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THE BUSINESS OF CONSTRUCTION

Destination Dubai

BIG PROJECT ME TALKS TO BLAGOJE ANTIC ABOUT DHG PROPERTIES' JOURNEY FROM SWITZERLAND TO DUBAI'S VIBRANT REAL ESTATE MARKET

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CONTENTS

December 2023

ANALYSIS

FEATURES

INSIGHT

08 The Briefing

20 In Profile

36 Comment

14 The Big Picture

A wrap-up of the biggest international construction news stories for the month

Big Project ME speaks to DHG Properties’ Blagoje Antić about the real estate company’s journey from Switzerland to Dubai, and how the firm is realising their commitment to reimagining premium, affordable luxury for the emirate’s diverse population

38 Comment

16 Market Report

32 Event Wrap

Saudi Arabia has won the bid to host the World Expo 2030, beating out the Republic of Korea and Italy

Oman’s real estate market has seen steady growth over the last two years, driven by an increase in the expat population in the country

From Switzerland to Dubai

Construction Intel Summit KSA Wrap The 2023 Construction Intel Summit KSA welcomed over 130 delegates and featured 25 speakers who discussed talent, the delivery of giga-projects, sustainable infrastructure and more

Shopping is becoming more streamlined as retailers harness AI technology for personalisation, gamification and support says Karl Escritt, CEO of Like Digital & Partners

It is possible to get where we need to be on sustainable buildings and infrastructure with the right partnerships writes AESG’s Katarina Uherova Hasbani

40 Final Update

ADNOC opens the region’s first pilot green hydrogen refuelling station

MEConstructionNews.com | December 2023

WELCOME

Introduction

2024 is go for launch!

elcome to the final issue of the year, and happy holidays, dear readers! 2023 was another blink and you’ll miss it year from my perspective because ever since I joined Big Project Middle East (BPME), it’s been pedal to the metal. March was my first working month on BPME, which meant that I immediately had to put together the first edition of the 2023 ME Digital Construction Awards and, shortly after, put the April 2023 issue of the magazine to bed. Not long after, we kicked off summit season on BPME with the Energy & Sustainability Summit, which was followed by the inaugural Future of Water Summit, and the 2023 edition of the Digital Construction Summit (formerly the ME BIM Summit). This year also saw the launch of the Critical Infrastructure Summit, which due to requests from our government partners, we made the decision to move into the first half of 2024. We wrapped up 2023 summit season on BPME with the third edition of the Construction Intel Summit KSA in Riyadh in late November.

December 2023 | MEConstructionNews.com

I’m now busy working on the last official BPME event of the 2023 calendar year - the 14th edition of the annual Big Project Middle East Awards. Nominations will be closed by the time you read this, with the shortlist due to be announced in early January, following which winners and runner ups will be honoured at our exclusive gala dinner at the Ritz Carlton JBR in Dubai on 18 January 2024. What’s on the docket for 2024, I hear you ask? Well, I can confirm that BPME plans to solidify its standing as the premiere construction focused title in the region by leveraging its various platforms to significant effect. That means you can expect our monthly magazine to bring you the biggest construction related stories and content on a month-to-month basis, while our raft of live summits will continue to highlight crucial topics and issues across the region. Next year, BPME is also quite keen to bring construction professionals together more frequently at informal industry events, with a view to fostering better relationships between construction stakeholders. We’ll be kicking things off in January itself, with our annual Big Project Middle East Golf Day (30 January), following which we’ll announce the next networking event, which will run alongside our existing summits. See you then!

Jason Saundalkar HEAD OF CONTENT

jason.s@cpitrademedia.com MEConstructionNews me-construction-news

“The Big Project ME Awards has proved itself to be among the most distinguished in the industry with leading players in construction from the region participating. Al Naboodah Construction Group are delighted to be a part of this gathering of eminent industry professionals”.

Senan Abdullah Al Naboodah

Managing Director Al Naboodah Construction Group

The Awards Now in its 14 year, Big Project ME’s Excellence in Construction Awards has significantly expanded its scope of focus on contractors, developers, operators, projects, sustainability and individuals, and welcomes nominations from across the MENA region. th

Big Project Middle East (BPME) is one of the most recognised construction focused trade publications in the region, so winning an award means earning a wellrecognised and highly valued badge of excellence.

The Categories 31 awards are up for grabs at Big Project ME’s Excellence in Construction Awards, reflecting the full scope and size of the built environment. This year’s categories are broken into several groups including: Individual Awards; Sustainability Awards; Developer Awards; Contractor Award and Project Awards.

22 January 2024 Ritz Carlton JBR / Dubai

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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

Editorial

Destination Dubai

BIG PROJECT ME TALKS TO BLAGOJE ANTIC ABOUT DHG PROPERTIES' JOURNEY FROM SWITZERLAND TO DUBAI'S VIBRANT REAL ESTATE MARKET

HEAD OF CONTENT Jason Saundalkar jason.s@cpitrademedia.com +971 4 375 5475

Advertising SALES DIRECTOR Farhan Ahmed farhan.ahmed@cpitrademedia.com +971 4 375 5478

ON THE COVER

Big Project ME talks to DHG Properties’ Blagoje Antić about his firm’s entry into the Dubai real estate market

Design ART DIRECTOR Simon Cobon simon.cobon@cpitrademedia.com DESIGNER Percival Manalaysay percival.manalaysay@cpitrademedia.com

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Web Development The publisher of this magazine has made every effort to ensure the content is accurate on the date of publication. The opinions and views expressed in the articles do not necessarily reflect the publisher and editor. The published material, adverts, editorials and all other content are published in good faith. No part of this publication or any part of the contents thereof may be reproduced, stored or transmitted in any form without the permission of the publisher in writing. Publication licensed by Dubai Development Authority to CPI Trade Publishing FZ LLC. Printed by Al Salam Printing Press LLC. CPI Trade Media. PO Box 13700, Dubai, UAE. +971 4 375 5470 cpitrademedia.com © Copyright 2023. All rights reserved.

December 2023 | MEConstructionNews.com

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MOST POPULAR CONSTRUCTION

Oman Cultural Complex to be developed at cost of US $383mn The project will occupy an area of 400,000sqm and is to be built within a three-year period

PROPERTY

H&H Development launches Eden House – The Canal PROPERTY

SEVEN to develop SEVEN Abha with investment of $346mn The firm has partnered with leading companies in their respective fields to design the entertainment attractions in Abha

INDUSTRY

Saudi Arabia wins vote to host World Expo 2030

ENERGY

Hatta Hydroelectric Plant set for 2025 completion The project will play a key role in realising the Dubai Clean Energy Strategy 2050 and the Net Zero Strategy 2050 PROPERTY

New ultra luxury mansions launched at Tilal Al Ghaf

PROPERTY

US $2.1bn in housing benefits unveiled by Abu Dhabi authorities The total value of housing benefit packages disbursed in Abu Dhabi during 2023 has reached $3.66bn PROPERTY

CONSULTANT

COP28: Just 10% of companies now report comprehensively measuring emissions, reveals BCG report Companies have not made “much emissions progress”, says new study by CO2 AI and Boston Consulting Group (BCG)

Saudi office market reaches a new high in Q3

INFRASTRUCTURE

23 JAN 2024 | THE RITZ CARLTON JBR / DUBAI / UAE

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RTA begins installation of solar panels at metro and tram depots

MEConstructionNews.com | December 2023

THE BRIEFING

Expo 2030

Saudi Arabia wins vote to host World Expo 2030 SAUDI ARABIA

KSA was competing with the Republic of Korea and Italy for the right to host the event December 2023 | MEConstructionNews.com

uring the 173rd General Assembly of Bureau International des Expositions (BIE) on November 28, Saudi Arabia was chosen as the host country of World Expo 2030. A two-thirds majority of member states voted for Saudi Arabia’s project to host World Expo 2030 in Riyadh under the theme ‘The Era of Change: Together for a Foresighted Tomorrow’. The event will take place between October 1, 2030 and March 31, 2031. Three countries were in the running to host World Expo 2030. In addition to Saudi Arabia, the other candidates were the Republic of Korea (Busan) with the theme ‘Transforming Our World, Navigating Toward a Better Future’

and Italy (Rome) with the theme ‘People and Territories: Regeneration, Inclusion and Innovation’. “On behalf of the BIE, I offer my warm congratulations to Saudi Arabia on its election as host country of World Expo 2030. In the coming years, we look forward to working closely with Saudi Arabia to bring the world together in Riyadh,” said the Secretary General of the BIE, Dimitri S Kerkentzes. Eligible and present Member States, represented by government-appointed delegates, elected the host country in a secret ballot using electronic voting, on the principle of one country, one vote. Securing a total of 119 votes in the first round, Saudi Arabia was elected outright, as it received the twothirds majority required. In contrast,

THE BRIEFING

the Republic of Korea received 29 votes, while Italy received 17. Addressing the assembly, Saudi Minister of Foreign Affairs Prince Faisal bin Farhan bin Abdullah said the Kingdom will continue to devote its efforts to regional and global cooperation and development. He commented, “We take pride in the efforts and achievements that the kingdom has made thus far.” He also highlighted the significance of the year 2030, as it marks three critical milestones: Expo 2030, the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and Saudi Vision 2030. “The Kingdom is actively working to accelerate progress on these three fronts. As we strive to develop and transform our economy, we

Winning vote Securing 119 votes in the first round, Saudi Arabia was elected outright, as it received the two-thirds majority required. Republic of Korea received 29 votes and Italy received 17.

Expo 2020 Dubai The Saudi Arabia Pavilion at Expo 2020 in Dubai was amongst the largest and showcased the Kingdom’s culture, heritage, natural wonders, along with its present and future ambitions.

believe that the Kingdom’s progress, along with regional development and the well-being of the global economy, will advance steadily,” said the Foreign Minister. He underlined the Kingdom’s commitment to cooperating with all nations in hosting the expo, which he described as “built by the world for the world.” He also shed light on a facilities package worth US $348mn allocated by the Kingdom to a group of 100 eligible countries participating in the expo. Following the win, Saudi officials have announced plans to spend US $92bn to transform Riyadh ahead of Expo 2030. The investment aims to make Riyadh one of the most sustainable cities through initiatives, including the

King Salman Park Initiative and Saudi Green Initiative (SGI), as well decarbonisation of the urban transport – within the next seven years. Princess Haifa bint Mohammed Al Saud, the Vice Minister of Tourism, was speaking during the third edition of the Saudi Green Initiative (SGI) Forum, which opened on the sidelines of COP28. Senior Saudi officials took to the stage to discuss the Kingdom’s sustainable urbanisation progress. “One of those ways is to have more green spaces, and it’s the King Salman Park Initiative that we are going to develop in the middle of the city to enhance and create that,” she explained. Under SGI, more than 43m trees and shrubs have been planted across the Kingdom since it was set up in 2021, with 94,000ha of degraded land (equivalent to 146,000 football fields) being rehabilitated across the country. In his address, Saleh Al Jasser, Minister of Transportation, Saudi Arabia, highlighted some of the actions being undertaken across the Kingdom to decarbonise urban transport. “We are implementing remote work in government agencies, which helps reduce demand for daily travel. To shift to less carbon intensive modes of transport, we have set ambitious targets to increase the share of public transport, with the Riyadh bus and metro projects well underway,” Al Jasser concluded.

MEConstructionNews.com | December 2023

THE BRIEFING

Emirates Nuclear Energy Corporation launches ENEC ADVANCE program UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

It combines ENEC’s expertise in large-scale nuclear energy deployment with its network of international technology suppliers of advanced reactors, to drive the decarbonisation of energy intensive industries

December 2023 | MEConstructionNews.com

he ENEC ADVANCE program has been announced by the Emirates Nuclear Energy Corporation (ENEC). The program aims to take advantage of the latest advancements in nuclear energy technologies, and aims to strengthen the UAE’s position as a nation delivering climate action by accelerating the global clean energy transition to Net Zero. According to ENEC, the programme will evaluate the latest technologies in the advanced, Small Modular Reactor (SMR) and microreactor categories, which can generate clean electrons and molecules, such as steam, hydrogen and ammonia, as well as process heat for industrial processes. In doing so, ENEC, the UAE’s only mandated nuclear energy developer, will then work with national stakeholders to determine deployment pathways, and with international

THE BRIEFING

partners for both technology and project collaboration opportunities. Within the ‘Year of Sustainability’ in the UAE, the program will support the continued rapid decarbonisation of the country’s heavy and energy intensive industries, creating further sources of clean energy, while using the latest technologies and helping to deliver Net Zero by 2050. Heavy industry (steel, aluminum, oil, gas, cement and chemicals), and transport currently contribute to 50% of the UAE’s total carbon emissions. These sectors are challenging to decarbonise as they require vast amounts of energy continuously, and a significant portion of the emissions arises from activities conducted off-grid, the statement from ENEC explained. Advanced reactors and SMRs offer an innovative decarbonisation solution for these sectors. These reactors can be co-located with critical infrastructure and provide a reliable supply of clean electricity, as well as clean steam, heat and hydrogen. SMRs are easier to manufacture, thereby contributing greater economies of scale, in addition to being flexible, safe and efficient to deploy. ENEC ADVANCE offers a clear example of the action-oriented approach the nation is taking to fast-track the clean energy transition, through leveraging the latest technologies in the nuclear energy sector. The program will expedite and centralise the UAE’s approach to deploying state-of-the-art nuclear technology and boosting value streams through the generation of clean electrons and molecules, strengthening opportunities for users to generate green premiums for their low-carbon end products, the statement added. “Nuclear energy is vital for reaching Net Zero as part of a balanced portfolio of energy sources, and we are committed to evaluating and deploying the latest nuclear energy technologies to accelerate the decarbonisation of the UAE’s hard-toabate industries that require ever-growing volumes of clean electricity, molecules, heat and steam. This announcement builds on the great momentum we have made with the Barakah Nuclear Energy Plant and the significant expertise we have gained. ENEC is working to harness innovative nuclear energy technologies

like advanced reactors to facilitate the achievement of the UAE’s climate goals and transition to low-carbon energy systems,” said His Excellency Mohamed Al Hammadi, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of ENEC. “The Barakah Plant is already the largest single source of clean electricity in the UAE and the Arab World. Now, as we evaluate the leaders in the emerging advanced reactor arena, we will utilise the ADVANCE program to select the best technologies for our needs in the UAE, as well as for projects internationally, where we see opportunities for collaboration and co-investment. We look forward to working closely with our global partners to advance the peaceful use of nuclear energy and support the global goal of tripling global nuclear capacity by 2050,” added Al Hammadi. With Unit 4 of the Barakah plant due to start up in 2024, ENEC said it

Clean energy source Small modular reactors (SMRs) are advanced nuclear reactors that can produce lowcarbon electricity up to 300MWs per unit.

Leading the charge on nuclear energy His Excellency Mohamed Al Hammadi, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of ENEC.

is now focused on capitalising on the full value of the UAE’s investment in the nuclear energy sector, working closely with key technology companies and energy intensive industry leaders to identify the right technology and meet the growing demand for clean electricity and molecules. ENEC’s technology selection and opportunity for co-investment in technologies, will ensure it remains at the forefront of advanced reactor development and create more attractive, high-value and long-term job opportunities for UAE nationals. ADVANCE boosts the UAE’s R&D and innovation activities, enhancing national intellect that can cross-pollinate to related sectors, the firm stated. The announcement comes as reports show that global electricity demand is set to double by 2050, combined with a new era of support for nuclear energy as a proven solution for energy security and sustainability. Global nuclear energy capacity will need to triple to meet the growing demand for clean energy and to meet Net Zero targets, and this capacity will come from large-scale reactors, advanced reactors and SMRs. There are already over 80 SMR designs in progress, with owners anticipating commercial deployment in the early 2030s. The SMR market is valued at over $6bn, which is expected to rise significantly once the first reactors come online. As a key player, the UAE welcomes other nations visiting the country for COP28 to learn how the nation has rapidly decarbonised its power grid, through the deployment of nuclear energy, offering a model for others looking for a proven route to reducing carbon emissions while boosting energy security.

MEConstructionNews.com | December 2023

THE BRIEFING

ALEC unveils its first-ever ESG Report UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

The firm’s decarbonisation strategy involves further investment into offsite and modular volumetric construction and leveraging digital construction December 2023 | MEConstructionNews.com

LEC Engineering and Contracting LLC (ALEC) has unveiled its first Sustainability & Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) report. It outlines the firm’s ESG and decarbonisation strategy, plans and quantifies the impact of its current initiatives, and highlights the group’s commitment to the three pillars of environmental sustainability, social responsibility, and business governance. The firm’s decarbonisation strategy involves further investment into offsite and modular volumetric construction technology and leveraging digital construction to achieve higher productivity, improve safety and quality, reduce material consumption, and deliver quality projects in shorter timelines, thereby reducing overall emissions. Its decarbonisation plans also include reduction in the carbon footprint of

its onsite operations by implementing onsite solar energy generation and use, electrifying site equipment and leveraging its supply chain partnerships to test low-carbon alternatives as part of its innovation strategy, as per the report. “At ALEC, we're aligning our decarbonisation plans with the UAE's strategy to achieve Net Zero emissions by 2050. The industry plays a pivotal role in shaping our world, and with that influence comes a duty to protect and preserve our environment. Today, we can make a significant difference in the construction sector and set an example for others to follow. We invite our industry peers to join hands with us to build a better world - one that is environmentally responsible, economically prosperous, and socially equitable,” said Kez Taylor, Director – ALEC Board. Barry Lewis, CEO at ALEC added, “We have always held the belief that

THE BRIEFING

our success as an organisation is not measured by our financial performance alone. Rather, with our enviable position as a leader in the industry, we have embraced environmental stewardship as our responsibility. We have a robust roadmap for our journey, marked by specific milestones and metrics which will guide us in successfully achieving this vision. Our commitment to this journey is a testament to the core values which underpin our daily actions.” The report comes at a time when the ESG movement is gaining momentum in the region. Earlier this year, the GCC Exchanges Committee published a unified set of ESG Disclosure Metrics, comprising categories across Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emissions, energy usage, water usage, gender pay, employee turnover, gender diversity, data privacy, ethics and more. Directed at listed companies, these metrics are voluntary and serve as a guideline for companies wishing to embark on their ESG disclosure journey. The report covers the operations of ALEC and some of its subsidiaries in the UAE between 1 January 2022 to 31 December 2022. The company has used several international frameworks and reporting guidelines as a guide for its reporting. These include the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) Standards, Dubai Financial Market’s ESG reporting guidelines, United Nations Global Compact’s 10 principles, United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and the Sustainability Accounting Standards Board (SASB) – Engineering & Construction Services (IF-EN) metrics. It also highlights the company is developing its carbon emission inventory to create a robust baseline for target setting and will be increasing its reporting scope to include its remaining subsidiaries as well as investments made in 2022. ENVIRONMENTAL

The firm’s environmental management system conforms to the ISO 14001:2015 standard. In line with the UAE’s Energy Strategy, the firm is increasing the share of renewable energy used to power its operations. While in 2022, around 158,600kWh of energy was produced from the 0.5MWP on-site solar PV plant

BSI Kitemark ALEC achieved the BSI Kitemark ISO 19650 certification for information management using BIM.

Championing ESG Barry Lewis is CEO at ALEC Engineering and Contracting.

Seven projects across ALEC's portfolio have achieved LEED certification

at the ALEC yard in Dubai Industrial City, the company plans on increasing the total installed solar capacity for its properties to 1.45MWp by early 2024. The company said it is also increasingly leveraging electric/hybrid solutions to power equipment at jobsites. This includes a state-of-the-art solar-diesel hybrid generator being utilised at one of its main construction sites. To further decarbonise the industry, it offers prefabricated modular units through its LINQ Modular subsidiary. This enables reductions in material waste, and high levels of predictability and quality. In a similar vein, ALEMCO, the group's MEP arm, currently services 15% of its MEP system installations through modular and prefabricated solutions, and aims to increase this to 20-25% by 2025, signalling the company's dedication to sustainable construction practices. The report also highlighted ALEC’s Green Building experience. Across its portfolio, seven projects earned LEED certification, including the platinum-rated Saudi Arabia and UAE Pavilions at Expo 2020 Dubai. In Abu Dhabi, three ALEC projects earning the 2 Pearl Estidama rating,

along with the achievement of a 3- star Global Sustainability Assessment System (GSAS) certification in Qatar. Several of ALEC’s ongoing projects are aiming for ambitious Green Building certifications. SOCIAL

ALEC implements the ISO 45001:2018 standard to provide a safe and healthy workplace by preventing work-related injury and ill health, and proactively improving its OH&S performance. This is enforced by the firm’s Health, Safety and Environment (HSE) managers, 100% of whom are National Examination Board in Occupational Safety and Health (NEBOSH) certified. In 2022, around 43,337 employees and directly supervised contractors underwent the worker welfare induction training, while 8,700 of its employees were upskilled at the firm's trade skills training facilities. A further 484 employees were engaged in ALEC's innovation incubator programme, with 73 being presented with rewards for their innovative ideas. GOVERNANCE

ALEC has worked to ensure conformity with ISO 9001:2015, said to be the most widely used quality management standard in the world. It also achieved the BSI Kitemark ISO 19650 certification for information management using BIM. The company has defined and strictly enforces a Code of Conduct, which sets out behaviours and norms that employees and business partners are obligated to follow in their day-to-day activities, in line with ALEC's values of Integrity, Reliability, Courage, Valuing its People and Innovation. The Code empowers employees and subcontractors to do the right thing, speak up and make suggestions for continual improvement. The group has also become a member of the UN's Global Compact, and has publicly committed to implementing the 10 principles of the UN Global Compact in the areas of human rights, labour, environment, and anticorruption, and reporting its progress on the same annually. ALEC has also joined the Emirates Green Building Council, the industry forum focussed on enhancing sustainability in the built environment in the region.

MEConstructionNews.com | December 2023

THE BIG PICTURE

01 ARGENTINA

03 UNITED KINGDOM

Facility approved for bridge in Argentina

Balfour Beatty Vinci adopts digital concrete testing on HS2

A US $1bn package has been approved by the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) for a new bridge over the Paraná River in Argentina. The plan is to construct a four-lane bridge 9km away, featuring a 772m cable-stayed span, 5.6km of viaducts, in addition to 28km of associated highway. The board approved a $700mn credit line, as well as a $345mn first loan to build a bridge between Chaco and Corrientes, as well as access roads. The $345mn loan will fund the initial construction phase, project supervision, and socio-environmental mitigation.

02 UNITED KINGDOM

PMKConsult acquires W. Hiles Partnership PMKConsult has acquired W. Hiles Partnership (WHP). WHP is a specialist project and commercial management consultancy. While WHP will retain its brand and senior team, it will benefit from back-office support, critical mass, and access to an international team for project execution across the UK and mainland Europe. PMKConsult plans to involve UK members in bids requiring specialised expertise within sectors where WHP excels, leveraging local knowledge to fast-track projects in the rapidly growing regional GCC economy.

A digital measuring system for concrete, Verifi, has been successfully trialled by Balfour Beatty Vinci across the HS2 project. The success of the trial will see the roll-out of the product across several HS2 sites, in a bid to enhance efficiency and reduce carbon output on the project. The digital measuring system is said to enable real-time monitoring, measurement, and management of fresh concrete properties during transportation. It also optimises planning and coordination through GPS tracking of vehicles equipped with the technology.

04 NORWAY

06 GERMANY

Skanska wins contract for road project

Jacobs to deliver PMCM services on steel mill project

A deal has been signed by Skanska, Syltern and Nye Veier for the construction of a section of the E6 highway between Berkåk and Vindåsliene in Trøndelag County, Norway. The deal is said to be part of a design and build contract that includes work from Ramboll, with a total package value of $207mn. According to a report, Skanska’s contract is valued at $122mn and mainly involves the design and construction of a 15km stretch of the E6 - a section with 2x2 lanes, featuring a new intersection and connection to the existing E6.

December 2023 | MEConstructionNews.com

05 NETHERLANDS

Construction of hydrogen network has begun says Gasunie Grid operator Gasunie has said it has begun construction of its hydrogen network in the Netherlands. With a total length of 1,200km, the hydrogen network will establish connections between five industrial clusters within the country, neighbouring countries and hydrogen storage facilities, the firm said. The Netherland’s King WillemAlexander attended the inauguration, which took place in Rotterdam. A budget of $1.54bn has been set for the project, which will see the network repurposing existing gas infrastructure.

Jacobs has been appointed as the programme management and construction management (PMCM) partner for Thyssenkrupp Steel’s initiative to decarbonise its steel mill. The $2.5bn initiative is said to be one of the world’s largest industrial decarbonisation initiatives. According to a statement, Thyssenkrupp Steel’s Duisburg site in Germany is Europe’s largest steel mill. The project’s scope includes the delivery of a green hydrogen-powered direct reduction plant, which aims to revolutionise the conventional iron reduction process.

THE BIG PICTURE

02 03

07 06 08

08 KAZAKHSTAN

KTZ begins work on new rail bypass 07 POLAND

Poland to develop second nuclear plant The development of Poland’s second large nuclear power plant has been approved by the Polish Ministry of Climate and Environment. The project will take shape in the Patnów-Konin region, with construction expected to begin in 2026. Poland said it aims to reduce coal dependence by building four to six nuclear reactors, with a total capacity of 6-9 GW between 2026 and the mid-2040s. In August 2023, PGE PAK Energia Jądrowa, a joint venture of the Polish companies ZE PAK and Polska Grupa Energetyczna (PGE), submitted an application to the ministry for a new plant.

Works have begun on a rail bypass around Almaty according to Kazakhstan Temir Zholy (KTZ), the country’s national railway organisation. The railway will run between the towns of Zhetygen and Kazybek Beka, and will include laying 130km of track, as well as building 13 bridges, KTZ noted. The project is expected to reduce the traffic on the Almaty hub by around 40% and cargo delivery by 24 hours, however its cost and timelines have not been revealed. An increase in e-commerce in recent years has driven growth in rail freight volumes, in addition to increased traffic at the Almaty railway junction, said a report.

09 SINGAPORE

AtkinsRéalis awarded contract AtkinsRéalis has been awarded a contract by WuXi STA, a WuXi AppTec subsidiary, to provide engineering and design services for the first phase of an advanced active pharmaceutical ingredient (API) manufacturing facility in Singapore. This initiative is set to enhance WuXi STA’s capabilities in supporting global healthcare innovation. The proposed greenfield project will be developed on a 200,000m2 land parcel. Complying with Current Good Manufacturing Practice (CGMP) standards, the facility is designed to offer a wide range of high-quality services.

MEConstructionNews.com | December 2023

MARKET REPORT

Industry Outlook

Insights into Oman’s Residential and Commercial Sectors OMAN

Oman’s real estate market saw steady growth over the last two years, driven by an increase in the expat population and strategic investment in the economy says Savills’ Oman Property Report 2023 December 2023 | MEConstructionNews.com

ince 2018, there has been a decline in the expatriate population in Oman, that dominates the residential rental market. The trend was exacerbated by the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. The number of expatriates across Muscat dropped from a peak of 0.97m residents in April 2017 to a low point of 0.71m in September 2021 (a drop of 27%). But since the last quarter of 2021, the number of expatriates moving to the city has increased, and the population grew to 0.91m by the end of 2022. A steady growth in the number of expatriates has led to a gradual uplift in demand for rental properties across Muscat during 2023. HIGHER-QUALITY LOCALITIES AND PROPERTIES SEE INCREASED DEMAND

Whilst there is an ongoing introduction of lower-grade residential units (particularly

apartments) to the rental market, which has resulted in a general oversupply, the supply of higher-grade properties within established localities or larger projects offering a more integrated lifestyle is becoming increasingly limited, relative to rising demand as the expatriate population grows. Communities such as Al Mouj have increasingly become one of the most desirable residential localities in the city due to the quality of the properties, professional property management, a growing range of retail and food & beverage outlets, and a wide offering of leisure facilities. As a result of strong demand relative to supply, the number of residential units available for rent has dropped. Similarly, Muscat Hills has become increasingly attractive for tenants over recent months due to the significant improvements to the golf course, following its rebranding

MARKET REPORT

as La Vie, allied to the opening of the new ABA school campus in Q1 2022. The community is likely to further benefit when the 80 key Tivoli boutique hotel and 2,800sqm of retail and food & beverage outlet space open to the public in 2026. Shatti Al Qurum, Madinat Al Sultan Qaboos, and Qurum are also seeing increased demand as a result of their central location and the wide range of facilities that they offer. Villas in Azaiba and Ghubrah North have similarly seen increased tenant interest due to their easy accessibility and proximity to the beachfront. There is, however, still a strong cohort of tenants looking for low-priced properties in order to limit their expenditure, but the scale of demand has not been sufficient to absorb the ongoing increase in supply, despite the significant growth in the number of expatriates.

Source: National Centre for Statistics & Information, IMF World Economic Outlook, Savills Research

RENTAL VALUES STABILISE

After a general slide downward in average rental values from 2014 to 2021, rents have stabilised. There are also instances of rental growth witnessed across a select few micro-markets. Al Mouj is the strongest-performing submarket, with average rents rising by around 10 to 20% over the last 18 months, due to strong demand relative to limited supply. Qurum is the other locality that has also seen rental values strengthen, with average rental values growing by around 5 to 15%. The other mid-range to highend submarkets have seen rental values show increasing stability since 2021. Although not yet buoyant, overall market conditions for mid-to high-end rental

properties are more encouraging from a landlord perspective than they have been over recent years. Over the coming 12 months, we would expect rental values for mid-tohigh-end units to remain relatively stable (and even show moderate increases in some locations), but that moderate downward pressure will remain for low-end properties. OFFICE RENTAL MARKET

Globally, commercial real estate has undergone significant changes over the last year. A slowdown in economic growth across most advanced economies, structural changes in working patterns, and increased focus on environmental and building standards are influencing demand and supply of office space. Global occupier markets have been adapting to the changing ways that people live and work. The occupier market has been affected by hybrid working trends, with some companies relocating, right-sizing, downsizing, or eliminating their office footprints altogether. Some are consolidating into smaller but higher quality, green-certified spaces, which are in high demand. However, suitable, green-certified spaces are more difficult to find in many markets, especially in the face of increasing levels of demand. The search for ESG-compliant spaces remains part of a broader, global trend of a flight to quality among office occupiers. The Middle East has been an anomaly with regard to demand for office space. The downsizing trends noticed across other key cities have not been observed across the region. In fact, demand for

Grade A office space has been one of the highest on record across most markets. In the case of the UAE, most Grade A developments across Dubai are operating at more than 95% occupancy levels. The city has seen a significant increase in demand for office space from companies entering the region, and also from existing firms that are consolidating their office footprint and planning their real estate strategy for the long term. A similar trend was observed across Abu Dhabi, which has seen a sizeable increase in demand from financial services companies taking up space across the ADGM. Due to the lack of space across most Grade A developments, rents have increased across most developments, and there has been a flurry of leasing activity across the serviced and coworking space. Similar buoyant market activity has been recorded across Riyadh in KSA. Leasing activity has increased y-o-y and simultaneously rents have gone up across most developments. Occupancy levels are upwards of 90% in most completed buildings. However, unlike Riyadh, office leasing activity is not as bullish across Jeddah and the Eastern Province yet. SUPPLY/DEMAND IMBALANCE CONTINUES ACROSS THE OFFICE SECTOR IN MUSCAT

The supply of new developments remains stable across Muscat, but the pace at which new projects are being introduced has slowed. Despite the steady addition of supply, demand has not kept pace, resulting in an oversupply situation. It is also important to note that most of the new supply is of lower grade and

OMAN GDP TRENDS AND OUTLOOK GDP AT CURRENT PRICES (OMR BILLIONS)

GDP AT CURRENT PRICES (YEAR-ON-YEAR % CHANGE)

30.0%

20.0%

10.0%

0.0%

-10.0% 2014

2015

2016

2017

2018

2019

2020

2021

2022

2023

2024

2025

2026

2027

2028

MEConstructionNews.com | December 2023

MARKET REPORT

OMAN POPULATION GROWTH TRENDS, Y-O-Y % CHANGE TOTAL

OMANI

EXPATRIATES

30.0% 20.0% 10.0% 0.0% -10.0% -20.0%

2014

2015

2016

therefore it is limited to the type of occupiers that will lease space across such developments. In terms of demand, the uptake of office space in Muscat remains moderate, with a focus on smaller office spaces. Demand for larger office spaces remains relatively limited. Most of the existing demand is observed from entities with existing presence in Muscat who are looking to relocate. There are generally few new market entrants. As a result of moderate demand relative to growing supply, only a limited proportion of commercial buildings are currently able to achieve occupancy levels in excess of 60 to 70%. The availability of adequate parking space is also a key driver of office space demand. Due to the lack of mass rapid transport systems, commuting across Muscat is mainly via private cars. However, the ratio of car parks to usable office space is low. Most buildings

2017

2018

2019

only provide one parking space for every 50sqm of usable office space, whilst many buildings do not even meet this requirement. There is an increase in interest from companies looking to relocate to the Airport Heights area due to its good transport connectivity and close proximity to Seeb conurbation, which is home to many Omani employees. Similar to other markets in the region, serviced office facilities have seen a significant expansion across Muscat over the last decade. Despite the increasing supply, demand for serviced office space has kept pace resulting in generally good uptake and occupancy levels. Rental values have remained relatively stable, and, in some cases, they have increased over the last few years. RENTAL VALUES SHOW INCREASING STABILITY

Despite the ongoing supply and demand

2020

2021

2022

imbalance, achievable rental values for mid-range to higher-quality office space have remained largely unchanged over the last 18 months. This is largely due to landlords being unwilling to reduce headline rental values any further and instead increasing the initial rent-free periods to attract and retain tenants. Achievable rental values for mid-range to higher grade office space in Muscat have seen little change over the last 12 months, and are currently estimated at OMR 4 to 6.5/sqm/ month for larger shell & core units, and OMR 5 to 7.5/sqm/month for smaller, finished units. Looking ahead, the market is Oman is likely to remain tenant-favoured over the next 12 months. However, the achievable headline rental values should remain largely stable in the country, with the exception of rents across lower-grade space, which are likely to remain under pressure.

AVERAGE RESIDENTIAL RENTAL VALUE TRENDS - 2 BEDROOM APARTMENT (OMR/MONTH) MUSCAT HILLS AL MOUJ

QURUM SHATTI AL QURUM AZAIBA/GHUBRAH NORTH

BAUSHER AL KHUWAIR MADINAT AS SULTAN QABOOS

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December 2023 | MEConstructionNews.com

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MEConstructionNews.com | December 2023

IN PROFILE

DHG Properties

From Switzerland to Dubai

BLAGOJE ANTIC, FOUNDER AND DIRECTOR OF DHG PROPERTIES, OUTLINES THE REAL ESTATE COMPANY’S JOURNEY FROM SWITZERLAND TO DUBAI, AND HOW THE FIRM IS REALISING THEIR COMMITMENT TO REIMAGINING PREMIUM, AFFORDABLE LUXURY FOR THE EMIRATE’S DIVERSE POPULATION

December 2023 | MEConstructionNews.com

MEConstructionNews.com | December 2023

IN PROFILE

a commitment to strengthening the real estate landscape in countries like Switzerland and Serbia. To date, the company has an impressive portfolio of 935 projects under development worldwide, with a gross development value of $589mn.

wiss property developer DHG Properties has over 30 of years in Europe, and has revealed plans to launch its inaugural project in Dubai. With its foray into the UAE, the company says it aims to replicate its success and bring its ‘signature touch of excellence’ to the dynamic and thriving property market in the country. “We were keen on leveraging decades of expertise to take on the challenge of global expansion - and what better place to do that than the UAE,” says Blagoje Antić, Founder and Director of DHG Properties. The same spirit supported by strategic decision-making is said to have enabled Antić to grow DHG to become one of the leading holding companies in Switzerland’s real estate and construction sector, owning and managing a portfolio worth US $790mn. Founded in 1994, DHG has conceptualised and constructed around 50 developments across Europe, with

Homes for all The developer says it has been guided by a firm belief that everyone deserves a home, irrespective of their tax bracket.

CULTIVATING PREMIUM HOMES FOR THE REAL ESTATE MARKET

Against this backdrop, Antić says the decision to expand into Dubai held substantial strategic appeal for a multitude of reasons - economic vitality, political stability, and accommodating regulatory framework being amongst the key drivers. “These factors render the country an ideal locale for all kinds of international business ventures, particularly those related to real estate. Especially when considering the rapid population growth that is currently underway and the ever-growing housing needs to accommodate these new residents over the coming years,” he states. For Antić, keeping the pulse of the market is a critical part of the firm’s efforts to enter and strengthen their position within the market. “Since our inception, our primary objective has been to ensure we enter markets with premium quality and to provide the highest possible

December 2023 | MEConstructionNews.com

1994

Founded in 1994, DHG has conceptualised and constructed around 50 developments across Europe

value to each investor and end-user. This ambition covers everything from development, design, sizing, and pricing.” He adds that DHG has been guided by a firm belief that everyone deserves a home, irrespective of their tax bracket. He explained that this ethos inspires them to create vibrant, sustainable communities that provide shelter and enrich lives, foster a sense of belonging, and promote a better quality of life for all. A MILESTONE IN THE DUBAI JOURNEY

“In the same way that we have become a staple in Europe’s real estate market, we aim to build a brand in the UAE that has staying power. This long-term vision will begin with our flagship launch in Jumeirah Village Circle (JVC), a project that will demonstrate a superior level of architectural design, while also contributing to key government-led mandates such as UAE Net Zero 2050 and the Dubai 2040 Urban Masterplan,” explains Antić. He reiterates that while JVC presents a compelling opportunity to any real estate developer, as a Swiss company it is particularly fascinating given its tremendous growth potential in the context of its portfolio. “While Switzerland’s real estate market has matured over the years, its prices remain

IN PROFILE

stable, rising by no more than 1–1.5% annually, but the market is becoming increasingly saturated,” he points out. “JVC allows us to boost our growth while simultaneously maintaining our commitment to bolstering the real estate landscape of Switzerland.” Factors that further underline JVC’s potential are its strategic location, accessibility, and proximity to critical areas. “As a master-planned community with green spaces, JVC offers an attractive lifestyle, as well as a mix of affordable housing options to align with our commitment to quality and value,” he comments. “The area’s growing demand and investment potential, along with Dubai’s infrastructure and security, create a promising environment for real estate development. We aim to leverage these advantages to establish a strong presence and deliver exceptional properties that cater to the diverse needs of JVC’s potential buyers.” Antić is confident that the debut project in JVC will set a new benchmark for what Dubai’s premium and affordable residential developments should be like. “Being situated in the heart of JVC, 430 units will provide an elevated experience to investors and end-users alike,” he remarks, adding that while details are set to be released in the coming months, the project’s

Swiss portfolio Project Winterthur in Zurich is one of the developer’s many projects in the European country.

Leading player The developer has extensive experience in Switzerland, owning and managing a portfolio worth US $790mn.

commitment to cater to the needs of both the middle and upper class is clear. OFF-PLAN OPPORTUNITIES

By entering the market, DHG was adamant about making the most of off-plan opportunities within the emirate. “In any market, the strength of off-plan real estate has long proved to be a strategic investment. This is the case whether a development is being purchased to diversify one’s income, flip for profit, or live in.”

To reinforce this notion, Antić outlined how Dubai’s off-plan segment registered a sales value of nearly US $35.4mn through the first three-quarters of 2023. “While we are optimistic about the favourable market condition positively impacting our flagship project’s success, the fact of the matter is that real estate is a cyclical market. We remain ready for whatever the market throws at us but also confident in the UAE’s resilience to support us through any downturns, should they arise. This outlook stems from the country’s ability to navigate crises like COVID-19 and a global recession while remaining unscathed,” Antić explains. Additionally, he said that Dubai’s population is projected to nearly double from 3.5m people to almost six million by 2030, underlining the influx of investment that has been witnessed in the UAE’s infrastructure in recent years. The developer says it is thus hopeful to be a beneficiary of this upward trajectory. PREMIUM YET AFFORDABLE - IN NUMBERS

While the opportunities in the market are palpable, Antić understands that it can also create a high level of competition. As such, he elaborated on how DHG Properties differentiates itself in the off-plan market through a number of ways, such as offering prime locations, innovative designs, high-quality

MEConstructionNews.com | December 2023

IN PROFILE

so that investors don’t have to worry about weather conditions deteriorating the quality of their investment, while also guaranteeing tenants complete privacy and the feeling of a home instead of a house,” he promises. Moreover, Antić explained that they had added everything from skirting to silencers, something, he pointed out, that projects in Dubai doesn’t usually have, in addition to elevated-quality door handles. “Our thinking is that if one supplier is providing us quarts at $5 per sqm and another supplier is giving us elevated quality at $7 per sqm, then we will go with the latter. At the end of the day, you have to deliver the project that you are promoting. As a company that stands behind its reputation of delivering first-class quality, we understand the importance of paying attention to even the smallest of details to achieve this.” construction, holistic amenity integration, multi-generational inclusivity, flexible payment options, warranty programs, community engagement, and a strong commitment to transparency and accountability. These factors combined create a unique and appealing proposition for potential buyers, he says confidently. “Our world-class architecture is exemplary of this, demonstrating first-class quality and never-beforeseen design that will enable us to set a new benchmark for what quality residential developments should look like,” he says, pointing out that DHG’s position to create developments that are premium yet affordable is supported by ensuring a European touch to their projects in Dubai and catering to the UAE’s diverse range of nationalities. Providing an example, Antić, explained that layout wastage of up to 11% is an issue that many developers in the emirate are either unable or unwilling to solve. “Still, we are showing that where there is a will, there is a way. When we first bought the plot for our JVC project earlier this year, we had our architects examine the layouts to optimise the space. The ensuing result is that we have been able to maximise 95% of the space of each unit - something that is typically unprecedented - while creating an extra 9,000sqm of sellable areas through this revision. If a developer builds and delivers a project full of three-

Wide reach The developer’s expertise in Europe extends beyond Switzerland, and into markets such as Serbia.

935

DHG Properties currently has a portfolio of 935 projects under development worldwide

December 2023 | MEConstructionNews.com

bedroom units, that’s quite an impressive feat - but without any space for a decent and livable living room, what’s the point?” Antić says he’s keen to live up to his brand’s reputation and provide elevated developments, which requires out-ofthe-box thinking and putting themselves in the shoes of our customers. “This is an approach we have taken in Switzerland, a market where having real estate success is easier said than done. Because of this success, we are confident in our ability to deliver the same results here or anywhere else for that matter.” ATTENTION TO DETAIL, DESIGN AND DEVELOPMENT

The commitment to quality and innovation is also underlined through their architectural design and development process, designed to ensure the longevity of their projects. Providing an example, he outlines, “Dubai is sunny all year round, but when it rains, it pours. Therefore, we understand the importance of projects that consider these natural elements, combat any potential damage, and ensure that the expectations that investors purchase with are met - if not exceeded.” Antić admitted that demonstrating value towards their investors needs to go beyond words and requires true action. “We have accordingly planned our project to incorporate thicker insulation,

SUSTAINABILITY AS A CONSTANT CONSIDERATION

DHG says that its attention to detail also extends towards its sustainability ethos. “Sustainable development is a great way to meet the housing demand, while also protecting the environment. This involves everything from designing houses to be energy-efficient and eco-friendly to using construction materials and methods that don’t harm nature and make it easier for people to get around without relying on cars to reduce pollution,” he states. Moreover, Antić said ideal considerations also include generating clean energy, like solar power, to minimise environmental impact and prioritising green spaces to make neighbourhoods more desirable for everyone, while contributing to initiatives such as the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan, which aims to increase the size of green and recreational areas by 105%. “We are incorporating a mix of these approaches so that we can build more houses, still be kind to our planet, and further the UAE’s green agenda. For instance, we have taken on a strategic landscaping approach to create ample green areas on the podium level of our upcoming development, and will provide a wellness garden for endusers - not only will this contribute to the UAE’s green vision and enhance

IN PROFILE

the environmental infrastructure of our project but it will also positively impact tenants, enabling them to truly enjoy where they live,” notes Antić. CATERING TO A DIVERSE AUDIENCE

DHG’s entry into the Dubai market was not without having a clear understanding of the diverse cultural makeup within the emirate’s population. “We recognise the importance of catering to the wideranging needs and preferences of a diverse audience. This was a driving force behind the thorough market research we initially conducted: to understand the nuances of our potential buyers and take into account cultural and demographic variations, income levels, and lifestyle choices.” He continues, this knowledge informed their strategy for entering the UAE market, which included investing in a multilingual staff that could assist buyers of all types, while with comprehensive customer support to guide international buyers through the purchase process and address post-purchase needs. “Customisation is a key element of our approach, enabling buyers to tailor their homes to their tastes and cultural preferences. Furthermore, our amenity offerings are designed to accommodate diverse preferences, from communal spaces for socialising to fitness facilities and private gardens,” he notes. Additionally, Antić said they provide flexible payment options to meet the financial needs of international buyers and offer guidance on legal and financial matters, addressing concerns about property ownership regulations and financing options. “Ultimately, our property portfolio is intentionally planned to be diverse to offer a range of purchasing options for a wide array of buyer profiles with quality assurance leading us as a core, central principle that emphasises the use of high-quality construction, materials, and workmanship - appealing to international buyers who prioritise durability and aesthetics,” he said.

success and stability. With the emirate ranked as a top 10 city to live in, and the ongoing trend of migration from overseas holding steady, a promising outlook lies ahead not only for the short term but also for the foreseeable future.” He shared that JVC is expected to be ready for customers in the off-plan market in early 2024, and that they plan to “hit the ground running”. “Once this development is launched, constructed, and delivered, we have an array of projects that we will subsequently bring to Dubai. The planning for these residences is already underway, and they will be announced soon - but for the time being, we are taking a day-by-day approach to ensure that investors and end-users of our flagship project are provided with the best possible quality.” As part of their long-term plans for the region, Antić said they are mapping ideal locations within Dubai. “Through our entrance into the UAE real estate market, we are set to spur this growth,

Location, location, location The developer chose JVC for its first project in Dubai due to its green spaces, attractive lifestyle offering and mix of housing options that aligned with its own commitment to quality and value.

430

DHG Properties’ debut project in JVC will contain 430 units

while also adding to our global portfolio of more than 1,000 apartments and a pipeline of 1,500-plus developments. To date, we have created upwards of 2,000,000sqm of living space, and the UAE’s market is ideal for furthering this progress. At the end of the day, it will be mutually beneficial for DHG and Dubai, with the best interests of the country’s residents connecting it all,” he states. For Antić, the developer’s future offers a bright and hopeful extension of their illustrious past, driven by their desire to bring their global expertise to address local needs. “We know what we bring to the table as our projects have been met with a strong reception in both Switzerland and Serbia, serving thousands of happy customers across the globe. Hence, we are excited to bring this same level of elevated quality to the UAE, a country built on forward-thinking efforts and whose residents have displayed a taste for premium offerings,” he concludes.

AN EYE ON THE FUTURE

Antić continues to be optimistic about opportunities within the UAE market, “Globally, the UAE, like the Burj Khalifa in Dubai, stands out as a staple of MEConstructionNews.com | December 2023

ADVERTORIAL

Black & Veatch

Black & Veatch in Focus MIDDLE EAST

ell us about Black & Veatch (B&V)’s history in the MENA region – what are some of your key achievements to date?

Big Project Middle East sits down with Youssef Merjaneh, Managing Director, Black & Veatch is an employee-owned engineering, procurement, consulting, Black & Veatch EMEA to and construction company; we discuss the firm’s achievements undertake most engineering inhouse. Black & Veatch has a more in the Middle East, key than 100-year legacy, our DubaiMENA business has been markets, and the opportunities based active for more than 30 years. Black & Veatch in MENA has and challenges that exist in the delivered power and oil & gas energy segment today projects in all of the GCC states and beyond. Our MENA client base is broad, spanning national

December 2023 | MEConstructionNews.com

power generation and distribution companies, independent power producers, developers and petrochemical companies. As these sectors seek to reduce CO2 emissions, we have the proven expertise to help them decarbonise conventional power assets and develop and integrate renewables and alternative fuels infrastructure. Which markets in the MENA region are the most important for B&V from a growth and expansion standpoint? What are the specific opportunities you are targeting?

One of our clearest differentiators is having green hydrogen engineer, procure, construct (EPC) experience.

ADVERTORIAL

At a time when many green hydrogen projects are small and nascent, we are actively delivering three live green hydrogen projects on an EPC or EpCM basis. That translates into more than 365 megawatts (MW) of new electrolyser capacity, and encompasses the ACES Delta Hub, which enables previously unattainable utility and industrial scale storage of renewable energy – 220MW stored as hydrogen in salt caverns. A major strength is having engineering capabilities across the multiple technologies and disciplines necessary for green hydrogen projects. This is exemplified by a UK project where we are supporting electrolysis of hydrogen with renewable energy, transferring the hydrogen for long-term storage in salt caverns, then supplying the hydrogen to a gas turbine to generate electricity to supply to the grid. We are in dialogue with several potential MENA clients about how we can bring this real-world experience to bear in support of their green hydrogen projects. What is B&V’s view of the energy sector in the MENA region, what are the opportunities and challenges that exist with regards to the energy transition?

The MENA’s energy sector outlook is strong. Although the region is not homogenous, it includes countries with some of the world’s highest per capita demand for energy, and this is likely to continue. There is also a genuine commitment to decarbonise energy infrastructure. For many MENA countries, the economics for renewables are advantageous with very favourable irradiation resources coupled to strong wind resources allowing costeffective generation of renewables. So, the opportunities lie in developing the renewable energy generation and storage infrastructure required, and adapting the grid to deal with renewables’ intermittency and more decentralised generation assets. The challenges are numerous but any large-scale move to renewables

needs the development not just of battery storage assets but also major developments in green hydrogen and green ammonia storage infrastructure – which offers longterm storage of renewable energy. Where green hydrogen is a major element of a decarbonisation strategy, water is another significant consideration. MENA is a largely arid region, but an abundant and reliable water supply is essential for green hydrogen production. Highpurity water is one of the feedstocks needed for electrolysis. The quantity of water consumed differs depending on the application, but roughly 9,800 litres of demineralised and deionised water is required for each tonne of green hydrogen produced. What role can green hydrogen and ammonia play in the region’s energy transition? What infrastructure is needed to kickstart broader impact in the MENA region?

Regional lead Youssef Merjaneh, Managing Director, Black & Veatch EMEA.

Black & Veatch currently has three live green hydrogen projects on an EPC or EpCM basis

Green hydrogen needs to be seen as more than just a fuel or feedstock, it is currently the best available technology for long-term renewable energy storage. Hydrogen’s role as a way to store green energy longterm is as important as its role as a low-carbon fuel, or low-carbon feedstock in industrial processes. Lithium-ion batteries store energy for eight hours, iron and zinc for 100 hours; insufficient duration for critical seasonal shifting. Green hydrogen offers seasonal green energy storage, limited only by storage capacity. Green ammonia – used as a hydrogen or energy carrier - offers new possibilities when it comes to facilitating the use of green hydrogen trade corridors. Hydrogen’s low volumetric energy density, and extremely low boiling point make it challenging - technically and economically - to develop large-scale hydrogen storage and transportation infrastructure. Green ammonia can be cracked to produce hydrogen, although this has yet to be achieved at commercial scale. Ammonia offers desirable characteristics as a hydrogen carrier: it can be liquefied under mild conditions; it is more dense than hydrogen - more hydrogen can be stored in liquid ammonia compared to liquid hydrogen with the same volume; and proven methods of storing and transporting liquefied ammonia at scale are available. What learnings from working on green hydrogen and ammonia projects in other markets can support B&V with projects in the MENA region?

Decarbonisation is ushering in new ways to produce hydrogen, which has heralded an abundance of new projects - many first-of-a-kind in terms of location, scale, configuration and technology - and new entrants into the hydrogen market. This has the potential to increase the risk profile for green hydrogen projects, making bankability more challenging. We have seen that success depends upon selecting a contracting model MEConstructionNews.com | December 2023

ADVERTORIAL

Although the MENA region is not homogenous, it includes countries with some of the world’s highest per capita demand for energy, and this is likely to continue. There is also a genuine commitment to decarbonise the energy infrastructure”

appropriate to a specific project. This enables smooth interfacing, integration and risk mitigation for the owner, and other stakeholders. Because delivering green hydrogen and ammonia projects at scale is a developing area, detailed and quality Front-End Engineering Design (FEED) is key to reducing project risk, thus reducing cost and enhancing bankability. A detailed FEED will also enable identification of the most appropriate contracting model. Due to the lower resultant project definition, a basic FEED typically results in accurate EPC cost only when it includes a higher contingency to account for unknown unknowns. To avoid exceeding estimated total installed costs on budget overruns, this contingency can be in the nominal range of 30 percent. A detailed FEED defines the project clearly in the

December 2023 | MEConstructionNews.com

Electrolysis High-purity water is a feedstock for electrolysis.

Black & Veatch has been active in the MENA region for more than 30 years

earliest phases, reduces the level of risk and uncertainty - and thus contingency. The total installed cost will likely be lower when considering the execution plan of shifting substantial risk to the EPC, equipment vendors and technology suppliers, as they price unknown unknown risk highly. A proven EPC partner – with a high degree of technical expertise – can undertake the technical and financial due diligence on equipment vendors necessary to minimise their own exposure to risk when selecting the most appropriate technology supplier, thus reducing the overall risk for investors. We are also seeing performance of certain elements of a project, electrolysers for example - or the firing of 100% hydrogen being taken out of the EPC wrap and retained by the OEM due to the novel nature of many schemes.

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EVENT REVIEW

December 2023 | MEConstructionNews.com

EVENT REVIEW

Putting the Spotlight on Construction in the Kingdom The 2023 Construction Intel Summit KSA welcomed over 130 delegates and featured 25 speakers who discussed talent, the delivery of giga-projects, sustainable infrastructure and more

he Big Project Middle East and Middle East Consultant editorial teams have confirmed that over 130 individuals attended the 2023 edition of the Construction Intel Summit KSA. The event featured 25 speakers from key regional and international firms, who discussed and debated a variety of topics relating to the vibrant and ever evolving Saudi construction market. The 2023 Construction Intel Summit KSA was supported by: Strategic Content Partner: ALEC Engineering & Contracting; Silver Sponsor: AECOM, AtkinsRéalis, Desert Board, KEO, K Tech Consulting; Bronze Sponsor: Thinkproject; Supporting Partners: Al Masood, Climatize, Compass Project Consulting, Cundall, JLL, Omnium, Polypipe, TBH Consultancy, and was endorsed by: Chartered Institute of Building, American Concrete Institute. The event opened with a welcome address from Paul Godfrey, Head of Content at Middle East Consultant, following which, the event’s first panel

discussion of the day (Growing the Kindgom’s Talent Pool and Retaining Knowledge) began. The panel discussed: what players in the built environment have already achieved in alignment with the nation’s focus on Saudisation; is the industry on track to support and achieve Saudisation goals by 2030; what challenges private construction firms face, and what initiatives can the government role out to enable them to develop and retain motivated Saudi talent, and more. The session was moderated by Reem Seraj, Business Support and Vision 2030 Realisation Manager, Saudi Arabia at AtkinsRéalis, with speakers including: Clive Cashin, Project Director, Saudi Arabia, Serco; Faiyad Peterson, Country Director – KSA, Cundall; Laeeq Hassan, Associate Director & Chair of the RICS KSA MAP / Mace Arabia & Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyor (RICS); Marcus Taylor, Partner, Taylor Sterling, and Hrvoje Cindric, Director – Middle East Planning Lead, Buro Happold. The session was followed by a presentation from Thinkproject’s Yazan Alshalan, which was

titled ‘Unleashing Technology’s Potential for Smart Construction and Operations in Giga Projects’. The session focused on leveraging technology to address and overcome challenges inherent in giga projects. The ‘Driving Giga-Project Success’ panel was split into two parts, with the first focusing on data and the shape of project success. The session was moderated by Paul Godfrey, with speakers, including: Allison Wicks, Quality Integration Specialist, Qualitaz; Ben Jackson, Head of Project and Development Services for the Middle East & Africa, JLL; Cary Kopczynski, CEO & Senior Principal, CKC and Nivine Issa, Founder & Managing Director, Terra Nexus. Polypipe Middle East’s Adam Smith then engaged in a fireside chat with Paul Godfrey on the topic of advanced water management in today’s megaprojects. The session looked at innovation in drainage and water management that has accompanied the growth in scale of KSA’s projects. The second part of the panel discussion, which focused on

cost and supply chain, then took part. This segment was moderated by Mohamed Moussa, Member of the RICS Engagement Group – KSA / Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors, KSA, with speakers including: Ahmed Abdelrazek, Senior Consultant, TBH; Darren Burke, General Manager, ALEC Engineering & Contracting; Fernando Freitas, Director, Omnium International Limited; Mitesh Bavdekar, Director, KPM Engineering and Wees Abraham, VP – Operations & Strategy, Shade Corporation. POST LUNCH

Following a networking lunch break, another fireside chat took place. This time around, Paul Godfrey spoke to Paul Sweeney, Development & Program Director at Compass Project Consulting about the key initiatives and focus areas that businesses need to invest in, if they are to successfully drive forward challenging giga-project timelines and deliver the complex matrices of project management. The final panel discussion of the day took a deep dive into sustainable infrastructure in the

MEConstructionNews.com | December 2023

EVENT REVIEW

Kingdom. The session discussed the state of urban infrastructure development within KSA’s giga-projects and how some of the issues that have arisen have been tackled; what has been planned in terms of sustainable energy and water infrastructure and what has been delivered; the development of next generation mobility solutions including air taxis, and more. The session was moderated by Karie Akeelah, Partner, Trowers & Hamlins with speakers, including: Ahmed Sayed, Middle East Business Development Manager, ACCIONA; John Shenton, Chair of Dubai Hub at CIOB; Michael

The vibrancy of the market was reflected at the 2023 edition of the Construction Intel Summit KSA, with an engaged audience and over 25 speakers sharing their insights”

Marriott, Infrastructure Manager – KSA, KEO International Consultants, and Kamal Farah, Director, Desert Board. The final presentation of the day was delivered by Jens Otterstedt, General Manager, Al Masaood Bergum on modular construction and how it is enabling dramatic improvements in the speed of construction and brings many advantages, and can also provide significant advantages in terms of sustainability. “Saudi Arabia remains the strongest construction market in the world, with billions of dollars already allocated for the countries’ various giga projects

and infrastructure. Going forward, I expect the Kingdom will step up its investments into development as it strives to achieve the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030, and having won the bid to host Expo 2030 in Riyadh. The vibrancy of the market was reflected at the 2023 edition of the Construction Intel Summit KSA, with an engaged audience and 25 speakers sharing their insights into the Kingdom’s bustling construction segment. We look forward to returning to Saudi Arabia for the next edition of this crucial event in 2024,” concluded Jason Saundalkar, Head of Content at Big Project Middle East.

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December 2023 | MEConstructionNews.com

COMMENT

Artificial Intelligence

Transforming Experiential Retail through AI MIDDLE EAST

Shopping is becoming more streamlined as retailers harness AI technology for personalisation, gamification and support, says Karl Escritt, CEO of Like Digital & Partners

December 2023 | MEConstructionNews.com

rtificial intelligence (AI) has become so seamlessly integrated into our day to day lives, you may not even notice when you’re using it. From asking Siri for a song to following Waze on your way to work, AI is redefining the way we communicate, work and play. The retail sector is one industry that has been transformed by the rise in AI technology. The e-commerce industry achieved a record US $5.7tn in sales in 2022, accounting for 20% of all retail sales around the world. And while some of the AI functionality has become ingrained in the way we shop, such as online chatbots offering purchasing support, or the behind-the-scenes roles of inventory management and supply chain networks, the really thrilling transformations are taking place in the form of experiential retail. Here

are some of the keyways that AI is transforming the way we shop: PERSONALISING THE PROCESS

Leading the AI charge are major online marketplaces Amazon and Alibaba, whose use of AI has contributed to a massive market share – Amazon clocked up 5.9bn direct visits in April 2023 alone. Both retailers use predictive analytics to help personalise the customer experience, analysing previous purchases, popularity and user search patterns to sift through the millions of products available on their marketplaces. Amazon draws on usage pattern analysis to accurately predict when a regular shopper will need to restock on household necessities, such as diapers, laundry detergent or their morning coffee, giving the user a nudge when it’s time to stock up. The Sephora app personalises the experience by customising

COMMENT

suggested products within the shopper’s expected budget, delivering a better overall user experience and a higher conversion rate. VIRTUAL REALITY FITTING ROOMS

One of the exciting transformations we’re seeing is the creation of virtual reality fitting rooms. This form of blended reality allows shoppers to ‘try on’ clothing, shoes and cosmetics from the comfort of their living rooms using AI and augmented reality (AR) – think Adidas sneakers, ASOS clothing, and Charlotte Tilbury lipstick. Early adopters such as Walmart and Macy’s have been more recently joined by luxury brands such as Gucci and Hugo Boss, with the global virtual fitting room market now predicted to grow from $4.03bn in 2022 to $14.87bn by 2029. VISUAL SEARCH TECHNOLOGY

See something you like, but aren’t sure of the brand? Visual search technology

Digital advocate Karl Escritt, CEO of Like Digital & Partners.

VR fitting rooms Virtual reality fitting rooms allow shoppers to ‘try on’ clothing, shoes and cosmetics using AI and AR.

87%

of retailers plan to implement gamification within the next five years

such as ASOS’s Style Match feature allows users to upload an image of a style they’re looking for, and then offer personalised recommendations of similar items to buy. The tool uses machine learning and AI computer vision technology to analyse the image and then share suggestions based on colours, shapes, and patterns. GAMIFICATION OF SHOPPING

You may not have realised at the time, but eBay was one of the first retailers to ‘gamify’ retail, with its virtual bidding system adding a new level of thrill to the shopping experience. From that initial dopamine rush, the gamification of shopping has evolved into the interactive experiences and experiential retail we have today – from Pepsi’s QR codes featuring AR football stars to digital avatars from the likes of Roblox, Prada, and Balenciaga – all designed to keep users on retail sites for longer, building brand loyalty and conversions.

According to Boston Retail Partners, 87% of retailers plan to implement gamification within the next five years, making it a key area of development for experiential retail. BEHIND THE SCENES

Some of AI’s other roles in experiential retail are less obvious but no less impactful. From the chatbot that helps you locate your missing order, to the prompt telling you when stock is running low on that pair of sneakers in your wish list, AI technology streamlines the online shopping process from the moment you start browsing until the time it lands in your hands. AI can even make the retail experience more sustainable. Personalisation and virtual tryons have been shown to reduce the number of returns a shopper makes, cutting back on transport and packaging – a win for shoppers, retailers and the environment.

MEConstructionNews.com | December 2023

COMMENT

Resiliency

Mission Possible: Setting the Sector on Course to Build a More Resilient World MIDDLE EAST

It is possible to get where we need to be on sustainable buildings and infrastructure with the right partnerships writes AESG’s Katarina Uherova Hasbani

ubai has prepared to host more than 70,000 delegates and world leaders in their latest round of debate and collaboration over climate matters, and at long last, COP28 is now upon us! Through my work with regional governments, industry associations and private enterprises, I know that the discussions brought to the table will be around the areas that have the most impact and potential for yielding practical outcomes. Foremost among these will be the strategies to reduce the carbon emissions associated with infrastructure, including the built environment, which is collectively responsible for an estimated 79% of the global total.

December 2023 | MEConstructionNews.com

BLUEPRINTS FOR SUCCESS

With buildings being behind 39% of the world’s energy-related carbon emissions, it is no question that the sustainability of the construction sector will be a top focus for participants at COP28. A successful conference would be one in which steps are clearly outlined for stakeholders to take practical action for infrastructure and buildings included. These measures must allow for the regeneration and preservation of the natural environment and provide fair treatment to those that are exposed to climate change impacts, while creating economic value for future generations. This may seem like a tall order, but it isn’t unattainable. A sustainable,

10%

Sustainable building operations can deliver up to 10% cost savings of businessas-usual practices

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low-carbon world is possible and we have the tools and the expertise to create it. We can design, develop, and operate our built environment using a lifecycle approach, where we account for the whole lifetime of an asset and its associated carbon and costs. We must collaborate, we must raise awareness, we must build capabilities, and we must share budgetary requirements and risks, while identifying opportunities for mutual action. Perhaps most importantly, we must remember that asset decarbonisation is a process, not an outcome. We must monitor progress, be transparent about our restraints, and redesign our efforts as we go. LAYING FOUNDATIONS FOR A GREENER FUTURE

Building and infrastructure designs are evolving. They now integrate environmental sustainability and lowcarbon solutions, including reducing virgin materials and energy demand, and eliminating fossil fuels. Modern designs also incorporate circularity principles and sequester carbon where possible. We see industry certifications such as LEED, PAS2080, EDGE, International Living Future Institute, BREAM, and others set better standards for Net Zero journeys. And through closer collaborations between clients and consultants, we are seeing costs starting to fall in projects such as MC2 Masdar City Campus and Expo City, which is hosting COP28 delegates. In the construction and commissioning phases, we also see this incorporation of sustainability and decarbonisation principles. Organisations have begun to focus on materials, energy and water usage, and waste management throughout construction. We are seeing, for example, more electrification of equipment. We also see efforts to reduce transportation, including employee and contractor commutes, and to introduce more efficient vehicles and equipment. Additionally, projects are improving how they use water, including going so far as to recycle it on site. And we also see the recycling of construction waste materials, which are reused in interior design or some structural elements.

What is most encouraging is that clients’ tender requirements are what is driving these changes. Costs are now increasingly shared between client and provider, which is a model that is less likely to break down than if one party bore the burden. Once in operation, buildings can benefit from enhanced management practices in energy, water, and waste, based on measurement, optimisation, and the selection of alternative pathways. For energy, these alternative pathways lie in the procurement of renewable power and the reduction of fossil-fuel usage. For water, pathways include local recycling and reuse. For waste, we must repair, reduce, reuse, and recycle. If we want to see sustainable, low-carbon assets, we must invest in high-performing automation, digitisation, and predictive practices. We have seen sustainable building operations deliver cost savings in the range of 10% of the costs of business-as-usual practices. We also see low-carbon businesses reduce their maintenance costs and improve their overall wellness and user experiences.

POLICIES WILL UNDERPIN SUCCESS Monitoring progress Asset decarbonisation is a process that must be continuously monitored and calls for being transparent about restraints, and redesigning of efforts as the process progresses.

Sustainability advocate Katarina Uherova Hasbani, Partner and Global Director of Strategy and Advisory, AESG.

All this change will not happen in a vacuum. We need governments to set policies and regulations to drive the sustainability agenda and incentivise low-carbon performance of new and existing construction projects. At COP28, as they work to define the objectives that will translate to the ground rules, governments have an opportunity to show the direction and path of changing technical specifications and the needed improvements in the value chain. From the government end comes the catalyst, spreading awareness from middle to executive management, and explaining how capacity-building is needed to make our climate goals a reality. Strong leadership and information sharing will underpin the success of these capacity-building exercises. Once robust corporate policies are set in place, it will come down to the diligence of managers to augment procedures as envisioned. From the boardroom down to individual projects, a new culture must emerge, pervading scope, principles, responsibilities, and updates. Procurement, energy and water usage, and waste and materials management will all need to be transformed. And if “transformed” evokes images of digitalisation, it is because technology provides an obvious means of streamlining the emissionsreduction program. Data and AI together present an incredible opportunity for advanced analytics to drive the design, delivery, and operation of efficient, sustainable, and smart built assets. It is possible to get where we need to be on sustainable buildings and infrastructure. But I cannot emphasise enough that a more resilient world is only ‘Mission Possible’ with the right partnerships – partnerships where the line between client and provider is blurred; partnerships where risks are shared; partnerships where governments continue to lead, where financiers focus on long-term value creation, and where new technological innovations support our vision. With COP28 underway, my peers and I are optimistic that participants will seek to create the frameworks that will enable these partnerships to form and flourish.

MEConstructionNews.com | December 2023

PROGRESS REPORT

Final Update

ADNOC opens pilot green hydrogen refuelling station The pilot is supported by the Integrated Transport Center in Abu Dhabi, while the highspeed refueler was provided by Linde

he region’s first highspeed green hydrogen pilot refuelling station has been opened by ADNOC. Located in Masdar City and operated by ADNOC Distribution, the launch of ‘H2GO’ will enable the trial of zero-emission hydrogen-powered vehicles.

According to ADNOC, the station will create green hydrogen from water using an electrolyser powered by clean grid electricity. The hydrogen will be certified as “green” from solar sources by the International REC Standard. The pilot will be used to gather data to understand the long-term viability of hydrogen vehicles in the UAE. “We are pleased to launch this unique refuelling station, which supports the UAE’s National Hydrogen Strategy. We continue to collaborate with companies on innovative technologies and lowcarbon solutions that can accelerate decarbonisation and support a responsible energy transition,” said Musabbeh Al Kaabi, ADNOC Executive Director, Low Carbon Solutions and International Growth. The pilot is supported by the Integrated Transport Center in Abu

December 2023 | MEConstructionNews.com

Collaboration ADNOC is keen to collaborate with companies to accelerate decarbonisation and facilitate a responsible energy transition.

25%

ADNOC aims to reduce its carbon intensity by 25% by 2030

Dhabi, and the high-speed refueler was provided by Linde. Through the pilot, the fleet of hydrogen vehicles will be provided by Toyota, Al Futtaim Motors and BMW, and will be tested by taxi companies, including Tawasul. Hydrogen is an energy carrier that creates no carbon dioxide when used, meaning no carbon is released into the atmosphere from production to end-use. The station creates hydrogen from water using an electrolyser powered by clean electricity. The station is ADNOC’s latest mobility development following the launch of E2GO to build and operate electric vehicle infrastructure in Abu Dhabi and the wider UAE, said ADNOC. ADNOC has also allocated an initial US $15 billion to advance lower-carbon solutions and develop decarbonisation technologies to reduce its carbon intensity by 25% by 2030 and enable its Net Zero by 2045 ambition.

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B EN CHMAR K R EP OR T

How We Build Now Tracking technology in the Middle East and North African construction 2023