France I 2015

SPECIAL REPORT | NOVEMBER 24, 2015

FRANCE KT CONNECT

Partners

in Progress

INNOVATION AND TECHNOLOGY DRIVE FRANCE - UAE TIES

F R A NC E

Multi-layered cooperation France and the UAE continue to build lasting relationships, working together in several fields including space

by SUchitrA StEvEn SAmUEl

Michel Miraillet, Ambassador of France to the UAE, has held several diplomatic posts in different parts of the world. His last posting was as the Director General for Strategic Affairs at the Ministry of Defence.

As the French Ambassador to the UAE, Miraillet confesses that he sees himself more like a coach of the French team in the UAE than a diplomat. “Since the establishment of the UAE Federation in 1971, our relationship has been based on trust and friendship. The relationship between France and the UAE has progressed exceptionally. Due to the prosperity and stability in this country, more and more French citizens come and live in the UAE,” says the ambassador in an interview with Khaleej Times.

Today, the French population in the UAE is estimated to be around 28,000. “Besides the human dimension of our relationship, our bilateral cooperation is very rich and diversified. It has materialised in the fields of culture and education as ‘Le Louvre Abu Dhabi’, which will soon be inaugurated, or ‘La Sorbonne Abu Dhabi’, which will celebrate its 10th anniversary in January 2016. We are also partners in a number of projects and initiatives in various sectors such as economy, investment, military, space, training or healthcare,” he informs.

“Soon we will launch a campaign aimed at promoting our country’s dynamism, which will be called ‘Creative France’. I recommend Khaleej Times’ readers to stay tuned in the coming months as they will definitely hear about France in the UAE,” he adds.

Many joint initiatives between the two countries have already become a reality.

Miraillet gives three examples that reflect the exceptional dimension of bilateral relations.

Firstly, Total was chosen in early 2015 for the ADCO concession, reinforcing a 75-year-old strategic partnership for the next 40 years. This decision attests the

EDITORIAL PRODUCTION ADVERTISING

Michel Miraillet Ambassador of France to the UAE

trust in oil and gas technology developed by the French company.

Secondly, the French Space Agency was among the first to sign an agreement this year with the UAE Space Agency to support UAE’s ambition to send its first unmanned mission to Mars by 2021. The President of CNES, Jean-Yves Le Gall, met with his counterparts to assess opportunities for cooperation.

Thirdly, the UAE supports COP 21, which will take place in Paris from November 30. It has been supportive of its continuous commitment to sustainable development. Besides UAE’s investments in the field of renewable energy, of which Masdar is the symbol, have been instrumental in spreading the message of Agenda 21 to the world.

High-level visits His Highness Shaikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, was in Paris in February 2014 where he had a fruitful meeting with the President of France François Hollande.

UAE's Minister of Foreign Affairs Shaikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan participated in the march against terrorism in Paris in January 2014. “His presence in traditional Emirati attire in the forefront of the crowd of world leaders was very important for us as a symbol of solidarity with our country against terrorism,” recollects the ambassador.

This solidarity has also materialised

through regular visits of the French Minister of Defence, Jean-Yves Le Drian, who is a frequent flyer to the UAE, he adds.

For the last 15 years, France has been Europe’s leading destination for foreign investment. “I therefore encourage UAE businesses to invest further in France,” points out the ambassador.

As a diversified economy, France offers plenty of opportunities in services and industrial sectors. This includes aerospace, agri-food, chemicals, luxury, hospitality, logistics, communication technologies, healthcare and also digital innovative products. Fifty UAE companies have established businesses in France with leading players such as DP World, IPIC, Mubadala, GEMS, etc. “I strongly believe in the UAE’s potential to strengthen its business in France and would like to reiterate to all investors to ‘try France and you will adopt it!’” he adds.

Total is the first foreign investor in the oil and gas sector and the main French investor in the UAE. In January 2015, it became the first IOC to be awarded a stake in Abu Dhabi’s largest onshore oil fields by ADNOC. Technip chose Abu Dhabi as its MENA headquarters, while GDF Suez, now known as Engie, owns around 45 per cent of the overall electricity production in the UAE. French companies are also investing in many different sectors such as transportation, hospitality, aerospace, defence, health and pharmaceuticals.

The Embassy of France and Business France help build bridges between businesses from the two countries. “Our team meets potential investors, listens to their requirements and provides them with up-to-date information on business opportunities. A customised welcome for investors with investment projects is provided whenever the investors are in France,” he says.

“We consider our Emirati experience as exceptional, despite our daily hectic life. We particularly appreciate the values of openness and tolerance held by the UAE leadership and society. Let’s say that the dynamism and vitality of this country is a daily incentive to develop a wonderful relationship,” Miraillet concludes.

— suchitra@khaleejtimes.com

Editor: rohit Saran Supplements Editor: Suchitra Steven Samuel Sub-Editor: Sadiq Shaban reporters: Farhana chowdhury, Suneeti Ahuja-Kohli Designers: mohammad Ejaz Khan, Sidharthan imaging: venugopal Prabhu Director Advertising: haroon Qureshi Senior Advertising manager (Supplements): Philip Smith

dubai Head office: 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 Website: www.khaleejtimes.com A Publication of GALADARI PRINTING & PUbLISHING LLC

Kt connect

KHALEEJ TIMES | SPECIAL REPORT | NOVEMBER 24, 2015

3

F R A NC E

Tap into creativity New campaign called ‘Créative France’ highlights the nation’s range of strengths — at the forefront of technology, design, industry and education

Salim Saifi, Investment Director — Business France Middle East

By SuChItra StEvEN SaMuEl

F

rance remains an attractive investment location in a difficult global economic climate. “Foreign investors acknowledge France’s attractiveness as an investment location.

After three years of relative stability, the number of investments in 2014 rose to 1,197, which created or maintained 29,822 jobs (20,308 jobs created and 9,514 maintained),” says Salim Saifi, Investment Director — Business France Middle East, in an e-mail interview with Khaleej Times.

“France is the fourth largest recipient of FDI stocks in the world and continues to attract investments in strategic business activities such as manufacturing and research.

France is perceived to be increasingly attractive in a number of emerging economies such as India, China, Russia and the GCC,” he adds.

With other countries wooing investors, France still has offers that make it stand apart.

“France is at the heart of the European single market and a gateway to the MENA region.

France offers several structural advantages, such as efficient public services, world-class infrastructure, a diversified technological base, a skilled and

4

productive workforce and one of Europe’s most dynamic demographics. France is also recognised for its quality of life,” Saifi points out.

Adding to its attractiveness, France is focusing on key reforms to foster its economic competitiveness, set up tax-friendly rules and improve the welcome afforded to GCC investors.

“Today, France is home to more than 20,000 foreign companies employing around two million people. On an average, France welcomes 19 foreign investment decisions per week,” he points out.

Saifi gives us a peek into the various investment opportunities in different sectors. “As long-term investors, funds are mostly investing in infrastructure, selecting trophy assets and securities. Meanwhile, small and medium businesses that have the potential for expansion globally are typically setting up through industrial acquisitions or technological partnership deals. UAE companies in France are concentrated in chemicals and plastics, engineering and construction, hospitality, fashion, logistics and retail. A large number of individuals have traditionally invested in real estate,” he says.

In principle, there are no administrative restrictions on foreign investment in France.

Whatever the business development strategy be, prospective businesses will find

KHALEEJ TIMES | SPECIAL REPORT | NOVEMBER 24, 2015

an appropriate legal structure in France. Investors can set up a permanent or temporary structure and enjoy full legal peace of mind; they are then free to drive their project forward in an inexpensive environment. For instance, foreign investors account for 46.7 per cent of holdings in the market capitalisation of the French stock exchange index (CAC 40 companies).

Business France is encouraging Emirati businesses to invest in France. “Our strategy is to drive investors to put France in their scope of investment. In the UAE, our investment team meets potential investors on a day-to-day basis to listen to their requirements and needs.

We inform them on the regulations in France and select the best investment offers available for their operations in the several French regions. We organise meetings in France at the highest level and arrange site visits. As soon as they have settled, we pursue our service to make sure that their operations continue smoothly. We have very good relations based on a bilateral trust with investors.”

France has appeal and creativity. To promote its attractiveness and support its export, the French government has launched a new campaign in October 2015 called 'Créative France'. “It is the story of a creative, unconventional campaign that highlights our country’s full range of strengths, skills and savoir-faire. And for good reason, France is at the forefront of sectors such as technology, design, industry and education, to name a few,” Saifi notes.

“France bucks convention while reaching for the top. Try France and you will adopt it! I invite you for further information to visit ‘Creative France’ dedicated website http://creative.businessfrance. fr,” Saifi concludes.

— suchitra@khaleejtimes.com

Majdi Abed

Consul General of France in Dubai

ThAnk you, uAE We would like to express our heartfelt gratitude to the Emirati authorities and in particular to The President, His Highness Shaikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, His Highness Shaikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, His Highness Shaikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces and Shaikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, UAE Foreign Minister for their prompt response of support and solidarity from the earliest moments of these cowardly and barbaric attacks.

We, French residents in Dubai and other Emirates, have been deeply moved and touched by seeing the colours of the French flag displayed on the iconic places in the UAE, particularly Burj Khalifa and Burj Dubai.

The savage attacks have shocked and outraged every Frenchman in Dubai and the Emirates. Warm feelings of comfort, sympathy and friendly support are welcome in such dire times and living proof of the great support we have always come to expect from Dubai and the Emirati people.”

Such different aircraft…

…such unique expertise

- Photo : © Dassault Aviation - K. Tokunaga

H I G H E R

T O G E T H E R

In military and civil aviation, the missions are very diverse. The demand for the highest level of performance, however, remains identical. Behind each flight lies our mastery of technology from our skilled and experienced engineers and technicians.

Our founder Marcel Dassault’s true passion for building exceptional aircraft continues to inspire excellence at Dassault Aviation today.

www.dassault-aviation.com

TM

F R A NC E

© Ruwais Power Company

Strong foundations for a better tomorrow 2015, a Research and Development activity was added to the list.

ENGIE (formerly GDF Suez) has a rich global and regional experience that it can leverage to build the energy world of tomorrow jointly with its local customers ENGIE is a leading global energy company active in Power, Natural Gas and Energy Services, headquartered in France (Paris).

Formerly known as GDF SUEZ, the company has enjoyed a long presence in the UAE developing and operating Independent Water & Power Projects (IWPP), providing Facility Management services as well as Consultancy and Engineering services. Early

Regional pioneer in Independent Water & Power projects (IWPP) ENGIE began its Middle East venture in the IWPP sector in Oman in 1996, and later moved to the UAE in 2000 to strike its first energy deal in Abu Dhabi, acquiring a stake in the Al Taweelah A1 power and water desalination project, in a joint venture with Total.

Since then, five more projects have been successfully developed under the UAE’s well-established Public Private Partnership (PPP) regime. Five are already operational and the sixth, Mirfa Independent Water and Power Project, started construction recently. Mirfa IWPP is a vital project for Abu Dhabi; once completed, it will

have a total power capacity of 1,600 MW and a seawater desalination capacity of 52.5 MIGD (238,665 m3/day).

ADWEA holds an 80 per cent equity interest in the project with the remaining 20 per cent held by ENGIE. Leading Facilities Management Provider Through its subsidiary COFELY BESIX Facility Management (CBFM), formed in 2008 in joint venture with Belgian construction group BESIX, ENGIE is a leading facilities manager in the UAE. With 700 staff in the Emirates and around 1,600 across the Gulf countries, CBFM supports a number of high profile customers such as the Abu Dhabi Ports Company, Emirates airline, Aldar Properties, Emaar Properties, RTA Tram, Gulf Data Hub, etc.

In addition to technical facility management, the company also provides an extensive range of outsourced services in the energy, infrastructure and airport sectors.

Consultancy and Engineering Services for the UAE’s key infrastructure

© ENGIE/Everett LNG USA

6

KHALEEJ TIMES | SPECIAL REPORT | NOVEMBER 24, 2015

ENGIE’s engineering arm, Tractebel Engineering, has been providing consultancy and engineering services in energy,

water and infrastructure in the UAE and GCC for many years. It recently merged with Lahmeyer International, creating a combination with global leadership in services to the energy industry sector.

With about 140 experts out of 4,400 specialists worldwide, its Middle East branch office in Dubai and regional offices in Abu Dhabi, Saudi Arabia, Oman, Kuwait, Qatar and Bahrain are well positioned to serve the needs of local clients.

Research & Development in support of pioneering projects Early 2015, ENGIE’s R&D division — ENGIE Labs — opened an office in Masdar City and signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) for a solar desalination pilot project, together with Degremont, a French sister company specialising in water treatment.

F R A NC E

A partner of choice to take on the challenge of the energy transition ENGIE’s ambition for the UAE is to provide dependable, carbonlight power, flexible and competitive natural gas solutions and smart and efficient services

© ENGIE/SAMEA

Looking at the UAE’s strategy of economic diversification, downstream industries are springing up in ports and industrial zones as well as a booming services industry.

These, combined with demographic growth and urbanisation, are highly promising factors for the country’s economic future.

These factors call for smart solutions in energy security and efficiency, fuel diversity and renewable power, smart solutions for cities, etc.

Armed with global and regional experience, ENGIE can offer practical solutions to the multiple energy challenges that the region faces such as diversifying its fuel mix, while continuing to advance the hydrocarbon market in a sustainable way.

“To support the UAE in taking on these challenges, ENGIE can extensively leverage both the know-how and significant experience that the Group has gained from working in power, natural gas, and energy services, with various technologies and in various

markets worldwide,” says Willem Van Twembeke, CEO of ENGIE's International Energy activities.

Formerly known as GDF SUEZ, ENGIE adopted its current brand name to highlight its resolution towards a carbon-light, more decentralised, efficient and digitalised energy environment. “ Our new global brand comes with an optimistic vision and the drive to be an architect of this energy transition,” adds Van Twembeke.

© ENGIE/ABACAPRESS/VANDEVILLE ERIC

Green and smart solutions With abundant solar resources, the Gulf region is harnessing solar energy through various programmes. Abu Dhabi has set a renewable energy target of 7 per cent by 2020, which it aims to achieve through projects such as Shams, Masdar’s 100MW Concentrated Solar Power project and first of its kind in the Middle East.

Dubai, on the other hand, is targeting 15 per cent of solar energy in its electricity mix by 2030.

ENGIE holds international solar experience. Its recent

ENGIE, our new global brand, comes with an optimistic vision and the drive to be an architect of the energy transition.”

— Willem Van Twembeke CEO of ENGIE – Energy International.

merger with Solairedirect, a leader in competitive solar, bolstered its position, which made it a market leader in France and strengthened its global position with presence in more than 15 countries.

ENGIE has also been developing decentralised rooftop solar offers worldwide including the US, Australia, India, Chile and Europe, and servicing thousands of customers.

In that perspective, the

group particularly welcomes the new DEWA Shams initiative programme to support the Green Economy for Sustainable Development initiative launched by His Highness Shaikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai.

It encourages household and building owners (residential, commercial and industrial customers) to install photovoltaic panels on rooftops to generate solar power. The electricity generated by the rooftop solar is used on site and the surplus is exported to DEWA’s network with a discount on the user’s bill.

The initiative gives the opportunity, especially to commercial and industrial customers to reduce their energy costs and take a huge step toward meeting their own sustainability goals. ENGIE sees a great potential in the UAE to transform the energy landscape with decentralised energy and has the experience to guide and support its local customers by proposing them an innovative one-stop solution, including the technical and financial aspects.

KHALEEJ TIMES | SPECIAL REPORT | NOVEMBER 24, 2015

7

F R A NC E

Driving business changes Through unparalleled industry expertise, global management consultants Sia Partners delivers superior value and tangible results for its vast clientele

by Sadiq SHaban

Pierre-Louis Brenac Managing Partner & Head of Middle East at Sia Partners

For clients wanting to enter a new market or territory, Sia Partners facilitates new regulations (e.g., in sectors that are subject to heavy regulatory instructions viz banking, insurance, energy) and helps them prepare new strategies or implement those strategies.

— Pierre-Louis Brenac

8

A

s leading global management consultants, Sia Partners has teams of experts in the GCC, devoted to offering first-class and innovative solutions to a slew of firms.

Talking exclusively to Khaleej Times in Dubai, Pierre-Louis Brenac, Managing Partner & Head of Middle East at Sia Partners noted that the company believes in raising efficiency and performance levels of its clients to international standards of excellence.

“We are a French firm that started operations in 1999.

Delivering superior value and tangible results to its clients, Sia Partners is broadly into management consulting, which encompasses both strategy and operational support or advisory to very large corporations including blue-chip companies.

We work closely with the CEOs and top hierarchy in trying to align their work and vision with the changing strategies of their businesses,” Brenac said.

For clients wanting to enter a new market or territory, Sia Partners facilitates new regulations (e.g., in sectors that are subject to heavy regulatory instructions viz banking, insurance, energy) and helps them prepare new strategies or implement those strategies.

“This requires us to spend time with the entire hierarchy from top to bottom — at all levels to achieve either the same business with less resources or to launch into new profitable activities,” the Managing Partner added.

As a group Sia Partners has more than 600 consultants around the world.

Headquartered in France, the company works closely with behemoths such as Engie

KHALEEJ TIMES | SPECIAL REPORT | NOVEMBER 24, 2015

(formerly known as GDF Suez), which operates in the fields of electricity generation, distribution, natural gas; and Électricité de France (EDF), a French major in electric utility with a diverse portfolio. In the Middle East, Sia Partners has excellent business development work in Saudi Arabia, especially with firms dealing with electricity and waterdesalination. It has recently established its base in Qatar as well, and is also keen to tap the market in Oman.

In the UAE, the company is already active in a host of areas — from financial services on one end of the spectrum to oil and gas on the other. “Our presence in Dubai and Abu Dhabi has been largely because of these two vital sectors.

Notwithstanding the fluctuating oil prices, it is important that banks and other key institutions in the country continue to have great performance with excellent internal management reporting. The market context will always evolve and that is where Sia Partners plays a role,” Brenac said.

“Since the beginning, we have been active in energy and financial sectors in the region.

We have experience of working with companies consuming oil or gas in Europe, so it is only natural that we are now working with firms that are extracting hydrocarbons (in this region). It is the other end of the value chain. This has more or less been the case in sectors like electricity and water where we bring value addition and expertise,” he adds.

A strong proponent of out-of-box thinking when it comes to providing services, the company believes that it can differentiate its services from the typical AmericanAnglo-Saxon consultants. “We endeavour to bring something different to the table. Our clients have liked our work

Our presence in dubai and abu dhabi has been largely because of two vital sectors. notwithstanding the fluctuating oil prices, it is important that banks and other key institutions in the country continue to have great performance with excellent internal management reporting.

since we offer a very different approach to their problems. In some of the key areas like training and coaching managers and engineers, our services have been much appreciated.

We have been successful in explaining to company managements how to be more autonomous and independent in future.”

With strong roots in Europe and a fairly established presence in Middle East, Sia Partners has expanded to the US and Asia too. Currently, the company is growing fast in Asia-Pacific (Hong Kong, Singapore and Tokyo). Catering to areas like market banking and investment banking in these geographies, Sia Partners continues to elevate management excellence wherever it operates.

— sadiq@khaleejtimes.com

Your vision requires management excellence. our mission makes it possible.

As global leaders of management consulting, our GCC teams of experts are devoted to offering first-class, innovative solutions for practical results on the ground. By raising efficiency and performance levels to international standards of excellence, your company can confidently achieve your ultimate vision. www.sia-partners.com

GCC Offices Riyadh | Dubai | Abu Dhabi | Doha @SiaPartners

Driving Excellence

F R A NC E

Global leaders in TIC

With a legacy spanning nearly two centuries, Bureau Veritas is working with businesses to explore their potential to the fullest and aim higher different businesses and major challenges for our clients. We provide essential services that respond to critical societal concerns worldwide.

By Suneeti AhujA-Kohli

With more than 187 years of experience, Bureau Veritas is a global leader in testing, inspection and certification. In an interview with Khaleej Times, Didier Michaud-Daniel, Chief Executive Officer, and Tony Mouawad, Chief Operating Officer, Africa Middle East Asia and Pacific, talk about their presence in the Middle East, and more. Excerpts: Tell us about your operations.

Didier Michaud-Daniel: Bureau Veritas was created in 1828 to provide expert and independent information on the state of ships and equipment. The group has dramatically expanded its services to address a wider range of industries and it progressively expanded its operations worldwide. Today, Bureau Veritas is a global leader in Testing, Inspection and Certification (TIC) and has over 400, 000 clients. The group is present all across the world with a vast network of around 1,400 offices and laboratories and more than 66,500 staff. We now have a large portfolio of services structured in eight global businesses, ranging from the Marine & Offshore business, through Construction, Industry, Commodities and Consumer Products.

Reducing risk, improving performance and promoting sustainable development are the common threads of these

10

What were the growth drivers behind your strong H1 results.

Didier Michaud-Daniel: This performance was principally driven by the rebound of our activities in Europe and the excellent performance of the Marine & Offshore business.

External growth was also a key driver, notably thanks to targeted acquisitions in China.

The group further implemented a global key account strategy to reinforce its penetration with large corporations. In H1 2015, we began to benefit from this commercial initiative, particularly in Europe. In parallel, we have pursued diversification of our business portfolio and the deployment of Lean Management, and reinforced our sales and marketing organisation. These initiatives aim at accelerating growth and drive operational excellence within the group.

How can companies benefit by partnering with you?

Didier Michaud-Daniel: Our role is to help companies meet their challenges of quality, health and safety, environmental protection and social responsibility and operate with confidence. We create value for clients in four ways: provide a licence to operate, reduce risks, improve supply chain performance and help companies enter global markets. We develop a growing number of innovative solutions that go beyond simple compliance with regulations and standards.

KHALEEJ TIMES | SPECIAL REPORT | NOVEMBER 24, 2015

Didier Michaud-Daniel Chief executive officer

Tony Mouawad Chief operating officer, Africa Middle east Asia & Pacific

When companies choose Bureau Veritas, they know they are partnering with a group that has strong technical expertise, a worldwide footprint and resources they will not find anywhere else.

impacted by the slowdown in capex projects, and launched initiatives to reduce costs on the oil companies. But on the other hand, it has strengthened our relations with these companies as it showed that Bureau Veritas is a reliable partner.

Bureau Veritas has been present in the Middle East for almost 40 years. Tell us about your interests in the region.

Tony Mouawad: The Middle East is one of our key markets offering constant growth opportunities. We have a strong presence in all countries of the region, particularly in the GCC. This region is traditionally reliant on hydrocarbons and we have accompanied all major international and national oil companies in their capacity building while helping them reduce risks through compliance assessment services. Heavy investments are being undertaken in infrastructure, rail, green power, utilities and the petrochemical sectors, among others. Bureau Veritas has a solid experience in those fields and we are playing a key role in sharing our know-how and expertise with major stakeholders to improve the quality, health safety and environmental performances.

Oil and gas sector is undergoing challenging times.

How has this impacted Bureau Veritas’ regional performance?

Tony Mouawad: The oil testing business is benefitting from the current environment for refining and trade-related activities, and only drill core related testing activities are negatively impacted.

Bureau Veritas is obviously

What are your future plans?

Tony Mouawad: We will pursue reinforcing our local presence and diversifying our service portfolio. We will focus on asset integrity management services that will bring value to duty holders and clients. In parallel, we will deploy innovative solutions for the safe development of new offshore and onshore fields.

Bureau Veritas is also closely collaborating with local authorities to enhance consumer protection by establishing tailored programmes aimed at verifying that the imported products and goods meet national and international standards for quality health safety and environmental aspects. Several countries in the Middle East have already adopted these programmes and entrusted Bureau Veritas in their implementation.

Bureau Veritas S.A Abu Dhabi Branch P.o. Box 26264, tel: +971 (2) 64 44 920 Fax: +971 (2) 64 44 921 e-mail: bvadh@eim.ae Bureau Veritas S.A Dubai Branch P.o. Box 9110 tel: +971 (4) 3074400 Fax: +971 (4) 34 52 391 e-mail: dubai@ae.bureauveritas.com Web: www.bureauveritas.com

F R A NC E

Veolia, a global leader in resource management, has been helping companies to make the most of their resources

Veolia, a leading global resource management company, is building a legacy by helping customers worldwide manage, optimise, and make the most of their resources. By offering an array of solutions related to water, energy and materials, the company focuses on waste recovery and promotes transition toward a circular economy.

Its presence in the Gulf is invaluable for many such reasons. In the Middle East, Veolia is working with industries, governments and communities as well as retail and commercial businesses to deliver innovative and sustainable solutions. “Veolia aims at providing public authorities and industries with a range of water, energy and waste management services that are vital to human development and sustainable growth. We continue to focus our efforts on continuously adapting and innovating in tandem with the economic growth and human development by designing and implementing solutions that will have a positive impact on the environment and resources in the Middle East,” says Xavier Joseph, CEO, Veolia Gulf Countries, Veolia.

The French company has been present here for three decades and employs 3,000 people. It has a strong local network with 10 offices across the Gulf countries.

“Our vision is to become a key ‘glocal’ environmental partner in the Gulf and our mission is to deliver innovative, cost effective and sustainable waste, energy and water

KT photos by Dhes Handumon

Your glocal environment partner

Xavier Joseph, CEO, Veolia Gulf Countries

solutions to our clients, to enhance their performance while contributing to resourcing the world,” he says.

Veolia has been actively contributing to the development of the cities through publicprivate partnerships and contractual schemes. Its expertise has led to optimisation of industrial cycles through the management of the environmental resources cycle.

“We develop solutions that enable customers to focus on maximising the performance of their core business, i.e. help cities to enhance customer experience and improve the knowledge of their needs with a city dashboard, while we address the water, waste and energy operations and management needs,” adds the CEO. One of the prime examples of its innovative approach is the Energy Saving Centre. Through a complete review of existing buildings energy infrastructure Veolia implements a specific plan to upgrade, manage and maintain energy systems.

Combined with constant monitoring either on-site or through Veolia’s Energy Saving Centre, it keeps energy equipment operating at peak efficiency, delivers secure energy supply and adds the

strongest guarantee on energy savings, paying the difference if the targets are not achieved.

“Our Energy Saving Centre has recently been recognised as a COP21 solution by Veolia Group. Through our subsidiary Enova — a joint venture created in 2002 between Majid Al Futtaim Ventures and Veolia — we will deliver savings in the first Energy Savings Performance Contract for DEWA buildings. Following our accreditation as an ESCO and the launch of our Energy Saving Centre in April 2014, this appointment reaffirms our commitment to sustainability and energy management in the Middle East,” says Joseph.

Veolia’s ingenious approach is also reducing the cost and price for desalination of seawater. In the future town of Masdar, Abu Dhabi, Veolia is promoting the use of new HiprodeTM technology for the reverse osmosis seawater desalination programme and the renewable energy programme. This allows desalination through smaller units, and hence reduces costs.

“The results obtained using this 300m3/day demonstrator will confirm plans to construct a large-scale reverse osmosis desalination plant. HiprodeTM technology had already been

tested and confirmed using a prototype installed at Veolia’s seawater desalination plant in Gibraltar.”

The global leader has completed work on two wastewater treatment plants in Abu Dhabi (Al Ain and Al Wathba) in collaboration with its partner Besix.

In the coming years, it has defined three pillars of growth and development for the region: • Support infrastructure needs: Develop waste treatment capabilities and generate leads on district cooling with relevant partnership.

• Circular economy and smart models: Promote waste to energy and recovery of waste materials; Smart cities offering in water, waste and energy efficiency; Focus on building energy services.

• Oil & Gas services: Hazardous waste and multi-utilities offers.

“We put a lot of effort in building a more efficient and agile organisation that enables our team to tackle complex environmental challenges with the most pragmatic approach.

In the Gulf, we have defined three focus areas, which include being closer to the communities; engage employees; and raise awareness on environmental protection and biodiversity. We take our role in the local community seriously,” says Joseph, concluding that the company’s achievements are a result of its commitment to developing, preserving and replenishing resources, across the region.

KHALEEJ TIMES | SPECIAL REPORT | NOVEMBER 24, 2015

11

F R A NC E

Ahead of the curve France has built a vibrant tech culture over the last few decades

by Deepa NarwaNi

F

rance was recently ranked by the United Nations as the number one country in Europe and number four globally for its e-government services, telecommunications infrastructure and education levels. More than half 53 per cent of the French population now pay their taxes online, while 86 per cent of farmers apply for aid under the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) online.

Since the early days, French inventors have played a fundamental role in innovations such as the development of photography and the internal combustion engine. They were pioneers of the first mechanical adding machine, electric generator and the refrigerator, among others. French industry has also been at the forefront of the development of highspeed transportation systems such as the Concorde and the TGV high-speed train. French subway companies have built as well as provided equipment for mass-transit systems in countries such as Canada, Mexico, and Brazil.

France was the third nation, after the former Soviet Union and the US, to launch its own space satellite, in 1965.

Presently the country focuses on contributing to the different missions of the European Space Agency.

Pertinently the US and France have signed an agreement for the Mars Insight mission planned for launch in 2016 and are continuing to

12

negotiate an agreement on solar activity and space weather, which will push the boundaries of scientific exploration.

Currently, digital technology represents 5.5 per cent of French GDP. According to a recent study from McKinsey, France may increase the share represented by digital technology in its GDP by almost €100 billion by 2020.

Also, statistics show that 83 per cent of the French use the Internet as compared to the European average of 75 per cent according to the French National Institute for Statistics and Economic Research (Insee) in 2012. They are also very active on social networks;

KHALEEJ TIMES | SPECIAL REPORT | NOVEMBER 24, 2015

France is also at the cutting edge of big Data, and recent studies have found that three out of five French companies use advanced analytical processing to improve their efficiency and save time.

a study found that Facebook has 28 million active users in the country.

What is more, France is also at the cutting edge of Big Data and recent studies have found that three out of five French companies use advanced analytical processing to improve their efficiency and save time.

The country is also known for the number of online courses it offers making education in diverse fields more accessible through the French Digital University (FUN - France Université Numérique).

Further, statistics from Maravedis Rethink, a leading wireless infrastructure analyst firm, found France to be well ahead of many countries, including the US, with more than 13 million public Wi-Fi terminals and the country is all set to increase the number of terminals by 80 per cent by 2018.

France is also aiming to make it possible to send paperless invoices to all state suppliers by 2017, which will result in estimated savings of €700 million per year for businesses and the public sector, making sure it offers high-tech across the board in the future.

F R A NC E

A preferred construction partner

O Spie Batignolles is a leading French player in construction and civil engineering globally

By SaDIq ShaBan

Jean-Baptiste Le Gall Managing Director Spie Batignolles International

Core areas of expertise h Civil engineering and foundations h Construction h Public works h Energy h Property development and concessions

Gate Tower, Reem Island

ne of the leading independent construction groups, Spie Batignolles, encompasses all sectors of the industry.

The group has been operational for more than 150 years and operates in France (136 locations) and globally (eight international sites).

Headquartered in Neuillysur-Seine near Paris, Spie Batignolles employs more than 6,700 people and generated an overall turnover of Dh7.1 billion (€1.8 billion) in 2014, with 18 per cent of its revenues from civil engineering and foundation works.

“Spie Batignolles is driven by a desire to create and share sustainable value. Our deeprooted commitment to partnership is reflected in the culture and performance of our innovative trading brands.

The group is equally committed to ensuring the health and safety of its employees, the quality of their working lives and professional development,” Jean-Baptiste Le Gall, Managing Director, Spie Batignolles International, told Khaleej Times.

With its long international experience started at the last century, Spie Batignolles decided to turn to other horizons a few years ago, particularly in regard to civil engineering and foundation activities. Le Gall adds, “In 2008, we created a civil engineering and special foundations division in the United Arab Emirates coupled by a similar entity in Qatar in 2011. The projects carried out by these two entities are mainly related to piling and special foundation works but we hope to start our civil engineering activity in the coming years.”

Operating regionally from its main office located in Abu Dhabi near the National Petroleum Construction Company, Spie Batignolles has high expectations from various projects announced in the Middle East. “The construction sector in the Middle East appears all set to return to near-full capacity with the reactivation or launch of a number of major projects related to infrastructure, transport and even building developments especially in Qatar,” he noted.

With a number of previously stalled projects racing towards completion or continuing to forge ahead on fresh impetus provided by Expo 2020, the coming years are going to be exciting for Spie Batignolles.

“The group is working on several complex and prestigious projects. Spie Batignolles is driven by its ability to design and build complex special foundation works, to mobilise qualified personnel, large fleet of specialised equipment and lastly by our culture of accepting challenges and honouring them,” Le Gall elaborated.

Since 2009, Spie Batignolles has carried out several iconic and complex projects like the Gate Towers on Reem Island in Abu Dhabi, The Guggenheim Abu Dhabi museum on Saadiyat Island, the deep pumping station for the STEP programme at Wathba, the Golden Line Metro project in

The construction sector in the Middle East appears all set to return to near-full capacity with the reactivation or launch of a number of major projects related to infrastructure, transport and even building developments.

— Jean-Baptiste Le Gall Doha, Qatar, to name a few.

In terms of international expansion, Spie Batignolles is exploring potential opportunities, particularly in the Middle East where it is already operating. “Our main goal is to be an effective partner to public, private and industrial clients wishing to expand globally. A strong focus on building solid relationships with our clients and partners based on mutual trust is our key asset for growth,” the managing director concluded.

— sadiq@khaleejtimes.com For more information: P.O. Box 109933 Abu Dhabi, UAE Tel : +971 (0)2 55 16 333 Fax : +971 (0)2 55 14 933 Website: www.spiebatignolles.fr/en

STEP, Abu Dhabi KHALEEJ TIMES | SPECIAL REPORT | NOVEMBER 24, 2015

13

F R A NC E

© Dassault Aviation - V. Almansa

Unparalleled dedication to UAE AF vision Dassault Aviation reinforces partnerships with UAE organisations to transfer knowledge and industrial knowhow aligned with the objectives of Abu Dhabi Vision 2030 Beginning with the Mirage V, Dassault Aviation is honoured to support the UAE Air Force and Air Defence (UAE AF & AD) in its mission to ensure the UAE sovereignty and secure its strategic position in the region, and has been doing so for over 40 years.

The historical partnership, which led to the acquisition of the Mirage 2000 and more recently to the commendable Mirage 2000-9 programme, is based on Dassault Aviation’s commitment to the UAE and the UAE AF & AD’s confidence on the reliability of the aircraft and the loyalty of the company.

The Mirage 2000 contract has been an occasion to train the first Emirati officers at Dassault Aviation’s Flight Test Centre in France as part of the strategy adopted by the UAE to improve its air force.

The Mirage 2000-9

programme, one of the most important agreements signed

by Dassault Aviation, has called for an unparalleled industrial action plan with a large participation of UAE partners.

The remarkable participation of the Mirage 2000-9 in international coalition operations since 2011 illustrates the success of this programme and the strength of the long-standing and trustful cooperation between Dassault Aviation and the UAE. In addition to reaching excellence in supporting the Mirage 2000-9 fleet with a close partnership with AMMROC and sustain an aerospace capability development policy in the UAE, Dassault Aviation has established partnerships in the industrial fields in 2011. One example is the Tawazun Precision Industries for the manufacturing of machined

© Dassault Aviation - S. Randé

parts for Dassault Aviation Falcon 7X and 8X programme, the latest generation of Falcon Aircraft and Tawazun Dynamics.

Furthermore, Dassault Aviation has also reinforced partnerships with the intention to transfer knowledge and technologies alongside industrial know-how that are perfectly aligned with the objectives of Abu Dhabi Vision 2030. Among these partnerships are UAE University, Khalifa University for Sciences Technology and

© Dassault Aviation - S. Randé

14

KHALEEJ TIMES | SPECIAL REPORT | NOVEMBER 24, 2015

Applied Research (KUSTAR), and Institute of Applied Technology (IAT).

The scope of cooperation with UAE University in Al Ain encompasses scientific lectures and research projects. They aim to develop UAE’s scientific research and innovation capacities in world-leading techniques in aeronautics and aerospace engineering.

In this frame, Dassault Aviation welcomes Emirati students every year to leading French aerospace industries for internships as well as practical and hands-on training in its factories.

These programmes express their value in many strategic sectors of the UAE economy, providing students with the highest education standards and preparing them for exciting technical careers within the ambitious projects developed by the UAE industry.

Present in the past and preparing for the future, Dassault Aviation has been a proud and reliable partner of the UAE for over four decades and is fully committed to meet the operational requirements and support the strategic challenges of the UAE AF & AD in the coming decades.

JOIN OUR GLOBAL LOYALTY PROGRAM AT ACCORHOTELS.COM