BELGIUM SPECIALREPORT
FEBRUARY 26, 2012
Enduring Excellence
BELGIAN COMPANIES ARE REPUTED FOR THEIR EXPERTISE IN VARIOUS SECTORS
BELGIUM SPECIAL REPORT FEBRUARY 26, 2012 EDITORIAL
Executive Editor Patrick Michael Supplements Editor Suchitra Steven Samuel Reporting Anil Kumar Vijayan
PRODUCTION
Designers Mohammad Ejaz Khan Sidharthan Imaging Venugopal Prabhu
ADVERTISING
Director Advertising Haroon Qureshi Senior Advertising Manager (Supplements) Philip Smith Dubai HeadOffice: P.O. Box 11243, Tel: +971 4 3383535 Fax: +971 4 3383345/46 E-mail: supplements@khaleejtimes.com Abu Dhabi: P.O. Box 3082, Tel: +971 2 6337666 Fax: +971 2 6351122 E-mail: ktimesad@eim.ae Bahrain Universal Enterprises, P.O. Box 1062 Manama, Tel: +973-17290303 Fax: +973-17293818 Oman-Muscat: United Media Services SAOC, P.O. Box 3305 Ruwi Postal Code 112 Tel: +968 24700896 Fax: +968 24706512 E-mail: alpana@umsoman.com India Mediascope Publicitas, 51 Doli Chamber, Colaba, Mumbai 400005 Tel: +91 22 613 77400 Fax: +91 22 22875718 E-mail: representations@publicitas.com
CONTENT Endless business opportunities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Belgium plans to close down nuclear power by 2025 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . An overview of the country . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Amazing stage fabrics and screens . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Retaining market leadership . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Committed to the highest level of customer satisfaction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Looking forward to a promising future . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Shaping landmark projects worldwide . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Giving interiors an exquisite touch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ocean-based weight lifters in the transportation world . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Scaling the peak of technological advancement in the region . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Spectacular cross-media applications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ahlers: Creators of opportunity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Belgian experts in renewable energy ...............................................................................................
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Pakistan Millennium Media, Karachi Tel: +92-21-5480795 Fax: +92-21-5870242 Email: tauqeermuhajir@gmail.com England: 47, Great Cumberland Place, LondonW1H7 LH Tel: +44 20 7723 5083 Fax: +44 20 7706 4157 A Publication of Galadari Printing&Publishing L.L.C.
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BELGIUM |
INTERVIEW
Shaikha Lubna Al Qassimi, UAE Minister of Foreign Trade, and Kris Peeters, Minister-President of Belgium’s Flanders region, discuss ways to promote trade relations between the UAE and Belgium in 2011. Photo: Wam
Endless business opportunities
The bond between Belgium and the UAE has ripened over the years and continues to grow strong in various aspects, including culture, commerce and trade
B
efore coming to the UAE in 2008, Anick Van Calster, Ambassador of Belgium to the UAE, had the honour of serving a number of years in the Royal Household in Belgium. During this period she prepared and participated in a large number of visits of His Majesty the King and his family in Belgium. This allowed her to travel through the country and get a thorough knowledge of the different areas, meet people from all economic sectors, the cultural sector, from universities and local communities. Her position as a diplomat gave her the opportunity to play a role in bridging the gap between Belgium and the UAE. Van Calster spoke to Khaleej Times about the relations between the two coun-
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tries and the abundant possibilities in store: How would you describe the relations between the UAE and Belgium? The ties between the UAE and Belgium are excellent and strong. Many exchanges take place in the most diverse fields. There are regular visits in both directions, the last high-level visit being that of HRH Princess Astrid, the daughter of His Majesty the King, in her capacity as special representative for Roll Back Malaria. The UAE is an important partner in the worldwide struggle against this disease. A Belgian delegation participated recently in the World Future Energy Summit and the exhibit, presenting projects as diverse as the “biofuel valley� in Ghent, or solar lights, and
Anick Van Calster, Ambassador of Belgium to the UAE
INTERVIEW
| BELGIUM
La Grande Place, Brussels, Belgium. Photo: AFP many UAE residents travel to Belgium for trade, tourism and healthcare. How strong are the cultural contacts between the people of the two countries? Many Emiratis have visited Belgium, and our historic cities such as Bruges, Brussels, Antwerp, Liège and Ghent, and enjoyed the architecture and museums there. Over the last few years, collaboration with Abu Dhabi Music and Arts Foundation (ADMAF) has also allowed to increase cultural exchanges. Belgian artists have performed here and entered into dialogue with UAE students and residents. For the future, we are looking at more ways of bringing artists from both countries together so that they can inspire each other. In another field, we see tourism growing, and while more Belgian tourists enjoy the soft UAE winters, they also discover the heritage of this country. What are the latest developments in the fields of business and commerce between the two countries? How was the two-way trade between the two countries last year? In the field of business and commerce, we saw an important growth over the last year. In the first nine months of 2011, Belgian exports to the UAE rose by 33 per cent, while
the UAE exports to Belgium rose by a flabbergasting 82 per cent. The diamond trade played an important role in these exchanges, with exchanges being valued at 2.5-billion euros out of a total of about 3.5-billion euros. Other important sectors are machines and equipment, and the chemical industry.
What about UAE investments in Belgium? We see many possibilities there. Two main investments, that of DP World in the Port of Antwerp and the presence of Borealis in the petrochemical sector, point out two strengths of Belgium. Antwerp hosts the second largest petrochemical hub in the world
Solar panels on a roof run alongside a motorway during the presentation of the first Belgian train to operate on solar energy in Antwerp last year. Photo: AFP
and the first in Europe — more collaboration is certainly possible. Through our sea and inland ports linked to an excellent road and railway network, we are a gateway to the European hinterland far beyond our own borders. Our universities are strong in research and we see many spin-offs in fields such as biotechnology/renewables, aerospace technology, ICT, etc. I am convinced more exchanges in this field are possible. Under a completely different angle, we see investments in our real estate sector, often by families taking advantage of the central location of places like Brussels, and the relatively low real estate prices. Is there scope for further growth in bilateral trade and cooperation between the two countries? I trust that both the investments and the bilateral trade will increase in the coming years. If the number of citizens is an indication, we see the Belgian community growing again after a slowdown in growth in 2009-2010. It is by far the largest Belgian community in the Gulf region, and they are active in all kinds of trades in Belgian, local and international companies. Many of them are active in engineering, construction, energy, transportation and petrochemicals. FEBRUARY 26, 2012
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BELGIUM |
NEWS ROUND-UP
GDF SUEZ launches plant to reduce CO2 emissions
Belgium plans to close down nuclear power by 2025 Apart from phasing out a sector that makes up its overall energy consumption, Belgium is also on the lookout for alternative sources of energy to avoid power shortages The Belgium Government has announced plans to phase out nuclear power within the next 15 years. The country currently has two commercial nuclear sites and a total of seven reactors. Nuclear energy accounts for over half of the nation's power consumption, a total of about 45 billion kilowatt-hours per year. Although typically quite fractured, Belgium's political parties have reached a consensus on nuclear power. The oldest reactors are to be shut down by 2015 and all nuclear reactors at both sites will be shut down by 2025. The plan is conditional on Belgium finding enough energy from alternative sources to prevent power shortages. The two Belgian nuclear sites are located at opposite ends of the country. Doel Nuclear Power Station is on the northwest side near the port of Antwerp. The Tihange Nuclear Power Station is to the southwest along the Meuse River. Plans to have the plants
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Doel Nuclear Power Station is on the northwest side near the port of Antwerp. The Tihange Nuclear Power Station is to the southwest along the Meuse River shutdown were drawn up way back in 2003. The plan was kicked into action as public hostility grew towards nuclear energy following Japan's nuclear disaster at Fukushima. It also has followed Germany's announcement that it would phase out nuclear power by 2022. However, because nuclear accounts for such a large portion of Belgium's overall energy consumption, doing away with it requires planning and investments in alternative energy sources. According to environmental and energy analyst at Belgium's Itinera thinktank, Johan Al-
brecht, citing Belgian energy regulator CREG, the nation will not be ready by 2015 to replace lost capacity. Albrecht also stated that economic developments may force policy makers to alter the plan in order for it to succeed. "Should we fall back into recession, industrial demand for electricity declines and you have a better margin to take capacity off the grid, if the economy performs well it's harder to reduce capacity." One of the companies that own a nuclear site, GDF Suez, saw its shares drop by 4 per cent in a recent announcement. The other owner, Electrabel had refused to comment until it receives official confirmation. Politicians are now deciding how much more the state will tax the nuclear companies moving forward. Socialist Party chief, ElioDi Rupo, has suggested raising their taxes from €215 million per year in 2009 to €1 billion per year.
GDF SUEZ and its subsidiary Electrabel have started the operations of the new Rodenhuize biomass power station in Belgium. The company invested EUR125 million to convert the existing coal-fired unit at the power station into a 100 per cent biomass unit, making it the largest conversion of this kind. The new plant, which has an output of 180MW, generates a volume of electricity every year that is equivalent to the annual consumption of 320,000 families and will reduce CO2 emissions by 1.2 million tonnes annually. The plant will receive one-third of the supply of wood pellets for its unit from the Pacific BioEnergy production facility in Canada, with whom Electrabel has signed a long-term contract for 225,000 tons of biomass per year. The plant is jointly owned by Electrabel with 73 per cent stake, and Ackermans & van Haaren with the remaining 27 per cent stake. Electrabel general manager Sophie Dutordoir said that the project is in line with the firms’ strategy to develop diversified facilities and is in line with the commitments that the group has pursued in renewable energy.
NEWS ROUND-UP
An overview of the country Belgium is geographically located on the coast of the North Sea between Holland, France and Germany. The country has a population of 10,403,951 according to 2008 estimates. Belgium is the seat of both the NATO and European Union and most West European capitals are located within 1,000 km of the capital city Brussels. The conventional long form of the country is Kingdom of Belgium and the conventional short form is Belgium. It is known in the local long form as Royaume de Belgique / Koninkrijk Belgie and in the local short form as Belgique / Belgie. Belgium is a secular country as the 'laicist constitution' ensuring freedom of religion. It is good to see that the government respects this right in practice. Materially and symbolically, the Roman Catholic Church remains in a favourable position. A recent estimate said that about 47 per cent of the population is Catholic, while Islam is recognised as the second-largest religion at 3.5 per cent. The people are friendly and easy-going. Belgium is renowned across the world over for its cuisine. Many highly ranked Belgian restaurants can be found in the world's most influential gastronomic guides. Belgians love french fries and waffles. In an interesting sidenote, contrary
European Parliament in Brussels. — Photos AFP to popular belief, french fries originated in Belgium and not in France. The national dishes are "mussels with fries" and "steak and fries with salad". Belgian chocolates are among the most loved chocolates in the world. Some of the brands of chocolate and pralines, like Cote d'Or, Neuhaus, Callebaut, Guylian, Leonidas, and Godiva, are world famous and widely sold. Belgium is a haven of beverage lovers as it produces over 500 varieties of beverages. InBev, based in Belgium, is the biggest known brewer in the world by volume. The Belgian economy is stable. It is a modern, privateenterprise economy that has been successful in capitalising
on its highly developed transport network, central geographic location, and diversified commercial and industrial base. Roughly 75 per cent of its trade is with other EU countries. The government has balanced its budget, and the country now boasts of equal income distribution. Belgium began circulating the euro currency in January 2002. Folklore and culture in Belgium are very much part of the daily life. Belgium has a high number of cavalcades, processions, parades, and other local festivals. Most of these events have a religious background. UNESCO has recognised the Carnival of Binche and the 'Processional Giants and Dragons' of Ath, Brussels, Mechelen, Dendermonde, and Mons as Masterpieces of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity. Other examples include Hanswijk in Mechelen and Virga Jesse in Hasselt; the Walloon festival in Namur; and the August 15 festival in Liage. A major non-official holiday is the Saint Nicholas Day, a festivity for children and, in Liege, for students. In essence, Belgium is a great country to travel to, not just for tourism but also for medical purposes. The low cost of health systems, travel and stay coupled with interesting sights and events make Belgium a happy place for a medical tourism related spot.
''Gilles'' in traditional costumes parade during the carnival in the streets of Binche
| BELGIUM
Antwerp scientists connect body fat storage to a new gene Scientists of Antwerp University (UA) and the Antwerp University Hospital (UZA) have made a major breakthrough in obesity research together with colleagues from abroad. They discovered a new type of gene that is believed to play an important role in the development of the disease. Researchers of the UZA and the UA's Centre for Medical Genetics made the discovery by comparing the genetic data of a whole number of patients. Every patient treated by the UA, was monitored from close by. For several years, data were collected in files which also included DNA-samples. "Obesity is a very complex matter," explains Professor Doctor Wim Van Hul of the UA. "We call it a multifactorial disease. On the one hand, factors like physical exercise and food are playing a role, but on the other you have to look at the genetic aspect." The newly discovered gene is a so-called "lipid sensor". This means that it determines to which extent lipids are being stored in the body," explains the Professor. The theory can be explained with an example: if two persons eat the same amount of fish and chips, one person's metabolism will store more fat in the body that the other, regardless of physical exercise or sports. Researchers are hoping to find a way to eliminate or suppress the ill-effects of a malfunctioning gene in patients suffering from obesity.
FEBRUARY 26, 2012
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BELGIUM |
SHOWTEX MIDDLE EAST FZC
Amazing stage fabrics and screens Saif Zone-based ShowTex Middle East has supplied stunning sets and projection screens to spectacular events and cinema theatres here and around the region Latha Krishnan ShowTex, a worldwide leader in inventing, manufacturing, selling, and installing the most innovative flame retardant curtain fabrics, tracks, and motion control systems for achieving the creative vision of event and entertainment professionals, has been in the UAE for the past six years. From its office, warehouse, workshop and manufacturing facility in Sharjah Airport Free Zone, ShowTex Middle East has supplied stunning sets and projection screens to spectacular events and cinema theatres here and around the region. “We offer PVC screens with very thin joints welded by our special high frequency welding units. This is unique because the material of the screen is less than one millimetre and the joints are practically invisible during projection,” informs Sven Peeters, Managing Director of ShowTex Middle East. Such hightech screens are seen at the Abu Dhabi Film Festival, the Dubai Film Festival and the Doha Tribeca Film Festival and many cinema theatres in the UAE. ShowTex also supplied the gigantic (172 x 21 metres) projection screen on the Dubai International Financial Centre building for its anniversary celebration. In addition to providing the screen for the world premiere of the movie Mission Impossible-4, shot extensively in Dubai, ShowTex also provided the fabric for the sets including those for creating special lighting effects as well as the blue and green keys fabric. “What’s more? Tom Cruise sat
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on the sofa, which was made of fabric we provided. So Mission Impossible was an adventure for us too. And for a relatively small Belgian company like ours, it is a big achievement,” declares Peeters. Not small anymore, ShowTex has increased its services. In addition to supplying different types of fabrics for stage special effects including inflatable spheres, it has started digital printing and laser cutting. Digitally printed fabric of up to five metres wide by any length and a unique laser cutter for fabrics with a vacuum bed of five metres wide by 15 metres long can be used in innumerable stage applications. ShowTex combines fabric with LED to make LED curtains that can provide a classic starry sky backdrop, colourful venue masking and decoration, star tunnels and walls, and animated video cloths. Efficient use of its remarkable expertise and in-house capabilities has earned for ShowTex a fine reputation for supplying correctly, in time, high-quality products and competent service, which has resulted in an impressive list of loyal satisfied clientele. “We hope to build on that to develop further,” says Peeters.
BELGIUM |
BETAFENCE
Retaining market leadership Betafence shows continued growth servicing emerging markets Latha Krishnan
Christophe Michee
We recently opened a sales office in Al Khobar, Saudi Arabia, with a manufacturing licence. We plan to start production by the end of this year ChristopheMichee
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Belgium based Betafence has been operating in the Middle East for about three decades, offering an extensive range of perimeter fencing systems and security solutions. Despite the recession and difficult times in 2011, Betafence Middle East managed to retain its market leader position and experience steady growth. “2010 was a good year for us. And although 2011 saw less activity due to the global financial crisis, we opened a new showroom, a regional head office in the Dubai Airport Free Zone and increased our number of employees. We successfully managed to retain our market position and our current projects in the pipeline
for 2012 makes for a very positive outlook. “We recently opened a sales office in Al Khobar, Saudi Arabia, with a manufacturing licence. We plan to start production by the end of this year,” says Christophe Michee, Sales Director – Middle East for Betafence. Saudi Arabia, a bigger market from the other GCC countries has a dedicated Betafence office and production facility to cater to projects there. Betafence has also successfully executed several largescale projects in the UAE, Qatar, Oman, Bahrain and Kuwait. It works closely with municipalities, airports, ports, various government bodies and oil companies in consulting and implementing fencing projects.
Continuing its expansion drive, Betafence is also improving its presence in Lebanon and Jordan, where it has already executed big projects. Iraq will certainly become one of the targets for Betafence to provide products and services for security applications as well as city beautification and sports venues. Having been involved in sports venues around the world, Betafence has left a significant mark on the all-important Indian market with its first fencing project — The Buddh International Formula 1 Circuit in Delhi. “For 2012, our focus is to strengthen our market position, increase our market share and develop our product portfolio with new systems in security and other applications,” informs Michee.
BELGIUM |
BELGIUM SATELLITE SERVICES
Committed to the highest level of customer satisfaction Belgium Satellite Services provides data, voice and broadcast facilities worldwide Over and above our state-of-the-art infrastructure, our biggest strength is our highly experienced technical team which can provide cuttingedge services to our clients everywhere
Latha Krishnan Belgium Satellite Services (BSS) is a leading provider of satellite services, including hub-based solutions, Internet over satellite, multimedia over satellite and teleport services. The company is amongst the top providers of data, voice and broadcast facilities worldwide. BSS came into being in November 2007 when a leading Telecom and IT Transnational Entity acquired the satellite services division of Belgacom, the benchmark Belgian provider in the field of integrated telecommunications services and one of Europe’s premier national telecom companies. With the deal, BSS acquired Belgacom’s 37-year expertise,
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Nitin Dhawan a teleport infrastructure spread over two facilities in Belgium — one at Lessive and the other at Liedekerke housing an impressive array of class A antennas ranging from 3.8 metres to 32 metres in diameter.
NitinDhawan BSS caters to industry segments such as military and government, satellite service providers, Telco and GSM operators, ISPs, digital radio and TV broadcasters. BSS up-links content of various television channels
through the Eutelsat HOT BIRD 6 and EUROBIRD 9A satellites via its teleport in Liedekerke. From its Lessive teleport site, which consists of 15 acres of land with 6,000 square metres of built-up area, BSS provides data services such as TDM/TDMA solutions, voice termination, hosting and satellite monitoring. Both teleports enjoy excellent fibre-optic connectivity to the rest of the world. All the earth stations are fully equipped with power back-up via UPS and diesel generators, and are monitored ‘round the clock' by state-of-the-art Remote Network Management System installed for the entire infrastructure. “Over and above our stateof-the-art infrastructure, our biggest strength is our highly experienced technical team which can provide cuttingedge services to our clients everywhere,” affirmed Nitin Dhawan, CEO of BSS, on a recent visit to Dubai, where BSS is setting up its office to be closer to and serve its customers in the Middle East and Africa. Another BSS office is opening up in Kenya. BSS has also entered into a strategic partnership with Intersat Africa, a leading enterprise services provider, as part of the company’s ambitious growth strategy in the region.
BELGIAN BUSINESS COUNCIL
| BELGIUM
Looking forward to a promising future The Belgian Business Council serves as a platform where business people and professionals with ties to Belgium get the opportunity to meet each other and share interests Latha Krishnan Among the many business councils in the UAE, the Belgian Business Council (BBC) is comparatively new. After several attempts since 2008, BBC was officially launched in 2011. “With about 2,000 Belgians in the UAE, it is quite extraordinary that it took so long to start BBC. We did have several social activities but probably felt the need for a business networking platform only recently,” says Willem Vander Meersch, President of the BBC and Director Business Development at Tebodin Middle East Ltd. “With the support of the
Belgian Embassy our business council creates a platform where business people and professionals with ties to Belgium get the opportunity to meet each other and share interests. We organise four to six quality events a year that have been quite successful up till now with a participation of 60 plus people at most venues,” explains Wim Bonjean, Vice-President of BBC who works as the General Manager of B.U.T.” BBC has set up a website for those interested in registering with the BBC and is currently in the process of revamping it
to make it more user-oriented and beneficial to members. Around 160 people are already registered and the number seems to be growing steadily. “The number is not bad for the council of a small country like Belgium. We have been officially registered since Summer 2011 and we are ready to take BBC seriously forward with paid membership, written statutes, a revamped website www.bbc-uae.org with all data regularly updated and a calendar of networking events,” informs Bonjean. If one is a professional or a business person and has ties with Belgium or is working for a Belgian company, then one is eligible to become a member of BBC, which has elected a
new committee of office bearers and is set to move forward according to its ratified bylaws and statutes. The membership is growing and promises to make the BBC a viable platform for Belgian business people and professionals. Both Vander Meersch and Bonjean are optimistic about the future of BBC and increasing its membership. Leading Belgian companies have already offered to sponsor or partner with the BBC for different events as well as the website. With the economy of Dubai on a growth path, they expect more Belgian businesses and professionals to come to Dubai and the region. And that will definitely swell the membership numbers!
/#++!) $,-* ,"+ %'0#., (,*)!!#*) ()0&#.)High-quality satellite networking solutions for the government, broadcast and telecoms sectors: o IP over satellite o Hub and hosting services o Voice & Data solutions o TV & Broadcast solutions Belgium Satellite Services. An extensive and reliable technical infrastructure. Responsive and flexible customer service. Advanced satellite services at a competitive price. Contact: sales@bssteleport.com www.bssteleport.com SEE US AT CABSAT 2012
STAND S-G"!
FEBRUARY 26, 2012
BELGIUM |
BUZON PEDESTAL INTERNATIONAL
Buzon Pedestal International has played a role in helping some of the major landmark projects around the world take shape: • Burj Khalifa, Dubai • Shaikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Abu Dhabi • European Parliament, Brussels • Disneyland, Paris • National Museum, Tokyo • Petronas Towers, Kuala Lumpur • Marina Bay Sands Resort, Singapore
Construction of Shaikh Zayed Mosque
Shaping landmark projects worldwide Buzon Pedestal International continues to provide base support to renowned projects around the Gulf with its durable range of products made from recycled material Founded by engineer Claude Buzon in 1982, Buzon Pedestal International is the world leader in the manufacture and distribution of the DPH system of screwjack pedestals for the construction of raised floors, external terraces and decked areas. Buzon pedestals are known for their robust performance (1,000 kg each), ease of use and durability. Produced from recycled polypropylene, they are adjustable in height from 14 mm to 1,030 mm, and thanks to built-in adjustability, fast and efficient installation is possible. The pedestals can be used combined with concrete slabs, granite and wooden decking among others. A constant innovator, Claude Buzon continues to develop the product to meet the ever-changing requirements of industry professionals. The range has steadily evolved over the years, extending the scope of materials and significantly introducing the revolutionary PH5 system, Buzon’s patented slope correction device. Third generation pedestals were launched in 2008 al-
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Burj Khalifa fountain lowing for a much larger number of angles and a fourth generation is expected to be launched soon. The innovation and constant search for improvements have earned Buzon Pedestal International a global reputation and the company now operates in 38 countries worldwide. In the Gulf, Buzon has executed many major projects in a span of 12 years, working with some the region’s top construction companies. In 2006, the company decided to set up its Middle East office in Dubai in collaboration with local partner Rohmix International. Says Middle East Operations
Manager Frank Hoffmeister, “Buzon pedestals are specified by all major consultants and we have built up a very impressive list of references. We meet the most stringent quality standards and provide full support — from the drawing board to the actual installation of the
Completed Shaikh Zayed Mosque
project.“ Buzon’s roster of projects include the Shaikh Zayed Mosque, Burj Khalifa fountain, Marina Walk fountain and Etisalat Head Office in the UAE; Islamic Art Museum and City Tower in Qatar; Citibank and Marriott Hotel in Bahrain; and KAUST University in Saudi Arabia among many others. “We participate in all major exhibitions across the GCC and demand for our products continues to be strong. Our product is especially suited for the region since it can withstand high temperatures and can easily hold for up to 25 years,” he adds.
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Raised access floor systems Joist cradle
Buzon supplies the DPH system of screwjack pedestals used for the construction of raised floors, external terraces, decked areas and water features. ÂŽ
Shim Paver tabs
Support head Slope corrector (0-5%) Locking key
! Architects
! Specifiers
Coupler
! Contractors
! Landscapers
Adjustment ring
! Roofers
! Builders Base
Stone, ceramic and concrete pavers/flags The DPH system can accommodate most forms of square or rectangular stone, concrete or ceramic paver, sustaining loads in excess of 1000kg per pedestal.
Timber decking systems
Metal or fibreglass grid systems
Using the joist cradle attachment to locate timber or aluminium joists, timber decking can be simply and safely supported.
For industrial, food storage and other commercial installations, the DPH system can be used for exterior and interior locations where regular cleaning and rapid efficient drainage is required.
Buzon Middle East Department - ROHMIX International L.L.C. Al Quoz, P.O.Box 117567, Dubai U.A.E. Tel: +971 - 4 - 347 21 14 Fax: +971 - 4 - 347 21 18 Mobile : +971 - 50 - 50 36 220 email: kristin.scheffer@rohmix.ae www.buzon.ae Head Office - Buzon Pedestal International s.a./n.v. Z.I. des Hauts Sarts, Zone 1, Prolongement rue de l'Abbaye, 134 – B-4040 Herstal, Belgium Tel : +32 (0)4 248 39 83 Fax : +32 (0)4 264 82 38 Email : info@buzon-world.com www.buzon-world.com
BELGIUM |
SQUISITO
Giving interiors an exquisite touch Belgian interior deco experts, Squisito, have been beautifying rooms with top-notch brands since 1988 Latha Krishnan
Leen Vandaele
FEBRUARY 26, 2012
Squisito, a name meaning ‘exquisite’, is a leading international interior decoration company headquartered in Belgium, and provides highlyappreciated exquisite interiors around the world since 1988. The Squisito team, headed by interior designers Leen Vandaele and joined by Sam Farhang about four years ago, has executed several remarkable
interiors projects around the world, especially after setting up a branch office in Dubai in 2001 and in the Middle East. “Since 2005 we have been
providing the products of some leading Belgian and other European principal brands for soft furnishings for hotels, offices, palaces, exclusive private villas, theatres, etc. We support major wall covering brands such as Arte from Belgium and Innovation from New York. We also have several brands for fabrics such as upholstery, sheer and curtaining as well as anti-bacterial fabric meant for hospitals and Trevira CS for hospitality proj-
Marble flooring and gladding is a new division. High quality marble products straight from the quarries of Greece, such as Thassos white used in all the mosques and Belgian black, are available in Al Quoz. Clients including interior designers, prescribers and consultants come to the Squisito showroom and warehouse to select material and consult Squisito for further expert advice in the execution of their projects. “Our own major projects in the past include the Dubai World Trade Centre and my ever-popular houseboat. A recent project is the interiors of the private Royal Wing of the Mafraq hospital in Abu Dhabi. We will have a model apartment on the 70th floor of the Sky Towers in Al Reem Island in Abu Dhabi,” says Vandaele, full of enthusiasm and ready for more projects with ‘Squisito’ realisation.
FEBRUARY 26, 2012
BELGIUM |
OXL
Ocean-based weight lifters in the transportation world The organisation offers customised solutions for conveying large transportation modes across the world via sea Belgian brand OXL is a specialist in ocean transportation of heavy lifts and project cargoes. OXL lifts leisure boats for single and multiple voyages for single contracts or for large projects with heavy lifts up to 500 tonnes. OXL offers tailor-made solutions for a port-to-port service combined with competitive pricing, flexibility, first-class fleet and professional approach. OXL serves the energy, oil and gas, construction and mining, and yachting industry. It is devoted to lifting leisure
FEBRUARY 26, 2012
boats in the region. It ships yachts and super yachts to all ports worldwide, be it an exotic destination for holidays or charters following the Formula 1 circuit. OXL can serve a project with its ships trading in and around the Gulf region. OXL Dubai, OXL’s branch office in the city, acts as coordination centre. OXL is also known for the heavy lift transport of all types of industry equipment that is needed for the development of turnkey solutions for Forbes 500 companies.
SIX CONSTRUCT
| BELGIUM
Scaling the peak of technological advancement in the region Six Construct has been involved with many landmark projects in the region such as Burj Khalifa, Emirates Towers and the Address Hotel in Dubai One of the leading construction companies in the GCC, Six Construct combines the efforts of an innovative workforce with strategic and intelligent use of technology to overcome complex challenges. Six Construct continues to deliver a high level of construction quality on a range of commercial, residential, marine, industrial, infrastructure and sport and leisure related projects. A workforce of 2,000 engineers and technicians together with 15,000 workers; unrivalled knowledge; and a pioneering spirit sets the company apart from its peers. Six Construct has been involved with many landmark projects in the region such as the world’s tallest building, Burj Khalifa, Emirates Towers and the Address Hotel in Dubai. Other prestigious projects that Six Construct is proud of are Emirates Palace Hotel, Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, and Ferrari Experience theme park in Yas Island, Abu Dhabi. Six Construct also displayed its expertise in the construction of Al Gurm Resort, Abu Dhabi — an eco-friendly development within the protected mangrove forest and wildlife area. The resort consists of 73 residential villas together with an elevated bridge, about 4,200 metres long that connects these villas to the mainland. Six Construct’s iconic bridge in Abu Dhabi though, is the Sheikh Zayed Bridge. A spectacular sight at the entrance to the city, the bridge is a hybrid structure of concrete and steel with a total length of 842 metres. Among ongoing projects, Cleveland Clinic, with a built-
The Sheikh Zayed Bridge in Abu Dhabi, an 842-metre hybrid structure of concrete and steel, is an iconic bridge built by Six Construct up area of over 400,000 square metres is undoubtedly the most prestigious. Six Construct is constructing the project for Mubadala Healthcare for a contract value of Dh4.7 billion. Once complete it will provide world-class healthcare facilities for all the Emirates. Very recently Six Construct has been awarded the main construction contract for Yas Mall, for a value of just over Dh2 billion. Yas Mall is a major retail development on Yas Island, Abu Dhabi’s leading leisure and entertainment destination. Scheduled for completion in Q4 2013, it will feature 235,000 square metres of retail area housing a hypermarket, concept stores, a multiplex and family entertainment centre as well as many of the world’s leading retail,
restaurant and leisure brands. Six Construct is equally active in other GCC countries such as Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain and Oman. In September 2011, the company signed a contract for the construction of the King Abdullah Sports City Project in Jeddah in a joint venture with Al Muhaidib Contracting of Saudi Arabia, valued at SAR 2.07 billion. The KASC project consists of a 60,000-seat football stadium, a 2,000-seat multisports hall, an external athletic track with a 1,000-seat tribune, and several training fields. Beyond contemporary projects, Six Construct also undertakes Public-Private Partnership Projects (PPP). An example is in Ajman, where BESIX is the main shareholder of the Ajman Sewerage (Pri-
vate) Company Limited which has entered into a Concession Agreement with the Government of Ajman to finance, design and construct a centralised sewerage system in the city of Ajman; own and operate the facility for a 25-year concession term; and subsequently transfer the facility to the Government of Ajman. Values such as reliability, creativity, quality, teamwork, innovation, respect towards clients and associates as well as integrity and professionalism lie at the core of Six Construct work ethic. With continuous professional development and training of its personnel, the company is always at the peak of technological advancement and know-how, maintaining and increasing the quality level of the services it provides. FEBRUARY 26, 2012
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BELGIUM |
B.U.T (www.but.ae)
Spectacular cross-media applications B.U.T’s technical know-how and experience is unique in the region and allows it to create flabbergasting experiences time after time Latha Krishnan
One such project of B.U.T is the much talked about and highly appreciated installation within Masdar City in Abu Dhabi. In this innovative and sustainable development, B.U.T has designed and developed the concept and platform that drives all the digital screens, touch screens and video walls
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FEBRUARY 26, 2012
The wall comes to life. Music explodes from the ceiling and huge 3D spheres are seen floating on a white background on the large video wall. You walk along the wall and … Surprise! These spheres react to your movement — up, down, side-to-side or stop! The video wall changes to a colourful pattern and again as you move, a hidden message appears where you walk — backward and forward and it stops when you do. Suddenly there is thick green foliage on the screen and then a helicopter and again a satellite floating above a beautiful blue earth. Then a giant face that seems to follow you around or big drops of water that bounce up and down in extreme slow motion. All of these things move when you do. You realise that you are interacting with a video on a screen — not just watching it, but becoming part of it! A truly fascinating experience! ‘Spectacular’ is the word that jumps into your mind and spectacular is what the creators of this — the largest Kinect driven interactive video wall in the world — do and specialise in! B.U.T have made ‘spectacular’ a habit with their various interactive cross-media installations around the Middle East. One such project of B.U.T is the much talked about and highly appreciated installation within Masdar City in Abu Dhabi. In this innovative and sustainable development, B.U.T has designed and developed the concept and platform that drives all the digital screens, touch screens and video walls. Among them is an ultra-high-resolution video wall displaying real-time in-
Wim Bonjean formation such as news, videos and ecological footprint data from around the world. The data is geographically located on a huge and detailed NASA world map image. The wind tower LED’s change exterior colours controlled by a B.U.T mobile application. Further in the Middle East, in the new Al Baker Towers in Qatar, B.U.T is installing a multi-video wall application using interactive Xbox Kinect devices, digital signage screens on all floors, interactive touch screen way-finding systems, LED lighting outside the towers, and more. “Our ability to execute such interactive and cross-media work distinguishes us from the other media production companies in the Middle East. The Dubai production facility is capable of designing and producing print, video, 2D and 3D animation, web, mobile and the complete crossmedia mix together. We can be a one-stop-shop for a full multimedia campaign or installation; we produce all marketing and communication material, ensuring that clients get the same look and
Our ability to execute such interactive and cross-media work distinguishes us from the other media production companies in the Middle East. The Dubai production facility is capable of designing and producing print, video, 2D and 3D animation, web, mobile and the complete crossmedia mix together WimBonjean feel in every part of the product,” says Wim Bonjean, General Manager of B.U.T. “Our camera equipment, video editing suite, sound studio and multiple design and development stations are operated by in-house trained and talented staff. B.U.T’s technical know-how and experience is unique in the region and allows us to create flabbergasting experiences time after time.”
AHLERS
| BELGIUM
The UAE and Belgium have a lot in common; being relatively small, both countries enjoy a high living standard and have leading ports in their respective regions
Ahlers: Creators of opportunity Ahlers’ network is a gateway to Europe and new growth markets The Gulf region has emerged as the new leading player in the Arab world in the 21st century. The Gulf ’s proactive internationalism is based on but not limited to economics and energy. Its geostrategic location and increased political power also raise the challenge to face growing expectations from a period of high revenues, the region’s demographics and access to the latest information technologies. Challenges are opportunities, Napoleon had said at the beginning of the 19th century. He ordered -with foresight – Antwerp’s first inland locks. The Gulf States and Belgium have common strengths as well as ongoing challenges. Europe took full advantage of the industrial revolution and the transport technology at the beginning of the 20thcentury and Belgium has been in the forefront of its proliferation via companies throughout the world. The UAE and Belgium have a lot in common; being relatively small, both countries enjoy a high living standard and have leading ports in their
respective regions. State-ofthe-art chemical clusters have been built, the service industry is excellent and even from a sports point of view, both have a Formula 1 Grand Prix. While Belgium offers its visitors the charm and the glimpse of magnificent old houses, the UAE has definitely built the buildings of the future. Antwerp emerged as a new leading European port to serve shipping lines serving the European market challenging the English supremacy on the seas. Ahlers was founded in 1909 in Antwerp as agent of the German DDG Hansa shipping line, developing quickly the trade between Europe, the Arabian Gulf and the Indian subcontinent. A century later Ahlers has become a diversified logistic and maritime services provider present in 20 countries. As ‘creators of opportunity’ in partnership with customers and partners it expanded into Russia and China during the last decade of the 20th century, and opened offices in India and the Gulf (Dubai) during the first years of the 21st century.
Christian Leysen As a family-controlled and managed private business, it gives ‘sustainability’ content by long term partnerships and dedication to customers thanks to the 900 staff members and 600 crew members employed. Services range from Ship Management, Agencies, International Forwarding and Warehousing. ‘Markets require more and more industry and regional expertise from logistic partners’, says Christian Leysen, CEO Ahlers. ‘We have international competence centres in the field of the oil industry, EPC’s as well as
industrial players in the field of specialty chemicals, but we also make the difference by our experienced teams handling door-to-door transport from and to inland destinations in the CIS, India and China. Ahlers invested in Africa as well by delivering and operating a floating training centre for the offshore oil industry in Congo (Pointe Noire).’ ‘Our presence in the Gulf States with offices in Dubai and Abu Dhabi and partners throughout the region does not only serve the local transport needs of the region, but is also a tool for companies based in the region to serve their cross-trade’, adds Christian Leysen. The Gulf States organisation of Ahlers is headed by Mike Harrison who has substantial experience in the region. Ahlers belongs to the AXE Group of Companies, along with Xylos (information technology) and Egemin (integration warehousing and distribution solutions). http://www.ahlers.com http://www.xylos.com http://www.egemin.com FEBRUARY 26, 2012
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BELGIUM |
RENEWABLE ENERGY
Belgian experts in renewable energy The Renewable Energy Club has its eyes set to become a pillar of advice to Belgian companies and promote Belgium as experts in environment-friendly solutions
E
nergy is strategically important. Just think of rising energy prices and the uncertainty about the availability of fossil fuels. Conventional power stations have a major negative impact on the environment. Innovations in combustion processes, filter technologies and carbon capture are important, but are not a longterm solution. This means that renewable energy offers many benefits as a sustainable and innovative source of energy. The renewable energy sector is growing globally by 20 per cent per year; and Belgium is playing a pioneering role. The Renewable Energy Club (REC) — part of Agoria, the federation representing the technology industry — promotes the development of Belgian companies providing technological solutions and services in renewable energy. Its mission is to become the global voice and benchmark for Belgian expertise and technology in four areas — wind power (onshore and offshore), solar energy, biomass, and wave power (energy from ocean surface waves).
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Dr Jan Declercq, Chairman, Renewable Energy Club, Agoria REC builds bridges and networks between its members and stakeholders across borders. Belgium is a pioneer thanks to companies with innovative products and processes such as gearboxes for wind turbines, grid studies, wind farm transformers and connections, solar panels, second-generation bio-fluids, offshore maritime solutions, and service and installation
expertise. REC is also a pioneer thanks to applications such as the most powerful wind turbines in the world are located near the town of Binche. Belwind and C-Power operate offshore wind farms that are further from the mainland than anywhere else in the world. Belwind 1 was completed within a record-breaking three-anda-half years from the design phase. Construction took just 16 months. The Eurospace Cenre in Transinne was the first building in Europe to incorporate solar technology into its architecture. Near Antwerp, the first European rail tunnel covered with 16,000 square metres of solar panels generates enough power to meet 50 per cent of the energy requirements of Antwerp’s Central Station. In 2007, Volvo opened the world’s first CO2-neutral car assembly plant in Ghent. There is no denying that Belgium has the know-how to make a big difference globally. For Belgian renewable energy companies, the domestic market is important for innovation and references, but Eu-
François de Hemptinne, Director, Renewable Energy Club, Agoria rope and the rest of the world it is the key to growth. Agoria’s Renewable Energy Club wants to support these renewable sectors in order to promote global recognition of Belgium’s world-class technological knowledge, expertise and solutions. They are implementing the European 2020-20 objectives and are already working with a view to 2030 and 2050.
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