Construction Sites | April Issue no. 81

SITES C o n s t r u c t i o n

Participation of 100 international, regional and local companies is already confirmed for the May exhibition

Termination of Construction Contracts under Qatar Law

BIM matters

Once a contract has been formed, how can a party discharge himself from the contract?

BIM is strongly growing and the demand for BIM experts is very high.

you name it , we make it CNC Plasma cutting ( up to 50mm ) 6m Plate Shearing (up to 16 mm ) 6m Plate bending ( up to 12 mm )

Oxy fuel cutting ( up to 200mm ) Plate rolling Pipe bending

Fabrication Punching Lathe Works Sandblasting

Page

The zoo is scheduled to be opened to the public in 2017

CHRVI set to address energy efficient solutions

Page

Page

QR118 million contracts awarded for Qatar’s new safari-style zoo

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

Page

I ssue N o .81 - A pril 2014

2

Construction

SITES

Qatar’s World Cup preparations ‘on track’

Addressing an international audience gathered at the MEED Qatar Projects Conference 2014, Yasser Al Mulla, project manager at Al-Rayyan Precinct for the country’s Supreme Committee for Delivery and Legacy, has assured the world that Qatar’s preparations for FIFA World Cup 2022 are on track.

According to Al Mulla, Qatar will issue 10 tenders this year for project managers and design consultants on the stadiums being built for the games.

“We are in the advanced stages of design work for six stadiums and this year we will see five stadiums begin the early works on foundations and construction,” he said.

Moreover, Doha expects to spend an additional $4 billion on building stadiums and related sporting infrastructure for the World Cup. The largest new stadium planned is the Lusail Iconic stadium which will have a capacity of more than 86,000 people and is to be used for the opening match and the finals.

As part of the massive infrastructure roll-out, hotel rooms will be expanded to 95,000 by 2022 from the current 15,000 rooms available.

Qatar’s Public Works Authority (Ashghal) also revealed plans to launch $27.5-billion-worth of expressway and interchange projects over the next five years to supplement the over $3-billion-worth of contracts that were awarded last year. The road projects are expected to be completed in 2020.

With these projects, Qatar hopes to reduce traffic congestion and ensure a smooth flow of people and vehicles as Doha hosts the world’s biggest sporting event.

In other developments, Qatar’s banking sector is expected to maintain its steady growth, as total assets grew 11.4% in 2013 and are estimated to be worth $247.2 billion, according to Qatar’s central bank governor, HE Sheikh Abdulla Saoud Al Thani.

Sheikh Abdulla said during his speech at the conference that deposits in banks from customers were up 19.7% in 2013 valued QR948 billion while net profits to shareholders of Qatar’s banks rose 11.5%.

Qatar’s economy is expected to expand to 6.8% in 2014, according to Qatar National Bank (QNB) acting group CEO, Ali Al Kuwari, with capital investment in infrastructure projects being the primary drivers of the growth.

“The non-hydrocarbons sector contribution will be 50% of GDP in 2014 and the banking sector will play a vital role in supporting the diversification of the Qatari economy by financing investment in infrastructure,” Al Kuwari said.

Qatar Projects 2014 concluded on a high note, with project stakeholders gearing up what is expected to be a busy sector in the next few years, as tenders are announced in the coming months and projects get underway.

This year’s conference was supported by Samsung as the Official Technology Partner, Qatar Steel as Associate Partner, Mashreq and Global Building Solutions as Silver Sponsors, Parsons, Al Maysan and Larsen & Toubro as Bronze Sponsors.

Other corporate partners include ibq (Gala Dinner Sponsor), Qatar Insurance Group (Lunch Sponsor), SEIB (Dedicated Partner and Breakfast Sponsor), pwc (as Reception Sponsor), HSBC (Masterclass Sponsor), Drake & Scull, ECG Engineering Consultants Group SA Zurich Insurance and Hill International as Conference sponsors; and Shapoorji Pallonji as the Networking Sponsor. Exhibiting companies included Al Jaber Engineering, ASTAD Project Management, International Aramoon Co Ltd as well as Salfo and Associates SA. Conference highlights and the post show report are available on www.qatarprojectsconference.com First held in Doha in 2003, the MEED Qatar Projects Conference is established as the premier annual conference focusing on development solutions to Qatar’s $200 billion megaproject challenge. Eleven years later, the conference attracts 400+ senior representatives from major local and international companies, government officials from Qatar and stakeholders from the across the GCC and the wider world.

Qatar Projects 2014 Conference featured two dedicated streams: one which covered Qatar’s Infrastructure & Transport sector and another which focuses on Qatar’s Energy & Utilities sector. More importantly, the conference discussed the most pressing issues in Qatar’s projects markets, including inflation, labor and material shortage, new procurement requirements and the solutions to overcome these challenges.

MEED’s comprehensive portfolio of events has been developed over the last decade to cover the region’s key business issues and sectors.

From large-scale summits and conferences to one-to-one networking opportunities, MEED Events provide high-profile speakers, relevant and critical business content and the latest news from across the GCC.

Qatar maintains top financial center ranking in the GCC

Qatar and Singapore have explored various “synergistic opportunities” in recent years, resulting in a surge in bilateral trade, according to Doha Bank Group CEO R Seetharaman.

Qatar is said to be Singapore‘s 21st largest trading partner with total trade at S$9.8 billion.

Trade between Qatar and Singapore increased by more than 26% during 2010-12 mainly on account of increase in exports by Qatar.

“Singapore has emerged as a strategically important hub for Qatar’s LNG exports to the region,” Seetharaman said at a recent knowledge sharing session hosted by the bank on “Opportunities in Qatar and the GCC (Gulf Co-operation Council)” at Ritz Carlton, Singapore.

Key officials from the Qatar embassy, Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS), Ministry of Trade and Industry, International Enterprise, Singapore Business Federation and Singapore Indian Chamber of Commerce participated in the event.

Seetharaman’s comments come at a time when Qatar and Singapore are to engage in a high-level joint committee meeting this November to enhance existing bilateral partnerships and explore new areas of co-operation.

Singapore LNG Corp has already received its first ever cargo from Qatargas at its terminal on Jurong Island.

Keppel Group has a joint venture tie-up with Nakilat, which has announced its plans to build 25 vessels per year. Keppel Seghers, the environmental technology arm of Keppel Group, Singapore, has worked on Doha North Sewage Treatment Works plant.

Highlighting the economic bonds between Gulf countries and Singapore, Seetharaman said GCC–Singapore trade surged from S$43.6 billion in 2010 to S$68.5 billion in 2012.

Exports to Singapore by the GCC increased from S$36.5 billion in 2010 to more than S$60 billion in 2012; while imports from Singapore by the GCC increased from more than S$7 billion in 2010 to about S$8.5 billion in 2012.

Qatar

Jaidah Heavy Equipment announces exclusive dealership with Bobcat Company

Jaidah Heavy Equipment division – a subsidiary of the long-established and influential conglomerate Jaidah Group, has announced an exclusive dealership agreement with construction equipment manufacturer Bobcat Company. Under the agreement, Jaidah Group is the sole dealer of Bobcat machines in Qatar, reinforcing Jaidah Group’s positionas one of the most trusted providers of construction equipment and industrial products in Qatar.

A launch event at Al Sharq Village annoucing the new dealership was attended by Mr. Mohamad Jaidah, Group Executive Director of Jaidah Group;Ayman Ahmed, General Manager of Jaidah Heavy Equipment Division; Gaby Rhayem, Regional Director Middle East and Africa for Bobcat; and Saide Hamoucha the District Manager of Bobcat.

Speaking at the launch event, Mr. Mohamad Jaidah, Group Executive Director of Jaidah Group said: “Jaidah Group has a history of long-standing relationships with major international manufacturers, making usperfectly suited for to satisfying the high demand for equipment related to Qatar’s construction boom. Our dealership agreement with Bobcat will reap rich returns for both parties and enhance our efforts to facilitate further growth in Qatar’s construction industry”.

Since 1947, Bobcat has been a name synonymous with urban development, a goal that Jaidah Group also shares through a combination of providing high qualityproducts withexcellent customer service. Mr. Gaby Rhayem, Regional Director Middle East and Africa for Bobcat said:“Jaidah has emerged as Qatar’s leading provider of construction equipment and industrial products, making the Group a perfect fit for us. We are delighted with this new dealership, and we are looking forward to having a positive impact on the Qatar’s growth by delivering our high quality products”, he added.

The dealership agreement, which both companies dub a “long-term strategic partnership,” leverages the complementary strengths of both companies to provide high quality construction products and services in Qatar.

Mr. Ayman Ahmed, General Manager of Heavy Equipment Division said: “At Jaidah Heavy Equipment, we see hard work and determination as key factors for achieving excellence. Our division offers complete post sales solutions for our customers’ convenience, including field service, after sales maintenance contracts and an excellent availability of parts.”

Jaidah Heavy Equipment division prides itself on providing up to date products, parts and services for transportation, power generation and construction industries. Its renowned product range includes heavy machinery and forklifts from Komatsu, cranes from Link-belt, UD Trucks, Palfinger cranes, Altec cranes, compressed air and lightning solutions from Dossan Infracore (Ingersoll Rand), cleaning solutions from Tennant, Isuzu light and medium trucks, road machines from Sakai, material handling from Still, Elba concrete pumps, and recently compact machines from Bobcat.

Qatar registers second highest growth rate in GCC projects market

Qatar’s projects market grew 26% last year, the second highest growth rate in the GCC, where project awards increased overall by 21% between 2012 and 2013, the first growth year since 2009.

The data was presented in a breakfast briefing at the Qatar Projects Conference, where a MEED Insight report detailed a comprehensive review of the GCC projects market from 2008-2013.

The report said 2008 was a landmark year for Qatar, when over $22 billion worth of projects were awarded predominantly by the construction and power sectors for megaprojects such as Ras Girtas Power & Water, Kahramaa Transmission Phase VIII, Barwa City Development and Lusail Development.

Fast forward to 2013, Qatar has maintained its momentum, awarding as much $20 billion on projects such as Qatar Rail’s Doha Metro Red and Green Lines and several stations, which account for 41% of all projects awarded in the country.

Overall, during the period in review from 2008-2013, Qatar’s project market accounted for 12% ($96 billion) of the total projects awarded in the GCC, for a massive outlay of an average of $16 billion a year.

MEED Insight expects a robust 2014, with project awards estimated to range between $140-150 billion.

The outlook is also positive over the long-term, as GCC economies continue to grow and as population explodes requiring further investments in infrastructure.

Challenges will most likely come from stiffer competition as contractors from Asia move to gain a bigger share of the market; and financing will play a factor in ensuring projects are not delayed.

Meanwhile, Elie Andraos, General Manager of Al Maysan, has said the steady growth of the projects market is a great opportunity to heavy equipment and machinery suppliers.

“Our participation in MEED’s Qatar Projects Conference 2014 is due to its importance in attracting local and international contractors,” he said. This conference is considered as a unique opportunity to display SANY’s heavy equipment and its proven reliability and quality in major construction projects in the GCC region. We are delighted to have participated, as it falls in line with Qatar’s 2030 vision in all aspects, particularly economic and construction,” Andraos added.

Construction

Qatar

HYGIENE

MANAGEMENT by

Qatar Intercare Technical Services can be credited as an industry leader in the business of innovative, professional hygiene solutions in the Middle East. Starting with just two employees in 1999, today Qatar Intercare has grown phenomenally, both in status and rank.

Setting rigid standards of quality with a flexible product line and services, Qatar Intercare aims to take the edge off its competitors.

Specialized products and hi-tech dispensing systems ensures that the company adheres to its mission of introducing innovative methods and effective cleaning solutions to its clients.

With a strong commitment to “Service with Integrity” policy, Qatar Intercare continues to fulfill its promise of providing stateof-the-art and modern day solutions to meet the demands of all its customers.

Mission Statement

• Make a distinctive contribution towards enhancing the quality of life.

• Progressive involvement towards hygiene control.

• Introduce innovative and enduring solutions to every sanitation challenge.

• Excellence in performance and quality.

• Aspire at all times to deliver and raise our own standards.

• Create awareness and educate customers in the proper and effective use of hygiene systems and chemicals.

WASHROOM HYGIENE REDEFINED

SITES

3

4

Construction

SITES

Project

QR118 million contracts awarded for Qatar’s new safari-style zoo The zoo is scheduled to be opened to the public in 2017 Qatar’s Public Works Authority Ashghal has awarded two contracts with a combined value of approximately QR118 million towards the development of the New Doha Zoo project.

The two contracts are for New Doha Zoo enabling works and the design and build contract for the animal relocation facility at Rawdhet Al Faras.

The New Doha Zoo enabling and demolition works contract valued at more than QR45 million was awarded to Aswan Trading and Contracting Company.

Site preparation works commenced earlier this month and the contract includes demolition of buildings and existing facilities within the boundaries of the New Doha Zoo site.

The works, estimated to take 14 months, will prepare the site for main construction and will ensure the protection and maintenance of the trees and natural environment onsite during excavation works.

The second contract valued at more than QR73 million for the design and construction of temporary housing facility for animals in Rawdhet Al Faras was awarded to Medgulf Construction Company.

The one-year contract included the design and implementation of the temporary facility in Rawdhet Al Faras where animals are housed during construction of the new park until they are able to return to the new zoo. The facility includes residences for caretakers and a veterinary clinic.

In November 2013, Ashghal launched the final concept master-plan for the New Doha Zoo project which will be a world-class destination providing a unique zoological experience for visitors.

Spanning an area of over 75 hectares, the new zoo will feature drive-through safaris, an elephant walk-way over Al Waab Street and an exclusive seven-star tree-top hotel, a senior Ashghal executive revealed during the second day of the Tourism in Tomorrow’s World conference.

The zoo, on a 71 hectare site in Al Waab, will link with Aspire Park and Villaggio mall via a cable car, a dedicated tram system and a custom-

Traffic Signals & Urban Traffic Control (UTC) Systems

The new zoo will feature drive-through safaris, an elephant walk-way over Al Waab Street and an exclusive seven-star tree-top hotel.

built walk-way to create a “zoo within a park”, following the vision of HH the Emir, delegates at the tourism conference at the Renaissance Doha City Center Hotel were told.

Speaking on the theme of New Doha Zoo - a case study in sustainable approach to tourist development in Qatar at the Tourism in Tomorrow’s world conference, Gregory Clarkson, Senior Planner at Ashghal, outlined the concept and vision of the new attraction, which will help to elevate Qatar to being a global tourist destination.

Clarkson, whose prior expe-

rience includes Hong Kong Disneyworld, said the zoo would be split into zones and would feature star animal attractions, including gorillas, giraffes, lions, tigers, rhinos and an elephants’ walkway on a bridge linking the zoo on the south side of Al Waab Street with Aspire Park to the north.

Clarkson said the zoo would also have drive-through African and Asian Safari zones, walk-through African and Asian safari areas, a “mountain experience” and a tropical rainforest environment.

He added that planners were designing a system where

visitors could take their own cars through defined areas of the zoo. “You will be able to take your personal vehicle on safari, as a special addedextra for the project,” he said.

He explained that having both a drive-through and walkthrough experiences at the same time was a challenge. A technique was established to create parallel paths without having to recreate the environment, to allow both pedestrians and vehicles to see the same attractions.

The zoo will have an innovative controlled biosphere roof system – the first of its kind in the world – where it

will rain once an hour, and a river ride throughout the zoo network.

Visitors will be able to get to the zoo by cable car directly from Villaggio, which Clarkson described as being “a ride in itself” or by a dedicated tram system, which will be zoo-themed and link Villaggio mall and the Aspire Zone to the zoo. There will also be an underground car park.

In addition, there are plans for a tree house hotel – an exclusive seven-star resort nestled in mature trees, with boardwalks throughout the tree canopy; a five-star rainforest hotel and a four-star

The zoo will have an innovative controlled biosphere roof system – the first of its kind in the world.

Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS)

Traffic Monitoring, Surveillance, & Law Enforcement Systems

Weigh In Motion (WIM) & Truck Weigh Stations

ENGINEERED SOLUTIONS WITHIN REACH No. 90, D Ring Road Opposite Lulu Hypermarket P.O. Box 30704, Doha, Qatar

Parking Management Systems

Montane family resort.

The zoo village, which will be open to the public, will feature architecture in sympathy with Qatari heritage and culture and will include themed cafes and restaurants to create a new, popular gathering place similar to Souq Waqif and Katara.

Clarkson said Ashghal was planning to have the zoo to be up and running by 2020, and is expecting 1.3 million visitors to the village with around 950,000 visitors to the zoo.

“We want to create a worldleading model for integrated nature conservation and visitor experience. It will be a unique and memorable attraction”, Clarkson added.

The entrance to the village core will be free of charge. According to Clarkson, this was done intentionally to create a point of social congregation to attract visitors.

The zoo, to be surrounded by public walking green spaces, will have underground parking facilities.

Clarkson pointed out that contracts were already awarded for establishing temporary facilities to host the animals until the new zoo was ready.

Planned to be opened to the public by the end of 2017, New Doha Zoo will be one of Qatar’s top education and tourist attractions that aims to provide environmental education to its visitors in accordance with the requirements of Qatar National Vision 2030.

Security Systems

Traffic Signs, Directional Signs, & Sign Structures

Street Lighting, Electrical & Mechanical Services

Tel. : (+974) 44269000 Fax : (+974) 44666832 E-mail : ttg@traffic-tech.com

www.traffic-tech.com

SITES ARACO features the new product benefit of Volvo Wheel Loader – L150G and Backhoe Loader - BL61B

5

Construction

Qatar

Volvo Wheel Loader – L150G and Backhoe Loader – BL61B offer a number of new features coupled with higher productivity, optimum operator comfort and lower fuel consumption.

A

RACO has grown into a trusted name in the heavy equipment market with its strategic investment and a strong product portfolio. The company is recognized as the “Ultimate” partner for providing world class products and supporting the industry. Working to fulfill its role as a pioneer in the market, ARACO constantly innovating its product range and brings in to Qatar’s market the most innovative machinery, which would satisfy the soaring demand of the construction sector with the announcement of the country’s infrastructure mega-projects.

Being a well-established distributor for Volvo Construction Applications in Qatar, Araco provides local business with access to Volvo’s ever-expanding line of construction equipment and keeps the industry updated on the new machines and features designed specifically to cater for the requirements of each particular application.

To discover a new way of Volvo backhoe and Wheel Loader Machines, which have been serving the industry with unprecedented performance, ARACO has recently organized a launch

event to present the improved Volvo Wheel Loader – L150G and Backhoe Loader – BL61B, which offers a number of new features coupled with higher productivity, optimum operator comfort and lower fuel consumption. The new rounded exterior design provides excellent visibility all around the machine, while the improved service hatches and platforms result in increased safety and better serviceability. The launching event took place at the Al Gassar Resort in West Bay, where guests at the event could discover the advantages of both machines, which have been showcased at the entrance to the 5 Star Resort.

“Volvo CE continuously fulfills its commitments to its customers to provide the best heavy equipment products in the world with high productivity, utmost durability, ceaseless dependability, total safety features, maximum versatility, topmost performance and after sales support, to name a few,” said Mr. Antoine Azar, General Manager of ARACO, in his keynote address during the launching event.

“At ARACO, we are veryproud to be VOLVO CEs exclusive

dealer of heavy equipment in Qatar and correspondingly, we constantly fulfill customer’s expectations by offering the best construction equipment and delivering full customer’s after sales satisfaction,” he added.

Recovering from the economic doldrums, VOLVO CE rides the new wave of growth, after having faced several challenges which made the company even stronger. “With increasing competition from low-cost machineries, we differentiate our products through design and innovation, improved quality and productivity, and step up our after sales support with our

customers, help to drive local businesses to new level of efficiency and productivity”, Fredrik Sjostrom, Business Manager Hub East at Volvo Construction Equipment, pointed out. To stay competitive in this changing landscape, Volvo CE continually reinforcesits competitive edge by building core competencies and develop new capabilities to strengthen the business.

With launching of the new Volvo Wheel Loader and Back hoe Loader, Volvo CE once again proves that the company never stops creating state-of-the-art machines with advanced solutions, according to Walid Dowi-

dar. New Volvo G-Series wheel loader has seen productivity gains up to 40% at the same time as fuel savings in the region of 25%. “Volvo Backhoe Loader BL61B and Volvo L 150G Wheel loader are the new machineries which are designed and built to fit your projects’ needs,” Dowidar added.

Dowidar also congratulated Volvo CE with its successful transformation of company’s business model, and noted that it enhances capabilities and expertise to provide comprehensive product solutions. ARACO in return, according to Dowidar, commits to continuingly invest and upgrade its facilities and its people’s development to deliver the best services to ARACO’s valued customers.

Going an extra mile with its customer service, the company un-

derstands that value for money, productivity and profitability are constant concerns for the local market. For this reason ARACO works in partnership with its customers to exceed their expectations and anticipate future needs. In line with ARACO’s commitments, Dowidar has expressed appreciation to its valued customers and announced the receivers of Volvo awards.

There were ten Volvo awards in total: The first Volvo Machine User in Qatar, the First Safety Operation, Best Machine Application Award, the Wheel Loader Biggest Fleet Owner, Best Operator, Best User Award, Best Care Award, Best customer for machine with high mileage but less downtime, the Biggest Volvo Machine Fleet Owner Award, and the Backhoe Loader Biggest Fleet Owner.

Guests at the launch at the Al Gassar Resort in West Bay

6

Construction

SITES

Qatar

Gulf Walls System: Building a New Culture “Innovative, Energy Efficient, Strong, Fast and Easy Green Construction Solution with Global Standard for the Local Construction Industry considering a steady and sustainable Environment”.

Gulf Walls System (GWalls), is an exclusive manufacturer of Insulating Concrete Forms (ICF) in the State of Qatar. ICF is a novel concept of Building System introduced to the locale by Gwalls; we are proud to present a contemporary and revolutionary building material that is recognized as having several advantages over conventional concrete forming products. ICF is a versatile product and acts as a ‘Stay in Place’ Concrete Form as well as built in Insulation. The ICF Building system is an ideal building solution for regions with extreme weather conditions like Qatar as it protects the building, giving it durability as well as providing superior thermal insulation, sound attenuation, best indoor air quality and it is cost effective and durable.

Insulating Concrete Forms (ICF) The iForm®, where the ‘i’ stands for innovative, was developed and created in 2001 as the state of the art insulating concrete form product by with many efficient design features by M/s. Reward Walls Systems Inc , Omaha , USA .

Design of iForm® ICF The iForm® ICF product utilizes a universal design meaning no top, bottom, left or right side corners. Also known as iForm®, ICF is used for cast-in-place building instead of traditional formwork.

The iForm® ICF is a technology that uses interlocking EPS moulded forms tied together with polypropylene ties to form hollows that are filled by concrete. The full-height plastic tie inserts are spaced 15cm on center providing a very strong form for concrete placement. Each tie has two horizontal cross bars spaced 18cm on center symmetrically, allowing for optimum concrete flow through the form. The EPS foam panel on each side is 60 mm thick with a foam density up to 30Kg / M3. iFORM® CONFIGURATIONS The iForm® line of insulating concrete forms by Gwalls includes different configurations to increase the constructability of any type of projects. The form configurations include: STRAIGHT • 90 DEGREE CORNER • LEDGE • 45 DEGREE CORNER • ‘T’- FORM • TAPER TOP

All of the ICFs have 15cm in on center ties and 6cm of foam on each side. iForm® is available in various sizes and shapes as needed by the construction application. iForm® ICFs are made of Fire Retardant EPS boards at a specific density and thickness as required. Physical, structural and reaction to fire properties of iForm® ICFs are in accordance with relevant industrial Standard (ASTM E 2634 -8) Certifications and Approvals The ICF has already been approved by the Qatar Civil Defence. It has been endorsed

by GSAS, Qatar Green Building Council (QGBC) as well as US Green Building Council ICF system is tested and Certified by Intertec Testing Inc., USA. Our ICF System carries product safety label of (Warnock Hersey) WH Mark.

ADVANTAGES ICF system is advantageous over conventional method of construction in several ways its unique features provides the clients with direct and indirect benefits out of this contemporary building system • Fast & Easy Construction (Reduces labour hours drastically) • No forming works for Pilasters & Beams • Built-in Thermal Insulation (permanent form work with EPS) • C ost-Effective (Saves time, less maintenance, easy material availability) • E nergy Efficiency (50 80% savings in cooling cost) • S uperior Thermal Insulation (0.24 ‘U’ Value) • B est Sound attenuation ( 54 ‘STC’ Value) • D urability (life of building is 2 - 3 times higher ) • Strong Structure (Resist calamities) • Improved Indoor Air Quality • B etter Moisture & Vapor resistance APPLICATIONS As a versatile product ICF plays various roles in construction industry from building construction to civil projects. Its performance as a forming product as well as insulation makes it a favourite choice of home builders.

ICF forms can be used in road barriers as an excellent solution to reduce damage to the structure as well as vehicles due to collision.

• C ommercial Buildings • Residential Buildings • C ommunity Living: • L abour camps • H ospitals • M ilitary Camps • B omb Shelters • M alls • Stadiums • M osques • Warehouses • M ultiplexes • Civil Construction Form Works

Thermal performance The thermal performance of EPS is outstanding. It is not affected by time or heat like wood or other plastics. This is of critical importance as the temperatures in Qatar are extreme. ICF envelops the building structure thus protects it from deterioration due to climatic changes. The lifecycle of buildings that use ICF are upto 2 – 3 times more than a traditional building.

Unique Design of Gwalls iForm® iForm® is uniquely designed for the ease of transportation and storage. Gwalls iForm® is designed as a modular product which can be assembled on the worksite. The transportation cost can be reduced by up to 50% as compared to traditional ICF designs. ICF panels and interconnecting detachable ties are the two basic parts of Gwalls iForm® while the ties are packed separately and the structure is assembled on site. No specialised skills are needed for assembly but construction staff can easily be trained to put together the ICF formwork. GWalls provides this training but they can also work with construction companies to provide a turnkey solution that includes supervision of the assembly process and the pouring of the concrete and then removal of the ties. This is the first time that this type of formwork assembly design has been used in the Gulf.

Sustainability Design With regard to environmental sustainability, most of the energy in the region is used for cooling down the building and the use of ICF forms can reduce the need of electricity for cooling by 50 - 70% it varies depends of the design of building. iForm® is utilized in construction for LEED certification for the building.

Whereas traditional formwork needs to be discarded after use, ICF is an environmentally friendly completely recyclable product. The interconnecting ties are made of recycled PP which adds to its value as a Green Building Product. The product has proven its effectiveness and has been used for decades in the United States and Europe. Gwalls is working together with both QGBC and the Gulf Organisation for Research and Development (GORD) to promote awareness and use of this product

in the region.

According to Mr. Abey Isaac, the Operations Executive, ICF does not require a specific skills set and workers can be trained on site to put together the formwork. Any kind of finishing options can be applied to the exterior and interior of the ICF building. MEP works are easily facilitated as there is no need to grind into the structure and the EPS can easily be cut away to insert electrical and plumbing networks.

Isaac said that the product can be used in medium commercial building construction. iForm® has been used by the technical partner in an 11 storey building in the United States, which is considered as the Tallest ICF building in North America . The light variant of the iForm ® is a suitable option for the partition of commercial structures like hotels and hospitals due to acoustic properties of ICF. Other than ICF we are manufacturing various EPS items in our product line including: Insulation Boards, EPS Decoration items used in interior and exterior decoration of Buildings. iForm®, Insugreen® & Decolite® are brands of Gwalls makes it as an one stop solution for your major construction needs.

Insugreen® EPS Insulation Boards The panels are suitable for any type of insulation and can be used in facade construction. When using it as a facade insulation boards will clad the facia of the buildings and can then be decorated with specialty coatings and plastering materials like stucco and EIFS.

Decolite® EPS decorative mouldings This is primarily used for decorative features like the mouldings for ceilings and cornices. The items are either pre-cut or can be made to order. It can also be used for specialised artwork in 2D or 3D and these are machine cut according to the clients’ specifications. This can be for branding items like signage on shop-fronts, making logos, sculptures, custom designs for Exhibition booths etc.

Manufacturing Facility The factory is located in the Salwa Industrial area.

Reward Walls Systems Inc. based in Omaha, Nebraska, United States and are the principal partners.

They provide all the technology, design and machines necessary for the manufacture of the Insulation Concrete Forms (ICF), Insulation Board Expanded Polystyrene (EPS) and the Expanded Polystyrene (EPS) decoration. The design centre of Gwalls is located in the United States and the product training and product design are all done by principal partners.

The factory having capacity to produce roughly 350 000 M2 ICF walls per annum. With respect to EPS insulation boards the factory production capacity is three times higher than any other factory in the GCC. GWalls can produce the same or a similar product because the block moulding machine can produce forms upto 6 metres in length. Most competitors have 2 metre EPS Block moulding machines.

The General Manager of Product Applications, Engineer Ismail El Fadul said that

the first project which utilized Gwalls’ iForm is in Al Quisis, Dubai. It is a private villa with twenty rooms built by an associate ICF contractor in UAE. Gulf Walls System is currently negotiating a contract to build a 51 Villa compound. They have already signed contracts to do the turn-key project for a 9 Villa compound in Qatar. In Saudi Arabia they will be doing the formwork for a 30 000 sq/m project at the King Abdul Aziz University in Jeddah and they also have a 20 000 sq/m project in Sudan. Their latest project in Qatar, which is in progress, can be seen at the Qatar Red Crescent building in the Hilal area of Doha.

Gulf Walls System is owned and operated by the National Group which is a pioneer in the local manufacturing industry. The National Group holds four manufacturing facilities to produce building materials such as: Aluminum Composite Panels, Aluminum Coated Coil, Modified Bitumen waterproofing Membrane, EPS Insulation Products. The National Group entered the Qatar business sector in 1964 with establishment of National Contracting and Trading and it has flourished in time with developing business in different sectors such as contracting, trading, real estate, aluminium, carpentry, Oil&Gas, MEP, transportation and engineering. The group is diversifying and expanding its horizons under the vision of its vibrant leader, Chairman of National Group, the Honourable Sheikh Naif Bin Ali Al Thani.

In closing, Isaac said that with the ICF product they hope to change the culture of building construction and make people aware of the cost savings during the construction process and then afterwards to cool or heat up the building during the lifecycle of the structure. The use of ICF forms versus the traditional formwork reduces the construction time by almost 70%.

“Introducing ICF; a genuine Green Building product to the locale we at National Group are at an initiative to create a New Culture in the Building Construction Industry of the region”.

8

Construction

SITES

Energy Effeciency

CHRVI set to address energy-efficient solutions Participation of 100 international, regional and local companies is already confirmed for the May exhibition

T

he International Exhibition for Cooling, Heating, Refrigeration, Ventilation and Insulation (CHRVI) Middle East, to be held from May 26 to 27 at the Qatar National Convention Center, aims to meet the increasing demand for energy-use reduction technology and to present the latest available methods in the industry.

The exhibition assumes great importance as the regional HVAC (heating, ventilation and air conditioning) market is expected to grow at an average 9% annually.

Sponsored by Mannai Trading Company, Toshiba Air Conditioning and the American Society of Heating, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Engineers and organized by Heights Exhibitions and Conferences, CHRVI Middle East will focus on the latest technologies in cooling, heating, refrigeration, ventilation and insulation in manufacturing and commercial sectors.

“The Cooling, Heating, Refrigeration, Ventilation and Insulation International Exhibition offers the ideal way to

achieve sustainable development in the vital construction sector,” says Waleed Wahba, Heights CEO. “CHRVI provides the gateway to the fastest and most promising economy in the Gulf where HVAC/I sector is warming up again to be one of the most important fields required everywhere in residential, commercial, industrial and domestic locations,” he points out.

Heights has announced the renewal of cooperation with the American Society of Heating, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Engineers, ASHRAE Oryx Chapter, for technical and scientific partnership, sponsoring the ACEE 2014 (Innovative Air Conditioning Energy Efficiency Conference) which coincides with the exhibition.

Heights Exhibitions highlighted the importance of co-operation with ASHRAE Oryx Chapter to organize the conference during which international professionals and specialists will discuss innovations in energy efficiency fields. Cooling and district cooling technology will also

top the agenda.

“Renewing the co-operation among Heights Exhibitions, Toshiba Air Conditioning, Mannai Corporation QSC and ASHRAE Oryx Chapter for the second year reflects the importance of the exhibition and the confidence of International and local companies in the exhibition to showcase the most important innovations and products in Qatari and Gulf market,” says Wahba.

The importance of cooling, air conditioning, insulation and ventilation comes from being a special field, consuming more than 30% of the total expenses of any project’s budget in the GCC. Studies say that in the next eight years it will reach approximately $40 billion.

Energy consumption in Qatar and other GCC countries is already on the rise, show many studies. This underscores the importance of the exhibition and the conference which, in two days, will discuss the most important innovations in energy saving fields and in using air-conditioning devices and district cooling.

“Around 70% of exhibition’s total space has already been booked with huge participation from international and regional companies,” comments Wahba.

The exhibition has already seen an immense demand from international companies operating in Italy, Germany, Korea, Sweden and Switzerland. Companies from GCC countries like the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Kuwait and Egypt are also showing a keen interest.

Speaking on the conference organized in association with the American Society of Heating, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Engineers, Hassan Sultan, Conference and Exhibition Committee Chair and former president ASHRAE Qatar Oryx Chapter, says: “ASHRAE Qatar Oryx Chapter is proud to join Heights in making this Qatar second HVAC Exhibition a success and assist Qatar for the Vision 2030; so please join us in sharing lofty ideas and high level concepts on what’s new in the HVAC industry at the exhibition.”

The three central function of

DUCT VENTILATION AIR CONDITIONING Co. (W.L.L.)

Email : info@dvac-duct.com Website : www.dvac-duct.com PRODUCTS:

- SPIRAL CIRCULAR DUCTS - RECTANGULAR, OVAL DUCTS - FIRE DAMPERS (UL CLASSIFIED) - SOUND ATTENUATORS - VOLUME CONTROL DAMPERS - MOTORIZED CONTROL DAMPERS - BACK DRAFT DAMPERS - V.A.V (BYPASS TERMINAL UNITS) - ACCESS DOORS - SAND TRAP LOUVERS - PLENUM BOXES

SERVICES:

- JACKETING OF CHILLED WATER PIPES, - PERFORATION, - CUTTING SHEETS, - BENDING SHEETS.

3 HOUR RATING UL 555 CLASSIFIED

Small Industries Zone, Pink Area - Zone 81- Street 13 - Bldg. 57 TEL: +974-44500118 / 44500119 - FAX : +974-44500117 P.O.Box: 55619 Doha, State Of Qatar

heating, ventilating and air conditioning are interrelated, he says, “especially with the need to provide thermal comfort and acceptable indoor environment within reasonable installation, operation and maintenance where we need the best quality equipment but with a reasonable budget and cost effective solutions”.

Ewan Cameron, Chief Financial Officer from Mannai Corporation, commenting on the company’s first association with the “great success” of last year’s CHRVI l, says: “It has given us the base to introduce VRF (Variable Refrigerant Flow) systems in the market and enable us to secure prestigious projects in Qatar through the show.”

He says: “It has provided Mannai and its subsidiary companies with different opportunities as well as allowed to tailor some additional service offerings for the sector.”

Cameron underlines the effective partnership with Toshiba. “We will showcase Mannai’s HVAC capabilities by making the SMMSi (Super Modular Multi-Systems)

units be available during the show,” he says.

Toshiba General Manager Ajit Chandraraj has expressed the company’s commitment to the global sustainable move and highlighted its five-year plan of reducing consumption by 20%.

“Qatar is doing its part by voluntary efforts and plans to reduce its national greenhouse effect,” says Chandraraj.

“We are committed to bring to the region’s comprehensive enrichments in line with the green policies of the regional governments.”

Toshiba continues to set the benchmark in energy efficiency with significant technological advances.

With energy conservation becoming the core of all technologies, the company has developed inverter compressors to maximize efficiency and usage of air conditioning systems.

A life-cycle analysis of a typical villa in Qatar reflects a saving of 30-40% per year while using the inverter technology, according to Chandraraj.

Energy Effeciency

Construction

SITES

9

CFD transforming project management industry CFD analysis meeting sustainable demands in relation to enhanced thermal, acoustic, olfactory and visual comforts

C

omputational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) is becoming an essential tool to get to the heart of important sustainability issues such as human comfort, energy efficiency and optimal thermal controls, according to Salah Nezar, Sustainability Director at QPM, Qatar’s leading project, design and construction management consultancy.

QPM, which consults and manages 15 mega projects located in several Mena countries, including iconic Qatari projects such as Lu-

sail City, Barwa Commercial Avenue, the Internal Security Force Camp, is looking at the use of CFD and heat transfer numerical simulations for contained built environments and outdoor cooling spaces.

The intelligent management approach advocated by QPM requires ambitious and advanced numerical calculations during the design and construction phases to define temperature profiles and avoid surface condensation applicable to radiant cooling systems.

Nezar was speaking at

ASHRAE’s first International Conference on Energy and Indoor Environment for Hot Climates in Doha. He was the co-author of a scientific paper entitled “CFD Analysis for Air Conditioning Systems for Semi-Outdoor Environments”.

The paper was selected to open the focused technical season as a hot topic at the summit which brought together renowned international experts and industry leaders from across the country and the region.

The work highlighted at the

conference was developed between QPM and flowpak - a leading Qatar-based fluid dynamics firm.

The presentation was delivered by Abdelkader Benzamia, Head of R&D at flowpak and assisted by Nezar during the Q/A session. It’s important to mention in this context the key role played by Eng Abdeul Afoo Parkar from flowpak in strengthening the simulation process accuracy.

A refined simulation was used to overcome challenges related to human thermal comfort contours for systems using a mixed air conditioning process combining an overhead supply cool air with natural ventilation mode, when appropriate, coupled with a radiant cooling slab.

“Due to of the strong demand of the environmentally products, energy saving awareness consumption and the national commitments for the environment, the computational fluid simulation allows less environment abusage , improving existing solutions and help win the challenges that face us all”, says Benzamia.

The modeling of fluid flow and heat transfer latest

smart technology allows to include thermo-hydraulic modeling 3D environment of buildings to the design projects (sun, wind, built surroundings and location), the implementation phase of the site to choose the best strategy in choosing the best suitable energy-efficient solution to ensure thermal comfort.

“The numerical simulation is used today in areas of increasingly varied as the relevance of solutions is useful to predict and improve the system behavior under real conditions”, according to Benzamia.

Condensation issues at various points were also investigated and specific recommendations given to the engineering team to adjust the environment control system based on the outputs of numerous iterations of the CFD model.

“QPM leverages the benefits derived from CFD analysis to provide added value and exceed our clients’ sustainability expectations in relation to enhanced thermal, acoustic, olfactory and visual comforts,” said Nezar.

QPM sees many practical applications for CFD models in

Salah Nezar: Sustainability Director at QPM

special projects scheduled to come online in Qatar in the upcoming years. It is a flexible and cost effective tool in helping project developers and owners anticipating specific thermal needs particularly in semi-outdoor environments.

Established in 2008, QPM is one of the region’s premier project management companies and the leading Qatari firm in the field.

Led by a team of highly skilled international associates, QPM provides worldclass management solutions to public and private clients across a wide range of sectors, including rail, infrastructure, defense, commercial and mixed-use developments.

Innovative digital controller for fan-coil units& worlds 1st Compact Actuator

Ideal solution for hotels, hospitals, offices, shopping malls. 100% Made in Italy.

ENERGONfrom controlli) ENERGON is an innovative digital controller for fan-coil units.

Compact dimensions but powerful and flexible hardware with 20 Inputs/ Outputs.

ModBus RS-485 communication.Proprietary Bus to connect more controllers to a single room sensor. Removable terminal plugs for: power supply, high power signal, low power signal.

Digital room sensor with adjustment for: set point, fan speed (manual or automatic), Economy/Comfort mode; 6 Analog/ Digital Inputs for sensors and remote function selection (e.g.

Change/Over, Economy, Window Contact and more). 2 Analog Output (0..10Vdc) for modulating valves and modulating fan speed control.

7 High Voltage Digital output for valves control and 3 fan-speed

control.

Digital Inputs: Winter/Summer change over, Economy mode, Remote power-off (Occupancy Sensor), Windows contact.

Digital Outputs for External Relays: Electrical heater, Electrical Power enable.

Universal power supply from 85 to 265 Vac. Control possibilities: • On-Off valves + 3 fanspeed control • 3pos Floating valves + 3 fan-speedcontrol • On-Off valves + Proportional 0..10Vdc fan-speed control • Modulating valves + 3 fanspeed control • Modulating valves 0..5Vdc& 5..10Vdc valves + Proportional 0..10Vdc fan-speed control

Room Sensor available in 2 colors (black & white) external frame available in many different colors. Flush mounting or wall mounting.

Functions: On/Off/Economy Mode set, fan speed selection (Auto/3/2/1/0), temperature set point adjustment, multicolor leds (red-green-orange) showing operating mode (OffComfort-Economy). User may have full control or limited control or no control.

Free of charge Configuration Tool for setting of all parameters, overview on the plant installation showing the key variables for each individual controller, setting of daily & weekly time schedules.

Graphic Display Panel (Multinet).

Pre-programmed panel ready to control up to 50 control-

lers, allowing daily (6 per day) and weekly (3 per week) time schedules, web server capabilities, remote monitoring and supervisory through Internet Explorer.

Configurable features through dip-switches on the electronic board: Stand Alone or Network integrated, 2 Pipes or 4 Pipes FCU, valve control (On/Off or proportional) and fan speed control (3 fan-speed or proportional), ModBus address setting.

User-friendly supervisory achieved by direct connection to Controlli GT touch-screens World’s 1stCompact Actuator MVT 300 Newton Electric bidirectional actuator withcompact dimensions suitable to valveswith hot or cool water used in a varietyof applications including FCUs,

AHUs,zone control systems, solar plants, smallheating and cooling plants, small reheatingand dehumidification coils.

Force is 300N i.e. it provides 50% moreforce than standard MVT actuatorsthat means higher close-off performances.

It is easy to fit the actuator onControlli valves.Further more, thanks to self-strokingfeature and 17mm long stroke, thesenew MVT 300N actuators can beused to retrofit actuators from othermanufacturers, for example actuatorsfor MZX, VZX, MEU, FEU, VEU Satchwellvalves. Additionally, they can be

usedto motorize a number of PICVs availablein the market. a comprehensive list of manufacturers.MVT 300N actuators can be controlledby either proportional (modulating) signals or by an increase/ decrease(floating) signal.On all models, PC Board is equippedwith two micro-switches detecting thecomplete open and complete closedpositions.

Two versions are available: SHORT: up to 9mm yoke, self stroking,only pushingLONG: up to 17mm yoke, self stroking,push & pullTiming:60seconds on 5,5 mm stroke valves e.g.VMBT90seconds on 8,5 mm stroke valves e.g.2TGA..

BIP43 protection class.

Please contact sales@qatarautomation.com

SITES Experts look at ways to improve indoor air quality in hot climates 10

Energy Effeciency

Construction

Qatar hosts first International Conference on Energy, Indoor Environment for Hot Climates

T

argeting energy efficiency in HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) systems that provide thermal comfort and good indoor air quality (IAQ) is a strategic intervention to reduce energy consumption in the building sector.

Increased energy demand globally, galloping costs and environmental problems are causing augmented emphasis on the design of energyefficient HVAC systems.

The goals of energy efficiency and good IAQ need to be properly integrated with the issues of hot climates, both humid and arid.

With Qatar’s focus to contribute to international sustainable development in the building sector, Doha was ideally suited to host the first International Conference on Energy and Indoor Environment for Hot Climates.

Organized by ASHRAE, the ASHRAE Qatar Oryx Chapter and the Qatar Environment and Energy Research Institute (QEERI), the conference received endorsement from Qatar University, the United Nations Environment Program (UNEP), the Chartered Institution of Building Service Engineers (CIBSE), the Federation of European Heating and Air-Conditioning Associations (REHVA) and the International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials. It was co-sponsored by the Air-Conditioning, Heating, and Refrigeration Institute (AHRI).

The conference, held at the Millennium Hotel from February 24 to 26, gathered leading experts in the HVAC&R (heating, ventilation air con-

ditioning and refrigeration) sector.

“The international support (to the conference) demonstrates the need for advancing the energy-efficient design of buildings and systems in hot climates,” commented Walid Chakroun, conference chair.

“The conference brought together experts to look at the synergy between energy conservation and indoor air quality in buildings, with a goal to assure thermal comfort and achieve high energy conservation in hot climates,” said Chakroun.

The conference’s emphasis was on systems, equipment and applications for commercial and institutional buildings, although questions were raised around the end-user practices, notably the fact that regional residents prefer very cool indoor environment.

“We frequently experience that the indoor temperatures in the conference halls and hotels in the region are maintained very low, while outdoor temperature is above 40°C,” commented a delegate from Belgium.

A field survey of air conditioner temperature settings in hot, humid climate, presented by Dr Shuichi Hokoi, came as a response to an issue related to the regionalusers’ practices.

According to the survey, many respondents in the region set their air conditioners at very low temperatures. Many of them also reported various health problems and feeling cold while they were sleeping.

“In conventional air conditioning design, the comfortable range of temperatures is 25-27°C, with relative hu-

midity (RH) levels 40-60%; however we can experience very low indoor temperatures, which seems inconsistent with these research results,” said Hokoi.

The purpose of the study was to identify indoor thermal conditions created by using air conditioners in residential buildings. The result of the subjective assessment of indoor thermal environments and correlations between thermal and comfort sensations indicate that many people consider cold environments to be comfortable.

Panel discussions featured experts and decision-makers discussing research that generated better design and preservation of healthy environments.

Discussions on ways to improve indoor air quality in hot and humid climate for office buildings were of a great interest to many attendees, given the situation in the region with long working hours.

“Regional employees tend to stay up to 10 hours in the office and poor indoor air quality affects working capabilities,” said Fu-Jen Wang, Department of Refrigeration, Air Conditioning and Energy Engineering, Taiwan.

The solution to improve IAQ in office buildings is the introduction of the fresh air. But it will increase the energy consumption of the AC system.

Dr Wang suggested an energy-efficient alternative solution which was a total heat exchanger retrofitted in office buildings in conditions of hot and humid climate. “Results indicated that the CO2 concentration decreases obviously and the thermal comfort improves significantly

The conference, held at the Millennium Hotel in February, gathered leading experts in the HVAC&R sector.

after the installation of the total heat exchanger, whilst there wasn’t major changes in the power consumption. ” The conference was attended by about 150 participants from a wide range of countries, including Qatar, Kuwait, Spain, India, Brazil, Japan, China and the United States.

More than 40 technical paCHRVI-2014-MAGAZINE-04.pdf

1

3/13/2014

pers were presented and workshops were organized

by WHO, UNEP, AHRI and ASHRAE. This conference was the first to tackle energy and IAQ issues in humid and arid hot climates, providing a forum for discussion of the latest research and development in the field of indoor environ-

mental quality in high ambient temperature climates.

Consulting engineers, building owners, industry manufacturers, environmental organizations, researchers, scientists and all interested professionals were among the attendees and participants of the conference held for the first time in Qatar.

12:44:31 PM

Innovative 26-27 May 2014 Air Conditioning & Energy Efficiency Conference

26 - 29 May 2014

CHRVI ME

Cooling, Heating, Refrigeration, Ventilation And Insulation Exhibition And Conference

Qatar National Convention Centre

Sponsored by C

M

Y

CM

MY

CY

CMY

K

For more information, or book your space in the exhibition and conference, please visit : www.htsxpo.com Premium Sponsor

Official Sponsor

Logistic Sponsor

BEIRUT CARGO CENTER

Strategic Partner

logistics

Media Partner

Organizer

Qatar P.O.Box : 37955 - Doha, Qatar Tel.: +974 4016 4184 Fax: +974 4016 4182 Mob: +974 7706 1912 chrvi@htsxpo.com

Slovenia Operkarniska 15B, 3000 Celje Tel.: +386 (0)82057300 Fax: +386 (0)82057301 Mob: +386 (0)70215440

Concrete Focus

Construction

Hempel reaffirms commitment to protect the environment

Hempel has worked with Qatar Foundation and supplied the coatings for the male and female housing facilities in Education City

C

onstruction Sites was at a Hempel product launch and dealer event on February 20 and spoke to the three main people responsible for turning Hempel Qatar into a customerfocused company.

Under the leadership of Phil Gabriel, the Country Manager and Business Director for Hempel Qatar, Ahmed Hussein, Regional Marketing Manager, and Chris Sharkey, the Sales Manager, have worked to reinvent Hempel.

According to Gabriel, Hempel Qatar has strengthened its brand on three levels: a customer service level, an operational level and the logistics side.

“We listened to the market”, said Phil who emphasized that they did not want to be complacent and tried to change the way things had been done to meet customer needs.

He wanted to make sure that Hempel was “filling all the gaps”.

Hussein said that they were “developing Hempel to become the preferred service provider”.

“We are passionate about what we do and we always share our successes with each other but at the same time we take setbacks personally,” he said.

Hussein feels that it is this attitude that has allowed them to transform Hempel into a supercharged company anticipating market needs rather than reacting to the changes in the market.

During the conversation, Sharkey gave a rundown of the tech-

nical specifications of the two new products that were being unveiled that evening.

The first product that he spoke about was Contex EM. Specifically conceived for civil infrastructure projects, Contex EM is a coating solution from Hempel’s ContexEM anti-carbonation system. It offers protection to concrete structures from weathering, carbonation and structure movements.

ContexEM can be used for both buildings and large structures such as roads, bridges,bypasses and tunnels.

It has already been used on the Shamal Road (North Road) and F-ring road.

ContexEM is an elastomeric, breathable, pure acrylic top coat and according to Hempel provides comprehensive protection against harsh climatic conditions.

Its elastomeric qualities allow for flexibility and accommodate structure movements, leaving no cracks for water to seep through into the concrete.

ContexEM ability to bridge cracks up to 3.3mm claims to be unmatched in its product class. It comes in a variety of colors and shades which are apparently all approved colors according to the local municipal regulations.

The paint is also LEED compliant.

Most of the cost of applying an anti-carbonation system is associated with the complexity of access.

Painting a building exterior, bridge or flyover can require complicated scaffoldings, en-

The Hempel product launch and dealer event

capsulation or even road closure. Selecting long life paint systems in the first instance minimizes the need for maintenance painting.

According to Sharkey, less frequent maintenance painting is also good for the environment as it reduces harmful emissions and wastes that may be associated with the manufacturing processes.

The second product that Sharkey told Construction Sites about was ContexThermoguard.

ContexThermoguard is a coating system that claims to cut energy costs to a great extent by reducing the cooling energy demand.

When applied to exterior walls it provides thermal insulation due to its high solar reflectance and emittance properties.

Reflectance is the ability to reflect the visible, infrared and ultraviolet wavelengths of the sun. Emittance is the ability to release a large percentage of absorbed or non-reflected solar energy. Gabriel said that this can be attributed to the presence of glass microspheres in the coating.

With 10 R&D facilities located around the world, Hempel claims that it not only meets customers where they conduct their business, but develops solutions specifically for their needs.

On its website, Hempel says: “We are committed to providing better and safer solutions for our customers - and that means staying at the forefront of coating technologies.” Their R&D facilities are located in Eu-

rope, the Middle East, Asia and America. They aim to work with their customers to develop solutions specifically tailored for the environments in which they operate.

Khalid Nazir, Assistant General Manager of Teyseer, was present at the event. He said that they partnered with Hempel and were their officially appointed distributors and applicators as they shared similar objectives. Both Teyseer and Hempel are customer oriented.

Hempel has recently worked with Qatar Foundation and supplied the coatings for the male and female housing facilities in Education City. It is the first project in Qatar that is Platinum LEED certified.

Gabriel emphasized their commitment to protecting the environment: “The world is looking for sustainable products.”

When asked about their approach to sustainability, Hussein said that incentivizing good behavior in the industry was a good way to ensure compliance. Dubai was a good example, he added.

In Dubai the authorities have now restricted the use of several products in the construction sector. This helps to create a market for green products.

Gabriel supported him: “We want to create a market for green products not follow the market”.

Sharkey said that they supplied Musheireb with products for Phase1A, B and C and they expected to supply the next phases. All the products supplied are LEED certified.

SITES

11

KnowCrete by

PLASTIC SHRINKAGE Cracking CEMENT CONCRETE & AGGREGATES AUSTRALIA WHAT ARE PLASTIC SHRINKAGE CRACKS? Plastic shrinkage cracks are so-called because they form while the concrete is still plastic, i.e. has not set. Rapid drying of the surface of the plastic concrete causes it to shrink and crack, but the cracks are not always evident during finishing operations and may not be discovered until the next day.

Plastic shrinkage cracks may form in a random manner or be roughly parallel to each other. The cracks are often almost straight, ranging in length from 25 mm to 2 m but are usually 300 to 600 mm long, Figure 1a and 1b. They rarely occur near the edges of a slab as at those locations the concrete is usually free to move.

They can be up to 3 mm wide at the surface but usually taper quickly over their depth but may penetrate right through a concrete element. These cracks form a weakness in the concrete and will be widened and/or extended by subsequent drying shrinkage and thermal movement.

WHAT CAUSES PLASTIC SHRINKAGE CRACKS? Simplistically, plastic shrinkage cracking occurs when the rate of evaporation of moisture from the surface exceeds the rate at which moisture is being supplied to it (via bleeding from the concrete). The concrete surface dries out and shrinks at a time at which it has little strength and hence it cracks. It can be likened to the cracking that occurs in clay soil as it dries.

Water is lost from the concrete mass in two main ways: • Drying from the top Moisture rises to the top surface of a concrete element during placement – a process known as bleeding. Bleed water dries out mainly from evaporation; when the rate of evaporation exceeds the rate of bleeding, the surface dries and tends to crack.

• Drying from the base Water in a concrete slab may be absorbed into the subgrade or ground below. In addition to affecting bleeding this could significantly increase settlement of concrete and the risk of associated cracking.

The rate of evaporation from the surface is dependent on environmental factors such as temperature, relative humidity and wind speed. It is not just a hot weather phenomenon, as the combination of these factors may provide the worst conditions in cool weather with low humidity and wind.

Mix design sets the bleed capacity of the concrete. This may be changed from hot to cold conditions to suit the finishing operations and crack-control requirements. Concretes with low bleed potential (e.g. those containing a high proportion of fine material such as silica fume, fine aggregate, low slump) are more prone to plastic shrinkage cracking. However, mixes with high bleed characteristics are not recommended as a solution as they give rise to other problems (e.g. increased risk of plastic settlement cracking, crazing, delays in finishing processes, greater long-term shrinkage). Retarded concrete is also more prone to plastic shrinkage cracking because of the increased time that it remains in a plastic state.

The processes of screeding and finishing can also have an impact on the formation of plastic shrinkage cracks.

Slower screeding rates and delayed trowelling can reduce the extent of plastic cracking.

Controlling the rate of drying of the surface (evaporation rate) is the key to avoiding plastic shrinkage cracking.

To be continued…. info@greymatters.ws www.greymatters.ws

12

Construction

SITES

Legal

Termination of Construction Contracts under Qatar Law Introduction Once a contract has been formed, how can a party discharge himself from the contract? One way is, of course, to uphold his side of the bargain and perform the contract. Generally, a contract is discharged when both parties fully perform their contractual obligations. If he does not wish to or cannot do this then there are other means of discharging the contract, namely by breach, agreement, impossibility or court order. This article discusses the termination of construction contracts which are governed

by Qatar law within this context.

Freedom of Contract The overarching principle of freedom of contract is affirmed in Article 171 of the Qatar Civil Code which provides: “A contract is the legislation of the parties to the contract. It may not be set aside or amended without the agreement of the two parties, or for reasons prescribed by law.”

The contract governs the relationship between the contracting parties and cannot be revoked without agreement between the parties or for reasons prescribed by law. The contracting parties can agree to end the contract or change its terms. This may encompass an agreement to provide either party with an entitlement to discharge the contract in the event of specified contractual breaches which would otherwise merely entitle a party to damages by way of remedy.

In exercising termination rights, the parties must at all times act in good faith. Pursuant to Article 172 of the Qatar Civil Code, a contract must be executed in accordance with its terms and in a manner that is consistent with the requirements of good faith. A court may consider an application for rescission of a contract on grounds of bad faith.

It is important to distinguish between: (1) the termination of an entire contract; and (2) the termination of specific contractual rights or obligations. We address each if these in turn below.

(1) Termination of the Entire Contract

The Qatar Civil Code governs the validity of termination of an entire contract unless that contract is governed by other specific areas of Qatari law (for example, the termination of employment contracts is governed by the provisions of Law No. 14 of 2004 (the Labour Law).

Pursuant to the Qatar Civil Code, termination of a contract may occur: (a) In accordance with an agreement between the parties to terminate [Article 171; Article 184]; (b) Under a Court Order [Article 183]; or (c) Pursuant to a right to terminate that is prescribed by law [Articles 688, 692, 707]. (a) Agreement to terminate automatically Parties may agree within the terms of a contract that the contract automatically terminates, without the need for a Court Order, in certain circumstances of default. Article 184 of the Qatar Civil Code provides: “Agreement may be made to consider the contract annulled automatically without the need for judicial ruling when there is a failure to perform the obligations arising from it.

This term will only apply, and agreement to restrict the authority of the judge regarding annulment will only apply, if the expression in the contract is explicit as evidence that this is the will of the two parties to the contract.”

The key point here is that the terms of the contract must be sufficiently “explicit” to evince an intention to create an automatic right of termination.

This is often not expressed in contractual terms as automatic termination but rather a right to terminate on the occurrence of certain events (for example, the insolvency of a party). The contractual terms must be carefully drafted.

Article 184 also provides that in matters other than commercial matters, parties cannot contract out of a notice requirement in respect of termination.

By implication, in commercial matters, notice of termination is required unless the parties agree otherwise. (b) Termination by Court Order

Laura Warren Laura Warren is a partner of the International Law firm, Clyde & Co LLP, in Doha. Laura has a wide ranging contentious and non contentious construction practice involving projects in Qatar as well as in the UAE, Oman, Bahrain, Libya, Egypt and Tunisia Laura is Co-ordinator for the Society of Construction Law (Gulf) in Qatar.

In the absence of: (1) termination of a contract in accordance with an agreement between the parties [Article 171]; or (2) sufficiently clear contractual terms catering for automatic termination on the occurrence of certain events of default without the need for a Court Order [Article 184], termination of a contract under the Qatar Civil Code must either be under a Court Order or pursuant to a right that is prescribed by law.

Taking the first ground, termination of a contract under a Court Order, Article 183 of the Qatar Civil Code permits an application for rescission of a contract by either party on grounds of default. This Article states: “In contracts that are binding on both parties, if one of the two parties to the contract does not perform his obligation the other party to the contract, after notifying him, may apply for the contract to be annulled with compensation, if compensation is required.

This Article is not, in theory, enforceable without an application to the Court for termination of the contract by rescission.

The applicant must establish an event of default and have notified the party in default. A Court Order is required for rescission of a contract pursuant to that application however a Court may refuse rescission. (c) Termination pursuant to a right prescribed by law As to the second of the remaining grounds, there are several provisions of the Qatar Civil Code which prescribe a right for termination of a construction contract.

Contractor/ Employer default Articles 688 and 689 of the Qatar Civil Code deal with re-

scission of a contract due to Contractor default. Article 692 deals with rescission of a contract due to Employer default and in particular, subparagraph (1) provides that if the performance of the works requires the Employer to do something specific and he fails to do it at the appropriate time, the Contractor may require him to do it within a specified reasonable period of time. If upon expiry of the aforementioned time period the Employer has not carried out the specified obligation, the Contractor may then, pursuant to Article 692(2), apply for annulment of the contract without prejudice to his rights of compensation.

Termination at Will Article 707(1) of the Qatar Civil Code permits an Employer to terminate the contract “at will”, entitling the Contractor to payment in accordance with those provisions (compensation is payable by the Employer): “The employer for the work may release himself from the contract and stop execution of the work at any time before it is completed on condition that he compensates the contractor for all the expenditure he has incurred and the works that he has performed and what he would have been able to gain if he had complete the work.”

Under Article 707(2), the court has a discretion to deduct from the compensatory payment a sum representing that which a Contractor would have saved as a result of the Employer’s termination and what he would have earned by spending his time carrying out other work. (Credit to be given by the Contractor).

Impossibility Article 704 of the Qatar Civil Code provides that a construction contract will come to an end or is “extinguished” when execution of the works becomes impossible due to a cause that is not the fault of either party.

The Contractor is then entitled to claim against the Employer the expenses incurred for the work carried out and the fee to which he is entitled: “within the limits of the benefit obtained by the Employer for the work.”

Impossibility is governed more generally by Articles 187 and 188 of the Qatar Civil Code which provide for automatic rescission of a contract in circumstances where the “performance of the obligation becomes impossible [rather than onerous] due to some external cause” not the making of the debtor. (The concept of force majeure is also dealt with in Articles 204 and 258 although

the wording of the Qatar Civil Code does not expressly relate to the termination or the consequences thereof).

Remedy following rescission Under the Qatar Civil Code, termination on the above grounds is effected by rescission. Article 185 of Qatar Civil Code stipulates: “When a contract is annulled, the two parties to the contract are restored to the state they were in before the contract.

If this is impossible judgment may be given for compensation.”

The parties will receive a remedy in restitution as decided by the court.

(2) Termination of certain rights or obligations The termination of specific contractual rights or obligations arise out of an agreement between the Parties. The Qatar Civil Code permits parties to specify, at the point of contracting, the circumstances in which termination of certain rights and obligations shall be effective and the consequences of such termination. (If, for example, the Employer chooses to operate GC-63.1 of the FIDIC Red Book 1987, he brings to an end the Contractor’s right to carry out the Works; he does not release the Contractor from his obligations under the Contract, or affect the Employer’s/ Engineer’s rights under the Contract). As mentioned above, parties exercising such rights must do so in accordance with the requirements of good faith.

There exists, therefore, fertile ground for dispute relating to the validity of such termination.

Investigation as to validity is a two stage process: firstly, has the contractual procedure been observed by the Employer, and secondly, was the termination justified? For a termination to be contractually valid, the correct procedure must be complied with. It is also vital to ensure that the termination is justified; that there is genuinely a breach that has gone un-remedied notwithstanding it having been the subject of warning/ instruction. If the termination was not justified or the termination machinery was not properly operated, the Employer’s exercise of the termination provision is “wrongful”.

For a Contractor defending a claim for termination, generally, the starting point is an examination of the ground(s) relied upon by the Employer to justify termination and a marshalling of an explanation, supported by contemporaneous documentation to demonstrate that the

Yammine Contracting Company Specialized in Diamond Cutting & Coring - Complete rebar and dowling anchoring systems - Anchor fixing * Mechanical Anchors * Chemical Anchors

- Diamond core drilling from 6mm to 700mm diameter - Diamond Concrete Cutting * Wire Saw * Wall Saw * Floor Saw

E-mail : ycc@yamminecontracting.com www.yamminecontracting.com Tel:+974 44350142 - Fax: 44426545 Mob:+974 55872745

Alexa Hall Associate Alexa Hall is an Associate with the international law firm, Clyde & Co LLP, being based in the firm’s Doha branch, part of the Middle East Projects and Construction Group . She is also a member of the Society of Construction Law (Gulf) in Qatar. Alexa has experience of a mix of contentious and non-contentious construction and projects work spanning across a broad spectrum of sector specialisms including transport, development, financial institutions, local government, leisure & retail, education and healthcare. Clients include major contractors, sub-contractors, professional consultants, developers, institutional investors, local authorities and educational institutions.

action taken by the Employer was unjustified. (For example, where the Contractor was unable to commence or proceed with the works because he was awaiting information from the Engineer or was somehow prevented by the Engineer/ Employer from doing so).

For an Employer considering termination, it is essential to seek legal advice to ensure that there are grounds to do so and that the applicable termination provisions are strictly followed.

The Employer must ensure that there can be little excuse for not commencing or proceeding with the Works for which he is responsible. All necessary notices/ certificates must be served and all time limits observed.

Note: All Qatari Laws (save for those issued by the Qatar Financial Centre (QFC) to regulate its own business) are issued in Arabic and there are no official translations, therefore for the purposes of drafting this article we have used our own translation and interpreted the same in the context of Qatari regulation and current market practice.

Should you have any questions in connection with this article or the legal issues it covers, please contact Alexa Hall of Clyde & Co LLP at alexa.hall@ clydeco.com.qa or Laura Warren of Clyde & Co LLP at laura.warren@clydeco. com.qa

RMD KWIKFORM STADIUM FORMWORK SOLUTIONS

Megashor 1,000kN Propping

Alshor Plus Towers for Slab Support

Megashor & Superslim Soldiers for Stadium Roof Support

RMD Kwikform Product Range Supporting all Areas of Stadium Construction

OUR ADDED VALUE SERVICES On Site Assistance

Demonstration & Training Facilities

Technological Support

Consultancy & Design

35 years supporting the Middle East RMD Kwikform Qatar T: +974 4465 3034 F: +974 4465 3282 E: rmd.qatar@rmdkwikform.com W: www.rmdkwikform.com www.rmdkwikform.tv

For more information scan the QR code above with your smartphone or tablet

Bahrain

|

Oman

|

Saudi Arabia

|

UAE

|

Qatar

|

Lebanon

|

Kuwait

|

Iraq

Construction

technology

SITES

15

BIM matters

Rene Schumann, General Manager at Hochtief ViCon, is convinced that a successful BIM implementation depends on the structured management of four components. According to the company’s eight years’ project experience, they are identified as: Processes, People, Technology and Policy.

“Only if you manage all of those components you have a good chance to gather fully the benefits BIM can bring to your project,” Schumann says in an interview with Construction Sites.

Can you give a brief overview of Qatar’s construction industry and BIM’s role as a potential tool?

Qatar’s construction industry is booming mainly because of the projects related to the FIFA Soccer World Championship in 2022. The country’s ambitious projects and the noticeable time pressure call for optimized planning and execution.

BIM has been developed to increase the productivity in construction and therefore many organizations have identified the advantages of BIM for their own business.

The major government organizations have established BIM standards for ongoing and future projects to be followed by all involved stakeholders. Just to name a few of these organizations: Ashghal, Qatar Rail, Q22 and Qatari Diar. BIM in Qatar is no longer an optional accessory, but is becoming a mandatory working method.

BIM is strongly growing and the demand for BIM experts is very high.

Can you share your outlook on Qatar’s BIM future?

BIM is strongly growing and the demand for BIM experts is very high. I believe that all bigger projects will use BIM in future as a standard way for the project delivery and the operation and maintenance phase. As of now, standards for the industry are missing and should be developed soon. Here we need the guidance from the government organizations in order to issue such standards as soon as possible.

What are the key BIM projects that ViCon is executing in Qatar?

Our main projects here in Qatar are; Lusail City Development, where we have been involved for the past five years, the Doha Metro Project and the Doha Expressway Program. BIM allows to get maximum value of the investment, which simply serves as an example of how new technologies can be utilized to increase

Rene Schumann: General Manager at Hochtief ViCon

collaboration among project teams and also increase efficiencies.

Since ViCon has already successfully accomplished several mega scale projects with BIM, can you speak about these projects and the lessons learnt from BIM implementation? What are the major challenges that ViCon is facing in Qatar?

The Qatar market is generally open for new technologies and new methodologies to enhance success in business. This is a cornerstone for the change the industry has to execute.

The main challenges we face in projects are the missing common BIM understanding and BIM experiences. There is currently no opportunity for professionals to receive training and build up their knowledge on BIM. Additionally a clear definition of BIM in Qatar’s industry, a national BIM standard is missing. This makes it difficult for organizations to start BIM implementations and to include BIM in stakeholder contracts. Many companies understand BIM as a technology only. This is not correct.

BIM is a new method to deliver design and construction projects as well as maintenance services. We are convinced that in order for BIM implementations to be successful, you need to manage the four components we have identified in

series of events called the “BIM User Days” covering various aspects of BIM in partnership with the Qatar University. The fourth installment themed “BIM Policy: one industry, one language” addressed the development of common standards for BIM in contracts and guidelines up to project level.

Speakers as well as participants were unanimous on the importance and the challenges of a “one language” approach which will require matching the expectations of industry and government with practical deliverability.

We see these BIM User Days as a great opportunity to bring together regional experts and interested parties from all areas of the industry. High-ranking organizations within the Qatari construction industry have been attracted to take part in these workshops over the past years; parour eight years’ project ex- ticipants included officials periences, which are: Processes, People, Technology and Policy. Only if you manage all of those components you have a good chance to gather all the benefits BIM Qatar’s largest ICT event QITcan bring to your project.

ViCon is currently work- COM will feature a three-day ing on Lusail City proj- conference with world experts, focusing on the challenges ect. As a part of the and opportunities of ICT in company’s BIM strategy, Qatar, the role ICT plays in QaViCon has trained the tar’s significant economic and major stakeholders of social development and how Lusail City on the advan- ICT gives Qatar a competitive tages of BIM implemen- advantage by fuelling entretation. Can you tell more preneurship and innovation. about this training and QITCOM 2014, which is orgawhat were the outcomes nized by fischerAppelt, qatar of such initiatives? in collaboration with the MinWe have developed our own istry of Information and ComBIM Training System which munications Technology (icwe use on all our projects to tQATAR), will be held on 26-28 share our BIM knowledge in May 2014 at Qatar National order to sustainably imple- Convention Center. Now in its ment BIM on projects or in third edition, it is set to become one of the region’s preorganizations.

Our Training System differ- eminent ICT events and also entiates between Users, Au- includes an exhibition and rethors and Management per- gional awards programme. sonnel and provides three The conference is at the heart different training levels. In of the QITCOM, and it showLusail we have trained our case’s Qatar’s development to client and involved stake- becoming a regional leader in holders on processes, tech- ICT. The conference provides nology and policies in order a platform for discussion of to use BIM effectively within future development initiatives and highlights and celebrates the Lusail Development public and private ICT success project. stories. It will attract not only Hochtief ViCon has global industry experts but is raised awareness on the designed to appeal to the enimportance to “speak tire ICT community - fromexone language” in the in- ecutives to innovators and dustry and to implement entrepreneursas well as ICT BIM standards in Qatar. enthusiasts, from the private Can you evolve more on and public sector alike. these initiatives?

The Minister of Information For the past two years Vi- and Communications TechnolCon has been engaged in a ogy, HE Dr.Hessa Al Jaber, will

from Ashghal, representatives of important construction projects such as QRAIL, FIFA2022, Lusail and internationally represented consultants and manufacturers such as HOK, , ARUP, Bentley and BuildingSMART. Another important objective of the event is to involve students and young professionals not only to be prepared for the growing demand of BIM services in Qatar but also to be able to assist in developing the required industry standards in the region.

At Hochtief ViCon, we are interested in establishing a BIM Certificate for industry professionals and students in collaboration with the Qatar University. Knowledge transfer has always been one of our main goals.

Does Hochtief ViCon support local academia and research in the field of BIM deployment in Qatar’s construction industry? Are there some re-

search programs in this field in Qatar that ViCon is involved in?

Yes, we are highly interested in establishing a training program for students and young professionals here in Qatar, but this will take some time to develop. Our BIM User Days’ event series, which we have established in collaboration with the Qatar University as a knowledge platform is a first step to identify the needs of the academic sector as well as the industry’s. The events have not only highlighted the rising enthusiasm for BIM in the industry but also confirmed our strong positioning in the country.

Additionally in May 2014, we will start a research and development project in collaboration with the Qatar University and the Teesside University, that focuses on the development of BIM protocols for the local Qatari market.

QITCOM 2014 Conference to showcase Qatar’s development as regional ICT leader open the conference, and she will be followed by ICT experts in Qatar and internationally who will give keynote addresses, talk in panel discussions and deliver case studies on the current framework of the industry, its projected growth and development and ICT opportunities from the market in Qatar and the major construction and infrastructure projects currently underway.

This is all within the context of Qatar’s National Vision 2030 and the National ICT Plan 2015.

The first day of the conference will be dedicated to an analysis of the ICT industry in Qatar, its challenges and opportunities. It will examine how ICT can enhance Qatar’s ability to deliver on its promises enshrined in the National Vision and what can be expected from future initiatives, covering topics such as broadband; cyber security; satellite; telecoms and policy, legal and regulatory frameworks. Qatar’s current and projected ICT framework will also be discussed, including smart cities, ICT in civic amenities such as traffic and sanitation, e-commerce and electronic finance, e-government services and how to enhance the appeal of ICT as a desirable vocation in Qatar.

The second day of the conference will look at ICT in business, and the role it plays in

Qatar’s social and economic development in line with the National Vision. As the largest consumer of ICT in Qatar, Government is a key stakeholder. Experts will discuss past government ICT projects and the lessons learned, the current needs of government and the role businesses can play in the considerable future growth of ICT in government in Qatar and the wider region.

The ICT demands of Qatar’s major projects and initiatives, such as hosting FIFA World Cup in 2022, Qatar Railways, the development of Lusail and other smart city projects, big infrastructure projects like the new port at Mesaeed and the significant growth of the healthcare and medical research sector in Qatar with the opening of Sidra,will also be discussed.

Day three will look at the future of ICT and Qatar’s competitive advantage as an emerging regional leader in ICT thought leadership.

David Schopper, General Manager of fischerAppelt, qatar, said: “As a catalyst for ICT industry development, and as a platform for ICT businesses, providers, investors and ICT adopters alike, the QITCOM conference is the heart of the mission and vision that we have for the event as a forum to showcase Qatar’s moves towards ICT thought leadership.

18

Construction

SITES

Tourism

60 new initiatives as part of Qatar tourism strategy 2030

L

ast February, Qatar launched its National Tourism Sector strategy 2030 with an ambitious target of attracting 7 million annual visitations by the year 2030. The strategy is set to expand the economy, grow the number of SMEs, and encourage entrepreneurship and a greater role for the private sector in the economy. By 2030, the Strategy is set to increase tourism’s total contribution to the national GDP, enhance the total tourist spend in Qatar to nearly $10.7 billion dollars, and achieve a greater balance in the breakdown of tourists to Qatar by market of origin and purpose of visit. More than 60 new strategic tourism development initiatives are in the pipeline, with the first of them having already been launched in January 2014.

Hassan Al Ibrahim, QTA Director of Strategy, said

“our aim is to have the tourism industry contribute a total of 5.1 percent to GDP by 2030, up from 2.6 percent today. $40 to 45 billion of investments by the government and the private sector will make this vision a real-

ity.”

In 2012, 1.2 million visitors made their way to Qatar, mainly from KSA and the other GCC countries. “Our target is to attract 7 million visitors to Qatar from all over the world by 2030,” said Al

Ibrahim. Towards achieving this goal, QTA has already set up satellite offices in London and Paris, with eight more international offices set to open in the near future in key outbound markets.

Required Investment (USD Bn) Culture Urban MICE Sports Sun & Beach Health & Wellness Nature Educa;on

Tourism

Construction

SITES

19

QDB and QTA join hands to woo investors in tourism opportunities

Procurement process is to begin shortly to select a suitable developer for each project

E

ntrepreneurs have been offered the opportunity to take advantage of a financing deal being offered

by Qatar Development Bank (QDB), in conjunction with Qatar Tourism Authority (QTA), to either begin a new business or perhaps expand an existing one in the tourism sector.

There are two caveats: you must have a Qatari partner and it is restricted to six prepackaged investment opportunities.

A QDB spokesperson said that although they are encouraging joint ventures, priority would be given to Qataris and Qatari companies. It is intended that the business opportunity will be developed by a private sector partner with support from QTA and QDB. The six projects will be part of the first phase of a series of investment opportunities and are related to dhow cruises; luxury coach companies; 4x4 leasing units; MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Events), professional congress organizer and destination management services; ticketing systems and information distribution; and roving cottage market/bazaar.

A procurement process is to begin shortly to select a suitable developer for each project. The first six projects are meant to be “quick win” ones and are aimed at developing small- to medium-sized businesses.

Companies are allowed to bid on multiple initiatives and officials said they will consider entering into deals with several operators on a single project.

“This is a golden opportunity for investors to be a part of the rapid expansion of the (tourism sector) in Qatar,” QTA chair Issa Bin Mohammed Al Mohannadi told journalists, dignitaries and potential investors at the presentation.

The selection of the investment offerings are based on their commercial viability for small and medium-sized businesses, in what is seen as an underexploited market.

In the introduction of the booklet that was handed out at the presentation the blurb states that, “with the World Cup coming up in 2022,

these value chain projects will form a vital control in the successful management of not only the event, but laying the foundations of a strong broader tourism industry and achieving the Qatar National Vision 2030”.

“We were able to identify the gaps we currently have in the tourism sector and translate them into investment opportunities,” said Abdulaziz Bin Nasser Al Khalifa, the chief executive of QDB. The QDB offer is for up to 70% of the project’s cost, an amount of up to QR100 million ($27.46 million). Profit margins are recommended to be set at 2.5%. All entrepreneurs and business owners will receive advisory services from QDB both prior to and post financing.

Luxury dhow dining cruise • Current tourist dhow services are “limited, unregulated and often not up to international standards. There is no one to provide tourists with a properly insured and quality assured water experience”. It is envisaged that the new cruise service will provide a fine dining experience, excellent entertainment, will be at least two hours long and travel a minimum of 10km.

• The operator is expected to berth where there will be ease of embarkation and disembarkation, carry out at least five scheduled trips per week and operate 30 weeks a year.

• The ideal licensed craft can be up to 25m in length and be capable of carrying up to 60 passengers.

Luxury coach company In their recommendations to potential entrepreneurs QTA and QDB advised that “typical” features associated with luxury buses would include reclining seats, individual TV screens, onboard toilets, WiFi, luggage compartments.

At least one or two vehicles in the fleet should have a seating arrangement with open space that encourages interaction amongst the travelers.

Mowasalat-owned Karwa is one of the few providers of coach buses for private use, presenting “a competitive op-

portunity within the market for a customer and salesdriven business”, according to QTA and QDB. The need for more high-end buses is driven by the growing number of sporting and other large-scale events in which participants are required to move around the country.

4×4 leasing company • The two agencies are looking for a company to purchase a fleet of at least 10 SUVs and outfit them with roll bars, first aid kits, radios and other safety equipment.

• These vehicles will then be leased out, likely on a short-term basis, to tour operators on the condition that they only use drivers who are certified by an independent licensing agency and have fulfilled minimum training standards.

• Many current operators offer short desert safaris in sand dune areas for “substantially lower than market rates” and use drivers “who are not experienced enough to conduct the activity safely”, according to QTA and QDB. Tighter regulations are on the horizon for popular “dune bashing” activity. A new operator will have first-mover advantage by building a business that complies with the new tourism standards for driving in Qatar’s sand dunes.

MICE and events QTA will provide introductions to venues, events and sports venue organizers to eligible DMCs and PCOS. Such firms would attract, organize and advertise major events, such as sports tournaments, concerts, theatrical performances and conventions.

They will also be provided with introductions to tourism operators and agencies who

assist in distributing tourist packages.

The eligible firm/s will receive priority when selecting service-providers for QTA-related events. Qatar has invested heavily in extensive conferencing and convention style facilities, like Doha Exhibition Centre and the QNCC and has many venues for smaller events including Katara, hotels and buildings of national significance.

DMCs will have very significant opportunities and advantages given the massive investment in first rate facilities, including Qatar Airways’ global network and expanding high quality hotel prod-

ucts in Qatar.

Ticketing systems The aim is to provide mobile information kiosks that enable the user to directly access websites and not only provide information but are able to allow the user to purchase tickets to a range of attractions and events including the Doha Tourist Bus, concerts and in future, the World Cup 2022.

There is currently no onestop shop for information on major concerts, exhibitions and sporting events that also gives residents and tourists the opportunity to purchase tickets at kiosks or online.

Staffed and unstaffed information kiosks are to be located throughout the Doha city precinct and its surrounds that allow users to search for upcoming events, purchase tickets and make reservations at hotels, restaurants and other places of interest.

Roving cottage market • The market will be located in a pleasant shaded pedestrian-friendly space extending to no more than half a hect-

are with main services installed. The market will be set up at predetermined and wellestablished venues such as Katara and operate mostly in the evening.

• This market will sell handicrafts, low-value jewelry, foodstuffs, musical instruments and other tourist or souvenirtype goods. There will be strict regulations on what the market can sell.

For example, fast food and household goods unrelated to tourism would be banned so the market does not compete with existing retailers.

Although the initiative prioritizes Qatari firms, officials said they also expected partnerships in certain projects such as those aimed at bringing reputable, international exhibitions to Qatar.

The officials said that request for proposals would be issued soon. This will be followed by selection and negotiation with successful bidders in June and July. Signing of contracts is slated for August.

Qatar to focus on cultural tourism Qatar Museums Authority has announced its plans to develop the state’s cultural heritage, offering the opportunity to “live like a Qatari” in days gone by.

During a two-day conference, organized by Stenden University, Qatar, in collaboration with Qatar Tourism Authority, Maja Knezevic, Head of Qatar Museums’ Authority (QMA) Cultural Tourism Unit (CTU), spoke of developing the country’s heritage sites to keep alive Qatar’s bygone culture.

Cultural tourism is a central part of Qatar’s National Tourism Strategy, inviting tourists to step back in history at historical and heritage sites as well as offering a compelling line-up of museums, art galleries and attractions to visit.

Focused on protecting and promoting Qatar’s rich cultural heritage by developing its archaeological sites, CTU aims to turn sites into an authentic experience to raise awareness of the rich potential found throughout Qatar.

The launch of Al Zubarah Archaeological Site as a Unesco

World Heritage in June 2013 is a prime example which, with its authentic Qatari atmosphere and tents offering traditional food and drink, has attracted more than 10,000 visitors in January 2014.

Other successful restorations include Barzan Towers, 19th century desert forts like Al-Thaqab and Arakiyyat to Bronze Age sites such as purple-dye production site Jazirat Bin Ghanam and the rock craving of Jassassiya, castles and the fabled Al Wajba fort which played the decisive role in the defeat of the Ottomans in 1893.

More projects in the pipeline are the old Fish Souq in AlKhor, built of local stones and traditional materials, and four ancient Qatari villages, including the old pearl-diving village Al-Mafyar where visitors will be able to live like Qataris did in years gone by.

Knezevic said: “This is just a small step for the mankind but could be a big one for Qatar.”

Christopher Knable, Chief Operating Officer of conference sponsor Katara Hospitality,

addressed delegates attending the conference about hotel development in Qatar. He said: “Doha will soon be the best hotel town in the world. We are going to have the greatest hotels right here in Qatar.”

He spoke about the need to plan for the next generation, saying: “as a hotel developer, we have to be a futurist – we have to figure out what is coming. What you are doing must be meaningful 10 and 20 years from now.”

He highlighted the need to anticipate guests’ needs, keep track of their comments and feedback, the importance of knowing the provenance of produce and keeping ahead of trends.

The two-day conference, under the patronage of HE Sheikh Abdullah bin Nasser bin Khalifa Al Thani, the Prime Minister and Minister of the Interior, was organized by Stenden University, Qatar, in collaboration with Qatar Tourism Authority.

It attracted 250 expert delegates from industry and academia, from Qatar, the region and internationally.

HVAC - Plumbing & Drainage - Fire Fighting - Electrical & ELV - Energy Centers Street Lighting - Traffic Signals - Maintenance - Facility Management 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.

TRAGS Electrical Engineering & Air Conditioning Co. W.L.L Jaidah Tower Ist Floor, Abdul Aziz Bin Ahmed Street P.O. Box 470, Doha – Qatar Tel +974 44 41 42 11, Fax + 974 44 41 33 06 tragseng@qatar.net.qa www.trags.com

ENGINEERING

20

Construction

SITES

Project update

Al Wa’ab City celebrates completion of key phase Al Wa’ab City, one of the largest privately-owned mixeduse real estate developments in Qatar, celebrated the completion of Phase 1 of its luxury residential development, Nour Al Wa’ab villas.

The launch, which took place on March 10, was attended by various stakeholders, including QNB which financed the project.

Al Wa’ab City CEO Sheikha Hanadi Bint Nasser Al Thani and Osool Al Wa’ab Holding Chairman Sheikh Nawaf Nasser Bin Khalid Al Thani hosted more than 200 dignitaries in the heart of Nour Al Wa’ab compound.

Speaking at the event, Sheikha Hanadi said: “Tonight we mark the first milestone of our journey to achieve the vision for Al Wa’ab City to

become one of Qatar’s most distinguished developments where life is celebrated in all of its aspects.

“Our partnership with Benchmark International has been a cornerstone in reviving the project and realigning it with its original vision and the current market realities. This event also extends to the first owners of Nour Al Wa’ab Villas that have made this luxurious compound into an overwhelming ‘sell-out’ success.”

Sheikha Hanadi noted the “great support” that the project had received and the importance of Al Wa’ab City as being not just a unique residential development but an engine of business and community growth.

She said: “We are also delighted to share with every-

Al Wa’ab City will feature an abundance of open space, landscapes and a unique piazza.

one our exciting plans to create a vibrant central district with a prestigious mall, a world-renowned hotel and a myriad of residential units that will cater for a variety of tastes and budgets.

“Al Wa’ab City will also house educational and medical facilities that will further enrich the sense of place and community. I am very eager to share with you the exciting news about the upcoming business and finance partnerships on the remaining phases of Al Wa’ab City which promises to become a unique living and business environment in the heart of Doha.”

At the event, Al Wa’ab City confirmed the launch of the next phases of Nour Al Wa’ab villas, with delivery scheduled in phases till the first quarter of 2015.

In total, 92 of the premium Nour Al Wa’ab villas are planned, each featuring an area of 850 square meters, high quality finishes, fixtures, five master bedrooms, internal elevators, three car garages, a private garden and a swimming pool.

Sheikha Hanadi concluded her speech by highlighting the strong interest shown from major corporations for residential sales and leasing

Sheikha Hanadi Bint Nasser Al Thani: Al Wa’ab City CEO

opportunities which will be met with a series of corporate presentations in the coming weeks.

Nour Al Wa’ab Al Wa’ab City confirmed that 43 of its smaller Janayin Al Wa’ab villas are now open for corporate sales and leasing.

Janayin Al Wa’ab consists of 181 distinct, four-bedroom properties, with an area of 540 square meters each, two car garages, and offering a contemporary living environment with a subtle hint of Arabian architecture and modern quality finishes.

Ma’arid Al Wa’ab The two-kilometer stretch of showroom and office buildings on Salwa road is the first completed phase of the de-

velopment and the first cluster of Al Wa’ab City’s Commercial District.

The buildings offer over 24,000 square meters of prime location office accommodation and over 20,000 square meters of distinctive retail accommodation, catering to the various needs of tenants seeking convenient, landmark locations and wellmanaged, quality accommodation to launch or expand their business in Doha.

Construction Sites talked to Sheikha Hanadi on the sidelines of the event and asked her how she felt the project was progressing.

She believed that the fundamentals of the project were sound, describing it as a “superior product”.

As with many other construction projects in the Gulf and globally they were also affected by the economic slowdown in 2008 but because of strong fundamentals they have been able to continue the project.

Al Wa’ab City will feature an abundance of open space, landscapes, a unique piazza. It will contain a variety of residential accommodation aimed at satisfying the demands of Qatar’s growing population.

According to Sheikha Hanadi, the way the compound has been planned was not merely speculative. They were responding to a genuine need in the market. We asked her about the appetite for this kind of luxury quality and she replied: “There have been shifts in the lifestyles of both nationals and expatriates.

We not only have the larger luxury villas but will also have smaller villas as well as apartments.”

She added that it depended on the family to build and create a community and society that strengthen family units but Al Wa’ab City was committed to providing the basic amenities that they would need, like schools.

A key vernacular architectural feature of Al Wa’ab City will be the Barahat Al Wa’ab.

Sheikha Hanadi says that the feature was still part of the plan but it had been reconceptualized over the eight years that the project had now been in existence.

As the project progresses, the idea will be refined but she could not disclose what direction the design was taking.

She, however, pointed out that Al Wa’ab City was setting the benchmark for residential developments in Doha.

Save up to

60 % w ater

Constant ow rate

ceramic@nabina.com

www.nabina.com

22

Construction

SITES

Infrastructure

Major progress being made on IDRIS network construction

The IDRIS program will eliminate as many existing foul sewerage pump stations as possible and implement a new deep tunnel gravity sewerage system There has been major progress on the construction of the Inner Doha Resewerage Implementation Strategy (IDRIS) tunnel network.

This is a key program of Ashghal (Qatar’s Public Works Authority) that will provide vital drainage infrastructure for Doha’s southern parts.

The scheme will include a deep tunnel sewerage network and advanced sewage treatment works.

At the recent MEED conference, Ioannis Leontiou, a specialist in the drainage projects management department of Ashghal, spoke about the progress in IDRIS. He was followed by Terry Krause of CH2M Hill, the IDRIS project manager.

According to Leontiou, the focus is on the Doha South catchment and the design horizon is 50-years. The life of the facilities should exceed this.

The IDRIS program will eliminate as many existing foul sewerage pump stations as possible and implement a new deep tunnel gravity sewerage system.

Leontiou said that it was expected that the program would eliminate a serious public health issue - sewage flooding in over 20 locations in central Doha. It will also accommodate economic development and planned growth for an additional one million people.

The program will provide a long-term wastewater treatment solution to serve the needs of Doha, Al Wakra and Mesaieed.

IDRIS is developed to upgrade and expand the sewerage infrastructure and to accommodate the projected population growth of an additional one million people in Doha’s oldest area – the south catchment.

The major tunneled interceptor sewer and advanced sewage treatment works scheme will meet the long-term demands of the Doha South Catchment for the next 50 years, eliminate the hydraulically-overloaded conditions and remove over 35 existing pump stations. The program management consultant is CH2M HILL International.

Program drivers The existing foul sewerage network is hydraulically overloaded, which continually results in street flooding. The existing key assets don’t t have the capacity and proportions to service the current load and are reaching the end of a useful life, according to Leontiou.

Extensive ongoing and planned development within the South Catchment will only

make the current situation worse. The three main areas covered by the program will be Central Doha, Al Wakra and Mesaieed Industrial City.

The packaging strategy for the program implementation will include more than nine separate contracts.

Tender documents have already been released for the Northern Branches (Contract MTS-01), Central Segment (Contract MTS-02) and the Southern segment (Contract MTS-03).

Program highlights • Duration: Eight years (2012 – 2019).

• Conveyance system consists of more than 40km of deep main trunk sewer and over 70km of lateral interceptor sewers.

• One large and approximately 70 meter (m) deep terminal pump station.

• New Doha South advanced sewage treatment works with an initial capacity of 500,000 litres per day cubic metres/day).

• More than 70km of treated sewage effluent return mains and pump stations.

• Estimated cost: In excess of QR10 billion.

Project: Treated sewage effluent return system component details • • TSE storage and pumping system o Firm pumping capacity of 700,00cubic meters/day • Return pipelines to: o West Qatar farms o TSE distribution network for Mesaieed Industrial City and Al Wakra • B ulk transfer system • N ear surface open cut and microtunneling construction techniques • Multiple construction contracts planned Project: New Doha South Sewage Treatment Works component details • N ew state-of-the-art Doha South (NDS) Sewage Treatment Works (STW) • Located on a dedicated site approximately 35km south of central Doha

Central Doha, Al Wakra and Mesaieed Industrial City.

The key stakeholders include: • MMUP and the CPO, Ministry of the Environment, Qatar Rail Company, Kahramaa, Project: Terminal Pump Qatar Petroleum and the Station component de- World Cup 2022 Supreme tails Committee.

• One major pumping sta- Some of the critical issues tion located on a dedicated site approximately 35km south of central Doha • Pumping station with an ultimate peak pump capacity of 23 cubic meter/ sec • Over 65m deep • Associated features: o Up front screening and flow splitting structure o Fully divided station for reliability and redundancy o Odour extraction and treatment system (station and partial trunk sewer) o Standby power generation system Main trunk sewer There are three segments to be delivered as part of the main trunk sewer. These are the Northern Branches, Central Branch and Southern section.

Component details • Gravity-based deep tunnel • Approximate length of 45km • Internal diameters of 3,000 and 4,500mm • Installed depths range from 17m to 59m (average 41m) • Bored tunneling techniques • Structural lining • Secondary corrosion protection lining Lateral interceptor sewers The lateral interceptor sewers cover three main areas: •

Initial capacity of 500,000 cubic meters/ day Site configured for 2-3 times initial capacity

during stakeholder engagement include avoiding potential clashes and this is with regards to expressways, the Metro, the Abu Hamour surface water tunnel and the Ministry Municipality and Urban Planning (MMUP) concept plans.

The challenge being that the

sewerage system in sections passes either underneath expressways or over the Metro line.

Part of the strategy is to be able to obtain timely approvals and consents and obtain the necessary land that is needed for the project completion.

Qatar

Construction

QP among Qatar’s top five project owners

W

ith about $18.3 billion schemes currently out to tender, the largest of which are two massive petrochemical projects that will support Qatar’s National Vision 2030 by diversifying economic growth and maximizing the potential benefits of the country’s gas reserves, Qatar Petroleum has become one of country’s biggest project owners.

Qatar Public Works Authority (Ashghal) tops the list of Qatar’s biggest projects owners with over $49.9 billion worth of projects, followed by Qatari Diar with $47.8 billion. Qatar Rail is next with $40.2 billion, followed by Barwa Real Estate Company with $25.8bn.

Qatar Petroleum completes the list.

Speaking at the Qatar Projects Conference last month, Mohammed Nasser Al Hajri, Qatar Petroleum’s Director for Downstream Ventures, detailed the organization’s plans for the future saying that the downstream sector represented a vital part of Qatar’s present and future economy while the upcoming mega projects underpinned the vision for continuing to develop and sustain Qatar’s National Vision 2030.

“Having seen tremendous

growth over the past few years resulting in Qatar’s position as the LNG capital of the world, we look to continue this success in downstream diversification,” Al Hajri said.

“With the recent redefinition of QP’s corporate vision to be in alignment with the Qatar National Vision 2030, we have the key ingredients for success,” he added.

As part of the expansion of the petrochemicals sector, Qatar Petroleum plans to raise its production from 9 million tonnes a year (t/y) to 23 million t/y by 2020. To achieve this goal, QP and Qapco have joined forces to develop a 1.4-million-t/y ethane cracker at Ras Laffan.

The Al Sejeel Petrochemical complex will produce 850,000 t/y of high-density polyethylene, 430,000 t/y of low-density polyethylene, 760,000 t/y of polypropylene and 83,000 t/y of butadiene.

Detailed submissions are due in March and commercial bids in April. The contract award is scheduled for August this year with start-up in 2018.

At the same time, QP is working with the UK/Dutch Shell Group to develop a second major petrochemicals complex known as the Al-Karaana project.

The mixed-feed cracker will

use ethane and propane to produce 1.1 million t/y of ethylene and 170,000 t/y of propane, along with other plastics. The two major packages for the $6.4 billion project are set to be released this year.

Al Hajri gave an update on the Al Karaana and Al Sejeel projects stating “both projects are approaching the FEED (front end engineering design) phase”.

“The next stage is to look for EPC partners to share our journey with large and medium-sized businesses targeted to be in the subsequent phase, for example, for butadiene,” he said.

“The increase in Qatar’s export capacity by 2020 is an ambitious goal but one that we are confident that we can achieve. Furthermore, this development will allow us to build a solid foundation for further diversification and future growth,” he noted.

“Additionally there exist many opportunities for SMEs in the areas of plastics, fibers, solvents, tires, rubber etc. We are looking forward to repeating the success stories as evidenced by the ones we have built over the years.

“The upcoming diversification and expansion offers many opportunities for growth and achieve the objectives of QP

SITES

23

Building Materials Manufacturers’ Forum and Qatar’s National Vision and we look forward to working with everyone and partnering with you in our journey,” he added.

With the development of the Barzan gas field by RasGas, 2 billion cubic feet/day will be added to the gas supply from 2015 onwards. The massive addition in output will feed into the new major petrochemical projects – Al Karaana and Al Sajeel complexes to be built with an investment of $14.6 billion.

As such Qatar Petroleum’s strategy and focus will shift toward boosting its total petrochemicals output reaching 23 million t/y by 2020 further cementing the importance of the petrochemicals sector to the Qatari economy and the efforts undertaken to maximize value from oil and gas.

Following Al Hajri’s session, Stijn van Els, the Chief Executive (designate) of Al Karaana Project, spoke in detail about the Al Karaana Petrochemical Complex, highlighting the project’s milestones, phases and upcoming third party opportunities. He said the mixed-feed cracker would use ethane and propane to produce 1.1 million t/y of ethylene and 170,000 t/y of propane, along with other plastics.

Are you looking to launch your factory in Qatar?

Are you looking to supply for upcoming construction projects according to the new building materials codes and standards?

Many manufacturers are seriously intending to start their own operations in Qatar to take advantage of the next spike in demand of building materials.

With new changes in building materials codes and standards, and considerable demand in green and sustainable building materials for new projects, supplying materials during the construction boom is not just a matter of increasing capacity anymore, but rather a complete re-engineering of the production process.

The Building Materials Manufacturers’ Forum (1516 April, Qatar), under the Patronage of H.E. Sheikh Ahmed Bin Jasim Al Thani, Minister of Economy and Commerce of the State of Qatar, and hosted by GOIC (Gulf Organization for Industrial Consulting), offers a unique opportunity to display your capability and seek partners in the Qatari market.

If you would you like to receive the forum agenda via email, and know more about the sponsorship opportunities of this event, please contact the organisers today.

Government Representatives, Developers, Contractors, Consultants and Building Material Distributors qualify for a guest pass. Contact the organisers today if you would like to reserve a seat.

Contact Person: Ms. Husaina Nasir, Customer Services Manager Organiser: IQPC Middle East Email: sponsorship@iqpc.ae Tel: +971 4 360 2800 Web: www.gccbuildingmaterials.com

24

Construction

SITES

News

Supreme Committee for Delivery and Legacy responds to ITUC report

The Supreme Committee for Delivery and Legacy, the organization overseeing the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, has strongly criticized a recent report by the International Trade Union Confederation (ITUC) about living conditions of laborers working on Al Wakra Stadium.

The committee said “an entire section” in the ITUC’s report was “littered with factual errors and attempts to discredit the positive work we are undertaking”.

The committee said in a statement: “We are fully aware of the challenges we face as the State is preparing for the 2022 FIFA World Cup. While those challenges are far-reaching and extremely complex, the responsibility of contributing to the solution to these problems is something that we are completely dedicated to.

“This commitment makes it all the more disappointing to read an entire section in the International Trade Union Confederation’s report dedicated to the Supreme Committee for Delivery and Legacy littered with factual errors and attempts to discredit the positive work we are undertaking.

No one has died on World Cup projects.”

The statement said the “most fundamental error in the re-

port is the fact that the employee accommodation referenced on page 17 is not where the construction workers who Workers’ Accommodation: Since January 2014, the Supreme Committee’s Workers’ Welfare Committee has conducted three successful inspections of the new Al Wakra Stadium workers’ accommodation.

• Location: o Industrial Area, Street 23 • Amenities: o Air-Conditioning o Secured Individual Storage Space o 49 Rooms (Capacity: 120); 2 to 3 People/ Room - Bunk beds prohibited • Typically 2 persons per 16 sq. m. room • Minimum of 6 sq. m. per person • Room Sizes: 3m x 4m and up • Daily Cleaning • Free Laundry Service • Three Free Meals Per Day (Rotating Menus) • WiFi and Television • Recreational Facilities • 1 Living Room / Room Cluster

are building the new Al Wakra Stadium, a proposed host venue for the 2022 FIFA World Cup, live”.

The ITUC’s report said the labor accommodations were underneath the bleachers of Al Wakra Sports Club’s current stadium.

The Supreme Committee for Delivery and Legacy statement said this was wrong.

“Our 108 construction workers live in a refurbished accommodation on Street No 23 in Doha’s Industrial Area, which has been visited by TV crews from Reuters and ZDF in the past weeks. The International Trade Union Confederation

QRail adopts BIM

never visited our accommodation, nor requested to do so,” the statement underlined.

“Moreover, had the International Trade Union Confederation approached Al Wakra Sports Club with their findings they would have learnt that the club are in the process of completing a new accommodation facility within the complex for their employees who currently reside in the accommodations referenced in the International Trade Union Confederation’s report.

“This accommodation, which contains 24 rooms with kitchens and living rooms, will be completed at the end of the

month. Each room will house a maximum of two to three employees.”

The Supreme Committee for Delivery and Legacy statement pointed out to the ITUC that “our Workers’ Welfare Standards clearly regulate working and living conditions and are being implemented on our first stadium and accommodation sites, as demonstrated in the photos and videos that have been shared with you today”.

It said that “since January 2014, the Supreme Committee’s Workers’ Welfare Committee has conducted three successful inspections to enforce and monitor this imple-

14th Industrialists’ conference

Qatar Rail adopts Autodesk BIM solutions and expertise for development, construction Under the patronage of H.E 1. To adopt procedures and Assad Bin Tarek AL Saeed, reppolicies regarding facilitaand lifecycle management of an efficient, modern and high-quality railway system

A

utodesk, Inc, a company specialized in 3D design, engineering, and entertainment software, has announced that Qatar Rail has awarded a Building Information Modeling (BIM) services contract to the company in Qatar. Autodesk will provide BIM implementation, consultancy and advisory services to Qatar Rail towards the construction of a modern integrated railway network in the country. This agreement was formalized at a signing ceremony in Doha attended by Eng. Saad Ahmed Al Muhannadi, Chief Executive Officer of Qatar Rail and Mr. Callan Carpenter, Vice President of Global Services, Autodesk.

Qatar Rail is responsible for the design, construction, commissioning, operation and maintenance of the entire rail network and systems within Qatar.

Its scope of work is driven directly from the Qatar National Vision as the country aims to sustain its development and provide a high standard of living for its people by 2030.

Qatar Rail chose Autodesk’s BIM solutions and expertise as part of its commitment to employ world-class technologies as it acts on its vision to deliver many high-profile and technologically groundbreaking railway infrastructure projects. Autodesk’s consulting team will support Qatar Rail on the implementation of BIM

technologies and practices to help decrease the overall time and costs of railway projects by minimizing rework and miscommunication, providing more actionable insight into projects, and helping accelerate decision-making earlier into the project lifecycle.

Over the next three years, Qatar Rail will employ several services offered by Autodesk starting with the company’s expertise on BIM standards, quality control and integration across organizations. Autodesk will also implement a technology platform within Qatar Rail to train, support and collaborate with the company’s assigned staff for the railway project. Additionally, Autodesk will outline specific BIM standards and processes for the railway project that will serve as the foundation for BIM requirements and as a starting point for BIM implementations for future contracts.

“A rigorous BIM process implementation has the potential to deliver tremendous benefits to the owner/operators of national infrastructure projects like Qatar Rail, from the design phase, through construction, commissioning and ongoing operations. Autodesk is very pleased to be Qatar Rail’s chosen partner for achieving these benefits. Qatar’s adoption of BIM demonstrates its commitment to the very best technology when it comes to

mentation. The International Trade Union Confederation’s statement that our Standards have no credible enforcement mechanism is hence both incorrect and misleading”.

The statement said: “We know that there are issues.

While this process of change is not something that can be achieved overnight, we have the will and the commitment to see it through. We are already seeing the fruits of our partnerships with leading international organizations on the ground. We welcome further international support of this type in order to achieve our goals.”

implementing their national vision for Qatar 2030,” said Callan Carpenter, Vice President Global Services, Autodesk.

“We are excited to support Qatar Rail in its endeavor to develop a world-class railway infrastructure network in the country. Adopting modern BIM technology in public infrastructure projects will help reduce conflicts and changes in plans, improve project quality and ensure better predictability of project outcomes. As a pioneer of BIM solutions, Autodesk is ready to support Qatar Rail in project delivery and implementation,” said Louay Dahmash, Head, Autodesk Middle East.

According to a recent report

by MEED, the current value of civil construction projects in Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries is estimated at US$1.3 trillion, with US$935 billion in execution including long-term megaprojects, US$81 billion out to tender, US$211 billion in design phases and US$136 billion under study. Autodesk BIM technologies can play a major role in creating, managing and executing projects of such scale and size. BIM is an intelligent model-centric process that enables more accurate, accessible and actionable insight for creating and managing infrastructure projects faster, more economically, and with less environmental impact.

resentative of His Majesty the Sultan of Oman and organized by the Ministry of Trade and Industry of the Sultanate of man and GOIC. The conference was conducted in Muscat, on 30-31 March.

H.H Asaad Bin Tarek AL Saeed representative of His Majesty the Sultan of Oman, opened the conference; were present H.E Secretary General for GCC Council, their Excellency’s Ministers of Industry in the GCC and Yemen.

During the two days, 7 sessions where conducted through which topics were discussed on opportunities and challenges and the role of industrial exports. Follow up of the previous recommendations such as during the 12th conference recommendations regarding preparing the industrial map for GCC countries and the completion of a study to identify industrial investment opportunities for the GCC which were promoted in 2012, 2014; and the recommendation regarding enhancing handling program and industrial partnerships in GCC countries where centers for handling where established in many GCC countries.

Also adopting the vision of creative society which is based on the knowledge based economy that was stated in the 13th conference.

Below are the recommendations

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

tion and flow of Gulf Exports to enhance trades between GCC and Yemen. benefit from ports in GCC and Yemen, in addition to the land boarders, to support industrial exports. establish a specialized body in each GCC country and Yemen to provide a comprehensive integrated package of methods of support to industrial exports. benefit from authorities and organizations that guarantee exports and support industrial exports and to expand commercial offices and activate the role of commercial attaches. raise the quality of national products and enhance competitiveness on focusing on R&D and specifications and international standards Focus on SME’s sector to play a role to enhance industrial exports.

Support the initiatives of GOIC with the private sector to enhance joint projects to achieve industrial integration among member states Exchange data and expertise in the field of anti-dumping to enhance international trade achieve maximum benefit from Direct Foreign Investment, foreign experiences

in the field of export, marketing and production to enhance the flow of direct industrial foreign investments.

10. benefit from available facilities of WTO agreements regarding exports and establish a specialized technical committee to study such facilities and circulate the results to all exporters in the region 11. Benefit from the experiences of countries that have succeeded in Export such as South Korea, Malaysia, Turkey, Brazil and others 12. Prepare a comprehensive guideline on industrial products that are exportable and the conditions of international export markets at GCC and Yemen level, to be updated periodically.

13. prepare a national strategy to develop industrial exports.

14. encourage governments, establishments, producers, exporter to use the data bases and mechanisms of WTO to develop exports.

15. Raise the level of knowledge of the private sector of legislation systems, implementation procedures locally, regionally and internationally through issuing procedures to support industrial exports.

Talking Point

Construction

SITES

25

Down payments under Qatari law Under Qatari Civil Law, articles 100 to 102 govern the so-called “el-arboon” or earnest money

By Dr Minas Khatchadourian, MCIArb Making a down payment and then paying the rest of the price through installments seems to be a common practice either in the purchase of a luxury car, a property, or in a construction agreement.

The payment of this initial amount may become problematic if the parties do not indicate its role in the contract with exactitude: is it a part of the price agreed upon as the buyer is keen to execute his obligations resulting from the contract?

Or is it a kind of deposit made by the buyer to the seller authorizing any of parties to renege within a specific period?

Under Qatari Civil Law, articles 100 to 102 govern the so-called “el-arboon” or “earnest money”.

Placed under the general provisions of contract law and not only applicable to sale agreements, Article 100 insists on the common intent of the parties upon the payment of such amount.

It states: “Paying an earnest money at the time of concluding the contract shall serve as a presumption that both parties have the option to renege therefrom unless they intended otherwise or custom prescribes otherwise”.

Accordingly, this is a simple presumption which can be subject to contrary proof. It means that the party (either the buyer or the seller) may prove – that the amount paid or received is a down payment in an agreement which both parties want to make binding without any renege option to save an action for resolution, etc.

In case of conflict on the real intention of the parties and in the absence of any clearly stated contractual clause, the court shall – at its discretion - interpret the intention of the parties through the evidence brought by the parties, the surrounding circumstances and the merits of the case in order to conclude whether the sum paid is to be considered down payment in a conclusive and definite agreement or earnest money subject to forfeiture in the event of reneging the contract.

Therefore, my first advice to the contracting parties is to agree explicitly on their common intent regarding the “down payment”.

Option to renege Furthermore, Article 101 of the Civil Law specifies that “if the two parties agree that the earnest money shall be forfeited in the event of reneging, each of them shall have the right to renege, if the party who has paid the money reneges, the said amount shall be lost and if the party receiving it reneges, it shall pay double the amount, even if there is no damage”.

Therefore, using this “option”

Dr Minas Khatchadourian is specialized in commercial and construction arbitration and litigation.

He is the Executive Director of the Qatar International Centre for Conciliation and Arbitration and a Member of the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators. He regularly conducts arbitration work in different jurisdictions and under most of the main international institutional rules. He can be reached at drminas@qcci.org

may be very useful in cases where one party is hesitating to pursue an agreement to its end or fear sudden events.

However, this option is not for free: a sort of penalty or liquidated damages shall be applied: if the party who has paid the money reneges, he will lose it and if the party receiving it reneges, he shall pay double the amount.

However, keeping this “option” available to both parties cannot be left without a time framework to practice it. So, article 102 of the Civil Code brings the necessary provisions in this respect.

Its first paragraph indicates that if the agreement or custom does not specify a time limit for exercising the option of renege, such option shall continue till the time the contracting party indicated his desire to confirm the creation of the contract.

More importantly, its second paragraph points out that if one of the contracting parties fails to perform his obligations within the specified time limit or delays in this regard for an unreasonable period, the other party may consider such failure or delay as a renege from the contract.

In the light of the above, my second advice to the parties is to fix in the contract a specific period of time, short by preference, to exercise the aforementioned option.

Sale on credit & payment Moving now to other specific rules such as the ones related to the contract of sale, article 466.1 of the Civil Code stipulates “unless otherwise agreed or a contrary custom, the price is payable at the time where delivery of the thing sold is made”. This is the general rule in sale be-

tween two parties known also as “cash upon delivery”.

However, in the sale of goods between commercial companies, sale on credit or payment on installments are usually accepted, article 430 of the Civil Code states: “If the price is payable by installments, the contracting parties may agree that the seller retains a part of the price by way of damages should the contract of sale be cancelled for non-payment of all the installments.”

The court may, however, according to circumstances, reduce the amount of damages agreed. “As you can see, this provision can be in favor of the seller in a contract of sale by installments (by credit) where a contractual clause shall state that in case of contract dissolution, that all or part of the paid installment(s) can be considered as a compensation to the seller.

Advance payment Also, under the specific provisions of the contract for works, the Qatari Civil Code (article 697) stated “the client shall pay the contractor’s dues when he takes delivery of the work unless otherwise stipulated by agreement or observed by usage”.

However, under the following article, some practical solutions are presented which match with the progress payments done by the Owner to the Contractor save the amounts considered an advance payment. Article 698 states: “1) unless otherwise agreed, if the work is composed of distinctive parts or if the price is fixed by unit, (……) the contractor may in such case receive a part of his dues in proportion to the work performed.

“2) In respect of the part of works for which the contractor’s dues have been paid, it shall be presumed that such part has been inspected and accepted unless it is proved

the amount has been paid as an advance payment.”

It results in case of any disagreement on the nature of the payment, either partial payment for a specific part

of the project or periodic payments, the solution shall rely mainly on the wording of the contract.

If not specified at all, or without enough clarity, the court in case of dispute - shall look into the intention of the parties and shall compare the weight of the evidence presented by each party.

Therefore, my last advice in this concern will be to bring lucidity and preciseness to the drafting of “payment clause” where a lot of the difficulties may arise. So, better be safe than sorry.

What are the latest developments in petrochemical integration?

How can global companies benefit from regional advancements?

Grab your chance to get these questions answered from global oil and gas professionals at the

4th Annual Global Petrochemicals Technology Conference 6 – 8 May 2014, Grand Hyatt Doha Hotel, Doha, Qatar

days of networking BRONZE SPONSOR

days of presentations ASSOCIATE SPONSOR

SUPPORTING ASSOCIATION

day of workshops

MEDIA PARTNER

Meet industry peers from • Qatar Petrochemical Company – QAPCO • Sasol Technology • Wildhorse Energy • SIPCHEM • LyondellBasell • Petro Rabigh • Petrobras • ORYX GTL • ORPIC • Masdar Institute • Repsol

Organised by

For more details about registration and sponsorship opportunities get in touch with us +971 4609 1570 or mail us on ajay.nimbalkar@fleminggulf.com

26

Construction

SITES

Qatar

A world in one city The opening match for the FIFA 2022 tournament will take place at the Lusail City Iconic Stadium Lusail City, being developed just past the West Bay area of Doha, is planned to accommodate 200,000 residents, 80,000 daily visitors and around 90,000 employees to maintain the city’s infrastructure and services.

According to Abdulrahman Al Ishaq, a young Qatari engineer from the Lusail City Planning Department, it aims to change Doha’s future and introduce a new way of living to Qatar.

“Lusail City is a whole new cultural habitat and a new way of living,” he emphasized as he unveiled images of Lusail at a gathering at an American Chamber of Commerce breakfast in Doha.

He was introduced by his colleague, Hitmi Al Hitmi, also from Lusail City Project. They gave an inspired presentation on the Lusail City project at the event.

Al Ishaq noted that it would be a smart city encouraging sustainable ways of living.

The city will be divided into neighborhoods which would ensure that residents could walk either within their neighborhoods or between neighborhoods. This concept of what he described as “walkability” was underpinned by a Master Plan that included essential services in each block or neighborhood within a fiveminute walking radius.

Listening to Al Ishaq one could almost visualize this reality within the next five to 10 years as the city is unfolded in time for the FIFA World Cup being hosted by Qatar in

Humvee vehicle through the utility tunnels.

Lusail City will have a dedicated Light Rail Transit (LRT) system with four tramway operation lines: underground, at grade, viaduct and open cut sections. There will be 34 stations in total with 34 trains.

It will be operated by one depot, an operation and maintenance facility, technical buildings and a storage area.

2022. The opening match for the FIFA tournament will take place at the, as yet unbuilt, Lusail City Iconic Stadium.

In addition to this, the city also has a “park and ride strategy”’ to encourage commuters and residents to use the Lusail Metro which will have stations in every neighborhood, no more than five minutes apart. Lusail City has dedicated 200,000sqm of open green space in the project.

The green space connects the city from its western edges all the way to the waterfront to promote a pedestrian lifestyle. The sustainable green parks and the wadi have been planned by world-class land-

scape architects chosen after an international competition.

The way that Lusail City was designed, according to Al Ishaq’s, was literally through recreating snapshots of famous and much visited cities in the world.

Al Ishaq said that part of Lusail City was meant to evoke Chicago while the “walkability” and the green strip reminded one of Manhattan’s Central Park, even if it was not on the same scale.

Undoubtedly, the way that Lusail City is themed makes it sound like a world in one city.

The Commercial Blue Band, as he referred to it, is modeled on the Champs Elysee in Paris and will have a number

of high end retail outlets and restaurants.

The Seef Lusail joint venture with Al Rayan bank is based on Marina Bay in Singapore.

Part of the beach front is a recreation of a postcard image of Rio de Janeiro but without the road separating the high rise towers from the beachfront. Lusail City will have both a nine-hole and an 18-hole golf courses.

There will be an “Entertainment City” with theme parks, resorts, an ‘entertainment’ Island, an iconic museum and a seven-star hotel. Energy City 1 will be home to gas, petroleum and solar power companies while Energy City 2 will be a residential area

Qatari Sources GRP SECTIONAL WATER TANKS FIRE SECTIONAL WATER TANKS MARBLE STEEL STRUCTURES GENERATORS LEED & GREEN BUILDING SOLUTIONS

(Head Office) Tel: +974 4487 3850 Mobile: +974 55141030 Fax: +974 4487 3826 P.O.Box 17175 Doha-Qatar

e-mail: mohdzeli@gmail.com

for those working in Energy City1.

The Foxhole District, so named because it is a hilly area, and the Marina District, which is already complete, are the largest residential areas and take up the largest chunk of land.

As an incentive to Qatari nationals to move to Lusail City, an area has been specially set aside which will be designed to accommodate the traditional way of living.

As Qatari families generally tend to live with their extended family, the Ijarah District has been zoned to accommodate large compound like free standing residential homes.

Lusail City will be the first development in Qatar where QSAS/GSAS is applied. The official start date was June 7, 2010. Any project in Lusail City that achieves a five-star rating will be exempted 100% from any service fees.

The city has its own District Cooling plant, pneumatic waste collection system and a gas network. The District Cooling network is the largest in the world and will save up to 675 million kg of carbon dioxide annually.

All grey water collected will be reused through the extensive sewerage system which has the largest sewage treatment plant in the Middle East. The entire utilities are contained in utility tunnels underneath the city.

Al Ishaq said that there was actually a city underneath as you could literally drive a

There will be four underground parks accommodating up to 500 cars each. The underground car parks can access the retail facilities direct. The Marina District will have 2,000 car parking spaces and Lusail Place will have about 3,000 parking spaces.

A highway will connect Doha to Lusail City.

During a question-and-answer session that followed, Al Ishaq made it quite clear that Lusail City, although a government-initiated project, was not a government-sponsored one and was therefore different from a municipality in Qatar where residents and nationals were exempt from taxes and service charge.

Also, the building and development rules, set by the developers of Lusail City, did not necessarily conform to those set out by the Ministry of Municipal and Urban Planning or the Baladiya or City Municipalities.

This was, according to an attendee, a drawback in the project as he could not see what the incentive was for people to invest in the project. The question posed by the unnamed attendee, who appeared to be Qatari, was: What was the incentive to develop property or businesses in Lusail City when only 30% of the actual land owned could be developed and a tax had to be paid for services rendered by the Lusail City Management?

Construction Sites asked if Lusail City would require permits for cars to enter the city as the parking spaces seem to be quite limited and based on the experience in Doha, Lusail City might need a lot more public parking space?

Al Ishaq answered that the parking space was considered to be ample as every tower and building in the commercial district had to have dedicated parking and the public spaces were only for general use.

Qatar

Construction

SITES

27

Drake & Scull ready to bolster Qatar presence Drake & Scull Qatar (DSI Qatar), a wholly-owned subsidiary of Drake & Scull International PJSC (DSI), a regional market leader in the integrated design, engineering and construction disciplines of general contracting, mechanical, electrical and plumbing (MEP), water and power, rail and oil and gas, has unveiled its expansion plans for the coming year at the Qatar Projects 2014 Conference.

DSI Qatar is currently delivering several prestigious projects in the country, including a large scale mixed-use real estate development, the MEP contract for Qatar Mall, a major residential project, and is undertaking the design, build and installation of the District Cooling Plant, as well as the MEP works at the landmark Dohaland development.

The company has successfully delivered several highprofile key projects in Qatar in the past, such as the Four Seasons Hotel and the Qatar Foundation Student Center.

Karem Akawi, Area General Manager, Drake & Scull Qatar, called Qatar “a dynamic market with total infrastructure spends expected to reach $24 billion this year”.

He said: “The hospitality sector is also making rapid

strides, and several mega projects are in the pipeline for announcement by 2016.

We are aiming to consolidate our position as a leader in the engineering and construction sector by winning projects in newer segments this year.

“The investment in capital expenditure projects in Qatar offers immense potential, especially for companies like DSI which specialize in a wide spectrum of services, including MEP services, EPC solutions, and Water and Power.

“Besides, we have the experience and resources to undertake projects across various sectors including rail, real estate, hospitality, healthcare, and energy sectors, directly and in collaboration with our sister companies under DSI PJSC.” Akawi said that Drake & Scull Qatar expected an influx of large-scale projects to be unveiled soon, keeping in mind the long-term national goals associated with the FIFA 2022 World Cup and the National Vision 2030.

“DSI has strong financial capability, extensive Qatari experience, impressive engineering technology and experienced resources to deliver complex projects for all major industries,” he said.

“The Qatar Projects 2014 Conference is an excellent medium to showcase our impressive portfolio of projects in Qatar as well as important projects being rolled out in the coming year,” concluded Akawi.

DSI Qatar has a strong relationship with governmental development entities and major local property developers.

The company also focuses on QHSE and adopts policies and procedures that strictly adhere to international quality standards and safety norms and is ISO 9001, 14001 and OHSAS 18001 certified.

Ashghal opens mobile labs for quality control measures The Public Works Authority (Ashghal) has unveiled two mobile laboratories - a Material Research Lab (MRL) and an Environmental Research Lab (ERL) - to help implement quality control measures in infrastructure and building projects.

The mobile laboratories have been launched by Ashghal President Eng Nasser Bin Ali Al Mawlawi in the presence of Eng Khalid Al Emadi, Manager of the Quality and Safety Department, and officials at Ashghal’s headquarters in West Bay. Al Mawlawi inspected the two self-sufficient mobile laboratory units designed to work on-site and quickly travel between project sites in order to implement chemical and biological tests, thus allowing flexibility in deciding on the preferred material quality.

Backed by Ashghal’s techni-

cal and professional team, the mobile laboratories will offer a wide range of fast turnaround and cost-effective materials testing solutions for its projects.

These customized mobile labs are equipped with all the facilities that allow them to work independently for days without any external support in remote areas.

Each of the laboratories features advanced technical testing machines, water and power facilities, Internet connection, computers, office space and bathroom.

The role of these mobile labs will be to conduct random checks on Ashghal’s ongoing projects to ensure compliance with best practices and international standards.

As part of the inspection, Ashghal’s team will collect material samples, test them on site and assess the perfor-

mance of the contractors and the quality of their work with regards to construction materials and environment.

They will also help in conducting researches that apprise Ashghal about the best practices to be adopted in its projects.

Moreover, the two labs will provide assistance to contractors and consultants who can request Ashghal for performing material checks in locations that might not otherwise support full laboratory facilities.

The Material Research Lab will examine construction materials and structures performance in Ashghal’s projects to ensure they adhere to high quality standards required from contractors and consultants.

The MRL is not only built to perform the routine research conducted by classic labo-

ratories but also to conduct research by the non-destructive testing equipment that provide immediate indicative readouts.

This equipment facilitates quick and efficient evaluation of performance of structures on site to ensure contractors and consultants are abiding by the approved standards and to rectify any faults during the construction phase thus saving time and public resources, and minimizing disruptions caused to road users.

The Environmental Research

Lab will examine the quality of air, water, sewage sludge, noise and other issues that affect the environment.

The ERL is equipped with all the testing equipment required to conduct tests and research on site. This is very critical as testing on site will provide accurate assessment of the samples preventing any changes or expiration of the samples.

The ERL has been designed to be very stable and steady to prevent any calibration of the equipment during its movement, or when stationed

on site.

Ashghal’s Center of Research and Development includes highly-advanced material testing equipment for research activities and for development of specifications with respect to the local environmental conditions in order to maintain the best quality in projects.

The goal of the center is to provide accurate materials tests to ensure high quality of construction materials for projects and a safe healthy environment for communities and societies.

28

Construction

SITES

Tenders

ASHGHAL TENDERS AND AWARDED TENDERS Type

Tender Title

Participants

Issuing Date

Closing Date

Category

PWA/GTC/104/13-14

GTC

Post Contract Professional Supervision & Quantity Surveying Consultancy Services for Demolition and Re- Build Masjid Various Location - Package G BA/13-14/S/090/G

Consultants

26-Mar-14

22-Apr-14

Building

PWA/GTC/103/13-14

GTC

Post Contract Professional Supervision & Quantity Surveying Consultancy Services for Demolition and Re- Build Masjid Various Location - Package E BA/13-14/S/089/G

Consultants

26-Mar-14

22-Apr-14

Building

PWA/GTC/102/13-14

GTC

Demolish and Re - Build Masjid (Daily and Friday) Package – E BA/1314/C/066/G

Qatari Companies Only

26-Mar-14

22-Apr-14

Building

GTC

Demolish and Re - Build Masjid (Daily and Friday) Package – G BA/13-14/C/067/G

Qatari Companies Only

26-Mar-14

22-Apr-14

Building

PWA/GTC/100/13-14

GTC

Construction of Additional Cafeterias for (8) Nos. Schools Around Doha and Villages BA/13-14/C/053/G

Qatari Companies Only

26-Mar-14

29-Apr-14

Building

holding of the JV

PWA/GTC/099/13-14

GTC

Construction of Additional Shed and Soft Flooring for schools and Kindergartens Around Doha and Villages BA/13-14/C/083/G

Qatari Companies Only

26-Mar-14

29-Apr-14

Building

(3) Non-Qatari Companies

PWA/STC/050/13-14

STC

Post Contract Professional Consultancy Services for Construction of Temporary Container Yard for Doha Port Jerry Musbbeh BA/1314/S/081/S

Consultants

26-Mar-14

28-Apr-14

Building ,Consultancy

PWA/GTC/070/13-14/R1

GTC

CONSTRUCTION OF ADDITIONAL CLASSROOMS FOR (3) NOS. SCHOOLS AROUND DOHA AND VILLAGES BA/13-14/C/054/G

Qatari Companies Only

12-Mar-14

15-Apr-14

Building

PWA/GTC/097/13-14

GTC

POST CONTRACT PROFESSIONAL CONSULTANCY SERVICES FOR THE CONSTRUCTION OF NEW PUMPING STATION PS 16N AND INTERCEPTOR SEWER IA-D/13-14/S/005/G

Consultants

12-Mar-14

15-Apr-14

Drainage

PWA/GTC/096/13-14

GTC

CONSTRUCTION OF TEMPORARY CONTAINER YARD FOR DOHA PORT AT JERRY MUSABBEH BA/13-14/C/010/G

Qatari Companies Only

12-Mar-14

15-Apr-14

Building

Companies Eligible to Tender:

Tender No.

(1) Qatari Companies Only (2) Joint Venture (JV) Companies, which includes a Qatari Company having a minimum of 51%, share

(4) Not Applicable * All financial values are in QAR

PWA/GTC/101/13-14

General Conditions of Tenders SECONDMENT OF SITE SUPERVISION STAFF FOR HOUSE CON- Full Documents for the Tender can PWA/ITC/034/13-14 ITC NECTION AND OTHER RELATED DRAINAGE PROJECTS WITH IN Consultants 12-Mar-14 6-Apr-14 Drainage STATE OF QATAR IA/D-HC/13-14/S/078/I be obtained from Contracts DepartON CALL CONTRACT FOR ONE YEAR SUPPLY OF A/C UNITS ment (CD) against a Non–refundPWA/STC/049/13-14 STC FOR PTP’S AND STW’S OF DRAINAGE NETWORKS O & M Qatari Companies Only 12-Mar-14 21-Apr-14 Drainage DEPARTMENT AA/DOM/13-14/M/1309-1.05/S able fee paid to PWA Account No. Supply and Installation of Dynamic Message Sign System in Greater (0013-001813-052), Qatar National PWA/GTC/095/13-14 GTC Qatari Companies Only 26-Feb-14 15-Apr-14 Roads Doha AA-R/13-14/OM/021/C1/G Bank together with a copy of the Call of Agreement - IT Manpower Staffing 2014 ISD/14-15/ PWA/GTC/090/13-14 GTC Non-Qatari 19-Feb-14 15-Apr-14 Consultancy OS/012/G Company Registration and a ComSupply of General Consumables for Pumping Stations and TSE AA/ pany Authorization letter.

PWA/STC/047/13-14 STC Qatari Companies Only 19-Feb-14 31-Mar-14 Drainage DOM/13-14/M/1359-2.05/S - Project document may be examSewer Repair, Replacement and Rehabilitation Framework AA/ PWA/GTC/085/13-14 GTC Joint Venture 5-Feb-14 8-Apr-14 Drainage DOM/13-14/M/1591-4.07/G ined 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 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

Events

Construction

2014 Arab Future Cities Summit 2014 Organizer: Expotrade Middle East Event date (s): 7 – 8 April Venue: Ritz Carlton, Doha Location: Doha, Qatar Tel: +971 4 454 2135 Fax: +971 4 454 2136 Email: info@expotrade-me.com Website: www.arabfuturecities.com

CALENDAR

4th Annual Global Petrochemicals Technology Conference Organizer: Fleming Gulf FZ LLC Event date (s): 6 – 7 May Venue: Grand Hyatt Hotel Location: Doha, Qatar Tel: +971 4 6091555 Fax: +971 4 6091589 Email: info@fleminggulf.com

Smart Skyscrapers Summit 2014 Organizer: Expotrade Middle East Event date (s): 28 – 29 April Venue: Sofitel Dubai The Palm Resort & SPA Location: Dubai, UAE Tel: +971 4 454 2135 Fax: +971 4 454 2136 Email: info@expotrade-me.com Website: www.smartskyscrapers.com

Project Qatar 2014 Organizer: IFP Qatar Ltd. Event date (s): 12 – 15 May Venue: Qatar National Convention Center Location: Doha, Qatar Tel: +974 4432 9900 Fax: +971 4443 2891 Email: rawad.sleem@ifpqatar.com Website: www.projectqatar.com 3rd Power and Desalination Summit Organizer: Fleming Gulf FZ LLC

3rd Annual Corrosion Management

w

w

w

. w

WORLD ATLAS TRADING Tel: +974 44981666 Fax: + 974 44981333 info-qtr@warriorsafety.com

Event date (s): 12 – 13 May Location: Doha, Qatar Tel: + 91 91649 89 507 Email: sobia.jameel@fleminggulf.com Website: www.fleminggulf.com/powerdesalination-summit

(Hall 6) Location: Doha, Qatar Tel: +974 4455 4904 Fax: +974 4455 4813 Email: chrvi@htsxpo.com / wwahba@ htsxpo.com Website: www.htsxpo.com

World Stadium Congress 2014 Organizer: IQPC Event date (s): 19 - 21 May Venue: Grand Hyatt Hotel Location: Doha, Qatar Tel: +971 4 364 2975 Email: enquiry@iqpc.ae Website: www.worldstadiumcongress.com QITCOM 2014 Organizer: fischerAppelt, Qatar Event Dates: 26 – 28 May Venue: Qatar National Convention Centre Location: Doha, Qatar Tel: +974 4469 0440 Fax: +974 4469 0330 Email: info@qitcom.qa Website: www.qitcom.qa CHRVI Middle East 2014 Cooling, Heating, Refrigeration Ventilation and Insulation Organizer: Heights Exhibitions & Conferences Event date (s): 26 – 29 May Venue: Qatar National Convention Centre

Concepts Middle East Organizer: Naseba Event date (s): 28 – 29 May Venue: Sharq Village and Spa Location: Doha, Qatar Website: www.conceptsmideast.com Bridges & Highways UAE Organizer: IQPC Event date (s): 1-4 June 2014 Venue: Park Hyatt Location: Dubai, UAE Tel: +971 4 364 2975 Email: enquiry@iqpc.ae Website: www.bridgeshighwaysuae.com Cityscape Qatar 2014 Organizer: Informa Exhibitions Event date (s): 2 – 4 June Venue: Qatar National Convention Centre Location: Doha, Qatar Tel: +971 4 407 2764 Fax: +971 4 335 1891 Email: adele.laker@informa.com Website: www.cityscapeqatar.com

a r r i o r s a f e t y . c o m

H I G H

QATAR

UAE EMIRATES GATE BM & SAFETY Tel: +971 4299 7555 Fax: +971 42997070 emigate@emirates.net.ae

29

OF EXHIBITIONS & EVENTS

Summit Organizer: Fleming Gulf Event date (s): 28 – 30 April Venue: TBC Location: Doha, Qatar Tel: +971 4 609 1570 Fax: +971 4 609 1589 Email: ajay.nimbalkar@fleminggulf.com Website: http://energy.fleminggulf.com/ corrosion-management-summit

Building Materials Manufacturers’ Forum Organizer: IQPC Event date (s): 15 – 16 April Venue: Hilton Hotel Location: Doha, Qatar Tel: +971 4 364 2975 Email: enquiry@iqpc.ae Website: http://www.gccbuildingmaterials. com/

SITES

P E R F O R M A N C E

USA United Globe Trading Co. 2611 W. Woodland Drive., Anaheim, Ca 92801 T: 1-714-527-0300 F: 1-714-527-0310 M: 1-559-241-4881 ugtc.usa@gmail.com

S A F E T Y

LIBYA HOME OF TOOLS Tel: 218 6190 82212 BENGHAZI-LIBYA info@homeoftools.com

P R O D U C T S

IRAQ AL-USOOL GENERAL TRADING COMPANY LTSD Tel: + 964 7198 741 BAGHDAD- IRAQ info@usoolgroup.com

30

Construction

SITES

Project Focus

NOTE: Whilst 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 in not responsible for any incorrect data.

Consultant

Client

Main Contractor

Value Range (QR) Million

Project Status

Type of Project

M/s. Commercial Development

M/s. Arabtec

500-750

Piling & Shoring

Hotel and Office Buildings

Audit Bureau Towers

M/s. Al Attiya Group Trading Co.

Not Appointed

400-600

Tender Stage

Offices / Residential Towers

Al Waab Mall

M/s. Qatar Industrial Services

Man Enterprize, Qatar

300-400

Under Construction

Mall

Q-Tel

Not Appointed

250-350

Tender Stage

Technical

Mr. Mohamed Abdel Ghani Al Mansouri

Not Appointed

200-300

Under Design

Shopping Mall & Office Tower

Ghanem Al Hodaifi

Not Appointed

600-800

Detail Stage

Office Building

CBQ

HBK

N/A

Under Construction

Commercial, Bank, Office Plaza

Qatar Islamic Bank

AFQCO & REDCO - Al Mana

1.2-1.4 bn

Under Construction

Residential Towers

Business Trading Company

IDC

400-500

Under Construction

Shopping Mall

Al Malki Real Estate Investments

Satal Qatar Contracting

N/A

Under Construction

Hotel

Ghanem Al Thani Holding

Ramco

N/A

Under Construction

Office Building

Project Title

Twin Towers

Mesiemer Manarat Lusail Al Hodaifi Tower II CBQ Boulevard Five Residential Towers at Viva Bahriya at the Pear (project management)

Gulf Mall at Gharrafa

Doha Centro Hotel at Bin Mahmoud Ghanem Office Building at Salwa Road

Alfardan Properties Co.

CDC

N/A

Under Construction

Hotel

Mazaya Qatar Real Extate Development QSC

Sinohydro Group Limited

N/A

Under Construction

Residential

Qatar Airways

Redco International

N/A

Under Construction

Residential Building

Al Rabban Suites Hotel Apartments (3B+G+M+50Floors)

Al Sarh Real Estate WLL

CRC

N/A

Under Construction

Residential

Office Buildings (3B+G+22) at Lusail Marina District

Sh. Hamad Bin Faisal Al Thani

REDCO – Al Mana

N/A

Under Construction

Office Building

Mr. Abdullah Abu Salah

Shannon Engineering

N/A

Under Construction

Office Tower

Ahmed Abed El Aziz Al Baker

Construction and Reconstruction Co.

675

Under Construction

Office Building

Private Investor

Orientals Enterprises

N/A

Under Construction

Residential

Shiekh Abdullah Bin Naser Al Thani

Construction and Reconstruction Co.

85

Under Construction

Commercial

MOI

Hassanesco Co.

N/A

Under Construction

Mixed Use

Shk/Abdullah Bin Nasser Al Thani

Construction and Reconstruction Co.

205

Under Construction

Commercial / Residential

Al Sadd Hotel

Tricon International

Atlantic Contracting Co.

150

Under Construction

Hotels

Al Hodaifi Group HQ

Al Hodaifi Group

Not appointed

30-40 Million

Design stage

Office Building

El Eida

Not appointed

5-10 Million

Design stage

Villa

Doha Education Centre

Not appointed

30-50 Million

Design stage

Education

Step 1 International Academy

Step 1 International Academy

Not appointed

20-40 Million

Design stage

School

5 Hotel Towers adjacent to City Center Marriott Rensance, Marriott Courtyard, Shangri La, Rotana & Merweb

Al Rayyan Holding Company

Al Habtour

3.5 Billion

Marriott Rensance & Marriott Courtyard in handing over and the other 3 Hotels are under construction

Hotels

Shemoukh Mixed-Use Twin Tower, Al Saad

Real Estate Services Group

SEG

800

Construction Stage

Mixed Use Towers

Al Jasrah Twin Tower Lusail

Al Shereef Enterprises

Dorra Contracting

350

Construction Stage

Mixed Use Towers

PWA

Tag Engineering & Contracting

120

Under Construction

Media Complex

Al Mana Real Estate

N/A

100-200

Tender Stage

Mixed Use Tower

Qatar Navigation

N/A

300

Developed Design Stage

Mixed Use

Al Madaen Real Estate

A'yaan Ash'sharq

120

Construction Stage

Hotel

Qatar Olympic Committee

HBK Contracting & Trading

65 Million

Construction Stage

Sports Amenities

Msheireb Downtown Doha (Phase 2 & 3)

Msheireb Properties

Arabtec / Obayashi – HBK

N/A

Under Construction

Mixed Used

4 New Build Convenience Store Schemes

Al Meera

Al Alia Trading & Contracting Co.

130

Under Contruction

Supermarket Stores

MOI

WCT

N/A

Under Construction

Administrative and Office Building

ALAQARIA

Arcon

169

Under Construction

Mixed Use

Qatar Navigation

Not Appointed

N/A

Design Stage

Warehouses

Qatar Airways

Not Appointed

N/A

Design stage

Technical Training

PWA

ITCC / Al Sraiya

350

Under Contruction

Educational Buildings

IBA GROUP

Not Appointed

400

Design Stage

Commercial / Offices Towers

Mr. Saeed Ben Zayed El-Khayareen

Al-Huda

200-250

Under Construction

Office Building

FBA GROUP

Not Appointed

200

Detail Stage

Shopping Mall & Office Tower

IBA GROUP

Not Appointed

200

Under Construction

Hotel

Tameer Real Estate

Al Seal Trading

160

Under Construction

Residential Building

On Going

Special or Laboratory

Marsa Malaz Hotel at the Pear Qatar (Main Works) Qatar Sidra Village Project

Qatar Airways Crew Accommodation

Office Tower (3B+G+14Floors)

Al Baker Executive Towers Al Nour Tower Al Nasr Showroom

Police Training Institute

Panasonic Showroom & Residential

Al Eida Villa Doha Education Centre

Qatar Radio and Television Complex Markaz Almana Ford Showroom & Commercial Offices Ain Khaled Development

Sonesta 5 Star Hotel Smash Tennis Academy

Construction of Head Quarters Bldg. for Ministry of Interior

MIC Business & Recreation Complex Logistic City

New Extension Simulator Building Construction of 6 Nos. New Schools Al Emadi Twin Towers City Tower Fahd Suite - Apartment Hotel IBA Hotel Al Attiya Compound Flight Simulator El Doha Tower

Al Meera Hazm Al Markhiya Mall

Redco

40 Million

Al-Huda

100-120

Completed

Office Building

Al Meera

Not Appointed

N/A

Full Design Package from concept to preparation of tender documents included interior design

Mall

Equestrian Club

Not Appointed

N/A

On Going

Farm

QNB Branch Branches

QNB

Not Appointed

20 Million

Under Construction

Bank

Qatar Driving School

QDS

Not Appointed

600

Permit Stage

Driving Academy

QFCHT

Matta Contracting

20 Million

Supervision

Office Building

Gulf Pearls Company

Not Appointed

40 Million

Design Stage

Residential Building

Supervision of Breeding Farm near Zubara Village

Qatar Foundation for Combatting Human Trafficking

Gulf Pearls Office Building

Established in 1998

Qatar Airways Mr. Mohamed Ben Zayed El-Khayareen

Industrial Kitchen & Laundry Equipment Supply, Installation & After Sales Service • Hotels • Restaurants and Cafes • Hospitals • Central Kitchens • Catering Facilities Salwa Road - Tel: +974 4468 3040 - Fax: +974 4468 3080 - kitchenco@alayangroupqatar.com - www.kitchencoqatar.com

Construction

SITES

31

PO E

Yousef El-Wadia ‫ﻳﻮﺳﻒ ﻋﺒﺪ اﻟﻤﺠﻴﺪ اﻟﻮدﻳﺔ‬ General Manager ‫اﻟﻤﺪﻳﺮ اﻟﻌﺎم‬

+974-5552 1054 tew@qatar.net.qa Tel.: 4460 0595 Fax: 4460 0596 • P. O. Box: 4374 Street No. 12, Gate 18, Industrial Area, Doha - Qatar SALES R E N TA L MAINTENANCE S PA R E PA R T S

POWERLIFTING EQUIPMENT

Yousef El-Wadia ‫ﻳﻮﺳﻒ ﻋﺒﺪ اﻟﻤﺠﻴﺪ اﻟﻮدﻳﺔ‬ General Manager ‫اﻟﻤﺪﻳﺮ اﻟﻌﺎم‬

+974-5552 1054 tew@qatar.net.qa Tel.: 4460 0595 Fax: 4460 0596 • P. O. Box: 4374 Street No. 12, Gate 18, Industrial Area, Doha - Qatar

Amro Al Sayed ‫ﻋﻤﺮو ﻣﺤﻤﺪ اﻟﺴﻴﺪ‬ Sales Manager ‫ﻣﺪﻳﺮ ﺗﺴﻮﻳﻖ‬

+974-772 1054 tew@qatar.net.qa Tel.: 4460 0595 Fax: 4460 0596 • P. O. Box: 4374 Street No. 12, Gate 18, Industrial Area, Doha - Qatar SALES R E N TA L MAINTENANCE S PA R E PA R T S

Amro Al Sayed ‫ﻋﻤﺮو ﻣﺤﻤﺪ اﻟﺴﻴﺪ‬ Sales Manager ‫ﻣﺪﻳﺮ ﺗﺴﻮﻳﻖ‬

+974-772 1054 tew@qatar.net.qa Tel.: 4460 0595 Fax: 4460 0596 • P. O. Box: 4374 Street No. 12, Gate 18, Industrial Area, Doha - Qatar

Ahmed Sobhy Ali ‫أﺣﻤﺪ ﺻﺒﺤﻲ ﻋﻠﻲ‬ Operation Incharge ‫ﻣﺴﺆول اﻟﺘﺸﻐﻴﻞ‬

+974-7049 3523 tew@qatar.net.qa Tel.: 4460 0595 Fax: 4460 0596 • P. O. Box: 4374 Street No. 12, Gate 18, Industrial Area, Doha - Qatar SALES R E N TA L MAINTENANCE S PA R E PA R T S

Ahmed Sobhy Ali ‫أﺣﻤﺪ ﺻﺒﺤﻲ ﻋﻠﻲ‬ Operation Incharge ‫ﻣﺴﺆول اﻟﺘﺸﻐﻴﻞ‬

+974-7049 3523 tew@qatar.net.qa Tel.: 4460 0595 Fax: 4460 0596 • P. O. Box: 4374 Street No. 12, Gate 18, Industrial Area, Doha - Qatar

SITES C o n s t r u c t i o n

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. (81) April 2014, Doha - Qatar

MENA insurance market confident over prospects The MENA insurance market is increasingly confident about its future, according to a survey by the Qatar Financial Centre Authority (QFCA).

The MENA Insurance Barometer research was released at the eighth Multaqa conference hosted by the Qatar Central Bank and Qatar Financial Centre Authority (QFCA) and organized by GR, recently.

The second Mena Insurance Barometer was published by QFCA at the opening of the conference, eighth in it series.

According to the survey, compulsory insurance requirements and continued investments into infrastructure projects will drive demand.

Furthermore, the region’s fundamentals continue to be attractive: insurance penetration is on the rise, demographics are favorable and the economy remains on a steady growth trajectory.

The Barometer is based on 38 in-depth interviews with senior insurance executives and intermediaries operating in the region.

Three-quarters of the executives polled expect regional in-

Senior officials briefing the media on the MENA Insurance Barometer research

surance premiums to outgrow gross domestic product (GDP) over the next 12 months.

Between 2007 and 2012, the region’s economies grew at an inflation-adjusted growth rate of 4.7% per annum – markedly faster than the global average of 3.3%.

Personal lines are set to benefit from additional compulsory insurance requirements, while commercial insurance will receive a boost from new infrastructure and construc-

tion projects.

The region’s greatest strengths are its continued economic growth and the solid rise in direct insurance markets. Moderate natural catastrophe exposures and a young and growing population are further assets.

Opportunities arise from the large pipeline of major infrastructure and construction projects, the low insurance penetration levels of about 1.3% (premiums as a share

of GDP), a mere fifth of the global average of 6.5%, and the population growth, fuelled by a continued influx of expatriates.

The region’s insurance markets also display weak spots: current insurance prices, both in personal and commercial lines, are perceived as insufficient.

However, as rates might have hit bottom, an increasing number of executives expect stable to rising prices and

hence improvements in profitability. Despite the weak pricing, only 16% of respondents expect MENA insurance markets to consolidate over the next 12 months as improved levels of capitalization and the family ownership of many regional insurers stand in the way.

Finally, the prospects for foreign insurers in the region seem to be deteriorating. Only 35% of executives polled expect that foreign insurers will

gain market share over the next 12 months, down from 50% a year ago.

A number of foreign players have suffered losses and are reviewing their approach to the region. Takaful is viewed with greater skepticism, too.

Only 22% of survey participants expect this market segment to outgrow total insurance premiums in the next 12 months.

According to the interviewees, business models still fail to offer genuine product differentiation based on the principle of mutuality.

Shashank Srivastava, Chief Executive Officer and Board Member of the QFC Authority, commented: “Based on their strong fundamentals, the MENA Insurance markets will continue to grow. The QFC Authority remains committed to supporting this growth by offering a world-class business infrastructure. The Barometer enhances market transparency as a key prerequisite to doing insurance business and, therefore, is an essential part of our commitment to the sector.”