Big Project ME April 2020

Licensed by Dubai Development Authority

169 April 2020

MEConstructionNews.com

THE BUSINESS OF CONSTRUCTION

The Mind of the Expo

BIG PROJECT ME HEARS HOW SIEMENS MIDDLE EAST IS UTILISING ITS TECHNOLOGY TO TURN EXPO 2020 DUBAI INTO THE SMARTEST EXPO EVER

Tafawuq provides technology driven integrated facilities management solutions to a wide range of clients in various sectors focusing on residential, commercial and mixed use communities

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CONTENTS

April 2020

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16

18

22

28

40

ANALYSIS

FEATURES

INSIGHT

08

The briefing

22

34

Comments

The big picture

Big Project ME speaks to Oliver Kraft and Afzal Mohammed of Siemens Middle East about how Expo 2020 Dubai is going to shape the future of smart cities

36

Tenders

40

Progress report

Industry leaders discuss renewable and low-emission energy solutions and how they’re future proofing their business

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Providing a wrap-up of the biggest local, regional and international construction news stories

16

Market report

18

News analysis

ProTenders report examines the current Bahraini construction landscape and forecasts upcoming trends for the sector

In profile Oliver Kraft and Afzal Mohammed

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Site visit Envisioning the Future

Angitha Pradeep learns how sustainability and wellness are an integral part of the design of the Finnish pavilion at Expo 2020 Dubai

The industry’s brightest minds share their thoughts on a variety of topics and issues impacting the construction industry

Big Project ME, in association with ProTenders, provides the biggest tenders for the month of April 2020

IMKAN says concrete substructure for seven-building Pixel Towers project in Makers District is complete

Industry experts tell Big Project ME branded residences are emerging as safer investments in challenging market conditions

MEConstructionNews.com | April 2020

2

WELCOME

Introduction

Standing strong in a time of crisis

A

s I sit down to write this month’s letter, it’s hard to comprehend how much the world has changed in just about a month. It’s been quite a roller coaster ride for the globe, as countries scramble to react and contain the COVID-19 global pandemic that is raging across borders and communities.

From the outside looking in, it’s been shocking to see how some of the so-called leading countries of the world have responded to this unprecedented crisis, and I think we can all be grateful that we reside and work in a region that has tackled this problem head-on, in a proactive manner. The way the UAE has led the way in trying to keep people safe and secure has been nothing short of magnificent, and I think I speak for everyone when I applaud its work.

However, that doesn’t mean there haven’t been challenges. As an SME, we feel them more than most; but a wise man once said, “In crisis, there is opportunity,” and we’re going to take this as an opportunity to reset and re-evaluate

April 2020 | MEConstructionNews.com

how we can strengthen as a media company.

We firmly believe in what we do, and we firmly believe that the regional construction industry values what we offer. We may go through some changes and evolve to keep up with the changing reality that we are in, but we’re still going to be here, providing a voice and being an advocate for the GCC’s construction industry.

Looking ahead at this month’s issue, as you may have already noticed, we’ve got a pretty strong focus on Expo 2020 Dubai.

With the mega event just six months away, we’re starting to see some truly impressive stories emerge from the project site, and this month’s cover story is just one example of how technology is going to play a huge role, not just at the event but beyond it as well.

We also visit one of the pavilions being built at the Expo site, which gives us an intriguing insight into the demands and requirements being placed on exhibitors by the Expo team, but also shows how the countries exhibiting are keen to push the event and showcase the best they have to offer.

Gavin Davids

GROUP EDITOR gavin.davids@cpitrademedia.com @MECN_Gavin MEConstructionNews me-construction-news

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Licensed by Dubai Development Authority

169 April 2020

MEConstructionNews.com

THE BUSINESS OF CONSTRUCTION

Group MANAGING DIRECTOR Raz Islam raz.islam@cpitrademedia.com MANAGING PARTNER Vijaya Cherian vijaya.cherian@cpitrademedia.com

Editorial

The Mind of the Expo

BIG PROJECT ME HEARS HOW SIEMENS MIDDLE EAST IS UTILISING ITS TECHNOLOGY TO TURN EXPO 2020 DUBAI INTO THE SMARTEST EXPO EVER ON THE COVER

Big Project ME sits down with Oliver Kraft and Afzal Mohammed of Siemens to learn how Expo 2020 Dubai will shape the future of smart cities around the world MEConstructionNews.com @meconstructionn MEConstructionNews me-construction-news

GROUP EDITOR Gavin Davids gavin.davids@cpitrademedia.com +971 4 375 5480 JUNIOR REPORTER Angitha Pradeep angitha.pradeep@cpitrademedia.com +971 4 375 5479 SUB EDITOR Aelred Doyle aelred.doyle@cpitrademedia.com

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The publisher of this magazine has made every effort to ensure the content is accurate on the date of publication. The opinions and views expressed in the articles do not necessarily reflect the publisher and editor. The published material, adverts, editorials and all other content are published in good faith. No part of this publication or any part of the contents thereof may be reproduced, stored or transmitted in any form without the permission of the publisher in writing. Publication licensed by Dubai Development Authority to CPI Trade Publishing FZ LLC. Printed by Al Salam Printing Press LLC. CPI Trade Media. PO Box 13700, Dubai, UAE. +971 4 375 5470 cpitrademedia.com © Copyright 2020. All rights reserved.

April 2020 | MEConstructionNews.com

Web Development WEB DEVELOPER Abdul Baeis abdul.baeis@cpitrademedia.com WEB DEVELOPER Sadiq Siddiqui sadiq.siddiqui@cpitrademedia.com FOUNDER Dominic De Sousa (1959-2015)

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ONLINE

MOST POPULAR

READERS’ COMMENTS

FEATURED

CONSTRUCTION

CORONAVIRUS: UAE PROPERTY MARKET TO RECEIVE SHOT IN THE ARM DUE TO $27BN STIMULUS PACKAGE, SAVILLS MIDDLE EAST SAYS

SCCI and Etihad Rail call on relevant business sectors to participate in rail project

CONSULTANT

Coronavirus: Dubai Investments announces initiatives to combat COVID-19

Interview: Ducab CEO on new copper, aluminium metal subsidiary DMB (Exclusive)

CONSTRUCTION

Oman launches pilot project for smart cities at Knowledge Oasis Muscat

CONSULTANT

Egypt proposes alternate e-waste disposal solutions

MACHINERY

Cummins becomes sole engine supplier for Hyundai CE’s heavy range April 2020 | MEConstructionNews.com

It is no surprise that we are finally beginning to see the market start to react to the spread of the virus (Coronavirus: UAE property market to receive shot in the arm due to $27bn stimulus package, Savills Middle East says). I have been relieved to see projects I am involved in take measures to protect our workforce and I am glad to see that our peers are also now taking the necessary steps. It is important that all the way down the chain of construction that we now support one another to ensure that we can retain some normality in this extraordinary time.

However, I do worry that this is the beginning of a longer malaise as we deal with this threat plus the ongoing problems in the global economy.

It is now imperative that we continue to reach for the highest standards possible and work collectively to ensure we come out in a stronger position once this period is over.

Feature: Site Visit – Building the Pangolin

Name withheld by request

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Learn more on www.mapei.ae

8

THE BRIEFING

Energy

The Age of Gas MIDDLE EAST

Joseph Anis, president and CEO of GE Gas Power in MENASA, tells Big Project ME why gas power is an excellent complement to renewable energy in the MENA region April 2020 | MEConstructionNews.com

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audi Arabia, the UAE and other countries in the Middle East have discovered and are developing new gas reservoirs that are expected to drive fuel self-sufficiency and energy independence in the region. The UAE alone saw two major gas reservoir finds in 2020 – the Mahani field in Sharjah and the Jebel Ali reservoir on the Dubai/ Abu Dhabi border – which it may consider directing into the industry or towards developing an export market.

In addition, the world is shifting towards incorporating more renewable power in the energy mix, where gas can play a vital role in dispatching flexible, resilient and low-emission power.

The UAE Energy Strategy 2050, for

Shifting direction The world is moving towards incorporating more renewable power into the energy mix, and gas can play a vital role is dispatching flexible, resilient and low-emission power.

17% Global gas

generation will grow at 17% from 2018-2040

example, targets an energy mix that constitutes 38% gas, 44% clean energy, 12% coal and 6% nuclear energy.

The International Energy Agency notes that globally gas generation is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate of 1.7% from 2018 through 2040, having started at 6,118 terawatt-hours (TWh) and increasing to 8,899 TWh. “A key driver in leveraging the ‘age of gas’ is the development of advanced technologies that are helping turbines and gas power plants become more efficient, reliable and affordable while lowering operational costs and environmental impact,” explains Joseph Anis, president and CEO of GE Gas Power in MENA and South Asia (MENASA). “Moreover, gas power generation technologies are

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Hybrid technology Advances in hybrid technology are pushing the adoption of gas power in today’s energy mix.

20 Regional

power consumption will double in 20 years

becoming more flexible than ever, which makes them an excellent fit for countries transitioning to a greater proportion of renewable power in their energy mix.

Gas turbines can also ramp power output up or down very quickly to stabilise the grid and plug in the gap in power supply and demand, when the wind isn’t blowing or the sun isn’t shining.”

Anis adds that advances in hybrid technologies are another means by which gas power can support today’s evolving energy mix.

“For example, Southern California Edison (SCE) and GE unveiled the world’s first battery-gas turbine hybrid system in Norwalk, California. The system helps to balance variable energy supply and demand, including when the sun sets and solar power production falls while electricity usage surges as people turn on lights and appliances.

“It is an advanced control system that blends output between the battery and the gas turbine, while the energy storage capacity of the battery has been specifically designed to provide enough time coverage to allow the gas turbine to start and reach its designated power output. Therefore, the system does not need to burn fuel and consume water in standby mode to be able to dispatch power immediately when demand surges or renewable energy supplies decline.”

Anis states that advanced manufacturing techniques such as 3D printing and additive manufacturing are also enabling faster prototyping for complex components, with less waste.

“New ceramic matrix composites integrated into our products allow them to be lighter and to withstand higher temperatures. Advances such as these have contributed to GE’s HA gas turbines being available at 64% net combined cycle efficiency. We are now working towards reaching 65% efficiency – a feat once considered almost impossible,” he explains.

GE’s HA technology is also being used by Sharjah Electricity and Water Authority (SEWA) for its upcoming 1.8GW independent combined cycle power project in Hamriyah. Expected to be one of the most efficient power plants in the Middle East’s power sector, upon completion the project will also help

A key driver in leveraging the ‘age of gas’ is the development of advanced technologies that are helping turbines and gas power plants become more efficient while lowering operational costs and environmental impact” SEWA reduce carbon dioxide emissions by up to 4m tons per year, equivalent to removing 1m cars from the UAE’s roads.

Explaining the financial footprint of gas power plants, Anis points out that capital expenditure has come down from ~$900/kW in 2010 to as low as $400/kW today. He clarifies the reason behind this: “In the past decade, gas

power plant block sizes have gone from ~300MW powered by F-class turbines to almost 850MW and beyond, the financial impact of which has been significant.”

Meanwhile, power consumption in the region is also likely to double in the next 20 years. According to the Gas Exporting Countries Forum (GECF), the demand for power in the Middle East is expected to reach 2,419TWh by 2040, an annual growth rate of 3.2% from 1,132TWh in 2016.

Anis notes that several factors contribute to an increase in power consumption.

“The Middle East region is a hub for industries such as smelters and cement, which depend on large, uninterrupted supplies of power as an essential input. Many countries such as Iraq, Lebanon, Yemen and others continue to experience frequent energy shortages and need to add significant new capacity to their grids to meet the needs of present and future generations.

“Gas will be at the heart of the energy sector of the future, and GE Gas Power will continue to be a partner of growth for countries across the Middle East as they strengthen national power infrastructure further,” Anis concludes.

MEConstructionNews.com | April 2020

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THE BRIEFING

Creating Value MIDDLE EAST

Big Project ME sits down with Mohammed Alsharaf, chief operating officer at Eltizam, to learn about the firm’s new Get Wonky initiative, and how it is future-proofing the business

April 2020 | MEConstructionNews.com

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ltizam Asset Management Group (Eltizam) recently launched its organisational and business enhancement programme, Get Wonky, to reflect the firm’s culture of doing things differently and link to its long-standing corporate values. The UAE company consists of a range of building service providers that manage and maintain thousands of buildings across the country. It also looks after owner-association and community management, facilities management and leisure services, energy and brokerage services under its different arms.

“We aim to provide end-to-end services to the asset owner – our

philosophy is to control the asset, protect the asset and maximise the return on investment from the asset for the client,” Mohammed Alsharaf, Eltizam’s chief operating officer, tells Big Project ME. “We adopt a holistic approach in our services at Eltizam, contrary to our competitors. We look at the asset in total and how we can generate revenue and control costs in the community or tower for the operator.

“But what distinguishes us as a company is something we recently launched – Get Wonky. This is what I usually picture as the soul of the company. It gives us a competitive advantage and distinguishes us from others in the market.”

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Pillars of practice The Get Wonky campaign has six main pillars that allow the company to operate between regulatory and board parameters, while still offering something different.

$5m

Amount invested in technology

by Eltizam last year

The recently launched Get Wonky campaign has six main pillars: Technology, People Development, Corporate Social Responsibilities, Happiness, In-Country Value and Vision 21.

On the new launch, Chris Roberts, Eltizam’s CEO, said in a statement: “By incorporating and putting the six pillars into practice, we can operate between regulatory and board parameters while being different from everybody else and staying true to our culture.

The initial response has shown us that Get Wonky is going to be easily recognisable by our current and future employees, clients and customers.”

He added that the organisation recognises that long-term sustainable corporate success requires futureproofing the business through a balanced approach, so that operations can remain seamless and everyone connected is happy and healthy.

Pointing out that Eltizam invested over $5m in technology last year, Alsharaf says the company focuses on staying ahead of market trends and keeping pace with technological advancements, one of the core pillars of the Get Wonky initiative.

“The whole of our business is transforming into a tech-based business. From 2014, when everything was paper, I expect by the end of 2021, within our FM businesses and property management businesses, to be completely paperless. Right now we are at about 75% paperless with our FM business.

“Another key pillar is Corporate Social Responsibility; it reflects Eltizam’s approach to sustainable business practices, environmental protection and social equity. In 2020, we will be focusing on eliminating single-use plastics and supporting children’s education.

“With In-Country Value, we look at localisation so that it can fit any country we operate in. For instance, in Oman we promote to achieve a higher workforce of Omanis, but this scheme goes beyond that. Under this umbrella, we identify local talent and encourage small and medium enterprises (SMEs) through our supply chain.”

He adds that Eltizam cooperates and liaises with local authorities to add value and support the country’s growing economy through service provision.

Under this umbrella, we identify local talent and encourage small and medium enterprises (SMEs) through our supply chain” Through its People Development initiative, Eltizam conducts and hosts international training at the Get Wonky Academy for qualification bodies such as BICS, the British Safety Council and RERA. It also identifies high-potential employees and oversees executive education for them through global platforms.

Alsharaf notes that the Happiness pillar highlights Eltizam’s commitment to customer and employee satisfaction, while Vision 21 looks at all the projects that are planned and delivered to see whether they are in line with the core themes of Get Wonky. Reiterating Roberts’ note on the future of Eltizam, he notes that this is the latest stage of the journey and that the firm will be monitoring the results of the programme once it gets rolled out across the group.

Coming back to the core of the business, Alsharaf says there is continuous growth in facilities management, but now the trend is to specialise in different FM sectors, such as education, healthcare and industrial areas.

“Primarily, our focus now is on real estate and commercial buildings – we are expanding on this to see how we can add value to the different sectors in the economy. Expo 2020 Dubai is already having a positive impact in this respect, not just in Dubai but throughout the UAE. Even after the Expo, several buildings and communities will need to be managed in a way that can add value and generate income, so definitely there will be a positive outlook in the market.”

Alsharaf summarises that Eltizam will be expanding into Egypt and possibly Bahrain, which will be formally announced at a later time, along with a few international acquisitions within the region and a smaller and a larger merger within business lines.

“Our goal now is to strengthen our business. By the time we hit the end of 2021, I’m expecting our yearly revenues to be double what they are at the current moment. Right now, we have 60,000 units and with our expansion to Egypt, we are looking at potentially adding another 40,000 units,” he concludes.

MEConstructionNews.com | April 2020

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THE BIG PICTURE

01 USA

03 UNITED KINGDOM

Spanish company wins $5.9bn contract for Texas project

University of Sheffield to build energy research centre

Renfe Operadora has signed a contract with Texas Central worth $5.9bn to develop and operate the Texas High-Speed Rail Project connecting Houston and Dallas. The design and construction phase of the project is valued at $311m, while the total estimated cost of the project could reach $20bn, with civil works estimated to be $14bn.

The investment could create nearly 10,000 jobs during the construction phase and 1,500 permanent jobs when operational in 2026. It could also bring nearly $36m in state-wide economic benefits for the next 25 years.

02 SCOTLAND

Plans approved for NMIS facility The University of Strathclyde has secured approval from Renfrewshire Council for the construction of a National Manufacturing Institute Scotland (NMIS) facility in Renfrewshire, Scotland.

Expected to be around 1.5 times the size of the Hampden Park football pitch, the new facility will include a skills academy, a fully digitised factory of the future and a collaboration hub.

The facility will also support manufacturing and engineering companies of all sizes across all sectors, both across the country and internationally in their innovation and growth.

04 SWEDEN

UK construction company J F Finnegan has been selected by the University of Sheffield for the construction of the Translational Energy Research Centre, a national hub for innovative research into low-carbon energy generation technology.

J F Finnegan will design, construct and complete the 1,497sqm research facility.

It will include office accommodation, car parking and landscaping. Externally, there will be outbuildings for storage areas. When completed, the new facility will play a critical role in ensuring that the UK can meet its net-zero emissions commitments by 2050.

06 ALGERIA

Jacobs secures rail contract in Sweden

Algeria completes gas pipeline construction

The Swedish Transport Administration (Trafikverket) has awarded a contract to US firm Jacobs to provide strategic consultancy services for the proposed new high-speed railway lines between Stockholm, Gothenburg and Malmö in Sweden. Under the terms of the contract, Jacobs will be responsible for providing technical advice and services across planning, system, design and delivery of the three projects – the East Link for Järna-Linköping (approximately 150km), Göteborg-Borås (60km) and Hässleholm-Lund (70km).

The project is expected to increase capacity and resiliency, and create more sustainable travel and freight transport.

Eni and Algerian state-owned company Sonatrach have completed the construction of a gas pipeline in the onshore Berkine basin of Algeria.

The 185km gas pipeline connects the Bir Rebaa Nord (BRN) and the Menzel Ledjmet Est (MLE) fields in southeast Algeria and can transport 7m cubic metres of gas per day.

When operating at full capacity, the Berkine Nord gas project will bring production to a total of 6.5m cubic metres. With production of 10,000 barrels of associated liquids, the project will have an overall production of 65,000 barrels of oil equivalent per day this year.

April 2020 | MEConstructionNews.com

05 BELGIUM

BAM secures financing for Belgian prison project BAM PPP PGGM, a JV between BAM PPP and PGGM, has closed financing for the construction of the Dendermonde prison project in Belgium. Under the $216m contract, BAM PPP will be responsible for the designing, building, financing and maintenance of the prison.

Construction is expected to commence in August 2020 and is scheduled for completion by October 2022.

BAM Interbuild will execute the design and construction of the project while BAM Facility Management will provide the maintenance for 25 years.

THE BIG PICTURE

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04 02 03

05

08

01 06 07

09

08 JORDAN

Alectris, Mace complete 11.5MW Jordanian solar project 07 EGYPT

Egypt begins construction at West Baker wind farm Construction work on the 250MW West Bakr wind farm in Egypt has begun, according to Egypt’s Electricity and Renewable Energy Ministry. Siemens Gamesa is the project’s engineering, procurement and construction contractor, while the project is being developed by Dutch firm Lekela.

The project will be developed under a build-own-operate scheme and will supply clean power to the Egyptian grid through a take-or-pay power purchase agreement with the Egyptian Electricity Transmission Company.

Alectris, a global O&M service provider, and Mace have announced the completion of a 11.5MW solar project in Jordan. The partnership was specifically designed to formalise, expedite and autonomise asset management activity across new solar projects in the region. Beginning in 2016, it saw Mace take responsibility for field operations and maintenance services on location, while Alectris provided operations and legacy expertise in global asset care, along with the ACTIS ERP system, whcih was tailored to the plant’s specific operations and maintenance requirements.

09 SAUDI ARABIA

Saudi Arabia to invest $110bn in Jafurah gas field Saudi Aramco has announced regulatory approval for the development of the Jafurah unconventional gas field in the Eastern Province of Saudi Arabia, subject to the company’s usual governance process.

Jafurah is the largest unconventional non-associated gas field in the Kingdom and is about 170km in length and 100km in width. The volume of gas resources in the field is estimated at 5.6 trillion cubic metres of rich raw gas.

Production will commence in early 2024 and reach approximately 62.2m standard cubic metres per day of sales gas by 2036.

MEConstructionNews.com | April 2020

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THE BIG PICTURE

15

10 12

11 13

14

16

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10 KUWAIT

12 UAE

Kuwait awards contract for wasteto-energy plant

ADNOC awards contracts worth $1.64bn for Dalma gas project

UK firm Addfield Environmental Systems announced it has been awarded a major contract by a Kuwaiti group to set up a waste-to-energy plant in the country, with construction on the project expected to begin in February. The project belongs to the largest waste recycling operator in Kuwait; it is expanding its operations with the addition of a brand-new specifically designed facility, developed exclusively for the safe destruction of clinical waste. The new facility has been designed to process up to 1,000kg of material per hour through a fully automated stepped hearth incinerator.

April 2020 | MEConstructionNews.com

11 BAHRAIN

Bahrain announces new residential projects Bahrain has announced that it plans to build a total of 1,705 residential units, including 1,402 flats, within the Salman City social housing project. The decision comes as part of the ministry’s plan to implement His Majesty King Hamad’s order of the construction of 40,000 housing units in Bahrain under the Government Action Plan.

Tender works are already completed and preparations are underway to start construction work, while the Ministry of Housing is currently reviewing implementation of the procedural schemes for general plans approved for the new cities.

ADNOC has awarded two engineering and construction contracts worth $1.65bn for the Dalma Gas Development Project in UAE. The two engineering, procurement, construction, transportation, offshore installation and commissioning contracts have been awarded to Petrofac Emirates and a joint venture between Petrofac and Sapura Energy.

The scope of work includes inlet facilities with power generation units, gas processing and compression units, utilities and other infrastructure.

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THE BIG PICTURE

15

14 OMAN

Oman unveils new airport city mega project 13 UAE

Modon awards $646m infrastructure contracts Modon Properties has awarded three contracts worth $646.2m to deliver infrastructure works for the second and fifth phases of the Riyadh City South project in the UAE, to National Projects and Construction, Nael & Bin Harmal Hydroexport, and Saif Bin Darwish.

The contracted firms will be responsible for the construction of internal and external roads, lights, potable water network, rainwater drainage systems, sewerage systems, fire-fighting systems, traffic control systems, irrigation networks, electricity grids and public realm.

The Oman Aviation Group has announced that its new Muscat Airport City mega development will feature a business zone, as well as hospitality and logistics areas.

It will have a 200,000sqm logistics portal designated for air freight services and logistics, while the business portal, a mixeduse project spread over an area of 1.1m sqm, will have spaces designated for airline office units and related economic sectors.

The project is being implemented as part of the National Aviation Strategy 2030. It will also see the development of an air freight building at Muscat Airport.

15 UZBEKISTAN

ACWA Power to build $1.2bn power plant Saudi Arabia’s ACWA Power has announced that it has signed three new strategic agreements with the Ministry of Energy of Uzbekistan to amplify power generation and develop technical expertise worth up to $2.5bn. The agreements are a 25-year power purchase agreement (PPA) with a total investment value of $1.2bn, for a 1,500MW combined cycle gas-turbine power plant; an Implementation Agreement worth $550m-$1.1bn for the building of a wind power plant with a capacity of 500-1,000MW of clean energy; and a Memorandum of Understanding for the development of a training centre.

17 VIETNAM

Vietnam Grand Prix circuit construction completed 16 INDIA

AG&P breaks ground on LNG facility Atlantic Gulf & Pacific (AG&P) has broken ground on an LNG import facility at Karaikal Port, Puducherry in India.

Built on a 120,000sqm site within the Port, the terminal is intended to expand access to natural gas for downstream customers in southern India.

Scheduled to enter service by Q4 2021, the AG&P-operated import facility will have deep-water access on the east coast of India, south of Chennai, with allweather capabilities and 24/7 operations.

With an initial capacity of 1m tonnes per annum, the facility will include a floating storage unit.

The Hanoi Circuit construction has been completed in preparation for the inaugural Formula 1 Vietnamese Grand Prix in April.

The final 150m stretch of track was laid along the start/finish line to complete the 23-turn track, which features a unique hybrid design that fuses a street circuit’s characteristics with a permanent track layout. With the permanent constructions now in place, the focus is on the temporary structures around the circuit, including the grandstands.

However, following ongoing concerns over the COVID-19 situation globally, the Vietnam Grand Prix has been postponed.

18 AUSTRALIA

Australia begins construction of $3.4bn airport Major earthworks have commenced at the $3.4bn Western Sydney International (Nancy-Bird Walton) Airport project in Australia. This marks the project’s new phase, which will result in the construction of the terminal, runway and overall infrastructure works related to the airport.

It is being developed in stages, with the first phase involving the construction of a single-runway airport with a capacity of up to 10m passengers a year. Scheduled to start operations in 2026, the Western Sydney International Airport project is being built on a 17.8sqkm site at Badgerys Creek.

MEConstructionNews.com | April 2020

16

MARKET REPORT

Industry outlook

Bahrain Construction Snapshot – Q1 2020

BAHRAIN

ProTenders report looks at the current state of the Bahraini construction landscape and forecasts upcoming trends

April 2020 | MEConstructionNews.com

T

he growth in the construction sector in Bahrain has been driven by large-scale infrastructure projects that have stimulated the sector. These projects include New Bahrain International Airport ($10bn) and Bahrain Metro ($8bn). In 2018, the ALBA Port Capacity Upgrade, a major oil & gas project valued at $2.7bn, was awarded to FATA SpA. Currently, there are 5,830 projects under construction. In Bahrain, only a small value of projects is currently on hold, a sign that project on-hold rate is significantly lower than in other GCC countries. As of October

2019, the total project value is estimated to be $123.1bn. With Bahrain’s Vision 2030 and recent priority-setting for the next four years (2019-2022), we forecast infrastructure development to be a core area of investment and development in the Kingdom.

Our forecast highlights a significant reduction in oil & gas sector investment, which is also in line with the strategic direction towards Vision 2030. Social infrastructure investment in healthcare, education and in particular in innovationrelated sectors will drive further projects within the urban sector.

MARKET REPORT

VALUE OF PROJECTS

BY STATUS ($BN)

ONGOING PROJECTS

BY SECTOR ($BN) Oil & Gas

Planning

82.3 Total Under Construction

34.1

Design

22.6

Tender

6.9

UPCOMING PROJECTS

BY SECTOR ($BN)

Urban Buildings

2.7

18.7

17

Oil & Gas

23.7

Urban Buildings

3.6

16.0

34.1 Total

48.2 Total

Infrastructure

Infrastructure

7.7

28.6

In Bahrain, only a small value of projects is currently on hold, a sign that project on-hold rate is significantly lower than in other GCC countries�

16

1.2

3

8

0.6 Jacobs Engineering Group

AECOM

Arabtec Construction

6

Technip

1.8

Gulf House Engineering

24

Mohamed Salahuddin Consulting Engineering Bureau (MSCEB)

9

Mott MacDonald

2.4

Bahrain Bay

32

Durrat Al Bahrain

12

Bahrain Mumtalakat Holding Company (Mumtalakat)

3.0

Bahrain Petroleum Company (Bapco)

40

Diyar Al Muharraq

15

Samsung Engineering

TOP 5 CONTRACTORS

BY VALUE ($BN)

SEPCO III Electric Power Construction Corporation

TOP 5 CONSULTANTS

BY VALUE ($BN)

ACWA Power

TOP 5 DEVELOPERS

BY VALUE ($BN)

CONSTRUCTION CONTRACT AWARD FORECAST Q1 2020 ($BN) Urban Buildings

1.2 Infrastructure

Oil & Gas

1.4

1.2

1.0

0.8

0.6

0.4

0.5 0.2

Source: ProTenders

0.8

MEConstructionNews.com | April 2020

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ANALYSIS

Real Estate

Building on the Brand MIDDLE EAST

Angitha Pradeep speaks with industry leaders to analyse why branded properties are perceived as safer purchases in challenging market conditions

A

ccording to a report by global real estate services provider Savills, the number of branded schemes in the last decade has grown by 198%, and the distinction of carrying a brand has become recognised as a valuable USP. The sector, Savills says, has come a long way since the very first branded residence opened in New York over a century ago. Meanwhile, April 2020 | MEConstructionNews.com

Dubai is set to topple New York as the global branded residence capital, thanks to a pipeline equal to its current supply.

“To a developer, a branded residence offers greater project visibility, design and marketing expertise, and access to the brand’s customer base. Owners, meanwhile, benefit from owning a stake in a reputable brand, and access to superior services and amenities, and in some instances the hotel’s rental programme,” says Richard Paul, head of professional services for Middle East at Savills.

Maher Sweid, managing partner of Sweid & Sweid and developer of the first Banyan Tree Residences in the Middle East (a branded property), says the region is still a young and growing market segment that still has a big cross-section of developers with varying approaches to branded residences.

“Unfortunately, many are merely residential properties with the brand attached, which is more of a marketing gimmick to try and increase the price,” he points out.

However, Tara Marlow, head of Real Estate, Hotels and Leisure at Al Tamimi & Company, notes that in

Branded living A branded residence offers greater project visibility, design and marketing expertise.

Lifestyle brands Millennials value experiences over material goods and prize individuality, and have thus fuelled the rise of lifestyle brands, says Richard Paul.

198% Growth rate of branded schemes globally

the Middle East, Dubai is considered a mature market with its regulations on land ordinance and other issues.

“There is a new law on jointly owned properties that changes how service charges and third-party service providers are being dealt with and also looks at what residences are being charged, so that’s a changing trend; we are waiting for more information to come out on the law,” she explains.

“However, some of the challenges are with long-term buying and if the branded residence will be owneroccupied or turned into a rented pool.

There have been instances where owners have wanted to take their property out of the rental pool and rent it out as a holiday home or even occupy it, when they don’t have the ability to do so.”

She adds that it doesn’t matter what the contract says – if somebody wants to breach their commitment, they can, and it has to be dealt with.

From a developer’s point of view, Sweid says that dealing with the branding party and adhering to its brand standards are new challenges for many developers during the design and construction phase.

ANALYSIS

19

Millennials, valuing experiences over material goods and prizing individuality, have fuelled the rise of lifestyle brands such as W, SLS and MGallery” “With regard to clients and buyers, one of the greater challenges we have faced at Banyan Tree Residences is educating the customer to differentiate between ourselves and our lifestyle offering versus other more ‘plain’ branded properties,” he explains.

To this end, Paul adds that consumer preferences can and do change, with implications for the branded residences sector.

“Millennials, valuing experiences over material goods and prizing individuality, have fuelled the rise of lifestyle brands such as W, SLS and MGallery.

Early indications suggest that Generation Z (those currently aged under 24) are even less brand-conscious than their predecessors. It is no coincidence that we are seeing the entrance of players such as Condé Nast; with a portfolio of magazines, they will be able to curate lifestyle without being tied to a single product or brand. This flexibility

should resonate with a customer base increasingly seeking a tailored living experience.”

On keeping up with this tailored living experience, Sweid says the experience of living in a branded residence should be an elevated lifestyle. Amenities and facilities should play an important role, but just having those is not enough; the design and operation of these facilities should be considered too.

Here, Paul points out that local dynamics such as preference for a particular brand, current real estate pricing and developer reputation are critical factors for the success of any branded residential project.

“The developer and the brand should identify these critical success factors, among others, work towards addressing them from the start, and evaluate them at regular intervals throughout the agreed agreement period, to stay relevant to the market trends,” he concludes.

CONTACT Mary Jo Balve Global Trade Show Services, Inc. 33 Prince Place, Little Silver NJ 07739 T +1 732 933 1118 mjbalve@globaltradeshow.com

MEConstructionNews.com | April 2020

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IN PROFILE

Oliver Kraft & Afzal Mohammed

Inside the Mind of the Expo BIG PROJECT ME SPEAKS TO OLIVER KRAFT AND AFZAL MOHAMMED OF SIEMENS MIDDLE EAST TO LEARN HOW EXPO 2020 DUBAI WILL REVOLUTIONISE THE WAY SMART CITIES OF THE FUTURE ARE DESIGNED AND BUILT

| MEConstructionNews.com | MEConstructionNews.com March April 2020 2020

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MEConstructionNews.com | April 2020

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IN PROFILE

hen you look back in history, a World Expo has always been an event that showcased how the world was changing, whether through providing a symbol of hope or by highlighting technological prowess. In 1889, it was the Eiffel Tower that welcomed visitors to the Exposition Universelle; in 1933, the Chicago World Fair provided visitors still reeling from the Great Depression a glimpse of a world driven by innovation and technology; while in 1964, the New York World’s Fair introduced the world to colour television.

Expo 2020 Dubai is shaping up to be no different to the expos that came before it, with the event set to show the world how closely linked architecture and technology can be, with more than 130 buildings at the site connected via the Internet of Things. This in turn will make Expo 2020 Dubai the blueprint for how a smart city should be – interconnected, responsive and intuitive to the needs and demands of its residents and visitors.

Three key themes underpin the entire six-month extravaganza: Opportunity, Mobility and Sustainability. The site

April 2020 | MEConstructionNews.com

We decided to focus on certain key domains which are of utmost importance to the people living in smart cities or urban environment.

This incorporates safety, security and sustainability, of course. That’s how we selected our portfolio” Early focus Oliver Kraft says that right from the initial talks with the Expo team, Siemens was clear about what it wanted to focus on.

12

Number of Premier Partners at the Expo

itself is divided into districts built around these themes, each featuring unique architectural wonders inspired by its theme. The Sustainability Pavilion, for example, features a huge solar-panelcovered canopy and has the ability to pull moisture from the air around it, demonstrating how it’s possible to supply power from renewable energy, and use natural resources sustainably.

This and many more wonderful innovations and structures await visitors when the doors to Expo 2020 Dubai open on October 20, 2020. However, while it’s easy to be impressed and swept away by the extravagant displays and magnificent pavilions, visitors should

also not miss out on perhaps the most significant and ingenious invention at the Expo – one that could have potentially huge ramifications on how cities of the future are built, designed and operated.

With Expo 2020 Dubai having appointed 12 Premier Partners to help deliver a successful event, it was no surprise to see Siemens chosen to be the Premier Infrastructure Digitisation Partner for the event, in no small part due to its long history of partnering with World Expos.

“When we started our engagement with Expo 2020 Dubai, and even before that, we were told that the site will live on in the future, and that’s actually true

IN PROFILE

[with District 2020],” says Oliver Kraft, EVP – Expo 2020 for Siemens LCC, to Big Project ME during an interview at the industry giant’s offices in Dubai.

“So we went back and internally discussed what portfolio elements we wanted to select in order to make the campus a smart campus, and then later on become the future District 2020, which is a smart city. We decided to focus on certain key domains which are of utmost importance to the people living in smart cities or urban environment. This incorporates safety, security and sustainability, of course.

That’s how we selected our portfolio, in order to make the city smarter.”

Siemens’ role in Expo 2020 Dubai means it is always working in the background, and with an estimated 300,000 people set to visit the event at peak time, it’s imperative that all the systems managed by the technology giant operate smoothly and efficiently to ensure a safe experience for everyone.

“That’s why we’ve put in thousands of cameras on campus – we’ll have the largest physical security solution ever, what we call Siveillance Vantage. In addition to that, we’ll be connecting 15,000 doors via our SiPass access control, and of course we’ll be providing CCTV and video management systems,” says Kraft. “That’s in the area of safety and security. If a child goes missing, or if an elderly person needs help, our technology will be able to help keep them safe and sound, and that’s true for both the operators and for visitors.”

As well as being a Premier Partner, the company also works as a supplier to the companies building the pavilions across the massive site, particularly the MEP contractors, to whom Siemens supplies HVAC, thermostats, controls and other essential equipment. From a digital perspective, all the equipment it provides will feed back into a central building management system, Kraft says.

“We have 21 building management systems to connect with 210,000 data points, and in the area of sustainability, we have two substations at the Expo site, so we’ll be connecting 130-plus buildings via Navigator, which is an IT energy optimisation platform.”

21

Number of building management systems at Expo 2020 Dubai Future learning The data generated and analysed at Expo 2020 Dubai can help inform the future development of smart cities, says Afzal Mohammed.

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The jewel in the crown for Siemens and Expo 2020 Dubai is MindSphere, an open, cloud-based IoT operating system that allows data from sensors, gateways, systems and building management applications to be gathered in one place, where it can be analysed and visualised by applications such as Navigator.

In order to analyse the data in MindSphere, Siemens has been working closely with the expo organisers to develop a smart city app that will be used for the first time at the mega event. The app will provide users with detailed environmental data such as air quality and weather conditions, and will monitor and control irrigation systems on Expo grounds.

Furthermore, by the time the Expo opens, it is expected to be able to monitor electric vehicle charging and provide information on the sustainability of plant operation, highlighting the potential of pervasive digital infrastructure.

However, that’s just the beginning of what Siemens envisions. Afzal Mohammed, head of MindSphere and the Command and Control Team, explains that the power of the technology comes from the lessons that can be learned and how they can drive the development of future smart cities.

“Everyone says that Expo 2020 Dubai is a mega event. Yes, it is a mega event, and we said they’re expecting 300,000 people a day. Now, just imagine that for 173 days. We’re anticipating a total of 25 million visitors – that’s the population

MEConstructionNews.com | April 2020

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IN PROFILE

of Australia! It is a mega event, with the challenges of any megacity, and that’s how you have to approach it,” Mohammed tells Big Project ME. “That’s why, with Siemens, when we initially took part in discussions with Expo and with the infrastructure specialists from Expo, we talked about how we were going to manage these topics. The Expo has a stringent requirement for sustainability – they’ve promised to make this the most sustainable expo in the history of expos. It’s not just about running the HVAC as you want to, but to make sure you’re not overrunning it. You have to be able to reduce spend. In addition, the Expo’s target is 20% less than ASHRAE, which is the global norm. That in itself is a new benchmark for an event of this size.

“So topics like this – safety, comfort, sustainability, people movement – they all call for a smart city requirement. This is where Siemens comes in. We are the infrastructure digitisation partner; this is what we can do. But there are other partners playing a role in this too. For example, you have Etisalat doing 5G fibre optics, and other partners are doing bits and pieces of their own nature.”

Mohammed says Siemens works with Expo stakeholders across the board. The Siemens team sat down with the Expo 2020 technical team to understand how an ecosystem can be created, where every partner plays a role. Once that was properly aligned, with every partner

Everyone says that Expo 2020 Dubai is a mega event. Yes, it is a mega event, and we said they’re expecting 300,000 people a day. Now, just imagine that for 173 days. We’re anticipating a total of 25 million visitors!”

April 2020 | MEConstructionNews.com

knowing the role it can play, where it can play and what the overlaps were, a process was created where everyone knew what their piece of the pie was.

“We then started working with the Expo consultants – there were multiple consultants for various packages: you had a security consultant, a BMS consultant, a MEP consultant, an IoT consultant, and so on. We interacted with them and worked with them. We then went to market, as we would with any other commercial project, and we now have close to 25 different contracts, particularly with MEP. “Lastly, for the countries, as we work with the Expo, they know what we can offer the participating countries, so

25m

Total number of expected visitors at Expo 2020 Dubai Dual approach Siemens works with both the Expo team and the country teams to help deliver on expectations from both sides.

we are an Expo one-stop shop. All the international pavilions, they know what Siemens can offer, and parallelly we’re also building alliances within these countries, with the designers, the main contractors and so on. It’s a dual approach; one is with the Expo directly and the other is with international participants.”

Returning to the topic of MindSphere, Mohammed says being involved in so many facets of the Expo project is a strong opportunity for Siemens to implement the technology across a variety of segments.

“Being a greenfield, we’re blessed in a way, because we can experiment a lot.

It’s not a brownfield site where we have to live with legacy technology. We have the best and latest technology available, and we’re also adding in the innovation there. Not everything has to come from Siemens, and that’s where the ecosystem comes into play. What we’re doing is mixing all of the data and deriving the value to give a flavour of innovation.

“Who would have thought that you could mix data from an automation layer with data coming from a totally different spectrum, which is unstructured. Normally, everyone feels that infrastructure is just water, energy, irrigation, wastewater and all of that.

But now you have new sensors coming in which can read air quality, and Expo wants to know what the air quality is, for the health and wellness of visitors.

“They also want to club this data with information they’re getting from

IN PROFILE

the ecology of the site. The reason it’s a true blueprint of a smart city is because you’re getting the infrastructure data and you’re getting the non-infrastructure data, coming from various systems.

So we have MindSphere, which is an IoT platform that gets the data from underlying automation systems and also gets the data from the data sources, so we have data which is structured, semi-structured and unstructured; and we have a built-in datalink which allows us to mash everything together and then correlate and visualise the data.”

In order to analyse the data gathered in MindSphere, Siemens is working closely with the Expo organisers to develop a smart city app that will be used for the first time at the mega event. While it will be able to supply detailed environmental data and use artificial intelligence to make predictions – for example, if it is connected to a weather station, it can use current and historical data and air quality measurements to forecast the likelihood of a sandstorm – its functionality can be far wider reaching. It has the potential to become a smart city’s all-purpose

All in the mind MindSphere is an IoT platform that gets data from underlying automation systems and from other data sources, correlates it and then visualises it.

Providing the platform Siemens is providing a platform to help make sense of the vast volumes of data, which will then inform future smart cities.

25

Number of different contracts Siemens has at the Expo

tool, Mohammed and Kraft say.

“When we visualise the data, it’s so meaningful. You don’t need to be a guru of technology to understand it. Why we did this is because Expo is not only a mega event, it’s also a showpiece for the Dubai government. You have to make something tangible – if you talk about sustainability, you have to have a look and feel of that. We have to actually make it meaningful, and we have to take all the slices of innovation to the next level, because we’re mixing in all this data.

“This is where Siemens is investing as we speak, for the Expo. It’s not only an application that visualises the data, but it makes it immersive for the people who want to have everything at their fingertips.

We’re talking about virtual reality coming into play, about mixed reality coming in.”

“Smart cities need a platform that can power IoT applications,” adds Kraft.

“Having a central operating system like MindSphere, which gets all the data, structured and unstructured, and using a data link to make sense of it. For us the key learning was that for IoT platforms, you need the data to make sense to turn

27

it into value, and if you have an open IoT operating system, you can add more – you have mobility use cases, smart energy use cases and many more.”

Mohammed agrees, pointing out that if the RTA decided to bring in data from its own platforms, or if Dubai Municipality wanted to monitor a greywater pipeline feeding Expo, it could easily bring the data to Siemens and ask it to manage it. “That’s the beauty of an operating system like MindSphere – you can always bring in any use case, from different verticals, and mix and match.”

Phase one of the MindSphere project was completed in 2019, so the system has been running for almost a year. With the Expo fast approaching, the focus is now on delivering phase two, Mohammed explains.

“What we’re busy with right now is the delivery of the Expo. We’re delivering phase two, where we’re getting the data for 130-plus buildings, as well as a variety of other data. This is progressing and delivery will be concluded by July, subject to any dependencies from third parties – but we will be ready,” he concludes.

MEConstructionNews.com | April 2020

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April 2020 | MEConstructionNews.com

PROJECT PROFILE

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Finnish Pavilion PROJECT CLIENT: Business Finland PROJECT CONTRACTOR: Expomobilia PROJECT ARCHITECT: JKMM Architects STEEL STRUCTURE CONTRACTOR: Cimolai Rimond TOTAL SIZE OF EXPO 2020 DUBAI SITE: 4.382sqkm TOTAL SIZE OF THE FINNISH PAVILION: 1,867sqm NUMBER OF FINNISH COMPANIES INVOLVED: 40 CONSTRUCTION PROGRESS: 40%

Envisioning the Future ANGITHA PRADEEP ATTENDS THE FINNISH PAVILION’S TOPPING-OUT CEREMONY AT THE EXPO 2020 SITE AND LEARNS HOW SUSTAINABILITY AND WELLNESS ARE AN INTEGRAL PART OF THE COUNTRY’S APPROACH TO DESIGN, EXECUTION AND DISMANTLING MEConstructionNews.com | April 2020

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PROJECT PROFILE

n February 11, Finland became one of the first countries to have an official ceremony to top out its Expo 2020 Dubai pavilion. The ceremony was attended by several Finnish delegates, including Minister of Economic Affairs Mika Lintilä, Commissioner General of Finland at Expo 2020 Dubai Severi Keinälä, and Ambassador to the UAE Marianne Nissilä.

Commemorated as one of the first countries to break ground in August 2019, Finland’s pavilion is in the Mobility District at the under-construction 4.382sqkm Expo 2020 Dubai site. The ceremony involved delegates signing the final steel beam for the 1,867sqm pavilion, and a detailed update of the construction progress, which stood at 40% at the time of the visit.

Business Finland, a public funding agency in Finland, commissioned the design and construction of the project to a consortium consisting of five international organisations.

The concept, design, planning and execution of the pavilion are being undertaken by Helsinki-based JKMM Architects and Swiss construction specialist Expomobilia.

The other partners are Finnish event management firm Factor Nova; Beyond Limits, an expo consulting company based in the UAE; and leading US live content creator Five Currents. The three partners also have an advisory and support role across all phases of the project from design to delivery.

At the Expo site office, Big Project ME sat down with Teemu Kurkela, founder and creative partner at JKMM Architects, which was also responsible for Finland’s pavilion at the 2010 Shanghai Expo. In China, it won first prize in the design competition for April 2020 | MEConstructionNews.com

its pavilion – named Kirnu, meaning ‘giant’s kettle’, to demonstrate Finland’s ‘warm heart’ towards China.

Kurkela remarks, “For Expo 2020 Dubai, we wanted to find the best way to tell the story of Finland, to which there are many aspects. If we wanted to showcase the Finnish landscape, there are many variables such as forests or lakes, but we wanted to focus on one simple thing – the first blanket of snow which covers the Finnish landscape during winter.

“Lumi – Snow Cape – is the name with which Finland is going to present itself at Expo 2020 and the structure will resemble a white tent made of snow. We designed a simple yet functional structure, ensuring

Finnish tradition The design of the pavilion is meant to evoke the traditions of Finnish architecture

40

Number of Finnish companies actively involved in the pavilion

accessibility, openness and simple people flow remain at the core of the architectural concept, while reflecting the tradition of Finnish architecture.

“Since the snow cape looks like a tent, it connects to the UAE culture of gathering at a majlis, and that’s how the design of the pavilion came into fruition. In designing the pavilion in this manner, we sought to bring together Finland’s icy landscapes with the culture of the UAE; moreover, everybody understands that a tent is a place to meet people – it’s comfortable, relaxed and a temporary structure,” says Kurkela, adding that the Finnish pavilion will offer a haven-like experience to visitors.

VISUAL PRINCIPLES Kurkela says the pavilion will appear as a cubic volume with its entrance facing the front plaza, while visitors will have access to the pavilion through a tent-like opening into a gorge, a ‘kuru’ in Finnish. The main entrance was designed to elicit thoughts of a traditional Arabic tent, seamlessly integrating features from both cultures, he adds.

“The gorge will be a central void that opens to the sky, allowing visitors to experience the serene Nordic atmosphere inside that space. It will be a dynamic wooden space carved into the building, which will behave like a multifunctional area for events and activities and the key location to meet and greet visitors.

It will be kept void of other display features. Visitors can enter through the side and take the elevator to reach the second floor of the pavilion to the VIP area, which will be used as a meeting space between business partners.”

The gorge also relates to the unique Finnish history of innovation, often signified by thinking outside the box, an element of surprise. Here, the surprise is the wooden heart and the exhibition space. The pavilion will be a metal structure built by Cimolai Rimond Middle East, clad in white fabric and insulated with sandwich panels. The pavilion’s main sign will be placed as a separate sail-like element at the front plaza and will also function as a sun canopy.

Kurkela adds that Finnish components and materials play a significant role.

PROJECT PROFILE

We designed a simple yet functional structure, ensuring accessibility, openness and simple people flow remain at the core of the architectural concept, while reflecting the tradition of Finnish architecture”

“Soft and light façade fabrics will be strongly contrasted by the hard-brushed concrete of the entrance deck. Inside the gorge, there will be water in dark lakes and shallow water pools, resembling lakes in Finland, which will create gentle sounds and cool the air around them.

“The entrance, which spans the entire height of the pavilion, will provide a cool intermediate space to prepare visitors as they embark on their journey through the exhibition. Using hard granite flooring, visitors will be led to the central gorge, where they will be embraced by the warmth of gently curved wooden surfaces, acting as a serene space for relaxation,” he explains.

Finland’s Expo organiser, Business Finland, said during the site tour that of

Relaxation space The central gorge in the pavilion will offer visitors a serene space for relaxation.

28%

Percentage of steel used that will be repurposed after the Expo

31

the 100 Finnish companies participating in the Expo, 40 partner companies, including KONE, Konecranes and Halton Group, are actively involved in the construction of the pavilion.

The pavilion’s elevators and sliding doors for the exhibition and VIP areas are provided by KONE and will be repurposed following the event.

Halton Group will provide an air ventilation system inside the main exhibition and gorge areas, based on low-velocity air diffusers, providing cool and fresh air in the human-level zone up to a height of three metres.

Behind the scenes, Kurkela notes that the firm started the project after winning the competition in 2018, and the entire project was worked on a BIM model.

MEConstructionNews.com | April 2020

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PROJECT PROFILE

“In the beginning, we made sure that everybody was developing the main concept together, and then we refined it for a couple of months and then moved into the construction phase. We had different models: the architect’s model that covers all the elements, the structural model, the HVAC model for the technical side and the electrical model. While these three models are within the architect’s model, the idea was that before the structure takes shape, all the partners are aware of the different elements and everyone had access to all the models and are acquainted with any changes.

“In terms of communication with our suppliers, for instance, the steel company would bring their 3D model with any changes and we would accordingly update our model, so the collaboration wasn’t accomplished in one step, there was a lot of back and forth communication which had to happen.”

SUSTAINABLE DISMANTLING On that note, Dietmar Kautschitz, chief customer officer at Expomobilia (the main construction contractor), says he appreciates the work done by the architects. Expomobilia is also part of the consortium selected to design and construct the Dutch pavilion at Expo 2020 Dubai.

Kautschitz says, “Finland was the first country in the world to create a national road map to a circular economy, and its presence at Expo 2020 has tried to follow these principles at various stages. Snow Cape is being built using materials from the local market, with only a limited number of Finnish materials being imported. We have also tried to reduce the overall impact on the environment due to unwanted logistics and transportation.”

He adds that there is a strong relationship with the architects.

“We met with the architects to discuss about the design and any changes to it, since we are also experienced in building Expo structures. Sometimes the architect will have an idea, but if we are not satisfied, we then redesign it for the purpose of a temporary structure.

“If the design is made complicated, then there are chances that there will be complications during its dismantling phase as well,” he points out.

April 2020 | MEConstructionNews.com

Reusable materials Up to 80% of the materials used for the construction of the pavilion will be reused after the event.

35

Full-time team members on the project

“We as general contractors place a lot of emphasis on sustainability. For us, sustainability is not just a word, we live sustainability. Before we decide on our suppliers, we discuss with them the kind of materials and how it will be used during and after the construction of a project – it’s an important target for us. Prior to constructing anything, we make it a point to know what will happen with the material afterwards, because if we think later on, then it becomes difficult to repurpose it.

“So our idea is to judge how the materials will be reused after the event, and not just during the construction phase, since there is a big difference between the two. However, we have found the right partners here to construct the

pavilion, and in the end up to 80% of the materials used to build the pavilion will be reused after the event in the local market.”

Kautschitz says 28% of the pavilion will be made from steel which will be returned to its supplier, German Steel, for repurposing, while the mechanical, electrical and plumbing equipment used on-site, for which the contract was awarded to OxyPro Technical Service, will also be repurposed. The fabric used for the façade of the pavilion will be recycled to make handbags.

Though the contractor refuses to share budget figures, he assures MEC that the pavilion has been funded 50/50 by government and partner companies.

Asked about the challenges of the Dubai market, Kautschitz is quick to point out that regulations and laws are quite different in Europe, and the process to get approval from authorities was at times tough here. However, he observes that the firm has completely followed and is aligned with the Expo regulations, and all authorities connected with the Expo have been very supportive.

“Not only that, companies and suppliers in Dubai were wary of the concept of temporary structures. In the beginning, it was a challenge to explain to them that this is a fast-track temporary project, which means the right materials, experts and labourers are very important for the project to finish on time. In the end, however, they have been very receptive and have understood the idea behind a fast-track project, and we are absolutely on track to finishing the structure on time.”

With Finland twice having been ranked the world’s happiest country in the UN Happiness Report, Kautschitz says the firm places great importance on the health and safety of the labourers on-site. “We have the right supervisors on-site who care about our staff, and I also make weekly visits to enquire about their welfare, and we are proud to say that so far we have not had any accidents.

To date, we have deployed 35 full-time team members and have recorded 26,606 safe man-hours, while almost 40% of the construction work has been completed. We are excited to deliver the pavilion, which we’re sure will make a big impression during Expo 2020 Dubai.”

PROJECT PROFILE

This echoes firmly with the words of the Commissioner General of Finland at the ceremony: “The main theme of Snow Cape and Finland’s participation in Expo 2020 Dubai is ‘Finland – Sharing Future Happiness’. Finnish happiness is based on the symbiosis of people, nature and technology. This deep connection is the origin of the quality of everyday Finnish life, and the Finland pavilion communicates this happiness by taking visitors on a journey through Finland’s key strengths, which are nature and sustainability, education and know-how, and functionality and well-being.

“We want visitors to immerse themselves in our deep connection to nature and sustainability. Our values of happiness, circular economy

Future happiness The theme of the Finnish pavilion is ‘Sharing Future Happiness’, which is based on a symbiosis of people, nature and technology.

130

Days booked by partner companies at the pavilion

and innovation are being showcased throughout the pavilion, and exhibition design and sustainability has been a guiding theme throughout the design and construction process. Even the simple design of the Snow Cape minimises unnecessary additional claddings, enabling us to reduce the overall use of materials.”

Keinälä adds that of the 173 days the Expo 2020 Dubai will run, over 130 days have already been booked by partner companies for various topics at the Finland pavilion. “I’m looking forward to having a very extensive programme during the course of the Expo, and I believe our partner companies will use this platform to form a strong connection with Dubai and the wider region,” he concludes.

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For us, sustainability is not just a word, we live sustainability. Before we decide on our suppliers, we discuss with them the kind of materials and how it will be used during and after the construction of a project”

MEConstructionNews.com | April 2020

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COMMENT

Industry insight

SELMA CARSON

UNIVERSITY OF MANCHESTER

Building Resilience into Real Estate

T

he best way to ensure the sustainability of real estate is to consider the lifecycle of the building at the outset, design and develop for the long term, and consider all stakeholders, especially those who will use the building. It’s a people-centric approach to real estate development that makes financial sense.

Real estate faces many of the same global mega trends as other industries – rapidly growing population, growing urbanisation and demographic changes, climate change and resource scarcity, and technological change. Sustainability in smart city real estate means not only meeting building, energy, environmental performance and regulatory standards, but also meeting the needs of users that make it desirable, functional, financially sustainable and relevant, with a clear purpose and resilient to future obsolescence.

Despite all the global economic uncertainty, the real estate sector continues to attract significant investment, with much of it flowing across borders. The appetite for real estate investment continues unabated, but the market is changing rapidly as user needs and preferences change.

In fact, according to Savills Research, 2018 was the most active year ever in the global real estate market, with $1.8 trillion invested worldwide.

Investment volumes slowed in 2019, but it was still the second highest year on record. Income returns are expected to remain the overarching theme for real estate investment in 2020. Offices in core city markets will be a focus for investors, but opportunities are scarce and yields at record lows, so many investors will be forced to look at alternatives, which means student housing, multifamily, co-living and data centres.

There is growing recognition that real estate user segments and needs are changing.

April 2020 | MEConstructionNews.com

Without a purpose and an occupier, real estate investors lose out on the critical income component of their investment. So, without understanding the user, there will never be a truly sustainable built environment.

Resilience is now the focus of real estate discussions. This refers to how well a development will adapt to the future and the changes that lie ahead. These include the effects of climate change that we are increasingly seeing, but in addition to physical deterioration, a building can also suffer from functional or economic obsolescence.

Creating flexible buildings that have the capacity to be altered easily ensures they have a long, economically successful life, and that our real estate is sustainable. In the UAE, World Expo 2020 in Dubai is a great example of a flexible development with a long-term purpose and an important role in the enduring legacy of the event.

Technology – proptech – is having a significant impact on real estate in the era of the smart city. Users/occupiers expect convenience, immediacy and personalisation.

This is driving the move towards ‘space as a service’ across real estate sectors and changing the nature of real estate skills, which may cover anything from hospitality to data analytics.

Major real estate investors are embracing responsible investment principles and using new industry indicators such as the Global Real Estate Sustainability Benchmark. Quality of product is very important, and there is now more focus on sustainability from investors at all levels.

Real estate has to focus on sustainability, but not only on creating more energy-efficient buildings. The industry needs to think more broadly about the buildings and connections with surrounding land and communities. This includes retrofitting, a critical area globally, as existing building stock dwarfs the amount of new stock; in the UK well under 2% of stock is replaced each year. Technically, there are many interesting advances in materials and construction techniques that can be applied.

Our buildings should also contribute to the health and well-being of the occupants, which in turn is linked to productivity. Understanding real-world user behaviour is essential to improving the performance of our buildings from an energy management perspective.

For the smart cities rising across the Gulf region, our buildings need to be integrated into these development plans. Smart cities are not just about technology, and the vast amounts

of data becoming available should be used intelligently to actually improve the lives of citizens and residents. The concept of ‘smart’ is now being applied to buildings, and we need to look beyond just the design and technology to how the building will be used and how we facilitate creating a community within the building.

If there is no occupier for a commercial or residential building, then there is no income for the investor. The income component of total investment return remains relatively consistent across the property cycle, unlike the volatile capital element. It’s not only a financial issue, because if there is no occupier for the building, then it is contributing nothing to the vitality of the area and sense of place.

When the occupier is placed at the heart of the building and built environment, that’s really smart.

Selma Carson is associate professor and programme director for the part-time Real Estate MSc at the University of Manchester.

CATHERINE WORKMAN PINSENT MASONS

Expo 2020 Infrastructure

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hile acknowledging these challenging times with COVID-19, plans for Expo are still underway, with pavilions being completed on-site. The UAE has reassured all of its stakeholders that it is taking guidance from the Dubai Health Authority and has taken a range of robust and precautionary measure to control the spread of COVID-19.

Expo 2020 will play a crucial role in further driving the advancement of the infrastructure sector in the UAE. Government and Expo 2020led infrastructure projects were the biggest factors driving the growth of Dubai’s infrastructure and construction sector in 2018 and 2019, and

COMMENT

this trend is expected to continue over the next year until 2021, according to analysis by the Dubai Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

With only six months left to the Expo, most of the Expo 2020-related infrastructure is either in the final stages of construction or completed, while the majority of the contracts are for construction works located at the Expo site itself.

Related to the investment in the UAE’s infrastructure, Expo 2020 will also act to introduce a country’s world-class business proposition to the millions of visitors that are descending on the country for the first time.

Hosting a major event has the potential to create an enduring legacy that effectively provides the host city, region and country with new levels of global recognition and economic and social development. However, creating a positive and lasting legacy requires deliberate effort, strong leadership, sustained commitment and attention.

From our work on the legacy for the London 2012 Olympics, we are well aware of the importance of creating a legacy from a nationally significant landmark event. We advised the Olympic Delivery Authority on the grant of all the planning permissions for the Olympics itself as well as the legacy mixed-use regeneration scheme which created 6,000 new homes at the site after the end of the Olympics. In addition to this, we advised companies on the estate and facilities management for the legacy site and the event operators for the main Olympic Stadium.

This gave us a great appreciation of how varied the concept of legacy is following such an event. We understand that from the outset, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, insisted that any investment made towards the Expo had to be considered as to how this could be maximised for its use in the future.

It is great that the legacy element has had equal footing all the way along the line on the development of the Expo site and that the Expo will live on through District 2020. What is also wonderful is that this does not just apply to the physical elements of Expo but that the theme and philosophy is being carried forward also, making sure that its vision lives on, particularly in relation to the aim that District 2020 is a home for innovators, families, artists and pioneers.

Catherine Workman is partner, head of Middle East at Pinsent Masons.

MARCUS TAYLOR FIFTHEDGE

Recruitment Lemonade

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e live in interesting times.

Social media in all its glory is spurring fear and loathing throughout the world. Directives shy of military law and conspiracy are creating a world more in line with a Hollywood or Netflix production. However, China is getting back to work, so is the quarantine end in sight or is Saudi Arabia’s oil feud with Russia going to ‘fuel’ the continuation of this economic upset?

In these uncertain times, recruitment in all industries is understandably far from the top of the priority list for most employers. But should it be?

I’m not for one moment saying it should come before ensuring your team is safe and secure, and your company as risk-averse as it can be.

However, even Saudi Arabia’s projects, which have until now been the focus of keeping the Middle Eastern workforce hard at work for the foreseeable future, are now at risk of delay. We need to believe that the sun will stay in the sky and things will move forward. Perhaps progress will not be as fast-paced as previously thought, but it will continue. Getting through these challenging times is one thing but, arguably, being ready for what comes next is equally critical.

Thus far, we’ve witnessed companies becoming more fluid in their approach to tomorrow’s challenges. I’d like to believe that we can thank generations X and Y for this evolution in reaction.

They have witnessed and learned from previous recessions and are using that knowledge to prepare for the post-coronavirus reality.

In 2008, we faced people being forced into unpaid leave and redundancies. While today’s situation is different to previous recessions, panic is panic. As many of us are expats in this region, few options are available to us to support ourselves without employment.

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To mitigate risks, many of our companies’ leaders have adopted outside-the-box thinking, exploring and implementing innovative ways of working, communicating and collaborating, and retaining their top performers, keeping them happy and feeling secure with continued productivity. Even if that productivity is refocused towards other parts of the business, outsourcing or researching alternative directions.

Where remote working isn’t a valid option, we’ve seen companies adopting a system of staff rotation – so two members of staff can work one month on, one off, to keep two good team members employed while reducing the financial overheads. Empathy like this for employees is what makes an employer brand and gets you the best talent in the future.

When it comes to recruitment, we haven’t experienced the increase of job applications we expected six months ago. The contractor market is still producing three times more applications than that of the consultancy market. However, one significant factor that has been apparent and shall continue, in my opinion, is that passive candidates, who previously had no interest in entertaining alternative options, are now becoming more open to potential opportunities.

More often than not, this is just as insurance, as their current position may not be as secure as before. In turn, this creates a great opportunity for employer brands, big and small, to get the attention of previously untapped high-performing talent.

So what can we do to take advantage of this situation, where recruitment is frozen but there is a talent pool ready to tackle what lies ahead? Coronavirus or not, unless you have inside information, a secured order book or an economist’s crystal ball, you need to ensure you are connected to a strong talent pool, one that is engaged and committed to you. You also need to have access to that talent’s up-to-date details and status.

Good feedback does travel, but nowhere near as fast or wide as bad. If you are able to get the attention of good talent, they come with a contact book of similarly productive people. So don’t just say you’re on a recruitment freeze, or mislead them. Be honest and transparent.

When this is all over, there will be opportunities and those who will come out stronger.

Marcus Taylor is CEO and founder of FifthEdge.

MEConstructionNews.com | April 2020

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TENDERS

Middle East tenders UAE MIXED-USE

Deira Waterfront Development (Phase 2) BUDGET $705 million CLIENT Ithra Dubai TERRITORY Dubai, UAE DESCRIPTION The project’s scope of work consists of a mixed-use development located at Al Corniche, Deira Waterfront Development, Dubai.

Phase 2 includes residential buildings, offices, hotel towers, landscape, quay wall, dredging and reclamation works, and associated facilities.

COMPLETION December 2023 ENERGY

Al Dhafra Independent Power Plant BUDGET $1.6 billion

CLIENT Abu Dhabi Department of Energy TERRITORY Abu Dhabi, UAE DESCRIPTION The project’s scope of work involves the construction of a 2,000MW photovoltaic (PV) solar plant located at Al Dhafra, Abu Dhabi. It also includes installation of solar panels of photovoltaic modules, control rooms, the operating building and associated facilities. The project will lift Abu Dhabi’s solar power capacity to 3,200MW. Once completed, the project site will cover an area of 20sqkm, almost doubling the capacity of the current largest operational single-site solar photovoltaic plant in the world, Noor Abu Dhabi.

COMPLETION March 2023 OIL & GAS

Belbazem Offshore Block Development BUDGET $4.5 billion CLIENT Abu Dhabi National Oil Company TERRITORY Abu Dhabi, UAE DESCRIPTION The project’s scope of work involves the development of its Belbazem offshore field located up to 50km from Zirku Island and about 120km northwest of Abu Dhabi. The Belbazem

block consists of three oil-bearing structures, Belbazem, Umm Al Salsal and Umm Al Dholou. The project aims to produce about 45,000 barrels per day of oil and up to 27 million cubic feet per day of gas, 765,000sqm from the Belbazem block, while maintaining reservoir pressure support with water injection. The scope of work is likely to involve several wellhead platforms, subsea pipelines, subsea cables and other associated offshore facilities. In addition, electrical submersible pumps are to be installed across all production wells. Production is expected to be exported to the existing Sateh Al Razboot (SARB) processing plant through a network of subsea pipelines. A network of pipelines to carry the water for injection to Belbazem’s offshore platforms will also form

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part of the project. The project also includes fuel gas system, installation of power system, vapour recovery system, fuel gas sweetening unit, instrument and utility air, hot oil system, nitrogen system, closed drain and open drain system, cooling water, flare (HP & LP), utility water, portable water, fire water, electrical substation, switch gear room, battery room, telecom equipment room, LER and control room, new GTG package, electrical tie-ins 132 kilovolts, telecommunication facilities, WHT with four spitters, 60 total wells and associated facilities.

COMPLETION March 2025

SAUDI ARABIA INFRASTRUCTURE

Jubail 3A Independent Water Plant (IWP) BUDGET $1 billion CLIENT Saudi Water Partnership Company TERRITORY Jubail, Saudi Arabia DESCRIPTION The project’s scope of work involves the construction of an independent water plant with a capacity of 600,000 cubic metres of water per day located at Jubail, Saudi Arabia.

COMPLETION January 2023 COMMERCIAL & HOSPITALITY

Wadi Makkah BUDGET $1.1 billion CLIENT Wadi Makkah Company TERRITORY Mecca, Saudi Arabia DESCRIPTION The project’s scope of work consists of commercial buildings and hotel buildings located at Mecca, Saudi Arabia.

The project includes I and E park innovation and entrepreneurship park, MTV offices, business incubators, offices and labs, innovation cluster, sand T park science and technology park, other recreational and housing components: nine-storey hotel MEConstructionNews.com | April 2020

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TENDERS

buildings, five-storey serviced apartment buildings, convention centre and residential units.

COMPLETION November 2024 RESIDENTIAL

King Faisal Specialist Hospital Staff Accommodation Buildings BUDGET $805 million TERRITORY Jeddah, Saudi Arabia DESCRIPTION The project’s scope of work consists of staff accommodation buildings located at Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. The project also includes 15 residential towers, 13 support buildings, landscape works, car parking facilities and associated facilities.

COMPLETION October 2023

OMAN OIL & GAS

SEZAD Methanol to Olefins Plant BUDGET $2.8 billion CLIENT Duqm Special Economic Zone Authority (SEZAD) TERRITORY Duqm, Al Wusta, Oman DESCRIPTION The project’s scope of work involves the construction of a methanol plant located

at China-Oman Industrial Park (Sino Oman Industrial City), Duqm, Al Wusta, Oman.

The integrated methanol and methanol to olefins (MTO) plant will have a capacity of 10 million tonnes. The project will be built in phases, looking at a capacity of 1.8 million tonnes of gas-to-methanol and methanol-to-olefins in the first phase, 0.7 MTPA methanol to olefins plant, 0.3 MTPA polyethylene plant plant, 0.45 MTPA polypropylene plant.

COMPLETION January 2023

of leasehold land, with 833m of waterfront overlooking the Sea of Oman. The project features a man-made crystal lagoon.

COMPLETION January 2026

MIXED-USE

Al Nakheel Integrated Tourism Complex BUDGET $805 million CLIENT Nakheel PJSC TERRITORY Barka, Oman DESCRIPTION The project’s scope of work consists of a tourism complex located at Abu Nakheel coast, Al Rumais, Barka, Oman.

The project includes three (4and 5-star) international hotels, 259 villas, 55 townhouses, 266 apartments, serviced apartments, a 476-unit building, a lagoon promenade and a traditional mixed-use souk, a shopping mall, an aqua park and a school.

The project covers 500,000sqm

INFRASTRUCTURE

Dibba, Lima to Khasab Carriageway (Phase 2) BUDGET $1.1 billion CLIENT Oman Chamber of Commerce & Industry & Oman Ministry of Transport & Communications TERRITORY Dibba, Daba Al Bayah, Musandam, Oman DESCRIPTION The project’s scope of work involves the construction of a 65km carriageway at Dibba, Daba Al Bayah, Musandam, Oman. The project commences near Al Khalidiya, at kilometre 20+600. It closely follows the

eastern coastline of the peninsula, passing near the town of Lima at approximately kilometre 40, and ends at approximate kilometre 86 near the town of Daba. The project also includes infrastructure works, landscaping works, installation of street lighting, 18 bridges with a total length of 3.8km, 17 tunnels with a total length of 7.32km, transitional bridges, road separators, culverts, two flyovers and other associated facilities.

The operation and maintenance of the Daba-Lima-Khasab road includes the operational monitoring for road and tunnel, traffic monitoring and incidence response, routine monitoring and inspection of the works and the operation service plant and equipment during the operation and maintenance service period, repair of road accident damage, and tracking of accidents on the road, along with the analysis of that data to determine locations of high accident severity or incidence and to install relevant safety improvements.

COMPLETION December 2023

BAHRAIN OIL & GAS

Bahrain Non Associated Gas Compression Facilities BUDGET $360 million CLIENT Tatweer Petroleum TERRITORY Bahrain DESCRIPTION The project’s scope of work involves the construction of non-associated gas compression facilities (NCF), installation of a gas lift, gas injection unit located in Bahrain. As per the new gas management strategy and since most of the associated gas/residue gas will be used for gas lift, the burden on the Khuff reservoir is increased to compensate and make up. Nevertheless, the revised oil depletion

April 2020 | MEConstructionNews.com

TENDERS

strategy requires an increased gas injection at reservoirs to improve oil recovery. Hence, it was decided to install NCF as a long-term solution to meet the NAG demand for Maudded Gas Injection (MGI) and sales gas.

COMPLETION December 2022

CLIENT Bahrain Ministry of Housing TERRITORY Al Lawzi, Bahrain DESCRIPTION The project’s scope of work consist of 132 housing units located at Al Lawzi, Bahrain. The project also includes associated secondary infrastructure work.

COMPLETION March 2023

RESIDENTIAL

Al Madina Al Shamaliya Development Island 14 Villa Complex BUDGET $150 million CLIENT Bahrain Ministry of Housing TERRITORY Madinat Salman Island 14, Bahrain DESCRIPTION The project’s scope of work consists of 303 residential villas each comprising 2 floors, located at Madinat Salman Island 14, Bahrain. The project also includes children’s play area, landscaping works, clubhouse, installation of safety and security system, street lights and associated facilities.

COMPLETION March 2023 RESIDENTIAL

Al Lawzi Housing Development BUDGET $130 million

KUWAIT ENERGY

Dabdaba Photovoltaic Power Plant BUDGET $1.65 billion CLIENT Kuwait National Petroleum Company TERRITORY Kuwait City, Kuwait DESCRIPTION The project’s scope of work involves the construction of a 1,500mw photovoltaic solar plant located at Al Shegaya Renewable Energy Park, 100km west of Kuwait City. The solar project is part of the country’s plans to produce 15% of power from renewable energy by 2030.

The 32sqkm plant will save burning 5.2m barrels of oil a year and reduce carbon emissions by 1.3m tons annually. The project includes the design of PV plants; procurement of all components including wiring, PV modules,

inverters and control system, construction, performance testing, commissioning, operating and maintaining the plants for the period defined by KNPC, and training of staff for operating the plants upon completion of the operation and maintenance contract period. The project work also includes operations, maintenance, control room, administration, gatehouse buildings, five complete solar generating units, access roads, pipelines, other utilities for each SGU, installation of 400kV high voltage (HV) transmission substation, 400kV overhead transmission line from SGRE-Z to SWPS 2, internal 400kV HV evacuation lines from each SGUSS, HV SGU substations, PV modules, inverter stations including all MW components (transformers, MV switchgear,

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inverters, communications, control units, auxiliary services), racking systems, control, and communications systems units.

COMPLETION May 2031 INFRASTRUCTURE

Kuwait City Landside Works (Package 2) BUDGET $1.15 billion CLIENT Kuwait Ministry of Public Works TERRITORY Kuwait City, Kuwait DESCRIPTION The project’s scope of work involves the development of landside works for package 2 located in Kuwait City.

COMPLETION December 2023 RETAIL & RESIDENTIAL

Jaber Al Ahmed Township (J3) BUDGET $255 million CLIENT Public Authority for Housing Welfare (PAHW) TERRITORY Al Jahra, Kuwait DESCRIPTION The project’s scope of work consists of a residential and retail development in Al Jahra, Kuwait. The project includes a 112,957sqm residential space, a 104,314sqm mall, parking facilities, a garden area and a 217,300sqm development area.

COMPLETION May 2024

MEConstructionNews.com | April 2020

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PROGRESS REPORT

Final update

Concrete substructure completed for IMKAN’s seven-building Pixel Towers Developer says three towers launched to date, with plans to launch a fourth

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bu Dhabi developer IMKAN Properties has said that a new milestone has been reached with the completion of the concrete substructure for the seven Pixel Towers being built on Reem Island in the UAE capital.

With three towers launched to date, the completion of the concrete substructure April 2020 | MEConstructionNews.com

for the seven-storey buildings marks an important moment for the development in IMKAN’s Makers District, a mixed-use hub expected to attract creatives, entrepreneurs, innovators and people with a strong sense of individualism, the developer said.

The developer highlighted its commitment to placemaking and community engagement as the driving force behind the decision to build all seven Pixel Towers at once.

However, the towers will be handed over in staged phases, it added.

Rather than making the first set of homebuyers live in a building site, the developer said that it is instead dedicated to completing the community and its spaces in between to encourage vibrancy as soon as owners take

Individual attraction Pixel Towers is part of IMKAN’s Makers District, which aims to attract creatives, entrepreneurs, innovators and other individualistic people.

525

Total number of residential apartments in the project

possession of their new homes. It added that due to the company reaching key construction milestones at an unprecedented rate, it has witnessed an increase in sales and is therefore gearing up to launch a fourth tower.

Once complete, the Pixel development will be home to 525 contemporary apartments ranging from studios to three-bedroom options. Alongside the residential offering will be 94 boutique office units and 14 retail outlets, with the entire seven-tower community designed in partnership with award-winning Dutch architectural firm MVRDV. A central focal point of the development is its pedestrianised plaza, designed by Copenhagen architectural firm BIG.