Centre Technology Around People

In 1985, the Vienna Convention for the Protection of the Ozone Layer was signed, providing frameworks for worldwide reductions of numerous substances responsible for the ozone depletion in the form of the Montreal Protocol. Fast forward to December 2021, when the UAE announced the ‘UAE Net Zero 2050’ strategic initiative aligned with the country’s golden jubilee year, with aims of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050. This strategic initiative, among other carbon negative and net-zero initiatives around the world have pushed international leaders across all industries, including construction, mining, transport, etc., to explore the potential of eco-friendly and sustainable infrastructure.

As a result of the global shift, investing in technology has become a major focus point in any company’s business strategies. As per the Global Cost Report prepared by CBRE Group, experts have specifically pointed out the emphasis around technology in the construction industry, estimating that 6% to 12% of the total budget of construction companies is being allocated for technology, which is expected to grow by two-fold by 2040.

There is no question that these technological integrations and transformations are necessary for long-term sustainability, however, it is equally important for these transformations to be centred around people, such as residents.

Digital transformation in buildings is not introduced post construction, it starts in the design stages, continues through construction and the benefits are seen upon project handover. Whether the building goals are focused on security, customer experience or carbon reduction, technology is key in maximising productivity and producing data for better future decision-making.

From an asset management perspective, several technologies have become readily available throughout the years, allowing asset managers to improve on their existing operations through proper implementation and utilisation that revolves around creating a healthier and more secure home for residents.

Some of these technologies are:

1. IOT AND SMART APPS

Following the principle of netzero emissions, IoT is an essential technology when it comes to collecting information on energy savings and reducing carbon footprint. Different smart apps can be integrated around buildings for various applications, including HVAC systems for monitoring indoor air quality and energy usage, both of which play an important role in residents’ health and safety. IoT sensors collect data and provide realtime information on air quality inside buildings, they detect humidity and CO2 levels and notify managers if any harmful contaminants are detected. On the other hand, applying smart lighting allows the utilisation of information collected from IoT sensors to optimise energy usage in each area based on occupancy at different times; therefore, one doesn’t have to wait for monthly utility bills and actions can be taken instantly. Over time, smart lighting can save businesses significant costs, if applied correctly.

2. NARROWBAND IOT (NB-IOT)

This Low Power Wide Area (LPWA) technology could potentially be implemented at any site, eliminating the use of long wires that spread out to connect devices from different locations to one another. NB-IoT works through transferring signals between devices wirelessly like a mesh with low dependency on internet, making the process of connecting IoT devices simpler and more efficient. This technology can be very useful if a manager is looking to connect a building’s smart CCTV’s or other smart devices across facilities, further enhancing buildings’ security systems. With other benefits being reduced power consumption, extended range, easy deployment and low component cost.

3.

The most important element of smart community building is listening to your customers. Managers today must look into introducing user-friendly apps that engage residents with their building managers and give them the ability to voice their concerns, book available amenities, pay their rent or service charges, receive news, important notices and much more through their mobile devices. The transition to digital channels to engage with customers, results in a reduction of printed paper used for bills, cheques, brochures, flyers, etc., which significantly reduces the production of unnecessary paper waste. The analytics derived from such applications can then be used by managers to enhance operations and resolve day-to-day issues.

4. SMART SECURITY SYSTEMS

Planning and knowledge

The shift to digital transformation will require thorough planning and knowledge in various technologies, says Uros Trojanovic.

Listening to customers

The most important element of smart community building is listening to what customers want, so as to effectively engage with them.

The installation of high-end smart security systems across any building boosts the confidence of residents and gives them a justified sense of security. Installing such systems allows managers to monitor movements, implement intrusion mechanisms, visitor management systems, automated number plate recognition systems, etc., which all contribute to ensuring the residents’ wellbeing and safety while ensuring minimum carbon footprint. The conventional days where residents used intercom to communicate with their front desk or access cards to their premises are now replaced with smart apps that perform these tasks digitally. Implementing smart technology not only reduces the use of paper and plastic but also saves time.

The shift to digital transformation requires thorough planning and knowledge in various technologies and applications that can be integrated with existing systems. Nevertheless, majority of the industry leaders believe with utmost certainty that the benefits of digitisation far outweigh the initial effort and expense, and trends like automation or smart building have become major talking points for all customer-centric asset managers.

Employing technological trends appropriately can significantly reduce energy usage, carbon footprint, general operational costs and ultimately enhance the residents’ quality of life. That is why companies around the globe will continue to invest in these rapidly evolving technologies and we definitely expect a surge in innovation and progress in the coming years.

Kuwait’s PART issues consultancy services tenders for P1 of railway network

Kuwait’s Public Authority for Roads and Land Transport (PART) has issued consultancy services tenders for Phase One of its 110km railway project network. It will run from the southern border with KSA through to the Shaddiyah region.

The scope of work includes a detailed study and design work for the rail network, as well as preparation of documents for the tender of Phase One. The winning consultant will be appointed by the end of May, while the final designs and studies will be completed by the end of 2023.

Construction begins on 300MW solar PV project

Saudi-based Jinko Power Technology Co subsidiary – Al Ghazala Energy Company – has begun construction of its 300MW Saad Solar PV project in the Kingdom, following the project’s financial close.

Engineering and construction firm Elsewedy Electric for Transmission and Distribution of Energy (EET&D) has been selected as the EPC contractor.

The scope of the full-wrap EPC contract covers design, supply, construction, warranty, initial operation, and maintenance of the project. It is scheduled for commissioning in Q4 2024.

04 UNITED ARAB EMIRATES Abu Dhabi DoE inks deal with NYU Abu Dhabi for energy and water sustainability

The Abu Dhabi Department of Energy (DoE) has signed a memorandum of understanding with New York University Abu Dhabi (NYUAD). It aligns with both organisations’ endeavours to achieve Abu Dhabi’s long-term economic development goals and outlines enhanced cooperation and the exchange of information and expertise in capability development. It calls for scientific, technical, technological, legislative, and administrative cooperation in energy and water efficiency, sustainability, and conservation.

Deal signed to develop UAE’s first EV battery recycling plant

The UAE’s first recycling plant for endof-life electric vehicle (EV) batteries is set to take shape, following the signing of a joint collaboration agreement comprising Beeah Recycling (a subsidiary of Beeah), the UAE Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure (MOEI) and the American University of Sharjah (AUS).

As per the deal, Beeah Recycling will join the ministry and AUS to identify world-class technologies for the EV battery recycling facility. The addition of an EV battery recycling facility will help further increase landfill waste diversion in the future.

03 UNITED ARAB EMIRATES Khansaheb Industries signs distribution deal with LG Electronics

A distribution agreement for the promotion and distribution of LG heating, ventilation and air condition products has been signed by Khansaheb Industries with LG Electronics Global. The deal is expected to bring greater product diversity to UAE businesses and consumers, Khansaheb Industries stated.

The agreement will see the firm sell LG’s wide diversity of HVAC products. Those include units with variable refringent flow, direct expansion, air handling units, and chillers. The partnership will deliver highly efficient and sustainable cooling solutions.

06 UNITED ARAB EMIRATES Dubai Municipality launches 3D infrastructure mapping project

Dubai Municipality has launched the ‘3D Infrastructure and Service Lines Map’ project, positioning the emirate as a fully smart model that provides cutting-edge services.

Contemporary technologies will be used to provide a 3D scan of underground service lines, guaranteeing delivery of all relevant data and the accuracy of the geospatial database. This includes details such as the irrigation, sewage, and rainwater lines, along with road lighting lines and power and water lines data.

07 UNITED ARAB EMIRATES World’s first 3D-printed mosque to be developed in Dubai

The world’s first 3D-printed mosque will be developed over the next two years in Bur Dubai, according to Dubai’s Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department (IACAD).

Once complete in 2025, the 2,000sqm facility will house 600 worshipers.

It will take approximately four months to complete the 3D printing of the building’s structure, followed by another 12 months to fully fit out the building.

The cost of building the mosque will be 30% more than usual, as it is the first of its kind in the world.

EMIRATES Yas Holding launches real estate division Taraf

08 UNITED ARAB

Investment company Yas Holding has launched a real estate division that aims to ‘bring a new standard of luxury, highquality and uniquely crafted properties to residents and investors in the UAE and beyond’. The launch of Taraf is said to be part of a diversification and growth push for Yas Holding. The developer said it will introduce ‘five thoughtfully designed properties in the UAE during 2023’. Taraf will deliver curated and exclusive residential properties in prime locations across the UAE, for national and international clients.

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AWC to invest US$30.6m to renovate and improve Bangkok’s The Empire tower

Asset World Corp Public Company (AWC) has announced plans to invest US $30.6mn to renovate and add lifestyle places to The Empire, the group’s largest office tower, in Bangkok. The launch of the ‘Co-Living Collective: Empower Future’ at The Empire will turn the tower into a new lifestyle space that embraces the future of work-life integration.

With a total area of 1,500sqm spanning across the 53rd floor, the coliving space of The Empire aims to create a new benchmark for Thailand.