Construction Sites | July Issue no. 84

SITES C o n s t r u c t i o n

I ssue N o .84 - J uly 2014

Monthly Construction news, tenders, project focus, and forthcoming exhibitions in Qatar

As Doha’s ICT market is expected to grow by at least 10% annually and reach approximately QR24.7 billion by 2016, it’s time for the construction industry to approach technology in a holistic way.

PAGES 14-18

In Focus: Technology

Qatar’s logistics sector keeping pace with country’s ambitious growth plans

Alternative Dispute Resolution The ‘culture of construction’

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SITES

Qatar

Ashghal opens part of Dukhan Highway Central

The Public Works Authority (Ashghal) has announced the opening of part of Dukhan Highway Central between Al Rayyan roundabout and Sheehaniya interchange.

Nine kilometres of a four-lane carriageway, including an underpass of Al Dehailiyat Army Camp interchange, are now open to traffic.

As part of the project, two underpasses for camels crossing near Al Rayyan and Al Sheehaniya roundabouts are open along with two lanes of service roads in each direction.

To increase the safety of road users, crash barriers measuring 18,000 meters have been installed as medians and driving speed has been limited to 120km per hour.

The completed works include 10 underground electrical substations for power supply and protection for the gas lines and infrastructure networks.

Ashghal has recently announced the completion of the New Wajbah underpass, which is part of the newly-constructed Al Wajbah interchange at Dukhan Highway Central expressway project. Two lanes in each direction have been opened to traffic through Al Wajbah underpass.

Considered as one of the most important sections of the road network in Qatar, Dukhan Highway Central expressway project

will provide a modern highway that will improve the traffic flow between Doha and west of Qatar.

The project will serve the residents of al Sheehaniya as well as the adjacent areas, especially those who work in Dukhan and in the north of Qatar.

The Dukhan Highway Central project includes the construction of 15km of a new highway starting from west of the existing Al Wajbah Interchange and ending east of the town of Al Sheehaniya.

The project comprises a dual carriageway with four lanes, service roads and cycle track in each direction.

Commenced in April 2011, the project includes the construction of two underpass interchanges: at New Wajbah and Al Dehailiyat Army Camp. In addition, a major multi-level interchange, Rawdat Rashed, will

Dukhan Highway Central : part of it is now open to traffic

be constructed at the junction of Celebration Road to accommodate access to Al Rayyan Stadium, Mall of Qatar and other construction projects in the area.

Significant enhancements to the local utility networks have been implemented on essential utility infrastructure such as water and TSE (treated sewage effluent) supply, electrical and communication cabling.

The project is part of Ashghals’ Expressway Program that includes more than 32 major projects.

All projects have been divided into 46 contracts, to create a vital highway network that will improve journey times and link the north of Qatar to the south from Madinet Al Shamal to Mesaieed.

With 11 projects under construction, the program is estimated to be completed by 2019.

Qatar’s construction sector at its ‘most optimistic’ for three years

O

ptimism among Qatar’s construction industry in the second quarter of 2014 is at its highest for three years, according to the Dun & Bradstreet Business Optimism Index (BOI).

The index also reveals that the finance, real estate and business services sector has recorded its second highest optimism score since the first quarter of 2011.

Sponsored by the Qatar Financial Centre Authority (QFC Authority) in partnership with the Qatar Businessmen Association (QBA), the survey also reveals that the score for the finance, real estate and business services sector was 18 points higher in the second quarter of 2014 than in the corresponding period of 2013.

The sector’s rise stems from the strong Qatari economy, higher demand for insurance for new construction and an increase in savings and investment by a growing population. Real estate and business services firms, however, are more optimistic about selling prices and hiring.

These firms are benefiting from the expected rise in construction activity, which is pushing up demand for related services such as architecture and engineering consulting, building material testing and manpower supply.

Moreover, the growing number of companies establishing of-

Minister tours key Ashghal projects

H

E the Minister of Municipality and Urban Planning Sheikh Abdul Rahman bin Khalifa Al Thani, who is also chairman of the Main Roads Projects Steering Committee, conducted field visits to two major infrastructure projects being implemented by Qatar’s Public Works Authority (Ashghal): the Mesaimeer surface and ground water tunneling work launch site and the Lusail Expressway.

The Minister, accompanied by Ashghal President Nasser bin Ali Al Mawlawi, was briefed on progress of construction at the two projects.

The visiting delegation included members of the Main Roads Projects Steering Committee, comprising Ali Abdulla Al Abdulla, Assistant Undersecretary for Planning Affairs, Mohammed Abdul Kareem Al Meer, Deputy Chairman of Ministry of Municipality and Urban Planning, and Abdullah Nasser Al Khalifa, representative of the Audit Bureau in Qatar.

Also present at the site visit were Jalal Yousef Al Salhi, Director of Ashghal’s Infrastructure Affairs, Nasser Ghaith Al Kuwari, Manager of Ashghal’s Highway Projects and Ghanem Rashid Al-Mansoori, Secretary of the Main Roads Projects Steering Committee.

The Minister’s site visit started with the Lusail Expressway, an integral project within Ashghal’s nationwide expressway program.

The project includes the reconstruction and development of the current Lusail Expressway south of the Arch roundabout to the northern canal corridor. Providing a vital link to Doha’s fast growing Lusail City, the project consists of a 5.3km highway of four lanes, in addition to extra lanes to facilitate traffic between intersections.

Lusail Expressway project includes three major interchanges: Al Wahda, Onaiza and the Pearl. It will serve the growing urban areas of Dafna and Al Gassar, and those that contain touristic attractions, including Katara and Pearl, through the development of intersections.

The intersections will be developed through the removal of roundabouts and replacing them with multilevel junctions that provide smooth traffic in all directions.

Construction of Lusail Expressway began in the third quarter of 2012 and is expected to be completed by the third quarter of 2017.

Currently works are underway on building the Al Wahda intersection which will be converted into a three-level interchange, including a dual three-lane underpass from the Al Dafna area to Lusail.

It will comprise a single-point interchange at ground level from Al Wahda traffic and three-lane directional links at level one from Lusail Expressway to the Central Business District.

The project comprises approxi-

fices in Qatar is increasing the optimism of business services firms dealing with corporates in areas like IT, advertising and auditing.

In the construction sector, optimism is at its highest for three years and the strongest in the non-hydrocarbon sector. The BOI score of 54 for the second quarter of 2014 was three points up from the first quarter of 2014 and 13 points up from Q2 2013. Higher scores for selling prices, net profits and hiring drove the overall result for Q2 2014.

The index for the consolidated non-hydrocarbon sector was 47 points, which was up seven points year-on-year but showed a decline of 2 points from Q1 2014. The decline was mainly due to seasonal factors, specifically the impact of the coming summer season on sectors such as Trade & Hospitality and related services, such as event management.

Nevertheless, underlying trends in the non-hydrocarbon sector remain firm, the survey has found. Of respondents in the non-hydrocarbon sector, 59% expect higher net profits, 65% expect higher sales and 67% expect higher orders in Q2 2014.

Comparing large companies and SMEs, the survey concludes that large companies are more confident about sales volumes and profitability than

SMEs, but the latter are more optimistic about new orders, selling prices and employment.

Yousef Mohammed Al Jaida, Deputy Chief Executive Officer of the QFC Authority, said: “No fewer than 64% of respondents in the sector expect higher profits in the second quarter of 2014. Construction is emerging as a major force behind the sector’s growth as well as boosting Qatar’s economy more generally. These trends are further evidence of the extent to which the economy is diversifying.”

Commenting on the survey findings, Prashant Kumar, Associate Director, Dun and Bradstreet South Asia Middle East, said: “The BOI in Q2 2014 for the non-hydrocarbon sector has improved by seven points on a year-on-year basis, reflecting an increasing optimism amongst the business community in Qatar. “Construction is observed to be the most optimistic as reflected by the fact that the sector has the highest BOI score as well as the highest proportion (49%) of businesses planning to invest in business expansion.”

“Positive expectations for the construction sector are driving the optimism amongst businesses in other associated sectors, with around 65% respondents in the non-hydrocarbon sector expecting an increase in sales volumes in the next quarter.”

ground water tunnel will al- Mesaimeer surface and ground leviate Doha’s storm water by water tunnel will be constructtransporting it from a 170 km² ed using pre-cast slabs manuof catchment area, covering factured by a Qatari company southern and western parts of SMEET Precast, one of the largest and advanced factories in greater Doha.

The tunnel will run in parallel the Mena region located at the to the F-Ring Road, extend- Mesaieed Industrial City. ing approximately 9.7km from Ashghal’s Mesaimeer Surface the excavation starting point. and Ground Water tunnel projThe tunnel will stretch 5.4km ect is scheduled to be completfrom Al Thumama to the west ed by 2017. and 4.3km to the east to the At the visit’s end, HE Sheikh HE the Minister of Municipality and Urban Planning Sheikh Abdul Rahman bin Khalifa Al Thani with senior Ashghal officials during the tour. planned pumping station near Abdul Rahman expressed his the new Hamad International satisfaction on work progress mately 2,900 meters of infra- sures, the project achieved a Airport. of both the projects. He urged structure tunnels of around 3m milestone of 10 million man- Giving impetus to local con- project teams to continue their diameter to carry high-voltage hours without lost time incident struction companies, Ashghal’s efforts. electrical cables of 132 kilovolt in June. power, in addition to more than This achievement is the rea kilometer of storm-water and sult of Ashghal’s commitment foul-water drainage tunnel of to identifying and promoting 2.5 m²in diameter to stream health and safety best practictreated water and reuse it to ir- es, facilitating system improvements and by following safe rigate green surfaces.

The project will also include working procedures on work a 1,100-meter-long tunnel of zones.

9.5 meter width and 5.5-meter Sheikh Abdul Rahman also height for the Lusail City Light paid a field visit to Mesaimeer surface and ground water tunRail Transit (LRT) system.

One of the main benefits of con- neling project. The visit came structing these tunnels using few weeks after the commencethe micro-tunneling technology ment of excavation works on will be to allow the construction the significant project which is of new utility networks along being undertaken by Ashghal with the existing ones without to enhance Qatar’s drainage the need of traditional deep network in line with the Qatar excavation, refilling or divert- National Vision 2030. ing existing roads and utilities. The excavations are being These tunnels will also facili- carried out by advanced Tuntate access to the utilities net- nel Boring Machines (TBM) Al work for maintenance purposes Rawda, one of the two specially designed and developed TBM’s when needed.

As a result of Ashghal’s strin- for this project.

HE Sheikh Abdul Rahman visiting the Mesaimeer gent safety and security mea- The Mesaimeer surface and surface and ground water tunneling project.

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SITES Qatar’s healthcare facilities win awards 4

Construction

Qatar healthcare facilities took home three of the eight awards categories, including Best Physical Environment, Best Hospital Design and Best Healing Environment, at the sixth Hospital Build & Infrastructure Middle East Exhibition & Congress in Dubai recently.

The annual Hospital Build & Infrastructure Awards recognize leaders in the healthcare industry who have devoted their efforts to building hospitals that help improve healthcare services in the Middle East and raise the bar in providing world-class patient care.

“We would like to congratulate this year’s awards recipients for their tireless efforts in improving patient care in the region,” says Simon Page, Managing Director, Informa Life Sciences Exhibitions.

“The winning entrants come from the UAE, Qatar, Lebanon, and Saudi Arabia, and were chosen from more than 100 nominees who have excelled in the region’s hospital build and infrastructure sector.”

The full list of winners include Hamad Medical Corporation PET CT Center for Diagnosis & Research, Qatar for Best Physical Environment Award; HMC Skilled Nursing Facility, Qatar for Best Healing Environment Awards; HMC Skilled Nursing Facility, Qatar for Best Hospital Design Award; Al Amal Hospital, UAE for Best Hospital of the Future Award; Ruwais Hospital (ADNOC), UAE for Best Sustainable Hospital Project Award; Burjeel Hospital, UAE for Best Laboratory Design Award; Clemenceau Medical Centre, Lebanon, Best Facilities Management Service Strategy Award and King Fahad Medical City, Saudi Arabia for Best Technology Initiative Award.

Commenting on the two awards for HMC Skilled Nursing Facility, Hamad Bin Nasser Al-Khalifa , chief of Facilities and Work Force Development, Hamad Medical Corporation, said: “The Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC) believes that their responsibilities are not only limited to providing the highest medical service to their patients in Qatar, but also to provide the best healing environment by positioning their facilities as the best in design and state of art technologies in the entire world.

“HMC would like to thank Hospital Build Middle East for their valuable award and for their continuous role in bringing together the latest practice in the industry in one of the most successful events in the Middle East.”

The award-winners at the at the sixth Hospital Build & Infrastructure Middle East Exhibition & Congress in Dubai

News

Kahramaa upgrades network infrastructure with Nexans cables Kahramaa (Qatar General Electricity & Water Corporation) is making major upgrades to its network infrastructure in the face of growing demand.

The corporation has turned to Nexans as it looks to drive the long-term development of the state’s energy infrastructure.

The utility, which is making significant efforts to upgrade Qatar’s Power Transmission System, has signed a framework agreement worth approximately €100 million for the supply of medium and low voltage cables.

In total, Nexans will provide over 2,000 kilometers of cable to Kahramaa. Production of the cables started in Qatar at Nexans’ QICC (Qatar International Cable Company) plant. Cables will be produced and installed until December 2015.

Charles-Edouard Mellagui, Country Manager Qatar and Chief Executive Officer, Qatar International Cables Company at Nexans, said: “We are pleased to be partnering with Kahramaa in their drive to upgrade electrical infrastructure in Qatar and look forward to supporting the company in the years to come. The competitiveness of Nexans’ offering and our high standards of quality and service have been key in the Kahramaa’s choice.”

A growing population combined with urban and economic development, mean that demand for electricity in Qatar is expected to grow by almost 50% in 2020 to 9.6GW from 6.5GW. There is therefore a pressing need to upgrade network infrastructure and add further capacity to the grid.

Nexans cables will be deployed as part of stage 2 of the Phase 11 expansion and development of the electricity network. They will connect new sub-stations to infrastructure-oriented projects, including New Doha Ports and Doha Rail and Metro Projects.

The Qatari government’s strategic plan for the state – 2030 Qatar Vision – which aims to provide sustainable development and a high standard of living for a population expected to double over the period, also requires significant upgrading of electrical and other infrastructure.

Jaidah Heavy Equipment event Ashghal converting more marks UD Quon truck success roundabouts to intersections Mohamed Jaidah, Executive Director of Jaidah Group

Mikito Maruyama, Director, UD Trucks Commercial;

Ayman Ahmed, General Manager of Jaidah Heavy Equipment Division, at the event.

Jaidah Heavy Equipment, a division of the leading Qatari conglomerate Jaidah Group, has announced the success of their new range of Japanese UD Trucks at a celebratory event last month.

The event was attended by Mohamed Jaidah, Executive Director of Jaidah Group; Ayman Ahmed, General Manager of Jaidah Heavy Equipment Division; Mikito Maruyama, Director, UD Trucks Commercial in addition to representatives from 130 organizations across Qatar.

In his opening speech, Mohamed Jaidah said: “The Jaidah Group has demonstrated consistent drive, leading the way in terms of innovation across all its divisions. The success of this new range of UD Trucks, Quon, in Qatar by the Jaidah Heavy Equipment division, is testament to our commitment to offering the latest technology available on the market to our clients across all sectors.”

UD Trucks, formally Nissan Diesel, are one of the top truck manufacturers in Japan with over 75 years experience.

Quon, the new flagship range from UD Trucks, are one of the most advanced trucks currently on offer in the market. The model features a fuel-efficient Euro 3 engine and an advanced emergency breaking system with new transmission, differentiating it from competitors.

Ayman Ahmed said: “We are proud to have introduced this range of Quon trucks to our customers, the new technology, durability and adaptability of which has helped support the work of the construction, transportation, logistics and energy sectors in Qatar.”

Quon has proven widely popular on account of its trailer add-on selection. Customers have come from both the public and private sectors in Qatar, including the Doha Municipality, Boom Construction Company, Al Ali Projects and UrbaCon Trading & Contracting, all of whom were present at the event.

Jaidah Heavy Equipment is the sole importers of UD trucks in Qatar and the first importers of Quon in the GCC. Jaidah Heavy Equipment has sold over 100 Quon trucks in Qatar last year, representing a big share in the market.

Describing the partnership between Jaidah Heavy Equipment and UD Trucks, Mikito Maruyama said: “The commitment shown by Jaidah Heavy Equipment, the first importers of Quon trucks in the GCC, has been fundamental to UD Truck’s success in the region and we welcome this event to celebrate the impact of the Quon range on the country and our clients.”

Ayman Ahmed emphasized the exceptional service packages that Jaidah Heavy Equipment would offer to Quon customers. “In line with UD Truck standards, Jaidah Heavy Equipment will be able to provide full servicing to Quon customers at workshops in the Industrial Area and Al Khor in addition to an option for on-field servicing - unrivalled support when compared to our competitors,” he said

As part of plans to enhance Qatar’s road network, the Public Works Authority (Ashghal) has announced a project to convert Al Markhiya and Dahl Al Hamam roundabouts to signal-controlled intersections.

Construction work, which began in mid-May, is expected to be complete by October this year.

The project is located in a strategic area of Doha, connecting several main roads such as Al Markhiya, the Arab League, Jassim Bin Hamad and Khalifa Streets.

“Given its vital location, work on this project will be carried out while keeping two lanes open to traffic in each direction throughout the construction period and temporary access will be provided to businesses and residences,” Ashghal said.

The project will involve converting Dahl Al Hamam roundabout to a signal-controlled intersection and will provide three lanes in each direction on Al Markhiya and Arab League Streets. Covering a stretch of 400m from the center of the intersection, the development works will enhance traffic flow by providing three additional lanes turning left and a dedicated side lane to turn right at each signal. In addition, pedestrian crossings will be created to ensure road users’ safety.

Converting Al Markhiya roundabout to a signal-controlled intersection will involve four lanes in each direction on Khalifa Street, in addition to three lanes to turn left and one lane to turn right. Widening of roads will be done by taking parts of the median to provide enough space for new signals and their utilities.

The project will involve work in the following areas: • The first area stretches over 600m from Al Markhiya roundabout towards TV roundabout • The second area stretches over 1,000m from Al Markhiya roundabout towards Al Gharrafa roundabout • The third area stretches over 300m from Al Markhiya roundabout onto Jassim Bin Hamad Street • The fourth area stretches over 300m from Al Markhiya roundabout onto the Arab League Street Ashghal revealed that as part of this project, a storm water drainage network would be installed and some existing utilities enhanced and diverted. This is in addition to landscaping works and installation of street lighting and traffic signals along the new intersections.

It said that road signs would be installed to advice motorists of alternative routes, advising everyone “to respect traffic rules and abide by speed limits at all times to ensure their safety and safety of others”. Work on the two roundabouts will be carried out around the clock in order to finish the project on schedule.

Ashghal has already converted a number of roundabouts on the Corniche Street to signalcontrolled intersections. They include the Museum of Islamic Art, Al Diwan, Grand Hamad, Al Meena, the National Theater, Wadi Al Sail and the Post Office.

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Construction

SITES

Cityscape Focus

Cityscape Qatar sees 25% growth “Cityscape is the largest real estate event brand in the world”

C

ityscape Qatar, now in its third year, took place last month with a 25% growth in exhibition space compared to last year.

Deep Marwaha, Group Director for Cityscape, commenting on the exhibition growth, said: “Cityscape is the largest real estate event brand in the world. We launched Cityscape Qatar three years ago and the growth has been steady with 25% increase in size this year from last year.”

Marwaha said that this year the event had attracted a mix of local and international exhibitors.

Around 55% of all exhibitors had come from abroad, representing regional countries such as Bahrain, Jordan, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, the UAE and Turkey, as well as major European, North and Latin American markets like the UK, the USA, Spain and Uruguay.

“About 50% of exhibitors and developers are from the local market and 50% are international,” said Marwaha.

“Obviously, as we are a real estate group that is based in Qatar, we have had some of the large Qatar developers (at the exhibition) such as Ezdan Holding, Barwa Real Estate, United Development Company and Msheireb Properties,” he said.

He said they were obviously looking to showcase their iconic projects to international and local investors and real estate professionals.

He said the international developers, which took part in the exhibition, were very keen to tap the Qatari investment community. “As we know, Qatari investors have invested in property all around the world and international developers recognize this and are looking to tap into some of this investment,” he said.

International investors are targeting a dazzling array of mega-projects that are set to transform the country to host the 2022 World Cup. According to Ventures Middle East, a research company, these included the justopened $7 billion international airport, a $5.5 billion deepwater seaport, $20 billion roads and highways, $5.5 billion Msheireb urban redevelopment, a $1 billion planned Doha Bay Crossing and $125 billion industrial projects.

Taking about prospects of

Deep Marwaha: Group Director for Cityscape.

the sector in the near future, Marwaha said: “I think that we are predominantly looking at some large residential developments as well as mixeduse ones. UDC has the iconic Pearl development which is designed to be a community in itself. Msherieb has launched a project very much in the same vein. So we are looking at huge mixed-use developments, but also at some very interesting residential projects”.

“I think Qatar is obviously trying from a holistic point of view. This is also about getting all sectors of the economy to grow and function to an adequate degree.

“I think they have been very successful from a tourist and financial standpoint. Over the last few years we have seen some great strides, making Qatar an attractive real estate market for overseas investment, showcasing Qatar as a very good place for people to live and to work and with huge prospects for demand,” he added.

In his opening speech, HE Sheikh Ahmed bin Jassim bin Mohammed Al Thani, the Minister of Economy and Commerce, highlighted Qatar’s strengths as well as challenges as a real estate market.

“Qatar has the highest economic growth rate in the world, ranking it among the world’s richest countries in terms of GDP per capita. The exhibition reflects the big leaps that Qatar has made in investment and the real estate sector and embodies the enormous boom, which has taken place in Qatar over the past decade through the investment of huge real estate projects.

“The national development strategy of Qatar has allo-

cated more than $225 billion to infrastructure projects and construction until 2016, as part of the National Vision 2030, and in preparations for the hosting world Cup in 2022,” he said.

“Qatar is still facing challenges in the real estate sector. In the lead up to the World Cup 2022, Qatar needs to build 12 eco-friendly stadiums costing $32 billion, pave roads and streets worth $20 billion, construct 45,000 hotel rooms and complete the Msheireb project costing $5 billion, as well as other real estate projects such as Qatar Rail, Doha metro and the deep sea port project,” he added.

Dara launch Barwa real estate launched its new project Dara during

Cityscape Qatar 2014. The company witnessed a huge success in accomplishing 100% bookings out of the total number of units in the project.

The project which started its reservations activities during the first day of Cityscape, managed to attract many, either as buyers or investors who were rushing to book units which covered one-bedroom, two-bedroom, threebedroom and penthouse “duplex” types.

Speaking about the project to Construction Sites, Acting Group CEO Of Barwa Real Estate Group Ahmad Abdulla Al Abdulla, said: “Dara is part of Lusail. It includes about 53 apartment buildings and small hotels. We designed it as a comprehensive city that includes all services needed by the tenants like coffee shops, restaurants, supermarkets, and family entertainment facilities. Through this exhibition, for the first time, Barwa real-estate offers residential units for sale”.

The project, expected to be completed on the first quarter of 2017, is a comprehensive city in itself.

Asked if the comprehensive city concept was becoming a trend in Qatar now, Al Abdulla said: “We had various experiments at Barwa Cities and we found that this concept helps the resident to move less as

he finds all the services he needs in one location and this makes it easier to rent the units quickly and at a reasonable rate that would make it a good investment for the developer.”

Al Abdulla expected real estate prices to continue to increase for rent and sale in the short term. “But over the coming years as new real estate units enter the market, I expect prices to stabilize,” he added.

Dara offers high-end residential units to investors for the same price of the meter of mid-end units which are being released in the real estate market currently. The location of Dara in Fox Hills in Lusail and its close proximity to the World Cup 2022 stadiums increases the public enthusiasm about towards it.

The exhibition witnessed sign-

ing an agreement between Barwa Real Estate and Waseef for Property Management as part of Barwa Al Baraha project (Workers City). Barwa Acting Group CEO Ahmad Al Abdulla and Waseef CEO Abdulla Jubara signed the agreement which states that Waseef will deliver services to lease the second phase of Barwa Al Baraha.

Barwa had received many leasing requests in Al Baraha which, upon completion, will have around 9,872 rooms to accommodate 53,000 workers.

Barwa Al Baraha is a major development by Barwa, providing accommodation to workers as part of an integrated community aiming to uplift their standard of living, offering services, amenities, restaurants and playgrounds around the project.

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Construction

SITES

Qatar

Msheireb Downtown Doha gets Best Retail Project award

M

sheireb Properties has won an award for the Best Retail Project for its flagship development, Msheireb Downtown Doha (MDD), at the recent Cityscape Qatar 2014 property expo.

Msheireb Downtown Doha says it draws its inspiration from the past, recreating a way of living deeply rooted in Qatari culture.

While it is being developed as a state-of-the-art and upscale project, Downtown Doha will remain a fully integrated community, providing a mix of residential, commercial, heritage

and retail offerings.

The Msheireb project plans to blend traditional Qatari heritage and aesthetics with modern technology and focus on sustainability and harmony with the environment.

“The aim of the project is to bring people back to their roots – to make Doha unique and rediscover a sense of community and togetherness,” declares a Msheireb Downtown official.

Fahd Mohamed Al Bouainin, senior manager for communications and public relations at Msheireb Properties, told Construction Sites that Msheireb

Nael Attiyat, Country Manager, DHL Express Qatar.

project would serve and add value to the lifestyle of the area and not just change it.

“We try to introduce a new way of living that people of Qatar had left for some time, which is the urban living, where people live in apartments at the heart of the city close to where they work,” he said.

“They can reach office, mosque, or shops on a walking distance.

This is a new lifestyle that people are not used to. At the same time, we want to inverse the conventional idea that car is the main means of transportation; if it’s not available, motorbikes can be used in their place, then bicycles and then walking as the last resort.

“We want people to think the other way around: walking as a first option, followed by bicycles and lastly cars,” he said.

According to Msheireb Properties website, sustainability is

central to the Msheireb project, in terms of both the conservation of natural resources and the quality of its design.

All buildings within the development will target an average Gold rating under the internationallyrecognized LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certification system developed by the US Green Building Council, while several buildings will aim for a Platinum rating.

The entire project features a sustainable design that consumes fewer resources, generates less waste, costs less to operate, and achieves a reduced carbon footprint.

The Msheireb project’s aesthetic influences are derived from traditional Qatari architecture and prioritize proportion, simplicity, space, light, layering, and management of the local climate.

Renowned Qatari architect Ibra-

him Jaidah considers Msheireb as one of the projects trying to preserve the social coherence of the society the same way as the old neighborhoods did.

“I think Msheireb will be a distinctive project,” Jaidah says.

“What distinguishes Msheireb is preserving the identity in a very modern way. It takes pride in our heritage, but in a modern way, whether in technological

or architectural appearance. I expect it to be a distinctive project, due to its size, the technology used in it and the way they revived the spirit of the location that is suitable for the modern era,” he said.

The Cityscape Awards were established to recognize design visionaries and pioneering projects in the field of international development.

Sustainability

Construction

SITES

An integrated approach crucial in building design

One of the most discussed topics in the construction sector is how to deliver a project on time and on budget and according to specifications.

Prasanth Chakkingal, Lead Mechanical Engineer at Arab Engineering Bureau (AEB), favors an integrated approach in construction, from concept to detailed design. “It is the first step in sustainability.”

He said: “All stakeholders need to be sitting in one room; architect, client, project manager, consultant, facilities manager, electrical engineer and structural engineer. To say that they all contribute to the development, design and construction of the new structure is probably an understatement.”

Each project is different, said Chakkingal. In case of Doha Festival City, for instance, the facility management team was particularly relevant with its feedback. The team members commented on design ideas and advised as to how practical it was to clean, maintain or replace the design elements included in the plan.

This was from lessons learned in their previous projects in the Gulf and problems that they had encountered in similar malls, especially Dubai Festival City.

The Doha Festival City mall will feature 550 shops, comprising international and local brands and more than 70 restaurants and cafes, over a gross leasable area of more

than 260,000sqm.

The entire project is to be built as per Qatar Sustainability Assessment System (QSAS), the first-of-its-kind performance-based sustainability rating system in the Mena region, developed by the Gulf Organization for Research and Development in collaboration with T C Chan Centre at the University of Pennsylvania, the US. Construction Sites spoke to Chakkingal about his work as part of the AEB design team on the Doha Festival City project which is under construction.

Doha Festival City’s indoor and outdoor entertainment areas have been described as totally different from other malls in Qatar, with the in-

ternal segment spread over 43,000sqm in two levels.

The mall corridors run into dozens of kilometers and the ceiling height is double volume. This will give Doha Festival City a refreshing feel with none of the confined atmosphere present in some malls, said Chakkingal.

Another unique feature is that air only enters in the high areas of the building through jet nozzles. This considerably reduces material costs of ducting and installation costs. It also reduces the number of shafts required. Moreover it increases the leasing area because space does not have to be allocated within the retail space for ducting inlets and outlets.

The cost saving HVAC design

with the solution becoming a design enhancement has been the placement of skylights, offered Chakkingal when asked about challenges in the project.

The original design called for the skylights to be placed on the roof. The facilities management team said that in their experience cleaning roof skylights was extremely challenging.

The compromise which actually also reduces the impact of the direct heat of the sun onto the building, was to put the skylights on the side of the building.

They are still high up enough to allow optimal sunlight to enter into the mall but placed in a way that they are easier to clean and maintain.

strategy has not compromised on the indoor air quality and it is 62.1 by ASHRAE standards, claimed Chakkingal. The design also optimizes the heat recovery in the system so that 50 - 60 % of the energy saved is used without compromising on indoor air quality requirements.

Coupled with that is an integrated Building Management System (BMS) that automatically adjusts the HVAC system during the non-retail hours of the mall.

This variable frequency is an additional cost saving in a building that has about 350,000sqm of air-conditioned space.

One of the challenges that the integrated management team has been able to solve

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10

Construction

SITES

Legal

Alternative Dispute Resolution

T

ucked away in the back of most, if not all, construction contracts is a clause that deals with what should happen if things go wrong; the dispute resolution clause.

As a result of the location of this clause, it tends not to receive the level of attention that it perhaps should during negotiations, with contracting parties often using the provisions they have used on past projects without considering whether those terms are workable or appropriate in the context they are about to be used.

Most people are familiar with litigation and arbitration as formal means of resolving disputes. Those that have experienced arbitration or litigation proceedings might also be aware of the costs involved with such proceedings in terms of legal fees, experts’ fees and the costs attributable to lost productivity associated with the diversion of resources to manage a dispute.

Many people involved in the operation of construction contracts may have heard the term ‘alternative dispute resolution’ (ADR) and may have heard of some of the different forms of ADR that might be used to resolve disputes arising out of construction projects. However, these methods are often overlooked when finalising the dispute resolution provisions in a construction contract.

This article looks at three forms of ADR, their key features and some of the benefits of incorporating them into construction contracts.

will be involved in negotiation meetings, how the period of negotiation will be triggered and the minimum time period during which negotiation meetings should continue, are issues that should be considered when including negotiation as a means of resolving disputes in a construction contract.

Occasionally, a clause providing that parties attempt to resolve their disputes through negotiation will allow for the appointment of a chair person, who may be independent. The chair person’s role may not be dissimilar to that of the mediator (see below), and may be useful as a means of providing structure to meetings where relationships have become acrimonious, for example.

The benefits of negotiation are that it is a private means of resolving disputes and therefore may enable commercial relationships to be preserved, which might not be the case if a dispute becomes the subject of arbitration or litigation proceedings.

In addition, negotiation can save the costs and associated diversion of resource that are associated with litigation and arbitration proceedings mentioned above.

Mediation Mediation is a non-binding, voluntary and confidential form of ADR in which a neutral third party – the mediator – assists parties to work towards a negotiated settlement of their dispute, with the parties retaining control of the decision as to whether they settle and on what terms.

Negotiation Negotiation is a flexible method of resolving disputes whereby the parties attempt to reach agreement on the matters in dispute without the assistance of a third party.

A requirement that parties to a construction contract meet to try and resolve their disputes before referring them to arbitration or litigation is quite commonly included in construction contracts in the Gulf. In this regard, matters such as the appropriate level and authorisation of representatives that

Mediation is common in the United Kingdom and the United States, and is becoming more so in the Gulf, particularly where construction projects involve international companies familiar with the concept.

As mediation is a consensual process, there is typically a written agreement that will usually require the parties to treat all discussions and documents as confidential, similar to the way that discussions would be treated in negotiation meetings mentioned above. The parties to mediation usually have the

Laura Warren Laura Warren is a partner of the International Law firm, Clyde & Co LLP, in Doha. Laura has a wide ranging contentious and non contentious construction practice involving projects in Qatar as well as in the UAE, Oman, Bahrain, Libya, Egypt and Tunisia Laura is Co-ordinator for the Society of Construction Law (Gulf) in Qatar.

opportunity to agree on the identity of their mediator. If agreement on a mediator cannot be reached, the parties can ask a third party to nominate a suitable mediator.

There are a number of rules that could govern mediation, including those published by the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) and those of the Qatar International Centre for Conciliation and Arbitration.

Mediation is generally regarded as a non-adversarial approach to resolving disputes as the mediator’s role is to facilitate communication between the parties and to assist them in focussing on the real issues of dispute with a view to developing a solution.

Whilst a mediator cannot force an outcome, the process can be effective in deep-rooted or long-running conflicts. As an impartial third party, the me-

diator may suggest, during private discussions, that there is less merit to one of the parties’ positions than they maintain, which, whilst not binding, may be persuasive in breaking a deadlock.

Usually, a mediation meeting will last one day, although it may last longer if the parties agree to meet over more than one day. Prior to the mediation, the mediator will usually have discussions with the parties’ lawyers to ensure that the formalities around transparency and openness are complied with, and to identify the key issues in dispute.

Usually, the mediator will open the mediation with a joint session that is attended by all parties and their lawyers. During this session, the mediator will provide an overview of his role and the procedure for the day.

Each party will usually have an opportunity to make an opening statement, giving its perspective on the dispute and highlighting points of particular concern. This might include an initial indication from each party of the outcome it is looking for in any settlement, which is usually each party’s best-case position.

Following the initial plenary session, the mediator will meet separately with each party, usually in private rooms, to discuss how he or she perceives the relative strengths and weaknesses of their cases and look to identify where each may be prepared to make concessions for settlement purposes.

This process of separate meetings with the mediator tends to account for a large part of the day, although it will be the mediator’s objective to get the parties to a position where they might be close enough to meet and discuss terms on a more reasonable basis.

The mediator will not usually disclose the parties’ respective positions, but will try and bring them towards each other. This might be achieved by setting out the strengths and risks in each party’s position, for example. In this regard, the mediator may make recommendations in respect of the parties’ positions. Any settlement that might be achieved is then recorded in a binding settlement agreement.

Given that the parties have been involved in drafting the terms of the agreement and are often satisfied that their view in relation to the dispute have been heard, mediation can result in the successful resolution of a dispute. However, where a party is unwilling to accept a mediator’s recommendation or make conces-

sions around the issues in dispute, the next step is usually a formal dispute resolution process, such as litigation or arbitration.

Expert determination Expert determination is a form of ADR that usually produces a binding decision, the process being similar to adjudication or dispute adjudication boards.

Expert Determination is common in hotel management agreements where financial disputes are often ‘carved out’ for resolution by expert determination.

Commonly, the parties agree to appoint a sole expert to determine an issue, which is often of a technical nature. The referral to the expert will usually be set out in a terms of reference document, which sets out the issue in dispute, and the parties will have an opportunity to present their respective positions, which may (depending on the location of the parties and the expert) involve an oral hearing.

The expert is then required to evaluate the parties’ respective positions before providing a determination.

The parties are free to decide whether an expert’s determination is to be binding or not, although it is usual for it to be binding, with provision included so that the decision can be re-opened in any subsequent arbitration or litigation proceedings.

There are a number of issues to consider when deciding whether to include expert determination as a means for resolving disputes in a construction contract. The first is the nature of the work involved and the availability of good quality experts in the market where the work is being performed. A lack of relevant expertise may lead to a poor quality determination. In turn, this will likely to lead to one dissatisfied party and the instigation of other dispute resolution mechanisms to rectify that dissatisfaction.

Further issues to consider concern the process to be followed in any expert determination.

For example, will the process be prescribed in the construction contract from the outset or agreed as and when disputes arise? How will the expert be appointed; by an independent body or by agreement of the parties? What time limits, if any, will the parties be required to observe when submitting documents to the expert as part of the determination process? Will oral hearings be allowed or will any expert determination be run on a documents-only basis? What is the position in relation to the costs of an expert determination?

Chris Campbell

Chris Campbell is an associate in the construction and projects team of international law firm, Clyde & Co LLP. Based in the firm’s Doha office, Chris advises in relation to contentious and non-contentious aspects of construction projects across the Middle East, and has experience of working in a number of jurisdictions, including the UK, Australia and Asia.

Using institutional rules for an expert determination, such as those published by the ICC or the Rules for Expert Determination of the Academy of Experts, may deal with some of these issues.

The benefit of expert determination is that it can produce a relatively quick, binding decision that may allow parties to move on from what might be entrenched positions in respect of a particular issue. The process involved is usually an abridged one, which may have the benefit of saving costs and, in certain instances, keep cash flow moving. However, expert determination is perhaps not appropriate for use in all construction contracts and disputes and therefore may need further consideration before being included.

Conclusion The appropriate dispute resolution mechanisms for each construction contract will vary and should be considered on a project by project basis, rather than adopting a one size fits all approach by using contract provisions from previous projects.

In some instances, a tiered approach to resolving disputes (where the parties are required to go through a number of stages of ADR, such as negotiation and mediation before commencing arbitration or litigation proceedings), may be appropriate. Other projects may require a less structured approach.

Should you have any questions in connection with this article or the legal issues it covers, please contact Chris Campbell of Clyde & Co LLP at chris. campbell@clydeco.com. qa or Laura Warren of Clyde & Co LLP at laura. warren@clydeco.com.qa.

12

Construction

SITES

Qatar

Precise control of water supply systems by VAG Plunger valves

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s early as in the 1930s, the performance of water supply systems and hydropower stations was increased in a way that made the requirements in terms of pipeline diameters and pipeline lengths as well as operating pressures and flow velocities higher as well. The shut-off devices used at that time, mostly wedge gate valves,had to be optimised and adapted to the increased demands.

Wider sealing rings were used, wedge guides were reworked or also extended, but in the end the gate valve was not a suitable control valve.At that time, the annular slide valve constituted a special type within the valve group.

However, the round crosssection of the annular slide valve was transformed into an annular cross-section by an internal body, which turned into a round crosssection again at the outlet of the valve. This was how the annular slide valve got its name. In the course of the years, the annular slide valve evolved into the annular piston valve and/or the plunger valve (Figure 1).

The plunger valve is a straightway control valve,i.e. it has an annular flow cross-section in any position.

Inside the body, the plunger (also referred to as piston) is moved axially in flow direction by a crank gear towards the sealing seat of the valve. Plunger valves are control and regulating devices which generate different pressure losses in pipeline systems by way of continuous narrowing towards the seat to change the flow rate in dependence of the regulating distance. Depending on the application, the nominal diameter of the valve has to be large enough to ensure that at the lowest pressure difference the highest required flow rate is achieved and/or that maximum differences in pressure are reduced without causing cavitation. Additionally, any damage to the downstream pipeline system or structure by vibration or cavitation must be prevented over the entire regulating distance.

VAG has evolved the plung-

(Figure 1)

(Figure 2)

er valve, proven for decades, to make it suitable for control tasks in water supply systems. Today’s VAG RIKO® Plunger Valve is available in almost all nominal diameters between DN 150 and 2000 and in pressure ratings ranging from PN 10 to 40. Meanwhile a great number of plunger valves are in use world-wide, even valves of sizes DN 250, DN 600 and DN 800 with a nominal pressure of PN 100. In all sizes and pressure ratings, the compact body is made of premiumquality ductile cast iron EN–JS 1030 (GGG 40). Up to DN 600, the inner parts are made entirely of grade A2 stainless steel as a standard. For all nominal diameters up to and including DN 2000, the piston is guided by bronze-welded longitudinal guides (Figure2). This ensures optimal longitudinal guiding and thus the backlash-free sliding of the plunger with very low operation torques at the same time.

The body consists of one piece and the inner body is connected to the outer body by ribs. On the inlet side, the inner body has a spherical shape. The design of the annular space results in a continuous narrowing towards the seat.

The piston or plunger is moved by an internal crank drive. New sealing systems for the body seat, the plunger and the shaft bearings guarantee absolute corrosion protection, excellent performance and a long service life. Due to the fully enclosed bearing, no fluid (water) can penetrate into the bearing, which ensures high durability. The sealing of the shaft was adopted from the proven sealing principle of the VAG EKN® Butterfly Valve, i.e. the shaft is sealed by

A a double O-ring seal. Inside the valve, between the body and the plunger, a quadring seal sealing on four sides is used as a double seal. It is resistant to twisting and ensures permanent tightness even under high stress cycles. The valve seal at the sealing seat was arranged in the no-flow zone in a way that prevents stones and pebbles from causing damage to the valve seal and minimises wear of the seal.

All seals are approved according to the German regulations for potable water W 270, which allows their unrestricted use with drinking water.

Outlet type/Seat Due to its linear control characteristic, the VAG RIKO® Plunger Valve ensures excellent cavitation behaviour and very little pressure loss

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B at the same time. Its outlet type is variable and, coming as a kit, allows the change of the valve characteristic. This is an essential advantage as the valve can be adapted to changed operation conditions even after its delivery. Depending on the application and the operation specifications, different types of outlets such as standard seat ring, orifice cylinder or slotted cylinder as well as various customised cylinders to prevent cavitation are available (Figure 3).

Fig. 3: Different types of VAG RIKO® Plunger Valve: a) standard type E, b) slotted cylinder SZ, c) orifice cylinder LH, d) control device (short type)

FIELDS OF APPLICATION VAG plunger valves are suitable for use with raw water, drinking water and cooling water with temperatures of maximum 50 °C. The main fields of application of plunger valves include: • Conveyance of water in catchment basins and dams • Bypass lines of hydropower stations • Long-distance pipelines • WWater treatment in waterworks • Water supply in pump stations Supply control of elevated tanks • Drinking water networks • Cooling water circuits of industrial and power plants

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Construction

Qatar

SITES

13

Firing up the old fire station for fine art The Fire Station: Artists in Residence program is possibly the first of its kind in Qatar. The original property was a fire station that was purpose-built in 1982 as a Civil Defense building and used for 30 years until the last fire engine departed in December 2012.

The building will be renovated in such a way so that most of the original building envelope remains intact, paying tribute

to Doha’s heritage.

The building is being repurposed whilst preserving many of the original facade and features, allowing the unique aesthetic characteristics of the building to remain intact.

The renovation of the building for its reuse is being handled by the renowned Qatari architect, Ibrahim Mohamed Jaidah.

Jaidah is “thrilled to see that such recognition and impor-

tance is given to our early modern architectural era from the period 1970-1980”.

Jaidah said: “It is exciting to see repeated efforts to preserve these architectural jewels. I have had an opportunity to be involved in a number of projects of a similar character: renovation of the Ministry of Finance, Old Amiri Diwan, Post Office building and now the firehouse.”

The building’s conversion will take place in phases and the first phase is expected to be completed in the last quarter of 2014. It will host the “Artists in Residence Program” and will be able to offer studio space, supply shops and workshops for upto 20 local artists for nine months at a time. That phase is set for completion this year.

The second phase, which will include nearby buildings with cafes, restaurants, bookshops and cinematheques, will be completed sometime next year, officials said.

“In terms of architectural practice, we have preserved the facade exactly as it was originally designed. We wanted to create a true representation of this period of architecture. The surrounding buildings have, however been redesigned with minimalist, simple and straight lines. We

didn’t want to compete with or distract from the main building.”

Civil Defense left the building when its state-of-the-art headquarters in Wadi Al Sail opened in December 2012.

For several months after that, the facility appeared to be in the process of being dismantled.

It was then announced in March last year that it would be used by the Qatar Museums Authority. Building work on the site began in August 2013 and the first phase is planned to be completed in November 2014. The public opening is planned for November 2014.

Whilst the original building will retain many existing fea-

tures, the public spaces will be newly built to host a cafe, restaurant, bookshop, art supply shop, a cinema and artist facilities.

The current fire engine garage is approximately 700sqm, which will be converted into an exhibition space dedicated to promoting local and regional artists. In addition to hosting the end-of-year exhibition for resident artists, the Garage Gallery will serve as another venue for Mathaf exhibitions.

The existing tower will be covered in a programmable LED lighting woven into stainless steel mesh to be used for a rotating display of works of art, projected images, installations and announcements

to the public.

In a conversation with Jaidah a few weeks after the announcement, he pointed out that the renovation of the building indicates a change in how the built environment heritage is seen in Qatar.

It is a milestone for Doha’s preservation of historic landmarks as previously only buildings from the 50s, before the discovery of oil, was considered to have any historical architectural value.

His sentiment was that it was not just about preservation, but it was about repurposing the building.

By converting the Doha Fire Station, QMA is utilizing the landmark by giving it a new identity.

14

technology Focus

How laser scanning helps a building GOIC launches Gulf Industrial firm save time and money in the field Knowledge Center’s new website

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he promise of field-accurate site conditions inside a 3D building information model is becoming a reality on construction sites and in early design discussions, thanks to better software import capabilities and newer, less-expensive field scanning technologies.

Import of a 3D point-cloud into BIM software has become easier to accomplish and more manageable for architects and construction professionals in the field as laser-scanning equipment is both more accurate and cheaper than ever before.

Even small firms can play a key role in coordinating design and construction activities, and laser scanning is a tool that can enable a high level of co-ordination.

A “scan” is a powerful laser

recording of field data that captures a site’s shapes and possibly its appearance and converts those conditions into a cloud of data points, which can be uploaded into a 3D BIM. Gilbane Building Company, based in Providence, Rhode Island, uses a FARO Focus 3D laser scanner. Counting software and operations training, the bill came in around $60,000, a far cry from the six-figure cost of older scanners, but still a major investment. The cost for a small firm sounds steep up front, but it can pay for itself quickly.

“We’ve found that laser scanning has a huge barrier to entry in cost, but if you own it, you find use cases for it you otherwise wouldn’t have considered,” says John Tocci, Jr., director of virtual design and construction at Gilbane.

“On one project, 30 minutes of scan time in the field and 30 minutes of post-processing and uploading the point-cloud into a Revit model saved $30,000.”

Tocci says Gilbane has seen savings and major field safety improvements from importing laser scans into Revit models, a process that’s become a lot easier in the 2015 versions of Autodesk Revit and AutoCAD with more realistic visualizations and 3D walk-throughs available from point-clouds.

Prefabrication and co-ordination of mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) systems installation has saved rework money on every project Gilbane has used its scanner on. Prefabrication of ductwork and systems has eliminated field work and stopped what might have been weeks of MEP rough-in activities.

“If someone is telling us from finished floor to underside of beam you have 11-feet, eight inches, we can say, ‘no, we have 11 feet even,’ ” says Tocci.

Gilbane’s initial uses - five projects across the US spanning higher-education renovations to work for the National Institutes of Health in Washington, DC - have generated such a value add that the company purchased a Faro Focus3D X 330 for its laser-scanning tool kit for long-range outdoor scans.

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he Gulf Organization for Industrial Consulting (GOIC) has launched the all-new Gulf Industrial Knowledge Center (GIKC) website during the 97th regular meeting of GOIC’s Board.

The meeting, held at Al-Sharq Hotel in Doha, was chaired by Ahmed bin Hassan Al Dheeb, Undersecretary of Oman’s Ministry of Commerce and Industry and Chairman of GOIC’s Board of Directors.

It was attended by undersecretaries of ministries of industry from various GCC countries, representative of the Secretariat-General of the Gulf Co-operation Council and GOIC Secretary General Abdulaziz Bin Hamad Al Ageel.

GOIC’s board discussed items on the agenda, notably the 2014 second quarter performance report of GOIC’s strategy that includes using Balanced scorecards (BSCs). Participants also tackled joint Gulf ventures.

The GIKC website www.knowledge.goic.org.qa is part of GOIC’s efforts aimed at developing and expanding its various consultative and technical services.

The board members highlighted the importance of the website that will be highly beneficial to the GCC industrial sector.

The GIKC website, available in both Arabic and English, has been designed as a portal to all industrial information in the

Gulf region.

“The website provides a unique set of GOIC’s outputs from various industrial studies and industrial investment opportunities to new reports about several industrial sectors,” Al Ageel said.

“In the future, the website will be further developed to offer an even wider set of tools allowing investors to make the right decisions about investing in different Gulf industrial sectors,” he added.

“The industrial investment opportunity files aim at providing Gulf investors and businessmen with information about possible industrial opportunities and offering guidelines about profitability and implementation requirements.”

This website has been developed by GOIC’s Information Technology Department to make GOIC’s outputs available to international investors seeking industrial opportunities in GCC countries, in addition to re-

searchers, students and banks.

The GIKC website allows the surfer to get to know investment opportunities in the Gulf region, industrial studies and reports based on intensive professional researches and studies by GOIC experts in various industrial sectors such as food, medical supplies, plastics, textiles, leather, chemicals and petrochemicals, engineering, the environment and recycling.

It is a user-friendly website that allows investors, industrialists or any interested person to browse through opportunities, reports or studies easily.

Surfers can read a summary about the material or they can register to download and buy details about opportunities available and reports via secure online payments.

Moreover, registered users enjoy additional services from GOIC such as weekly industrial newsletters and information about upcoming industrial events.

The 97th regular meeting of GOIC’s Board.

User-centric design for smart buildings and cities The fully-interoperable SIMPLYCITY solution brings together leading technologies to build a premium management system to support smart city projects in Qatar

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evelopment of Qatar’s major projects like Qatar Railways, Lusail City, FIFA World Cup 2022 stadiums, New Doha Port is in line with the smart city concept which integrates systems, services and citizens.

Establishing itself as an emerging leader in smart technology, Qatar invests heavily in local ICT market, which is expected to grow 10% annually, reaching QR24.7 billion by 2016.

The investment is mainly driven by the development of worldclass infrastructure projects that will set Qatar apart in the region.

Qatar has home-grown expertise to meet the demand of smart city developments; therefore a large number of leading technology providers have joined forces to develop tailor-made solutions to support Qatar’s ICT development programs.

Leading Finnish technology providers – Exilight, Granlund, Infinity, Lonix and Valvova – have released a comprehensive SIMPLYCITY solution for the building industry in line with the smart city concept.

The fully-interoperable SIMPLYCITY solution brings together leading technologies to build a premium City Management System in order to “smartify” buildings and cities and to simplify life.

The core of the SIMPLYCITY solution is the COBA Building Operating System which is an open inter-operability platform.

COBA BOS enables functional system integration of all automation, security and safety systems at building level and completely new level of usability for all occupants and professional users. Relevant information and ability to control all systems is provided to stakeholders: occupants, facility managers, security and safety service providers, utility providers, civil defense and authorities like the Ministry of Interior.

New level of resilience results from visibility and enhanced controllability. Building a smart city is also lucrative business for the investor and owner due to lower investment cost, superior usability and much lower operating cost.

The SIMPLYCITY solution makes buildings and cities

green, secure and safe without fuzz – everything at home and at office just works, is connected and runs smoothly in the background, enabling all of us to have a smarter and simplified life.

The system providers of SIMPLYCITY solution, each a forerunner in its field, build together a fully integrated system solution for smart buildings and cities.

The comprehensive Lonix IBMS solution, including cutting-edge automation and security systems, leverages the generic COBA BOS platform to provide a highly sophisticated solution with central monitoring.

The Lonix Solution provides un-

paralleled interoperability not only within traditional automation and security environments but also extends seamlessly to create a unified, intelligent building by integrating with diverse facility systems.

The forefront Ksenos VMS provided by Valvova and the Exilight emergency lighting system are integral elements in the full system.

The Granlund Manager enables seamless utilization of BIM in maintenance and it gets all real time and history information from COBA Building Operating System.

Tuomas Koskenranta, Chairman of COBA Middle East FZCO,

is excited about the SIMPLYCITY solution. “Building a fully interoperable Smart City enables a new level of user experience for all occupants and professional users,” he explains.

“Relevant information and ability to control all systems can be provided to all stakeholders: occupants, facility managers, security and safety service providers, utility providers, civil defense and authorities like the Ministry of Interior.

“New level of resilience results from visibility and enhanced controllability. Building a Smart City is also very good business due to lower investment cost, superior usability and much lower operating cost. Our solution removes separate vertical silos and simplifies complexity.

Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication - that is why we call our solution SIMPLYCITY”.

Hannu Tuovinen, Sales Director of Granlund, agrees and explains: “We are enthusiastic about the potential of SIMPLYCITY solution in the Middle East region. “ The Granlund Manager enables seamless utilization of BIM in maintenance and it gets all real

time and history information from COBA Building Operating System. True long-term energy efficiency can be achieved through BIM, simulations and utilization of comprehensive CMMS system – Granlund Manager.

The concept emphasizes excellent user experience which is ensured by the Infinity group.

“We believe that it is not enough to improve what already exists.

Instead, true success is based on passion and inventions that are genuinely user-centered,” says Mikko Kämäräinen, CEO of the Infinity group.

“Infinity was born out of the idea that there are no limits.

Anything is possible for those who dare to dream, to think differently and to make things happen.

“Our job is to create better futures and to help companies succeed by giving them a better understanding of the end customers and their needs.

“With SIMPLYCITY solution, we can specify new-level user experience for different stakeholders while reducing required investment,” summarizes Kämäräinen.

ocus gygyFoFcus olo olo techn techn

15

BIM adoption by firms surges

“Qatar’s adoption of BIM demonstrates its commitment to the very best technology when it comes to implementing their national vision for Qatar 2030”

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s adoption of Building Information Modeling (BIM) accelerates around the globe, firms in building and infrastructure industries are increasingly subscribing to novel software solutions.

“As architecture firms, contractors and engineering firms are realizing the true power of Building Information Modeling to improve just about every aspect of the design and construction process, customers of our BIM solutions are driving massive gains in productivity through reduced errors, rework and cost,” says Amar Hanspal, senior vice president of Autodesk’s Information Modeling and Platform Group.

“In particular, our cloud and mobile services see a surge of demand because they help make the value of BIM available anywhere, anytime, from the office to the jobsite,” Hanspal points out.

Autodesk closed dozens of new and expanded deals in the architecture, engineering, construction and infrastructure industries.

In the architecture, engineering and construction (AEC) industries, Autodesk had a strong fourth quarter in 2013

to close out a record year with revenue for its AEC product suites growing 32% year-overyear. The company booked a significant number of million dollar plus transactions, including the largest in Autodesk’s history.

Autodesk BIM 360, cloud and mobile services for construction management and jobsite execution, saw especially strong customer uptake and has become one of the company’s fastest-growing products ever.

New or expanded deals to provide Autodesk BIM solutions to architecture practices, engineering firms and contractors as well as building and infrastructure asset owners, include AECOM, Black & Veatch Corporation, China Communications Construction Company (CCCC), Fluor, HDR Engineering, Qatar Rail and PCL Construction, among many others.

The recently-announced Qatar Rail award of Building Information Modeling (BIM) services contract to Autodesk has come along with the construction industry’s need to stick to one standard.

Autodesk will provide BIM implementation, consultancy and advisory services to Qa-

tar Rail towards the construction of a modern integrated railway network.

Qatar Rail, responsible for the design, construction, commissioning, operation and maintenance of the entire rail network and systems within the country, chose Autodesk’s BIM solutions and expertise as part of its commitment to employ world-class technologies in its attempts to deliver many high-profile and technologically groundbreaking railway infrastructure projects.

Autodesk’s consulting team will support Qatar Rail on the implementation of BIM technologies and practices to help decrease the overall time and costs of railway projects by minimizing rework and miscommunication, providing more actionable insight into projects, and helping accelerate decision-making earlier into the project lifecycle.

Over the next three years, Qatar Rail will employ several services offered by Autodesk starting with the company’s expertise on BIM standards, quality control and integration across organizations.

Autodesk will also implement a technology platform within Qatar Rail to train, support and collaborate with the com-

pany’s assigned staff for the railway project.

Additionally, Autodesk will outline specific BIM standards and processes for the railway project that will serve as the foundation for BIM requirements and as a starting point for BIM implementations for future contracts.

“A rigorous BIM process implementation has the potential to deliver tremendous benefits to the owner/operators of national infrastructure projects like Qatar Rail, from the design phase, through construction, commissioning and ongoing operations,” says Callan Carpenter, Vice President, Global Services, Autodesk.

“Autodesk is very pleased to be Qatar Rail’s chosen partner for achieving these benefits. Qatar’s adoption of BIM demonstrates its commitment to the very best technology when it comes to implementing their national vision for Qatar 2030,” adds Carpenter.

“Adopting modern BIM technology in public infrastructure projects will help reduce conflicts and changes in plans, improve project quality and ensure better predictability of project outcomes,” says

Ashghal adopts a new system to provide smarter infrastructure management in collaboration with IBM

E

nterprise asset management solution (EAMS) to provide faster response to incidents and protect Qatar’s roads and drainage national asset investments The Public Works Authority ‘Ashghal’ commenced on 25th June with IBM the implementation of “Enterprise Asset Management Solution” (EAMS), an advanced technological system to enhance the efficiency of operations, maintenance and management of all Authority’s procedures related to the road networks and systems, as well as the operations and maintenance of drainage networks, pump and treatment stations and surface and groundwater networks.

This strategic initiative aims to enhance the Authority’s information systems abilities by merging the processes of roads and drainage networks departments and the operation and maintenance procedures into one comprehensive information system, in line with Ashghal’s mandate to contribute to the Qatar National Vision 2030.

EAMS is IBM’s advanced global solution that allows for worldclass management of infrastructure networks. By leveraging technology and tools to ensure preventive maintenance and upkeep of national assets, the system helps in providing more responsive services to the

Nasser bin Ali Al Mawlawi: Ashghal’s President.

community.

During the project kick-off meeting Ashghal’s President, H.E. Eng. Nasser bin Ali Al Mawlawi said that the implementation of EAMS is a pivotal step towards enhancing and streamlining the services of Ashghal’s roads and drainage operations and maintenance departments according to the goals set by the Authority.

“With this best-in-class solution, Ashghal will gain real time visibility into the country’s asset usage to better govern and manage lifecycle of roads and drainage networks, as well as maintain and improve their performance” he added.

“Building a smarter infrastructure is the foundation to establishing a smarter economy” says Amr Refaat, General Manager,

IBM Middle East and Pakistan.

“The roll out of the Enterprise Asset Management Solution is a key demonstration of how Ashghal is already executing on Qatar’s journey to a smarter economy leveraging Smart City concepts and enhancing citizen services” he added.

Based on IBM’s Maximo Asset Management Software, the EAMS will transform the way Ashghal collects and analyses the road networks data and will allow the Authority’s Assets Affairs to rapidly respond to maintenance requirements.

The system will also help develop preventative maintenance procedures of those networks through the analysis of their data, in addition to assisting Ashghal in managing the con-

tractor’s performance according to specific quality standards.

The EAMS will identify all engineering and geographical data related to roads and drainage networks in case of any technical problem. It will also plan work requirements and determine resource availability according to priorities. The system will gather and analyse information about the country’s roads and drainage assets through a Geographic Information System (GIS) to allow quick intervention in order to make necessary repairs and preventative maintenance work.

In addition, the system will maintain a central database for asset condition and maintenance records as well as identify the geographic coordinates of the assets locations to enable accurate data saving and retrieval. Specifically designed to provide users with considerable gains in its ease of use, the EAMS will allow the Asset Affairs employees to receive work orders while they are “on the go” and hence make actionable decisions in real time.

Designed to integrate with Ashghal’s existing enterprise information systems such as Customer Relationship Management System (CRMS) and Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP), the solution will be activated by Ashghal in partnership with IBM.

Louay Dahmash, Head, Autodesk Middle East.

“As a pioneer of BIM solutions, Autodesk is ready to support Qatar Rail in project delivery and implementation,” Dahmash stresses.

Contractors have now surpassed architects as the fastest growing adopters of BIM, according to the survey.

Over the next two years, contractors expect the percentage of their work that involves BIM to increase by 50% on average, according to the 2014 McGraw Hill Construction Smart Market Report covering construction in major global

markets.

“There are strong tailwinds behind BIM around the globe, and Autodesk is at the forefront of this business process transformation, helping our customers realize the full potential of BIM to collaborate, simulate, visualize and optimize project outcomes,” notes Hanspal.

“We are working tirelessly to provide the tools and services that enable our customers to radically improve how buildings and infrastructure are designed and built, and our customers are clearly responding.”

ViCon manages BIM on Traffic Control Center project in Qatar KCT-Al Khayyat Contracting and Trading has engaged Hochtief ViCon for BIM management and BIM Services for its Traffic Control Center project – CPC05. ViCon had already supported KCT with a 4D movie for its successful tender for the project’s execution phase.

Hochtief ViCon is a leading international provider and consultant for virtual construction and building information modeling (BIM).

According to the company’s principle “Build digitally first”, ViCon advises and assists its clients in the use of intelligent 3D computer models in order to minimize risks early on, communicate more effectively and save costs.

In the areas of building construction and infrastructure projects, ViCon assists developers and projects with optimized processes, project specific standards, full-time consultants on site and sophisticated hardware and software solutions.

ViCon’s scope of work for the Traffic Control Center project include BIM management, 3D modeling, 3D design co-ordination, 3D quantity take-off and 4D visualization.

KCT is a general construction company which has emerged as a key contractor in Qatar having commenced as a Syrian company in 1983. It is a prominent construction contractor in Qatar by providing the highest level of integrity coupled with innovative solutions.

KCT’s partnership with Hochtief Vicon came in line with its globally-driven vision, which is uniting company’s professional specialists with internationally-renowned consultants.

KCT is involved in the Middle East regarding all aspects of construction, management, development, architecture and engineering.

The Traffic Control Center project is part of a 409-hectare development for Qatar’s Internal Security Forces (ISF/Lekhwiya), which requires the construction of a new camp facility at Al Duhail, on the northern outskirts of Doha.

The project, which started in May 2014, will feature more than 330 individual building units made up of several different types of purpose-built facilities.

16

technology Focus

Using technology to create a smart living environment “We should not see smart technology as a fad or novelty” The first thing that comes to mind when thinking of technology in construction is Building Information Modeling (BIM). It has been the single most revolutionary program in the design and construction industry to date, transforming the way that buildings are conceptualized, designed and completed.

However, technology affects construction in a more holistic way and it will continue to do so. Architects and contractors will need to work more closely together as end-users start asking for more sophisticated applications to be included at their homes and offices.

Of course smart technology is not entirely new. Many buildings these days already have a central control room or security facility that monitors the entire structure. Many municipalities control the city infrastructure through a centralized grid.

However, smart city technology wants to take this further by looking at real-time maintenance systems and early warning signals on just about everything from the thermostat in your home to the pipelines that send water and gas there.

Doha’s ICT market is expected to grow by at least 10% annually and reach approximately QR24.7 billion by 2016, HE the Minister of Information and Communications Technology Dr Hessa Sultan Al Jaber told the World Summit on Information Society in Geneva in early June.

According to Hamadoun I Toure of the ITU, “Today almost everyone lives within reach of a mobile cellular network and nearly 3 billion people are online; we must now ensure that everyone else has access to broadband connectivity. We are here to pave the way for the future and set the roadmap for sustainable development in the post2025 era.”

According to Wael Doukmaky, Director, ICTE & Mega Projects Business Developmentat Ooredoo, the idea that you can be notified when your door is opened or in fact if you want to open your door at a particular time for say, a parcel delivery, is not that far off or far-fetched.

Already tech giants are involved in solving everyday problems that face a modern family.

Doukmaky gave the example of perhaps getting a message from your child’s school to say that it would be dismissed early.

You can then send a message to your home control system to unlock the door at the time that the bus drops your child off.

The door can then automatically lock after he is home and of course, you can watch the entire process from your office in real time.

The ubiquity of technology is something that is here to stay, said Doukmaky.

In addition to connectivity, the aim of the Internet of Everything (IoE) is to provide us with data.

The ability to sense big data is an important step forward in the smart technology.

The data that is being “sensed” can be captured by a sensing mechanism that is able to process this data and analyze it based on an algorithm. The intended and even unintended data that is captured can be turned into information and then the resultant knowledge can be used. This process, said Doukmaky, equals “smart-

ness”.

This whole process of “sensing” data and placing the captured data in a secure place has led to the indispensable creation of a city command and control center.

Of course the ability to capture information only becomes “smart” if the data can be used.

An example of this is our water piping system, explained Doukmaky. The water reticulation system will detect or “sense” leaking of water. The monitoring system will then interpret this data and use the information to decide whether the system should be shutdown or whether the particular area identified can be isolated for repairs and water can be rerouted.

All this is, of course, monitored by a despatch center. These responses can either be preprogrammed or set to rely on a human interface to solve the problem after it has been pinpointed.

Doukmaky then spoke about structured and unstructured data. The water pipeline example looks at a very structured way of organizing and using data, but data can also be captured in an unstructured way, like through a cloud that monitors a university campus or a shopping mall.

Sensors could monitor the traffic through a retail store and feed data to a despatch center on exactly which products customers are stopping to look at or how they move through the store. Based on this the store could send text messages to their smart phones relevant to their behavior in the store.

Greenfield vs Brownfield Or in other words, new vs retrofit.

Doukmaky emphasized that we should not see smart technology as a fad or novelty.

“Smartness is not a luxury, it is a necessity, almost an urgency,” he said.

It is a project that is aimed at solving serious urban problems like ageing populations, epidemics, pollution, overcrowding, access to resources and safety and security.

Of course, he agreed that “Greenfield” ventures are always preferable but we should not discount the importance of “Brownfield” ones at the same time.

Retrofitting water reticulation systems, gas pipelines, and other infrastructure with smart censors could save millions and, of course, the existence of early warning systems is invaluable when disaster strikes.

“Smartness does not happen overnight,” he said. “It is a perpetual journey....it is iterative.... each step propels you to the next level.”

Putting the right processes in place was important for Ooredoo, a system that was available, ubiquitous and secure.

Construction Sites asked Douk-

maky about the Security Operations Center (SOC). He responded, stressing the center’s importance.

Also, they had been concentrating on putting in place a Network Operations Center (NOC) and that was done. “It is now considered imperative to have an NOC not like before.”

The NOC offered users, whether they were businesses, individuals or organizations, the tools necessary to run a secure and stable network. This included a firewall if they requested assistance with this.

The process, he said, had now moved on the identity management, using, for example, biometrics as opposed to the traditional password or smartkey systems. This was in evidence at Qitcom 2014 where the Ministry of Interior demonstrated its new smart system for applying for visas and exit permits using either fingerprint or iris identification technology.

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17

Qatar online applications launched at QITCOM Interior Ministry Ranging from Ministry of Interior’s e-services and biometric identification to GPS and electronic building permit systems, a number of new applications have been unveiled and some relaunched at the recent QITCOM conference.

The Ministry of Municipality and Urban Planning’s Building Permit System (BPS) and DLELA application have also been showcased at the event.

E-services portal The Ministry of Interior aims to enable every citizen and resident to apply for visas and permits online. According to Assistant Director of Information Systems Department of the Ministry of Interior Col Abdurahman Ali Al Malki, you will need to obtain a valid smart card with the e-Government service added.

The smart card reader which attaches to an USB port can be obtained from authorized stores in Doha and is not costly. Details of the stores are available on the Ministry of Interior website.

The registration process is simple and can be completed via the Ministry website.

Some services do need a valid mobile number. The Internet-based system will auto generate a unique application number that can be used for follow-up and tracking of the application.

As per the current Metrash

1 system, application-related messages are generated and sent to the applicant. With Metrash 2, the Ministry of Interior will send a message to the registered e-mail address.

To register your e-mail address you have to download and install Metrash 2. Services are differentiated into three categories: • Personal: This means that the services that you can perform are classified as for yourself or your household and is limited to those who hold personal sponsorships.

• Authorized person: A person in this category can choose one of the listed companies for which their ID number is added on their establishment ID card as an authorized user. This user type is considered as the highest permitted authority to be allowed to perform company-related transactions.

• PRO/company representative: A person in this category can choose one of the listed companies for which their ID number is added on their establishment ID card as a PRO or services PRO. This user type has specific and limited authorities as specified by the authorized person.

In case of service deliver-

ables such as non-objection certificates (NOCs), it will printable and will be signed and stamped electronically.

Building permit system The Ministry of Municipal and Urban Planning was at QITCOM to showcase and explain a number of different online applications and systems available to various publics: from individuals to companies, contractors and consultants.

Of particular interest to Construction Sites was the Building Permit System (BPS).

There are basically three types of applications: 1.

New building permit request 2. Building permit renewal request 3. Building permit modification request For each request there are different requirements that are documented on the website. There are both mandatory and general types of documents that will need to be attached to the applications.

These include: • Original copy of the ownership deed and the property document (PD) not more than six months old • ID copy for individuals or a copy of the business; license for companies and enterprise ID (the owners) • Commercial registration,

enterprise ID and/or consultant office commercial document • Consultant office undertaking • Authority from the owner of the consultancy • No-objection letter from the owner (compulsory in case of renewal or amendment if the property is a rental property) • Surveyor report illustrating the limits of the property • Book of the housing department/Ministry of Social Affairs in case the property is bonded • Book of the state property department for government projects • A statement showing the planning regulation (mandatory in the case of large and medium sized enterprises • Census form A3 There are six stages in the process before a license is is-

sued: 1. Initial approval 2. Phase services 3. The final stage 4. Definitively rejected 5.

The issuance of the license 6. Close the application The details of the work procedures can be found online at http://bps.baladiya.gov.qa.

For assistance the email is Bpsupport@baladiya.gov.qa and telephone 4426 6666.

DLELA Another application that was launched is called DLELA. Construction Sites spoke to Bahaa El Sharafi, of the Systems and Development Section at the Ministry, who explained how the application worked.

The word DLELA is used to describe a man who has the experience and the knowledge about a place and ways to get there. A DLELA man has the ability to guide and direct.

According to El Sharafi, this

is the first-of-its-kind application in this region and uses the latest communication techniques to guide users of smartphones to their destinations by providing them with text messages that contains a roadmap for all of their designated destinations.

The Ministry has issued a booklet with a list of the most important monuments in Qatar. Basically you need to send a text message to 92192 with the corresponding code and you will receive a message with the co-ordinates to the chosen location which you can then click on and it will open the required Google Maps location on your smart phone.

For example if you were to send the code “120” in a text message to the number “‘92192”, then you would get the directions to Hamad Hospital Emergency and “338” would get you the directions to Souq Waqif.

Klondike Technologies signs MoU with Dyarco International Group Thermal management solutions provider Klondike Technologies has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Dyarco International Group as a precursor to establishing a joint venture in Qatar.

With Dyarco’s over 20 years of experience in the service consultancy industry in Qatar, the move marks an essential part of Klondike’s strategy to establish a permanent footprint in Qatar and the GCC region.

The announcement was made during the recent Enterprise Ireland Trade and Investment Mission to Qatar and Oman.

Klondike Technologies’ team of experienced engineers specializes in developing thermal solutions for the telecom, broadcasting and renewable energy

The Klondike CoolPipe range, a first for Qatar, is aimed at cooling high temperature environments not adequately or efficiently cooled by AC systems.

Klondike’s cooling technology is highly reliable, energy efficient with low maintenance and is particularly suited for cooling batteries stored both indoors and outdoors.

sectors.

The firm entered Qatar two years ago and has since “developed, proofed and validated its core technology which is now primed and ready to move into the commercialization phase”.

Founded in Dublin, Ireland, this is the first international venture undertaken by Klondike.

Robert O’Malley, Director, Klondike Technologies said: “This MoU is the first step in establishing our joint venture with Dyarco International. We hope to create a strong and lasting partnership with the reach and local expertise necessary to best serve our clients. We intend to grow our team and add new skills as a result of this positive development.”

He continued: “We are looking forward to a long and fruitful relationship that will allow our two companies to develop and grow in the region.’’

Dyarco is formally a partnership between Al Faisal Holding, (Chairman Sheikh Faisal Bin Qassim Al Thani and represented by Bader Abdulwahab J A Al-Fehani) and another prominent Qatari Group, Ebrahim Al Neama & Sons Holding Group (represented by Chairman Ebrahim Al Neama).

Both Groups are well established and have diversified business interests, including Industrial manufacturing and trading.

Achu, the General Manager of Dyarco International Group, commented: “As a group we are innovative in our way of thinking and doing business. Com-

panies such as Klondike who have a similar business culture become ideal potential targets and fit in our strategy to add value to our growth as well as the SME segment of this country in general.”

Speaking in Doha during his trade mission to Qatar, Irish Minister of State with special responsibility for Trade and Devel-

opment, Joe Costello said: ‘I am delighted to welcome this MoU between Klondike Technologies and Dyarco. This announcement builds on the significant achievements by Klondike since they entered the Qatari market just two years ago with demonstration installations in two major international companies.

“I wish both parties every continued success. This announcement by Klondike is very welcome and shows what is possible for Irish companies in this region. This step toward a JV is a great endorsement of the growth in relationships between Ireland and Qatar and the facilitation of opportunities for Irish exporting businesses.”

It offers potentially large savings for telecommunications and other companies who rely on batteries for backup systems and generators

Klondike Technologies signing the memorandum of understanding with Dyarco International Group.

18

technology Focus

Smart cities face growing cyber-security challenges Qatar is among the countries at the forefront of building smart cities with Lusail City, Msheireb and Qatar Foundation developments in full progress Understanding the cyber security risks facing smart cities and smart services is fundamental to the success in building a resilient digital society, according to Chris Woods, the Director of Information Security at MEEZA. The Internet of Everything (IoE) is a term that is being used to describe how all devices, ranging from industrial machinery like power generators and water heaters to household and commercial appliances and controls like thermostats, meters, TVs, fridges, as well as vehicles, that can be connected, communicate and be communicated to through the Internet.

Construction Sites interviewed Woods on the sidelines of the recent Qitcom 2014 in Doha.

Woods felt that adequate risk assessment had not been done to ensure that “smart houses” were also safe homes.

He emphasized that one needed to remember that everything was connected to the central grid and used an IP address to “talk” to other devices either inside or outside the house.

Woods said that it was imperative that a comprehensive risk assessment needed to be done on the challenges of connecting “everything to everything”.

Woods has 16 years of practical, architectural and management experience within Information Security, having worked across a broad spectrum of roles and responsibilities for multinational corporations.

While at MEEZA, Woods was at the forefront in creating and launching the first Certified Commercial Security Operation Center in Qatar. According to MEEZA, Woods merges extensive hands-on experience with innovative leadership that drives teams towards excellence.

SCADA (supervisory control and data acquisition) is a system operating with coded signals over communication channels so as to provide control of remote equipment (using typically one communication channel per remote station).

The supervisory system may be combined with a data acquisition system by adding the use of coded signals over communication channels to acquire information about the status of the remote equipment for display or for recording functions.

It is a type of industrial control system (ICS).

Industrial control systems are computer-controlled systems that monitor and control industrial processes that exist in the physical world. SCADA systems historically distinguish themselves from other ICS systems by being large-scale processes that can include multiple sites and large distances.

These processes include industrial, infrastructure, and facilitybased processes, as described below: *Industrial processes include those of manufacturing, pro-

duction, power generation, fabrication, and refining, and may run in continuous, batch, repetitive, or discrete modes. *Infrastructure processes may be public or private, and include water treatment and distribution, wastewater collection and treatment, oil and gas pipelines, electrical power transmission and distribution, wind farms, civil defense siren systems and large communication systems. *Facility processes occur both in public facilities and private ones, including buildings, airports, ships and space stations.

They monitor and control heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems (HVAC), access and energy consumption.

A Gartner report (http://www. gartner.com/newsroom/ id/2636073) states that “by 2020 over 26 billion devices will be connected to the Internet” and this figure is expected to grow exponentially year on year.

However, this rapid pace of technology innovation is likely to witness an increase in risks and threats. “Allowing smart cities and smart services to communicate over the Internet opens a new avenue for cyber criminals in their exploits,” says Woods.

“Therefore, focusing on Governance Risk and Compliance (GRC), leveraging threat intelligence and cyber security monitoring 24 hours a day, seven days a week is recommended to protect and defend critical infrastructure and smart city services,” he added.

Like any large and complex environments, as the smart cities mature and become more interconnected, its vulnerability to malicious exploits increases.

Qatar is among the countries at the forefront of building smart cities with Lusail City, Msheireb and Qatar Foundation developments in full progress.

The idea behind the development of smart cities is to employ the latest technology and tools, not only to support the

Chris Woods Director of Information Security @ MEEZA

community lifestyle but to elevate the quality of life as a whole, sustaining Qatar’s economic prosperity further.

At the core of building smart cities will be an operation control center, responsible for implementing and managing the strategic information technology network covering the city’s entire systems and activities.

For example, the timing of the city’s traffic light system can be monitored and controlled to ease traffic flow at peak times.

A simple illustration of how the IoE impacts our daily lives could be to look at how you take a shower and the traffic are related.

Woods said that if you lived in a “smart house” the fact that you were taking a shower could be communicated to a central system and this information could be shared and it would interpret this data to mean that in 20 minutes you would be taking your car to work and it could then adjust the traffic informa-

tion accordingly based on how many other people would be doing the same at that time.

Smart cities and the digital transformation of society are strongly related to cyber security and cyber response.

Technology is embedded as an enabler for smart cities to create innovation, economic and social progress.

The global drive toward smart cities and services offer numerous advantages like reducing carbon footprint but an IT cyber security professional should be embedded into the project to assess risks and threats.

There is an immediate and detrimental impact on all individuals within a smart city whenever critical community services are affected like water, transport, energy and even physical security.

To illustrate an inevitable trend, Woods cited the example of the recent acquisition by Google of a company called Nest for $3.2 billion.

Nest produces smart thermostats and has launched a second product around smart smoke alarms which is gaining double-digit growth year on year.

Nest has an exciting technology roadmap which includes a number of smart products that can be integrated at home and then connect directly into a smart city.

Nest has made no secret that it doesn’t plan to stop at the thermostat and the smoke detector.

It wants to take all the mundane but important technologies you use every day at your home and make them smarter.

Woods commented: “Currently you can control your thermostat and smoke alarms across the Internet. Can you imagine what one will be able to control five years from now from their portable smart devices? There should, however, be a balance between the gains and the risks to ensure the appropriate protection of the individual’s privacy, confidentiality and security.”

The security benchmarking for smart cities is still developing maturity within the market place. However, we do have some good standards to follow which include: *North American Electric Reliability Corporation critical infrastructure protection (NERC CIP) 002-009. *International Organization for Standardization (ISO) 17799 *Common Criteria These provide a good security framework from which to build, with security entrenched in the foundation.

The Qatar government, through its Ministry of Information and Communications Technology (MoICT), is taking positive steps within this area, working in collaboration with private organizations to improve security standards in cyber security.

“With the ever-changing security landscape and the surface of attack gaining momentum now more than ever, cyber security threats should be addressed head on,” says Woods.

Recent cyber security attacks have shown how traditional malware and viruses are crossing over from laptops and PCs to smart phones, smart cities and power and water stations and, in specific cases, nuclear facilities.

One such incident was the welldocumented attack on nuclear facilities using Stuxnet. Stuxnet is a computer worm that was discovered in June 2010. It was designed to attack industrial programmable logic controllers or PLCs. PLCs allow the automation of electromechanical processes such as those used to control machinery on factory assembly lines, amusement rides or centrifuges for separating nuclear material.

Stuxnet reportedly compromised Iranian PLCs, collecting information on industrial systems and causing the fast-spinning centrifuges to tear themselves apart.

Stuxnet’s design and architecture are not domain-specific and it could be tailored as a platform for attacking modern SCADA and PLC systems (e.g. in the automobile or power plants), the majority of which reside in Europe, Japan and the US. There are more sophisticated viruses but Stuxnet is quite effective and very lethal.

This highlights the cyber threat facing the world today. Suffice it to say, increased connectivity escalates the risks and vulnerabilities.

MEEZA, working with its partners locally and globally, is the first organization in Qatar to launch a certified Commercial Security Operation Center that can help assess, monitor and defend against cyber-attacks.

“Cyber security needs to be embedded in the foundation of smart cities and services. Together, we are stronger and by collaborating with private and government entities we can collectively address the new digital threat against smart cities and services with confidence,” Woods pointed out.

Construction

Concrete Focus

SITES

19

Lusail infrastructural contract goes to Al Jaber Engineering KnowCrete by

T

he Lusail Real Estate Development Company (LREDC) has awarded Al Jaber Engineering (JE) a contract to construct the infrastructure of the Seef Lusail North and Waterfront Commercial districts of Lusail City.

As part of LREDC’s support for local enterprise, the package includes the development of the entire infrastructure for that area which includes streets, pavements and lighting systems.

In addition to work for sewage and storm networks and all portable water and irrigation systems, the agreement will see Al Jaber Engineering develop and connect all power grids and telecommunications networks.

Central water, gas, district cooling, and waste management networks will also be undertaken by Al Jaber Engineering . With work already underway, construction is expected to finish in October 2015.

Commenting on the contracted work, LREDC Chief Executive Officer Essa Mohammed Ali Kaldari said: “Lusail endeavors to work with the local contractors who adhere to the highest safety and quality standards within the construction industry. Therefore we chose Al Jaber Engineering due to its commendable reputation, extensive expertise, and previous delivery.”

LREDC Executive Director of Infrastructure Khalid Al Hammadi said that one of their objectives at Lusail was to support local contractors to participate in Lusail City bids.

“The (latest) contract has been awarded for work at the commercial waterfront area, at the heart of Lusail City, which contains a plaza, a financial center and a commercial district,” said Al Hammadi.

Al Jaber Engineering Chief Executive Officer Osama Hadeed said his company was delighted to have been awarded the contract “as it enables us to contribute to the construction of Lusail, the City of the Future”.

Hadeed said: “Established in 1995, Al Jaber Engineering remains a specialist in engineering, infrastructure, heavy industry and electromechanical works. Additionally, having been awarded several ISO certificates, Al Jaber will once again demonstrate, through this contract, its commitment to the highest international and environmental standards.”

Al Jaber Engineering, as part of the Al Jaber Group, has played a key role in supporting the ambition of Qatar by providing world-class general contracting services to the infrastructure, highways and pipeline construction projects.

The company has successfully completed numerous largescale turnkey projects for many prestigious clients in different sectors.

Lusail City development project is one of the largest and most elaborate developments being undertaken all over the world.

The city extends over an area of 38 square kilometers and comprises four islands and 19 multi-purpose quarters.

The development will include 22 hotels and is set to house 20,0000 inhabitants and 170,000 employees.

It will encompass not only new residential, commercial, and retail opportunities but a full array of community needs, complete with schools, medical facilities, entertainment and shopping centers.

ReforceTech seminar on new reinforcement ReforceTech hosted a technical seminar at Doha’s Ritz Carlton Hotel as a launch and introductory event for the company’s most advanced products - the “MiniBars”.

The company also announced the construction of its first manufacturing facility in the Middle East. The new facility in Doha will support Qatar’s growing economy.

ReforceTech has been in Qatar for the past two years as the only basalt fiber reinforcement supplier in the region, working with key players to establish a concrete presence in the market.

ReforcTech was established in 2009 in Norway to be a leader in reinforcement technology with its manufacturing process, producing basalt fiber reinforce-

ment.

Its breakthrough technology advances civil engineering, giving designers a new-creative freedom.

The unique properties of ReforceTech reinforcement, nonmetallic, non-corroding and with considerably lower density and higher tensile strength than steel, enable innovative and cost-effective structural solutions. They are approved and certified to international

standards.

The seminar was attended by some of the construction industry’s top professionals, including consultants, contractors or precasters.

Speakers from ReforceTech and their affiliates such as Ramboll, represented by Matthew Nield, the director of Ramboll Qatar, and QD-SBG, represented by senior structural engineer George Nader, were present at the event.

Specifying Concrete for Durability Performance-Based Criteria Offer Best Solutions

By Karthik Obla, Director of Research and Materials Engineering, NRMCA

Permeability Many aspects of concrete durability are improved by reducing the permeability of concrete. The ACI 318 Building Code addresses an exposure condition (Table 4.2.2) for “concrete intended to have a low permeability when exposed to water” by requiring a maximum w/cm of 0.50 and a minimum specified strength of 4000 psi (28 MPa). This recognizes that a lower water-cement ratio is important to control the permeability of concrete.

The problem with the code requirement is that one parameter of w/cm by itself does not assure the owner that compliance with this requirement will not adversely affect other properties of concrete. Figure 2 is an illustration of the volume fractions of the composition of two concrete mixtures at the same w/cm. One mixture has lower paste (water + cementitious material) content and will likely have different performance than the mixture with the higher paste volume. Some likely problems with the mixture with the higher paste content could be a higher heat of hydration, higher potential for cracking, lower modulus of elasticity, higher creep and different resistance to durability to chemical elements depending on the composition of the cementitious material.

Figure 2 - Same w/cm can mean different paste contents and varying performance With the extensive use of supplementary cementitious materials and innovative chemical admixtures, a concrete mixture can be optimized for a low permeability in more ways than by just controlling the w/cm. Standardized tests exist that can help identify mixtures with low permeability. ASTM C 1202, Electrical Indication of Concrete’s Ability to Resist Chloride Ion Penetration, often called the Rapid Chloride Permeability Test (RCPT), is one method that is increasingly used in performance oriented specifications. The charge passed, in units of coulombs, is used as performance criteria for permeability. Specifications include limits between 1000 and 2500 coulombs for various applications.

The RCP test method is very sensitive to specimen handling and until there is more experience with specimen preparation and care for initial curing in the field, its use as a jobsite acceptance test is not recommended. However, this test could be used as a pre-qualification test in lieu of specifying low w/cm ratio. ASTM C 1202 provides some discussion of the relative potential for chloride ion penetrability based on the charge passed through the concrete specimen. RCP values greater than 4000 coulombs will allow a high level of ion penetrability; values between 2000 and 4000 coulombs are moderate; 1000 to 2000 is considered low and lower values are very low. Values below 2000 to 2500 coulombs afford sufficiently low “permeability” for most applications. Although the RPCT is not a direct measure of permeability, there is a wide body of evidence that concrete with lower coulomb ratings using this test is more resistant to chloride ingress.

Another method that provides a visual indication of the depth of chloride penetration under an electrical field is the rapid migration test, currently a provisional AASHTO standard — AASHTO TP 64. This method is considered more reliable as it provides a quantifiable measure of the depth of penetration of an ionic species and avoids some of the shortcomings of ASTM C 1202.

Although this test is not currently in wide use, it may eventually become the basis for pre- qualifying concrete for permeability. However, we do not recommend its use as a jobsite acceptance method at this time.

ASTM C 1556, Method for Apparent Chloride Diffusion Coefficient of Cementitious Mixtures by Bulk Diffusion, is a recently standardized method that measures chloride ion concentration at different depths of a test specimen that has been immersed in chloride solution. From the measured chloride ion concentration at different depths the apparent diffusion coefficient can be calculated. This method is rather involved and takes time to obtain results. It should only be used as a prequalification test. At this point, this is a very good research test and, until experience is gained by more commercial testing labs, we do not recommend this test be used in specifications for pre-qualification or acceptance.

To be continued…. info@greymatters.ws www.greymatters.ws

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Construction

SITES

Interview

The ‘culture of construction’ In a few decades or maybe even earlier, the Gulf region will become a technology hub, says Eng Hawamdeh West Bay was in the initial stage of development when Eng Hani Hawamdeh first arrived in Doha. That was little more than a decade ago. In 10 years, the number of towers in West Bay has proliferated.

From being able to count the total number of towers in the West Bay area on one hand, he is left counting the towers that the company he is working with, Arab Engineering Bureau, has been involved in: and he has to use two hands!

Construction Sites interviewed Hawamdeh at the Arab Engineering Bureau (AEB) offices in Muntazah. The AEB offices are in the downtown area and comprise two low-rise towers standing adjacent to each other.

Hawamdeh is a mechanical engineer with 24 years of experience in the field of building electro-mechanical services, design and construction. He is the General Manager of PreContract Services at AEB. Before moving to Qatar, Hani practiced in Jordan. He has a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering and a Diploma in Management and Leadership from Mutah University in Jordan (1990).

A LEED-accredited professional (2008) and QSAS CGP (2010), Hani is a member of QGBC, USGBC, Jordanian Association for Engineers and president of ASHRAE-Qatar Oryx Chapter 2013-2014.

Construction Sites asked the engineer what was different about construction in Doha now as compared to the time when he arrived here first. Hawamdeh remembers the Sheraton Hotel at the far end of the Corniche; the Four Seasons Hotel was still under construction then.

“You could still see the Salam Towers on the left hand side of the Corniche. Two other towers were nearing construction phase at the time as they had completed their foundation and the above ground building was about to begin.

“The tower cranes that were on the construction site were visible from behind the Barzan Towers and the CBQ Plaza next to it. There was also the Qatar Insurance Tower. The Corniche road was as it is today but with the roundabouts still in operation without traffic signals, of course,” reminisced Hawamdeh.

He added that The Pearl was still a reclamation project at the

time and Katara was not in existence. Neither was the Doha Exhibition Centre. In fact the exhibition centre in use at the time was behind the City Centre Mall, the current site for the World Trade Centre.

In central West Bay there are many Towers that AEB has been involved in as the main architects or as part of the refurbishment or renovation of the building. This includes the Kempinski Residences & Suites(Tallest operating building in Qatar), Qatar Financial Center (QFC), which are close to each other; the Al Fardan Twin Towers and Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Al Attiyah Tower) and many others including the existing Rabban Tower and the new 50 storey Rabban Tower both designed by AEB. Construction Sites: Have things changed with regards to construction and the construction processes?

Hani Hawamdeh: There is a change and it is reflected in

made to see whether they have complied with the GSAS regulations as targeted.

CS: That’s an interesting phrase; what do you mean when you speak about the “culture of construction”?

HH: I think of them as a group of habits, a culture that is built in your company or consultancy within your work environment through interaction with the people that you work with; either resulting in quality or compromise. This culture determines how the building contractors will eventually operate.

I have found that most contractors either focus on maximizing profits or minimizing losses.

CS: Has AEB been able to achieve this work ethic?

Are you able to maintain the level of compliancy from pre-contract through the post-contract stage?

HH: It has been a learning curve. We started with LEED projects and LEED requires that you start with blending the dif-

are coming from abroad are looking for partners because they cannot get involved in the construction as they do not have licenses. They can only prepare the concept and if they want to prepare more than concepts then they team up with local consultants. This is what happens with many firms. We have worked with many famous international architects either in a JV or as a local partner. It is preferable for the benefit of the project and the commercial success of the project that the one who design is the one who supervises. I find that we are not perfect and no project is perfect, mistakes are made.

For example, during construction the contractor might raise an issue regarding the design.

It may be a problem or perhaps some clarification of the design is needed then it is always ideal if the architect is at hand. The designer will then be able to suggest a quick solution without too much back and forth correspondence. It makes the

it is still better than before as he can read all the information captured in one place, it is still better than CAD. BIM preparation is one step further than the traditional CAD. It means that even if you were not part of the pre-contract or tendering phases you could still catch up and understand what was intended.

However, it is not perfect and sometimes you still need the architect and designers to translate what they meant. Having said that, it is of great benefit to have the same partner who designs the project do the construction supervision.

CS: What are your thoughts on international collaboration?

HH: Joint ventures are a result of international collaborations.

It is a necessity. We, in this part of the world, have the ambition. The knowhow is being developed elsewhere; maybe in time, the technology will be developed here but for now it is not. However, we have the resources to bring the technology

the way people work. All sustainability approaches are represented in the drawings and specifications but not during the post-contract stage. Contractors are not serious about sustainability during the actual construction phase. You will find that outside of the West Bay area, few buildings are certified as LEED with the exception of Qatar Foundation. Projects like the female dormitories for Education City, QNCC and QSTP are LEED certified. These are projects that AEB was involved in the capacity of architect of record.. Buildings that are registered with Global Sustainability Assessment System (GSAS) will still need to be certified as none of the registered buildings have been completed. This is what I call the “culture of construction”. Assessments have to be

ferent functions from the beginning and not add it afterwards.

For example: selection of the building envelope, orientation of the building, the facade design, daylight strategy, indoorair quality, lighting/luxe requirements, energy consumption projections, materials, HVAC system, etc. Working retrospectively it becomes tougher to achieve compliancy, whereas working with all the elements from the beginning is ideal.

You have to build this approach from the very beginning.

CS: How do you meet the threshold values? Is it the norm for architectural firms to have construction supervision departments?

HH: You can do the design only or you can do design and supervision. Many companies who

process more efficient and seamless if the construction supervision is done by the designer, from concept, during the project, supervising the execution and commissioning and occupation.

CS: What is the function of BIM? How has BIM changed things?

HH: It again comes to culture.

BIM translates this culture of homogeneity that is needed in construction and seamless relationship between the concept as a start of the process. You are building on an intelligent basis, from the very beginning.

Even if we complete the project to a certain level of BIM preparation another party comes on after that to do the construction supervision, it will be a seamless relationship, maybe not 100% efficient, maybe 95%, but

here and this is what is happening. We have a special experience with some certain types of construction, high-rise buildings in hot climates but most of the technology comes from outside, whether it is structural engineering, architecture, sustainability or infrastructure.

However, Hawamdeh was confident that in a few decades or maybe even earlier, the Gulf region would become a technology hub. According to him, money, brains and facilities are needed to create a growth market in the Middle East. “Facilities are being built, money is available, and the skilled individuals are migrating to the area.”

In closing Hawamdeh shared his thoughts on operations and maintenance. Construction Sites asked him what he

Hani Hawamdeh: General Manager of Pre- Contract Services at AEB.

thought of the local practice of tearing down a building rather than rehabilitating the building.

He said that the life cycle of a building was maybe 40-50 years and its MEP components maybe 20-25 years. But a building’s life cycle is also dependent on its operations and maintenance.

“Facilities management is becoming something that is more understood than before and most companies will have a plan to maintain their buildings.

Again this is dependent of the ‘culture of operation’ that is agreed upon between the client and the consultant.

“If there is no shared understanding of how one will deal with leaks, cracks, noises and MEP failure, then the building will deteriorate rapidly and could reach the end of its life after nine or 10 years.”

Hawamdeh related an example of a report regarding the chillers in a building that reached the owner. Instead of repairing the faulty chillers, the owner opted to replace them.

As the replacement cost was not a burden and would solve any current or immediate problems with the chillers he said to just replace with no regard for waste or efficiency. “This sentiment is changing and it can be seen with the Doha Fire House project where the building was not demolished but rehabilitated to house a Qatar Museums Authority project. It has been the same with the CBQ branch on the D-Ring road. It used to be a gymnasium.”

Concluding, Hawamdeh said that they had a close relationship with GORD and were a founder member of the Qatar Green Building Council. “AEB also supports its staff in working with sector regulatory and advocacy organizations.”

Construction

News

Mall of Qatar set to open next year

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s Mall of Qatar gears up to open its doors to its first visitors by the fourth quarter of 2015, a question arises: Does Qatar need yet another big shopping center?

Already marketed as the largest shopping complex in the country, the new mall will cover over 195,000 square meters of leasable space. The mall manger has recently announced a partnership with Majid Al Futtaim Carrefour that will create a 13,700-square-meter flagship

hypermarket as a key anchor store of the new complex.

Construction Sites had the opportunity to speak with Mall of Qatar Deputy General Manager Rony Mourani on the sidelines of Cityscape Qatar. Here is what he had to say about prospects for Qatar’s retail sector and construction progress at Mall of Qatar.

How do you see the future of Qatar’s retail sector?

We are highly optimistic. The numbers show that the retail sector is doing well and is in

need for more retail square meters than what’s already present in the market. This is the main reason behind our development of the Mall of Qatar project. Such a huge project was preceded by studies done by international specialized institutions that encouraged us to develop this project to introduce a new shopping destination to the people of Qatar.

Aren’t you concerned that supply might be more than demand in a country like Qatar?

The supply in the retail market is not similar. You have a variety of shopping malls that differ in size, theme, services and tenant mix. Each of them should find its own audience and this what we are trying to do at Mall of Qatar, which is a super regional mall with retail space of 200,000 square meters open for rent.

However, compared with the current demand in Doha, I think we will be a small part of the retail space needed by the city. The shopping destination

type we want to offer will be distinctive and will raise the bar for the shopping centers across the country.

We expect to open the mall at its designed time, which is a strategic time for the Mall of Qatar to be among the first malls to open in the new wave of shopping complexes expected in the coming period.

What is the current construction stage for the Mall of Qatar?

The Mall is being built by Urbacon, which is widely known in

SITES

Qatar and has a crew of 2,500 professionals and more than 20,000 workers. They have already established many resorts, hotels, aqua parks and entertainment zones, as well as many industrial and commercial buildings. They are in charge of the Mall’s construction. They are ahead of schedule and have already finished over 40% of the works. If we continue on this pace we can open in the last quarter of 2015 as decided.

Yammine Contracting successfully accomplishes removal of the Clock Tower

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s revitalizing the bustling Corniche Street works are advancing fast, transforming each roundabout into intersection creating a smooth traffic flow and less congestion, some works are marked as historical for Qatar.

A removal of the Clock Tower from the Doha’s prominent VIP roundabout was a challenging task as it aimed to preserve the upper part of the Clock Tower, which housed the clock mechanism. Yammine Contracting Company (YCC) has undertaken the job to cut the 65-tonne concrete block and to

ticated projects in Qatar and GCC. “Sawing with diamond wire is the most efficient way to remove large concrete structures such as foundations, bridges, Rock, Concrete pipes, and Steel pipes, according to Salebah. Wire sawing can be done for any concrete

transport it, preserving the integrity of the historic monument. “The challenge was to cut the tower into two pieces with zero vibration, we used specialized diamond wire sawing machines, which is perfect for this application,

thickness and any shape like horizontal, vertical and circular. The company has earlier executed similar jobs, including the cutting of the Oryx roundabout near the General Post Office using the same method.

” says Bashar Salebah , General Manager of YCC. Since its establishment in Qatar, the company has been undertaking different projects by using the most innovative cuttingedge technology for very complexes and sophis-

Yammine Contracting Company Specialized in Diamond Cutting & Coring - Complete rebar and dowling anchoring systems - Anchor fixing * Mechanical Anchors * Chemical Anchors

- Diamond core drilling from 6mm to 1000mm diameter - Diamond Concrete Cutting * Wire Saw * Wall Saw * Floor Saw

E-mail : ycc@yamminecontracting.com www.yamminecontracting.com Tel:+974 44350142 - Fax: 44426545 Mob:+974 55872745

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Construction

SITES

Safety

Qatar Rail marks six million safe man-hours

The Qatar Railways Company (Qatar Rail) has achieved an unprecedented six million work hours without a Lost Time Injury (LTI) at the Doha Metro Green Line works.

Credit for the feat goes to Qatar Rail’s construction contractors led by Austrian firm PORR and its joint venture partners Saudi Bin Laden Group and HBK. “This significant achievement is a clear indicator of Qatar Rail’s commitment to ensuring that safety remains a core value,” says an official release.

On the occasion, a delegation from Qatar Rail, led by Abdullah Bin Abdulaziz Turki Al Subaie, Managing Director and Chairman of the Executive Committee of Qatar Rail, and Saad Ahmed Al Muhannadi, Chief Executive Officer of Qatar Rail, visited Al Messila station site at the Green Line project where they were briefed on the work’s progress.

Qatar Rail honored contractors and workers of the Green Line for their efforts during the past year to accomplish this feat.

Al-Subaie awarded memorandum trophies to Jassim Al Ansari, Green Line Project Director at Qatar Rail’s Doha Metro, and Guenther Heilmayer, Project Director for PSH Joint Venture of Doha Metro led by PORR and including Saudi Bin Laden Group and HBK. He extended his appreciation to the alliance of companies

executing Doha Metro’s Green Line project “for their efforts to maintain the work environment and meet the international standards for quality, health, safety, environment and security at the worksites”.

He noted: “The clear standards that Qatar Rail has adopted since the beginning of the Doha Metro project has had positive impact on the work’s environment as they give the company the ability to complete the work safely, thanks to the concerted joint efforts and commitment of everyone.”

Al-Subaie called the Doha Metro Green Line project’s achievement “a great example”.

“At Qatar Rail, our culture believes that ‘An Incident-Free Workplace Is Possible’; the company holds continuous specialized workshops for workers and employees to promote safety measures in addition to regular trainings on leadership and supervision skills,” he said.

Highlighting the health and safety standards that the company applies, Al Muhannadi said: “Qatar Rail has lately made many achievements in the field of quality, health, safety and environment. The strategy of occupational safety implemented in Qatar Rail’s projects contributes to avoiding any incident of any kind.”

Al Ansari pointed out that “this success is due to the inter-

national standards followed in health and safety at Qatar Rail”.

He said: “The contractors of the Green Line project at Doha Metro were able to implement these standards in their dayto-day work in order to accomplish this great success. This will definitely raise the good reputation of the companies working in the Green Line project.”

The Doha Metro Green Line extends from Msheireb station east to the West Doha station.

The line is divided into two contracts. The main contract extends underground from Msheireb to the area of conversion next to Al Rayyan stadium. There are six stations on this track: Al Rayyan/C-Ring Road, Al Rayyan/Sport Roundabout, Al Rayyan/Al Masila, Al Rayyan/Al Qadeem, southeast Education City and the Qatar National Library.

The elevated and at-grade contract extends from the area of conversion next to Al Rayyan Stadium to the area of maintenance at West Doha.

Workforce engagement key to effective safety training

Workforce engagement and education are interconnected and fundamental to making safety a priority, Alan Crawford, Head of HSE at QPM, has stressed.

“However, education is a very broad term with a huge number of parameters and we have to tailor these priorities to suit the workforce in every country or situation,” Crawford said in his address to Leaders in Construction summit in Doha, hosted by Construction Week Qatar.

“At our Barwa Al Khor Shell Housing site, where we have 3,000 people working across all functions, the simplest and most effective solution we have identified is providing the entire workforce with a series of 20-minute toolbox presentations,” he said.

“During the presentations, we addressed five primary issues regarding workforce safety, including working at heights together with scaffold issues; site welfare facilities; site housekeeping; enforcement of minimum Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) requirements for the site; and waste management.”

Crawford said: “We were quite aware of language barriers as a lot of the workers spoke little to no English, with a scattering of other languages. Our approach was to limit the English presentation to the end of the session with the least percentage of time, while the person

who presented in Hindi had the largest proportion of presentation time.

“What this achieved was more than just getting our messages across to 3,000 people. This was our third such toolbox training session and what these presentations helped us achieve is getting these workers to buy into us.

“When they buy into what we represent, they know that we are serious about their safety.

It also gives the workers an opportunity to give us their feedback and tell us about their concerns and issues that they have noticed in implementation.

“It is very common among health and safety experts to tell people what they shouldn’t do. That isn’t how we approach HSE at QPM. We focus on making health and safety part of everyday work processes and building dialogue amongst all stakeholders by reward-

ing people for making positive changes, rather than saying you can’t do this or that. Negativity is just not constructive in this business.

“Often we are asked how realistic a zero accident plan is and our response is that we are not planning zero accidents, but ensuring there are adequate safeguards in place to prevent most of them. Accidents happen in any workplace but if you can work towards realistic milestones such as a million manhours of no lost time incidents, and then 2 million and so on, we are on the right path.”

QPM recently concluded 5 million man-hours without a lost time incident at the Barwa Al Khor Shell Housing site; this is a significant achievement for the HSE department at QPM. In addition to the workers, QPM has built a culture of safety that can be traced to every team member.

Construction

Products

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23

PERI introduces LIWA and TRIO products to the Qatari market The continuing rise in site la- only one connecting compobour costs necessitates ever nent”, as stated by PERI. faster and simpler formwork TRIO needs just one comsystems. Most of the expendi- ponent for all connections, ture on a reinforced concrete which is the BFD Alignment frame is down to the shutter- Coupler. The BFD alignment ing work, where labour costs coupler BFD is the German exceed material costs several acronym for fastening, aligntimes. The number of individ- ing and tightening in a single ual parts to be moved deter- operation. mines the shuttering time and LIWA was the second product introduced to the Qatari marhence costs.

That’s where PERI’s TRIO ket during the event. panel formwork comes handy. LIWA is a lightweight panel With the previous concerns in formwork for forming with mind, PERI’s development en- or without a crane. It was gineers have focused on mini- specially developed for conmizing the shuttering costs struction sites where crane and the number of individual capacities are very limited or components in their TRIO forming must take place companel LIWA formwork. Recently pletely by hand. launched for the first time in With only 5 panel widths The lightweight panel formwork Qatar; TRIO is “The most suc- and a very simple corner deforming without sign, whereby anocrane special corcessful for panel formworkwith with or

ner panels are required, all ground plans can be quickly and easily formed.

The lightweight panels also allow problem-free use as side formwork for beams. In the process, the small number of different-sized panels ensure fast material planning as well as easy storage in the stockyard and on the construction site.

“Our products are safer, easier to handle and needs less time for assembly, dismantling and cleaning”, PERI Qatar sales engineer Kianosh Rezaido told construction sites during the product launch event.

Rezaido explained that TRIO needs about 2 man hours only for assembly, dismantling and cleaning, while conventional formwork needs a lot of carpentry work; thus much more time.

“With our formwork you have the pre-design. So you don’t need to have the carpenter there thinking about where and how I can do it and what are the loads it can take.

Our formwork can take much more load, so you can even pour your concrete faster than conventional formwork”, he said.

Asked whether these advantages means more cost,

Rezaido said “If you talk about initial cost, off course we are more expensive. However, this is an investment that you do for the long run and not just for one project. If you count it down on the repetitions, on the re-uses, at the end of the day we are much cheaper than conventional formwork”, he said.

Rezaido pointed out that even if you calculate savings on one project, you can see that you have much less labour cost and time savings. Also, when it comes to the long run, you have one set of products you can easily re-use in other sites. “Even the LIWA, our lightest product, can easily be reused for at least 15 to 20 projects. Comparing that to conventional formwork, you can see the savings”, he added.

Rezaido said that the two products doesn’t require specific training or skills from labours, since it’s much easier to use and much safer as well.

“The possibility to have any injury with our formwork is minimal. Besides the product itself, which is more safe to use, we have safety accessories, like the handrails, the working platforms and so on”, he said.

The two products were wel-

comed by engineers attending the launch event. Most of them were already familiar with the products saying they have a well established presence in Europe. Some local

engineers showed particular interest in the light formwork, saying that in some sites where cranes are an issue, products like PERI’s LIWA becomes handy.

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Construction

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Logistics

Qatar’s logistics sector keeping pace with country’s ambitious growth plans

Attiyat: “There is no doubt that Qatar is the fastest growing market in the Middle East”

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ogistics is a fundamental service that props up global supply chains. By facilitating trade between nations and across regions, it helps in the creation of a dynamic world economy.

Today, the total annual value of global trade exceeds $20 trillion, thanks to innovations in logistics, according to a World Economic Forum report.

It is also estimated that if all countries were to improve their logistics performance and reduce supply chain barriers to just half the level observed in the best-performing country in their respective regions, global GDP could increase further by 2.6%.

Clearly, logistics is a key component dictating the growth of the local, regional and global economies. Fortunately for the GCC, its logistics sector is thriving with the total value of related projects across the region expected to reach $3.7 billion by 2015.

Major gains Freight forwarding and contract logistics, in particular, have grown in the region in recent years. Encouraged by large investments, high consumer spending and rapid economic growth, GCC countries were able to register the largest gains in the Middle East logistics contract market in 2012.

The magnitude and multimodal scope of transport investment initiatives have been key drivers for this growth.

The UAE rail project and the potential of an integrated GCC-wide rail network, could also positively alter the region’s logistics and supply chain industry.

Among GCC nations, Saudi Arabia, Qatar and the UAE have emerged as key growth catalysts for the contract logistics market in the Middle East. Saudi Arabia and the UAE posted growth rates of 9.1% and 11.9% respectively, remaining the region’s largest markets with a value of $630 million and $451 million, respectively, as of 2011.

Qatar leads the way Leveraging investments geared towards fulfilling its National Vision 2030, Qatar has been able to outdo these two powerhouses. It achieved the strongest growth rate in the Middle East during the same period, expanding by 23.1% to reach $118 million.

Qatar’s logistics sector is poised to further consolidate its lead given the country’s consistent rate of development. A spate of infrastructure projects are already underway in Qatar.

A $7.4 billion new port project, spanning over 26.5-sq

-km area with a total cargo capacity of six million twentyfoot equivalent units, is expected to begin operations by 2016. This development is a part of a wider strategy that includes industrial zones and dedicated rail links to the new Hamad International Airport.

The $11 billion airport is set to improve linkages with a capacity to transport 2 million tons of cargo through the country.

Additionally, the infrastructure development plan leading to the FIFA World Cup 2022 includes mega projects in the transportation sector.

Speed-breakers Just as Qatar’s infrastructure still has room for improvement, the local logistics sector too faces a few challenges moving forward. The limited capacity of gateways into the country – road, air and sea – has the potential to create bottlenecks in the supply chain.

Doha also has to contend with several problems common to all megacities across the globe, such as urban congestion which inevitably results in traffic gridlocks and restricts the movement of both people and services and rapid population growth.

Recognizing the importance of supporting the government’s efforts to consolidate the economy and capitalize on market opportunities, several logistics service providers are enhancing their service offerings.

“There is no doubt that Qatar is the fastest growing market in the Middle East,” said Nael Attiyat, Country Manager DHL Express Qatar.

“The National Vision 2030 has fuelled progress and

paved the way for logistics industry to strive for excellence as there is an increased demand for connectivity,” Attiyat pointed out.

“DHL connects local projects, industries and companies with the rest of the world through the largest global network in the world providing efficient and hassle-free logistics solutions. By providing integrated solutions, state-ofthe-art facilities and innovative products and services, we are equipped to meet the needs of expanding.

“As the state grows, so do our services; we expand to make sure we always remain on top of market requirements,” added Attiyat.

“Our strategic plans are well underway. With the introduction of a dedicated air network into Qatar, the opening of a few new service points and strategic investments in technology and innovative solutions, we hope to not only meet our customers’ requirements but to also support Qatar to achieve its national vision.”

DHL, the first express logistics company to open in Qatar, is one of the leading logistic companiesin the region. It offers a wide array of express services and has a worldwide air and road network to provide logistics solutions.

DHL has been steadily expanding its footprint in Qatar; it recently opened a facility in the Barwa Village that will connect Al Wakra and the airport and a second facility in the Qatar Science and Technology Park. The company plans to have 15 facilities and service points around Qatar in the near future.

Investment in infrastructure

helps in consolidating the continued growth of national economies and has the potential to stimulate economic growth. Public-private en-

gagement is an opportunity to improve quality of services and spur the growth further.

Thankfully, Qatar has the support of companies like DHL.

Its logistics sector is well positioned for growth and is set to play a pivotal role in helping the country achieve its ambitious national goals.

Qatar Foundation Generates Solar Energy to Support Qatar National Vision QF produces 85percent of country’s total solar photovoltaicpower

Qatar Foundation for Education, Science and Community Developmentis producing up to 85 percent of Qatar’s total solar energy as it announced the launchof one of the Gulf region’s first Energy Monitoring Centre (EMC) to manage its smart grid and monitor solar power generationacross allsites within Education City.

Developed by GreenGulf,in partnership with Qatar Foundation Capital Projects and ASTADProject Management, the EMC will enable real-time administration of all solar and power quality monitoring systems from a central location aiding in their efficient operations and maintenance. Further strengthening Qatar Foundation’s overall sustainability efforts, the EMC will allow visitors, students and researchers to view individual system output and technical grid data, whilefamiliarising themselves with Qatar Foundation’s various renewable energy initiatives.

The EMC is part of the recently completed Solar Smart-Grid Project that added a total of 1.68MW of new solar photovoltaic (PV) systems at various facilities within the QF campus. Qatar Foundation is now responsible for up to 85 percent of the country’s total solar photovoltaic (PV) current installed capacity of roughly 4 megawatts.The project is also the first commercial PVproject in Qatar to be granted approval for grid connection from Kahramaa.

The PV systems at Qatar Foundation now generate 5,180 megawatt hours of clean energy annually, resulting in savings of around 2,590 tons of CO2 emissions every year. The EMC will also be connected to the Kahramaa Conservation and Efficiency Control Centreto showcase the amount of solar energy Qatar Foundation’s PV systems are feeding into the central power grid.

“The advanced EMC, which is one of the first of its kind in the region, marks the integration and centralisation of Qatar Foundation’s on-going efforts to remain at the forefront of energy efficiency through the adoption of a smart solar system,” said Engineer Jassim Telefat, Group Executive Director of Qatar Foundation Capital Projects and Facilities Management. “Qatar Foundation’s leadership remains fully committed to its sustainability initiatives by continuing to increase the use of renewable energy throughout all Education City facilities.”

GreenGulf CEO Omran Al Kuwari said, “We’re very proud to have developed this pioneering project for Qatar Foundation. We believe it’s projects like these, driven by the inspired foresight and leadership at Qatar Foundation, that will further accelerate the adoption of renewables across the region. We look forward to deploying the experiences gained here on future projects, both in Qatar and throughout the region.”

Dr Khalid K. Al-Hajri, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Qatar Solar Technologies, said, “Qatar Foundation from solar research to the establishment of Qatar Solar Technologies, through to the adoption, use and promotion of solar energy initiatives exemplifies the Qatar National Vision 2030 and the use of solar power. Qatar Foundation’s leadership are visionaries in their use of solar technologies and the many initiatives undertaken to utilise this sustainable energy resource

by Qatar Foundation is a showcase to the region and the world on the adoption and use of solar energy solutions.”

Meshal Al Shamari, Director of Qatar Green Building Council, said, “Delivering a sustainable future is key to delivering the Qatar National Vision 2030so QGBC is working with companies and organisations across Qatar to implement green improvements. As a member of Qatar Foundation we are delighted that its enlightened leadership in sustainability both benefits the nation, the environment and stands as a model for others to follow.”

SITES Hempel embraces its green profile with Purearth News

Construction

27

Paint manufacturers are increasingly seeking ways to reduce the volatile organic compounds content of products in the solvent-based paints, waterborne coatings, powder coatings and other high-solids formulations

Global demand for paint and coating has grown steadily over the past decade, with an average annual rise of 5.4%.

Total sales reached 41.75 million tons, with a value of $127.3 billion until 2013.

Increased demand for paint and coatings is mainly due to the continued recovery of the global economy and rapid industrialization.

The paint industry depends largely on the end-user industries it serves, such as steel, automobile, furniture and construction industries.

In addition, an increasingly stringent system of competition driven by the search for unique formulation technology will continue to stimulate growth in the global market.

The increase in the availability of and demand for environmental protection paint has resulted in more investments in the field of non-hazardous chemical materials.

This trend has led to a rise in the price of some raw materials such as resins, additives and pigments.

Although the coatings market is growing steadily, it is facing challenges at the same time.

The main challenges include the threat of environmental regulations and alternatives.

Paint manufacturers are in-

creasingly seeking ways to reduce the volatile organic compounds (VOCs) content of products in the solvent-based paints, waterborne coatings, powder coatings and other high-solids formulations.

In developed and developing countries, continuing efforts to reduce VOCs are proceeding fairly smoothly.

Breathe easier. Manufacturers are reducing the amount of VOCs which can easily be identified as the noxious chemicals that can make paint smell like paint.

VOCs are components that are frequently found in paints and paint solvents. VOCs composition makes it easy for them to evaporate in regular indoor environments, yet they have been linked to a range of health problems.

VOCs can cause headaches and dizzinessand are linked to pollution, smog, and respiratory problems. Earlier, low-

VOC paints lacked the durability of higher-VOC finishes, but now most companies have paints that claim to have low or no-VOCs. At a recent presentation, Hempel introduced its new range of paints called “Purearth”. Billed as Hempel’s “green profile” it has all the characteristics of a green paint. It is toxin free, resistant to moulds, easily cleanable and results in reduced energy consumption. Purearth uses cutting-edge technology and stringent quality standards have been used to develop products that address the pollution problem.

Regional Marketing Manager Ahmed Hussein introduced the six sustainability tenets for Hempel: reducing VOC emissions, reducing energy consumption, reducing waste, reducing hazardous material, maintain hygiene and considering the human factor.

The newly-introduced Topaz Zero line of paints has zero VOC content. Conventional paints often contain lead, a chemical component known for the risk it poses to health.

They also contain Alkylphenol Ethoxylates (APEs) and Formaldehyde, which can cause asthma-like respiratory problems, skin irritation, allergic

reactions and even cancer.

According to the Ahmed Hussein, all paints are now leadfree and they are following a “lead phase-out plan” staring from this year. The Topaz Zero line of paints is free of APE’s and Formaldehyde, and all of Hempel products are now free of lead.

Ahmad Hussein stated that Hempel was committed to reducing waste by choosing packaging and manufacturing materials that could be fully recycled. The product is also manufactured to reduce maintenance through increasing the efficiency of their solutions.

In the marketing material handed out at the launch, it stated: “Thanks to our reliance on superior raw materials and refined production techniques, we succeeded in developing highly durable products.

“Surfaces painted by Hempel remain in good condition for longer periods and require less maintenance and recoating. That is why several of our products are approved according to the standards of the Master Painters Institute (MPI) for durability.”

The launch of Purearth was complemented by presentations from Khalid El Sayed,

Gulf Incon hosts Open Day 2014

G

ulf Incon, one of the leading business groups in Qatar, considering the increasing focus on greater value-added services in the local construction industry, has held an open day for an applicationbased demonstration and training seminar in its Industrial Area branch.

The Open Day 2014 was organized by Gulf Incon in association with their long-time partners Metabo Power Tools (Germany), Trelawny - Surface Preparation Technology (UK) and Golz - Diamond Cutting Equipment (Germany).

Gulf Incon Sales Manager, Tools and Equipment Division, Sajjad Ahmed Khan, welcomed more than 250 key customers from vari-

ous segments of the construction industry, including civil, MEP, facilities management, oil and gas, infrastructure and metro-

related projects.

He expressed Gulf Incon’s pride in representing these industrial brands for more than a decade, declaring

that “the remarkable customer satisfaction is the company’s ultimate mission”.

The Open Day 2014 suc-

the Regional Product Manager, who told the listeners how Hempel grew from specializing in protective marine coatings to its current form.

Architect Mohamed Beity spoke about color trends. As an interior architect he contextualized the place of color in interior decoration and color paint trends. He revealed to the seminar attendees that color choices were determined by the Pantone Color Institute is Orchid; which is a purplish, lavender, mauvish shade. The paint color institute has translated this into grey and they are promoting grey as the “hot new neutral, a sleek and sophisticated color option that adds refinement to almost any room”.

Mohamed Beity added that grey would not be the only color but white and off-white were also back in vogue.

Manufacturers of interior paint will offer extensive palettes of ever-so-subtle tints comprised of 30, 40, and even 50 “whites” containing just a hint of color. According to the Hempel interior designer, mustard is also a trending color.

From the end-user sectors, architectural coatings business is still dominated by the overall market, next is protection

of the marine and general industrial coatings.

Architectural coatings accounted for about 40% of industry revenue, product polish (for cars, furniture, etc.) accounted for 25% and 20% of industrial coatings.

Compared to the increase in other parts of the industrial activities, industrial coatings will witness a higher growth rate.

Apparently 2013 was a phenomenal year for the emerging markets, with rapid growth especially in the Asia-Pacific region, accounting for 48% of global sales. The growth in the Asia Pacific coatings market has escalated mainly due to the economic surge markets like China, India and Indonesia.

Regional Decorative Sales Manager Lars Osterby said the challenge was to produce a paint that could perform but did not compromise on quality.

He said that Purearth was an “umbrella” product and more complementary products would soon be launched.

Country Manager Phil Gabriel emphasized that Hempel Qatar was committed to its clientele in the region and its motto would continue to be, “We listen”.

cessfully delivered a practical, informative hands-on session aimed to deliver skill for the tough-end users of the Qatari construction Industry. It was an event for the knowledge and skill hunters who were eagerly willing to go the extra mile despite the expert skills they were equipped with.

Bob Gray, Export Sales Manager, Trelawny UK, and Leen Luiting, Export Sales Manager, Golz Germany, and Prateek Yadav , Business Development Manager , Metabo, Germany, were among the experts present throughout the two-day event, conducting more than 20 demonstrations and training sessions for more than 250 end-users that participated in the event.

Open Day 2014 provided an opportunity to witness some of the unique, innovative products:*World’s first flat-head angle grinder and the world’s first 5.2 ah cordless lithium- ion battery pack from Metabo *TFP 260 Floor Scarifier the perfect for medium to large area surface preparation applications from Trelawny *MS 400 Table Block saw - Ultra compact. Ultra Output. From Golz Activity-based events and hourly lucky draw prizes boosted the excitement of the tough end-users who braved the soaring temperatures to actively participate and gain knowledge on proper usage and safety applications of various machines exhibited around.

28

Construction

SITES

Tenders

ASHGHAL TENDERS AND AWARDED TENDERS Companies Eligible to Tender: (1) Qatari Companies Only (2) Joint Venture (JV) Companies, which includes a Qatari Company having a minimum of 51%, share holding of the JV (3) Non-Qatari Companies (4) Not Applicable * All financial values are in QAR Tender No.

Type

Tender Title

Participants

Issuing Date

Closing Date

Category

STC

Price Agreement – Supply of Stationary Items (GS/13-14/MS/004/S)

Qatari Companies Only

11-Jun-14

30-Jun-14

Drainage

PWA/GTC/014/14-15

GTC

Supply of 12” Diesel Pump sets and 2 Years On – Call Supply of G.I. Pipes and Fittings for Drainage Networks O&M Department (AA/DOM/14-15/M/1613-2.05/G)

Qatari Companies Only

28-May-14

1-Jul-14

Drainage

PWA/GTC/013/14-15

GTC

RIW for Junctions & Roundabouts in Various Area Greater Doha Zone 1 to 68 Phase -5 (IA/14-15/C/027/G)

Qatari Companies Only

28-May-14

1-Jul-14

Roads

PWA/GTC/012/14-15

GTC

Design and Build for the Modification and Additional Works to Existing Schools and Kindergartens (Fire Life Safety Code Compliance – Phase Two) BA/13-14/C/072/G

Qatari Companies Only - Joint Venture

28-May-14

1-Jul-14

Building

PWA/STC/010/14-15

STC

Supply, Installation and Maintenance of Gym Machines & Equipment to PWA (GS/14-15/MS/03/S)

Qatari Companies Only

11-Jun-14

7-Jul-14

Drainage

STC

Supply and Installation of New Odour Control Unit (AA/DOM/14-15/M/1629-2.05/S)

Qatari Companies Only

21-May-14

7-Jul-14

General Services

GTC

Rental of Light Vehicles and Drivers on A Regular & ‘Call- Off’ Order Basis (GS/14-15/VR/001/G)

Qatari Companies Only

11-Jun-14

15-Jul-14

General Services

PWA/STC/009/14-15

PWA/STC/007/14-15

PWA/GTC/016/14-15

General Conditions of Tenders - Full Documents for the Tender can be obtained from Contracts Department (CD) against a Non–refundable fee paid to PWA Account No. (0013-001813-052), Qatar National Bank together with a copy of the Company Registration and a Company Authorization letter.

- Project document may be examined at Al-Faisal Tower(1), Ground Floor, Al Corniche before purchasing from PWA. - Each Tender must be accompanied by a Tender Bond, either in the form of a “Certified Check” or a “Tender Bond’’ issued by a Bank acceptable to the PWA” in the amount mentioned above valid for (120 days). Any Tender received without the proper guarantee will not be considered.

- The Tender shall be submitted in two separate sealed envelopes (technical and financial offer) and both envelopes must be enclosed in a third sealed envelope which shall bear the tender number, subject and closing date.

- All Tenders shall be submitted in original and one copy or they will not be acceptance.

Tenders shall be delivered at or sent to arrive not later than 1.00pm local Doha time on the closing date and deposited in the relevant Tender Box of concerned Tenders Committee’s Chairman at PWA. - The successful Tenderer shall provide a Performance Bond in amount of ten (10%) percent of the Contract Price endorsed by an approved local bank in Qatar.

- For further queries about any of the tenders, please communicate in writing to the Contracts Department by Fax.: (+974) 44950777

TENDERS

Tender Number

Type

Subject

Entity

Close Date

Value

Envelopes System

Tender Fees (QRs)

508 /2014-2015

Central Tenders

Renting of No.eighty seven various light vehicles with maintenance for three years

General Postal Corporation

30/06/2014

200000 QR

TWO ENVELOPES

300

14 /2014-2015

Local Tenders

Design and implementing of Data Base for Biologically yarification

Ministry of Enviroment

6/7/14

100000 QR

TWO ENVELOPES

150

26 /2014-2015

Local Tenders

Supply & installation of computers , printers, scanners and photo copiers

Ministry of Transportation

13/07/2014

150000 QR

TWO ENVELOPES

150

509 /2014-2015

Central Tenders

Infrastructure preparation for IT & comunication networks and servers room excution at Lutas tower

Ministry of Transportation

14/07/2014

540000 QR

TWO ENVELOPES

300

510 /2014-2015

Central Tenders

Supply and installation of office furnitures and interior decoration excution

Ministry of Transportation

14/07/2014

750000 QR

TWO ENVELOPES

300

511 /2014-2015

Central Tenders

Preparation and installation of doors and light partitions

Ministry of Transportation

14/07/2014

300000 QR

TWO ENVELOPES

300

Tenders Conditions:

Please note that any information mentioned on this table are as per the listed companies’ tender advertisements, without any responsibility of the magazine.

- You can get a copy of the documents of this tender / tenders of the Central Tenders Committee during official hours, against payment of the tender documents witch you can retrieve it.

- Must be accompanied with the tender a letter of guarantee bank / certified check from a bank operating in the State of Qatar, as indicated above for a period of temporary deposit on 120.

- The offer must be valid for a period of ninety days from the date of the opening of envelopes.

- Will be the last date for submission of tenders is twelve o’clock on the morning of the closure, and will not pay attention to any tender received after the deadline.

- Tenders deposited in the box of the Central Tenders Committee, located in Muntazah - Rawabi Street, to be inside the stamped and sealed envelopes and addressed to the Chairman of the Tenders Committee competent (central / local) showing the number, type of the tender and the subject.

- The Central Tenders Committee invites bidders or their representatives to attend the opening of the envelopes and read the price on the day following the date of the closure during the office hours.

- To obtain tender / tenders documents highlight above must be to mentioned authorization letter from the company / institution.

- For inquiries, please contact Tel: 44378192 /225 /143 /149.

- For more information about the Central Tenders Committee ,tenders and auctions are being posed by the Committee You can visit the site on the Internet www.ctc.gov.qa

HVAC - Plumbing & Drainage - Fire Fighting - Electrical & ELV - Energy Centers Street Lighting - Traffic Signals - Maintenance - Facility Management Established in 1974, TRAGS Engineering is recognized as the leading Grade-1 MEP Services, District Cooling and Facility Management Contractor in the State of Qatar. The scope of activities covers all aspects of building services including design, procurement, installation, testing and commissioning of multi-service installations.

In addition, the company offers 24/7 Facility Management Services to government buildings, corporations, educational, healthcare, industrial, commercial and residential sectors.

TRAGS Electrical Engineering & Air Conditioning Co. W.L.L Jaidah Tower Ist Floor, Abdul Aziz Bin Ahmed Street P.O. Box 470, Doha – Qatar Tel +974 44 41 42 11, Fax + 974 44 41 33 06 tragseng@qatar.net.qa www.trags.com

ENGINEERING

Events

Construction

2014 3rd Waste Management & Recycling Summit Organizer: Nispana Innovative Platforms Event Date (s): 17 – 18 September Venue: InterContinental Hotel Location: Doha, Qatar Tel: +91 080 49331000 Fax: +91 080 49331003 Email: mohita.bhimsaria@nispana.com Website: www.nispana.com/wmrs

Qatar Contractors Forum & Awards Organizer: IQPC Event Date (s): 22 – 23 September Venue: InterContinental, The City Hotel Location: Doha, Qatar Tel: +971 4 364 2975 Email: enquiry@iqpc.ae Website: www.qatarcontractorsforum.com

The SPE Middle East Health, Safety, Environment, and Sustainable Development Conference and Exhibition (MEHSES) Organizer: Society of Petroleum Engineers Middle East, North Africa, and India Event date (s): 22 – 24 September Venue: Qatar National Convention Centre Location: Doha, Qatar Tel: +971 4457 5800 Fax: +971 4457 3164

CALENDAR

Email: formsdubai@spe.org Website: www.spe.org

SITES

29

OF EXHIBITIONS & EVENTS

Gulf Expo Organizer: Intl. Student Network Inc. American Education Expo Event date (s): 30 September Venue: TBA Location: Doha, Qatar Email: expo@isnexpo.com Website: http://isnexpo.com

GITEX Technology Week Organizer: Dubai World Trade Centre LLC Event date (s): 12 – 16 October Venue: Dubai World Trade Centre Location: Dubai, UAE Email: gitex@dwtc.com Website: www.gitex.com

Milipol Qatar Exhibition 2014 Organizer: Ministry of Interior Administrative Event date (s): 20 – 22 October Venue: Doha Exhibition Centre Location: Doha, Qatar Tel: +974 4441 1818 – 4484 9520 Fax: +974 4441 6262

Email: milipol@qatar.net.qa Website: www.milipolqatar.com

The 12th International Furniture & Decor Expo (INFDEX) Organizer: Qatar Expo Event date (s): 22 – 25 October Venue: Qatar National convention Centre Location: Doha, Qatar Tel: +974 4465 0211 Fax: +974 4467 4506 Email: infdex@qatar-expo.com Website: www.infdex.qatar-expo.com/ index.aspx

Qatar Intl. Exhibition for Electricity and Lighting Technologies Electrolight Qatar Organizer: Ibhar Group Event date (s): 5 – 8 November Venue: Qatar National convention Centre Location: Doha, Qatar Tel: +974 4417 5230 / 5240 Fax: +974 4417 5266 Email: info@ibharqatar.com / expo@ibharqatar.com Website: www.electrolightqatar.com

7th Annual Bridges and Highways Middle East

Organizer: IQPC Event Date (s): 9 – 12 November Venue: Hilton Hotel Location: Doha, Qatar Tel: +971 4 364 2975 Email: enquiry@iqpc.ae Website: www.bridgesme.com

3rd Annual Middle East Smart Cities Summit Organizer: IQPC Event Date (s): 18 – 19 November Venue: Hilton Hotel Location: Doha, Qatar Tel: + 91 91649 89 507 Email: Sobia.jameel@fleminggulf.com Website: http://energy.fleminggulf.com/ mescs-2014

The Big 5 Show International Building & Construction Show Organizer: DMG Events Event date (s): 17 – 20 November Venue: Dubai World Trade Centre Location: Dubai, UAE Tel: + 971 4 4380355 Fax: +971 4 4380361 Email: dmgdubai@dmgeventsme.com Website: www.thebig5.ae

30

Construction

SITES

Project Focus

NOTE: Whilst we take pride in keeping our Consultants Database with the most up-to-date information, please note that the above information is provided by the Consultants mentioned in the list; therefore QCS in not responsible for any incorrect data.

Client

Main Contractor

Value Range (QR) Million

Project Status

Type of Project

M/s. Commercial Development

M/s. Arabtec

500-750

Piling & Shoring

Hotel and Office Buildings

Audit Bureau Towers

M/s. Al Attiya Group Trading Co.

Not Appointed

400-600

Tender Stage

Offices / Residential Towers

Al Waab Mall

M/s. Qatar Industrial Services

Man Enterprize, Qatar

300-400

Under Construction

Mall

Q-Tel

Not Appointed

250-350

Tender Stage

Technical

Mr. Mohamed Abdel Ghani Al Mansouri

Not Appointed

200-300

Under Design

Shopping Mall & Office Tower

Ghanem Al Hodaifi

Not Appointed

600-800

Detail Stage

Office Building

CBQ

HBK

N/A

Under Construction

Commercial, Bank, Office Plaza

Qatar Islamic Bank

AFQCO & REDCO - Al Mana

1.2-1.4 bn

Under Construction

Residential Towers

Business Trading Company

IDC

400-500

Under Construction

Shopping Mall

Al Malki Real Estate Investments

Satal Qatar Contracting

N/A

Under Construction

Hotel

Ghanem Office Building at Salwa Road

Ghanem Al Thani Holding

Ramco

N/A

Under Construction

Office Building

Marsa Malaz Hotel at the Pear Qatar (Main Works)

Alfardan Properties Co.

CDC

N/A

Under Construction

Hotel

Mazaya Qatar Real Extate Development QSC

Sinohydro Group Limited

N/A

Under Construction

Residential

Qatar Airways

Redco International

N/A

Under Construction

Residential Building

Al Rabban Suites Hotel Apartments (3B+G+M+50Floors)

Al Sarh Real Estate WLL

CRC

N/A

Under Construction

Residential

Office Buildings (3B+G+22) at Lusail Marina District

Sh. Hamad Bin Faisal Al Thani

REDCO – Al Mana

N/A

Under Construction

Office Building

Office Tower (3B+G+14Floors)

Mr. Abdullah Abu Salah

Shannon Engineering

N/A

Under Construction

Office Tower

Al Baker Executive Towers

Ahmed Abed El Aziz Al Baker

Construction and Reconstruction Co.

675

Under Construction

Office Building

Private Investor

Orientals Enterprises

N/A

Under Construction

Residential

Shiekh Abdullah Bin Naser Al Thani

Construction and Reconstruction Co.

85

Under Construction

Commercial

MOI

Hassanesco Co.

N/A

Under Construction

Mixed Use

Shk/Abdullah Bin Nasser Al Thani

Construction and Reconstruction Co.

205

Under Construction

Commercial / Residential

Al Sadd Hotel

Tricon International

Atlantic Contracting Co.

150

Under Construction

Hotels

Al Hodaifi Group HQ

Al Hodaifi Group

Not appointed

30-40 Million

Design stage

Office Building

El Eida

Not appointed

5-10 Million

Design stage

Villa

Doha Education Centre

Not appointed

30-50 Million

Design stage

Education

Step 1 International Academy

Step 1 International Academy

Not appointed

20-40 Million

Design stage

School

5 Hotel Towers adjacent to City Center Marriott Rensance, Marriott Courtyard, Shangri La, Rotana & Merweb

Al Rayyan Holding Company

Al Habtour

3.5 Billion

Marriott Rensance & Marriott Courtyard in handing over and the other 3 Hotels are under construction

Hotels

Shemoukh Mixed-Use Twin Tower, Al Saad

Real Estate Services Group

SEG

800

Construction Stage

Mixed Use Towers

Al Jasrah Twin Tower Lusail

Al Shereef Enterprises

Dorra Contracting

350

Construction Stage

Mixed Use Towers

PWA

Tag Engineering & Contracting

120

Under Construction

Media Complex

Al Mana Real Estate

N/A

100-200

Tender Stage

Mixed Use Tower

Qatar Navigation

N/A

300

Developed Design Stage

Mixed Use

Al Madaen Real Estate

A'yaan Ash'sharq

120

Construction Stage

Hotel

Qatar Olympic Committee

HBK Contracting & Trading

65 Million

Construction Stage

Sports Amenities

MOI

Not Appointed

N/A

Design Stage

Educational Complex

Al Meera

Al Alia Trading & Contracting Co.

130

Under Contruction

Supermarket Stores

MOI

WCT

N/A

Under Construction

Administrative and Office Building

ALAQARIA

Arcon

169

Under Construction

Mixed Use

Qatar Navigation

Not Appointed

N/A

Design Stage

Warehouses

Qatar Airways

Not Appointed

N/A

Design stage

Technical Training

PWA

ITCC / Al Sraiya

350

Under Contruction

Educational Buildings

IBA GROUP

Not Appointed

400

Design Stage

Commercial / Offices Towers

Mr. Saeed Ben Zayed El-Khayareen

Al-Huda

200-250

Under Construction

Office Building

FBA GROUP

Not Appointed

200

Detail Stage

Shopping Mall & Office Tower

IBA GROUP

Not Appointed

200

Under Construction

Hotel

Tameer Real Estate

Al Seal Trading

160

Under Construction

Residential Building

Qatar Airways

Redco

40 Million

On Going

Special or Laboratory

Mr. Mohamed Ben Zayed El-Khayareen

Al-Huda

100-120

Completed

Office Building

Al Meera

Not Appointed

N/A

Full Design Package from concept to preparation of tender documents included interior design

Mall

Equestrian Club

Not Appointed

N/A

On Going

Farm

QNB Branch Branches

QNB

Not Appointed

20 Million

Under Construction

Bank

Qatar Driving School

QDS

Not Appointed

600

Permit Stage

Driving Academy

Gulf Pearls Company

Gulf Pearl

40 Million

Design Stage

Residential Building

Sheikh Badr Khalifa Al Thani

Al Batra

80 Million

Under Construction

Residential Building

ACES (Arab Centre for Engineers Studies)

ACES

Not Appointed

20 Million

Tender Stage

Industrial Building

MOFA (Ministry of Foreign Affairs)

MOFA

Note Appointed

N/A

Design Stage

Governmental Building

Sh. Ahmad bin Hamad Al Thani

NA

54,000,000.00

Service Design

Commercial

Regency Group

NA

38,000,000.00

Design

Offices

Abdulla AL Darwish

Al Gefton

658,000.00

Testing and Commissioning

Commercial Apratment

M. Al Ansari

Redco

28,800,000.00

Mobilisation

Commercial

C5 Apartment

Rabban Group

NA

121,000,000.00

Design

Commercial Apratment

FV7 Multi Purpose Hall/ Art Centre

Regency Group

N/A

67,500,000.00

Design

Commercial

Consultant

Project Title

Twin Towers

Mesiemer Manarat Lusail Al Hodaifi Tower II CBQ Boulevard Five Residential Towers at Viva Bahriya at the Pear (project management)

Gulf Mall at Gharrafa

Doha Centro Hotel at Bin Mahmoud

Qatar Sidra Village Project

Qatar Airways Crew Accommodation

Al Nour Tower Al Nasr Showroom

Police Training Institute

Panasonic Showroom & Residential

Al Eida Villa Doha Education Centre

Qatar Radio and Television Complex Markaz Almana Ford Showroom & Commercial Offices Ain Khaled Development

Sonesta 5 Star Hotel Smash Tennis Academy

Police College Academy 4 New Build Convenience Store Schemes Construction of Head Quarters Bldg. for Ministry of Interior

MIC Business & Recreation Complex Logistic City

New Extension Simulator Building Construction of 6 Nos. New Schools Al Emadi Twin Towers City Tower Fahd Suite - Apartment Hotel IBA Hotel Al Attiya Compound Flight Simulator El Doha Tower

Al Meera Hazm Al Markhiya Mall Supervision of Breeding Farm near Zubara Village

Gulf Pearls Office Building

Sheikh Badr

Al Ahli Club

FV9 Al Asmakh Head Office in Lusail Al Mansoora Building

Office Building / D Ring

Construction

SITES

31

SITES C o n s t r u c t i o n

Rania Queen St. Amman- Jordan Tel: +9626 5356616 - Fax: +9626 535 6606 - P.O.Box: 622 - Aljbeha: 11941 watan_newspaper@yahoo.com

Monthly construction news, tenders, project focus, and forthcoming exhibitions in Qatar Tel.: +974 4469 3280 - Fax: +974 4451 0428

Issue No. (84) July 2014, Doha - Qatar

Alstom to supply the first turnkey tramway system in Qatar

A contract worth around 750 million euros for Alstom Alstom, as part of a consortium1, has been awarded a contract by Qatar Railways Company (QRAIL) to supply a turnkey tramway system for a 4-line tram network in Lusail, Qatar. The contract was signed in Paris, France in the presence of H.H the Emir Sheikh Tamim Bin Hamad Al Thani, French President, François Hollande and Patrick Kron, Alstom Chairman & CEO. Alstom’s share of the contract is around €750 million2 including options for 32 additional tramways.

The 4-line network will cross the city covering a distance of 33 km, including 7km underground and 37 stations.

The system is expected to enter commercial service from 2018.

Alstom will provide the city of Lusail with its fully integrated tramway system including the design, manufacturing, commissioning and servicing of 35 Citadis tramways, power supply equipment (substations, catenary and APS3),

Alstom is a global leader in the world of power generation, power transmission and rail infrastructure and sets the benchmark for innovative signalling and trackworks. the region”, Henri Poupart- and environmentally friendly The Citadis tram for Lusail Lafarge, Alstom Transport technologies. Alstom builds the fastest train and the will be 32 metres long. It President, said. will offer high-end comfort The city of Lusail, located to to passengers, thanks to en- the north of Doha, is the first hanced communications with city to launch a turnkey trampassenger information and way system in Qatar. Lusail security systems both at sta- will be the second tramway tions and on-board. The tram- system deployed in the Gulf ways will be fully low floor to countries by Alstom with APS enable easier access for all technology. Technical adappassengers. tations have been made on “As of today, Alstom Trans- the APS solution to enable port has equipped more catenary-free operation in exthan 25 cities with tramway treme temperatures. turnkey solutions. Lusail More than 1,800 Citadis tram project confirms Com- tramsets have been sold to pany’s expertise in all seg- more than 40 cities in the ments of the rail market. world and are in operation Lusail will also benefit from since 2000. Citadis is envithe proven experience of the ronmentally-friendly and is Citadis tramway, an emblem- up to 98% recyclable. atic product inour range. This Several Alstom sites will be new order in the Middle-East involved in the project indemonstrates the success of cluding Le Creusot, Ornans, our global strategy and the Tarbes and Villeurbanne in strong links we have with France.

highest capacity automated metro in the world, provides turnkey integrated power plant solutions and associated services for a wide variety of energy sources, including hydro, nuclear, gas, coal and wind, and it offers a wide

range of solutions for power transmission, with a focus on smart grids. The Group employs 93,000 people in around 100 countries. It had sales of over €20 billion and booked €21.5 billion in orders in 2013/14.