ME Consultant June 2021 by CPI Trade Media

Knight Frank on the performance of Dubai’s residential market

ON TOPIC

The aspirations and philosophies of LWK + PARTNERS

IN PRACTICE

WIC Profile: CPC’s Methra Olaboduwage

ON SITE JUNE 2021

081

FOR THE CONSTRUCTION SPECIALIST

Ben Jackson explains the leadership, technology and USPs behind JLL’s regional growth

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Contents | 01

June 2021 Issue 081

Cover Story

Building-In Value Benjamin Jackson explains the leadership, technologies and USPs empowering JLL’s exceptional regional growth Opinion

Cities of the Future Architects have a great role to play in influencing changes, so that we are more prepared in thwarting or managing future crises says HeriotWatt University’s Dr Harpreet Seth

12 Analysis

16 meconstructionnews.com

Residential Real Estate Focus

Knight Frank reviews the performance of Dubai’s residential market and forecasts how the UAE’s residential sector will fare in 2021 June 2021

02 | Contents

Case Study

A Glittering Glimpse of the Future

Jason Saundalkar speaks to Dr Fahad bin Abdullah Al-Yabis about the design and features of the stunning Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Pavilion at EXPO 2020 Dubai

36 Profile

Methra Olaboduwage

MEC talks to Methra Olaboduwage, senior quantity surveyor at Compass Project Consulting about her influences, career and gender diversity in the construction industry

32 Interview

The Pursuit of Quality Middle East Consultant spoke to Kerem Cengiz, managing director, MENA at LWK + PARTNERS about the aspirations and philosophies of the globally heralded business

8 Update

News

Sobha Realty launches first of 12 towers within Sobha Hartland; Arada awards construction contract for new residential development in Aljada; Eagle Hills Sharjah launches Shams Residences; Denmark Pavilion at EXPO 2020 on track for completion June 2021

28 meconstructionnews.com

04 | Welcome

Group MANAGING DIRECTOR RAZ ISLAM raz.islam@cpitrademedia.com +971 4 375 5471 MANAGING PARTNER VIJAYA CHERIAN vijaya.cherian@cpitrademedia.com +971 4 375 5713

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Dotting I’s, Crossing T’s By the time you read this, we’ll be a few days away from the fourth edition of MEC’s annual Value Engineering (VE) Summit. Scheduled to run from June 7 to 9, the virtual event will bring together over a dozen knowledgeable speakers to discuss key themes and issues in the pursuit of greater quality and efficiency. Following the same format as last year’s virtual event, which saw more than 1,000 unique viewers in attendance, this event will comprise three panel discussions and two presentations, covering everything from best practices, to the role of technology to refurbishments aimed at boosting asset value and sustainability. You can read more on the summit’s website here: https://2021.valueengineeringsummit.com. The virtual event is being sponsored by U+A Architects, Cundall, MTWO, NEB, 12d Model, Global Construction Solutions and Omnium International - a big thank you from the MEC team for the support. I think the virtual event will serve as a fantastic lead-in to MEC’s new Future of Architecture (FOA) Summit. While we are excited to launch this summit as a physical event, taking into account COVID-19 related safety information from our hospitality partners over the last few weeks, we’ve made the difficult decision to postpone the inaugural event. June 2021

It is now scheduled to run in the first half of September and requires everyone attending be fully vaccinated. Given this requirement and because a full vaccination cycle requires time before a person is considered fully vaccinated, we decided to postpone the event to give people enough time to get their vaccinations organised. In addition to complying with this new requirement, the event will take place while continuing to follow existing DTCM regulations regarding COVID-19. Should any new safety requirements come to light between now and September, we will incorporate them into our planning to ensure that the event is as safe as possible, as well as chock full of valuable insights. Before the pandemic began affecting dayto-day life, the industry was already in the midst of change, driven by long overdue requirements in terms of sustainability. With the outbreak of COVID-19, designers and planners have been given another element to consider, so that structures, cities and economies are better prepared for potential future virulent outbreaks. Personally, I can’t wait to be in that hall listening to the industry’s best and brightest discussing these issues and more. You can read more about the FOA summit here: https://foasummit.com/ - a new date will be shared as soon as possible. Until next time, stay safe!

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Wasl properties launches 777-unit residential development in Al Qusais

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8 | On Topic

Real Estate

Contract

Sobha Realty launches first of 12 towers within Sobha Hartland

Arada awards construction contract for new residential development

Sobha Realty has unveiled a new residential development within its $4.35bn Sobha Hartland master development at Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum City in Dubai. Waves is a new 592-unit residential tower and is said to be one of 12 towers the developer plans to build within the Waterfront District. According to a statement, the tower is the first project in the district and will boast 35 residential floors and 12 retail units. Work on the project has already started and is due for completion in 2023. “The launch of Waves is an endorsement of the continued health of the real estate sector and reflection of the robust investor confidence in our brand and the immense potential for investments in Dubai,” explained founder and group chairman PNC Menon. Jyotsna Hegde, president of Sobha Realty said, “Following the phenomenal success of Creek Vistas and Creek Vistas Reserve, the Waves tower is an iconic addition to the Sobha Hartland portfolio and will see the introduction of the Waterfront District within the master development.” She said that the development’s unique residential offerings and unmatched views of the waterfront promenade that includes a boardwalk corridor ensure the tower will become a destination onto itself and serve as a magnet for residents in the coming years.

01 01 The ‘Waves’ tower project will take shape in the Sobha Hartland master development and will feature 592 residential units and 12 retail units.

Arada has awarded a construction contract for a new upscale residential complex at its Aljada megaproject in Sharjah. The Boulevard project is located at the edge of the East Village district of Aljada and comprises three apartment blocks and approximately 600 units. The development will feature several amenities and will be surrounded by green landscaping, the developer said. The developer said that the $49m contract was awarded to experienced contractor, Al Ashram Contracting.

02 The Boulevard is being developed in the East Village district of Arada’s Aljada development and is to feature three apartment blocks and approximately 600-units.

June 2021

meconstructionnews.com

On Topic | 9

Work on The Boulevard will begin immediately, and homes in the residential project will be handed over by the end of 2022, the statement noted. “This milestone is evidence of our determination to move forward rapidly with our construction plans at one of the UAE’s fastest-growing communities. These distinctive and high-end homes in one of the most desirable parts of Aljada have been welcomed by investors and end-users and will be a valuable addition to Sharjah’s property landscape on completion,” said Arada chairman Sheikh Sultan bin Ahmed Al Qasimi. According to a statement, the development will feature a mix of one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments with a wide range of sizes and floorplans, which are targeted at singles, young couples and families. All apartments come with smart home technology added as standard, while the complex also includes a health club and a shared swimming pool, as well as a number of cafes and retail outlets at ground-floor level.

03 Shams Residences is being developed by Eagle Hills Sharjah on the $1.22bn Maryam Island mega-development and will feature 59-units.

Residential

Eagle Hills Sharjah launches new project Eagle Hills Sharjah has launched Shams Residences on Maryam Island, which is billed as a first-of-its-kind luxury waterfront development in Sharjah’s Al Khan and Al Mamzar districts. The project is said to offer unique, community living in Sharjah. According to a statement, the 59-unit building is located within the Maryam Gate Residences community, which is the second phase of the $1.22bn Maryam Island megadevelopment. It covers 6,637sqm of gross floor area, and is in close proximity to retail offerings and the beaches of Mamzar and Al Khan. meconstructionnews.com

“The launch of Shams Residences marks an important step for us as Maryam Island begins to take shape. The new building, located in downtown Sharjah, is within walking distance of pristine beaches, and is complete with unparalleled views and stunning design, promising residents intimate community living like no other,” said Eagle Hills CEO Low Ping. All apartments use a striking colour and material scheme, with studios, one, two and three-bedroom units enjoying a light palette to maximise the sense of space and openness, while the four-bedroom penthouse uses darker hues to create an exceptional, premium look, the statement explained. According to Ping, open space, including private gardens on the ground and podium levels, is central to design of the residential building, which aims to promote an active lifestyle for homeowners and tenants. She added, “Residents can take advantage of inviting amenities including dedicated swimming pools for children and adults, a children’s play area and a gym featuring state-of-the-art equipment. The upcoming community park promises to be the perfect addition to complement healthy living. We are confident this building will make an exciting addition to Sharjah’s burgeoning real estate sector, with apartments designed to cater to families and those living independently.” June 2021

10 | On Topic

EXPO 2020

Denmark Pavilion on track for completion Denmark has stated that steady progress is being made on its country pavilion for EXPO 2020 Dubai. Officials note that the superstructure is now ready and the full fitout is due for completion by the end of July. According to a statement, the pavilion is situated in the Mobility District and features an 18m tall observation tower. Once complete, it will host several high-profile Danish companies including DSV and Maersk, Rockwool and Ege. The facility is expected to showcase the country’s export and investment potential in partnership with the Danish Business Council, alongside the strength of its relationship with the UAE, during the six-month global gathering that will welcome more than 190 nations and millions of visitors from across the planet. Close to 1,000 Danish SMEs are expected to participate. Reem Al Hashimy, the UAE Minister of State for International Cooperation and director general of EXPO 2020, received confirmation of the country’s participation from Danish Ambassador Franz-Michael

June 2021

Mellbin, who was appointed commissioner general for Denmark at EXPO 2020, at the end of the International Participants Meeting (IPM) in Dubai. Mellbin stated, “Denmark is thrilled to participate in EXPO 2020, which seeks to redefine how the EXPO concept can be used to bring together people, businesses and governments from more than 190 nations in a unique way to meet global challenges and harvest global opportunities. As the world economy slowly begins to reopen, Danish companies are keen to participate and share their expertise, innovations and vision with the world for a cleaner, safer, healthier future. With its global outlook, and sitting at the crossroads between Africa, Asia and Europa, the UAE provides a perfect meeting place for the event.” For the first time in World EXPO history, every participating nation will have its own pavilion, with countries clustered under EXPO 2020’s three subthemes of Opportunity, Mobility and Sustainability – areas seen as essential to building a better future for everyone, the statement explained.

04 The Denmark Pavilion will feature an 18m tall observation tower and is expected to see participation from 1,000 Danish SMEs.

Contract

Azizi awards $32m contract to supplier for 31 projects $32m in contracts have been awarded by Azizi Developments to Multiscale Aluminium & Metal Industries. The deal will see the latter provide aluminium, glass, and metal work services at 31 of Azizi’s projects spread across Dubai Healthcare City, Al Furjan, and MBR City in Dubai. According to a statement, Multiscale Aluminium & Metal Industries is a specialist in metal, aluminium, glassworks, external cladding, canopies for villas and mid- and high-rise buildings “After a stringent and comprehensive review of all possible supplier options, Multiscale has emerged as the absolute best pick for our specific aluminium, metal and glass needs. We are delighted to welcome their work to our projects – a move that our investors will benefit from immensely through a noteworthy value-add in the form of the highest quality of materials at reasonable and competitive prices, making our properties meconstructionnews.com

On Topic | 11

Real Estate

ADHA unveils new $344m residential housing development in the Al Dhafra region

more affordable and customer ROIs even higher,” said Azizi chief development officer Mohamed Ragheb Hussein. He added, “Riviera, one of the projects encompassed by this new agreement, will be home to 71 mid-rise buildings, overlooking an extensive retail boulevard, a canal walk with artisan eateries and boutiques, and Les Jardins - a lush-green social space. The stylish waterfront-lifestyle destination, which is part of the internationally acclaimed MBR City, will comprise 16,000 residences that are conveniently located in the midst of all the business, leisure, and retail hubs of the city.” He concluded, “Designed to introduce the Southern France lifestyle to Dubai, which is not merely about architectural art but also about a certain ‘joie de vivre’ - a celebration of life, an exultation of spirit, Riviera represents a new landmark destination that is both residential and commercial, with an abundance of retail space.”

05 31 of Azizi’s projects are covered by the developer’s $32m contract award to Multiscale Aluminium & Metal Surfaces.

meconstructionnews.com

A new housing complex featuring 410 villas has been launched by the Abu Dhabi Housing Authority (ADHA) in collaboration with Musanada. The Al Mughira Housing Complex is being developed at a cost of $344m and will be spread over an area of two million sqm in Al Mirfa City, in the Al Dhafra region. The design plans and specifications for the overall project includes integrated community facilities such as schools, shopping malls, parks and open areas, supported by roads, street lights, rainwater drainage, and infrastructure work for

06 The Al Mughira Housing Complex will be spread over two million sqm, with each residential unit covering a total land area of 543sqm.

communication lines, sewage networks, as well as water and electricity supply, the statement noted. Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the Ruler’s Representative in the Al Dhafra Region said each residential unit covers a total land area of 543sqm and consists of majlis (separate for men and women), food hall, two family living rooms, kitchen, store, plus two private rooms for a maid and a driver, among other facilities. Falah Mohamed Al Ahbabi, the chairman of Abu Dhabi Housing Council said the project comes in translation of the UAE leadership’s determination to continue to ensure decent life for all citizens, with the ultimate goal of maintaining social welfare in the emirate. He concluded, “Al Mughira provides an ideal residential community that combines the advantages of modern designs inspired from a quintessential Emirati environment.”

June 2021

12 | On Topic

Residential Real Estate Focus Knight Frank reviews the performance of Dubai’s residential market and forecasts how the UAE’s residential sector will fare in 2021 The adage of “there are decades where nothing happens; and there are weeks where decades happen” certainly applies to the weeks of March 2020. As the COVID-19 pandemic raged, we saw social mobility norms curtailed in a manner never experienced before. Almost uniformly, the world came to a standstill, with flights grounded, businesses shuttered and curfews enacted in large swathes across the world. Such a seismic shock would also go on to have major impacts on global economic activity, where it is estimated that global GDP decreased by 3.5% in 2020. In the UAE, initial estimates show that GDP is expected to contract by 7.7% in 2020; a trend underpinned by the fact its core economic sectors, the hydrocarbon, tourism and retail sectors, are arguably amongst the most affected by the pandemic. However, despite this shock, the UAE’s commendable handling of the pandemic and fiscal and monetary stimulus plans have seen recovery ensue in these and other sectors. The UAE’s Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI), which tracks the country’s private non-oil economy, shows that business activity stabilised in Q3 and Q4 2020, where the index registered average readings of 50.4 and 50.1 respectively. However, the PMI’s employment index fell for the 12th month in a row, where in 2020, employment in the UAE is expected June 2021

to decrease by 8.5%. Job cuts are expected to be largely focused in the transport, industry and consumer services sectors, whereas the financial and business services sector are expected to see an immaterial rate of decline. Looking ahead, the UAE’s GDP is forecast to expand by 1.1% in 2021 and by 4.0% in 2022, according to data from Oxford Economics. During this period, GDP growth rates between Abu Dhabi and Dubai are initially expected to fragment, where Abu Dhabi and Dubai are expected to record growth rates of 1.6% and 5.4% in 2021, before converging to 5.3% and 5.0% in 2022 respectively. Dubai Residential Market Review

Despite Dubai seeing some of the most stringent lockdown measures implemented in the UAE throughout the early stages of the pandemic, residential demand was relatively resilient in 2020. Initial data shows that almost 33,000 residential units transacted in 2020, down 16.4% compared to 2019. This softer level of demand was largely underpinned by a significant drop-off in off-plan sales, which fell by 32.1% in 2020. Secondary market sales on the other hand increased by 7.2% over the same period and for the first time in five years accounted for the largest share of activity in the market. meconstructionnews.com

On Topic | 13

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June 2021

14 | On Topic

Dubai Residential Transactions, 2018-2020 5000 4000 3000 2000 1000 2018

2019

2020

40 20 0 -20 -40

Total

Ready

Off-Plan

Total, YTD Y-o-Y % Change

Average mainstream prices in Dubai fell by 7.1% in the 12 months to December 2020. Price falls were largely concentrated in the apartments segment of the market, where prices fell by 8.0%, whereas villa prices were relatively stable. Average prices for new-build apartments fell on average by 4.0% in the year to December 2020, with softer demand for off-plan properties putting further pressure on prices. Whilst Dubai’s prime residential market saw prices decrease by 4.2% in the year to December 2020, we are beginning to see signs of a recovery in price performance in some prime sub-markets. For example, in the six months to December 2020, apartment and villa prices on the Palm Jumeirah increased by 5.1% and 9.4% respectively. Over the same period, villa prices in District One have increased by 3.5%. Other prime markets such as Downtown Dubai and Emirates Hills are also showing similar signs of improvement in market performance. More so, in contrast to the mainstream market, prime transaction volumes increased by 7.9% in 2020 compared to 2019. Due to the continuing influx of supply – where in 2020, 35,808 units were delivered – and existing vacancy in the market, average rents in Dubai have fallen by 12.2% in 2020, up June 2021

Ready, YTD Y-o-Y % Change

from the 8.1% decline registered a year earlier. As is the case in the sales market, market performance is fragmented, where in the year to December 2020, apartment rents fell by 13.3% whereas villa rents softened by 4.4%. UAE Residential Market Outlook

Whilst there are a broad range of measures in place designed to entice demand for residential property, aimed at both residents and international investors, the UAE’s residential market continues to face a range of challenges going forward. These challenges stem from both excess levels of supply and now weaker demand levels. In 2021, both Abu Dhabi and Dubai’s residential market are expected to record historic levels of new supply of circa 14,000 and 83,000 units respectively. Even, as expected, this scheduled supply only materialises to historic precedents, we are likely to see sales prices continue to decrease at a similar rate to 2020. In Dubai, we expect market performance to fragment across prime and non-prime neighbourhoods, whereby the former segment is expected to show relative outperformance to the latter. In rental markets, even with employment levels expected to pick up in 2021, we expect that rental rates will continue to decline at

Off-Plan, YTD Y-o-Y % Change

material rates. In Dubai, due to influx of supply and existing vacancy, which has increased by 1.8 percentage points over the course of 2020 to 18.3%, the rate of decline is only expected to moderate marginally. In Abu Dhabi, challenging economic conditions are likely to keep the current rate of decline persistent throughout 2021. Taking a longer-term view on the market, we expect new supply levels to begin to ease from 2022 in Abu Dhabi and from late 2023 in Dubai. In Abu Dhabi and Dubai, new launches in 2020 were at the lowest levels since 2004 and 2012 respectively. In Abu Dhabi, the number of residential launches are expected to increase over the coming year and given the relatively restrained levels of completions over recent years, we expect this not to have a drastic impact on the market. In Dubai, the number of residential launches are expected to remain materially below the average seen over recent years. Assuming these trends remain constant, mortgage rates remain at or around historic lows and loan-to-value ratios are kept at current levels, we are likely to see prices begin to bottom out during 2022. In prime markets with limited levels of new supply, we are likely to see prices being to recover six-months prior to this. meconstructionnews.com

Date

15 Sept

Venue

TBC

TBC / DUBAI / UAE

Charting the course of architecture, interior design and master planning 15 September 2021

About the

Future of Architecture Influences such as climate change, increased urbanisation, health and wellbeing, and - more recently - the outbreak of COVID-19, are challenging construction industry stakeholders to reimagine the exterior and interior design of buildings, as well as the master plans of cities. New materials and ever advancing technology have also opened up a realm of possibilities, all of which begs the questions – what will buildings and cities of the future look like and how can they better support and nurture our day-to-day lives?

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16 | On Topic

01 Dr Harpreet Seth is head of Architecture Studies at Heriot-Watt University Dubai.

June 2021

Dr Harpreet Seth “Smart city technologies can help us make our cities more habitable, resilient, and sustainable – and this is exactly what we need to create a safe and prosperous future that is responsive, not reactive” Since the advent of the pandemic, governments at various levels have been implementing smart city technologies to help combat its impact – using it to track the spread of infections and to support the execution of medical strategies. In addition to demonstrating the value of smart technologies, these new applications are helping shape the future of smart cities. The pandemic prompted governments and authorities to repurpose existing digital infrastructure in many innovative ways that were difficult to imagine previously. Urban planners and the design community will now need to depend on technology more than ever in ways we never visualised prior to the pandemic. As we reimagine our built environment, we need to find creative ways to reduce the many points of contact between people and surfaces. Some of the key and immediate changes to the concept of smart cities post-pandemic requires accelerating digital transformation and envisioning new design approaches. These will not only help us adapt to the new normal but also create new modes of social interactions essential for our wellbeing and make our cities more resilient.

• Embracing automation: Even before the pandemic began, we had already started to see and experience automation in the form of touchless faucets and sensoroperated doors, especially in hotels, malls and airports. Now that we have been facing a pandemic for over a year, it is obvious that everybody wants to avoid touching anything unnecessarily. In terms of design upgrades, it is office buildings and even residential properties that should prioritise replacing doorknobs, light switches, thermostats, and other touch operated objects with motion sensors and voice controls, in order to reduce avoidable human contact. • Feeling safe with cleanliness and hygiene: Without a doubt, cleanliness and hygiene is now an integral part of feeling safe in day-to-day life. As we re-evaluate our built environment – especially public places – architects and designers are adopting new design considerations in the form of anti-bacterial surfaces and anti-microbial fabrics that will eventually become more common in new projects such as hotels and spas, restaurants, cinemas, malls, and museums. Educating meconstructionnews.com

On Topic | 17

people and encouraging a shift in their attitude will also remain vital to ensuring their safety. • Striking the balance between live-workplay: With many still working from home and some firms allowing their employees indefinite remote working, people’s leisure and recreation needs will need to be reimagined as well. The design community is already seeing a rise in the demand for repurposed living spaces. From reducing tactile contact to integrating fitness and work into their homes, none of these are going to be possible without the aid of smart technologies. Live-work-play is the new design typology that has become more prominent over the last one year. Hence, the need for balance and taking a pause between each facet of live-work-play will continue to grow into the near future. Shaping the Future of Our Cities

The smart city discourse has conventionally

meconstructionnews.com

revolved around the subject of sustainability. While it is important to remain focused on our original objective of creating smart cities that are efficient and sustainable, adopting a holistic approach to digital transformation and resilience planning is also crucial. Although it is positive to see the roll-out of vaccines across the world, reclaiming a world as it was prior to the pandemic could be a few years away. It is therefore important to make urban resilience a top priority in cities around the globe. Architects have a great role to play in influencing changes to housing, mobility, work, and recreation, so that we are more prepared in thwarting or managing future crises. Smart city technologies can help us make our cities more habitable, resilient, and sustainable – and this is exactly what we need to create a safe and prosperous future that is responsive, not reactive. The pandemic is also a lesson on why cities need to partner and collaborate with

national governments to follow a consistent set of policies and synchronised actions. Though most cities can lean on their national governments for help during major crises, that is not always the case, even when it comes to more developed countries. Cities must become more independent and innovative, enrolling all stakeholders in their crisis response and recovery planning – and that’s where current and new smart city technologies will play the role of a critical enabler. While some governments might relegate smart city priorities to the backburner as short-term economic recovery plans take precedence, few governments such as the UAE have seen the pandemic as an opportunity to boost their digital investments, especially with respect to smart city components. By incorporating pandemic preparedness and reviving the economic health of their cities, such governments are definitely going to reap the plural benefits of investing early in smart city technologies.

June 2021

18 | On Topic

01 Miriam Al-Alawi is a project manager at Turner & Townsend.

June 2021

Miriam Al-Alawi “The world is already one degree warmer than it was 100 years ago and on current trends, it is set to be two degrees warmer by 2050 and even higher by 2100” Driven by increasing greenhouse gas emissions, particularly carbon dioxide, which is causing an increase in global temperatures, climate change has in recent years, topped the global agendas (even alongside the pandemic). In tackling this global issue, the UAE government has shown regional leadership in its climate change strategies, commitments, and actions. The UAE was the first Middle Eastern country to sign and ratify the Paris Agreement, and have committed to reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 23.5% compared to business as usual, by the year 2030 (one of the most ambitious pledges in the MENA region). In addition, in 2017 the UAE adopted the National Climate Change Plan 2017-2050, which set a framework for the management of greenhouse gas emissions, climate change adaptation, and private sector-driven, innovative, economic diversification. The world is already one degree warmer than it was 100 years ago and on current trends, it is set to be two degrees warmer by 2050 and even higher by 2100. In the UAE, the past six years have been the hottest years on record, with temperatures expected to continue to rise. Even a country used to intense heat and scarce water supply, the worst effects of climate change could, without action, have significant impact across its ecosystems, biodiversity, and across its national and local economy.

Most of the UAE’s population inhabit coastal areas; thus, the country’s infrastructure is also located within these coastal zones. The damage to the coastline and offshore infrastructure is a significant cause of concern (with sea levels expected to rise by one metre by 2100 in a business-as-usual scenario). Furthermore, increased demand for space cooling, resulting in higher utility bills, sets further pressures on the local economy. In recognising the threats of climate change, and in line with its action plan, the UAE has implemented several initiatives to reduce CO2 emissions, and improve the sustainability of the country including: • Increasing the share of cleaner energy in the power mix by building more solar farms. Currently, three of the biggest solar farms are under construction in the UAE, including the Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park in Dubai and Al Dhafra Solar Park in Abu Dhabi • Expanding capacity for carbon capture and storage. ADNOC announced in 2020, that it would be expanding its CCUS programme by over 500% in the next 10 years, capturing five million tonnes of CO2 per year • Promoting sustainable agriculture to tackle future food scarcity. Over $272m in incentives will be implemented to create a global AgTech centre in the UAE • Implementing environmentally friendly waste systems meconstructionnews.com

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• Providing significant investment towards the conservation and planting of mangroves • Embracing green and sustainable construction practices • Transforming up to 60% of Dubai into nature reserves as per the Dubai 2040 Masterplan The UAE’s investments in clean energy are part of a broader strategy to reduce reliance on oil and gas and diversify the economy. The investments are critical steps towards decarbonising some of the UAE’s highly energy-intensive industries including manufacturing and construction. Interestingly, the UAE is also investing significant sums in protecting and replanting mangroves. While mangroves are suffering degradation and decline worldwide, the UAE may be the only country where mangrove areas are growing significantly. Mangroves not only prevent coastal erosion but also help to stabilise coastline ecosystems. Mangrove forests also release oxygen and moisture into the environment, whilst also reducing CO2 levels by three to five times more than conventional forests. These salt-tolerant trees contribute to climate change mitigation by trapping carbon dioxide from the atmosphere into the root system and sediments, acting as a carbon capture or carbon sink.

Even a country used to intense heat and scarce water supply, the worst effects of climate change could, without action, have significant impact across its ecosystems, biodiversity, and across its national and local economy”

their environmental impact, through initiatives such as reducing water waste and mitigating risks associated by surface run off. With the UAE leading the way, I believe that strategic investment in climate changerelated projects and infrastructure could be the key catalyst to drive the region’s next construction boom, push economic growth through diversification, increase job outlook, and reduce reliance on hydrocarbons. Deep-rooted changes are required to get the construction sector to pull its weight in terms of climate change. Still, the UAE Government will be the driving force for change by implementing more low carbon and carbon neutral regulations. The sector will have to adopt new practices and implement supply chains that will be optimised to make it possible to source efficient, sustainable materials. The future of cities will depend on the implementation of effective green strategies and policies, and climate change will remain a critical concern that the world will deal with for decades to come.

The Future of Construction

For the construction industry, climate change will be a major disruptor - both in terms of the physical effects, and the policies/ investments brought in to reduce emissions. On the physical effects, the industry should be prepared for more ‘unworkable’ hot days in the summer, higher energy usage in buildings to run AC, and more severe weather events. Regional climate related policies could range from encouraging more energy efficient buildings, changing the material typology used in industry (e.g., low emissions cement), introducing more innovative methods of construction such as offsite manufacturing and modular construction, right through to the development of multi-billion-dollar solar power projects. UAE construction businesses will also need to continue to work to minimise meconstructionnews.com

June 2021

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In Practice | 23

Building-In Value

Benjamin Jackson explains the leadership, technologies and USPs empowering JLL’s exceptional regional growth There’s no doubt that JLL is a world class company. The firm ranked 179th in the Fortune 500 and has over 90,000 employees across 80 countries. With 4.6bn sqft in its project and facilities portfolio, it has built a reputation as one of the few businesses to be a true market-maker - a status best demonstrated by its well-known Global Real Estate Transparency Index, which has become the ‘magnetic north’ for every enterprise looking to cost-effectively expand overseas. An end-to-end provider, the company is actively engaged in investment management, asset management, sales and leasing, property investment, and project management & development. Yet given all this, to what extent does it truly ‘add value’ and act as a champion for the key issues emerging in - and in many ways challenging - the sector? Ben Jackson is head of Project & Development Services, Middle East and North Africa at the firm. What does he think about the company’s vision and its commitment to life at the leading-edge of an industry where change has historically been slow - and yet now threatens to engulf those businesses unwilling or unable to transition? Jackson says, “Most people aren’t aware that we are the second or third biggest project management entity on the planet. For us, that carries certain obligations and responsibilities in terms of what our resources enable us to offer. The market is moving at a terrific pace,

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and we see a massive emphasis now on aspects like the de-carbonisation agenda, sustainability issues and the impact of technology. You can already see that we’ve come a long way from the days when it was just a question of the basics - finishing the project on-time and on-budget and handing over the keys. By contrast, we take those basics as a given and then we focus on how the client can ‘unlock value’ by using integrated digital technology that will enhance their experience as a project matures.” He adds, “When we speak to clients, we talk about ‘building-in the value’ that you can extract out of your real estate - and then we assist you step-by-step, showing you precisely how to extract that value. We offer a comprehensive, end-to-end service: we can manage the project, find the tenants, find the operators and then potentially dispose of those assets. We’ll define it, deliver it, manage it, operate it, run it. With JLL, clients can get genuinely three-dimensional thinking around value.” “The market is getting data-intensive and to secure our role as a technology leader, we’ve just launched an energy and engineering division to compliment our digital delivery and digital solutions teams. This means we can take the sustainability agenda and ask the most relevant questions: for example, how do you best unlock value in your portfolio and save energy through existing assets? To provide the solutions, we use smart devices that let us understand how your asset is currently performing. Working with IBM, we’ve created a ‘digital twin’ application

01 Ben Jackson is head of Project & Development Services for MENA at JLL.

June 2021

24 | In Practice

that creates an integrated 3D BIM model for your building - linking together all the data around how the asset is performing. We’ve developed what we call ‘Prism’: this can manage and monitor all your building’s digital processes, taking things to a deep, nano level. For example, it includes IOT systems that understand how people are moving around the building, what spaces are being used most often and what they are being used for. In other words, it recreates a living, breathing replica of your asset which captures all the pertinent data, analyses it and then runs data analytics to inform you how to increase value and decrease operating costs. Clients can look at their data

02 JLL delivered project and cost management services to Emaar Entertainment on its Polar Coaster attraction at Dubai Hills Mall. 03 The firm delivered project management services on Dubai Hills Mall, which features a BUA of 750,000sqm.

to hand over a fully-integrated digital model. Sooner or later, machine learning will not only tell you when to replace a lightbulb and reorder it automatically, but also tell you why the building isn’t leasing. In other words, you’ll have the smartest possible, ‘live’ tool for managing the P&L of a development.” Defining Office Usage Post-Pandemic

supported by JLL data and know if they are under-performing or over-performing – in the context of the environment they are in.” Speaking about the end game, he notes, “Rather than handing over a set of as-builts, manuals and the keys to the building, we aim

While smart technology is the touchstone for client profitability, is it also true to say that clients are smartening-up when it comes to understanding how much office space they need, after over a year of work-from-home? He responds, “If you’re asking me if offices will look different from now on, I will have to say ‘yes, I think so’. There won’t be walled-off departments and so many permanent desks, nor we will forget the many lessons that have been learned. But the office as such will always be in demand. It creates a far more direct and vivid interaction - especially when communicating with teams and collaborating on tasks - than virtual meetings ever can. For example, when JLL wanted to initiate an urgent new initiative early in the New Year, we brought everyone back into the office for a limited period: and the results were as different as night and day.” He elaborates, “Human nature is we want to interact, and that’s now coming through in how the market is performing. Demand for the ‘right’ office space in the UAE is certainly on the rise, but the real question is: ‘how do we change the use of existing stock based on supply and demand?’ In fact, in this respect, I see a very bright future for the UAE market. We see this repeatedly in terms of the RFPs we receive.” “Saudi Arabia, of course, remains one of the largest regional opportunities, simply because the projects are on such a large scale. Plus, social reforms means people are starting to see it as an easier place to live. At JLL, we got into Saudi early, before many of the other big consulting houses, and that gave us a major advantage. Entertainment in KSA has become huge; we delivered the first-ever cinema there. The entertainment sector is generally very good for us throughout the region,” he remarks. Tensions in the Commercial Chain?

Jackson adds, “While I see the regional market June 2021

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In Practice | 25

improving steadily, there is still an ongoing issue - in the client-provider chain across the industry. I believe collaborative environments will always lead to high performing teams and in turn, businesses and people are far more likely to go that extra mile for the good of the project – that is where you get the best results. As a business, when we have brilliant project environments we always invest, either in additional services, introductions of new tech, waiving of potential variations etc. When the environment is not so collaborative it is difficult to make those same decisions as the project probably lacks the trust which is integral to success. We’re a company that really cares about service - it’s not only about the bottom line. You can see from my earlier comments how much we’re concerned with adding value. Given our scale and resources, it should be taken as a given that we will deliver what is required, and do so precisely. When I see payment being used as leverage with consultants in the market, I don’t think it leads to common trust between parties, and I’m bound to ask: are we really in a collaborative environment?” He notes, “I would welcome a sea-change towards much more aspirational dialogues, in some instances; we really can offer so much more than the basics and this has nothing to do with additional scope or fees - we have teams meconstructionnews.com

with such brilliant minds, and they should be used to deliver innovative solutions. I would love to see the market move in this direction.” Growing the Business

Jackson joined JLL having worked with the EC Harris and Davis Langdon (he was with the latter when his division was acquired by AECOM). On joining, he was part of a team of two - “and now, fast-forward six years, we have 450 people!”

Sooner or later, machine learning will not only tell you when to replace a lightbulb and re-order it automatically, but also tell you why the building isn’t leasing. In other words, you’ll have the smartest possible, ‘live’ tool for managing P&L development”

He believes the quality of the team has been hugely important in this monumental growth, saying, “We have this boutique approach, leveraging the resources and scope of a large company. One of the key things we did was to hire extremely good people: I brought some of my ex-colleagues from previous companies and they were a solid group who were energetic, wanted to innovate and push the boundaries. Critically, they were hugely keen to do things differently and embrace technology. Just look what that style of approach has achieved now.” “Coming on board, I could see this massive opportunity - the strategic consulting teams advising what a project should look like, understanding the development model, project financing, leasing and operator strategies and not forgetting the downstream disposal and exit through our capital markets teams - but what was missing at that time was a comprehensive delivery vehicle.” He continues, “Throughout the last six years, we’ve always tried to think about things like: how can we do things differently?; how can we do things better? This really is a very open, collaborative structure and that hasn’t just been reflected in the impact on clients and levels of business, but in the fact that our staff turnover rate is at really incredibly low levels.” “During that time, I’ve seen our business change and evolve its profile dramatically. We June 2021

26 | In Practice

went into commercial fit out to get us going, then retail, education and we did a lot of big refurbishments. We’ve become a major player within the retail and residential space: we’re just delivering Emirates Hills Mall and working on a number of high-profile, mixed-use schemes across the region. Other projects include Diriyah Square at Diriyah Gate in Saudi, King Abdullah Financial District and Riyadh’s Misk City, which is very much the face of the ‘new’ Saudi Arabia.” Explaining the common thread through the firm’s successes, he notes, “A key factor is what I call the ‘war on talent’. It’s crucial to hire people not only with the right skill-set but the right cultural fit. This is becoming a huge priority for JLL but it’s also a key issue in the KSA market, and one that faces all our competitors as well as us. We are spending a lot of time and energy to try and break down the traditional interview process, as the importance of having the right people in place for both the client and JLL is so critical, it cannot be down to just a few hours of interview discussion.” What’s next for JLL?

Discussing the future, Jackson remarks, “Our mission is to improve every day in what we consider to be our standard services, while growing into every corner of MENA. Then, we need not only bring in our digital delivery tools and products, but to really walk the walk and be a champion of this new way of working. Plus, we need to be an influencer and ensure that our industry can push boundaries and leverage great young minds, from Gen Y upwards.” “Smart city consulting is becoming very important: it’s about data analytics and asset repositioning. How do we take that old office block and turn it into something that’s relevant? We have the right skills, so we’re well-placed to provide a turn key solution to do this,” he explains. “Another factor is critical: the area of embodied carbon and emissions. This is a global challenge, but with the smart data we increasingly have in our possession, we can see exactly how buildings are performing. We must remember a shocking statistic here: that after energy production and industry, real estate is the biggest carbon emitter. We have the ability to take a key leadership stance and be one of the June 2021

04 In 2016, the Al Fahim Group appointed JLL to undertake a feasibility study and deliver project and cost management services for its Al Sofouh Tower in Dubai.

We’ve conserved 239,749 tons of CO2 but that’s only the beginning. JLL have committed to a Net Zero Carbon goal where all buildings occupied or managed will be Net Zero by 2040”

businesses that really make a difference. It’s a case of ‘so far, so good’, because at JLL we’ve conserved 239,749 tons of CO2, but that’s only the beginning. JLL have committed to a Net Zero Carbon goal where all buildings occupied or managed will be Net Zero by 2040.” Asked about his aspirations, Jackson notes, “I want to see my colleagues advance their careers into positions of authority. From a company perspective, I want to see growth. I’d like to see us grow out of MENA into Europe - the opposite of what usually happens! Here, we’re beating some of the world’s most respected companies, heading-up the most prestigious developments. We have these unique attributes and skillsets - we genuinely stand out among JLL’s regional hubs - and I feel we can export these into a variety of other locations. You never know, they might be shocked to see how these things started in the MENA office! meconstructionnews.com

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The Pursuit of Quality Middle East Consultant spoke to Kerem Cengiz, managing director - MENA at LWK + PARTNERS about the aspirations and philosophies of the globally heralded business

01 Kerem Cengiz is managing director - MENA at LWK + PARTNERS.

June 2021

‘They who live, see; But they who spend their lives travelling, see more’ - Ibn Battuta. The words of the famous Medieval traveller might well have been written for LWK + PARTNERS’ Kerem Cengiz. He spent a decade and a half of his career travelling in and out of the former Soviet Union, working on major projects in Russia, Ukraine, and other former Soviet satellite nations and republics at transformational moments in their history. Plus, he’s no stranger to China’s mega-cities, the home territory of LWK + PARTNERS, which - as a member of C Cheng Holdings Limited - was the first publicly listed architectural services provider in Hong Kong and mainland China. So, does a practice of LWK’s international scope aim to reflect the diversity of local cultures and imprint a local flavour in the region’s structures? Is there a local motif, or theme, at work in each region? “Well,” says Kerem, “It’s specific to each project, and that local context doesn’t just work at a national or regional level. For example, if you take the UAE, each of the most active emirates in terms of development - Abu Dhabi, Dubai and Sharjah - has its own unique approach to urbanisation, so it’s not a question of finding something that we aim to impose across the emirates, but rather, working in a way that’s contextually relevant to what a society is doing. Sharjah probably has

the most recognisable grain to its community, insofar as its centre is very permeable and easy to walk. So, we’d want to follow that model and work on-scale, aligned with what the local community expects. Everything we do seeks to be contextually relevant.” He adds, “In Saudi, we’re often being asked to incorporate, visually, the architectural heritage of a particular region, using a local cultural vernacular, with respect for traditional materials and finishes. There, we find a more deliberate approach to projecting traditions and that can lead to interesting challenges with seeing historic materials and design approaches in a variety of new and unexpected settings”. Asked about smart and future city blueprinting and whether LWK is being asked to play a major role in the digital transformation of urban landscape and lifestyles, Cengiz explains, “We are geared up to do so but haven’t yet had significant opportunities to engage with digital transformation, twinning and smart city work in the Middle East, because here the emphasis tends to be around how governments manage the business of governance, as opposed to conceiving integrated smart landscapes. A good example is Dubai with its smart apps etc, rather than blueprinting smart infrastructure as such.” “In China, though, we see giga projects where these factors are multi-tiered and designed in from day one. That’s because, in meconstructionnews.com

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China, the priorities are very different: they have the huge logistical challenge of somehow getting another 30% of the population to move into urban environments in the next 30-50 years. China has succeeded because it often has a clean sheet to start working on, in this way it took its people out of poverty, so it’s very important that China is always moving forward and adapting to precepts of future proofing and expandability. But, how do you absorb the capacity of cities of 25m people to double in scale? You do so by enhancing infrastructure, installing and manifesting smart solutions across infrastructure and communication.” He continues, “To get involved in smart city solutions as an architect is often difficult, due to the limitations of scale - but engineers

02 The Hanging Garden Bridge (Sky Garden) concept that the firm came up with is loosely based on the Hanging Gardens of Babylon. 03 As part of a design brief for better urban connectivity in Dubai, the firm also proposed a suspended transit system, also known as Skypods.

tend to get involved in this aspect much more. Engineering companies are coming into this in the most integrated way they can - and one hopes a broader engagement with their initiatives in terms of the wider development community can make our lives better.” He notes, “Looking at the local picture, the 2040 plans for Dubai may see a smarter, more

connected and sustainable city emerge and begin to overcome these challenges.” Pandemic Driven Changes

Discussing whether the outbreak of COVID-19 has impacted design requirements in the region, Kerem states, “It’s really too early to tell. We won’t ever go back to where we were, because the pandemic is now endemic. It will impact the way we live our lives and the way we use spaces more than by just responding to social distancing regulations. When we use spaces in different ways, that space itself becomes something very different - and we are starting to see new models emerge, certainly.” “Yet this raises a number of questions. Will we see environments that impose control over how space is used? Well, maybe those changes will be more manifested in institutional buildings than in privately-owned ones. We can already see how technology is transforming the use of public buildings and this means that, for many functions, we don’t need to leave our homes; this has been a big focus of many governments over the last 12 months. The pandemic has opened our eyes to the way that these things are achievable. It’s not as hard as we once assumed: the community is now more willing to embrace change despite potential issues around privacy and data protection.” He elaborates, “How fundamental these changes will be, I really don’t know. But many employers realise that staff can work from home and there’s no reason to bring them back to the workplace on a regular basis.” “Let’s ask another question, too. We create places to do things, but the question is, do we need to stay the way we always were? For example, in any given city, do we need a delineated downtown financial district? Already that idea of creating big office buildings in a central business district seems very defunct. This seems like the world of 20 years ago.” The Value of Technology

June 2021

The industry has slowly been adopting modern tools, with BIM being perhaps the most visible in recent times. Discussing the impact BIM has had in the region thus far and where true value can be found, Cengiz notes that certain organisations may benefit more than others. meconstructionnews.com

“What’s really valuable is that if you have a number of assets scattered around the emirate of Dubai, let’s say, BIM can empower and transform your cost-effectiveness. If you’ve established a Digital Twin of your assets and business infrastructure, you can look at your supply chain in a very dynamic way. You can understand the performance of all elements in your digital ecosystem, you can accurately plan financially, and can be more strategic in terms of how you manage your business, the workforce, and streamline your costs.” He adds, “That process has value at scale but if you’re an individual developer, doing just one tower, why would you bother? BIM will make the design and procurement process more efficient, but is still viewed by some as not yielding the same benefits for the smaller player as yet, due to the perceived increase in capital costs - but make no mistake: as more time goes on, no-one will talk about BIM - it will just be the way we work.” “Even though our sister company ‘isBIM’ has BIM in its name, their biggest business isn’t BIM, it’s managing big data and creating new technology. Used effectively, big data means leveraging immense increments in terms of efficiency and delivery. For example, we digitised all the outlets of a 9,000-outlet convenience store in Japan (a well-known American franchise), and all this can be managed with just 200 people!” Quality is King

Asked if the practice is aesthetically led, with commitments to particular design philosophies and schools, Cengiz responds, “No, we are meconstructionnews.com

not a brand architect in that sense. We’re described by some as a commercial practice, and while labels are largely irrelevant, creating good architecture with a commercial overlay can often be more challenging than creating a style of architecture that doesn’t have this as a core driver.” “Yet, at the same time, so-called niche practices are leading the charge in commercial architecture and the boundaries are becoming blurred. Our focus is about quality. Everything we do, we try to do it with quality - whether it’s the design, the materials or the service, and that’s true wherever in the world we are delivering a piece of architecture.” “I’d also say although we work on a portfolio of highly significant projects, even the largest practices are offered much less ‘nationbranding’ work than people might imagine. There is very little of that in the world. Having said that, the work we do in China is largely

Our focus is about quality. Everything we do, we try to do it with quality - whether it’s the design, the materials or the service, and that’s true wherever in the world we are delivering a piece of architecture”

04 The practice designed Abu Dhabi Maritime’s ‘Community Activation Programme’ pilot project for Abu Dhabi Ports.

about nation-branding, but really, few people anywhere in the world are given carte blanche. I did, however, come close to this, working on several transformative projects across the former Soviet Union back in 2005 - 2010. This involved a series of remarkable meetings and presentations. That was a profound example of architecture playing a major role in hallmarking a period of change - an exciting time. I believe, though, that we see a very similar moment currently in KSA and we are involved in such projects there today, which is a privilege.” Future Contributions

Asked about the firm’s goals going forward, Cengiz notes LWK + PARTNERS is motivated by several key focuses. “We’re not champions of a single approach or style. We’re advocates of knowledge, innovation, thought, sharing and discourse to perpetuate relevant and quality outcomes, so I hope that a future trend will be how society and partners move towards this shared goal with us, first and foremost.” He concludes, “The trend will be creating sustainable places and buildings that are designed for people, are livable and create opportunity. We try to look for longevity. This is the approach we will continue with and the reality is, our being responsive to place, people, cultures and needs has led us to some very successful outcomes.” June 2021

June 2021

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A Glittering Glimpse of the Future Jason Saundalkar speaks to Dr Fahad bin Abdullah Al-Yabis about the design and features of the spectacular Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Pavilion at EXPO 2020 Last year on 29 November, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) Pavilion announced the close of construction and readiness for EXPO 2020 Dubai, which opens on 1 October, 2021. The pavilion was designed by architecture firm Boris Micka Associates and here Jason Saundalkar talks to Dr Fahad bin Abdullah Al-Yabis, commissioner general and project director for the KSA Pavilion to discuss its design and key features. What was the inspiration for the unique design of the KSA Pavilion?

It comes from the dynamic culture and abundant energy found in the Kingdom. The Kingdom and its leadership are ambitious and determined to create a better future for their people, connecting them to the world. To portray this vision, we designed a simple prism, intending to create a clear and powerful statement about the determination of Saudi society, for whom the sky is the limit. The 2,030 sparkling crystals represent the goals of Vision 2030; each crystal symbolises the bright future to which this Vision is already giving rise. What are the pavilion’s sustainable features? What impact will they have? meconstructionnews.com

The pavilion has achieved LEED version 4 Platinum rating, making it among the most sustainable developments at the site and beyond. The certification was a result of the careful assessment of local climatic conditions – high in heat and humidity – and the tailoring of the pavilion to these conditions. The design blends in with its surrounding area, leveraging adaptive landscaping to create shaded open spaces; it also embraces sustainable mobility, featuring a parking area for bicycles and green vehicles. It integrates local and regional ecosystems and preserves the biodiversity of the environment by maximising green, open spaces. The design also reduces heat and pollution in the air from nearby construction activities. The efficient use of water is also paramount, given the location’s hot climate. The design reduces indoor water usage by 82% and outdoor usage by 100% through features such as water metering and sub-metering, ultra-efficient water fixtures, native and adaptive plants, and a highly efficient irrigation system. The designer, Dar, with the support of the Aramco team, was able to save a minimum of 24% annual energy spend, with around 9% provision for on-site renewable energy generation by means of rooftop-integrated photovoltaic panels. June 2021

The project also minimises embodied energy and other impacts associated with the extraction, processing, transport, maintenance, and disposal of building materials through a range of techniques. These include the use of lifecycle information and environmental product declaration to improve product selection for the project, responsibly sourced raw materials, and incorporating effective construction and demolition waste management plans.

01 The KSA Pavilion is the second largest pavilion after the hosting country, spanning an area of 13,069sqm. 02 It features 2,030 crystals which reflect the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 plan. 650 solar panels are also located on the building. 03 Dr Fahad bin Abdullah Al-Yabis, commissioner general and project director for the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Pavilion at EXPO 2020.

How was the KSA Pavilion constructed? Did it leverage modular construction or

What is the plan for the pavilion following

other modern construction methods?

the conclusion EXPO 2020 Dubai?

The pavilion is a simple geometric volume; modular construction is used and applicable to most components – from structure to final finishes. It was designed with basic materials and components - the only elements that were imported are the LED screens, which are not produced in the UAE. Complexity does not come from complicated material but rather the intersection of quality materials. Modularity also proved to be highly intrinsic to a sustainable built environment, increasing construction productivity. Project modularity also has environmental benefits, reducing the amount of waste to landfill and reducing consumption of energy and water during 02 construction activities on site.

The pavilion is going to be one of the EXPO’s legacy buildings. It will stay on-site and will be repurposed for future use.

June 2021

The KSA Pavilion was the first to be completed and awarded the Certificate of Temporary Occupation at EXPO 2020. Did the interior layout of the pavilion change in response to COVID-19? How will the pavilion manage the high number of visitors expected and keep them safe?

Due to the design of the visitor experience, which is a free one-directional flow, there was no need to change the interior layout, as it already meets COVID-19 distancing requirements. Crowd management can be activated at the point of entry, in line with the prevailing COVID-19 guidelines. What are some of the structure’s SMART features and what will they offer visitors?

What impact did COVID-19 and the postponement of EXPO 2020 have on the pavilion’s delivery? How was this tackled?

The main structure was completed before COVID-19 travel restrictions, therefore the delivery was not much affected. Most of the remaining works were executed independently in workshops within and outside the UAE. The main contractor and the client project management site team were useful in reviewing the master program and adjusting new dates for the phase-out site deliveries and installations.

The pavilion will be integrated with the EXPO’s visitor entry app. Separately, it will make content throughout the pavilion available through scanning QR codes, to amplify the visitor experience. The building also includes one of the most technologically advanced AV systems, which will guarantee a fascinating experience for visitors. Key features are as follows: Open Square and Pavilion Surface: The pavilion has a façade with an embedded screen into mirrored surface modules. The floor meconstructionnews.com

On Site | 35

of the plaza consists of LED cobblestones that allows the composition of an image on a screen. Each of the two surfaces will act independently. The laterals of the building have LED lettering and the roof, several futuristic tracks ending with skyline lasers. We divided the exterior of the pavilion into four zones: 1. Open Square Ceiling: The Façade has an embedded screen made of transparent LED mesh of 33m x 40m which allows visitors inside to look at the open plaza below 2. Façade sides: The lettering of both sides of the building is composed by IP65 LED panels of 500mm x 1000mm forming strips and covering a total of 232m2 3. Plaza floor: The plaza floor is composed of RGB LED nodes embedded in cobblestones with a custom glass diffuser. Screen size of 22m x 40m. Custom made cobblestones of 150mm x 150mm. Cobblestones will be mounted into a concrete floor attached to a back-box for maintenance proposes. There are nine LED nodes per square metre 4. Daily Show: A/V equipment to perform the daily show in the Open Square of the pavilion. The lighting equipment consists of a set of 18 moving-head units (1.500Watts/ each) and a digital mixer to operate the show manually. The sound system is formed by 12 self-powered speakers installed in the surroundings of the Open Square area. Wireless microphones and a digital sound mixer will be also provided

reconstructions of the most important elements of Saudi history. Large reconstructions of Saudi historical sites and buildings leading up to recently-constructed buildings, including Hegra, Historical Diriyah, Masmak Fort, Al Faisaliyah building, Kingdom Center, and King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture, among others. The scenography will be illuminated with multiple RGB LED spots. A black truss structure will be installed in the ceiling parallel to the escalator. The sound system features 12 pendant speakers (12in) installed following the path of the escalator. Maximum continuous SPL of 106dB (each). Land A large circular opening in the floor that will allow visitors to watch a HD show from a balcony; this will create the feeling of flying over the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Enhanced satellite 3D images will fly over the Kingdom’s most significant places, zooming in and out. The overall purpose is to understand the Kingdom’s vast area and its diverse natural and urban environment. Mecca, Medina, the Red Sea, Riyadh, Abha, Al Qarah

Mountain, Saiysad National Park, Uruq Bani Ma’Arid, Dammam, Palm Farms and others will be part of the experience. People A large semi-circular wall overseeing the land area will be covered with tablet PCs. The lower level is interactive, with live feeds from Instagram and Facebook projected on interactive screens. The system could also be used as a large pixel matrix to present huge images, divided by groups of pixels. Moreover, a lighting control system reduces energy consumption by dimming exhibition lights in response to building events and turning lights off when the room is vacant. Your closing thoughts on the KSA Pavilion?

On top of the incredible experience that visitors are going to have inside the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Pavilion, guests will also enjoy the exterior plaza. We hope that the Open Square will become a gathering place and a meeting point for all EXPO visitors, and a visual landmark for photography.

Welcome Area The Welcome Area is composed of two parts – a waiting area with a digital fountain that is activated by the flow of visitors, and the King’s and the Crown Prince’s salute area with semicircular LED screen. The semi-circular LED screen will follow the curved wall of the entrance hall creating a display of 26m x 4m. Total 120m2 2.6mm LED pixel pitch, without glass front (direct view). An aluminum secondary structural frame will ensure accuracy of levelling and alignment of the screen panels. The sound system is comprised of 8 ceiling-speakers (12in) installed along the LED screen with a Maximum SPL of 106dB (each). Heritage (Glorious Path) An ascending path with scenography and meconstructionnews.com

June 2021

36 | On Site

June 2021

meconstructionnews.com

On Site | 37

Methra Olaboduwage “If you are a strong-minded individual, who is driven to work hard and smart, you can enjoy success in your career irrespective of gender” Following our special edition dedicated to women in the construction industry, Middle East Consultant continues to share the inspiration and experiences of women working in the male-dominated industry across the GCC. Here, we catch up with Methra Olaboduwage, senior quantity surveyor at Compass Project Consulting. What drove you to get into construction?

After completing my A-Levels, I applied and was selected for a Quantity Surveying degree at the University of Moratuwa, Sri Lanka. The decision to follow this path came about through discussions with my friends and peers, as it became apparent that quantity surveying was a fast-emerging skill-set, with great potential opportunities, and tied in well with my interest in working in the construction field. After completing my degree and working in the industry, I quickly realised that this is the right profession for me; I’m really enjoying it, specifically working within the Middle East region on its varied projects.

I began my career as a quantity surveyor in Sri Lanka and after one and half years I moved to Dubai, in early 2008. During my time in Dubai, I had the opportunity to contribute within leading consultant companies as a senior quantity surveyor and on several prestigious projects, which allowed me to grow my experience in both pre- and post-contract areas. In my desire to grow my professional capabilities, I then also became a member of the Australian institute of Quantity Surveyors in 2010 and then went on to obtain my accreditation as a member of the Royal Institute of Charted Surveyors in 2012. Both are key achievements in my career and milestones of my own growth. Besides fairness and being the right thing to do, diversity in the construction industry is important because of the value women can bring to employers, clients, and customers. How have you made your mark in the industry working on projects and what is your proudest moment?

Share a brief about your career, mentioning key achievements. meconstructionnews.com

I believe that the most important thing is gaining the trust of the team you are working June 2021

38 | On Site

with, whether you are a female of male. I am continuously working harder and smarter to deliver my services to the highest quality standards possible. It is simple: when your peers understand that you are more than capable to see the project in its entirety and will deliver success on the job, it eases smooth running within the team and ultimately ensures the client enjoys the best outcome. Being honest and responsible will always give you a positive impact on your career too! I feel proud of the progress I’ve made so far in my career, with the positive feedback from my clients and management, and I am continuing to strive to maintain the same growth. This - overall - makes me very proud, as a successful woman and as an individual.

management positions in companies. Claire Tromp who is a director here at Compass is a benchmark. Nowadays, more and more women have come through the ranks where they may have begun their careers in their home-countries and have developed their professions further here in the Middle East - one of the most exciting, mature, yet flourishing markets in the world. These women are in-turn inspiring future generations of ladies to reach for their goals, with education and knowledge becoming readily available, easily shared and definitely more inclusive. Everyone has a part to play in diversity

Women should not be afraid to enter the construction industry. If you can prove and rightly demonstrate your capabilities, noone can stop you from reaching the highest level of your career. Nothing is impossible”

and equal pay. What would you like to see government authorities and

What are some of the barriers to women

construction firms do to increase diversity

entering the construction industry?

and make pay a level playing field?

What was your personal experience?

In my personal experience, I have not faced any specific barriers to entering to the construction industry, and I do not believe the barriers stopping women to enter into the construction industry are as rigid as they were once upon a time. If you are a strong-minded individual, who is driven to work hard and smart, you can enjoy success in your career irrespective of gender. One challenge which could be better addressed is the balance of work and family commitments, which can be difficult for women across most sectors, as generally women perform a large share of household and family commitments. From experience, this is perhaps my greatest challenge.

Governments should investigate implementing laws on the minimum percentage of contributing female employees within construction companies, perhaps with incentives for those companies who drive these initiatives. This will open opportunities for women to enter to the various roles in the construction industry. Here at Compass, we have recently taken on a few graduate Saudi women who are quickly learning the ropes with our teams in our Riyadh and Jeddah offices. These sort of opportunities truly open terrific starts to the development of the future construction professionals (be they men or women). Hopefully, these programs will also help in bridging any gender pay gaps.

The GCC construction sector is still

Besides authorities and

has your experience been working in

male dominated, however diversity

construction firms, who else can

the GCC construction sector? If you

is beginning to increase. If you agree

play a part in increasing diversity

have worked in markets outside the

with this statement, comment on

and balancing pay scales?

GCC, how does your experience here

what is driving this change and how

Schools and other educational institutes must play a major role in highlighting the value of construction occupations for women, both as a viable and enjoyable career path. Perhaps more can be done in the way of introducing extra-curricular activities to develop the leadership skills and training programs within the courses on offer, or even prior to tertiary education. I believe such

compare with what you’ve experienced

activities can be built into earlier education courses safely. As a woman in the industry, what

you see the GCC markets changing in the coming years? If you do not agree with this statement, share your thoughts on the sector.

Nowadays we see many inspirational ladies in the built environment, most of who began climbing the career ladder early in their careers, and having gone on to reach top June 2021

and observed in other markets?

My career has exposed me to projects and companies in the UAE and Sri Lanka. In my experience, I don’t see significant difference working as a woman in both markets irrespective of gender, women have worked hard over the years to prove their worth and to receive near equal opportunities as men. meconstructionnews.com

On Site | 39

company’s cost management division. It is also great to see the many new ladies who have joined the company in the past couple of months. At the moment, I think that the number of women are catching up to the men very quickly! How does Compass Project Consulting approach diversity in the workplace? What more can your firm do to increase diversity?

As I mentioned before, we are quickly nearing equal numbers of male and female employees here at Compass, so it is evident that opportunities are similarly open for everyone regardless of gender. Furthermore, I believe that if a company is able to implement home working or flexibleworking policies, it would go great lengths in terms of supporting women to continue their career successfully, with courage and confidence, while juggling both work and family commitments. How do you personally push for diversity and equal pay in the construction sector? Are you involved in any groups/councils etc. that focus on increasing diversity and equal pay?

In your opinion, what is the biggest

In doing your job, what sort of

challenge women in the construction

discrimination (if any) have you faced

sector face in GCC countries? How

and how did you/employer address it?

can these challenges be addressed?

I feel very lucky in that I have not been faced any discrimination during my professional career. I also feel lucky that off the people that I have worked with so far, I have felt supported, and the workplace had been friendly.

At this stage, there can be unavoidable difficulties for women with respect to family commitments and taking on more of the workload at home, while trying to grow in their construction careers. This struggle can be more difficult when we are working away from our home-countries, and our support network of family. One of the biggest challenges is also the fact that women tend to push themselves hard to avoid the impact of these complexities on work commitments, and often they may take on too much, causing unnecessary stress. meconstructionnews.com

Do you feel there is a limit with regards to how far you can progress within your current organisation?

I do not see any limits in Compass to progress in my career and I am glad that they provide equal opportunities for both male and female employees. The best example of this is our director Claire Tromp, the leader of the

With my own drive to obtain my professional memberships, I am always happy to share advice with team members as to how they can also grow their occupations. I firmly believe that we should be qualified and well experienced to provide the best advice and a proper service, to each other and to our clients. What advice would you give to a woman entering the GCC construction industry today?

Women should not be afraid to enter the construction industry. If you can prove and rightly demonstrate your capabilities, no-one can stop you from reaching the highest level of your career. Nothing is impossible. It is also important to trust yourself, understand your strengths and be aware of your weaknesses. While you are doing your job well, you will also be gaining the trust of others. This respect will help you succeed in your career. June 2021

40 | On Site

01 Matthew Tribe, principal, CallisonRTKL.

Matthew Tribe “Net-zero developers in the region have to take into consideration a significant range of factors when designing buildings” 2. Performance driven design

With regional governments pursuing key clean energy strategies over upcoming decades, including the UAE’s Clean Energy Strategy 2050 and Saudi Arabia’s Green Saudi Initiative, enabling net-zero development across the region is a key aspect of driving wider sustainability savings. The five key trends for enabling net-zero cities in the region are: 1. Zero embodied carbon

Net-zero developers must consider several factors when designing buildings, choosing materials which are not environmentally costly to produce, transport, or dispose of. While in other regions, materials such as timber enable net-zero development, the Middle East has to be innovative in adapting and reinventing products to be able to offset carbon emissions during manufacture. June 2021

The whole process of design has to be driven by enabling social, economic, and environmental impact throughout the design phase. When designing a net-zero city, architects cannot neglect one aspect for the benefit of another. Using smart, digital design tools to foster performance driven design is a critical enabler of wider sustainable development across the Middle East. Using computational models to be able to assess building’s lifetime energy consumption and development’s construction requirements can enable wider environmental savings in the future, while meeting a community’s needs today. Fostering and enabling design based on environmental performance is an additional central aspect of wider net-zero development. 3. Availability of digital design tools

When designing for net-zero, the requirement for careful planning is compounded, as designers not only have to consider the energy required to construct a building, but also for its operation, alongside its eventual decommissioning. Such a level of planning for the entire lifecycle of a building requires thousands of individual data points to be conceptualised, creating significant challenges for any planner. Advanced digital and computational tools can help ease the pressure on architects, with modern software now able to match the complex planning requirements of a net-zero project. The evolution and proliferation of such tools will have major ramifications for

how regional planners create net-zero cities in the Middle East. 4. Keeping the Middle East cool

Analysts have predicted that, by 2050, air conditioning will use around 13% of global electricity and produce 2bn tonnes of carbon dioxide annually. For regional planners, being able to innovate new ways to keep cool is a key aspect of designing net-zero city. When considering this, there is a key solution embedded in the region’s past. The iconic wind towers of the Gulf region have been tools used for the past 3,000 years to increase ventilation into buildings and keep homes cool. Combined with other construction techniques that can enable cooler climates, including solar responsive windows and filtered daylight, these cooling systems can create net-zero climate control in the Middle East. While the technology still needs to be developed further before being able to replace conventional air conditioning, it nevertheless represents an exciting opportunity for sustainable based climate control in the MENA region. 5. Industry wide collaboration

Enabling net-zero development is a task that is greater than any design and architecture firm, both in its ethical imperative and its scale of technological and logistical co-ordination. Planners and architects have been, and will be, coming in closer cooperation with one another to solve key challenges that are presented in the task of net-zero development. meconstructionnews.com

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