Construction Sites | December Issue no. 89

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

I ssue N o .89 - D ecember 2014

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

Building Information Modeling (BIM) supports all aspects of building-related data, from design, through construction and commissioning, to operations and maintenance. BIM has the potential to save upto 30% of building costs through improving efficiency. According to studies operations and maintenance phase of building lifecycle can result in efficiency losses of $9 billion per year.

EXCLUSIVE Interview with Ben Van Berkel of UNStudio; architects for QRail’s Doha Metro Stations

D-BUG: Launch of Doha BIM Users Group Designs for the revamp of Sheikh Khalifa Stadium unveiled

PAGES 14-21

In Focus: Construction Technology

SITES Lessons from the past 2

Construction

The Third International Symposium of Urban Design and Architecture in Muslim Societies has been held at Qatar Faculty of Islamic Studies.

The symposium explored features of old neighborhoods, including relations between neighbors, and the kind of facilities that should be available and how this all worked into a single system that was so simple but so fascinating as well.

From water management to neighbor relations, from the use of space to interaction between neighbors, from the facilitation of trade and business in the city to protecting privacy and having a wonderful open life rather than a closed lone, the symposium covered a wide range of subjects as it stressed that architects had an obligation to learn about the local culture.

Speakers pointed out that this obligation to learn about the culture was recommended to give guidance to architects and designers, not to take a step back to the past but to learn from the past that would help us to carry the torch to a bright future, noting the great contributions of the Islamic civilization to the world.

Discussions at the symposium revolved around the question: Could we use lessons from the past without replicating them altogether? Different views were expressed in response, mostly underlining the need for international and local views to merge together, so that we could understand what these traditions mean to us and that they are not static either.

News

C-Ring Road expansion progressing

The Public Works Authority (Ashghal) opened in November part of C-Ring Road to traffic, extending from Jabor Bin Ahmed Intersection (Ramada Intersection) to Al Kinana Intersection.

The stretch was widened from three lanes to four in each direction as part of phase four of the CRing Road development project, to improve traffic flow and reduce congestion.

Currently Ashghal is working on phase four of the C-Ring Road project, which is expected to be completed by the end of the year.

As part of this phase, works are taking place on both directions of Salwa Road starting from right after Al Asiri Intersection towards Jabor Bin Ahmed Intersection (Ramada Intersection) and to The Centre Roundabout which will be converted to a signal-controlled intersection. This phase includes works on C-Ring Road starting from Ramada Intersection until mid-way before Rawdat Al Khail Intersection.

Ashghal is working around the clock to expedite the phase’s completion.

Works continue seven days a week, with the same number of men working day and night in order to complete the phase by the end of December as scheduled.

All four phases of the C-Ring Road project will be completed in the second quarter of next year.

Al Huwailah ASTAD Project Management Link Road opens to traffic The Public Works Authority (Ashghal) has announced the opening of Al Huwailah Link Road, leading to Ras Laffan City, to traffic. Some complementary works are now being done on the sides of the road that do not affect the traffic flow.

Al Huwailah Link Road was developed from single carriageway, with one lane on each direction without any separation, into a dual one that includes mainly four lanes in each direction, separated by a median.

In addition, street lighting has been provided and signals have been installed with cameras to monitor traffic violations on the four new intersections, to improve safety.

The road primarily serves the traffic flow from and to Ras Laffan Industrial City, especially for heavy trucks vehicles, by providing an alternative route to Ras Laffan Road that links Ras Laffan and Al Khor Street, which used to cause congestion on the expressway from Doha to Ras Laffan Industrial City.

The road comprises 16km and is linked to the North Road at Al Huwailah intersection (Intersection 66), representing an essential part of the expansion plan of Ras Laffan Industrial City and its environs.

Road improvement works included, in addition to mainly increasing the number of lanes from one to four in each direction, the establishment of four new intersections: one between Al Huwailah Road and College Street, another between Al Huwailah Road and Al Shagub Street, the third between Al Huwailah Road and Khalifa Street and the fourth between Al Huwailah Road and Al Jassasiya Street.

As for the infrastructure improvement works, services networks have been established and developed completely, which include: storm water drainage network, potable water network, telecommunication network and intelligent transport systems.

The Al Huwailah Link Road is part of Qatar’s ambitious Expressway program which is being executed by the Public Works Authority. The Expressway includes more than 32 projects to build 1,000 km of improved multi-track roads and 240 main intersections.

Dubai’s sustainable stance gets a boost The Dubai Municipality is taking radical steps to ensure the city maintains its leading-edge reputation for sustainability, according to its top official.

Addressing the opening of the two-day Sustainable Design and Construction Conference on the sidelines of The Big 5, a regional building construction show recently, Hussain Nasser Lootah, Director General of Dubai Municipality, unveiled details of a tough new smart checking system and an emirate-wide move to using “green concrete”.

He also gave details of “Desert Rose”, the new Dh20 billion Emirati housing development built around sustainable principles.

“We already have the best standard of construction and materials in the region. Our Green Building Regulations Guide has 79 chapters, and we are working through these chapters to implement all of the directives.”

Lootah said that the municipality, three years ago, had decided to implement green concrete – produced without releasing or creating CO2 - after examining a number of materials in the market and now would insist all buildings were constructed using “green” concrete by early 2015.

He said the municipality had implemented three “quick-fix”’ sustainable solutions in buildings: insulation, solar heating and installing LED lighting. Now, he said, his department was concentrating more on the issues surrounding electricity, water and waste.

Another initiative he discussed was the launch of a “smart” online checking system for project proposals.

“Consultants are busy people, so we are launching a new Business Information Management (BIM) system to come between the end user and the municipality via the internet,” he said.

“Quite often we will reject a proposal due to it not fulfilling the sustainability criteria, and the consultants often simply blame the municipality rather than revealing to clients it was down to their own omissions.”

Now, consultants must log-in and virtually “tick off” a number of criteria before a proposal is submitted to the municipality for approval.

“We had to find a better system, so now consultants cannot log their project details unless everything is correct. This makes the process easier for the municipality; streamlining applications, and will stop consultants from incorrectly apportioning blame,” Lootah said.

With the expected pre-Expo 2020 construction boom, the municipality chief expects to see a huge influx of new materials and technologies in Dubai. But he says his department is prepared.

“We have the largest laboratory in the region and are ready to check whether new materials and technologies are sustainable. We are open to check any material and are happy to check if it fulfills our sustainability criteria.”

Signs MoU at WISE 2014

ASTAD volunteers expertise to design school prototype for a UNHCR pilot project in Kenya

A

STAD Project Management, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) earlier today with Education Above All Foundation, for a pilot project in the Kakuma refugee camp in Kenya. Opened in 1992, the refugee camp is run by UNHCR. Her Highness Sheikha Moza Bint Nasser, Chairperson and Founder of Education Above All Foundation, attended the official signing ceremony, which took place at the 2014 World Innovation Summit for Education (WISE). The MoU was signed by Ali AlKhalifa, Chief Executive Officer of ASTAD Project Management, Mr. Marcio Barbosa, Chief Executive Officer of Education Above All, Mr. Raouf Mazou on behalf of the United Nations High Commission for Refugees in addition to Ali Al-Khalifa: other project partners.

ASTAD Project Management CEO During the ceremony, Ali Al-Khalifa highlighted the significance of collaborating and working alongside like-minded partners to give refugee children in the Kakuma Refugee Camp access to quality education.

He said, “In keeping with ASTAD’s Corporate Social Responsibility, we are honoured to partner with Education Above All on such a noble humanitarian cause. ASTAD will do its utmost to extend its technical know-how and project management expertise in the planning and development of Kakuma’s education facilities.”

ASTAD is volunteering its expertise to design a school prototype that will offer children a host of improved educational amenities. Moreover, before the project is implemented on a large scale, local expertise will be employed and the school will be enhanced based on a complete post-occupancy analysis.

Ali Al-Khalifa added, “ASTAD is especially eager to help develop local talents, skill-sets, knowledge and experience. Our aim is to create an innovative, cost-effective, and sustainable infrastructure for education that will enable strong community engagement in both the construction and operation of the schools. We have committed to overseeing the project and will ensure that the schools are constructed to the exact specifications, standards, and budget.”

In accordance with the agreement, ASTAD will help facilitate this valuable initiative by adopting a simple and practical approach that is compatible with the local environment.

Its scope of work will include overseeing the construction management of the schools, as well as monitoring the design, cost, procurement, progress, and delivery of the buildings.

Construction

Qatar

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Qatar going ahead with plans to host a historic World Cup in the Mideast

Al Wakrah’s seafaring identity will be incorporated into the 2022 World Cup Qatar fan experience

After intense media speculation over the FIFA 2022 World Cup, the year concluded on a positive note with the FIFA Ethics Committee deciding that “the evaluation of the 2018/2022 FIFA World Cups bidding process is closed” for it.

The decision has been welcomed by the Supreme Committee for delivery and Legacy (SC), Qatar’s 2022 World Cup organizing committee.

“We have always been confident of our position and stand by the integrity and quality of our bid – we have nothing further to comment on this matter and will continue to focus on delivering a historic FIFA World Cup in the Middle East,” SC said in a statement Regardless of the 2022 World Cup speculations, this year witnessed several announcements regarding sports venues in Qatar. The latest announcement was the beginning of main contractor works on the project to renovate Khalifa International Stadium, the third proposed host venue for the 2022 FIFA World Cup Qatar.

The renovation includes revamping the venue to encompass a seating capacity of 40,000 during the tournament and to become compliant with FIFA’s stadium requirements to be able to host group stage, round of 16 and quarter finals matches.

Six Construct, a joint venture between Midmac Contracting and a subsidiary of the Belgian Besix Group, oversees the main contractor works on the stadium.

Dar Al Handasah and Projacs are the design consultant and project manager respectively. The project, which will include the addition of innovative cooling technology to the stadium to provide ideal conditions for players and fans during the tournament, is expected to be completed in 2016.

SC has also announced that a new stadium will replace the current Qatar Sports Club while another one similar to the proposed Doha Port Stadium will be built near the Hamad International Airport as venues of the 2022 World Cup. “The early works on both stadiums will begin in the sec-

ond quarter of next year,” SC Competition Venues Director Ghanim Al Kuwari said during the Fourth Coliseum MenaConfEx in Doha.

Two more World Cup stadiums have been revealed this year.

The first of which is Al Bayt stadium at Al Khor city. In 2022, the stadium will have the capacity to host 60,000 spectators and will fulfill all FIFA requirements for hosting World Cup matches through the semi-final round.

Dar Al Handasa serves as the design consultant for Al Bayt Stadium - Al Khor City and the surrounding precinct and Projacs serves as its project manager.

Al Bayt Stadium is modeled after Bayt Al Sha’ar, a tent traditionally used by nomadic peoples in Qatar and neighboring countries.

For those traveling through the sometimes harsh landscapes of the desert, the sight of a black-and-white striped tent on the horizon means an invitation to enjoy the hospitality of the tent’s owner, whether known or not to him. Al Bayt Stadium will carry on this tradition, beckoning football lovers near and far, bringing them together to put aside their differences in a global celebration of the beautiful game.

Al Bayt Stadium - Al Khor City will maintain ideal temperatures for player performance and fan comfort throughout the year.

Employing the latest construction techniques and materials, the stadium will target both Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) and Global Sustainability Assessment System (GSAS) certifications.

Just as Bayt Al Sha’ar remains central to family life in Qatar, the precinct surrounding Al Bayt Stadium - Al Khor City will become a center of community life.

Landscaped paths will welcome residents seeking exercise. Retail areas will create opportunities for small businesses to thrive. The stadium will be used to host sporting events as well as cultural festivals.

Further echoing Bayt Al Sha’ar, parts of the stadium will be transportable. In line with the SC’s legacy commit-

ments, the stadium’s upper tier will be demountable.

In the years after 2022, the upper tier will be removed and the modular sections will be used to build stadiums in countries around the world that lack adequate sporting infrastructure.

Al Wakrah Stadium Taking the dhow boats that carried generations of Qatari fishermen and pearl divers as inspiration, the design of Al Wakrah Stadium and the approximately 586,000m2 surrounding precinct weaves together the city’s cultural heritage with Qatar’s progressive outlook.

In addition to the stadium and precinct, Al Wakrah’s seafaring identity will be incorporated into the 2022 World Cup Qatar fan experience.

It will have a natural grass pitch cooled to an optimal temperature of 26 degrees Celsius. Spectator stands will be cooled to a supremely comfortable 24-28 degrees Celsius.

AECOM designed Al Wakrah Stadium in association with Zaha Hadid Architects. AECOM serves as the design consultant on the project while KEO International Consultants is the project manager.

In support of the SC’s commitment to host a carbon-neutral FIFA World Cup, Al Wakrah Stadium’s carbon footprint has been considered from an early stage.

The stadium’s structure has been designed to minimize the amount of materials required for construction and the embodied carbon of these materials taken into account.

The stadium and precinct buildings all incorporate energy usage best practices, minimizing natural resource demand before, during and after the 2022 FIFA World Cup Qatar.

To minimize cooling requirements, state-of-the-art computer modeling techniques are being applied to optimize the structural design.

Furthermore, renewable energy will be generated within the precinct, making a significant contribution to the energy required to operate Al Wakrah Stadium.

To ensure that FIFA and the SC’s sustainability require-

ments are met, Al Wakrah Stadium will target Global Sustainability Assessment System (GSAS) 4 Star and Leadership in Energy & Environmental Design (LEED) certifications.

Following the 2022 FIFA World Cup, Al Wakrah Stadium’s modular, 20,000-seat upper tier and associated cooling systems will be disassembled and distributed to developing nations that lack sporting infrastructure.

The remaining 20,000-seat stadium will become the new home of Al Wakrah Sports Club, whose football team’s kit has been donned by the likes of Qatari football legend Mansoor Muftah and French international player Frank Leboeuf.

On days when matches are not taking place, the stadium facilities will serve as a social hub, offering a shaded and cooled promenade and seating areas for residents and visitors.

The precinct surrounding Al Wakrah Stadium will also serve to strengthen the bonds of community in Al Wakrah.

Pleasant, pedestrian-friendly outdoor spaces, schools, a wedding hall and numerous new sports facilities, amongst other attractions, will serve as gathering points for Al Wakrah’s residents, enriching life in the city and providing ample space for work and play.

The precinct’s abundant retail space will cater to entrepreneurs and owners of small and medium enterprises, fostering sustainable growth and contributing to the diversification of Qatar’s economy, in line with the Qatar National Vision 2030.

A new metro system and other public transportation options will ensure easy access to the

precinct – for fans during the 2022 FIFA World Cup and for the people of Al Wakrah for generations to come.

24th Men’s Handball World Championship - Qatar 2015 The Qatar 2015 Organizing Committee has provided an overview of the preparations for the 24th Men’s Handball World Championship at the fourth Coliseum Summit Mena ConfEx (Conference and Exhibition).

Qatar 2015’s keynote address on the second day of the summit provided an overview of the construction of the three new world-class venues – Qatar Handball Association Complex, Al Sadd Sports Hall and the Lusail Multi-Purpose Hall.

Fahad Fadol Al Yafei, Head of the Venues Committee, Qatar 2015, said: “Qatar is completing major preparations in its role as host nation for the 24th Men’s Handball World Championship.

“Our teams are working hard to incorporate all the technical requirements of the sport, as well as the design elements needed to deliver a superb spectator experience at each of the venues.

“In addition to meeting the guidelines and recommendations of the IHF, the competition venues have also been built to host other sports matches and tournaments in the future.”

All three venues have been built to include competition and training facilities to support the development of handball in Qatar.

In addition, the Al Sadd Sports Hall and Lusail MultiPurpose Halls have been designed so that they can host a full range of sports such as badminton, basketball, volleyball, rhythmic gymnastics

– and even ice hockey, in the case of Al Sadd Sports Hall.

With seating capacities of 7,700 and 15,000 respectively, the two halls will provide ideal destinations for sports fans in Qatar.

He said: “Projects like this are challenging and have risks, but these risks can be managed by keeping all stakeholders involved from the very beginning – which is what we have done.

“Following up with tight project control and monitoring progress helps to ensure timely project completion and avoid surprises during the project implementation.

“By following these measures, we have already overcome most challenges and have delivered two stadia with the third is on its way to completion. We are positive that the event will leave a lasting legacy for sport and for spectators in Qatar.”

The Qatar Handball Association Complex was trialed and tested during the recent IHF Super Globe Championship 2014, proving to be an excellent venue for the international event and receiving extremely positive feedback from visitors and competing teams.

Qatar 2015 plans to test the other two venues before the main championship event in 2015, by hosting similar events there.

This year also witnessed two trials of cooling systems at Aspire and Katara Fan Zones.

The open-air fan zones were used by the SC to test the prototype cooling technology that will be utilized at the 2022 World Cup. The results from the tests have been incredibly positive, with temperatures on average 12 degrees Celsius lower inside the fan zones.

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Construction

SITES

Legal

Summary and Analysis of Law No 9 of 2014 – Amending the Foreign Investment Law In this article, we examine the impact of Law No. 9 of 2014 (the FIL Amendment) Amending Certain Provisions of the Foreign Investment Law No. 13 of 2000 (the FIL) Regulating the Investment of Foreign Capital in Economic Activities.

International investors have been eagerly awaiting a decision from the Qatar authorities that increased investment opportunities for non-Qatari investors in Qatari Joint Stock Companies (QSC) listed on the Qatar Exchange (the QE). The Morgan Stanley Capital International Index (the MSCI) had previously rejected Qatar’s application for inclusion in the Emerging Markets Index rather than the Frontier Markets Index for five years in a row. Media reports in 2012 indicated that the Qatari government’s position on the limitation of non-

Qatari ownership of QSCs listed on the QE would not be amended upwards in the near future.

Prior to the FIL Amendment, non-Qatari investors were prohibited from owning more than 25% of the shares already being traded in QSCs listed on the QE, unless the memorandum and articles of association of such QSCs provided for a greater percentage. However, in the case of a higher threshold, the memorandum and articles of association of the QSCs were Laura Warren required to be approved by the Council of Ministers upon a proposal by the Minister of Laura Warren is a partner of the Economy and Commerce (the International Law firm, Clyde & MEC). This exemption was not Co LLP, in Doha. Laura has a wide ranging contentious and non congenerally put into practice by tentious construction practice inmost QSCs, although we are volving projects in Qatar as well as aware of Aamal having sought in the UAE, Oman, Bahrain, Libya, Egypt and Tunisia such exemption.

Nevertheless, on 29 May 2014 Laura is Co-ordinator for the Society of Construction Law (Gulf) in the MSCI formally entered the Qatar.

QE on the emerging market index one week after the issuance of the FIL Amendment.

Qatar now joins a host of countries such as, inter alia, Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, Malaysia, Turkey, Taiwan and the UAE on the emerging market index.

It is expected that such inclusion in the emerging market index will permit an inflow of funds from global portfolio

Qatar sees increasing demand for construction professionals

Qatar and other Gulf countries see an increasing demand for construction professionals, according to Procorre, an international professional services consultancy.

The number of posts for senior construction professionals in the Gulf is surging as the region ramps up its infrastructure projects for upcoming global events such as the Qatar World Cup and Expo 2020, says Procorre which operates in various business sectors across 120 countries and delivers advisory and implementation solutions to clients worldwide.

Construction positions now account for a high percentage of the total number of jobs for international contractors in the Gulf. Positions that are in high demand include project construction engineers, construction managers and project directors.

Currently, senior construction positions account for 27% of the total number of white collar roles marketed to UK contractors in the UAE, 82% in Qatar and 54% in Saudi Arabia.

Lisa Mangan, Relationship Manager at Procorre, says: “The number of roles for senior construction contractors in the Gulf fell sharply after the financial crisis as funding for new building projects col-

lapsed.

“But the regional economic recovery and high oil prices have combined to trigger another boom in building, particularly as the region prepares for major events like the World Cup. This is feeding sharply rising demand for international contractors to deliver these projects.”

Procorre explains that the construction sector accounts for 82% of all roles in Qatar advertised to international contractors as the country gears up for the 2022 World Cup. Lisa Mangan says: “There is a massive need for contractors to oversee the construction work beginning in Qatar.

Building has started on the 12 stadiums needed for the 2022 World Cup and contractors such as architects and engineers are needed to implement the planned extension to its road system, expansion of its power supplies and the construction of a new international airport.”

She continues: “Senior construction consultants are finding the opportunities available in the Gulf very attractive because of the many advantages to undertaking an overseas contract. Often these jobs offer rapid progression, immersing contractors in the project from the off.

“The posts are also well paid, with additional bonuses such as free flights and discounted accommodation coming as part of the package. For those looking for a promotion, it could well be worth considering a short-term contract in the Gulf.”

Procorre says that over a quarter of positions (27%) for international contractors in the United Arab Emirates are in construction despite the Emirate being known best as a financial services hub for international contractors.

Recent research by Deloitte revealed that the value of construction projects in the UAE has bounced back sharply from its trough after the financial crisis, with $12 billion of stalled construction projects in the Emirate now having restarted.

Landmark projects underway in the UAE include Expo 2020 and the Mall of the World, both in Dubai.

Lisa Mangan says: “Abu Dhabi and Dubai are returning to their position as huge users of senior UK construction expertise and knowledge. The projects range from mid-sized right the way through to the kind of huge, innovative projects that create opportunities for contractors to gain quick progression up the career ladder.”

managers that seek to invest in emerging markets as opposed to frontier markets, which by definition carry higher risk.

Deutsche Bank estimates an increase of up to USD 440 million as a result of the Qatari government’s decision to permit increased foreign shareholding in QSCs listed on the QE. Article 2 of the FIL Amendment provides the following: “Non-Qatari [foreign] investors may hold a share of no more than 49% of the capital of Qatari joint stock companies listed on Qatar Stock Exchange upon approval of the Ministry to the proposed share in the memorandum and articles of association of the proposed company.

Non-Qatari investors may hold a share greater than the aforesaid percentage subject to the Cabinet’s approval upon recommendation of the Minister.

Nationals of GCC states shall be treated as Qatari investors in respect of ownership of shares in companies listed on Qatar Stock Exchange.”

Pursuant to Article 2 of the FIL Amendment, non-Qatari investors may now hold up to 49% of the capital in QSCs listed on the QE. In addition, GCC citizens are to be treated as Qatari nationals in respect of ownership and are therefore subject

to no limitation on the number of shares they may hold in QSCs listed on the QE. According to Article 2 of the FIL Amendment, the MEC is required to approve the increase of non-Qatari shareholding from 25% to 49%. We are not aware of any indication from the Qatar authorities or the MEC as to whether the MEC will apply some type of discretion in granting an approval for the increased investment.

The foregoing increased opening of the Qatari market will likely be an excellent opportunity for foreign investors to ride the wave of Qatar’s strong economic growth and perceived immunity from worldwide shifts in the market.

Note: All Qatari laws (save for those issued by the QFC to regulate its own business) are issued in Arabic and there are no official translations; therefore, for purposes of drafting this article Clyde & Co has used its own translation and interpreted the same in the context of Qatari laws, regulation and current market practice.

The views set out in this article do not constitute legal advice and readers are urged to seek specific legal advice in relation to any particular issues which arise from the subject-matter of this article. For further in-

Ramiz Shlah Associate Ramiz is an associate based in Clyde & Co’s Doha office and has over five years’ experience in Qatar having worked on corporate, commercial, construction, insurance, finance, securities and banking law.

His clients include a wide array of international and local entities, including banks, investment firms, construction, industrial and technology companies.

Ramiz is admitted to practice law in Massachusetts and New York and has published articles on various topics, including GCC investment in Qatar, Ostensible Authority in Qatar and the Qatari National Health Insurance Scheme.

Prior to joining Clyde & Co, Ramiz was a consultant at a leading local practice in Doha.

formation on this topic please contact Laura Warren at laura. warren@clydeco.com or Ramiz Shlah at ramiz.shlah@clydeco. com

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Construction

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Qatar

Qatar unveils new design of Khalifa International Stadium at Gulf Cup in Riyadh

Aspire Zone Foundation unveils design for revamp of Khalifa International Stadium, the third proposed host venue for the 2022 FIFA World Cup Qatar™.

The Supreme Committee for Delivery & Legacy, the body responsible for building the stadium and infrastructure required for the 2022 FIFA World Cup Qatar™, and the Aspire Zone Foundation have unveiled the renovated design for Khalifa International Stadium, the third proposed host venue for the 2022 FIFA World Cup Qatar™.

The announcement was made at a ceremonial dinner held in the capital of Saudi Arabia, Riyadh, on the sidelines of the 22nd edition of the Gulf Cup. The redevelopment includes revamping the venue to include a seating capacity of 40,000 during the tournament in order to be compliant with FIFA’s stadium requirements for hosting group, round of 16 and quarterfinal matches. Additionally, innovative cooling technology will be incorporated to ensure an optimal playing temperature of 26 degrees Celsius and provide a comfortable viewing environment for fans and players.

Built in 1976, and renovated for the Asian Games in 2006, Khalifa International Stadium will undergo a comprehensive renovation to meet the FIFA standards for World Cup stadiums, which will include adding

a new building to the east wing, The fan zones were reported to and building a single roof to be a great success, it brought the temperature down by 12 cover the whole seating area.

Hilal Jeham Al Kuwari, President of Aspire Zone Foundation, which is supervising the renoThe redevelopment vation project, said: “Khalifa International Stadium has been includes revamping always pivotal to the sporting the venue to include scene in Qatar, having hosted a seating capacity several international tournaments and friendly matches. of 40,000 during the The aim of the renovation is not tournament in order only to refurbish the stadium to to be compliant fulfill the FIFA requirements, but with FIFA’s stadium to enhance it with new features as well. In this way, we will be requirements for able to keep the stadium sus- hosting group, round tainable for a longer time and of 16 and quarterensure that it will remain a globfinal matches. Adal sports hub as well as a focal point for the local community.” ditionally, innovative Among the new additions, the cooling technology stadium will include the 3-2-1 Qatar Olympic and Sports Mu- will be incorporated seum. This museum will include to ensure an optimal historic sport collections and playing temperature interactive exhibits, demonof 26 degrees Celstrating the strong relationship sius and provide a that connects Qatar with world sports. comfortable viewing The cooling technology that will environment for fans be employed in the stadium and players. and training sites was tested by the SC at an open-air fan zone set up in Doha during the 2014 FIFA World Cup Brazil™.

degrees Celsius and providing a comfortable environment for more than 15,000 fans.

To ensure that the fans will have a unique experience, the tournament will be the first compact edition of the FIFA World Cup™. This means that players and fans will not have to fly from one city to another for matches.

Instead, a modern transport network will be in operation to take fans from their accommodation to the stadiums in less than 45 minutes.

A joint venture between Midmac Contracting and a subsidiary of the Belgian Besix Group, Six Construct, is overseeing the main contractor works on the stadium. Dar Al Handasah and Projacs are the Design Consultant and Project Manager respectively. Expressing GCC support for Qatar in hosting the 2022 FIFA World Cup™, H.E. Abdullatif Al Zayani said: “Having such a global tournament organised by a Gulf state will be a source of pride not only for the Gulf, but for all Arab countries as well. Hosting the FIFA World Cup is a legitimate right for this region, and the GCC will always stand by Qatar to safeguard this right and make the World Cup happen.”

Commenting on the event, H.R.H. Prince Abdullah bin Musa’ad bin Abdul Aziz, General President of Youth Welfare, said: “As host of the tournament, Qatar will be able to bring the World Cup to the Middle East for the first time….. I am confident that Qatar will deliver an exceptional tournament, introducing our culture and traditions to the world and promoting football and sports across the Gulf and the whole region.”

Sheikh Hamad Bin Khalifa Bin Ahmed Al Thani, President of Qatar Football Association, said: “We are pleased to be here with our brothers in Riyadh, which is currently hosting the Gulf Cup. This tournament reflects the importance of sport, especially football, in strengthening the brotherly relationship between Gulf countries. Likewise, we hope that the 2022 FIFA World Cup will offer another good opportunity for the people of our region to come together and make it an impressive track record of success.”

In his speech, Hassan Al Thawadi, Secretary General of the Supreme Committee for Delivery & Legacy, said: “Unveiling the design of our third proposed World Cup host venue

from Riyadh shows how much the World Cup is welcomed by all the countries and peoples of the region, especially Saudi Arabia, which has been supporting us since the early days of our bid. It also demonstrates our determination and firm commitment to deliver on an amazing tournament, creating a lasting legacy for Qatar, the Gulf States and the whole region.”

Commenting on the project, Yasir Al Jamal, Acting Assistant Secretary General for Delivery Affairs at the SC, said: “Khalifa International Stadium is the third proposed FIFA World Cup venue to be revealed by the SC so far. This comes after we revealed the designs for Al Wakrah Stadium in November 2013, and Al Bayt-Al Khor City Stadium in June 2014.”

He added: “The SC has previously announced that work will start on five proposed FIFA World Cup venues before the end of this year. In the coming weeks, we will be unveiling the design for Qatar Foundation Stadium, which is currently in the enabling works phase, and Al Rayyan Stadium, which will be announced during Qatar’s National Day Celebrations in Darb Al-Saa’i.”

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Construction

SITES

Specifications

QCS 2014 promises to deliver the quality that Qatar wants

The new edition of QCS includes improved definitions and updates of contractors’ responsibilities

T

he fifth edition of Qatar Construction Specifications (QCS 2014) has been launched at a conference at the Qatar National Convention Center.

Minister of Environment HE Ahmed bin Amer Al Humaidi said in a speech at the conference’s opening ceremony that the State of Qatar was endeavoring to lay down the criteria that ensured and realized high quality in all sectors in the state after specifications had become a basic requirement.

He noted that Qatar Construction Specifications 2014 would be binding to everyone, stressing that these specifications had become a pressing necessity for society to maintain peoples’ health, safety and property.

QCS 2014 is the first step towards issuing the Qatar International Specifications for construction 2017.

At a panel discussion during the launch event, Khaled Al Emadi from Ashghal urged engineers, architects and technicians to submit their feedback through the QCS website, adding that all comments and concerns would be addressed by a QCS committee and might be included in the 2016 edition of the specifications.

Gareth Thomas, who is part of

the subcommittee of QCS, provided an overview on the issue of quality in the specifications.

He started his presentation with examples of construction failures that sparked a wave of laughs in the hall.

Thomas pointed out that, trivial as these construction failures might seem, they did not only cost money but a substantial loss of lives as well.

He added that quality was about health and wellbeing of people and not just about doing the job right.

Thomas stressed that QCS set the minimum requirements for quality. However, new technology could not be used without compliance with QCS or demonstration that its quality was higher than QCS. He explained that QCS was based on ISO 9001 since it was the most commonly-used model in the construction sector in the country.

“Around 99% of construction companies in Qatar have ISO 9001. So we didn’t want to change the way they work. There are various standards and we have to use something that is achievable”.

He pointed out that the new edition of QCS included some improved definitions and updates of contractors’ responsibilities.

He concluded his presentation saying that if utilized properly, QCS 2014 would deliver the quality that Qatar wanted.

In another presentation by Ossman al Hussein from Ashghal, the topic of how QCS 2014 addressed certification was discussed. “Projects need to be safe and correct to perform well.

To ensure this, we need to check material quality and system competency. The tool to do that is certification,” he said.

Al Hussein explored various levels of certification, starting with the self declaration which is used in cases when noncompliance consequences are minor. Then there are the affiliated certification and third party certification.

The latter is the one commonly used in construction projects. It is required when human safety or property protection is at stake and when serious impact is expected.

Responding to a question about the testing labs approved by Ashghal for certain certification, Al Hussein said there was a list of 18 private labs issued every month by Ashghal. Choice of labs is based on ISO 1702:5 certification. He advised attendees to use the list, but also monitor the performance of the labs.

Among updates in QCS 2014

highlighted by speakers was the new definition for concrete exposure conditions. Moreover, for the first time QCS started to mention design, while in the past editions it only focused on execution of work.

Al Hussein provided various examples of QCS 2014 certification-related clauses as follows: Section 1: Part 7, General Elements of work that may affect the safety of persons or property shall be checked and certified by an approved safety inspector.

Section 1: Part 21, Final inspection and handover procedures The contractor shall complete the following to the satisfaction of the engineer before requesting the pre-handover inspection: a) Submit final manufacturer certification, guarantees, warranties and similar documents. b) Submit occupancy permits, operating certificates, final inspections and test certificates and similar releases enabling full and restricted use of the works.

Section2: Part 2, Submittals a) A detailed description of procedures for reviewing shop drawings, samples, certificates and other submittals necessary for compliance

with the project documentation.

Readymix Readymix concrete for use in government projects may only be carried out in batching plants that have an approval certificate issued by the Central Materials Laboratory. When this certificate is under renewal process by the readymix concrete manufacturer, other certificate such as NRMCA shall be considered by the Engineer as an approval of the facility.

Section 6: Part 3, Earthworks Nuclear density gauge testing should only be carried out by personnel who have approved user certification issued by the Ministry of Environment.

Section 6: part 4, Unbound materials The contractor shall submit a test certificate that proves that the raw materials that are purchased/used comply with specifications.

Section 6: Part 5, Asphalt works Based on the engineer request, the contractor shall submit the pertinent certifications of material, equipment, plants, personnel and processes in relation to the project. Certificates must be issued by a competent authority approved by the engineer.

Delivery of materials produced from commercial manufacturing processes shall be accompanied by the manufacturer’s certification and test report showing that the materials comply with the designated requirements.

Section 9, part 1, General Test certificates, manufacturer’s test certificates, third party test certificates and quality control test certificates shall be submitted as required in the general and particular project specification. Certificates shall be originals or certified copies.

Test certificates. Certificates and documents of equipment tests shall be provided (e.g. pressure vessels, lifting equipment, etc.).

Performance test certificates and characteristic details shall be provided.

After the general session, attendees broke up for various technical workshops that discussed QCS in more detail. The first workshop was titled “National technical concrete industry”.

The second covered asphalt production, quality control and performance evaluation. While the last workshop of the day covered issues related to drainage.

The second day of the conference, which was held in October, focused on concrete, roads durability and green construction.

10

Construction

SITES

Review

The Construction Year in Perspective: Looking back at 2014

Qatar’s real GDP growth rate is expected to remain high until 2017, reaching over 18% (if oil prices are around $70 per barrel and still higher if they exceed that), but will slow thereafter with the completion of the LNG program and mega projects such as Shell’s Pearl GTL facility.

According to an assessment

by Qatar’s Ministry of Development Planning and Statistics, the non-hydrocarbon sector accounts for most of the economy’s expansion. This pattern is set to be maintained for the foreseeable future.

The Ministry, in its report, forecasts that, despite an expected decline in oil production, Qatar’s economic growth will remain robust at 6.3% in 2014.

As production from Barzan comes on stream in 2015, and as investment activity in the non-hydrocarbon sector gathers pace, growth will accelerate to 7.8%.

The contribution to a positive and strong current account surplus is expected to continue due to hydrocarbon exports.

Earnings from hydrocarbon exports plus the income generated by the state’s sovereign wealth fund (SWF) will continue to fund the aggressive infrastructure drive.

Qatar, by all means, is a wealthy country. It owns the third-largest gas reserves in the world, after Russia and Iran. Qatar is a sovereign state with a small population of Qatari national citizens and a significant number of expatriates, totally at the last count in excess of 2.1 million.

Qatar, whose population reached 2.21 million late this year as per the latest figures available, has huge plans for infrastructure development in the next 10 years, funded by its hydrocarbon exports.

It is now the world’s largest exporter of LNG. Its sovereign wealth fund, Qatar Investment Authority, has made many highprofile overseas investments (Barclays Bank; Credit Suisse; Volkswagen; Harrods; Miramax Films; Sainsbury’s; prime real estate in countries like the Sudan, Turkey, Croatia, Tajikistan).

Both the Al Jazeera broadcasting network and Qatar Airways give a boost to the state’s international image. In 2010, Qatar won the right to host the FIFA 2022 Football World Cup, attracting increased global attention to the state. This year, a FIFA judge cleared Qatar of

corruption allegations in its winning World Cup bid and cleared the state to stage the sport’s showpiece tournament in 2022.

The Qatar National Vision 2030, launched in October of 2008, by the then Heir Apparent HH Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, has set ambitious goals for the state.

In June 2013, HH the Emir Sheikh Tamim was installed as his father’s successor, taking over the reins of the government.

The long-awaited opening of the massive Hamad International Airport (HIA) was a watershed moment for the state this year.

HIA which will eventually occupy 29 square kilometers and accommodate 50 million passengers a year, aims to set new benchmarks for passenger convenience and comfort. It boasts a single 600,000-square-meter terminal building – its north and south sides linked by a 700-meter-long internal automated people mover system and two runways, including one of the world’s longest at 4,850 meters.

Arcadis, in its Second Global Infrastructure Investment Index, found that although Singapore remained the most attractive global market for infrastructure investment, the government there self-financed most of the major projects, Because of this investment opportunities were limited there.

As a result, other countries with major development plans such as the Gulf states of Qatar and the UAE, alongside developing Asian markets such as Malaysia and the Philippines, were more promising for investors, according to Arcadis.

According to Arcadis’ index, the cash-rich, hydrocarbon-enriched Gulf countries are highly experienced in harnessing private investment, with the UAE and Qatar in particular having relied on access to cheap debt to finance investment.

Looking ahead, there are expectations that governments would seek to diversify funding streams further, accessing capital market finance to support aggressive infrastructure spending plans.

The emerging markets will be a significant driver of the construction industry in the next decade, according to the Global Construction 2020 report by Global Construction Perspectives and Oxford Economics.

The report forecasts a sharp increase in construction levels from $7.5 trillion today to $12.7 trillion by 2020 as a result of burgeoning activity in India, Brazil and China; meanwhile, more developed regions of the world are predicted to show modest growth.

Companies ignore the growth markets in emerging world at their own peril and these areas are a key part of any strategy for long-term success.

Coupled with this, are the twin challenges; the emerging trend of urbanization and the exponential increase in the number of young people in growth markets. This has forced governments to invest in infrastructure – increasing construction activity and demand for equipment.

The types of projects vary, ranging from transportation to commerce and tourism. However, because these markets are growing so fast there is no time to put in place the administrative and information management systems to support this growth, which makes operating in emerging markets risky for investors.

They require additional oversight and also intimate local knowledge of regulatory issues, procurement laws and ways of doing business.

In 2011, Qatar committed 40% of its budget to infrastructure projects, more than in all the previous years together.

The then Finance Minister, Yousef Kamal, said that Qatar planned to invest between $160 billion and $170 billion on infrastructure and oil and gas projects in the next 10 years. Many of these projects were planned before the FIFA World Cup win and are integral to realizing Qatar’s National Vision 2030.

The 2022 World Cup has given an added impetus to existing infrastructure plans by providing

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a fixed date by which they must be operational.

Specific projects planned include a new national railway system, including a Doha metro, light rail, freight and high speed lines ($25 billion) slated for completion in 2025; an entire new port ($7 billion) being constructed on a “green field” site; construction of the QatarBahrain Causeway ($4 billion); the huge Dohaland – Musheireb urban redevelopment ($5.5 billion) in the heart of Doha; and a planned Doha Bay Crossing ($1 billion) linking the new airport with projects in the northern part of Doha.

In addition there is a major program for building and expanding roads ($20 billion), water and wastewater facilities.

The Barzan Gas project was the subject of a recent joint venture agreement with ExxonMobil that will supply gas for domestic use.

For the FIFA World Cup, nine new state-of-the-art stadia will be built with capacities of at least 43,000 each and three existing stadia will be refurbished ($5 billion). An additional 90,000 hotel rooms are also planned.

Unsurprisingly, such a huge development program continues to attract new entrants to the construction market and to many other areas of business.

Chinese contractors have been successful in winning many projects (including the first huge

contract to form the basin of the new port).

Despite the continuous award of new projects and the seemingly bottomless budgets, investors are advised to proceed with caution, however.

It would be erroneous to think there is easy money to be made in the construction sector, particularly for new entrants to the market. Many contractors, subcontractors and suppliers were hard hit during the last financial crisis, and five years on, its effects are still being felt.

Stories of established contractors on mega projects going unpaid for months are commonplace and the most negative effects are felt down the supply chain.

According to a recent report issued by Deloitte, “GCC Powers of Construction 2014: Are you ready for the recovery?”, Qatar is planning to directly intervene in the construction sector as part of its efforts to ameliorate the rising inflationary pressures in the wake of fast-paced infrastructure development in the country.

Construction, seen as the most promising non-hydrocarbon industry in Qatar, is projected to continue to perform strongly if supply chains are well managed and inflation is contained. The conservative growth in 2013 reflected the roll-out phase of Qatar’s infrastructure pipeline and catch-up on earlier project delays.

Construction

Qatar

Noise maps – a ‘sound’ way to experience Doha

SITES

11

Noise maps are done with specialized acoustic software, providing great accuracy of results

By Mr. Maro Puljizevic How noisy is Doha? It may seem like a rather banal question; but answers would vary significantly, depending on the area. Tenants of a pricey Pearl could state Doha is unbearably noisy as they are in a fight of their own against late-night engine-revving or noisy jet skis. On the other hand, residents of a significantly cheaper Al Gharrafa district seem to enjoy peace and quiet.

When buying, renting or even developing a property, we’re faced with numerous factors which ultimately guide our final decision and selection of a suitable area.

Usually, it all comes down to location. Distance to work and to kindergarten or school is a predominant factor for most of us.

However, do we ever consider noise? Yes, but usually when it’s too late and we’ve realized that a good night sleep is just a distant dream.

Wouldn’t it be convenient then to have some information on noise levels throughout Doha, just a click away? Filtering out the noisiest areas and browsing only through the quieter ones.

By all means, price of a property within an area highly polluted with noise should be lower than the price of a similar property

in a quiet and peaceful part of the city.

Unfortunately, this factor is not even closely considered by authorities, developers or real estate agents. It does sound a bit utopistic and distant, however it’s all possible, thanks to noise maps. A noise map is a very powerful tool, yet it is nothing more than a regular city map with graphical representation of noise levels during different times of the day. Such a map can consider only one noise source (traffic, industry, outdoor events, etc.) or any combination of those. It can show noise levels during day, evening or night time. Nowadays, such noise maps can be easily accessible on-line, with all the data made publicly available.

How is noise map done?

Noise maps are done with specialized acoustic software, providing great accuracy of results. The starting point of every acoustic model, and a future noise map, is a digital terrain model of the area of interest, i.e. of the city itself.

Having in mind Doha’s predominantly flat terrain, digitalization of such a model would be quite straightforward.

With a terrain model ready (including buildings, roads, bridges, etc.), information on

noise sources is inserted. Noise sources considered can be various, yet the noise map is usually done for road, rail, air traffic and industry.

Finally, noise level contours in an easily readable graphical format are produced and plotted on a city map. One of the noise map’s paramount features is that it is useful to everyone and easily readable even by a non-technical people.

How does the noise map actually help us? Made available to residents, it would provide instantaneous information on noise levels throughout Doha.

Noise pollution coming from nearby roads, any industrial plant or a sports venue would be clearly indicated.

That would surely change the way we search for properties; and real estate market would ultimately have to adapt, with prices adjusted accordingly.

Noise maps are indispensable tools for authorities as they enhance urban planning techniques and enable quick selection of suitable locations for noise sensitive developments such as hospitals, parks and resorts; or indicate suitable sites for locating any projects associated with noisy activities; industrial plant or even a World Cup venue.

Although very useful, noise maps can’t reduce noise pollution. In a real life; airplanes have to fly, cars have to drive and concerts, football matches and speed boat races have to take place.

However, with noise maps available, authorities can develop certain action plans in order to reduce nuisance as much as practically possible. Such action plans may consider introduction of noise barriers along major roads, limiting duration and maximum noise levels for concerts or even compensate

residents living near the airports.

What next?

Doha is a city which changes rapidly in front of our eyes.

Buildings, blocks, parks, highways, even whole islands appear and disappear almost on a daily basis. At that pace of a construction, tracking new developments and having an accurate noise map would surely be a challenge.

Nonetheless, it is definitely just the right time to start with noise mapping process and authorities have to start steering in

that direction.

Although it will surely face various challenges and may lack accuracy in the beginning of the project, a base noise map model will be useful practically forever.

Just by knowing that noise is tackled by authorities, as one of the important issues in our daily lives, would mean a lot to residents and act as a driving force towards a higher quality of our lives.

Mr. Maro Puljizevic is the Acoustics Section Manager at Al Mana Associates.

12

Construction

SITES

News

Renault Trucks Qatar Opens State-of-the-Art Workshop • •

•

4,500 sq. m. Workshop One-stop shop caters for all sales, parts, service, repair and maintenance needs Total investment by AMTC of QAR 26 million

To commemorate its 40th anniversary, Al-Attiya Motors and Trading Co. (AMTC) held an opening ceremony for the launch of its state-of-the-art Renault Trucks (RT) workshop in the Industrial Area recently.

The RT Qatar workshop is strategically located in the heart of the Doha Industrial Area at Street No. 6, Al Kassarat Street, providing easy access for regular servicing and maintenance. The capacity of the workshop has been doubled from 150 to 300 job

cards per month, with state-ofthe-art tooling and extra parking spaces as an added convenience as well. In addition, the warehouse storage space is capable of accommodating over QAR 10 million worth of parts stock.

The total value of the sprawling, state-of-the art 4,500 sq. m. facility is estimated at QAR 26 million. It is conveniently situated and is fully air-conditioned with a comfortable reception area, modern tooling equipment and expanded work stations to be able to provide a professional and timely service and maintenance experience for clients.

Over 2,000 Renault trucks are currently in operation across Qatar and the new workshop will help significantly in accom- modating the increasing demand for repair, service, body work and maintenance due to the growth experienced by Renault Trucks in the country.

According to a report from Renault Trucks Middle East, AMTC is one of best performing importers in the region.

As a result, Renault Trucks is a strong player when it comes to the medium duty range and one of the best brands when it comes to the heavy duty range.

To give AMTC the ability to address and resolve urgent re-

tomers, Renault Trucks provide a range of commercial vehicles for distribution, construction, waste management, fuel tankers, long haul as well as after-market products and support. pair cases, a 280HP Renault Midlum Mobile Workshop Truck is available and is capable of reaching customers at remote sites across Qatar, from the industrial north to the challenging sand-dunes of the south.

Building on the legacy of the French truck industry knowhow, Renault Trucks has been supplying transport professionals with robust tools and strong relationships since 1894. With an aim to reduce operational costs for its cus-

Over the past four (4) decades, AMTC has gained extensive experience and continuous success in various business sectors through the original vision of its founder “Grow slowly, steadily but surely”.

Construction

Conferences

SITES

13

QATAR GREEN BUILDING COUNCIL SEMINAR ENCOURAGES INCREASED INNOVATION IN QATAR’S CONSTRUCTION SECTOR

Green experts Debate Opportunities And Challenges To Help Deliver The Qatar National Vision 2030

In the wake of the nation’s construction boom, Qatar Green Building Council (QGBC), a member of Qatar Foundation for Education, Science and Community Development (QF), and the Pakistan Engineers Forum (PEF), hosted a joint seminar exploring innovation opportunities and challenges in Qatar’s construction sector.

The event, which took place this week at Qatar Foundation, was attended by more than 50 construction practitioners and sustainability experts. The seminar supported QF’s objective to ensure cutting-edge, environmentally sustainable infrastructure, and QGBC’s commitment to

working in collaboration with key stakeholders to encourage innovation and entrepreneurial thinking.

Addressing the gathered experts, Engineer Meshal Al Shamari, Director of Qatar Green Building Council, said: “QGBC is focused on promoting green practice across Qatar’s construction sector so we were delighted to host this conversation between sustainability experts, innovators and building specialists. We are committed to helping the nation deliver the Qatar National Vision 2030, and our discussions highlighted some interesting ideas and themes for reform and growth.”

Asfandiar Ansari, President

Dr Azhar Iqbal, Managing Director of Gulf Scientific Gateway, addressing the audience

of the Pakistani Engineers Forum, highlighted the importance of organisations working together to achieve common objectives: “The Pakistan Engineers Forum was established in 1997 with the main objective to disseminate knowledge within the community. Since knowledge knows no boundaries, we joined hands in our knowledge sharing efforts with key engineering organisations in Qatar like QGBC. The informative discussions at this event enable our members to connect with others and generate new insights into the construction industry in Qatar.

We would like to thank QGBC for providing a great networking opportunity for our members.”

Among Qatar’s large construction projects over the coming decade are Qatar Rail, the FIFA 2022 World Cup stadia, Msheireb Downtown Doha and Lusail Real Estate Development amongst many more.

Dr Alex Amato, Head of Sustainability at QGBC, added: “Innovation opportunities in the construction sector are abundant. The real question we need to answer is, ‘to what extent is innovation and research encouraged in

this sector?’ As part of our efforts to encourage innovation and research in the construction sector, QGBC has brought together members of the construction industry to conduct vital innovative research as part of its landmark project the Qatar Case Study Passivhaus. The project is now undergoing the research phase and is aimed at reducing energy consumption by half.”

Engineer Mohamed Al-Sada, Chairman of Gulf Scientific Gateway, focused on the important role of entrepreneurs in encouraging innovation in the construction sector. He

said: “Qatar’s current regulations and laws help entrepreneurs and innovators in many ways. However, they do not adequately address the main challenge facing new entrepreneurs in Qatar, which is capturing market gains while competing with existing market giants. We hope that we will witness further modifications in this regard.”

Dr Azhar Iqbal, Managing Director of Gulf Scientific Gateway, offered a potential solution. His presentation suggested that increased innovation and the introduction of new concepts to the construction industry will

General and Smart Cities Working Group Chair of ITS Arab, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia; Dr Nagwa El-Shenawi, Undersecretary for Information & Strategic Planning at the Ministry of Communication & Information Technology, Egypt; and Husamettin Baskaya, Senior Regional Director Mena, Websense.

Sessions at the two-day summit included “Vision to Smart Cities”, “The ICT Segment”, “Smart Cities in Business from the Pioneers”, “Inventing the Wheel” and “Connecting Smart Cities”.

Within these sessions were two panel discussions on “Breaking through Tools for developing Smart City Business Models” and “Master Planners of Policy”.

Key topics discussed during the sessions of the summit’s opening day were “Official Statistics and Smart Cities in Qatar”, “Less Traffic Congestion Using Smart Route Choice”, “M2M Project Opportunities and Market Potential”, “New Innovations in ICT to Enable the Smart Elements in Future Smart Cities in Trade”, “Automation infrastructure – Challenges and Future Growth Prospects in the Region”, “Regulatory and Policy Framework Changes towards Smart ROI‘s”, “Successful Implementation and Integration of all Automation, Metering, Secu-

rity & Safety Systems – Paving the Path to a Fully Inter-operable Smart City”, “Smart Cities: Increasing the Human Security IQ in A Digitally-Connected World” and “Sustainable Approach to Lighting Design in Buildings”.

On the second and final day, the topics focused on “Intelligent Designs of Service and Systems for Smart Cities through Telecommunications”, “Smart Cities and Behavior Change”, “National Food Security Program”, “The role of Intelligent Transport Systems (ITS ) in Managing Traffic Safety, Security and Congestion”, and “Measuring Happiness In Cities - Big City Glitter”.

The pre-conference Master-

class workshops covered an “Introduction to LEED v4” conducted by Hamoda Youssef, Research Specialist and Consultant at the Qatar Green Building Council, and “A Primer on Smart Cities: Characteristics, Infrastructure, KPI‘s and Data Analytics: What/Why/ How” presented by Dr Sekhar Kondepudi, Vice-Chair for the Focus Group on Smart Sustainable Cities at the International Telecommunications Union (ITU), a specialized agency of the UN, developing global standards, and Associate Professor – Smart Buildings at the National University of Singapore.

The closing remarks were delivered by event chairperson Ebrahim Al Haddad, Regional Direc-

Engineer Meshal Al Shamari, Qatar Green Building Council Director, speaking at the seminar

Middle East Smart Cities Summit discusses key issues The Middle East Smart Cities Summit, held in Doha last month, underscored the crucial role of technology in sustainability and environmental initiatives.

With valuable inputs from some of the leading experts and authorities in smart city developments, the summit also focused on key issues and concerns that were of importance to municipalities and government authorities, public services, urban planners, architects and consulting firms, universities and research institutes, banks and investment hubs, system integrators and technology providers.

Among the key speakers were Mansoor Al Malki, Director of Information Systems Department of the Ministry of Development Planning and Statistics, Qatar; Dr Wissam El Hamra, Lead Transportation Modeler, Transportation and Infrastruc-

ture Planning Department of the Ministry of Municipality and Urban Planning, Qatar; Nasser Rashid E R Al Kuwari, Head of Engineering Information System, the Public Works Authority Ashghal; Tareq Al Emadi, Head of Information Technology at Qatar National Food Security Program; Saleh A Mubarak, PhD, Associate Professor, Department of Civil & Architectural Engineering at the College of Engineering of Qatar University; and Dr Rainer Schnepfleitner, Regulation Affairs and Competition, Department Manager CRA, Qatar.

The summit was also addressed by Tuomas Koskenranta, Founder & Chairman of COBA Middle East FZCO; Mohamed Jaber, Director of MEP Engineering, Design Division at KEO International Consultants, Qatar; George Galica, Head of Business Solutions at Vodafone Qatar; Zeina Nazer; Secretary

help minimise competition between new entrants and established market leaders.

The event featured another informative presentation by Dr Uvais Qidwai, Associate Professor of Computer Science at Qatar University that highlighted the challenges innovators face in Qatar and how old innovations can provide answers to the modern age challenges.

He explained: “New concepts such as Zero Energy Design housing or the Passivhaus will encourage innovative thinking in Qatar’s market by pushing both the new entrants and existing giants to join forces and work together for their mutual benefit.”

QGBC is a non-profit, membership-driven organisation dedicated to advocating green building solutions, leading industry research, as well as promoting sustainable practice in the community.

QGBC offers membership opportunities to organisations, individuals and students who demonstrate support for QNV 2030 and showcase passion for environmental sustainability.

For more information about QGBC, please visit: www.qatargbc.org.

tor, ITU Regional Office for the Arab States Telecommunication Development Bureau, Republic of Egypt.

The summit was supported by Vodafone as Headline Sponsor; Coba as Platinum Smart InterOperable Cities Partner; Reign as Smart BMS Solutions Partner; Lonix as Smart Building Connectivity Partner; Granlund as Smart Energy Logistics Partner; EXI lights as Smart Lighting Solutions Partner; Simply City as Smart City Integration Platform Partner; KSENOS as Smart City Video Surveillance Partner; Qatar Green Building Council as Official Green Building Partner and QPM as Project Management Partner.

14

Construction

SITES

In Focus

Qatar is making steady progress in BIM adoption

With Qatar’s ambitious plans and tight deadlines, BIM comes as an efficient solution for optimized planning and execution of construction projects Qatar’s construction sector is National Priorities Research together stakeholders, owners, set to continue its race to be- Program which is the flagship end-users of the project and come one of the foremost inno- funding project of the National also consultants, contractors, specialists and suppliers invators of the modern age with Research Fund.

2014 becoming a year of Build- The Center for Construction Re- volved, within a common data ing Information Modeling (BIM) search and Innovation at Tees- environment. side University will use a whole This ensures everyone is foimplementation in the state.

Stakeholders, clients and the life cycle approach to informa- cused on achieving best value, architecture, engineering and tion flow integrated to 3D visu- from project inception to evenconstruction (AEC) industry alization to track the cost, time, tual decommissioning, comare increasingly turning to the use of materials and execution ments Murray. groundbreaking technology of space utilization of building BIM can be also used to enhance operational safety and BIM to help improve time- and projects. cost-efficiency, without com- By analyzing where problems to reduce safety risks. Contracprising on the quality of their and delays may occur before tors can minimize construction construction has even started, risks by reviewing complex deprojects or the environment.

With Qatar’s ambitious plans Professor Dawood says BIM tails and procedures before goand tight deadlines, BIM comes could cut the cost of building ing on site.

Increased use of design for as an efficient solution for opti- projects by up to 10%. mized planning and execution “This could potentially save bil- manufacture and assembly lions of dollars in Qatar which reduces risks associated with of construction projects.

It is being used to build mile- is predicted to spend $150 bil- onsite construction activities. stone projects like the National lion on construction over the Crowd behavior and fire modelMuseum of Qatar, Lusail City next 10 years, including on ing capability enable designs to Development, the Doha Metro, stadiums for the 2022 Football be optimized for public safety. the Doha Expressway Program World Cup,” stresses Professor Faster project delivery is another important benefit of BIM. and the eight stadiums that will Dawood. be hosting the FIFA World Cup The research is a partnership Significant time savings up between Teesside University, to 50% could be achieved by in just over eight years time.

BIM has been developed to Qatar University and Hochtief- agreeing the design concept increase productivity in con- ViCon, BIM Consultancy to early in project development to struction and therefore many create a knowledge hub in the eliminate late stage changes; organizations have identified Middle East for BIM technology. using standard design eleits advantages for their own Professor Dawood says: “This ments when practicable; rewill be a whole different way of solving complex construction business.

“Major government organiza- looking at how you organize in- details before the project goes tions have established BIM formation in the delivery of your on site; avoiding clashes; and standards for ongoing and building project. It’s a matter of using data to control construcfuture projects to be followed creating digital assets for the tion equipment and optimize by all involved stakeholders. projects and then implement- construction efficiency.

Among them are Ashghal, Qa- ing the work on the construc- “BIM allows to get maximum tar Rail, Q22 and Qatari Diar,” tion site in a way that’s been value of the investment, which simply serves as an example of comments Rene Schumann, rehearsed.”

General Manager at Hochtief He says: “This can have ma- how new technologies can be jor cost and health and safety utilized to increase collaboraViCon. “BIM in Qatar is no longer an implications. Hopefully, it will tion among project teams and optional accessory but is be- have an international agenda also increase efficiencies,” excoming a mandatory working in terms of pushing the bound- plains Schumann aries of how we manage con- However, most local consultantool,” adds Schumann.

Government adoption of the struction projects in the fu- cies agree on the significance of establishing a local BIM technology is seen as a key to ture.” ensuring a wider uptake of BIM Benefits of BIM come as a so- standard to optimize local conlution to the challenges of the struction efficiency and to inin the country. crease collaboration between A three-year research project local construction industry. has been awarded by Qatar “BIM is mature in the region, teams and to promote a collabFoundation to Teesside Uni- though BIM had to be per- orative approach. versity to do research work on ceived as a process supported Adopting BIM standard could BIM and how it can be used to by technology rather than a significantly improve working improve construction process software or a tool, where col- relation on the project. laboration is a key to success,” “The Qatar market is generally in Qatar.

The research program aims at according to Derek Murray, open for new technologies to making Qatar a center of BIM civil engineer, Head of Service enhance success in business,” knowledge and excellence in Strategy at Mott MacDonald, a says Schumann. global engineering and devel- “This is a cornerstone for the the GCC. change the industry has to exA $900,000 research grant opment consultancy. has been awarded to Profes- In the region where all project ecute. Additionally, a clear defisor Nashwan Dawood and Dr partners come from different nition of BIM in Qatar’s indusConstruction Site_Strip_QYP_20Nov2014.pdf 11/20/2014 PM backgrounds, BIM serves as try,4:00:18 a national BIM standard, is MohamadQatar Kassem of Teeside University as part of the Qatar collaborative platform to bring missing. This makes it difficult

Rene Schumann: General Manager at Hochtief ViCon.

for organizations to start BIM implementation and to include BIM in stakeholder contracts.

Many companies understand BIM as a technology only. This is not correct,” he points out.

BIM is becoming a regulatory requirement for a number of projects in Qatar, though many sub-contractors aren’t yet BIMenabled, according to a recent survey.

“If BIM was mandated,” comments Paul Wallett, Area Business Director at Tekla ME, “it would have a dramatic effect on the industry and all stakeholders involved in the projects.”

Using BIM clearly has its advantages and the examples are there for all to see, according to him.

“Projects like the Aldar Headquarters in Dubai, Capital Gate, and in-progress Midfield Terminal in Abu Dhabi, Qatar Museum and the Capital Market Authority office tower in Riyadh will prove to be success stories because of BIM.” As the use of BIM is accelerating dramatically, local consultancies and practitioners are looking for BIM implementation strategies for better return on investment from the novel technology.

“Some BIM practitioners lose hope that they can achieve something with BIM when they experience some hurdles in the beginning. BIM is a perfect way to go; one just should know a perfect way to make it happen,” says Esam Elabsi, Bim Center Manager, from Consoli-

dated Contractors Company.

“At the early stage of BIM implementation at the company, it is important to address a professional BIM solution provider company to have couple of projects done with BIM and adjust the working process to BIM,” advises Schumann.

There’s no denying that adopting BIM takes money and time – both in short supply for most businesses at the moment, according to Louay Dahmash, Territory Sales Director at Autodesk Middle East.

However, there are compelling reasons why now is a good time to consider BIM and all of these points make its implementation immediately worthwhile.

“Early adopters have been using BIM now for around a decade. Consequently, there are many case studies and reports of return on investment – including those from smaller businesses - to reassure the more cautious,” Dahmash added.

As firms become more familiar

through

with BIM, they discover ways that they can use the models or the data produced to add value to their service.

“Think how valuable a 3D model of a building fully populated with asset data can be to a client. It can help significantly reduce total cost of ownership.

BIM data from across a number of projects can also help a firm identify trends and optimize supply chains,” says Dahmash.

The shift towards BIM adoption is inevitable for the local construction industry.

“Much like going to the doctor, delaying the inevitable move towards adopting BIM is not a sage decision,” comments Teodor Pop, BIM consultant at NCS Qatar.

“Sooner or later all the AEC industry is going to adopt BIM processes – up to a certain level. BIM is already changing the construction workflows everywhere around us, is transforming the way buildings are designed, manufactured and maintained,” he points out.

Professor Nashwan Dawood : from Teeside University.

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Teodor Pop: BIM consultant at NCS Qatar.

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Construction

In Focus

SITES

15

BIM Builds Bridges in Doha with new Networking Group

Doha BIM Users start online networking group for those involved in Building Information Modeling (BIM)

T

Qatari Diar-Egypt Nile Corniche project benefits from ViCon’s BIM experience

The Qatari Diar-Egypt Nile Corniche Project is one of the largest developments currently ongoing in Cairo.

The multi-purpose 38-storey building located on Nile’s riverbank in Cairo’s busy city center will include a luxury hotel, offices, several restaurants and diverse retail areas.

Once completed, it will be one of the most exclusive locations in the city, becoming a 140m tall landmark shaping the silhouette of Cairo’s city center.

ViCon has been the project’s BIM consultant since 2009. Because of the complexity and the size of the project, ViCon has been engaged to deliver BIM implementation, management and services.

ViCon teams in Essen, Doha and on-site in Cairo support the planning, co-ordination and monitoring of the construction progress with the help of detailed BIM models.

The BIM use cases consist of 3D design co-ordination, 4D progress and cost monitoring, 4D construction program verification and the support in MBQTO, value engineering, marketing and training initiatives.

The collaborative setup with the user interface managed by a BIM manager has so far provided valuable experiences to all participants, from the project developer to project managers, designers, consultants and contractors.

ViCon’s Building Information System allows a remote access to the current 3D model and information and integrates various documents in a database, supporting the usage of BIM. The system is continuously used for reporting purposes and it will further support the later operation phase, enabling a true life-cycle approach to BIM. ViCon’s involvement on the Nile Corniche Project has been extended until the end of 2015 to maintain continuity on the BIM related work and ViCon will be retaining existing teams.

he Doha BIM Users LinkedIn networking group was formed to serve those involved in Building Information Modeling (BIM) in Qatar at all levels and in all roles. The purpose of the group is to promote and accelerate BIM adoption and use in Qatar.

There is a very unique set of circumstances here in Doha.

We have the FIFA World Cup Stadia, Lusail City and major infrastructure projects including Qatar Rail and Sharq Crossing and the iconic Qatar National Museum. BIM is very much driven by owners and their consultants, and the goals for implementation are set high.

Turner, Parsons, Atkins, Jacobs, HDR, HOK, AECOM, RTKL are among the global design firms involved. Many of the builders are local companies, and we also have Internationals, some of which provide both design and construction services. There has previously been no single organization encompassing all of these participants who are involved in the dramatic transformations taking place in Qatar and throughout MENA region.

The group was set up to share knowledge for those who are interested in knowing more about BIM (Building Information Modeling), how it is being used and implemented in Doha and amongst other topics, the challenges of using various software products.

The first meeting of DBUG was held on Saturday 15th November 2014 at Qatar University. The meeting was attended by some 25 enthusiastic members representing private companies and educational institutions. There was a mix of professionals and students ranging from architects, engineers, project managers to professors, students and one or two software vendors. Since this was the first meeting the agenda was mainly related to formalizing the group and discussing the aims and activities. A Chairman, Vice Chairman and an Executive Committee were chosen to organize the group and its activities. Suggested activities for the group included presentations and talks of various aspects of BIM, tips and tricks and discussions related to creating standards, conventions and procedures specifically for Qatar.

There are currently more than three hundred DBUG members, 62% of whom reside in Qatar. Meetings will continue to be held at Qatar University. The next one is tentatively scheduled for Saturday, December 6th. All who wish to participate are invited to join the group by visiting the Doha BIM Users Group on LinkedIn. https://www.linkedin.com/groups/Doha-BIM-Users-Group-6747984

Qatar Society of Engineers hosted International BIM expert Mr. Robert Molinos in Doha in October 2014. He spoke to society members about the challenges of BIM and its applications. Molinos is working with the Qatar based company, Qatar Design Consortium.

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18

Construction

SITES

In Focus

QATALUM SHOWCASING INNOVATIONS IN QATARI ALUMINIUM SECTOR AT ARABAL 2014

Participating in 18th edition of ARABAL, including expert speaking engagements and hosting of a pan-sector lunch, affirms Qatalum’s leadership in regional innovation Qatalum is participating in the 18th edition of the Arab International Aluminium Conference and Exhibition (ARABAL), the most important trade event for the aluminium industry in the Middle East – held this year in Manama, Bahrain, from 2527 November, and hosted by Aluminium Bahrain (ALBA).

As in previous years, Qatalum has sent a high-level delega-

tion to ARABAL, headed by CEO Mr. Tom Peter Johansen, Deputy CEO Mr. Khalid Mohammed Laram, in addition to a number of directors, various heads of departments, and specialists.

Leveraging the networking opportunities available through hosting of a stand at the Exhibition and dissemination of materials, Qatalum management is representing the company

in several events, including CEO Johansen speaking on an expert panel of GCC smelter CEOs, and Qatalum’s Chief of Power Operations presenting Qatalum’s latest environmental and sustainability innovations at a renewable energy panel.

Tom Peter Johansen, Qatalum’s CEO, said in his presentation at the GCC CEOs panel: “We have a long term gas con-

At Qatalum we are creating a culture of continuous improvement that has led to a significant increase in efficiency and a lowering of our business costs, to the point that we are now rated fourth globally in production cost efficiency by CRU, a foremost market intelligence research organization

tract with Qatar Petroleum which secures competitive energy costs.

We have a long term alumina contract with Hydro, securing high quality and competitive cost alumina, as well as a sales

and marketing agreement, to optimize customer service and synergies, and technology service agreements.

These partnerships are driving further operational excellence”.

Johansen also outlined Qatalum’s leadership development, including seconders from partners, development programs and Qatalum’s sponsorship of the Qatalum/Hydro Chair at the Centre for Advanced Materials within Qatar University.

Said DCEO Khalid Laram: “At Qatalum we are creating a culture of continuous improvement that has led to a significant increase in efficiency and

a lowering of our business costs, to the point that we are now rated fourth globally in production cost efficiency by CRU, a foremost market intelligence research organization”.

“We attribute this to investment in the Qatalum Improvement Program (QIP) and Qatalum Production System (QPS), which have together driven increased efficiency across the organization, based on achievable short and medium term targets.

We look forward to presenting these developments to our friends and partners across the industry at this ARABAL event.”

Construction

In Focus

Challenges and opportunities for Qatar’s public realm development

SITES

19

As Qatar’s urban environment undergoes rapid change, the country is facing various challenges as well as opportunities in the design, construction and supply of appealing outdoor spaces

Key challenges and opportunities facing Qatar’s landscaping and outdoor design industry were in the spotlight at the recent Future Landscape & Public Realm Qatar conference in Doha.

The conference provided a platform for landscaping and exterior design professionals, urban planners and high-level decision makers to discuss the latest trends and ongoing projects.

The first day of the event saw an interesting presentation by Dr Rosanna Law, Senior Director Buildings + Places, Design + Planning and Economics, AECOM. Law, who is working with Ashghal on landscape projects, is an architect-urbanist by training. She sees the crafting of places and spatial planning as an integral part of social policies.

Commenting to CS on the challenges urban designers face when working in a rapidlychanging environment like that of Doha’s, she referred to the “instant city phenomena”.

“The instant city phenomena is one where we have to create an identity overnight and that is one of the biggest challenges we face,” she said.

“Homogenization of cities across the world came with the widespread of car use. So I think it’s really important to re-engage with creating spaces for people locally, on the ground and particularly in an age of the internet, when everybody is texting and e-mailing.

“And it’s all the more important that sense of character and identity is rooted into the physical location of the city,” she explained.

Law pointed out that in her work with Ashghal, they were trying to address pedestrian and cycling connectivity, not just in particular parts of the city but across the wider region so that people felt comfortable and also developed a sense of ownership which would help enhance the social life within the city.

In her presentation, Law compared the traditional neighborhood or “fareej” to the modern districts we now saw in Qatar.

She said that the old fareej was characterized by a strong sense of community where people

looked after the space in front of their houses (their immediate environment).

Law, who is involved in the Msheireb project, explained that the dominant driver for its master plan was the public realm.

“The value of good public realm is that it creates a good social connection, longevity and evolution of these spaces over time,” she said.

“Good public realm has a cultural value. While the economic value of it can be seen in healthy generations, with the walkable environment lowering lifestyle disease rates.

Law summed up the challenges facing the public realm design in the following: • Increasing car ownership (movement, parking, etc.)

• Rapid urbanization • Isolated communities • Climate change Urban ecology Dr Alex Amato, Head of Sustainability at Qatar Green Building Council, focused his presentation on the city’s urban ecology.

Amato listed a set of key questions that need to be addressed if Qatar’s urban ecology is set in a completely new man-made environment. The questions are: * Is it necessary to get locked into the “indigenous species of flora only” mindset or can we be more relaxed? * Is there really an issue with water? There seems to be abundant treated sewage effluent (TSE) available, so should we succumb to the cliche that Qatar is a desert?

* *

*

*

*

*

*

* *

Are we really convinced that desalination can’t be made sustainable?

Does not the future potentially promise desalination using renewable energy and where the effluent is collected as the input for the chemical industry and is not discharged into the Gulf?

In which case, will we have abundant sustainable water to irrigate our urban environment?

Do we really know what is out there now in the urban environment? Plenty of birds and insects seem to be living in that environment.

We know that much work is being carried out on Qatar’s rural ecology, but is anyone in academia bothered about Qatar’s urban ecology?

Should not our landscape professionals and ecologists combine their knowledge, working collaboratively and begin to propose a new and unique Qatar urban ecology where the consequences of our choices are understood?

Do we acknowledge the need for linear parks so that fauna can travel from one area to another and so maintain biodiversity?

Should these linear parks link both coastal and rural environments?

Can we not devise an urban architecture that supports this concept with abundant green roofs and copious planting on and surrounding buildings?

*

Could not parks also be a means for people to walk, jog or cycle to work or simply enjoy Qatar’s urban ecology? * Is climate really an impediment to their use? * Who is putting these choices about Qatar’s future urban ecology and environment up for discussion?

Who is vision-eering?

So how might we go forward in a sustainable way? Amato had a few suggestions: * Appreciate that with increasing technology, our impact on ecology becomes more profound; * That we are part of the global ecological process and that we have always made choices that have had ecological consequences; * That with choices (e.g. BAIJ) there will be consequences and thus some measure of responsibility - financial, moral, etc; * Recognize that we do have choices and indifference is not a credible option for Qatar.

Sustainability Qatar project management company (QPM) participated in the Future Landscape & Public Realm Qatar as a partner, with landscape architect Hala Shiblaq addressing the challenges between artificial and natural grass in a presentation titled “Plastic vs Green”.

Shiblaq has, during her overall career, contributed to the design of the Sheraton Park in West Bay, Sky Gardens of Shams Abu Dhabi, Dubai Festival City Al Badiya and the Dubai Waterfront Project.

During her presentation, she highlighted the basic challenges landscape architects face when designing projects.

“The homogenization of landscapes has become so popular that modern cities are losing their local identity. The approach of transforming desert into a lush paradise is not a sustainable solution either.”

She spoke about the advantages and disadvantages of artificial grass including health, environmental and performance concerns about it.

“Due to the intense transformations these cities undergo, developers are using treatments such as artificial grass. However, we must be wary of the rubber infill used in some lowgrade artificial grass fields; they are often made out of pulverized tires with traces of heavy metals such as lead and could also contain traces of carcinogens.”

She said the dust produced by constant contact with rubber infill could be inhaled or ingested by those who play on it.

Using sand infill is a better option. Sand doesn’t absorb as much heat as rubber. It is also preferable to use an underlay which acts as a shock pad and reduces possible skin abrasion during play due to athletes sliding on the turf.

There are many such higher quality turf variations. So when choosing artificial turf, planners should ensure they are using environmentally regulated artificial grass.

Qatar uses environmentally regulated artificial grass, and the option of using toxin-free infill is available in the country. There

are lots of organic alternatives to rubber infill such as dune sand, walnut shells, coconut shells, or even cork.

Other disadvantages when selecting the artificial route include the heat factor. The surface temperature of natural grass is similar to atmospheric temperature while the surface temperature of artificial grass can be 20 degrees higher. This makes cooling a necessity with artificial grass.

Shiblaq said developers and designers should refrain from using artificial grass in residential and educational facilities, sports fields or playgrounds until the health and environmental impacts were resolved.

Artificial grass does have its merits when used wisely. They are great for highways and medians, roundabouts or airport grounds where they remain verdant and use zero water.

“We also tend to change our behavioral habits when driving to next to a green space,” said Shiblaq. “People slow down or remain cautious when they drive in green areas. So this is one of the things we need to think about when creating future master plans.”

Airport grounds are another opportunity for the use of artificial turf in massive spaces. The sense of arrival or departure from a city can leave a positive impression on the passenger while looking through the airplane window.

She concluded that from a landscape architect’s perspective, local identity must be protected, ecological diversity embraced and artificial treatments chosen wisely.

20

Construction

SITES

In Focus

MAKING SUSTAINABILITY A TOP PRIORITY

Qatar Foundation Winning Global Recognition for Sustainable Development Efforts within the Local Community The earth abounds with natural resources that ensure the sustainability of humanity and its environment. Unfortunately, due to rapid population growth, economic expansion and the over consumption of our planet’s natural resources, the perpetuation of these resources remain a growing concern.

However, it is clear that the survival and well-being of each nation depends, directly or indirectly, on its individual natural environment, making sustainable living a crucial aspect of the protection of our collective global society.

One of the most urgent issues currently at the forefront of the international agenda – amid rapid global population growth, social development and economic expansion – remains climate change. This is not an abstract issue, it is apparent and has real consequences on our lives; some more than others. It is also, in some cases, disrupting national economies.

However, there is increasing recognition that affordable, viable solutions exist to enable the global community to develop sustainable economies.

Since the social, economic and environmental realms are interlinked on the issue of global sustainability, Qatar has made this issue a top priority on its national agenda.

Environmental Development is one of the four main pillars of the Qatar National Vision 2030 (QNV2030), which itself aims to manage rapid domestic expansion to ensure harmony between economic growth, social development and environmental protection.

Qatar Foundation has adopted a number of programmes designed to encourage the public to integrate sustainability into their daily lives.

“Qatar Foundation’s main objective is to educate the community about the importance of sustainability while creating a green urban environment,” says Engineer Jassim Telefat, Goup Executive Director of Qatar Foundation Capital Projects and Facilities Management.

“For this reason, Education City’s highly functional buildings, with their low consumption of environmental resources such as water and energy, have been created to help reduce the environmental impact

Jassim Telefat: Goup Executive Director of Qatar Foundation Capital Projects and Facilities Management

of construction. Therefore, the campus’ unique design provides the highest possible living standards for students and employees, while conserving the environment.”

Eng. Telefat adds: “Qatar Foundation has always given priority to human development by introducing young people to sustainable development practices, engaging the student community in environmental care standards, and encouraging individuals to adopt sustainable lifestyles.”

One way in which Qatar Foundation weaves sustainable awareness into the lives of the younger generation is by making it part of their living environment through various means - from healthy living awareness activities and providing basic recycling facilities around the Education City campus in Doha - to its grander plans of making the 14km/2 area, a car-free zone.

Qatar’s social, economic and environmental sustainability efforts are also exemplified in the Qatar Green Building Council (QGBC). As a Qatar Foundation member, QGBC is a non-profit, membership-driven organisation that provides leadership to encourage collaboration in sustainable best practice, for green building design and development across Qatar.

“We support Qatar Foundation’s sustainability efforts by communicating and collaborating with experts at other Qatar Foundation member organisations,” said Engineer Meshal Al Shamari, Director of QGBC. “Currently, we have on-going research projects underway with Hamad Bin Khalifa University and Texas A&M University at Qatar, all based at Education City. We also provide technical

support to Health, Safety, Security and Environment (HSSE) Directorate at Qatar Foundation.”

QGBC also supports the government and private sectors in Qatar, by studying the market’s sustainability needs and providing training to relevant parties, as it works to raise the levels of environmental awareness in both the corporate realm and the wider community.

A variety of initiatives and public campaigns are what QGBC utilises to achieve its goal, with the most recent being the launch of an e-survey that encourages residents to share basic, but valuable, information about their household energy and water consumption.

This recent drive is a data collection exercise that will help QGBC gauge current national levels of environmental awareness in order to develop best practice guidelines for both the professional and residential sectors.

In addition to these, QGBC has developed a virtual reality education program for high school students that feature interesting facts and information about environment and the underlying sustainability woes in Qatar.

QGBC will soon launch Qatar Green Directory that aims to serve as a platform for all the green products and services available in Qatar and the region.

“Generally, sustainability is a relatively new concept for everybody worldwide, which makes incorporating environmental awareness into the mind-sets and the lifestyles of the new generation crucial to any effort, especially in a place with abundant energy like Qatar,” said Eng. Al Shamari.

Qatar Foundation is also dedicated to upholding the rights of migrant workers in Qatar. The Karama initiative, launched in 2013, was specifically created to prevent unjust employment practices. This unique initiative is set to significantly raise the standards of living for migrant workers contracted on the Foundation’s projects.

Furthermore, Qatar Foundation also promotes social sustainability through its Community Development Pillar, by encouraging healthy living among Qatar’s residents. Accordingly, the Qatar Foundation Support Services Directorate continues

to organise programmes for its internal community throughout the year, including swimming, gymnastics, football and basketball classes, in addition to health circuit training and self-defence classes for ladies.

For Qatar’s wider community, Qatar Foundation facilitates healthy living through various events, including its popular National Sport Day celebration.

“The Support Services Directorate contributes to Qatar Foundation’s social efforts, which fall under its sustainable development initiatives cutting across research, education and community development,” said Mohammad Al Naimi, Community Affairs Director at Qatar Foundation’s Support Services Directorate. “Therefore, throughout the year, we organise activities and programmes that benefit communal well-being. We understand how crucial sustainability is for the development of Qatar, which is why we encourage the community to take an active role in driving a healthy and harmonious social environment.”

Qatar Foundation is equally dedicated to sustainable infrastructural development. For instance, the male and female student housing complex at Education City is currently one

of the only platinum LEED certified student housing complexes in the world. Having earned 12 Platinum LEED certifications in the category of ‘New Construction’ from the US Green Building Council, it is also the largest collection of platinum LEED certified buildings in one area in the world.

In addition, the complex comprises state-of-the-art sustainable technology and energyefficient systems throughout its entirety. It also allows students to track their green footprint by monitoring their individual water and energy consumption, and is also equipped with a solar-panelled roof, and wind turbines that generate clean energy at gusts of 10km or more. These turbines have become icons of the sustainability practices that define Qatar Foundation.

Another feature of the student complex is the special key card system that helps to save energy. When the card is removed, the lights turn off automatically and the air conditioning reverts to an average temperature in order to reduce energy consumption.

A key landmark, the Qatar National Convention Centre (QNCC), is designed to operate efficiently with innovations

such as water conservation and energy-efficient fixtures.

It is also approximately 32 per cent more efficient than similarly designed buildings.

QNCC’s most prominent feature is the 3,500sqm of solar panels on its roof that provide 12.5 per cent of the Centre’s energy needs. Additionally, the exhibition halls are equipped with energy-efficient LED lighting and various other integrative design elements currently being adapted to maintain the highest sustainable standards.

Environmental protection, the conservation of natural resources, and the elimination of all adverse health and safety risks are at the core of one of the key sustainability projects of QF, QSTec (Qatar Solar Technologies). QSTec’s operations, in line with the QNV2030, is tasked with the mission to manufacture and supply solar energy solutions in a safe and environmentally conscious manner for the interest of Qatar. It works to support initiatives that promote sustainable practices and the use of solar technologies worldwide. Additionally, the plant’s progressive equipment allows for the recycling and re-use of vent gases used in the production of polysilicon. – QATAR FOUNDATION

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Construction

In Focus

SITES

21

‘Look of the Games’: The pioneer behind Qatar’s sports facilities branding

C

onstruction Sites spoke to Melissa Rangi of THE LOOK COMPANY who specialize in providing event and location branding solutions for Sport, Retail and Commercial customers globally. According to Melissa they are recognized as the pioneer of the “Look of the Games”. The company’s expertise is in exploiting the entire available landscape and architecture, interior and exterior, to deliver imaginative and visually engaging fan and consumer environments. Established in 1998, in Ontario, Canada, TLC’s growth and success is driven by a passion for our craft, a culture that rewards innovation and a commitment to excellence in every engagement with Organizing Committees, Sport Associations, Clubs, Venue Operators, Retailers and Commercial clients.

How do you decide what kind of interior products a building needs?

Melissa Rangi: Based on the clients requirement’s and project brief we work very closely with the designers, architects and project managers to recommend the best solutions that will meet not only the design aesthetics but also functionality to the project.

What are the sizes of the

dimensions of some of the buildings you work with?

MR: We have no limits to the size of projects that we can take on, we can deliver on small boutique style projects to whole towers, multi-use developments and stadiums.

What kinds of materials do you recommend to your clients in Qatar for their interiors?

Because we are specialized in corporate interior branding and we understand the importance of a company’s brand and how it should be best represented, we will always recommend the highest quality materials that not only look the best once applied but are going to last a long time, we pay particular attention to maintenance longevity which in this region is always too often overlooked and required more than in other countries or regions due to the harsh climate.

We will always recommend materials that are LEED certified and meet all required building codes and standards at an international level.

What makes a building unique?

MR: Each building has its unique-ness, I guess what we are always looking to achieve when we approach any project is the user experience of the

building, this begins with understanding the use of the building and improving visitor, staff wellbeing and safety, proper design should always deliver on these outcomes Can you talk about some of the brands that you prefer to use on your interior designs?

MR: We are very specific in the brands we recommend to our clients and spend years doing research to find the right material manufacturers. We need to know we can stand by each of the brands we sell 100% and offer warranties where applicable.

3M is a brand we use for Wall and Glass manifestations. Specifically, DI-NOC and Fasara. DINOC has unique characteristics that differ from a traditional wall paper or sticker that allow you to have “real” looking materials such as marble, wood and leather and conform these surfaces over top of wavy and unique levels.

Can you describe the process? Do you work directly with building owners, project managers? Architects?

MR: It always begins with a project brief, from project brief we go into scoping the building to understand the site fully, we develop project drawings and from there we begin recom-

mending materials, produce project mock ups for approvals, schedule production and then delivery & installation.

Yes. We work very closely with the interior designers, architects and project managers from the beginning of the project all the way through to completion and handover.

DI –NOC laminates: What is this? Where is it best used?

MR: Di-Noc is a self-adhesive flexible laminate film that is ideal for resurfacing and refurbishing hard smooth surfaces. The product is easy and quick to use and gives amazing results, transforming existing surfaces.

DI-NOC can be the perfect substitute for, or addition to, aesthetically pleasing building materials for interior and exterior surfaces. DI-NOC is a self-adhering material, and can be flexed to fit a variety of surfaces and budgets. Surfaces such as walls, ceilings, elevator cabs, floors or furniture can be remodeled or designed with a proven, dependable product to give any surface a lift.

In a nutshell – we can transfer someone existing office walls and furniture over a weekend without any carpentry work or dry walling work ever needing to be done. No down time for an office which is imperative in

this type of fast paced market.

Fabricmate upholstery Walls: What is this? Where is it best used?

MR: The use of fabrics as a form of wall covering has emerged into a highly sought after interior decor. The fabric upholstered wall offers interior decorators unlimited options for colors, patterns an even choices in materials in the creation of each room they are working with.

Unlike paint or wallpaper a fabric covered wall provides a warm and welcoming material that provides both form and functionality in any setting. The ability to change panels and create patterns of colors and textures gives the decorator an unlimited canvas upon which to draw.

NovaPolymer – Braille and Tactile signage: How is this brand different from other products available in Qatar?

MR: Traditional signage requires you to mechanically adhere or “stick” letters onto a surface or substrate. Over time the glue you used to mechanically fasten the lettering or the tape can release causing letters and number to fall off. NovaPolymer’s process starts with a materials and removes material away from the surface leaving you with letters and braille

left on the surface. No need for sticking or mechanically fastening letters. This assures out clients a long last and more importantly accurate sign.

Are items fabricated in Qatar or do you import them?

MR: We import raw materials and fabricate, print and install them locally. We are fortunate to have a state of the art factory in the Industrial area that allows us to quickly and efficiently deliver projects on time and on budget.

Qatar Football Association and The LOOK Company renewed their Branding Agreement in May 2014. Mr. Kuwari of the QFA said that: “The benefit to the QFA within this Partnership is that The LOOK Company recycles the stadium and outdoor branding materials to preserve the environment and re-uses them to produce backpacks, clothes, multipurpose bags. We look forward to working with The LOOK Company for the next 2 seasons and look forward to benefiting from their creativity such as this Recycling program which aligns with QFA’s main corporate values.” Previous events that they have branded include the AFC Asian Football Cup Qatar in 2011. They will also be branding the venues for the 24th Mens Handball Championships 2015.

Duhail Handball Sports Hall Designed by: IGH (Architectural and Interior), WSP Middle East (Structural, MEP and Geotechnical Engineering) Main Hall Capacity: 5,500 spectators including Presidential & Exclusive seats adequately cooled & ventilated thru displacement system Main characteristic:

A sustainable “Green” building Total footprint: Total built-up area of approx.

40,000 square metres. Constructed on a 30,000 square metres land area of softscaping, water feature, parking spaces and paved walkways Features: Main arena, designed in compliance with IHF requirements 2 training halls 60-bedroom players’ accommodation, restaurant and lounges QHA administration and media offices Presidential & exclusive lounges Medical center Gymnasium Swimming pool and grandstands Other uses: Mainly intended for handball court

Post event use: It will accommodate the Qatar Handball Association headquarters and serve as the home ground and the main training base for all Qatar’s National Handball Teams Did you know that?

State-of-the-art scoreboards are provided for both the arena and training halls. Equipped with all necessary infrastructure for broadcasting and internet protocol television?

High importance to noise and crowd management, traffic impact, fire and life safety, specialised lighting, interior design, landscaping and environmental impact has been given?

It is located at North Duhail and the project’s construction will last from June 2013 to August 2014.

ASTAD & Qatar Olympic Committee launch the Ali Bin Hamad Al Attiyah Arena Ali Bin Hamad Al Attiya Arena in Al Sadd Designed by: The architect Yasser Al Khalil of James Cubit and Partners Main Hall Capacity: 7,700 spectators Main characteristic: The dynamic and oval shape of its exterior look Total footprint: 16.000 square metres and a built up area of 54.000 square metres.

Features: One main and two training grounds, following all guidelines and recommendations of the IHF Other uses: Handball, Volleyball, Badminton and Gymnastics ground Designed to be transformed into an ice hockey ring which fulfills the standards of the IIHF Post event use: Main hall of Al Sadd Club Did you know that?

• Time required for the transformation of the hockey ring to a regular field is 48

hours It safeguards the complete privacy of the VIPs and the athletes while its design has received a 4 star GSAS rating Lusail Multipurpose Hall Designed by: The architects of “Dar Al Handasah Consultants” Main Hall Capacity: 15,300 spectators Main characteristic: The distinctive Dia/Grid which is made of glass, colored after the representative elements of Qatar: the sand, the pearl and the sea water Total footprint: 45.000 square metres and a built up area of 130.000 metres Features: One main and two training halls following the standards and the recommendations of the IHF Other uses: Handball, Volleyball and Basketball Hall Post event use: Studies are currently under•

taken in order to explore its transformation into a space dedicated for other entertaining activities, usable 365 days / year Did you know that?

It is rated with 3 GSAS Stars (Global Sustainability Assessment System) for its design?

As per the initial plans, it was supposed to accommodate approx. 18.000 spectators, however, the will of the Qatar Olympic Committee, to create a venue that would primarily provide comfort to the visitors, led to the decision for more spacious seats transforming it into one of the most “spectatorfriendly” venues in the world?

It will be surrounded by a massive landscape of 350.000 square metres, decorated with colorful shaded trees, walking/ jogging and bicycling tracks, an outdoor covered gym, as well as covered and uncovered kids playgrounds?

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Construction

SITES

Concrete

KnowCrete by Ready-mixed concrete: batching and measuring materials by ASTM C 94/C 94M Don Bain and Karthik Obla

By Colin L Lobo and Richard D Gaynor ASTM C 94/C 94M requirements for measuring materials recognize both individual scales and hoppers for weighing a single material and cumulative scales and an associated hopperfor weighing more than one material.

This system, and the terminology that is used, developed from the use of dial scales where the material weights were accumulated as materials were weighed.

With the increasing use of computerized batching equipment, it has now become possible to have the computer do the subtraction and print the weights of the individual materials in a cumulative batcher, including recognition of the zero reading or tare.

A note is needed in ASTM C94/C 94M to explain the fact that cumulative tolerances apply to cumulative batchers irrespective of the format used to report the batch weights.

This means that the tolerance of any individual weighing is based on a tolerance percentage of the intended cumulative weight.

Cementitious materials Cement, slag, fly ash, and other pozzolans may be weighed cumulatively on a single scale provided cement is weighed first.

The weighing tolerance is 1% of the required cumulative weight. For small batches where the cumulative weight is less than 30% of scale capacity, the tolerance is from– 0 to + 4%.

The primary reason for weighing cement first is related to the flow characteristics of fly ash that could cause it to be over-weighed, and result in a lower batched quantity of cement. This requirement tends to ensure the correct cement weight and, if anything, an excess of mineral admixtures.

Cumulative weighing of cement and supplementary cementitious materials (also referred to as mineral admixtures) also has the advantage that the batcher tends to “rathole” when it discharges into the mixerand the cementitious materials blend as they are loaded.

There have been a few instances when individual separate batcherswere used for cement and fly ash and the fly ash wound up inone part of the batch, separate from most of the cement. When separate batchers are used, which is rare, the batcher discharge must blend the two materials.

Batching silica fume is not addressed in the current version of C 94/C 94M; however, this is currently being considered since it is a small amount and if it is weighed cumulatively as the last ingredient it is possible to meet current batching tolerances by batching 60 % of the desired amount if 5% by weight of cementitious materials is desired.

With the load cells and automation now available it is possible to treat the silica fume as a separate material and batch it with an accuracy of 0.3 % of scale capacity.

Normally this would be within 10% for 5% of silica fume and correspondingly less for 10 or 15% of silica fume by weight of cementitious materials.

Another alternative might be to weigh the silica fume to 100.3% of the amount desired with a tolerance of 0.3 % of the capacity of the scale. This will slow down the batching process. Producers still using dial scales and 5- or 10-yearold automation are likely to use silica fume in pre-weighed bags.

Likewise even those with the newer systems should not attempt to weigh silica fume for batches less than about half the batching capacity of the cumulative system.

Naturally if the plant uses a separate individual silica fume weigh batcher the tolerance would be 2 % of the desired amount. This would speed up batching and provide some flexibility in controlling the batching process when silica fume is used.

Although it is not addressed in ASTM C 94/C 94M, many concrete plants contain several silos for cementitious materials and there is always the possibility that material can be placed in the wrong silo.

Producers generally use different coloured fill pipes, different sized connections, signs, and distinctively colored bills of lading to distinguish between materials.

In some cases, fill pipes can be at different locations in the plant. Some producers use keys and locks on fly ash pipes and control access to the keys.

Because fly ash tends to flow freely through cracks, some specifications do not permit common walls between multi-compartment cement and fly ash silos.

The space between these double-walled bins needs to be free-draining with

access provided for inspection.

Aggregates Aggregates can be weighed either in cumulative or individual weigh batchers.

The basic batching tolerance in cumulative batches is 1 % of the cumulative weight and 2 % of the required amount in individual batchers.

For cumulative weights less than 30 % of scale capacity, the tolerance is 0.3 % of scale capacity or 3 % of the required cumulative weight, whichever is less.

This means that at less than 10 % of scale capacity, the 3 % tolerance will govern.

Mixing water ASTM C 94/C 94M defines mixing water as any water added to the batch plus surface moisture on aggregates, ice, or liquid admixtures. The tolerance on batching added water is 1 % of the total water content, not a percentage of that being batched. The tolerance on the total water is 3 % of the total water content.

This does mean that if a water meter is accurate to about 10 lb (4.5 kg) or 1 gal (3.78 L), and the nominal total water content is 280 lb/yd3 (166 kg/m3), then the minimum batch size that can be batched is about 3 yd3 (2.3 m3).

The NRMCA Checklist establishes a tolerance of 1.5 % on added water and is considered more realistic.

When water is weighed, the present ASTM C 94/C 94M tolerances are more easily achieved, but the ultimate importance to concrete quality is questionable.

The total mixing water consists of that measured in the plant plus that from free moisture on aggregates, or an adjustment for that absorbed by less than SSD aggregate; that from wash water measured through the batch plant; and that from certain water-based admixtures that are used in significant quantities, such as high dosages of high range water reducing admixtures, corrosion inhibitors, or shrinkage reducing admixtures.

Other sources of mixing water include that which is in the mixer during a job site wash out, which is generally quantifiable through the measuring device on the truck water tank (site gage or water meter), and some minimal quantities that could enter the mixer at the wash-down rack before the vehicle departs the plant.

Additionally, water may be added from the truck water tank on arrival at the job site that is within the limit permitted by the specification or that which controls the strength of the concrete. Often the delivery ticket will indicate the maximum additional water permissible.

The truck driver is normally advised by the company to record the amount of job-site-added water on the delivery ticket and obtain the signature of the person requesting this addition.

Mixers need to be cleaned at the job site before returning to the plant. This will require about 40 gal of water from the truck water tank to wash down the truck chute, interior of the drum, and fins.

When facilities are not provided at the job site to discharge this water, it is carried back to the plant and either discharged or used with the next batch with the appropriate corrections to the plant batch water.

The accuracy of the quantity in the mixer truck prior to batching is possibly questionable as this is generally verbally communicated by the driver to the batch man.

Chemical admixtures Chemical admixtures are rarely batched by weight, except when they are added in prepackaged fixed amounts. Volumetric dispenser systems are quite sophisticated and are integrated into plant automation.

Admixtures are required to be batched to within 3 % of the desired amount or plus or minus the amount or dosage required per 100 lb (50 kg) of cement, whichever is greater.

It should be noted that on small batches of lean concrete the admixture batching accuracy may be as large as 25 % of the amount batched.

Even in a 10-yd3 (7.6-m3) capacity batch, if the dosage rate is ½ oz/100 lb (0.3 mL/kg) and the dispenser is accurate to 1 oz (30 mL), the overall batching accuracy will be 5 %.

However, variations of this size would not change the air content, setting time, or concrete strength. In a 2-yd3 (1.5-m3) load, the effects will be significant. info@greymatters.ws www.greymatters.ws

Construction

News

Qatar’s Scouts among world’s largest

T

he Public Works Authority (Ashghal) has completed the Scouts Overland Camp for the Qatar Scouts and Guides Association project in Al Mazrouaa at a cost of QR86 million.

Ashghal has also completed work on the association’s headquarters in Ain Khaled at a cost of QR31 million.

The Qatar Scouts and Guides Association project in Al Mazrouaa began in the last quarter of 2012 and was implemented

by Al Balagh Trading and Contracting.

The project comprises the construction and maintenance of an overland camp facility at the Al Mazrouaa area, located around 30km from Doha, off Al Shamal Road.

With a total area of approximately 400,000sqm and a built-up area of around 11,500sqm, the camp is considered one of the world’s biggest of its kind, having various facilities at a single place.

“The design and the location of the facility match the highest standards and have the provision for future expansion,” an Ashghal statement said.

“The project aims to provide the possibility of organizing international and regional scout’s events and to encourage camping during vocational training periods, through providing all necessary facilities to the scouts,” Ashghal said.

“The project also aims at pro-

moting social communication and environmental awareness among students.”

The Scouts’ complex in Al Mazrouaa includes the following facilities: 1. Administration building: Constructed for office facilities and related services. The built-up area is 1,180sqm, consisting of administrative offices, meeting rooms, and services facilities. It has a large car-park area. Disabled parking areas are also provided.

2. Seminar building: Includes facilities to conduct seminars, training classes and reading rooms. The built-up area is 1,750sqm and consists of IT rooms and services facilities. The building includes a multipurpose hall equipped with independent audiovi-

vices facilities. sual systems.

3. Hostel building: It 7. External works: These houses bedrooms with atinclude well-lit camping tached services. The builtareas for 251 tents, two football fields, shaded carup area is 1,760sqm. parks, slots for bus park4. Entertainment building: ing, roads, pavements, Provides recreational faciliwalkways, hard and soft ties, cafeteria and services facilities. The built-up area landscaping with appropriate lights, and required is 1,455sqm. services facilities.

5. Dining building: The service block 890sqm area mainly con- 8. Five buildings: Typical service sists of a dining hall, a blocks are constructed kitchen, freezer & chiller clude: rooms and services faciliwithin the camping areas with walkways to and 9. Guardhouse: The built-up ties. area is 345sqm. from the camping areas.

6. Show yard (amphitheEach block is positioned 10. Storage buildings: The ater): An open gallery for built up area is 495sqm. to serve 50 camping tents. parade or similar func11.

Substation and fire tions. The built-up area The built-up area for each pump room. for the covered part of the service block is 645sqm. It mainly consists of six kitch- Ashghal has also completed the show yard is 595sqm. It ens, two shower rooms, construction of the headquarmainly consists of an open toilets, a dish washing ters of the Qatar Scouts and gallery, a covered gallery area, external sitting area Guides Association project in with a lift at first floor for VIPs, seating facility for and services facilities. the Ain Khalid area. The project VIPs (23 seats) and serOther buildings in- contractor has been Domopan

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Qatar WLL. The project includes a threestory headquarters main building that consists of administrative offices, multi-functional areas and a hostel for visitors.

The project includes ancillary services buildings, car-parks and playgrounds.

The project has a plot area of 9,759sqm and a built-up area of 6,812sqm

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Interview

Designing for the Future

Transforming Doha from a ‘city of cars’ to a modern and sustainable urban environment

Qatar Rail has appointed UNStudio as the principal architect to design the Metro Network, an all-new metro network of four lines that will connect destinations in the Greater Doha Area and the coastal city of Al Khor and will also transform Doha from a ‘city of cars’ to a modern and sustainable urban environment, representing an effective vision of modernization and preserving traditional architectural expression. As the first phase of the new Doha Metro Network design, around 35 stations is completed, UNStudio’s principal architect Ben van Berkel reveals to Construction Sites the architectural approach used by UNStudio which incorporates all functional and technical aspects of the stations, with the view to make Doha Metro a global benchmark for public transportation services.

Qatar Rail has appointed UNStudio as the branding architect for the Qatar Integrated Railway Project.

Could you elaborate on the progress of the project?

We have recently completed designing the most important aspects of the preliminary design for the stations, but as you can imagine that involves a great deal. It encompasses all of the integral aspects related to way finding, the placement of the lighting systems, passenger flows, etc. Basically all of the elements required for a metro station have been taken into consideration. The most important aspect of this early design phase was to sys-

tematise and categorise the 4 metro lines and the various scales of identity involved.

It was quite a complex challenge to get the system of the design to work, because it is not only about design, it is also about creating an adaptive and flexible system that can be applied across all stations. Issues such as material choices or the optimisation of the detailing of the lighting systems etc., have not yet been finalised. This will form part of the next phase, the optimisation phase, but we have made great progress so far.

2. What is your design philosophy?

At UNStudio we avoid preconceived choices of style and develop an architecture that is derived from research, in which questions of organisational structures take centre position. After developing a clear concept for a specific project, we test programmatic data within computer generated graphics and threedimensional models. Within these models elements such as routing, infrastructure, and programme densities can be examined and incorporated. A coherent spatial and structural logic organisation is then developed from these analyses from which the physical form of the building takes its shape.

We favour an integrated approach to architecture; a nonhierarchical, complex and generative design process that takes on board all aspects of architecture. Time, use, circulation, construction and all other material and

and the future of Qatar in one gesture, so we drew inspiration from various traditional Qatari architectural elements – particularly the arch - and adjusted this to create what we refer to as ‘Vaulted Spaces’. Through the use of recurring elements and the materials that will be employed, it was possible to create a distinct architectural identity across the stations, that in turn creates visual coherence and instant recognition.

Ben van Berkel © Inga Powilleit

EXCLUSIVE Interview with Ben van Berkel of UNStudio; architects for QRail’s Doha Metro Stations

virtual systems and underlying values are studied, visualised, related to each other, and finally joined into an inclusive organisational structure.

The shifting fields of engineering, urbanism and infrastructure form some of the most important parameters of architecture, and these fields exist concurrently in one project. The new integral visualisation of a project challenges the imagination to also make that switch from construction

to spatial effect to organisation. On the whole the architecture we propose results from our continuous search for the balance between a process-oriented approach with its unknown outcome and an enduring professional vision.

What are the key concepts within the design of Doha Metro?

A key concept within the design is to create varying scales of identity - for the network, the individual lines and the stations themselves.

This requires an element of ‘branding’, but unlike what we may normally associate with the term, architectural branding is about creating recognition through all elements of the buildings, from the form and structure through to the materialisation - and in this case, to create a coherent architectural expression across all stations and lines.

It was of course important that the design would relate to its context, to the city of Doha and to Qatar.

We wanted to merge the past

We favour an integrated approach to architecture; a non-hierarchical, complex and generative design process that takes on board all aspects of architecture. Time, use, circulation, construction and all other material and virtual systems and underlying values are studied, visualised, related to each other, and finally joined into an inclusive organisational structure.

Where do you find your inspiration for the creation of the authentic design with traditional Qatari architectural features?

As I mentioned, in formal terms the arch was a large influence on the design, but we were also influenced by the lightness of the dhow sail, and the profiles of nomadic tents. On the whole the notion of the Caravanserai-inns with enclosed courts that served as gathering and resting places on ancient trade routes, informed the overall concept and following in the lineage of historic train palaces, the stations are designed to generate social interaction and a sense of community. At the moment, Doha is a city of cars. The metro system is going to generate new public space. We wanted to reduce the use of the car, but also to create more interaction, public transport introduces more openness.

From the perspective images of the stations design, we can admire a balance of modernization and preservation. How did you gain the knowledge of the local culture, tradition, identity that is mirrored in the design of the project? Have you lived in Qatar or did you visit the country for this particular purpose?

I have visited Qatar many

times and have always been struck by the culture, simply because for somebody with my cultural background it presents such a different environment. But the beauty of Qatar’s longstanding culture, its landscape, its traditional architecture and urban architectural features I have always found very inspirational. But for the design of the metro network we also wanted to think about the current plans for the future and the modernisation of Qatar: its new contemporary ambitions, cultural, technological etc., which also maintain a desire for a connection to history.

We understand this very well because experience of working in so many different cultures has taught us that the only way to settle a project in its most optimum manner is to work with these kinds of connections.

UNStudio has developed an ‘Architectural Branding Manual’; can you speak more about the manual what’s its purpose and objectives?

For the design of the stations we have developed a large catalogue of architectural elements which represent a flexible and new architectural system that can adapt itself to the varying scales and the amount of stations required.

So the design incorporates recurring elements, most specifically a system of interconnected triangular base forms, which can be arranged and assembled to suit the specific dimensions of each individual station.

The ‘Architectural Branding Manual’ is in fact a set of design guidelines, architectural details and material outlines.

Through the production of this design manual - and with the use of adaptive parametric design - it has been possible for us to create a design with many variants, yet one which maintains a coherent identity throughout all of the stations.

In this way, we can combine local contextual differences within an overall identity and parametrically adapt physical factors such as way finding, daylight penetration, passenger flows, constructive elements etc. in a complex but extremely disciplined system.

The manual will be used by the appointed D&B contractors to implement and deliver the stations of the first phase.

With a project of this size, it is of course also essential that it is cost effective and buildable within a given period of time.

The scale of the metro network in Doha requires careful planning in order to comply with a strict time schedule and achieve minimum disruption to the existing infrastructure. For this reason flexibility became a design and planning objective on all levels.

But by using a large catalogue of architectural elements it

Construction

Interview became possible to develop a flexible and adaptable new architectural system that results in an efficient organisation of the production and assembly of elements, which in turn results in an effective construction site and a high level of quality control. So for this project we have created an architectural system which manages not just the design, but which also enables high levels of efficiency during construction.

Do you see any challenges at this early stage of the project implementation?

(Collaboration with local contractors, the supply and the availability of the building materials that could affect the implementation of your design or collaboration with local authorities).

These are exactly the parties with whom we will optimise the project. Where we obtain the materials from, how and to what extent can they be produced efficiently and locally, which contractors we work with etc. these are the questions that are now arising. A combination of local and international teams will ensure quality and a collaborative approach, but the ultimate aim is to together achieve the best implementation of the design and to make it work optimally in order to create uplifting and pleasant to use public transport in Doha.

How did you approach the task of designing stations to assure a perfect passengers flow?

We carried out many studies, even during the competition stages. In collaboration with Qatar Rail, we were constantly changing the organization (of the station) in order to improve the flows, and to avoid the eventuality of congestion.

So the designs for the stations avoid any obstacles that could slow passenger flows, but instead ensure comfortable movement throughout, even during peak hours. We now have a lot of experience on that level as we worked with the top specialists in this area for the designs. In terms of designing, it is similar to a theatre in a sense. For theatres the most important thing is the acoustics. If you don’t

provide a design with optimal acoustics, you don’t have a theatre. Similarly, in station design passenger flows are a top priority. If the stations are not easy and pleasant to use you are not encouraging people to use them.

Are there some particularities in designing the first metro project in the country as way finding, constructive design elements for passengers’ orientation?

Way finding and passenger orientation are essential in any station design and certainly played a large part in the design for the Doha Metro Network. Aside from practical considerations, such as the organisation of the stations enabling smooth passenger flows, the materialisation of the interiors also plays an important role. While the exteriors reference the monolithic strength of old Qatari architecture, the interior spaces employ uniquely Qatari ornamentation to create an effect of lightness, movement and

We wanted to merge the past and the future of Qatar in one gesture, so we drew inspiration from various traditional Qatari architectural elements – particularly the arch - and adjusted this to create what we refer to as ‘Vaulted Spaces’. Through the use of recurring elements and the materials that will be employed, it was possible to create a distinct architectural identity across the stations, that in turn creates visual coherence and instant recognition.

fluidity. The material palette will assist in dividing the large interior spaces and guiding pedestrians towards the transient spaces. The pearlescent vaults become identifiers of vertical circulation and access along the journey. Additionally, the integrated light lines amplify the experience and function as natural way finding elements.

Do you think the design will encourage the residents of Qatar to choose public transportation rather than using their private cars?

Yes. We firmly believe that it will generate a level of comfort for the city which will be very efficient and attractive to use. It’s going to be a transport system which will be different in its organisation and its expression and

will make travelling pleasurable: both through climate control and the ease of movement through the city. I believe it will not merely be an alternative mode of transport in Doha, but it will instead become a primary mode of travel. It will be much faster,

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more efficient and more economical than private transportation, and passengers will never face traffic congestion or need to find ever more elusive parking spaces. They will be able to get from A to B quickly, efficiently and in comfort.

encompassing a metro system is, the more successful it is, and the majority of the population come to rely on it to move around the city. In places where the networks only cover specific areas, with only one or two lines, this is not the case.

But what is also very important with this new network is the extent of it. The Doha Metro Network will cover the whole city. We can see in other cities, such as London, that the more extensive and

What are the other projects that you are working on in Qatar?

We currently have other projects running in Qatar, however for confidentiality reasons I can’t go into specifics here.

But the beauty of Qatar’s longstanding culture, its landscape, its traditional architecture and urban architectural features I have always found very inspirational. But for the design of the metro network we also wanted to think about the current plans for the future and the modernisation of Qatar: its new contemporary ambitions, cultural, technological etc., which also maintain a desire for a connection to history.

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News

Renault launches new range of trucks in the Middle East

The new ranges bring higher levels of driver comfort, reliability, fuel efficiency and durability to the Middle East

R

enault Trucks has introduced two new distinct ranges to the Middle East. The new C and K ranges were launched to the industry in Qatar.

The launch shows a significant commitment to the region by the French manufacturer as it was the largest-ever launch event Renault Trucks has held in the region to date.

More than 250 industry professionals and management officials from across the region attended the two-day event which included educational sessions to highlight how the new ranges can support businesses and

aid productivity.

The Construction Sites team along with other media were given an opportunity to test drive the full new truck range, including the new D range which was introduced to the Middle East earlier this year, at the Losail international Circuit.

Renault Trucks in the Middle East, with a dealer network in 13 countries, has experienced sustainable growth over the past three years.

Qatar is one of the key markets in the region with an expected growth of 30% between 2012 and 2015. This launch is set to further secure the Middle East

as one of the prime focus areas of Renault Trucks.

The C and K ranges set new standards in terms of robustness and productivity, and with the capacity to accept a variety of body types, each model can easily be adapted to a wide range of applications and customer demands found within the distribution and construction segments.

The C range will enter the market with two options of cabin width, 2.3m and 2.5m, both of which are designed for specific jobs. The 2.3m is built for distribution and deliveries while the 2.5m cab is for long haul, light construction and heavy distribution.

At the launch in Qatar, Bruno Blin, president of Renault Trucks, said the C and K ranges had undergone rigorous quality trials and had also been exhaustively field tested under actual operating conditions “In developing the C and K ranges, we have deployed significant resources to ensure these vehicles deliver maximum reliability,” he said.

“Ruggedness, driver comfort, payload, pulling capacity, and easy body mounting are the features which set these trucks apart and make them the per-

fect tools for demanding businesses.”

Blin continued: “Both new ranges have been designed and developed in close association with international customers who have been involved in the project from the design stage right through to testing under actual operating conditions.

“The Renault Trucks C range offers superior driver comfort, exceptional reliability and optimal fuel efficiency, making it ideal for both long-haul and certain construction applications.

“The K range offers new standards in durability and robustness. The front bumper is 100% steel with headlamp protection and has models that suit the harsh demands of the construction industry.”

Lars-Erik Forsbergh, President, Renault Trucks Middle East, said that the trucks had been tested for over a year in Oman in some of the toughest regional settings.

“Oman presents the type of extreme conditions in terms of heat and topography that are ideal to test a truck to its limits,” said Forsbergh.

“The new Renault Trucks ranges performed extremely well with no issues reported. This is vital for businesses which need

to be able to rely fully on their vehicles for the maximum productivity.”

Herve Bertrand, Director of Design and creator of the new range, said: “This original design, as well as the attention paid by the Hall of Design teams to the sides of the vehicles, has added a great deal of dynamism to the new ranges.”

The media were given a behindthe-scenes look at the design process from the concept right up to the mini prototypes, whose plastic components were printed on a 3-D printer.

This was to ensure that each part fitted correctly and could be adjusted accordingly.

In 2013, the D range was launched in the Middle East with a facelift model. The new

addition to the range came to the region to cover all customer demands.

As a distribution truck, the D range has further enhanced on its existing reliability and quality and has improved ergonomics and design.

Renault Trucks headquarters is in Lyon, France, with more than 1,280 dealers and workshops in Europe.

In 2001, Volvo Trucks Group acquired the Renault Trucks division from Renault SA which was established in 1899, and continues to produce a range of cars and vans. Renault Trucks offers a range of distribution, construction, long haul, heavy construction and defense vehicles.

Conferences

Construction

Finding the value in engineering

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Fellow of SAVE International addresses Qatar Society of Engineers

W

hat is value engineering? During a conversation with a group of engineers on the sidelines of a recent Qatar Society of Engineers event, it has been explained that value engineering is used to solve problems, identify and eliminate unwanted costs, while improving function and quality.

The aim is to increase the value of products, satisfying the product’s performance requirements at the lowest possible cost.

In construction this involves considering the availability of materials, building methods, transportation issues, site limitations or restrictions, planning and organization, costs, profits and so on.

Benefits that can be delivered include a reduction in life cycle costs, improvement in quality and reduction of environmental impacts.

It is based on a methodology developed by Lawrence Miles, who worked for the General Electric Company in the USA during the Second World War. Because of the war, there were shortages of materials and certain finished products.

However, manufacturing industry was running at maximum capacity, and ideas where needed to further expand production.

Miles was responsible for pur-

chasing raw materials for the General Electric Company. He came up with the idea that if he was unable to obtain one particular material, then it was necessary to obtain a replacement material which performed the same function.

The “value engineering” began with a creative, team-based approach which allowed the generation of many alternatives to the existing solution.

Because the General Electric Company were manufacturers, the term “engineering” was seen as being more appropriate at that time, than “management”.

Later in the 20th century, value engineering started to spread across the world. But because of the differences between the mentality and the behavior of American companies compared to European companies, value engineering, as developed in the USA, had to undergo some modification.

The Qatar Society of Engineers hosted Eng Abdulaziz Al-Yousefi (CVS-Life, FSAVE) recently where he made a presentation to its members.

The presentation proposed a conceptual synergy and integration “model” between value engineering and sustainability that achieves better value over the life span of projects.

It demonstrated the linkage between them within the stan-

dards and guidelines of SAVE International VE Job Plan, to ensure better planning for sustainability during early stages of projects developments.

The presentation also showed how the “lean model” of value engineering could be considered as an essential part of sustainability analysis and green concept technology; via adopting VE tools and techniques.

Al Yousefi is the founder and owner of the first value engineering office in the Arab world.

He is a Certified Value Specialist for life (CVS-life) from SAVE International: The Value Society.

He is the first Arab to become a Fellow of SAVE International.

He is a currently serving as a member of SAVE International Certification Board. He’s a consultant engineer from the Saudi Council of Engineers.

He served in the past as: * The president of The SAVE International- Arabian Gulf chapter; * The general secretary and then a board member of the Saudi Council of Engineers (SCE) * The vice president of the Arabian Gulf Chapter of Project Management institute (PMI-AGC). * Member of King Abdulaziz Quality Award. * Member of Saudi National Quality Council Al Yousefi said that traditionally

projects had been developed by generating a program of needs and requirements, using in-house staff, or hiring consultants to develop necessary documents and subsequently award projects.

However, there is little programmed input to implement some kind of value engineering and sustainability studies.

He added that in the past two decades, there had been a growing awareness of the importance of value engineering and sustainable development (SD) and sustainable construction (SC) since they play crucial roles in realizing quality, reliability and durability as well as enhancing performance throughout the life span of projects.

They help to improve service related outcomes within budget constraints: achieve a more efficient use of resources; and accomplish an optimum combination of Life Cycle Costing (LCC) and quality to satisfy the user requirements.

Al Yousefi has the distinction of having written the first value engineering book ever written in Arabic titled Value Management (VM): Concept and Techniques, in 1991. The fifth edition was published in July 2009. VM is part of quality management.

He Holds BSEE (Arizona State University, 1982) and MS (State University on New York at Albany, 1987) degrees in electrical

engineering and project management.

Al Yousefi is a member of SAVE, IEEE, PMI, ASHRM, ASQ, Saudi Quality Counsel, Saudi Council of Engineers and Saudi Computer Society.

He has about 30 year experience in value engineering, quality management, life cycle costing (LCC), project management and design reviews of largescale projects.

He led more than 500 value engineering study workshops in construction, oil & gas, industry, operation & maintenance and management processes.

He has conducted more than 400 training courses in value engineering, project management, quality management and LCC. He is the founder of the newlyacclaimed quality improvement methodology that is called Total Value Management (TVM). He presented many papers at the ASQ, PMI, ASCE, SAVE, SJVE and IEEE conferences.

He has specialized in computer applications in value engineering and project management.

Additional sources: http://www. designingbuildings.co.uk

Experts discuss cool technologies for sustainable future at summit

More than 300 delegates from Qatar and the region attended the summit which has as its theme, “Exploring innovative cooling technologies for a sustainable future”

T

he key role of cuttingedge district cooling technologies in building a sustainable future was underscored by industry experts during the sixth Annual Middle East District Cooling Summit in Doha.

It was addressed by 25 speakers. More than 300 delegates from Qatar and the region attended the summit which has as its theme, “Exploring innovative cooling technologies for a sustainable future”.

The summit started off with opening remarks by Salah Nezar, Sustainability Director, Qatar Project Management (QPM), and one of the summit’s cochair, an inaugural address by Al Theyab, a keynote address delivered by Ahmad M Bin Shafar, Chief Executive Officer of Empower UAE and an opening keynote presentation by Jamal Alderbasty, Head of Permit District Cooling Services Department, Kahramaa.

These were followed by a Qatar Cool keynote on “District Cooling in Practice” delivered by Nahar Al Mutawah, Vice President, Operations & Services, Qatar Cool, and a presentation on “Solar Outdoor Cooling In Qatar As New Reality” by Nezar.

In talking about Qatar Cool’s experience, Al Mutawah recommended that in order to ensure smooth design and operations of district cooling plants, there should be proper testing and balancing for HVAC to meet design conformance and installation of right equipment. There must also be support from services provider for best optimization, continuous conditionbased maintenance programs and regulations to establish incentives and encouragement.

The first day of the summit had a “Leaders & Stakeholders Panel” discussion on District Cooling Evolution and Future.

The moderator was Nezar and members of the panel included Ahmad M Bin Shafar; Isaa Qandeel, Vice President Development at Qatar Cool; Dominic McPolin, Chief Planning Officer of the Central Planning Office, Ministry of Works of Bahrain; Robert Miller, Technical Specialist District Cooling, Marafeq Qatar; and George Berbari, Chief Executive Officer, DC Pro Engineering, UAE, and the Summits’ other Co-Chair.

The second and final day of the summit focused on key technologies such as the use of treated sewage effluent (TSE) and

its impact on the environment, low-to-medium temperature geothermal cooling, and implementation of renewable energy in district cooling networks, thermal energy storage, and pre-insulated piping solutions.

The summit came to an end with a number of recommendations that were announced on the concluding day.

The recommendations were for better published regulations from government organizations concerned regarding the usage of TSE, undertaking extensive researches for finding out alternatives for desalinated water in cooling applications, providing incentives for private business entities to encourage district cooling and ensuring financial mechanisms and availability of the vibrant technologies and cutting-edge practices among others.

Water-cooled systems as efficient as District Cooling DC Pro Engineering in the UAE has revealed that new water cooled systems installed in standalone hotels and hospitals are becoming as efficient as district cooling.

This came in a presentation on “Improving power-generation efficiency through employment

of district cooling”, made by George Berbari, Chief Executive Officer of DC Pro, on the first day of the sixth annual Middle East District Cooling Summit being held at the Ritz Carlton Hotel in Doha.

He noted that if district cooling systems did not develop to include renewable energy such as solar or deep geothermal and conserve primary energy sources such as natural gas or petroleum, they might become obsolete.

“District cooling systems reduce power consumption compared to traditional and predominantly-used air-cooled air conditioning systems by around 50%,” Berbari said while describing some of the benefits of district cooling. “It reduces peak power demand by 60% when thermal storage is utilized.”

He said: “Tri-generation or Combined Cooling, Heat and Power (CCHP) with 45% electricity efficiency and 87% total efficiency, where exhaust and jacket heat recovery can be used with absorption chillers in series with electric chillers fed from the generators and in series with thermal storage, will provide 30% reduction in primary energy sources and much more if

renewables are integrated.”

He also highlighted the fact that while tri-generation or distributed generation today comprised only less than 2% of all district cooling plants, there was a fastrising trend of higher interest from governments to integrate generation efficiencies with renewables and green building.

“This is meant to curb the alarming increase in the share of strategic oil and gas wealth for internal power generation which reaches 25% of their total production and has been increasing at around 7% annually,” Berbari said.

During his presentation, Berbari discussed the role of an ultra-modern and ultra-efficient

tri-generation project in Oman that synchronizes locally-produced power with 1 MW photovoltaic and with the national electric grid to save 75% of primary energy compared to traditional electric-powered district cooling fed by traditional centralized power generation.

“Traditional district cooling central plants with electric chillers are the dominant ones used at this time,” Berbari explained.

“With almost 25% of district cooling plants utilizing thermal storage and treated sewage effluent as make-up for the cooling tower, newer plants are also now required by authorities and regulations to use these technologies.”

28

Construction

SITES

Tenders

ASHGHAL TENDERS AND AWARDED TENDERS Companies Eligible to Tender: (1) Qatari Companies Only (2) Joint Venture (JV) Companies, which includes a Qatari Company having a minimum of 51%, share holding of the JV (3) Non-Qatari Companies (4) Not Applicable * All financial values are in QAR

Tender No.

Type

Tender Title

Participants

Issuing Date

Closing Date

Category

PWA/STC/029/1415

GTC

Supply of Ductile Iron Manhole Cover and Gully Grating (AA/DOM/14-15/M/1686/S)

Qatari Companies Only

19-Nov-14

25-Dec-14

Drainage

PWA/GTC/058/1415

GTC

Road Improvement Works in Al Dayeen and Umm Salal Zone 70 & 71 Phase – 5 (IA/14-15/C/078/G)

Qatari Companies Only

19-Nov-14

23-Dec-14

Roads

PWA/GTC/059/1415

GTC

Road Safety Improvement Program, Stage 2A (AA-R/14-15/OM/045C1/G)

Qatari Companies Only

19-Nov-14

16-Dec-14

Roads

PWA/GTC/057/1415

GTC

Interim Upgrade of E-Ring Road and Najma Street ( IA/14-15/C/080/G)

Qatari Companies Only

12-Nov-14

16-Dec-14

Roads

General Conditions of Tenders CALL-OFF AGREEMENT FOR SECONDMENT OF STAFF FOR INFRASTRUCTURE AFFAIRS – CON- Full Documents for the Tender PWA/GTC/053/14Consultants 29-Oct-14 16-Dec-14 Consultancy GTC 15 TRACT 1 can be obtained from Contracts (IA/14-15/SE/001/G) Department (CD) against a Non– BARWA STP FACILITIES (IMPROVEMENT refundable fee paid to PWA AcWORKS FOR BARWA CITY STP,BARWA AL count No. (0013-001813-052), PWA/GTC/050/14GTC BARAHA STP)- O&M MISCELLANEOUS ELECQatari Companies Only 29-Oct-14 9-Dec-14 Drainage 15 TRICAL PURCHASE & WORK ORDERS Qatar National Bank together with ( AA-D/14-15/OM/1627-9/G) a copy of the Company RegistraApplication Development & Process Automation For tion and a Company Authorization PWA/GTC/047/14Services & Infrastructure Utilities letter.

Qatari Companies Only 15-Oct-14 9-Dec-14 ICT GTC 15 (Ducts and Drainage House Connections ) - Project document may be examISD/14-15/EIS/2/G ined at Al-Faisal Tower(1), Ground MOTOR CONTROL CENTERS-UPGRADING ITC Qatari Companies Only 29-Oct-14 7-Dec-14 Drainage Floor, Al Corniche before purchas- PWA/ITC/027/14-15 (AA/DOM/14-15/OM/1673/I) ing from PWA. Operation and Maintenance of CCTV System - Each Tender must be accompa- PWA/ITC/029/14-15 ITC Throughout Qatar Qatari Companies Only 12-Nov-14 7-Dec-14 Roads (AA-R/14-15/OM/042C1/I) nied by a Tender Bond, either in Supply, Install & Upgrade Symantec Netbackup the form of a “Certified Check” or PWA/STC/028/14STC Appliances Qatari Companies Only 12-Nov-14 4-Dec-14 ICT a “Tender Bond’’ issued by a Bank 15 (ISD/14-15/SS/16/S) acceptable to the PWA” in the POST CONTRACT CONSULTANCY SERVICES amount mentioned above valid for FOR MODIFICATION AND ADDITIONAL WORKS (120 days). Any Tender received PWA/GTC/051/14TO EXISTING SCHOOLS AND KINDERGARTENS GTC Consultants 29-Oct-14 2-Dec-14 Building 15 (FIRE LIFE SAFETY CODE COMPLIANCE – without the proper guarantee will PHASE FOUR) not be considered.

BA/14-15/S/013/G - 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

TENDERS Please note that any information mentioned on this table are as per the listed companies’ tender advertisements, without any responsibility of the magazine.

Entity

Close Date

Value

Envelopes System

Tender Fees (QRs)

Supply of medicines and vaccines for veterinary clinics

Ministry of Enviroment

1/12/14

390000 Q.R

TWO ENVELOPES

300

Supply of Stationary items for two years.

General Administration of Customs

7/12/14

55000 Q.R

TWO ENVELOPES

150 150

Tender Number

Type

Subject

521 /2014-2015

Central Tenders

62 /2014-2015

Local Tenders

57 /2014-2015

Local Tenders

Maintenance works for mosque No. 849 at Al Wakrah area.

Ministry of Endowment & Islamic Affairs

7/12/14

33000 Q.R

TWO ENVELOPES

63 /2014-2015

Local Tenders

Rental of Nos.2 superban for three years.

General Administration of Customs

7/12/14

20000 Q.R

TWO ENVELOPES

150

58 /2014-2015

Local Tenders

Maintenance works for mosque No. 151 at Fareej Abdul Aziz area.

Ministry of Endowment & Islamic Affairs

7/12/14

29000 Q.R

TWO ENVELOPES

150

64 /2014-2015

Local Tenders

Supply of Nos. 9 Tractors.

Ministry of Enviroment

7/12/14

50000 Q.R

TWO ENVELOPES

150

Tenders Conditions:

- You can get a copy of the documents of this tender / tenders of the Central Tenders Committee during official hours, against payment of the tender documents witch you can retrieve it.

- Must be accompanied with the tender a letter of guarantee bank / certified check from a bank operating in the State of Qatar, as indicated above for a period of temporary deposit on 120.

- The offer must be valid for a period of ninety days from the date of the opening of envelopes.

- Will be the last date for submission of tenders is twelve o’clock on the morning of the closure, and will not pay attention to any tender received after the deadline.

- Tenders deposited in the box of the Central Tenders Committee, located in Muntazah - Rawabi Street, to be inside the stamped and sealed envelopes and addressed to the Chairman of the Tenders Committee competent (central / local) showing the number, type of the tender and the subject.

- The Central Tenders Committee invites bidders or their representatives to attend the opening of the envelopes and read the price on the day following the date of the closure during the office hours.

- To obtain tender / tenders documents highlight above must be to mentioned authorization letter from the company / institution.

- For inquiries, please contact Tel: 44378192 /225 /143 /149.

- For more information about the Central Tenders Committee ,tenders and auctions are being posed by the Committee You can visit the site on the Internet www.ctc.gov.qa

Morden is one of the leading companies in scaffolding and formwork. We believe that success can only be achieved through interaction with the customers. We have all systems for scaffolding and formwork with all accessories. we make technical support for our customers in all projects and we have a professional sales team with high experience in this field.

Regent Hotel

Double Coupler

Al Ghanem Apartment

Swivel Coupler

Board Retaining Clamp

Ezdan Mall

Putlog Coupler

Timber H20

Tel: +974 44272344. +974 40374324 Fax: +974 44272344 P.O. Box: 15104 – Doha – Qatar (Opposite Abu Hamour Petrol Station) Email: info@mordenscaff.com mordenconstruction@yahoo.com

www.mordenscaff.com

Events

2014 -2015 Future Drainage Networks Qatar Organizer: Advanced Conferences and Meetings Event date (s): 3 – 4 December Venue: InterContinental, The City- Hotel Location: Doha, Qatar Tel: +971 4 361 4001 Fax: +971 4 361 4554 Email: opportunities@acm-events.com Website: www.futuredrainagenetworksqatar. com ITU Telecom World Organizer: ITU Event date (s): 7 – 10 December Venue: Qatar National Convention Centre (QNCC) Location: Doha, Qatar Tel: +41 22 730 6161 Fax: +41 22 730 6444 Email: itutelecom@itu.int Website: telecomworld.itu.int AcousticsTech Qatar InsulationTech Qatar Organizer: Advanced Conferences and Meetings Event date (s): 10 – 11 December Venue: Intercontinental, The City Hotel Location: Doha, Qatar Tel: +971 4 361 4001 Fax: +971 4 361 4554 Email: opportunities@acm-events.com Website: www.acousticstechqatar.com/ www.insulationtechqatar.com/home

CALENDAR

Construction

SITES

OF EXHIBITIONS & EVENTS

Offshore Middle East Organizer: PennWell events Event date (s): 26 – 28 January 2015 Venue: Qatar National Convention Center (QNCC) Location: Doha, Qatar Tel: +44 (0) 1992 656 658 Website: www.offshoremiddleeast.com

Drainage and Sewerage Middle East Organizer: IQPC Event date (s): 1 – 4 February 2015 Venue: InterContinental Hotel Location: Doha, Qatar Tel: +971 4 364 2975 Email: enquiry@iqpc.ae Website:www.drainageandsewerageme.com/ Interiors Qatar Exhibition Organizer: dmg events Event date (s): 2 – 4 February 2015 Venue: Qatar National Convention Centre (QNCC) Location: Doha, Qatar Tel: +971 4 438 0355 Email: karencrummer@dmgeventsme.com Website: www.iqexhibition.com 7th Annual Façade Design & engineering Organizer: IQPC Event date (s): 22 – 25 February 2015 Venue: InterContinental Hotel Location: Doha, Qatar Tel: +971 4 364 2975 Email: enquiry@iqpc.ae Website: www.facadedesignmena.com/

Qatar Projects 2015 Organizer: MEED Event date (s): 10 - 11 March 2015 Venue: Grand Hyatt Hotel Location: Doha, Qatar Tel: +971 4 818 0217 Email: meedevents@meed.com Website: www.meed.com/events/qatar-projects-conference-2015 The Energy Efficiency and Conservation Forum Organizer: Fleming Gulf Event date (s): 24 - 25 March 2015 Venue: TBA Location: Doha, Qatar Tel: +91 9164989507 Fax: +91 80 49005100 Email: sobia.jameel@fleminggulf.com Website: http://energy.fleminggulf.com/ energy-efficiency-conservation-forum The Outdoor Design & Build Show 2015 Organizer: Streamline Marketing Group Event date (s): 13 – 15 April 2015 Venue: Dubai World Trade Centre Location: Dubai, United Arab Emirates Tel: +971 4 4475357 Fax: +971 4 4475334 Email: odbs@theoutdoorshow.ae Website: www.theoutdoorshow.ae Project Qatar 2015 Organizer: IFP Qatar Event date (s): 4 – 7 May 2015 Venue: Qatar National Convention Centre

(QNCC) Location: Doha, Qatar Tel: +974 44329900 Fax: +974 44432891 Email: info@ifpqatar.com Website: www.projectqatar.com

Future BIM Implementation Organizer: Advanced Conferences & Meetings FZ-LLC Event date (s): 6 – 7 May 2015 Venue: Qatar National Convention Centre (QNCC) Location: Doha, Qatar Tel: +971 4 361 4001 Fax: +971 4 361 4554 Email:opportunities@acm-events.com Website:www.futurebimqatar.com World Stadium Congress Organizer: IQPC Event date (s): 18 – 21 May 2015 Venue: St. Regis Hotel Location: Doha, Qatar Tel: +971 4 364 2975 Email: enquiry@iqpc.ae Website: www.worldstadiumcongress.com 4th Annual Underground Infrastructure and Deep Foundations Organizer: IQPC Event date (s): 7 – 9 June 2015 Venue: InterContinental Hotel Location: Doha, Qatar Tel: +971 4 364 2975 Email: enquiry@iqpc.ae Website: www.undergroundfoundations.com

w w w. w a r r i o r s a f e t y. c o m H I G H QATAR

P E R F O R M A N C E

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

UAE

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

29

S A F E T Y

USA

P R O D U C T S

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

LIBYA

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

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

30

Construction

SITES

Project Focus

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

Consultant

Client

Main Contractor

Value Range (QR) Million

Project Status

Type of Project

M/s. Commercial Development

M/s. Arabtec

500-750

Piling & Shoring

Hotel and Office Buildings

Audit Bureau Towers

M/s. Al Attiya Group Trading Co.

Not Appointed

400-600

Tender Stage

Offices / Residential Towers

Al Waab Mall

M/s. Qatar Industrial Services

Man Enterprize, Qatar

300-400

Under Construction

Mall

Q-Tel

Not Appointed

250-350

Tender Stage

Technical

Mr. Mohamed Abdel Ghani Al Mansouri

Not Appointed

200-300

Under Design

Shopping Mall & Office Tower

Ghanem Al Hodaifi

Not Appointed

600-800

Detail Stage

Office Building

CBQ

HBK

N/A

Under Construction

Commercial, Bank, Office Plaza

Qatar Islamic Bank

AFQCO & REDCO - Al Mana

1.2-1.4 bn

Under Construction

Residential Towers

Business Trading Company

IDC

400-500

Under Construction

Shopping Mall

Al Malki Real Estate Investments

Satal Qatar Contracting

N/A

Under Construction

Hotel

Ghanem Al Thani Holding

Ramco

N/A

Under Construction

Office Building

Project Title

Twin Towers

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

Gulf Mall at Gharrafa

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

Alfardan Properties Co.

CDC

N/A

Under Construction

Hotel

Mazaya Qatar Real Extate Development QSC

Sinohydro Group Limited

N/A

Under Construction

Residential

Qatar Airways

Redco International

N/A

Under Construction

Residential Building

Ahmed Abed El Aziz Al Baker

Construction and Reconstruction Co.

675

Under Construction

Office Building

Private Investor

Orientals Enterprises

N/A

Under Construction

Residential

Shiekh Abdullah Bin Naser Al Thani

Construction and Reconstruction Co.

85

Under Construction

Commercial

MOI

Hassanesco Co.

N/A

Under Construction

Mixed Use

Shk/Abdullah Bin Nasser Al Thani

Construction and Reconstruction Co.

205

Under Construction

Commercial / Residential

Al Sadd Hotel

Tricon International

Atlantic Contracting Co.

150

Under Construction

Hotels

Al Hodaifi Group HQ

Al Hodaifi Group

Not appointed

30-40 Million

Design stage

Office Building

El Eida

Not appointed

5-10 Million

Design stage

Villa

Doha Education Centre

Not appointed

30-50 Million

Design stage

Education

Step 1 International Academy

Step 1 International Academy

Not appointed

20-40 Million

Design stage

School

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

Al Rayyan Holding Company

Al Habtour

3.5 Billion

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

Hotels

Shemoukh Mixed-Use Twin Tower, Al Saad

Real Estate Services Group

SEG

800

Construction Stage

Mixed Use Towers

Al Jasrah Twin Tower Lusail

Al Shereef Enterprises

Dorra Contracting

350

Construction Stage

Mixed Use Towers

PWA

Tag Engineering & Contracting

120

Under Construction

Media Complex

Al Mana Real Estate

N/A

100-200

Tender Stage

Mixed Use Tower

MOI

Not Appointed

N/A

Design Stage

Educational Complex

Al Meera

Al Alia Trading & Contracting Co.

130

Under Contruction

Supermarket Stores

MOI

WCT

N/A

Under Construction

Administrative and Office Building

ALAQARIA

Arcon

169

Under Construction

Mixed Use

Qatar Navigation

Not Appointed

N/A

Design Stage

Warehouses

Ministry of Interior

Not Appointed

N/A

Design Stage

Administrative and Office Bldg.

PWA

ITCC / Al Sraiya

350

Under Contruction

Educational Buildings

IBA GROUP

Not Appointed

400

Design Stage

Commercial / Offices Towers

Mr. Saeed Ben Zayed El-Khayareen

Al-Huda

200-250

Under Construction

Office Building

FBA GROUP

Not Appointed

200

Detail Stage

Shopping Mall & Office Tower

IBA GROUP

Not Appointed

200

Under Construction

Hotel

Tameer Real Estate

Al Seal Trading

160

Under Construction

Residential Building

Qatar National Bank Branches

QNB

Not Appointed

20 Million

Under Construction

Bank

Qatar Driving School

QDS

Not Appointed

600

Permit Stage

Driving Academy

Gulf Pearls Company

Gulf Pearl

40 Million

Design Stage

Residential Building

Sheikh Badr Khalifa Al Thani

Al Batra

80 Million

Under Construction

Residential Building

ACES

Not Appointed

20 Million

Tender Stage

Industrial Building

MOFA

Note Appointed

N/A

Design Stage

Governmental Building

Sh. Ahmad bin Hamad Al Thani

NA

54,000,000.00

Service Design

Commercial

Regency Group

NA

38,000,000.00

Design

Offices

Abdulla AL Darwish

Al Gefton

658,000.00

Testing and Commissioning

Commercial Apratment

M. Al Ansari

Redco

28,800,000.00

Mobilisation

Commercial

C5 Apartment

Rabban Group

NA

121,000,000.00

Design

Commercial Apratment

FV7 Multi Purpose Hall/ Art Centre

Regency Group

N/A

67,500,000.00

Design

Commercial

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

Qatar Airways Crew Accommodation

Al Baker Executive Towers Al Nour Tower Al Nasr Showroom

Police Training Institute

Panasonic Showroom & Residential

Al Eida Villa Doha Education Centre

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

Police College Academy 4 New Build Convenience Store Schemes Construction of Head Quarters Bldg. for Ministry of Interior

MIC Business & Recreation Complex Logistic City Headquarter of General Directorate of Borders, Passports & Travel Document Department

Construction of 6 Nos. New Schools Al Emadi Twin Towers City Tower Fahd Suite - Apartment Hotel IBA Hotel Al Attiya Compound

Gulf Pearls Office Building

Sheikh Badr Residential Building ACES (Arab Centre for Engineers Studies) Qatar Embassy and Diplomat Villas in Mogadishu, Somalia

Al Ahli Club

FV9 Al Asmakh Head Office in Lusail Al Mansoora Building

Office Building / D Ring

Established in 1998

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

Construction

Acoustic Consultancy Services

• Noise and Vibration Control

• Noise and Vibration Monitoring • Sound Insulation • Interior Acoustics (Halls, Mosques, Auditoriums)

• Commissioning Measurement and Testing Al Mana Business Centre, Al Amir Road, P.O.B. 2255, Doha, Qatar Tel: (+974) 44684482 E-mail: admin@amaqatar.com www.amaqatar.com

Dutest Qatar W.L.L.

CRANE AND LIFTING EQUIPMENT ENGINEERS GENERAL MECHANICAL WORKS

OUR SCOPE AND SERVICES INCLUDE:

4458 5480; 4469 4569; 5581 5641; 7748 7432

Editorial Calendar 2015 Editorial Calendar 2015 JANUARY

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lti industry bind-in supplement: n't miss the opportunity to have your logo our front cover by taking part in our new d -in supplement that we guarantee will be pt by readers for continuous reference.

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Special Coverage

DECEMBER

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Editorial Highlights

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Healthcare facilities nsulation & Acoustics•

Mall Updates 12th International•Construction • Education & Training Tech. & Bldg Materials Exhibition • Retrofitting & renovation cial marketing opportunities • 4th Annual World Stadium Congress Special marketing opportunities w Industrial Area MAP w/ • 11th Trans MiddleCalendar East 2015 15 QCS Calendar Inserts Mall MAP

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AL MANA & ASSOCIATES

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Issue No. (89) December 2014, Doha - Qatar

Key changes to the ISO 9001 Certification

T

he UK’s National Standards Body (NSB) issued its Standards Outlook 2014 recently.

The British Standards Institution (BSI), a multinational business services provider whose principal activity is the production of standards and the supply of standards-related services, shed some light into the changes being made to three of the world’s most adopted management systems standards: • ISO 9001:2008 will change to ISO 9001:2015 • ISO 14001:2004 will change to ISO 14001:2015 • OHSAS 18001:2007 will become ISO 45001:2016

The latest stage in the ISO 9001 revision process happened with the issue of ISO/DIS 9001 on May 8, 2014. The first formal draft describes the potential requirements of the revised version of ISO 9001; though this is not the final version, it does give an indication on what might be included and we need to be aware of its content.

Further changes are, of course, possible before the final publication of ISO 9001:2015 currently scheduled to be released in fourth quarter of 2015.

The main areas of changes proposed in ISO/DIS 9001 are: 1. Structure and terminology, including incorporation of

Annex SL framework; 2. The wider internal and external context of an organization’s Quality Management Systems (QMS) (Clauses 4 and 6); 3. Detailed Quality Management System (QMS) requirements’ (broadly clauses 5 & 7 – 10).

According to a leading provider of ISO-related training and services in Doha, certified organizations feel the standard helps them to become a more consistent competitor in the marketplace and with a strong focus on quality management, allowing them to attract and meet the needs of high value customers better.

With a certified system in place, they can save time, money and resources while optimizing their operational performance with fewer errors and higher profits.

The standard also helps them to set up efficient internal processes that help in motivating staff.

There are changes to a number of the clauses and some of the key changes that users will experience: Clause 4 refers to the context of the organization. This is a brand-new requirement and highlights the need for senior managers to understand the expectations of all relevant parties.

They’ll also need to know how internal and external challenges could affect their ability to meet these. This clause is closely linked to leadership which means management systems can no longer be held at arm’s length, but should form part of the strategic direction of the business.

This will help to raise the standards in the boardroom and align management systems with the needs of the business.

Clause 8 has two new require-

ments. The first is contingency planning to improve customer communication, while the second looks at ways to assess the suitability of a design before it

reaches operations. Clause 8 also specifies the importance of controlling all outsourced activities through efficient risk management.