Abu Dhbai Special Report

SPECIAL REPORT C DECEMBER 29, 2009 • • • • • • •

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CONTENTS An oasis of progress

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Economy on track

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Clean city of the future

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Preparing for future demand

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Striving for quality education

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Steady growth

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Significant progress in healthcare

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Garden city in economic bloom

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Walking tall in the cultural landscape

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World-class sporting destination

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Fundamentally strong

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ABU DHABI REGIONS

AN OASIS OF

PROGRESS Abu Dhabi has remained strong culturally and politically despite its rapid development. Traditions are maintained even while fulfilling the needs of the 21st century

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BU DHABI, UAE’s capital city and largest emirate, has played an integral role in the country’s dramatic transformation in a short span of five decades. Careful planning and an abundance of hydrocarbons have helped the emirate to metamorphose from a desert outpost to an economic paragon.

Abu Dhabi’s economy is expected to expand by four per cent during 2010, according to a government official in the emirate.

Mohammed Omar Abdulla, under-secretary of the Abu Dhabi department of economy, told reporters that this would be in line with the expected growth in the UAE as a whole.

He noted that it is generally difficult to forecast how much the economy will grow in the UAE because of the country’s dependence on oil revenue, which he said accounts for 60 per cent of Abu Dhabi’s revenues.

“That is why we are trying to diversify our economy away from oil and we have planned to enhance the share of non-oil revenue to 60 per cent in Abu Dhabi by 2030,” he commented.

The official added that Abu Dhabi plans to set up new export and business centres during 2010 to improve trade and promote small and mediumsized businesses.

Under the guidance of His Highness Shaikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE and Ruler of Abu Dhabi, and Shaikh

Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, the Government of Abu Dhabi published a long-term plan for the transformation of the Emirate’s economy, including a reduced reliance on the oil sector as a source of economic activity over time and a greater focus on knowledge-based industries in the future.

Entitled ‘The Abu Dhabi Economic Vision 2030’, the document provides a comprehensive plan for the diversification of the Emirate’s economy and a significant increase in the non-oil sector’s contribution to the Emirate’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) by the year 2030.

The Abu Dhabi Economic Vision 2030 will establish a common framework for aligning all policies and plans that contribute to the ongoing development of the Emirate’s economy. It seeks to create significant opportunities for the local and international private sector in the Emirate, and new employment opportunities for UAE nationals in the future, particularly in highly-skilled, knowledgebased, export-oriented sectors.

Today Abu Dhabi is both an emerging holiday destination and modern business metropolis thanks to meticulous planning. It also has numerous geographical advantages. It takes up 87 per cent of the country’s total land mass, while its coastline stretches over 700 kilometres.

Oil and gas were first discovered in the UAE in 1958 and Abu Dhabi has 95 per cent of UAE’s oil

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ABU DHABI REGIONS

reserves and 92 per cent of its gas reserves. Through its network of affiliate companies and subsidiaries, the state-owned Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC) has developed a world-class integrated oil and gas industry. ADNOC, which oversees production of more than 2.7 million barrels of oil per day is the world’s sixth largest oil exporter.

There are plans to boost output capacity above 3 million barrels per day by 2011 and simultaneously expand oil-related industries.

In response to the increasing demand for power and desalinated water, Abu Dhabi is making every effort to boost gas production. The multibilliondollar gas project in Shah, together with ConocoPhillips, is an outstanding example of this.

The first natural gas from the 1 billion-cubic-feetper-day gas processing plant is expected to flow in around four years.

In January 2008, the federal government signed a landmark nuclear cooperation agreement with France and in November, the same year, the UAE signed an MoU on nuclear cooperation with the UK. Both the pacts were preceded by a GCC request to the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) for a feasibility study on nuclear power in the region.

The nuclear pacts were part of the government’s desire to reduce carbon emissions and also meet the rising energy demands due to a growing economy and its electricity-hungry projects. In May 2009, the US administration backed UAE’s proposed nuclear cooperation agreement with the US. Once approved, the agreement will give US companies the necessary authorisation to compete and bid in

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In 2009, the Government of Abu Dhabi oversaw preparations for a number of major international events that have helped in expanding the Emirate’s international profile. The recent Formula One racing in Abu Dhabi was an event that put the emirate under international spotlight.

The race track is situated on Yas Island where a Ferrari Park is being developed UAE’s nuclear programme.

Despite its rapid development, the emirate has remained strong culturally and politically.

Traditions are maintained even while fulfilling the needs of the 21st century. Not only is Abu Dhabi a leading influence in the UAE, it is also a growing force in regional and global politics because of its huge resource wealth and strategically vital position.

In terms of its qualities like affluence, diversity and stability, Abu Dhabi has very few parallels in the Middle East or even in the world. In the immediate future the emirate is likely to witness

increased investments in infrastructure and public services with the government playing the role of enabler and regulator rather than direct provider.

Abu Dhabi Investment Authority (ADIA) manages most of the surplus income from the Abu Dhabi’s oil resources with the objective of securing and maintaining the current and future prosperity of the emirate. ADIA’s investments in the past have helped Abu Dhabi to acquire undervalued shares in large companies and diversification of the economy away from dependence on oil resources.

According to top Government of Abu Dhabi officials, 2009 has been a year dedicated to implementation of significant policies and plans under the guidance of Shaikh Khalifa and Shaikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan.

A comprehensive energy policy and a longterm plan for education are also expected to help the government in meeting its broader social and economic goals in the future. The emirate’s Department of Economic Development is working with key public and private organisations to ensure that policies and plans identified in the Economic Vision 2030 are implemented efficiently and effectively.

In 2009, the Government of Abu Dhabi oversaw preparations for a number of major international events that have helped in expanding the Emirate’s international profile. The recent Formula One racing in Abu Dhabi was an event that put the emirate under international spotlight. The race track is situated on Yas Island where a Ferrari Park is being developed. Environment friendly initiatives like Masdaar City further boosted the emirate’s image.

Abu Dhabi is a modern city with broad boulevards, iconic office and apartment buildings and busy malls boasting top international brands.

Despite its naturally sandy environment, the city is known for its greenery. The former desert strip has been successfully transformed, today offering numerous parks and gardens to its residents, including the picturesque Corniche.

The more significant buildings of the city include Qasr Al Hosn; headquarters of Abu Dhabi National Oil Company; headquarters of Abu Dhabi Investment Authority; and the Cultural Foundation.

Emirates Palace is reputed to be the most expensive hotel ever built. Abu Dhabi emirate is the home of UAE University, Zayed University and the Higher Colleges of Technology. Its infrastructural facilities include a world-class port; Abu Dhabi International Airport; Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre; and Zayed Sports City. The city’s already extensive cultural and leisure facilities will be greatly enhanced by the opening of the Guggenheim Museum in 2011.

The Guggenheim will be situated on Saadiyat Island, which is destined to become an up-scale cultural district. The Louvre will also be opening there, the first outpost of the famous Parisian Museum in the world. ■

ABU DHABI REGIONS

ECONOMY ON TRACK Abu Dhabi is the second largest economy in the region and the government is keen on making the legislative environment more business-friendly so as to bolster the emirate’s position as an attractive place for investments

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N 2008, Abu Dhabi’s economy fared better than most major markets hit by the global downturn, cushioned by the wealth generated by the emirate’s substantial hydrocarbon assets and also by drawing strength from its comparative advantages like access to relatively inexpensive energy and labour.

As per 2008 figures, the emirate accounted for nearly 58 per cent of the UAE’s overall GDP. Oil production contributed 60 per cent to the emirate’s total GDP. Even in 2009, retrenchments in the emirate’s private sector were far lesser than those in rest of the world. Abu Dhabi’s public sector proceeded with all its major developments.

The emirate invested billions of dirhams in developing roads, electricity and water supply networks, port development and housing projects.

The development work extended to the emirate’s outlying regions as well.

The main focus of the government’s development plan was to ensure that all three regions – Al Ain, Al Gharbia and Abu Dhabi received investments and opportunities.

The emirate’s rising population has been one of the key drivers of growth. In 2008, the emirate’s population grew by 7.5 per cent to reach 2.3 million compared to a national average of 6.6 per cent. Although global economic slowdown is expected to reduce population growth, Abu Dhabi is not likely to be affected as it continues to attract foreign workers and many workers in the country relocate to the emirate.

In 2008, manufacturing industries contributed 11.6 per cent of the emirate’s GDP followed by government services with 7 per cent and financial services with 5.6 per cent and real estate and business services with 4.2 per cent. Financial experts have predicted massive potential for private equity growth in the region and say it is likely to play an important role in sectors such as construction, transport and services for the oil and gas industries and construction.

DIVERSIFICATION The government is continuing its efforts to diversify the economy away from reliance on oil and gas exports. A boost in non-oil industries and services to the point that they contribute a major share to the GDP has been listed as a primary objective in ‘The Abu Dhabi Economic Vision 2030.’ The government is targeting a 7.5 per cent growth in sectors like petrochemicals, metals, aviation and tourism in the coming years by diverting its oil revenue into developing these key industries, many of which are closely related to the energy sector or rely on hydrocarbons as key inputs.

The seven areas of economic policy focus, according to Abu Dhabi Economic Vision 2030, are building a more efficient business environment, adopting disciplined fiscal policies that are responsive to economic cycles, establishing a

monetary environment that manages inflation, improving efficiencies in the labour market, developing infrastructure, raising the level of human resources and making financing more easily available to growing enterprises by improving the financial markets.

The government envisages that making the legislative environment more business friendly would bolster Abu Dhabi’s position as an attractive place for investments, considering that it is the second largest economy in the region.

Abu Dhabi also set up its own statistics bureau to better assess its economic performance and promote itself as an international centre that rivals benchmark nations. Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are expected to benefit from this move.

As part of its diversification strategy the emirate also wants to balance the development of large enterprises with the encouragement of SMEs. It points out that reliance on large enterprises makes the emirate’s economy more susceptible to corrections in any given sector, recessions in key export markets or liquidity crises.

The Khalifa Fund to Support and Develop SMEs provides quality training and international expertise, as well as finance, market intelligence, support services and business incubators to empower all sections of society.

Another significant aspect of the emirate’s diversification strategy is a shift towards economic growth in less developed regions of the emirate, particularly the significantly less-populated Western Region. Although this region accounts for 34 per cent of the emirate’s GDP, only 9 per cent of the emirate’s total population lives there. The average household income of people living in the region is less than 50 per cent of those living in

Abu Dhabi city. In order to raise income levels of approximately 180,000 residents of the region, the government is focusing on education, health care, employment generation and infrastructure in the Western Region.

An initiative was launched in 2006 in cooperation with private firms to improve the curriculum of six public schools in the Western Region. The Tourism Development and Investment Company (TDIC) is expanding the airport runway at Sir Bani Yas Island to increase passenger capacity to 300,000, making the airport a major entry point for the region.

The Western Region Municipality and the Department of Transport have set aside $950 million for roadway improvements in the area. A $3-billion resort at Jebel Dhanna is a major tourism project in the region. According to Economic Vision 2030 the envisaged world-class leisure, tourism and retail facilities for the Western region are not just fruits of growth but prerequisites for development. The emirate’s balanced approach to economic development reassures both residents and investors that the economy is on track for future growth. ■

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ABU DHABI REGIONS

ECONOMY ON TRACK Abu Dhabi is the second largest economy in the region and the government is keen on making the legislative environment more business-friendly so as to bolster the emirate’s position as an attractive place for investments

I

N 2008, Abu Dhabi’s economy fared better than most major markets hit by the global downturn, cushioned by the wealth generated by the emirate’s substantial hydrocarbon assets and also by drawing strength from its comparative advantages like access to relatively inexpensive energy and labour.

As per 2008 figures, the emirate accounted for nearly 58 per cent of the UAE’s overall GDP. Oil production contributed 60 per cent to the emirate’s total GDP. Even in 2009, retrenchments in the emirate’s private sector were far lesser than those in rest of the world. Abu Dhabi’s public sector proceeded with all its major developments.

The emirate invested billions of dirhams in developing roads, electricity and water supply networks, port development and housing projects.

The development work extended to the emirate’s outlying regions as well.

The main focus of the government’s development plan was to ensure that all three regions – Al Ain, Al Gharbia and Abu Dhabi received investments and opportunities.

The emirate’s rising population has been one of the key drivers of growth. In 2008, the emirate’s population grew by 7.5 per cent to reach 2.3 million compared to a national average of 6.6 per cent. Although global economic slowdown is expected to reduce population growth, Abu Dhabi is not likely to be affected as it continues to attract foreign workers and many workers in the country relocate to the emirate.

In 2008, manufacturing industries contributed 11.6 per cent of the emirate’s GDP followed by government services with 7 per cent and financial services with 5.6 per cent and real estate and business services with 4.2 per cent. Financial experts have predicted massive potential for private equity growth in the region and say it is likely to play an important role in sectors such as construction, transport and services for the oil and gas industries and construction.

DIVERSIFICATION The government is continuing its efforts to diversify the economy away from reliance on oil and gas exports. A boost in non-oil industries and services to the point that they contribute a major share to the GDP has been listed as a primary objective in ‘The Abu Dhabi Economic Vision 2030.’ The government is targeting a 7.5 per cent growth in sectors like petrochemicals, metals, aviation and tourism in the coming years by diverting its oil revenue into developing these key industries, many of which are closely related to the energy sector or rely on hydrocarbons as key inputs.

The seven areas of economic policy focus, according to Abu Dhabi Economic Vision 2030, are building a more efficient business environment, adopting disciplined fiscal policies that are responsive to economic cycles, establishing a

monetary environment that manages inflation, improving efficiencies in the labour market, developing infrastructure, raising the level of human resources and making financing more easily available to growing enterprises by improving the financial markets.

The government envisages that making the legislative environment more business friendly would bolster Abu Dhabi’s position as an attractive place for investments, considering that it is the second largest economy in the region.

Abu Dhabi also set up its own statistics bureau to better assess its economic performance and promote itself as an international centre that rivals benchmark nations. Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are expected to benefit from this move.

As part of its diversification strategy the emirate also wants to balance the development of large enterprises with the encouragement of SMEs. It points out that reliance on large enterprises makes the emirate’s economy more susceptible to corrections in any given sector, recessions in key export markets or liquidity crises.

The Khalifa Fund to Support and Develop SMEs provides quality training and international expertise, as well as finance, market intelligence, support services and business incubators to empower all sections of society.

Another significant aspect of the emirate’s diversification strategy is a shift towards economic growth in less developed regions of the emirate, particularly the significantly less-populated Western Region. Although this region accounts for 34 per cent of the emirate’s GDP, only 9 per cent of the emirate’s total population lives there. The average household income of people living in the region is less than 50 per cent of those living in

Abu Dhabi city. In order to raise income levels of approximately 180,000 residents of the region, the government is focusing on education, health care, employment generation and infrastructure in the Western Region.

An initiative was launched in 2006 in cooperation with private firms to improve the curriculum of six public schools in the Western Region. The Tourism Development and Investment Company (TDIC) is expanding the airport runway at Sir Bani Yas Island to increase passenger capacity to 300,000, making the airport a major entry point for the region.

The Western Region Municipality and the Department of Transport have set aside $950 million for roadway improvements in the area. A $3-billion resort at Jebel Dhanna is a major tourism project in the region. According to Economic Vision 2030 the envisaged world-class leisure, tourism and retail facilities for the Western region are not just fruits of growth but prerequisites for development. The emirate’s balanced approach to economic development reassures both residents and investors that the economy is on track for future growth. ■

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ABU DHABI REGIONS

CLEAN CITY of the FUTURE Major hydrocarbon producer Abu Dhabi has established its leadership in environmental conservation and renewable energy by launching the Masdar Initiative

By Jamila K. Qadir

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ASDAR CITY is the world’s first carbon-neutral zero waste city and is headquarters of the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA).

Masdar is derived from an Arabic word which means “the source.” It complements the vision of the late Shaikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the founder and the former President of the UAE, who pioneered environmental conservation in the country.

Being the first major hydrocarbon-producing economy to take such a step, Abu Dhabi has established its leadership by launching the Masdar Initiative.

The Masdar Initiative is driven by the Abu Dhabi Future Energy Company (Masdar), a whollyowned subsidiary of the Mubadala Development Company (Mubadala) a global cooperative platform for the open engagement in the search for solutions to some of mankind’s most pressing issues like energy security, climate change and the development of human expertise in sustainability.

Abu Dhabi is leveraging its substantial resources and experience in global energy markets into the technologies of the future. One key objective of Masdar is to position Abu Dhabi as a world-class research and development hub for new energy technologies, effectively balancing its strong position in an evolving world energy market.

A related objective is to drive the commercialisation and adoption of these and other technologies in sustainable energy, carbon management and water conservation.

In doing so, Masdar will play a decisive role in Abu Dhabi’s transition from a technology consumer to a technology producer.

The goal is the establishment of an entirely new economic sector in Abu Dhabi around these new industries, which will assist economic diversification and the development of knowledgebased industries, while enhancing Abu Dhabi’s existing record of environmental stewardship and its contribution to the global community.

“The emirate of Abu Dhabi is investing in long-

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term strategic development of sustainable future energy technologies,” says Ahmed Ali Al Sayegh, chairman of Masdar.

The Masdar Initiative, established by Shaikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi, is a logical development of the emirate’s long-standing commitment to a sound environmental strategy and continuing economic diversification.

It aims to become the source of energy, knowledge and innovation in order to position Abu Dhabi as a global new energy leader. Masdar is committed to the optimum use of natural and human resources so that Abu Dhabi can develop into a global centre of excellence for renewable energy research, development, and innovation.

In addition to building a zero carbon, zero waste city, Masdar is investing in a range of new energy technologies, establishing a post-graduate research institution and developing a carbon management unit.

All these activities, and a range of other initiatives, are aimed at laying the groundwork for vital and sustainable new industries, Al Sayegh says.

The long-term aim is to create a broad range of innovative industries that will generate a steady flow of new ideas, technologies and advances.

Firmly networked into the global economy, these industries will transform Abu Dhabi’s economic role and will contribute to the development of national and regional economies.

When that is accomplished, Abu Dhabi will then have completed its transition from a 20th century carbon-based economy into a sustainable 21st century high-technology economy.

It will also be setting the pace as a global leader in the energy industry, in technology and in sustainability, he says.

According to Dr Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber, Chief Executive Officer of the company, the Masdar Initiative is multi-faceted. “We are positioning ourselves as global leaders in the push for new lowcarbon energy technologies and clean, sustainable ways of living. Therefore, we are working across a variety of different areas. Sometimes we are investing directly, in other areas we are building partnerships and creating networks,” Al Jaber explains.

The Masdar Initiative is a continuation and an evolution of Abu Dhabi’s five decades of leadership

as a global energy provider. “We developed considerable expertise over that period and we have inherited a strong tradition of environmental custodianship and a commitment to sustainability,” he says.

The world today faces two major challenges, global warming and the need to meet the evergrowing demand for energy. Leadership in both areas is needed.

“In Masdar, we believe we can deliver practical leadership by showing what can be done, and by demonstrating how to do it. It is an ambitious aim, but we are confident we can deliver,” Al Jaber says.

The initiatives include substantial investment in innovative and renewable energy technologies; the fostering of talent, expertise, and knowledge sharing in renewable energy disciplines; the construction of local and regional green power production facilities that complement and balance fossil fuel production.

They also include the reduction of carbon emissions through active participation in carbon markets and the creation of a model, zero carbon, zero waste city that demonstrates the practical viability and appeal of living in alternative energy environments.

The development of clean sources of energy is a global responsibility with benefits for every aspect of life on our planet. “We recognise that, to achieve our aspiration to play a leading role in fulfilling this responsibility, we need to collaborate with a broad range of partners who share our vision and commitment to a cleaner future. We are investing considerable resources to create a groundbreaking global network that fosters creativity and encourages innovation.”

Thanks to the support and drive of the Abu Dhabi government, Masdar has grown quickly from a vision to reality.

“The construction of Masdar City, powered entirely by renewable energy, is already underway.

The Masdar Institute is commencing work, its investment funds are already fuelling future energy inventions and innovations, and we are working with long-established industries to reduce carbon emissions.”

“This is just the beginning of a long story. Our aspirations are broad and our ambitions global. It is going to take time for Abu Dhabi to become a truly global centre of excellence but we are committed to making that happen,” he says. ■

ABU DHABI REGIONS

PREPARING FOR

FUTURE DEMAND The emirate’s Department of Transport is busy supporting Abu Dhabi’s next wave of urban development

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OTH Abu Dhabi government and prospective investors are closely following plans for the emirate’s future transport network. Strong population growth since the turn of the century fuelled the need for new infrastructure and transport services.

The government masterplan aims at redeveloping the city and turning it into a global destination, with the emirate’s Department of Transport busy supporting Abu Dhabi’s next wave of urban development. Major transport sector projects include the Dh1.1-billion third terminal to the Abu Dhabi International Airport and the Khalifa Port and Industrial Zone (KPIZ), planned to be the largest of its kind in the world.

The airport’s capacity has already been raised from 9 million passengers a year to 12 million passengers. In its bid to keep pace with the surging demand for regional air transit capacity, Abu Dhabi Airports Company (ADAC) has gone ahead with the refurbishment of Terminal 1, a facelift to Terminal 2, and construction and gradual phasing in of Terminal 3. It is also expected that by 2012 a new Midfield Terminal Complex situated between the two runways may replace the existing complex. Once the bulk of the passenger and cargo activity is shifted to the new

building, the airport’s capacity will treble.

ADAC, which was created in 2006, manages the emirate’s other airports as well. These include Al Ain International Airport, which services the inland oasis city of Al Ain, several small domestic airports, including Sir Bani Yas and Delma island airports and Al Bateen, which is located on Abu Dhabi island.

Al Bateen which once served as a military base, is currently being renovated at a cost of Dh200 million to transform it into an exclusive facility for private jets carrying passengers, who wish to land directly in the capital’s centre.

The emirate’s Surface Transport Master Plan (STMP) looks ahead to the year 2030 when the capital’s population is expected to reach 3 million.

It foresees a transformation in not only the way the UAE capital city’s residents commute but also largescale changes in the way commercial goods will be transported.

STMP deals mainly with roads and mass transit.

Upgrades and capacity increases for the aviation industry and the rebuilding and reshuffling of industrial seaports are laid out separately.

In 2006 the emirate’s Department of Transport was merged with former departments of seaports and civil aviation. Abu Dhabi Ports Company (ADPC) now oversees port operations, management and development. As per a partnership agreement, global ports operator DP World provides its international ports management expertise to support and enhance operations in the emirate’s major ports.

The emirate is preparing to shift operations at the main port at Mina Zayed to a new industrial area at Taweelah, north of the capital, after Khalifa Port is developed and commissioned. This would create the third and largest port in the emirate. At present Mina Zayed serves as the import and export hub thus affecting the flow of traffic through the city. By shifting the port, freight passage will be removed from the city centre thus easing the flow of traffic.

Of STMP’s proposals, roadways, bridges, trains, trams, buses and the metro are changes that affect individual passengers, while commercial projects such as construction of a freight railway and plans to encourage more shared use of roadways are in the interest of freight efficiency.

ROAD NETWORK The emirate boasts premier road network with paved roadways connecting Abu Dhabi city, the sparsely populated Western region, the inland oasis of Liwa as well as small towns and villages. The network is also indicative of the government policy of

KT photos: Iftikhar Shaheedi

spreading transport infrastructure upgrades equally to the benefit of outlying areas, thereby helping in easing migration to cities.

In order to alleviate the problem of traffic congestion, which is causing economic losses of nearly Dh5 billion per year, the government plans to introduce an urban public transit system that rivals or even exceeds the best in the world. By doing so it hopes to take off substantial number of the city’s residents off the roads and thus unclog the city’s arteries.

In order to reduce traffic congestion outside the urban areas the government is prioritising projects like the widening of the Mafraq-Ghweifat highway.

Abu Dhabi also hopes to be associated with green energy and environmentally friendly mass transit.

Its new metro will consist of 130 kilometres of lines on two routes traversing the city centre with a supplementary network of 350 kilometres of trams. A high-speed rail link will connect major nodes on the network.

The Department of Transport is already working in coordination with major property developers to ensure that the metro, trams and planned high-speed rail link have the right of passage through major developments and that the planned stations will be integrated into new projects. ■

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ABU DHABI REGIONS

Striving for quality

EDUCATION The new education policy is aimed at building an advanced education system which enhances the country’s development projects and encourages its competitiveness regionally and internationally

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DUCATION is a mirror of the UAE’s progress and civilization. It also enhances national identity among students as part of the country’s strategic plan and programme. “Our goal is to provide educational services that would achieve educational development according to international standards,” says Humaid Mohammed Obaid Al Qattami, Minister of Education.

Al Qattami lauded the projects and plans of the Abu Dhabi Education Council (ADEC) that call for achieving best international educational practices. He also praised the support of the UAE’s wise leadership to the ministry’s educational development programmes and its visions in creating an educational system that harmonizes with the best universal educational standards, preparing students for a beneficial and productive life.

The ministry’s mission also leads to a successful educational system compounding students, schools and parents in a harmonizing system that achieves the highest levels in educational performance in a way that helps deepening the spirit of responsibility in all levels and develops people’s obligation towards serving the community.

Dr. Mugheer Khamis Al Khaili, Director General of Abu Dhabi Education Council, says the new education policy is aimed at building an advanced education system which enhances the country’s development projects and encourages its competitiveness regionally and internationally. Al Khaili says the government of Abu Dhabi wishes to be one of the top five governments around the world.

KT ILLUSTRATION: SIDHARTHAN

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“The concentration on higher education is to bridge the current gap between graduates and the market place in support of the emirate’s 2030 economic vision,” says Salem Al Sayari, acting director general of the council.

The focus of higher education saw a shift from bookish knowledge to research based and job market readiness initiatives for sustainable development.

Reiterating the vision of the country, Shaikh Nahyan bin Mubarak,the Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research, said: “We are committed to providing our students with the knowledge and skills necessary for living and working in a global environment.”

The vision of Abu Dhabi Education Council is to provide educational services, including a distinct contribution to helping students to build their capacity to support the growth and prosperity of Abu Dhabi.

“As part of the 10-year strategic plan of the council, the schools of the future were designed to provide positive learning environments that will enhance the quality of education in Abu Dhabi and achieve excellent learning outcomes,” says Al Khaili.

The government’s leadership stressed that the student should be the main focus of the desired developments in the educational system. Students’ performance and their ability to keep up with all of the advancements in the scientific and technical fields will be encouraged.

“Providing a learning environment through the development of state-of-the-art school buildings and facilities is essential for the success of the proposed educational system,” says Al Sayeri.

Meanwhile, ADEC has unveiled its school facilities programme at the Building Schools Exhibitions and Conference - Middle East and North Africa (BSEC Mena) held at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre on December 13 and 14.

The school facilities programme will see the building of 18 new schools across the Emirate starting in mid-2010.

These are the first new schools to be developed under rhe council’s 10-year strategic plan.

The schools will include seven Cycle 1 (Grade KG-5) schools, seven combined Cycle 2 and Cycle 3 schools (Grades 6-12), two Cycle 3 schools (Grades 10-12), and two KG-12 schools. The programme will provide learning environments of the highest quality that support current teaching methods and new curricula while supporting the population growth of the Emirate.

“ADEC’s strategic plan is a historic transformation of the education system that will deliver educational excellence. Providing students with world class learning environments is a key element of our 10-year plan and is the foundation for achieving excellence,” says Al Sayeri.

“With the best facilities to support them, students will have a greater chance of achieving their learning goals and will be better able to help Abu Dhabi reach its goal of economic diversification and growth. I am delighted that we have Musanada as our partner in delivering better schools for a better future,” added Al Sayeri.

Established by His Highness Shaikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the President of the UAE and Ruler of Abu Dhabi, Musanada develops and manages cost-effective and responsive services for the Government of Abu Dhabi. As part of its memorandum of understanding with ADEC, Musanada will provide design and construction management services as well as construction supervision for each of the 18 sites.

“What we are doing is creating a new way of learning.

Development of analytical skills in our students is a key objective of ADEC’s strategic plan and these

ABU DHABI REGIONS

new learning communities combined with the other innovative features of our school designs will help bring this initiative to life,” says Hamad Al Daheri, Director of Infrastructure and Facilities at ADEC. “In addition, research has proven that a well-designed school building could be a decisive factor on driving student achievement, and retaining quality teachers.”

ADEC’s new school designs will be economical, and easy to build and operate. For the first time, sustainability features have been incorporated into school design such as energy efficient air conditioning systems, and water saving devises.

Other key features of the new school designs include special attention to maximizing the use of daylight, and maintaining indoor air quality acoustics and thermal comfort to provide students and teachers with a healthy, safe and stimulating work environment.

Labs and ICT rooms will also be furnished and equipped with the latest technology, and every educational space in the new school buildings will be fitted for wireless Internet connections.

For the first time also there will be dedicated classrooms for music, art and design, and technology that will be fully equipped to support diverse learning opportunities. The new school designs will include sport facilities, swimming pools, auditoriums, libraries and other spaces which can be used by the community after school hours.

“The Future Schools Design Competition not only provided students with a valuable creative integrated learning opportunity, it also gave us insight into the features and elements of school design that appeal to students,” says Sayeri.

Education chiefs in Abu Dhabi have unveiled plans to build 18 new schools by the end of 2011 as part of the new strategy.

The Abu Dhabi Education Council is set to begin construction work on the facilities in mid 2010 and is planning a further 12 schools by the end of 2012.

These schools will be the first to be developed under ADEC’s 10-year strategy plan, the council said in a statement.

The programme aims to provide learning environments of the highest quality, which supports the latest teaching methods and new curricula, while also being able to cater for the population growth of the UAE, the council added.

Meanwhile, a revamp on the national curriculum, new staffing strategies to attract qualified teachers to meet international standards and strengthening courses in Arabic, Islamic and Social Studies have also been announced.

Meanwhile, the Masdar Institute of Science and Technology places Abu Dhabi prominently on the world map as the Middle East’s first graduate academic institution dedicated to research of alternative energy, environmental technology and sustainability. It welcomed its first batch with 92 students from across the globe in September this year.

Alongside state-of-the-art federal universities, academic hubs have attracted top ranking universities, diversifying opportunities for those who do not wish to travel abroad for higher education.

Zayed University became the first federal university to enroll international students for higher education courses this year. ■

For the first time there will be dedicated classrooms for music, art and design, and technology that will be fully equipped to support diverse learning opportunities. The new school designs will include sport facilities, swimming pools, auditoriums, libraries and other spaces which can be used by the community after school hours

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ABU DHABI REGIONS

TOURISM

STEADY GROWTH Abu Dhabi Tourism Authority aims to attract 2.3 million hotel guests to the emirate by 2012 and it sees an increase in the number of hotel rooms to 24,000

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T

HE World Tourism Congress has estimated that the tourism industry across the Middle East region will grow at an annual rate of 5-10 per cent over the next decade and Abu Dhabi with 80 per cent of the UAE’s land mass, beaches, mountains and also the world’s largest sand sea is well-positioned to capitalize on this opportunity and realize its tourism potential to the fullest.

The Abu Dhabi Tourism Authority (ADTA), which manages the tourism industry of the emirate, has set a new target of attracting 2.3 million hotel guests to the emirate by 2012 and it sees an increase in the number of hotel rooms to 24,000. In order to realise this goal the authority has increased its marketing campaign abroad. This included pavilions at 17 travel fairs across 11 countries in 2009. The campaign will further expand to three more emerging markets – India, Spain and Malaysia – next year.

In 2008, the emirate received about 1.5 million guests and the ADTA expects similar tourist numbers this year despite the impact of global economic crisis. Abu Dhabi witnessed a 15 per cent rise in tourist numbers each year from 2004 to 2008. Officials say that its adjusted target now eyes a 10 per cent growth in tourists next year, with a further 15 per cent predicted for 2011 and 2012.

The perception that Abu Dhabi is a destination for mainly business travellers is changing fast with the development of new projects like Sir Bani Yas Island and Saadiyat Island which will be home to Guggenheim Abu Dhabi Museum and a local branch of Louvre.

Meanwhile, events like Abu Dhabi’s first F1 racing Grand Prix in November this year have raised the emirate’s profile and also brought it a direct economic return. Held at Abu Dhabi’s Yas Marina Circuit on Aldar’s Yas Island development, the F1 racing Grand Prix turned the world’s attention to

the capital of UAE. On an average this event attracts more than 600 million viewers worldwide.

ADTA’s five-year plan up to 2010 targets seven major events and it intends to pursue this as part of its long-term approach to build a destination for events. According to top ADTA officials, events of an international scale and calibre deliver exposure well beyond the shores of UAE and present great opportunities, destination awareness, economic and cultural benefits to Abu Dhabi.

ADTA reported a 7 per cent dip in hotel occupancy rates between November 2008 and January 2009, but undeterred, the government pressed ahead with its expansion plans. It has continued to work on improving tourist attractions and business travel, a growing sector in Abu Dhabi.

The capital city’s hotels are confident that they can emerge unscathed from the global downturn because they are more reliant on business travellers than leisure tourists. The emirate’s strong infrastructure and hydrocarbons sectors continue to draw in visitors for business purposes. Hotels continue to witness demand from engineers, industrialists and businesspeople. Abu Dhabi also receives a lot of diplomatic visitors and tourists from foreign missions. Demand for hotel rooms is also bolstered by the growth of MICE (meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions) industry.

Endowed with 200 natural islands, Abu Dhabi is exploiting its potential for ecotourism by injecting capital to transform this land into a high-end, low volume tourism destination. Tourism Development Investment Company (TDIC) has embarked on a plan to transform Sir Bani Yas Island into a five-star nature resort. The island is situated 170 kilometres to the west of Abu Dhabi City in the waters of the Gulf.

The government and private sector are rolling out a number of low-density luxury resorts. Aldar Properties, is working on the 1.8- million-square-

ABU DHABI REGIONS metre Al Gurm resort to the West of mainland Abu Dhabi. This eco-resort is being built among the emirate’s mangroves. A $272-million development, it will be managed by Banyan Tree Hotel Resorts, and have 161 private suites and a residential component containing 72 luxury homes.

The comprehensive tourism strategies developed in conjunction with local organisations and communities to identify tourism expectations and opportunities, will cover all regions in the emirate including Al Ain and Al Gharbia (Western Region). While Al Ain has traditionally been a major destination for local and regional visitors, investments are being sought to expand the region’s tourism infrastructure base. This will include visitor accommodation, attractions, dining and retail facilities.

Al Gharbia has scenic and unspoilt natural environment comprising desert heartland such as Liwa, nearly 350 kilometres of underdeveloped fertile coastline, islands and a maritime environment. The Qasr Al Sarab desert retreat is coming up in the Liwa Desert.

With successive surpluses and regular oil revenue streams, Abu Dhabi has the capability to continue diversification of the economy through tourism.

TDIC plans to launch projects worth up to Dh10 billion by the end of this year. It has parcelled out land and supervised phased large-scale projects. The company will also be responsible for bringing 20 per cent of Abu Dhabi city’s hotel rooms to the market by 2012.

Abu Dhabi still faces an undersupply of hotel capacity and both hoteliers and potential investors are coming forward to take advantage of this opportunity. Abu Dhabi had 13,000 hotel rooms in 2008 and it is estimated that 7,800 more rooms will be added by the end of this year.

Projects to go on-line this year, providing more hotel rooms, include the Qasr Al Sarab desert retreat, the first Aloft property in the Middle East with 480 rooms, seven hotels by Aldar Properties on Yas Island, which includes the five-star deluxe Yas Marina Hotel which opened in time for the Formula One Grand Prix season. The seven hotels on Yas Island include a mix of five-, four- and three-star properties and together will increase the number of hotel rooms by 3,000.

The $27-billion Saadiyat Island is Abu Dhabi’s leading development. Early this year, TDIC admitted repriortising some of its unannounced major projects because of the cautious debt markets.

However, Abu Dhabi’s longer-term vision has not been jeopardised and its showpiece projects are expected to be delivered on time, raising the emirate’s profile as a tourism destination. ■

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ABU DHABI REGIONS

Significant progress in HEALTHCARE This year, the Health Authority – Abu Dhabi has updated the pharmacy law to prevent the misuse of the prescription process

By Olivia Olarte

H

EALTHCARE in Abu Dhabi has made significant progress during the past year with the launch of a new autism centre in January, to the introduction of the first health insurance portal in the region by Daman, and the opening of ambulatory (outpatient) healthcare centres and family clinics across the emirate aimed at bringing the healthcare services closer to the residents.

The past year was also the time when the swine flu scare caused many to doubt the capabilities of the local health facilities and authorities to handle the pandemic, especially during the re-opening of the new school year.

The Health Authority – Abu Dhabi (HAAD) has lived up to the challenge by holding series of workshops aimed at educating the frontliners such as the medical, airport and seaport personnel on how to handle suspected cases for H1N1. Later, it held joint training sessions with the Abu Dhabi Education Council (ADEC) for educators and school medical teams on the management procedure of swine flu infection amongst students.

HAAD has also identified the Shaikh Khalifa Medical City (SKMC) and Zayed Military Hospital as National Influenza Reference Laboratories in Abu Dhabi to process influenza-like-specimen. As part of the ongoing efforts to monitor and curb the spread of swine flu, SKMC sought accreditation to become a National Influenza Surveillance Centre of the World Health Organisation (WHO) in June this year.

Some of the major launches during the year included the inauguration of the autism centre, New England Centre for Children - Abu Dhabi and the Kennedy Centre for New Life at the Oasis Hospital in Al Ain for paediatrics and maternity.

New speciality units were also opened this year including the new Orthopaedic, Sports Injury and Arthroplasty at Lifeline Hospital and the new state-of-the-art Therapeutic Apheresis at SKMC. The success stories continue with major breakthroughs in surgery including a complex maxillofacial surgery involving a radical reconstruction of the jaw of a 14-year old boy, successful implantation of a Biventricular Assist Device (BiVad) to replace the failing heart function of a teenage girl, a rare heart surgery of a 13-year old girl and a number of kidney transplantations at SKMC. In an effort to curb illegal medical

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practices, HAAD’s regular inspections resulted in suspension of licenses of several physicians and a banning of one doctor from medical practice due to violations of health regulations, and closure of three medical facilities for flouting rules.

This year, HAAD has also updated the pharmacy law to prevent the misuse of the prescription process. However, despite all these progress and the quality infrastructure in place, there remain certain challenges that needed to be addressed including the continuous lack of trust on the local healthcare system with patients seeking treatment abroad; the rising cost of accommodation in Abu Dhabi, which dampens the medical tourism potential of the emirate; and the lack of research and development.

Healthcare experts were of opinion that the lack of trust among the residents were primarily driven by poor perception of the health system here and called for an effective brand building. In addition, the healthcare services also need to be improved in order to boost patient confidence.

For this reason, The National Investor (TNI), a regional investment and banking group, will spearhead the establishment of healthcare-services projects in the region with an initial investment of around $70 million in the region, with a particular

Abu Dhabi has restructured its healthcare system to ensure that all residents — nationals and expatriates alike — have access to high-quality medical care at a reasonable cost by encouraging greater participation by the private sector focus on the UAE, starting with Abu Dhabi.

The investment plans include the establishment of a medical simulation and training centre, recertification services, (chronic) disease management centre and health records management and equipment business management.

Meanwhile, Abu Dhabi has restructured its healthcare system to ensure that all residents – nationals and expatriates alike – have access to high-quality medical care at a reasonable cost by encouraging greater participation by the private sector.

Looking ahead, there is much to look forward to for the residents of Abu Dhabi. This include the opening of Danat Al Emarat, a world-class hospital for women and children located at Mohammad bin Zayed City in 2011, as well as 20 new state-ofthe-art outpatient health centres by United Eastern Medical (UEMedical) company within the coming years.

Mafraq and Al Ain Hospitals will also undergo expansion and renovation to include new buildings, additional facilities and increased number of beds and departments by 2013.

These are but few examples, but significant enough to recognise that the Abu Dhabi healthcare sector has gone a long way, brought mainly by the continuous joint efforts between the local health authorities as well as private and government healthcare providers and institutions. ■

ABU DHABI REGIONS

ABU DHABI COUNTRY CLUB

EXPERIENCE THE THRILL

OF WALKING IN THE AIR SPACEWALK is open to all members and non-members and is the most entertaining attraction of Abu Dhabi Country Club HAVE YOU ever drive past the Abu Dhabi Health and Fitness Club (ADHFC) and wondered what that tall tower was all about? That tower happens to be the only indoor skydiving facility in the Middle East, known as SPACEWALK. SPACEWALK is the most adventurous attraction of the club provided with all the

facilities and personnel expertise that make the experience as real and as thrilling as outdoor skydiving.

Major changes and developments have taken place in ADHFC, which recently changed its name to Abu Dhabi Country Club to better reect its purpose and live up to its reputation.

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ABU DHABI REGIONS Abu Dhabi Country Club provides luxury services to everyone from business to family clientele. Apart from the fitness and sports facilities, the club also possesses one of Abu Dhabi’s hidden gems that is the gourmet restaurant Sardinia Abu Dhabi Country Club membership fees are usually very moderate, and the club provides various promotional packages.

Non-members may use most of the club’s facilities on a daily basis according to the availability except on weekends.

SPACEWALK is open to all members and nonmembers throughout the week and is the club’s most entertaining attraction. The SPACEWALK’s senior flight instructor, who has years of skydiving experience, demonstrates the indoor skydiving process.

Before each flight, users are shown an introduction video and are provided with a personal briefing by one of the flight instructors explaining how to position the body and what communication signs are to be used during the flight.

Users are required to wear protective suits with helmets and goggles, and with every flight experience there is a flight instructor present inside the flight chamber and outside there is a controller who adjusts the fan to control the wind speed and pressure.

The moment users step into the flight chamber, they are thrown up in the air and the skydiving fun begins. With SPACEWALK team of experienced skydivers at hand, the flight will provide a safe and enjoyable experience for the entire family.

Anyone can try indoor skydiving, regardless of gender, experience or age provided that the participant is at least three years and has a body weight that does not exceed 90 kilograms.

A 2-minute flight (equivalent to 1 hour on the treadmill) is Dh180 and is perfect for anyone

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looking to experience human body flight.

The club’s outdoor facilities include a swimming pool, 9 tennis courts, basketball and squash courts.

Other developments taking place at the club include a pizzeria, with live pizza cooking in a wood stove oven, a sports complex with an Olympic-size swimming pool, a multi-purpose court along with a two exercise studios and a junior (under 17) gym that are scheduled to open on 1st January, 2010, as well as a spa built over 1,200 square metres that is set to open in 5-6 months’ time.

The indoor fitness facilities consist of a gym that is the biggest and best equipped in Abu Dhabi, and a smaller gym for women only. Bowling, squash courts and aerobic classes are also available.

The club’s aerobic classes offer the increasingly popular and trendy Lesmills packages that offer 8 different aerobic programmes for all levels – Beginner, Intermediate and Advanced so that everyone can enjoy.

Apart from the fitness and sports facilities, the Country Club possesses one of Abu Dhabi’s hidden gems that is the club’s gourmet restaurant, Sardinia.

The proud owner of 6 Timeout awards, the opulent restaurant with its golden pillars offers a unique menu with lavish food presentations including a 12 and 18 course meal or small appetizers served on 12 plates.

Abu Dhabi Country Club provides luxury services to everyone from business to family clientele and puts the words “it is impossible to overdo luxury” into a reality. ■

Surface Transport Master Plan

Year 2030 Planned Improvements

Central Business District

Metro Tram Regional Rail Freight Rail Existing Major Roads Road Improvements Ferries Metro Stops Park & Ride locations 0

P

3

Scale in Kilometers

Abu Dhabi International Airport

P

1.5

6

Desired outcomes

The Plan

Reduced traffic congestion The Master Plan strives to reduce traffic congestion and commute times through an integrated, comprehensive transport system that employs world-leading technologies to make transport attractive and efficient. Demand management techniques will further reduce the number of cars driving during peak travel times.

An integrated, multi-modal system

Attractive urban environment The Master Plan recognises that transport infrastructure will help shape the structure of neighbourhoods, districts, open spaces, and mixed-use centres of various scales, and that components of the transport system must be designed in a manner that supports a vibrant, wellconnected urban environment.

Sustainable, low-carbon future Ideally, all electricity used by Abu Dhabi’s transport system will be obtained from low carbon sources of renewable energy, such as solar cells. The Department of Transport will collaborate with the Abu Dhabi Future Energy Company to ensure that Abu Dhabi’s transport system uses the most sustainable solutions available.

Protected environmental resources In planning and designing specific components of the Master Plan, every effort will be made to protect Abu Dhabi’s unique natural environment. Where transport needs conflict with environmental concerns, the Department of Transport will work to minimise or offset environmental impacts.

P Capital City (future)

World class city, world class transport Abu Dhabi’s vision for the future calls for nothing less than a world class, sustainable transport system—one that sets a global standard for efficient services, integrated technologies, and innovative policies. This transport system is also envisioned to support Abu Dhabi’s unique economic, social and cultural, and environmental needs through the following goals.

Dubai QATAR Arabian Gulf Abu Dhabi

This chapter outlines the specific objectives and strategies underlying each of these goals, and highlights several of the desired outcomes that will be achieved once the vision for transport is realised.

Al Ain

P OMAN

SAUDI ARABIA

High-speed regional rail (blue) and freight rail (black) cover the entire Emirate, connecting Abu Dhabi with Al Ain and the Western Region, and moving beyond the Emirate borders to link with Dubai.

P

Economic goal Promoting economic competitiveness and vitality through efficient, high-quality transport services for passengers and freight.

Society and culture goal Protecting and enriching people’s lives by maximising safety and access to opportunities for all.

Environment goal Delivering world-leading performance in environmental sustainability by using resources responsibly, minimising pollution, and preserving Abu Dhabi’s unique environment.

The future of transport in Abu Dhabi transcends individual modes of travel. Many journeys will utilise a number of transport modes, with each mode functioning effectively not only in isolation, but in concert with the other modes.

For example, a traveller’s journey could begin in a suburban residential neighbourhood, where he/she might take a bus to the nearest metro station, transfer to a train that rapidly transports him/her to Capital City, and finally switch to a tram that deposits him/her one short block from the door of his/her desired destination.

The Master Plan includes six major passenger modes

Roadways Will use advanced technology to provide drivers with route guidance and travel information, safe speed management, coordinated traffic signal controls and a car park guidance system to maximise traffic flow and reduce the need for cars The Surface Transport Master Plan is designed to ensure that to circulate in search of a this journey is as efficient and pleasant as possible. It calls for parking space. Convenient two key ingredients to ensure a successful network-wide travel and safe park & ride sites will make transitioning to experience: the public transport network 1. A comprehensive, “macro” level approach. The Surface hassle-free.

Transport Master Plan approaches transport planning comprehensively, ensuring that the sum of its individual Bus parts equals a highly coordinated and integrated multiWill provide frequent modal transport solution—a solution that will provide and regular services to travellers with seamless, enjoyable travel throughout the seamlessly reach those network. Each mode of transport is designed to not only locations not served by other work logically and reliably on its own, but to do so in relation forms of public transport. to connecting modes of travel.

High-quality, air-conditioned 2. The inclusion of world-class technology to aid coordination. vehicles will offer a relaxed, safe, and comfortable Best practices in Intelligent Transport Systems (ITS) from environment. On-street bus across the world are combined to ensure that the citizens stops will be equipped with of the Emirate of Abu Dhabi benefit from the best that passively cooled shelters technology can deliver. Travel modes are coordinated through integrated travel network management and control and real-time bus service and inter-modal connection systems. Easy-to-use ticketing, travel planning, and realtime travel updates make each journey pleasant and free of information provided by built-in displays. logistical barriers. Travellers will be able to make informed travel choices based on journey travel times, journey cost, environmental impact (estimated carbon footprint of the selected modes), and reliability (taking into account the impact of weather conditions, travel network maintenance, special events, and unplanned incidents).

High-speed regional train Will connect metropolitan Abu Dhabi to the outlying areas of the Emirate, to Dubai and the northern Emirates, and enhance linkages with neighbouring countries. The high-speed rail network will feature the world’s fastest trains, travelling up to 400 km/hr, to provide a high quality intercity service that is competitive with air travel and faster and more convenient than car travel.

Tram A large-scale tram network—an estimated 340 kilometers of two-way track—will support the local transport needs of high-density areas. Tram stops will be located so that most people can reach a stop with no more than a 300 meter walk, will have air-conditioned or passively cooled waiting shelters, and will be fully integrated with the local pedestrian network and other transport modes.

Metro Will provide competitive journey times for longer distance trips within the metropolitan area.

The network will consist of approximately 130 kilometres of two-way track with stations every 3 to 5 kilometers or 1 to 2 kilometers in the most dense areas. A dedicated airport express service will run from the Central Business District, featuring in-town check-in and special cars for checked luggage.

Ferry and Water Taxi Will supplement the landbased transport network and serve both sides of Abu Dhabi Island as well as off-shore business, residential, leisure, and tourism destinations. Ferries will follow pre-planned routes with a published schedule, while water taxis will be licensed for area operation. At key locations the embarkation and disembarkation jetties will link to land-based transport services.

ABU DHABI REGIONS

Yusuff Ali wins Abu Dhabi Chamber election Indian businessman was re-elected for a second consecutive term with a massive 2,256 votes YUSUFF ALI MA, a prominent Indian businessman, has secured his place as a director in the Abu Dhabi Chamber of Commerce & Industry after a clean sweep at the elections.

He was re-elected for a second consecutive term with a massive 2,256 votes out of 2,599 casted by foreign voters.

The elections were held for 15 seats of the board of directors of the Chamber including two seats reserved for the expatriate business community in the Emirate.

This is the second time elections were held for the Board of Directors. Both the expat candidates were part of the ‘Abu Dhabi First’ panel which consisted of 15 candidates. The new board to be sworn in for a fouryear term will take office in January 2010.

Yusuff Ali, managing director of Lulu Hypermarket Group, thanked fellow business community members who voted for him irrespective of his nationality and vowed to work for their welfare and boost the economy of Abu Dhabi.

Vayalar Ravi, Indian Minister for Overseas Indians, extended his best wishes to Yusuff Ali and described the landslide victory as a proud moment for India and Indians. He hoped that Yusuff Ali’s close relationship with the rulers and royal family would benefit the large Indian community in the Gulf.

Talmiz Ahmed, Indian Ambassador to the UAE, said Yusuff Ali’s victory would further strengthen Indo - UAE relations and boost trade between the two countries. ■

Supporters celebrate the victory of Yusuff Ali after the election results were announced

Business community lauds Dr Alom Dr Kassem Alom says “the hard work now begins for us to develop Abu Dhabi further and execute the economic 2030 vision” ABU DHABI’S business community has congratulated a leading businessman Dr Kassem Alom, who has been elected member of the board of directors of the Abu Dhabi Chambers of Commerce and Industry (ADCCI).

Dr Kassem Alom, managing director of Al Noor Hospital Group, won the election for the first time with 1,715 votes.

He is also the president of Syrian Business Council in Abu Dhabi.

Elected on a board seat reserved for the expatriate businessman, Dr Alom’s election would encourage foreign investor’s proactive role in Abu Dhabi’s economy.

The presidents of various business councils and leading businessmen across the country congratulated him.

Dr Alom told supporters that the hard work now begins for us to develop Abu Dhabi further and execute the economic 2030 vision.

Dr. Alom is a specialist in internal medicine and a Fellow of the Royal Society of Medicine, UK. Al Noor Hospital recently won the Shaikh Khalifa Excellence Award in the health care sector and Dr Alom received the award from Shaikh Hazza bin Zayed Al Nahyan, National Security Advisor of UAE. ■

Dr Kassem Alom basks in the glory of ADCCI election victory

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ABU DHABI REGIONS

‘Garden City’ in

ECONOMIC BLOOM

Al Ain has emerged as a regional centre for commerce and tourism, boasting a nascent aerospace sector

A

L AIN in Abu Dhabi’s eastern region is famous as the ‘Garden City’ with a relaxing atmosphere and resplendent natural beauty, however, that’s not all it has also emerged as a regional centre for commerce and tourism.

For centuries, Al Ain was the summer settlement for the people of Abu Dhabi, seeking respite from the humidity of the coast. Today the eastern region is developing as a haven for those seeking tranquility as well as growth-focused businesses.

The city’s population is expected to rise to 206,100 by 2015.

According to Abu Dhabi’s master plan, Al Ain will see a shift towards a high-income service economy with focus on tourism, financial and business services, health care and education. The area is also fast emerging as a national and regional centre for tourism, targeting the more affluent and discerning visitors looking for a wide range of experiences and activities.

Development projects are aimed at achieving these goals. These include an airport expansion project which will see the construction of facilities to handle the largest aircraft, luxury hotels, golf courses, an indoor ski slope on the flank of the Jebel Hafeet mountain, a safari park, a heritage village and reconstructed traditional souq.

The name Al Ain means “the spring” in Arabic and befittingly it is set amidst lush greenery. It is famous for its parks and tree-lined streets. This is offset by the rolling desert dunes and the majestic

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Jebel Hafeet mountain in the background.

The main oasis of Al Ain is the location for a local art gallery and souq structured on the model of Al Ain’s old market. It will be constructed from traditional materials such as adobe (a natural building material). The shops will employ local merchants. Of the two other galleries planned within these precincts, one will display modern art and the other more offbeat art. Visitors will be able to admire the natural beauty of the area from the walkways around the oasis.

In addition to its natural beauty and great tourism potential, Al Ain benefits from its proximity to Dubai and Abu Dhabi, both major entry points for tourists. However, its main selling point is that it is far less busy than both UAE’s trading hub and capital city. In addition to the region’s traditional lifestyle, cultural activities and architecture modern tourism facilities are also being developed.

The opening of the Bawadi Mall, the eastern region’s largest mall, has made Al Ain city an active player in the UAE’s retail market. The mall, which opened in the first half of this year, includes a Carrefour hypermarket with over 400 shops, many of them featuring top international brands.

The complex has been built on a 80,000-square metre plot, offering 110,000 square metres of gross leasable area. The complex also houses a traditional souq offering local handicrafts and a livestock market.

The supermarket is at the heart of the shopping and leisure complex, where customers can spend

Surface Transport Master Plan Taking a closer look: the Central Business District Centred on Al Suwwah Island and incorporating adjacent edges of Al Mina, Al Reem, and Abu Dhabi Islands, the Central Business District will support the highest concentration of office space in Abu Dhabi. Modestly scaled bridges will be used to connect the islands and will serve as extensions of existing city streets. Lower density residential areas will surround the Central Business District, so that many workers may be able to live in close proximity to their place of work. While no major shopping malls are anticipated for the area, smaller retail nodes will serve the daily needs of residents and workers. Since the Central Business District is situated on a series of islands, road transport and parking options will be quite constrained. Public transport modes including metro, tram, bus, and ferry will offer ideal solutions for commuters travelling to and from the District.

Metro Tram Regional Rail Existing Major Roads Road Improvements Ferries Metro Stops

‫الشمال‬

2

1

0.5

0

Scale in Kilometers

The Central Business District will support the highest concentration of office space in Abu Dhabi and will be served by a range of public transport modes, including metro, tram, bus, and ferry.

Photo courtesy of Gulf News

Surface Transport Master Plan

The Impact Mobility elements

Safety improvements

The integrated transport network described in the Surface Transport Master Plan will result in a newfound ease of travelling, improving day-to-day life by shortening commute times, simplifying errands, and connecting friends, family, and business associates located throughout the city and the region. This chapter highlights several areas in which the Master Plan will enhance everyday personal mobility.

The Master Plan recommends a multi-pronged approach to improving transport safety. The Department of Transport will institute vehicle safety checks, establish maximum loads for commercial vehicles, and introduce regulations that limit the number of hours that an individual can drive a commercial vehicle without resting. Traffic laws will be rigorously enforced, driver training will be encouraged, and certain restrictions (such as a two-year probationary period) will be placed on new drivers. Road safety audits will be conducted to mitigate existing safety hazards.

• • • • • •

Service to all destinations Transport for all Public transport as an attractive choice Provisions for pedestrians Transit-oriented developments Safety improvements

Initiatives will be pursued to reduce traffic speeds, particularly near schools and in higher density areas with significant pedestrian activity. Pedestrian-controlled traffic signals will allow people to cross safely at intersections and certain mid-

block crossings. ‘Pedestrian only’ phases could be instituted at the busiest intersections, such as those near major transport interchanges.

In order to attract more users to public transport, travellers must have confidence that their journeys will be safe and secure. The Surface Transport Master Plan recommends a variety of safety measures. Public transport stations will be well-lit and well-designed to ensure that waiting areas are not secluded. Closed circuit television cameras placed at strategic points will facilitate safety monitoring from a central control system. Public transport communication systems and public transport employees will be able to convey simple, clear directions in case of emergency.

Transit-oriented developments Transport investment and land use development patterns are very closely related. The Master Plan makes the case for maximising the potential to achieve many transport, development, economic, and environmental objectives through coordinated land use and transport planning.

Transit-oriented development (also known as TOD) is a primary approach to creating quality places that offer a variety of transport choices. TODs commonly feature a broad range of uses—including residential, commercial, and community uses—at relatively high densities and with maximum access to public transport. TODs typically centre on a public transport interchange, such as a station for regional rail, metro, tram, and/or buses. Densities tend to be highest in the centre, and gradually decrease when moving further away from the centre. By offering a convenient mix

of uses and an appealing, high-quality walking environment, TODs provide a dynamic place for people to live, work, shop, and play in an environment that does not require car trips for the basic activities of daily life.

As a development configuration, the TOD offers many benefits. TODs provide high-quality places to live and work.

They increase transit ridership and reduce reliance on cars, and therefore have limited impacts on traffic congestion.

They allow for healthier lifestyles with more walking, less stress (due to the reduced effort required to complete daily errands), and less pollution (due to the reduced reliance on car trips). Since TODs are compact and use less land, they also offer lower development costs as compared to more sprawling development patterns.

Transit-oriented developments commonly feature a broad range of uses—including residential, commercial, and community uses—at relatively high densities and with maximum access to public transport.

Public transport as an attractive choice The Surface Transport Master Plan incorporates numerous approaches to making the public transport system as userfriendly and easy to navigate as possible. All public transport modes are closely integrated and will feature a uniform brand and symbol. When users see the symbol, they will know they have reached an entry point of access to the entire system.

The integrated transport system will feature comfortable, well-designed interchanges that allow users to transfer seamlessly from one mode to another. Electronic smart card ticketing will allow users to conveniently pay fares that cover all of their transport needs for a given period of time. Displays featuring real-time connection information will provide users with up-to-the-minute travel details about when the next train, tram, bus, or ferry will arrive.

Experience in other communities indicates that as public transport systems are introduced, targeted marketing efforts can contribute to a significant increase in ridership. People who have never used public transport before may require basic instruction in order to feel comfortable buying a ticket, reading a route map, or transferring between modes. As new transport lines are opened, media campaigns can help introduce residents to the new system. Television and radio ads can encourage use, and leaflets and timetables can be distributed to residents and businesses along the new routes. Special celebrations and promotions can even be planned. For example, offering free rides for one week can generate public enthusiasm, media exposure, and user familiarity with the new system.

The integrated public transport system will feature a uniform brand and symbol.

When users see the symbol, they will know they have reached an entry point of access to the entire system.

Surface Transport Master Plan

Transport for all Plan Abu Dhabi 2030 makes clear reference to investing in infrastructure that serves all people in the Emirate. For example, Plan 2030 states that there should be a range of housing and services targeting all family sizes and income levels. From a transport perspective, this means that public transport systems should be accessible and attractive to a wide variety of people, including high, middle, and low income earners, business people and tourists, women and children, and the elderly and disabled. Economic accessibility will be assured through a pricing structure that is affordable for all, whether this involves a low-priced flat fare structure or a multi-tiered structure.

Special services will be designed to accommodate the transport needs of various groups of people. For high

earning commuters who live in the suburbs, this may mean instituting luxury commuter rail or direct bus service to the Central Business District. For workers living in labour camps this will mean ensuring that, like other residents, they too have access to a nearby bus stop. For women and children this may mean receiving priority access to certain seats.

And for the elderly and disabled this may mean equipping transport vehicles with low floors, wheelchair lifts, and other enhancements to promote physical accessibility.

Under the philosophy of “transport for all”, public transport will never be seen as the mode of last resort. Instead, the Surface Transport Master Plan presents a system where public transport becomes a preferred, accessible means of travel that meets the needs of all groups.

The Surface Transport Master Plan will produce a system that is economically, culturally, and physically accessible, and attractive to all socio-economic groups.

Service to all destinations The expansive system envisioned in the Surface Transport Master Plan aspires to optimise accessibility to destinations throughout the metropolitan area and beyond. As planned, the transport system will service 100 percent of the metropolitan area with access to a public transport facility within a 5 minute walk (about 300 metres). In practice, this means that any resident can leave home and reach a bus stop in a matter of moments. Many residents will also be walking distance from rail-based systems including tram, metro, and commuter rail.

The Surface Transport Master Plan is intended to create a strong link between the geographic distribution of transport services and population density. Areas with the highest population densities and highest travel demand will be serviced by high-speed, high-capacity modes with limited stops (such as high-speed rail and metro). Areas with lower population densities and lower travel demand will be serviced by lower-capacity modes (such as buses) that have a greater frequency of stops and provide easy connections to the rail systems.

Where we live

Provisions for pedestrians All trips begin and end with a walk. Creating a safe and pleasant walking experience throughout Abu Dhabi—from residential neighbourhoods to dense urban centres—is critical to encouraging the use of public transport and reducing the number of car trips. The vision for the future, as described in both Plan Abu Dhabi 2030 and the Surface Transport Master Plan, emphasises the importance of creating an attractive and comfortable pedestrian realm.

destination to destination. Taking into consideration the summer climate of Abu Dhabi, it will be necessary to offer protection from the heat and create a reasonable comfort level along walking routes. Amenities such as trees, screens, and covered arcades can offer pedestrians shading and places for rest.

Improved walking routes are essential in locations where there are high volumes of pedestrian movement or where there are links between transport interchanges and key facilities. Pedestrian amenities must create a perception of safety and security, so that those who walk feel protected from nearby traffic. A visually attractive environment will also encourage walking by making it interesting to move from

For much of the year the temperatures in Abu Dhabi are conducive to cycling as a reasonable mode of transport. The Surface Transport Master Plan calls for a network of safe, clearly marked bicycle routes to connect existing and new developments. Short-term cycle hire will be available near major transport interchanges and areas of concentrated activity such as business and shopping centres. Attractive and convenient bicycle parking and storage facilities will also be provided to encourage cycling as an alternative to motorised transport.

Support for cycling

“Because all trips begin and end with a walk, walking should be made as comfortable as possible all year round in Abu Dhabi.”

Plan Abu Dhabi 2030

Surface Transport Master Plan Taking a closer look: Capital City Capital City (also known as the Capital District) will provide a large amount of office space and employment opportunities, but its focus will be different from the Central Business District. While the Central Business District is poised to attract big business, including commerce and financial sectors, Capital City will be oriented to house government offices, academic institutions, high-tech industries, and the medical sector.

This new district will serve as an iconic location to showcase many of Abu Dhabi’s major institutions.

Metro Tram Regional Rail Existing Major Roads Road Improvements Ferries

Like the Central Business District, Capital City will be surrounded by residential areas. Capital City will feature one primary regional retail node in the form of a Central Souq that is accessible via metro lines as well as regional rail. As indicated by the green circular tram routes, Capital City features an innovative conceptual design and street pattern. It will serve as an ideal interchange for a variety of transport modes, bringing students to university, patients to hospital, and government employees to their offices.

Metro Stops Park & Ride locations

‫الشمال‬

2

1

0.5

0

Scale in Kilometers

Capital City will focus on housing government offices, academic institutions, high-tech industries, and the medical sector. The innovative conceptual design and street design will support broad public transport choices.

Photo courtesy of H.E Falah Al Ahbabi – General Manager Abu Dhabi Urban Planning Council

Acknowledgments

Abu Dhabi Airports Company

Economic Development Department

The Department of Transport also thanks:

Abu Dhabi Future Energy Company—Masdar

Environment Agency of Abu Dhabi

ACP Visioning+Planning

Government departments

Abu Dhabi Municipality

General Directorate of Abu Dhabi Police

mamemo productions, concept & creative

and other organisations

Abu Dhabi Port Company

Office of the Brand of Abu Dhabi

Al Ain Municipality

National Transport Authority

Special appreciation is extended to the

Al Gharbia Municipality

Tourism Development & Investment Company

individuals and organizations that provided

Aldar Properties PJSC

Urban Planning Council

images for this document.

28 Abu Dhabi — Island Development

Abu Dhabi — Island Development 25

NPC going strong: Majoor “NPC will come up with around 500-600 apartments between now and 2010-end”

By Anwar Ahmad

C

ONSTRUCTION major NPC (National Projects & Construction, Abu Dhabi) has good news. It is having “only very minimal effect” of the global financial crisis on its ongoing projects, and almost all its projects are on track, said Paul Majoor, its general manager.

In an interview to Khaleej Times, Majoor said Abu Dhabi being a major player in the UAE economy, NPC will have a bright future, especially as the emirate’s growth is well-planned and on track.” NPC is operating in the UAE since 2003.

To a question on the impact of the global financial crisis, he said, “We are among the lucky ones.

We are carrying on with our commitments, and

meanwhile also secured a new work, and funds are also coming in for us. The general slowdown in the market has not affected us much.”

“True, we had a project that was planned but not started. We put it on hold due to funding issues. When we get the funds, we will begin the work on it,” he said.

When the material costs in the market comes down, competition increases, and this will affect the margin of profit. No doubt about that. Material costs have come down in the UAE, but there is another major cause for cost decline. This is that contractors have become desperate and they are tendering at a very light margin. That has caused a further reduction in the prices. The material prices have come down because of the global situation and contractors don’t have good

business, so they’re cutting down the prices, he explained.

The NPC will come up with around 500-600 apartments between now and 2010 end, he said.

The biggest project is the National Tower that’s coming up in a joint venture with Arab Tech. “The project is basically, a three-year project, which we have started now,” he stated.

“Our second big residential project is about to complete by December 2009 at the Reem Island in Abu Dhabi. The cost of this project is Dh735 million, Majoor added.

“We have projects worth Dh5 billion in the UAE now, which are under construction. We are going to start another project on Reem Island, called Twin Towers, one commercial and one residential,” Majoor said. Ç

DESIGN AWARD IN SUSTAINABILITY CATEGORY

Top honour for Lord Foster

... for his work on Masdar City Project

Saood Al Junaibi with Lord Foster Norman after the presentation of the award

ABU DHABI URBAN Planning Council (UPC), the agency responsible for the future of Abu Dhabi’s urban environment recently presented the Condé Nast Traveller Innovation and Design Award in the sustainable category to Masdar. Saood Al Junaibi, Director of Development Review and Urban Design, represented the UPC at the prestigious event and presented the award to the internationally acclaimed architect Lord Foster for his work on Masdar City.

Masdar City, which is the most ambitious sustainable development in the world today, will be the world’s first zero carbon, zero waste city powered entirely by renewable energy sources. As part of a long term strategic commitment by the Government of Abu Dhabi to accelerate the growth and deployment of future energy solutions, Masdar City will take sustainable development and living to a new level and will lead the world in understanding how all future cities should be built.

Saood Al Junaibi said: “I am delighted to be presenting this award to Lord Foster. His work on Masdar City has been truly inspiring and the innovation that he has incorporated into the master plan for Masdar City will become a benchmark for cities all over the world”.

He further added: “Incorporation of sustainability measures in all aspects of urban planning has been the mainstay of the visionary Plan Abu Dhabi 2030. Abu Dhabi’s sustainability initiative, Estidama is a clear testament of our commitment towards promoting best sustainable practices in the realm of

urban planning”.

From renewable energy to biomass, Masdar City is a cleantech cluster which is already attracting the world’s best. organisations from various sectors, innovators, incubators, research and development pioneers and solution providers will be part of the journey to create, work and live in Masdar City.

“The unique Masdar City initiative is a splendid example of the Estidama principles that combine sustainability and liveability with the aim of creating a sustainable future for the next generation. More than just a sustainability program or a rating system, Estidama is the symbol of an inspired vision for governance and community development, an overarching way of viewing all aspects of our life based on four main pillars; environment, economy, society and culture,” added Al Junaibi.

“Our role at UPC is to activate innovative urban planning responses supporting and energizing projects like the one developed by Masdar to serve our diversification strategy,” concluded Al Junaibi. Ç

Masdar City will be the world’s first zero carbon, zero waste city powered entirely by renewable energy sources. As part of a long term strategic commitment by the Government of Abu Dhabi to accelerate the growth and deployment of future energy solutions, Masdar City will take sustainable development and living to a new level and will lead the world in understanding how all future cities should be built

ABU DHABI REGIONS

Walking tall in the CULTURAL LANDSCAPE ADACH boosts Abu Dhabi’s position on the cultural map locally and globally THE EMIRATE of Abu Dhabi is witnessing a distinct cultural and artistic mobility, thanks to the efforts of the Abu Dhabi Authority for Culture and Heritage (ADACH) to boost the emirate’s position on the world’s cultural map and make it a hub for major cultural and artistic events and activities, and a destination for artists and creators from around the world.

ADACH seeks to implement its Strategic Plan 2008-2012 at an accelerated pace, with the promotion of culture and national identity as a source of pride for all.

Shaikh Sultan bin Tahnoon Al Nahyan, ADACH Chairman, said that the Authority seeks to develop an ambitious strategy to promote and support culture and arts and has made a huge investment in order to achieve its numerous initiatives.

“Arts are an integral part of Abu Dhabi’s culture as they contribute to our heritage by leaving behind a large group of paintings, designs and artworks produced by the local community. Therefore, we must commit ourselves to supporting access to these arts, encouraging and providing new works of art which are produced by talented individuals and art institutions in the emirate of Abu Dhabi,” said Shaikh Sultan.

“ADACH seeks to sponsor intellectual, literary

Since its establishment, succeeded to a large extent in engraving its position on the world’s artistic and cultural map, thanks to the great and continuous support of Shaikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces, and his vision of Abu Dhabi as a global cultural hub which is becoming a reality 26

and artistic activity and preserve, protect, manage and promote cultural heritage abroad through setting out policies and plans and developing existing projects, alongside its important and fundamental role in organising archaeological work, and the direct supervision of excavation operations by qualified experts licensed by the Authority,” he added.

Mohammed Khalaf Al Mazrouei, Director-General of ADACH, said that the Authority has, since its establishment, succeeded to a large extent in engraving its position on the world’s artistic and cultural map, thanks to the great and continuous support of Shaikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces, and his vision of Abu Dhabi as a global cultural hub which is becoming a reality.

“We have come a long way towards making culture and art a part of Abu Dhabi’s daily life and identity through the strategy of preserving the emirate’s cultural heritage. This has contributed to strengthening feelings of pride in the hearts of citizens and residents with regard to their heritage, achievements and social and economic development,” noted Mazrouei.

ADACH is in charge of the management and overall development of culture and heritage in Abu Dhabi. The scope of the Authority’s work lies in the conservation, protection, management and development of the tangible cultural heritage in Abu Dhabi, including the archaeological, cultural and historic sites.

The work of ADACH also seeks to preserve and develop Abu Dhabi’s intangible heritage through integrating it into society’s daily life and encouraging it to revive traditions and customs, exercising and supporting research and institutional collaboration, and aiming to promote a better understanding of the culture and heritage of the emirate, the UAE and the Arab World.

ADACH also supports the arts and encourages innovation in literature, art, cinema and theatre among UAE citizens, whilst achieving a greater interaction between innovators and the youth of the UAE and the world, and promoting cultural and literary activities in Abu Dhabi, the UAE and the Arab world through the modernisation and expansion of the emirate’s National Library’s services, and through

the support of research.

Jahili Fort: Shaikh Tahnoon bin Mohammad Al Nahyan, Ruler’s Representative in the Eastern Region, inaugurated Jahili Fort among heritage events last December. This includes a visitor information centre, a temporary exhibition gallery, a permanent exhibition on the traveller Mubarak Bin London – Wilfred Thesiger, a bookstore and a recreation area.

Jahili Fort was rehabilitated according to the international standards established by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) and turned into an active cultural centre and a major destination for visitors and tourists.

ADACH organised Zayed and the Dream, a musical play among other cultural and artistic events commemorating the 37th National Day. The play was a tribute to the UAE’s visionary leader and founder, late Shaikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan.

Return to classical music This year ADACH organised numerous arts, cultural and heritage festivals, events, seminars and weekly lectures in addition to exhibitions of fine artists for hundreds of UAE artists, residents and visitors from around the world. Among other activities there was the Abu Dhabi Classics which achieved a distinct success at all levels during its first season in 2008-2009.

More than 35,000 people attended the classical music concerts in Al Ain and Abu Dhabi, allowing the eight-month festival to achieve a financial profit in addition to international fame, with the participation of renowned musicians and conductors.

WOMAD Abu Dhabi ADACH organised the “WOMAD” festival, which was held for the first time in the region with the participation of a number of artistic teams and international singers. More than 80,000 people attended the three-day festival on the Corniche in Abu Dhabi.

Sounds of Arabia In an effort to revive and preserve the era of beautiful art, and highlight the important aspects of the golden age of inherent Arab music through maintaining the Arabian identity, ADACH organised the second session of “Sounds of Arabia” with the participation of some of the top Arab singers and orchestras.

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Abu Dhabi — Island Development 27

Lulu Island

A mixed-use resort community “The island has the potential to host a world-class residential resort community that would not only serve as a landmark for Abu Dhabi but also signal the emergence of the UAE’s capital as a global city and the gateway to the Middle East”

LULU ISLAND Development Size: 5.9 sq kms; Location: 500 metres offshore from the Abu Dhabi Corniche, lying between the Abu Dhabi Breakwater and Port Zayed.

By Haseeb Haider

L

ulu Island is one of Sorouh Real Estate’s most exciting developments. Distinguished by its prime location just 500 meters off the coast of Abu Dhabi city on the Arabian Gulf, Lulu Island sits between the Abu Dhabi Breakwater on its western side and Port Zayed on its eastern side.

The island affords spectacular vistas of Abu Dhabi’s burgeoning skyline with a tranquil and serene natural environment.

Since its completion in 1992— the result of an extensive land reclamation programme — the 5.9 sq km area of land that make up Lulu Island have remained uninhabited and undeveloped. In 2006, Sorouh initiated a conceptual master-plan for Lulu. Sorouh believes that the island has the potential to host a world-class residential resort community that would not only serve as a landmark for Abu Dhabi but also signal the emergence of the UAE’s capital as a global city and the gateway to the Middle East.

A master-plan concept was proposed, that reflected Sorouh’s vision — a low rise, low density, low impact development that, over time, would mature into being the benchmark for self-sustainable island communities.

The concept integrates a mix of highend, low-rise residential apartments, villas, and resort areas as well as retail and community facilities.

A single iconic tower is also proposed to

create a physical heart for Lulu Island and serve as a monument to Abu Dhabi.

Sorouh’s master-plan will also create a series of distinctive canal, marina, cultural centre, recreational area and neighbourhood precincts. More importantly, a significant component of the island will remain open space, incorporating public beaches, parks, educational and community facilities etc. for residents and visitors to the island.

Sorouh has presented its vision for Lulu Island to His Highness Shaikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nayhan, President of the UAE, and General Shaikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Comander of the UAE Armed Forces.

The conceptual master-plan was received positively and in May 2008 General Shaikh Mohammed issued a decree that Lulu Island be granted to Sorouh Real Estate in co-ownership with the Mubadala Development Company.

Sorouh is assembling a world-class team of architects, landscape architects, engineers and other development consultants to deliver its vision for Lulu Island. Sorouh is also working closely with the Abu Dhabi Municipality and the Abu Dhabi Urban Planning Council to finalise the master-plan and integrate the project within the government’s long-term vision for Abu Dhabi.

Sorouh Real Estate has a project portfolio of Dh70 billion under development in the UAE and internationally. Ç

SHAMS Abu Dhabi SOROUH REAL ESTATE’S landmark development, SHAMS Abu Dhabi, is a Dh25 billion project on Al Reem Island. Home to 53,000 residents, SHAMS Abu Dhabi will be a new self-sustaining city designed around canals and parks integrating world-class master planning practices and extending the lush green of Abu Dhabi’s landscape.

Featured within SHAMS Abu Dhabi are several unique projects including the Gate District, Sky Tower, Sun Tower and The Marina.

Located a few hundred metres northeast of Abu Dhabi, SHAMS Abu Dhabi offers spectacular views of the Arabian Gulf and Abu Dhabi city, with a mangrove forest to the west and expanses of beautiful turquoise water to the east.

SHAMS Abu Dhabi will be easily accessible via several bridges and promises to become a significant leisure and business destination for Abu Dhabi’s cosmopolitan population.

The Gate District AT THE entrance to SHAMS Abu Dhabi, the Gate District will make a stunning mark on Al Reem Island’s skyline.

A cluster of eight towers, the Gate District integrates luxury high-rise residences, contemporary office environments, unique shopping experiences, and world-class hotel accommodation, all seamlessly blended into a complete living experience.

Using a range of innovative energy conservation techniques to maximize energy

efficiency, the towers also share state-of-the-art facilities in the shape of a shopping mall and luxury sports and leisure facilities.These include a gym with separate male and female facilities, tennis courts, squash courts, a lap pool, an infinity pool, and yoga lawn. A business centre with two boardrooms will cater to the requirements of business professionals.

Work on the Gate District is well under way with piling works complete on Towers one, two and three.

Sun Tower, Sky Tower THE SUN and Sky Towers are two of the eight towers comprising the Gate District.These two futuristic-looking towers are poised to have spectacular panoramic views across the Gulf and Abu Dhabi island.

The towers are set to become the pinnacle of luxury for their residential and commercial occupants, combining unique architectural designs with prestigious space, quality finishes and innovative energy conservation and user friendly features.

The 74-storey Sky Tower - - the tallest in the Gate District — combines residential and commercial space assembled vertically around a central core.

The Sun Tower is a purely residential tower.This 65-storey structure is home to spacious one, two, three and four-bedroom suites and penthouses that provide the ultimate standard in luxurious living. Both the towers are close to topping out with work on the Sun Tower progressing 100 days ahead of schedule.

The Marina SHAMS Abu Dhabi’s Marina District is set to become the stand-out, elite yachting centre in the Southern Gulf. Stepping on shore, the atmosphere at the oval-shaped harbour will be vibrant yet relaxed. Designed on two-levels, the Marina will be a destination for visitors seeking cafés, restaurants, shops and marine suppliers.The Marina will also be a terminus for boats from the mainland and water taxis from the canals. Ç — Haseeb Haider

ABU DHABI REGIONS Poetry contests ADACH held the fourth season 2009-2010 of the “Million’s Poet” competition, which began on December 16. Episodes are broadcast live every Wednesday evening.

“Million’s Poet,” the world’s largest poetry festival, was launched in 2006. The prize value has been raised to Dh22 million for the winners.

“Prince of Poets” is a major cultural competition during which poets compete for the crown of “Prince of Poets” and a cash prize of Dh1 million in addition to the “Princely Garments,” which is a historical legacy of the Arabs, and the “Princely Ring,” which is a symbol of the “Prince of Poets” title.

Camel Festival As a part of its keenness to revive heritage, introduce Bedouin culture and promote heritage tourism, ADACH organised the third session of the festival of “Mazayin Dhafra,” a camel festival in Zayed City in Al Gharbia (The Western Region), which features many important heritage events such as the popular market, poetry competitions, dates, and photography.

Ratab Festival ADACH organised the fifth Liwa Date Festival (Ratab Festival), which lured over 60,000 visitors and 3,000 participants to various competitions and programmes.

This year, the 10-day Liwa Festival was a heritage and tourist carnival. It managed to achieve its goals to develop palm plantation, improve the UAE’s various types of dates to further excellence and compete both domestically and internationally.

Four hundred and eighty publishers, 35 per cent of who are foreign entities, from 43 countries participated in the activities of ADIBF’s 19th session. This featured a series of workshops, dialogues, forums and conferences attended by a number of intellectuals, experts and specialists in literature, publishing and distribution.

Falconry heritage ADACH has made considerable efforts in the last few months to register falconry as a world intangible heritage at UNESCO. The Authority held several meetings in the matter, including one held in Reading, Great Britain, to discuss the submission of a falconry registration file.

It was attended by experts from participating countries.

ADACH also held workshops, the preparation for which is led by Dr Nasser Al Hemairi, Director of the Department of the Intangible Heritage at ADACH, and submitted it by the end of August in its final form in accordance with the standards set for registration, and being representative of all of the participating states.

Falconry, one of UAE’s ancient sports, represents an inseparable part of the country’s intangible heritage.

conference, an “Al Ain Music Center in the World of Islam” that will be officially inaugurated within two years.

The centre aims to build, encourage and foster research in the field of music and peoples’ music in the world of Islam. It also aims to establish research programmes, provide training for future researchers, organise programmes and cultural activities, document, collect and archive music and musical instruments and disseminate knowledge in addition to developing effective outreach programmes to support the understanding of music locally and globally.

Hunting and Equestrian Exhibition ADACH organised the Abu Dhabi International Exhibition for Hunting and Equestrian (ADIHEX) “Abu Dhabi 2009” in cooperation with the Emirates Falconers Club with the participation of 573 companies from 37 countries at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre.

ADIHEX included a number of events and competitions and the participation of the most important races and horse tracks in the world. Among the aims of this highly successful exhibition are the promotion of the use of hybrid birds in captivity for falconry sport, instead of the use of endangered wild falcons, and the activation of plans and strategies for sustain-

Theatre ADACH organised the play Richard III: An Arab Tragedy, within the framework of its interest in theatre as a serious and committed art.

More than 25 Arabic and foreign actors took part in the play that was performed three times in Abu Dhabi and Al Ain, drawing a huge crowd, especially university students.

The play is an adaptation of the original Shakespearean text, re-worked to appeal to Arabic culture, specifically to the Gulf region.

Islamic Treasures Last July, ADACH hosted an exhibition entitled “Islam: Faith and Worship,” which was held at the Emirates Palace and lasted for four months, as a part of its cultural strategy.

The exhibition featured 161 artworks selected from six Turkish museums and national libraries, including a wide variety of exhibits and the biography of Prophet Mohammed (Peace be upon Him) and other manuscripts.

An exhibition on the art of making old Islamic books by a group of Turkish artists and craftsmen also took place in early October. Additionally Konya Turkish Sufi Group’s two performances in Ramadan were among the exhibition’s events.

Shaikh Zayed the first centenary ADACH organised a grand commemoration in May to mark the centenary of the passing away of Shaikh Zayed the Great (Shaikh Zayed bin Khalifa Al Nahyan “Zayed I,” who died on May 19, 1909) at Jahili Fort in Al Ain. Numerous events of the centenary, highlighting the importance of Shaikh Zayed I in terms of his historic achievements and glories during his rule, were held during the celebrations. These included the opening of an exhibition of Shaikh Zayed I photos, an exhibition of a documentary produced by ADACH on Shaikh Zayed I and the opening of an exhibition for his photos and collections in addition to a variety of heritage events.

Book fair The Abu Dhabi International Book Fair (ADIBF) has achieved a quantum leap as it has become one of the fastest growing book fairs in the world, thanks to its professionally distinct organisation and the attraction of international publishers from around the globe.

Last July, ADACH participated in the second International Falconry Festival in Reading with Abu Dhabi’s 15-tent village which stole the attention of thousands of visitors and the media. It displayed a live model of Bedouin life with its figures, sand, camels, Saluki and kindled fire, whose coal came specifically from the UAE desert.

World Heritage Wonders Abu Dhabi’s declaration of the Wonders of the World Intangible Heritage is the pride of the UAE due to its importance in preserving human intangible heritage.

Last September, Abu Dhabi hosted the fourth meeting of the Intergovernmental Committee of Intangible Heritage (ICIH) of UNESCO, during which the representative list of 76 elements of human intangible heritage from 34 countries was announced.

UNESCO’s next meeting in Abu Dhabi will be a step towards activating the 2003 Convention for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Heritage, in addition to the declaration of the intangible heritage elements that ICIH agreed to register in the representative list of human intangible cultural heritage at UNESCO. Music in the World of Islam ADACH launched, during the academic cultural

able hunting in addition to the promotion of Abu Dhabi as a unique place for tourists from around the world.

Britain’s Household Cavalry Musical Ride performed six shows for the first time in the Middle East at Abu Dhabi 2009.

Film festival Dozens of Arabic and international celebrities and filmmakers took part in the third edition of the “Middle East International Film Festival” (MEIFF) organised by ADACH last October at the Emirates Palace.

One hundred and twenty-nine films from 49 countries were showcased during the 10 days of the film festival, including some films, which were shown for the first time in the Middle East.

ADACH also organised the third session of the Circle Conference, which runs concurrently with MEIFF, and brought together more than 40 leaders of international entertainment.

The conference covered a number of topics, including plans to fund new media work and the production of stories aimed at the global market, emerging markets in the film and television industry, joint regional production and filming locations in the UAE.■

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28 Abu Dhabi — Island Development

Abu Dhabi — Island Development 29

Emirates Palace going green Y

Hans Olbertz

We are now actively engaged in efforts relating to energy efficiency, pollution control, avoidance of hazardous chemical use, while providing the highest standards of luxury hospitality service to our guests

EAR 2009 heralds a first for Abu Dhabi as Emirates Palace aims to fulfill its goal of providing the first luxury five star hotel the Environmental Management System and obtain the ISO 14001:2004 certification.

Says Hans Olbertz, General Manager of Emirates Palace: “Achieving a global standard of excellence is a top priority for us as we look towards translating into real action the concept of the environment issue. In this regard, we are now actively engaged in efforts relating to energy efficiency, pollution control, avoidance of hazardous chemical use, while providing the highest standards of luxury hospitality service to our guests”.

Emirates Palace has already implemented a number of new initiatives through their eco-management policy that aims at educating and engaging all employees at every level in all aspects of their duties.

In the first four months of 2009, Emirates Palace has reduced electricity consumption by 2.1 million kilowatt-hours and LP Gas consumption by 111,500 litres, and has set itself high targets to continue to enhance the processes throughout 2009.

Saving natural resources is not, however, at the expense of providing world-class service, as Executive Director of Engineering at Emirates Palace, Ranjit Gunewardane explains.

“Technological advances mean that wise purchasing, for example LED lighting over metal halide lighting, can provide a significant enhancement by increasing the life cycle of lighted areas, thereby reducing the maintenance and ensuring reliable guest services in addition to energy saving. Emirates Palace covers a total area of 100 hectares, and given the scale of our site and operation, there are many opportunities to improve our carbon footprint, while enhancing the services to our guests.”

During 2009, Emirates Palace will be providing a regular progress report on their eco programme to its guests and clients, thereby giving them an

Nael Cement Products/Nael Cement Factory

Major players in nation-building

opportunity to discover more about this project at the iconic landmark in Abu Dhabi. With expertise, advance planning and education awareness programmes, Emirates Palace aims to add to its

significant number of hospitality awards and unique facts and figures and lead the hospitality industry in Abu Dhabi, the Garden City and capital of the UAE. Ç

Iconic landmark BUILT AS an iconic landmark showcasing Arabian culture and hospitality at its finest, Emirates Palace has created an enviable niche in the luxury resort industry, welcoming holiday makers from all over the world. It gives them a truly memorable leisure experience by providing luxurious facilities and amenities in comfortable surroundings and superior and personalized service.

Situated on a 1.3 km stretch of private beach and surrounded by hectares of manicured lawns, Emirates Palace comprises 394 luxury rooms and suites and a variety of fine dining options.

The resort’s leisure facilities include two intricately landscaped swimming pools, a spa, tennis courts, and two state of the art fitness centres.

Emirates Palace houses the most luxurious and technologically advanced meeting facilities in the region which include an auditorium with 1,100 seats, a main ballroom that can accommodate up to 2500 guests, over 40 meeting rooms, a Media Centre and a Business Centre. Ç

Nael Cement Products and Nael Cement Factory, member of the Nael and Bin Harmal Group of companies — established in Al Ain with an investment of over Dh1 billion — emerge as market leaders in supporting the construction projects in and around Abu Dhabi emirate

Oommen Varughese Managing Director

NAEL CEMENT products (NCP) and Nael Cement Factory (NCF), established in 2001 and 2007 respectively as subsidiaries of Nael General Contracting Group, have a unique vision – be “a one-stop shop for all concrete products”. They have their manufacturing facility in Al Ain industrial area under the Zones Corporation.

NCP, with its “state-of-the-art” modern facility spread over two square km area, has a range of products and solutions starting with the core materials used in the construction industry, the ubiquitous ready-mix concrete masonry blocks and insulated blocks. NCP is also engaged in providing value-added products such as precast insulated modular units, precast façade panels and cladding, Prestressed hollow core slabs, GRC/GRG, where supply and erection are part of the subcontract.

Having an in-house R&D department, NCP can offer “design and build” solutions to clients who are looking for innovative, cost-effective and sustainable solutions. Ability to offer the full range of concrete products under a single roof helps clients rationalize cost and provides the convenience of dealing with a competitive and customer-focused company.

NCP has considerable experience in “design and build” solutions using precast and offers green buildings in line with the “Estidama” principles adopted

Saed bin Harmal

by the UAE Government. These are Modular Semi precast structures which are sustainable, cost-effective and having an advantage of speed over the traditional methods of building structures. A large number of villa structures, commercial buildings and labour accommodations built in Abu Dhabi and Al Ain testify to this fact.

Inherent properties of a pre-stressed hollow core slab, when used as an alternative to a traditional concrete slab structure has a potential to deliver cost savings of over 30 per cent. Additionally, higher savings in energy efficiency over the lifetime of the structure and higher quality and durability makes this an ideal choice for buildings.

Cement is one of the main ingredients in concrete, and is the second most-consumed commodity in the world, after water. Nael Cement Factory, established just two years ago, has an installed ca-

Nayel Rashid Al Shamsi

pacity of 4500 TPD and caters to the demand from ready-mix and construction companies.

State-of-the-art grinding plant from Germany with technology from “CEMAG” and “Christian Pfeiffer” has seen NCF emerge as a reliable supplier of cement.

NCF sells both bulk and bag cement.

Packed cement is sold as 50 kg bags under the brand “Al Ain Classic” and is loaded on to the trucks by automatic loading plant.

Focus on Quality in all areas of operation, certified with ISO 9001:2008; and having an excellent customer service in place, has seen NCP grow as a successful company. With the new expansion in place, NCP & NCF are now empowered to serve the customer and meet market demands in a much better and responsive way. Ç email: ncp@emirates.net.ae

ABU DHABI REGIONS

WORLD-CLASS

KT photos: Iftikhar Shaheedi

SPORTINGDESTINATION Abu Dhabi is fast becoming the main venue for international sporting events. The emirate is playing a key role by creating worldclass infrastructure to attract leading sports stars and teams from around the world

By Abdul Haque Chowdhury

S

PORT PLAYS an important role in the lives of people in Abu Dhabi. It has the potential to enrich the lives of everyone irrespective of gender, age and social position. The emirate, with its finest sport and leisure facilities, is set to become the sporting capital of the Middle East.

Abu Dhabi is fast becoming the main venue for international sporting events. The emirate is playing a key role by creating world-class infrastructure to attract leading sports stars and teams from around the world. It plans to build the largest sports stadium in the UAE. The giant stadium will accommodate 65,000 spectators.

Abu Dhabi Sports Council was formed to lead, organize and support all sports activities in Abu Dhabi. It will serve the community at large and sports development in the UAE. The main strategy of the council is to promote Abu Dhabi as a world-class sporting destination, says Mohammed E. Al Mahmood, general secretay of Abu Dhabi Sports Council.

In addition, the council sponsors the establishment

of sports and social community clubs throughout the emirate and supports these clubs to achieve their objective of promoting youths’ participation in sports.

The council will also encourage and assist women and disabled people to participate in sports.

Football, the national game of the UAE, is most popular among all other sports of Abu Dhabi. It is an integral part of people’s life and this is reflected by the overwhelming support the sport receives from public and private sector sponsors.

The government has developed a resolute programme to build more sports facilities so more people are encouraged to play football in Abu Dhabi. The ministry is also targeting school children encouraging them to play football.

There are a number of football clubs in Abu Dhabi and the UAE Football League is competitive and the most looked forward to in the calendar, apart from the Etisalat Cup and the President’s Cup. Abu Dhabi has its own football club, Manchester City, in the English Premier League. Shaikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Presidential Affairs, owns the club which has its winter training base in Abu Dhabi.

Abu Dhabi has recently opened its doors to a highprofile football tournament by hosting the FIFA Club World Cup from December 9 to 19. The tournament has inspired the players and rekindled in them a burning desire to perform better on the football pitch.

All the FIFA club matches ¬- held at Zayed Sports City and Mohammed bin Zayed Stadium - attracted a large number of spectators and imbibed a great sporting spirit among youngsters, said an Abu Dhabi-based Emirati player.

“This world-class sporting event in Abu Dhabi is undoubtedly a great opportunity for our country and people and I believe it will help generate interest in football and produce better footballers,” Yousef Abdullah, general secretary of the UAE Football Federation, said during the beginning of the FIFA Club World Cup tournament.

The UAE has been a FIFA member since 1972. The country hosted the FIFA World Youth Championship in 2003 and FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup in November this year.

ABU DHABI GRAND PRIX Abu Dhabi has stunned the sporting world by hosting the inaugural Formula One Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix last month. Abu Dhabi Grand prix made

28

ABU DHABI REGIONS

history as Formula One drivers took part in the first-ever day and night race at the spectacular Yas Marina Circuit built on the Yas Island.

Apart from being one of the most modern race circuits in the world, Yas Marina Circuit is part of almost an entire motor world on Yas Island – one of the natural island scattered around Abu Dhabi.

The island is also a major leisure destination. Whether a driver, a racing team or a spectator, Yas Marina Circuit has been designed to produce an unforgettable experience. Inspired by the culture and values of Abu Dhabi combined with cutting-edge innovation and luxury features, it is a truly unique place. Yas Marina Circuit is the perfect combination of style and function.

Approximately 50,000 spectators can view the action on the circuit from the comfort of permanent, covered grandstands and VIP facilities.

Ferrari World Abu Dhabi is among the other major developments on the island. It will be the world’s largest indoor theme park when it opens in 2010.

Abu Dhabi will also host the 2010 Formula 1 season finale on 14 November as part of the finalised 19-race calendar. Governing body, the FIA, backed a proposal to swap the dates between Abu Dhabi, which will again host a twilight race, and Brazil.

CRICKET Cricket in Abu Dhabi is growing into a popular sport.

The emirate has excellent cricket clubs, which feature world-class sport and leisure facilities.

Abu Dhabi Cricket Council has played a vital role in promoting cricket in Abu Dhabi. The council organizes a range of matches and tournaments throughout the year. Abu Dhabi has over 20 teams, which shows the increasing popularity of cricket in the capital city. With the government’s sustained efforts it will not be very long before we see Abu Dhabi’s cricket team being internationally acclaimed.

Every year Abu Dhabi plays host to many cricket tournaments. Top cricket teams in the world come to the city to play cricket matches in Abu Dhabi. These international cricket matches attracts numerous tourists and thus promotes tourism in Abu Dhabi.

The most popular venue for playing cricket in Abu Dhabi is Shaikh Zayed Stadium, which opened in May 2004. Built at the cost $22 million this magnificent stadium is undoubtedly one of the world’s finest cricket grounds. It recently hosted a series of one-day internationals between Pakistan and New Zealand.

Al Ain Cricket Association, located at Al Ain, also plays an important part in publicizing cricket in Abu Dhabi.

The 2010 English domestic season will open in Abu Dhabi under floodlights and with pink balls, says John Stephenson, head of the Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC). The county champions, Durham, will play against MCC in a four-day match at the Shaikh Zayed Cricket Stadium from March 29 next year.

The match is part of an MCC drive to generate new cricket fans. “If this match is a success, it could help reinvigorate Test cricket. We have an opportunity to play our part for the good of the game and we’re determined to grasp it,’ Stephenson said.

Emirates Cricket Board chief executive, Dilawar Mani, said:”It would be a great honour for Abu Dhabi to host the MCC in the traditional county curtain-raiser.’

A handful of English counties have played pre-season warm-ups in Abu Dhabi and neighbouring grounds in the Emirates for the past three years.

TENNIS Abu Dhabi has already hosted a world-class tennis event, the Capitala World Tennis Championship (CWTC).

The capital city of the UAE will also play host to the second edition of CWTC from December 31 to January 2, 2010. The World No 1 Roger Federer and World No 2 Rafael Nidal have confirmed their participation.

CAMEL RACING AND HORSE RACING Traditional sports in Abu Dhabi include camel racing and horse racing. These sports enjoy patronage from the UAE royal family and attract everyone from the royals and Emiratis to residents and tourists.

GOLF Abu Dhabi has placed itself as one of the main destinations on the golf calendar with some top notch championships. The emirate hosts the Abu Dhabi Golf Championship, which is also part of the PGA European Tour.

With birdies, bunkers and bogeys keeping spectators on course, the Abu Dhabi Golf Championship was today commended for its off-the-course role in solidifying the UAE capital’s burgeoning reputation as an internationally renowned sports events power.

‘In partnership with Abu Dhabi Tourism Authority, we are building an exciting portfolio of world-class sporting events in the UAE capital, and the Golf Championship is a vital component in our strategy to promote Abu Dhabi as a world-class sporting destination,’ says the general secretay of Abu Dhabi Sports Council.

Playing Golf in Abu Dhabi is a unique experience.

The city has more than a dozen golf courses and five additional courses are open to visitors. New golf courses and venues are also springing up in Abu Dhabi regions including Sadiyat Island.

WATER SPORTS Water sports in Abu Dhabi are major tourist attractions, as they provide a much-needed break from Abu Dhabi’s scorching sun. Waters of the Arabian Gulf are crystal clear and Abu Dhabi is the perfect destination for water sports enthusiasts. Sailing is also another famous sport of Abu Dhabi, which gives relief from the extreme hot conditions prevalent in the capital and the surrounding areas.

Abu Dhabi Sports Council was formed to lead, organize and support all sports activities in Abu Dhabi. It will serve the community at large and sports development in the UAE. The main strategy of the council is to promote Abu Dhabi as a worldclass sporting destination, says Mohammed E. Al Mahmood, general secretay of Abu Dhabi Sports Council

ADVENTURE SPORTS The adventure sports are becoming increasingly popular. People who enjoy thrill and excitement will choose Abu Dhabi as the perfect place for adventure sports. They must add wadi bashing and power boat racing in their list of things to do in Abu Dhabi.

Adventure sports also include exploring underwater world by Scuba Diving in Abu Dhabi. ■

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Fundamentally STRONG Abu Dhabi real estate market is demand-driven and the bigger developers have the money to ride the credit crunch

W

ITH THE hydrocarbons industry as one of its largest employers, long-term demand is being forecast for a variety of real estate offerings within the emirate.

Abu Dhabi government’s support for the real estate sector in the emirate has been characterised by political will, financial wealth, clear vision and high-quality projects that are under way.

The emirate’s housing and commercial real estate sector as well as its tourism related projects have withstood the vagaries of the global financial downturn by changing their strategy and focusing on delivery of existing projects.

Most developers within the emirate are of the opinion that Abu Dhabi government’s initiatives have motivated companies in this sector and this has resulted in the emirate distinguishing itself as a international real estate destination of repute.

According to industry sources, the Abu Dhabi real estate market is demand-driven and the bigger developers have the money to ride the credit crunch. Overall, the fundamentals of the emirate’s real estate market remain robust with demand in the rental segment of the market showing firmness.

Just over 300,000 units were constructed between 2005 and 2007 creating a shortfall of 50,000 units in 2008 and as per projections this excess demand will continue till 2012 with demand exceeding supply by 34,000 units.

REGULATION AND TRANSPARENCY With more than 40,000 units coming on the market through 2011 and majority of them likely to be sold off-plan, the government is keen to ensure

that a transparent and stringent legal environment is created for property deals so that long-term investors and end users feel reassured about their investments.

The emirate is expected to establish a regulatory authority soon. The aim of the authority would be to chalk out an integrated system that streamlines property rent, sale and purchases, including suggesting legislation and rules that lead to stability.

Sectoral growth figures indicate the buoyancy of the emirate’s real estate sector. Between 2002 and 2007 real estate and business services grew 15.7 per cent annually. Real estate has maintained its percentage share of Abu Dhabi’s ever-expanding GDP between 2005 and 2007.

The strong population growth has fuelled the construction sector and real estate market. Between 2002 and 2007 it grew at an average rate of 4.8 per cent, while between 2005 and 2008 it averaged 6 to 7 per cent. Though low-wage expatriate labourers account for much of the population growth, increasingly nationals and highly skilled expatriate workers are making significant contributions to the emirate’s economy.

The Abu Dhabi Economic Vision 2030 estimates that nationals will make up 38 per cent of the active working population by 2030. The fact that the active population itself will double as a percentage of the overall population after two decades, will have a significant impact on the real estate market.

Certain facts that are likely to have an impact on the real estate market are the fact that nationals have a higher income and greater purchasing power also their household unit sizes are expected to shrink from the current figure of 6.5 people per household.

According to statistical data available in 2006, 52.6 per cent of the emirate’s population is under the age of 30 so the demand for new housing units is expected to be high. Abu Dhabi is expected to attract more and more people because it is an attractive place to raise a family. Its beaches induce relaxation and there are very few taxes. However, financing and the mortgage market will remain crucial in ensuring that large section of society has access to the newly constructed properties.

MORTGAGE FINANCE Major developers in the emirate are taking steps to address this need. Aldar Properties announced several deals to offer mortgage solutions for their property developments. Late last year, Mubadala Development Company, Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank, Aldar Properties, Sorouh Real Estate and the

30

Tourism Development & Investment Company joined hands to form a dedicated mortgage provider, Abu Dhabi Finance, with a paid-up capital of Dh500 million.

Abu Dhabi Finance offers mortgages to clients looking to buy properties in the projects implemented by Aldar Properties, Sorouh Real Estate and the Tourism Development & Investment Company in its first phase. Later it will service the rest of the emirate and the UAE. In the first half of this year the company announced several incentives, including provisions for mortgages with discounts of 101 basis points on the prevailing interest rate for one year and 50 basis points for the following six months. Mortgages with an LTV (loan-to-value) of 85 per cent are eligible for these discounts and application and processing fees have also been waived. The move is expected to encourage mortgage uptake among UAE nationals and residents.

Early this year, when the residential sector was shaken after regional and global credit dried up, there were distress sales of residential units in investment zones at prices that were almost half the peak level prices, however, these were seen as attempts by individual investors to raise quick capital through cheap sales.

Most major developers are, however, confident that the market is rebounding. Overall prices are holding firm on projects by master developers. Endusers and long-term investors are expected to drive the future of Abu Dhabi’s residential real estate.

Also the fundamentals of the market in the longer term seem positive.

Under Plan Abu Dhabi 2030, office space in the emirate will rise from the current figure of some 1.5 sq. metres per capita to a total of 6.5 sq. metres per capita by 2030. Meanwhile rental prices in the office sector have remained firm, indicating that investors in this market segment can be assured of attractive yields.

Many of Abu Dhabi’s premier developers are also exploring opportunities in the commercial segment.

Sorouh is planning to move into business parks.

REAL ESTATE PROFESSIONALS In anticipation of the growing demand for qualified human resources to steer the real estate market, the Manazel Real Estate, an Abu Dhabibased developer plans to establish a real estate academy in UAE’s capital city. A memorandum of understanding (MoU) was signed with the Department of Urban Planning at the University of Glasgow, Scotland.

As per plans courses offered by Manazel Real Estate Academy will include master’s degree, post-graduate diploma, certification courses and intensive short training courses. Bachelor’s degrees will be offered at a later stage. ■

30 Abu Dhabi — Island Development

Abu Dhabi — Island Development 31

NPC completes Abu Dhabi’s first Holiday Inn Hotel N

“The Danet Holiday Inn has been a very challenging project to work on, as its architectural sophistication called for a special focus on detail”

ATIONAL PROJECTS & Construction (NPC) has completed the execution of Abu Dhabi’s first Holiday Inn Hotel - Danet Holiday Inn. The company has handed over the structure for interior fit-out to its developer- Al Qudra. The Dh126,008,028 high-end business hotel with state-of-the-art trappings targeted at the discerning business traveller would be the third InterContinental Hotel Group property in the UAE. The project was completed in April and was an architecturally complex structure.

Danet Holiday Inn is strategically located right in the heart of Abu Dhabi, in Danet Abu Dhabi, the city that has earned itself the epithet of the ‘Skyscraper City’ Commenting on the handover of the structure, NPC chairman Salem Al Neyadi said: “Building the first Holiday Inn brand hotel in the capital has been a very rewarding and unique experience. The fact that we have helped Al Qudra realize the dream of Danet Abu Dhabi, exactly the way it was envisaged, gives us immense satisfaction. The Danet Holiday Inn has been a very challenging project to work on, as its architectural sophistication called for a special focus on detail. The project was managed by one of our most experienced and dedicated team of engineers.”

Al Neyadi further added: “Our core policy is to work hand-in-hand with our clients on every project we undertake to satisfy every construction standard and criteria that has been set forward. This requires immense teamwork and effort and I am proud to say NPC team has the ability to deliver the highest quality that strengthens our credibility and ensures a sound financial investment for our clients.”

The foundations of Danet Holiday Inn alone necessitated the removal of around 9000 cubic metres of earth and so far around 14500 cubic metres of concrete and 2800 tonnes of steel has been used in the construction.

Expressing satisfaction over the structure handover, a spokesperson for Al Qudra Real Estate said: “Danet Holiday Inn is among the anchor attractions in the overall Danet Abu Dhabi master development, which is our first major undertaking. For this project, we partnered with NPC because they not only share our vision of the project but also possessed the expertise to deliver on a project that is structurally both complex and iconic. NPC has been a part of many prestigious projects in the region. We are truly satisfied with the way the project has shaped up.”

The interior fit-out is now under way and the hotel is scheduled for opening in October 2009, when it will be ready to service the business community in the up and coming Danet Abu Dhabi area. Once completed, the four-star hotel will offer 203 rooms and top-of-the-range services that will distinguish Danet Holiday Inn from other business hotels in the capital, helping it to raise the benchmark for business travel and hospitality in the region.

Danet Abu Dhabi Danet Abu Dhabi, developed by Al Qudra Holding, is a major urban community set in the uptown region of the capital.

The project is the first major undertaking of Al Qudra Real Estate, which is a subsidiary of Al Qudra Holdings PJSC. The landmark real estate project has 34 multistoried commercial and residential towers, lush landscaped areas, hotels, shopping malls and entertainment facilities. Ç

Danet Holiday Inn is strategically located in the heart of Abu Dhabi. The hotel is scheduled for opening in October 2009

NPC and the Nation Tower

MESSAGE

National Projects and Construction, Arabtec Construction JV jointly undertake the work

National Projects & Construction LLC (NPC) was established in 2003 with a vision to provide unsurpassed contracting services to property developers in the UAE. Based in Abu Dhabi and being part of Royal Group, we have had immense support from the 60-company network, of which we are a part.

As a result, today, we are a rapidly growing contractor company with projects ranging from high-rise buildings to infrastructure necessities in some of the most prestigious projects in the capital.

Despite having grown by leaps and bounds and having achieved commendable success in our field, all of us at NPC continue to be driven by our vision to be recognized as the market leader in the region’s construction industry in the next five years and to establish a kind of inspired global interest in the field.

We also recognize the benefits that are derived from knowledge-sharing and the massive improvements it can make in project management and implementation of ideas.

As a result, we have entered into strategic partnerships with a number of leading international companies whereby we share expertise in handling mega-projects.

The UAE has a great vision about its long-term growth, investing heavily in infrastructure and tourism and effecting a diversification of the economy. NPC has been, and will continue to be, a part of this measured growth by participating in the building of new communities, landmark projects and infrastructure.

NATIONAL PROJECTS and Construction LLC, in association with Arabtec Construction LLC, will undertake for the construction of the prestigious Nation Towers mixed-use development on Abu Dhabi’s Corniche. International Capital Trading LLC (ICT) has awarded a Dh 1.6 billion contract to the two recently.

The development includes two buildings comprising a 64-storey residential tower, a 50-storey hotel and office tower and a retail podium. The site, which straddles the Corniche seafront, features an underground tunnel linking the towers to a beach club.

“We are breaking new ground with the new joint venture between ourselves and Arabtec, combining the resources of two of the region’s most respected contractors”, said Paul Majoor, GM, NPC, at the groundbreaking ceremony. “A project such as Nation Towers comes along very rarely and when it does, it usually marks a milestone in the development of a company”, he said.

“When complete, Nation Towers will not only be a testament to the power of skill, knowledge and quality, it will also be a reminder of the strength that the emirate of Abu Dhabi has displayed in the face of a wretched economic crisis. That we have a chance to participate in such an endeavor is remarkable and I look forward to the immense growth and learning that will come from the experience”, he added.

“ICT is proud to announce the award of this key contract to this exceptional JV. Given the current market conditions, we are confident that our decision emphasizes the faith we have in the foundations that underpin the economy of our emirate and the Abu Dhabi market. Nation Towers is an unrivalled and an elegant development which will enrich Abu Dhabi’s skyline,” said Hamad Abdulla Al Shamsi, Chief Executive Officer of ICT. The total development cost is estimated at Dh 2 billion, covering a builtup area of over 3,390,000 sqft and is forecast to be commissioned by the fourth quarter of 2011.

“We are honoured to have been selected to build this architecturally remarkable development which we have no doubt will stand out among Abu Dhabi’s leading projects” said Paul Majoor from NPC. “ICT has been exemplary in managing its projects in these challenging market conditions and we are proud to be associated with them in developing the Nation Towers,” added Riad Kamal Chief Executive Officer of Arabtec.

NPC’s Marina Square Zone A and Zone D projects are set for completion

by Q42009. Ç

An artist‘s impression of Marina Square Zone A and Zone D projects to be located on Reem Island in Abu Dbabi

NPC

Over time, we have built credibility, creating an image of a company that prides itself on working with the client, and advising them on the best possible course of action, while always keeping their needs and requirements a top priority, followed by respect for budgets and timely delivery.

WITH OVER AED 4 billion worth of current projects in Abu Dhabi, NPC is one of the fastest growing construction companies in the region. NPC is currently working on a number of prestigious projects including seven towers in Marina Square, which is being master-developed by Tamouh. It has also been retained by Reem Developers, one of three developers of Reem Island, for infrastructure works in the Najmat area of the island, which include roads and utilities as well as construction of two canal bridges. Other projects include the construction of Danet Mall on Danet Abu Dhabi for Hydra Properties, a mixed-use building on Danet Abu Dhabi for Sorouh.

Above all else, NPC espouses two core values that drive the UAE’s vision of the future: high standards for quality, safety and environmental awareness; and, appreciation for the extensive knowledge, expertise, dedication and diversity that our people bring to the table.

Arabtec JV

Arabtec is one of the leading construction companies in the GCC.The company has developed numerous projects including high rise developments, hotels, residential complexes, office blocks, stadia etc. Arabtec has a workforce of over 52,000 employees and a backlog in excess of $7.7 Billion (28.2 Billion UAE dirhams) in booked work.

We hope to continue playing an active role and accompanying you on our journey to success.

— Salem Al Neyadi, Chairman, NPC

An artist‘s impression of Nation Towers which will enrich Abu Dhabi‘s skyline

ICT

Officials and guests at the ground breaking ceremony of the Nation Towers project in Abu Dhabi

International Capital Trading (ICT) is a private investment company based in Abu Dhabi that owns and operates substantial assets in real estate and financial investments. ICT’s real estate projects are located in prime locations and range from single buildings and residential communities to mixed-use projects and master planned developments. In April 2009, ICT awarded a Dh 260 Million construction contract for a residential villa compound in Abu Dhabi.

34 Abu Dhabi — Island Development

Abu Dhabi — Island Development 29

Lifeline Group

Our motto: excellence in health care services LIFELINE WAS launched in 2006 and its services became operational in May 2007. What was the inspiration? Replies Dr. V. P. Shamsheer, its Managing Director, “My experiences in US, UK and the Middle East in the medical sector had convinced me that the situation prevailing in Abu Dhabi called for the launch of a unique health care delivery system here. None of the existing approaches were found suitable. Money and dedication of the professionals alone will not ensure quality health care delivery to the entire population. There was also the need for mixing quality and excellence with a humane approach and to ensure that the whole system is affordable to the people.”

Lifeline was started with general medicine, surgery, paediatrics, anaesthetics, diagnostic imaging and laboratory departments, besides GP service departments. “We had a soft opening with a few specialties to ensure that all our processes were efficient and effective. Later we added active obstetric and gynaecology department and this is complemented by the paediatric and neonatology departments. Neurology, plastic surgery, orthopaedics, ophthalmology and urology have also been added along with psychology. A women’s health section is due to open shortly,” he adds. Excerpts from an interview: Dr. V. P. Shamsheer, Managing Director

Our quick response and willingness to assist our clients are our strengths”

Question: What are the areas of operations of the Lifeline Group?

Dr. Shamsheer: The Lifeline Group is currently involved with direct patient care and the associated elements needed to improve quality care. We currently have our base hospital, Lifeline, on Electra Street, Abu Dhabi, and our Lifeline Hospital Daycare Surgery in Musaffah.

Lifecare hospitals in Al Raha and Musaffah, both managed by us, are well advanced and the first will be opened by early next year.

We are in the process of opening a new hospital in Oman and aim to have it functional later this year.

Our industrial division has 7 clinics.

There are two major upcoming projects, one in Abu Dhabi and the other in Al Ain. Our support areas currently include a chain of pharmacies and the Lifeline Scientific, a pharmaceutical distribution company. Both of these are being restructured to include new and exciting concepts.

D-Club is our organic food production unit producing organic, healthy, well-presented and delicious items.

Adline is our advertising unit that works closely with our marketing requirements as well as those of other major companies.

Q: What are the unique selling points (USP) of the group, and the individual institutions under it?

Dr. Shamsheer: We are a young group that has been successful in

such a short time. This makes us unique in the health care market. It is for the public using our services to say what they feel about us, but I must say that our quick response and willingness to assist our clients are our strengths.

We are also unique in the degree of outreach we have in charitable and socially responsible corporate activities. Our frequent free camps and campaigns (on diseases like breast cancer, diabetes, AIDS etc.) have been well received in the community.

Q: How did the group identify its present areas of activities, and how did these ideas evolve?

Dr. Shamsheer: Four years ago, when the concept of the company evolved, it was obvious to us that the people were not satisfied with the levels of services that were (then) available in both the public and private hospitals. We noticed that there was a need to have additional and more responsive hospitals. The need for expansion of the health care sector was all the more urgent in the Gulf states in general – something that was later confirmed by the McKenzie report.

Our base hospital, Lifeline, was launched with a view to enabling us test the approaches to quality medical care. Our expansion to other areas has come from this knowledge.

Q: What are the future plans of the Lifeline Group?

Dr. Shamsheer: We are currently

looking at various approaches to bring health care closer to the population. Some of our new developments will be launched in the coming months.

The Lifeline brand is now popular in the community and we have planned to make it a major provider of health care in the region by having facilities, programmes and staff to ensure excellence in health care service by involving those who understand the local requirements.

Q: How do the group and the institutions in it look at their past?

Dr. Shamsheer: Each patient who comes for health care is a unique experience. Lifeline’s success is evident from the fact we are able to widen our reach and at the same time continue to enjoy the trust of all those who visited us once. No hospital treating a large number of patients is without occasional problems associated with the provisions of this service. The important thing is to have the staff and systems in place to keep these problems to the minimum and learn from our experience.

We are, therefore, proud that the Lifeline has won the people’s recognition and regards our approach to excellence in patient care, as also recognitions from The Australian Council on Healthcare Quality, the Joint Commission International from America (JCI) and the Daman insurance group. The staff is especially proud of the fact that all these recognitions were won by us in record time. Ç