”

EFECO has established itself at the forefront of the building services industry. The company provides project energy feasibility, compliance, design, procurement, prefabrication www.cbnme.com

and off-site manufacture, installation, testing, commissioning and maintenance of mechanical, electrical and public health engineering services.

EFECO remains one of the largest International tier-1 MEP companies in the region and is now listed on the Dubai Financial Market (DFM) exchange under the Arabtec Holding Group. It specialises in serving complex MEP projects across the Middle East and GCC, including high-rise commercial and residential developments, villa projects, mixed-use developments and infrastructure. Significant projects in its home market include the Nation Towers – St Regis Hotel Abu Dhabi, Palazzo Versace Hotel Dubai, Dubai International T2 Expansion, and

over 14,000 Villas in the UAE. It has also been trusted on several projects that involved complex and technically challenging work on advanced military centres and airport developments including Mid-Field Terminal Building Abu Dhabi and related infrastructure.

Following the appointment of industry veteran Gavin Appleby in 2017, the Arabtec subsidiary enjoyed a highly prolific 2018, scoring MEP contract wins worth: $68 million at Dubai Opera District development; $32 million for the Creekside Horizon project in Dubai; and was confirmed to be working on the Villanova development following its parent company’s appointment on Amaranta and La Quinta Phases.

construction business news me // April 2019 //

31

// Trucks

32

// construction business news me // April 2019

Going Further

We caught up with Mustafa Caner Sinanoglu, Managing Director, Ford Trucks MEA, about their truck operation in the Middle East and about their latest award winning the truck the F-Max

Ford Trucks have been in the UAE market now for the last five years and it has seen steady growth since then. The growth is not just in the UAE but in the Middle East and GCC region as well.

According to Mustafa Caner Sinanoglu, Managing Director – Ford Trucks ME they are estimated to have around three to five per cent market share and in some market they have around 10 per cent. “We have more than ten per cent market share in Iraq and Kuwait. But in the short and mid-term we would like to have more than ten per cent market share all over the Middle East,” said Mustafa. “When we started in UAE and KSA we wanted to complete our expansion all over the Middle East and at this stage we have the right distributors who are our partners like Al Tayer Motors in UAE, Alghanim Motors in Kuwait, Mohsin Haider Derwish in Oman and Al Jazirah Vehicles in Saudi Arabia for example,” added Mustafa.

Mustafa pointed out that they are trying to increase their network of distribution to more in cities in the GCC by opening up in Jeddah, Fujairah, Sohar, and Salalah. In 2018, there was a strong focus by Ford Trucks in the waste management and construction segment and Mustafa believes that with the number of new projects coming up in the region Ford trucks will be high demand. As a result of these new projects, Ford Trucks is already benefiting from it. Mustafa mentioned the fact www.cbnme.com

they are going to be delivering over 165 trucks only in Saudi Arabia to show that the market is now responding to Ford Trucks.

“It is important to see how the market views Ford Trucks so we have to show our values to our customers so we can improve our products according to what the market demands in the GCC. As a result of that, we are seeing good results in this market.” When asked about what makes Ford Trucks unique he had this to say: “Total cost of ownership is the most critical part of our trucks and every action we are taking is trying to be more competitive

and to support our customer by saving their costs. We are offering one of the best truck features in terms of total cost of ownership such as low fuel consumption, long intervals, competitive spare parts prices, long-lasting robust trucks, and telematics. Our downtime service is very low and we are offering extended warranty options up to 5 years without any kilometer limitation.

Furthermore, Ford Trucks offers both preventative and comprehensive service contracts which are designed always tailor to their operation s requirements.”

Currently, Ford supplies Euro 5 trucks in the UAE and Euro 3 trucks

construction business news me // April 2019 //

33

// Trucks

in the rest of the GCC markets. Ford Trucks also offers optional fleet management systems (FMS) powered by Arvento in the region. This system is specifically designed for Ford Trucks series which enables live monitoring of the vehicles; fuel consumption, tracking; sudden fuel drop alert; intelligent dashboard; optimization of fleet management; driver behavior evaluation; and detailed reports and alarms.

One of the truck models that is doing well is The F-Max, which recently won the 2019 International Truck of the Year award at the IAA Commercial Vehicles expo in Hannover. F-Max launch for the region is planned for June 2019.

The Ford Trucks F-Max provides comfortable seating for drivers, an ergonomic dashboard of the new F-MAX provides easy access to all control systems, and highly efficient Ecotorq 480 PS ensures reduced fuel consumption with compatible powertrain systems.

It also includes MAXCRUISE technology which enables more efficient use of the vehicle and reduces fuel costs.

The system identifies the route using topographic GPS data and provides optimum speed range with its smart software to minimize fuel consumption.

We also asked Mustafa about their after sales support and he said that the distributors in the region are well prepared when it comes to that but in case of any emergency the Ford Trucks team is always ready to provide the necessary support. “All Our dealers in the region have strategies and processes in place to keep right spare part available to them. We have daily flights from our International spare parts center to provide the parts that are necessary for our distributors, Thanks to Ford Trucks operation systems, a necessary item can always be sent to dealer workshops within a maximum of 48 hours “remarked Mustafa.

Ford Trucks is also focusing heavily on the safety aspects of their trucks and their drivers. Ford driving academy provides the avenue for drivers to train, learn the features of the truck and how to remain safe on the road. The trucks themselves have features that would help prevent accidents from happen34

ing. For example, the usage of the lane departure warning system which has become compulsory for trucks in Europe, have been installed in those trucks to prevent any issues that would

// construction business news me // April 2019

occur on the road. Although this device is compulsory in Europe it is not the case in the GCC but Mustafa believes that the region is taking the right steps to ensure road safety.

CCS September 2018 advert.indd 1

8/16/18 3:53

// Fit-out

Top

fit-out firms at the forefront

Fit-out is a term used to describe the process of making interior spaces suitable for occupation. Clearly, they’re the backbone of the design sector and field filled with massive competition. According to a market report by Ventures Onsite in 2018, ‘the interior fit-out market in the UAE is one of the GCC’s fastest growing industries and is expected to be worth $973mn by 2022’. The report explains that the growth in the UAE market is attributed to a booming commercial sector and a rising number of hospitals, retail, and residential projects in the country. Construction Business News Middle East has put together a list featuring the leading fit-out firms in the region based on their projects, accomplishments, and future plans

36

// construction business news me // April 2019

CA .0 PE MPA 1. R I – IOD GN 31 .0 3.

19 01

BECAUSE THE BEST BET IS THE CLEAN SOLUTION. MAN Genuine Parts and MAN Service.

MAN Trucks and Buses need MAN Genuine Parts – nothing else will do. The quality of MAN Genuine Parts always pays off – after all, reliability and safety are the foundation of efficiency in vehicle use and ensure a sustainable reduction in the total cost of ownership.

Benefit from a substantial price saving for MAN Genuine Parts. Maximum benefits and minimized costs make it worthwhile to shop now. Seize the opportunity. www.parts-me.man

// Fit-out

S&T Interiors & Contracting executed fit-outs of guest rooms and public areas for Shangri-La Hotel, Bengaluru

Anantara Al Jabal Al Akhdar in Oman

38

// construction business news me // April 2019

S&T's waterfront project in Muscat

S&T Interiors & Contracting Established in Oman in 1977, S&T Interiors & Contracting specialises in civil construction, MEP, interior fit-out, FF&E, and project supplies. Spearheaded by T P Sanjaya Sarathy, Group CEO of S&T Interiors & Contracting, Real Estate and Marble and K S Ravikumar, executive director for International Operations, the company is reaching a new height of success. Now, S&T operates across 10 countries in the Middle East, UK, Europe, and Asia.

S&T has executed over 150 landmark projects worldwide. Their 25,000sqm factory in Oman is one of the largest joinery production facilities in Muscat and is equipped with advanced CNC machines and ancillary equipment.

S&T’s dedicated Centre of Excellence (COE) in India is a premium cloudbased engineering (CAD and BIM) outsourcing technology-driven centre with 100+ professionals. The COE is now gearing up to establish advanced AEC services for the industry.

The company’s new brand identity and positioning is in sync with S&T’s belief to take the organisation forward to become one of the top five global brands in its industry.

This dynamic contracting company plans to enter the Saudi Arabia and Bahrain market in 2019 with a mission to take on some challenging projects and deliver them successfully. Also, as a part of their expansion plan, S&T wants a strategic alliance to undertake iconic projects in the South Asia region.

With the Expo 2020 round the corner, UAE will set new standards on smart and sustainable cities, which will be a significant change for the www.cbnme.com

T P Sanjaya Sarathy

K S Ravikumar

construction industry and will provide momentum to their business in the region. The grand event is designed as a gateway to the emerging markets; it will be an opportunity for S&T to exhibit themselves as a global company with a focus on South Asia. In the near future, S&T will also set-up their second factory in South Asia to cater to emerging markets. The team of 5,000+ committed professionals and skilled craftsmen managing a wide spectrum of activities to offer a variety of world-

class products at the best value without compromising on quality has made S&T a leading player in this business.

They have an impressive portfolio of hospitality projects. S&T worked for the prestigious Anantara Al Jabal Al Akhdar in Oman and provided turnkey construction and high-end joinery, and gypsum works for the resort. The project was successfully handed over in August 2016. Kempinski, W Hotel, Hilton Garden Inn, NBO HQ, and Sundus Rotana are among some of the recent projects executed in Muscat.

S&T was a key player in creating international quality finishes for the Mövenpick Hotel, Colombo in Sri Lanka. It is the first five-star international hotel launched after 25 years in the country.

The scope of work included fit-out package for Mövenpick’s 219 guest rooms including the presidential suite and public areas comprising of three restaurants, seven lounges/bars, rooftop, gym, spa, and banquet areas.

Other noteworthy projects include Al Bustan Palace Hotel, Muscat; Lapita Hotel, Dubai Parks & Resorts; Dubai International Airport; Sheraton Grand, Bengaluru, India amongst others.

S&T has some strong projects in the pipeline where they are demonstrating their comprehensive range of services, products, and solutions. This includes the waterfront project in Muscat, it’s a mixed-use retail and commercial development; The Royal Atlantis Resorts & Residences, Dubai; Fairmont, Abu Dhabi; The Address, Fujairah; The Palm Tower, Dubai; Crowne Plaza, Dubai; Novo & Cineplex cinemas, Muscat; and Ritz Carlton, Mumbai, India.

construction business news me // April 2019 //

39

// Fit-out

Depa INTERIORS W Residences Palm Jumeirah project by Depa Interiors

Depa Interiors has delivered projects in 43 countries and its superior workmanship and state-of-the-art manufacturing facilities in Germany, Singapore, Egypt, UAE, Malaysia, and China has made it an ideal interior fit-out partner of choice for over 20 years.

Abdoullah Albizreh is the director at Depa Interiors and under his leadership, the company has executed a series of successful projects. In this region, Depa has delivered some of the iconic projects such as Burj Al Arab, Burj Khalifa, Atlantis the Palm, and Dubai Opera House. The company continues to work with industry-leading firms such as Zaha Hadid Architects. Depa has recently completed the King Abdullah Petroleum Studies and Research Center (KAPSARC) in Saudi Arabia, in addition to securing a new project there with a reputed architecture firm. Depa has also 40

Kempinski Hotel, Dubai

been appointed for a project in Dubai with well-known architects Santiago Calatrava. The technical requirements of these complex projects play to Depa’s strength in BIM engineering and project management. Depa is a publicly-listed company and employs thousands of people worldwide.

// construction business news me // April 2019

The company also has expertise in social and transport infrastructure interior solutions; it has recently won three new projects for Expo 2020, Riyadh Metro, and a new airport fit-out. Depa announced record profits for FY17 with a net profit of AED153.6mn and revenue of AED1.8bn.

BUILT TO DELIVER

The entire Renault Trucks range delivers an impressive fuel performance to drive the profitability of your business and to get the job done in all terrains.

www.renault-trucks.com

// Fit-out

A&T Group INTERIORS Established in 2009, A&T Group Interiors was founded by Tareq Khalafawi, CEO and co-founder and has built a solid and diverse client base, as well as a robust portfolio of successful projects – including hotels, leisure and entertainment parks, retail stores, restaurants, and various commercial spaces in Dubai and the rest of GCC. A&T Group Interiors has delivered many high-profile hospitality projects, including The Fish House and Pierre's Bistro and Bar at the InterContinental, Dubai Festival City; LIMA, one of Dubai's finest Peruvian restaurants, TORO + KO, Farzi Cafe, L'ETO, an established chain of high-class cafes

and patisseries from London, and many more. Some of the exciting projects in the pipeline are Catch22, a project in Riyadh with the AMJ Investments, smart medical center in Dubai, etc. A&T Group Interiors also expects to see an increase in construction and investment activity in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. As such, their main focus during the coming 12 months will be to further grow a balanced portfolio of projects with a strategic mix of short-term, fast-track developments with durations ranging from three to four months to long-term mega developments, with durations ranging from eight to sixteen months.

ABANOS head office

Tareq Khalafawi

Kamal Farah

Abanos Interior Fit-Out & Joinery Abanos’ track record of delivering high-quality and tailor-made projects, all fabricated at its state-of-the-art production facilities makes it one of the most respectable firms in the region.

Established in 1985, the company has expanded steadily since its early days, now operating throughout the UAE and GCC markets and employing over 1,500 dedicated people – all hand-se42

lected from various parts of the world.

Kamal Farah is the CEO of Abanos.

The firm’s latest projects include Hyati Residence, the Royal Atlantis Staff Accommodation, the Art Center Mall, Etihad Museum, Dubai Wharf, and Dubai Design Distrcit.

The Expo Village, Hyati Avenue, Mohammed Bin Rashid Library Auditorium, Mirdif Hills, Rawda and UNA

// construction business news me // April 2019

Apartments, Mulberry, Park Ridge the Address Hotel and the Opera Grand Tower are some of Abanos’ significant ongoing projects. Abanos is expanding its 21,000sqm warehousing and manufacturing facilities, furthermore at the Jebel Ali Industrial Area.

The firm has increased its revenue by 50% for the year of 2018 in comparison to 2017.

10 – 12 June 2019 www.automechanikaDubai.com

Network. Source. Trade. Succeed.

Now in its 17th edition, Automechanika Dubai – MEA’s largest international automotive aftermarket trade show – is geared towards business success.

Meet, source and trade with the world’s leading aftermarket brands and suppliers, check live product demos and new innovations and gain insights from the industry’s key decision makers, all under one roof.

1,801

Exhibitors from

61

Countries

23

Country Pavilions

31,971

Trade Buyers

* 2018 show figures

Register your visit today at www.automechanikaDubai.com/BNC

// Fit-out

Al Shafar Interiors (ASI) Al Shafar Interiors (ASI) provides sophisticated finishes and made-tomeasure products for different project sectors. The company's philosophy combines quality and aesthetics with 22 years of experience in planning design and construction process.

Dimitri Papakonstantinou was appointed MD to lead ASI, the interiors arm of the construction conglomerate ASGC, in October 2018.

They’re due to start working on the Sustainability Pavilion with the parent company ASGC nearing completion of the structural works and getting ready for the fit-out. Aside from the works in the Sustainability Pavilion, the company is extremely excited and focussed on national pavilions in the Expo 2020. They have set-up internally a team, which is concentrat-

Bluewaters Residential project by ASI

Dimitri Papakonstantinou

ing on Expo 2020 works including individuals with previous expo and big events’ experience.

Sustainable growth is at the core of

ASI. They’re also forecasting and planning for significant growth over the next 3-5 years as a business and has a robust strategy in place to achieve this.

MBC Studios, Dubai

Formula E, Emotion Structure in Riyadh, KSA

Qiddiya Phase 1, Riyadh, KSA

Zen Studio Zen Studio is a fit-out turnkey solution company based in Dubai, UAE and is establishing a new office in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. They offer various solutions from designing of the interiors to finishing of the furniture.

Company is handled by Tarek Hury, senior interior designer and by a well 44

experienced team in the region.

The team at Zen Studio believes in getting involved in all the activities of the project, executing the contracts on time, and within the budget. They also offer a complete range of services that include consultancy, designing, space planning, supervision, and contracting.

// construction business news me // April 2019

Zen Studio specialises in commercial, residential, and hospitality projects.

The latest projects completed by Zen Studio include Qiddiya project and Formula E Project in Riyadh, KSA. Zen Studio is also working on Qiddiya Phase II and mobilising for a new VVIP event in Riyadh.

Alec Fitout ALEC FITOUT' scope of work included procurement, supply, logistics, and installation of the complete FF&E for the Bulgari Resort Hotel project in Dubai

Laurent Farge has been the general manager of ALEC FITOUT since its establishment in 2009. Over the period of time, ALEC FITOUT has completed several iconic fit-out and refurbishment projects for a selection of repeat clientele including Meraas, Emaar, DAEP, Jumeirah, One&Only to name a few.

The firm has recently delivered the fit-out for the Luxury Hotel on Bluewaters and is currently completing the five-star property— Waldorf Astoria DIFC Hotel, which covers 35,000sqm, with a scope of works of completion from shell and core including all fit-out, MEP, FF&E, IT/ AV, and specialist equipment.

The latest projects also include delivery of fit-out at the luxury hospitality and residential development Skyviews located close to Burj Khalifa in Downtown Dubai. Another major project for ALEC FITOUT team is the complete fit-out of the three-tower Marina Gate www.cbnme.com

Laurent Farge

development in Dubai Marina. The project includes for over 1,000 units – including apartments, villas, and penthouses with third tower to be operated

by Jumeirah Living.

With an annual turnover of AED600mn+, the leading fit-out company also provides build to completion of niche construction projects ALEC FITOUT’s team is currently in advanced stages of delivery for 6,000sqm luxury residential villas in Emirates Hills, where the scope of work included structural, MEP, and fit-out works. ALEC FITOUT is busy with a variety of commercial and retail projects as well including a large package at Al Maryah Central Mall in Abu Dhabi.

ALEC FITOUT’s project in the pipeline includes build to completion of international pavilions as well as specialist pavilion fit-outs at Expo 2020.

In terms of geographic expansion, ALEC FITOUT is expanding its presence in Saudi Arabia as the region offers them opportunities due to the demand for the consistent delivery of high-quality large-scale fit-out solutions.

construction business news me // April 2019 //

45

// Fit-out

Bond Interiors provided the complete fitout of 46 suites at Jumeirah Beach Hotel

Government Services Office, DIFC

Bond interiors Known to be one of the largest fit-out companies in the region, Bond Interiors has always been dedicated to the highest quality in interior contracting, furniture manufacturing, and joinery works since 1986. With over 2,000 employees and 550,000sqft of sustainable purposebuilt in-house production facilities such a joinery, glass works, MEP, solid surface, metal works, upholstery, signage, and civil works; Bond Interiors has had the advantage of achieving high standards of workmanship, quality and on-time project handovers in the sectors of hospitality, retail, F&B, healthcare, aviation, corporate, and banking.

Headed by Saad Moaswes who is the 46

managing director and founder, the company has expanded across seven different international locations—Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Philippines, India, China, and Italy.

“Prioritising employee welfare and pioneering in the implementation of the latest in fabrication technology, are some of the key factors that has played a vital role in building Bond Interiors from within and beyond. This has helped our company in developing long-term relationships with a broad range of blue chip clients by demonstrating best fit-out practices and driving innovative construction solutions,” shares Moaswes.

// construction business news me // April 2019

Saad Moaswes

With Expo 2020 less than 18 months away, a huge surge in projects across all sectors is expected and Bond Interiors is well equipped to accommodate the influx with an in-house expansion that has been strategically implemented over the last few years. With the successful handover of the newly refurbished iconic Jumeirah Beach Hotel and the recent awarding of two new iconic luxury five-star hotel projects on The Palm and in Business Bay, Bond Interiors is confident that the Expo 2020 will encourage more such projects thus bringing about an overall growth across the industry, economy, and the whole regional infrastructure.

Deliveroo project by Summertown Interiors

Summertown INTERIORS For over 20 Years, Summertown Interiors has been delivering superior quality interior fit-out solutions in the UAE. Reputed for its green expertise, the company specialises in sustainable commercial office, healthcare, and education projects for global Fortune 500 companies and government entities.

Summertown was the first fit-out contractor in the UAE to occupy LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) Gold certified interiors at its Dubai headquarters and has subsequently achieved LEED Gold certification for its existing building, operations, and maintenance (LEED EBOM).

Led by Marcos Bish, managing director and headquartered in Dubai, Summertown Interiors employs 124 people.

The company’s focus is on commercial interior projects in both Dubai and Abu Dhabi but has global reach through its partnership with The United Workplace, an alliance network of like-minded businesses around the world sharing a paswww.cbnme.com

Marcos Bish

sion for the workplace—inspiring design, innovation, and a culture of collaboration.

In 2018, Summertown delivered a wide spectrum of commercial interior projects including the Mediclinic Dialysis Unit fit-out, a new canteen for Daimler, and the recently completed office fit-out for Dubai Tourism (DTCM) designed by Eight Inc. that is aiming to be LEED certified. The company also delivered several new commercial offices in Dubai for TMF Group, a global independent professional services provider and a new

headquarters for British online food delivery company Deliveroo.

Summertown interiors’ are working on some exciting commissions, which includes several large projects for global multinational companies, two embassies, and key UAE government departments.

As an early adopter of ‘green thinking’, Summertown Interiors’ 2017/18 Sustainability Report shows that the construction materials used by them met 36.4% of the company’s sustainability criteria compared to last year’s 33.1%. This 3.3% improvement surpassed its annual target of 35%.

Summertown Interiors is also officially WELL-registered to pursue WELL Certification for its own office interiors in Dubai, with the aim to gain certification in the 2019-20 financial year. WELL Certification is administered by the International WELL Building Institute (IWBI) and is the premier building standard focussed on enhancing people’s health and wellness throughout the buildings.

construction business news me // April 2019 //

47

// Fit-out

GAIA Dubai's fit-out by FINASI is inspired by the Mediterranean culture

Ahmed and Hisham A Sultan

Finasi FINASI, part of Gargash Group, was founded in Italy in 1969. The twin brothers Ahmed and Hisham A Sultan expanded the family business and set-up the Dubai office 10 years ago as a retail shop. Over the course of the last seven years, FINASI has changed its identity to that of a fully integrated turnkey solution provider in the

interiors and medical fields. The first major contract in terms of wardrobes and kitchens was the Daman building, completed with Molteni&C wardrobes and Dada kitchens. In the residential sector, significant projects have included M.State villas at the tip of frond M on Palm Jumeirah. These were ultrahigh-end luxury villas. They have also

done the fit-out for many F&B clients such as Cipriani, Weslodge, Hotel Cartagena, Scalini, and Gaia.

In 2018, FINASI has acquired a majority stake in SMART IDEA Carpentry.

This state-of-the-art joinery facility located in Dubai Investment Park (DIP) will enable to provide high-quality millworks to the clients.

DUFIT Interiors Based in Beirut, DUFIT Interiors, which is a division of the Erga Group, launched its Dubai office in 2011 to meet the demand for aesthetically and operationally superior design solutions in a vibrant, and burgeoning market.

Dufit Interior’s managing director, Elio Gebrayel is the force behind this dynamic company, which has worked with big giants in the region like Nakheel, Emaar, and ELR to name a few.

The latest projects include refurbishment of Ayoush CafĂŠ on Sheikh Zayed Road and the complete fit-out works of URBAN DELI, an urban eatery, and more projects to come for the second quarter of the year. DUFIT Interiors provide various services, which includes interior design, turnkey solutions, MEP, joinery, and more. They 48

specialise in servicing a diverse array of industries that impact every aspect of our daily lives like hospitality, retail, healthcare, commercial, residential, and education sector.

Le Cercle showroom by DUFIT Interiors on Jumeirah Beach Road

// construction business news me // April 2019

Elio Gebrayel

Tigerspike office

Cannon Middle East office

by Xworks Interiors

Xworks Interiors Established in 2009, Xworks Interiors offers full turnkey and quality workplace solutions. Soren Kraen, executive director at Xworks leads the first company in the UAE to achieve the WELL Gold accreditation for their own workplace. Kraen and is his team supports

the human-centric design approach that has enabled them to work for a number of international and global customers, enhancing their productivity through thoughtful and holistic workplace design solutions. Some of their successful office projects are for clients such as

Cannon Middle East, Shelg Drilling, Orangebox, Bridgestone, Haworth Middle East, Zaha Hadid Architects, amongst others. that impact every aspect of our daily lives like hospitality, retail, healthcare, commercial, residential, and education sector.

Draw Link Group Roberto's restaurant

Daousser Chennoufi

www.cbnme.com

Offering a comprehensive, personalised, and bespoke service, Draw Link Group is an international architecture, interior design consultancy, and fit-out firm specialising in hospitality, F&B, and highend residential projects. In 2006, Draw Link Group started its journey in Dubai, concentrating on creating a new lifestyle through the innovative vision of design and architecture. Daousser Chennoufi is the CEO and principal of the Draw Link Group and the firm has its branches in Tunisia, Greece, and China, developing iconic and distinct projects. Some of their noteworthy projects are Roberto’s Restaurant in DIFC, URBAN bistro in Media City, Marina Social and The Social Room at Intercontinental Dubai Marina Hotel & Apartments, and more. The firm wants to continue expanding all over the world with a particular focus in SubSaharan, Central, and North Africa.

construction business news me // April 2019 //

49

// Fit-out

Magic Planet

Aji Club Vista Mare project in Palm Jumeirah by GDM Interiors

50

// construction business news me // April 2019

GDM Interiors For over four decades, GDM Interiors has not just been a witness to the dynamic evolution of the fit-out industry in the UAE, but also has contributed to this growing landscape. A leading interior fit-out company and specialist joinery manufacturers, GDM Interiors has been providing the clients with a comprehensive turkey interior solutions for spaces from designing to execution and every step in between.

Helmed by Vishal Motwani, managing director of GDM Interiors; the company has witnessed a tremendous growth from its humble beginnings in 1988 to an ultramodern factory spread over 40,000sqft with a professional and dedicated team of over 100 employees. The company's technical designers and engineers have a vast knowledge of managing complex projects and still ensure delivery on time.

The passionate and highly skilled team of the GDM family is the asset and the key to what they are today.

Motwani believes: “It takes vision, creativity, and a sense of innovation to create something that gives people a new experience as soon as they walk through the door. We are only able to achieve this amalgamation of technology, experience, and commitment towards excellence.

And we must be doing something right for the customers to keep on giving us repeat business”.

Right from understanding the design, to sharing the blueprint; from procurement of raw materials to manpower management; from maintaining high standards of quality control to delivering the finished projects on time, GDM Interiors has delivered all its projects with panache and expertise.

During the course of this commendable journey, they have curated a diversified portfolio of prestigious clients across F&B, hospitality and leisure, retail, and commercial sectors amidst others. Some of the projects that showcases the offerings of GDM Interiors is the sophisticated and premium perfume store—Roger and www.cbnme.com

Gallet in Citywalk, the luxurious Sensasia Spa in Golden Mile, Safari Jewels showroom, and the visually delightful Aji Club Vista Mare in Palm Jumeirah. They are currently busy transforming the spaces of The Nail Spa in DIFC, Kanz Jewellers, Marquee DIFC, Hamac—Jumeirah Beach Hotel. Some of the other exciting projects in the pipeline for the coming months are in Dubai Mall, DIFC, Mall of the Emirates, and other areas in UAE. With the focussed approach on delivering excellence and exceeding customers’ expectations, the brand has earned the faith and trust of the clients, who love to partner with GDM Interiors for multiple projects. It is this trust that paves the way of referrals of future clients for GDM Interiors and accelerates the growth rate.

Vishal Motwani

GDM Interiors aims to expand the footprints to other countries in South East Asia and the MENA region as well. This is in alignment with the objective of growing from 20mn turnover to 50mn turnover by 2020 and doubling its employee strength. “Our achievement is rooted to our investment in technology coupled with our investment in our highly-qualified and experienced team members,” says Motwani. While design trends keep changing every season and new materials keep coming into the limelight, the challenge is to stay tuned to the details. “After all when you pay attention to the details, the big picture will take care of itself,” emphasises Motwani.

construction business news me // April 2019 //

51

// Event review

MENA DESLAINATION CONFERENCE The first edition of the MENA Desalination Projects conference took place in Abu Dhabi on the 10th & 11th of March. We caught up with industry leaders at this event to get their views about the current trends in the industry and what is the latest technology that excites them.

The first edition of the MENA Desalination Projects conference took place in Abu Dhabi on the 10th & 11th of March, as a milestone event in the water desalination domain following the announcement of multi-billion upcoming desalination projects across the region that aim to adopt the latest environmentally friendly desalination methods. Global investments in desalination projects will reach $10 billion over the next three years.

Participating government entities in the conference will be the UAE Department of Energy, the Water & Electricity Company in KSA, the Egyptian Holding

52

Company for Water and Wastewater, the Public Authority for Electricity & Water in Oman, the Ministry of Electricity and Water of Kuwait and the Sharjah Electricity and Water Company.

The high profile gathering of 300 desalination & technology experts, including 7 C-level executives from key government entities such as: TAQA, Department of Energy (UAE), Sharjah Water & Electricity Authority SEWA, Holding Company for Water and Wastewater (EGYPT), Water and Electricity Company (KSA), Ministry of Electricity & Water Kuwait (KUWAIT), Public Authority for Water and Electricity DIAM (OMAN), in

// construction business news me // April 2019

addition to top EPC Contractors in the region, Acwa Power, Acciona, GDF, Engie, Besix, Abengoa. Plus, a group of top consultants in the region such as Mott MacDonald, WSP & Atkins. Besix, Acciona Agua, ACWA Power and in the EPC domain Acciona Agua Middle East, ACWA Power, DLA Piper, and other major players in the field.

MENA Desalination Projects Conference represents the region's leading event on the subject of desalination, the attendees will gain deep knowledge about the latest cutting edge and sustainable desalination methods deployed globally & participate in discussions

Under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces

CONNECTING PEOPLE, CITIES & IDEAS

AT THE HEART OF THE CAPITAL’S REAL ESTATE INDUSTRY

The UAE capital’s largest and most influential real estate event is back! Showcasing hundreds of developments from the region, Cityscape Abu Dhabi attracts a wide range of high profile investors, homebuyers, government authorities and real estate professionals looking to discover the latest investment opportunities.

16 - 18 APRIL 2019 Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre United Arab Emirates

REGISTER ONLINE FOR FREE ENTRY www.cityscapeabudhabi.com Platinum Sponsor

Business Publication

Regional Media Partner 40++3, ,(:;

Organised by

// Event review

with the top experts about the future of water resources in the region. In addition to connecting and networking with industry peers to tackle shared operational and stakeholder collaboration challenges.

We caught up with the industry leaders during the Desalination Projects conference to get their views about the current trends in the industry and what is the latest technology that excites in this industry.

The conference will gather 30 speakers, 40 exhibitors from 40 countries & more than 300 attendees under the theme of Evaluating Innovations In Desalination For Current & Future Projects, including 6 C level executives from key government entities planning to leading the discussions at the key regional event on desalination which will be held on 10-11 March 2019 in Abu Dhabi at Jumeirah Etihad Towers Hotel.

“We need to balance the need of the customer and the amount of energy we need to generate the water in the most economical way possible. We are here to meet with the top professionals in the water and energy business to learn from them the best practices. Yesterday’s solutions are today’s problem, the past technology being used is costing us more and this is why we need to shift to a new combination of renewable energy and with the membrane technology that will produce cost-effective desalinated water,” said Eng. Asam Al Mulla, Manager of Water Department, Sharjah Electricity & Water Electricity “We were excited to hear about the reverse osmosis system which will change the entire desalination system.

Moving away from the traditional ways of desalination to reverse osmosis. We also think that recycling is important for sustainability purposes especially when it comes to landfills,” said Moosa Kazim, Project Manager, Al Qaryan Group.

“At this event, we heard about a lot of people talking about cutting costs which contradicts the notion of innovation. At ProMinent we focus a lot on R&D and with the industry mov54

ing towards Industry 4.0 which means collecting as much data as possible and then smartly create strategies and to be more cost efficient. So most of our products cater to any cost-efficient project,” said Youssef Chahla, Managing Director, ProMinent.

“We are known for three things: precision, quality, and the main thing is the service. We are just an entrant in this region so we have a lot of high hopes coming out of this event,” Avinash Choudhari, Business Development Manager, AFFCO Flow Control.

“We have seen a change in the industry and this sort of event gives us the opportunity to speak about these changes and give our point of view. I have seen an interest by all parties to address the challenges we face in the coming years especially when it comes to future projects sizes and the water

// construction business news me // April 2019

requirements. From the early stages of the design, planning and the implementation of these projects shows that a combined effort is required from all parties involved,” said Antonio Moreno De Eguia, Regional Director Middle East & India, ABENGOA. “It’s a great event. What I enjoyed hearing was the practical solutions to new technologies to address the issues in the desalination industries.

The industry has been doing the same things over the last 20 to 30 years with very little improvement in technologies.

One of the reasons why this happens is because the new technology that does get introduced have a hard time when it comes to commercialising them because of the risks associated with it.

The ideas I have heard in this event show have proven to reduce that risk,” Basel Abusharkh, CEO, Hyrec.

#CIF201

FORUM 2019

1 ST MAY 2019 FAIRM ONT TH E PA LM, DU BA I

The Construction Innovation Forum 2019 will present an exciting opportunity for the attendees to get acquainted with the facts and knowledgeable discussion about smart cities, creating the optimum building design and how can we move towards building more sustainable and energy efficient buildings.

•

Topics: • How can BIM help in creating the optimum building design?

What are the steps taken by developers to ensure future projects are both sustainable and energy efficient?

• What are the positive impacts that smart cities can have in the region?

SPONSORSHIP ENQUIRIES:

SPEAKING ENQUIRIES:

JOAQUIM D’COSTA GROUP PUBLISHING DIRECTOR MOBILE: +971 50 440 2706 PHONE: +971 4 4200 506 JO@BNCPUBLISHING.NET

KASUN ILLANKOON DEPUTY EDITOR PHONE: +971 4 4200506 KASUN@BNCPUBLISHING.NET

@CBN_ME

VISHVANATH SHETTY BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER MOBILE: +971 52 119 3077 DIRECT: +971 4 4200506 VISH@BNCPUBLISHING.NET

@CBNME

GOLD SPONSORS

CBNME.COM

@CBN_ME

SILVER SPONSOR

// Trucks

Daimler : Trucks@Work Daimler will be present at the 2019 Bauma expo under the slogan "Trucks@Work". Daimler will be showing a total of 22 vehicles for almost every construction segment application in the 2100 m² Hall B4 has to offer and on the 600 m² of open-air grounds.

56

// construction business news me // April 2019

T

he exhibition fleet includes a total of 6 vans, 13 trucks, and 3 special-purpose vehicles. The new Arocs and Actros from Mercedes-Benz are the focus of the world's leading trade fair for the construction industry.

Mercedes-Benz has expanded its ATeam of the Actros, Arocs, and Atego with the addition of the X-Class, Citan, Vito, and Sprinter vans as well as the specialists Unimog, Econic and Zetros. The Fuso Canter will also be showcasing its expertise at its own stand in Hall B4. The Mercedes-Benz Vans, Mercedes-Benz Trucks and Fuso models thus cover the entire spectrum of construction vehicles.

Unimog The Unimog is a living legend and a versatile working machine, indispensable in construction. The Mercedes-

www.cbnme.com

Benz Unimog U4000 and U5000 series offers unsurpassed off-road characteristics and extreme ruggedness. This legendary truck can go anywhere, overcoming all obstacles in its path, whether on or off the road. If, on the other hand, you are looking for a highly specialised equipment carrier to master the demanding tasks of construction sites, municipalities, fire brigades, energy suppliers or agricultural specialists, then the various all-wheeldrive Unimog models of series U200 to U500 with the large number of finely tuned bodies and implements available ex-factory is just right for you.

Zetros The Mercedes-Benz Zetros, a robust truck with all-wheel drive technology is a case for the toughest missions, both on the road and off the beaten track. It combines extreme off-road

capability, resilient, robust technology and the load-bearing capacity of a truck. Accordingly, you will encounter it in opencast mining, oil fields, underground mining or other challenging operations.

A typical feature of the Zetros is its design as a cab-behind-engine truck.

As a result, the cab has low contours, easy entry and exit, a level and spacious cab, even weight distribution and a high level of driving comfort, especially off-road.

Permanent all-wheel drive, robust planetary axles with high ground clearance and single or twin tyres, differential locks and a two-stage transfer case are the outstanding features of this truck model. Its bonnet concept forms the basis for outstanding offroad capabilities. As with the highlycapable off-road Unimog, the optional tyre pressure control system offers the

construction business news me // April 2019 //

57

// Trucks

choice between road, off-road terrain, sand as well as a particularly low air pressure for extreme situations.

There are two engines available for the Zetros. The two and three-axle variants are equipped with the OM 926 LA inline six-cylinder engine featuring 7.2 l displacement and an output of 240 kW (326 hp). The engine can either be combined with a nine-speed manual transmission or with Allison automatic transmission. In addition, the more powerful OM 457 LA with 315 kW (428 hp) is also available for the Zetros three-axle vehicles.

The new Actros & Arocs The highlights at the Mercedes-Benz Bauma stand are the new Actros and 58

Arocs truck series, which set standards in terms of safety, efficiency and performance. Especially the new generation of the Actros proves to be a bright little mind and appears twice at Bauma. With it, Mercedes-Benz Trucks is bringing the 5th generation of the optional automatic emergency braking system. The Active Brake Assist 5 system – ABA5 for short – can automatically brake the vehicle to a stop in case of danger of collision with a moving or statioanary vehicle or with a pedestrian. This unique and benchmark active safety system is offered only by Mercedes-Benz and is available for the Actros and Arocs truck ranges.

The optionally available, completely redesigned multimedia cockpit in the

// construction business news me // April 2019

Actros and Arocs offers the driver a unique and convenient display and operating concept. Instead of classic instruments, the driver looks at two large, free-standing displays on which everything of relevance is presented.

The interactive screens serve as a central source of information in the digital driver's workplace of the future.

Their operation is for the most part as intuitive as that of a smartphone.

In addition to all driver-relevant basic information, they also allow visualisation of the assistance systems operation. A new feature is also the new electronic parking brake which comes as standard and replaces the conventional parking brake lever. The electronic parking brake gets automatically

home on the construction site as well as in the construction materials supply business.

Both Arocs and Actros come as standard with fully automated transmissions of the Mercedes PowerShift 3 series with 12 or 16 gears. Three drive programs of the transmission are available: Economy/Standard, Power, and Offroad. The "Offroad" or "Power" drive programs, each with several driving modes, adjust to the driving characteristics. Additional functions such as the rocking-free mode assist the driver with traction problems in off-road conditions. Direct shifting from first gear to reverse also enables swift, agile maneuvering.

Manual transmissions are also available as an option.

The Mercedes-Benz Arocs is predestined for use as a specialist in construction-site applications. With a large range of cabs, engines, drive variants, and wheel formulas, the highly specialized all-rounder is up to any challenge. Since its European premiere six years ago, and its MENA and Africa market launch in 2018, the Arocs has been available in a broad and constantly growing line-up. The Arocs is available as both chassis and semitrailer tractor variants with all conceivable wheel formulas. activated in case the driver forgets to activate it and thus prevents damages and increases safety.

On the exterior, the new Actros and Arocs differ from their predecessors by the absence of exterior mirrors. An optionally available camera system called MirrorCam replaces rear-view and wide-angle mirrors. Two cameras mounted on the outside of the cab's roof frame provide a view to the rear and transmit the image to two 15-inch colour displays, mounted on either side of the cab's A-pillars. The MirrorCam, improves all-round visibility, handling, aerodynamics, and safety and allows a night check along the sides of the vehicle towards the rear when the curtains are drawn. www.cbnme.com

Mercedes-Benz developed the Arocs series specifically for the construction industry and presented it to the European public for the first time in 2013. Since then, this heavy-duty construction truck from Mercedes-Benz Trucks has established itself on the market as a true specialist and covers the construction sector as a whole.

Both on the road and off the beaten track, the Arocs has truly proven itself through its power, ruggedness, and efficiency. Whether as a heavy tipper, concrete mixer, construction materials transporter, semi-trailer tractor unit or special purpose vehicle – the Arocs, with its sturdy frame construction, robust chassis, and powerful engines, cuts a fine figure everywhere and is at

Turbo retarder clutch If you have to pull away with weights up to 250 tons or to drive in a particularly sensitive and wear-free manner or have to maneuver at very low speeds, you should choose the turbo retarder clutch. It combines a wear-free, hydraulic start-off clutch and a retarder in a single component. The turbo retarder clutch can be combined with all Arocs 6x4 to 8x8 chassis. As a primary retarder, the turbo retarder clutch develops a braking power of 350 kW (476 hp). Together with the up to 475 kW (646 hp) output of the powerful High-Performance Engine Brake, the turbo retarder clutch ensures maximum safety.

construction business news me // April 2019 //

59

Unsung Heroes

April 2019

ROW L E Y We talked to Olga Rowley, Business Development and Marketing Manager MENA, about her role and how she and the team are helping to contribute to Cundall’s success Goals and Objectives In my role, the most important objective is to see my work adding value to the business. As a non-technical employee in a technical organization I want to see that together with my team, we bring different perspective and ideas to the business. We help our technical team to communicate all the amazing work they do.

I am definitely very passionate about Cundall people and how dedicated they are to their work. One of my ultimate objectives is to make sure we share that with the rest of the industry. Most of the engineers are very shy people and sometimes they do incredible innovative work but keep it to themselves or to the project. I encourage them to broaden their audience and showcase it to both internally and externally.

In Cundall, our strategy is to work with clients that we can add value and create a positive change through our work together. I think it is in building partnership and relations for the long term and that requires our dedication but also a very good understanding of our clients and what matters to them the most.”

Strong Attributes Business, as usual, is no longer enough and I think to be able to shine as a company it starts from the inside, from our values, beliefs, and the way we work as a team. It is so inspiring to be part of a company that is committed to creating positive change in the world.

One of the best things about working in Business Development and 60

Marketing team is the freedom that we are given in Cundall to explore the opportunities and to make suggestions for improvement or to come up with ideas that best demonstrate who we are as a business.

The people I work with would be able to answer this best, but I think my biggest attribute is to build relations whether within the company or with our clients. I am very passionate about people and connecting with people because I strongly believe that no matter how far we go with digitization and AI, nothing can replace human’s interaction.

// construction business news me // April 2019

Importance of Teamwork None of the greatest achievements could have been accomplished alone and the teamwork for us is everything. We work very closely together as a team, not only locally but globally. We have that family-friendly environment that it almost doesn’t feel like work but rather creating something amazing and something we are excited about. Our friendly environment helps us to share ideas from different parts of the world so every new campaign or event we can do better. It also helps us to develop and grow professionally.

Celebrating the finest achievements in the Kingdom’s construction and real estate industry 28 APRIL, 2019 INTERCONTINENTAL HOTEL RIYADH FOR SPONSORSHIP JO D’COSTA JO@BNCPUBLISHING.NET +971 50 440 2706

VISHVANATH SHETTY VISH@BNCPUBLISHING.NET +971 52 674 5378

RABIH NADERI RABIH.NADERI@BNCPUBLISHING.NET

FOR NOMINATIONS KASUN ILLANKOON KASUN@BNCPUBLISHING.NET +971 4 4200 506

#CBNMEAWARDS

+966 53 088 9199

// Save the date

Save the date Mark your calendar

April

5-7

April

8-10

62

Cityscape Jeddah Jeddah, Saudi Arabia Cityscape Jeddah is ideally positioned to facilitate real estate investment opportunities, attracting homebuyers, developers, investors, real estate professionals, and government authorities from the region and the globe to source investment opportunities, generate new avenues of growth, and drive transformative change.

Future Cities Show Dubai, UAE The Future Cities Show is going to be a great platform for local and international institutions from various industries to showcase their latest technologies which are going to redefine the way we live. The show will focus on three pillars which are Sustainability, Innovation, and Happiness. FCS aims to bring together environmentalists, sustainability leaders, innovators, solution providers, healthcare practitioners, security vendors, energy consultants, manufacturers, bankers, builders, urban developers, architectures, investors, mayors, mobility players and students under one roof to interact, discuss and showcase solutions for a smart sustainable future.

// construction business news me // April 2019

April

8-14

April

16-18

Bauma Munich, Germany The world's leading trade fair bauma is the heartbeat of our industry. It is the most important gathering for companies that deal with construction machinery, building material machines, mining machines, construction vehicles, and construction equipment.

2nd Annual Malls Middle East Conference Dubai, UAE The 2nd Annual Malls Middle East event will take bring together mall owners, developers, design consultants, architects and contractors from the mall development industry across the region to address common pitfalls in driving footfalls and differentiating from other malls in the region.

On th e w eb Keep up to date with all the latest events and much more on our website. www.cbnme.com

Simplify your business with Business Mobile Plan.

• National and international minutes • Free calls within the company • Devices with zero upfront

Visit du.ae/bmp

Business www.cbnme.com

Experience Forward Living.

Own Your Home at Pixel.

The first mixed-use development at Makers District. Pixel is the only residential project on Reem Island with its own community beach. Boasting a diverse selection of studio 1, 2 and 3-bedroom units for sale.

REGISTER NOW at thepixel.ae or CALL 800 46526