QCSites I November 2017 I Issue no.124

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

PAGES 16-19

I ssue N o .124 - N ovember 2017

In Focus:

I

nterior

Design

Many new hotels and resorts are coming up in Qatar ahead of the 2022 FIFA World Cup. All these premium places are being decorated with smart interior, which has given a boost to the interior designing business. According to a report revealed by Index Qatar, the fit-out market has grown by more than $2.2bn in the last year in Qatar which is now projected at being worth $17.7bnper-annum. Construction Sites reviews the interior design trend in Qatar.

QATAR

H

HMC HMCtotoopen openclinic clinicatatSealine Sealine during duringwinter wintercamping campingseason season

amad Medical Corporation (HMC) opens a clinic in the Sealine area on November 2 to provide medical aid to visitors during the winter camping season. The Sealine Medical Center will operate on weekends during the camping season, from 3pm on Thursdays to 5pm on Saturdays.

Ali Abdullah Al Khater, Chief Communications Officer at HMC and Chair of the Healthcare Communications Committee, said this would be the eighth consecutive year that HMC was operating the clinic.

The clinic is located close to the seashore and popular camping areas to allow for easier access should healthcare services be required by visitors.

“The annual opening of the clinic in the Sealine area is in line with HMC’s commitment to providing the

safest, most effective, and most compassionate care to all of Qatar’s residents and visitors,” said Al Khater.

Al Khater, who is also the Project Manager for the Sealine Medical Center, said the clinic was staffed by a doctor and nurse and equipped to receive patients with minor health concerns as well as emergency cases.

The clinic is supported by HMC’s Ambulance Service, providing campers with round-the-clock access to a team of paramedics and well-equipped ambulance vehicles.

The clinic also has a helicopter landing area to transfer patients from the beach to the clinic and to transfer serious cases to hospital.

QDB QDBshowcases showcases3535SMEs SMEs atatOman Omanexpo expo

T

he Qatar Development Bank (QDB) showcased 35 small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) from the state’s construction sector at this year’s Infra Oman, one of the largest building and construction expos in the Middle East.

The QDB initiative, supported by its export development and promotion agency, Tasdeer, was part of its efforts to advance constructive regional trade ties.

The seventh International Exhibition for Infrastructure & Industrial Projects (Infra) was held at Oman Convention & Exhibition Center.

Every year, sequent editions of the exhibition series unite regional and international industry leaders, contracts, consultants, suppliers and buyers in Oman. The fair serves as an ideal platform to achieve unparalleled insights into the Middle East’s infrastructure development environment.

Notably, visitors enjoy access to a widened range of products, including plastics, wires, bricks, stones, glass, steel, wood, electronics and paints, on display at the exhibition.

QDB’s pavilion at Infra Oman included the following shortlisted 35 companies: Arabian Specialized Materials Co. (ASMA), Salama Road Marking Factory, Doha Waterproof Factory, Seashore Steel, Twyla, International Welding Rods Factory, Doha Cables, Al Sada Factory for Plastic Pipes, Doha Factory for Paints & Chemicals, Doha Plastic, Al Khayarin Plastic Factory, Bumatar German Factory for Plastic Products, Qatar National Aluminum Panel Co. (QNAP), Al Naqeeb Plastic Factory, Sarplast Qatar, Qatar Wire Product Co., Qatar Pipeline & Fittings Co.(QPF), National Paints Factories, Qatari Canadian for Energy and Electrical Industries, Al Bedaya Steel Industries, Al Wasit Cabins (GETC Group), Qatar International Cables Company, Al Bayan for Electronics and LED Technologies, Doha Regional Plastics Solutions, Al Sada Plastic Profiles, Uniplast Qatar, Al MuftahFiberglass Products, ASTAD, Qatar Paving Stones, Qatar Aluminum Extrusion Company (Qalex), Qatar Plastic Products Company, Qatar Wooden Products Company, Qatar Saudi Gypsum Industries Company, Amiantit Qatar Pipes Co. and Qatar Clay Bricks Company.

Speaking at the exhibition, QDB Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Abdulaziz Bin Nasser Al Khalifa

Ashghal Ashghalincreases increases awareness awarenessofofprecautions precautions during duringrainy rainyseason season

stressed the importance of widening Qatar’s commercial trade outreach.

“As HE the ambassador of Qatar to Oman very rightly said: Oman today is a new gateway to Qatar,” Al Khalifa said.

“In Qatar Development Bank’s latest experience at the Infra Oman exhibition this year, we have learnt that through exporting Qatari products to Oman and other interested regional and international parties attending Oman’s exhibition, Qatar has found a very new door to the world,” he noted.

“Harnessing the natural leverage of our region’s geography – and with the support of true friends and brotherly nations, like Oman – we look forward to strengthening our export trade across international commercial markets by sea and by air, close and far,” he added.

Tasdeer Executive Director Hassan Khalifa Al Mansoori described Oman as a “very warm and welcoming” market.

“At QDB, we are proud to serve as our nation’s commerce and trade diplomats,” Al Mansoori said.

A

shghal (Public Works Authority) has launched an awareness campaign for the precautions to be followed in the rainy season, aiming to educate citizens and residents about the most important procedures of preparedness through a bilingual short video and posters.

The video includes guidelines that can be implemented to protect different buildings, properties and homes prior to rain precipitation and other important procedures to be followed during rainfall to avoid damage caused by accumulated water in some places.

These materials are launched by Ashghal to raise the level of awareness about the requirements needed for the prevention and protection from the negative effects that rain may cause.

The correct behavior of individuals would be a great support to efforts of the authority and various governmental entities in protecting lives and properties, while following those precautionary steps help prepare citizens and residents to welcome Qatar’s rains without the occurrence of any damages.

The awareness campaign is divided into two parts: precautionary procedures before precipitation and during. The prior actions include protection of buildings in general, in which the main points include the detection of glass ceilings condition, examining the roof insulation layer, and maintenance of the dam-

2

NOVEMBER 2017

CONSTRUCTION

SITES

“To this end, we mirror our country’s longstanding position of seeking constructive ties with all of our neighbors and we have found Oman to be a very warm and welcoming regional market.

“This year, Qatari companies partake in this regionally well-renowned exhibition – Infra Oman – with the aim of entering into mutuallybeneficial agreements with our Omani partners as well as other regional and international partners.”

Qatar’s pavilion this year received an award for the best-designed one at the exhibition. The award was received by Al Mansoori on behalf of QDB. The exhibition series has grown significantly since its opening in 2011 and today, it is considered Sultanate of Oman’s most comprehensive infrastructure exhibition as its venue and timing concurs with both the Electro Oman lighting exhibition and Oman Industrial Summit.

QDB has been participating in a series of construction products-related expos. This year alone, QDB has taken part in Arabplast, Batimatec, Big 5 and Index exhibitions.

aged ones, in addition to checking windows rubber joints and changing them in case of corrosion.

Precautionary steps include the inspection of all air conditioning and electricity outlets and maintenance of damaged ones to ensure that rainwater does not enter the building.

Ashghal recommends that rainwater drainage systems be periodically inspected and the lifting pumps to be ready in the basements before the rainy season.

This is in addition to making sure that there are barriers preventing rain from entering through the doors, especially if the building is at the same level as the street.

This is in addition to the installation and repair of waterproofing and insulation layers to ensure that rainwater does not leak into the ground floors and the basement.

The video and posters addressed some warnings such as opening manholes during rains, which could endanger the lives of others and cause sewerage to clog.

The awareness materials drew attention to the need for road users to adhere to traffic guidelines and to reduce their speed during rains and be careful while driving through tunnels and bridges, in addition to avoiding the use of non-vehicular roads or tunnels.

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Over Over100 100Chinese Chinese companies companiestototake takepart part ininDoha Dohaexpo expo This year’s exhibition comes concurrently with the Gulf crisis and the unjust siege imposed by neighboring countries on the state of Qatar whose economy is not affected by this siege. This affirms Qatar’s success in dealing with these unfair measures very quickly and directly shifted to alternative sources,

M

ore than 100 Chinese companies are expected to attend the Made in China exhibition slated on November 16 to 19 at the Doha Exhibition and Convention Center (DECC), Qatar Chamber has announced.

Qatar Chamber chairman Sheikh Khalifa Bin Jassim Bin Mohamed Al Thani said the exhibition had attracted a wide range of Chinese companies “that are keen on displaying their products and latest innovations for Qatari investors despite the ongoing unjust siege imposed on Qatar”.

the signing of several contracts and joint ventures among Qatari and Chinese companies.

The exhibition series, while aiming to enhance co-operation ties among Qatari and Chinese businessmen, seeks to take advantage of Chinese expertise in industry and to create a platform to build trade transactions between the two countries.

Sheikh Khalifa assured Qatar Chamber’s readiness to offer “all possible aid” to attract more investments to Qatar, “especially in sectors that offer added value to Qatar’s economy and go in line with the chamber’s support to the country’s strategy in relocating modern technology”.

He said that Qatar Chamber would assist Chinese companies in obtaining the required approvals and the necessary procedures to facilitate their introduction to the Qatari market.

The chairman vowed that Qatar Chamber would continue to hold conferences and exhibitions that contribute to informing foreign investors on the Qatari market and bringing more investments to the country.

Sheikh Khalifa expressed the hope that the third edition of Made in China “will result in building constructive partnerships and alliances that enable Chinese companies to enter the Qatari market”.

“Trade co-operation between the two countries increased in recent years as trade exchange reached QR20bn, and we expect it to grow more due to the launch of a direct marine route linking Hamad Port and some Chinese ports,” said Sheikh Khalifa.

He noted that the expo was “highly-acclaimed” during the first and second editions and led to

Meanwhile, Qatar Chamber assistant director general for Governmental and International Re-

lations Ali Bu Sherbak Al Mansouri has said the staging of the third Made in China exhibition reflects “robust Qatari-Chinese relations”.

Speaking at a press conference in the Chinese city of Dalian, Al Mansouri said the latest edition of the exhibition expected wider participation from major Chinese companies.

“Holding the exhibition for the third year in a row reflects the robustness and strength of Qatari-Chinese relations,” Al Mansouri said.

He described China as a key trade partner of Qatar, with trade exchange last year hitting $5.5 billion, including Qatari exports worth $4 billion to China. China, he said, was Qatar’s fourth trade partner, while Qatar was China’s second-largest supplier of LNG. “The opportunity is there for Chinese companies to supply goods to the Qatari market, especially building and construction materials,” said Al Mansouri, who noted that all the construction work in the projects related to the 2022 FIFA World Cup “is proceeding rapidly according to schedule”.

He saw the exhibition as “an important platform” for Chinese companies to showcase their industries, products and latest technological innovations, as well as a venue to introduce the Qatari business community to these products.

He added that the exhibition allowed Chinese companies to learn about the Qatari market and business opportunities.

Al Mansouri hoped that the exhibition would lead to the signing of a number of agreements between Qatari and Chinese companies and the establishment of joint projects that would serve the economy of both countries.

“This year’s exhibition comes concurrently with the Gulf crisis and the unjust siege imposed by neighboring countries on the state of Qatar whose economy is not affected by this siege.

This affirms Qatar’s success in dealing with these unfair measures very quickly and directly shifted to alternative sources,” Al Mansouri said.

He said Hamad Port was inaugurated and a direct marine route was launched with China’s Shanghai Port, which effectively contributed to the continued flow of Chinese imports to Qatar “without the need to pass across siege countries”.

Dalian City in China is home to many important industries, especially in food, building materials and car spare-parts sectors.

China as a key trade partner of Qatar, with trade exchange last year hitting $5.5 billion, including Qatari exports worth $4 billion to China.

CONSTRUCTION

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NOVEMBER 2017

3

LEGAL

Protecting yourself asas Protecting yourself a Project Manager inin Qatar a Project Manager Qatar

By Chris O’Brien Doha

W

hilst many jobs within the con-

Safety First

Accordingly, a Project Manager will be liable in respect of breaches of the Labour Law where

struction industry involve an element of risk, few are ex-

Whilst there is no standalone health and

such breaches affect the health and safety of its own employees.

posed from a legal perspective

safety law in Qatar, Project Managers ought

as much as the project manager. The role is so

to give consideration to Law No. (22) of 2004

varied and complex that covering all bases in

(the “Civil Code”), Law No (14) of 2004 (“La-

It is unlikely that a Project Manager would be

terms of liability may be difficult.

bour Law”), and most strikingly, Law No (11) of

liable under the Labour Law for injuries sus-

2004 (“Penal Code”).

tained by employees of the contractor or third parties, provided those employees cannot be

Who are the Project Managers?

The Civil Code

assessed in some way to have become employees of the Project Manager, eg. Ministry of

Setting out a universal definition of the “Project Manager” can be difficult. The role is usu-

Article 209 of the Civil Code sets into law the

Interior approved secondment, restructure of

ally provided by a multi–disciplinary engineer-

principle of vicarious liability; namely that if

the entity which instructs or pays the employ-

ing design company which provides a range of

detriment is caused as a result of an unlawful

ee, even where the injury has been sustained

design, procurement, project and construction

act by an employee acting within the general

as a result of a breach of the Labour Law by

scope of their employment, their employer will

the Project Manager.

management consultancy services.

Given that such entities may provide the full range of their services, or just supervise the

be held liable for damages.

Penal Code Therefore, if an employee, in breach of the Labour Law (described below), disregards the

Article 311 of the Penal Code imposes a crimi-

greatly.

health and safety instructions of its employer

nal liability which is punishable by a maximum

resulting in injury or death to another employ-

of three years imprisonment and/or a fine not

We review below the position of a project man-

ee or third party, the employer may be liable for

exceeding QR10,000, for “whoever causes

such acts of the employee.

mistakenly the death of somebody as a result

project, their involvement and liability differ

ager in the traditional sense: the entity who takes full responsibility for the planning, execution and closing of a project (“Project Manager”).

Under Qatar Law, the Project Manager is regulated by the same law that regulates the engineering profession: Law No. 19 of 2005 (“Engineering Law”). Article 1 of the Engineering Law provides that the business of “planning, supervision on execution, providing advice, making feasibility studies, assessing the costs, calculating quantities and managing projects in the various engineering fields” is part of the specialisation of “Engineering Consultancies”.

Accordingly, project management is a branch of the engineering profession.

Within the contract, the Project Manager is usually a third party adviser to the employer, but he may also assume the status of the employer’s agent and some standard form FIDIC contracts expressly authorise the engineer to act as the employer’s agent.

In the same way, the provisions of the contract may grant the Project Manager the authority of an agent, provided that the terms of appointment express this clearly and allow the Project Manager to make decisions on behalf of the Employer.

of negligence, ignorance or non-observance of Liability may also arise under Article 199 of the Civil Code, which provides that “For every fault that causes detriment to a third party, the per-

Article 312 of the Penal Code imposes a crimi-

son who commits it must pay compensation.”

nal liability which is punishable by a maximum

decisions on behalf of another (called the

signed off by the Project Manager’s employ-

Consequently, where an act or omission

exceeding QR1,000 for “mistakenly harming

ees, they will be liable under Article 311.

causes damage, the causal party shall be li-

someone as a result of negligence, ignorance

able to compensate the person who suffers

or non observance of the laws or regulations.”

Given that these liabilities have been given

damage, provided that there is either intention

Articles 311 and 312 expressly include an

criminal status, it is not possible to limit them

or fault. Such fault can be proved by a breach

offence (for which the prescribed penalty is

or contract out of them. The best way Project

of duty or contract.

doubled) where death or injury is caused as

Managers may protect themselves from this

a result of “the violation by the perpetrator of

liability is by implementing tight health and

Therefore, where a Project Manager is in

the occupation, profession or job ethics” (Ar-

safety protections.

breach of its contractual obligations or its du-

ticle 313).

A question of honour

ties, in the event of an injury occurring to a third party, it may be held liable under Article

In the context of a Project Manager, this can

199.

be interpreted as meaning any duties imposed

In accordance with Article 14 of the Engi-

on the Project Manager by contract or by law.

neering Law, a Project Manager is required to undertake an oath before the Engineering

The Project Manager’s potential exposure will be dictated by the scope of the services it is to

For a Project Manager to be held liable under

Committee to the effect that it will perform its

provide. For instance, a Project Manager may

Article 311 or 312 of the Penal Code, it would

services “honestly and faithfully to maintain

be liable for damage resulting from defects in

need to be proven that the Project Manager

the trade secret and to observe the morals

works that have been signed off by it.

has breached its duties under the law or con-

and practices on the profession.”

tract and that such breach caused the death/ If a Project Manager has a supervisory respon-

injury of another person.

to have assumed some of the risk of liability in

Accordingly, given that a Project Manager’s li-

performing activities which “conflict with their

the event of an accident.

ability under these provisions can only occur

profession” or which are “contrary to the prac-

when the Project Manager is in breach of spe-

tices and traditions of such profession.”

cific contractual or legal obligations, its risk will vary depending upon the contractual obliga-

It is questionable whether these obligations

Articles 99 to 107 of the Labour Law set out

tions it commits to and the scope of services

imply a term requiring the Project Manager to

certain requirements that employers’ must

under such contract.

perform its services and exercise its discretion

comply with in respect of their employees; the

binding on the Principal is the essential ingre-

obligations are on the employer to ensure the

For instance, if the death of a person is caused

dient for creating an Agent.

health and safety of its employees.

as a result of a defect in works which were

NOVEMBER 2017

Further, pursuant to Article 17 of the Engineering Law, Project Managers are prohibited from

sibility for health and safety on site he is likely

“Principal” in legal terms), and have them

4

Chris O’Brien is an associate in Clyde & Co’s Middle East Construction and Dispute Resolution Groups, based in the Doha office. Having joined from London, where he trained with a City firm, Chris continues his practice advising on both contentious and noncontentious matters.

On the non-contentious side, Chris has experience in negotiating and drafting contracts for employers, contractors, consultants and subcontractors in relation to both residential and commercial property.

His contentious practice includes acting for employers and contractors in a number of dispute resolution fora, including arbitration, adjudication, mediation and proceedings in the local courts.

of six months’ imprisonment and/or a fine not

Labour Law

The authorisation to act, negotiate and make

the law or regulations.”

Chris O’Brien

CONSTRUCTION

SITES

independently and impartially.

Continued next page. . . . .

BUSINESS . . . . .Continued from previous page

Limiting the risks

of compensation payable in the event of a

It is worth repeating that in terms of health

breach. As a general principle, commercial en-

and safety and certain other types of basic

Such obligations may, of course, be imposed

The earliest, and best time, for a Project Man-

tities have freedom of contract and may, there-

standards, there are no options in relation to

via an express term of the consultancy ap-

ager to limit their liability would be to ensure

fore, agree to limit liability.

limiting the Project Manager’s liability.

pointment in a similar fashion to the standard

that the scope of the works in any contract

terms of certain FIDIC contracts in respect of

accurately reflects the services that they are

the Engineer.

There are several different options a Project

In such situations, with the project underway,

intending to provide, and that this scope fits

Manager may opt to ensure they limit their fi-

it is vital that there are internal policies to help

well within the contracts between project par-

nancial risk:

avoid creating potential liabilities.

a) They may agree a cap to liability, which is

In particular, in the employment of members

usually determined by an external factor, for

of staff responsible for health and safety, high

example a percentage of the consultant’s fee

standards are to be expected to avoid putting

or level of indemnity under the Project Man-

the business (or the employee themselves) at

ager’s PI cover;

risk of causing death by negligence.

b) The Project Manager may agree to exclude

Managers should be vigilant for the potential

certain categories of loss, for example the con-

for this to arise and act in accordance with

sequential losses such as loss of profit or busi-

either their own internal policies (if they have

ness interruption; and/or

one) or the local law to ensure that all employ-

Duty of Care

ticipants.

The distinction between an absolute obligation

The terms of the consultancy appointment,

(ie. to achieve a specified result) and those ob-

and in particular the contractual scope of the

ligations to be performed with reasonable care

services, are critical to the determination of a

is primarily governed by the provisions of the

Project Manager’s liability.

Project Manager’s appointment.

The services and duties need to be sufficiently The parties are free to agree to the requisite

clear and particularised, and must be as accu-

standard of care applicable to the services in

rate as possible in reflecting the reality of the

the contract. However, in the absence of an

Project Managers’ role.

express standard of care, the default position is determined by the substantive law of the

Failure to follow these guidelines may create

contract.

a situation where the Project Manager may be charged with failure to deliver and be liable for

More specifically, Article 253 of the Civil Code

damages caused by actions outside of their

provides that a contractual obligation to exer-

control. There is no substitute for meticulous

cise care in the performance of work or ser-

drafting of a tightly defined set of services.

vices will be discharged if, in the performance

ees are protecting the business. c) The Project Manager may remove all indemnities from the contract, which require them to

Note: All Qatari Laws (save for those issued by

meet a specific potential legal liability of an-

the Qatar Financial Centre (QFC) to regulate its

other, without fault.

own business) are issued in Arabic and there are no official translations, therefore for the

Each of these are likely to be challenged dur-

purposes of drafting this article we have used

ing the negotiations before appointment, how-

our own translation and interpreted the same

ever these ideas may allow a Project Manager

in the context of Qatari regulation and current market practice.

of the work or services, the “debtor” has “ex-

With an accurate scope drawn up, the Project

erted the care of an ordinary person, even if

Manager may then limit their liability by en-

the intended purpose has not been attained.”

suring that their pecuniary damages are also

to focus on where the liabilities arise under

limited. Article 265 of the Qatar Civil Code pro-

their specific scope of the works.

Should you have any questions in connection

Thus, the obligation to perform with reasonable

vides that contracting parties “may assess in

care can be achieved regardless of whether

advance the amount of compensation in the

The final safety net is the Project Manager’s

with this article or the legal issues it covers,

the Project Manager achieves a desired result

contract or in a subsequent agreement.”

professional indemnity insurance. The level

please contact Chris O’Brien of Clyde & Co LLP

and terms of the indemnity should be carefully

at Christopher.O’Brien@clydeco.com or Laura

provided it has, in trying, achieved a standard to be expected of a competent member of its

The Civil Code, therefore, expressly acknowl-

considered in the course of the pre-contract

Warren of Clyde & Co LLP at Laura.Warren@

profession.

edges the parties’ right to agree the amount

negotiations.

clydeco.com

QTA QTAcollaborates collaborateswith with Welcome WelcomeChinese Chinesetotoensure ensure local localindustry industryisisChina Chinaready ready

Q

atar Tourism Authority (QTA) and Welcome Chinese, the only official overseas hospitality certification program recognised

by the Chinese government, have begun a collaboration that will empower the hospitality, tourism and retail sectors in Qatar to meet the requirements of Chinese tourists.

Members of those sectors, as well as representatives of the transport and culture sectors, recently attended sessions organised by QTA and Welcome Chinese officials to discuss the requirements of Chinese visitors, the standards for certification, and the certification process. Industry members were also presented with the training, technical assistance and marketing assistance that Welcome Chinese offers to its certified members across the travel and tourism value chain.

Qatar was granted Approved Destination Status (ADS) in China in September, allowing it to receive tourist groups from China and to promote Qatar as a tourism destination within China. The ADS system seeks to guarantee safe and reliable tourism services for Chinese customers, from both local travel agencies and international tour operators.

Welcome Chinese helps to ensure that tourism industry members within countries that have ADS are individually prepared and positioned to attract and receive Chinese visitors.

The Welcome Chinese Certification is issued by the China Tourism Academy, an arm of the Chinese National Tourism Administration. To be certified, hotels should be able to provide access to Chinese TV

Air Conditioning Units

Ventilation & Smoke Fans

Smoke Management Systems

Cooling Towers

and newspapers, and for a higher-tiered certification, a Chinese option on the breakfast menu. Destination management companies should be able to offer Mandarin-speaking tour guides, as well as invoices and itineraries in Mandarin. All establishments are required to provide free WiFi, hot water (for Chinese tea), and the ability for Chinese guests to pay for products and services with UnionPay, the Chinese-approved payment processor.

Hassan Al Ibrahim, Chief Tourism Development Officer at QTA, commented, “After securing ADS for Qatar as a destination, we are working with individual members of the industry to ensure they are each China-ready and can tap into the largest outbound tourism market in the world. The Welcome Chinese Certification Program provides our industry members with abundant opportunities for business development, helping us to ensure the sustainable growth of the tourism sector.”

Mr. Jacopo Sertoli, President, Welcome Chinese, commented, “Qatar presents exciting opportunities for Chinese visitors to discover a modern hub rooted in cultural authenticity. The destination is already seeing heightened interest from current and prospective Chinese tourists, and we look forward to working with members of the industry in Qatar to ensure more establishments are Certified and ready within the coming months to welcome guests from China.”

To promote Qatar’s offerings and ease of access, QTA opened representative offices in China, with headquarters in Beijing, and supporting locations in Shanghai and Guangzhou.

Boilers, Solar & Electric Water Heating Systems

Where Quality is Peace of Mind

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SITES

NOVEMBER 2017

5

TECHNOLOGY

When thethe short form DCDC When short form stands forfor disseminate andand stands disseminate communicate communicate In a climate like Qatar’s, district cooling is a win-win solution for the country, the developers, the customers and the cooling providers

By Mohannad Khader Doha

“Why should I pay for something that I do not

vast advantages of the system, thus leading

The saving of natural resources, electrical

use?!” This is a common, recurring question

to the lack of knowledge or appreciation of

power, infrastructure expenditures and ac-

most district cooling companies are asked by

district cooling from the customer’s perspec-

cordingly reducing the carbon footprint are

their customers.

tive.

the benefits, to name a few. The collected

It is quite frequently asked in the winter,

If the communication is more transparent

when most end-users switch off their air-con-

from the owner/developer, it is likely that

ditioning system, yet they have to pay for the

the customer will turn to be an advocate for

fixed monthly fees, more commonly known

district cooling, armed with the correct knowl-

as the capacity charges.

edge of the system and the benefits over conventional cooling (to compare apple to apple,

data will demonstrate to the government the importance of such a technology, for the ben efit of society and for a greener future.

The desired outcome of such studies would be to subsidize some of district cooling costs

The answer to this question is not well re-

the argument here is about an apartment/

in order to promote the service based on its

ceived by the customer. Why? The lack of

unit located in a tower using either district

merits as opposed to the misconceptions.

awareness and communication from the off-

cooling or conventional chillers).

In a climate like Qatar’s, district cooling is a

set plays a major role.

To name a few disadvantages of conventional

win-win solution for the country, the develop-

When the building owner/developer signs a

cooling, the initial capital cost of the building

ers, the customers and the cooling providers.

cooling service agreement (CSA) with the dis-

will be greater as a result of having to install

trict cooling provider, to initiate the service,

chillers, transformers, extra-electrical power

District cooling needs to be recognized and

the financial obligations and rights of all par-

connections, and additional contractor profit

ties concerned are communicated; this in-

margins.

cludes that of the customer (end-user) from the cooling service provider.

During the operations, the building owner/ customer will have a higher facility manage-

viewed objectively from all parties; its vast benefits and sustainability warrant recognition in the correct light.

District cooling is being erroneously compared; it does not make sense to compare

When the building owner/developer starts

ment cost due to the extensive scope of work,

to sell or lease the unit(s) to the customer,

increased electrical costs due to the addition-

a building in the middle of the city with four

the financial obligations and rights are not al-

al 60% energy needed in conventional cool-

stories with one in West Bay with 50 stories.

ways communicated plainly from the owner/

ing consumption. These matters are eradi-

developer, thus leading to misunderstanding

cated by district cooling.

and astonishment towards the cooling ser-

It is imperative for the future of district cooling when designing a city, such as The Pearl

vice provider from the customer in relation to

In district cooling, the customers living in tow-

Qatar, Lusail and Msheireb Downtown Doha,

the fees.

ers do not suffer from any issues related to

to form a committee which will establish a

noise and vibration. They enjoy more space It is at this initial stage where the communi-

by eliminating the chillers from the building,

cation gap occurs i.e. the customer must be

having freed space for either car parks or roof

made aware, by the owner/developer, of all

top amenities. Aside from the environmental

financial obligations before buying or renting

benefits of district cooling, there are associ-

the unit(s).

ated building cost benefits. According to our study, implementing district cooling to a tow-

clear and transparent communication plan which will disseminate all information of the utility services, such as district cooling, with sub-developers or customers before they buy the land or the property.

Customers must be aware of their responsi-

er reduces the total building cost by 30% over

We cannot and should not rely on customers

bilities, including paying the monthly charges

20 years.

to seek the obligatory information or read the fine print; it is the responsibility of the owner/

for the cooling service. This includes the fixed District cooling is similar to other utilities;

developer to communicate clearly and for the

there are connection fees, fixed (capacity)

cooling service provider to further elaborate

When the customer is requested to sign the

fees and consumption fees. This applies to

and support the information that is being

individual cooling service agreement (ICSA)

electrical power and water where the differ-

with the cooling service provider, clarification

ence is that the fixed fees are subsidized by

shared.

can be sort from the provider on any misun-

the government in case of electricity and wa-

derstandings of the monthly charges.

ter, therefore the end user only pays the con-

allocated cooling capacity for that unit(s).

sumption and connection fees, and is rarely It is unfortunate that miscommunication

aware of the subsidized fees.

from the owner/developer of the financial ob-

The lack of awareness and communication will lead to misconceptions on the customer’s side; this, in return, could affect relations among all concerned stakeholders.

ligations of the customer clouds the advan-

District Cooling providers such as Qatar Cool,

tages of district cooling, as more focus from

with more than 10 years of service, are work-

*Mohannad Khader is Director of Business

the district cooling provider is spent clarifying

ing to document the advantages of using dis-

Development at Qatar District Cooling Com-

the charges rather than communicating the

trict cooling, over conventional one.

pany (Qatar Cool)

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In district cooling, the customers living in towers do not suffer from any issues related to noise and vibration. They enjoy more space by eliminating the chillers from the building, having freed space for either car parks or roof top amenities.

Aside from the environmental benefits of district cooling, there are associated building cost benefits.

According to our study, implementing district cooling to a tower reduces the total building cost by 30% over 20 years.

Committed to superior quality and results

Eastern Synergy Contracting is a Certified ISO 9001, ISO 14001, ISO 18001 In additional to Construction Management Certified by GSAS - GORD

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EXPEriEnCE suCCEss...

Address: Eastern Synergy W.L.L. Doha, Qatar P.O. Box 11764 Doha, Qatar

Phone Fax Website Email

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: : : :

+974 4041 2233 / 44 +974 4041 2255 www.easternsynergy.com info@es-qatar.com sales@es-qatar.com

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ECONOMY

Qatar Qatarbeats beatsblockade blockade with with35% 35%rise riseininnon-oil non-oil exports exportstoto58 58countries countries

T

he total value of Qatar’s non-oil exports reached QR1.796 billion in August this year compared to QR1.328 billion in July, recording an increase of 35.2%, according to the monthly report of Qatar Chamber on the foreign trade of the private sector.

The report was based on certificates of origin issued by Qatar Chamber’s Research and Studies Department and Member Affairs Department.

Qatar Chamber Director General Saleh Bin Hamad Al Sharqi praised the huge surge in Qatar’s exports in spite of the unfair siege imposed on Qatar. He also hailed local companies which managed to overcome the impact of the blockade.

Al Sharqi noted that the practical response to the unjust blockade is the substantial rise in exports. He said this success is the fruit of efforts undertaken by all of Qatar’s society and response to the directives of HH the Emir Sheikh Tamim Bin Hamad Al Thani and government and private sector officials.

Qatar’s non-oil exports reached 58 countries in August compared to 59 in the previous month. These included 13 Arab countries and the GCC, 11 European countries (including Turkey), 17 Asian countries (excluding Arab ones), 13 African countries (excluding Arab ones) and three countries in North and South Americas and Australia.

As in July, Oman, the Netherlands and Turkey were Qatar’s top non-oil exports destination in August.

Oman was Qatar’s top non-oil exports destination in August, accounting for QR708.98 million or 45% of the total exports in the month. It was followed by the Netherlands with about QR169.11 million or 9.4% and Turkey with QR145.78 million or 8.1%.

India came in the fourth place with about QR126.32 million or 7% followed by Germany with QR112.69 million or 6.3%.

Asian countries received about 80% of the total value of exports.

According to the report, the GCC as an economic block came as the first destination of Qatari exports, accounting for about 40.38% of the total exports with QR708.177 million. Most of these exports were to Oman.

Asian countries, excluding Arab ones, came in the second place. They imported goods worth QR492.205 million which represents 27.41% of the total non-oil exports.

In the third place, European countries, including Turkey, received QR471.008 million or 26.23% of the total value. Arab countries came in the fourth place, excluding the GCC, with total exports of QR79.455 million or 1.11%.

Aluminum alloys, bars and molds topped the non-oil exports with total value of QR479.5 million or 26.7%, whereas helium gas and other industrial gases came in the second place with QR393.2 million or 20.2% of the total non-oil exports.

Gas oils came in the third place with almost QR255.4 million or 14.2% followed by iron grids, angles and poles with QR204.2 million and lotrene with almost QR115.2 million followed by polyethylene, chemical fertilizers, chemical substances and plastic rolls.

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ECONOMY

“MITSUBISHI FUSO authorized distributor”

Barwa Commercial Avenue SYS 061, B19B, Sayer - 05 Next to Dragon Mart, East Industrial Area Rd. P.O. Box: 40382, Doha - State of Qatar Tel.: 40055333 • Fax: 40016999 Email: info@al-wajba.com • www.al-wajba.com

Middle MiddleEast’s East’sGDP GDPtotogrow grow2.4% 2.4%inin 2018 2018asasoutlook outlookremains remainstough tough One of the key challenges for the Middle East economies as we move into the final months of 2017 and into 2018 is the ongoing squeeze on household incomes

T

he outlook in the Middle East region is expected to remain tough, with further squeezes on household income in 2018, according to ICAEW’s latest report, Economic Insight: Middle East Q3 2017. However, overall GDP is expected to grow by 2.4% next year, rising to 4% in 2019.

Accountancy and finance body ICAEW says any extension of Opec’s production cut deal, which ends on March 31 next year, would delay the recovery.

Economic Insight: Middle East Q3 2017, produced by Oxford Economics, ICAEW’s partner and economic forecaster, says governments across the region are unlikely to find any solace in the oil market, which looks likely to require an extension of Opec’s production cut deal merely to stabilize prices around $45-50.

In this case governments would come under further pressure to prioritize public spending in growth-enhancing areas and find new revenue sources in order to stop public debt from accelerating.

One of the key challenges for the Middle East economies as we move into the final months of 2017 and into 2018 is the ongoing squeeze on household incomes. The upcoming GCC value-added tax (VAT) is expected to increase the cost of living in im-

pacted economies by around 2.5% in 2018 and 0.5% in each year from 2019-2022.

Together with the impact of a weaker dollar on import costs, these pressures are expected to drive consumer price inflation at the GCC level from just 1.2% in 2017 to 4.7% in 2018 and 3.5% in 2019.

Consumer spending is expected to grow 2.5% in 2018 and 2019 – compared to an average of 4.2% per annum from 20102016.

Tom Rogers, ICAEW Economic Advisor and Associate Director of Oxford Economics, said: “GCC countries need to shift focus towards deeper, multi-dimensional fiscal policy and institutional reforms. These will help to secure long term fiscal sustainability, and also support the development of vibrant private sectors.

“Furthermore, by boosting investor and market confidence, they can also start a virtuous cycle of stronger investments, including FDI, and output growth in the near term.”

ers use Omani ports for transit to and from Qatar. Figures released by Sohar Port and Freezone show the number of vessels docking rose by 16% in the second quarter of 2017, compared to first quarter and by 18% as against the second quarter of 2016.

However, this will be a modest and temporary boost and does little to address the more fundamental challenges the economy faces.

Oman’s government has not been as aggressive in cutting expenditure recently as other GCC economies and as a result the squeeze on spending is having to last longer – while government spending is up around 3% in cash terms in the GCC as a whole in 2017, it is expected to contract a further 12% in Oman.

In conjunction with the implementation of VAT, the impact of austerity on public sector wages and welfare will maintain pressure on household budgets.

Economic challenges

Household spending is expected to rise by just 3.4% in 2017, and 2.9% in 2018 and 2019 – substantially slower than the 5.6% average rate from 2011-2016.

According to the report, Oman’s economy is benefitting from trade diversion, as export-

The squeeze on public spending will need to be stuck to rigorously, given Oman’s re-

liance on debt issuance to finance a fiscal deficit expected to top 12% of GDP in 2017 and narrow only modestly to 9.4% in 2018.

The consequence of these deficits is that government debt will have risen from just 5% of GDP in 2014 to 57% of GDP in 2018.

More positively, the economy is expected to get a boost from the gas sector in 2018, when the Khazzan gas field comes fully onstream (boosting gas output by an estimated 25%).

Also, Oman is one of non-Opec countries that agreed to Opec deal so if oil output reverts to pre-Opec deal levels in the first quarter of 2018, GDP growth could rebound to 5%. But if Opec’s production cut deal is to be extended, GDP growth is expected to be substantially slower.

Michael Armstrong, FCA and ICAEW Regional Director for the Middle East, Africa and South Asia (MEASA), said: “Getting the deficit under control soon in Oman is critical, and if the Opec deal needs to be extended beyond 2018 Q1, this will require yet more difficult policy choices to be made by the Omani government in order to achieve financial stability.”

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QATAR

AAlook lookatat heritage heritagesites sites ininQatar Qatar AL ZUBARAH TOWN & FORT

A

l Zubarah Archaeological Site is Qatar’s largest heritage site. It was recently named a Unesco World Heritage Site and is considered to be one of the best-preserved examples of an 18th-19th century merchant town in the Gulf region.

E

conomic development as well as urban and demographic growth have had a dramatic impact on Qatar over the last 50 years.

As the landscape continues to change, so do the ways of living. From Bronze Age settlements to medieval palaces, 19th century forts, villages, towers and mosques, Qatar Museums is committed to excavate, restore, protect and promote the sites of Qatar that flourished long ago, thus taking the cultural experience beyond the walls of museums.

THE BARZAN TOWERS

A historic coastal town that is now abandoned, Al Zubarah is situated around 100km northwest of Doha.

While the eastern tower, Al Burj Al Sharqi, has the same height and is also built with stones and cladded with mud, it exhibits the typical rectangular shape of Qatari towers.

Al Zubarah Archaeological Site covers an area of 60 hectares with remains of houses, mosques, large fortified buildings and a market.

“Barzan” means “the high place”. According to local oral traditions, the towers may have been used as a lookout to monitor the surrounding area with its water sources and wells. Other accounts describe that the towers may have been used as an observatory to determine the dates of the lunar calendar.

With the help of an international and local team of archaeologists and scientists, the site of Al Zubarah and the visitor center in the nearby fort offer a key to understanding Qatar’s cultural identity and a model to explain the history of the pearl trade – a significant factor in the development of the modern Gulf region.

T

For approximately 25 years, the palace was at the center of Qatar’s political leadership, serving as residence of the Royal Family and seat of government.

In 1975, the palace was converted into the National Museum of Qatar which included a Museum of the State, a lagoon and a popular marine aquarium. In 1980, the building won the Agha Khan award for restoration and rehabilitation of Islamic architecture.

The Old Palace is now restored and will be at the heart of the new National Museum of Qatar designed by renowned French architect Jean Nouvel.

The restoration of the palace aims at setting a new standard for the treatment of historic buildings and architectural conservation, both in Qatar and across the region.

T

he Barzan Towers are located just on the suburbs of Doha in the village of Umm Salal Mohammed.

The western tower, the so-called Barzan Tower, is almost 14 meters high, consists of three levels and, with its distinctive “T” shape, is considered to possess a unique architectural style in the Gulf region.

The success of Al Zubarah attracted the attention of other Gulf powers, and after several attacks, the town was eventually burned to the ground in 1811. It never fully recovered and was abandoned by the mid-20th century.

he Old Palace was originally built in the early 20th century by Sheikh Abdullah Bin Jassim Al Thani, who is today considered to be the father of modern Qatar.

The department oversees several heritage sites all over Qatar, co-operates with UCL Qatar to introduce archaeology degree programs to university students and often engages in international collaborative projects.

The Towers, built between 1910 and 1916 by Sheikh Mohammed Bin Jassim Al Thani, the founder of Umm Salal Mohammed village, are one of the notable monuments of Qatar.

Founded in the mid-18th century, the town developed into a center of the pearling and international trade and rose to become the country’s largest and most important settlement.

THE OLD PALACE AT DOHA

Headed by Professor Thomas Leisten, the Department of Archaeology, Architectural Conservation and Cultural Tourism, plays an essential role in preserving Qatar’s heritage and putting modern communities in touch with their past.

Both Barzan Towers together with a madrasa and a mosque have recently been restored and are now situated in a garden with indigenous plants.

MURWAB ARCHAEOLOGICAL SITE

M

urwab is the only sizeable Islamic settlement in Qatar not located on the coast.

Dating back to the 9th to 11th century, Murwab used to be a settlement of some 250 houses, constructed in groups, a residence and two mosques.

Excavations have revealed also a group of tombs scattered around the groups of houses.

The Murwab palatial residence is known to be the oldest discovered Islamic palace in Qatar.

The excavated foundation walls overlaying each other show clearly that the structure was rebuilt in same place by reducing its size.

Continued next page. . . . .

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QATAR . . . . .Continued from previous page

AL THAQAB FORT AL JUMAIL VILLAGE

O

n the north-west coast of Qatar, lies the small traditional but ruined village of Al Jumail. It was inhabited by the Al Kubaisi family, and even nowadays it is still one of the favorite weekend destinations of local families, since it represents their heritage, history, the roots and origin of their ancestors.

According to finds such as pottery fragments and fragments of Indian glass bangles scattered around, the fort could possibly date back to the 19th century.

However according to the houses that surround it, it may be of earlier date.

The name thaqab means the water in the bottom of the valley after the rain.

The village comprises a set of important traditional buildings, including a small mosque with its minaret still intact.

Al Thaqab fort is one of the forts that were renovated in the 1980s but unfortunately, not authentically and carefully enough.

This village dates back to the second half of the 19th century and was still inhabited until the beginning of the 20th century.

AL RAKAYAT FORT

In the proximity of the fort, towards the west, there is a deep well that is in use since 1911.

The water is pumped out rather than hauled up in buckets, the latter representing one of the traditional customs kept and still alive nowadays.

A

The fort itself represents a typical desert fort with a rectangular shape, built of rough limestone blocks or flat slabs of beach-rocks (faroush), it has three round corner towers and one rectangular tower and the inside of the fort, typically, was used by the villagers to store food and water in case they were besieged.

one-hour drive from Doha, direction north-west, one can discover an area of forts, traditional architecture and old villages. The fort Al Rakayat is one of the several desert forts dating back to the 19th century.

Located on the road between Al Zubarah and Madinat AlShamal, it is one of the few forts that were renovated in the 1980s. The restoration was done carefully so that the fort resembles to the original structure.

A

l Thaqab fort lies about 10 kilometers from Al Zubarah, on the eastern side of the road.

AL JASSASIYA

The remains of the original fort can still be seen in the courtyard.

The name Al Rakayat means “well” in Arabic, therefore it is believed that the fort was built to protect the essential sources of water.

The existence of a freshwater well in the fort itself and the scattered remains of a village close to the fort support this assumption.

In addition, the fort was a secure place for the nearby population in case of potential conflicts between tribes.

The Al Rakayat fort follows the typical plan of a desert fort: it has three rectangular towers and a round one.

Around the three sides of the large central courtyard are aligned narrow rooms without windows, but with doors that open to the courtyard.

The only entrance to the fort is located in the southern front wall.

A

l Jassasiya is one of a dozen rock-carving sites in Qatar. Rock carvings, so called “petroglyphs”, can be found around the coasts of Qatar as well as on Bahrain’s Al Hawar Island.

But the greatest number of carvings can be found at this major petroglyph site, north-east of Doha, on low limestone hills known also as jebel.

First discovered in 1957, the site was systematically studied in 1974 when 874 carved single figures and compositions were catalogued.

These rock carvings consist mainly of cup marks in various arrangements, including rows, rosettes and stars, but also of carvings, such as boats, footprints and enigmatic symbols and signs.

It is believed that the cup marks are used for playing ancient board games. One of these board games may have been “mancala”. The game was known in Qatar as Al Haloosa or Al Huwaila.

While it has previously been suggested that the earliest might date back to the Neolithic period, new evidence makes it likely that they are not more than a few hundred years old.

Source: www.qm.org.qa

HVAC - Plumbing & Drainage - Fire Fighting - Electrical & ELV - Energy Centers - Street Lighting - 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.

ENGINEERING

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@tragsengineering.com

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HOSPITALITY

Luxury brand sbe opens itsits first Luxury brand sbe opens first Middle Eastern hotel inin Doha Middle Eastern hotel Doha Mondrian Doha is a culinary emporium; with seven restaurants and bars offering un-paralleled experiences

L

eading hospitality company sbe has opened Mondrian Doha, the luxury hotel brand’s first property in the Middle East, promising “a new level of vibrancy and round-the-clock entertainment to the West Bay Lagoon”.

Jorge Giannattasio, Chief Operating Officer at sbe, said it was great to open the first hotel in the region.

“We are thrilled to open our first hotel in the Middle East in Doha, Qatar,” he commented.

“After so much time and investment has been put into this hotel – it is fantastic to be able to see it all finally come to life and we’re looking forward to expanding the sbe brand further into the region next year,” Giannattasio said.

The hotel offers “exceptional lifestyle luxury” with 270 rooms, designed by acclaimed Dutch art director Marcel Wanders in collaboration with South West Architecture, according to a press release issued by sbe.

“The hotel is a fantasy-like environment, true to the Marcel Wanders design and sbe ethos,” says the release.

“It offers five distinctive room categories, including penthouse suites, studio suites, one- and two-bedroom suites and a range of standard guestrooms.

“Located on the 23rd floor of the property, the penthouse suite offers incredible attention to detail combined with panoramic 360-degree views of Doha’s landscape,” the release noted.

“Throughout the hotel, Wanders’ signature floating staircase and hand-painted OneMinute Delft blue vases set a striking and sophisticated atmosphere, while locallyinspired features such as custom-designed Dean majilis sofas and a ‘cabinet of information’, connects guests with the fascinating history and culture of the region.”

The property also boasts the largest ESPA Spa in the world, with the 2,000 square meter spa featuring separate spas for men and women, 11 treatment rooms, a spa within the spa, and Hammam areas.

In addition, Mondrian Doha has a 24-hour fitness center and a rooftop pool.

Mondrian Doha is a culinary emporium; with seven restaurants and bars, offering un-paralleled experiences in Qatar. This includes CUT by Wolfgang Puck, Morimoto, Magnolia Bakery, and a number of other “first to market” concepts, including Walima, a Qatariinspired restaurant.

The hotel will offer a variety of impressive new venue options for event planners and delegates in Doha.

On the ground floor, the 2,000-square-meter Moonstone Ballroom can be adapted to suit every occasion using creative technology, from lavish weddings and award ceremonies

to larger functions and presentations, according to the sbe release.

A further 500-square meters of flexible function and conference space is capable of handling events for 10-300 guests. All rooms can be configured according to specific needs and equipment required.

Facilities include a boardroom, full-service business center, as well as production, wardrobe, make-up and casting rooms.

High-speed wireless Internet is available throughout the hotel.

Additional hotel facilities will include an entertainment floor complete with a nightclub, rooftop pool and skybar.

Chadi Farhat, Chief Operating Officer, Middle East & Europe at sbe, described the hotel opening as an “incredible milestone”.

“I am ecstatic about the opening of this exceptional property and to be finally celebrating this incredible milestone with the team,” he said.

“We eagerly look forward to welcoming and showing the hotel off to our very first guests.

“Mondrian Doha will change the world’s expectations of what a hotel can offer: ESPA’s largest spa, a culinary emporium, the most luxurious bridal suite imaginable and Marcel Wanders one-of-a-kind design throughout.

We are proud to be part of this extraordinary vision.”

QTA QTAand andQatar QatarAirways Airways extend extendfree freestopover stopoveroffer offertoto passengers passengersinintransit transit Phase 1 of campaign generates 34% increase in number of stopover visitors

Q

atar Tourism Authority (QTA) and Qatar Airways are to continue offering their attractive stopover package until the end of the year after

receiving excellent results from phase one.

The offer - part of a broader “+Qatar campaign” - encourages all transit passengers to add Qatar to their travel plans and provides them with an opportunity to discover the country. The offering includes free luxury hotel stays and complimentary transit visas.

Initially planned to run from May until the end of the summer, the offer will now continue until December 31. During the initial period, the country welcomed 34% more transit passengers compared to the same period in 2016.

According to Rashed Al Qurese, Chief Marketing and Promotion Officer at QTA, the offer was an instant success.

The 100,000th customer of the stopover city tour was welcomed last month.

“We are delighted to extend the +Qatar offer to Qatar Airways passengers, and look forward to welcoming more stopover visitors to Qatar,” said Al Qurese.

“Over the past eight months, we have seen the portion of our leisure visitors who are also stopover visitors almost double, showing that our strategy to promote Qatar as a stopover destination is on track,” he commented.

QTA and Qatar Airways have also announced that the offer will now be extended to passengers booking their travel through tour operators, allowing more people to benefit from the offer of a free overnight stay in a luxury hotel or a two-night stay for the discounted price of $100.

“We have also seen the numbers of visitors from Europe and the Americas increase over the past period, demonstrating the impact of our efforts to diversify Qatar’s visitor source markets. In the coming period, the +Qatar campaign will be particularly geared towards Australian, African and European travellers,” Al Qurese added.

In addition to the hotel accommodation, QTA and Qatar Airways are offering a free stopover city tour, which can be booked on arrival at Hamad International Airport.

Ehab Amin, Qatar Airways Chief Commercial Officer, said the scheme would give passengers a chance to enjoy the country’s “renowned hospitality”.

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“At Qatar Airways, we are always looking for ways to ensure that our passengers have a memorable experience, both on the ground and in the sky,” he said.

“Through this exclusive offer, our stopover passengers will have the opportunity to add Qatar to their travel plans, stay at some of Doha’s finest hotels and enjoy the country’s renowned hospitality,” said Amin.

Passengers can select from hotels including The Four Seasons, Marriott Marquis, Radisson Blu and Oryx Rotana.

The city tours, organised by Discover Qatar, will offer passengers the opportunity to explore Doha and experience desert safari adventures or a dinner cruise aboard a traditional dhow.

To be eligible for this offer, passengers simply need to book their flight on www.qatarairways.com, select “multi-city” and choose their hotel once they receive their flight confirmation. This ground-breaking offer is available for all Qatar Airways passengers, both Premium and Economy, demonstrating the airline’s commitment to its brand ethos of “Going Places Together”.

To maximise their time in Qatar, visitors can explore additional stopover packages offered by Discover Qatar.

Known for introducing industry firsts, Qatar Airways is one of the fastest-growing airlines operating one of the youngest fleets in the world.

Qatar Airways has a modern fleet of 200 aircraft flying to more than 150 key business and leisure destinations across six continents.

The award-winning airline has accelerated its global expansion plans, and recently added a number of new destinations to its expanding global network, including Kiev, Ukraine; Prague, Czech Republic; and Dublin, Republic of Ireland.

Qatar Airways has recently launched direct service to Sohar, Sultanate of Oman; Nice, France; and Skopje, Macedonia, connecting even more people to more places, and making it easier than ever for passengers to visit Qatar as part of their journey.

Qatar Airways’ upcoming destinations include Adana, Turkey; Cardiff, Wales; Canberra, Australia; and Chiang Mai, Thailand, to name just a few.

LEGAL

Building contractors beware: Building contractors beware: you may bebe liable forfor construction delay you may liable construction delay Paul Prescott Legal Director Pinsent Masons Qatar

By Paul Prescott Legal Director of Pinsent Masons Qatar

A

recent decision in an international court has given rise to discussion on the allocation of responsibility in construction delays, serving as a timely reminder for contractors to carefully review the terms of their contracts in the Middle East.

On October 2, a decision was handed down by the Technology and Construction Court in London, England, on a clause in a construction contract which sought to allocate the risk of concurrent delays to the contractor.

This adds to the continuing debate on whether parties who enter into a contract are free to allocate responsibility for concurrent delays.

Although this decision will not have binding authority on the interpretation of contracts in the Middle East which are not governed by English law, it does, however, raise interesting arguments on allocation of responsibility for concurrent delays.

In the Middle East, we often see contracts which seek to allocate responsibility to the contractor for delays if there are concurrent delays. In this article we look at this Court decision and see if it could apply here in the Middle East.

UK judgment The recent decision in London arose from the case of North Midland Building Limited vs Cyden Homes Limited.

The parties entered into a building contract, which contained an extension of time mechanism. It, however, was amended so that it stated that when assessing the contractor’s entitlement to an extension of time:”any delay caused by a Relevant Event [an event for which the employer is responsible] which is concurrent with another delay for which the Contractor is responsible shall not be taken into account”.

This means that a delay caused by an employer would not be taken into consideration, when assessing the contractor’s entitlement for an extension of time if there was concurrent delay.

The contractor argued that this clause was “not permitted” in light of the “prevention principle” with the consequence that time was “at large” despite the fact that the parties had agreed this clause with the employer at the time the parties entered into the contract.

The aforementioned prevention principle is a common law principle which contractors often argue to get an Extension of Time (EOT) where the employer delays the contractor’s completion of the works, meaning that they cannot meet the completion date as stated in the contract.

However, although this is a common law principle it is frequently relied upon together with the doctrine of good faith on EOT claims in disputes in the Middle East.

In this English case, the Court rejected the contractor’s arguments and ruled that the meaning of the provision was crystal clear, and “the parties had agreed that... if the contractor were responsible for a delaying event which caused delay at the same time as or during that caused by a Relevant Event [an event for which the employer is responsible], then the delay caused by the Relevant Event ‘shall not be taken into account’ when assessing the extension of time.”

The court proceeded to say that there is no rule of law which prevents the parties from agreeing that concurrent delays be dealt with in a particular way.

How this decision may apply in the Middle East In the Middle East, parties are free to agree the terms they wish to include in their construction contracts with limited exceptions.

The parties frequently include and agree to extension of time mechanisms and the grounds for awarding an extension of time if certain events or circumstances arise.

Equally, as part of those contract terms, parties may decide the way concurrent delays will be dealt with should they arise.

There is a risk that if a similar provision was included in a construction contract in the Middle East, it may be enforceable and be upheld by an arbitrator or a court in the same way it was upheld and enforceable in the British case outlined here.

This case is a reminder that the terms of a building contract are likely to be enforced and therefore contractors should carefully review their contract terms to understand how risks are allocated between the parties, especially when there are circumstances that are likely to cause critical delay to projects.

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BUSINESS

Manateq’s Manateq’sSpecial SpecialEconomic Economic Zones Zonesand andLogistics LogisticsParks Parks continue continuetotoexceed exceedworld-class world-class quality qualitystandards standards

M

anateq’s dedication to the highest standards of health, safety and environment management (HSEM) in its Special Economic Zones and Logistics Parks has been recognized with an international seal of approval through a double ISO certification. Manateq has been awarded ISO 14001:2015 and BS OHSAS 18001:2007 certificates for Manateq HSEMS after a comprehensive, independent review and audit conducted by TŬV NORD CERT GmbH, a service-provider for comprehensive testing and certification on the basis of global specifications and standards for products, services and management systems.

According to the British Standard Occupational Health and Safety Assessment Series (BS OHSAS), the BS OHSAS 18001:2007 certificate demonstrates that an organization has applied a management system to successfully reduce workplace hazards and achieve the best possible working conditions, in line with global industry best practices.

The double certification follows the ISO 9001:2008 certificate for Manateq Quality Management System that was awarded in 2016. According to the International Organization for Standardization (ISO), the ISO 14001:2015 certificate means that an organization meets stringent international requirements in implementing an environmental management system to meet their environmental responsibilities that contribute to sustainability, provide value for the environment, the organization and its employees, clients and interested third parties.

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The Special Economic Zones, Logistics Parks and Warehousing Parks offer investors a range of client services, unparalleled interconnectivity, access to GCC and global markets, high quality infrastructure, an easy set-up process and much more.

“A healthy, happy and safe working environment is critical to the success of any business, for its employees, clients and partners and Manateq is committed to adopting global best practices as we strive to achieve excellence across all strands of our operations,” said Fahad Rashid Al Kaabi, Chief Executive Officer of Manateq.

management systems that prevent untoward incidents and hazards. Manateq also requires investors, consultants, contractors and their subs working on their behalf or within their zones to demonstrate a similar commitment towards strict HSE compliance, while rewarding outstanding HSE practice in the workplace.

“And as we are contributing to the future of our great country, sustainability also plays a large part in our business strategy,” Al Kaabi said.

Manateq is a catalyst for change; a national initiative working to diversify Qatar’s economy through the provision of world-class infrastructures within strategically placed economic zones.

“The ISO 14001:2015 and BS OHSAS 18001:2007 are reward for the commitment of the entire Manateq team to health, safety and the environment as we continue with our Special Economic Zones & Logistics Parks projects’ development,” he said.

“I thank the TŬV NORD CERT GmbH for their continued stringent assessment and audit that has enabled us to exceed such high international standards, following the ISO 9001:2008 certification we achieved in 2016.”

Manateq places strong focus on HSE, striving to set HSE performance objectives that continually improve processes to ensure effective

SITES

Established in 2011, with HE Sheikh Ahmed Bin Jassim Al Thani, the Minister of Economy and Commerce, as the Chairman, Manateq is positioned as a vital component in achieving the “Economic Development” pillar of the Qatar National Vision 2030.

The Special Economic Zones, Logistics Parks and Warehousing Parks offer investors a range of client services, unparalleled interconnectivity, access to GCC and global markets, high quality infrastructure, an easy set-up process and much more.

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15

IN FOCUS

I nterior

Design

Interior Interiordesign designtrend trendininQatar: Qatar: Adapting Adaptingmore moreuniversal universaldesigns designs totosuit suitinternational internationallifestyle lifestyle

I

Qatar is opening its arms to modern projects with interior designers adapting more universal designs to suit the international lifestyle that people are increasingly getting accustomed to. With big investors entering the hospitality sector in Qatar, modern designs are becoming hugely popular. And it is something that is coming through to residential interiors.

nterior designing is all about making the given space appealing and functional to its occupants. In most Arab countries, real estate drives the local economy and interior designing plays a vital role in personalizing residential and commercial spaces, depending on the preferences of owners.

In the Gulf region, the interior designs are based on two influences; one is the traditional kind and the other is of a modern outlook. In the past decade, there has been a change in the way interior designers are creating a fusion of the two to create beautiful spaces.

There is a growing popularity of local natural style fused with luxury. While certain elements are modern and advanced, the designs have a more traditional look. It is the responsibility of interior designers to keep in mind the local trends while still be able to add modern touches to it.

There are three major reasons for the growing trend of the interior design becoming more global than ever before. The first reason is the luxury hotels and restaurants one finds abroad. When people travel around the world and get to know them, they come back home hoping to create a piece of luxurious hotels right in their home.

Another reason is the easy access to lifestyle magazines and social media that offer people an insight into the trends worldwide and has influenced the works of interior decorators.

With the growing ease of accessing global products and brands, nothing is out of reach for interior decorators. Interior decorators can easily create sophisticated and unique interior designs owing to global distribution channels.

Arab countries such as Qatar are opening their arms to modern projects and are becoming global in their outlook. Even though the culture, lifestyle and habits of people in Qatar are quite different from those that prevail around the world, interior designing trends are not very different than what is being seen in other developed countries.

Interior designers are adapting more universal designs to suit the international lifestyle that people are becoming accustomed to.

With big investors entering the hospitality sector in Qatar, modern designs gain popularity

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NOVEMBER 2017

CONSTRUCTION

and such a trend is coming through to residential interiors for local people.

Qatar is the cultural epicenter of the Middle East but it is also adapting new trends in interior designing. Whether it is a villa, an office, a hotel or a restaurant, Qatar is not afraid to adapt innovative interior designs that inspire the world.

With more Arab clientele willing to spend on the interiors of their house, it is essential for designers to listen to their clients about what they want. Since these clients have been traveling around the world, they have certain standards that need to be met. The designs need to be suitable for people and be according to their lifestyle.

Not just residential, even office spaces are adapting to novel designs. Thus, designing and development of office interiors can be a daunting process and a lot of thought needs to go into them.

A good office design is crucial as it provides employees with an environment to complete different tasks, open lines of communication and also make them happy to be in the office.

The design can help elevate the morale of the employees and also increase their productivity.

Since the performance of a business is dependent on the productivity of the employees, right office design is essential. A great design can quickly transform a dull and gloomy office into an inspirational one that reflects positivity.

Interior designers need to work hard to ensure that the finished design meets the needs of their clients and even exceed their expectations. Builders, construction professionals and the interior designers need to work in partnership to create the winning design for residential and commercial buildings.

It is essential to challenge the trends that are becoming too common and try to surpass their beauty even further. Technology has helped people from different countries to come closer and Qatar has designers from various parts of the world who come to work here. The fusion of traditional and modern designs will help create more stylish and sustainable ones that people today are looking for.

SITES

I nterior

Design

IN FOCUS

一䄀䈀䤀一䄀 䌀䔀刀䄀䴀䤀䌀 䄀椀爀瀀漀爀琀 匀琀爀攀攀琀Ⰰ 圀愀欀爀愀 刀漀愀搀 ㄀㌀ Ⰰ 䐀漀栀愀Ⰰ 儀愀琀愀爀 倀栀漀渀攀㨀 ⬀㤀㜀㐀 㐀㐀㘀㔀㈀㌀㐀㔀 䜀栀愀爀愀昀愀 䈀爀愀渀挀栀 一攀砀琀 琀漀 琀栀攀 倀愀猀猀瀀漀爀琀 伀昀ǻ挀攀 倀栀漀渀攀㨀 ⬀㤀㜀㐀 㐀㐀㤀㜀㤀

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17

I nterior

IN FOCUS

Design

2022 2022FIFA FIFAWorld WorldCup Cup gives design givesa aboost boosttotointerior interiordesign industry industryininQatar Qatar

Q

Green living style

($667 m) and education ($452m) sectors

atar’s economy is growing steadi-

new hotels and resorts are coming up in the

ly with the real estate sector es-

state to accommodate guests and participat-

pecially flourishing, aided by a

ing teams. All these premium places are be-

Qatar experiences extreme heat most months

2016. The residential sector remained buoy-

rise in population, sprouting of

ing decorated with smart interior, which has

of the year and that is one of the reasons for

ant with an annual value of more than $3 bn.

housing communities and a booming hospi-

given a boost to the interior designing busi-

the excessive use of HVAC products like air-

tality industry.

ness.

conditioners in the state. With improved life-

Individual interior product industries are also

style and for maintaining ecological balance

experiencing profitable growth. The lighting

have all increased interiors investment since

As space is considered a strategic asset, both

Besides established interior designing com-

in environment, Qatar is now emphasizing a

corporately and residentially, initiatives are

panies, new designers are also getting an op-

clean green lifestyle with energy conservation

made nowadays to utilize it at its best. Also,

portunity to try their luck in these establish-

and efficiency.

urban lifestyle, sophisticated ambience and

ments and some of them seem to be doing

overall financial affluence have all given a

pretty good.

The interior decor of residences and office premises in Qatar are going through a sea

new thrust to interior designing.

As work on world-class stadiums for the 2022

change, where skilled and knowledgeable in-

Qatar has recently introduced a raft of initia-

FIFA World Cup is progressing, millions of dol-

terior decorators are playing a dominant role

tives to boost its tourism sector and new pre-

lars in investment are committed for design-

in implementing an energy-efficient interior.

mium hotels and resorts are mushrooming

ing and constructing commercial, housing,

around the country, which lay extreme impor-

hospitality and logistics centers to cater for

tance on interior designing of these places.

the large number of tourists Qatar is expected

The role of interior decor of these places is

to host.

Market response

fixtures market is booming, with the region’s lighting systems market predicted to be worth $3.5 bn by 2020. Textile imports and exports are valued at $3bn-a-year, with furniture and fittings recording similar figures.

Among the most appraised companies in Qatar’s interior décor segment are La Sorogeeka, Mezzaluna, Jotun, Seasons Accessories Inc, Cristal de Paris, and Stil Décor. But the list not complete.

Interior design is one of the Gulf’s fastest growing industries. According to the report,

It is evident that the 2022 FIFA World Cup is

Qatar’s building rush for the 2022 FIFA World

the Gulf region’s interiors industry is valued

a major thrust for the interior decoration in-

Cup has resulted in interior design splurge. It

at its highest within the building sector, where

dustry in Qatar; it is not the sole one, how-

Qatar has been awarded the rights to host the

has been estimated that since last year, Qatar

its annual worth is $9.2 bn – up almost $1 bn

ever. The ground for the business to flourish

2022 FIFA World Cup and the country is gear-

has been experiencing tremendous growth in

on last year. The commercial real estate ($1.1

has already been available in Qatar’s evolving

ing up to host the prestigious event. Lots of

interior designing products manufacturing.

bn), hotel ($2.1 bn), retail ($1.2 bn), hospital

lifestyle.

crucial in their rising competition of attracting guests.

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NOVEMBER 2017

CONSTRUCTION

SITES

I nterior

Design

IN FOCUS

Moss Mosswalls walls providing providinga afresh freshperspective perspective ononinterior interiordesign design

green oasis inside your house, that can also help insulate your walls.

I

science of fashioning an integral part of any building to create a healthy and aesthetically-satisfying environment. Sus-

tainable interior design is a way of thinking that considers the impact on the environment and on human health. Interior designers are increasingly trying

to move in a greener di-

rection, directly improving human and ecological health.

Green interior design is just like typical interior design except that it focuses more on improving indoor air quality as well as minimizing the negative impact on the environment.

You can create a sustainable home, making it quite eco-friendly, even as you use your own personal style and tastes in planning its overall design.

The latest trend in sustainable interior design that’s picking up steam is moss walls – a

crusty form of life, consisting of a symbiotic relationship (two organisms living together

Moss walls

nterior design is a combination of art and

with low-maintenance lichens which are a

with mutual advantages) between fungus and

In today’s digital world, when one could be accused of failing to keep in touch with one’s surroundings, building a connection with nature is more significant than ever. Therefore, designers seek out alternative options and then go for creative interior design ideas like moss walls - a relatively cheaper and lowmaintenance choice.

algae.

Modern buildings with closed-air ventilation systems follow an unpleasant practice of circulating musty and impure air which may create serious health problems like asthma and allergy.

Moss walls could be an ideal option to get rid

Moss walls are a cool way to bring the “outside” in.

of this problem since they purify the air. It is

Mosses are small, leafy-green plants which are flowerless and have stems that grow in moist dark places. They often can be replaced

air-filtering system composed of rocks, micro-

like an environmentally-friendly air-cleaning system. In essence, they work like an indoor organisms and plants that absorb dirty air and exhales clean air.

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NOVEMBER 2017

19

TOURISM

Qatar embarks onon Qatar embarks new chapter ofof new chapter tourism development tourism development Government announces a new governance structure for the tourism sector to co-ordinate, consolidate and focus the efforts of its key members and stakeholders

Q

atar has launched the Next

foundations that have been laid for the

heart of the Next Chapter. The strategy

will be charged with developing large-

Chapter of its National Tour-

tourism sector since 2014, and to further

lays out plans and measures that are de-

scale tourism products and experiences,

ism Sector Strategy 2030

develop the country’s existing cultural and

signed to ensure favorable experiences at

promoting the destination internationally,

natural assets,” he said.

every touch point of the visitor’s journey.

and consolidating the efforts of existing

which charts the coming five

stakeholders in the business events sub-

years of the tourism sector’s growth in Qa-

“As a result, the Next Chapter positions

These include programs to facilitate inter-

tar.

Qatar as a hub to discover - where cultural

actions and shared experiences between

authenticity meets modernity, where the

Qatar’s residents and its guests, as well

“The tourism sector is unique in its reli-

The bold and transformative plan was an-

sand meets the sea, and where people

as the creation of tourism experience

ance on many ancillary sectors to suc-

nounced by HE Sheikh Abdullah Bin Nass-

of the world come together to experience

units in all relevant public and private sec-

ceed. Recognizing the importance of close

er Bin Khalifa Al Thani, Qatar’s Prime Min-

unique offerings in culture, sports, busi-

tor entities that will be tasked with ensur-

co-ordination, the Qatari government has

ister and Minister of Interior, at the World

ness and family entertainment.”

ing that their organizations’ services are

endorsed a new governance structure that

continuously enhanced to provide remark-

will empower the sector and help us work

able experiences for Qatar’s visitors.

together to achieve greater results,” com-

Tourism Organization’s (UNWTO’s) official celebration of World Tourism Day, which is

Al Ibrahim pointed out that the Next Chap-

being hosted this year in Doha.

ter introduced a tourism blueprint for the

sector.

mented Al Ibrahim. “This new structure

country, outlining how this positioning

The next five years will also witness inten-

also helps us to expand the functions of

The Next Chapter defines what Qatar will

would come to life over the next five years.

sive efforts to ensure infrastructure, both

product development, international pro-

be known for as a tourist destination, and

This blueprint identifies six geographic

physical and digital, is in place to facilitate

motion, as well as the development of the

guides the development of products, ser-

zones across the country and ties each

visitors’ journeys to, from and within Qa-

business events sub-sector, all while en-

vices and experiences that will bring this

zone to tourism themes based on the

tar. In addition, training programs will be

suring they move forward with significant

vision to life.

area’s geographic characteristics and

developed and provided to all government

involvement and leadership from the private sector.”

natural assets. Local and international in-

and private sector employees in tourist-

HE Sheikh Abdullah Bin Nasser also an-

vestors will be invited to develop tourism

facing jobs.

nounced that in the coming months, the

products and services in each geographic

sector’s governance will be reorganized

zone, in line with its proposed theme.

He added that by putting new policies

New governance structure

around a new National Tourism Council

aims to further develop important sector

that is empowered to focus and integrate

“The opportunities presented in the Next

the efforts of key stakeholders and fa-

Chapter are boundless,” he noted. “Profes-

cilitators in ways that will provide clarity,

sionals, investors, and the people of Qatar,

direction, and momentum for the tourism

all have the chance to be part of building

sector’s improvement and growth.

what Qatar will be known for in the minds of visitors, for decades to come.”

The Next Chapter charts a clear path of action for product and service development

In addition to the development of tourism

that will define the Qatar tourism experi-

products, the Next Chapter also details a

ence.

plan to expand the country’s calendar of year-round tourism festivals and events,

Hassan Al Ibrahim, Chief Tourism Develop-

and to generate global interest in the

ment Officer at Qatar Tourism Authority,

country through expanding Qatar’s global

explained that the Next Chapter would po-

network of tourism promotion offices.

sition Qatar as a hub to discover.

Experience for visitors

To achieve the Next Chapter’s targets, Qatar’s leadership has announced a new governance structure for the tourism sector to co-ordinate, consolidate and focus the efforts of its key members and stakeholders.

enablers, such as a supportive regulatory

Qatar Tourism Authority (QTA) will become the National Tourism Council, and will report to a Board of high-level representatives, chaired by HE the Prime Minister and Minister of Interior.

Five-year targets

The Board will guide the overall development of the sector, monitor tourism sector performance, and ensure cross-sector collaboration and focus.

comed in 2016.

“Together with our partners in the public Ensuring the best possible end-to-end

most effective ways to build on the strong

experience for visitors to Qatar is at the

NOVEMBER 2017

framework for tourism establishments, enhancing the ease of doing business in the sector, and additional visa facilitation measures to increase visitor access to Qatar.

The Next Chapter aims to attract 5.6 million visitors to Qatar annually by 2023, double the number which the country wel-

It also aims to achieve a 72% occupancy rate across all hotel establishments, through a combination of increasing de-

and private sectors, we have explored the

20

and structures in place, the Next Chapter

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The Board of the National Tourism Council will also oversee three new entities that

mand and diversifying the country’s tourist accommodation offering.

TOURISM Also by 2023, the strategy aims to have

showing a total (direct and indirect) contri-

on the area’s geographic characteristics

• Developing and running training pro-

increased tourism’s direct contribution to

bution to Qatar’s GDP of 6.7%.

and natural assets.

grammes for all employees in tourist-fac-

to QR41.3 billion, representing a direct

• Introducing new and enticing tourism

Local and international investors will be

contribution to the GDP of 3.8% (com-

festivals, creating a colorful year-round

invited to develop tourism products and

Why is it necessary to restructure

pared to 3.5% in 2016).

calendar of events and making significant

services in each geographic zone, in line

the sector?

contributions to the local economy.

with its proposed theme/s.

Qatar’s GDP from QR19.8 billion in 2016

What is the Next Chapter?

The Next Chapter of the Qatar National Tourism Sector Strategy builds on the significant development the sector has witnessed since the launch of the strategy in 2014, and charts a five-year plan of sustainable growth up to and beyond the 2022 FIFA World Cup. This five-year plan consists of two tracks working in parallel to develop tourism in Qatar: 1. Developing and marketing the tourism products that will attract people to visit Qatar, with a focus on creating an enhanced end-to-end visitor experience.

ing jobs.

This is an exciting journey. It involves fur• Growing global presence through the

For example, owing to its unique biodiver-

ther defining the position and products

establishment of nine international repre-

sity and beautiful natural landscapes, the

that make Qatar unique. It involves fa-

sentative offices and over 200 global me-

zone of Al Khor and Al Thakhira has been

cilitating the marketing and investments

dia and trade campaigns in key markets.

allocated the theme of eco-tourism.

needed to realise rapid and sustainable growth. And, it involves transforming the

How was the Next Chapter developed?

The Next Chapter is a result of a collaborative, cross-sector process involving: • Gathering input from over 20 public and private sector leaders • Six workshops with the participation of over 120 stakeholders

2. Putting in place all the policies and frameworks necessary to support the de-

• More than 20 hotel managers, tour op-

velopment of the tourism sector in Qatar.

erators and visitors interviewed

Why was the Next Chapter devel-

• Consultations with tourism experts

oped?

• Regional and global benchmarking Since the launch of the Qatar National

studies around the UK, the USA, Iceland,

Tourism Sector Strategy in 2014, the tour-

Oman, Singapore and Australia

ism industry has grown and matured rapidly, and now is the time to take it to the next level.

Since 2014, the number of stakeholders in Qatar’s tourism sector has grown, new projects and sub-sectors have emerged, and new data has been gathered. With the Next Chapter, that development will be accelerated and defined with clarity and focus.

What has Qatar achieved since 2014?

• Qatar has become the most open country in the region, thanks to a series of visa facilitation policies, including a visa waiver for citizens of 80 countries.

• The emergence of a vibrant cruise tour-

• Reviews of all existing tourism strategies What performance indicators is the Next Chapter targeting by 2023?

• 5.6 million visitors

Investors will be invited to develop tourism

way that we regulate and operate the in-

products and services such as eco-lodges,

dustry itself.

nature tours, pearl-diving and water sports To achieve the Next Chapter’s targets, Qa-

experiences.

tar’s leadership has approved a new govHow will these products be market-

ernance structure for the tourism sector

ed internationally?

to coordinate, consolidate and focus the efforts of its key members and stakehold-

In order to generate global interest around

ers.

the reasons to visit Qatar, the Next ChapThe governance structure will be reorgan-

ter calls for:

ised around a National Tourism Council • Increasing the number of representative

that is empowered to bring together stake-

offices around the world and the number

holders in ways that will provide clarity,

of markets covered.

direction, and momentum to the tourism sector’s growth.

• Running global campaigns to market QaWhat will the new structure look

tar as a destination

like?

• Working with DMCs to package products and events to deliver complete Qatar expe-

The main government tourism entity will

riences for prospective visitors.

be the National Tourism Council, which will replace Qatar Tourism Authority and

How will the visitor experience be

focus on strategic planning, attracting in-

enhanced over the next five years?

vestments, developing and delivering festivals, regulatory affairs, and enhancing

New plans and measures are being de-

the visitor experience at every touch point.

• 67% leisure visitors

signed to ensure favourable experiences at every touch point of the visitor’s jour-

The Council will report to a Board of high-

• 4 million hotel guests

ney to, from and within Qatar. This will be

level representatives from relevant sec-

achieved through:

tors and private sector entities. This will

• QR41.3 billion direct contribution to

be chaired by the Prime Minister and Minister of Interior.

GDP (representing 3.8%)

• The creation of tourism experience units

• QR81.2 billion total (direct and indirect)

entities – these will be tasked with ensur-

It will guide the overall development of

contribution to GDP (representing 7.5%)

ing that their organisations’ services are

the sector, monitor tourism sector perfor-

streamlined and accessible to tourists.

mance, and ensure cross-sector collabora-

in all relevant public and private sector

tion and focus.

How will the sector be developed in the next five years?

ism sub-sector, with projections showing

• Introducing programs to facilitate interactions and shared experiences between

The Board will also oversee three new

Qatar’s residents and its guests.

entities which will be charged with devel-

that the country will welcome approxi-

The Next Chapter introduces a tourism

mately 300,000 cruise visitors in the

blueprint for the country, outlining how

2019/2020 season.

this positioning will come to life over the

• Working with relevant authorities to en-

experiences, promoting the experiences

oping large-scale tourism products and

next five years. This blueprint identifies six

sure infrastructure, both physical and digi-

internationally and consolidating the ef-

• Increasing economic impact on Qatar’s

geographic zones across the country and

tal, is in place to facilitate visitors’ jour-

forts of existing players in the business

overall economy: with 2016 estimates

ties each zone to tourism themes based

neys to, from and within Qatar.

events sub-sector.

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21

HEALTH

Psychological Psychological well-being well-beingatatwork work isiskey keytotoemployees’ employees’ overall overallproductivity productivity

A

wareness of mental wellness in the workplace and the importance of psychological well-being in relation to overall health is on the rise. In recognition of this, the theme of this year’s World Mental Health Day, observed annually on October 10, was “Mental Health in the Workplace”.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), depression and anxiety disorders can have an impact on a person’s ability to both work and productivity.

“Our mental health is affected by social, biological and psychological factors,” says Dr Majid Al Abdulla, Deputy Chair of Psychiatry at HMC’s Mental Health Service.

The WHO says employers and managers who establish workplace initiatives that promote mental wellness and support employees who have mental disorders see gains not only in the health of their employees but also in their productivity.

“It affects how we think, feel, and act. It also helps determine how we handle stress, relate to others, and make choices. Mental health is important at every stage of life, from childhood and adolescence through adulthood,” points out Dr Al Abdulla.

Globally, more than 300 million people live with depression, a leading cause of disability. More than 260 million are living with anxiety disorders and many of these people live with both.

The world health body states that, globally, more than 300 million people live with depression. More than 260 million are living with anxiety disorders and many of these people live with both.

“Mental illness is not something to be embarrassed about or seen as a hopeless situation. In many cases, mental health problems can go away and many people recover completely. Learning about various coping techniques can help individuals deal with stress which can often impact on a person’s mental well-being,” he added.

Workplace stress can result in habitual absence from work and going to work despite being unwell and also higher rates of accidents and injuries.

There are many contributing factors in the workplace that can lead to stress, burnout and depression. These include poor work organization, excessive workload, conflicting roles, job insecurity, lack of support from higher management and ineffective communication.

Iain Tulley, CEO, Mental Health Services, HMC, recommends that organizations, especially large ones with many employees, consider introducing some form of a staff-support program that can provide assistance through prevention and early intervention for workers affected by stress and emotional and mental health problems.

“Keeping well is very important, but at times of need, we encourage seeking professional help as soon as possible,” notes Dr Al Abdulla.

“The first contact should be with a primary healthcare physician,” he adds Dr Al Abdulla says that at HMC, there is a broad spectrum of services on offer under the corporation’s Mental Health Services which cover the entire age range from children to older people.

HMC’s Mental Health Services can be accessed in a number of ways, including referral from within HMC, and primary health care and private clinics.

Children and adolescents can also be referred to by a doctor, counselor or school representative to the Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service.

Healthcare professionals interested in learning more about best practice in mental health can attend the sixth Qatar International Mental Health Conference, scheduled to take place from November 30 to December 2 at the Hilton Hotel in Doha.

Knowing Knowingthe thesigns signs ofofsepsis sepsissaves saveslives lives

S

epsis is a serious illness and can lead to a life-threatening condition called septic shock. The condition is an extreme response triggered by an infection and if untreated can lead to shock, organ failure and death. In Qatar, the Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC) marked World Sepsis Day recently with awarenessraising activities for healthcare professionals to improve recognition of the signs and symptoms of sepsis.

“Greater awareness among the general public as well as more specialized education for hospital staff is key to ensuring that fewer patients with sepsis have their condition deteriorate to a severely critical level,” said Dr Hassan.

DrIbrahim Fawzy Hassan, Chairman of HMC’s Critical Care Center and Chair of the HMC Sepsis Program Steering Group, called sepsis one of the leading causes of death.

Sepsis follows a unique and time-critical clinical course which, in the early stages, is highly responsive to treatment. Sepsis is a medical emergency but can be difficult to diagnose because early symptoms are often confused with other conditions. Awareness of the signs and symptoms of sepsis and timely treatment saves lives.

We have developed a corporate program for sepsis care, which is based on international best practice that has been adapted to our local needs,

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“We have developed a corporate program for sepsis care, which is based on international best practice that has been adapted to our local needs,” he added.

Symptoms of sepsis can include fever, chills, rapid heartbeat and confusion, with symptoms of septic shock including confusion, nausea and vomiting, rash and joint pain.

Individuals with weakened immune systems, children, infants and the elderly are most vulnerable to developing the condition.

SITES

Those with chronic illnesses such as diabetes, Aids, cancer and kidney or liver disease are also at increased risk as are individuals who have experienced a severe burn or physical trauma.

A person’s immune system usually works to fight any germs, including bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites, to prevent an infection. If an infection does occur, the body’s immune system will try to fight it. But sometimes the immune system stops fighting these germs and begins to turn on itself and this is the start of sepsis.

Patients with sepsis have a better chance of recovery when their healthcare teams are well trained in providing specialized and prompt care.

Sepsis causes between six and nine million deaths worldwide every year, many of which are preventable. According to the Global Sepsis Alliance (GSA), it is a major cause of maternal and neonatal illness and mortality.

Last year, HMC launched a sepsis program as part of its patient safety agenda. The program aims to boost care services for all patients diagnosed with sepsis as well as to support clinicians in recognizing and diagnosing sepsis early.

Dr Ahmed Labib, Senior Consultant ECMO, ICM and Anesthesia, and HMC Sepsis Program Chair, explained: “A person’s immune system usually works to fight any germs, including bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites, to prevent an infection. If an infection does occur, the body’s immune system will try to fight it. But sometimes the immune system stops fighting these germs and begins to turn on itself and this is the start of sepsis.

Patients with sepsis have a better chance of recovery when their healthcare teams are well trained in providing specialized and prompt care.”

EVENT

Doha Dohatotohost host World WorldTrade TradeAgenda Agenda Day Dayevent event

D

oha is to host next year’s World Trade Agenda Day (WTA) event which will discuss challenges and opportunities facing business leaders and evaluate the private sector’s role in suggesting concrete proposals. This was announced during a session of the World Trade Organization (WTO) public forum, Trade: Behind the Headlines, which was held in Geneva recently.

A session entitled “Building for success: a world trade Agenda for the Buenos Aires Ministerial Conference”, was organized on the third and last day of the forum under the WTA, a joint initiative by ICC and Qatar Chamber, which mobilizes global business to help governments set key multilateral trade negotiation priorities to ease trade facilitation and contribute to economic growth and job creation.

Qatar Chamber (QC) and the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) participated in the public forum which provided a platform for deliberation on how trade and WTO can contribute to attaining sustainable development goals, how the benefits of trade can be shared more widely among countries, businesses and individuals and how best to tackle the challenges of the changing trade landscape, a press release by Qatar Chamber said.

The session presented a WTA report which discusses urgent needs for more liberalization and better rules in global trade, including what WTO members should focus on in the period before and after the upcoming WTO Ministerial Conference which will be held in Buenos Aires, Argentina, in December 2017.

Sheikha Tamader Al Thani, Director of International Relations and Chambers Affairs at

b

g

QC, said: “Qatar Chamber is keen to participate in the WTO Public Forum through the World Trade Agenda initiative due to the importance of this conference in charting the needed directions to facilitate world trade.”

She said that Qatar Chamber had already launched, in co-operation with the International Chamber of Commerce, the World Trade Agenda initiative, which seeks to assist governments in identifying priority fields in trade. It had also launched a WTA “Building for Success” report last March, which included several key proposals that can contribute to strengthening trade around the world.

Sheikha Tamader noted that since the Doha Negotiation Round in 2001, the Qatar Chamber had been exerting great efforts to facilitate international trade. She praised the close co-operation between Qatar Chamber and the ICC, which has resulted in several initiatives, including the World Trade Agenda initiative, whose recommendations contributed to the conclusion of a historic treaty to facilitate global trade at Bali, Indonesia, in 2013. Sheikha Tamader pointed that Doha would host the World Trade Agenda Day next year to discuss the challenges and opportunities facing business leaders and evaluate

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the role of the private sector in suggesting concrete proposals to that end.

The “Building for Success” session argued that the WTO members should respond to current challenges with renewed action, deploying better defenses against protectionism and crafting actions that would have a meaningful impact on trade and economic growth, especially in the area of digital trade policy.

Panelists focused on five important issues highlighted in the report for the WTO and WTO members: trade in non-agricultural goods, trade in services, e-commerce, improved rules on new competition distortions regarding state-owned enterprises, local content requirements and export restrictions and investment.

Sustainable development goals were also a key focus of discussions in many sessions throughout the three-day public forum.

Speakers argued that only by enabling a framework of rules for trade and investment, they could hope to achieve the UN sustainable development goals. The goals put significant emphasis on the role that trade can play in promoting sustainable development.

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

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ACCESSIBLE QATAR

QTA QTApartners partnerswith with Society Societyfor forRehabilitation Rehabilitation ofofSpecial SpecialNeeds Needstototrain train hospitality hospitalitystaff staff QTA partners with Qatar Society

Q

atar Tourism Authority (QTA) has partnered with the Qatar Society for Rehabilitation of Special Needs to organize a series of

training courses that will enable members of the hospitality sector to provide disabled guests with “seamless experiences”, in line with QTA’s Hotel Grading and Classification System. The initiative aims to empower those who work in hotel establishments to provide the highest standards of service members of the disabled community and to enhance their guests’ stay at any of Qatar’s hotels, by ensuring that the physical and digital infrastructure is available to support their needs.

According to Hassan Al Ibrahim, Chief Tourism Development Officer at QTA, accessibility is a key component of the Hotel Grading and Classification System, which was released by QTA in early 2016. The system directly ties the number of stars a hotel establishment has with how accessible it is.

“We are delighted to collaborate with Qatar Society for Rehabilitation of Special Needs to deliver this training to members of the hospitality sector,” commented Al Ibrahim.

bers of sectors across the country were able to support the needs of disabled members of the community, in line with Qatar’s National Vision 2030.

“As the entity responsible for regulating the tourism and hospitality sector, QTA spares no effort to ensure that the needs of all community members are taken into consideration in the development of the sector,” he noted.

The Society’s aim is to ensure as many people as possible are equipped with the knowledge and skills to support those with special needs, in accordance with the UN Convention on the Rights of People with Disabilities, which Qatar signed in 2008.

“ Thanks to similar initiatives and partnerships, as well as the efforts of developers, inspectors and hospitality staff, Qatar’s hospitality sector offers the best guest experience in the Gulf region, according to the Olery Guest Experience in the Middle East Report for the years 2016 and 2017,” Al Ibrahim pointed out. Sheikh Thani bin Abdullah Al Thani, Chairman of Qatar Society for Rehabilitation of Special Needs, stressed that the collaboration with QTA formed part of initiatives to ensure mem-

Sheikh Thani bin Abdullah said that the Society would provide the training to members of the hospitality sector via experts in the field of disability, stressing that the aim was to train members of all key sectors of the country within two years.

The recipients of the training, he said, were prepared to support people with motor, visual and hearing disabilities, as well as mental and behavioral disabilities.

The Society worked to “raise awareness about the different kinds of disability and the support required depending on the type of physical disability, as well the skills needed to support members of the community with autism and attention deficit hyperactivity (ADHD) disorder”, he said.

“Members of the hospitality sector who complete the training successfully will be awarded a certificate that is valid for one year, and can be renewed every year following additional training,” he added.

QTA had recently collaborated with Sasol’s Accessible Qatar initiative to hold a workshop for tourism inspectors, who were trained on auditing hospitality establishments.

QTA inspectors work with hotel establishments to ensure they uphold the highest standards of accessibility.

Workshop empowers tourism inspectors Workshop empowers tourism inspectors

S

asol, the international integrated chemicals and energy company, has joined hands with Qatar Tourism Authority (QTA) to deliver accessibility awareness and audit training to a team of inspectors from the Tourism Licensing Department.

A two-day workshop, held as part of the “Accessible Qatar” initiative, involved theoretical sessions at QTA headquarters and inspection practice at the Mondrian Doha Hotel, according to Sasol.

Jennifer Stirling and Issam Azzouri, Sasol’s accessibility consultants, led the workshop and shed light on the models of disability and various barriers of access and how to identify them in tourism venues.

Participants reviewed the accessibility standards included in the Hotel Grading and Classification System released by QTA and discussed how Accessible Qatar auditing techniques could be used to uphold these standards across the hospitality sector and in exhibition and tourism events venues around the country.

Early last year, QTA introduced a new hotel grading and classification system which directly links the number of stars a hotel has with how accessible it is. QTA also has a regulatory mandate to ensure that the development of the tourism sector is inclusive of the disabled community’s needs.

Mohamed Al Ansari, Director of Tourism Licensing at QTA, thanked Accessible Qatar “for helping us empower our inspectors with the skills necessary to identify accessible venues”.

He said: “Early last year, QTA introduced a new hotel grading and classification system which directly links the number of stars a hotel has with how accessible it is.

“QTA also has a regulatory mandate to ensure that the development of the tourism sector is inclusive of the disabled community’s needs. This training allows us to work more closely with hotel establishments to ensure they are meeting the accessibility requirements to maintain their classification, and to uphold the high standards of hospitality Qatar is renowned for.”

Al Ansari added that QTA would train hotel staff across Qatar on meeting the needs of guests with physical and mental disabilities, in collaboration with the Qatar Society for Rehabilitation of Special Needs.

The Accessibility Auditing workshop is among a series of training events to be provided to other sectors in the country. Last month, Sasol conducted a training for the Accessibility Forum members of the Supreme Committee for Delivery and Legacy.

Commenting on the workshop, Phinda Vilakazi, President of GTL Ventures at Sasol, said: “Sasol is proud of the success that the Accessible Qatar initiative has achieved. We believe in the power of an inclusive society and accessibility plays an important role in achieving this essential target.

“Through these audit workshops, Sasol is promoting the importance and value of ac-

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SITES

cessibility, in line with the Qatar National Vision 2030.”

Accessible Qatar is a smartphone application and website, the first of its kind in the region to provide the disabled community with instant and reliable information about the accessibility of public venues and tourist landmarks in Qatar.

Combining expertly-audited data with usersubmitted reviews and ratings, Accessible Qatar gives the disabled community and tourists the confidence to visit different accessible destinations.

The initiative aims to encourage venues to become more accessible by making information about their level of accessibility available to the public online.

More than 100 locations around Qatar in the hospitality, tourism and retail sectors have already been audited by Accessible Qatar.

By sharing auditing techniques with public sector partners, Sasol aims to increase the number of audited venues covered by the Accessible Qatar app which allows people with disabilities to identify the venues that meet their needs.

Accessible Qatar, which builds on Sasol’s ongoing Definitely Able Corporate Social Responsibility initiative, grew out of an engaging session called “Finding the Accessible Doha” during the Definitely Able Conference in March 2015.

The Accessible Qatar app is available in both English and Arabic, and can be downloaded free of charge on App Store, Google Play store, Windows Phone Store and on the website (www.AccessibleQatar.com).

More information can be found on the Definitely Able social media channels (Facebook, Twitter and Instagram), where users can be kept updated on the latest developments.

NEWS

Main Mainworks worksofofroads roadsand and infrastructure infrastructureproject projectinin AlAlSailiya Sailiyaare arecompleted completed

A

shghal, Qatar’s Public Works Authority, held a community meeting at Al Sailiya Sport Club in October as part of its program to engage residents of areas where its projects are progressing.

During the meeting, Ashghal announced the completion of main works of the roads and infrastructure project on Al Sailiya-North Salwa Road.

The meeting was attended by Rashed Al Nuaimi, Director of Al Rayyan Municipality, and Mohamed bin Hamad Al Marri, Member of the 13th Constituency of the Central Municipal Council, and a number of residents from the area. Saoud Al Tamimi, Roads Projects Department Manager at Ashghal, and sections heads and engineers were also present.

mosques and commercial outlets planned to be built in the area.

Wide-scale improvements have been carried out to the local road network, including the construction of 22km of roads, under the project.

It also provided street lighting, pavements, car parking, pedestrian walkways, cycleways and road signage.

Al Tamimi pointed out that the project was geographically divided into two packages.

The first package is located to the north of Salwa Road, at the road leading to Barwa Complex in Al Sailiya, which is an area that lacked advanced infrastructure.

Al Tamimi explained the benefits of the roads and infrastructure project in Al Sailiya and answered the attendees’ questions.

The second package is located to the north of package 1, which is an area under construction and was allocated for residential development. Some residential buildings and facilities are now being constructed in several parts there.

He said the project would serve 820 residential units in addition to a number of schools,

Al Tamimi pointed out that the project provided advanced infrastructure in the area to

ultimately manage surface and ground water collection with discharge facilities and a sewer system for connection to future trunk sewage networks, which will be built as part of an extension that links Salwa road to Al Sailiya main road.

Work on the trunk sewage network will commence soon.

Al Atiya Housing Road will be upgraded to improve road capacity and provide a central road median, street lighting and better road junctions.

Mohamed Bin Hamad Al Marri, member of the 13th Constituency of the Central Municipal Council, praised the community meeting.

“Holding events like these is a great step, as we saw today residents of the area discussing their requirements and problems and Ashghal and the municipality promising to solve them.”

Ali Mohamad Al Marri, a citizen living in the area, said communication between the citizen and the government was very important.

“By hearing the opinion of citizens, authori-

ties can change their decisions for the better and use the opportunity to hear constructive criticism in order to achieve progress for the country,” he said.

Another citizen Jarallah Al Salmin, a resident of Sailiyat Al Mearad, thanked those who organized such community meetings and gatherings, and said: “We hope that such meetings will produce tangible results and that we will see their positive impact on the ground by completing the projects on time.”

Citizen Ali Bin Noura Al Marri said: “Organizing such meetings reflects the government’s keenness in communicating directly with citizens. Today’s meeting allowed us to discuss Ashghal’s current and future projects and we are confident in the competency of those responsible of implementing the projects and expecting the best from them.”

The Roads and Infrastructure project in Al Sailiya-North Salwa Road is carried out by a national contractor, Qatar Building Company. The supplementary works are scheduled to be completed in the first quarter of 2018.

Ashghal Ashghalcompletes completes Muaither MuaitherCentre Centrefor forHealth Health and andWellness Wellness Qatar’s primary healthcare sector has witnessed a major expansion with the opening of many new-generation health centers which offer stepped-up services and facilities

T

he Public Works Authority (Ashghal) has completed construction of Muaither Center for Health and Wellness as part of the government’s plans to develop the country’s health sector further.

The new health and wellness center, spreading over an area of 19,000sqm, is situated in Southern Muaither and comprises a four-level main building with a two-level basement as car parking as well as ground and upper levels dedicated to clinics, laboratories, administrative offices and other annexes.

The center incorporates 45 clinics, including 10 rooms for dentistry, six chambers for family and pre-marriage tests along with other specialized services for emergency, a physiotherapy clinic with a lounge, a sports hall, sauna and massage. There is also a swimming pool at an area of around 375sqm, with changing rooms and bathrooms.

It also has a meeting hall, a library, a radiology unit, a lab and a pharmacy.

The center has four main entrances, including for ambulances and emergency, and two mosques, for men and women.

Tamader Al Malki, Acting Head of the Health

Project Section in Ashghal Building Affairs, said the Public Works Authority had carried out the construction according to local and international standards and specifications, achieving 3.5 million injury-free man-hours.

Meanwhile, the health centers of Al Waab, Al Wajba and Al Jameaa are nearing completion.

Ashghal follows three accredited designs in harmony with Qatar’s demography. Type A health centers, meant for low-populated areas, have fewer clinics than the two other types. Examples are Al Karaana and Leghwiriya health centers.

Type B is bigger and designed for health centers of more populated areas. Al Thumama Health Centre includes in this group.

Type C is the biggest among the three and features rehabilitation and sport medicine services. Health centers of Leabib and Rawdat Al Khail are illustrative of this type. New health centers following Type C standards are to be built in Al Khor and Al Shamal soon.

The health centers in Al Waab and Al Jameaa are in line with Type B whereas the clinics in Muaither and Al Wajba are designed as per Type C. The health center in Muaither is a four-floor building, two levels for the

Muaither Center for Health and Wellness is built upon 19,000sqm and incorporates 45 clinics.

basement dedicated to car parking and two levels to provide enough space for clinics, along with extra rooms for doctors and assistants and other services and spacious places for parking, reception and registration for all visitors.

• Using solar energy for in-house water heating.

Muaither’s Centre for Health and Wellness is also upgradable to meet any future requirements.

• Rational consumption of water. *Green areas and landscapes around the facility.

Health projects draw special attention from Ashghal’s Building Affairs and the Ministry of Public Health. Qatar’s primary healthcare sector has witnessed a major expansion with the opening of many new-generation health centers which offer stepped-up services and facilities to accommodate the large number of visitors.

• Preserving the environment around during the project’s construction.

Ahmad Saleh, Project Manager in Health Projects Section, said the new designs of health centers matched quality criteria and safety standards and were in line with Qatari heritage.

“All criteria were set by Global Sustainability Assessment System (GSAS) as operational and architectural considerations were taken into account to accomplish a three-star environmental level in terms of energy saving and environment preservation,” he said.

Their features include:

• Using natural sunlight through panoramic roof windows, allowing to save electricity consumption.

Ashghal has been granted two sustainability awards (in 2016) in health and education facilities by the Gulf Organization for Research and Development (GORD), the first performance-based system in the MENA region.

“Ashghal has won the prizes, thanks to its adoption of the three-star GSAS in all health and educational facilities, including the design and construction of hospitals, clinics, primary healthcare centers and schools and kindergartens,” Saleh added.

GORD had bestowed on Ashghal a three-star GSAS accreditation in March 2016, after a long process of examining building projects and paying site visits to verify that the facilities were in line with GSAS standards.

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TENDERS

ASHGHAL TENDERS AND

AWARDED TENDERS

Tender No.

Type

• •

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

• •

•

Full Documents for the Tender can be obtained from Contracts Department (CD) against a Non– refundable fee paid to PWA Account No. (0013001813-052), Qatar National Bank together with a copy of the Company Registration and a Company Authorization letter.

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

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

• 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

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Issuing Date

Closing Date

Category

GTC

Roads and Infrastructure for Road 1400 and Road 300 from DW015 – Package 03 - IA/2017/C/020/G

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

23-Oct-17

21-Nov-17

Roads

PWA/STC/106/2017

STC

Provision of Speed Humps and all Associated Works - (Contract #.2/2016) AA/ ROM/2016/402/C2/S

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

23-Oct-17

4-Dec-17

Roads

PWA/STC/105/2017

STC

Provision of Speed Humps and all Associated Works - (Contract #.2/2016) AA/ ROM/2016/402/C2/S

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

23-Oct-17

4-Dec-17

Roads

PWA/GTC/046/2017

GTC

Al Sailiya and Al Hamm Street Surface Water - IA/2017/C/023/G

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

16-Oct-17

14-Nov-17

Drainage

PWA/GTC/045/2017

GTC

Al Rayyan Stadium SC2022 Support Works - Package 06 - IA/2017/C/015/G

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

16-Oct-17

14-Nov-17

Drainage

PWA/GTC/044/2017

GTC

Muaither, Al Mearad and Rawdat Abal Heeran TSE - IA/2017/C/024/I

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

16-Oct-17

14-Nov-17

Drainage

PWA/ITC/038/2017

ITC

Upgrading of Vehicle Restrained System Throughout Qatar-Contract 1 - AA/ ROM/2017/0157/C1/I

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

16-Oct-17

3-Dec-17

Roads

PWA/STC/104/2017

STC

National Day Event 2017 - PR /2017/ SY /008/ S

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

16-Oct-17

6-Nov-17

Procurement

PWA/STC/103/2017

STC

SUPPLY OF 2018 CALENDAR & DIARY - PR /2017/ SY /007/S

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

16-Oct-17

6-Nov-17

Procurement

PWA/STC/102/2017

STC

Training for Technical Report Writing (Group 2) - HR/2017/T/021/S

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

16-Oct-17

6-Nov-17

Consultancy

PWA/ITC/037/2017

ITC

Post Contract Professional Consultancy Services for the Construction of Foul Sewer Network for Inner Doha Package 2 - IA/2017/S/004/I

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

9-Oct-17

26-Nov-17

Drainage

PWA/STC/101/2017

STC

Comprehensive Annual Maintenance Contract for Data Center Facilities ISD/2018/SY/137/S

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

9-Oct-17

6-Nov-17

ICT

PWA/STC/100/2017

STC

Maintenance of Traffic Signs and Safety Devices Throughout Qatar - Contract 8 - AA/ROM/2017/0163/C8/S

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

9-Oct-17

27-Nov-17

Roads

PWA/STC/099/2017

STC

Maintenance of Traffic Signs and Safety Devices Throughout Qatar - Contract 7 - AA/ROM/2017/0162/C7/S

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

9-Oct-17

27-Nov-17

Roads

PWA/GTC/041/2017

GTC

Roads and Infrastructure for Government Residential Division Project in South of Wukair – Package 04 - (Interim Measures – P10) (QS036-P04) IA/2017/C/063/G

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

3-Oct-17

14-Nov-17

Roads

PWA/GTC/040/2017

GTC

Roads and Infrastructure for Government Residential Division Project in South of Wukair – Package 03 - (Interim Measures - P09) (QS036-P03) - IA/2017/C/062/G

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

3-Oct-17

14-Nov-17

Roads

PWA/GTC/039/2017

GTC

RIW IN VARIOUS AREAS OF GREATER DOHA PHASE-5 - IA /2017/C/057/G

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

2-Oct-17

24-Oct-17

Roads

PWA/GTC/038/2017

GTC

Roads and Infrastructure for Government Residential Division Project in South of Wukair - Package 01 - (Interim Measures – P07) (QS036-P01) IA/2017/C/060/G

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

3-Oct-17

14-Nov-17

Roads

PWA/GTC/037/2017

GTC

Road and Infrastructure for Government Residential Division Project in South of Wukair - Package 02 - (Interim Measures - P08) (QS036-P02) IA/2017/C/061/G

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

3-Oct-17

14-Nov-17

Roads

PWA/GTC/036/2017

GTC

Construction of Package 6 – Al Meshaf Health Center - BA/2017/C/009/G

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

25-Sep-17

7-Nov-17

Building

PWA/GTC/035/2017

GTC

Implementation of Roadside ITS - IA/2017/C/048/G

Qatari Companies Only - Joint Venture - Non Qatari Companies

28-Aug-17

7-Nov-17

Roads

PWA/GTC/034/2017

GTC

Sewer Repair, Replacement and Rehabilitation Framework – (PWA/ GTC/085/13-14) - AA/DOM/13-14/M/1591-4.07/G

Qatari Companies Only - Joint Venture - Non Qatari Companies

22-Aug-17

21-Nov-17

Drainage

PWA/GTC/030/2017

GTC

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

Qatari Companies Only - Joint Venture - Non Qatari Companies

8-Aug-17

14-Nov-17

Building

PWA/GTC/029/2017

GTC

Construction of Foul Sewer Network for Inner Doha - Package 2 - (C816 /2) - IA/2017/C/132/G

Qatari Companies Only - Joint Venture

8-Aug-17

31-Oct-17

Drainage

PWA/GTC/027/2017

GTC

Construction of Package (8) – Al Khor Health Centre - BA/2017/C/008/G

Qatari Companies Only - Joint Venture

25-Jul-17

7-Nov-17

Building

PWA/GTC/027/2017

GTC

Construction of Package (8) – Al Khor Health Centre - BA/2017/C/008/G

Qatari Companies Only - Joint Venture

25-Jul-17

7-Nov-17

Building

PWA/GTC/026/2017

GTC

Construction of Package 7 – AIN KHALED Health Centre - BA/2017/C/007/G

Qatari Companies Only - Joint Venture

25-Jul-17

7-Nov-17

Building

PWA/ITC/004/2017

ITC

Refurbishment and Upgrading Works for Various Sewage Pumping Stations CP 771 - IA/2017/C/017/I

Qatari Companies Only

8-Mar-17

5-Nov-17

D

General Conditions of Tenders •

Participants

PWA/GTC/048/2017

http://www.ashghal.gov.qa • • •

Tender Title

CONSTRUCTION

SITES

SITES

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GERMANY - Complete Submersible Pump BOMBAS C.R.I. Pumping trust. Worldwide.

INTERNATIONAL

ITALY - Blowers

INDIA - Water Lifting Pumps

Email: info@efsqatar.com Web: www.efsqatar.com Office Address: P.O. Box: 201401

T: 40298828 I F: 44276076 I M: 50305539

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

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

facilities management

OPERATION & MAINTENANCE SERVICES • HVAC System • Main distribution boards • Refrigerators and cooling systems • Indoor and outdoor • Restaurants machine electrical panels (kitchen Equipment) • Internal and external • Plumbing system lighting system Tel : +974 44783012 • 44127502 Fax : +974-44781646 Mob : +974 30911922 • 74747669 • 30050105 Email : info@fabricastqatar.com www.fabricastqatar.com

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

Siyana Contact Numbers: Landline: +974 4432 3184 / 4411 1567 Hotline No: +974 5011 1043 / 5011 1039 Mobiles: +974 5011 1043 / 5011 1039 Fax: +974 442 6363

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

!

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

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

Geotechnical, Geological and Material Testing Services

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

CONSTRUCTION

SITES

NOVEMBER 2017

27

CAREER SITES

How to to screen candidates before, How screen candidates before, during and after thethe interview during and after interview

H

iring new talent can be stressful for employers. Is there a way to ever truly know whether the candidates they are moving forward with are truly the best choice?

Online hiring solutions and expansive CV databases have made accessing talent easier than ever before, but the concerns that come with picking and choosing, comparing and contrasting candidates in order to narrow down the list of potential employees is an issue that persists.

Without the assistance of a well-defined talent screening strategy, hiring decisions will be haphazard and risky. You can think of talent screening like cleaning out your wardrobe. As you sort through the old, the tried and the worn, you will only be left with what fits your needs exactly.

The way you discern which candidates to keep and which to put aside is a decision made by you at every hiring stage. After all, it all boils down to the criteria or attributes you believe essential for a candidate to pass into the ‘Yes’ pile. This is how you should do it: Screening candidates pre-interview There are many aspects to consider when screening talent based on CVs and initial application material, such as the appearance and the organization of the documents.

Although CVs may provide different types of information, the purpose of screening them is saving time and effort and looking for candidates who appear, in writing, to have the needed qualifications and experience. Here is how to do that: 1. Optimize your job descriptions Your job descriptions are a key screening tool. A detailed list of duties, responsibilities, skills, academic qualifications and relevant work experience must be specified before posting the vacancy.

Having a clear, precise and thorough job description will make it easier for you to screen candidates. Not only does it indicate to unqualified candidates that they are not the target, minimizing the amount of irrelevant applications you could otherwise receive, but it also enables you to systematically filter out applications based on the specifications of the job description.

If you find yourself starved for inspiration, Bayt.com has many job description examples to help you with this step.

2. Automate your screening process To make the hiring process more accessible and convenient, you can make technology do all the work for you.

You could use an online job postings tool, where you have the option of creating a mandatory questionnaire which applicants have to fill out before applying for your jobs.

These screening questionnaires will automatically filter out unqualified candidates and give you scores with which you can compare candidates.

Additionally, you could make use of a CV search tool with which you can use built-in filtering options and tools.

Whether you want to filter out candidates who have not updated their CV in a while, or candidates who don’t have specific keywords in their CV, CV search can do these tricks for you.

3. Avoid relying on first impressions While there is some truth in the claim that there is a link between appearance and success, you should not allow your first impression to guide you. Whether your observations are negative or positive, these things can often be misleading.

Between the lines of a mediocre CV could be an extremely capable candidate. If the position does not require excellent writing skills, then it might be worthwhile to postpone the screening of a particular candidate, whose promise does not really translate well on paper, until the interview round.

Screening candidates during the interview The interview is the most informative step in the hiring process. This is where you have the

opportunity to ask many questions about the candidate, understand their experience and goals, and showcase the company and inherent benefits of obtaining this position.

To make screening during the interview easier, make use of the following tools: 1. Criteria While you will have already specified a list of skills, academic qualifications and work experience in the job description you created, as you commence with the interviews, it will be helpful to narrow down the list of qualifications to the paramount requirements.

Create a list of 10-12 items which you will not compromise over as it will make it easier for you to exclude candidates who fail to meet these essential requirements.

NOVEMBER 2017

CAREERS

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

Senior Planning Engineer Parsons International Limited

Building Management System Engineer - The Recruiter Net

Qatar | Mid Career | 20 years exp

Qatar | Mid Career | Unspecified

Senior Resident Engineer Parsons International Limited

Fire Protection / Fire Systems Engineer The Recruiter Net

Qatar | Mid Career | 20 years exp

Qatar | Mid Career | Unspecified

ITS/SCADA Engineer Parsons International Limited

Architect Grade A Artan Holding

Qatar | Mid Career | 7 years exp

Qatar | Mid Career | 8 years exp

3. Behavioral screening You should also evaluate a candidate based on their behavior during the interview. Considering punctuality, body language, communication style and listening skills could save you from a potential bad hire.

Assistant Resident Engineer Parsons International Limited

Senior Manager - Soft Services (Major Contract) - Igniteselection

Screening candidates post-interview There are times when a candidate performs so well or so poorly that the decision is selfevident, but it is not always so straightforward. You might have more than one candidate who exceeded your expectations. This means that whoever makes the hiring decision will need another round of screening.

CAD Technician Parsons International Limited

Architect - Design PACE

Qatar | Mid Career | 5 years exp

Qatar | Mid Career | 5 years exp

Planning Engineer Parsons International Limited

Electrical Design Draftsman The Recruiter Net

2. Score cards Comparing candidates can prove qualitatively challenging, especially with candidates who provide similar examples to prove their skills. Creating a score card with a scale to plot the skills you require is the solution.

Based on a candidate’s performance during the interview, assign them the appropriate score. You can then use this score to determine the most qualified choice. Alternatively, you could use online employer tests and automate this entire stage.

1. Check references If you have gathered a list of references or recommendation letters, then now would be the time to go through them. Contact their referees and discuss the candidate’s qualifications and previous experiences. Crosscheck the answers you receive with what the candidate provided during the interview.

2. Conduct a social search An easy, yet highly enlightening, tool for evaluating a candidate is to assess their online presence on any search engine, job site and social media platforms. Their online presence can be revealing when it comes to the candidate’s personality, interests and passions and help you decide whether a candidate truly fits within the company culture or not.

3. Second interviews You should always consider the possibility of having an additional interview to sit with and talk to the shortlisted candidates. Having multiple interviews with varying styles can be significantly useful to differentiate candidates who previously performed at the same level. It is also a good opportunity for the job seeker to reassert their qualifications more comfortably than before.

Qatar | Mid Career | 10 years exp

Qatar | Management | 10 years exp

Qatar | Mid Career | 15 years exp

Qatar | Management | 5 years exp

Senior Highway Surveyor Parsons International Limited

Field Service Engineer Adecco Middle East

Qatar | Mid Career | 10 years exp

Qatar | Mid Career | Unspecified

Resident Engineer Parsons International Limited

QA/QC Engineer IMAR Group

Qatar | Mid Career | 15 years exp

Qatar | Mid Career | 5 years exp

Mechanic / Mechanical Technician The Recruiter Net

Senior Consultant - Security and IT Infrastructure - Predica Sp. z o. o.

Qatar | Mid Career | Unspecified

Qatar | Entry Level | 4 years exp

4. Panel discussion Irrespective of whether you were the sole interviewer or not, you should seek input and suggestions from your team. Discuss with human resources, peers and supervisors to gauge their impression of the candidate. After all, whomever you hire will impact many existing employees.

Remember, at the end of the day, you should have a systematic talent-screening method to make well-informed and objective hiring decisions based on the goals and interests of the company.

About Bayt.com: Bayt.com is the #1 job site in the Middle East with more than 40,000 employers and over 29,400,000 registered job seekers from across the Middle East, North Africa and other parts of the globe, representing all industries, nationalities and career levels, using its recruitment platform. Post a job or find jobs on www.bayt.com today and access the leading resource for job seekers and employers in the region.

28

QATAR

CONSTRUCTION

SITES

In partnership with

2017 CALENDAR OF EXHIBITIONS & EVENTS EVENTS

Qatar Sustainability Week 2017 Organizer: Qatar Green Building Council (QGBC) Event date (s): 28 Oct – 4 November Venue: Qatar National Convention Center (QNCC) Location: Doha, Qatar Tel: +974 4454 0242 Email Address: qgbcconference@qf.org.qa

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

Made in China 2017 Organizer: Qatar Chamber Event date (s): 16 – 19 November Venue: Doha Exhibition and convention center Location: Doha, Qatar Tel: +974 55983451 Email: layal@qcci.org Website: http://mic.qatarchamber.com

Health & Fitness Expo 2017 Organizer: Qatar Expo Event date (s): 1 – 4 November Venue: Doha Exhibition and Convention Center (DECC) Location: Doha, Qatar Tel: +974 4465 0211 Email: fitness@qatar-expo.com info@qatar-expo.com Website: www.fitness.qatar-expo.com

Index-qatar Organizer: PPP Experts Event date (s): 13 – 15 November, 2017 Venue: TBA Location: Doha, Qatar Tel: +44 (0)203 137 0436 Email Address: info@pppexperts.com Website: www.pppsolar.com

The Big 5 International Building & Construction Show Organizer: dmg events Event date (s): 26 – 29 November Venue: Dubai World Trade Centre Location: Dubai, UAE Tel: +971 4 4380355 Email: dmgdubai@dmgeventsme.com Website: www.dmgeventsme.com

Hospitality Qatar Organizer: IFP Qatar Event date (s): 7 – 9 November Venue: Doha Exhibition and Convention Center (DECC) Location: Doha, Qatar Tel: +974 4432 9900 Email: info@ifpqatar.com Website: www.hqshow.com

DigiQatar Conference 2017 Organizer: Fleming Event date: 13 – 14 November Location: Doha, Qatar Tel: +971 4609 1570 Email: manohar.bharwani@fleming.events Website: digiqatar.fleming.events

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

ELAN ELANMedia Media& &Quividi QuividiJointly Jointly Introduce IntroduceQuividi’s Quividi’sAudience Audience& & Attention AttentionAnalytics AnalyticsininQatar Qatar How can ELAN Media’s DOOH Network Help you to know your Audience in Real Time and Real Life?

E

LAN Media, a leading company specialized in crafting innovative communication and advertising landscapes, and Quividi, the industry standard for Audience Analytics in Digital Out-of-Home (DOOH) located in France, held an official joint event to announce their partnership and to introduce the new Anonymous Video Analytics technology (AVA) which allows ELAN Media to measure accurately the audience of their Digital- Out- ofHome assets in real time and real life. The event took place at Novo Cinemas, 7 Stars Theater, the Pearl, Qatar.

During the launch event that was attended by international creative and media agencies, advertisers of international and local retail brands, and executives of Mall of Qatar & Doha Festival City; Mr. Jamie Ball, Chief Operating Officer of ELAN Media and Mr. Denis Gaumondie, Chief Marketing Officer of Quividi, highlighted the benefits of Quividi’s Advanced Audience Measurement technology, now fitted across ELAN Media’s digital MUPIs deployed at MoQ & DFC. AVA provides advertisers with accurate and transparent data related to their Ad campaigns’ performances by providing accurate

numbers of opportunity to see (OTS) and watchers of each campaign broken down by demographics, mood, as well as dwell and attention time. This data ensures accountability across all levels of the ad campaigns, allows advertisers to measure their consumers’ engagement with their content; and serves as a catalyst to help them optimize their campaigns to achieve better revenue on investment (ROI) accordingly.

ELAN Media and Quividi also exhibited a live demo of an interactive advertising campaign on a digital screen similar to the MUPIs at the malls; where the content of the demo changed depending on the gender and outfit color of the watcher standing in front of the screen.

Mr. Jamie Ball, ELAN Group’s COO commented on the partnership with Quividi saying: “We are proud of our partnership with Quividi. Introducing this cutting-edge technology to our clients reinforces ELAN Media’s reputation once more as one of the most innovative media companies in the Middle East region.”

Ball added: “The technology provides numbers and interpretations. For example, since 23rd of April, 2017 until date, we’ve had more than 50.5 million people walking by our assets at MoQ & DFC. We can measure their demographics, how much time they spent in front of the screen, and how much engaged they were with the content of each advertisement”.

On the other hand, Ke-Quang Nguyen-Phuc, Quividi CEO, said “The introduction of Quividi’s advanced audience & attention measurement solution in Qatar brings a wealth of data, insights and interactive capabilities hitherto unavailable in the region’s DOOH industry. We are privileged to have ELAN Media, the most advanced DOOH network owner in Qatar as well as the Middle East area, as a partner, and we are looking forward to bringing our international and long experience with mall environments to support them further engage and monetize their DOOH audience.”

He added: “Elan Media will now provide advertisers and agencies with the most accountable DOOH metrics and will be able to safely embrace DOOH’s future towards mass context-aware experiences”.

Quividi’s anonymous video analytic technology measures 900 million persons every month in more than 60 countries around the globe.

ELAN Media, a subsidiary of ELAN Group, aims to create an innovative communication landscape using a mix of media channels that engage customers, achieving numerous audience target opportunities effectively and efficiently. ELAN media owns 240 digital screens that include ‘The Iconics’, two 72 sqm digital screens in the Mall of Qatar, the ‘Axis’, a giant 28sqm rotating screen with 360-degree visibility at Doha Festival City, and the ‘Torch’, the largest roadside digital screen in Qatar, in addition to many others.

CONSTRUCTION

SITES

NOVEMBER 2017

29

PROJECT FOCUS

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

Client

Main Contractor

Value Range (QR) Million

Project Status

Type of Project

1.

C6 - LUSAIL

REGENCY REAL ESTATE

NA

165,540,000.00

Design stage

MIXED USE BUILDING

2.

FOXHILLS - A29

FURSAN REAL ESTATE

NA

20,091,000.00

Design stage

RESIDENTIAL BUILDING

3.

C5 - LUSAIL

RABBAN GROUP

NA

126,319,000.00

Design stage

MIXED USE BUILDING

4.

FOXHILLS - A30

FURSAN REAL STATE

NA

32,627,000.00

Design stage

RESIDENTIAL BUILDING

5.

C4 - LUSAIL

REGENCY REAL ESTATE

NA

108,070,000.00

Design stage

HOTEL APARTMENTS

6.

FV7 - MULTI PURPOSE HALL/ART CENTRE

REGENCY REAL ESTATE

NA

67,500,000.00

Design stage

COMMERCIAL

7.

FV9 AL ASMAKH HEAD OFFICE IN SUSAIL

REGENCY REAL ESTATE

NA

38,000,000.00

Design stage

OFFICE BUILDING

8.

FOXHILLS - A21

MR. NASSER SHAREEF ALEMADI

NA

22,505,000.00

On-going

RESIDENTIAL BUILDING

9.

FOXHILLS - D49

REGENCY REAL ESTATE

NA

29,299,000.00

Design stage

RESIDENTIAL BUILDING

10.

FOXHILLS - D21

REGENCY REAL ESTATE

NA

27,472,000.00

Design stage

RESIDENTIAL BUILDING

11.

FOXHILLS - D04

REGENCY REAL ESTATE

NA

25,273,000.00

Design stageE

RESIDENTIAL BUILDING

12.

FOXHILLS - A13

REGENCY REAL ESTATE

NA

24,918,000.00

Design stage

RESIDENTIAL BUILDING

13.

FOXHILLS - D14

REGENCY REAL ESTATE

NA

23,150,000.00

Design stage

RESIDENTIAL BUILDING

Project Title

Client

Main Contractor

Value Range (QR) Million

Project Status

Type of Project

1.

CBQ Boulevard

CBQ

HBK

N/A

Under Construction

Commercial, Bank, Office Plaza

2.

Doha Festival City (Package 3250,3100 and 7500

Basrec

GCC/ALEC JV

N/A

Under Construction

Retail Mall

3.

Commercial Tower on Plot Com/49 Al Sedian Company

Yousuf Al Mahmoud

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

N/A

Under Construction

Office Building Tower

4.

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

Qatar Trading Agency

Redco - Al Mana

N/A

Under Construction

Office Building

5.

Qatar Sidra Village Project

Mazaya Qatar Real Estate Development QSC

Sinohydro Group Limited

N/A

Under Construction

Residential

6.

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

Sh. Hamad Bin Faisal Al Thani

REDCO – Al Mana

N/A

Under Construction

Office Building

7.

Holiday Inn at Business Park

He Sheikh Mohammed Bin Hamad Al-Thani

Man Enterprises Qatar, WLL

N/A

Under Construction

Hotel

Mohamed Bin Hamad Holding

Shannon Engineering Co. (SEC)

8.

Commercial Mall at Abu Sidra

Project Title

Client

Main Contractor

1.

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

H.E SH Abdulla Bin Mohamed Al Thani

2.

E's Hail Communication Network Building at Duhailiyat Camp

N/A

Under Construction

MADINAT ASH SHAMAL

AL GHUWARIYAH AL KHAWR

UMM SALAL

AL JUMALIYAH

DOHA AL RAYYAN

Retail Mall

Value Range (QR) Million

Project Status

Type of Project

Matta Contracting Qatar

89.5

Under Construction

Residential Building

Qatar Armed Forces

ITCC

N/A

Under Construction

Office Building

3.

Development of Ooredoo TEC Complex at Industrial Area

Ooredoo

Not appointed

N/A

Design Stage

Commercial Complex

4.

Private Villa at Pearl Qatar

Private Client

Not appointed

N/A

Design Stage

Villa

5.

Doha Education Centre

Doha Education Centre

Not appointed

30-50 Million

Design stage

Education

6.

Step 1 International Academy

Step 1 International Academy

Not appointed

20-40 Million

Design stage

School

Project Title

Client

Main Contractor

Value Range (QR) Million

Project Status

Type of Project

1.

Mix 11 Hotel Tower at Lusail City

Real Estate Services Group

N/A

600 Million

Design Stage

Hotel

2.

Al Jassasiyah White Beach Palace

UrbaCon Trading & Contracting (UCC)

N/A

400 Million

Design Stage

Mixed-Use

3.

Marina Com 05 Tower at Lusail City

Private Engineering Office / Mashour Real Estate Group

N/A

315 Million

Construction Stage

Office / Commercial

4.

Qatar Chamber of Commerce and Industry Building

Qatar Chamber of Commerce and Industry

N/A

270 Million

Design Stage

Office

5.

Com 02 - Barwa Bank Headquarters at Lusail City

Barwa / Hilson Moran

N/A

250 Million

Design Stage

Office

6.

National Cyber Security Center

Ministry of Interior / Al Ali International

N/A

180 Million

Design Stage

Office

AL WAKRAH

MESAEED

JARIYAN AL BATNAH

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

Fixin g Systems

30

NOVEMBER 2017

CONSTRUCTION

SITES

PROJECT FOCUS

Project Title

Client

Main Contractor

Value Range (QR) Million

Project Status

Type of Project

1.

Fiber Glass Factory at New Industrial Area

German Tech Fibre Glass WLL

N/A

N/A

Tender stage

Factory Building

2.

Kitchen equipment factory at New Industrial Area

Justa Kitchen and Cookers

N/A

N/A

Tender stage

Factory, office Building

3.

Sand witch panel factory at New Industrial Area

Doha Sandwich Panel

N/A

N/A

Design stage

Factory Building

4.

Oil recycling plant at New Industrial Area

QAR Oil Recycling

International Work Group

N/A

Under construction

Oil recycling plant

5.

Cements product factory at Industrail Area

Al Simeh Cements Products

N/A

N/A

Design stage

Factory

6.

Accomodation and Store at Industrial Area

Ramco Trading and Contg.

Ramco Trading and Contg.

N/A

Tender stage

Acco. And Store

7.

Precast Factory - M IND AREA

Al Ghariya Precast

N/A

N/A

Design stage

Factory

8.

Oil Recycling plant - M. IND AREA

Gulf Oil Recycling

N/A

N/A

Design stage

Recycling plant

9.

Gulf Pallet Factory - MIC

Gulf Pallet WLL

N/A

N/A

Design Stage

Factory and office

10.

Abdul Noor Block factoryMIC

Abdul Noor Block Factory

N/A

N/A

Tender stage

Factory and office

11.

Switch Gear Factory - MIC

Q- TECH WLL

N/A

N/A

Tender stage

Switch gear

12.

Warehouse and Store MANATEQ

Quality Group of Companies

Design stage

Store and Warehouse

N/A

N/A

Project Title

Client

Main Contractor

1.

Police College Academy

MOI

Hassanesco

N/A

Construction Stage

Educational Complex

2.

Health Care Centers (Pacakge 4 & 5)

PWA

ITC/UCE

600

Under Construction

Medical Centers

3.

Villas Complex (Al Fardan 9) at Abu Sidra

Danat Qatar

Ramaco

300M

Construction Stage

Residential Building

4.

Barwa Al Baraha Warehouses & Workshops

Barwa Al Baraha Company

QBEC (Qatar Building Engineering Co.)

140M

Construction Stage

Warehouses & Workshops

5.

Logistic City

Qatar Navigation

Ramco

450M

Under Construction

Warehouses

6.

4 Nos. Parks at Various Locations in Al Daayen Municipality

Ministry of Municipality & Environment

N/A

N/A

Design Stage

Landscaping & Parks

7.

Construction of 8 Nos. Buildings Complex and Club House

Sheikh Khaled Bin Hamad

Insha Company

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

MOI

Al Aali International

8.

Value Range (QR) Million

Project Status

Type of Project

200M

800

Under Construction

Residential

Under Construction

Offices & Services Building

Project Title

Client

Main Contractor

Value Range (QR) Million

Project Status

Type of Project

1.

Commercial Tower in Marina District, Lusail (COM 17)

Sheikh Mohamed Jassem

Not Appointed

198,500,000

Design Stage

Commercial

2.

5-Star Hotel at Ramda Signal

Babishtar Group W.L.L.

Bab Ishtar

70,000,000

Under Construction

Hospitality

3.

Office Building ECQ-D29 in Lusail

Abdulla Abdulrehman Abdula Heidar

Not Appointed

22,400,000

Design Stage

Office

4.

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

Al Mohannadi Group

Not Appointed

81,000,000

Design Stage

Residential

5.

Residentials Building MU / P08 at Fox Hills, Lusail

Qatari Real Estate Group

Not Appointed

22,000,000

Design Stage

Residential

6.

Cold Stores & Meat Processing Facility at Industrial Area

Zad Holding

Qatar Mega Building

51,000,000

Under Construction

Industrial

7.

Twin Tower 13A & 13B at the Pearl

Sh. Nasser Bin Falah Al Thani Group

PLQ (Powerline Qatar)

482,500,000

Under Construction

Residential

8.

Modification and Furnishing of Behavioral Healthcare Center HQ, Doha

Behavioral Healthcare Center BHC

Not appointed

35,000,000 QAR

Design stage

9.

Stafford Sri Lankan School, Doha

Stafford Sri Lankan School

Not appointed

42,000,000 QAR

Design stage

Qatar’s government pushes food sustainability agenda Against a backdrop of uncertainty in its food security environment, Qatar is working to boost the agricultural and livestock sectors, primarily through building capacity.

By Oxford Business Group (OBG)

I

n August the Qatar Islamic Bank announced funding worth QR1.6bn ($435.8m) to finance a 530,000-sq-metre food security facility at Hamad Port outside of Doha.

The complex will primarily manufacture and store rice, raw sugar and edible oils and will consist of rice silos, oil storage tanks, a recycling facility, conveyor systems and a processing and warehousing space. Initial estimates put daily production capacity at 300 tonnes of rice, 300 tonnes of raw sugar and 200 tonnes of edible oil.

A month earlier, in mid-July, the New Port Project steering committee and local contractor Al Jaber Engineering signed a contract to design and build the facility and adjoining warehouse, which should take about two years. Once commercially operational, output will be used domestically and internationally, with waste products turned into animal feed.

Boosting livestock numbers to build production capacity In addition to initiatives to produce and store food staples, several companies are undertaking projects to increase in-country livestock numbers to strengthen the supply chain of dairy and meat products.

Local dairy farm Baladna Company is expanding its facilities to accommodate as many as 25,000 cows in a bid to meet 40% of Qatar’s dairy demand by mid-November and 100%

by April 2018, when it will produce 300 tonnes of milk per day.

Located in Umm Al Hawaya on an area of 2m sq metres, the Baladna farm currently has the capacity for 12,000 dairy cows.

Earlier this year, the company announced it planned to import 4000 milking cows by midSeptember, pushing daily milk production up to 100 tonnes, with further plans to gradually bring another 10,000 dairy cows into the country. To meet this target, in July 230 cows were imported via Qatar Airways Cargo.

Increased output should feed into the company’s downstream goals: in early May, for example, Baladna signed an agreement with Ali Bin Ali Group to distribute its dairy products.

The products will be made available in about 100 retail outlets in the country.

Since it was established in 2009 Hassad Food, the agricultural arm of the Qatar Investment Authority, has looked further afield in its efforts to enhance livestock numbers and help local capacity. In June Hassad Food subsidiary Hassad Australia began working with Widam Food to bring in more than 340,000 heads of Australian sheep to Qatar.

Agriculture sector to meet 60% of domestic food demand by 2020 Initiatives to increase food production capacity fall under the broader framework of the Qatar National Food Security Programme launched in 2012 under a decree issued by Crown Prince Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani.

The plan targets increasing the number of farms from 1400 to 3000 and meeting at least 60% of the domestic food demand from local suppliers by 2024. Similar to other Gulf states, Qatar imports more than 90% of its food requirements.

In a country where only about 1% of the total land area is arable, according to the UN’s Food and Agriculture Organisation, projects under the programme’s aegis are looking to provide necessary technical advice and know-how to improve yields.

To this end, Hassad Food launched the IKTEFA initiative in July to provide support to unproductive farms, which currently comprise 80% of registered farmland in the country. The goal is to supply local farmers with the necessary financial aid and expertise to make their crops commercially viable for the domestic market. In the first phase of the plan, Hassad Food aims to implement its programme on 60 ha of land, producing some 5000 tonnes of fresh produce annually.

This announcement comes on the heels of an agreement last March between the Ministry of Municipality and Qatar Development Bank (QDB) to provide more support for local agriculture endeavours.

HVE

DXE

ø10 (M6) ÷ ø24 (M16)

ø12(M8) ÷ ø15(M10)

VS

HXE

ø8 ÷ ø16

ø8 ÷ ø10

AJE

ø8 ÷ ø20

DSE

ø8(M6) ÷ ø16(M12)

In August local media reported that QDB will provide support and funding for the planned development of two agricultural complexes to produce livestock, poultry, fish and feed.

Further project details on estimated cost and initial throughput have not yet been released to the public.

While meeting the goals set by the Qatar National Food Security Programme will require much work, initiatives such as IKTEFA should help usher in a new age of food security for Qatar, according to Abdulrahman Al Khayarin, CEO of Widam Food.

“The goal is to become 100% self-sufficient in certain segments across the food sector.

Although this will take some time, in two to five years, recent initiatives by the public sector coupled with the regional situation should only further accelerate this process,” he told OBG.

Fixin g Systems

CONSTRUCTION

SITES

NOVEMBER 2017

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

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Issue No. (124) November 2017, Doha - Qatar

Katara hospitality launches Katara hospitality launches company to to develop Qetaifan company develop Qetaifan Island North Island North The 1.4-million square meter Qetaifan Island North is a major part of Lusail City’s expansion project

Q

atar-based Katara Hospitality, a

commitment to invest in the development of

leading global hotel owner, devel-

Qatar’s tourism industry and capitalize on its

oper and operator, has launched

growth potential,” Sheikh Nawaf said.

a subsidiary company to develop

and manage Qetaifan Island North. The sub-

sidiary, called Qetaifan Projects company, is valued at QR11 billion.

The company launch was announced during a signing ceremony between Katara Hospitality and Atkins, a leading design, engineering and project management consultancy, which is assigned to design the masterplan, infrastructure and components of Phase 1 of Qetaifan Island North.

The signing ceremony was attended by Sheikh Nawaf Bin Jassim Bin Jabor Al Thani, Chairman of Katara Hospitality; Sheikh Nasser Bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, Deputy Chairman of Katara Hospitality; Tom Hasker, Managing Director – Property, Middle East & Africa for Atkins and Lesley Desport, Country Director – Qatar for Atkins.

The 1.4-million square meter Qetaifan Island North is a major part of Lusail City’s expansion project. The development located off Lusail City in Doha, comprises of Qetaifan Island North, which will be developed by Qetaifan Projects company, and Qetaifan Island South, which will be developed by Lusail Real Estate Development Company. Both islands are connected to the Lusail mainland through two hanging bridges.

Sheikh Nawaf Bin Jassim Bin Jabor Al Thani, Chairman of Katara Hospitality, described the launch as a major milestone in Qatar’s tourism development plans.

Qetaifan Projects will be developing phase one of the project planned for completion by the first quarter of 2022. Phase one includes an aqua park, a four-star hotel, comprising of 400 rooms, as well as the infrastructure on an estimated area of 350,000 square meters from a total area of 1.4 million square meters. Phase two will include a linear park, mixeduse residential complex, retail plaza, souq and staff accommodation.

“Our vision is to change the world of hospitality through investment and innovation to leave an outstanding legacy for future generations, in line with the Qatar National Vision 2030,” he added.

Hamad Abdulla Al Mulla, Chief Executive Officer of Katara Hospitality, also stressed the project’s importance.

“With the development project of Qetaifan Island North, Katara Hospitality is strengthening its position as a key player of Qatar’s hospitality industry aiming to create a safe and sustainable investment that will carry the name of the State of Qatar,” Al Mulla said.

Qetaifan Projects will be developing phase one of the development, planned for completion by the first quarter of 2022.

Phase one includes an aqua park, a four-star hotel, comprising of 400 rooms, as well as the infrastructure on an estimated area of 350,000 square meters from a total area of 1.4-million square meters. Phase two will include a linear park, mixed-use residential complex, retail plaza, souq and staff accommodation.

“Qetaifan Island North is a key element of Lusail City’s expansion project and is a comprehensive master plan development centered around a state-of-the-art waterpark with leisure attractions, luxurious hotels, unrivalled

“The launch of Qetaifan Projects marks a significant milestone in Katara Hospitality’s

accommodation and world-class facilities,” a Katara Hospitality release said.