ISSUE 109
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COGRI MIDDLE EAST FLOORING FOR THE NEXT GENERATION OF LOGISTICS AND AUTOMATION
FACES OF SUSTAINABILITY EMIRATESGBC IN TOUCH WITH TOMORROW
ASGC MR BISHOY AZMY OUT OF CRISIS COMES OPPORTUNITY
GRUNDFOS DUBAI FACILITY SECURES LEED PLATINUM RECOGNITION
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Editors Foreword
DESIGNING A NEW WORLD AS THE UAE BEGINS TO RE-OPEN, MANY QUESTIONS ARE BEING ASKED ABOUT THE FUTURE, NOT LEAST HOW WE CAN DESIGN A SAFER AND HEALTHIER NATION. AND THESE QUESTIONS ARE FOR ARCHITECTS AND DESIGNERS AS MUCH AS THEY ARE FOR GOVERNMENTS AND SCIENTISTS. LONGTERM PLANNING AND VISION ARE NEEDED, NOT MERELY QUICK FIXES THAT MAY NOT WORK IN THE LONG-RUN. At the most basic level, to need to discover how to develop solutions and
WANT YOUR COMPANY TO APPEAR IN THE UAE’S LEADING TRADE PUBLICATION
materials that are safer and don’t require the continuous application of ISSUE 109
disinfectant, or indeed are manufactured using petroleum-based or metal products. However, that may be an impossible ask at present, so objects, such as tables and desks, need to be designed so that they can provide
News brought to you by Emirates Projects
limited cross-infection. Surely, if places such as petrol stations can put together plastic guards, can’t the design world do something better? Humans are social animals, and we need spaces where we can be together while minimising disease transmission. Of course, many people are currently working from home, but isolation is not the answer. We need the means to bring us together that is safe and accessible. But we also need to acknowledge the presence of risk, getting past the falsehood that technology and pharmaceuticals can make us immortal. We need to accept that being human means that there is some degree of risk in our lives. As a species, we are too afraid of death, to the point where it is no longer brought up in polite conversation. This is foolish – and not at all good for our mental health. Yet what we need to do now is live! Yes, we need to take all sensible precautions and follow government guidance, but we do not need to fall victim of the second most dangerous virus on the planet in 2020 ... fear.
COGRI MIDDLE EAST FLOORING FOR THE NEXT GENERATION OF LOGISTICS AND AUTOMATION
FACES OF SUSTAINABILITY EMIRATESGBC IN TOUCH WITH TOMORROW
ASGC MR BISHOY AZMY OUT OF CRISIS COMES OPPORTUNITY
GRUNDFOS DUBAI FACILITY SECURES LEED PLATINUM RECOGNITION
CONTACT info@tpg.media www.emirates.tpg.media
SOCIAL MEDIA @emiratesprojects @emiratesprojects /company/emiratesprojects
Things will return to normal at some stage, something that those caught up in the last global pandemic, Spanish Flu, would no doubt acknowledge. For now, though, stay safe and be happy.
Rod Millington EDITOR IN CHIEF
03 03
All our publications are printed using recycled paper.
BECAUSE WE CARE
04
Contents
COVER STORY
30
CoGri MIDDLE EAST LLC
SUPER-FLAT FLOORS, SUPER-HIGH STANDARDS FEATURE
18 PROJECT FOCUS BURJ CROWN BY LWK+ PARTNERS
Contents
EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEWS
38 FACES OF SUSTAINABILITY ALSO IN THIS ISSUE
08
17
AZIZI NEWS
LOCAL NEWS
24
26
KANOO ENERGY
LINE INVESTMENTS
05 05
06 06
Local Local News News
DEWA’S CONSERVATION PROGRAMMES AND INITIATIVES ACHIEVED CUMULATIVE SAVINGS OF 2.2 TERAWATT-HOURS (TWh) OF ELECTRICITY AND 7.8 BILLION GALLONS OF WATER These savings show DEWA’s efforts to achieve its vision to become a globally leading sustainable innovative corporation and demonstrate that it is a socially responsible government organisation,” said
HE SAEED MOHAMMED AL TAYER, MD & CEO OF DEWA
HE Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, MD & CEO of DEWA. Customers can access the My Sustainable
DEWA LAUNCHES 5TH ‘LET’S MAKE THIS SUMMER GREEN’ CAMPAIGN
number of simple guidelines to reduce the use
on DEWA’s website or smart app, and updating
Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA)
of electricity and water in summer and help
their Consumption Patterns file to benefit from
has launched its ‘Let’s Make This Summer Green’
customers to adopt a sustainable lifestyle.
conservation tips, tailored to each customer. The
campaign for the 5th year running. This year’s
Living Programme by logging onto their account
“Between 2009 and 2019, DEWA’s conservation
‘Let’s Make This Summer Green’ campaign includes
campaign will be communicated on DEWA’s
programmes and initiatives achieved cumulative
adjusting the AC temperature to 24 degrees, fix
social media as well as its internal and external
savings of 2.2 terawatt-hours (TWh) of
water leaks, and replace conventional bulbs
channels. The three-month campaign’s theme
electricity and 7.8 billion gallons of water. This
with LED bulbs and other simple steps. You can
is ‘Start Conserving Now’. It includes a
is equivalent to saving AED 1.3 billion, reducing
read more about conservation tips on DEWA’s
1.136 million tonnes of carbon emissions.
smart app and website www.dewa.gov.ae
THE BIG 5 WILL COME AT A TIME DURING WHICH DUBAI IS EXPECTED TO ENTER AN EXCITING NEW GROWTH PHASE
THE BIG 5 POSTPONED TO 2021 dmg events has announced that its annual trade show, The Big 5, will next be held on 12-15 September 2021, at the Dubai World Trade Centre. The new dates also apply to the specialised events that are staged alongside The Big 5 - The Big 5 Heavy, Middle East Concrete,
67,000+ HIGH-LEVEL BUYERS, SUPPLIERS AND EXPERTS
HVAC R Expo, Middle East Stone, The Big 5 Solar, and the Urban Design & Landscape Expo. Ben Greenish, Senior Vice President at dmg events, said: “It was not an easy decision to take, but we believe it is the best for the construction players we proudly connect and have served since 1979. Over the past weeks, we made it our priority to listen to our exhibitors, visitors and other key stakeholders. We understand how crucial a successful trade event is for their businesses and how challenging planning ahead can be in such uncertain times. We have therefore decided to postpone this year’s event to offer an edition of the scale and nature expected of The Big 5 in 2021, which will boost the construction sector’s recovery efforts in the post-Covid-19 era.” With Dubai moving the 2020 World Expo to October 2021, the next edition of The Big 5 will come at a time during which Dubai is expected to enter an exciting new growth phase as it prepares to present an amazing showcase and 21st century city to the world.
Local News
07 07
ENERGY SECTOR DRIVES CONSTRUCTION IN Q1 2020 The GCC construction market is estimated at $2.4 trillion, with over 23,000 active projects at the end of Q1 2020. BNC Network, the largest construction intelligence platform in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA), issued the 17th edition of the BNC Projects Journal titled: Code Blue. The latest BNC Projects Journal stated that the GCC construction market shifted focus towards driving ongoing projects to completion in Q1 2020 and was cautious in new announcements as well as contract awards. $48.4 billion worth of projects were completed in Q1 2020, driven by the UAE and Saudi Arabia with 38% and 27% contribution respectively. New projects worth $21 billion were announced in Q1 2020 with the largest contribution being made by the UAE with 59% market share followed by Qatar and Oman. The GCC Construction sector registered a 4% YoY growth in March, which was primarily driven by the energy sectors, with oil & gas and the utility sector expanding by 16% and 7% YoY respectively. The industrial sector grew marginally by 4% YoY while the GCC transport sector contracted by 5% YoY.
NEW PROJECTS WORTH $21 BILLION WERE ANNOUNCED IN Q1 2020
DISTRICT 2020 FORMS STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIPS District 2020, the innovation ecosystem and future of Expo 2020 Dubai, has signed strategic partnerships with Dubai SME and the Mohammed Bin Rashid Innovation Fund (MBRIF) to support its global entrepreneur programme, Scale2Dubai. In line with Dubai and the UAE’s proactive approach to supporting small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and the important role they play in bolstering the country’s resilient economy, both organisations will provide District 2020 with a pipeline of high-potential start-ups and small businesses by helping eligible companies join Scale2Dubai. They will also provide the start-ups and small businesses with the guidance, connections and funding they need to continue their growth as part of the Scale2Dubai programme. Marjan Faraidooni, Chief Pavilions and Exhibitions Officer, Expo 2020 Dubai, said: “These milestone agreements with Dubai SME and MBRIF will further bolster the continued growth of the UAE’s start-up ecosystem and contribute to a stronger and resurgent economic environment.” Scale2Dubai is currently accepting expressions of interest in the programme through the District 2020 website: www.district2020.ae. The application and short list process will follow in 2021, with successful applicants announced during Expo 2020 Dubai. Those chosen to be part of the programme will be able to move into their workspaces at District 2020 once it opens, shortly after Expo 2020 ends.
AVIN GIDWANI, CEO OF INDUSTRY NETWORKS
08
Local News
AZIZI NEWS AZIZI DEVELOPMENTS’ VCM PIONEERS COMMUNITY MANAGEMENT APPLICATION Azizi Developments has developed and launched a
Mr Farhad Azizi, CEO of Azizi Developments,
first-of-its-kind community portal application through
commented: “We are proud to unveil this innovative
VCM, its dedicated community management provider.
and technologically advanced communication
The mobile application grants Azizi community
platform, which is key to fostering ease of service access
residents a wide range of services, effectively enhancing
and a sense of belonging, as well as in encouraging
convenience, wellbeing and transparency.
enhancements to our communities.”
Addressing all of its residents’ needs and concerns, the
Having already delivered two sizable
VCM app allows those residing in Azizi’s communities
developments in Al Furjan – Samia and
to view announcements and updates, get access to
Farishta in January and February of 2020
information about community health, newsletters
respectively – Azizi plans to complete a total
and promotions, review account statements, make
of approximately 3,000 units by the end of
services charge payments and pay for other services
the year. While construction is progressing
rendered through a safe payment gateway, raise and
swiftly, the developer is also making
follow enquiries, concerns, and observations, and
dedicated efforts to enrich the lives of
organise community activities, all 24/7, worldwide.
those who reside in its communities.
AZIZI PLANS TO COMPLETE A TOTAL OF APPROXIMATELY 3,000 UNITS BY THE END OF THE YEAR AZIZI DEVELOPMENTS APPOINTS TOSHIBA FOR RIVIERA IN MBR CITY Azizi Developments has appointed Toshiba Elevator and Building Systems Corporation, the Japanese makers of the world’s fastest elevator, to supply and install all passenger and service elevators in a minimum of 36 buildings in Riviera, Dubai’s new waterfront-lifestyle landmark in MBR City, as well as for Creek Views, Azizi’s 634-unit modern luxury development in Dubai Healthcare City. Toshiba’s most modern solution, its machine-roomless (MRL) elevators, will be integrated with premium wood-style cabin wall finishings and elegant buttons, embedded in full-height, luxurious glass panels. Elevator safety is made a priority, with the technology meeting and surpassing all international standards. Designed to introduce the French-Mediterranean lifestyle to Dubai, which is not merely about architectural art but also about a certain ‘joie de vivre’ - a celebration of life, a triumph of spirit - Riviera represents a new landmark. The first phase of Riviera comprises 3,589 residences spread across 18 buildings, consisting of 2,461 studios, 935 one-bedroom, 111 two-bedroom, and 82 threebedroom units, most of which are projected to be finalised in 2020. Phase 1 has a total built-up area of 375,541m2 and a total gross floor area of 180,854m2.
3,589
RESIDENCES
375,541m2 PHASE 1, TOTAL BUILT-UP AREA
180,854m2
TOTAL GROSS FLOOR AREA
Local News
DUBAI SEES PRONOUNCED UPTICK IN DEMAND FOR RETAIL UNITS Azizi Developments has noted
posed by the outbreak of Covid-19,
a substantial surge in demand
which has temporarily impacted
for its 700+ retail units across its
brick and mortar businesses.”
communities in Dubai. Since January
Retail units on Azizi Riviera’s 1.6km
2020, the developer has sold 75 units
integrated boulevard and 2.6km canal
in MBR City’s Riviera, 40 units in Al
walk are considered to be an astute
Furjan, 19 in Dubai Healthcare City,
investment with the community being
six in Jebel Ali, five on Palm Jumeirah
home to over 16,000 families, and it is
and one in Dubai Studio City, bringing
being forecasted to welcome a sizable
the total retail units sold to 146.
volume of visitors as a landmark and
Nima Khojasteh, Executive Director
700+
RETAIL UNITS ACROSS DUBAI
146
TOTAL UNITS SOLD SINCE JAN 2020
cultural hotspot. Azizi’s retail units in
- Sales and Marketing at Azizi
Riviera currently start from AED 488K,
Developments, said: “We are pleased
with a 50% DLD fee waiver and four
to see our retail unit sales growing
years of free service charge. Investors
so rapidly, despite global challenges
can earn a projected ROI of up to 12%.
16,000
UPTO
FAMILIES IN RIVIERA’S COMMUNITY
12%
PROJECTED ROI FOR INVESTORS
AZIZI DEVELOPMENTS HIRES OVER 100 PROFESSIONALS Azizi Developments has increased the headcount for its business operations through the employment of 40 new staff, with plans to hire another 60+. Azizi’s new hires are deployed across its Customer Service department, including its Customer Care and Mortgage teams, its Sales and Marketing department, as well as several other operational functions. Azizi’s upsizing comes in light of an increase in sales enquiries, reflecting an uptick in demand in its world-class properties amid the current buyer’s market, and the developer’s continuous efforts in enhancing its customer-centricity and transparency. Among the new staff are eight
Azizi’s revamped customer care strategy. Mr Afzaal Hussain, Chief Operating Officer at Azizi Developments, commented: “After a thorough analysis of internal bottlenecks, we’ve determined
pursuit of continuously enhancing our transparency and customer satisfaction levels, excites our valued homeowners as much as it does us.” Azizi plans to complete a total of approximately
senior-level Directors with extensive
that adding experienced professionals to our
3,000 units in 2020, having already finished two
experience in the real estate sector and
operations is the right move in ensuring our customers
developments in Al Furjan – Samia and Farishta
several customer service managers and
the quality of service they deserve. We hope that
in January and February respectively.
executives that will lead and achieve
this major hiring, which reflects our ambition and
09 09
10
Local News
AZIZI NEWS
LOOKING TO A BRIGHT FUTURE AT CREEK VIEWS The construction sector in the MENA region faces a downturn in 2020 due to the escalating number of Covid-19 cases and a fall in oil prices. No-one will be left untouched, with Dubai’s Department of Finance, for instance, ordering a 50% reduction in capital spending and a freeze on new public construction
incorporating 396 studios, 218 one-bedroom and
CREEK VIEWS
20-STOREY DEVELOPMENT
projects.
634
Nevertheless, the medium to long-term is looking as positive as ever for the UAE, with Sheikh
RESIDENCES
Mohammed, the Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE, stating defiantly: “The UAE will win the
37
coronavirus battle.” The Ruler of Dubai went on to liken the fight against the pandemic to a sporting
NATIONALITIES INVESTED
event where healthcare workers are “star players” and the world is “one team”. This positive and inspirational approach has gone
20 two-bedroom units, in addition to 33,341ft2 of premium retail space. An increasingly popular and in-demand community, Phase Two of Creek Views is a freehold development on Al Khail Road, less than 10 minutes away from Dubai International Airport, Dubai Mall, and Business Bay. It will perhaps come as no surprise, therefore, to discover that more than 37 different nationalities have invested in the project, with the strongest investor response coming from Emiratis, accounting for 25% of Creek Views sales. Standing Together This much-anticipated project brings together both old and new Dubai, embodying perfectly the emirate’s transition from its traditional past to its pioneering future. Designed with the latest in luxury to the forefront, Creek Views will feature an
down well with the nation’s people, including those Its developer, Azizi Developments, has announced
all-inclusive health club with a swimming pool, a
that steady progress is being made on the residential
fully-equipped gym, sauna, steam room, plus an
Popular and in Demand
tower project, Creek Views, which is located on
outdoor yoga space.
One project still very much on schedule for
Dubai Creek.
in the development and construction industries.
completion in Q2 2021 is Phase Two of Dubai Healthcare City.
Overlooking Dubai Healthcare City, the project is a 20-storey development featuring 634 residences,
At this difficult time, the world stands together, and projects such as Creek Views are indicative of the way forward.
Local News
11 11
12
Guest Comment
OUT OF CRISIS COMES OPPORTUNITY
Charles Darwin noted: “It is not the strongest of
The need to adapt
the species that survives, nor the most intelligent
Covid-19 is simply accelerating the impact of the
Bishoy Azmy, CEO of ASGC, shares his views on the
that survives. It is the one that is most adaptable to
issues in our industry and we need to find solutions.
impact of the Coronavirus on the industry and the
change.” Change is not a new normal. Change is an
Whether these solutions now require investment
need to embrace change.
inevitable part of life. We all regularly face different
in technology such as 3D printing, more efficient
kinds of crises and the mindset of the individual, and
ways of thinking, different ways of procuring or
now for obvious reasons. However, I am optimistic
the mindset of an organization, should be adaptable
the sourcing of cheaper and more environmentally
about the future and believe that those who are
and flexible enough to accommodate change. If we
friendly materials, the underlying issues challenging
able to adapt can emerge from this crisis as winners.
are able to accommodate change, we will be able to
the industry have not changed. The pandemic has
Of course, the Covid-19 pandemic is a crisis which
adapt to the impact of Covid-19 and stay resilient. If
not changed our world – it has simply expedited the
had an immediate negative impact, but one has
we look at the stock market and global economies
need to find solutions to pre-existing challenges.
to think from a business perspective how we can
right now, we see how technology companies and
take advantage of this. How can we reposition our
progressive businesses with strong leadership are
quickly are going to emerge as winners out of the
company, ourselves and strategies to play to our
actually doing very well because they have a culture
Covid-19 situation and we are focused on this
strengths and address what will become the new
of embracing and even creating change. On the other
outcome. We are trying to adapt, evolve, streamline,
normal? We realize that 2020 is hugely impacted by
hand, traditional businesses in declining industries
cut costs, collaborate more with our clients. We
Covid-19 and all of our pre-COVID plans for the year
are suffering.
are trying to work with our clients as an integrated
There is a lot of fear and negativity in business right
have now been largely shattered. We will emerge
If we consider the construction industry, Covid-19
Companies that can find solutions to the challenges
part of the delivery process to lower the cost of the
from this global pandemic as a different player.
is simply accelerating problems and issues that the
end product. We are trying to increase our use of
Some people will fall, some people will evolve. As
industry was already facing. The industry, whether in
technology and reduce reliance on manual work in
the local market or globally, was
the construction process, automating where possible
already dealing with low margins,
so that we have a factory line rather than unique
uncomfortable health and safety
prototypes with their own learning cycles which
standards, poor procurement
we cannot benefit from on the next project. We are
and contractual arrangements
embracing the concept of modular construction,
between stakeholders, very high
being more flexible in the way we work to allow
risk, and, most importantly,
creativity in the workforce and our internal supply
affordability issues. The
chain. Outdated construction practices, working
affordability of our product is an
methods, working hours, dress codes – all of these
issue. Globally, there is a huge
are now being questioned. Everyone in our business
gap between what most people
should be encouraged to approach things differently
can afford to pay for the product
and embrace change. The end results are what is
of construction (whether it is
important.
a house, apartment, office or any other development) and
Reasons for optimism
the actual cost to buy. The cost
It is clear that 2020 will be difficult year for business
of our product as an industry is
but I am very optimistic for 2021 and beyond. 2020
increasing but the income of most
will be a year of repositioning and challenging
people in the world is not rising at
financial reporting. However, our industry can use
the same pace.
the crisis to address its issues, become more agile,
Companies with high leverage will find it even more difficult to cope with these challenges
needs of the product we deliver to our customers. We are fortunate that our business is not highly
because of the increased
leveraged and has an agile and dedicated team which
pressures it brings. Even
is willing to think outside of the box. We are focused
where a company is generally
on adapting to the new normal and I am actually very
in good health, debt can cause
optimistic about the remainder of 2020 and beyond.
suffocation. Businesses with low BISHOY AZMY, CEO OF ASGC
financially efficient and in tune with the changing
levels of debt will be best placed to adapt in times of crisis.
Local News
13 13
KIZAD NEWS KIZAD MEETING GROWING DEMAND Khalifa Industrial Zone Abu Dhabi (KIZAD) has begun work on a range of new
and we are expanding our portfolio to address these needs through the
facilities for supporting the increasing demand for pre-built warehouses in KIZAD.
launching of new modular, pre-built units in various sizes and configurations.
Consisting of small-to-medium light-industrial units, this development
New developments in KLP 4 and KLP 5 span total plot area of approximately
comprises the fourth, fifth, sixth and seventh phases of the KIZAD Logistics Park,
250,000m2, and offer a range of mixed-use warehousing and light industrial units.
and will be launched at the end of 2020 to cater to growing customer demand.
Further, KLP 6 and KLP 7 offer dedicated plots spanning a total of 330,000m2,
Abdullah Al Hameli, Acting Head of Industrial Zones Cluster, Abu Dhabi Ports, said: “Customers are looking for flexible and asset-light options,
housing 20 large terraced units, each with an individual floor space of 2,500m2, while KLP 7 will feature 56 medium light-industrial and warehousing units.
KIZAD BREAKS GROUND ON LARGEST REST AND REFUELLING FACILITY IN REGION
The plaza, covering an area of more than 87,000m2,
Abdullah Al Hameli, Acting Head of Industrial
roughly equal to 12 soccer fields, will cater to
Zones Cluster, Abu Dhabi Ports, said: “KIZAD
the needs of workers and visitors. It will include
Truck Plaza is another important milestone
KIZAD a subsidiary of Abu Dhabi Ports and
a first-of-its-kind dedicated ADNOC distribution
in realising KIZAD’s vision to support all of its
the Middle East’s largest industrial zone, has
service station for trucks, comprising two main
customers and the community across Abu Dhabi’s
broken ground on a new dedicated Truck Plaza,
canopies and six diesel bay canopies, and a
industrial and logistics supply chain. We are
comprising refuelling and rest facilities.
community centre with 275 shaded truck, bus
confident that integrated facilities at the Truck
and car parking spaces. It will also house several
Plaza will ultimately improve the quality of lives
retail outlets, including a convenience store,
of the broader industrial zone community.”
restaurants, a car care service, and a mosque.
14
Local News
INSTITUTIONAL INVESTORS CAN OFFER FRESH BOOST WITH THE RIGHT PRODUCT
challenges such as the current
Institutional investors and private
packages, easing on regulations,
equity fund investments are
and reduction of fees. These quick
increasingly gaining the spotlight
actions can lead to an increase in
as a strong key player that can help
the loan-to-value ratio applicable to
revive vital sectors of the economy,
mortgages, which is a solid step in
particularly real estate, as various
supporting the real estate sector.”
sectors begin to rise from the
pandemic and we have seen them in the country’s exceptional response such as rolling out of stimulus
Investors can benefit from low
impact of the Covid-19 pandemic,
mortgage interest rates, higher
according to Medallion Associates,
LTVs (loan to value), reduced
a leading private real estate
service charges and attractive
investment advisory firm. Market
valuations to make the best of their
experts in the UAE are looking at the
investments at present. In addition,
strength of private equity and fund
the market-friendly policies of the
structural investments considering
UAE offer investors the security
the healthy flow of foreign direct
and viability of their investments.
investments (FDI) into the country
“This is not the time to take a
in 2019, which has jumped to more
step back. In fact, this is the right
than 34% amounting to about $14
opportunity to grow because
billion from $10.4 billion in 2018.
whatever the cause may be,
Masood Al Awar, Chief Executive
MASOOD AL AWAR, CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER, MEDALLION ASSOCIATES
challenges will always be there, but
Officer, Medallion Associates, said:
seeing the best options in these
“The UAE has always showcased
situations enable investors and
its innovativeness and is at the
companies to gain the best position
global forefront even during major
in the industry,” Al Awar concluded.
WORKING ROUND THE CLOCK TO COMBAT THE PANDEMIC
34% INCREASE IN FOREIGN DIRECT INVESTMENTS (FDI) INTO THE UAE $10.4 BILLION
INVESTORS CAN BENEFIT FROM LOW MORTGAGE INTEREST RATES
2018
$14 BILLION
2019
ESSENTIAL PUBLIC SERVICES WORKING THROUGH COVID-19
part of the critical infrastructure
In the wake of the Covid-19
Due to the country-wide
outbreak, most industries had
lockdown being implemented,
to take a step back and re-
Qatra has faced an
evaluate their response plan.
unprecedented demand for
However, vital sectors such as
wastewater treatment from
the public health service had
all over the emirate. There has
to continue to work round the
been a substantial increase in
clock to combat the pandemic
the wastewater flow (close to
and deliver the necessary
20%), putting the treatment plant
services to the community.
under pressure. The company,
for Sharjah and is required to be continuously operational.
Sharjah-based company, Qatra
however, had no choice but to
Water Solutions is an essential
cope with it, as releasing the
public service company, ensuring
untreated wastewater to the
the treatment and recycling
environment would be a health
of domestic wastewater. It is a
hazard and an ecological disaster.
Local News
15 15
WORKING WITH GRUNDFOS JUST GOT EASIER
IMKAN AWARDS THE MAIN CONSTRUCTION CONTRACT FOR AL JURF
A meticulously designed 370-hectare coastal
Global water and climate company,
Abu Dhabi-based place-maker IMKAN has awarded
preserving their environment. Nestled within a
Grundfos, launched its new simpler and
Al Dhabi Contracting LLC a 236-million-dirham
nature reserve, the destination serves as an escape
intuitive website to provide solutions and
contract to build the first phase of the master-
from the fast-paced lifestyle of the city and is built
information to its customers in a better and
planned development of Al Jurf; its second
against a backdrop of stunning coastal views and
faster manner throughout their journeys.
home coastal destination set along the pristine
immaculate beaches bordered by lush green forest.
Redesigned with customer needs in mind,
destination, Al Jurf is a living sanctuary where residents have the opportunity to be a part of
coast of Sahel Al Emarat, the UAE’s Riviera.
In addition to being an area of great ecological
the website intelligently brings product
Scheduled for completion in 2022, the first phase
significance, the destination is also an ideal vacation
information closer together with Grundfos
of Al Jurf, Al Jurf Gardens, will see Al Dhabi
location, which will house the world-renowned
Product Centre – a tool used for sizing
Contracting LLC build 146 residential and two
wellness clinic and retreat – SHA Emirates.
and specifying pumps and projects.
show villas over a total area of 57,851m .
“We have 25,000 daily users of Grundfos Product Centre, and we consider it important that their experience of this essential sizing and specifying tool remains familiar,” explains Sikander Ejaz, Marketing Lead for Gulf, Levant and Pakistan. “We know how important it is for our customers
2
146 RESIDENTIAL AND TWO SHOW VILLAS OVER A TOTAL AREA OF 57,851M2
to be able to access our digital tools anywhere, anytime 24/7. The new website brings that value to our customers.” www.grundfos.com
MAJID AL FUTTAIM’S ELAN DEVELOPMENT BEGINS CONSTRUCTION PHASE Majid Al Futtaim Communities has underlined the resilience of the UAE real estate market by holding a ground-breaking ceremony for their recently launched Elan neighbourhood at Tilal Al Ghafon. The move officially kicks off the construction phase of the development, moving the project one step closer to its planned delivery by December 2022. The milestone follows the sale of 594 total units in phases one and two of Elan, representing a total sales value of AED 900 million. Comprising a mix of premium three and fourbedroom properties, Elan is an exclusive gated
unique residential option that sets an exceptionally
of wellness facilities, including a tennis court,
high benchmark in the UAE property market.
basketball court, cycling and jogging tracks,
The centrepiece of the community is the
swimming pool, and an indoor gym. Additionally,
community within Majid Al Futtaim’s flagship
recreational lagoon, fringed by white sandy beaches
reflecting the wider community name and honouring
Tilal Al Ghaf development. Its architecture and
that accommodate a variety of watersports. Further
local UAE heritage, 1,200 indigenous Ghaf trees
construction draw from Majid Al Futtaim’s unique
positioning Elan as one of the most desirable
have been planted to create tranquil trails.
philosophy of place-making, creating a truly
communities on the market is an abundance
16
EXPERT OPINION
A NEW STATE OF PLAY
PETER MOHRING, MANAGING DIRECTOR, TRANSPORT, SERCO MIDDLE EAST
By Peter Mohring, Managing Director,
This same level of commitment
Transport, Serco Middle East
in response must continue in the
Covid-19 has presented unparalleled
thought processes and proactive
challenges to all businesses across the
development of operational initiatives
globe, but perhaps one of the most
and solutions that will help shape land,
affected are those within the transport
sea and air travel after the impact of
industry. No longer can we freely
the pandemic begins to subside.
move people across cities, countries
The new world will require a build-up
and continents due to the travel
of confidence in customer’s safety
restrictions put in place to combat
as well as new ways of travelling
the virus. The result is a dramatic
during the re-opening stages and
decrease in transportation revenue
after the crisis. This will require
that is causing a range of issues in
companies to invest in understanding
both the short and long term, from
their customer’s journeys. Back-
pay decreases and redundancies to
burner programmes and delayed
closures of long-standing businesses
projects will need to be accelerated,
that can’t maintain liquidity through
cancelled or re-evaluated against
an extended period of inoperability.
the new state of play globally.
Private companies and regional
As one of the hardest-hit sectors by
governments have aligned their
the pandemic, transport will be one
strategies in this critical time to
of the sectors that take the longest
deliver an unprecedented response
time and requires the most impact
to the global medical emergency
to recover. Every single aspect of
including a record number of
travel must be redesigned to achieve
infection tests, screenings, temporary quarantine centres and medical facilities as well as limitation of travel whilst providing support to those unable to return home.
THE NEW WORLD WILL REQUIRE A BUILD-UP OF CONFIDENCE
BEYOND THE PANDEMIC
the resulting innovations will remain
As cities across the world ease Coronavirus
relevant even after the pandemic.
lockdown restrictions, it is important
“The pandemic is definitely accelerating
to ensure that elevators used by
some interesting trends in the elevator
millions of people every day remain a
industry. thyssenkrupp Elevator is well
comfortable, efficient and secure way of
equipped for the current challenges. We
transportation. thyssenkrupp Elevator
have been exploring several technologies
offers several options to create a clean
in recent years, such as smart spaces
and healthy car environment, aiming to
monitoring, remote operation, robots
reduce the risk of virus transmissions.
for sanitizing spaces and many more.
To ensure peace of mind for passengers,
Today, we have appropriate solutions to
the company is focusing on three
protect passengers during the pandemic.
pillars: hygiene technologies, social
Moreover, we also provide innovative
distancing, and touchless technologies
technologies for tomorrow that go beyond
to prevent infection in elevators and
today’s urban mobility,” says Peter
escalators in public places. Many of
Walker, CEO of thyssenkrupp Elevator.
renewed passenger confidence in the safety of the system whilst counterbalancing the impact of increased wait times and reduced passenger carrying capacity.
“THE PANDEMIC IS DEFINITELY ACCELERATING SOME INTERESTING TRENDS IN THE ELEVATOR INDUSTRY”
Local News
17 17
VEOLIA ME LAUNCHES NEW DISINFECTION SERVICES
Veolia’s leading experts in exposure to hazardous environments and is available
SIRAJPOWER SECURES A $50 MILLION PORTFOLIO DEBT FINANCING FROM APICORP
Veolia Middle East, a global leader
to corporate offices, commercial clients,
SirajPower, the UAE’s leading distributed solar energy
in optimised resource management,
superstores and hypermarkets, public
provider, has announced it has signed a $50 million
has launched a new quick response
buildings, and industrial sites.
long-term non-recourse credit facility for solar distributed
disinfection service, to help
Sébastien Chauvin, CEO of Veolia
generation from The Arab Petroleum Investments
organisations to decrease downtime
Middle East says: “Veolia Middle East
Corporation (APICORP), an energy-focused multilateral
and take preventative steps, quickly and
is continuously working to enhance
development financial institution. This will be the GCC’s
efficiently. The new ‘Back on Site and
prevention, limit, and contain the spread
largest lease-funding platform for distributed solar energy.
Safe’ disinfection initiative is in direct
of Covid-19. After analysing our customers’
response to Veolia customers’ needs
needs, we are proud to offer a customised
and is designed to ensure compliant
service that combines our different areas
treatment for businesses that need
of expertise. Through our new ‘Back on
disinfection after lockdown, prior to,
Site and Safe’ disinfection services, we
during reopening and on a regular basis
are going one step further by providing
thereafter to ensure continuous protection.
innovative solutions that protect the health
Compliant with the UAE’s latest health
and safety of employees and customers,
guidelines on infection control, the
while enabling businesses to resume
new service has been developed by
operations in the best conditions possible.”
VEOLIA MIDDLE EAST IS CONTINUOUSLY WORKING TO ENHANCE PREVENTION, LIMIT AND CONTAIN THE SPREAD OF COVID-19
With this financing facility, SirajPower proves the bankability and sustainability of its business model and adds another milestone by completing a first-of-its-kind debt-financing transaction for distributed solar energy in the Middle East. Distributed solar energy comprises individual power generation systems that can be both grid-connected or off-grid. In the past, these types of projects lacked sufficient scale to attract debt financing, which has limited the development of this market segment in the region. To overcome this challenge, SirajPower and APICORP have partnered to develop an innovative structure to finance an entire portfolio of distributed solar projects on a long-term, non-recourse basis. The funding will make it possible for SirajPower to expand its offering to businesses across various sectors, enabling them to save on their utility bills whilst simultaneously offsetting their carbon footprint. Laurent Longuet, CEO of SirajPower said: This green financing further sets us apart from our competition by enabling us to expand even faster. We are committed to ensuring the availability of clean energy across the region.”
“THIS GREEN FINANCING FURTHER SETS US APART FROM OUR COMPETITION”
18
PROJECT FOCUS – BURJ CROWN designed by LWK + PARTNERS
BURJ CROWN, DUBAI
CROWN JEWEL OF EMAAR’S DOWNTOWN DUBAI THE MENA STUDIO OF HONG KONG-BASED PRACTICE LWK + PARTNERS HAS EARLIER THIS YEAR COMPLETED THE DESIGN PACKAGE FOR THE LATEST PROJECT ‘BURJ CROWN’ BY EMAAR. THE LUXURY RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT IS THE FINAL ADDITION TO DUBAI’S RENOWNED DOWNTOWN SKYLINE.
LWK+ PARTNERS OFFICE 901, FLOOR 9 THE ONE TOWER BARSHA HEIGHTS, PO BOX 340675 DUBAI UAE T: +971 4 3716 300 E: DUBAI@LWKP.COM WWW.LWKP.COM
PROJECT NAME: BURJ CROWN PROJECT OWNER: EMAAR PROPERTIES COMPLETION DATE: OCTOBER 2023
PROJECT FOCUS – BURJ CROWN designed by LWK + PARTNERS
CROWN DECK
DESPITE HIGH SUPPLY CONCERNS, THE PROJECT IS SCHEDULED FOR COMPLETION IN OCTOBER 2023 AND WILL ADD 440 APARTMENTS TO DUBAI' S GROWING HOUSING SUPPLY WITH CONSTRUCTION WORKS COMMENCING AT THE BEGINNING OF MARCH 2020.
19 19
level the commercial units and the entrance lobby have been detailed with additional care through their use of crafted materials and edge treatments. In contrast the functionality of the podium has been reflected by the rational use of a simple geometry and robust materials and detailing. A prominent feature is the 6-storey landscaped Leisure Deck on the podium providing social and outdoor amenities for the residents and their guests. The Crown at the top of the building presents itself to the city from afar, bronze filigree, punctuating the tower’s presence amongst its prestigious neighbours. Burj Crown features an ‘Active Roof’ area, which provides residents with a communal outdoor space with magnificent views of Burj Khalifa and across Dubai. LWK + PARTNERS mandate was to craft a
LIVING ROOM
KITCHEN
WASHROOM
contemporary solution that would be one of the most desirable addresses in Dubai. The design team carefully examined all aspect of residents’ experience and designed an experiential Leisure Deck with a wide range of amenities including a large outdoor area with green spaces to relax and unwind. Additional features also include an outdoor meditation zone, children’s playground, a dedicated barbecue area, and a swimming pool for children and adults. The design team ensured programming a compelling and creative unit mix that would offer
MASTER BEDROOM
A
an unparalleled investment opportunity for the discerning investor. Since the launch date the Burj
unique urban residential destination
Burj Crown comes with endless possibilities
Crown, 1-bedroom units were completely sold
that was launched at the beginning
and experiences. Rising on the vibrant Sheikh
within the first week, sales as of today are at 67%.
of 2020 by His Excellency Mohamed Alabbar,
Mohammed bin Rashid Boulevard, the residential
Founder and Chairman of Emaar Properties.
tower boasts 1-, 2- and 3-bedroom apartments.
times to the whole globe, we are certain that
The layouts have been carefully crafted with
Dubai will continue to position itself at the
work on this last prime plot on Sheikh Mohammed
attention to detail to fulfil the aspirations of
centre of the world and lead by example,” says
bin Rashid Boulevard to deliver a residential
dynamic professionals and young families.
Kerem Cengiz MENA Managing Director. As an
destination at the centre of this world-class urban
LWK + PARTNERS was commissioned to design
optimistic and vital community member, LWK +
oasis. Aptly called ‘the Centre of Now’, Downtown
a unique tower with a wealth of amenities,
PARTNERS anticipate positive market recovery
Dubai lies between old Dubai and new Dubai.
shopping, culture, entertainment and culinary
post COVID 19, for a city that has omitted
The 44-storey tower has Dubai’s iconic landmarks
experiences — all at the fingertips of residents.
‘IMPOSSIBLE’ from its vocabulary,” Cengiz said.
LWK + PARTNERS was given the challenge to
including world’s tallest Burj Khalifa, largest
“Urban sophistication with contemporary
“As the new decade is unfolding, with challenging
In an official announcement by Emaar,
performing fountains and Dubai Opera as its
simplicity has been a primary goal for the design
Chairman Alabbar stated: “We are delighted
backdrop. Designing with close proximity to such
approach of this residential tower” says Kourosh
with the contribution of LWK + PARTNERS, who
energising and iconic sites is both challenging
Salehi MENA Design Director, describing the
have designed an exceptional addition to the
and exhilarating, however the experienced design
design approach “a punched masonry façade with
ever-evolving skyline in the heart of Downtown
team developed a resolved scheme that unities the
monochrome panels articulated by cantilevered
Dubai. With exceptional amenities and direct
intriguing synergies of this city and complements
balconies, with metal edge detailing to provide
views to Dubai Opera district, Burj Crown presents
the regions’ urban style with panache.
robust and ageless elegance” he adds. At the street
an unmissable investment opportunity.”
20
Project Focus
MUNICIPALITY OVERSEES MORE THAN 70,000 MANDATORY HYGIENE SUPERVISORS As part of its keenness to ensure the health and safety of the community, Dubai Municipality is overseeing 72,108 mandatory hygiene supervisors
IT IS NOTED THAT THE PERCENTAGE OF FOOD ESTABLISHMENTS THAT HAVE A RATING OF A AND B HAS BEEN INCREASED
in the food establishments of the emirate. The Municipality has initiated the implementation of the Hygiene Supervisor Programme in all food establishments in Dubai as one of the best international practices. “The hygiene supervisors are subject to specialised training courses by Dubai Municipality at three levels according to the activities of the food establishments and their classifications (high, medium, and low risk), and a certificate is awarded after successfully passing the test to exercise their roles and responsibilities,” said Jehaina Hassan Al Ali, Acting Manager, Permits and Applied Nutrition Section. Dubai Municipality ensures that the food safety standards are applied through inspections as the safe, proper and healthy operation of any food establishment is its goal, she added.
SMART APPS FOR ANIMAL SACRIFICE REQUEST The abattoirs of Dubai Municipality started preparations to receive Eid Al-Adha by ensuring that its services are provided most effectively in accordance with the highest standards. Cooperation has been sought with a set of smart applications, helping the public to purchase livestock without the need for the customer to visit the abattoir. The smart applications for animal sacrifice request include ‘Al Mawashi’ app, ‘Turki’ app, ‘Shabab Al Freej’ app and the ‘Dhabayih Aldaar’ app. The animals are slaughtered under Municipality supervision in the abattoirs. Sacrificial animals can also be requested from charities such as Dar Al Ber Society, Dubai Charity Association, Red Crescent Authority, Al Ihsan Charity Association, Sharjah Charity International, Beit Al Khair Society, in addition to the UAE Food Bank.
DUBAI MUNICIPALITY LAUNCHES BUNYAN CARD
“We, at Dubai Municipality, are delighted
Dubai Municipality has announced the
the hearts of the citizens of the country,
start of issuing Bunyan Cards for citizens
by facilitating the issuance of a Bunyan
of the country of 18 years and above.
Cards for them through our website
The initiative, under the slogan ‘We build
without the need for them to come to the
happiness for a better life’, is aimed at
Municipality centres to get it issued.”
bringing happiness for through various
to be able to bring joy and happiness to
Bin Yaarouf added that since the initiative
privileges, discounts and offers in building
was launched, 22,692 cards have been issued
materials and home furnishings.
to beneficiaries from all over the country,
Manal Obaid Bin Yaarouf, Director of Customers and Partnerships Relations
and approximately 182 companies have been involved in providing discounts.
Department at Dubai Municipality, said:
22,692 CARDS HAVE BEEN ISSUED TO BENEFICIARIES
NEWS BROUGHT TO YOU BY DUBAI Line MUNICIPALITY Investments DUBAI MUNICIPALITY, DED SIGN MOU
21 21
NEW BATCH OF TURTLES RELEASED AT JEBEL ALI WILDLIFE SANCTUARY Dubai Municipality has resumed providing its services in its branch centres, taking all precautionary and preventive measures in order to preserve health and safety of all customers and workers. A comprehensive and effective preventive system has been implemented to reduce the spread of Covid-19 virus. All necessary supportive efforts are taken to ensure an optimal workflow and to provide various services to the public in accordance with the highest health standards in Al Kifaf, Al Manara, Al Twar and Hatta centres.
“WE ARE ALWAYS KEEN ON ENRICHING THE GEOSPATIAL INFRASTRUCTURE IN THE EMIRATE” Dubai Municipality has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Dubai Economic Development Department (DED) in the field of geospatial infrastructure for the emirate. The MoU comes out of the keenness of the two parties to lay the foundations for joint strategic cooperation between them, and to benefit from the services they provide in a way that ensures the achievement of organisational integration, and the development and strengthening of cooperative relations in accordance with a corporate framework consistent with the strategic plans in promoting optimal use of the geospatial system in the Emirate of Dubai. Dawoud Al Hajri, Director General of Dubai Municipality said:
As a further preventive measure, Children’s Club, Senior Citizen’s Majlis, restrooms, prayer halls and non-operative service halls have been recently closed. A special room for isolation is provided. The centres are also committed to accommodate 30% of the total capacity. In addition to that, the Smart Hall, the Bunyan Card and the Digital Identity devices are partially opened.
SANCTUARY FOR ABOUT 539 SPECIES OF MARINE LIFE AND PLANTS A TOTAL OF 52 SMALL TURTLES HAVE BEEN RELEASED
“We are always keen on enriching the geospatial infrastructure in the emirate, in support of the smart trend that Dubai and the world is witnessing in various fields in general and in the field of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) in particular.”
THE CENTRES ARE ALSO COMMITTED TO ACCOMMODATE 30% OF THE TOTAL CAPACITY
DUBAI MUNICIPALITY CENTRES RESUME SERVICES Dubai Municipality has resumed providing its services in its branch centres, taking all precautionary and preventive measures in order to preserve health and safety of all customers and workers. A comprehensive and effective preventive system has been implemented to reduce the spread of Covid-19 virus. All necessary supportive efforts are taken to ensure an optimal workflow and to provide various services to the public in accordance with the highest health standards in Al Kifaf, Al Manara, Al Twar and Hatta centres. As a further preventive measure, Children’s Club, Senior Citizen’s Majlis, restrooms, prayer halls and non-operative service halls have been recently closed. A special room for isolation is provided. The centres are also committed to accommodate 30% of the total capacity. In addition to that, the Smart Hall, the Bunyan Card and the Digital Identity devices are partially opened.
22
Line Investments
DUBAI MUNICIPALITY CLEANERS ENSURE 24/7 CITY SUSTAINABILITY
duties to the fullest, amidst tight precautionary
to curbing the spread of viruses and diseases,
and protective measures, in coordination and
whether for cleaners or the public. The Municipality
Dubai Municipality cleaning workers are on the
cooperation with the strategic partners on the one
is constantly working to educate cleaning workers
front line to counter the spread of Covid-19, with
hand and the concerned bodies on the other hand.
through the members of the supervisory and
1300 cleaners performing daily cleanliness of the city and public roads according to the highest levels of safety, public health and prevention. A three-shift system is being implemented to
Emergency teams have been formed to
control bodies, emphasising the need to adhere
ensure coverage of all areas in the emirate.
to the use of personal protective equipment, to
The Municipality was also keen on applying
move away from gatherings, to keep safe distance
the highest safety standards during the
between them and others, and to avoid leaving their
ensure the sustainability of the emirate’s cleanliness
transportation of cleaners during the period
accommodation after the end of work time. They
around the clock. The Municipality believes
of the national sterilisation programme.
were always directly monitored in this regard.
that cleanliness of the city is considered one of
Cleaning workers have been transported by their
In addition to that, the Municipality is also
the most essential preventive efforts aimed at
Municipality buses after conducting all periodic
educating companies operating in the sector of
ensuring the health and safety of the community.
sterilisation of buses and maintaining a safe distance
waste transporting and recycling services about proper procedures in the current situation.
Dubai Municipality cleaning workers perform
inside the bus and not filling it. Upon arrival at
their daily tasks of cleaning and sterilising as part
their locations, all the safety accessories were
Dubai Municipality also supervises cleaners in
of a special programme to clean and sterilise the
distributed to cleaning workers, and they were
the private sector who perform cleaning tasks in
storage of different waste materials, pavements,
informed of all of the healthy practices necessary to
some locations in the emirate such as industrial
main and branch roads, in addition to water
perform their duties safely with full professionalism
areas. It is worth noting the importance of public
channels, creeks, beaches, residential, industrial and
and excellence. The general safety accessories
awareness on the need to adhere to tying waste
commercial areas. The latest equipment and tools
provided for cleaners included masks, a personal
bags and placing them in designated containers,
are used to remove waste from the roads, especially
hand sanitiser, a protective coverall and gloves.
and to avoid negative practices such as throwing
cigarette butts, masks, gloves and small waste. The Municipality cleaning workers contribute to
Dubai Municipality also publishes various
waste through vehicle windows or spitting and
educational and community instructions through the
throwing chewing gum and cigarette butts in
the national sterilisation programme and the storage
social media and the Municipality’s website to deal
public places or washing vehicles in the streets.
container cleaning programme by performing their
correctly with waste, with the aim of contributing
1,300 CLEANERS PERFORMING DAILY CLEANLINESS OF THE CITY AND PUBLIC ROADS
24
Kanoo Energy (Power & Industrial Projects)
Innovative Outcomes KANOO ENERGY (POWER & INDUSTRIAL PROJECTS) E: INFOPOWER@KANOO.COM WWW.KANOO.COM
KANOO ENERGY (POWER & INDUSTRIAL PROJECTS) IS PUSHING THE BOUNDARIES OF WHAT’S POSSIBLE; HELPING CUSTOMERS TO ACHIEVE THE RIGHT BALANCE BETWEEN PERFORMANCE AND ENVIRONMENTAL SUSTAINABILITY. WITH ROOTS GOING BACK 130 YEARS, THE COMPANY PROVIDES SUSTAINABLE SOLUTIONS TO UTILITY COMPANIES, OIL & GAS AND THE GCC INDUSTRIAL SECTOR AS A WHOLE THROUGH SMART ENGINEERING AND VALUE-ADDED SERVICES. ITS MAJOR BUSINESS SEGMENTS ARE POWER AND INDUSTRIAL CONSUMABLES & SAFETY PRODUCTS.
Kanoo Energy (Power & Industrial Projects)
A
division of The Kanoo Group,
highly-qualified workforces in the industry,
one of the largest family-owned
Kanoo Energy is committed to inspiring
multinationals in the Middle East, Kanoo
formidable minds by embracing a global
Energy allows its customers to take advantage
mindset to build solutions that stretch the
of the valued experience and insights it
imagination and pre-conceived ideas.
has accrued over the years in order to deliver innovative business outcomes.
Invaluable Knowledge The company’s success can be put down to
This unusual level of expertise means that
an intimate understanding of the markets in
Kanoo Energy has been able to assist society
which it operates, combined with a highly
during the current Covid-19 pandemic too,
effective working model that sees its specialist
becoming frontline warriors in the battle to
workforce focusing on exceeding customer
contain and beat the virus. Everything from
expectations. This approach differentiates
Thermal Cameras and Elevated Temperature
Kanoo Energy in what is a fiercely competitive
Screening through to Personal Protection
marketplace, with its highly skilled team being
Equipment (PPE) for head to toe protection
real experts with invaluable local knowledge.
have all been supplied by Kanoo Energy. Looking to the future, Kanoo Energy is On a more regular basis, the
justifiably confident of ongoing growth and
company also offers the following
expansion, taking on evermore complex
products and services:
and challenging projects for a wide range of
Engineering Supplies and Services
companies, corporate bodies and government
DG-based Power Solutions
agencies. Its solid reputation, earned by
Electric Transformers – Testing & Services
consistently adhering to the highest ethics and
Thermal Imaging Cameras
international standards and by operating at
Transformer Oil Regeneration
optimum levels of productivity, will ensure this.
and Filtration Pipeline Leak Detection Solutions Expansion Joints – Metal/Fabric/Rubber Inventory Preservation and Mothballing Personal Protection Equipment (PPE) Fall Protection Products & Services Workshop Tools and Equipment.
A Passion for Problem Solving Providing customers with quality products, services and solutions, in addition to an efficient supply chain network, Kanoo Energy does not simply offer out-of-the-box answers to complex questions. Instead, its professional engineers and designers listen to customers’ concerns and explore all the options to tailor a solution that will work now and for many years into the future. Indeed, the company has a real passion for problem-solving, which drives creativity and innovation and creates bold solutions. With one of the most experienced and
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Line Investments & Property LLC
SILICON CENTRAL A PROJECT OF LINE INVESTMENTS & PROPERTY LLC PO BOX 60188 DUBAI UAE T: +971 4 707 6000 E: leasingdxb@lineinvestments.ae WWW.LINEINVESTMENTS.AE
Line Investments & Property LLC
27 27
TRANSFORMING SHOPPING IN AN EXPERIENCE THE SHOPPING MALL AND MANAGEMENT DIVISION OF ABU DHABI-BASED LULU GROUP INTERNATIONAL, LINE INVESTMENTS & PROPERTY LLC (LIP) BOASTS AN IMPRESSIVE PORTFOLIO OF MALLS THROUGH THE GULF AND INDIA. MOREOVER, WITH A STRATEGIC VISION FOR FUTURE GROWTH AND DEVELOPMENT ACROSS THE GCC, LIP IS RENOWNED AS AN INDUSTRY LEADER IN OFFERING THE RIGHT KIND OF SUPPORT TO MAKE ANY BRAND A SURE-FIRE WINNER.
W
ith unparalleled expertise stretching
provide an enhanced shopping experience
a 6,800m2 Family Entertainment Centre,
across every conceivable every of its
to its neighbouring communities.
incorporating a 2,000m2 New Generation
specialist field of endeavour, including location-
With a total of 220 stores in 81,500m , Silicon
Entertainment Centre for both kids and
sourcing, design, development, management
Central will include a 9,000m2 hypermarket
grownups to stay active, plus a 2,500m2 gym
and marketing, LIP is fully committed to
and a 7,800m department store, alongside
to keep the community in shape. It’s all about
being the preferred investment and property
a 35,500m2 array of retail shops and services
convenience and accessibility, with nothing
management company in the retail and
that will offer a broad mix of brands tailored
having been forgotten, including 3,500 car
real estate sector of the regions it operates
to ensure shoppers› complete satisfaction.
parking spaces for the last word in convenience.
in. Indeed, it currently offers 360-degree
Adding to the unique shopping experience, a
With such a broad range of options, Silicon
retail solutions in 23 malls in six countries,
diverse range of dining options will comprise
Central is set to be the destination of choice
with several further properties planned
of 24 casual restaurants and cafes as well as
for families and entertainment seekers
for the future in new cities and markets.
21 food court units, the perfect place to catch
throughout its immediate catchment
An Enhanced Shopping Experience
up with friends and families in an enjoyable
area, which takes in a population of
One of LIP’s latest developments is
atmosphere or enjoy a quick snack on the run.
500,000 people, and further afield.
Silicon Central in Dubai, a three-level
A wide range of entertainment options are
retail and leisure destination that will
also on offer, including a 12-screen cinema,
2
2
TOTAL CONCRETE SOLUTIONS PRECAST | HOLLOWCORE | BLOCKS | PAVING | READYMIX
HARD PRECAST BUILDING SYSTEMS
HARD BLOCK FACTORY
EMIRATES BETON
Dubai Investments Park 1 PO Box 37642
Jabel Ali Industrial Area 3 PO Box 37642
Jabel Ali Industrial Area 2 PO Box 111576
+971 4 885 0058
+971 4 880 1555
+971 4 320 9205
+971 4 885 0057
+971 4 880 1400
+971 4 3209322
www.hpbs.ae
www.hbf.ae
www.ebrm.ae
mail@hpbs.ae
sales@hbf.ae
info@ebrm.ae
Line Investments & Property LLC
MR. SALIM MA, DIRECTOR LULU GROUP INTERNATIONAL SAID, “OUR VISION IS TO ENHANCE THE RETAIL EXPERIENCE FOR OUR CUSTOMERS AND PARTNERS AND RECEIVING AWARDS FOR ALL THE MALLS THAT TOOK PART IS A TESTIMONY THAT THE LINE INVESTMENTS & PROPERTY TEAM IS COMMITTED TO EXCELLENCE IN THE NEW AGE INITIATIVES AND COMMUNITY EVENTS THEY BRING TO THE MALLS.” AWARD-WINNING PERFORMANCE LIP’s success and commitment to excellence have not gone unnoticed either, with the organisation picking up five awards at the Retail Congress MENA Awards 2019. Held in the Ritz Carlton, DIFC, the Awards Ceremony honoured the most outstanding achievers in the shopping mall industry in the MENA region. LIP took part in the event together with entries from Mall of Um Al Quwain, Al Wahda Mall, Mushrif Mall, and Khalidiyah Mall, winning one gold and four silver awards in the following categories: Design & Development Mall of Um Al Quwain (Gold) Net Operating Income (NOI) Enhancement Al Wahda for Celebrity Visit (Silver) Traditional Marketing: Cause-Related Marketing Al Wahda Mall for Operation Smile (Silver) Traditional Marketing: Digital/Social Media Khalidiyah Mall for Enhanced Website (Silver) Traditional Marketing: Sales Promotion Mushrif Mall for Talentology 2019 (Silver) The winners of the Retail Congress MENA Awards 2019 were selected by a jury of regional and international industry experts in retail.
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COVER STORY - CoGri MIDDLE EAST LLC
SUPER-FLAT FLOORS, SUPER-HIGH STANDARDS WITH THE COVID-19 VIRUS FUELLING DEMAND FOR WHAT WAS AN ALREADY BURGEONING PLATFORM FOR CONSUMERS - ONLINE SHOPPING - MORE COMPANIES ARE POISED TO AUTOMATE THE PICKING OF GOODS IN THEIR WAREHOUSES.
CoGri MIDDLE EAST LLC OFFICE B-704 PRIME BUSINESS CENTRE JUMEIRAH VILLAGE CIRCLE DUBAI UAE
H
owever, it’s not just about the technology
purpose-built specialist equipment to provide a full
and robotics that are used in the automation
range of high-quality concrete flooring services and
of consumer supply; equally important is the quality
money-saving solutions. Services range from super-
and flatness of the floor on which these systems
flat high tolerance floor construction and large-
operate, without which robots can be inefficient
pour floor construction, through to specialist floor
and vulnerable to breakdowns. That’s why those in
upgrades using their unique Laser Grinder ® system.
T: +971 (0) 4 368 2911 E: INFO@COGRIMIDDLEEAST.COM
the know talk to CoGri Middle East, an organisation with vast experience and expertise in the design,
FLATTER FLOORS, HIGHER PROFITS
WWW.COGRIMIDDLEEAST.COM
construction, and enhancement of floors in both new
With the introduction of high-stacking, very narrow
and existing warehouse units and distribution centres.
aisle (VNA) warehouses in the late 1970s, it became
CoGri Middle East is part of the CoGri Group, a
increasingly essential to have concrete floors that
consortium of international industrial floor solution
were significantly flatter than in previous years.
specialists, and one of the most accomplished
A VNA warehouse system is a proven means of utilising
professional concrete-flooring contractors in the
warehouse space and volume. Man-up forklifts operate
region today. With a track record stretching back 35
in aisles approximately 2m wide, working at heights in
years, it utilises a comprehensive portfolio of hi-tech,
excess of 17m. Any VNA warehouse floor needs to be
Cover COVERStory STORY--CoGRI CoGri MIDDLE EAST LLC
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PURPOSE BUILT SPECIALIST EQUIPMENT CREATING HIGH TOLERANCE FLOORING
significantly flatter than equivalent block stack
CoGri Middle East is the regional office for
VNA warehouse units, where achieving the
or wide aisle floors, as a small deviation of just
CoGri in the GCC and wider MENA region.
correct standards affords the warehouse
a few millimetres at floor level is significantly
operator with peace of mind.
magnified once the operating height increases.
A BROAD PORTFOLIO OF EXPERTISE
Ensuring such fine tolerances provides
To meet the requirement for these high
The warehouse floor is the most critical
numerous other benefits too, including
tolerance floors, the first CoGri Group Company
element of a building envelope as it affects the
optimising the MHE’s performance, reducing
(Concrete Grinding Ltd) was established,
speed, safety and efficiency of the materials
maintenance-related costs, and eliminating
offering manual floor grinding services for
handling equipment that runs on it.
the chance of picking problems, which
existing uneven floors. As demand grew, a
CoGri Middle East has a wealth of experience,
include rack impact. Super-flat floors are
cleaner, more accurate and efficient grinding
knowledge, and expertise which, tied in with its
popular with companies’ accountancy
method was created that could work in
comprehensive understanding of the modern
and health & safety departments too,
operational warehouses – the Laser Grinder®.
warehouse operation, allows it to provide the
being extraordinarily cost-effective and
finest solution to any flooring challenge. This
providing significant safety benefits.
Continual development and innovation
incorporates a variety of distinct services,
over the past 30+ years means that todays’
each one ensuring the very highest quality
CoGri Middle East offers a complete
Laser Grinders® achieve the best results
of workmanship and best value solution.
range of high tolerance and value-added
yet, with guaranteed success. The CoGri
concrete floor construction services
Group operates globally and consists of
FLOOR CONSTRUCTION
for warehouse and industrial units:
specialised companies covering all aspects
Floor Flatness within a warehouse is
Steel fibre “jointless” or Steel Mesh “saw
of industrial warehouse flooring.
essential for many reasons, especially in
cut” Large pour Laser Screed floors:
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COVER STORY - CoGri MIDDLE EAST LLC
Large pour Laser Screed floors are ideal for
MHE vehicles are equipped at the factory
DESIGN, TESTING, FLOOR
conventional warehouse flooring solutions
with a pair of sensors, one on each end of
SURVEYING & SALES
where fast-track programmes are being
the truck, which are connected to a control
Through its sister companies, Face
considered. Flatness is controlled by means of
system that locks the steering when in the
Middle East, and Face Consultants (in
construction lasers and on-site monitoring.
aisle. These sensors detect a low-frequency
the UK), CoGri Middle East is able to offer
signal from a wire embedded in the floor.
design, testing and surveying services,
Narrow aisle ‘Superflat’ floor construction
complete with global Design and Construct
When a ‘right first time’ approach is
VNA GRINDING
Professional Indemnity insurance.
needed, long strip narrow bay construction
At first sight, converting an existing
Face Middle East / Face Consultants are
provides CoGri with tight control on
warehouse to VNA, or needing to
regarded as the link between the logistics
floor flatness. Accurate results within a
upgrade a new floor that doesn’t
and construction industries, with an intimate
millimetre can be achieved, meaning no
meet specification, can seem a bit of
understanding of the requirements of
grinding for VNA flatness compliance.
a nightmare. However, CoGri has the
one and the capabilities of the other.
perfect solution - grind it right!
It is important to understand that design
COLD STORE FLOORING
The company’s patented Laser Grinder® is a
is not just the structural design, but also
Significant sub-zero temperatures require
proven solution and guaranteed to
detail design and specification. In every
careful consideration and the floor must
deliver a specification compliant floor,
case, Face provides a design that is fit for
be constructed to ensure longevity.
achieving conformity with any globally
the intended purpose and can be built
recognised specification (and even ‘one-
economically without being over specified.
This is highly specialised work because once
off’ bespoke ones). Grinding is a one-time
a cold store facility becomes operational, any
investment, unlike overlays and toppings,
remedial work can be a major hindrance to
and floors upgraded by laser grinding
operations, as most repair materials cannot be
are not subject to cosmetic damage or
effective below 5˚C. This dictates that the facility
delamination. Only one aisle is taken out
has to be put out of action and the temperature
of service at a time, meaning warehouse
raised for any repairs to be performed. Hence,
operations can continue uninterrupted.
the emphasis on getting the floor right first time. The CoGri Group pioneered laser grinding, In recent years, CoGri Middle East has
which has been used to upgrade hundreds of
developed a well-earned reputation as a
thousands of metres of VNA around the world.
high quality specialist flooring contractor, achieving impressive results and
FLOOR REPAIRS AND REFURBISHMENT
building a repeat business client list.
CoGri Middle East can provide floor repair and refurbishment for a wide range of
WIRE GUIDANCE
applications and scenarios, including floor
CoGri Middle East offers a complete wire
screed systems, surface preparation, floor
guidance installation service for the
grinding, expansion joint repairs, crack
guidance of VNA trucks or Automated Guided
repairs, joint stabilising, demarcation
Vehicle (AGV) systems. The advantages of
line marking and floor maintenance.
wire guidance are many, but include: Eliminate bottom rack beam Easier cleaning under racking Less wear and tear on Materials Handling Equipment (MHE) due to banking into rails at the start of aisle High volume or pick items can be placed by pallet jack Lower long-term maintenance costs on in aisle guidance
FLOOR REPAIRS AND REFURBISHMENT
Cover COVERStory STORY--CoGRI CoGri MIDDLE EAST LLC
33 33
AT FIRST SIGHT, CONVERTING AN EXISTING WAREHOUSE TO VNA, OR NEEDING TO UPGRADE A NEW FLOOR THAT DOESN’T MEET SPECIFICATION, CAN SEEM A BIT OF A NIGHTMARE. HOWEVER, COGRI HAS THE PERFECT SOLUTION - GRIND IT RIGHT! LARGE POUR LASER SCREED FLOORS: IDEAL FOR CONVENTIONAL WAREHOUSE SOLUTIONS
SPECIALIST EQUIPMENT, EXPERT PERSONNEL CREATING HIGH TOLERANCE FLOORING SOLUTIONS
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Cover STORY Story - CoGri CoGRIMIDDLE MIDDLEEAST EASTLLC LLC COVER
GETTING AHEAD OF THE CURVE
They can then avoid heading towards them,
And even though a structural engineer
As customer expectations continue to grow,
removing collision risks and human injury.
may understand the design and the loads,
thanks to the rise in e-commerce and speedy
As technology develops it will become
putting the MHE and floor together takes an
deliveries, businesses must work harder to
increasingly interactive with its real-
entirely different level of understanding.
satisfy customers in a world where convenience
time environment, making robots
is critical to where they choose to shop.
invaluable within the supply chain.
As a result, the earlier you engage a specialist
The CoGri Group, for instance, is currently
So, what will the warehouse of the future
company, the greater chance you have
working on multiple Amazon sites globally,
look like? In all probability, nothing like it
of success, both in terms of the quality
testing the newly constructed elevated floor
looks today. They will become more flexible,
of your flooring and your bottom line.
slabs, identifying areas requiring correction,
with increased capacity, and faster sourcing
and executing the work until compliance
and delivering of products to dispatch.
to the desired specification is achieved.
The result of this, which has already been
This ensures that the robots can slide
illustrated during the Covid-19 pandemic,
under a tower of shelves where products
is that instead of big department stores,
are stowed, lift it, and move it through the
multi-level fulfilment centres will be at
fulfilment centre. This saves an enormous
the heart of consumer shopping habits.
amount of space, allowing for 50% more
This could, of course, leave some companies
items to be stored per square foot.
and warehouses behind the curve; those that do not build or convert their facilities
The CoGri Group may have been
to provide higher density solutions.
established over 30 years ago, but they are continually working alongside
Those with one eye on the future will
associates within the industry (such as
incorporate robots, vertical storage or carousel
MHE, robotics, racking/shelving suppliers)
systems...and get the floor right, first time!
to develop the specifications and best
Often ignored in the past, and susceptible
working practices for the next generation
to cost cutting measures, the floor is now
of logistics and automation systems.
one of the most important components in a
The expansive data collected over the
warehouse. Today, robotics, VNA, automated
years of testing floors and floor flatness,
guidance vehicles (AGVs); automatic storage
coupled with their knowledge of what can
and retrieval systems (ASRS) all put ever-
be achieved by experienced contractors,
greater demands on the warehouse floor.
means CoGri are viewed by many in the developing sector of logistics as essential
This means that an existing warehouse floor
advisors and the ‘go to company’ when a
may not be suitable without restructuring or,
fit for purpose specification is needed.
that most frightening of words in the business world, compromise. And if you think that
This further demonstrates CoGri’s
more modern warehouses will not come up
commitment to not only moving with the
against this problem, think again. In fact, they
times but helping to influence and drive
can even make matters worse thanks to their
the emerging technologies/systems.
inability to service automation due to lean
The very nature of warehouses and their
slab designs, which have been engineered to
applications make them ideally suited to
the limits. When robots are brought into the
automation and robotics. Goods can be
equation and the demands on the floor change
quickly transported, with the robotics interface
even further, very specific requirements such
utilising positioning and measurement
as surface gloss, friction, abrasion resistance,
systems within the warehouse. However, this
levelness, flatness, surface resistivity,
technology is advancing rapidly. Amazon’s
and even roughness become paramount.
robots can wirelessly become aware of the
Consequently, it is not just the flatness of a
technology that employees are wearing,
floor that is critical; it is now a much more
telling them exactly where they are located.
complex and challenging question than that.
Cover COVERStory STORY--CoGRI CoGri MIDDLE EAST LLC
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NEXT GENERATION IN LOGISTICS AND AUTOMATION SOLUTIONS
“AFTER AGREEING ON THE SCOPE OF WORK AND SIGNING THE CONTRACT – THE TEAM ARRIVED ON SCHEDULE, INSTALLED THE REPAIRS WITH MINIMAL DISRUPTION AND LEFT OUR FACILITY IN A CLEAN AND TIDY CONDITION. FOR ANY WAREHOUSE FLOOR PROBLEMS, WE WOULD HAVE NO HESITATION IN RECOMMENDING COGRI MIDDLE EAST.”
As CoGri Middle East wins much of its work through repeat business and recommendation, let’s leave the last word to a very satisfied customer, Diesel Technic (M.E.) FZE, with its Warehouse Operations Manager explaining: “Diesel Technic awarded CoGri Middle East the floor repair work in our Jebel Ali Free Zone facility. CoGri’s analytical approach in determining why problems arise in the first place, before they go on to offer a permanent repair solution, along with their professionalism and proven trackrecord, reinforced our decision. “After agreeing on the scope of work and signing the contract – the team arrived on schedule, installed the repairs with minimal disruption and left our facility in a clean and tidy condition. For any warehouse floor problems, we would have no hesitation in recommending CoGri Middle East.”
WAREHOUSING AUTOMATION SOLUTIONS
MANY MORE TESTIMONIALS CAN BE VIEWED ON THE COGRI MIDDLE EAST WEBSITE, OR CONTACT THEM FOR FREE ADVICE ON YOUR FLOORING PROBLEMS.
36
Grundfos
GRUNDFOS FACILITY IS ONE OF JUST 11 IN DUBAI TO BE AWARDED THE LEED PLATINUM CERTIFIVCATION FOR OPERATIONS AND MAINTENANCE
GRUNDFOS DUBAI FACILITY SECURES LEED PLATINUM RECOGNITION THE REGIONAL HEADQUARTERS OF GRUNDFOS IN DUBAI HAS BEEN AWARDED LEED PLATINUM CERTIFICATION FOR OPERATIONS AND MAINTENANCE – AN INTERNATIONALLY RECOGNISED MARK OF EXCELLENCE FOR GREEN BUILDINGS.
L
EED is the most widely used
and an office which serves the region
our solutions but also in how we operate
certification programme
with sustainable water solutions.
as a business. We looked into how we
in the world, with more than 94,000
can be more sustainable through our
projects in over 165 countries and
In addition to being a regional base,
entire business operations and did not
territories. Certification shows
the complex also serves as a training
leave any stone unturned along the way.”
clients, customers, partners, and
centre where hundreds of engineers,
the community at large that you are
consultants and customers receive
CLIMATE POSITIVE BY 2030
committed to decarbonising your
hands-on training and interact with
The certification process took around
GRUNDFOS GULF DISTRIBUTION FZE
building through increased energy
the most advanced cloud-based
a year to complete, but Grundfos has
efficiency and sustainability practices.
water solutions in the region.
been working tirelessly for some time
JEBEL ALI FREE ZONE NORTH STREET 407 PO BOX 16768 DUBAI UAE
In the UAE, Grundfos has joined the
T: +971 04 881 5166 E: contact@sales.grundfos.com WWW.GRUNDFOS.COM/AE
in order to become climate positive.
ranks of the few buildings and that have
Kostas Poulopoulos, Area Managing
secured LEED Platinum certifications
Director of Grundos, said that earning
“Several years ago, we switched to
for Operations and Maintenance.
the accreditation is a moment of pride
using LED lights and upgraded our
for everyone in the company. It took
chiller management system, which
The Grundfos facility is one of just 11
time, team effort, and a genuine zeal
resulted in at least 70% reduced
in Dubai to be awarded this prestigious
for sustainability to achieve it. “We’re
associated electricity consumption. We
certification under operations and
proud to be one of the very few facilities
have also taken steps to substantially
maintenance category. The 4,456m2
in the UAE to achieve this recognition,
save water in our facility and
Grundfos multi-purpose complex hosts
and this truly reflects our purpose of
operations,” Poulopoulos explained.
a factory, service centre, warehouse
driving sustainability not only through
Grundfos
The result of all of this effort is that water
WALKING THE TALK
CELEBRATING 75 YEARS
consumption has decreased by 54%, while electricity
Grundfos has stated that it will halve its own
From the very first pump in 1945 to today’s
consumption has decreased by 90% since 2017.
water consumption by 2025, and by 2030 will have
digital solutions, Grundfos has been synonymous
These are extraordinary figures, yet they only
contributed to providing safely-managed drinking
with a pioneering spirit, social awareness and
inspire Grundfos to do more. Indeed, by the end
water to 300 million people in need. Also, through
innovative solutions. Its 75th anniversary in
of March 2020, the company had also activated
water efficiency and water treatment, the company
May 2020 was a reminder of the company’s
solar panels on its facility, which now provide at
will have saved 50 billion m of freshwater. Moreover,
commitment to bring not only the ultimate in
least 60% of its energy requirements. These newly
it will reduce its own CO2 emissions by 50% by 2025.
pump systems and water technology to the
3
installed solar panels yield 310,000kW of energy
world but safe drinking water for everyone.
per year and allow the company to avoid at least
Going above and beyond to raise awareness and
210,000kg of CO2 emissions annually. Grundfos is
make a difference, Grundfos undertakes a variety
Kostas Poulopoulos, Area Managing Director, Gulf,
of sustainability and climate action activities.
Levant and Pakistan, concludes: “We celebrate
committed to becoming climate positive by 2030.
37 37
To raise awareness and foster a sustainable
the pioneering, collaborative and socially
It is undeniable that the world has achieved
lifestyle for its employees, for instance, the
responsible spirit that has driven Grundfos since
rapid technological development at the expense
company holds Sustainability Workshops. Another
the beginning and continues to drive us today.
of the planet. But Grundfos shows that it is
excellent case-in-point regarding Grundfos’
We carry that mindset forward with a profound
possible to harness innovation and technology for
determination to ‘walk the talk’ is its ‘Walk for
commitment to fight the imminent water and
sustainable development. It is possible to grow
Water’ initiative, an employee-driven programme
climate challenges affecting all of us through our
as a company without harming the world; all it
that works to bring clean water to communities
sustainable solutions, partners and colleagues.”
takes is to have a genuine care for the planet, and
in need wherever they may be in the world.
the rest will follow. “Being a water and climate company, we are obliged to pioneer solutions
Grundfos also took part in the UAE’s ‘Shred-
to address the world’s most pressing water and
it’ programme, which, through shredding
climate challenges and adopt these practices
and recycling between January and October
in how we operate also,” Poulopoulos said.
2019, for which it was awarded a Certificate of Environmental Accomplishment.
“WE CELEBRATE THE PIONEERING, COLLABORATIVE AND SOCIALLY RESPONSIBLE SPIRIT THAT HAS DRIVEN GRUNDFOS SINCE THE BEGINNING AND CONTINUES TO DRIVE US TODAY.”
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Faces of Sustainability
FA C E S of
SUSTAINABILITY
Faces of Sustainability
39 39
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SUPPORTING THE ENVIRONMENT THROUGH RETROFIT
HIS EXCELLENCY ALI AL JASSIM, CHAIRMAN OF EGBC
Faces of Sustainability - Interview with His Excellency Ali Al Jassim Chairman of EGBC FACES OF SUSTAINABILITY Interview with His Excellency Ali Al Jassim, Chairman of EmiratesGBC
41 41
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In this issue of Emirates Projects, we speak to HE Ali Al Jassim, Chairman of EmiratesGBC, about his role in the organisation and the challenges and opportunities for the retrofit market in the UAE and wider Gulf territories; and the studies done by EmiratesGBC to push further push sustainability in the region.
EMIRATES PROJECTS: You are the new
The development strategies of the UAE
Chairman at EmiratesGBC. Can you give us a brief
look at sustainability not just from the
about your role and the role of EmiratesGBC?
perspective of achieving energy and water
HE ALI AL JASSIM: I joined EmiratesGBC this year,
savings but also places importance on the
and it is an honour to be part of an organisation that
retrofit of the existing building stock.
has evolved as one of the most inspiring entities
Abu Dhabi is driving the retrofit initiative with the
driving the sustainable development narrative of
Department of Energy announcing the completion
the nation in just ten years. My predecessors have
of the Emirate’s first Energy Saving Performance
done excellent work in positioning EmiratesGBC
Contracting project to retrofit eight government
and in fostering strong public-private partnerships,
buildings and the goal of retrofitting 150 government
and my mandate is to build on the great
buildings. This is part of Abu Dhabi’s Demand
work that EmiratesGBC has been doing.
Side Management and Energy Rationalisation
EmiratesGBC plays a crucial role in building a
EmiratesGBC
Office M20-21, Al Joud Centre Sheikh Zayed Road, Al Quoz #1 Dubai, UAE T: +971 4 346 8244 E: office@emiratesgbc.org WWW.EMIRATESGBC.ORG
Strategy 2030 that aims to achieve a 22 per cent
net-zero environment in the UAE. To push this
reduction in energy consumption and 32 per cent
further, we have conducted a very comprehensive
reduction in water consumption over the next
and integrated approach to promoting sustainable
decade. A Super ESCO for Abu Dhabi has been
built environments. We have a year-round
designed to lead retrofitting in 3,000 government
calendar of events that are focused not only on
buildings, which will catalyse the retrofit market.
strengthening awareness about green buildings
The Dubai Integrated Energy Strategy 2030
but also to encourage our members and the
has also set the goal of retrofitting over 30,000
community to follow industry best practices.
buildings in Dubai to make them more energy-
Besides this, EmiratesGBC has a broad set
efficient. Dubai Electricity and Water Authority
of technical trainings and programmes for its
(DEWA) has planned to spend US$8billion towards
stakeholders. We have been conducting these for
this retrofit programme. It is one of the largest
many years now, and our members find it valuable
budgets to date for a retrofit programme in the
to enhance the overall quality of their projects.
UAE. Dubai may soon regulate hotels to retrofit, considering that there are more than 700 hotels in
EP: How does retrofit support the
the Emirate. Ras Al Khaimah launched its building
green environment of the UAE?
retrofit programme in October 2018 with a target
AAJ: According to reports by World Green Building
to retrofit 3,000 buildings by the end of 2040.
Council, buildings and construction account for 36% of global final energy use and 39% of energy-
EP: What are the key challenges and
related carbon dioxide emissions. This underlines
opportunities of the retrofit market in
the importance of making the building stock more
the UAE and the wider region?
sustainable, and, for the UAE, to drive its green
AAJ: The retrofit market has evolved
vision, it is imperative that its existing buildings are
considerably in the past years, especially
made more efficient – and retrofitting is key to this.
following the announcement of the Dubai Integrated Energy Strategy 2030.
42
Faces of Sustainability - Interview with His Excellency Ali Al Jassim Chairman of EGBC FACES OF SUSTAINABILITY
42
Interview with His Excellency Ali Al Jassim Chairman of EmiratesGBC
Etihad ESCO estimates that retrofitting 30,000
the Building Efficiency Accelerator (BEA) platform,
EP: Can you tell us how this training helps in teaching
buildings by 2030 will help generate savings of over
we further promote the retrofitting programme.
the fundamentals of retrofit and sustainability?
1.68 TWh energy and 5.64 billion imperial gallons
BEA is a public-private partnership collaboration,
AAJ: Our Building Retrofit Training programme
of water, as well as eliminating 1 million tonnes of
launched under the Sustainable Energy for All,
is the first-of-its-kind in the region and
carbon dioxide emissions. The opportunities are
which is intended to accelerate the implementation
has been thoughtfully created to address
enormous, especially with the nation’s large existing
of building efficiency policies and programmes.
region-specific requirements. It outlines
building stock, several of them designed and built before sustainability considerations were mandatory. On the other hand, there are challenges too
The goal has been to double the rate of building energy efficiency by 2030 globally. Dubai is the first city in the Middle East to participate in the
actionable steps that can help stakeholders achieve sustainable building practices. The BRT Programme is offered in partnership with
because many perceive retrofitting as cost-
BEA. The 2019 Building Efficiency Accelerator
Dubai Supreme Council of Energy (DSCE) and
prohibitive, not taking into consideration the
(BEA) project report studied 121 properties in
Masdar and teaches the fundamentals of building
long-term benefits of undertaking it. Further,
the UAE. The results highlighted performance
retrofit. It provides awareness and technical guidance
there are challenges relating to financing schemes
disparity amongst all properties between best
to industry professionals on the economically viable
by local and international banks in the region to
and worst performers to learn from each other.
methods that can be implemented to reduce a
support building owners and developers to conduct
We also conduct workshops and events
building’s use of energy and water and to attain
retrofits. Many building owners do not realise the
such as a ‘Focus Day on Deep Retrofitting’ in
improved operational efficiency and savings.
need to look at retrofitting as tenants pay energy
partnership with Dubai Chamber of Commerce
and water bills. The need for greater awareness
& Industry (Dubai Chamber) to reiterate
suit varying needs: The introductory course,
about building retrofits is crucial, and that is one of
that retrofitting existing buildings is very
a one-day workshop, provides knowledge of
the areas that EmiratesGBC works on. We have
important to achieving energy efficiency.
sustainability to primarily non-technical participants
The programme offers two course levels to
been working closely with business forums and
We have launched the EmiratesGBC
the UAE government as well as building industry
Benchmarking Programme, whereby the
and industry professionals looking to understand
stakeholders to foster awareness of the benefits
performance of buildings in terms of energy and
of adopting and implementing retrofit strategies.
water performance is measured in a cross-sector
professionals with prior knowledge and experience
the basics behind retrofit in the Gulf region. The advanced course is designed for industry
manner to establish a knowledge base of data
of sustainability and retrofit methods. Candidates
EP: Can you tell us the role of EmiratesGBC
and key analytical information. This will enable
train on the various methods to be deployed on
when it comes to retrofit in the UAE?
building owners, developers and end-users to
retrofit projects and can further hone their technical
AAJ: As a nonprofit organisation that advances green
better understand the need for improved energy
capacity for more effective post-retrofit maintenance
building principles for ensuring sustainability, we have
performance and drive them towards retrofitting.
and preventive care. The advanced course is a
set up technical guidelines for retrofitting existing
We are now conducting a market study to
buildings in the UAE. These guidelines have been
understand the current market situation as well
passing the post-course examination will become an
developed in conformance with the UAE National
as the challenges and opportunities related to
EmiratesGBC Certified Building Retrofit Specialist.
Agenda 2021, officially endorsed by the Ministry
deep retrofit projects. As part of the vision for
of Public Works and the Dubai Supreme Council
the UAE to be a global leader for sustainability in
industry, we have also produced the Technical
of Energy, and are in conformance with local,
the built environment, the study will help explore
Guidelines for Retrofitting Existing Buildings, a
sustainable strategies such as the Dubai Integrated
solutions and approaches to retrofitting buildings
handbook in English and Arabic, which serves
Energy Strategy (DIES) and Abu Dhabi Vision 2030.
that go beyond current renovation programmes
as a textbook for the upcoming EmiratesGBC
to achieve greater energy and financial savings.
Building Retrofit Training Programme.
Apart from these guidelines, we have also conducted Building Retrofit Training (BRT)
two-day workshop and participants successfully
To further support professional and the
The study also aligns with and supports
Programme to build a knowledge-sharing platform
EmiratesGBC’s Net Zero Centre of Excellence,
EP: EmiratesGBC has also done a Building Efficiency
for everyone. The Building Retrofit Training
which was formed as a think tank and accelerator
Accelerator study. Can you tell us about that?
Programme launched in 2017, focuses on building
to advance net zero carbon buildings in the UAE.
AAJ: As mentioned, Dubai is the first city in
capacity for undertaking sustainable building retrofits to promote energy and water efficiency. We have been following a committed and concerted move – from strengthening awareness to capacity building to drive the retrofit market. Through our partnership with the Dubai Supreme Council of Energy (DSCE) as a City Liaison on
It is hoped that these deep retrofits will
the Middle East committed to the BEA, and
pave the way for the existing building stock to
EmiratesGBC served as the BEA City Liaison
ultimately decarbonise and support the industry
in partnership with Dubai Supreme Council of
to move towards a net-zero carbon future.
Energy to evaluate the energy performance
EmiratesGBC also conducts Building Retrofit Training and other training workshops.
of hotels, schools and malls in the city.
Faces of Sustainability - Interview with His Excellency Ali Al Jassim Chairman of EGBC
43 43
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HIS EXCELLENCY ALI AL JASSIM, CHAIRMAN OF EMIRATESGBC
Our Technical team assessed the energy and water performance of existing buildings against similar buildings, and some of the key findings are: A median hotel in Dubai consumes 252 kWh/m2/ year of energy and 1,486 litres/m2/year of water A median resort in Dubai consumes 334 kWh/m2/ year of energy and 1,676 litres/m2/year of water Overall, best performing hotels consume 58% less energy per area, 65% less water and the best resorts consume 78% less water When it comes to schools, the report found that: A median school in Dubai consumes 134 kWh/ m2/year of energy and 852 litres/m2/year of water Newer schools are likely to consume more energy and water per unit area Overall, best performing schools consume 61% less energy per area, 85% less water When we look at malls: A median mall in Dubai consumes 465 kWh/m2/ year of energy and 1,300 litres/m2/year of water Over half the energy, on average, was consumed by mall tenants with remaining energy consumption split between the cooling and common areas Comparisons with international benchmarks show that a median enclosed mall in Dubai consumes 57% more energy per unit area than a median enclosed mall in the USA Overall, best-performing malls consume 35% less energy per area, 58% less water
AS A NONPROFIT ORGANISATION THAT ADVANCES GREEN BUILDING PRINCIPLES FOR ENSURING SUSTAINABILITY, WE HAVE SET UP TECHNICAL GUIDELINES FOR RETROFITTING EXISTING BUILDINGS IN THE UAE.
These findings help hotels, schools and malls to further elevate their energy and water use efficiency standards by following industry best practices. The findings also remind us that there is a strong potential for savings and operational efficiencies that can be achieved through remedial actions such as audits, retrofits, energy management and the use of awareness campaigns or trainings to drive changes in behaviour. The report also highlights the importance of deep retrofits as key in advancing towards 100% Net Zero Carbon Buildings by 2050 and to achieve the goals of the Paris Agreement of keeping global warming well below 2 degrees Celsius.
44
Faces of Sustainability - Interview Dr Marcus Schumacher, VP & GM at Johnson Controls FACES with OF SUSTAINABILITY
44
Interview with Dr Marcus Schumacher, VP & GM at Johnson Controls
IN TOUCH WITH TOMORROW KNOWN AS A STRATEGIC THINKING, ENTHUSIASTIC AND INSPIRATIONAL TEAM BUILDER, SETTING HIGH STANDARDS FOR EXECUTING A WIDE VARIETY OF PROGRAMMES AND PROJECTS, DR MARCUS SCHUMACHER, VICE PRESIDENT & GENERAL MANAGER GCC AT JOHNSON CONTROLS, SPEAKS TO EMIRATES PROJECTS ABOUT THE COMPANY’S PRIORITIES, EVOLUTION, SUSTAINABILITY AND GROWTH.
JOHNSON CONTROLS
13th Floor, API World Tower Dubai, 31065, UAE T: +971 4 309 9999 WWW.JOHNSONCONTROLS.COM
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Faces of Sustainability - Interview with Dr Marcus Schumacher, VP & GM at Johnson Controls
45 45
DR MARCUS SCHUMACHER, VICE PRESIDENT & GENERAL MANAGER GCC AT JOHNSON CONTROLS
46
Faces of Sustainability - Interview Dr Marcus Schumacher, VP & GM at Johnson Controls FACES with OF SUSTAINABILITY
46
“IF YOU WANT TO GO FAST, GO ALONE… IF YOU WANT TO GO FAR, GO TOGETHER”.
Interview with Dr Marcus Schumacher, VP & GM at Johnson Controls
EMIRATES PROJECTS: With so many years
EP: What progress or change have you seen
of experience in the Middle East market, what
at the company since being one of the first
would you say are your strategic priorities and
certified Energy Service organisations in 2014?
vision for Johnson Controls in the GCC?
MS: Johnson Controls has globally completed
DR MARCUS SCHUMACHER: With more than
more than 3,500 energy services programmes
5,500 building technology specialists in the Middle
within all end segments of the market. We
East and Africa, Johnson Controls has supported
are holding more than $6.5bn in Performance
the tremendous growth in this region over the last
Guarantees, which is a testimonial from our
45 years. We are a trusted technology partner pretty
customer for the partnership and trust they have
much present in all major landmark buildings in the
in Johnson Controls’ technology and employees
wider GCC. We continue to build on our unique
When we decided in 2014 to be one of the first
offering in the HVAC, Controls, Security and Fire
Energy Service companies in the UAE, we realised
space. As an example of our achievements, we
that this market was at an early inception point at
have built with our partners some of the largest
that time and had to undergo a lot of education and
installed district cooling capacities in the world
process implementation. Today, we see the Energy
with some of the biggest cooling plants in the
Service model is widely accepted and understood,
Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, UAE, Kuwait and Qatar.
while financing vehicles and policy matters have
However, our vision and company direction had to
been established. This mindset shift was further
adapt to the new market and technology realities.
underlined and accelerated by National Agendas
We have significantly expanded our leading
such as the UAE 2050 Strategy calling for increased
product solutions towards connected IoT building
energy efficiency measures for drastic CO2 footprint
solution offerings. With a strong global digital
reduction. A lot of other Emirates have meanwhile
solutions team, we have established connected
successfully implemented their corresponding
solutions and service capabilities, focusing on better
certification and transformation programmes, which
outcomes for our clients. Energy Services and
now further expand quickly across the entire GCC.
Digital Transformation in all areas we touch around
We at Johnson Controls had to be fast and agile to
a building are becoming the backbone of all we
be able to respond to those requirements quickly
do. Fostered by rapidly emerging IoT technologies
by transforming our talent base accordingly. In
and steadily decreasing digital infrastructure
leading areas of our business, we went one step
cost, data has become the new currency in this
further in helping our customers to articulate the
industry. Johnson Controls, however, has been
questions they should be asking to get the right
driving technology focus to the next level beyond
response from their technology partners. As a result,
simple data lake generation and administration.
this moved the perception of our organisation
We are now in the position to create predictive,
from a core supplier to a trusted advisor role.
tangible outcomes for our customers by using such data intelligently. The new Bee’ah Headquarters
EP: In your professional opinion, what
in Sharjah (UAE), where employees will enjoy an
transformations have you experienced
unmatched workplace environment with virtual
within the Gulf region in terms of companies
artificial intelligent (AI) assistance everywhere
adopting and implementing sustainable
throughout the premises, is one prominent example.
practises in the past five years?
Last but not least, technology is made for and by
MS: Awareness for sustainability needs is now
people, and we are proud to have developed one of
engrained into all levels of the building lifecycle -
the strongest and most diverse talent bases in the
from design and operation management through
Middle East and Africa in the building technology
to final retrofit of the building. Building owners
industry. This will enable us to realise our vision to
have started to upgrade their ageing building
further grow jointly with our customers and partners
assets via their in-house facility management
in this rapidly changing technology environment.
teams or by deploying one of the certified Energy
Faces of Sustainability - Interview with Dr Marcus Schumacher, VP & GM at Johnson Controls
47 47
47
Service companies. Early and easy wins have been
platform is geared around increased building
of their assets. We at Johnson Controls aspire to
already taken to the bank in the areas of water
efficiency operation at increased operating
remain at the forefront of this transformation by
and energy-efficient LED lighting programmes. In
visibility with modules for predictive maintenance,
offering solutions and services across the entire
addition, we have noticed that since the introduction
allowing for service on performance concepts
building portfolio and lifecycle, enabling our clients
of variable speed drives (VSD) for cooling, end
rather than relying on regular maintenance only.
to remain at the leading edge of what a smart
clients and their consultants are accelerating in
Our Connected Buildings Platform JEM (Johnson
and energy-efficient building can look like.
specifying energy-efficient cooling equipment.
Controls Enterprise Management) solution is
This puts total lifecycle cost ahead of first cost
currently experiencing strong demand from a large
EP: Tell us about the 2050 Sustainability Strategy.
requirements when designing new buildings.
number of our regional clients operating one or
How does Johnson Controls plan to achieve this?
Steadily, we also see similar trends in the residential
multiple building assets across a wider territory.
MS: There is a famous African Proverb which
construction space where energy-efficient inverter
says: “If you want to go fast, go alone…if you EP: Where do you see growth coming from; which
want to go far, go together”. Unfortunately, we
sectors are looking particularly healthy at present?
believe we have to go far and fast looking at
EP: Tell us about your sustainable products
MS: Construction in the GCC region remains
the current impact of the climate shift. In this
and services – how do you tackle lowering
solid in all areas of our core segments. Mega
sense, Johnson Controls will accelerate its effort
energy costs and reducing carbon footprint?
investments like NEOM and Red Sea Developments
in partnering not only with our clients but even
MS: Global demand for cooling is rapidly increasing.
in Saudi Arabia or New Cairo in Egypt are just
more so with other leading technology companies
At approximately 4% global construction growth, we
two examples. The increasing population does
to join hands in solving important technology
expect our worldwide building footprint to double
foster a number of investments in infrastructure,
challenges together. The enormous tasks we
over the next 20 years. In the Middle East and
education and healthcare programmes across the
face require a profound but also broad focus that
Africa region, cooling is the major energy efficiency
region, while the need for affordable housing is
can only be accomplished by partnering with the
driver of every building. Since Johnson Controls
steadily rising. All of this requires strong building
best in each technology discipline. Both Energy
pioneered the first variable speed drive controlled
technology expertise to allow extendibility of applied
Services, as well as Digitalisation Programmes,
chiller in the late seventies, this technology has
technologies where smart building and city concepts
are most successful when strong alliances are
been further mastered towards medium voltage
come into play. Saudi Arabia, similar to the UAE,
formed between partners and clients. Speed
water-cooled chillers solutions, not only for new
has strong tourism investment plans, which has
matters. At the same time, attention to details
installations but even more for retrofitting our
shown strong year-on-year growth performance,
counts. Of late, we have been having partnership
existing install base. With this technology, we have
and we expect this to accelerate further.
alliance discussions almost every week with key
technologies are increasingly being applied.
demonstrated up to 30% efficiency gains. On
clients and technology companies in the region.
the water-cooled chillers side, Johnson Controls
EP: How do you envision sustainability
Johnson Controls is always open to collaboration
has been heavily investing in magnetic bearing
practices progressing in the Gulf region
and partnerships to build a better tomorrow.
chiller technologies, which has eliminated the
over the next five years; what trends do you
need for oil change services. In essence, this not
expect to see? What is Johnson Controls
only drastically reduces operating costs but also
looking to achieve over that same period?
significantly enhances the equipment’s life-span.
MS: Regional governments are setting strong
We have developed self-learning chiller plant
sustainability goals in their national agendas.
software solutions (CPO - chiller plant optimisation)
This, combined with revisiting energy cost subsidies,
for the overall operation and scheduling of a
will set a strong need to accelerate energy efficiency
cooling plant. This further supports our customers
measures both for new construction programmes
in running their cooling assets most efficiently
and for ageing buildings across the region. Not only
using predictive operating models. It not only helps
electricity, but water has equally become the centre
to improve current and future cooling demand
of any future urban planning and a key enabler
utilisation but also reduces human interaction
to make future growth affordable and long-term
during plant operation on a daily basis.
sustainable. We expect energy cost to further
Energy efficiency focus does not stop at cooling
increase to intrinsic cost levels where policies and
applications only. Our entire Building Controls
laws will further tighten, giving asset owners an
methodology product and software offerings
additional stimulus to reduce the energy footprint
GLOBAL DEMAND FOR COOLING IS RAPIDLY INCREASING. AT APPROXIMATELY 4% GLOBAL CONSTRUCTION GROWTH, WE EXPECT OUR WORLDWIDE BUILDING FOOTPRINT TO DOUBLE OVER THE NEXT 20 YEARS.
48
Faces of Sustainability - Interview with Amer Bin Ahmed, MD of Knauf Middle East FACES OF SUSTAINABILITY
48
Interview with Amer Bin Ahmed, MD of Knauf Middle East
MADE IN THE UAE KNAUF IS A MARKET LEADER WHEN IT COMES TO SOURCING AND MANUFACTURING PRODUCTS LOCALLY. MOREOVER, THE COMPANY PUTS QUALITY AND SAFETY AT THE TOP OF ITS LIST OF PRIORITIES, ALONG WITH SUSTAINABILITY, WHICH IS A BURNING ISSUE FOR AMER BIN AHMED, MANAGING DIRECTOR, KNAUF MIDDLE EAST AND INDIA.
KNAUF LLC
Dubai Silicon Oasis Light Industrial Unit Phase 6 Unit B9 PO Box 112871 Dubai, UAE T: +971 4 337 7170 E: info@knauf.ae WWW.KNAUF.AE/
Whether sourcing and producing locally or
quarrying sites do not need to like ‘deserts in the
minimising waste, Bin Ahmed tries to incorporate
landscape’; in fact, they can have a networking
these aspects in every aspect of the supply chain.
function that contributes towards greater
And his vision has trickled down to everyone
biodiversity. Knauf has repeatedly proved this.
within the company, resulting in Knauf being
Headquartered in Dubai, Knauf is also renowned for
presented with the Green Award by the Ministry of
its customer service excellence and commitment in
Infrastructure in April 2018 and in November 2019
the Middle East and India. It always ensures that the
with the prestigious Manufacturer of the Year award
demand meets the supply, the first time and every
at The Transport & Logistics Middle East (TLME)
time, by utilising its full flexibility and the potential of
Excellence Awards. Furthermore, Bin Ahmed has
its production facilities, human resources, technical
been instrumental in Knauf UAE achieving one of
expertise, logistics and cutting-edge digitalization.
the most coveted awards in the region – ‘Made
In doing so, it is at the forefront of facilitating
in UAE’. Knauf is only the second company in
rapid growth and development in the region.
the whole of the UAE to receive this award.
Bin Ahmed, one of the youngest CEO’s to head
Knauf is fully equipped to cater to the needs, wants
an organisation with the stature of Knauf in the
and preferences of its valued client-base, many of
region, and also internally in the group, is committed
whom have become friends over the years. And in
to continuing to build the company’s legacy for
the modern world, they too demand sustainability.
product excellence and unrivalled customer service.
Knauf achieves this by ensuring that the sustained
From being recognised as the CEO of the Year
extraction of raw materials is carried out with
by a distinguished media group in 2016 to winning,
consideration for existing habitats, taking in all
with his plant workers, an award in the Guinness
flora and fauna. It gives targeted support for
World Record, it would appear he has done
the protection of species and biotopes during
it all. But one has the feeling that this is really
and after the extraction of the raw materials.
just the beginning; the best is yet to come!
Research in recent years has shown that operational
49
Faces of Sustainability - Interview with Amer Bin Ahmed, MD of Knauf Middle East
AMER BIN AHMED, MD OF KNAUF MIDDLE EAST
49 49
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Boris Micka Associates
SAUDI PAVILION, EXPO SHANGHAI 2010
Boris Micka Associates
A DIFFERENT KIND OF DESIGN FIRM AT BORIS MICKA ASSOCIATES (BMA) THE OBJECTIVE OF DESIGN IS TO CREATE A SPATIAL EXPERIENCE WITH UNIVERSAL RESONANCE THAT WILL COMMUNICATE A CLEAR MESSAGE, THAT WILL LAST IN THE MIND OF THE SPECTATORS. “Our team is architects at its core, but because of the diverse
set, one image, that can be transformed by space, by light,
experience by each person and the rapid advancement in
by projection, into something else. I am looking at a space
technology over the years, we are evolved into a different breed”
beyond the interior designer or an architect, I see myself as
explains BMA founder Boris Micka. “Besides designing architecture
a theatre director – I want a reaction from the audience.”
as the shell and container, we follow through with an inner
voice for the interior, we create scenography and multimedia
Boris emphasizes that to create a space that is happy, sad, or
contents, so all kinds of skills and talents are involved.”
monumental, some magic is needed. Turn a corner in a building,
and suddenly you are in or under something completely
It is a very multicultural team too, and this is something that is
unexpected. The breath-stopping moment is critical.
at the heart of the firm’s DNA. “We are based in Seville, Spain,
“I must confess, we may not be excited by the typical
and all of us are here because we love the Spanish culture
commercial architecture – we are what we are, “admits Boris.
and environment. The historical Islamic heritage of Andalucia
“At BMA, we think more artistically, we are not concerned
allows us to understand the clients in the Middle East. The
with limits, but create things to communicate in inspiring
cultural link is still alive between these two beautiful areas.”
ways. It’s branding, if you want to leave an impact or
impression, you have to insist on creating wonder and awe.
MOMENTS OF AWE A multidisciplinary approach is at the heart of the BMA process,
TRADITION AND ORIGINALITY
something that Boris Micka learned whilst studying with
There can be no argument that design and architecture in
the famed Professor Josef Svoboda in Prague University of
the Middle East are exciting, but as Boris points out, there are
Architecture. “It is a way in which I can summarise the impact
certain very crucial decisions that have to be taken, particularly
of our creation. Summarise all messages and feelings in one
in Saudi Arabia. KSA is starting a new chapter and building a
Boris Micka Associates
51 51
SAUDI PAVILION, EXPO DUBAI 2020
EXHIBITION TREASURES OF AGA KHAN
ISTANBUL ARCHAEOLOGICAL MUSEUM
lot of absolutely amazing projects with architecture that has to be something
processes that tend to clutter project management are reduced to the
completely new and distinctive, and Saudis have to manage their own style.
minimal, to release more time for creation. In this process it is inevitable
The teams working in Saudi Arabia have to be highly educated on what is the
that we continually challenge ourselves with new approaches and ideas, it
country about, what is its’ tradition, what are the climatic conditions – otherwise,
would be unexciting for us and our clients to repeat existing designs.”
the result might not be sustainable from a cultural or operational point of view. And I think sustainability is very high on the Kingdom’s list right now.
“The most important thing,” Boris explains, “is to be true to ourselves – we never work with a project we don’t agree with. Integrity is necessary to ensure quality.”
DISCOVER WHAT IS POSSIBLE A major strength of BMA, which gives the firm a considerable edge, is its
NOTE:
efficacy and speed. BMA always converts the development of the project
BMA’s current KSA pavilion design for Dubai Expo has already
into an enjoyable process. “We engage the clients to participate actively in
been spotted in a few international design publications as the
the project, creating strong and fast communications. The bureaucratic
top 10 anticipated architecture in 2020 to watch out for. www.borismicka.com
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