Big Project ME December 2021 by CPI Trade Media

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THE BUSINESS OF CONSTRUCTION

“There is no time to waste”

MOSTAFA ALGUEZERI, MANAGING DIRECTOR OF HITACHI ENERGY, URGES COUNTRIES ACROSS THE MENA REGION TO MOVE AWAY FROM TRADITIONAL FOSSIL FUELS AND INTO A CLEAN ENERGY FUTURE

CONTENTS

December 2021

ANALYSIS

FEATURES

INSIGHT

The briefing

Comments

The big picture

Gavin Davids exclusively interviews Mostafa AlGuezeri of Hitachi Energy, about the global technology solutions provider’s role in the MENA region’s energy transition

Tenders

Husqvarna Construction reveals the future of machinery in construction and Polypipe discusses acoustic engineering

In profile Mostafa AlGuezeri

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

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

Big Project ME, in association with ProTenders, provides the biggest tenders for the month of December 2021

Market report

Big Project ME speaks to Kenneth McCrae of IREP, how vertical farming is helping improve the region’s agricultural self-sufficiency

40 Progress report

Analysis

JLL reviews the supply and performance of the UAE real estate sector in Q3 2021

Project profile Green Shoots of Growth

DMCC provides a progress update on the construction of Uptown Tower

Debabrata Chakraborty of Bentley Systems highlights how digitalisation is helping improve the industry’s decision making

MEConstructionNews.com | December 2021

WELCOME

Introduction

Looking forward with optimism

s we move into 2022, it’s astounding to think about the progress that has been made in just a year. While writing this month’s letter, I looked back at what I’d written for the December 2020 issue, and while I was keen to strike a positive tone, it was clear to see that there was a sense of uncertainty and wariness about what 2021 would hold for us. It’s fair to say that this year, the sentiments are markedly different as there is genuine optimism and promise in the air. The determination of the UAE to successfully rebound from the pandemic is testament to the spirt and vision of a country that has entered its 50th year as a nation. Expo 2020 Dubai maybe grabbing all the headlines, but when you look beyond it, as we have in this issue, it’s clear that change is on the way. Whether it’s increasing the pace of transition away from traditional fossil fuels, or the investment into developing self-sufficiency in agriculture, the UAE is showing the way forward for the region.

December 2021 | MEConstructionNews.com

As many of you are no doubt aware, 2022 will also bring the return of the Big Project ME Awards. This year, we’ll be holding the event at Raffles Dubai Wafi – the first time that we’re bringing the awards to the heart of Dubai. Held on January 24, 2022, the event is aiming to kick the construction industry’s year off with a bang. With more than 120 nominations registered at the time of writing, there certainly seems to be a lot of interest from the industry – perhaps reflective of the optimism I mentioned at the start of this letter? There’s still time to nominate, so I would encourage everyone to do so – there are 25 categories this year, so there’s plenty of opportunities to win. I would also recommend keeping an eye out for our Judges Videos on our social media, where we’ve asked the judges from 2020 to share their thoughts on what makes a successful nomination. It’s invaluable advice, particularly for first-time nominees. Just a reminder - all nominations have to come via www.bigprojectmeawards.com All the best!

Gavin Davids

HEAD OF EDITORIAL & CONTENT gavin.davids@cpitrademedia.com @MECN_Gavin MEConstructionNews me-construction-news

“Big Project Award is very special to us considering the level of competition, type of projects considered and the geographies covered.”

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VP AND HEAD OF INTERNATIONAL OPERATIONS BUSINESS GROUP VOLTAS LIMITED

24 January 2022 Raffles / Dubai / UAE

Contact Us Table Booking & Sponsorship Jude Slann | +971 4 375 5714 jude.slann@cpitrademedia.com Award Nomination Enquiries Gavin Davids | +971 4 375 5480 gavin.davids@cpitrademedia.com

NOMINATIONS OPEN NOW! Deadline: 12th Dec 2021

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THE BUSINESS OF CONSTRUCTION

“There is no time to waste”

MOSTAFA ALGUEZERI, MANAGING DIRECTOR OF HITACHI ENERGY, URGES COUNTRIES ACROSS THE MENA REGION TO MOVE AWAY FROM TRADITIONAL FOSSIL FUELS AND INTO A CLEAN ENERGY FUTURE ON THE COVER

Big Project ME speaks exclusively to Hitachi Energy’s Mostafa AlGuezeri about how the global technology solutions provider is powering the MENA region’s energy transition MEConstructionNews.com @meconstructionn MEConstructionNews me-construction-news

Group MANAGING DIRECTOR Raz Islam raz.islam@cpitrademedia.com MANAGING PARTNER Vijaya Cherian vijaya.cherian@cpitrademedia.com DIRECTOR OF FINANCE & BUSINESS OPERATIONS Shiyas Kareem shiyas.kareem@cpitrademedia.com PUBLISHING DIRECTOR Andy Pitois andy.pitois@cpitrademedia.com

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KEO appoints Sameer Daoud as executive director of infrastructure

CONSULTANT

SEHA announces sustainability retrofit project across healthcare facilities in Abu Dhabi

FEATURE: A digital future on the horizon?

CONSTRUCTION

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CONSTRUCTION

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INSIGHT: Taking the lead in digital eco-tourism

BIM (Building Information Modelling) has come a long way in a short time in the market but I think it is telling that experts during the event feel the emphasis remains on upskilling the workforce and stakeholders on projects. However, you can’t ignore some of the advances that are being made from a technological standpoint. On a personal note, I am very optimistic that we will see further integration of technology such as virtual reality once we understand the value they can bring to a project. Having said that, while the application of blockchain was understandably discussed in great detail, it is still not clear how practical it can be when you switch to the real-life situation which is construction on site. It also seems to me to be a technological approach which may struggle to find traction here when you consider the depth in connectivity and trust in cybersecurity which is required. Given the scale of our projects, it could be useful tool but it will need to prove its worth before it finds widespread adoption in construction. Name withheld by request

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THE BRIEFING

Machinery

Shaping the Future MIDDLE EAST

Innovations in machinery are changing the way construction is done and the industry is projected to see a surge in demand for environment-friendly and economically sustainable equipment, says Jeff Bennett, GM, Middle East & Africa, at Husqvarna Construction

he world is evolving faster than ever before. Today, 55% of the global population live in urban areas and this figure is projected to reach 68% by 2050, giving rise to the need for affordable housing as well as social, transportation and utility infrastructure. According to the global forecast for the construction industry, over 60% of global construction activity will be undertaken in emerging markets by 2025, up from 35%. The volume of construction output will grow by more than 70% to $15 trillion worldwide by 2025, with an expansion rate of 3.6% every year between 2018 and 2022. Additionally, by 2050, experts suggest that there will be two billion additional city dwellers and hence sustainable urbanisation will pose a major construction challenge and the industry must strive to find innovative new products and solutions, to contribute to building better cities. The construction industry plays a significant role in the Middle East region’s

December 2021 | MEConstructionNews.com

economic development. In 2018, $101.8bn worth of projects were awarded across the GCC, which went up to $102.3bn in 2019. Pre-Covid, an upside was anticipated on growth prospects, primarily driven by significant investment in infrastructure and major capital projects across key sectors, such as hospitality, entertainment, education, and healthcare. The muted growth of the sector is reflective of the economic impact of the pandemiclinked lockdowns. The construction equipment industry, which depends highly on GDP growth and economic activity, faced the same headwinds as other industrials during the pandemic. The global construction equipment market size is projected to reach $205bn by 2025, from an estimated value of $169.3bn in 2020, growing at 3.9% CAGR. The increasing number of infrastructure projects and mega construction projects are anticipated to further fuel the demand for construction equipment during the forecast period.

Sustainable solutions Battery operation machinery can be a viable, economically sustainable, and environmentallyfriendly solution for the industry.

70%

The volume of construction output will grow by more than 70% to $15 trillion worldwide by 2025

THE BRIEFING

Advancements in construction machinery are mainly focused on equipment that will help drive change in the industry with more environmentally friendly and efficient ways of working. Operator-centric solutions focused on improving the health and safety of construction professionals will be a norm at future construction sites. Battery powered construction products are examples of such advancement, causing less damage to the environment and driving up efficiency. Secondly, dust and slurry management solutions, as well as remote controlled machinery that keeps the operator safe and healthy, are revolutionising the construction industry and offering countless benefits to companies and their customers around the world. As the pandemic begins to abate, businesses are looking at robust technology models that will help with planning and implementing construction activities keeping the health and safety of their employees as the top priority. Hence, construction equipment is facing a very different landscape, when exploring the next normal for the industry. Commercial, residential and infrastructure construction projects depend heavily on equipment such as cutters, dozers, excavators and wheeled loaders. To date, these machines have almost exclusively been diesel-powered, with some that can plug into the mains, with the hazard of a trailing cable. Also, cutting, drilling, grinding and demolishing concrete, brick and other hard construction materials creates dust and slurry. Construction dust can cause serious damage to health and some types can eventually even lead to death. Regularly inhaling dust over a long period can cause life-threatening lung diseases. Moreover, dust also has a significant impact on tools, substantially reducing their operational life span. But with the advent of new technology, more and more companies will rely on battery-powered and ecofriendly equipment on construction sites, taking advantage of rapid improvements in the lightweight and powerful lithiumion battery technology. These batterypowered machines are no less powerful or productive in comparison to traditional diesel models and since the usage of these

machines is free from direct emissions and smoke, companies can gain a competitive advantage and demonstrate sustainable construction methods. For the dust particles hovering in the air at construction sites, it is important to always use work methods for safe and efficient dust control that catch dust at the source and prevent it from becoming airborne. The industry is moving towards using high-quality professional dust control equipment and personal protective equipment that can catch even the smallest silica particles. These compact, lightweight machines are equipped with one, two or three powerful, single-phase electric motors with separate

Competitive advantage Companies can gain a competitive advantage by using batterypowered machinery.

Economically viable Research shows that battery operated construction machinery can be economically viable for the industry, says Jeff Bennett.

cooling, capable of running continuously all workday. This makes them suitable for all construction and restoration jobs, as well as for use with electric power tools. For instance, the Husqvarna A-line includes the most advanced and versatile portable air cleaners that extend from the tool itself through to the vacuum removal. This improves workplace safety, regardless of whether it is concrete dust, fine sanding dust or gypsum dust, while aiding in legal compliance. Research shows that battery operated machinery can be economically viable for the construction industry. The benefits are endless. Not only do they provide better manoeuvrability, flexibility and safety, the benefits of battery-powered construction equipment also provide businesses with smart tools that are efficient, accurate and speedy for all employees. According to ‘The Future Home Report’ by Eurocell’s, 49% of consumers responded that they would be more likely to buy or rent an ecoconscious home, putting the pressure on construction companies to emit less, pollute less and build the world we want to live in, in a sustainable manner. The innovations in this industry clearly represent advancement. In the near future, the industry will witness a surge in demand for battery-powered machinery, which will expand their share in the market as both environmentally friendly and economically sustainable solutions for construction equipment.

MEConstructionNews.com | December 2021

THE BRIEFING

The Design and Science of Acoustic Engineering MIDDLE EAST

Acoustically engineered drainage plays a key role in creating safe and healthy indoor environments, says Adam Smith, managing director of Polypipe Middle East

December 2021 | MEConstructionNews.com

here is no doubt that the design and construction of our buildings is deeply linked to health, wellbeing and quality of life. Improving human health and happiness is strongly influenced by the environments in which we spend our time. That’s why building design today focuses on optimising crucial factors that directly affect our health, such as indoor air quality, ventilation, lighting, and material selection. These factors, along with others, play a vital role in creating indoor environments that favour modern human life. Over the years, the construction industry has become focused on designing to improve physical health. For example, we see a rise in the use of high-performing drainage systems that reduce the risk of leaks and consequently the spread of disease. However, we notice a shift towards also designing to support mental health and wellbeing. One factor, often

overlooked, that is actually crucial to both physical and mental wellbeing in buildings is acoustic comfort. To truly support health and wellbeing in the long-term, we believe it is necessary that building designs account for acoustic comfort. Sound travels in waves that manifests as vibrations. Acoustic comfort is the perceived state of satisfaction with the acoustical conditions of an environment. It is affected by two main types of noise in a building: structure-borne noise that is created by physical vibration against a building element or air-borne noise that is transmitted through air. By selecting systems that focus on noise reduction, we can ensure the creation of environments optimal for productivity, happiness and comfort. The process of designing a building with consideration to noise levels is known as acoustic engineering. The primary goal of acoustic engineering

THE BRIEFING

is to reduce unwanted noise and it often involves implementing certain technologies or systems that act as noise barriers, sound absorbers or suppressors. Studies have demonstrated that excess noise exposure can be harmful to the health, leading to headaches, fatigues, tinnitus or even hearing loss. Not to mention, the mental effects of disturbing noises, which can lead to anxiety, loss of productivity and general discomfort. What’s interesting is that with time buildings in general have become quieter due to improvements in insulation products and practices. However, this means the noise from building systems is more noticeable. To combat the noise from these structures, we must begin to integrate systems that are inherently designed to be quieter. The acoustic environment in each building – good or bad – is a result of the design. For optimal occupant comfort and building functionality, noise and vibration challenges should be considered as early as possible in the design and build process. There are many systems that contribute to noise levels in a building, notably drainage systems. Ideally, drainage systems should go unnoticed, free from leaks, odours or disturbing noises. Poor quality systems often aren’t built to last and over time they deteriorate. This breakdown not only effects system performance, but also causes the system to become increasingly disturbing. In response, the construction industry is increasingly delivering noise reducing above ground drainage systems, designed to significantly reduce air-borne or structure-borne noise emitted from the drainage systems. In my experience with Polypipe Middle East, adopting high-performing systems is vital to creating a safe and desirable indoor environment – this is important not just for homes, but also for commercial buildings, healthcare facilities, office buildings or retail spaces. For many of these projects, it’s not just human health that’s on the line, it’s also reputation. After all, nobody wants to host a client meeting or an event in a space to the soundtrack of a flushing toilet. To meet the rising demand for acoustically comfortable spaces, we recently launched Terrain Q, from our

A quiet place To combat the noise from structures, designers and builders must begin to integrate systems that are inherently designed to be quieter, says Adam Smith.

97˚C

Terrain Q’s inner layer can withstand extreme temperatures up to 97˚C

signature drainage brand, Terrain. Terrain Q is a sophisticated above ground drainage system that has been engineered to prevent the passage of sound emitted from drainage systems with a 20dB rating for structure borne. So, what makes Terrain Q different from standard drainage? The use of multilayer technology retains the sound of water within the pipes. It also acts as a sound absorbent against shocks and vibrations. The pipework’s blue external layer is made from PP+UV+RF, providing resistance to attack from UV radiation, fire and impact damage. The black intermediate layer comprises a mineral-reinforced plastic which enables high stability, noise insulation and fire resistance, and the final white internal layer is made of PP+AF, providing high chemical and abrasion resistance and resistance to high temperature waste (up to 97 degrees). Due to an anti-fouling additive, the bore is kept

clear and resistant to deposit build up which helps to reduce noise levels. In addition, the fittings have been made with the installer in mind, including features such as angle markers and insertion aids to help keep installation quick and simple, making sure it keeps its great noise reducing properties. This triple aspect of fire resistance, noise reducing, and anti-fouling resistance sets Terrain Q apart in the market, providing specifiers with a system that keeps bases covered. As health and wellbeing become increasingly integral in the construction industry, the role of acoustic comfort cannot be ignored. Health and wellbeing are now pivotal factors influencing consumers’ and corporations’ decision-making process. Along with air, water, light, temperature, and material selection, optimising the acoustic environment of a building also helps to increase LEED rating, supporting the creation of greener buildings and more sustainable cities. When we design and construct buildings, of any kind, the role of drainage must be considered to create spaces that are truly engineered for optimal acoustic performance. In today’s built environment, fire safety and the environment in which we live, work and play in are of utmost importance. Polypipe Middle East is delighted to launch such a system that fulfils significant needs within our construction industry.

MEConstructionNews.com | December 2021

THE BIG PICTURE

01 CANADA

03 UNITED STATES

Ritchie Bros introduces online tool for asset valuation

Snorkel launches global telematics solution Snorkel OnSite

A new online tool from global plant and machinery auction leader Ritchie Bros is helping equipment owners and managers make more informed decisions on buying and selling their assets. The tool, called Asset Valuator in its current beta version, has a database of millions of items previously sold through Ritchie Bros., which it utilises to help users make a price estimation of their machinery. The free online tool pulls historical data from various sources and the algorithm calculates average prices and estimates the value of a prospective seller’s equipment.

02 UNITED STATES

Bentley Systems announces global expansion of Bentley Education programme

Bentley Systems has announced the global expansion of its Bentley Education programme. The programme offers seamless access to learning licenses of over 60 popular Bentley applications, at no cost, to all eligible students and educators, via the Bentley Education portal. Following the May 3, 2021 launch in the pilot countries of Australia, the UK, Singapore, Lithuania, and Ireland, the programme saw tremendous response, with more than 500,000 students and educators visiting the portal.

Snorkel has announced the launch of its new telematics offering, Snorkel OnSite, a full-service telematics suite available globally on most current Snorkel mobile elevating work platforms (MEWP) and telehandlers. The solution, which is powered by Trackunit, can be optioned at the time of ordering for factory-install, or for field-installation by an authorised Snorkel dealer or service centre. Snorkel added that many of its models are now telematics-ready, featuring a compatible connection for the telematics module.

04 UNITED STATES

06 IRAQ

Hilti acquires Fieldwire for $300m

Mheila Reverse Osmosis WTP completed in Iraq’s Basra region

The Hilti Group has announced that it has an agreement to acquire Fieldwire, a San Francisco-based construction technology company, for approximately $300 million. Hilti said the strategic acquisition will bring together Fieldwire’s best-in-class product and Hilti’s global brand and market reach to help drive productivity at contractors and construction sites. The San Francisco-based company presently supports thousands of clients by offering a software solution that has a wide range of features and is also device-agnostic. It is used by general and specialty contractors alike.

December 2021 | MEConstructionNews.com

05 UNITED KINGDOM

JCB announces investment into hydrogen engines JCB is targeting the end of 2022 to make its first hydrogen powered machines available for sale and is investing $137.8m to produce the super-efficient engines. According to JCB, a team of 100 engineers is already working on the “exciting development” with the recruitment of up to 50 more engineers under way as the company targets for the first machines to be available to customers before the end of next year. The machines showcased were a prototype hydrogen powered JCB backhoe loader and a Loadall telescopic handler.

A new large-scale reverse osmosis water treatment plant (WTP) has been completed on the banks of Basra’s Shatt al-Arab river, with a capacity of 72,000m3/day. The Mheila Reverse Osmosis Plant is the first of its kind in the region as it’s reverse osmosis system enables flexible operation under different scenarios of salinity, varying from 2,000 to 30,000 mg/l. This is necessary to address the changing nature of the Shatt al-Arab river, which has been impacted by major variations in salinity level due to a variety of reasons.

THE BIG PICTURE

03 04 06 08 09 07

08 UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

07 SAUDI ARABIA

SFD announces completion of $31m Gambian airport development project The Saudi Fund for Development (SFD) has announced the successful completion of the Banjul International Airport Rehabilitation and Development Project in the West African nation of Gambia. In a statement, SFD said that it had supplied a loan worth $31 million to fund the project, which will increase the airport’s operational capacity by 43%, enhancing trade and supporting economic growth. In addition, it said that it has provided a further $10.5 million to build a VVIP private lounge.

Sameer Daoud appointed as executive director for Infrastructure at KEO KEO International Consultants has appointed Sameer Daoud as executive director of its Infrastructure Division. He is responsible for overseeing the Infrastructure Engineering practice. Prior to joining KEO, he was CEO of regional contracting firm MECIC. He also held the position of group chief development officer and MD of Drake & Scull and served as a senior infrastructure leader in WS Atkins and WSP Middle East. Daoud has also held senior roles at Hyder Consulting and Arcadis.

09 UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

DEWA issues tender for cable car system in Hatta An engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) tender for a cable car system and luxury hotels at the Dubai Summit Complex (DSC) in Hatta has been issued by the Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA). These attractions are part of the Dubai Mountain Peak project, which will contribute to the overall development in the Hatta region. The 5.4km cable car system will transport tourists to Um Al Nesoor, the emirate’s highest natural summit standing tall at 1,300m above sea level.

MEConstructionNews.com | December 2021

THE BIG PICTURE

18 12 13

10 11

10 SAUDI ARABIA

12 UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

KSA’s Soudah Development first in GCC to join Mountain Partnership

Egis awarded RAK International Airport expansion contract

Soudah Development, the Saudi developer, has announced that it has signed up as a member of the Mountain Partnership, an alliance dedicated to protecting mountain environments around the world. In a statement, the Saudi group said that it joins more than 400 global members comprising of governments, intergovernmental organisations, companies and civil society groups, in a commitment to improving the lives of local communities, preserving mountain ecosystems, and rich biodiversity.

December 2021 | MEConstructionNews.com

11 SAUDI ARABIA

SHC awards $1.76bn main contract for The Avenues – Riyadh Mall Shomoul Holding Company (SHC) has awarded a main contract worth $1.76bn to Nesma & Partners for the development of The Avenues – Riyadh Mall. The project is spread over an area of 390,000sqm and is taking shape on King Salman Road and the King Fahad Causeway. The project will contribute to strengthening the service and retail sectors in the Kingdom, as well as creating thousands of jobs. The deal is being facilitated through Shomoul Commercial Company, a Saudi company that is 60% owned by Mabanee, SHC’s parent company.

Egis, the international group in the construction, engineering and mobility services sector, has announced that it has been awarded the expansion contract for the Ras Al Khaimah International Airport. Egis said that is responsibility on the project is two-fold, with the initial design of the expanded terminal, as well the concept design study for a new terminal which is expected to accommodate approximately two million passengers in the next 10 years. The expansion plan comes after a surge in passenger traffic at the airport.

THE BIG PICTURE

14 UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

13 UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

RTA opens new fourlane bridge in Dubai A new bridge connecting the Al Manama and Al Meydan streets crossing over the Dubai-Al Ain Road is now open, Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has announced. The RTA said it has removed the previous roundabout and adjusted the sloping ends of the existing bridges on Al Meydan Street. According to a statement from the RTA, the bridge extends 328m and consists of four lanes in each direction. The sloping ends of the bridge span 400m and the capacity of the bridge is 16,000 vehicles per hour on both directions.

Azizi Developments launches new residential community in DSC

Azizi Developments has announced Beach Oasis, a new residential community that will take shape in Dubai Studio City. The development is to feature 476 studios, 200 one- and 36 two-bedroom apartments, as well as several retail units. Beach Oasis will be developed for young adults and will feature several amenities including a beach-like swimming pool, fully equipped gymnasiums, landscaped gardens, children’s play areas and a central courtyard featuring retail options for the convenience of residents.

15 OMAN

Work commences on Al Hafa Waterfront project in Salalah, Oman Muscat National Development & Investment Company (ASAAS) has announced the commencement of construction works to develop Al Hafa waterfront in the Al Hafa area of Salalah in the Governorate of Dhofar. The total area of the waterfront will be more than 60,000sqm. ASAAS has assigned the main contractor to construct the traditional heritage souq, with the developer pointing out that it aims to make the Al Hafa area one of the country’s leading tourist attractions.

17 INDIA

Indian Minister says country needs $700bn on urban infrastructure 16 OMAN

OMRAN unveils new 11m sqm tourism development The Oman Tourism Development Company (Omran Group) has unveiled the masterplan and brand identity of ‘Yiti’, which is billed as one of the largest integrated tourism developments in Oman. Omran’s vision to transform the tourism and real estate sector in the sultanate is said to be in accordance with Oman Vision 2040. The new master-planned development sets a new model for urbanisation, as it connects and extends the city of Muscat, enriching its offerings and possibilities, through a multi-phased expansion approach, Omran stated.

Kunal Kumar, Joint Secretary and Mission Director (Smart Cities Mission), Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs, Government of India, has said that India needs around $700 billion of investment from 2021 to 2031 to boost its urban infrastructure as it copes with rapid urbanisation across the country. He added that a rapidly urbanising India presents exciting investment opportunities for the private sector as its cities look to address several challenges, including water, sanitation and urban transport. India is spending $28 billion on its Smart Cities Mission programme.

18 JAPAN

UD Trucks launches Euro 5 Quester and Croner models in Middle East Japanese manufacturer UD Trucks says its newly launched Euro 5 versions of its popular Quester and Croner trucks “feature significant upgrades to minimise their environmental impact, improve efficiency and uptime, increase profitability, and optimise the Total Cost of Ownership (TCO), all without compromising the benefits offered by the previous models.” Available in the region for the first time, the new Euro 5 truck come ahead of the introduction of new regulations in fast-growing regional countries.

MEConstructionNews.com | December 2021

MARKET REPORT

Industry outlook

UAE Hospitality Market Overview, Q3, 2021

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

JLL reviews the supply and performance of the UAE real estate market during Q3, 2021

n the third quarter, no new major hotel projects were completed in Dubai or Abu Dhabi – keeping the cities’ stocks steady at around 137,000 and 32,000 keys. In Q4 2021, approximately 10,000 keys are expected to be delivered in Dubai and 800 keys in the capital. Occupancy in Dubai reached 58% in the YT August 2021, up notably when compared with an outturn of 38% in the corresponding period last year. The city’s average daily rates (ADR) were down by 1% year-on-year to USD 130 in the YT August 2021. Meanwhile occupancy rates in Abu Dhabi rose to 63% over the same period, compared to 60% for YT August 2020. However, ADRs remained

December 2021 | MEConstructionNews.com

under pressure in the capital, declining by 5% year-on-year to USD 86 in the YT August 2021. The UAE hotel market is continuing its gradual recovery from the pandemic, with the luxury market taking advantage of strong leisure demand owing to the country being one of the few international destinations open for tourism. Luxury offerings and ease of travel restrictions have helped capture demand from European source markets. In contrast, the mid-scale and budget segments remain under pressure, awaiting the return of business travel as well as the reopening of key Asian source markets. Expo 2020 aims to attract visitors to Dubai over the next two quarters. Recently completed hotel projects should be well placed to benefit. RETAIL In Dubai, the completion of the first phase of a new retail development added approximately 40,000 sqm of GLA in Q3 2021 – bringing the total stock to 4.4 million sq. m. Over the remainder of this year, an additional 75,000 sqm of retail space is expected to be delivered.

Around 6,100 sq. m. of retail GLA was completed in the third quarter of this year in Abu Dhabi, bringing the total stock to 2.9 million sq. m. In the final quarter of 2021, about 11,000 sq. m. is scheduled to be delivered. Year-on-year, rents across primary and secondary malls declined by an average of 1% in Dubai and 7% in Abu Dhabi, respectively. Overall, community malls have been performing well as their footfall is largely driven by the population living in close proximity. In addition, some retailers – particularly those in the F&B and convenience segments – were able to better weather the impact of the pandemic. We expect the market to continue to be tenant-led over the remainder part of this year, with landlords offering more incentives and flexibility during negotiations. The gradual return of tourists is expected to provide much relief for landlords and retailers alike. The change in rules in September to allow the free flow of traffic between the emirates of Dubai and Abu Dhabi is also likely to help support the UAE’s retail sector.

MARKET REPORT

DUBAI HOTEL SUPPLY 2021

137,000 Total Keys

DUBAI HOTEL OCCUPANCY RATE

10,000 Q4 2021 Deliveries

58%

38%

YT August 2021

YT August 2020

DUBAI HOTEL AVERAGE DAILY RATE 2020-2021, US DOLLARS 2021 ADR

US$130 2020 ADR

DUBAI RETAIL SUPPLY 2021

75,000 Q4 2021 Deliveries (sq m GLA)

Total Keys

150

ABU DHABI RETAIL SUPPLY 2021

-1% Y-o-Y Rental Rates

-7%

11,000

Y-o-Y Rental Rates

Q4 2021 Deliveries (sq m GLA)

ABU DHABI HOTEL SUPPLY 2021

32,000

120

US$132

ABU DHABI OCCUPANCY RATE

800

Q4 2021 Deliveries

63%

60%

YT August 2021

YT August 2020

ABU DHABI HOTEL AVERAGE DAILY RATE 2020-2021, US DOLLARS

US$86 2020 ADR

100

US$90 20

Source: JLL, STR Global

2021 ADR

MEConstructionNews.com | December 2021

ANALYSIS

Digital twins

Digital Twins: The Foundation of Improved Decision-making MIDDLE EAST

Debabrata Chakraborty, regional director, MENA and Turkey, Bentley Systems, highlights how digitalisation is improving the way the industry is operating and thinking

ndustries, communities, and organisations are increasingly dependent on data. As buildings and cities become smarter and provide us with growing

amounts of information, the software used to design, manage, and maintain them needs to be smarter as well. Engineering, architecture, and construction industries are changing as they embrace digitalisation and data-driven decision-making. Since industry professionals need to access the most accurate and reliable information possible, they are increasingly utilising digital twins, as they are essential for decision-making and can enhance efficiencies in design, planning, and implementation. WHAT ARE DIGITAL TWINS AND HOW DO THEY WORK? A digital twin is a virtual replica of a physical asset. It creates a real-time representation of the project using data from multiple sources including historic data, on-site sensors, and predictive modelling tools, providing asset managers with a deeper understanding of the asset’s performance and use. A digital twin can take the form of a building, an

December 2021 | MEConstructionNews.com

infrastructure asset such as a railway or bridge, or complex connected assets such as an office park or a city. In public infrastructure such as road networks, project managers traditionally rely on visual inspections to determine when to schedule maintenance. Digital twins enable virtual inspections, which help managers calculate the best time for seamless and more efficient maintenance while reducing the costs for unscheduled site visits and preventing potential traffic disruptions. Digital twins also make decisionmaking more inclusive. Asset information is centralised in the twin and can be easily accessed by all, which facilitates effective collaboration between stakeholders. With multiple data streams and technologies incorporated in a shared platform, a digital twin enables a seamless exchange of information that is needed for coordination. Digital twins also complement building information modelling (BIM) methodologies by taking collaborative

Inclusive decisionmaking Digital twins makes decision-making more inclusive as information can be easily accessed by all.

Ease of transition Asset managers familiar with BIM solutions will find it easy to transition to digital twins.

125

Number of days K&A had to develop a digital model for an Omani project

ANALYSIS

data models to the next level and enabling data-driven solutions. Since both methodologies enable digital workflows, asset managers that are already implementing BIM solutions will find it easy to transition to digital twins, which could accelerate the adoption of digital twins in infrastructure and construction sectors. Across the Gulf Cooperation Council and Egypt, BIM is now considered the most widely adopted construction methodology, second to cloud computing. With the ease of transitioning between BIM and digital twins, the region will see more digital twins incorporated with BIM solutions in the future. PUTTING DIGITAL TWINS INTO PRACTICE A project by Khatib & Alami, a multidiscipline urban and regional planning, architectural, and engineering consulting organisation, is a good example of how Middle East organisations can develop and benefit from digital twins. They were contracted to develop a 280-square kilometre region-scale digital model in and around Muscat, Oman within 125 days. The firm needed the model to be accurate within 4-6 centimetres, though they were faced with topography and time constraints. Out of the 125 days set to complete the project, they only had 14 days for flying the drone, securing clearances, and complying with government policies. Khatib & Alami realised that the project required accurate and flexible technology capable of developing a digital twin with detailed parallel processing. The firm selected ContextCapture and LumenRT, which enabled them to create a 3D reality mesh that captured and processed 330,000 images in 90 days, 35 days ahead of schedule despite the large area required for the model. The digital twin establishes a digital context to maintain and leverage data for future decision-making on urban development, security measures, and natural resource management in desert areas. Simulating potential environmental risks in the digital twin helped Oman’s government develop a more reliable risk management and mitigation plan.

The Middle East is home to some of the world’s most iconic buildings, as well as a robust infrastructure and construction industry. New technologies drive the region’s development and provide opportunities to make processes more efficient while reducing costs. These benefits further accelerate the adoption of digital innovations and solutions in various construction projects. DIGITAL TWINS AND THE FUTURE Machines and processes have become complex, which has made society more dependent on technology. As a result, experimenting with various

Best practices As digitalisation continues to transform the industry, digital twins will help new best practices emerge, says Debabrata Chakraborty.

Number of days K&A completed the Omani project in

disruptive approaches and software can cause excessive costs and risk. Artificial intelligence and machine learning, which can augment existing technology, are being incorporated into digital twins making them smarter and more autonomous. As a result, digital twins are reshaping the foundations of infrastructure and construction by combining data from human experts with machine intelligence to create more resilient and sustainable designs. With predictive mechanisms, digital twins can enable firms to anticipate risks and mitigate potential issues before they occur, hence, providing safer infrastructure and construction. Since digital twins with predictive mechanisms automate processes, procedures, and collaborations, asset managers are able to enable faster and accurate decision-making, as well as improved long-term maintenance to benefit the public, asset managers, and infrastructure investors alike. As digitalisation continues to transform the industry, digital twins will continue to be refined and new best practices will emerge that will help designers, asset managers, and professionals create safer, more efficient, and more reliable infrastructure. Those who optimise the potential of harnessing data today will have a competitive advantage in building a better world in the future.

MEConstructionNews.com | December 2021

| MEConstructionNews.com | MEConstructionNews.com October 2021 December 2021

IN PROFILE

Hitachi Energy

Energising the Transition BIG PROJECT ME SPEAKS TO MOSTAFA ALGUEZERI, MANAGING DIRECTOR OF HITACHI ENERGY IN THE UNITED ARAB EMIRATES AND ITS OVERSIGHT COUNTRIES (INCLUDING UAE, OMAN, BAHRAIN, QATAR, KUWAIT, JORDAN, IRAQ AND PAKISTAN), ABOUT HOW THE GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS PROVIDER IS HELPING COUNTRIES ACROSS THE MENA REGION TO MOVE AWAY FROM TRADITIONAL FOSSIL FUELS AND INTO A CLEAN ENERGY FUTURE

MEConstructionNews.com | December 2021

IN PROFILE

n October 2021, Hitachi ABB Power Grids, the global technology solutions provider, announced it became Hitachi Energy, reflecting its transition into the Hitachi Group, and the rapidly shifting energy landscape and the opportunities available to create economic, environmental, and social value. The company explains that being part of Hitachi will enable it to effectively position its technologies and services to existing and future customers around the globe, opening a vast range of opportunities in areas such as sustainable mobility and smart life. Having formally registered itself as Hitachi Energy Ltd on June 30, 2021, the business is currently undertaking the formal processes for the name change globally. Hitachi Ltd has an 80.1% stake in the joint venture, which started operations on July 1, 2020, and ABB Ltd, holds the remainder. By transitioning to

Power leader Hitachi Energy’s portfolio and scope of business puts it at the forefront of the region’s energy transition, says Mostafa AlGuezeri.

38,000 Total number of Hitachi Energy employees

a new identity, it hopes to broaden its commitment towards advancing a sustainable energy future for all. By 2050, demand for global electrification will be nearly double what it is today, a report entitled IEA Net Zero 2050 predicts, adding that electricity will be the backbone of the entire energy system. This carbon-neutral energy system will be highly interconnected, with HDVC, a technology pioneered by Hitachi Energy almost 60 years ago, set to be a key enabler for bulk renewable energy resources integration and reliable interconnection across countries and continents.

Progress on the development of interconnected energy systems is already underway, with the company contributing to several of these projects, such as the recently announced Saudi Arabia – Egypt HDVC interconnector agreement, the first ever large-scale interconnector in the Middle East and North Africa. Another project it is involved in is the North Sea Link, which is the world’s longest subsea interconnector at 720 kilometres, linking Norway and the UK and enabling the exchange of renewable energy between the two countries. Furthermore, Hitachi Energy is also supporting customers with grid edge solutions such as microgrids and energy storage, helping communities reduce their reliance on fossil fuels and gain energy independence. “With the portfolio that we have, we consider ourselves as one of the leaders of the power sector. With this portfolio, and the scope of business that we have, we’re at the forefront in terms of putting all our support, technology and research and development together, to support the energy transition, which is required at this moment,” says Mostafa AlGuezeri, Managing Director of Hitachi Energy, during an exclusive interview with Big Project ME. “We continue to serve customers leveraging our global footprint, in industry, including power utilities, and our products, services and

If you look at where we’ve reached in the UAE, with all the development and technology, the emphasis on renewables and digitalisation, and what they’ve achieved here – they’re taking the next step” December 2021 | MEConstructionNews.com

IN PROFILE

solutions with a more sustainable, flexible and secure energy system. Then, at the end, with our digital solutions we can help all our customers worldwide, who are mainly governments, with reaching their targets towards carbon neutrality.” With more than 38,000 employees around the world, access to 90 countries, and an installed base in 140 countries, the company is undoubtably a global player, for AlGuezeri, his focus is on the UAE, wider GCC, as well as Pakistan. He believes that the MENA region is set to play a crucial role in the global energy transition to renewables, citing the Saudi Arabia and Egypt interconnection agreement, the megaprojects in Saudi Arabia, and the UAE’s own massive solar plant projects, as being key enablers for the region’s evolution. “If you look at where we’ve reached in the UAE, with all the development and technology, the emphasis on renewables and digitalisation, and what

they’ve achieved here – they’re going ahead in all these sectors and taking the next step. When you look at other countries in the GCC – take Saudi Arabia for example, the NEOM project is a huge one that we’re looking at, then we’re now going into interconnection

Worldwide presence Hitachi Energy’s digital solutions allow them to help customers worldwide.

between two continents with the Egypt – Saudi Arabia interconnection agreement. This is something unique that is starting in the Middle East. It’s a first for the region, and hopefully many more will follow. “Other countries are now realising that they were late into this development and are now starting to look into renewables, examining how they can increase interconnectivity with other countries. When you look at Smart Cities, we have the technology to increase coverage and support, as well as give more flexibility and resilience to the energy system. This is also something that many countries are looking at,” AlGuezeri says. “Middle East and African markets are very important as they continue to develop. We are committed to support this, helping in energy transition with demand for electricity rising, as it becomes the backbone of the energy system.” He adds that this transition needs to happen imminently, as there is little

MEConstructionNews.com | December 2021

IN PROFILE

time to waste, meeting the needs of a growing population while combating climate change is one of the most urgent challenges of our time. “We are late, in my opinion. There is no time to waste. Climate change is caused by us humans, with the fast pace evolution of mankind, we need to act now to address this. I’m very pleased to read the targets and statements from COP26, where countries have announced their targets to reduce carbon emissions, but it’s a question of whether they can adapt and adopt the right policies and guidelines in place that enable technology and facilitate new business models to deploy at scale and with speed. We all need to collaborate as climate change is a global challenge that needs a global solution.” In the MENA region, where traditionally power generation has been linked to fossil fuels, there is a clear-cut drive for change towards renewables. Now, with investment into renewable energy sources increasing, the capability to provide electricity from these sources is growing at scale, accelerating the

No time to waste With climate change an imminent threat, there is no time to waste when it comes to transitioning away from traditional energy sources.

December 2021 | MEConstructionNews.com

pace of transition. This poses a challenge to governments and utility providers, who now have completely different sources of power generation coming into their energy system. While this can naturally cause some instability, those governments that are well prepared and forward thinking will be able to apply the latest technology

and products to their energy system, to ensure stability, reliability, and continued performance. This is where Hitachi Energy comes in, says AlGuezeri, who explains that part of the company’s remit is to be prepared to liaise with governments to support them through the energy transition. “You need innovative products and solutions that can help your energy system be sustainable, flexible and secure, and available so that you don’t lose power at any time. That is why I say that we’re the leaders in this scope. We started a long time back with technology and taking it step by step, investing into research and development, and having the latest state-of-the-art technology delivered to every country. “By applying the intelligence of digitalisation we’re enabling customers to design, make the right decisions and to look into having access to all the data and efficiently plan your maintenance operations,” he explains. Once again citing the UAE as an example for the region, AlGuezeri highlights solar projects

IN PROFILE

like Mohammed Bin Rashid Solar Park and Al Dhafra Solar Project as reference points for neighbouring countries which plan to build their renewables infrastructure. Given Hitachi Energy’s expertise in the sector, he states that the company is ready and able to support clients in becoming pace setters in planning around the energy transition. “We are there as a catalyst for governments, or the utilities providers. With our technologies, we can support them. We have a big interconnection

project in Pakistan, and we’re looking at how we can support the client with different solutions. “In Egypt, we are also doing a lot with all the renewables projects – the wind farms – and how they can be integrated into the network, and then interconnected to another continent. We’re providing solutions and products to cater for a sustainable, flexible and secure energy system.” However, as an enabler of this transition, it is incumbent on Hitachi Energy to be at the forefront of

Catalyst for governments Hitachi Energy positions itself as a catalyst for governments to begin the energy transition.

Leading the way The UAE’s investment into alternative energy sources is showing the way forward for the MENA region.

research and development for the industry. To that end, the company has a significant budget for R&D, allowing it to stay in front of its competition. In addition, AlGuezeri says that the company is committed to hiring new employees worldwide, while also retaining the knowledge and expertise that it has built up over the years. “People are the main assets of our company, as are knowledge and the data. Of course, you need to acquire new talent to take the next steps forward, and we’re looking at talent in all the countries we’re active in. We are looking for people who think and act differently and challenge us. It’s about ‘Diversity of Thought’. Bringing together people of different backgrounds, nationalities, genders, ages, attitudes, and education is critical to success. “An important part of this is attracting more women to the company, but it’s also about the overall diversity of the workforce, which is ultimately crucial for innovation and sustainable growth,” he asserts, adding that on a personal note, he is keen to improve gender diversity in leadership positions across the company’s operations. We’re looking at hiring more female leaders – which is something we’ve started in Europe already.” Currently Hitachi Energy worldwide has a female population of 19 percent, our target is to have at least 25 percent worldwide by 2025.

We are there as a catalyst for governments, or the utilities providers. With our technologies, we can support them. We’re providing solutions and products to cater for a sustainable, flexible and secure energy system” MEConstructionNews.com | December 2021

IN PROFILE

Regardless of whether it’s industry or utilities, digitalisation must be a high-management decision. The C-Suite level must want to go into it, if they have it in their mind, then it will cascade down through the company” Another major focus for the company, and for AlGuezeri, is the digitalisation of the power sector. As mentioned previously, he believes that data will be key to improved performance and efficiency across energy systems, and with interconnection between countries and continents likely to be more common in the coming years, the need for increased digitalisation will be paramount. To achieve this, he asserts that leadership from the very top will be essential for it to truly be of value.

2050

Demand for global electrification will be double current supply levels

December 2021 | MEConstructionNews.com

“We have the latest technology and software available in our portfolio to support the utilities sector, smart cities ambitions, or any client. Whether its Asset Performance Management, Field Service Management, Utilities Management, regardless of whether it’s industry or utilities, digitalisation must be a highmanagement decision. The C-Suite level must want to go into it, if they have it in their mind, then it will cascade down through the company. We can then come and work with and

help them develop a comprehensive digital system, for it to be sustainable, flexible, and secure at all times. “When I talk to different C-Suite level individuals within the region, they are very keen, and we have immediately started workshops to discuss with their teams how we can get them to the required level. Finally, as the pioneering technology leader, we collaborate with customers and partners to advance a more sustainable energy future for all.” he says in conclusion.

September2021 December 2021| |MEConstructionNews.com MEConstructionNews.com

PROJECT PROFILE

IREPfarm PROJECT NAME: Vertical Farming Facility CLIENT: Madar Farms LOCATION: Khailfa Industrial Zone Abu Dhabi (KIZAD)

Green Shoots of Growth BIG PROJECT ME SPEAKS TO KENNETH MCCRAE, MANAGING DIRECTOR OF INTERNATIONAL REAL ESTATE PARTNERS, ABOUT HIS COMPANY’S NEW VENTURE, IREPFARMS, AND THEIR WORK IN THE VERTICAL FARMING SECTOR, STARTING WITH THEIR FIRST VENTURE WITH MADAR FARMS | December | August 2021 MEConstructionNews.com MEConstructionNews.com

PROJECT PROFILE

n November 2018, Mariam Hareb Almheiri, Minister of Climate Change and Environment for the UAE, unveiled the country’s National Strategy for Food Security, outlining 38 short and long-term initiatives, geared around five strategic goals that focus on: facilitating the global food trade, diversifying food import sources, and identifying alternative supply schemes. The National Strategy aims to make the UAE the world’s best on the Global Food Security Index by 2051 and among the top ten countries by 2021. In order to do this, it looks to develop a comprehensive national system based on sustainable food production through the use of modern technologies, enhance local production, develop international partnerships to diversify food sources, activate legislation and policies In the wake of this announcement, the UAE has seen an explosion of homegrown agricultural solutions, with several companies adopting a high-tech approach that integrates automation and vertical farming to create a resilient and sustainable regional food supply chain.

The huge benefit with the IGS technology, that will help with the demand, is that it’s scalable and modular. Many clients like to start with four towers and scale as the demand requires, which is something that is very easy to do” Homegrown solutions The UAE government has been very strategic and clever in investing in high-tech agricultural solutions, says Kenneth McCrae.

90%

Percentage of food imported into the UAE

December 2021 | MEConstructionNews.com

With the UAE currently needing to import as much as 90% of its food, this approach is vital if it is to achieve its goals of self-sufficiency. Due to the country’s location, climate and water and land resources, investing in hightech agricultural solutions is the only way forward, says Kenneth McCrae, the managing director of International Real Estate Partners (IREP). “We are very fortunate here that the UAE government have been very strategic and clever at attracting technology providers to the region. The plan is to create an agri-tech ecosystem that provides the right technologies to support a diverse population.

There is a real opportunity to embed the technology into food production systems right now, for a better future,” he tells Big Project ME during an interview at IREP’s offices in DMCC. Noting that investor interest into vertical farming is on the rise, in March 2021 IREP launched a new venture called IREPfarm, which aims to bring an innovative, practical, knowledge and sustainability-led approach to the worlds of real estate and argi-tech solutions in the UAE and wider GCC. McCrae explains that IREPfarm will be at the forefront of the movement to tackle the multitude of issues presented by climate change and its impact on the world’s food supply chain. Furthermore, the company will also look to improve the ability of governments, and the food industry as a whole, to provide for their populations and customers respectively. The venture will see IREP work side-by-side with its long stand agri-tech partner, Intelligent Growth Solutions (IGS), he adds. This partnership will see IREPfarm develop its capabilities and improve its knowledge of the latest agricultural trends and techniques, the most advanced technological solutions, and the up-to-date developments in the real estate sector. “Everything that we do is about doing things in the most effective and efficient way – so then, when you apply technology, and when you do it with the experience and expertise that we

PROJECT PROFILE

have in facilities and asset management, technology and energy that we can wrap into a sustainable lifecycle,” says McCrae. “We look at everything in 10-to-30year outlooks and then we create the most viable plan, with cost certainty from design, construction, and operation of the farms throughout their entire life-cycle. When you do that, that’s when your ROI comes in, because you’ve got a big picture financial view of what your real costs are, and what the impact is of how you manage your assets. Obviously, the technology today is so clever, you can do a lot of things a lot smart and react quicker to changes in the profile or the dynamics of the assets, the environment, or how they’re utilised.” McCrae adds that working closely with IGS over the years made the IREP team aware of a number of pressing issues that are jointly facing the agri-tech and real estate industries. This is why it made sense to leverage the companies’ experience to create IREPfarm,

allowing them to pool their expertise and deliver bespoke food security and real estate solutions to a broad client base that operates across a number of sectors and helps to deliver results on a large-scale and impactful basis. Therefore, the essential areas where IREPfarm’s collective of experts will support clients include: Updating clients’ knowledge of farm management and operational knowledge; Boosting clients’ understanding of commercial supply avenues for farm products; Managing numerous contractors across multiple disciplines and budgets; Meeting assurance, compliance and industry standards at manageable costs; Introducing a greater focus on design to enhance the use of farm facilities through restaurants, education centres and community spaces; and finally, providing ongoing asset management to ensure the optimised life cycle of its solutions. “The introduction to IGS was through the technology – we saw the technology

Food security IREPfarm’s close relationship with IGS has allowed it to deliver bespoke food security and real estate solutions to a broad client base.

Number of initiatives proposed by the UAE’s National Strategy for Food Security

in the lighting. IGS wasn’t just looking at the farming sector, they were also looking to sell lighting as a service product as well, because of its super efficiency and its ability to become an IoT enabler. We saw that IoT technology could be attached to lighting, and it was a real win-win technical solution. “That was the initial push, and then we started to do the background research – this was three years ago – and we started the IGS relationship with the Middle East as the UAE currently imports 80% to 90% of its food due to a number of issues, including a lack of water, high temperatures, and the lack of arable land. This needs to change, which makes IGS’ vertical farming technology a very attractive solution for this region.” As the UAE emerges from the shadows of the pandemic, the last 12 months have highlighted the substantial need to secure local and sustainable food supply chains in the GCC. With the GCC’s population set to increase

MEConstructionNews.com | December 2021

PROJECT PROFILE

considerably, the importance of precision-based agri-tech solutions, backed by scientific crop research will be key to addressing these challenges. “There are many technologies out there that will help deliver the demand from the region,” says McCrae. “I believe that it’s important to create an ecosystem, but the huge benefit with the IGS technology, that will help with the demand, is that it’s scalable and modular. Many clients like to start with four towers and scale as the demand requires, which is something that is very easy to do with IGS technology. “A basic four-tower arrangement takes up 307sqm of land. The towers can either be six metres, nine metres or 12 metres high. We recommend an additional 500sqm for the service area, which may need to expand if more growth towers are later added to create a larger operation. A 12-metre-high superstructure is recommended as it will deliver the greatest return on investment and yield per square metre footprint.” McCrae points out that IREPfarm’s first towers are going up in KIZAD, Abu Dhabi, with the company’s client, Madar Farms, which is a local Emirati company that has already developed a range of premium quality indoor grown crops to supply to the local UAE retail market. The deal is the first to introduce IGS’ technology to the UAE and is in line with the client’s vision of creating sustainable food supply channels to the UAE population, while reducing

Growing space A 12-metre-high superstructure is recommended for the best return on investment and yield per square metre footprint.

307

Average footprint, in sqm, of a four-tower facility

December 2021 | MEConstructionNews.com

the strain on scarce water supplies. There are five growth towers initially planned, each standing six metres high, offering a growing space of up to 150sqm and the ability to produce up to 30 tonnes of crop per annum. Madar Farms says that it selected the IGS plug-and-play vertical farming platform after a rigorous competitive market assessment to significantly enhance the quality and quantity of produce it can supply to businesses and leading retailers across the region. Initially, commercially sold produce will include a range of premium leafy greens and herbs, which will be enhanced by other crop varieties in the near future. The partnership will also allow a greater

capacity for research and development, particularly in the propagation of tomato seedlings, which is a significant focus in region. The client will utilise the high levels of precision in the IGS system to enhance early-stage quality seedling production which would then be moved into an indoor growing environment to complete the full growth cycle. This would ensure predictable growth of high-quality tomato plants with the greatest level of consistency and flavour, without using any pesticides. As the IGS system continually recycles water, it will also minimise water usage. Installation of the systems took place earlier this year, and the growth towers are operational as of November 2021. McCrae points out that ensuring the efficiency and performance of the farming facilities comes down to the concept design, selection of materials and MEP equipment, as well as the predictive maintenance and the monitoring of the facility’s systems through technology, so that the team knows what’s happening. “The sensors, the IoT, and the feedback that we get from them to understand whether the lighting, motors and controls, the humidity and so on, are all being managed to their optimum, that’s where IREP as a company comes in, because that’s our bread and butter. “We also have a number of projects in the pipeline and are quoting and putting together proposals to put into action by the end of the year. 2022 is going to be a busy year for IREPfarms,” adds McCrae.

PROJECT PROFILE

“The biggest obstacle to starting a vertical farm is the high capital cost, mainly related to the technology. When people and companies do invest that capital, they often have to arrange debt funding from lenders as few have the resources to buy it up front. That means pressure to generate profit and cashflow, to repay that debt and/ or generate a return, which is why, at IREPfarm, we have come up with a lease model that removes some of this pressure from the client. “We work with our finance partners to help offer this as a solution to our clients, and it is already showing to be very popular,” he says. “Our approach is to provide complete transparency over the whole lifecycle of the farming facilities, with a very high degree of financial certainty. We have the systems and processes embedded into our DNA, to offer the solution from an asset management and energy management POV, including planned and predictive maintenance strategies to guarantee the reliability of the farms, resulting in the highest quality of food products, with absolute minimum of waste. This is an extremely high-tech solution, with a proven track record of delivering on our promise to our entire customer base on a global scale. It’s a good marriage,” he asserts. Given the amount of interest and focus on the vertical farming sector in the region, McCrae highlights the

number of opportunities available to the construction sector. With Dubai aiming to become a hub for future clean tech-based food and agricultural products, there are already a number of new developments in the pipeline, such as the 1.67 million sqm Dubai FoodTech Valley, which is under construction in the Warsan area of Dubai. “One of the construction companies we use is Al Tayer Stocks, who are currently involved in a number of agri-tech projects in the region. There are a lot of new technologies coming to the market, so there is learning to be done in how these facilities can be built and installed, and the construction improvements that can be made.

12m

Ideal height for a growth tower

Opportunities in the sector There are a number of opportunities in the vertical farming sector, especially for MEP contractors and climate control specialists.

“I think that construction companies need to adopt and adapt. Data Centres are a big target (for construction companies), but so is Vertical Farming. To be part of it, you need to do some learning and understanding – what to specialise in, what’s different about it, and so on. You need to learn about things like airlocks, and the rationale behind the designs and all that. “From an MEP point of view, there needs to be considerable amount of care and attention going into the projects, because of the commercial impact,” he adds. “There is a downside in the agri-tech space – many people have come from outside the farming and technology industries and thrown money at the sector, but they don’t actually have a commercially viable technology solution. The frightening fact is that people are buying into this and are making very expensive mistakes. “Like everything, this will take time to mature, and that’s what we’re seeing in the marketplace as well. Construction is a part of it, and there will be specialists – the go-to guys who understand how to do things efficiently, have value engineered it, and understand the processes and supply chain, entrance, all the way through to the output side. They’ll know how the dynamics work, what materials to utilise, and what works in this region,” he predicts in conclusion.

Construction is a part of it, and there will be specialists – the go-to guys who understand how to do things efficiently, have value engineered it, and understand the processes and supply chain, all the way through to the output side” MEConstructionNews.com | December 2021

COMMENT

Industry insight

DIDEM SEZGIN

ROBERT BOSCH MIDDLE EAST

The evolution of Work 4.0

id you know that the Work 4.0 concept was under formation before the pandemic? Very few companies had acknowledged Work 4.0, and some had only considered implementing it in the future once fully proofed. But no one knew it would move from its conceptualisation to the implementation phase overnight. New Work or Work 4.0 is a philosophy that translates to office space design and transforming the way we work in a dynamic and adaptable way. It means adopting new and innovative ways to collaborate, more flexible approaches to performing and organising (office-type) work by simply putting people and their needs at centre stage. While applying the philosophy of New Work to office space layouts and designs, architects play a significant role in it. According to the Fellowes Workplace Wellness Trend Report, 87% of the respondents would like their current employer to offer healthier workspace benefits, with options ranging from wellness rooms, company fitness benefits, sit-stands, healthy lunch options, and ergonomic seating. The mindset of architects in a postpandemic world has changed dramatically to adapt to today’s modern workspaces. With the introduction of new technologies and work ethics, employees’ well-being has become the main priority for employers. It has been proven time and time again that if employees are happy, healthy, and comfortable in their work environments, productivity soars. Though working environments changed overnight due to the pandemic and employees were obligated to adopt new working styles to continue the smooth

December 2021 | MEConstructionNews.com

functioning of business, we have noticed that these new working styles have positively contributed to companies’ efficiency and business. The policies of return to work from office led to the creation of modern and quality workspaces and elimination of rigid structures enabling a more productive and less stressful atmosphere. The option to work from home or even working remotely from outside the office has become a non-negotiable part of our modern working environment, especially due to the effects of the pandemic. As technology continues to evolve, access to several communication tools has enhanced the experience of connecting employees in the office with those working remotely. We can also consider how working remotely can be of great benefit to employees who would normally have a tiring, lengthy commute to the office building. A decrease in commute would also be an advantage to the environment since light traffic equates to less pollution and as a result a positive contribution to reducing carbon footprint. We believe in designing models for the future. A combined potential of working onsite and offsite is a new hybrid model of the future work, which we call ‘Smart Work’. With the acceleration of digitisation, we are not far from a future where smart office buildings could be connected to smart mobility solutions. For once imagine that your smart building carpark knows that you’re on your way in your electric car and automatically guides you to a space that is equipped with a charging station- unnecessary stress will be avoided from the start of your day to work. Smart buildings could also be fed with the information about a person enabling the smart applications to learn who exactly has entered a building to assist in guiding a route towards the elevator to the floor of the employee’s office. This would mean that the employee would no longer need to use an access card at each entry point or even press a button on the elevator. The future is smart and connected if we all collaborate smartly in the present to build an automation that would help our generations to come. Didem Sezgin, Human Resources Manager, Robert Bosch Middle East

CHRISTOPHER NICOLAS TBH

Planning to deliver

hen it comes to starting construction projects, any company of any size or value has reason to be wary of the potential for delays, overruns, conflicts, defects and failures. According to a McKinsey & Co. Inc. survey, large projects across asset classes typically take 20% longer to finish than scheduled and are up to 80% over budget. Successful construction projects can be completed through a variety of techniques, but the overriding themes include effective preplanning, ongoing regular oversight, cooperation and anticipating problems before they arise. This means that issues can be addressed and managed before they impact the project Whilst every project is different, the detail is always in the planning. Employing the following measures can help set your project up for critical success: 1. Setting a realistic project timeline from the start: Starting a project under undue time pressure, will inevitably see the project suffer the long-term consequences as a result of poor planning. A realistic timeline for a construction project should be driven by the scope and needs of the project. This includes careful consideration of the scope, completeness of the design, overall project sequencing and achievable construction productivity. This also includes factoring in well thought out site logistics, and interfaces within and external to the project. Further, constructability must be considered in light of the project budget to ensure accurate timelines are established that consider integrated time and cost.

COMMENT

2. Regular monitoring and reviews: Ensuring that a close eye is kept on the progress of the construction timeline is vital. From commencement, the project needs to be monitored through regular reporting of progress. Planning, performing, measuring performance, evaluating measures, and acting upon variances helps in identifying risks early so that mitigation strategies can be considered and implemented in a timely manner. This promotes continuous improvement and provides effective communication of information in a way that can assist management in predicting and influencing outcomes and executing informed decision making. 3. Compliance of the parties’ contractual obligations: It is of course important from the beginning to ensure that each party is committed to complying with its contractual obligations in a timely manner, as set out in the contract. The Client, Engineer, Contractor and other project stakeholders can unduly critically delay progress due to a number of factors including the late provision of information, delayed appointments, and prolonged review and approval periods. The inclusion of key contractual obligations in the project timeline, and the ongoing monitoring of these obligations, is vital in ensuring that any deviations are addressed in a timely manner to avoid exacerbating project delays. 4. Timely resolution of disputes: Ultimately, this is about identifying the potential for delays so that remedial action can be initiated. Regular reporting will identify the critical work and identify those activities that are in need of attention in order to prevent them from becoming critical delays to the delivery timeline. Invariably when delays, cost over-runs or scope changes occur, disputes, claims and counter claims can develop between parties involved. Left unchecked, a disagreement between two or more parties can escalate into lengthy legal cases that are both expensive and distracting. The early adoption of a proactive approach to achieving commercial resolution to contractual matters eases the pressure of protracted disputes amongst the project participants. Instilling a culture of pre-emptive claims avoidance from the outset through contract drafting and the establishment of mechanisms in the Contract promotes the timely resolution of major disputes, easing the risk of protracted and costly litigation. Christopher Nicolas is Director at TBH.

ALLISON WICKS QUALITAZ

The meaning of quality

here are often misconceptions about quality and its definition that appear rife in our industry. With the constant narratives circulating that: “quality is ISO9001”; “a laborious exercise”; “it is final snagging and handover stage” and “if we have time we will do it”, it is not always understood and given the importance it deserves and brushed under the carpet. In this short article we will examine the actual meaning of quality using practical examples, and will demonstrate how it applies to everyday life situations at work. QUALITY OPERATES AS THE CENTRAL NERVOUS SYSTEM Everything we do is governed - to a certain degree - by a set of standards, that we set (subconsciously). From the way you communicate and treat others, to your attention to detail at work. Standards are based on our own beliefs, opinions, experience, culture and even from our frame of mind on the day. They affect everything we do, and everyone around us. Our inefficiencies could cause delays in work processes, product and service delays, and of course defective work which may lead to non-conforming products or those which are not fit for purpose. The consequences of our actions are in direct relation to our own belief system. We may feel our standards are high, after all what do we compare our own standards to. Other people? Worldwide etiquette? Best practice? The standards we are referring to are quality standards. Everything is affected by quality because the result of our actions affects the final outcome.

QUALITY IS IN EVERY SINGLE ACTION OR ACTIVITY How can we apply quality standards and regulate our work in construction to a unified standard? You may be familiar with the terms ‘quality assurance’ (QA) and ‘quality control’ (QA). Despite the name, QA doesn’t actually assure quality, it ensures the processes that assure quality are followed. Likewise, QC doesn’t control quality, it measures quality and accepts or rejects it based on a specified requirement. It starts with your processes and standards. If these are not established, then consistent quality standards cannot be achieved. You will be unable to check the final product if all parties collectively are unclear of all the requirements. Your version of ‘acceptable’ may be different to your clients or your colleagues. Smaller businesses may rely heavily on verbal procedures. This works for a small group of employees, however, the problems start when the organisation expands due onboarding of new employees. If the employer is unable to define the procedures and the roles, then how would you expect the employees to perform them? HOW DO WE APPLY ‘QUALITY’ STANDARDS TO OUR PROJECTS AND ORGANISATIONS? Your quality system works like an instruction manual. You will take all of the information available and plan out the ways in which you will minimise errors and defects, in each part of the process during the project lifecycle, from initial planning, through to design, construction, DLP and maintenance period. It is essential that businesses define and communicate their company standards, objectives and targets, and agree on how they will run their operations, to ensure they meet/exceed the requirements of all of their customers, both internal and external. Once defined, this has to be embedded into the organisation, so that employees and new joiners understand their responsibilities and involvement in the overall delivery. Employees should be fully engaged and empowered to positively contribute. It is usually those at grassroots level who hold the key to critical process details, as they have to overcome the day-to-day challenges, rather than those at senior management level. Allison Wicks is founder and managing partner of Qualitaz. MEConstructionNews.com | December 2021

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Middle East tenders UAE MIXED-USE

The Island Resort TERRITORY Jumeirah Beach, UAE CLIENT WASL BUDGET $500 million DESCRIPTION The project's scope of work involves the construction of beachfront development spread over 3.5 million square meters for touristic and leisure services located at Jumeirah Beach, Dubai. It will include an MGM-branded hotel and a Bellagio-branded hotel containing 1400 hotel rooms and apartments, 10 villas with a built-up area of 105218 square meters as well as luxurious restaurants and cafés and a theatre. The project will also include villas, theater, retail shops, indoor and outdoor swimming pools, business person lounge, food and beverage units, museums, beach club, parking facilities, water fountains, marinas, landscapes, dredging, and reclamation 3,000,000m3 area, infrastructure works, construction of roads and artificial waterfalls. The theatre will have a seating capacity of 800 and occupy an area of 80,000 square feet. The beach club on the island will offer a number of maritime leisure services and activities to guests and visitors. The island will be surrounded by a corniche spanning an area of 1.2 kilometres that will include cafés, restaurants, and retail stores. The ‘Cave of Wonders’, occupying 124,000 square feet of space, will focus on providing entertainment for children and their families through sports and games that cater to different age groups. COMPLETION 3/30/24

GOVERNMENTAL

Al Haffar Shooting Fields TERRITORY Al Haffar Training Village, UAE CLIENT Abu Dhabi General Services PJSC (Musanada) BUDGET $205 million DESCRIPTION The project's scope of work involves the construction of shooting fields for a special task and shooting ranges for F7 located at Al Haffar Training Village, Abu Dhabi. In total, the project consists of 22 facilities. The project includes a sports zone, indoor ranges, prison zone, anti-narcotics zone, dog training centre, F7 zone, driver training centre, air wing zone, infrastructure, roads, parking facilities, pavement, landscape, car shades, construction of 7,924 meters square zone L with 13 facilities which include facility A - training building, B - MOE (method of entry) building, C - Abseil tower, D - single storey CQB (close quarter battle) building, E - double storey CQB (close quarter battle) building, F - three storey CQB (close quarter battle) building, G - operation building, H - provisional shooting range, I - bathroom, J - holding tank,

K - service building and water tank, L - briefing area, M - confidence course layout and construction of 1,588 meters square zone C with 9 facilities which includes facility A - administration building and corridors, B1 - 50-meter shooting ranges no.01, B2 - 50-meter shooting ranges no.02, B3 - 50-meter shooting ranges no.03, B4 - 50-meter shooting ranges no.04, C - 100-meter shooting ranges no.01, E - under ground holding tank, F - under ground water tank and associated facilities. COMPLETION 4/30/24

BUDGET $350 million DESCRIPTION The project's scope of work consists of 4 residential towers comprising 11 to 16 floors located at Hayat Island in Mina Al Arab, Ras Al Khaimah. The project comprising 1 to 3-bedroom apartments, as well as duplex units, the tower will be surrounded by amenities such as restaurants, shopping options, parks, car parking facilities, health club, entertainment facilities, boutiques, walkways, gardens, and related facilities. The common ground floor of all the towers will comprise of retail shops, boutiques, parkways, gardens. The project includes 16 townhouses. The project is also known as 'Bay Residences'. Designs for the development's oneand two-bedroom apartments focus on functionality and modernity. COMPLETION 9/30/23

SAUDI ARABIA RECREATIONAL

RESIDENTIAL

Al Hayat Island Northbay Residence TERRITORY Hayat Island, UAE CLIENT RAK Properties

Yanbu Integrated Recreational Complex TERRITORY Yanbu, Saudi Arabia CLIENT Saudi Entertainment Ventures

MEConstructionNews.com | December 2021

TENDERS

BUDGET $80 million DESCRIPTION The project's scope of work involves the construction of an integrated recreational complex with open spaces for walking in Yanbu, Saudi Arabia. The scope also includes construction of a large leisure club, restaurants, international shops, huge amusement parks, live entertainment facilities and parking facilities. COMPLETION 12/30/25

Governorate, Oman CLIENT Oman Ministry of Transport & Communications BUDGET $25 million DESCRIPTION The project's scope of work involves the construction of a 22 km single carriageway in the North Al Sharqiyah Governorate, Oman. The scope covers floodways, culverts, type-A junction and associated facilities. COMPLETION 7/30/23 HOSPITALITY

RETAIL

Riyadh Exit 10 Mall TERRITORY Riyadh, Saudi Arabia CLIENT Saudi Entertainment Ventures BUDGET $50 million DESCRIPTION The project's scope of work involves the construction of a mall, shops, food court, entertainment area, infrastructure works, parking facilities and associated facilities in King Abdullah Road in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. COMPLETION 9/30/24 COMMERCIAL

Diriyah Gate Development Super Basement Package

Hayy Al Sharq Hotels TERRITORY Barka, Oman CLIENT Muscat National Development & Investment Company (ASAAS) BUDGET $150 million DESCRIPTION The project's scope of work involves construction of a three-star 247-room hotel under the ‘Arjaan by Rotana’ brand, a four-star 263-room hotel under the ‘Reyhaan by Rotana’ brand in Barka, Batinah South, Oman. Facilities within the hotels include restaurants, lobby lounge, an executive lounge and parking facilities. COMPLETION 12/30/24 HOSPITALITY

TERRITORY Riyadh, Saudi Arabia CLIENT Diriyah Gate Development Authority BUDGET $70 million DESCRIPTION The project's scope of work involves the construction of large basement car parking structure on an area of 750000m2, civil works, structural works, tunnels, parking space to accommodate more than 10,000 cars and associated facilities in Diriyah Gate Development, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. COMPLETION 12/30/23

OMAN INFRASTRUCTURE

Al Aflaj Road Work TERRITORY Al Sharqiyah December 2021 | MEConstructionNews.com

BAHRAIN COMMERCIAL

Bahrain International Airport Cargo Village Package (Phase 1A)

Ibis Styles Muscat TERRITORY Muscat, Oman CLIENT Oman Tourism Development Company (Mina Sultan Qaboos Waterfront Company BUDGET $45 million DESCRIPTION The project's scope of work consist of a hotel building with 280 keys located adjacent to the Oman Convention Exhibition Centre, Muscat, Oman. The scope also includes construction of banquet halls and meeting hall, conference halls, children’s club, recreational and leisure facilities, the exhibition center, a meeting hall, an all-day dining restaurant, parking facilities and installation of elevators and security systems. COMPLETION 12/30/23

TERRITORY Bahrain International Airport, Bahrain CLIENT Bahrain Airport Company BUDGET $50 million DESCRIPTION The project's scope of work involves the construction of phase 1A of the Cargo Express Village at Bahrain International Airport in Bahrain. The scope covers construction of access road from Al Rayya highway, parking facilities, security guardhouse, two power substations, FedEx warehouse (5,000m2) and its associated fitout works, a common processing facility warehouse 2 (2,500m2) and core & shell, warehouse 3 (2,500m2), warehouse 4 (2,500m2), water tanks, pumping station, airside security wall with associated works, an emergency gate, airside roads and yards. COMPLETION 12/30/24 RESIDENTIAL

Al Ramli Housing Development (Plot No. 4) TERRITORY Salmabad, Bahrain CLIENT Eskan Bank BUDGET $27 million DESCRIPTION The project's scope of work consists of 4 residential buildings each comprising 10 floors above 3 storey parking podium located at Salmabad, Bahrain. The project also includes car parking (2 per each apartment) and retail area of 1,152 square meters. The project featuring a total of 300 apartments all of which are 3 bedroom apartments divided as 160 units of 3 bedrooms apartments and 140 units of 4 Bedrooms apartments,

TENDERS

District 300kV UG Cables Extension

with a component of a Retail at the ground floor level. COMPLETION 12/30/23

TERRITORY Al Sabah Medical District,Kuwait CLIENT Kuwait Ministry of Electricity & Water BUDGET $25 million DESCRIPTION The project's scope of work involves the construction of a 300kV underground cables at Al Sabah Medical District in Kuwait. COMPLETION 12/30/24

INFRASTRUCTURE

Askar Engineered Landfills TERRITORY Bahrain CLIENT Bahrain Ministry of Municipalities Affairs & Urban Planning BUDGET $10 million DESCRIPTION The project's scope of work involves an engineered landfill for the disposal of waste. The scope of work also involves a site investigation, site preparation, lining of the site, installation of gas and leachate collection systems, operation and maintenance of the site and final restoration. COMPLETION 12/30/23

QATAR HEALTHCARE

Lusail Diabetes Hospital TERRITORY Lusail,Qatar CLIENT Integrated Intelligence Services (IIS Holding) BUDGET $45 million DESCRIPTION The project's scope of work consist of a 4-storey diabetes hospital building located in Lusail, Qatar. It also includes an intensive care unit, labs, pharmacy and parking facilities. COMPLETION 12/30/23 HEALTHCARE

Al Wakra New Mental Health & Psychiatry Hospital TERRITORY Al Wakra, Qatar CLIENT Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC) BUDGET $165 million DESCRIPTION The project's scope of work consist of a mental health and psychiatry hospital building located at Al Wakra,

EDUCATIONAL

Jaber Al Ahmad Private University (J4)

Qatar. The project also includes 160-bed hospital expandable upto 208-bed capacity, 30,000 square meters accommodation over three levels, 45,000 square meters gardens over three levels, 6,000 square meters recreational space, 750 capacity car parking spaces in basement. COMPLETION 12/30/23 ENERGY

Facility E Integrated Water & Power Plant (IWPP) TERRITORY Ras Rakan, Qatar CLIENT Qatar Electricity & Water Company (QEWC) BUDGET $3 billion DESCRIPTION The project's scope of work involves the construction

of Facility E Independent Water and Power Plant located at Ras Rakan, Doha, Qatar. The project shall cover the installation of a combined cycle power plant with a net power capacity in the range of 2000–2500 megawatt (MW) and a net water production capacity in the range of 100-130 Million Imperial Gallons per Day (MIGD) and design seawater temperature of a maximum of 38°celsius. The project also includes 378,541 cubic meters per day of water. The desalination plant will be based either on the multi-stage flash process (MSF) or on a multiple effect distillation process (“MED”) or on a hybrid solution of MSF or MED plant supplemented by reverse osmosis plant (“RO”) or 100% RO. The project also includes laying of transmission lines and pipelines, installation of substations, transformers, switchgear, turbines, and generators. COMPLETION 12/30/24

KUWAIT INFRASTRUCTURE

Al Sabah Medical

TERRITORY Jaber Al Ahmed City, Kuwait CLIENT Public Authority for Housing Welfare BUDGET $70 million DESCRIPTION The project's scope of work involves the construction of a private university, a library, infrastructure work, parking facilities and associated facilities on a plot area of 88,977m2 in Jaber Al Ahmed City, Kuwait. COMPLETION 12/30/24 HEALTHCARE

Jaber Al Ahmad Private Hospital (J5) TERRITORY Jaber Al Ahmed City, Kuwait CLIENT Public Authority for Housing Welfare BUDGET $50 million DESCRIPTION The project's scope of work involves the construction of a hospital on a design, build, finance, operation, maintenance and transfer basis within a plot of 40,798 square meters and located adjacent to residential area and proximate to the private university (J4) and the Public Authority for Applied Education and Training sites in Jaber Al Ahmed City, Kuwait. The facility also includes parking facilities and associated facilities. COMPLETION 12/30/24

MEConstructionNews.com | December 2021

PROGRESS REPORT

Final update

68 floors completed on Uptown Tower DMCC provides a progress update on the construction of the 340m tall Uptown Tower in the Uptown Dubai District

MCC, the free zone and Government of Dubai Authority on commodities trade and enterprise, has announced that work on its Uptown Tower development is in full swing, with the project currently standing at 260 metres, with 68 floors completed. According to a statement from DMCC, significant progress has been made throughout 2021, with more than 12 million manhours completed without lost time due to injury in the construction of the first supertall tower in the Uptown Dubai District. It added that the façade work has reached level 45, with an overall total of 8,500 panels to be installed once completed. Additionally, mechanical, electrical and plumbing works are in progress, while empower chilled water have been connected and DEWA transformers have been installed, it added. Executive Chairman and CEO Ahmed Bin Sulayem said: “We are proud to be the driving force behind Uptown Dubai, which is set to become one of the most exceptional urban districts in the emirate. As the already iconic Uptown Tower inches closer towards completion, its status as the first supertall tower in the district will only be matched by its value as a destination December 2021 | MEConstructionNews.com

for businesses and residents who will benefit from its premium commercial, residential and leisure facilities.” “Guided by a smart and sustainable construction strategy, Uptown Tower is set to be a LEED Gold certified building and will be home to DMCC Headquarters,” he stated. “Designed by Adrian Smith + Gordon Gill Architecture, this architecture marvel replicates the brilliance of diamonds through its faceted glass façade that illuminates the interior spaces with natural light while filtering out harsh glare,” he added. Standing at 340m tall, Uptown Tower will feature 188 hotel rooms and suites, restaurants, conference facilities, Grade A office space, and 229 branded residences. It will be the centre point of the Uptown Dubai District – a 24hour neighbourhood featuring dining and high-end retail outlets, in addition to a central entertainment plaza with leading global hotels and businesses. Paul Ashton, Executive Director (Property) said: “As we continue to develop new premium business hubs, retail experiences as well as residential and lifestyle destinations within the free zone, our focus remains on catering to the evolving needs of our members, residents and visitors.” The Uptown Dubai district is set to become one of the most dynamic and sought-after mixed-use communities in the emirate, setting the benchmark for urban destinations worldwide, Ashton said. “With the commencement of office space preleasing, Uptown Tower is seeing strong interest from prospective businesses looking to grow their operations in the region as well as from individuals wanting to take advantage of its unique location and wide range of unparalleled onsite amenities,” he added.

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