Al Maktoum International Airport

Al MAktouM

InternAtIonAl DubAI WorlD CentrAl SPECIAL REPORT

october 27, 2013

AIRPORT BUILT FOR

THEFUTURE Dubai is all geareD to claim tHe top spot in tHe global aviation sector

Al MAktouM

InternAtIonAl

YEARS

SPECIAL REPORT

DubAI WorlD CentrAl

CONTENTS

6

Another jewel in DubAi’s crown Al Maktoum International is one of the world’s most ambitious aviation projects

10

FAst FActs Built for the future, Al Maktoum International at Dubai World Central is ready for long innings

12 sky is the limit 14 Aviation super hub 18 ready for operations 20 Preparations underway 22 Making a mark 23 Gateway towards e-future 24 leader in freight management 24 Fuelling growth in the uAe 25 step in and relax 26 behind-the-scenes experts 26 Fuelling ambition 27 spreading its wing 28 Multi-solution security 28 Focal point for freight services 29 Partners in growth 30 on the path to progress

l Executive Editor: Patrick Michael l Supplements Editor: Suchitra Steven Samuel l Sub-editor: Sadiq Shaban l Reporters: Farhana Chowdhury, Suneeti Ahuja-Kohli l Design & Layout: Mohammad Ejaz Khan, Sidharthan l Imaging: Venugopal Prabhu l Director Advertising: Haroon Qureshi l Senior Advertisement Manager (Supplements): Philip Smith l DubAi HEAD OFFiCE P.O. Box 11243, Tel: +971 4 3383535, Fax: +971 4 3383345/46, E-mail: supplements@khaleejtimes.com l Abu DHAbi P.O. Box 3082, Tel: +971 2 6337666, Fax: +971 2 6351122, E-mail: ktimesad@eim.ae A PubliCAtiOn OF GAlADAri PrintinG & PubliSHinG llC

Khaleej Times Special Report

4

October 27, 2013

Al MAktouM InternAtIonAl

Another jewel in

Dubai’S crown Al Maktoum International is one of the world’s most ambitious aviation projects Sadiq Shaban

airport at a Glance • • • • • •

Five parallel runways, 4.5 kilometres long Multiple concourses Sixteen cargo terminals with 12 million-tonne capacity executive and royal jet centres Hotels and shopping malls Support and maintenance facilities: the region’s only hub for checks on all aircraft up to A380 specifications

O

nce fully operational, Dubai’s newest airport Al Maktoum International — Dubai World central (DWc) will be the largest airport in the world with five massive runways and capacity for 160 million passengers and 12 million tonnes of cargo per year. The ball has already been set rolling with the first passenger operations scheduled to begin this week. Bahraini flag carrier Gulf Air and Kuwait-based Jazeera Airways will operate out of the new airport. Hungary’s Wizz Air is also joining the party, scheduled to begin services at the facility shortly. emirates airline may begin its service from Al Maktoum International airport in mid-2020s.

Interestingly, emirates Skycargo’s terminal at the new facility is likely to start operations around April 2014.

Dubai’s current airport — Dubai International — handles 6,000 flights per week, operated by

Khaleej Times Special Report

6

October 27, 2013

130 airlines to over 220 destinations around the globe. Being one of the busiest airports in the world by passenger traffic, the need for a second airport was felt acutely by city planners. Al Maktoum International has been conceived with a view to further Dubai’s determination to keep up the growth of its tourism and business sector.

The new airport is also targeted to appeal to lowcost travellers who might not previously have made it to Dubai. The passenger terminal at Dubai World central, completed last year, is expected to ultimately take over operations from Dubai International.

Al Maktoum International will eventually become a global hub for the Airbus A380, the world's largest passenger airliner. All the airport’s hardstand aero bridge gates are capable of accommo-

Al MAktouM InternAtIonAl

Al Maktoum International has been conceived with a view to further Dubai’s determination to keep up the growth of its tourism and business sector

dating the double-deck, wide-body, four-engine jet airliner. Fully equipped to accommodate four additional CAT III-certified runways, the airport can handle four superjumbo aircraft landings simultaneously and round the clock. To begin with, Al Maktoum International will service cargo airlines with many large warehouses and hangars located on the westernmost part of the premises. Planners have ensured that a large logistics hub, an ultra-luxurious golf resort with suburban housing, a trade and exhibition facility, a massive commercial district, and a spacious residential district around the airport.

The new urban layout that encompasses Al Maktoum International is being dubbed as a modern ‘aerotropolis’, which denotes a concept where the layout, infrastructure, and economy is centred around an airport, otherwise known as an airport city. Dubai’s latest aerotropolis is expected to attract huge trade around the airport that is likely to be a further catalyst in the emirates’ overall economic activity. Notably Dubai World Central's masterplan has provisions for specialised zones for aviation, logistics and residential projects. Located on the Abu Dhabifacing end of Dubai, the aerotropolis will be accessible from both sides. Curiously the new airport’s proximity to the port of Jebel Ali means a high transfer rate between goods transported by sea, air and land.

While nearly half of the DWC is going to be Al Maktoum airport, the adjoining facilities and free zones are expected to enhance its value further.

First among equals •

•

•

•

•

latest estimates by the government of Dubai peg the price tag of the entire facility at $32 billion Al Maktoum International will be served by the Dubai Metro and a dedicated Dubai World Central light railway Al Maktoum International and the existing Dubai International will be linked by a proposed high speed express rail system Provision for over 100,000 parking spaces for airport staff and passengers the airport will have large logistics hub, an ultraluxurious golf resort and a trade and exhibition facility nearby

Khaleej Times Special Report

8

October 27, 2013

Experts opine that Al Maktoum International may set in action a new order of global commerce in the region. Given its scale and ambition, it would reflect a perfect correlation between economic growth and transportation. Interestingly, the airport is equipped to service nearly 90,000 tonnes of cargo annually with the DWC going to offer a gigantic range of global cargo services. Once fully ready the airport will be one of the largest in the world, with five runways, four terminal buildings, capacity to handle 160 million passengers a year, and 12 million tonnes of cargo.

Market watchers and aviation experts say that the futuristic Al Maktoum International is going to play a major role in keeping Dubai's stature upright as a major global hub. Given its sheer size and world-class infrastructure, the airport is all set to be the world’s first integrated logistics platform, complete with manufacturing and assembly units in a single bonded and free zone environment. As the world’s fourth largest air facility in land area, only two other air facilities meet the scale of Dubai World Central: King Fahd International Airport in Dammam, Saudi Arabia and Montréal-Mirabel International Airport in Montreal, Canada. Al Maktoum International is going to outshine the rest very soon.

— sadiq@khaleejtimes.com

Al MAktouM InternAtIonAl

FAst

FActs

BuilT fOR The fuTuRe, Al MAktouM InternAtIonAl aT DuBai WORlD CenTRal iS ReaDy fOR a lOng inningS Dubai Airports launched cargo operations at Al Maktoum International, Dubai World Central (DWC), on June 27 as part of the first phase of the project. The airport has a total of 36 freight operators (scheduled and chartered) signed up and operating.

Emirates SkyCargo has confirmed that all dedicated freight flights will be operated from its new base at DWC when it opens in May 2014. Air France-KLM will also relocate its regional hub to the airport.

DWC opened for freight operations in June 2010. It handled 219,092 tonnes of airfreight during 2012, its second full calendar year of operations, an increase of 144 per cent over 89,729 tonnes recorded in 2011.

During the first six months of 2013, air movements rose 37 per cent to 10,237, up from 7,474 movements in the first half of 2012. For the second quarter of 2013, air movements rose 35.4 per cent to 6,133, up from 3,961 in the three months to June 2012.

The jump in air movements was driven by a surge in general aviation and training flights since the start of the year.

Dubai Airports launched general aviation operations at DWC on April 28, 2011 with the first flight from launch customer Al Futtaim Services Company. The launch of operations followed the General Civil Aviation Authority regulatory ap-

Khaleej Times Special Report

10

October 27, 2013

proval for the facility on February 24, 2011.

Upon completion in the mid-2020s, DWC will become the world’s largest airport with an ultimate capacity of 160 million passengers and 12 million tonnes of cargo per annum. The airport forms the heart of a greater project also called Dubai World Central, a 140-square-kilometre multiphase development of six clustered zones that includes the Dubai Logistics City, Commercial City, Residential City, Aviation City and Golf City.

Phase 1 of DWC includes a single A380 compatible runway; a passenger terminal with capacity of five million passengers per annum (expandable to seven mppa); a cargo terminal building with a capacity of 250,000 tonnes per annum (expandable to 600,000) and a 92-metre air traffic control tower.

DWC’s passenger terminal will offer full retail as well as food and beverage amenities. It is serviced by one A380 capable runway and 64 remote aircraft stands.

The airport’s central terminal area will incorporate basements, which will house a fully automated baggage handling system capable of handling around 240 million bags per annum.

Costs for the entire DWC development (including all clusters) has been estimated in excess of $32 billion (Dh120 billion).

Al MAktouM InternAtIonAl

Sky iS the limit With Al Maktoum International bracing to receive its first flight, we summarise the UAE’s aviation sector

Photo by: AFP

Sadiq Shaban

A

l Maktoum International is touted to be the latest jewel in the UAE aviation crown. Besides the airport recently receiving its first official flight, the country’s sky-high ambitions to become the global aviation superhub of tomorrow are slowly being realised. The Al Maktoum airport will help reinforce Dubai’s role as a major re-export market, exerting a strong influence on global trade flows and acting as a gateway to an international business and tourist sector.

The UAE’s aviation sector, which contributes almost 15 per cent to the country’s GDP, has a rich history. As per the IATA (International Air Transport Association), the UAE is the second fastest growth market for international passenger traffic from 2009 to 2014. That is a huge leap since the early days of the country’s aviation history. The first airfield in Dubai came up in 1959 on a wasteland, consisting of 1,800-metre compacted runway, an apron area, a terminal building and a fire station. Today the Dubai International airport is spread over an area of an impressive 8,640 acres. Last year the airport handled a record 57.7 million in passenger traffic, making it one of the busiest airports in the world.

Dubai International also has the distinction of being a top global cargo hub.

The growth of the country’s aviation sector has been synonymous with the development of major airports. Dubai’s ambitious plans of a $7.8-billion airport expansion to increase its annual passenger capacity to 90 million passengers by 2018 have been met with cheers. The inauguration of a dedicated A380 facility, Concourse 3 at Dubai International — the world’s first dedicated to the super-jumbos — is seen as a fitting tribute to the commencement of operations at Al Maktoum International, which commences its passenger services from this month. Other emirates are not

the uAe’s aviation sector, which contributes almost 15 per cent to the country’s GDP, has a rich history. As per the IAtA (International Air transport Association), the uAe is the second fastest growth market for international passenger traffic from 2009 to 2014

Khaleej Times Special Report

12

October 27, 2013

too far behind. Abu Dhabi International Airport seeks to increase its passenger capacity from 20 to 40 million passengers by 2030. Similarly, the RAK Airport has witnessed a huge growth in both passenger and cargo movements. The airport has a 3,769-metre long runway, two passenger terminal buildings and a cargo terminal facility.

Known for its services and safety record, UAE’s airlines have carved a niche for itself in the global aviation arena. The big two, Emirates and Etihad, are soaring high with a plethora of accolades coming their way. Both airlines dominated the prestigious Skytrax World Airline Awards 2013 at Paris by winning the most coveted titles. Emirates was awarded the highly coveted ‘World’s Best Airline’ award along with two more awards: Best Middle East Airline and World’s Best Inflight Entertainment, for a record ninth year in a row.

Etihad Airways lapped the Skytrax World Airline Award for First Class category, receiving three awards, for the second consecutive year.

Pertinently Emirates airline, one of the world’s fastest growing carriers, was ranked number one for organisational transparency by the anticorruption watchdog Transparency International. The airline has come a long way since its inception in the mid-80s and is now the largest airline in the Middle East, operating over 1,200 flights per week from its hub at Dubai International airport.

Being on the crossroads of the world, the UAE is keen to continue its huge aviation potential.

The DCA underwent a major overhaul way back in 2007, resulting in the formation of Dubai Civil Aviation Authority (DCAA) as the local regulatory body. The Dubai Airports being the owner and operator of Dubai’s two airports: Dubai International and Dubai World Central’s Al Maktoum International. With Dubai International topping the global charts, the latter is all set to enter record books as the largest aviation hub in the world. For Dubai, and the UAE, the flight to even greater heights is on.

—sadiq@khaleejtimes.com

Four decades of innovation and efficiency.

Cavotec helping to improve sustainability Tarmac congestion. Pollution. Cable clutter. Long turnaround times. These are what inspired us to develop our unique underfloor ground support system. It consists of pop-up units located near or under parked aircraft – and can be connected to an underground tunnel, for truly efficient delivery of power, air, fuel, water and other services. The result?

A cleaner tarmac, cleaner air, and a big increase in productivity.

Cavotec is present in the GSE market through Cavotec Fladung, Cavotec Dabico, Cavotec INET and Cavotec Meyerinck.

To find out more about Cavotec and our product range, please visit www.cavotec.com

Cavotec Middle East FZE P.O. Box 61124, Dubai, UAE - Telephone: + 971 4 883 83 50 Fax: + 971 4 883 83 52 - info.ae@cavotec.com

Inspired Engineering

Al MAktouM InternAtIonAl

AviAtion super hub Dubai International may be temporarily closed to help Al Maktoum International take centre stage

D

ubai International Airport, which is being expanded to handle 90 million passengers a year, could be closed in the coming decades to focus traffic on a new super-hub under construction with as much as twice that capacity.

Dubai Airports won’t retain the existing base if owning two hubs hampers the take up of flights at its new Al Maktoum site, and could find “alternative purposes” for the prime real estate, Chief Executive Officer Paul Griffiths said in an interview.

The airport authority is evaluating plans to accelerate construction of Al Maktoum and make room for top client Emirates to move in before 2025, and could lift capacity to 200 million travellers a year to boost its appeal, Griffiths said.

Discount carriers Jazeera Airways of Kuwait and Wizz Air Ltd of Hungary have agreed to use the facility, which opens on October 27, and talks are ongoing with at least two more possible users, he said.

“What we’re trying to work out right away is whether there’ll be an impact on capacity at Dubai International if we continue to operate two airfields,” Griffiths said. “We might end up with a situation where two give you less capacity than if you concentrate all your operations on a single airport. If that turns out to be the case, clearly we won’t be operating two. But it’s not a decision that has to be rushed.”

Photo by: Bloomberg

Deena Kamel Yousef

Paul Griffiths

Al Maktoum International airport, named after the emirate’s former ruler Shaikh Maktoum bin rashid Al Maktoum and located at the Dubai World Central aviation complex to the south of the main urban area, has commenced passenger trials and is scheduled to open to traffic

Khaleej Times Special Report

— Paul Griffiths

14

October 27, 2013

Al Maktoum International airport, named after the emirate’s former ruler Shaikh Maktoum bin Rashid Al Maktoum and located at the Dubai World Central aviation complex to the south of the main urban area, has commenced passenger trials and is scheduled to open to traffic, Griffiths said.

Jazeera Airways recently announced that it would serve the airport twice weekly starting from October 31.

The Kuwaiti carrier and two other potential users represent different regions and operating models, with one of the unnamed parties not currently serving Dubai, Griffiths said. Letters of Intent could be signed before the passenger opening, and Dubai Airports aim to lure more carriers at the World Routes forum in Las Vegas this month, at which carriers plan their timetables.

Airlines are “notoriously unadventurous” in adopting new airports, though once the first few move, many more will likely follow suit and quickly take up Al Maktoum’s initial capacity of just five million people a year, Griffiths said.

From that base Dubai World Central aims to become the world’s biggest air hub once fully open with five runways able to handle 160 million passengers and 12 million tonnes of freight. Al Maktoum airport at its centre has so far been restricted to cargo operations, which it has been handling since June 2010.

Dubai International hosts 155 carriers and expects to attract 65.4 million passengers in 2013, double the total it had when Griffiths joined from London’s Gatwick airport in 2007.

Still, the airport, home to Emirates, one of the world’s biggest international airlines, will reach peak capacity in 2018 even after its own $7.8 billion upgrade, which includes the Concourse D project due to open in early 2015 after completion next year, and the site’s future can’t be guaranteed, Griffiths said.

While becoming a two-hub city is “a big state-

Al MAktouM InternAtIonAl

Al MAktouM InternAtIonAl

ment in world terms” ranking the sheikhdom among the likes of multi-airport metropolises like Tokyo and London, according to the CEO, Dubai International is constrained by urban development on all sides.

“If we don’t use it as a major airport in 10 or 12 years’ time, it will be a very valuable piece of real estate, very close to the city centre, so we could use DXB for alternative purposes,” he said.

“Options are on the table for consideration. But it’s not a decision we have to make now.”

Faster work The new airport, 35 kilometres (22 miles) to the south near the Jebel Ali industrial zone, needs to reach an annual capacity of 100 million passengers before Emirates — which might then be carrying 70 million people — can move in, according to Griffiths, adding that shifting the carrier by 2020 would be “very aggressive” and that faster work is needed even to improve on the 2025-2027 period currently targeted. Early projections put the hub’s capacity at only 80 million by 2027.

Neither split operations are an option for Emirates, with the airline’s business model based around the ease of passenger transfers between

regular waves of intercontinental flights served by wide-body planes including the world’s biggest fleet of Airbus SAS (EAD) A380 super jumbos.

In parallel with accelerated construction, which might entail modular terminals to allow for staged capacity growth, Dubai Airports is ex-

Al MAktouM InternAtIonAl

Rival hubs

ploring development of the new facility beyond its maximum design capacity of 160 million people — more than twice the number who currently use London Heathrow, the busiest aviation hub in Europe — with a figure of 200 million passengers regarded as a possibility, Griffiths said.

“The idea is to future-proof it,” he said. “We could get to a point where we greatly exceed the largest airport in terms of overall capacity. This is Dubai.

There are plenty of examples here where we set ambitious plans and actually exceed them, with the rest of the world asking, ‘How on earth did they do that?’”

Dubai must ensure that it gets its airport strategy right to avoid losing connecting traffic to rival hubs in Doha, Abu Dhabi and Istanbul, where Qatar Airways Ltd, Etihad Airways PJSC and Turkish Airlines are respectively based, he said.

Al Maktoum airport’s location to the south of Dubai means it’s also “much more centrally positioned within the UAE” and may take some traffic from Abu Dhabi, the CEO said.

The new airport may enjoy a temporary surge in traffic next year when the northern runway at Dubai International undergoes a resurfacing and lighting programme that will cut capacity by 28 per cent over an 80-day period starting in May. Emirates and budget carrier flydubai will each lose more than 5,000 flights during the period and are in negotiations over a short-term switch to Dubai World Central, Griffiths said. — Bloomberg

Dubai International hosts 155 carriers and expects to attract 65.4 million passengers in 2013

Al MAktouM InternAtIonAl

Ready foR opeRations Over 1,200 Dubai residents test out new passenger terminal

D

ubai Airports recently conducted an extensive operational trial involving some 1,200 Dubai residents to test the readiness of the passenger terminal building at Al Maktoum International at Dubai World Central (DWC). The major trial follows a comprehensive series of preliminary exercises that were carried out at the facility in recent weeks with the participation of employees of the airport and its partners.

A collaborative effort between Dubai Airports and Dubai Aviation Engineering Projects, dnata, Dubai Duty Free and control authorities such as Dubai Police, the General Directorate of Residency and Foreign Affairs and Dubai Customs, among others — the trial was designed to evaluate the readiness of staff, systems and processes at the new facility by simulating a typical airport operation.

Around 1,200 volunteers including men,

Around 1,200 volunteers including men, women, children, senior citizens and individuals with special needs, played the role of passenger arrival and departure

Khaleej Times Special Report

18

October 27, 2013

women, children, senior citizens and individuals with special needs, played the role of passenger arrival and departure. During their ‘journeys’, volunteers tested way-finding signage and the flow of passenger traffic within the new building.

“As was the case with Terminal 3 and Concourse A, it is imperative that we thoroughly test every aspect of the passenger experience across the new facility before we open,” said Paul Griffiths, CEO of Dubai Airports. “The trial has yielded some very valuable feedback, which we will be acting on to ensure we have a seamless opening. I would like to thank all the volunteers who took time during their weekend to support the trial.”

Al MAktouM InternAtIonAl

Upon opening, the new facility will offer full retail as well as food and beverage amenities. It is serviced by one A380 capable runway, 64 remote aircraft stands and has capacity for up to seven million passengers per year.

Dubai Airports has thus far confirmed MOUs with three airlines, two of which have identified operational start dates. Wizz Air, which provides low-cost air transport across 30 countries with 16 bases across Europe, will provide non-stop services linking DWC to Central and Eastern Europe, effective from October 27. Wizz Air has a fleet of 40 Airbus A320 aircraft operating over 1,500 weekly flights to 93 destinations. Jazeera Airways will start serving Al Maktoum International at Dubai World Central with two weekly flights starting October 31. Jazeera Airways serves 19 popular destinations in the Middle East from Kuwait. The airline operates seven fully owned Airbus A320s, each fitted with a two-class cabin comprising of a Business Class and an Economy Class.

“DWC is Dubai’s airport of the future and a fundamental element of our master plan which is being designed to accommodate the tremendous passenger growth being projected until 2040 and beyond,” said Griffiths.

A collaborative effort between Dubai Airports and Dubai Aviation engineering Projects, dnata, Dubai Duty Free and control authorities such as Dubai Police, the General Directorate of residency and Foreign Affairs and Dubai Customs, among others — the trial was designed to evaluate the readiness of staff, systems and processes at the new facility by simulating a typical airport operation

Al MAktouM InternAtIonAl

PreParations underway Al Maktoum International certified for passenger operations by GCAA prior to launch

T

he General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA), the sole regulator of all licensed airfields within the UAE, has certified Al Maktoum International at Dubai World Central (DWC) for passenger operations after assessing and confirming full compliance of the aerodrome with its stringent requirements. This paves way for a successful opening of the new passenger terminal building.

In a recent letter issued by GCAA’s Air Navigation and Aerodrome department, the regulator accepted the implementation process for full passenger operations at the new airport and acknowledged the “hard work and commitment of Dubai Airports in achieving the status of full aerodrome operations”. Regulatory oversight is managed through the close cooperation of Dubai Airports Airside Operations staff that work closely with the GCAA to ensure that all aspects of operations at both DXB and DWC are fully compliant with the highest professional international standards and regulations set out in federal law. “This is a welcomed and critical step forward in the process of preparing DWC for full passenger operations,” said Jamal Zaal, Vice-President of Airside Operations at Dubai Airports. “We will continue to press ahead with

trials that test every system, process and piece of equipment in the new terminal, be it signage, gates or boarding procedures to make sure the new facility is ready to accept passengers on October 27.”

Facility preparations culminated in advanced passenger trials on October 12 where the full passenger journey through the new terminal were tested by some 1,000 members of the travelling public to identify areas of improvement before its doors opened for business. An advanced passenger trial using employees recently took place early October as a dress rehearsal for the public trials. Dubai Airports experienced overwhelming support from volunteers in its trial recruitment campaign and was oversubscribed within the first 48 hours. “As was the case with Concourse A trials last year, the support from volunteers has been tremendous which only goes to prove that in Dubai, people are passionate about aviation,” said Paul Griffiths, CEO, Dubai Airports. The new passenger terminal building is designed to accommodate five to seven million passengers per year. When completed, DWC will be the largest airport in the world with five runways and capacity for 160 million passengers and 12 million tonnes of cargo.

Khaleej Times Special Report

20

October 27, 2013

the new passenger terminal building is designed to accommodate five to seven million passengers per year. When completed, DWC will be the largest airport in the world with five runways and capacity for 160 million passengers and 12 million tonnes of cargo

Al MAktouM InternAtIonAl

Al MAktouM InternAtIonAl

Making a Mark

Photo by: Wam

Dubai International airport recently saw passenger traffic of six million

T

raffic at the world’s second busiest international airport surged 23.8 per cent in August, making it the busiest month in terms of passenger numbers in Dubai International’s history, according to a traffic report issued by Dubai Airports.

According to the report, the monthly passengertrafficatDubaiInternationalreached5,999,375 in August, a year-on-year increase of 23.8 per cent compared to 4,847,152 in the corresponding month in 2012. The surge is the result of a strong growth in almost all markets and the effect of Ramadan and Eid travel that further boosted traffic during the month.

With monthly traffic breaching a five-million passenger mark for nine consecutive months, the year-to-date passenger number increased by 16.4 per cent to 43,971,839 compared to 37,784,946 recorded during the first eight months of 2012.

Spurred by the strong growth in markets such as Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Qatar and Kuwait, the AGCC routes topped the list of regions with the largest growth in passenger numbers (+289,021), Western Europe (+258,288) — which has been positively affected by the launch of Qantas’ services to Dubai; followed by the traditionally strong market of the Indian subcontinent (+163,657) and Africa (+89,533). The top regions in terms of percentage growth in traffic included Eastern Europe (82 per cent), Australasia (45 per cent), and Asia Pacific (40.4 per cent).

According to the report, the monthly passenger traffic at Dubai International reached 5,999,375 in August, a year-onyear increase of 23.8 per cent compared to 4,847,152 in the corresponding month in 2012

Khaleej Times Special Report

22

October 27, 2013

Aircraft movements during August reached 31,198, up 11.5 per cent from 27,986 recorded during the corresponding month in 2012. During the first eight months of the year, aircraft movements totalled 242,571, up 7.3 per cent compared to 226,064 during the corresponding period in 2012.

Year-to-date cargo volumes increased by 8.1 per cent to reach 1,588,716 tonnes compared to 1,469,476 tonnes during the first eight months of 2012. Monthly cargo volume contracted by 3 per cent in August reaching 184,877 tonnes compared to 190,770 tonnes in August 2012.

Commenting on the consistently strong performance of the hub, Paul Griffiths, CEO of Dubai Airports said, “The results have been very satisfying so far this year with the airport achieving traffic growth rate well over the projected figures. While five million passengers per month has become a standard at Dubai International, it’s worth noting that in August we were barely two Airbus A380s short of hitting the six-million passenger figure.

“The signs are good for the remainder of the year, the highlight of which will be the launch of passenger operations at Al Maktoum International at Dubai World Central (DWC). We have signed MoUs with two airlines and are in discussion with a number of other carriers to start services at the new airport while Wizz Air has confirmed it will start operations on October 27 as DWC’s launch customer.”

Al MAktouM InternAtIonAl

Gateway towards e-future emaratech combines online engineering and innovative solutions to support the region’s dynamic tech strategies

emaratech, a leading online and technology solutions company in the Arab region, provides high-end market strategies, outsourced technology and advanced business information technology solutions for both private and public sectors. Services include system integration, applications development, business consulting, infrastructure hosting, business analysis and process re-engineering, business process, consultancy, quality management and managed services. emaratech’se-Visasystemshaveprocessed more than 50 million applications and transactions for individuals, establishments and channel partners this year. At the same time, emaratech systems processed over 12 million applications for Emirates ID. Building strong relationships between emaratech and its channel partners enabled emaratech’s systems to successfully complete 30 million applications and transactions through its systems.

With such a huge amount of daily applications and transactions, a first-level call centre support is needed. emaratech’s call centres have received and managed 1.5 million contacts this year alone.

For applications submitted online and to ensure convenience for everyone using the online systems and e-Commerce, emaratech has engineered a homegrown payment channel: noqodi. noqodi is a pride icon for the UAE citizens and residents. It is a homegrown Emirati online and mobile payment gateway that offers complete financial management, settlement and reconciliation for all payment channels.

noqodi is a PCI Data Security Standardcertified payment gateway.

PCI certificate is the highest certificate for information security standards from the PCI Security Standards Council, which ensures cardholder and payment information are transferred safely and securely. noqodi has managed over Dh3 billion transactions last year.

While emaratech systems verifies, processes, quality checks and manages online system integrated services and payment transactions submissions, many operations cannot be completed without efficient, effective and express courier services.

“Zajel, a subsidiary of emaratech receives and delivers all government agencies services contracted to ensure that we minimise the need for people to visit government agencies to complete their applications,” commented Thani A. Alzaffin, Director General and Board Member of emaratech.

“Building this capacity enables us accomplish our vision. To become the regional leader in the intellectual property creation and business process outsourcing in the knowledge economy by 2020,” he confirmed.

Many are not aware that emaratech is behind the engineering of the UAE e-Gates since 2007 with over 150 e-Gates already operational in the UAE, Oman and Jordan airports.

Twenty-eight of the second generation of the e-Gates, best known as the smart gates, are already operational in Terminal 3 of Dubai Airports with 38 smart counters and

the smart gates are free to use by registered uAe citizens and residents, GCC nationals and 33 pre-approved countries to receive visa on arrival. there are 20 registration stations throughout Dubai for travellers to register their biometrics and use the smart gates when they arrive in Dubai at terminal 3

Khaleej Times Special Report

23

October 27, 2013

emaratech’s e-Visa systems have processed more than 50 million applications and transactions for individuals, establishments and channel partners this year.

At the same time, emaratech systems processed over 12 million applications for emirates ID

growing with rollout plans for Terminals 1 and 2, and Al Maktoum International.

Thesmartgatesarefreetousebyregistered UAE citizens and residents, GCC nationals and 33 pre-approved countries to receive visa on arrival. There are 20 registration stations throughout Dubai for travellers to register their biometrics and use the smart gates when they arrive in Dubai at Terminal 3.

“We engineer online and technology innovations today to support Expo 2020 tomorrow,” Thani added.

Within emaratech’s ambition to become the regional leader in the automated boarder control, Thani announced the exclusive reseller agreement with SRI International headquartered in New Jersey, US. “We have partnered with them for the revolutionary new biometric technology system called ‘Iris on the Move’. Our reseller agreement covers both the UAE and Jordan.

We are still in the R&D phase to know how to maximise the benefit of using IRIS on the move technology as there is a vast range of benefits for different industries.”

“One of its many benefits will be at the airports to ensure better traveller flow and increase passengers’ experience. Working closely with our strategic partner, the General Directorate for Residency and Foreigners Affairs, we will be launching the beta version of the project in the coming 12 months followed by official launch within six months. We believe that IRIS on the move is the future of intelligent traveling,” Thani concluded.

Al MAktouM InternAtIonAl

Leader in freight management Panalpina plans to expand its business in Dubai World Central and continues to develop supply chain solutions specific to its primary industries PanalPina World Transport is among the top four freight forwarding companies in the world with more than 500 offices globally, including Dubai, which is the head office for the company’s operations in the Middle East.

Excited about the opportunities offered

by Dubai World Central (DWC), Claus Svane Schmidt, area Managing Director, said: “When the plans for DWC were announced, we promptly decided that this was the time and place for us to build our regional distri-

bution hub. We fully support the vision behind the mega project to combine one of the largest ports in the world with one of the future's largest airports in the world in a free zone environment. This has provided us with a unique environment to deliver state-of-the-art hub services, linking major trade lanes via Dubai and offer services such

Panalpina hails the vision behind the mega project to combine one of the largest ports in the world with one of the future's largest airports in the world in a free zone environment

as sea-air and consolidation services to Middle East and africa for cargo originating in asia, Europe or north america. This allows us to be a one-stop shop for our clients thereby supporting them in the execution of their supply chain strategies for Dubai and the Middle East.”

The area managing director further added that the arrival of the first passenger flight at al Maktoum international testifies the vision for DWC and is yet another step for DWC to become a global showcase for modern logistics airport and competitive logistics mega hub supported by all the major carriers.

Panalpina plans to further expand its business in DWC, as it continues to develop supply chain solutions specific to its primary industries, such as oil and gas, hi-tech, automotive, retail and healthcare. “These solutions require further investments that form part of our strategic plan for the UaE and the Middle East,” concluded Schmidt.

Fuelling growth in the UAE Air BP and Dubai Airports celebrate six decades of dedication

aS a pioneer in aviation refuelling services in the Middle East, with operations across a number of countries dating back to 1930s, it is no surprise that air BP was the first supplier of aviation Fuels and Services to Dubai international airport when it was inaugurated in 1960.

From humble beginnings, Dubai airports and the Government of Dubai set out its vision to become the global aviation hub. The formation of Emirates in 1985 and flydubai in 2008 anchored the execution of this strategy to make the vision a reality. air BP has been a trusted and steadfast partner of Dubai on this incredible journey.

To date, air BP remains a successful marketing

business with a robust share of the growing jet fuel market at Dubai international airport safely delivering over 1.4 billion litres to over 40 customers. air BP is already the leading supplier of fuel at the recently inaugurated al Maktoum international airport at Dubai World Central.

Successful partnerships are built on solid foundations. air BP’s commitment to invest for growth, safe operations and on-time delivery to airline customers is the fundamental tenet of this partnership. its world-class technical standards, engineering solutions, innovative offers and security of supply is vital to serving the rapid growth at Dubai airports and meet the demands of the airline community. in recognition of air BP’s leadership role in safety and service excellence to the airline community, the DCaa and Dubai airport have awarded air BP the ‘Distinguished Supplier award’ on seven occasions, the maximum for any service provider at the airport. air BP remains deeply committed to Dubai, evidenced by its long-term concessions at Dubai international and al Maktoum international airports. it is investing in the future of Dubai’s airports, Emirates and flydubai and looks forward to celebrating the next 50 years of partnership.

Khaleej Times Special Report

24

October 27, 2013

In recognition of Air BP’s leadership role in safety and service excellence to the airline community, the DCAA and Dubai Airport have awarded Air BP the ‘Distinguished Supplier Award’ on seven occasions, the maximum for any service provider at the airport

Step in and relax Snooze Cube: The world's first modular accomodation for airports

Dubai international airport is the first airport in the region to introduce state-of-theart modular sleeping pods that offer comfort, privacy, entertainment and connectivity to travellers at the world’s fourth busiest airport. Each of the accommodation units contains a full-sized bed, a touch-screen television offering a selection of entertainment and music, as well as high speed internet access. Design of the units is made with minimalist approach with an emphasis on function. Most importantly, the units are connected to the airport's flight information system to ensure that amidst rest and relaxation passengers do not miss their flights.

Ten sound-proof units, which have been installed next to Gate 122 at the Dubai international’s Terminal 1, are already proving to be a major attraction.

Snooze Cube • • • • •

Everything you would expect from a luxury hotel in a small space. a safe, quiet space to relax while waiting for your flight. inside the airport terminal building, accessible from public areas. a short walk from check-in, arrivals and minutes from other terminals.

Snooze Cubes are located within the secure transit area, minutes from the departure gates and easily accessible.

business solutions

− Snooze Cubes have free internet access in every cube allowing you to stay in touch with your business world.

Sleeping solutions

− arrive, relax or sleep in a comfortable bed, assured you will not miss your connection flight and get to your destination jet lag-free.

entertainment solutions

− if sleeping is not for you, watch the LCD TV, plug in your laptop to the internet or listen to music.

TeChnology for you a Snooze Cube is a unique style of accommodation inspired by the pursuit of space efficiency and functional comfort, originating from the adaptive and creative spirit of a New Zealander. a typical Snooze Cube is composed of a private space. The actual sleeping room is a Snooze Cube unit made of reinforced plastic. all the required amenities are provided in the unit including LCD TV, internet access and ambient lighting. an innovative approach to the ever-growing demand of international travellers visiting the most crowded places in the world. a Snooze Cube is a total end-to-end solution.

flexible SoluTion for Travel needS For the numerous people who travel and

Khaleej Times Special Report

25

October 27, 2013

have some spare time before their connecting flights can rest, sleep, catch up on work in a Snooze Cube.

•

• • • • •

The cube gives passengers the option to not leave the airport during layovers and flight delays arrive and relax Easy to install Replace damaged ones efficiently Single plug to man wire system Size: L=2,490, H=2,140 and W=1,400

Snooze Cube SoluTionS • • • • • • • • •

bedding air conditioning Ventilation internet outlets Security Touch LCD monitor alarm ambient lighting Sound proof cubes

Snooze Cubes are successfully launched at Dubai airport Terminal 1 at Gate 122.

You can satisfy your passengers by providing them the perfect private and functional place while waiting for their flight.

Al MAktouM InternAtIonAl

ConvrgnT value engineering

Behind-the-scenes experts Convrgnt Value Engineering played an integral role in the functional and security aspects of Al Maktoum International airport thErE are parts of Al maktoum International that are not obvious and nor will be experienced by the everyday passenger. these components, however, are significant and critical to making an airport safe, functional and ready for the extraordinary, should the need ever arise.

Stretched across a nearly six-kilometre runway zone are three fire and rescue facilities controlled through a main control centre at the base of the AtC crowned with its own control tower and fail-safe network. the fire and rescue facilities were designed and built with the ability to function autonomously in the event of an emergency.

Each of the centres houses between four to six fire tenders, rescue vehicles, crew areas as well as command rooms linked to the AtC as well as the main control centre. to the south of the AtC is the fuel and defuel staging facility that receives different grades of fuel from the main fuel depot, located about 10 kilometres away. With over 50 bays to host fuel tenders, the facility is always in readiness to supply special fuel mixes or act as an alternate source to the

automated direct feed fuelling system. the entire fuel and defuel operation is run from a command and control centre located in its own dedicated building within the complex, which also houses the maintenance and workshop facilities.

At some distance is the detention and security complex operated by Dubai Police with specialist buildings for security officers, male and female detention centres, arms and ammunition depot, canine housing and training unit as well as parade grounds.

Convrgnt Value Engineering was assigned the responsibility to build these integral complexes, starting at the most challenging phase of heightened construction activity in the country. the nature and make-up of the projects required integration and coordination of several specialist agencies as well as the need to meet the strict standards for international airports. With Al maktoum International slated to become one of the largest airports in the world, performing to high quality and expectations was even more demanding.

Prasad Somarajan, Commercial manager at Convrgnt explained, “there were three challenges we had to meet and conquer in order to reach our goal — logistics to jebel Ali during the boom days, logistics within the site with each project being several kilometres apart and airside, and most importantly, require every engineer, worker and vendor to understand that less than stellar performance was not an option.”

It was clear to all parties, DCA–EP, Dar Al handasah and Convrgnt that the emergency response facilities, fuel, defuel and security components would be the key to orAt phase of the project. the team faced unforeseen challenges, individually and collectively, working together as each issue was tackled and resolved to keep the work moving onwards.

Upon completion of Convrgnt’s primary projects, DCA asked Convrgnt to undertake additional works that required express and urgent attention. Convrgnt was tasked with completing the AtC Server Farm contract on a fast-track basis as well as fit-out of the mFS Control room. the opening date for cargo flights in june 2010 had been set and it was critical that these works are ready well before. Working closely with ADPI and DCA–EP teams, the target completion was achieved and the airport opened for cargo operations as scheduled.

Anil B. Gokhale, Convrgnt’s Divisional manager – mEP, summed up the experience “I joined the team when testing and commissioning, the most crucial phase in readiness, had begun with many different and integrated systems being brought online, Convrgnt undertook the additional responsibility to deliver the AtC and mFS control room scope. the spirit with which everyone responded to the intensity and limitation of time was remarkable. I am happy to have been a part of a successful result in the end.”

Fuelling ambition Supplying fuel and refuelling services to airlines at DWC EmojEt, a joint venture project between Emirates General Petroleum Corporation, Emarat, and Exxonmobil was launched in 1991 to provide jet fuel at Dubai International Airport. With the opening of the Al maktoum International in june 2010, Emojet

expanded its operations to the new airport entering a concession agreement with Dubai Airports to become one of the suppliers of fuel and refuelling services to airlines at Dubai World Central.

Emojet’s entry into Al maktoum International highlights the vital role of the corporation to become a principal player in the

Khaleej Times Special Report

26

October 27, 2013

aviation fuel supply sector. this achievement conforms to Emarat’s aspirations and ambitions to expand its services to meet the market’s needs and demands, and highlights the corporation’s commitment to contribute to Dubai’s future growth and support the national economy.

Al maktoum International airport at Dubai World Central is set to become one of the world’s biggest airports in terms of volume and size and its capability to handle 160 million passengers and 12 million tonnes of cargo per year.

Al MAktouM InternAtIonAl

Ducab

Spreading its wing Ducab’s Dh100 million cabling plays a significant part in the construction of the world’s biggest airport Ducab, one of the leading manufacturers of high-quality cables and wires in the Middle East, has contributed to the construction of al Maktoum International airport, for which they have been instrumentally involved in the supply of cables and wiring. The airport is anticipated to be the largest airport in the world.

Ducab has supplied cabling throughout the five years it has taken to construct al Maktoum International, and its reputation as the largest supplier of industrial cabling in the Middle East goes hand-in-hand with what has been a huge project. The construction of the airport is the largest infrastructure project currently operating in Dubai. Most of the cabling and wiring required for this project is manufactured by Ducab, including LV, building wire, and a variety of specialist cabling.

This huge deal has further cemented Ducab’s position as a leading supplier of world-class industrial cabling and wiring to the local uaE marketplace. Ducab anticipates that having been involved in such a major project will also help it develop new markets for its products within the local region.

In order to deliver the cabling for the al Maktoum International project, Ducab partnered with

colin McKay

Ducab is delighted to have been centrally involved in this huge infrastructure project, the biggest in Dubai. this will further enhance the company’s already established reputation as one of the largest suppliers of industrial cabling in the Middle east, as well as further cementing its status as a trusted uAe business

Khaleej Times Special Report

— colin McKay

27

October 27, 2013

al Nabooda Group, Kharafi National, and Thermo LLc to ensure an efficient and effective delivery.

It is expected that such a salubrious contract with a major international airport has further enhanced Ducab’s reputation.

Speaking on the subject of the al Maktoum International project, colin McKay, General Manager for Sales and Marketing, Ducab, noted: “Ducab is delighted to have been centrally involved in this huge infrastructure project, the biggest in Dubai. This will further enhance the company’s already established reputation as one of the largest suppliers of industrial cabling in the Middle East, as well as further cementing its status as a trusted uaE business.”

He added: “Ducab is also keen to emphasise that the vast majority of cabling utilised in this project has been manufactured in the uaE. Thus, this will naturally make a great contribution to the uaE economy, as well as provide job opportunities for locals in line with the process of Emiratisation.”

McKay also mentioned that there are obvious economic benefits created by al Maktoum International project for the uaE. Firstly, such a massive infrastructure project will naturally have direct economic advantages for the local economy. but there will also be benefits relating to the investments made in the airport, which will make the project even more economically valuable one, such as capital inflows into the uaE from tourism sector. Overall, the project is set to make a huge contribution to the local community, the Dubai economy, and the central government’s socio-economic vision.

Al MAktouM InternAtIonAl

Multi-solution security The firm has secured its place as one of the key players in the market

G4S, a leading global security and outsourcing group, specialises in outsourcing of business processes in sectors where security and safety risks are considered a strategic threat.

G4S has operations in more than 120 countries and over 620,000 employees.

G4S is the largest multi-solution security provider in the Middle East and the UAE, offering manned security services, security systems, cash solutions and facilities management to airlines, airports and aviation facilities across the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain and Oman.

Mohamed Ezzeldin, MD of G4S UAE, told Khaleej Times that the company has a singular plan to be the only security solutions provider of choice in the country, emphasising that security is one of the vital parts of integrated facilities management.

G4S has been operating in the UAE since 1994. The firm currently employs approximately 9,000 staff and provides security services to hundreds of public, private and corporate customers throughout the UAE. As one of the largest security service providers in the emirates, G4S operates from its network of over eight branch offices in Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Al Ain, Fujairah, Ras Al Khaimah and Ajman to serve customers across a range of sectors such as aviation, local government departments, financial institutes, hotels, shopping malls and retail business.

G4S provides a diverse range of aviation services in line with ICAO and TSA standards and requirements. It keeps up-to-date with the latest developments in all areas of aviation including biometrics, exposure detection systems and screening technologies.

Ezzeldin says: “Our main focus at the moment is to concentrate on some key market

sectors where our experience and track record is most suited.”

Through various technological relationships, G4S has become a manufacturer of world-class security electronics such as CCTV cameras, alarm systems and access controls.

“In this industry it is so often the case that technology is just technology and you need to differentiate your products. Many companies manufacture CCTV cameras, for example, but G4S has its own production lines in order to ensure that we stay ahead in terms of design, and that our products exceed the customer’s expectations,” Ezzeldin notes.

The company has covered many major events in the UAE including local and international sports activities, such as the Abu Dhabi Tennis Championship and FIFA World Cup, International Cricket Series and Motor Sports live music events, managing between 15,000-25,000 people at various venues, including the concerts.

Ezzeldin goes on to outline that financial services are a major sector of focus for G4S, and the company has become a strategic partner for much of the local banking industry offering them wide range of cash solutions.

RSA LogiSTicS

Focal point for freight services RSA supports many of the world's top brands and is proud to be a one-stop shop that delivers integrated solutions to its clients RSA LOGISTICS is the first company to start operations in Dubai World Central’s (DWC) logistics district offering contract logistics, freight forwarding, distribution, and supply chain management services to its customers.

Today with business verticals expanding into chemicals, automotive, oil and gas and projects, the company is set to augment its 700,000 square feet of logistics space by 60 per cent in the next six months.

RSA supports many of the world's top brands from a wide spectrum of industries.

Its state-of-the-art facilities are ISO-certified and rated five-star by the DMCC. RSA is proud to be a one-stop shop that delivers integrated solutions to its clients.

RSA’s land transportation platform is designed to ensure superior service and visibility. All key points of interface and cross border

Having partnered with Germanybased logistics company Alfred talke logistic Services, the joint venture is currently constructing a state-of-the-art chemicals storage facility in DWC

Khaleej Times Special Report

28

October 27, 2013

movements are managed in-house. Meanwhile, RSA’s extensive international freight services render no commercial destination out of reach. Aided by a global agent network, RSA’s dedicated team applies regional market knowledge to every shipment, moving freight from door to door with precision.

In January, RSA commenced operations in Kenya. Its investments include a modern integrated warehouse complete with racking facilities and an efficient IT platform to integrate the WMS offering with all other services.

Having partnered with Germany-based logistics company Alfred Talke Logistic Services, the joint venture is currently constructing a state-of-the-art chemicals storage facility in DWC. These strides in growth are a testament to RSA’s commitment to providing world-class solutions to its customers with a personal touch.

Al MAktouM InternAtIonAl

CavoteC Middle east

Partners in growth Cavotec Middle East provides ground support equipment solutions to enable airports to function efficiently, sustainably and profitably Latha Krishnan For more than three decades, the Cavotec Group has developed power transmission, distribution and control technologies that form a link between fixed and mobile equipment in the ports and maritime, airports, mining and tunnelling and general industry sectors.

Cavotec Middle East, the UAE-based subsidiary of Cavotec, has a large number of customer references at airports in the UAE and the region.

In fact it has become the go-to provider of ground support equipment (GSE) solutions that enable several of these airports to function efficiently, sustainably and profitably.

Working closely with Dubai Airports, Cavotec has and continues to support and manage the region’s burgeoning air traffic and aviation infrastructure. “recently, we announced an important order for GSE for Emirates Engineering’s A380 hangars in Dubai International Airport. For this project, we are supplying, installing and commissioning in-ground pop-up utility pits and preconditioned air (PCA) units. Delivery is already underway and commissioning is scheduled for the end of this year. our PCA units and pit systems are in use elsewhere at the airport, supplying aircraft with power, electricity and water.

Additionally, we recently opened one of our flagship projects — the new, dedicated A380 Concourse at Dubai International Airport — where we supplied a range of utility systems,” informs Juergen Strommer, Managing Director of Cavotec Middle East FZE. The Cavotec systems implemented at Dubai Airport have demonstrated its reliability and robustness. This has encouraged the company to pursue system integration for all its manufactured systems such as PCA, 400Hz converters as well as its utility pits systems, which are now in use in regional airports in Qatar, oman, Bahrain, Kuwait

the infrastructure of 21st century airports continues to focus on reducing the environmental impact of its operations. our inspired solutions are geared towards achieving this specific goal as we develop future-proof products centred on sustainability, energy efficiency and reduced operational costs — Juergen strommer and Saudi Arabia. Cavotec is currently completing projects in Muscat and Salalah airports. “our landmark project in Bahrain, featuring our breakthrough subfreezing PCA technology, is widely known in this market and serving as an excellent customer reference. We are also steadily expanding our activities in Kuwait and Saudi Arabia,” says Strommer.

With Dubai aiming to welcome a projected 98 million visitors, and the GCC set to accommodate a total of 250 million passengers by 2020, additional airports and expansion projects are now an absolute necessity while the region strives to efficiently serve the growing travel market. As the national aviation industry has developed into a key contributor to the UAE’s GDP, a total of Dh700 billion in investments, Dh28 billion coming from Dubai and Dh25 billion from Abu Dhabi have been planned for airport development activities in the country.

Cavotec is well prepared to take on the demands of these planned expansions. Strommer explains: “The infrastructure of 21st century airports continues to focus on reducing the environmental impact of its operations. our inspired solutions are geared towards achieving this specific goal as we develop future-proof products centred on sustainability, energy efficiency and reduced operational costs.”

Juergen strommer

Khaleej times Special Report

29

October 27, 2013

Al MAktouM InternAtIonAl

On the path to progress Apart from protecting the interests of the business community, the Dubai Chamber of Commerce and Industry promotes Dubai as an international hub for business and services

Since its formation in 1965, the Dubai chamber of commerce and industry has played a key role in representing, supporting and protecting the interests of the business community in Dubai. its three main strategic objectives — to create a favourable business environment, support the development of business and promote Dubai as an international business hub — have played a pivotal role in supporting Dubai's position as a global hub for business and services.

Dubai chamber now represents more than 150,000 companies and has been instrumental in enhancing competitiveness and creating a business-friendly environment that helps companies develop its commercial activities and compete in the global market.

A leading chamber of commerce in the Middle east, Dubai chamber aims to strengthen cooperation between Dubai’s public and private sectors and has established 27 sector-specific business groups and 43 country-specific business councils to enhance communication with all sections of the business community.

Dubai chamber provides a range of valueadded services to its members and the wider business community, including issuing certificates of origin, conducting business research and advocacy, offering mediation, arbitration and credit rating services, receiving and organising trade missions, participating in trade exhibitions and organising entrepreneurial training courses and workshops.

Among Dubai chamber’s major initiatives are the Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Business Award; the centre for Responsible Business; Dubai international Arbitration centre; the University of Dubai; and Dubai Business Women council.

Recently, Dubai chamber began expanding its reach into new global markets in order to expand its network coverage, help its members

Dubai Chamber provides a range of value-added services to its members and the wider business community, including issuing certificates of origin, conducting business research and advocacy, offering mediation, arbitration and credit rating services, receiving and organising trade missions, participating in trade exhibitions and organising entrepreneurial training courses and workshops

Khaleej Times Special Report

tap into new investment opportunities abroad and to attract the best international businesses to Dubai.

As part of this strategy, the organisation has opened two international representative offices in Azerbaijan, ethiopia and is on the verge of opening its third overseas office in Kurdistan to enhance two-way business cooperation. The chamber is on track to open upto 20 such offices over the next three to five years in key locations around the world.

For more information visit www.dubaichamber.com

30

October 27, 2013

Al MAktouM InternAtIonAl