QC-Sites I Dec 2017 I Issue no.125

I ssue N o .125 - D ecember 2017

EXCLUSIVE Commercial Vehicles

The commercial vehicles market in Qatar is forecast to grow at a CAGR of more than 13% during 2015-2020.

Predominant reasons for this brisk growth are increasing construction activities coupled with an increasing number of expatriates and growing tourism in the country.

SITES Monthly Construction news, tenders, project focus, and forthcoming exhibitions in Qatar

NEWS

Doha Souq mall Doha Souq mall toto add toto Qatar’s retail add Qatar’s retail landscape landscape Mall to promote local products and services in a big way

A

dding to Qatar’s growing retail landscape, Doha Souq Mall is set to open in Q2, 2018 on Doha’s Al Nasr Street.

The mall would have a gross leasable area (GLA) of 26,000 sq. meters and cover a land area of 15,000 sq. meters. The mall would have a total built-up area of 63,000 sq. meters.

Doha Souq Mall is nearing completion and now accepting tenants. It would create 500 jobs and is managed by Bandary Real Estate.

According to Bandary Real Estate malls manager Amjed Saleh. Doha Souq Mall would contain 22 retail spaces, a supermarket, 20 good and beverage outlets, three atrium lobby cafes, 26 office and clinic spaces, a play area and two basement car parks Although the mall opening is scheduled for Q21, 2018, it would be fully operational by the end of next year. Saleh said tenants are expected to include Family Food Center, Wooden Bakery of Lebanon, Jollibee Restaurant, Pilipino Style Foods and Technical Care Center. Other than international brands, the mall would also offer support to Qatari products, which Saleh said, give global names a run for their money.

Al Nasr Street, located in the Mirqab area of Doha, is always busy, a factor expected to help bring in major footfall to mall, currently projected at 5,000 to 9,000 a day. Al Nasr Street is expected to be further developed and made one-way, in order bring down traffic congestion.

Doha Souq Mall would have six entry and exit points and have four floors. The ground floor would have restaurants, retail shops and an atrium-style cafe. The mezzanine floor would contain restaurants and play area while the first and second floor would house office and a gym, ill have offices and a gym. Parking facilities would comfortable accommodate 550 vehicles. A unique aspect of the mall would be its play area focusing on teenagers, Saleh said.

Saleh was hopeful of the mall’s full occupancy

by Q1, 2018 due to “overwhelming response” and stated it would be an ideal place for dining, business meetings and shopping. As Qatar is intent on promoting local entrepreneurs in its economic diversification measures, local products would be accorded priority. Saleh said the ongoing blockade of the country has led to local manufacturers stepping up and producing quality goods.

Bandary Real Estate was established in 2005 and provides advanced property solutions in Qatar. It is a part of Bandary International Group. The group currently has over 16 individual companies covering key areas such as transportation, manufacturing and construction. Bandary Real Estate has extensive experience in a variety of real estate services, including construction and management and inspections.

Doha Souq Mall would contain 22 retail spaces, a supermarket, 20 good and beverage outlets, three atrium lobby cafes, 26 office and clinic spaces, a play area and two basement car parks.

METALPLUS METALPLUS Prefabricated Air Duct Manufacturing and Trading Co.W.L.L.

On site

+974 5599 0624 +974 4434 2518 2

DECEMBER 2017

CONSTRUCTION

SITES

info@metalplus.com.qa hinzawi@metalplus.com.qa

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Latest projects

CONSTRUCTION

Combined value of the active Combined value of the active construction projects in GCC construction projects in GCC exceeds $2.43 tr intrNovember exceeds $2.43 in November Much of these invested in infrastructure, housing and commercial sectors

T

he combined value of the 22,680 active construction projects in the GCC exceeded $2.43 trillion in November 2017, according to the latest `GCC Construction Analytics’ report issued by BNC Network/

with 1,701, transport sector having 1,423, followed by 1,289 industrial and 355 oil and gas projects.

However, combined value of 1,423 transport projects reached $387.6 billion, followed by oil and gas projects valued at $337 bn, utilities worth $313 bn and industrial project value reaching $178.6 bn.

The GCC region has undertaken massive development and construction activities to diversify their economies. “Clearly, the governments of these countries are investing their current oil wealth and resources to build a better future that will serve the future generations well even when oil runs out or the use of oil reduces to the minimum,” Avin Gidwani, CEO, BNC Network, said.

In 2016, the GCC countries pumped an average of 18.3 million barrels per day. According to the GCC Secretariat, the Gulf countries’ nonoil exports reached $113.1 bn while oil exports fetched $357.8 bn in 2015.

Of these, the urban construction sector has the highest number of projects, touching 17,912, worth $1.21 tr, followed by the utilities sector

“Much of these are being invested in large infrastructure, housing and commercial projects that will have a far-reaching impact on the re-

Avin Gidwani CEO, BNC Network

gion’s economies,” Gidwani said. “According to the GCC Secretariat, the total budget deficit of $152 bn reflects the simple fact that the governments are spending fast and higher to build the economies. In terms of number of projects, these represent 85% of all active projects in the MENA region and 68% in terms of estimated value in US dollars.

The GCC region has undertaken massive development and construction activities to diversify their economies.

In the third quarter of 2017, as many as 269 projects with a combined estimated value of $82.85 bn were announced in the GCC. Notable projects announced in the third quarter of 2017 include Al Faisaliya City located in Makkah worth $25 bn; Aljada Residential City located near Sharjah’s University City worth $6.5bn and the Oman to India Multi-Purpose Pipeline located in Muscat worth $5.6 bn.

In October, the number of active projects in the GCC increased by 2% as compared to September 2017 and the total estimated value of these projects increased by 1%. A total of 142 active projects with a combined estimated value of $10.4bn moved to construction from other stages during the month. A total of 670 active projects with a combined estimated value of $15.2 bn were completed during the month.

Gidwani said: “This also shows that most of the Middle East’s construction and development activities are concentrated in the Gulf region as the governments of the six oil-rich countries are spending their resources in time to diversify the economy by developing the infrastructure, housing and commercial real estate to build strong national economies and preparing the economies for the post-oil era.”

The urban construction sector has the highest number of projects, touching 17,912, worth $1.21 tr.

CRACRA cautions public against cautions public against thethe useuse of unapproved of unapproved wireless devices wireless devices Public notice issued to create awareness

S erage

ome wireless devices not pur-

Qatar’s Communications Regulatory Author-

degradation in mobile coverage and quality of

is prohibited. As such, their import, sale and

chased in Qatar interfere with

ity (CRA) has issued a public notice to create

service.

use in Qatar is not allowed.

mobile networks and can cause

awareness about certain wireless/cordless

disruption and degradation to cov-

devices not purchased in the country that

CRA has informed all members of the public

CRA has granted Class License for the use

may cause disruption in mobile networks and

that usage of certain `personal use’ devices

and operation of SRDs which include RFID

described below is illegal. CRA can identify such illegal devices through its monitoring systems and take necessary action accordingly, including confiscating any device found to be interfering with any of the licensed networks in Qatar.

devices such as wireless access control for parking gates/doors. These devices are only permitted operations within the authorized frequency bands and power levels. These specifications are also available in Annexure (2) of this Class License on CRA’s website.

These devices include cordless phones, wireless headsets, microphones, etc. operating on DECT 6 standards (1900MHz); RFID de-

The frequency band 900MHz is assigned exclusively to the service providers and should not be used on SRDs.

vices and mobile signal boosters or repeaters. These devices, often purchased outside

The import, sale or use of mobile signal boost-

Qatar, operate on frequency bands exclusively

ers or repeaters used to enhance mobile cov-

allocated for mobile networks in the country.

erage must be compliant with the CRA stan-

These devices may be allowed for personal

dards and is allowed only through licensed

use in other countries, but their use in Qatar

telecom service providers in Qatar.

CONSTRUCTION

SITES

DECEMBER 2017

3

LEGAL

Performance Bonds Performance Bonds – A False Sense of Security?

– A False Sense of Security?

They can either be `conditional’ or `unconditional’

By Dina Zhang Doha

S

ecurity in the form of bank guarantees and insurance bonds are often used in practice in lieu of, or in addition to, cash or retention monies and are generally known as `performance bonds’.

Performance bonds can either be `conditional’, that is, certain conditions are required to be fulfilled before a claim or demand can be made under the bond, or more commonly in Qatar, `unconditional’.

Historically in Qatar, customary usage has treated the performance bond as substitutes for cash or at least, readily convertible into cash.

`Unconditional’ performance bonds are founded on a unilateral promise by a financial institution such as a bank or insurer to pay the beneficiary up to the sum of the performance bond. Accordingly, it is the contractual privity between the financial institution and the beneficiary that is the subject of the instrument.

The financial institution is not obliged nor entitled to consider the merits or otherwise of the beneficiary’s entitlement in the underlying contract when handing over the funds, even if reference to the underlying contract is on the face of the instrument.

Often in contracts it is expressly provided that the commercial function of security, in its various forms, is that of ensuring the due and proper performance of the contract. It is used for one party to secure against default by the counterparty to a contract, and more specifically to: (a) Protect the beneficiary from the insolvency of the other party; and/or (b) Act as a risk allocation mechanism pending the resolution of a dispute between the parties.

Generally, parties retain the freedom to bargain the terms upon which the bond is payable. It may be argued that a contractor would then have already accepted the risks associ-

ated with a performance bond during the tender process in deciding on a security arrangement. The benefit of using performance bonds would relieve the contractor providing the security of the need to hold up its cash flow and borrow funds from a financial institution thereby increasing its competitiveness in the market.

If the parties had intended otherwise, it would always be possible to stipulate preconditions on a call on the performance bond. Such preconditions range from a simple requirement that the demand is signed by a director of the employer to the more onerous requirement for evidence of default such as a court judgement or arbitration award.

Nevertheless, invariably when a call is made under a bond, the other party may attempt to restrain such a call. In those circumstances, the terms of the instrument itself as well as those within the underlying contract must be carefully scrutinised in order to ascertain the intentions of the parties at contract formation and determine whether the party was entitled to call upon the bond.

The calling up of a performance bond is associated with potentially detrimental or adverse consequences for a party such as cash liquidity issues, damage to its reputation and the risk that the cash will be misappropriated by the beneficiary. The long-term effects of this may include the increased difficulties to obtain additional bonds from a financial institution in order to bid for new work or to finance existing projects.

Historically, with the benefit of hindsight, there is often insufficient commercial certainty to the contracting parties as to the level of the allocated risks in the project. With the false sense of security afforded by performance bonds to contracting parties, the instrument is all too frequently accepted by both parties to the transaction without much consideration or scrutiny as to the circumstances recourse will be permitted until it is much too late.

In practice, there are many conditions and practicalities that restrain a beneficiary’s right to have recourse to the bank guarantees.

However, historically in Qatar, customary usage has treated the performance bond as substitutes for cash or at least, readily convertible into cash. Although in this jurisdiction, the le-

gal options available to a contractor to prevent the payment by the bank of an amount under a bond are very limited, a few ways a contractor can seek to protect itself are outlined below: In some contracts, employers are obliged to indemnify the contractor where it is determined (at a later stage by a court or arbitral tribunal) that a wrongful demand has been made under a performance bond.

An example of this type of clause can be found at clause 4.2 of the FIDIC Conditions of Contract for Plant and Design Build and the Conditions of Contract for Construction (First Edition 1999). Clause 4.2 states:

The Employer shall indemnify and hold the contractor harmless against and from all damages, losses and expenses (including legal fees and expenses) resulting from a claim under the performance security to the extent to which the Employer was not entitled to make the claim.

Whilst this may act as a deterrent to a party wishing to make a demand under a performance bond, less sophisticated contracts often do not contain such a clause and where a FIDIC 1999 standard form, is provided at tender by an employer, this provision is often deleted.

Sometimes the performance bond or contract may contain a notice provision, where the employer is required to give notice to the contractor that it intends to make a demand under a performance bond. This gives the contractor the opportunity to attempt to remedy its default or failing this, to alert the bank in an effort to limit the damage to banking relationships.

Where there is no notice provision in a contract, the time between a demand under a performance bond by an employer and payment by the guarantor bank is often only a matter of a few days.

Often, the only way for the contractor to attempt to stop the payment by the financial institution to the employer is by way of injunctive proceedings through the local courts. This would involve an urgent (known as `Summary’) application to the local courts for injunctive proceedings to be issued on the financial institution to stop payment. However, as mentioned above, the steps required to make an application for injunctive relief are fraught with difficulty and injunctive relief in this regard, is rarely successful.

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DECEMBER 2017

CONSTRUCTION

SITES

Dinah Zhang

Dinah Zhang is an associate in Clyde & Co’s Middle East Construction and Dispute Resolution Group, based in the Doha office. Dinah is qualified as a solicitor in Australia and is experienced in both contentious and non-contentious matters. She has advised and acted for a wide range of participants on major projects in the construction and infrastructure sector including government, private developers, head contractors, subcontractors and consultants. Her areas of expertise include dispute resolution, litigation, and arbitration.

A fixed expiry date on the performance bond provides some measure of protection against the common peril of a perpetual bond. Bonds that are stated to expire on the issuance of a defects liability certificate or the like expose contractors to the risk of a perpetual risk though the additional cost of constant renewal of the expiry date may be an administrative burden.

The best protection for a contractor is not to provide security at all (if possible) or failing this, to make the bond conditional.

Although commercial parties are enticed by the purported convertibility to cash of performance bonds, the parties often agree to such arrangements it seems without a real comprehension of the risks involved in the event of an unfair or unexpected demand upon security.

Consequently, the risk of financial or reputation damage that is initially contracted for is rarely expected or catered for.

Should you have any questions in connection with this article or the legal issues it covers, please contact Dinah Zhang, Associate of Clyde & Co LLP at dinah.zhang@clydeco.com or Laura Warren, Partner of Clyde & Co LLP at laura.warren@clydeco.com.

Where there is no notice provision in a contract, the time between a demand under a performance bond by an employer and payment by the guarantor bank is often only a matter of a few days.

TOTO aims to reduce emissions TOTO aims toCO2 reduce CO2 emissions from plumbing productsproducts from plumbing

I

t might seem as a tiny detail, but choosing the right faucet can result in huge water and energy savings. Research estimates that bathroom and kitchen faucets account for 16 percent of the water used in an American home. In a typical house, faucets run for around 8 minutes a day and consume nearly 11 gallons of water per person per day.

The consumption is unlikely to be different in Qatar.

As a leading manufacturer of plumbing products, the TOTO Group’s integrated all in One Auto Faucet promises to Improve livability, benefit the natural system and achieve significant energy and water savings.

The product is part of TOTO GREEN CHALLENGE to significantly accelerate conventional environmental activities. “To promote environmental activities in the three key perspectives of product and services, manufacturing and social contributions, and human resource development, we have established quantitative targets for our Action Plan that lasts until the year 2017 - our 100th anniversary”, the company stated.

TOTO Green Challenge The global environment is changing at a rate beyond our expectations. Plumbing products, alongside household electrical appliances, account for the majority of CO2 emitted from the home.

As a leading manufacturer of plumbing products, TOTO promotes its TOTO GREEN CHALLENGE to significantly accelerate conventional environmental activities.

Engineered to require no electricity or routine disposable battery replacement, Eco-Power products are the perfect marriage of handsfree operation, low maintenance and sophisticated design.

This involves a review of all corporate activities with a view toward achieving stringent quantitative targets by 2017.

Water Saving

Product-related initiatives include a focus on “reducing CO2 emissions from plumbing products” and “purifying the air with Hydrotect. The company has devised an easy-to-understand vision of the future and a roadmap outlining how to get there, aiming to expand activities encompassing the entire housing construction industry on a global scale.

The suggested faucet is a compact infrared sensor; one of the smallest sensors in the world. It’s aesthetically pleasing design with spout senses for human motions only. Moreover, the faucet precisely tempers water and regulates its flow, while the thermostatic controller enhances the comfort of users.

Electricity is generated by the built-in power generator unit when the water flows through it. The electricity stored in the capacitor can be used for daily operation. The ECOPOWER self-generating hydropower system gets stronger with each use, adding years to lifecycle.

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An integrated sensor is able to detect hand movement and thus ensure that just the right amount of water is dispensed. It’s so finely tuned that it only registers hand movement directly below the spout and therefore does not activate the water flow when you’re cleaning the wash basin.

TOTO aerated bubble technology, adds air to the water enlarging them and causing them to increase in volume. This enables the water consumption to reduce by half from 4.0 L/ min to 2L/min while retaining the same washing experience.

Energy Saving Without the need of batteries replacement, this helps to reduce daily maintenance and create an eco friendly environment. Without the need of cabling and wiring, this helps to reduce cost and energy.

Since the product is self powered, the electrical cabling is not required. So the energy saving and cost savings are the benefits.

Phone: +974 4465 2345 Phone: +974 4497 9000 CONSTRUCTION

SITES

DECEMBER 2017

5

RESEARCH

Arab Arabcountries countries look looktotodigital digital media mediatotokeep keepupup with withdevelopments developments

D

igital news consumption is high and growing in the Middle East, with more than half of Arab nationals choosing the Internet as their main source of news and more than two-thirds relying on smartphones for news updates.

This is among some of the findings of Northwestern University in Qatar’s `Media Use in the Middle East’ survey, which is the fifth edition of a longitudinal study on media consumption patterns and attitudes towards media and the news in the Arab world.

“With five years of data, we are now positioned to draw comparisons and to show patterns and trends on media use in the Middle East,” said Everette E Dennis, dean and CEO. “One of the more revealing findings over the past five years is that since 2015, the percentage of Arab nationals using their smartphones to connect to the Internet rose by 13%, while the percentage of laptop/computer users dropped by 11 points. We have found that this is also correlated to the rise in digital news consumption via smartphones.”

In breaking down these numbers, the survey discovered that within the Middle East, nationals of Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE were more likely to turn to the Internet for news than citizens of Jordan, Lebanon, and Tunisia who tend to rely on TV as a main news source.

For smartphones, however, use has increased substantially in all countries since 2013, but most notably in Jordan, with an almost 50% increase and in Tunisia and Lebanon, with an approximate 40% increase. Another change over the five-year period is the choice of language. Initially respondents reported English as the primary language used for accessing content on the Internet, but in the year’s survey, there was a significant increase in the use of Arabic – from 58% in 2013 to 78% in 2017.

The repercussions on traditional media, resulting from the increased digital usage, similar to other parts of the world has been substantial, with rates of newspaper readership declining sharply from 47% in 2013 to 25% in 2017. Radio and magazines have also seen a decline, dropping nearly 10% each since 2013.

Other key findings on news consumption include: • Two-thirds of Arab nationals trust mass media, but fewer than half trust news they get via social media (66 percent, 47%).

• Two-thirds of Facebook users get news on that platform (65 percent).

• More than 90% of nationals in Lebanon, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE own a smartphone, with Jordan not far behind. In comparison, only 77% of Americans own a smartphone; among the countries surveyed only Tunisians own smartphones at a lower rate than the US at 65%.

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DECEMBER 2017

CONSTRUCTION

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TECHNOLOGY

Public cloud Public cloud – Part of the strategy for for – Part of the strategy Middle EastEast organizations Middle organizations butbut notnot thethe strategy strategy Digital technologies have proved disruptive Author: Yousuf Khan, CIO, Pure Storage

F

or consumers and businesses alike, digital technology has proven disruptive. Consumers can, in theory, embrace or reject the trend as they see fit. But a reluctance to embrace digital technologies can leave organizations falling behind competitors. The good news is that enterprises in the Middle East are already making strides in this area. In a recent survey we conducted, of 300 IT decision makers in the region, 72% of respondents stated their organizations are committed to being information-based companies. In fact, the survey found that digital solutions already contribute almost 50% of revenue in these companies.

69% of businesses say they will increase their public cloud usage in the next 18-24 months.

In parallel, private cloud (57%) and SaaS (56%) usage is also expected to grow in the same timeframe.

It is often the responsibility of IT leaders to innovate in line with the business’ digital vision, without breaking the bank. In response to this pressure, over the past several years, public cloud has seen increased adoption across a multitude of industries. The demand for simpler storage, combined with an unprecedented explosion of data, has created the perception of an unstoppable drive toward the public cloud. A “cloud-first” strategy is the popular buzzword for executive leadership. But it is important to understand what that really means.

Strategic infrastructure is key to optimizing for the new reality of digital business – and that means building a hybrid cloud.

The narrative that cloud and traditional storage are at direct odds, while compelling, is oversimplified. Within today’s landscape, there are more options than just public cloud and traditional on-premise. Software-as-aService (SaaS) has exploded, while private cloud has also seen significant increase in relevancy. A strategy that deploys some combination of these options is referred to as hybrid cloud. This is a route that most enterprises in the Middle East are opting to go down as evidenced by findings of the survey where

Air Conditioning Units

In my conversations with more than 70 CIOs, VPs of Infrastructure and technology leaders over the past several months, the general consensus is two-fold: • Organizations that aren’t using public cloud in some capacity are likely missing out • Public cloud is part of a strategy – but it is not the strategy

Today, major retail brands – which were previously never considered technology companies – are generating more data than high tech firms did a decade ago. Car companies like Mercedes and Tesla, outfit cars with sometimes hundreds of sensors, which constantly pour critical performance data back into organizational databases. 90% of all data ever generated was generated in the last five years. Analysts forecast that by 2025, we will generate 180 zettabytes – or 180 trillion gigabytes – of data annually.

To gain advantage from that data, maintain a modern pace of innovation and improve operational efficiency, organizations must be highly analytical and strategic about which workloads and applications live where.

Analytics and business intelligence are two of the top focus areas for CIOs with 74%of respondents to the survey reporting that they

Ventilation & Smoke Fans

Smoke Management Systems

Cooling Towers

see more demand in the business for real-

al on-premise solutions. Availability and reli-

time analytics and interactive simulations

ability are core tenets of any cloud strategy.

than a year ago. To effectively utilize both, modern IT professionals must understand

Today, CIOs need to be much more deliberate

the strengths and limitations of different in-

and thoughtful about the impact of outages

frastructure options to create the optimal

on end-users and customers. In the public

hybrid environment for their organizational

cloud, disruptive outages do happen. In fact,

needs.

it happened to Amazon Web Services (AWS) this past February. For mission-critical busi-

Public cloud has revolutionized the standard

ness operations, like high-performance ana-

for easy IT. It is simpler to manage, and re-

lytics or anything at scale, a hybrid environ-

moves the time and energy burden of tech-

ment is better suited.

nology upgrades from the customer. It’s a utility model, which is attractive to organiza-

Last, and top of mind for a great many CIOs I

tions for which CapEx is limited, and provides

have spoken with, is compliance, something

the flexibility needed to scale up and down

that is particularly important in the Middle

quickly depending on fluctuating demand. An

East; 77% of IT decision makers surveyed

insurance company, for example, needs more

said their organization has reduced usage of

infrastructure up and running when more of

public cloud over the past year due to secu-

its customers are on the road – to scale up

rity concerns and 38% cite security as the key

and down over the course of days or hours

roadblock to adoption of public cloud. In high-

requires an agile solution.

ly-regulated industries such as healthcare and government, data sovereignty and direct

The other side of the same coin is scale over

control over response to outages are a non-

time. As an organization’s data requirements

negotiable requirement for many workloads.

grow, so does the public cloud bill – exponentially. Today, there is an entire industry being

CIOs need to consider compliance strategy

created around public cloud cost manage-

in a world where data sovereignty and regu-

ment. Many CIOs report directly to the CFO,

lations are fast changing. In light of global

and when we speak to them, cost certainty is

events like Brexit and geopolitical tensions

a recurring theme. A volatile and unpredict-

in the region, CIOs need to ensure that their

able operating expense can be untenable

cloud strategies align with ever-fluid national

when building a digital organization.

and international regulations and requirements.

For all its agility and ease, the public cloud often comes with a performance and reliabil-

Ultimately, smart, successful companies use

ity downgrade when compared to the best

resources toward solving customer problems.

on-premise solutions. This is corroborated by

Organizations need IT to work for them, so

findings from the survey as availability (52%)

that their best and brightest technical minds

and performance (47%) were cited as two of

are working to advance the next wave of inno-

the key drivers for continued use of tradition-

vation rather than managing infrastructure.

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Tel. No.: 4443 7980 Email: info@metcoqatar.com Head office: Al Waab City, Salwa Rd. Showroom: Salwa Road near Midmac R/A CONSTRUCTION

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DECEMBER 2017

7

ECONOMY

Qatar’s non-oil exports reach Qatar’s non-oil exports reach QR13.3 billion in nine month QR13.3 billion in nine month Unfair siege has no effect on country’s economic performance

T

he total value of Qatar’s nonoil exports in September 2017 reached QR1.57 billion compared to QR1.796 bn in August, recording a decrease of 12.6 % and QR1.57 bn in September 2016, recording an increase of 48.7%, the monthly report of Qatar Chamber (QC) on the foreign trade of the private sector published on 19 September showed. The total value of nine months of 2017 touched QR13.3 bn.

The report, which was prepared based on certificates of origin issued by QC’s Research & Studies Department and Member Affairs Department last May, pointed out 2,155 certificates of origin were issued during the same month.

Commenting on the report, QC chairman Sheikh Khalifa bin Jassim Al Thani praised the substantial rise in exports to normal levels which affirms the unfair siege imposed on Qatar could not stop or hinder the export processes for the Qatari private sector due to the robustness of the economy, wise governmental policies and the world’s confi-

dence in the national economy.

While non-oil exports dropped in June, Sheikh Khalifa said “sound planning” and “strong external relations,” along with the “significant efforts made at all levels” enabled Qatar to overcome the repercussions of the siege “rapidly”.

He added exports fro July, August and September achieved substantial growth to higher levels before the siege. QC DirectorGeneral Saleh bin Hamad Al Sharqi praised the huge surge in Qatar’s exports in spite of the unfair siege imposed on Qatar and obstacles set by the embargo states. He also paid tribute to the continuation of exports growth in the third month in a row in rates equal to those before the siege or even higher in some months.

Al Sharqi noted that Qatar provided a host of facilitations and incentives to urge national and foreign investors to establish productive enterprises to produce all goods and products which were imported by the blockading countries with a view to achieve

self-sufficiency and exporting any surplus of production.

He pointed out the chamber is currently preparing a booklet which includes a biannual bulletin on Qatar’s non-oil exports, which reviews statistics of exports during the first half of 2017.

52 Countries The report said that Qatar’s non-oil exports during September were distributed to about 52 countries compared to 58 last month.

Countries receiving Qatar’s non-oil exports included 10 Arab countries and GCC , 14 European countries including Turkey, 16 Asian countries (excluding Arab countries), 10 African countries (excluding Arab countries) and 2 countries of North and South Americas.

Trade Partners As in August, Oman was Qatar’s top non-oil exports destination in September accounting for QR 700.29 million or 44.6% of the total exports in the month. It is followed by Hong Kong with almost QR 127.98 million or 8.2% and Germany with QR 113.11 million or 7.2 percent.

Turkey comes in the fourth place with almost QR 95 million or 6.1 percent followed by Philippines with QR 81.81 OR 5.2 percent.

USA comes in the sixth place followed by Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Singapore and India.

It is clear that 90.2 % of the total value of exports were received by the first ten countries abovementioned.

Economic blocs According to the report, it is clear that GCC( Kuwait and Oman) come a first destination of Qatari exports of about 45.4% of the total exports with QR712.844million. Most of these exports were received by Oman.

Asian countries excluding Arab countries come in the second place. They imported QR 499.198 million which represents 31.8% of the total non-oil exports.

In the third place, European countries including Turkey receiving QR 230.893 million or 14.7% of the total value. North America comes in the fourth place receiving QR73.224m or 4.7%.

Arab countries come in the fifth place excluding GCC with total exports of QR 44.856 followed by African countries which received QR8.61m.

Nine months The report shows that total values of nonoil exports in January was QR1400m , February QR1830m, March QR1830m, April QR1328m, May QR1423m, June QR793.7m, July QR1328m, August QR1796m and in September QR1570m.

Tel No. +974 5556 8651 +974 5525 2469 Email: info@aljabergreen.com P.O. Box 22628 Doha – Qatar

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The total value of exports in the nine months of 2017 reaches QR13.248b.

Main Exports Aluminum alloys, bars and molds topped the non-oil exports in the third month in a row with total value of QR 417.6 million or 26.6%, whereas gas oils come in the second place with QR303m OR 19.3%.

Iron grids, angles and poles come in the third place with almost QR 240 million or 15.3% followed by helium gas with almost QR106.6m followed by chemical fertilizers with QR74m and lotrene with almost QR 60.8 million followed by paraffin, polyethylene, chemical substances and plastic rolls.

It is worth mentioning that these ten goods represent 84.5% of the total value of exports in September.

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ǥǭǸȃǭ Ǥǻǭǰ˙ ǖǻǴǭ ˙ ǣǭȀǭǾ Ǣ˘ǡ ǔǻȄ Ǡǻlj Nj ˃ˇ˃˂ˆ

ǦDZǸljNj ˴̟ˋˉˆ˵ ˆˆˇˊ˄˅ˇˉ ǘǭȄljNj ˴̟ˋˉˆ˵ ˆˆˇˊ˄˅ˉˈ Ǘ˭ǹǭǵǸNj ǭǯǾǻȃǽǭȀǭǾ̂ǭǯǾǻȃ˘ǯǻ

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9

GCC

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Combined value ofof GCC oiloil and gas Combined value GCC and gas projects cross $331.4bn projects cross $331.4bn Hydrocarbon sector continues to dominate Gulf exports

T

he combined value of the 361 active oil and gas projects in the GCC crossed $331.4 billion in November, according to latest `Oil and Gas Construction Analytics’ report issued by BNC Network. The hydrocarbon sector represents 30% of the GCC economy and 60% of total exports value.

The construction projects of the GCC’s oil and gas sector constitutes 2% of all active projects in the region and in dollar terms, while these projects account for 14% of the total estimated value, that reflects relatively high value of average energy projects compared to other civil engineering and construction projects.

The construction projects of the GCC’s oil and gas sector constitutes 2% of all active projects in the region and in dollar terms, while these projects account for 14% of the total estimated value, that reflects relatively high value of average energy projects compared to other civil engineering and construction projects.

Although average oil price has recovered to $51.82 per barrel year-to-date in 2017, from the 13-year lowest average price per barrel of $42.55 in 2016, this is less than half the $111.63 per barrel recorded in 2012 – the highest crude price ever.

“World oil demand growth in 2017 is now expected to increase by 1.5 million barrels per day (bpd), representing an upward revision of around 30 tb/d from the previous report, mainly reflecting recent data showing an improvement in economic activities, according to the latest Monthly Oil Market Report (MOMR), issued in October by OPEC. “Positive revisions were primarily a result of higher-than-expected oil demand from the OECD region and China. In 2018, world oil demand is anticipated to grow by 1.4 million bpd following an upward adjustment of 30 tb/d over the previous report, due to the improving economic outlook in the world economy, particularly China and Russia.”

Based on the current global oil supply/demand balance, OPEC said, its crude output in 2017 is estimated at 32.8 million bpd, around 0.6 million bpd higher than in 2016. Similarly, OPEC crude in 2018 is projected at 33.1 million bpd, about 0.3 million bpd higher than in 2017.

“In the third quarter of 2017, 17 projects with a combined estimated value of $22.05bn were announced in the GCC’s oil and gas sector,

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despite a low-oil price environment where oil price has been hovering around the psychological mark of $50 per barrel,” the `Oil and Gas Construction Analytics’ issued by BNC Network showed.

economic growth that is set to accelerate further in the next few years. Despite economic diversification, the hydrocarbon sector still represents 30% of the GDP and 60% of the export value of the GCC countries.”

“In the third quarter of 2017, the number of oil and gas projects in the GCC increased by 6% as compared to the second quarter of 2017 and the total estimated value of these projects increased by 5%.”

A total of 10 oil and gas projects with a combined estimated value of US$5.6 billion moved to construction from other stages during the third quarter of 2017. The largest oil and gas project to be awarded in the third quarter was Phase 1 of the Duqm Refinery and Petrochemical Complex in Oman worth $2.75bn.

Oil futures surged further in September, with ICE Brent gaining more than 7% and averaging above the $55/b level, supported greatly by increasing evidence that the oil market is heading toward rebalancing, geopolitical tensions in Iraq’s Kurdistan region and lower distillate stocks ahead of the winter season, the latest OPEC report said.

Avin Gidwani, CEO, BNC Network, said:, “The renewed optimism in the global economy and a slight increase in demand is reflected in the latest `Oil and Gas Construction Analytics’ with the announcement of 17 new oil and gas projects, worth $22.05bn in the third quarter of 2017 - that pushed up the number of energy projects to 361 with a combined value of $331.4bn.

“This also reflects that the governments of the Gulf countries are determined to invest more in hydrocarbon projects to increase output and exports of oil and gas products to fuel global

A total of 15 oil and gas projects with a combined estimated value of $9.9bn were completed during the third quarter of 2017. Notable projects completed in the third quarter of 2017 in the GCC’s oil and gas sector include Block 61 which is part of Phase 1 of Khazzan Gas Field Development located in Qarn Alam, Oman worth $5bn; Awali Oil Field Redevelopment located in Manama worth $1.5bn and KOC Gas Booster Station located in Kuwait worth $939.4 million.

Major projects announced in the third quarter 2017 in the GCC’s oil and gas sector include the Oman to India Multi-Purpose Pipeline located in Muscat worth $5.6bn; New Duqm Refinery located in Oman worth $3bn and Amiral Mixed Feed Cracker also worth $3bn, part of the Jubail Refinery Complex in Saudi Arabia.

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11

INFRASTRUCTURE

M iddle

M iddleEast East has its share of

has its share of tall towers tall towers

W

hat do major cities in the world have in

came the icon of tall buildings in the world. It has rede-

common? They are all teeming with peo-

fined what is possible in the design and engineering of su-

ple, traffic is bad and there are more tall buildings (35-100 meters high, or 12 to

pertall buildings. Its construction combined cutting-edge

39 floors) than there are weeds. The three are insepa-

technology and Islamic architecture, yet still showing the

rable. And, their relationship began in 1885 when the

norms of the global community it is meant to serve. It is

Home Insurance Building in Chicago was completed. The

a mixed-used building and boasts of housing the Armani

building was merely 42 m high, but was dubbed the `Father of the Skyscraper’. Then in 1931, it fell under the shadow of the 381-m Empire State Building in New York.

Arab hospitality.

Milad Tower(435 m)

Hotel - the first hotel designed by Giorgio Armani. There are also apartment floors, restaurants, corporate office spaces and the highest viewing deck in the world. Prior to

Since then, the need to build them higher has not abated. Driven partly by ego (I can make them taller) and partly good business sense, tall buildings began appear-

its construction, prototypes were tested in wind tunnels to test its structural integrity.

ing in major cities’ skylines all over the world - even in the Middle East.

Makkah Royal Clock Tower(601 m) Tall buildings are space-efficient, self-contained mini

The Milad Tower is the 6th tallest tower and the 24th tallest freestanding building in the world.

communities with practically everything under one roof.

And. this development concept has not escaped the keen eyes of Middle Eastern countries awash with pet-

When it opened on February 20, 2009, its purpose was

rodollars.

to expand Iran’s wireless communications network.

Through the years, it slowly became a multipurpose build-

So they built them, too.

ing - just like all the other multipurpose buildings in the region.

Now the tallest and most breathtaking buildings are found in the region. Here are 10 of them:

Princess Tower(413 m) Burj Khalifa (828 m)

The Makkah Royal Clock Tower is a dwarf compared to Burj Khalifa, but a giant in Makkah, Saudi Arabia. The Tower is at the center of the Abraj Al Bait complex, Al Hajlah, Makkah. It is a part of the King Abdulaziz Endowment Project and is intended to provide comfortable accommodations for devout Muslims who journey to Makkah every year. At night, the Tower looks like a beacon of green and white light. This is from the million LED lights embedded into four colossal clocks placed near the top - one on each side. It has also a 5-star hotel oper-

The Burj Khalifa, (1 Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Blvd),

ated by the Fairmont chain with 1,618 rooms and suites,

The Princess Tower, Al Sufouh Road, Dubai Marina, is

formally opened its doors in 2010 and immediately be-

all carrying a combination of luxurious design and famed

touted a the largest residential building in the world. It Continued next page. . . . .

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. . . . .Continued from previous page

was completed in 2012, has 763 units and 957 under-

23 Marina is the third building in Dubai to make it to the

The Central Market Project or the World Trade Center Abu

ground parking bays. There is a nearby tram station so

list of the tallest buildings in the Middle East. Barely 21

Dhabi nearly did not come into being. First scheduled for

guests can explore the city with ease and they need not

km southwest of the Burj Khalifa, 23 Marina is a super-

construction in 2010, it was set back due to the 2009

walk far for shopping or entertainment because there are

tall luxury residential skyscraper, like that of the Princess

financial crisis. It was ultimately completed in 2014.

plenty of options nearby. The residential units of the Prin-

Tower.The 23 Marina, located in A-23-D Plot No. 392-

The Central Market is a complex of three buildings: Burj

cess Tower are all adorned with the comfort and satisfac-

568, Al Marsa, Dubai, Marina, offers two- and three-

tion of its guests in mind.

bedroom apartments and duplexes, three levels of spas, fitness centers and indoor and outdoor swimming pools,

For the guests’ comfort and safety, the Tower is equipped

and more.

with a high-tech fire prevention and detection system. It also has a sloshing tank on the roof to compensate for

If you are itching to have a taste of 23 Marina, they still

any lateral movement of the building.

have apartments for lease. You might be lucky to get the upper floors and get to see stunning Dubai from the sky.

Mohammed bin Rashid (92 floors of purely residential units?), Trust Tower( height 278-m, 60-floors of office spaces, completed earlier than the entire complex, it is where the World Trade Centers Association holds office) and Central Market Hotel Tower ( height 65 m, it is the shortest of the three but houses 16 floors of hotel space operated by the Courtyard Marriott).

All three buildings are interconnected to facilitate move-

Al Hamra Tower (413 m) Elite Residence(380 m)

ment from one to the other.

Liberation Tower (372 m)

Al Hamra is the tallest building in Kuwait and the tallest sculpted building (it looks like long bond paper spiraled

The last Dubai skyscraper to make it to the list of the

along its length) in the world, and the 23rd tallest. It

10 tallest buildings in the Middle East is the Elite Resi-

opened in 2011 and was immediately included among

dence at Al Sufouh Road, Dubai Marina, which opened in

the world’s best inventions by TIME magazine. The Tower

2012. The shortest among the lot, but not insignificant.

was initially meant for office use, but a part of it was con-

Elite Residence offers a wide-range of luxury apartments,

verted into Al Hamra Residence and Village which offers

i.e., single bedroom units to four-bedroom penthouses.

a sauna and fitness center, restaurant, swimming pool,

Its location provides an excellent view of the Dubai Ma-

tennis court, boutique,and an off-site golf course. The

rina and its surroundings, including the Palm Jumeirah

Construction of The Kuwaiti Telecommunications Tower

rooms come with flat-screen TVs with satellite channels

and Arabian Gulf. One of the features Elite Residence is

began on August 2, 1990 - before the invasion of Iraq -

and all amenities found in regular hotels. It sits along

proud of is in matters of safety of its residents. If you are

while it was hal-way through. Miraculously it was not dam-

busy Al Shuhada Street., Kuwait City but is still an ideal

a resident you can very well sleep at night with nothing to

aged during the invasion. When the Iraqis were driven

place for family, friends and business associates to un-

worry about.

out on 27 February, 1991, construction resumed. It was

wind after a hectic and busy week.

The last of the 10 is no less significant because it means a lot to the Kuwaitis.

completed in 1993 but was renamed Liberation Tower to symbolize Kuwait’s liberation from Iraq.

Central Market Project (374 m) 23 Marina(393m)

The need for taller buildings shall continue well into the future. As long as the business climate is good, and real estate prices go up, tall buildings will continue to rise.

And as new, lighter and stronger materials are discovered, and construction methods further improve, they will be taller and taller than they are now.

Some of them, no doubt, will be in the Middle East!

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INNOVATION

Qatari Qatari innovator innovator breaks new breaks new ground ground Hassan Albalawi ‘s software increases construction safety

A

young Arab innovator in Qatar is breaking new ground in the infrastructure sector with software that is set to increase safety on construction sites and revolutionize the efficient delivery of mega projects, according to Qatar Science & Technology Park (QSTP).

Hassan is the founder and CEO of WakeCap, a startup accelerated through the QSTP XLR8 program. WakeCap develops wearable technologies to improve the safety of construction workers and increase productivity on sites. The startup was borne out of a true entrepreneurial spirit - to recognize potential gaps in the market and seek a new way of doing things. Albalawi knew his product had great potential in the region, and specifically in Qatar, where construction and infrastructure developments are ubiquitous as the country prepares for 2022 FIFA World Cup. With infrastructure developments booming, so is the construction workforce, and their safety is at the heart of WakeCap. “WakeCap’s mission has always centered on empowering construction workers through technology. The mental alertness helmet is fitted with technology that is able to detect drowsiness and heat stress, which will reduce preventable injuries and deaths,” Alabalawi explained. “The software also enables companies to digitize their workforce and gather greater insights about safety, efficiency and future projects – features we believe the industry requires from technology in this day and age” In 2015, while a contestant on Stars of Science Season 7, a pan-Arab television program showcasing young Arab innovators, he was given a platform to inspire budding entrepreneurs in the region and pitch WakeCap to QSTP. At the time, Albalawi

14

currently underway in China.

anything to go by, the Arab startup is well on its way to achieving tremendous success. It has won several awards in recent years, including winner of UberPitch in Qatar; WakeCap was then sponsored by Uber to represent Qatar startups at ArabNet 2016. And in September 2017, the startup won the 1776 Challenge Cup in Dubai, and will go on to compete in the competition final in New York next year. Most recently, the WakeCap was selected to take part in HAX 2017, the world’s first and largest hardware accelerator. WakeCap has received $175,000 in funding and has been valued at $3.75 million by the accelerator

DECEMBER 2017

Although these achievements offer a stepping stone to entrepreneurial success, Albalawi is acutely aware that challenges and doubts are part of the process when pursuing your goals. The WakeCap founder subscribes to the old adage of “never give up”. “Uncertainty is inevitable when you are first starting out, but do not ever stop seeking out ways to realise your ambitions,” he said. “Persistence is key when you are an entrepreneur trying to forge your path.”

knew that in order to turn WakeCap into a full-fledged startup, he required crucial mentorship in the early stages of product development.

WakeCap went on to be one of the startups selected to undergo rigorous training and mentorship under QSTP’s XLR8 program.

Being chosen to participate in QSTP XLR8 was an eye-opening experience for Hassan and his team. The intensive three-month accelerator program provided the appropriate training, guidance and mentorship to fine-tune WakeCap into a marketable product and bridge the gap between research and commercialization.

HVAC

•

Plumbing & Drainage

Energy Centers

•

Street Lihting

• •

WakeCap has its sights set on making tangible transformations to the sector, and if the accolades it has received thus far are

CONSTRUCTION

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Maintenance

•

•

Electrical & ELV

Facility Management

ENGINEERING

“Joining XLR8 right after Stars of Science was the first real-life test of the initial idea.

We were given an opportunity to validate our initial market research and learn more about the business side of tech development. We worked under the guidance of great mentors who helped us to explore various options and guided us through what I describe as the unknown path to a successful product.”

Currently, WakeCap comprises a team of seven and has a presence in China, with the first pilot prototype set to be introduced to the Qatar market later this year.

“Qatar is still our go-to market. In recent years, the country has witnessed exponential industrial growth and continues to maintain the highest standards of safety alongside its rapid expansion. WakeCap is designed to streamline Qatar’s safety standards. Our goal is to work with Qatar’s Supreme Committee in to ensure the sustainable delivery of the Qatar 2022 FIFA World Cup infrastructure projects,” Albalawi said.

Fire Fighting

Established in 1974, TRAGS Engineering is recognized as the leading Grade-1 MEP Services, District Cooling and Facility Management Contractor in the State of Qatar. The scope of activities covers all aspects of building services including design, procurement, installation, testing and commissioning of multi-service installations. In addition, the company offers 24/7 Facility Management Services to government buildings, corporations, educational, healthcare, industrial, commercial and residential sectors.

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C ommercial

Vehicles

EXCLUSIVE

Vehicle leasing: Vehicle leasing: A convenient A convenient alternative toto buying aa alternative buying car inin Qatar car Qatar People now opting for easier option to save money

C

ar leasing is a concept that has

dealerships and banks, as well as car own-

Commercial vehicle leasing is also beneficial

One of the most significant benefits of leasing

been fast catching up among

ers. The benefit of leasing is it helps gives

for companies as it ensures the firm’s cash is

vehicles in Qatar is companies do not have to

people in Qatar these days. Leas-

car buyers an option to provide the money in

not blocked for a long period and a fraction of

worry about the depreciating value of the ve-

ing is a good alternative for those

easy installments as well save a considerable

the monthly amount needs to be paid to take

hicles. If a firm has purchased around 10 cars

who tend to change cars too often. In a leas-

amount of money in comparison to having

at one go and there is a sudden fall in the val-

ing agreement, the lessee just has to pay the

paid the entire amount while buying the car.

care of transportation requirements of the

depreciation value of the vehicle and not the whole amount. In this manner, the lessee is

Qatar is amongst the wealthiest Gulf coun-

saved from spending a lot of money at one go

tries, where the standards of living are high

and have to bear the cost of the car in install-

and the population of the foreign expatriates

ments.

has been increasing. The booming economy of the nation has given a push to just about

Whether you want to buy or lease a car is a personal choice. For small, medium, and large enterprises that need to provide transportation services to its clients and employees on a regular basis or require commercial vehicles for various other purposes, leasing is a better option.

business. Leasing companies have tremendous cash power they use to help their clients get the services they need at a fixed monthly rate. Moreover, with commercial vehicle leasing, the other costs regarding the vehicle’s maintenance and risk are also taken off the

every sector, including the automobile in-

hook of the business and the leasing service

dustry. People these days have become re-

provider takes care of these matters.

ally choosy about the cars they drive because

ue of the vehicles, it would result in a massive blow to the books of accounts for the company. However, with leasing, the depreciating value of the car is never a concern. To save costs further, small businesses can even go for second-hand car leasing in Qatar. The best way is to ascertain your business needs and check your cash flow before deciding whether to buy or lease a car. Commercial leasing of vehicles is becoming a popular trend in Qatar

there is a lot to explore and enjoy in the beau-

In Qatar, the benefit of commercial vehicle

because businesses do not want to get tied

tiful country.

leasing is far more than in other countries be-

up in a depreciating asset. Leasing is the best

cause here the cost of fuel is less, cars are

way out for it.

Whether you want to buy or lease a car is a

easily available for leasing and many leasing

personal choice. For small, medium, and

service providers are offering competitive

large enterprises that need to provide trans-

pricing and high-quality services. Leasing al-

portation services to its clients and employees on a regular basis or require commercial vehicles for various other purposes, leasing is a better option. It is primarily because companies are too busy to deal with finding buyers who can offer a reasonable price for used cars when selling off the old ones. When cars are leased, they come with repurchase offer,

lows companies to switch to new models of vehicles whenever they want or as soon as new models are launched. It would also ensure companies can save a considerable amount of tax they have to pay upfront when buying a new car, which in the case of a bulk purchase, is further multiplied. The cash that

which means the lessee can just give back

is freed up from not investing in the purchase

the car and the pending dues and switch to

of vehicles can be used to expand and grow

another vehicle whenever they want.

the business and for other core activities.

The lessee also has to pay the interest on the car’s value to the bank facilitating the leasing agreement. It makes buying expensive highend vehicles more affordable and convenient

Leasing is a winwin situation for dealerships and banks, as well as car owners.

The benefit of leasing is it helps gives car buyers an option to provide the money in easy installments as well save a considerable amount of money in comparison to having paid the entire amount while buying the car.

for people. Leasing is a win-win situation for

CONSTRUCTION

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DECEMBER 2017

15

EXCLUSIVE

C ommercial

Vehicles

DoDoyou youknow knowmuch much about cars? about cars?

Experts separate fact from fiction

U

nless you are a car enthusiast or Engines need to be warmed up before

is still up to you when to change the oil.

a mechanic, you probably do not driving know much about them any more This may be true for cars made before the Cellphones can set off gas station than your next door neighbor. That 1980s when carburetors were still used. fires: is normal as not many people do, other than During the cold months, carburetors could not While there have been several gas station taking it as a means of transportation. easily get the right air/fuel mixture causing fires thought to be caused by cellphones, later the engine to stall. That became unnecessary But you are expected to obey traffic rules and when electronic fuel injection was used start- investigations showed they were caused by regulations and exercise safe driving habits. ing late 1900. Auto industry experts say it is a static electricity (an electric charge produced You are expected to maintain your car accordwaste of fuel and creates greenhouse gases by friction). ing to its operating manual; you are expected and other types of pollution. to use it well within its design specifications.

Idling is more fuel efficient than And, you are NOT to compromise its perforGas purchased during the cool of the mance (or your credibility) by believing in car restarting a car: myths which are as numerous as urban leg- day expands This is pure myth. Idling wastes more gas than Gasoline, like any other matter, is affected by ends. restarting the engine and increases overall changes in temperature. For example, gasoengine wear by causing the car to operate lonHere are a few of them: line at 75 degrees F is 1% bigger in volume ger than necessary. Turn off the engine if you than at 60 degrees F, but the energy content Premium fuel is best have to wait for more than 10 seconds, auto remains the same.

No, Premium is not best. It is not even better. experts say.

There are two basic types of gas fuels: Premi-

um and Regular. Premium has a higher octane rating than Regular and is designed to resist engine knock.

Craig Eerkes, former chairman of the Petroleum Marketers Association of America,a Can a car door stop bullets! trade group for filling stations, says that the I always cringe with dread each time I see, on expansion and contraction of gasoline due to TV, a police car peppered with bullets from the

Octane rating is a measure of the level of com- daylong temperature shifts is so minuscule as bad guys without causing even a scratch on pression before the fuel ignites, and engine to be almost non-existent. the police officers inside. knock is produced when a small pocket of Well, that is Hollywood. air-fuel mixture ignites after the main mixture, Oil should be changed every 3,000 sometimes called `pinging’. miles A consumer notice issued by the Federal Trade Commission, it states:”In most cases, using a higher-octane gasoline than your owner’s manual recommends offers absolutely no

Most owners’ manuals for newer vehicles say The fact is that car doors only offer concealthat you can go as far as 5,000 miles without ment, not protection. Most pistol calibers will an oil change - unless you drive in severe. And, pass through a car door, possibly even to the a study done by Consumer Reports shows no opposite door. So don’t you even try it.

benefit. It would not make your car perform noticeable difference to engine protection better, go faster, get better mileage or run whether you change oil after 3,000 miles or Sugar in the gas destroys engines: 7,500 miles. In the end, car experts suggest, it cleaner.”

No, sugar in the gas does not destroy the engine. It can sweeten your gas, though.

First, sugar does not dissolve in gasoline. So whatever sugar you put into your gas will just be filtered out by the car’s fuel filter. Second, whatever impurities that escape the filter will end up as slag on your car’s cylinder heads.

It is uncertain when these myths came about.

What is certain is that they will not easily go away. On the contrary, more myths will come out as cars become even more complex.

16

DECEMBER 2017

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C ommercial

Vehicles

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17

EXCLUSIVE

C ommercial

Vehicles

Qatar’s Qatar’scommercial commercialvehicles vehicles market marketexpects expects13% 13%growth growth Major infrastructure and construction projects to propel demand tion activities is anticipated to drive the demand for medium and heavy commercial vehicles over the next few years. Moreover, hosting FIFA World Cup-2022 by Qatar is also expected to fuel the need for sustainable infrastructure for accommodating a large number of incoming tourists and sports enthusiasts in the country.

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ccording to a recently released TechSci Research report, `Qatar Commercial Vehicles Market Forecast and Opportunities, 2020’, the commercial vehicle market in Qatar is forecast to grow at a CAGR of more than 13% during 2015-2020. Predominant reasons for this brisk growth are increasing construction activities coupled with an increasing number of expatriates and growing tourism in the country. The light commercial vehicle segment is the most dominant amongst all the commercial vehicle segments in Qatar, followed by medium-heavy commercial vehicles and buses.

Toyota is the leading commercial vehicle seller in the country with the majority of its sales comprising light commercial vehicles. Other prominent commercial vehicle manufacturers include Nissan, Mitsubishi Fuso Truck & Bus Corporation, Mercedes Benz, MAN and Hyundai. Doha, the economic, commercial and cultural center of Qatar, accounts for the highest share of commercial vehicle sales in the country.

The rising number of development projects coupled with growing building and construction activities is anticipated to drive the demand for medium and heavy commercial vehicles over the next few years.

The rising number of development projects coupled with growing building and construc-

“The light commercial vehicle segment is forecast to continue its dominance in the market in the coming years. However, the sales of medium-heavy commercial vehicles are anticipated to exhibit the highest growth rate amongst all the segments of commercial vehicles,” said Karan Chechi, Research Director, TechSci Research, a research based global management consulting firm.

He added: “The report has evaluated the future growth potential of the Qatar commercial vehicle market and provides statistics and information on market structure, exports, imports and future growth of Qatar’s commercial vehicle market.

With several infrastructure projects underway in the country, the demand for trucks has shot up in recent years. They are mostly used to ferry construction materials and debris to and from projects. New logistics centers coming up in the country would also see a spike in truck use. Moreover, there is an advantage of parking facilities provided. The ready-mix segment has shown signs of bringing in more commercial vehicles, as many projects underway are in their initial stages. Commercial vehicles are also expected to be big sellers in

the waste management segment, a growing industry in Qatar. A major drive to keep the environment clean would help propel sales of vehicles for waste management.

The ongoing blockade of the country is not expected to dampen demand. Qatar’s government has stated it would not be scrapping any projects and in fact, more are planned, all of which would have use for commercial vehicles. As the country seeks to move away from dependence on hydrocarbon revenues, its economic diversification effort would have a positive impact in the commercial vehicles sector.

Toyota is the leading commercial vehicle seller in the country with the majority of its sales comprising light commercial vehicles. Other prominent commercial vehicle manufacturers include Nissan, Mitsubishi Fuso Truck & Bus Corporation, Mercedes Benz, MAN and Hyundai.

Skyline SkylineAutomotive Automotivebrings bringsHyundai HyundaiElantra ElantratotoQatar Qatar Car goes beyond consumers’ expectations

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ombining a sporty edge with the latest in technology, the Hyundai Elantra has proven that it is more than equipped to meet the challenges of modern city life and dares to go beyond consumers’ expectations.

The sixth generation Elantra is available now in Qatar exclusively through Hyundai’s official distribution partner Skyline Automotive.

In the Middle East, the vehicle has been a sure hit after winning a clutch of awards including best in its class and best new small sedan at the Middle East Car of the Year wide range of safety features and options.

control. Moreover, the switches are grouped according to their function, and the controls for the audio system are mounted on the steering wheel. Tumblers let passengers adjust the volume and switch radio stations with maximum ease and there are buttons for making handsfree phone calls using the optional Bluetooth function.

Back seat passengers can also adjust their individual seat temperature. Moreover, the driver and front passenger seats feature a ventilation system that offers three levels of air circulation and which can be controlled by the driver and the front passenger separately for a cooler driving experience especially during Qatar’s summer months.

The new Elantra’s exterior design projects confidence with sculpted body forms complemented by smoothly contoured lines that reveal the underlying inspiration of Hyundai’s designers.

Leading design The new Elantra’s exterior design projects confidence with sculpted body forms complemented by smoothly contoured lines that reveal the underlying inspiration of Hyundai’s designers.

Moreover, the Elantra was built to be strong with more than 53% of its sub-frame comprised advanced high-strength steel. This delivers enhanced chassis rigidity as well as improved handling, durability and performance.

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Moreover, the sophisticated technology inside the Elantra allows drivers to gain full control of their vehicle. The electronic stability control detects and reduces loss of traction during sudden braking and turning movements. Using automatic braking for individual wheels and reducing engine power helps the vehicle to maintain maximum stability and control.

And, switching lanes has become easier than ever with the Blind Spot Detection (BSD) feature which alerts drivers when a car approaches them from the rear and enters a blind spot, activating a warning lamp on the side mirrors.

In addition, the Auto Cruise Control helps in maintaining a set vehicle speed without the need to press the accelerator pedal. Finally, parking has become easy with the Rear-View Camera, an invaluable tool for the everyday motorist.

Awesome power The Elantra possesses a 6-Speed Automatic Transmission (SAT) which features a new shift pattern that delivers almost imperceptible gearshifts along with smooth, progressive acceleration and fuel economy. The Elantra comes with two engine options: the 2.0 MPi and the 1.6 MPi gasoline. The 2.0 MPi gasoline engine produces a maximum output of 152 ps

Its interior is just as sophisticated, providing a roomy and comfortable space. The center fascia is tilted 6.9° towards the driver for optimum

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Advanced technology The Elantra is equipped with several action keys to make your ride a unique and a personal one. These options meet the demands of the modern driver with a wide range of technological features. For example, the steering wheel heats up to provide extra comfort when cold.

The vehicle’s High Intensity Discharge Lamps light up the road with a more intense glare than conventional headlamps. Whereas, the fog lamps, are neatly recessed and mounted low on the front end, providing better visibility in poor weather conditions.

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at 6,200 rpm and a maximum torque of 19.6 kg•m at 4,000 rpm while the 1.6 MPi gasoline engine produces a maximum output of 127.5 ps at 6,300 rpm and a maximum torque of 15.77 kg•m at 4,850 rpm.

Comprehensive safety features: One of Hyundai’s key priorities is the complete safety of each and every single one of its passengers. The Elantra perfectly encapsulates this and is equipped with a seven-airbag system: driver airbag and knee airbag, passenger airbag, two front side airbags, plus two curtain airbags along the whole length of the cabin.

Another significant safety feature incorporated into the vehicle is the car’s windows which can sense any obstruction, for example, a child’s hand sticking out the window, automatically lowering the windows to prevent injury.

The Elantra is equipped with several action keys to make your ride a unique and a personal one.

These options meet the demands of the modern driver with a wide range of technological features.

QATAR

Qatar SelfSelf Sufficiency Qatar Sufficiency Exhibition 20182018 to betoheld fromfrom Exhibition be held 1 to 31 to April, 20182018 3 April, Event will show how country is gearing for the future

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he groundbreaking Qatar Self Sufficiency Exhibition 2018, a first-of-itskind event, will serve as an interface into how the country is building for a courageous and stimulating future with an innovative and diversified national economy.

Due to the positive response and the interest of many companies to take part in this exhibition, the dates of the exhibition have changed to 1-3 April, 2018, at the Doha Exhibition and Convention Center (DECC), and the exhibition area increased to 10,000 sq. Meters, subject to expansion.

The exhibition will present industry leaders, production line manufacturers and decision makers with the perfect platform to demonstrate how they are contributing to shaping the country’s dynamic future.

The innovative industry event will attract more than 120 leading local, regional and international production line manufacturers from more than 10 countries that serve a range of sectors, including the food industry, healthcare, agriculture, heavy industry and manufacturers of raw materials such as wood and plastic, as well as environmental issues such as recycling and sustainability.

Exhibitors that serve the manufacturing sec-

tor; logistics and shipping and financial sector entities, specifically those financing projects, will also be present at the show.

The innovative industry event will attract more than 120 leading local, regional and international production line manufacturers from more than 10 countries that serve a range of sectors.

In addition to attracting established industry players, the exhibition will host foreign investors and entities eager to get a foothold in the Qatari market and contribute to the rapidlyevolving economic landscape and the bold future direction of the country.

Abdulrahman Saleh Al Obaidly, Chairman of Hisky for Tourism and Exhibitions, organisers of the exhibition, said: “The exhibition is a must-attend event for key industry professionals in the global production and manufacturing sectors to showcase their latest innovations and those looking for the solutions to facilitate growth and enhance their contribution to the forward-thinking national agenda.” .

He added: “As a first-of-its kind event, it will provide exhibitors greater, easier access and crucial face time with their target audience.

We look forward to the participation of governmental and semi-governmental institutions and to all investors looking to be part of the Qatari market.”

In attracting leading exhibitors from across a range of the sectors, the exhibition will place a strong emphasis on the key pillars of Qatar National Vision 2030 with a focus on innovation, entrepreneurship, excellence in healthcare and education, infrastructure, efficiency of public services and transparent governance.

Qatar Self Sufficiency Exhibition has also announced that City Center Rotana Doha Hotel is the Official Hotel Partner for the event. Martin Kendall General Manager, City Center Rotana Doha, said: “City Center Rotana Doha is delighted to support such an important event for Qatar. As sponsors of the groundbreaking Qatar Self Sufficiency Exhibition 2018, we reiterate our commitment to the country’s progressive diversification strategy, improve production line efficiencies and operations and address Qatar National Vision 2030.”

plan to attract the biggest number of exhibitors locally and internationally as well as sponsors. We are hoping that the exhibition will get a large response from local companies who are searching for production lines manufacturers and new industries, and from international companies who are looking to enter the Qatari market.”

Qatar Self Sufficiency Exhibition 2018 aims to attract exhibitors from Kuwait, Lebanon, the UK, Turkey, Spain, the US, France, Italy, Germany, Switzerland, Iran, China and Japan and more to highlight the range of opportunities available for overseas entities to contribute to Qatar’s future.

For more details or to secure space at the Qatar Self Sufficiency Exhibition 2018, contact assem@q-sse.com or call +974 50304042.

In attracting leading exhibitors from across a range of the sectors, the exhibition will place a strong emphasis on the key pillars of Qatar National Vision 2030.

Assem Abou Fakher, Exhibition Manager, said: “Preparations have already started and we have put a consolidated sales and marketing

SCSC unveils design ofof Ras Abu Aboud Stadium unveils design Ras Abu Aboud Stadium World Cup venue delivers perfect legacy for Qatar

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he Supreme Committee for Delivery & Legacy (SC) has unveiled the design of Ras Abu Aboud Stadium, the seventh 2022 FIFA World Cup stadium design to be released. Due for completion in 2020, Ras Abu Aboud Stadium has a bold and innovative design concept, never seen in a FIFA World Cup venue before. Built using modular building blocks, it combines tournament experience and legacy planning in a revolutionary way to create a truly unique venue.

building blocks Ras Abu Aboud Stadium consists of are modified shipping containers, each containing fundamental stadium elements that can be quickly assembled and disassembled at various locations as required, all in pursuit of the SC’s mission to ensure the 2022 FIFA World Cup Qatar leaves a lasting legacy for the country, the region and the world.

SC Secretary General Hassan Al Thawadi said: “Innovation has always been central to our plans for delivering a historic FIFA World Cup that leaves a legacy for Qatar and the world and there is no better example of this than the design of Ras Abu Aboud Stadium.”

The innovative design was envisioned by Fenwick Iribarren Architects (FI-A), a firm with experience of designing some of the world’s most impressive sports arenas.

He added: “This venue offers the perfect legacy, capable of being reassembled in a new location in its entirety or built into numerous small sports and cultural venues. All of this in a stadium that delivers the atmosphere fans expect at a World Cup and which we will build in a more sustainable way than ever before.”

This innovative design was envisioned by Fenwick Iribarren Architects (FI-A), a firm with experience of designing some of the world’s most impressive sports arenas, including the Casablanca Football Stadium in Morocco, Norway’s new National Stadium and the iconic 2022 FIFA World Cup venue of Qatar Foundation Stadium.

Challenged with creating a venue that offers world-class atmosphere and fan experience as well as unrivalled legacy benefits, FI-A broke the stadium down into conceptual ‘building blocks’ and created a new design concept never seen at a mega-event before. The modular

The 40,000-seat venue is slated for completion in 2020 and will be located in a 450,000-sq. meter waterfront site on Doha’s shore, where the use of shipping containers as one of the main building blocks will echo the nearby port.

Situated just southeast of Doha and a mere 1.5 km from Hamad International Airport, it will be serviced by excellent transport links, including a dedicated stop on Qatar Rail’s Gold Line, direct road connections to the center of Doha and Al Wakrah, and potentially even a water taxi stop.

The stadium precinct, meanwhile, will offer exceptional views over Doha’s landmark Corniche and into the downtown West Bay area, making it an ideal location for a waterfront development after the tournament and ensuring a vibrant local legacy.

Key facts about Ras Abu Aboud Stadium

FI-A senior partner and architect Mark Fenwick said: “We are confident that this innovative and sustainable concept will be an inspiration for stadium developers and architects around the world, capable of creating aesthetically pleasing venues that offer new legacy possibilities.”

Ras Abu Aboud’s modular design also means construction of the venue will require fewer materials, create less waste and reduce the carbon footprint of the building process, all while reducing the time taken to build the stadium to as little as three years. Thanks to this sustainable approach to the stadium’s construction, Ras Abu Aboud will receive a four-star Global Sustainability Assessment System (GSAS) certification.

It will be the first fully demountable FIFA World Cup stadium Ras Abu Aboud Stadium will change the way host nations deliver mega-event facilities.

Post-2022, the stadium will be completely demounted and redistributed, either in sections to create various facilities, or completely, so a 40,000-seat venue can be used somewhere else.

The same containers used to ship the materials will become part of the stadium Much of Ras Abu Aboud Stadium will be created from recyclable sources, including the shipping containers used to transport materi-

als for its construction. This highlights Qatar’s commitment to innovation and sustainability.

Fans will arrive at the stadium via Doha Metro’s Gold Line Ras Abu Aboud Stadium will be served by excellent transport links, including a dedicated Doha Metro stop. In addition, fans will be able to access the venue by road, directly from West Bay, Doha Corniche and Hamad International Airport.

The stadium will rise again – either completely or in different sections Due to its sustainable design, Ras Abu Aboud Stadium will be quickly disassembled after the tournament. It will be possible to demount the stadium and rebuild it completely in a new location, either in Qatar or a country which requires sporting infrastructure. Alternatively, different parts of the stadium can be used to create various facilities across Qatar or further afield.

After 2022 the area will be converted into a retail space and large public park Post-tournament, the local community will enjoy a waterfront development that will occupy the site once the stadium has been used.

Ras Abu Aboud’s modular design also means construction of the venue will require fewer materials, create less waste and reduce the carbon footprint of the building process.

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TECHNOLOGY

Digital techtech is the Digital iskey the to key to unlocking the value of the unlocking the value of the Middle East’s investments in in Middle East’s investments ports and and terminals ports terminals Growing logistics sector leads to pursuit of technologies

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ompetition among ports in GCC countries is expected to heat up as operators chase larger shares of the region’s growing logistics sector, according to figures quoted in an article written by Dr Naser Al Tamimi for Arab News. Currently, there are around 37 seaports (major and minor) operating across the GCC: 21 in Saudi Arabia, nine in the UAE, three in Oman, and two each in Qatar and Bahrain. The total capacity of these ports combined amounts to more than 50 million Twenty-foot equivalent unit (TEU) annually.

Some estimates project that more than $36 billion of investments committed for greenfield schemes and port expansions by 2020.

Luis Ortega, Managing Director for IFS Middle East, Africa and South Asia, said the projected growth in cargo volumes in GCC ports as well as the planned investments in capacity expansion bring opportunities for these ports to invest in technology that reduces operational costs, boosts utilization of existing infrastructures, enhances productivity and streamlines business processes. However, many ports in the region are still battling with challenges such as insufficient container storage space, long container dwell time, a rapid increase in container traffic as well as restrictions in inland transport infrastructure.

In the recent `Digital Change Survey’ commissioned by IFS covering 750 professionals across a range of industries, 80% saw themselves as ‘enabled’, ‘enhanced’ or ‘optimized’ to leverage digital transformation. Even more impressively, 89% said they had ‘advantageous’ or ‘adequate’ funding in place for digital projects - a clear acknowledgment that the

time of disruptive technologies is here and the vast majority of firms are realizing they need to invest.

Driving innovation and efficiency Vincent Elfring, Director at IFS business partner Envecon, said, “Middle East ports face the same major challenges as ports elsewhere in the world: a trend towards bigger vessels as; a need to improve productivity, reliability and safety using automated systems and consolidation of shipping lines, which increases competition between ports to retain and attract fewer, newly-merged shipping lines customers.”

As the industry squares up to these challenges, it should look for ways to leverage technology to drive innovation and efficiency, said Elfring.

“Projects where we have worked jointly with IFS in Europe, South East Asia, Africa, Middle East and Latin America highlight the fact that an industry once known for conservatism is now starting to seize the opportunities of digital transformation,” he added.

“Many port operators worldwide are investing in robotics - including remotely operated quay cranes, automated stacking cranes, driverless shuttle carriers and retrofitting existing equipment with modular automation solutions - for higher productivity and reliability.”

Other technology areas with increased interest are trade and customer Internet portals, cloud hosting, business intelligence and analytics and distributed ledgers like blockchain for storing and sharing documents within the supply chain.

Middle East ports face the same major challenges as ports elsewhere in the world: a trend towards bigger vessels as; a need to improve productivity, reliability and safety using automated systems; and consolidation of shipping lines, which increases competition between ports to retain and attract fewer, newly-merged shipping lines customers.

ERP/EAM—a digital foundation Taking full advantage of these digital technologies begins with rolling out enterprise resource planning (ERP) and enterprise asset management (EAM) systems tailored to the specialized needs of the industry.

Elfring pointed out, “Port and terminal operators worldwide are increasing their investments in ERP solutions. They understand the value of having an integrated solution to manage the planning, execution and continuous improvement of their business processes. We also see more demand to connect and integrate these ERP solutions with suppliers, customers and the port authorities.”

For ports and terminals, optimal use of assets is a key factor in high performance. Ports and terminals are increasingly based on the concept of driving assets to the maximum, while improving performance in the yard, quayside and gate arena. The end-goal is to continuously improve berth moves per hour and gross moves per hour. A well-designed IT solution can keep assets from ageing by implementing regular maintenance basis to keep machines in good shape without jeopardising operations.

Maintenance cost of assets is one of the biggest operational expenses in any port and terminal, next to concession fees and labor costs.

The basic requirements of a terminal could be monitored by an off-the-shelf EAM - however, traditional ERP and EAM have often failed to deliver desired business outcomes in this highly specialized industry. Thus, the industry needs software designed for its vertical requirements.

Ortega added, “We can leverage data to improve predictive maintenance, reduce mean time between failures, cut asset management costs and increase service levels. Our solutions are designed for asset-intensive industries such as ports and terminals, with a view to maximising productivity, reducing maintenance costs and downtime, and enhancing ROI. The next generation of Internet of Things technologies will enable us to take this to the next level.

We are collaborating with Envecon for capturing real-time sensor, controller and location data from all major terminal assets like quay and yard cranes and terminal tractors.”

Elfring concluded: “Middle Eastern ports need to manage their assets in a way that ensures high productivity and improves reliability while delivering service levels that match the best in the world. Ensuring this requires a well-designed IT platform that provides them with the visibility, scalability and performance they need to cater for the rapid pace of volume growth in the region’s commercial ports.”

Many port operators worldwide are investing in robotics—including remotely operated quay cranes, automated stacking cranes, driverless shuttle carriers and retrofitting existing equipment with modular automation solutions—for higher productivity and reliability.

Arab aluminum industry increases global market share Arab aluminum industry increases global market share Collaboration between producers reaps dividends

More than 60 industry-leading speakers and over 550 delegates from 35 countries congregated at the 21st edition of the Arab International Aluminium Conference & Exhibition (ARABAL) in Muscat.

The six regional heavyweights who are the force behind ARABAL, comprising Sohar Aluminium, Aluminium Bahrain, Egypt Aluminium Company, Qatar Aluminium, Maaden Aluminium and Emirates Global Aluminium, have worked together for more than three decades to bolster the industry and drive strategic growth in MENA. Mohammad Al Naki, Founder and Chairman of the Arab International Aluminium Conference, said, “ARABAL has been held for 34 years now

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thanks to the collaborative efforts of the member companies and the continuous support of our partners in the sector.”

In his keynote address, Sayyid Kamil bin Fahd bin Mahmoud Al Said, Assistant Secretary General for the Cabinet of the Deputy Prime Minister for the Council of Ministers, said, “While Oman’s many natural resources have been harnessed with considerable success, we need vision to unlock their full potential. This is something Oman has been able to achieve within the global aluminum sector since its emergence as a player only a few years ago. Locally, the industry has boosted job opportunities and created a valuable knowledge base regionally and internationally, which has contributed significantly in raising Oman’s profile.”

The strength and success of both ARABAL and MENA’s aluminim industry has been driven by the enduring dedication and collaboration between all of the region’s primary aluminium manufacturers which has enabled production levels to reach 10% of world production, excluding China.

This year’s edition of ARABAL followed a long tradition of debate and knowledge transfer guided by the theme ‘Driving Strategic Growth Across the Global Aluminum Industry’. The ARABAL 2017 Exhibition featured a line-up of 43 companies from some of the world’s leading product and service providers of the aluminum industry, local downstream companies, all the primary aluminum smelters in the GCC and the Middle East, and a large delegation from the Quebec aluminum sector.

SUSTAINABILITY

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ti Two Qatar based workshops with 40,000m2 production area High output capacity to meet customer requirements State of art bending facilities. Beam prooles: SHS-RHS-CHS sections up to 600mm FRIJNS STRUCTURAL STEEL MIDDLE EAST WLL

Vodafone showcases how Vodafone showcases how thethe Internet of of Things can Internet Things can drive sustainability drive sustainability a third (35%) of organisations already using IoT. The use of applications such as smart meters and pipeline monitoring are helping to optimize power generation and consumption, while ensuring environmental sustainability including reducing greenhouse emissions (GHG).

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odafone Qatar, Communications Partner of Qatar Sustainability Week 2017, showcased at the event how the Internet of Things (IoT) has a profound impact on the world of sustainability.

Vodafone’s fifth annual `IoT Barometer Report’ was provided to event attendees and Vodafone’s team was on hand to discuss how the desire to drive down costs by driving up efficiency using IoT technologies is having a huge effect on sustainability practices across major industries with adopters reporting 38% increased sustainability.

The report revealed the number of large-scale IoT projects doubled in the last year with more than 50,000 connected devices active. Energy and utility companies are at the forefront of the largest IoT projects worldwide with over

Energy and utility companies are at the forefront of the largest IoT projects worldwide with over a third (35%) of organisations already using IoT. The use of applications such as smart meters and pipeline monitoring are helping to optimize power generation and consumption, while ensuring environmental sustainability including reducing greenhouse emissions (GHG).

Ian Gray, CEO, Vodafone Qatar,said: “Vodafone is a world leader in IoT. Over time, IoT technologies will transform every industry, most public services and many aspects of consumers’ daily lives. By bringing intelligent

interconnection and network control to previously ‘dumb’ disconnected devices and services, numerous products and processes in the workplace and in the home will become significantly more efficient and reliable, with a positive impact on energy and fuel consumption and therefore GHG emissions.”

Vodafone’s research found that 84% of IoT adopters say their use of IoT has grown in the last year and 66% of businesses surveyed agree that digital transformation is impossible without IoT. Key examples of IoT applications include: • Smart metering, using IoT technology to collect and analyse data on energy use in real time. Smart meters help energy providers, businesses and municipal authorities to optimise power generation and consumption; they also help households reduce their energy needs (and their energy bills).

• Smart cities, bringing networked intelligence to the civil infrastructure relied upon by the world’s growing urban populations through applications such as road traffic management and advanced street lighting; and • Smart logistics, embedding IoT technologies within delivery vehicles to optimise route management, vehicle maintenance and

driver behaviour – applications that can reduce fuel consumption by up to 30%.

Vodafone estimates that more than 40% of the more than 50 million IoT connections operated by Vodafone directly enable their customers to reduce their emissions. Vodafone expects the total number of Vodafone IoT connections to increase over time. It also expects further increases in the number of those connections that have a direct and positive GHG emissions impact and estimates the total GHG emissions avoided as a consequence of their IoT technologies and services was 4.9 million tonnes CO2e in 2017. The main areas in which the greatest CO2e savings are enabled were in smart meters and logistics and fleet management.

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Vodafone’s research found that 84% of IoT adopters say their use of IoT has grown in the last year and 66% of businesses surveyed agree that digital transformation is impossible without IoT.

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NEWS

Qatar Sustainability Qatar Sustainability Week event draws toto a close Week event draws a close Green Life introduced for environmental awareness

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he recently concluded Qatar Sustainability Week, an initiative by Qatar Green Building Council (QGBC), aimed to further engage the community in a wide range of sustainabilityoriented activities. The week served as a unique platform to promote the nation’s sustainability vision as well as community engagement with relevant stakeholders. It showcases the efforts of Qatar’s public and private sectors, providing the support, coordination and expert advice needed to unite under an overarching umbrella to achieve the nation’s sustainable development goals.

Qatar has undertaken numerous initiatives to achieve the nation’s environmental protection and sustainable development goals.

Qatar Sustainability Week provided an opportunity for various stakeholders to showcase their innovative and practical solutions to the environmental challenges facing Qatar and the wider region. The week helped achieve global sustainability goals outlined in the Qatar National Vision 2030. The effectiveness of the event will be determined by the active participation of the various stakeholders from both the private and public sectors. We look forward to welcoming widespread participation.

At the event, Green Life, the world’s first sustainability loyalty program, was introduced. The national education campaign aims to raise public awareness what being `green’ denotes. Strategic parts are the National Program for Conservation & Energy Efficiency (Tarsheed), Aspire Zone Foundation and Weill Cornell Medicine – Qatar.

QGBC stated the Green Life mobile app personalizes the concept to create communitydriven sustainable lifestyles among residents of the country. Green life shows how sustainability can become a part of daily life and how the public stands to benefit through such efforts. QGBC Director Me-

Qatar Sustainability Week provided an opportunity for various stakeholders to showcase their innovative and practical solutions to the environmental challenges facing Qatar and the wider region.

shal Al Shamari said: “This imitative aims to support Qatar’s commitment to sustainability practices and environmental protection in the nation’s transition to becoming a sustainable and diverse economy as set out on Qatar National Vision 2030. It is a demonstration of our commitment to create a collaborative environment between members of the public and different industries to work towards achieving the sustainability goals of Qatar.”

Abdulaziz Al Hammadi, conservation and energy efficiency manager, Qatar general Electricity and water Corporation (Kahramaa), said: “Tarsheed supports the comprehensive sustainability goals of Qatar National

Vision 2030. Green life will create a healthier environment and healthier citizens.”

Nasser Abdullah Al Hajri, PR director, Aspire Zone Foundation, said: “We will collaborate with QGBC to support an innovative campaign that aims to spread awareness about a variety of sustainability activities among the community in Qatar.”

QGBC is a non-profit, membership-driven organization providing leadership and encouraging collaboration in conducting environmentally sustainable practices for green building design and development in Qatar. It is a member of Qatar Foundation.

At the event, Green Life, the world’s first sustainability loyalty program, was introduced.

The national education campaign aims to raise public awareness what being `green’ denotes.

Govt.Govt. support leads support leads to developing locallocal to developing industries industries Made in Qatar expo to showcase local products

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he Ministry of Energy and Trade in cooperation with the Ministry of Finance held a forum to discuss supporting local products. In his welcome speech, Director-General of Qatar Chamber, Saleh bin Hamad Al Sharqi, said the forum followed a number of steps taken by the country to support local production, including raising the purchase of local products from 30% to 100% if they were in line with adopted standards.

Al Sharqi said the decisions were a real boost to local products as they contribute greatly to enhancing national industries and encouraging Qatari businessmen to establish new projects. He noted the chamber is committed to supporting national industries and investors by facilitating all challenges they could face by cooperating with the Ministry of Energy and Industry.

The chamber also organized many exhibitions to showcase local products, Al Sharqi pointed out.

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Inviting manufacturers to take part in the Made in Qatar expo on December 14-17, he said the event would be the best platform to promote locally-produced goods.

For his part, Director of the Department of Industrial Zones at the Ministry of Energy and Industry, Yousef Al Emadi, said the forum was held within the government’s framework to support domestic industries and encouraging them to boost locally-produced items and enhance the contribution of the private sector. He said the aim of the forum was to introduce local factories and products to ministries, governmental entities and institutions and suppliers and contractors from the private sector. He stated the ministry published locally-produced products on its website for easier access to information about them.

Al Emadi called on factory owners to provide the ministry with accurate data and information to help it market their prod-

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ucts online by providing information to in-

entities to local producers and suppliers.

terested parties.

Taleb said the Ministry of Finance had registered and classified more than 2,000

Director of Government Procurement Regu-

companies in the contracting, services

lation at the Ministry of Finance Abdulaziz

and supply sectors. He called on all local

Zeid Al Taleb said the forum reflects the

companies that have not registered yet to

increasing importance of local products

submit a classification request through the

‘role in achieving self-sufficiency in most

Government Procurement Portal.

sectors. “The forum is considered a key opportunity for the private and governmental

Al Taleb stated, “The forum is considered

sectors to exchange ideas and visions on

the first of its kind for local producers,

developing local products and increasing

where at least 737 local producers work-

their competitiveness and effectively con-

ing under the supervision of the Minister

tributing to increase its contribution in the

of Energy and Trade were invited. The idea

national economic development through

of organizing the forum was based on the

government tenders.” He said one of the

directives of the Cabinet of Ministers on

methods to achieve competitiveness is to

the urgency to support local products.” He

sign long-term contracts with local produc-

stated an inventory would be created for

ers and suppliers in public tenders.

the local products followed by a meeting with the registered companies to establish

Al Taleb also called for hosting conferenc-

long-term contracts with 57 government

es and workshops to introduce government

entities.

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EVENT

`Made in in China 2017’ `Made China 2017’ comes to to a successful comes a successful conclusion conclusion Tremendous interest among Chinese firms to participate in Qatar’s growth

and trade fields, but in political, social and cultural spheres as well. China is a very key trade partner to Qatar. Trade exchange in 2016 was $5.5 billion, including $4 bn Qatari exports to China and China is Qatar’s fourth trade partner. Qatar is China’s second-largest supplier of LNG.

T

he `Made in China 2017’ expo held in Doha came to a successful end on 19 November, with participants and visitors impressed with the scale of the event. The four-day expo was organised by Qatar Chamber (QC) with the aim of offering an opportunity for the local business community to get acquainted with the Chinese products and to help them build constructive partnerships and alliances with their Chinese counterparts. This is in keeping with Qatar’s move to promote the local

SME sector. The event was held under the patronage of Prime Minister and Minister of Interior H E Sheikh Abdullah bin Nasser bin Khalifa Al Thani at the Doha Exhibition & Convention Center.

Over 100 Chinese firms took part in the event representing various sectors. This is the third year in a row the exhibition has been held in Qatar. The success of the event reflects the robustness and strength of Qatari-Chinese relations, not only in economic

The success of the event reflects the robustness and strength of Qatari-Chinese relations.

Hamad Port has been inaugurated and direct marine routes were launched with Chinese ports. This effectively contributed to continuing the flow of Chinese imports to Qatar without the need to pass across siege

countries. Now, there are ample opportunities for Chinese companies to supply goods to the Qatari market, especially building and construction materials as all construction works related to the FIFA 2022 World Cup is progressing rapidly, Chinese firms have been encouraged to contribute goods for the mammoth projects.

The expo helped Chinese exhibitors inform the Qatari business community of their latest technological innovations, explore available investment opportunities in the Qatari market which would end in transactions and agreements.

There are ample opportunities ample for Chinese companies to supply goods to the Qatari market.

Inaugural INDEX Qatar Inaugural INDEX Qatar event a huge success event a huge success Thousand attend expo held in Doha

F

or the first time in its 28-year history, INDEX – the Middle East’s largest interior design event – was launched in Qatar andconcluded on 15 November.

Chairman of Qatar Chamber Sheikh Khalifa bin Jassim bin Mohammed Al Thani and Hassan Al Ibrahim, Chief Tourism Development Officer, Qatar Tourism Authority (QTA), officially opened the inaugural exhibition at the Doha Exhibition & Convention Center.

Jaafar Shubber, INDEX Qatar event director, said: “According to our exclusive research with market analysts Ventures, the fit-out and contractor market for interior designers across Qatar will be worth almost $1.5 billion in the next year. That is a massive amount, at what is a time of huge

24

DECEMBER 2017

In Qatar alone, the money invested in interior projects within each of the main construction sectors – commercial, residential, retail, hospitality, medical and educational– would be close to $1.5bn.

growth for the country. We showcased showcasing products from more than 50 local and international manufacturers and suppliers, all of whom brought the latest furniture and décor products needed to help fit-out the hundreds of ongoing and future projects across Qatar and the wider region.”

CONSTRUCTION

SITES

Ahmed Al Obaidli, Director of Exhibitions, QTA, said: “Hosting and attracting global business events is a key part of our efforts to develop the business events sector, which is considered a priority in the Qatar National Tourism Sector Strategy. We look forward to seeing more world-class events delivered in this growing industry.”

A study by market analysts Ventures discovered the value of interior-based design and fit-out spend across the GCC region would reach almost $ 17 bn in the next 12 months. In Qatar alone, the money invested in interior projects within each of the main construction sectors – commercial, residential, retail, hospitality, medical and educational– would be close to $1.5bn.

Some of the top firms that appeared at INDEX Qatar included La Sorogeeka, Jotun, Mezzaluna, Seasons Accessories Inc, Cris-

tal de Paris and Stil Décor.

The Design Talks series featured experts, including Shahd ElMahdi, Interior Design Manager at ASTAD Project Management; Peter Cook, Managing Director of the British Chamber of Commerce in Qatar; and Esra Al Kazem Design Director, AEA Designs. They were joined on the panel by leading voices from the likes of Atelier Ten, the Arab Engineering Bureau, LACASA Architects & Engineers and Sabban Interiors, with more than 15 talks scheduled across the duration of the event.

The event attracted thousands of interior designers, architects, project managers, importers and distributers from the full spectrum of retail, hospitality, residential and commercial design across its three days.

ASHGHAL

Ashghal starts implementation ofof Ashghal starts implementation three new projects three new projects All work to be completed in 2019

T

he Public Works Authority (Ashghal) has started implementing works of three new projects to develop roads and drainage networks of new residential sub-divisions north of Al Nasiriyah and Al Froosh and Al Kharaitiyat and Rawdat Egdaim and Ezghawa.

The three projects aim at providing efficient and safe roads network for all future road users, as well as providing drainage and foul sewer infrastructure. Once these projects are delivered, the new foul sewer connections would eliminate the need for septic tanks by providing sustainable solutions and thus, reduce the risk of polluting soil and groundwater. Drainage solutions would

also reduce the risk of storm water flooding in the three areas. As part of the three projects, suitable access and exit points would be provided to the new residential plots, in addition to service utilities such as electricity, water and street lighting.

ture. Part of the project would be completed in 2018, while the rest is scheduled to be completed by Q2, 2019.

North of Al Nasiriyah Project: The project covers approximately 1.920 million cubic meters stretching over some parts of Umm Salal and Al Rayyan municipalities.

The project serves 806 residential plots, and includes constructing 22.9 km of local roads network and a 21.4 km-long drainage network. The project is carried out by the Boom Construction Company WLL and Lotus Trading and Constructing Group joint ven-

The three projects aim at providing efficient and safe roads network for all future road users, as well as providing drainage and foul sewer infrastructure.

Al Froosh and Al Kharaitiyat Project: The project is located in zone 71 of Umm Salal municipality and covers approximately 1.87 million cubic meters to serve 420 residential plots. Works include constructing 22.7 km of local roads network, and a 17.4 km-long drainage network. The project is carried out by Bin Omran Trade and Constructing Company. Part of the project would be completed in 2018 while the rest is scheduled to be completed by Q1, 2019.

ernment subdivisions; the first is located to the north of Celebration Street, in zone 71 of Umm Salal Municipality, while the second is located to the south of Celebration Street, in zone 51 of Al-Rayyan Municipality. Both areas consist mainly of residential units, in addition to service facilities such as mosques, schools and commercial buildings. The project serves 806 residential plots and includes constructing 19.7 km of local roads network and a 21 km-long drainage network.

The project covers approximately 1.51 million cubic meters and is being carried out

by Bin Omran Trade and Constructing Company. Part of the project would be completed in 2018, while the rest is to be completed by Q1, 2019.

Suitable access and exit points would be provided to the new residential plots, in addition to service utilities such as electricity, water and street lighting.

Rawdat Egdaim and Ezghawa Project: The project provides roads and drainage and foul sewer infrastructure for two gov-

Ashghal starts project to to Ashghal starts project upgrade link roads to Al upgrade link roads to Al Bayt Stadium in Al Bayt Stadium in Khor Al Khor Promises easy access to World Cup stadiums

A

iming to provide advanced roads that provide easy access to the 2022 World Cup stadiums, the Public Works Authority (Ashghal) has started working on a new project to upgrade link roads to Al Bayt Stadium in Al Khor.

The project features the construction of 5.3 km of roads, with three lanes in each direction, all leading to four sides of the stadium. These roads would facilitate access to bus stations and car parking around the stadium and would also provide multiple entrances to the Sports Complex where the stadium is located. These roads would also provide two links to the south and east of Al Khor Expressway which is currently under construction and a link to Al Egda Street, which is located to the north of the stadium.

The new roads would feature an 8.55 meter-wide pedestrian path and cycle path,

The project features the construction of 5.3 km of roads, with three lanes in each direction, all leading to four sides of the stadium.

in addition to landscaping and pavement works that would also be carried out at the surrounding roads.

In addition, a 7.3 km section of Al Egda Street would be upgraded to include three lanes in each direction, with a three-meter-wide pedestrian path provided on each side of the street, starting from the roundabout at the entrance of Al Khor City until reaching the northwest side of Al Bayt stadium. It would also be connected with Al Khor Expressway, which is considered the main road leading to the stadium.

Eight signal-controlled intersections would be constructed as part of the project, in addition to four signal-controlled intersections that would be constructed at Al Khor Expressway. In addition, two junctions would be provided only for traffic heading to and from the roads surrounding the stadium. Speed humps would be provided in order to reduce speed at these intersections to maintain the safety of road users.

Additionally, the project includes the construction of a 2.2-km-long gravity sewer network, a separate surface water drainage network and an irrigation network bringing treated wastewater to and around the stadium from the TSE network located near Al Khor Corniche.

Intelligent telecommunications systems (ITS) would be installed in this project and street lighting provided using energy-saving LED street lights.

The project is located in the south of Al Khor. Barriers, warning lights and road signs were installed around the construction site to warn off local residents. Bin Omran Trading & Contracting Company started the project last September. Most of the major works are scheduled to be completed by the end of Q2, 2018.

Eight signal-controlled intersections would be constructed as part of the project, in addition to four signal-controlled intersections that would be constructed at Al Khor Expressway.

CONSTRUCTION

SITES

DECEMBER 2017

25

TENDERS

ASHGHAL

PWA/ITC/044/2017

ITC

Supply and Install LED lanterns as Part of Retrofit Project in the State of Qatar - AA/ROM/2017/0156/C1/I

Qatari Companies Only - Joint Venture - Consultancy and Specialized Services - Non Qatari Companies

21-Nov-17

14-Jan-18

Roads

AWARDED TENDERS

PWA/ITC/043/2017

ITC

ITS Managing Contract For Throughout Qatar - AA/ROM/2017/0136/C1/I

Qatari Companies Only - Joint Venture - Consultancy and Specialized Services - Non Qatari Companies

21-Nov-17

14-Jan-18

Roads

PWA/STC/112/2017

STC

Supply And Install Of Veritas Netbackup Appliances - ISD/2017/SY/135/S

Qatari Companies Only - Joint Venture - Consultancy and Specialized Services - Non Qatari Companies

21-Nov-17

11-Dec-17

ICT

PWA/GTC/052/2017

GTC

Roads and Infrastructure Al Sailiya Al Atiya Housing and Al Atiya Housing Army Camp Road (DW080) - IA/2017/C/021/G

Qatari Companies Only - Joint Venture - Consultancy and Specialized Services - Non Qatari Companies

14-Nov-17

12-Dec-17

Roads

PWA/ITC/042/2017

ITC

821/2 - Construction of Foul Sewer for Various Catchment Within Doha West (Package - 2) - IA/2017/C/038/I

Qatari Companies Only - Joint Venture - Consultancy and Specialized Services - Non Qatari Companies

14-Nov-17

24-Dec-17

Drainage

PWA/STC/109/2017

STC

Deliver and Installation of Racking System at Mechanical Workshop - AA/ DOM/2016/M/1830/S - ISD/2017/PMO/104/S

Qatari Companies Only - Joint Venture - Consultancy and Specialized Services - Non Qatari Companies

14-Nov-17

11-Dec-17

Drainage

PWA/ITC/040/2017

ITC

ITS, M&E Maintenance and Operations for Several Tunnels and Other Traffic Control Measures in the Road Network - AA/ROM/2017/0167/C1/I IA/2017/C/022/G

Qatari Companies Only - Joint Venture - Consultancy and Specialized Services - Non Qatari Companies

6-Nov-17

24-Dec-17

Roads

PWA/ITC/039/2017

ITC

Post Contract Professional Consultancy Services For Refurbishment and Upgrading Works For Various Sewage Pumping Stations – C771 - IA/2017/ S/003/I - IA/2017/C/048/G

Qatari Companies Only - Joint Venture - Consultancy and Specialized Services - Non Qatari Companies

23-Oct-17

10-Dec-17

Drainage

PWA/GTC/030/2017

GTC

Construction of Package 10-AL Sadd Health Centre - BA/2017/C/010/G BA/2017/C/007/G

Qatari Companies Only - Joint Venture - Non Qatari Companies

8-Aug-17

12-Dec-17

Building

TENDERS AND

Tender No.

Type

Tender Title

http://www.ashghal.gov.qa • • •

• •

Companies Eligible to Tender: Qatari Companies Only Joint Venture (JV) Companies, which includes a Qatari Company having a minimum of 51%, share holding of the JV Non-Qatari Companies Not Applicable * All financial values are in QAR

General Conditions of Tenders • • • •

Full Documents for the Tender can be obtained from Contracts Department (CD) against a Non–refundable fee paid to PWA Account No. (0013-001813-052), Qatar National Bank together with a copy of the Company Registration and a Company Authorization letter.

Project document may be examined at Al-Faisal Tower(1), Ground Floor, Al Corniche before purchasing from PWA. Each Tender must be accompanied by a Tender Bond, either in the form of a “Certified Check” or a “Tender Bond’’ issued by a Bank acceptable to the PWA” in the amount mentioned above valid for (120 days). Any Tender received without the proper guarantee will not be considered.

The Tender shall be submitted in two separate sealed envelopes (technical and financial offer) and both

Participants

Issuing Date

Closing Date

Category

envelopes must be enclosed in a third sealed envelope which shall bear the tender number, subject and closing date.

• All Tenders shall be submitted in original and one copy or they will not be acceptance.

Tenders shall be delivered at or sent to arrive not later than 1.00pm local Doha time on the closing date and deposited in the relevant Tender Box of concerned Tenders Committee’s Chairman at PWA. • The successful Tenderer shall provide a Performance Bond in amount of ten (10%) percent of the Contract Price endorsed by an approved local bank in Qatar.

• For further queries about any of the tenders, please communicate in writing to the Contracts Department

by Fax.: (+974) 44950777

Ashghal Engineering Business Department Ashghal Engineering Business Department attains ISO 9001:2015 certification attains ISO 9001:2015 certification Receives approval for its new electronic system

T

he Public Works Authority’s (Ashghal) Engineering Business Department has attained ISO 9001:2015 certification for Engineering Support Services for Ashghal projects by AFNOR GROUPE, an ISO body member concerned with certification and standardization.

The ISO certificate is given to the body complying with certain requirements, involving organizations’ context, leadership, planning, support, operation, performance and improvement.

The Engineering Business Department was granted the ISO certificate thanks to its establishment of an electronic system that will contribute to standardizing processes, im-

26

DECEMBER 2017

proving performances, integrating the teamwork concept, motivating and committing staff to quality and improving internal and external communication.

A ceremony was held in Ashghal head office in the presence of Ashghal President Dr Saad bin Ahmad Al Mohannadi and Ashghal Assistant President Abdullah Hamad Al Attiya, Technical Support Affairs’ Director Mohammed Ali Darwish and Engineering Business Department Manager Abd Al Samad Al Makki.

The ISO certificate is given to the body complying with certain requirements, involving organizations’ context, leadership, planning, support, operation, performance and improvement. Darwish said that the project is the basis for an integrated quality system and goes with the goals set by Ashghal and Engineering Business Department.

He said: “The system is fruitful for all stakeholders in and outside Ashghal since it will

CONSTRUCTION

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streamline the whole processes in the department.” Al Makki pointed out that the idea of the project started some years ago as the department was keen on using an electronic system to follow up work status and another to measure department job performance.

“Also, a users’ manual to give details on the department services whether to the employees in the department and stakeholders in and outside Ashghal was established.

And, the new system is crowned with ISO 9001:2015 certification to guarantee efficiency, transparency and quality,” he said.

The Engineering Business Department provides various engineering services in support of Ashghal projects, from the beginning to the end. The department prepares and follows up the general budget plan and reviews engineering payments and timing and financial requirements. Also, the department serves as a central archiving database with information and layouts of the current

and past projects as well as a kind of technical support of planning and follow-up.

In collaboration with Central Geographical Information System Department, affiliated to the Ministry of Municipality and Environment, the Engineering Business Department updates the engineering designs to be regarded as a focal point between the projects carried out by Ashghal and other government entities. Ultimately, the department double checks the survey data of the projects to ensure accuracy and timeliness.

The system is fruitful for all stakeholders in and outside Ashghal since it will streamline the whole processes in the department.

SITES

ESAB AUTHORIZED DISTRIBUTORS WELDING MACHINES, CUTTING SYSTEMS, CONSUMABLES & PPE

Tel : +974 44783012 • 44127502 Fax : +974-44781646 Mob : +974 30911922 • 74747669 • 30050105 Email : info@fabricastqatar.com www.fabricastqatar.com

P.O. Box. 40820 Gate No. 45 Street No. 29 Industrial Area Doha - Qatar !

"Approved and Licensed by Ministry of Education and Higher Education."

Address: Madras Management Training Institute #25, Third Floor, Al Ikhaa Street, Bin Mahmoud, Doha, Qatar #58, Street 752, Zone 54, Al Ameer Street, Aspire Zone, (Next to Madina Dental care), Qatar Toll Free: 8002029; Tel: 44414412, Mob: 66186329 Email: info@mmt-institute.com Web: www.mmt-institute.com

Geotechnical, Geological and Material Testing Services

Laboratory testing services Environmental Testing Geophysical Surveys Hydrological studies Geological mapping Onshore and nearshore ground investigations Probehole surveys Mineral Resource assessment In-situ testing Concrete investigations Petroleum Products Testing

PIPELINE SUPPLIES & SERVICES WLL PO Box: 23630, Old Al Ghanim Doha - Qatar Phone Office: +974 4444 4438 (5 Lines) Fax: +974 4444 4483 Email : info@pipelineqatar.com Website : www.pipelineqatar.com Phone Warehouse: +974 5506 1085, 7702 3876 Email : stores@pipelineqatar.com

facilities management

OPERATION & MAINTENANCE SERVICES • HVAC System • Main distribution boards • Refrigerators and cooling systems • Indoor and outdoor • Restaurants machine electrical panels (kitchen Equipment) • Internal and external • Plumbing system lighting system Siyana Contact Numbers: Landline: +974 4432 3184 / 4411 1567 Hotline No: +974 5011 1043 / 5011 1039 Mobiles: +974 5011 1043 / 5011 1039 Fax: +974 442 6363

CONSTRUCTION

SITES

Email us: ma@siyanafm.com mo@siyanafm.com wo@siyanafm.com

DECEMBER 2017

27

CAREER SITES

How HowtotoShortlist ShortlistYour YourJob Job Applicants Applicantsand andPick Pickthe the Right RightOnes Ones

H

iring can be a tasking and strenuous process. Not only does it involve creating job descriptions for your vacancies, announcing them, searching for candidate, and receiving a flood of CVs from different sources, but with hundreds and sometimes thousands of potential candidates, how do you choose the right one? This is one of the first and most enduring challenges employees face when hiring. Nobody wants to drag out the hiring process more than necessary.

In order to save on time and effort, shortlisting candidates is one of the best practices to adopt during the hiring process.

The Shortlisting Process What does shortlisting mean? To put it simply, shortlisting candidates involves taking a large pile of CVs and narrowing it down based on different criteria. The more detailed your criteria is, the more likely your shortlist will meet your expectations. The process of defining the basic requirements of the job may seem daunting and challenging at first, but it will save you considerable time and effort when hiring. So, before you begin shaving off candidates, you will need to determine the reasons you are not considering them for the vacancy. Below are some things to consider, depending on the vacancy in question.

Qualifications The first step you must take is defining the qualifications your vacancy requires. There are several factors that should come into consideration when hiring, including job role, industry and the career level required for the position.

1. Career Level Career levels in most organizations can be split into three main categories: entry level, mid-level and top management. Depending on the vacancy and the tasks and responsibilities involved, career level and experience plays an important role in the shortlisting process because certain positions may require a greater amount of experience to tackle. Bayt.com’s CV search enables you to filter candidates based on their career levels, allowing you to sift through results that are a better match to your vacancy.

2. Job Role and Industry The industry your organization operates in also plays a role in selecting the right candidate for the position. After all, you will need your vacancy to be filled by a candidate who possesses the relevant experience. For instance, if you work in the retail business, hiring a candidate whose sole prior experience is in the hospitality and tourism industry might not be the most beneficial for your organization. Whether you are using CV search or Bayt.com job postings, you use filters to only see candidates who have experience within the same job role and industry of your vacancy.

3. Additional Skills Requirements There are other skills that your vacancy might require. For instance, the position could require language proficiency or computer and technical skills. Perhaps your ideal candidate

should also have experience with certain programs such as Photoshop, JavaScript or even prior experience with social media platforms.

You can also shortlist your candidates based on these qualifications by typing in the exact skills you are looking for into Bayt.com’s CV search, search bar. By doing that, you will only see candidates who have the skills you need. By filtering out candidates who do not meet these requirements, you save on time and take one step closer to creating your shortlist.

Keywords Searching for the correct keywords is the second step in the shortlisting process. CVs are filled with huge amounts of text and can sometimes be disorganized or otherwise difficult to navigate. This makes it challenging for employers to find the information they are looking for in a short amount of time. This is why Bayt.com offers a CV format that is arranged in a user-friendly, easy-to-read interface that makes it much easier for employers to quickly scan CVs to find the information, or even compare several CVs side by side without any clutter.

For example, if your job description requires a candidate with experience in project management, then that is the keyword you will need to search for. To further tweak your search results, Bayt.com’s 10+ Boolean Search Operators will ensure that you’ll only see the exact results you’re looking for!

Salary Expectations Salaries are an important topic to job seekers. For that reason, as soon as you are done filtering candidates based on their qualifications, you will need to begin calling your candidates to verify their information and availability. Asking about salary expectations is a regular practice when screening candidates over the phone. However, the answers can sometimes be displeasing to you as an employer. To save employers both time and energy, Bayt.com gives job seekers the option to add their previous month’s salary as well as their future salary expectations to their Bayt.com profile.

DECEMBER 2017

CAREERS

Apply to these jobs and more on Jobs.QC-Sites.com

Project and Contract Specialist Power Systems & Information Technology

Project Engineer Parsons International Limited

Qatar | Mid Career | 8 years exp

Qatar | Mid Career | Unspecified

Structural / Bridge Design Engineer Parsons International Limited

Otis Elevator Sales Engineer UTC Building & Industrial Systems

Qatar | Mid Career | Unspecified

Qatar | Mid Career | Unspecified

New Equipment Installation Supervisor UTC Building & Industrial Systems

Forklift/MHE Service Technician Span Group

Qatar | Mid Career | Unspecified

Qatar | Mid Career | Unspecified

Structural Engineer Technical Engineering Designers - PEB - LBDI

Planning Engineer Igniteselection

Qatar | Mid Career | Unspecified

Qatar | Mid Career | Unspecified

Project Manager IMAR Group

Senior Project Managers IMAR Group

Qatar | Mid Career | Unspecified

Qatar | Mid Career | Unspecified

Project Engineer IMAR Group

Site Engineer (Steel Structure) IMAR Group

Qatar | Management | Unspecified

Qatar | Management | Unspecified

Project / Planning Engineer Corp Executive Hotel Doha Suites

Hotel Chief Engineer Maintenance Supervisor Corp Executive Hotel Doha Suites

Qatar | Mid Career | Min: 5 Max: 10

Qatar | Mid Career | Min: 5 Max: 8

ITS/SCADA Engineer Parsons International Limited

Assistant Resident Engineer Roads/Highways - IMAR Group

Qatar | Mid Career | 7 years exp

Qatar | Mid Career | 10 years exp

CAD Technician Parsons International Limited

Planning Engineer Parsons International Limited

Qatar | Mid Career | 5 years exp

Qatar | Entry Level | 10 years exp

If you still feel that the candidate is asking for too much, or their expectations are out of the industry’s range or budget, Bayt.com Salaries is the answer to your problem. You will learn how different industries and job roles have their compensation scaled and you will be able to benchmark your salaries accordingly. This will clarify what your expectations should be for the vacancy you are trying to fill and whether or not the candidate being shortlisted is being reasonable in their compensation expectations.

After following the above steps and filtering through qualifications, additional skills requirements, keywords and salary expectations, your shortlist will now be ready and you can move to the interview process. Be sure to check out Bayt.com’s interview evaluation form to help you screen your interview candidates and conduct comprehensive interviews.

About Bayt.com: Bayt.com is the #1 job site in the Middle East with more than 40,000 employers and over 29,800,000 registered job seekers from across the Middle East, North Africa and the globe, representing all industries, nationalities and career levels. Post a job or find jobs on www.bayt.com today and access the leading resource for job seekers and employers in the region

28

QATAR

CONSTRUCTION

SITES

In partnership with

2017 CALENDAR OF EXHIBITIONS & EVENTS EVENTS

2nd Annual Qatar HVAC Contracting Organizer: IQPC Event date (s): 7 – 9 November Venue: TBA Location: Doha, Qatar Tel: +971 4 364 2975 Email: enquiry@iqpc.ae Website: www.qatarhvaccontracting.iqpc.ae

Middle East District Cooling Summit Organizer: Fleming Events Event date(s): 7 - 8 February, 2018 Venue: TBA Location: Doha, Qatar Tel: +971 4609 1555 Email: manohar.bharwani@fleming.events Website: www.fleming.events/ middle-east-district-cooling-summit

4th Annual Future Drainage and Stormwater Networks Qatar Organizer: Advanced Conferences & Meetings Event date (s): 5 – 6 December Venue: TBA Location: Doha, Qatar Tel: +971 4 361 4001 Email: opportunities@acm-events.com Website: www.futuredrainagenetworksqatar.com

DigiQatar Conference Organizer: Fleming Events Events date(s): 19 - 20 February, 2018 Venue: TBA Location: Doha, Qatar Tel: +971 4609 1555 Email: manohar.bharwani@fleming.events Website: www.fleming.events/digiqatar-conference

Expo Turkey by Qatar Organizer: Qatar Chamber Event date(s): 17 - 19 January, 2018 Venue: Qatar National Convention Center Location: Doha, Qatar Tel: +90 212 230 10 44 Email: expoturkey@medyacity.com.trm Website: www.expoturkeybyqatar.com

DIMDEX 2018 Organizer: DIMDEX Events date(s): 12 - 14 March, 2018 Venue: Doha Exhibition & Convention Center Location: Doha, Qatar Tel: +974 4472 8813 Email: nmallick@dimdex.com Website: www.dimdex.com

Doha International Sustainable Energy 2018 Organizer: IES SRL – International Exhibition Services Event date (s): 19 - 21 March, 2018 Venue: Doha Exhibition & Convention Center Location: Doha, Qatar Tel: + 974 6674 0990 Email: exhibition@fohaenergyexpo.com Website: www.dohaenergyexpo.com

Cityscape Qatar Organizer: Informa Exhibitions Events date(s): 26 - 28 March, 2018 Venue: Doha Exhibition & Convention Center Location: Doha, Qatar Tel: +971 4 407 2475 Email: Iman.Eissa@informa.com Website: www.cityscapeqatar.com

Landscape: Landscape: The Thefuture futureofof sustainable sustainable urbanism urbanism The 4th edition of Future Landscape & Public Realm Qatar provides a dynamic, and relevant learning environment for landscaping and exterior design professionals

T

he 4th Annual Future Landscape

sewage effluent in Qatar’s landscaping in-

The first day of Future Landscape & Public

Solution providers like Nakheel Land-

& Public Realm Qatar conference

dustry. Another presentation was delivered

Realm Qatar created a platform for attend-

held in Doha concluded success-

by Energy City Qatar (ECQ) representative

scapes, Aqua Masters, Ghesa, WATERMAS-

fully as part of Qatar Sustainabil-

Mohamad Diab about the ECQ landscape

ees to build relations, exchange ideas and seize business opportunities throughout

TER, WT Burden, and Marshalls showcased their newest technologies and solutions in

ity Week 2017.

and public realm design.

Dr Anna Grichting Solder from the College

The conference ended with a panel discus-

of Engineering at Qatar University chaired

sion on designing a fully functional and

the conference. Mona Noureldin Mohamed

pedestrian-friendly public realm through

Many key players participated in this event,

Day two of the conference featured more

from the Ministry of Municipality and En-

effective strategies. The panel discussion

tincluding the Ministry of Municipality

vironment delivered a presentation titled

included Don Sharp from Parsons, Mo-

presentations covering the influence of

`Vibrant Qatar - towards creating commu-

hamed and Mohamed M Hassona from The

and Environment, Ashgha’, Parsons, ECQ,

landscape architects in shaping the public

nity-based open spaces and public parks’.

Qur’anic Botanic Garden.

Ghazi Elsherif of the Public Works Author-

The event included a networking break

ronments Qatar, Isocarp, College of Engi-

ity (Ashghal) presented the opportunities

that brought together all attendees, speak-

neering - Qatar University and University of

el session on green spaces and corridors

of using thermal dried sludge and treated

ers and sponsors..

Wisconsin, Marinette.

in urban areas.

the ACMi+ interface that allowed for many networking breaks.

Cracknell,The Qur’anic Botanic Garden, Qatar Green Building Council, Richer Envi-

the field of landscaping and public realm.

realm, the benefits of investment in green roofs to increase property value and a pan-

CONSTRUCTION

SITES

DECEMBER 2017

29

PROJECT FOCUS

To know more about GCC project data, visit & register at www.qc-sites.com Project Title

Client

Main Contractor

Value Range (QR) Million

Project Status

Type of Project

1.

C6 - LUSAIL

REGENCY REAL ESTATE

NA

165,540,000.00

Design stage

MIXED USE BUILDING

2.

FOXHILLS - A29

FURSAN REAL ESTATE

NA

20,091,000.00

Design stage

RESIDENTIAL BUILDING

3.

C5 - LUSAIL

RABBAN GROUP

NA

126,319,000.00

Design stage

MIXED USE BUILDING

4.

FOXHILLS - A30

FURSAN REAL STATE

NA

32,627,000.00

Design stage

RESIDENTIAL BUILDING

5.

C4 - LUSAIL

REGENCY REAL ESTATE

NA

108,070,000.00

Design stage

HOTEL APARTMENTS

6.

FV7 - MULTI PURPOSE HALL/ART CENTRE

REGENCY REAL ESTATE

NA

67,500,000.00

Design stage

COMMERCIAL

7.

FV9 AL ASMAKH HEAD OFFICE IN SUSAIL

REGENCY REAL ESTATE

NA

38,000,000.00

Design stage

OFFICE BUILDING

8.

FOXHILLS - A21

MR. NASSER SHAREEF ALEMADI

NA

22,505,000.00

On-going

RESIDENTIAL BUILDING

9.

FOXHILLS - D49

REGENCY REAL ESTATE

NA

29,299,000.00

Design stage

RESIDENTIAL BUILDING

10.

FOXHILLS - D21

REGENCY REAL ESTATE

NA

27,472,000.00

Design stage

RESIDENTIAL BUILDING

11.

FOXHILLS - D04

REGENCY REAL ESTATE

NA

25,273,000.00

Design stageE

RESIDENTIAL BUILDING

12.

FOXHILLS - A13

REGENCY REAL ESTATE

NA

24,918,000.00

Design stage

RESIDENTIAL BUILDING

13.

FOXHILLS - D14

REGENCY REAL ESTATE

NA

23,150,000.00

Design stage

RESIDENTIAL BUILDING

Project Title

Client

Main Contractor

Value Range (QR) Million

Project Status

Type of Project

1.

CBQ Boulevard

CBQ

HBK

N/A

Under Construction

Commercial, Bank, Office Plaza

2.

Doha Festival City (Package 3250,3100 and 7500

Basrec

GCC/ALEC JV

N/A

Under Construction

Retail Mall

3.

Commercial Tower on Plot Com/49 Al Sedian Company

Yousuf Al Mahmoud

Al Balagh Trading & Contracting Co. W.L.L.

N/A

Under Construction

Office Building Tower

4.

Office Tower (3B+G22+ Floors) Plot Com50- at Lusail Marina

Qatar Trading Agency

Redco - Al Mana

N/A

Under Construction

Office Building

5.

Qatar Sidra Village Project

Mazaya Qatar Real Estate Development QSC

Sinohydro Group Limited

N/A

Under Construction

Residential

6.

Office Buildings (3B+G22+) at Lusail Marina District

Sh. Hamad Bin Faisal Al Thani

REDCO – Al Mana

N/A

Under Construction

Office Building

7.

Holiday Inn at Business Park

He Sheikh Mohammed Bin Hamad Al-Thani

Man Enterprises Qatar, WLL

N/A

Under Construction

Hotel

Mohamed Bin Hamad Holding

Shannon Engineering Co. (SEC)

8.

Commercial Mall at Abu Sidra

Project Title

Client

Main Contractor

1.

Blusail Furnished Apartment at Lusail (3B+G+10)

H.E SH Abdulla Bin Mohamed Al Thani

2.

E's Hail Communication Network Building at Duhailiyat Camp

N/A

Under Construction

MADINAT ASH SHAMAL

AL GHUWARIYAH AL KHAWR

UMM SALAL

AL JUMALIYAH

DOHA AL RAYYAN

Retail Mall

Value Range (QR) Million

Project Status

Type of Project

Matta Contracting Qatar

89.5

Under Construction

Residential Building

Qatar Armed Forces

ITCC

N/A

Under Construction

Office Building

3.

Development of Ooredoo TEC Complex at Industrial Area

Ooredoo

Not appointed

N/A

Design Stage

Commercial Complex

4.

Private Villa at Pearl Qatar

Private Client

Not appointed

N/A

Design Stage

Villa

5.

Doha Education Centre

Doha Education Centre

Not appointed

30-50 Million

Design stage

Education

6.

Step 1 International Academy

Step 1 International Academy

Not appointed

20-40 Million

Design stage

School

Project Title

Client

Main Contractor

Value Range (QR) Million

Project Status

Type of Project

1.

Mix 11 Hotel Tower at Lusail City

Real Estate Services Group

N/A

600 Million

Design Stage

Hotel

2.

Al Jassasiyah White Beach Palace

UrbaCon Trading & Contracting (UCC)

N/A

400 Million

Design Stage

Mixed-Use

3.

Marina Com 05 Tower at Lusail City

Private Engineering Office / Mashour Real Estate Group

N/A

315 Million

Construction Stage

Office / Commercial

4.

Qatar Chamber of Commerce and Industry Building

Qatar Chamber of Commerce and Industry

N/A

270 Million

Design Stage

Office

5.

Com 02 - Barwa Bank Headquarters at Lusail City

Barwa / Hilson Moran

N/A

250 Million

Design Stage

Office

6.

National Cyber Security Center

Ministry of Interior / Al Ali International

N/A

180 Million

Design Stage

Office

AL WAKRAH

MESAEED

JARIYAN AL BATNAH

NOTE: Whistle we take pride in keeping our Consultants Database with the most up-to-date information, please note that the above information is provided by the Consultants mentioned in the list; therefore QCS is not responsible for any incorrect data.

Fixin g Systems

30

DECEMBER 2017

CONSTRUCTION

SITES

PROJECT FOCUS

Project Title

Client

Main Contractor

Value Range (QR) Million

Project Status

Type of Project

1.

Fiber Glass Factory at New Industrial Area

German Tech Fibre Glass WLL

N/A

N/A

Tender stage

Factory Building

2.

Kitchen equipment factory at New Industrial Area

Justa Kitchen and Cookers

N/A

N/A

Tender stage

Factory, office Building

3.

Sand witch panel factory at New Industrial Area

Doha Sandwich Panel

N/A

N/A

Design stage

Factory Building

4.

Oil recycling plant at New Industrial Area

QAR Oil Recycling

International Work Group

N/A

Under construction

Oil recycling plant

5.

Cements product factory at Industrail Area

Al Simeh Cements Products

N/A

N/A

Design stage

Factory

6.

Accomodation and Store at Industrial Area

Ramco Trading and Contg.

Ramco Trading and Contg.

N/A

Tender stage

Acco. And Store

7.

Precast Factory - M IND AREA

Al Ghariya Precast

N/A

N/A

Design stage

Factory

8.

Oil Recycling plant - M. IND AREA

Gulf Oil Recycling

N/A

N/A

Design stage

Recycling plant

9.

Gulf Pallet Factory - MIC

Gulf Pallet WLL

N/A

N/A

Design Stage

Factory and office

10.

Abdul Noor Block factoryMIC

Abdul Noor Block Factory

N/A

N/A

Tender stage

Factory and office

11.

Switch Gear Factory - MIC

Q- TECH WLL

N/A

N/A

Tender stage

Switch gear

12.

Warehouse and Store MANATEQ

Quality Group of Companies

N/A

N/A

Design stage

Store and Warehouse

Project Title

Client

Main Contractor

Value Range (QR) Million

Project Status

Type of Project

1.

Police College Academy

MOI

Hassanesco

N/A

Construction Stage

Educational Complex

2.

Health Care Centers (Pacakge 4 & 5)

PWA

ITC/UCE

600

Under Construction

Medical Centers

3.

Villas Complex (Al Fardan 9) at Abu Sidra

Danat Qatar

Ramaco

300M

Construction Stage

Residential Building

4.

Barwa Al Baraha Warehouses & Workshops

Barwa Al Baraha Company

QBEC (Qatar Building Engineering Co.)

140M

Construction Stage

Warehouses & Workshops

5.

The Isola Dana Sewerage Upgrade Network

UDC

Petroserv Construction

12.6 M

Construction Stage

Sewerage Network

6.

4 Nos. Parks at Various Locations in Al Daayen Municipality

Ministry of Municipality & Environment

N/A

N/A

Design Stage

Landscaping & Parks

7.

Construction of 8 Nos. Buildings Complex and Club House

Sheikh Khaled Bin Hamad

Insha Company

200M

Under Construction

Residential

8.

Headquarter of General Directorate of Borders Passports, Expatriates Affairs, Nationality & Travel Documents Department

Al Aali International

MOI

Under Construction

800

Qatar to benefit from new shipping services

By Oxford Business Group (OBG)

On September 17 the Swiss-based Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC) and Taiwan’s Yang Ming Transport Corporation both opened new weekly lines to Qatar’s Hamad Port, south of Doha.

Four ships, each with the capacity to accommodate 6000 containers, including 400 reefer containers, have begun operating on MSC’s new East Mediterranean Service, which runs between ports in Turkey, Greece, India, Oman and Qatar.

Yang Ming, meanwhile, launched its China Gulf Express Service with a single vessel that can also carry 6000 containers. The ship’s route takes in Shanghai, Ningbo, Xiamen and Shekou ports in China, Kaohsiung (Taiwan), Port Klang (Malaysia) and Hamad Port.

Expansion under way at Hamad Port The new services will support Qatar’s efforts to diversify its trading partners, a target underpinned by the country’s $7.4bn Hamad Port, inaugurated by Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, the Emir of Qatar, at the beginning of September.

Spanning 26 sq km, the facility will have the capacity to process 7.5m containers per year once fully operational. The port is scheduled to reach completion by 2020.

The port has been in partial operation since late 2015, when it began catering to vessels carrying roll-on/roll-off cargo, livestock and heavy equipment. However, the facility is now able to accommodate large container ships for the first time.

Offices & Services Building

This additional facility is pivotal for Qatar as recent regional tensions have meant that Doha-bound cargo can no longer be transferred from larger ships to smaller vessels in the UAE and at ports in Oman as was previously the case.

“The opening of the port will now bring further food security and economic diversification in line with Qatar National Vision 2030, a project that aims to boost the country’s economic diversity,” Jassim bin Saif Ahmed Al Sulaiti, the minister of transport and communications, told media after the inaugural ceremony.

Project Title

Client

Main Contractor

Value Range (QR) Million

Project Status

Type of Project

1.

Commercial Tower in Marina District, Lusail (COM 17)

Sheikh Mohamed Jassem

Not Appointed

198,500,000

Design Stage

Commercial

2.

5-Star Hotel at Ramda Signal

Babishtar Group W.L.L.

Bab Ishtar

70,000,000

Under Construction

Hospitality

3.

Office Building ECQ-D29 in Lusail

Abdulla Abdulrehman Abdula Heidar

Not Appointed

22,400,000

Design Stage

Office

4.

Residential Apartment Tower in Marina District, (RES 22) Lusail

Al Mohannadi Group

Not Appointed

81,000,000

Design Stage

Residential

5.

Residentials Building MU / P08 at Fox Hills, Lusail

Qatari Real Estate Group

Not Appointed

22,000,000

Design Stage

Residential

6.

Cold Stores & Meat Processing Facility at Industrial Area

Zad Holding

Qatar Mega Building

51,000,000

Under Construction

Industrial

7.

Twin Tower 13A & 13B at the Pearl

Sh. Nasser Bin Falah Al Thani Group

PLQ (Powerline Qatar)

482,500,000

Under Construction

Residential

8.

Modification and Furnishing of Behavioral Healthcare Center HQ, Doha

Behavioral Healthcare Center BHC

Not appointed

35,000,000 QAR

Design stage

9.

Stafford Sri Lankan School, Doha

Stafford Sri Lankan School

Not appointed

42,000,000 QAR

Design stage

The construction of separate terminals designed to handle general cargo, cereal, livestock and vehicles at Hamad Port is expected to support pursuit of these goals.

Speaking to the press in mid-September, Abdul Aziz Nasser Al Yafei, director of Hamad Port, said the government expects 1000 vessels and 1m twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs) to have entered the facility by the end of 2017.

Milaha rolls out new lines The weeks leading up to Hamad Port’s opening saw maritime logistics player Milaha announce new services between Qatar and various international ports.

One such initiative, the Pakistan Qatar Express Service (PQX), was launched on August 27, with the first vessel arriving at Hamad Port from Karachi on September 11. The route has a relatively short transit time of four days and is served by two 1700 TEU vessels, dedicated largely to the transportation of perishable items and foodstuffs. A service connecting the Qatari ports of Mesaieed and Hamad with Karachi and the Indian port of Mundra is also expected to come on-line in the near future.

Four days prior to the PQX announcement, Milaha also confirmed that an ad hoc service it had been running between Hamad Port and the Port of Izmir in Turkey would be regularised to once every 20-25 days. One vessel with a capacity of more than 5000 tonnes now services the 11-day route, bearing temperature-controlled cargo and breakbulk cargo.

The introduction of new shipping routes and supply chain solutions by Milaha follows news of a drop in both revenue and profit in the first quarter of 2017. Operating revenue fell 21.4% year-on-year (y-o-y) to QR1.1bn ($301.9m), while profit decreased 55% y-o-y to QR170m ($46.7m).

The firm attributed the low figures to the global downturn in shipping, with Sheikh Ali bin Jassim Al Thani, chairman of Milaha’s Board of Directors, stating that it would “continue to invest prudently for the long term”, following the release of the data at the beginning of August.

HVE

DXE

ø10 (M6) ÷ ø24 (M16)

ø12(M8) ÷ ø15(M10)

VS

HXE

ø8 ÷ ø16

ø8 ÷ ø10

AJE

ø8 ÷ ø20

DSE

ø8(M6) ÷ ø16(M12)

The opening of new international routes suggests that Milaha is putting this strategy into action, while Hamad Port’s progress towards full operation could also help the company achieve a turnaround over the medium term.

In addition, Milaha stands to benefit in the near term from higher earnings across the shipping industry, a trend that should also support Qatar’s broader maritime trade ambitions.

On September 22, the Baltic Dry Index – the main sea freight index that tracks rates for ships carrying dry bulk – reached a near three-and-a-half-year high of 1502. Average daily earnings for Cape, Panamax and Supramax vessels stood at $22,392, $12,006 and $10,723, respectively, up from $15,202, $5790 and $7019 in the previous year.

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Monthly construction news, tenders, project focus, and forthcoming exhibitions in Qatar Tel.: +974 4469 3280 - Fax: +974 4451 0428

Rania Queen St. Amman- Jordan Tel: +9626 5356616 - Fax: +9626 535 6606 - P.O.Box: 622 - Aljbeha: 11941 watan_newspaper@yahoo.com

Issue No. (125) December 2017, Doha - Qatar

State-of-the-art State-of-the-art Qatar National Library Qatar National Library opens to public opens to public Massive facility has over one million books in its collection

T

o provide boost to the learning and

20 languages. The library also contains rare

reading interesting to children. To further this

education culture of the country,

texts and manuscripts on Arab and Islamic

goal, early literacy programs and workshops

the state-of-the-art Qatar National

civilization as well as a joint atlas, of which

for families to develop reading skills are on

Library (QNL) is now open to the

only 12 are in existence. There are separate

offer. Specially trained librarians are on hand

public in Doha’s Education City. The library

sections for children, teenagers and a heri-

to offer assistance with items like education-

project was announced in 2012 by Qatar

tage library.

al toys, arts and crafts materials and learning software. With Qatar placing emphasis on

Foundation Chairperson H H Sheikha Mozah bint Nasser. The facility includes computer

“We are very pleased to open our doors to

education as part of its development plans,

labs, group study spaces, a writing center,

the Qatar community. The QNL building is

the children’s library is set to emerge as key

innovation stations offering 3D-printing tools

intended to be a public space where people

tool in expanding horizons of children.

and musical instruments and over one mil-

of all ages can come to learn, reflect, engage

lion books. The library has open stacks, hang-

and be inspired,” said Dr Sohair F. Wastawy

The Teen Library is for those aged between

ing seating lounges, interactive media walls

Executive Director, QNL. “In addition, we are

13 and 18 and contains over 30,000 books,

and a central labyrinth. This is the first new

pleased to offer a permanent home for the

magazines, computer labs, graphic novels, in-

national library to open anywhere in the world

Heritage Collection, which is a valuable re-

teractive learning tools and an events area. .

in this millennium.

pository of the history and heritage of Qatar,

It also includes school curriculum and college

the Arabian Gulf region and the larger Arab

textbooks for students preparing for exams,

and Islamic worlds.”

including ACT and SAT.

Other than books in Arabic and English, lan-

Once the building opens, existing QNL mem-

guages highlighted are Bengali, French, Ger-

bers can pick up a membership card, while

man, Italian, Portuguese, Spanish, Tamil,

those not yet registered can do so by present-

Urdu, Tagalog, Sinhala, Malayalam, Nepali,

ing their Qatar ID. Wastawy said: “The library

Russian, Korean and Chinese. The presence

building offers something for everyone and

of so many languages in a library is a portray-

we are looking forward to welcoming the en-

al of Qatar’s diverse population.

tire community to this wonderful institution.”

It is believed to be the largest library globally in the world to be opened this century. Covering a massive area of 45,000 sq. meters, its book collection has volumes available in 20 languages.

A full range of exhibitions and services will The unique Heritage Library at the heart of

be launched at the official inauguration cer-

the building resembles an excavation site

emony in 2018.

and the door has `Iqra’ (read) emblazoned on it. Scientific books and journals, old photographs and accounts of travelers who explored the region are available, making the library also somewhat of a museum.

The library building has been designed by

The Heritage Library has medical, pharma-

Dutch architect Rem Koolhaas and is dis-

cological, and astronomical texts, along with

abled-friendly. It has an automatic book sort-

famous works produced by Ibn Sina and Al

ing system and self-check-in and check-out

Razi. It contains26,000 books, 4,000 man-

machines. There are 3D printers and musical

uscripts, 70,000 photographs, and 1,200

instruments available for those who require

maps, all of which can be used for research

them.

and collaborations.

It is believed to be the largest library globally

The Children’s Library has over 100,000

in the world to be opened thiscentury. Cov-

books in Arabic, English, and other lan-

ering a massive area of 45,000 sq. meters,

guages. Audio books, DVDs. E-books and e-

its book collection has volumes available in

magazine have been made available to make

The library building has been designed by Dutch architect Rem Koolhaas and is disabledfriendly. It has an automatic book sorting system and self-checkin and check-out machines.