Emirates Projects Issue 109

ISSUE 109

News brought to you by Emirates Projects

COGRI MIDDLE EAST FLOORING FOR THE NEXT GENERATION OF LOGISTICS AND AUTOMATION

FACES OF SUSTAINABILITY EMIRATESGBC IN TOUCH WITH TOMORROW

ASGC MR BISHOY AZMY OUT OF CRISIS COMES OPPORTUNITY

GRUNDFOS DUBAI FACILITY SECURES LEED PLATINUM RECOGNITION

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Editors Foreword

DESIGNING A NEW WORLD AS THE UAE BEGINS TO RE-OPEN, MANY QUESTIONS ARE BEING ASKED ABOUT THE FUTURE, NOT LEAST HOW WE CAN DESIGN A SAFER AND HEALTHIER NATION. AND THESE QUESTIONS ARE FOR ARCHITECTS AND DESIGNERS AS MUCH AS THEY ARE FOR GOVERNMENTS AND SCIENTISTS. LONGTERM PLANNING AND VISION ARE NEEDED, NOT MERELY QUICK FIXES THAT MAY NOT WORK IN THE LONG-RUN. At the most basic level, to need to discover how to develop solutions and

WANT YOUR COMPANY TO APPEAR IN THE UAE’S LEADING TRADE PUBLICATION

materials that are safer and don’t require the continuous application of ISSUE 109

disinfectant, or indeed are manufactured using petroleum-based or metal products. However, that may be an impossible ask at present, so objects, such as tables and desks, need to be designed so that they can provide

News brought to you by Emirates Projects

limited cross-infection. Surely, if places such as petrol stations can put together plastic guards, can’t the design world do something better?

Humans are social animals, and we need spaces where we can be together while minimising disease transmission. Of course, many people are currently working from home, but isolation is not the answer. We need the means to bring us together that is safe and accessible.

But we also need to acknowledge the presence of risk, getting past the falsehood that technology and pharmaceuticals can make us immortal.

We need to accept that being human means that there is some degree of risk in our lives. As a species, we are too afraid of death, to the point where it is no longer brought up in polite conversation. This is foolish – and not at all good for our mental health. Yet what we need to do now is live! Yes, we need to take all sensible precautions and follow government guidance, but we do not need to fall victim of the second most dangerous virus on the planet in 2020 ... fear.

COGRI MIDDLE EAST FLOORING FOR THE NEXT GENERATION OF LOGISTICS AND AUTOMATION

FACES OF SUSTAINABILITY EMIRATESGBC IN TOUCH WITH TOMORROW

ASGC MR BISHOY AZMY OUT OF CRISIS COMES OPPORTUNITY

GRUNDFOS DUBAI FACILITY SECURES LEED PLATINUM RECOGNITION

CONTACT info@tpg.media www.emirates.tpg.media

SOCIAL MEDIA  @emiratesprojects  @emiratesprojects  /company/emiratesprojects

Things will return to normal at some stage, something that those caught up in the last global pandemic, Spanish Flu, would no doubt acknowledge. For now, though, stay safe and be happy.

Rod Millington EDITOR IN CHIEF

03 03

All our publications are printed using recycled paper.

BECAUSE WE CARE

04

Contents

COVER STORY

30

CoGri MIDDLE EAST LLC

SUPER-FLAT FLOORS, SUPER-HIGH STANDARDS FEATURE

18 PROJECT FOCUS BURJ CROWN BY LWK+ PARTNERS

Contents

EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEWS

38 FACES OF SUSTAINABILITY ALSO IN THIS ISSUE

08

17

AZIZI NEWS

LOCAL NEWS

24

26

KANOO ENERGY

LINE INVESTMENTS

05 05

06 06

Local Local News News

DEWA’S CONSERVATION PROGRAMMES AND INITIATIVES ACHIEVED CUMULATIVE SAVINGS OF 2.2 TERAWATT-HOURS (TWh) OF ELECTRICITY AND 7.8 BILLION GALLONS OF WATER These savings show DEWA’s efforts to achieve its vision to become a globally leading sustainable innovative corporation and demonstrate that it is a socially responsible government organisation,” said

HE SAEED MOHAMMED AL TAYER, MD & CEO OF DEWA

HE Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, MD & CEO of DEWA. Customers can access the My Sustainable

DEWA LAUNCHES 5TH ‘LET’S MAKE THIS SUMMER GREEN’ CAMPAIGN

number of simple guidelines to reduce the use

on DEWA’s website or smart app, and updating

Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA)

of electricity and water in summer and help

their Consumption Patterns file to benefit from

has launched its ‘Let’s Make This Summer Green’

customers to adopt a sustainable lifestyle.

conservation tips, tailored to each customer. The

campaign for the 5th year running. This year’s

Living Programme by logging onto their account

“Between 2009 and 2019, DEWA’s conservation

‘Let’s Make This Summer Green’ campaign includes

campaign will be communicated on DEWA’s

programmes and initiatives achieved cumulative

adjusting the AC temperature to 24 degrees, fix

social media as well as its internal and external

savings of 2.2 terawatt-hours (TWh) of

water leaks, and replace conventional bulbs

channels. The three-month campaign’s theme

electricity and 7.8 billion gallons of water. This

with LED bulbs and other simple steps. You can

is ‘Start Conserving Now’. It includes a

is equivalent to saving AED 1.3 billion, reducing

read more about conservation tips on DEWA’s

1.136 million tonnes of carbon emissions.

smart app and website www.dewa.gov.ae

THE BIG 5 WILL COME AT A TIME DURING WHICH DUBAI IS EXPECTED TO ENTER AN EXCITING NEW GROWTH PHASE

THE BIG 5 POSTPONED TO 2021 dmg events has announced that its annual trade show, The Big 5, will next be held on 12-15 September 2021, at the Dubai World Trade Centre. The new dates also apply to the specialised events that are staged alongside The Big 5 - The Big 5 Heavy, Middle East Concrete,

67,000+ HIGH-LEVEL BUYERS, SUPPLIERS AND EXPERTS

HVAC R Expo, Middle East Stone, The Big 5 Solar, and the Urban Design & Landscape Expo.

Ben Greenish, Senior Vice President at dmg events, said: “It was not an easy decision to take, but we believe it is the best for the construction players we proudly connect and have served since 1979. Over the past weeks, we made it our priority to listen to our exhibitors, visitors and other key stakeholders. We understand how crucial a successful trade event is for their businesses and how challenging planning ahead can be in such uncertain times. We have therefore decided to postpone this year’s event to offer an edition of the scale and nature expected of The Big 5 in 2021, which will boost the construction sector’s recovery efforts in the post-Covid-19 era.”

With Dubai moving the 2020 World Expo to October 2021, the next edition of The Big 5 will come at a time during which Dubai is expected to enter an exciting new growth phase as it prepares to present an amazing showcase and 21st century city to the world.

Local News

07 07

ENERGY SECTOR DRIVES CONSTRUCTION IN Q1 2020 The GCC construction market is estimated at $2.4 trillion, with over 23,000 active projects at the end of Q1 2020.

BNC Network, the largest construction intelligence platform in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA), issued the 17th edition of the BNC Projects Journal titled: Code Blue. The latest BNC Projects Journal stated that the GCC construction market shifted focus towards driving ongoing projects to completion in Q1 2020 and was cautious in new announcements as well as contract awards. $48.4 billion worth of projects were completed in Q1 2020, driven by the UAE and Saudi Arabia with 38% and 27% contribution respectively.

New projects worth $21 billion were announced in Q1 2020 with the largest contribution being made by the UAE with 59% market share followed by Qatar and Oman.

The GCC Construction sector registered a 4% YoY growth in March, which was primarily driven by the energy sectors, with oil & gas and the utility sector expanding by 16% and 7% YoY respectively. The industrial sector grew marginally by 4% YoY while the GCC transport sector contracted by 5% YoY.

NEW PROJECTS WORTH $21 BILLION WERE ANNOUNCED IN Q1 2020

DISTRICT 2020 FORMS STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIPS District 2020, the innovation ecosystem and future of Expo 2020 Dubai, has signed strategic partnerships with Dubai SME and the Mohammed Bin Rashid Innovation Fund (MBRIF) to support its global entrepreneur programme, Scale2Dubai.

In line with Dubai and the UAE’s proactive approach to supporting small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and the important role they play in bolstering the country’s resilient economy, both organisations will provide District 2020 with a pipeline of high-potential start-ups and small businesses by helping eligible companies join Scale2Dubai. They will also provide the start-ups and small businesses with the guidance, connections and funding they need to continue their growth as part of the Scale2Dubai programme.

Marjan Faraidooni, Chief Pavilions and Exhibitions Officer, Expo 2020 Dubai, said: “These milestone agreements with Dubai SME and MBRIF will further bolster the continued growth of the UAE’s start-up ecosystem and contribute to a stronger and resurgent economic environment.”

Scale2Dubai is currently accepting expressions of interest in the programme through the District 2020 website: www.district2020.ae. The application and short list process will follow in 2021, with successful applicants announced during Expo 2020 Dubai. Those chosen to be part of the programme will be able to move into their workspaces at District 2020 once it opens, shortly after Expo 2020 ends.

AVIN GIDWANI, CEO OF INDUSTRY NETWORKS

08

Local News

AZIZI NEWS AZIZI DEVELOPMENTS’ VCM PIONEERS COMMUNITY MANAGEMENT APPLICATION Azizi Developments has developed and launched a

Mr Farhad Azizi, CEO of Azizi Developments,

first-of-its-kind community portal application through

commented: “We are proud to unveil this innovative

VCM, its dedicated community management provider.

and technologically advanced communication

The mobile application grants Azizi community

platform, which is key to fostering ease of service access

residents a wide range of services, effectively enhancing

and a sense of belonging, as well as in encouraging

convenience, wellbeing and transparency.

enhancements to our communities.”

Addressing all of its residents’ needs and concerns, the

Having already delivered two sizable

VCM app allows those residing in Azizi’s communities

developments in Al Furjan – Samia and

to view announcements and updates, get access to

Farishta in January and February of 2020

information about community health, newsletters

respectively – Azizi plans to complete a total

and promotions, review account statements, make

of approximately 3,000 units by the end of

services charge payments and pay for other services

the year. While construction is progressing

rendered through a safe payment gateway, raise and

swiftly, the developer is also making

follow enquiries, concerns, and observations, and

dedicated efforts to enrich the lives of

organise community activities, all 24/7, worldwide.

those who reside in its communities.

AZIZI PLANS TO COMPLETE A TOTAL OF APPROXIMATELY 3,000 UNITS BY THE END OF THE YEAR AZIZI DEVELOPMENTS APPOINTS TOSHIBA FOR RIVIERA IN MBR CITY Azizi Developments has appointed Toshiba Elevator and Building Systems Corporation, the Japanese makers of the world’s fastest elevator, to supply and install all passenger and service elevators in a minimum of 36 buildings in Riviera, Dubai’s new waterfront-lifestyle landmark in MBR City, as well as for Creek Views, Azizi’s 634-unit modern luxury development in Dubai Healthcare City.

Toshiba’s most modern solution, its machine-roomless (MRL) elevators, will be integrated with premium wood-style cabin wall finishings and elegant buttons, embedded in full-height, luxurious glass panels.

Elevator safety is made a priority, with the technology meeting and surpassing all international standards.

Designed to introduce the French-Mediterranean lifestyle to Dubai, which is not merely about architectural art but also about a certain ‘joie de vivre’ - a celebration of life, a triumph of spirit - Riviera represents a new landmark.

The first phase of Riviera comprises 3,589 residences spread across 18 buildings, consisting of 2,461 studios, 935 one-bedroom, 111 two-bedroom, and 82 threebedroom units, most of which are projected to be finalised in 2020. Phase 1 has a total built-up area of 375,541m2 and a total gross floor area of 180,854m2.

3,589

RESIDENCES

375,541m2 PHASE 1, TOTAL BUILT-UP AREA

180,854m2

TOTAL GROSS FLOOR AREA

Local News

DUBAI SEES PRONOUNCED UPTICK IN DEMAND FOR RETAIL UNITS Azizi Developments has noted

posed by the outbreak of Covid-19,

a substantial surge in demand

which has temporarily impacted

for its 700+ retail units across its

brick and mortar businesses.”

communities in Dubai. Since January

Retail units on Azizi Riviera’s 1.6km

2020, the developer has sold 75 units

integrated boulevard and 2.6km canal

in MBR City’s Riviera, 40 units in Al

walk are considered to be an astute

Furjan, 19 in Dubai Healthcare City,

investment with the community being

six in Jebel Ali, five on Palm Jumeirah

home to over 16,000 families, and it is

and one in Dubai Studio City, bringing

being forecasted to welcome a sizable

the total retail units sold to 146.

volume of visitors as a landmark and

Nima Khojasteh, Executive Director

700+

RETAIL UNITS ACROSS DUBAI

146

TOTAL UNITS SOLD SINCE JAN 2020

cultural hotspot. Azizi’s retail units in

- Sales and Marketing at Azizi

Riviera currently start from AED 488K,

Developments, said: “We are pleased

with a 50% DLD fee waiver and four

to see our retail unit sales growing

years of free service charge. Investors

so rapidly, despite global challenges

can earn a projected ROI of up to 12%.

16,000

UPTO

FAMILIES IN RIVIERA’S COMMUNITY

12%

PROJECTED ROI FOR INVESTORS

AZIZI DEVELOPMENTS HIRES OVER 100 PROFESSIONALS Azizi Developments has increased the headcount for its business operations through the employment of 40 new staff, with plans to hire another 60+.

Azizi’s new hires are deployed across its Customer Service department, including its Customer Care and Mortgage teams, its Sales and Marketing department, as well as several other operational functions.

Azizi’s upsizing comes in light of an increase in sales enquiries, reflecting an uptick in demand in its world-class properties amid the current buyer’s market, and the developer’s continuous efforts in enhancing its customer-centricity and transparency.

Among the new staff are eight

Azizi’s revamped customer care strategy.

Mr Afzaal Hussain, Chief Operating Officer at Azizi Developments, commented: “After a thorough analysis of internal bottlenecks, we’ve determined

pursuit of continuously enhancing our transparency and customer satisfaction levels, excites our valued homeowners as much as it does us.”

Azizi plans to complete a total of approximately

senior-level Directors with extensive

that adding experienced professionals to our

3,000 units in 2020, having already finished two

experience in the real estate sector and

operations is the right move in ensuring our customers

developments in Al Furjan – Samia and Farishta

several customer service managers and

the quality of service they deserve. We hope that

in January and February respectively.

executives that will lead and achieve

this major hiring, which reflects our ambition and

09 09

10

Local News

AZIZI NEWS

LOOKING TO A BRIGHT FUTURE AT CREEK VIEWS The construction sector in the MENA region faces a downturn in 2020 due to the escalating number of Covid-19 cases and a fall in oil prices. No-one will be left untouched, with Dubai’s Department of Finance, for instance, ordering a 50% reduction in capital spending and a freeze on new public construction

incorporating 396 studios, 218 one-bedroom and

CREEK VIEWS

20-STOREY DEVELOPMENT

projects.

634

Nevertheless, the medium to long-term is looking as positive as ever for the UAE, with Sheikh

RESIDENCES

Mohammed, the Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE, stating defiantly: “The UAE will win the

37

coronavirus battle.” The Ruler of Dubai went on to liken the fight against the pandemic to a sporting

NATIONALITIES INVESTED

event where healthcare workers are “star players” and the world is “one team”.

This positive and inspirational approach has gone

20 two-bedroom units, in addition to 33,341ft2 of premium retail space.

An increasingly popular and in-demand community, Phase Two of Creek Views is a freehold development on Al Khail Road, less than 10 minutes away from Dubai International Airport, Dubai Mall, and Business Bay. It will perhaps come as no surprise, therefore, to discover that more than 37 different nationalities have invested in the project, with the strongest investor response coming from Emiratis, accounting for 25% of Creek Views sales.

Standing Together This much-anticipated project brings together both old and new Dubai, embodying perfectly the emirate’s transition from its traditional past to its pioneering future. Designed with the latest in luxury to the forefront, Creek Views will feature an

down well with the nation’s people, including those Its developer, Azizi Developments, has announced

all-inclusive health club with a swimming pool, a

that steady progress is being made on the residential

fully-equipped gym, sauna, steam room, plus an

Popular and in Demand

tower project, Creek Views, which is located on

outdoor yoga space.

One project still very much on schedule for

Dubai Creek.

in the development and construction industries.

completion in Q2 2021 is Phase Two of Dubai Healthcare City.

Overlooking Dubai Healthcare City, the project is a 20-storey development featuring 634 residences,

At this difficult time, the world stands together, and projects such as Creek Views are indicative of the way forward.

Local News

11 11

12

Guest Comment

OUT OF CRISIS COMES OPPORTUNITY

Charles Darwin noted: “It is not the strongest of

The need to adapt

the species that survives, nor the most intelligent

Covid-19 is simply accelerating the impact of the

Bishoy Azmy, CEO of ASGC, shares his views on the

that survives. It is the one that is most adaptable to

issues in our industry and we need to find solutions.

impact of the Coronavirus on the industry and the

change.” Change is not a new normal. Change is an

Whether these solutions now require investment

need to embrace change.

inevitable part of life. We all regularly face different

in technology such as 3D printing, more efficient

kinds of crises and the mindset of the individual, and

ways of thinking, different ways of procuring or

now for obvious reasons. However, I am optimistic

the mindset of an organization, should be adaptable

the sourcing of cheaper and more environmentally

about the future and believe that those who are

and flexible enough to accommodate change. If we

friendly materials, the underlying issues challenging

able to adapt can emerge from this crisis as winners.

are able to accommodate change, we will be able to

the industry have not changed. The pandemic has

Of course, the Covid-19 pandemic is a crisis which

adapt to the impact of Covid-19 and stay resilient. If

not changed our world – it has simply expedited the

had an immediate negative impact, but one has

we look at the stock market and global economies

need to find solutions to pre-existing challenges.

to think from a business perspective how we can

right now, we see how technology companies and

take advantage of this. How can we reposition our

progressive businesses with strong leadership are

quickly are going to emerge as winners out of the

company, ourselves and strategies to play to our

actually doing very well because they have a culture

Covid-19 situation and we are focused on this

strengths and address what will become the new

of embracing and even creating change. On the other

outcome. We are trying to adapt, evolve, streamline,

normal? We realize that 2020 is hugely impacted by

hand, traditional businesses in declining industries

cut costs, collaborate more with our clients. We

Covid-19 and all of our pre-COVID plans for the year

are suffering.

are trying to work with our clients as an integrated

There is a lot of fear and negativity in business right

have now been largely shattered. We will emerge

If we consider the construction industry, Covid-19

Companies that can find solutions to the challenges

part of the delivery process to lower the cost of the

from this global pandemic as a different player.

is simply accelerating problems and issues that the

end product. We are trying to increase our use of

Some people will fall, some people will evolve. As

industry was already facing. The industry, whether in

technology and reduce reliance on manual work in

the local market or globally, was

the construction process, automating where possible

already dealing with low margins,

so that we have a factory line rather than unique

uncomfortable health and safety

prototypes with their own learning cycles which

standards, poor procurement

we cannot benefit from on the next project. We are

and contractual arrangements

embracing the concept of modular construction,

between stakeholders, very high

being more flexible in the way we work to allow

risk, and, most importantly,

creativity in the workforce and our internal supply

affordability issues. The

chain. Outdated construction practices, working

affordability of our product is an

methods, working hours, dress codes – all of these

issue. Globally, there is a huge

are now being questioned. Everyone in our business

gap between what most people

should be encouraged to approach things differently

can afford to pay for the product

and embrace change. The end results are what is

of construction (whether it is

important.

a house, apartment, office or any other development) and

Reasons for optimism

the actual cost to buy. The cost

It is clear that 2020 will be difficult year for business

of our product as an industry is

but I am very optimistic for 2021 and beyond. 2020

increasing but the income of most

will be a year of repositioning and challenging

people in the world is not rising at

financial reporting. However, our industry can use

the same pace.

the crisis to address its issues, become more agile,

Companies with high leverage will find it even more difficult to cope with these challenges

needs of the product we deliver to our customers.

We are fortunate that our business is not highly

because of the increased

leveraged and has an agile and dedicated team which

pressures it brings. Even

is willing to think outside of the box. We are focused

where a company is generally

on adapting to the new normal and I am actually very

in good health, debt can cause

optimistic about the remainder of 2020 and beyond.

suffocation. Businesses with low

BISHOY AZMY, CEO OF ASGC

financially efficient and in tune with the changing

levels of debt will be best placed to adapt in times of crisis.

Local News

13 13

KIZAD NEWS KIZAD MEETING GROWING DEMAND Khalifa Industrial Zone Abu Dhabi (KIZAD) has begun work on a range of new

and we are expanding our portfolio to address these needs through the

facilities for supporting the increasing demand for pre-built warehouses in KIZAD.

launching of new modular, pre-built units in various sizes and configurations.

Consisting of small-to-medium light-industrial units, this development

New developments in KLP 4 and KLP 5 span total plot area of approximately

comprises the fourth, fifth, sixth and seventh phases of the KIZAD Logistics Park,

250,000m2, and offer a range of mixed-use warehousing and light industrial units.

and will be launched at the end of 2020 to cater to growing customer demand.

Further, KLP 6 and KLP 7 offer dedicated plots spanning a total of 330,000m2,

Abdullah Al Hameli, Acting Head of Industrial Zones Cluster, Abu Dhabi Ports, said: “Customers are looking for flexible and asset-light options,

housing 20 large terraced units, each with an individual floor space of 2,500m2, while KLP 7 will feature 56 medium light-industrial and warehousing units.

KIZAD BREAKS GROUND ON LARGEST REST AND REFUELLING FACILITY IN REGION

The plaza, covering an area of more than 87,000m2,

Abdullah Al Hameli, Acting Head of Industrial

roughly equal to 12 soccer fields, will cater to

Zones Cluster, Abu Dhabi Ports, said: “KIZAD

the needs of workers and visitors. It will include

Truck Plaza is another important milestone

KIZAD a subsidiary of Abu Dhabi Ports and

a first-of-its-kind dedicated ADNOC distribution

in realising KIZAD’s vision to support all of its

the Middle East’s largest industrial zone, has

service station for trucks, comprising two main

customers and the community across Abu Dhabi’s

broken ground on a new dedicated Truck Plaza,

canopies and six diesel bay canopies, and a

industrial and logistics supply chain. We are

comprising refuelling and rest facilities.

community centre with 275 shaded truck, bus

confident that integrated facilities at the Truck

and car parking spaces. It will also house several

Plaza will ultimately improve the quality of lives

retail outlets, including a convenience store,

of the broader industrial zone community.”

restaurants, a car care service, and a mosque.

14

Local News

INSTITUTIONAL INVESTORS CAN OFFER FRESH BOOST WITH THE RIGHT PRODUCT

challenges such as the current

Institutional investors and private

packages, easing on regulations,

equity fund investments are

and reduction of fees. These quick

increasingly gaining the spotlight

actions can lead to an increase in

as a strong key player that can help

the loan-to-value ratio applicable to

revive vital sectors of the economy,

mortgages, which is a solid step in

particularly real estate, as various

supporting the real estate sector.”

sectors begin to rise from the

pandemic and we have seen them in the country’s exceptional response such as rolling out of stimulus

Investors can benefit from low

impact of the Covid-19 pandemic,

mortgage interest rates, higher

according to Medallion Associates,

LTVs (loan to value), reduced

a leading private real estate

service charges and attractive

investment advisory firm. Market

valuations to make the best of their

experts in the UAE are looking at the

investments at present. In addition,

strength of private equity and fund

the market-friendly policies of the

structural investments considering

UAE offer investors the security

the healthy flow of foreign direct

and viability of their investments.

investments (FDI) into the country

“This is not the time to take a

in 2019, which has jumped to more

step back. In fact, this is the right

than 34% amounting to about $14

opportunity to grow because

billion from $10.4 billion in 2018.

whatever the cause may be,

Masood Al Awar, Chief Executive

MASOOD AL AWAR, CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER, MEDALLION ASSOCIATES

challenges will always be there, but

Officer, Medallion Associates, said:

seeing the best options in these

“The UAE has always showcased

situations enable investors and

its innovativeness and is at the

companies to gain the best position

global forefront even during major

in the industry,” Al Awar concluded.

WORKING ROUND THE CLOCK TO COMBAT THE PANDEMIC

34% INCREASE IN FOREIGN DIRECT INVESTMENTS (FDI) INTO THE UAE $10.4 BILLION

INVESTORS CAN BENEFIT FROM LOW MORTGAGE INTEREST RATES

2018

$14 BILLION

2019

ESSENTIAL PUBLIC SERVICES WORKING THROUGH COVID-19

part of the critical infrastructure

In the wake of the Covid-19

Due to the country-wide

outbreak, most industries had

lockdown being implemented,

to take a step back and re-

Qatra has faced an

evaluate their response plan.

unprecedented demand for

However, vital sectors such as

wastewater treatment from

the public health service had

all over the emirate. There has

to continue to work round the

been a substantial increase in

clock to combat the pandemic

the wastewater flow (close to

and deliver the necessary

20%), putting the treatment plant

services to the community.

under pressure. The company,

for Sharjah and is required to be continuously operational.

Sharjah-based company, Qatra

however, had no choice but to

Water Solutions is an essential

cope with it, as releasing the

public service company, ensuring

untreated wastewater to the

the treatment and recycling

environment would be a health

of domestic wastewater. It is a

hazard and an ecological disaster.

Local News

15 15

WORKING WITH GRUNDFOS JUST GOT EASIER

IMKAN AWARDS THE MAIN CONSTRUCTION CONTRACT FOR AL JURF

A meticulously designed 370-hectare coastal

Global water and climate company,

Abu Dhabi-based place-maker IMKAN has awarded

preserving their environment. Nestled within a

Grundfos, launched its new simpler and

Al Dhabi Contracting LLC a 236-million-dirham

nature reserve, the destination serves as an escape

intuitive website to provide solutions and

contract to build the first phase of the master-

from the fast-paced lifestyle of the city and is built

information to its customers in a better and

planned development of Al Jurf; its second

against a backdrop of stunning coastal views and

faster manner throughout their journeys.

home coastal destination set along the pristine

immaculate beaches bordered by lush green forest.

Redesigned with customer needs in mind,

destination, Al Jurf is a living sanctuary where residents have the opportunity to be a part of

coast of Sahel Al Emarat, the UAE’s Riviera.

In addition to being an area of great ecological

the website intelligently brings product

Scheduled for completion in 2022, the first phase

significance, the destination is also an ideal vacation

information closer together with Grundfos

of Al Jurf, Al Jurf Gardens, will see Al Dhabi

location, which will house the world-renowned

Product Centre – a tool used for sizing

Contracting LLC build 146 residential and two

wellness clinic and retreat – SHA Emirates.

and specifying pumps and projects.

show villas over a total area of 57,851m .

“We have 25,000 daily users of Grundfos Product Centre, and we consider it important that their experience of this essential sizing and specifying tool remains familiar,” explains Sikander Ejaz, Marketing Lead for Gulf, Levant and Pakistan.

“We know how important it is for our customers

2

146 RESIDENTIAL AND TWO SHOW VILLAS OVER A TOTAL AREA OF 57,851M2

to be able to access our digital tools anywhere, anytime 24/7. The new website brings that value to our customers.” www.grundfos.com

MAJID AL FUTTAIM’S ELAN DEVELOPMENT BEGINS CONSTRUCTION PHASE Majid Al Futtaim Communities has underlined the resilience of the UAE real estate market by holding a ground-breaking ceremony for their recently launched Elan neighbourhood at Tilal Al Ghafon. The move officially kicks off the construction phase of the development, moving the project one step closer to its planned delivery

by December 2022. The milestone follows the sale of 594 total units in phases one and two of Elan, representing a total sales value of AED 900 million.

Comprising a mix of premium three and fourbedroom properties, Elan is an exclusive gated

unique residential option that sets an exceptionally

of wellness facilities, including a tennis court,

high benchmark in the UAE property market.

basketball court, cycling and jogging tracks,

The centrepiece of the community is the

swimming pool, and an indoor gym. Additionally,

community within Majid Al Futtaim’s flagship

recreational lagoon, fringed by white sandy beaches

reflecting the wider community name and honouring

Tilal Al Ghaf development. Its architecture and

that accommodate a variety of watersports. Further

local UAE heritage, 1,200 indigenous Ghaf trees

construction draw from Majid Al Futtaim’s unique

positioning Elan as one of the most desirable

have been planted to create tranquil trails.

philosophy of place-making, creating a truly

communities on the market is an abundance

16

EXPERT OPINION

A NEW STATE OF PLAY

PETER MOHRING, MANAGING DIRECTOR, TRANSPORT, SERCO MIDDLE EAST

By Peter Mohring, Managing Director,

This same level of commitment

Transport, Serco Middle East

in response must continue in the

Covid-19 has presented unparalleled

thought processes and proactive

challenges to all businesses across the

development of operational initiatives

globe, but perhaps one of the most

and solutions that will help shape land,

affected are those within the transport

sea and air travel after the impact of

industry. No longer can we freely

the pandemic begins to subside.

move people across cities, countries

The new world will require a build-up

and continents due to the travel

of confidence in customer’s safety

restrictions put in place to combat

as well as new ways of travelling

the virus. The result is a dramatic

during the re-opening stages and

decrease in transportation revenue

after the crisis. This will require

that is causing a range of issues in

companies to invest in understanding

both the short and long term, from

their customer’s journeys. Back-

pay decreases and redundancies to

burner programmes and delayed

closures of long-standing businesses

projects will need to be accelerated,

that can’t maintain liquidity through

cancelled or re-evaluated against

an extended period of inoperability.

the new state of play globally.

Private companies and regional

As one of the hardest-hit sectors by

governments have aligned their

the pandemic, transport will be one

strategies in this critical time to

of the sectors that take the longest

deliver an unprecedented response

time and requires the most impact

to the global medical emergency

to recover. Every single aspect of

including a record number of

travel must be redesigned to achieve

infection tests, screenings, temporary quarantine centres and medical facilities as well as limitation of travel whilst providing support to those unable to return home.

THE NEW WORLD WILL REQUIRE A BUILD-UP OF CONFIDENCE

BEYOND THE PANDEMIC

the resulting innovations will remain

As cities across the world ease Coronavirus

relevant even after the pandemic.

lockdown restrictions, it is important

“The pandemic is definitely accelerating

to ensure that elevators used by

some interesting trends in the elevator

millions of people every day remain a

industry. thyssenkrupp Elevator is well

comfortable, efficient and secure way of

equipped for the current challenges. We

transportation. thyssenkrupp Elevator

have been exploring several technologies

offers several options to create a clean

in recent years, such as smart spaces

and healthy car environment, aiming to

monitoring, remote operation, robots

reduce the risk of virus transmissions.

for sanitizing spaces and many more.

To ensure peace of mind for passengers,

Today, we have appropriate solutions to

the company is focusing on three

protect passengers during the pandemic.

pillars: hygiene technologies, social

Moreover, we also provide innovative

distancing, and touchless technologies

technologies for tomorrow that go beyond

to prevent infection in elevators and

today’s urban mobility,” says Peter

escalators in public places. Many of

Walker, CEO of thyssenkrupp Elevator.

renewed passenger confidence in the safety of the system whilst counterbalancing the impact of increased wait times and reduced passenger carrying capacity.

“THE PANDEMIC IS DEFINITELY ACCELERATING SOME INTERESTING TRENDS IN THE ELEVATOR INDUSTRY”

Local News

17 17

VEOLIA ME LAUNCHES NEW DISINFECTION SERVICES

Veolia’s leading experts in exposure to hazardous environments and is available

SIRAJPOWER SECURES A $50 MILLION PORTFOLIO DEBT FINANCING FROM APICORP

Veolia Middle East, a global leader

to corporate offices, commercial clients,

SirajPower, the UAE’s leading distributed solar energy

in optimised resource management,

superstores and hypermarkets, public

provider, has announced it has signed a $50 million

has launched a new quick response

buildings, and industrial sites.

long-term non-recourse credit facility for solar distributed

disinfection service, to help

Sébastien Chauvin, CEO of Veolia

generation from The Arab Petroleum Investments

organisations to decrease downtime

Middle East says: “Veolia Middle East

Corporation (APICORP), an energy-focused multilateral

and take preventative steps, quickly and

is continuously working to enhance

development financial institution. This will be the GCC’s

efficiently. The new ‘Back on Site and

prevention, limit, and contain the spread

largest lease-funding platform for distributed solar energy.

Safe’ disinfection initiative is in direct

of Covid-19. After analysing our customers’

response to Veolia customers’ needs

needs, we are proud to offer a customised

and is designed to ensure compliant

service that combines our different areas

treatment for businesses that need

of expertise. Through our new ‘Back on

disinfection after lockdown, prior to,

Site and Safe’ disinfection services, we

during reopening and on a regular basis

are going one step further by providing

thereafter to ensure continuous protection.

innovative solutions that protect the health

Compliant with the UAE’s latest health

and safety of employees and customers,

guidelines on infection control, the

while enabling businesses to resume

new service has been developed by

operations in the best conditions possible.”

VEOLIA MIDDLE EAST IS CONTINUOUSLY WORKING TO ENHANCE PREVENTION, LIMIT AND CONTAIN THE SPREAD OF COVID-19

With this financing facility, SirajPower proves the bankability and sustainability of its business model and adds another milestone by completing a first-of-its-kind debt-financing transaction for distributed solar energy in the Middle East.

Distributed solar energy comprises individual power generation systems that can be both grid-connected or off-grid.

In the past, these types of projects lacked sufficient scale to attract debt financing, which has limited the development of this market segment in the region. To overcome this challenge, SirajPower and APICORP have partnered to develop an innovative structure to finance an entire portfolio of distributed solar projects on a long-term, non-recourse basis. The funding will make it possible for SirajPower to expand its offering to businesses across various sectors, enabling them to save on their utility bills whilst simultaneously offsetting their carbon footprint.

Laurent Longuet, CEO of SirajPower said: This green financing further sets us apart from our competition by enabling us to expand even faster. We are committed to ensuring the availability of clean energy across the region.”

“THIS GREEN FINANCING FURTHER SETS US APART FROM OUR COMPETITION”

18

PROJECT FOCUS – BURJ CROWN designed by LWK + PARTNERS

BURJ CROWN, DUBAI

CROWN JEWEL OF EMAAR’S DOWNTOWN DUBAI THE MENA STUDIO OF HONG KONG-BASED PRACTICE LWK + PARTNERS HAS EARLIER THIS YEAR COMPLETED THE DESIGN PACKAGE FOR THE LATEST PROJECT ‘BURJ CROWN’ BY EMAAR. THE LUXURY RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT IS THE FINAL ADDITION TO DUBAI’S RENOWNED DOWNTOWN SKYLINE.

LWK+ PARTNERS OFFICE 901, FLOOR 9 THE ONE TOWER BARSHA HEIGHTS, PO BOX 340675 DUBAI UAE T: +971 4 3716 300 E: DUBAI@LWKP.COM WWW.LWKP.COM

PROJECT NAME: BURJ CROWN PROJECT OWNER: EMAAR PROPERTIES COMPLETION DATE: OCTOBER 2023

PROJECT FOCUS – BURJ CROWN designed by LWK + PARTNERS

CROWN DECK

DESPITE HIGH SUPPLY CONCERNS, THE PROJECT IS SCHEDULED FOR COMPLETION IN OCTOBER 2023 AND WILL ADD 440 APARTMENTS TO DUBAI' S GROWING HOUSING SUPPLY WITH CONSTRUCTION WORKS COMMENCING AT THE BEGINNING OF MARCH 2020.

19 19

level the commercial units and the entrance lobby have been detailed with additional care through their use of crafted materials and edge treatments.

In contrast the functionality of the podium has been reflected by the rational use of a simple geometry and robust materials and detailing. A prominent feature is the 6-storey landscaped Leisure Deck on the podium providing social and outdoor amenities for the residents and their guests.

The Crown at the top of the building presents itself to the city from afar, bronze filigree, punctuating the tower’s presence amongst its prestigious neighbours. Burj Crown features an ‘Active Roof’ area, which provides residents with a communal outdoor space with magnificent views of Burj Khalifa and across Dubai.

LWK + PARTNERS mandate was to craft a

LIVING ROOM

KITCHEN

WASHROOM

contemporary solution that would be one of the most desirable addresses in Dubai. The design team carefully examined all aspect of residents’ experience and designed an experiential Leisure Deck with a wide range of amenities including a large outdoor area with green spaces to relax and unwind. Additional features also include an outdoor meditation zone, children’s playground, a dedicated barbecue area, and a swimming pool for children and adults.

The design team ensured programming a compelling and creative unit mix that would offer

MASTER BEDROOM

A

an unparalleled investment opportunity for the discerning investor. Since the launch date the Burj

unique urban residential destination

Burj Crown comes with endless possibilities

Crown, 1-bedroom units were completely sold

that was launched at the beginning

and experiences. Rising on the vibrant Sheikh

within the first week, sales as of today are at 67%.

of 2020 by His Excellency Mohamed Alabbar,

Mohammed bin Rashid Boulevard, the residential

Founder and Chairman of Emaar Properties.

tower boasts 1-, 2- and 3-bedroom apartments.

times to the whole globe, we are certain that

The layouts have been carefully crafted with

Dubai will continue to position itself at the

work on this last prime plot on Sheikh Mohammed

attention to detail to fulfil the aspirations of

centre of the world and lead by example,” says

bin Rashid Boulevard to deliver a residential

dynamic professionals and young families.

Kerem Cengiz MENA Managing Director. As an

destination at the centre of this world-class urban

LWK + PARTNERS was commissioned to design

optimistic and vital community member, LWK +

oasis. Aptly called ‘the Centre of Now’, Downtown

a unique tower with a wealth of amenities,

PARTNERS anticipate positive market recovery

Dubai lies between old Dubai and new Dubai.

shopping, culture, entertainment and culinary

post COVID 19, for a city that has omitted

The 44-storey tower has Dubai’s iconic landmarks

experiences — all at the fingertips of residents.

‘IMPOSSIBLE’ from its vocabulary,” Cengiz said.

LWK + PARTNERS was given the challenge to

including world’s tallest Burj Khalifa, largest

“Urban sophistication with contemporary

“As the new decade is unfolding, with challenging

In an official announcement by Emaar,

performing fountains and Dubai Opera as its

simplicity has been a primary goal for the design

Chairman Alabbar stated: “We are delighted

backdrop. Designing with close proximity to such

approach of this residential tower” says Kourosh

with the contribution of LWK + PARTNERS, who

energising and iconic sites is both challenging

Salehi MENA Design Director, describing the

have designed an exceptional addition to the

and exhilarating, however the experienced design

design approach “a punched masonry façade with

ever-evolving skyline in the heart of Downtown

team developed a resolved scheme that unities the

monochrome panels articulated by cantilevered

Dubai. With exceptional amenities and direct

intriguing synergies of this city and complements

balconies, with metal edge detailing to provide

views to Dubai Opera district, Burj Crown presents

the regions’ urban style with panache.

robust and ageless elegance” he adds. At the street

an unmissable investment opportunity.”

20

Project Focus

MUNICIPALITY OVERSEES MORE THAN 70,000 MANDATORY HYGIENE SUPERVISORS As part of its keenness to ensure the health and safety of the community, Dubai Municipality is overseeing 72,108 mandatory hygiene supervisors

IT IS NOTED THAT THE PERCENTAGE OF FOOD ESTABLISHMENTS THAT HAVE A RATING OF A AND B HAS BEEN INCREASED

in the food establishments of the emirate. The Municipality has initiated the implementation of the Hygiene Supervisor Programme in all food establishments in Dubai as one of the best international practices.

“The hygiene supervisors are subject to specialised training courses

by Dubai Municipality at three levels according to the activities of the food establishments and their classifications (high, medium, and low risk), and a certificate is awarded after successfully passing the test to exercise their roles and responsibilities,” said Jehaina Hassan Al Ali, Acting Manager, Permits and Applied Nutrition Section.

Dubai Municipality ensures that the food safety standards are applied through inspections as the safe, proper and healthy operation of any food establishment is its goal, she added.

SMART APPS FOR ANIMAL SACRIFICE REQUEST The abattoirs of Dubai Municipality started preparations to receive Eid Al-Adha by ensuring that its services are provided most effectively in accordance with the highest standards. Cooperation has been sought with a set of smart applications, helping the public to purchase livestock without the need for the customer to visit the abattoir.

The smart applications for animal sacrifice request include ‘Al Mawashi’ app, ‘Turki’ app, ‘Shabab Al Freej’ app and the ‘Dhabayih Aldaar’ app. The animals are slaughtered under Municipality supervision in the abattoirs. Sacrificial animals can also be requested from charities such as Dar Al Ber Society, Dubai Charity Association, Red Crescent Authority, Al Ihsan Charity Association, Sharjah Charity International, Beit Al Khair Society, in addition to the UAE Food Bank.

DUBAI MUNICIPALITY LAUNCHES BUNYAN CARD

“We, at Dubai Municipality, are delighted

Dubai Municipality has announced the

the hearts of the citizens of the country,

start of issuing Bunyan Cards for citizens

by facilitating the issuance of a Bunyan

of the country of 18 years and above.

Cards for them through our website

The initiative, under the slogan ‘We build

without the need for them to come to the

happiness for a better life’, is aimed at

Municipality centres to get it issued.”

bringing happiness for through various

to be able to bring joy and happiness to

Bin Yaarouf added that since the initiative

privileges, discounts and offers in building

was launched, 22,692 cards have been issued

materials and home furnishings.

to beneficiaries from all over the country,

Manal Obaid Bin Yaarouf, Director of Customers and Partnerships Relations

and approximately 182 companies have been involved in providing discounts.

Department at Dubai Municipality, said:

22,692 CARDS HAVE BEEN ISSUED TO BENEFICIARIES

NEWS BROUGHT TO YOU BY DUBAI Line MUNICIPALITY Investments DUBAI MUNICIPALITY, DED SIGN MOU

21 21

NEW BATCH OF TURTLES RELEASED AT JEBEL ALI WILDLIFE SANCTUARY Dubai Municipality has resumed providing its services in its branch centres, taking all precautionary and preventive measures in order to preserve health and safety of all customers and workers. A comprehensive and effective preventive system has been implemented to reduce the spread of Covid-19 virus.

All necessary supportive efforts are taken to ensure an optimal workflow and to provide various services to the public in accordance with the highest health standards in Al Kifaf, Al Manara, Al Twar and Hatta centres.

“WE ARE ALWAYS KEEN ON ENRICHING THE GEOSPATIAL INFRASTRUCTURE IN THE EMIRATE” Dubai Municipality has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Dubai Economic Development Department (DED) in the field of geospatial infrastructure for the emirate.

The MoU comes out of the keenness of the two parties to lay the foundations for joint strategic cooperation between them, and to benefit from the services they provide in a way that ensures the achievement of organisational integration, and the development and strengthening of cooperative relations in accordance with a corporate framework consistent with the strategic plans in promoting optimal use of the geospatial system in the Emirate of Dubai.

Dawoud Al Hajri, Director General of Dubai Municipality said:

As a further preventive measure, Children’s Club, Senior Citizen’s Majlis, restrooms, prayer halls and non-operative service halls have been recently closed. A special room for isolation is provided. The centres are also committed to accommodate 30% of the total capacity.

In addition to that, the Smart Hall, the Bunyan Card and the Digital Identity devices are partially opened.

SANCTUARY FOR ABOUT 539 SPECIES OF MARINE LIFE AND PLANTS A TOTAL OF 52 SMALL TURTLES HAVE BEEN RELEASED

“We are always keen on enriching the geospatial infrastructure in the emirate, in support of the smart trend that Dubai and the world is witnessing in various fields in general and in the field of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) in particular.”

THE CENTRES ARE ALSO COMMITTED TO ACCOMMODATE 30% OF THE TOTAL CAPACITY

DUBAI MUNICIPALITY CENTRES RESUME SERVICES Dubai Municipality has resumed providing its services in its branch centres, taking all precautionary and preventive measures in order to preserve health and safety of all customers and workers. A comprehensive and effective preventive system has been implemented to reduce the spread of Covid-19 virus.

All necessary supportive efforts are taken to ensure an optimal workflow and to provide various services to the public in accordance with the highest health standards in Al Kifaf, Al Manara, Al Twar and Hatta centres.

As a further preventive measure, Children’s Club, Senior Citizen’s Majlis, restrooms, prayer halls and non-operative service halls have been recently closed. A special room for isolation is provided. The centres are also committed to accommodate 30% of the total capacity.

In addition to that, the Smart Hall, the Bunyan Card and the Digital Identity devices are partially opened.

22

Line Investments

DUBAI MUNICIPALITY CLEANERS ENSURE 24/7 CITY SUSTAINABILITY

duties to the fullest, amidst tight precautionary

to curbing the spread of viruses and diseases,

and protective measures, in coordination and

whether for cleaners or the public. The Municipality

Dubai Municipality cleaning workers are on the

cooperation with the strategic partners on the one

is constantly working to educate cleaning workers

front line to counter the spread of Covid-19, with

hand and the concerned bodies on the other hand.

through the members of the supervisory and

1300 cleaners performing daily cleanliness of the city and public roads according to the highest levels of safety, public health and prevention.

A three-shift system is being implemented to

Emergency teams have been formed to

control bodies, emphasising the need to adhere

ensure coverage of all areas in the emirate.

to the use of personal protective equipment, to

The Municipality was also keen on applying

move away from gatherings, to keep safe distance

the highest safety standards during the

between them and others, and to avoid leaving their

ensure the sustainability of the emirate’s cleanliness

transportation of cleaners during the period

accommodation after the end of work time. They

around the clock. The Municipality believes

of the national sterilisation programme.

were always directly monitored in this regard.

that cleanliness of the city is considered one of

Cleaning workers have been transported by their

In addition to that, the Municipality is also

the most essential preventive efforts aimed at

Municipality buses after conducting all periodic

educating companies operating in the sector of

ensuring the health and safety of the community.

sterilisation of buses and maintaining a safe distance

waste transporting and recycling services about proper procedures in the current situation.

Dubai Municipality cleaning workers perform

inside the bus and not filling it. Upon arrival at

their daily tasks of cleaning and sterilising as part

their locations, all the safety accessories were

Dubai Municipality also supervises cleaners in

of a special programme to clean and sterilise the

distributed to cleaning workers, and they were

the private sector who perform cleaning tasks in

storage of different waste materials, pavements,

informed of all of the healthy practices necessary to

some locations in the emirate such as industrial

main and branch roads, in addition to water

perform their duties safely with full professionalism

areas. It is worth noting the importance of public

channels, creeks, beaches, residential, industrial and

and excellence. The general safety accessories

awareness on the need to adhere to tying waste

commercial areas. The latest equipment and tools

provided for cleaners included masks, a personal

bags and placing them in designated containers,

are used to remove waste from the roads, especially

hand sanitiser, a protective coverall and gloves.

and to avoid negative practices such as throwing

cigarette butts, masks, gloves and small waste.

The Municipality cleaning workers contribute to

Dubai Municipality also publishes various

waste through vehicle windows or spitting and

educational and community instructions through the

throwing chewing gum and cigarette butts in

the national sterilisation programme and the storage

social media and the Municipality’s website to deal

public places or washing vehicles in the streets.

container cleaning programme by performing their

correctly with waste, with the aim of contributing

1,300 CLEANERS PERFORMING DAILY CLEANLINESS OF THE CITY AND PUBLIC ROADS

24

Kanoo Energy (Power & Industrial Projects)

Innovative Outcomes KANOO ENERGY (POWER & INDUSTRIAL PROJECTS) E: INFOPOWER@KANOO.COM WWW.KANOO.COM

KANOO ENERGY (POWER & INDUSTRIAL PROJECTS) IS PUSHING THE BOUNDARIES OF WHAT’S POSSIBLE; HELPING CUSTOMERS TO ACHIEVE THE RIGHT BALANCE BETWEEN PERFORMANCE AND ENVIRONMENTAL SUSTAINABILITY. WITH ROOTS GOING BACK 130 YEARS, THE COMPANY PROVIDES SUSTAINABLE SOLUTIONS TO UTILITY COMPANIES, OIL & GAS AND THE GCC INDUSTRIAL SECTOR AS A WHOLE THROUGH SMART ENGINEERING AND VALUE-ADDED SERVICES. ITS MAJOR BUSINESS SEGMENTS ARE POWER AND INDUSTRIAL CONSUMABLES & SAFETY PRODUCTS.

Kanoo Energy (Power & Industrial Projects)

A

division of The Kanoo Group,

highly-qualified workforces in the industry,

one of the largest family-owned

Kanoo Energy is committed to inspiring

multinationals in the Middle East, Kanoo

formidable minds by embracing a global

Energy allows its customers to take advantage

mindset to build solutions that stretch the

of the valued experience and insights it

imagination and pre-conceived ideas.

has accrued over the years in order to deliver innovative business outcomes.

Invaluable Knowledge The company’s success can be put down to

This unusual level of expertise means that

an intimate understanding of the markets in

Kanoo Energy has been able to assist society

which it operates, combined with a highly

during the current Covid-19 pandemic too,

effective working model that sees its specialist

becoming frontline warriors in the battle to

workforce focusing on exceeding customer

contain and beat the virus. Everything from

expectations. This approach differentiates

Thermal Cameras and Elevated Temperature

Kanoo Energy in what is a fiercely competitive

Screening through to Personal Protection

marketplace, with its highly skilled team being

Equipment (PPE) for head to toe protection

real experts with invaluable local knowledge.

have all been supplied by Kanoo Energy.

Looking to the future, Kanoo Energy is On a more regular basis, the

justifiably confident of ongoing growth and

company also offers the following

expansion, taking on evermore complex

products and services:

and challenging projects for a wide range of

Engineering Supplies and Services

companies, corporate bodies and government

DG-based Power Solutions

agencies. Its solid reputation, earned by

Electric Transformers – Testing & Services

consistently adhering to the highest ethics and

Thermal Imaging Cameras

international standards and by operating at

Transformer Oil Regeneration

optimum levels of productivity, will ensure this.

and Filtration Pipeline Leak Detection Solutions Expansion Joints – Metal/Fabric/Rubber Inventory Preservation and Mothballing Personal Protection Equipment (PPE) Fall Protection Products & Services Workshop Tools and Equipment.

A Passion for Problem Solving Providing customers with quality products, services and solutions, in addition to an efficient supply chain network, Kanoo Energy does not simply offer out-of-the-box answers to complex questions. Instead, its professional engineers and designers listen to customers’ concerns and explore all the options to tailor a solution that will work now and for many years into the future.

Indeed, the company has a real passion for problem-solving, which drives creativity and innovation and creates bold solutions.

With one of the most experienced and

25 25

26

Line Investments & Property LLC

SILICON CENTRAL A PROJECT OF LINE INVESTMENTS & PROPERTY LLC PO BOX 60188 DUBAI UAE T: +971 4 707 6000 E: leasingdxb@lineinvestments.ae WWW.LINEINVESTMENTS.AE

Line Investments & Property LLC

27 27

TRANSFORMING SHOPPING IN AN EXPERIENCE THE SHOPPING MALL AND MANAGEMENT DIVISION OF ABU DHABI-BASED LULU GROUP INTERNATIONAL, LINE INVESTMENTS & PROPERTY LLC (LIP) BOASTS AN IMPRESSIVE PORTFOLIO OF MALLS THROUGH THE GULF AND INDIA. MOREOVER, WITH A STRATEGIC VISION FOR FUTURE GROWTH AND DEVELOPMENT ACROSS THE GCC, LIP IS RENOWNED AS AN INDUSTRY LEADER IN OFFERING THE RIGHT KIND OF SUPPORT TO MAKE ANY BRAND A SURE-FIRE WINNER.

W

ith unparalleled expertise stretching

provide an enhanced shopping experience

a 6,800m2 Family Entertainment Centre,

across every conceivable every of its

to its neighbouring communities.

incorporating a 2,000m2 New Generation

specialist field of endeavour, including location-

With a total of 220 stores in 81,500m , Silicon

Entertainment Centre for both kids and

sourcing, design, development, management

Central will include a 9,000m2 hypermarket

grownups to stay active, plus a 2,500m2 gym

and marketing, LIP is fully committed to

and a 7,800m department store, alongside

to keep the community in shape. It’s all about

being the preferred investment and property

a 35,500m2 array of retail shops and services

convenience and accessibility, with nothing

management company in the retail and

that will offer a broad mix of brands tailored

having been forgotten, including 3,500 car

real estate sector of the regions it operates

to ensure shoppers› complete satisfaction.

parking spaces for the last word in convenience.

in. Indeed, it currently offers 360-degree

Adding to the unique shopping experience, a

With such a broad range of options, Silicon

retail solutions in 23 malls in six countries,

diverse range of dining options will comprise

Central is set to be the destination of choice

with several further properties planned

of 24 casual restaurants and cafes as well as

for families and entertainment seekers

for the future in new cities and markets.

21 food court units, the perfect place to catch

throughout its immediate catchment

An Enhanced Shopping Experience

up with friends and families in an enjoyable

area, which takes in a population of

One of LIP’s latest developments is

atmosphere or enjoy a quick snack on the run.

500,000 people, and further afield.

Silicon Central in Dubai, a three-level

A wide range of entertainment options are

retail and leisure destination that will

also on offer, including a 12-screen cinema,

2

2

TOTAL CONCRETE SOLUTIONS PRECAST | HOLLOWCORE | BLOCKS | PAVING | READYMIX

HARD PRECAST BUILDING SYSTEMS

HARD BLOCK FACTORY

EMIRATES BETON

Dubai Investments Park 1 PO Box 37642

Jabel Ali Industrial Area 3 PO Box 37642

Jabel Ali Industrial Area 2 PO Box 111576

+971 4 885 0058

+971 4 880 1555

+971 4 320 9205

+971 4 885 0057

+971 4 880 1400

+971 4 3209322

www.hpbs.ae

www.hbf.ae

www.ebrm.ae

mail@hpbs.ae

sales@hbf.ae

info@ebrm.ae

Line Investments & Property LLC

MR. SALIM MA, DIRECTOR LULU GROUP INTERNATIONAL SAID, “OUR VISION IS TO ENHANCE THE RETAIL EXPERIENCE FOR OUR CUSTOMERS AND PARTNERS AND RECEIVING AWARDS FOR ALL THE MALLS THAT TOOK PART IS A TESTIMONY THAT THE LINE INVESTMENTS & PROPERTY TEAM IS COMMITTED TO EXCELLENCE IN THE NEW AGE INITIATIVES AND COMMUNITY EVENTS THEY BRING TO THE MALLS.” AWARD-WINNING PERFORMANCE LIP’s success and commitment to excellence have not gone unnoticed either, with the organisation picking up five awards at the Retail Congress MENA Awards 2019.

Held in the Ritz Carlton, DIFC, the Awards Ceremony honoured the most outstanding achievers in the shopping mall industry in the MENA region. LIP took part in the event together with entries from Mall of Um Al Quwain, Al Wahda Mall, Mushrif Mall, and Khalidiyah Mall, winning one gold and four silver awards in the following categories:

Design & Development Mall of Um Al Quwain (Gold)

Net Operating Income (NOI) Enhancement Al Wahda for Celebrity Visit (Silver)

Traditional Marketing: Cause-Related Marketing Al Wahda Mall for Operation Smile (Silver)

Traditional Marketing: Digital/Social Media Khalidiyah Mall for Enhanced Website (Silver)

Traditional Marketing: Sales Promotion Mushrif Mall for Talentology 2019 (Silver)

The winners of the Retail Congress MENA Awards 2019 were selected by a jury of regional and international industry experts in retail.

29 29

30

COVER STORY - CoGri MIDDLE EAST LLC

SUPER-FLAT FLOORS, SUPER-HIGH STANDARDS WITH THE COVID-19 VIRUS FUELLING DEMAND FOR WHAT WAS AN ALREADY BURGEONING PLATFORM FOR CONSUMERS - ONLINE SHOPPING - MORE COMPANIES ARE POISED TO AUTOMATE THE PICKING OF GOODS IN THEIR WAREHOUSES.

CoGri MIDDLE EAST LLC OFFICE B-704 PRIME BUSINESS CENTRE JUMEIRAH VILLAGE CIRCLE DUBAI UAE

H

owever, it’s not just about the technology

purpose-built specialist equipment to provide a full

and robotics that are used in the automation

range of high-quality concrete flooring services and

of consumer supply; equally important is the quality

money-saving solutions. Services range from super-

and flatness of the floor on which these systems

flat high tolerance floor construction and large-

operate, without which robots can be inefficient

pour floor construction, through to specialist floor

and vulnerable to breakdowns. That’s why those in

upgrades using their unique Laser Grinder ® system.

T: +971 (0) 4 368 2911 E: INFO@COGRIMIDDLEEAST.COM

the know talk to CoGri Middle East, an organisation with vast experience and expertise in the design,

FLATTER FLOORS, HIGHER PROFITS

WWW.COGRIMIDDLEEAST.COM

construction, and enhancement of floors in both new

With the introduction of high-stacking, very narrow

and existing warehouse units and distribution centres.

aisle (VNA) warehouses in the late 1970s, it became

CoGri Middle East is part of the CoGri Group, a

increasingly essential to have concrete floors that

consortium of international industrial floor solution

were significantly flatter than in previous years.

specialists, and one of the most accomplished

A VNA warehouse system is a proven means of utilising

professional concrete-flooring contractors in the

warehouse space and volume. Man-up forklifts operate

region today. With a track record stretching back 35

in aisles approximately 2m wide, working at heights in

years, it utilises a comprehensive portfolio of hi-tech,

excess of 17m. Any VNA warehouse floor needs to be



Cover COVERStory STORY--CoGRI CoGri MIDDLE EAST LLC

31 31

PURPOSE BUILT SPECIALIST EQUIPMENT CREATING HIGH TOLERANCE FLOORING

significantly flatter than equivalent block stack

CoGri Middle East is the regional office for

VNA warehouse units, where achieving the

or wide aisle floors, as a small deviation of just

CoGri in the GCC and wider MENA region.

correct standards affords the warehouse

a few millimetres at floor level is significantly

operator with peace of mind.

magnified once the operating height increases.

A BROAD PORTFOLIO OF EXPERTISE

Ensuring such fine tolerances provides

To meet the requirement for these high

The warehouse floor is the most critical

numerous other benefits too, including

tolerance floors, the first CoGri Group Company

element of a building envelope as it affects the

optimising the MHE’s performance, reducing

(Concrete Grinding Ltd) was established,

speed, safety and efficiency of the materials

maintenance-related costs, and eliminating

offering manual floor grinding services for

handling equipment that runs on it.

the chance of picking problems, which

existing uneven floors. As demand grew, a

CoGri Middle East has a wealth of experience,

include rack impact. Super-flat floors are

cleaner, more accurate and efficient grinding

knowledge, and expertise which, tied in with its

popular with companies’ accountancy

method was created that could work in

comprehensive understanding of the modern

and health & safety departments too,

operational warehouses – the Laser Grinder®.

warehouse operation, allows it to provide the

being extraordinarily cost-effective and

finest solution to any flooring challenge. This

providing significant safety benefits.

Continual development and innovation

incorporates a variety of distinct services,

over the past 30+ years means that todays’

each one ensuring the very highest quality

CoGri Middle East offers a complete

Laser Grinders® achieve the best results

of workmanship and best value solution.

range of high tolerance and value-added

yet, with guaranteed success. The CoGri

concrete floor construction services

Group operates globally and consists of

FLOOR CONSTRUCTION

for warehouse and industrial units:

specialised companies covering all aspects

Floor Flatness within a warehouse is

Steel fibre “jointless” or Steel Mesh “saw

of industrial warehouse flooring.

essential for many reasons, especially in

cut” Large pour Laser Screed floors:

32

COVER STORY - CoGri MIDDLE EAST LLC

Large pour Laser Screed floors are ideal for

MHE vehicles are equipped at the factory

DESIGN, TESTING, FLOOR

conventional warehouse flooring solutions

with a pair of sensors, one on each end of

SURVEYING & SALES

where fast-track programmes are being

the truck, which are connected to a control

Through its sister companies, Face

considered. Flatness is controlled by means of

system that locks the steering when in the

Middle East, and Face Consultants (in

construction lasers and on-site monitoring.

aisle. These sensors detect a low-frequency

the UK), CoGri Middle East is able to offer

signal from a wire embedded in the floor.

design, testing and surveying services,

Narrow aisle ‘Superflat’ floor construction

complete with global Design and Construct

When a ‘right first time’ approach is

VNA GRINDING

Professional Indemnity insurance.

needed, long strip narrow bay construction

At first sight, converting an existing

Face Middle East / Face Consultants are

provides CoGri with tight control on

warehouse to VNA, or needing to

regarded as the link between the logistics

floor flatness. Accurate results within a

upgrade a new floor that doesn’t

and construction industries, with an intimate

millimetre can be achieved, meaning no

meet specification, can seem a bit of

understanding of the requirements of

grinding for VNA flatness compliance.

a nightmare. However, CoGri has the

one and the capabilities of the other.

perfect solution - grind it right!

It is important to understand that design

COLD STORE FLOORING

The company’s patented Laser Grinder® is a

is not just the structural design, but also

Significant sub-zero temperatures require

proven solution and guaranteed to

detail design and specification. In every

careful consideration and the floor must

deliver a specification compliant floor,

case, Face provides a design that is fit for

be constructed to ensure longevity.

achieving conformity with any globally

the intended purpose and can be built

recognised specification (and even ‘one-

economically without being over specified.

This is highly specialised work because once

off’ bespoke ones). Grinding is a one-time

a cold store facility becomes operational, any

investment, unlike overlays and toppings,

remedial work can be a major hindrance to

and floors upgraded by laser grinding

operations, as most repair materials cannot be

are not subject to cosmetic damage or

effective below 5˚C. This dictates that the facility

delamination. Only one aisle is taken out

has to be put out of action and the temperature

of service at a time, meaning warehouse

raised for any repairs to be performed. Hence,

operations can continue uninterrupted.

the emphasis on getting the floor right first time.

The CoGri Group pioneered laser grinding, In recent years, CoGri Middle East has

which has been used to upgrade hundreds of

developed a well-earned reputation as a

thousands of metres of VNA around the world.

high quality specialist flooring contractor, achieving impressive results and

FLOOR REPAIRS AND REFURBISHMENT

building a repeat business client list.

CoGri Middle East can provide floor repair and refurbishment for a wide range of

WIRE GUIDANCE

applications and scenarios, including floor

CoGri Middle East offers a complete wire

screed systems, surface preparation, floor

guidance installation service for the

grinding, expansion joint repairs, crack

guidance of VNA trucks or Automated Guided

repairs, joint stabilising, demarcation

Vehicle (AGV) systems. The advantages of

line marking and floor maintenance.

wire guidance are many, but include: Eliminate bottom rack beam Easier cleaning under racking Less wear and tear on Materials Handling Equipment (MHE) due to banking into rails at the start of aisle High volume or pick items can be placed by pallet jack Lower long-term maintenance costs on in aisle guidance

FLOOR REPAIRS AND REFURBISHMENT

Cover COVERStory STORY--CoGRI CoGri MIDDLE EAST LLC

33 33

AT FIRST SIGHT, CONVERTING AN EXISTING WAREHOUSE TO VNA, OR NEEDING TO UPGRADE A NEW FLOOR THAT DOESN’T MEET SPECIFICATION, CAN SEEM A BIT OF A NIGHTMARE. HOWEVER, COGRI HAS THE PERFECT SOLUTION - GRIND IT RIGHT! LARGE POUR LASER SCREED FLOORS: IDEAL FOR CONVENTIONAL WAREHOUSE SOLUTIONS

SPECIALIST EQUIPMENT, EXPERT PERSONNEL CREATING HIGH TOLERANCE FLOORING SOLUTIONS

34

Cover STORY Story - CoGri CoGRIMIDDLE MIDDLEEAST EASTLLC LLC COVER

GETTING AHEAD OF THE CURVE

They can then avoid heading towards them,

And even though a structural engineer

As customer expectations continue to grow,

removing collision risks and human injury.

may understand the design and the loads,

thanks to the rise in e-commerce and speedy

As technology develops it will become

putting the MHE and floor together takes an

deliveries, businesses must work harder to

increasingly interactive with its real-

entirely different level of understanding.

satisfy customers in a world where convenience

time environment, making robots

is critical to where they choose to shop.

invaluable within the supply chain.

As a result, the earlier you engage a specialist

The CoGri Group, for instance, is currently

So, what will the warehouse of the future

company, the greater chance you have

working on multiple Amazon sites globally,

look like? In all probability, nothing like it

of success, both in terms of the quality

testing the newly constructed elevated floor

looks today. They will become more flexible,

of your flooring and your bottom line.

slabs, identifying areas requiring correction,

with increased capacity, and faster sourcing

and executing the work until compliance

and delivering of products to dispatch.

to the desired specification is achieved.

The result of this, which has already been

This ensures that the robots can slide

illustrated during the Covid-19 pandemic,

under a tower of shelves where products

is that instead of big department stores,

are stowed, lift it, and move it through the

multi-level fulfilment centres will be at

fulfilment centre. This saves an enormous

the heart of consumer shopping habits.

amount of space, allowing for 50% more

This could, of course, leave some companies

items to be stored per square foot.

and warehouses behind the curve; those that do not build or convert their facilities

The CoGri Group may have been

to provide higher density solutions.

established over 30 years ago, but they are continually working alongside

Those with one eye on the future will

associates within the industry (such as

incorporate robots, vertical storage or carousel

MHE, robotics, racking/shelving suppliers)

systems...and get the floor right, first time!

to develop the specifications and best

Often ignored in the past, and susceptible

working practices for the next generation

to cost cutting measures, the floor is now

of logistics and automation systems.

one of the most important components in a

The expansive data collected over the

warehouse. Today, robotics, VNA, automated

years of testing floors and floor flatness,

guidance vehicles (AGVs); automatic storage

coupled with their knowledge of what can

and retrieval systems (ASRS) all put ever-

be achieved by experienced contractors,

greater demands on the warehouse floor.

means CoGri are viewed by many in the developing sector of logistics as essential

This means that an existing warehouse floor

advisors and the ‘go to company’ when a

may not be suitable without restructuring or,

fit for purpose specification is needed.

that most frightening of words in the business world, compromise. And if you think that

This further demonstrates CoGri’s

more modern warehouses will not come up

commitment to not only moving with the

against this problem, think again. In fact, they

times but helping to influence and drive

can even make matters worse thanks to their

the emerging technologies/systems.

inability to service automation due to lean

The very nature of warehouses and their

slab designs, which have been engineered to

applications make them ideally suited to

the limits. When robots are brought into the

automation and robotics. Goods can be

equation and the demands on the floor change

quickly transported, with the robotics interface

even further, very specific requirements such

utilising positioning and measurement

as surface gloss, friction, abrasion resistance,

systems within the warehouse. However, this

levelness, flatness, surface resistivity,

technology is advancing rapidly. Amazon’s

and even roughness become paramount.

robots can wirelessly become aware of the

Consequently, it is not just the flatness of a

technology that employees are wearing,

floor that is critical; it is now a much more

telling them exactly where they are located.

complex and challenging question than that.

Cover COVERStory STORY--CoGRI CoGri MIDDLE EAST LLC

35 35

NEXT GENERATION IN LOGISTICS AND AUTOMATION SOLUTIONS

“AFTER AGREEING ON THE SCOPE OF WORK AND SIGNING THE CONTRACT – THE TEAM ARRIVED ON SCHEDULE, INSTALLED THE REPAIRS WITH MINIMAL DISRUPTION AND LEFT OUR FACILITY IN A CLEAN AND TIDY CONDITION. FOR ANY WAREHOUSE FLOOR PROBLEMS, WE WOULD HAVE NO HESITATION IN RECOMMENDING COGRI MIDDLE EAST.”

As CoGri Middle East wins much of its work through repeat business and recommendation, let’s leave the last word to a very satisfied customer, Diesel Technic (M.E.) FZE, with its Warehouse Operations Manager explaining: “Diesel Technic awarded CoGri Middle East the floor repair work in our Jebel Ali Free Zone facility. CoGri’s analytical approach in determining why problems arise in the first place, before they go on to offer a permanent repair solution, along with their professionalism and proven trackrecord, reinforced our decision.

“After agreeing on the scope of work and signing the contract – the team arrived on schedule, installed the repairs with minimal disruption and left our facility in a clean and tidy condition.

For any warehouse floor problems, we would have no hesitation in recommending CoGri Middle East.”

WAREHOUSING AUTOMATION SOLUTIONS

MANY MORE TESTIMONIALS CAN BE VIEWED ON THE COGRI MIDDLE EAST WEBSITE, OR CONTACT THEM FOR FREE ADVICE ON YOUR FLOORING PROBLEMS.

36

Grundfos

GRUNDFOS FACILITY IS ONE OF JUST 11 IN DUBAI TO BE AWARDED THE LEED PLATINUM CERTIFIVCATION FOR OPERATIONS AND MAINTENANCE

GRUNDFOS DUBAI FACILITY SECURES LEED PLATINUM RECOGNITION THE REGIONAL HEADQUARTERS OF GRUNDFOS IN DUBAI HAS BEEN AWARDED LEED PLATINUM CERTIFICATION FOR OPERATIONS AND MAINTENANCE – AN INTERNATIONALLY RECOGNISED MARK OF EXCELLENCE FOR GREEN BUILDINGS.

L

EED is the most widely used

and an office which serves the region

our solutions but also in how we operate

certification programme

with sustainable water solutions.

as a business. We looked into how we

in the world, with more than 94,000

can be more sustainable through our

projects in over 165 countries and

In addition to being a regional base,

entire business operations and did not

territories. Certification shows

the complex also serves as a training

leave any stone unturned along the way.”

clients, customers, partners, and

centre where hundreds of engineers,

the community at large that you are

consultants and customers receive

CLIMATE POSITIVE BY 2030

committed to decarbonising your

hands-on training and interact with

The certification process took around

GRUNDFOS GULF DISTRIBUTION FZE

building through increased energy

the most advanced cloud-based

a year to complete, but Grundfos has

efficiency and sustainability practices.

water solutions in the region.

been working tirelessly for some time

JEBEL ALI FREE ZONE NORTH STREET 407 PO BOX 16768 DUBAI UAE

In the UAE, Grundfos has joined the

T: +971 04 881 5166 E: contact@sales.grundfos.com WWW.GRUNDFOS.COM/AE

in order to become climate positive.

ranks of the few buildings and that have

Kostas Poulopoulos, Area Managing

secured LEED Platinum certifications

Director of Grundos, said that earning

“Several years ago, we switched to

for Operations and Maintenance.

the accreditation is a moment of pride

using LED lights and upgraded our

for everyone in the company. It took

chiller management system, which

The Grundfos facility is one of just 11

time, team effort, and a genuine zeal

resulted in at least 70% reduced

in Dubai to be awarded this prestigious

for sustainability to achieve it. “We’re

associated electricity consumption. We

certification under operations and

proud to be one of the very few facilities

have also taken steps to substantially

maintenance category. The 4,456m2

in the UAE to achieve this recognition,

save water in our facility and

Grundfos multi-purpose complex hosts

and this truly reflects our purpose of

operations,” Poulopoulos explained.

a factory, service centre, warehouse

driving sustainability not only through

Grundfos

The result of all of this effort is that water

WALKING THE TALK

CELEBRATING 75 YEARS

consumption has decreased by 54%, while electricity

Grundfos has stated that it will halve its own

From the very first pump in 1945 to today’s

consumption has decreased by 90% since 2017.

water consumption by 2025, and by 2030 will have

digital solutions, Grundfos has been synonymous

These are extraordinary figures, yet they only

contributed to providing safely-managed drinking

with a pioneering spirit, social awareness and

inspire Grundfos to do more. Indeed, by the end

water to 300 million people in need. Also, through

innovative solutions. Its 75th anniversary in

of March 2020, the company had also activated

water efficiency and water treatment, the company

May 2020 was a reminder of the company’s

solar panels on its facility, which now provide at

will have saved 50 billion m of freshwater. Moreover,

commitment to bring not only the ultimate in

least 60% of its energy requirements. These newly

it will reduce its own CO2 emissions by 50% by 2025.

pump systems and water technology to the

3

installed solar panels yield 310,000kW of energy

world but safe drinking water for everyone.

per year and allow the company to avoid at least

Going above and beyond to raise awareness and

210,000kg of CO2 emissions annually. Grundfos is

make a difference, Grundfos undertakes a variety

Kostas Poulopoulos, Area Managing Director, Gulf,

of sustainability and climate action activities.

Levant and Pakistan, concludes: “We celebrate

committed to becoming climate positive by 2030.

37 37

To raise awareness and foster a sustainable

the pioneering, collaborative and socially

It is undeniable that the world has achieved

lifestyle for its employees, for instance, the

responsible spirit that has driven Grundfos since

rapid technological development at the expense

company holds Sustainability Workshops. Another

the beginning and continues to drive us today.

of the planet. But Grundfos shows that it is

excellent case-in-point regarding Grundfos’

We carry that mindset forward with a profound

possible to harness innovation and technology for

determination to ‘walk the talk’ is its ‘Walk for

commitment to fight the imminent water and

sustainable development. It is possible to grow

Water’ initiative, an employee-driven programme

climate challenges affecting all of us through our

as a company without harming the world; all it

that works to bring clean water to communities

sustainable solutions, partners and colleagues.”

takes is to have a genuine care for the planet, and

in need wherever they may be in the world.

the rest will follow. “Being a water and climate company, we are obliged to pioneer solutions

Grundfos also took part in the UAE’s ‘Shred-

to address the world’s most pressing water and

it’ programme, which, through shredding

climate challenges and adopt these practices

and recycling between January and October

in how we operate also,” Poulopoulos said.

2019, for which it was awarded a Certificate of Environmental Accomplishment.

“WE CELEBRATE THE PIONEERING, COLLABORATIVE AND SOCIALLY RESPONSIBLE SPIRIT THAT HAS DRIVEN GRUNDFOS SINCE THE BEGINNING AND CONTINUES TO DRIVE US TODAY.”

38

Faces of Sustainability

FA C E S of

SUSTAINABILITY

Faces of Sustainability

39 39

40 40

SUPPORTING THE ENVIRONMENT THROUGH RETROFIT

HIS EXCELLENCY ALI AL JASSIM, CHAIRMAN OF EGBC

Faces of Sustainability - Interview with His Excellency Ali Al Jassim Chairman of EGBC FACES OF SUSTAINABILITY Interview with His Excellency Ali Al Jassim, Chairman of EmiratesGBC

41 41

41

In this issue of Emirates Projects, we speak to HE Ali Al Jassim, Chairman of EmiratesGBC, about his role in the organisation and the challenges and opportunities for the retrofit market in the UAE and wider Gulf territories; and the studies done by EmiratesGBC to push further push sustainability in the region.

EMIRATES PROJECTS: You are the new

The development strategies of the UAE

Chairman at EmiratesGBC. Can you give us a brief

look at sustainability not just from the

about your role and the role of EmiratesGBC?

perspective of achieving energy and water

HE ALI AL JASSIM: I joined EmiratesGBC this year,

savings but also places importance on the

and it is an honour to be part of an organisation that

retrofit of the existing building stock.

has evolved as one of the most inspiring entities

Abu Dhabi is driving the retrofit initiative with the

driving the sustainable development narrative of

Department of Energy announcing the completion

the nation in just ten years. My predecessors have

of the Emirate’s first Energy Saving Performance

done excellent work in positioning EmiratesGBC

Contracting project to retrofit eight government

and in fostering strong public-private partnerships,

buildings and the goal of retrofitting 150 government

and my mandate is to build on the great

buildings. This is part of Abu Dhabi’s Demand

work that EmiratesGBC has been doing.

Side Management and Energy Rationalisation

EmiratesGBC plays a crucial role in building a

EmiratesGBC

Office M20-21, Al Joud Centre Sheikh Zayed Road, Al Quoz #1 Dubai, UAE T: +971 4 346 8244 E: office@emiratesgbc.org WWW.EMIRATESGBC.ORG

Strategy 2030 that aims to achieve a 22 per cent

net-zero environment in the UAE. To push this

reduction in energy consumption and 32 per cent

further, we have conducted a very comprehensive

reduction in water consumption over the next

and integrated approach to promoting sustainable

decade. A Super ESCO for Abu Dhabi has been

built environments. We have a year-round

designed to lead retrofitting in 3,000 government

calendar of events that are focused not only on

buildings, which will catalyse the retrofit market.

strengthening awareness about green buildings

The Dubai Integrated Energy Strategy 2030

but also to encourage our members and the

has also set the goal of retrofitting over 30,000

community to follow industry best practices.

buildings in Dubai to make them more energy-

Besides this, EmiratesGBC has a broad set

efficient. Dubai Electricity and Water Authority

of technical trainings and programmes for its

(DEWA) has planned to spend US$8billion towards

stakeholders. We have been conducting these for

this retrofit programme. It is one of the largest

many years now, and our members find it valuable

budgets to date for a retrofit programme in the

to enhance the overall quality of their projects.

UAE. Dubai may soon regulate hotels to retrofit, considering that there are more than 700 hotels in

EP: How does retrofit support the

the Emirate. Ras Al Khaimah launched its building

green environment of the UAE?

retrofit programme in October 2018 with a target

AAJ: According to reports by World Green Building

to retrofit 3,000 buildings by the end of 2040.

Council, buildings and construction account for 36% of global final energy use and 39% of energy-

EP: What are the key challenges and

related carbon dioxide emissions. This underlines

opportunities of the retrofit market in

the importance of making the building stock more

the UAE and the wider region?

sustainable, and, for the UAE, to drive its green

AAJ: The retrofit market has evolved

vision, it is imperative that its existing buildings are

considerably in the past years, especially

made more efficient – and retrofitting is key to this.

following the announcement of the Dubai Integrated Energy Strategy 2030.

42

Faces of Sustainability - Interview with His Excellency Ali Al Jassim Chairman of EGBC FACES OF SUSTAINABILITY

42

Interview with His Excellency Ali Al Jassim Chairman of EmiratesGBC

Etihad ESCO estimates that retrofitting 30,000

the Building Efficiency Accelerator (BEA) platform,

EP: Can you tell us how this training helps in teaching

buildings by 2030 will help generate savings of over

we further promote the retrofitting programme.

the fundamentals of retrofit and sustainability?

1.68 TWh energy and 5.64 billion imperial gallons

BEA is a public-private partnership collaboration,

AAJ: Our Building Retrofit Training programme

of water, as well as eliminating 1 million tonnes of

launched under the Sustainable Energy for All,

is the first-of-its-kind in the region and

carbon dioxide emissions. The opportunities are

which is intended to accelerate the implementation

has been thoughtfully created to address

enormous, especially with the nation’s large existing

of building efficiency policies and programmes.

region-specific requirements. It outlines

building stock, several of them designed and built before sustainability considerations were mandatory.

On the other hand, there are challenges too

The goal has been to double the rate of building energy efficiency by 2030 globally. Dubai is the first city in the Middle East to participate in the

actionable steps that can help stakeholders achieve sustainable building practices.

The BRT Programme is offered in partnership with

because many perceive retrofitting as cost-

BEA. The 2019 Building Efficiency Accelerator

Dubai Supreme Council of Energy (DSCE) and

prohibitive, not taking into consideration the

(BEA) project report studied 121 properties in

Masdar and teaches the fundamentals of building

long-term benefits of undertaking it. Further,

the UAE. The results highlighted performance

retrofit. It provides awareness and technical guidance

there are challenges relating to financing schemes

disparity amongst all properties between best

to industry professionals on the economically viable

by local and international banks in the region to

and worst performers to learn from each other.

methods that can be implemented to reduce a

support building owners and developers to conduct

We also conduct workshops and events

building’s use of energy and water and to attain

retrofits. Many building owners do not realise the

such as a ‘Focus Day on Deep Retrofitting’ in

improved operational efficiency and savings.

need to look at retrofitting as tenants pay energy

partnership with Dubai Chamber of Commerce

and water bills. The need for greater awareness

& Industry (Dubai Chamber) to reiterate

suit varying needs: The introductory course,

about building retrofits is crucial, and that is one of

that retrofitting existing buildings is very

a one-day workshop, provides knowledge of

the areas that EmiratesGBC works on. We have

important to achieving energy efficiency.

sustainability to primarily non-technical participants

The programme offers two course levels to

been working closely with business forums and

We have launched the EmiratesGBC

the UAE government as well as building industry

Benchmarking Programme, whereby the

and industry professionals looking to understand

stakeholders to foster awareness of the benefits

performance of buildings in terms of energy and

of adopting and implementing retrofit strategies.

water performance is measured in a cross-sector

professionals with prior knowledge and experience

the basics behind retrofit in the Gulf region.

The advanced course is designed for industry

manner to establish a knowledge base of data

of sustainability and retrofit methods. Candidates

EP: Can you tell us the role of EmiratesGBC

and key analytical information. This will enable

train on the various methods to be deployed on

when it comes to retrofit in the UAE?

building owners, developers and end-users to

retrofit projects and can further hone their technical

AAJ: As a nonprofit organisation that advances green

better understand the need for improved energy

capacity for more effective post-retrofit maintenance

building principles for ensuring sustainability, we have

performance and drive them towards retrofitting.

and preventive care. The advanced course is a

set up technical guidelines for retrofitting existing

We are now conducting a market study to

buildings in the UAE. These guidelines have been

understand the current market situation as well

passing the post-course examination will become an

developed in conformance with the UAE National

as the challenges and opportunities related to

EmiratesGBC Certified Building Retrofit Specialist.

Agenda 2021, officially endorsed by the Ministry

deep retrofit projects. As part of the vision for

of Public Works and the Dubai Supreme Council

the UAE to be a global leader for sustainability in

industry, we have also produced the Technical

of Energy, and are in conformance with local,

the built environment, the study will help explore

Guidelines for Retrofitting Existing Buildings, a

sustainable strategies such as the Dubai Integrated

solutions and approaches to retrofitting buildings

handbook in English and Arabic, which serves

Energy Strategy (DIES) and Abu Dhabi Vision 2030.

that go beyond current renovation programmes

as a textbook for the upcoming EmiratesGBC

to achieve greater energy and financial savings.

Building Retrofit Training Programme.

Apart from these guidelines, we have also conducted Building Retrofit Training (BRT)

two-day workshop and participants successfully

To further support professional and the

The study also aligns with and supports

Programme to build a knowledge-sharing platform

EmiratesGBC’s Net Zero Centre of Excellence,

EP: EmiratesGBC has also done a Building Efficiency

for everyone. The Building Retrofit Training

which was formed as a think tank and accelerator

Accelerator study. Can you tell us about that?

Programme launched in 2017, focuses on building

to advance net zero carbon buildings in the UAE.

AAJ: As mentioned, Dubai is the first city in

capacity for undertaking sustainable building retrofits to promote energy and water efficiency.

We have been following a committed and concerted move – from strengthening awareness to capacity building to drive the retrofit market.

Through our partnership with the Dubai Supreme Council of Energy (DSCE) as a City Liaison on

It is hoped that these deep retrofits will

the Middle East committed to the BEA, and

pave the way for the existing building stock to

EmiratesGBC served as the BEA City Liaison

ultimately decarbonise and support the industry

in partnership with Dubai Supreme Council of

to move towards a net-zero carbon future.

Energy to evaluate the energy performance

EmiratesGBC also conducts Building Retrofit Training and other training workshops.

of hotels, schools and malls in the city.

Faces of Sustainability - Interview with His Excellency Ali Al Jassim Chairman of EGBC

43 43

43

HIS EXCELLENCY ALI AL JASSIM, CHAIRMAN OF EMIRATESGBC

Our Technical team assessed the energy and water performance of existing buildings against similar buildings, and some of the key findings are: A median hotel in Dubai consumes 252 kWh/m2/ year of energy and 1,486 litres/m2/year of water A median resort in Dubai consumes 334 kWh/m2/ year of energy and 1,676 litres/m2/year of water Overall, best performing hotels consume 58% less energy per area, 65% less water and the best resorts consume 78% less water When it comes to schools, the report found that: A median school in Dubai consumes 134 kWh/ m2/year of energy and 852 litres/m2/year of water Newer schools are likely to consume more energy and water per unit area Overall, best performing schools consume 61% less energy per area, 85% less water When we look at malls: A median mall in Dubai consumes 465 kWh/m2/ year of energy and 1,300 litres/m2/year of water Over half the energy, on average, was consumed by mall tenants with remaining energy consumption split between the cooling and common areas Comparisons with international benchmarks show that a median enclosed mall in Dubai consumes 57% more energy per unit area than a median enclosed mall in the USA Overall, best-performing malls consume 35% less energy per area, 58% less water

AS A NONPROFIT ORGANISATION THAT ADVANCES GREEN BUILDING PRINCIPLES FOR ENSURING SUSTAINABILITY, WE HAVE SET UP TECHNICAL GUIDELINES FOR RETROFITTING EXISTING BUILDINGS IN THE UAE.

These findings help hotels, schools and malls to further elevate their energy and water use efficiency standards by following industry best practices. The findings also remind us that there is a strong potential for savings and operational efficiencies that can be achieved through remedial actions such as audits, retrofits, energy management and the use of awareness campaigns or trainings to drive changes in behaviour.

The report also highlights the importance of deep retrofits as key in advancing towards 100% Net Zero Carbon Buildings by 2050 and to achieve the goals of the Paris Agreement of keeping global warming well below 2 degrees Celsius.

44

Faces of Sustainability - Interview Dr Marcus Schumacher, VP & GM at Johnson Controls FACES with OF SUSTAINABILITY

44

Interview with Dr Marcus Schumacher, VP & GM at Johnson Controls

IN TOUCH WITH TOMORROW KNOWN AS A STRATEGIC THINKING, ENTHUSIASTIC AND INSPIRATIONAL TEAM BUILDER, SETTING HIGH STANDARDS FOR EXECUTING A WIDE VARIETY OF PROGRAMMES AND PROJECTS, DR MARCUS SCHUMACHER, VICE PRESIDENT & GENERAL MANAGER GCC AT JOHNSON CONTROLS, SPEAKS TO EMIRATES PROJECTS ABOUT THE COMPANY’S PRIORITIES, EVOLUTION, SUSTAINABILITY AND GROWTH.

JOHNSON CONTROLS

13th Floor, API World Tower Dubai, 31065, UAE T: +971 4 309 9999 WWW.JOHNSONCONTROLS.COM

45

Faces of Sustainability - Interview with Dr Marcus Schumacher, VP & GM at Johnson Controls

45 45

DR MARCUS SCHUMACHER, VICE PRESIDENT & GENERAL MANAGER GCC AT JOHNSON CONTROLS

46

Faces of Sustainability - Interview Dr Marcus Schumacher, VP & GM at Johnson Controls FACES with OF SUSTAINABILITY

46

“IF YOU WANT TO GO FAST, GO ALONE… IF YOU WANT TO GO FAR, GO TOGETHER”.

Interview with Dr Marcus Schumacher, VP & GM at Johnson Controls

EMIRATES PROJECTS: With so many years

EP: What progress or change have you seen

of experience in the Middle East market, what

at the company since being one of the first

would you say are your strategic priorities and

certified Energy Service organisations in 2014?

vision for Johnson Controls in the GCC?

MS: Johnson Controls has globally completed

DR MARCUS SCHUMACHER: With more than

more than 3,500 energy services programmes

5,500 building technology specialists in the Middle

within all end segments of the market. We

East and Africa, Johnson Controls has supported

are holding more than $6.5bn in Performance

the tremendous growth in this region over the last

Guarantees, which is a testimonial from our

45 years. We are a trusted technology partner pretty

customer for the partnership and trust they have

much present in all major landmark buildings in the

in Johnson Controls’ technology and employees

wider GCC. We continue to build on our unique

When we decided in 2014 to be one of the first

offering in the HVAC, Controls, Security and Fire

Energy Service companies in the UAE, we realised

space. As an example of our achievements, we

that this market was at an early inception point at

have built with our partners some of the largest

that time and had to undergo a lot of education and

installed district cooling capacities in the world

process implementation. Today, we see the Energy

with some of the biggest cooling plants in the

Service model is widely accepted and understood,

Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, UAE, Kuwait and Qatar.

while financing vehicles and policy matters have

However, our vision and company direction had to

been established. This mindset shift was further

adapt to the new market and technology realities.

underlined and accelerated by National Agendas

We have significantly expanded our leading

such as the UAE 2050 Strategy calling for increased

product solutions towards connected IoT building

energy efficiency measures for drastic CO2 footprint

solution offerings. With a strong global digital

reduction. A lot of other Emirates have meanwhile

solutions team, we have established connected

successfully implemented their corresponding

solutions and service capabilities, focusing on better

certification and transformation programmes, which

outcomes for our clients. Energy Services and

now further expand quickly across the entire GCC.

Digital Transformation in all areas we touch around

We at Johnson Controls had to be fast and agile to

a building are becoming the backbone of all we

be able to respond to those requirements quickly

do. Fostered by rapidly emerging IoT technologies

by transforming our talent base accordingly. In

and steadily decreasing digital infrastructure

leading areas of our business, we went one step

cost, data has become the new currency in this

further in helping our customers to articulate the

industry. Johnson Controls, however, has been

questions they should be asking to get the right

driving technology focus to the next level beyond

response from their technology partners. As a result,

simple data lake generation and administration.

this moved the perception of our organisation

We are now in the position to create predictive,

from a core supplier to a trusted advisor role.

tangible outcomes for our customers by using such data intelligently. The new Bee’ah Headquarters

EP: In your professional opinion, what

in Sharjah (UAE), where employees will enjoy an

transformations have you experienced

unmatched workplace environment with virtual

within the Gulf region in terms of companies

artificial intelligent (AI) assistance everywhere

adopting and implementing sustainable

throughout the premises, is one prominent example.

practises in the past five years?

Last but not least, technology is made for and by

MS: Awareness for sustainability needs is now

people, and we are proud to have developed one of

engrained into all levels of the building lifecycle -

the strongest and most diverse talent bases in the

from design and operation management through

Middle East and Africa in the building technology

to final retrofit of the building. Building owners

industry. This will enable us to realise our vision to

have started to upgrade their ageing building

further grow jointly with our customers and partners

assets via their in-house facility management

in this rapidly changing technology environment.

teams or by deploying one of the certified Energy

Faces of Sustainability - Interview with Dr Marcus Schumacher, VP & GM at Johnson Controls

47 47

47

Service companies. Early and easy wins have been

platform is geared around increased building

of their assets. We at Johnson Controls aspire to

already taken to the bank in the areas of water

efficiency operation at increased operating

remain at the forefront of this transformation by

and energy-efficient LED lighting programmes. In

visibility with modules for predictive maintenance,

offering solutions and services across the entire

addition, we have noticed that since the introduction

allowing for service on performance concepts

building portfolio and lifecycle, enabling our clients

of variable speed drives (VSD) for cooling, end

rather than relying on regular maintenance only.

to remain at the leading edge of what a smart

clients and their consultants are accelerating in

Our Connected Buildings Platform JEM (Johnson

and energy-efficient building can look like.

specifying energy-efficient cooling equipment.

Controls Enterprise Management) solution is

This puts total lifecycle cost ahead of first cost

currently experiencing strong demand from a large

EP: Tell us about the 2050 Sustainability Strategy.

requirements when designing new buildings.

number of our regional clients operating one or

How does Johnson Controls plan to achieve this?

Steadily, we also see similar trends in the residential

multiple building assets across a wider territory.

MS: There is a famous African Proverb which

construction space where energy-efficient inverter

says: “If you want to go fast, go alone…if you EP: Where do you see growth coming from; which

want to go far, go together”. Unfortunately, we

sectors are looking particularly healthy at present?

believe we have to go far and fast looking at

EP: Tell us about your sustainable products

MS: Construction in the GCC region remains

the current impact of the climate shift. In this

and services – how do you tackle lowering

solid in all areas of our core segments. Mega

sense, Johnson Controls will accelerate its effort

energy costs and reducing carbon footprint?

investments like NEOM and Red Sea Developments

in partnering not only with our clients but even

MS: Global demand for cooling is rapidly increasing.

in Saudi Arabia or New Cairo in Egypt are just

more so with other leading technology companies

At approximately 4% global construction growth, we

two examples. The increasing population does

to join hands in solving important technology

expect our worldwide building footprint to double

foster a number of investments in infrastructure,

challenges together. The enormous tasks we

over the next 20 years. In the Middle East and

education and healthcare programmes across the

face require a profound but also broad focus that

Africa region, cooling is the major energy efficiency

region, while the need for affordable housing is

can only be accomplished by partnering with the

driver of every building. Since Johnson Controls

steadily rising. All of this requires strong building

best in each technology discipline. Both Energy

pioneered the first variable speed drive controlled

technology expertise to allow extendibility of applied

Services, as well as Digitalisation Programmes,

chiller in the late seventies, this technology has

technologies where smart building and city concepts

are most successful when strong alliances are

been further mastered towards medium voltage

come into play. Saudi Arabia, similar to the UAE,

formed between partners and clients. Speed

water-cooled chillers solutions, not only for new

has strong tourism investment plans, which has

matters. At the same time, attention to details

installations but even more for retrofitting our

shown strong year-on-year growth performance,

counts. Of late, we have been having partnership

existing install base. With this technology, we have

and we expect this to accelerate further.

alliance discussions almost every week with key

technologies are increasingly being applied.

demonstrated up to 30% efficiency gains. On

clients and technology companies in the region.

the water-cooled chillers side, Johnson Controls

EP: How do you envision sustainability

Johnson Controls is always open to collaboration

has been heavily investing in magnetic bearing

practices progressing in the Gulf region

and partnerships to build a better tomorrow.

chiller technologies, which has eliminated the

over the next five years; what trends do you

need for oil change services. In essence, this not

expect to see? What is Johnson Controls

only drastically reduces operating costs but also

looking to achieve over that same period?

significantly enhances the equipment’s life-span.

MS: Regional governments are setting strong

We have developed self-learning chiller plant

sustainability goals in their national agendas.

software solutions (CPO - chiller plant optimisation)

This, combined with revisiting energy cost subsidies,

for the overall operation and scheduling of a

will set a strong need to accelerate energy efficiency

cooling plant. This further supports our customers

measures both for new construction programmes

in running their cooling assets most efficiently

and for ageing buildings across the region. Not only

using predictive operating models. It not only helps

electricity, but water has equally become the centre

to improve current and future cooling demand

of any future urban planning and a key enabler

utilisation but also reduces human interaction

to make future growth affordable and long-term

during plant operation on a daily basis.

sustainable. We expect energy cost to further

Energy efficiency focus does not stop at cooling

increase to intrinsic cost levels where policies and

applications only. Our entire Building Controls

laws will further tighten, giving asset owners an

methodology product and software offerings

additional stimulus to reduce the energy footprint

GLOBAL DEMAND FOR COOLING IS RAPIDLY INCREASING. AT APPROXIMATELY 4% GLOBAL CONSTRUCTION GROWTH, WE EXPECT OUR WORLDWIDE BUILDING FOOTPRINT TO DOUBLE OVER THE NEXT 20 YEARS.

48

Faces of Sustainability - Interview with Amer Bin Ahmed, MD of Knauf Middle East FACES OF SUSTAINABILITY

48

Interview with Amer Bin Ahmed, MD of Knauf Middle East

MADE IN THE UAE KNAUF IS A MARKET LEADER WHEN IT COMES TO SOURCING AND MANUFACTURING PRODUCTS LOCALLY. MOREOVER, THE COMPANY PUTS QUALITY AND SAFETY AT THE TOP OF ITS LIST OF PRIORITIES, ALONG WITH SUSTAINABILITY, WHICH IS A BURNING ISSUE FOR AMER BIN AHMED, MANAGING DIRECTOR, KNAUF MIDDLE EAST AND INDIA.

KNAUF LLC

Dubai Silicon Oasis Light Industrial Unit Phase 6 Unit B9 PO Box 112871 Dubai, UAE T: +971 4 337 7170 E: info@knauf.ae WWW.KNAUF.AE/

Whether sourcing and producing locally or

quarrying sites do not need to like ‘deserts in the

minimising waste, Bin Ahmed tries to incorporate

landscape’; in fact, they can have a networking

these aspects in every aspect of the supply chain.

function that contributes towards greater

And his vision has trickled down to everyone

biodiversity. Knauf has repeatedly proved this.

within the company, resulting in Knauf being

Headquartered in Dubai, Knauf is also renowned for

presented with the Green Award by the Ministry of

its customer service excellence and commitment in

Infrastructure in April 2018 and in November 2019

the Middle East and India. It always ensures that the

with the prestigious Manufacturer of the Year award

demand meets the supply, the first time and every

at The Transport & Logistics Middle East (TLME)

time, by utilising its full flexibility and the potential of

Excellence Awards. Furthermore, Bin Ahmed has

its production facilities, human resources, technical

been instrumental in Knauf UAE achieving one of

expertise, logistics and cutting-edge digitalization.

the most coveted awards in the region – ‘Made

In doing so, it is at the forefront of facilitating

in UAE’. Knauf is only the second company in

rapid growth and development in the region.

the whole of the UAE to receive this award.

Bin Ahmed, one of the youngest CEO’s to head

Knauf is fully equipped to cater to the needs, wants

an organisation with the stature of Knauf in the

and preferences of its valued client-base, many of

region, and also internally in the group, is committed

whom have become friends over the years. And in

to continuing to build the company’s legacy for

the modern world, they too demand sustainability.

product excellence and unrivalled customer service.

Knauf achieves this by ensuring that the sustained

From being recognised as the CEO of the Year

extraction of raw materials is carried out with

by a distinguished media group in 2016 to winning,

consideration for existing habitats, taking in all

with his plant workers, an award in the Guinness

flora and fauna. It gives targeted support for

World Record, it would appear he has done

the protection of species and biotopes during

it all. But one has the feeling that this is really

and after the extraction of the raw materials.

just the beginning; the best is yet to come!

Research in recent years has shown that operational

49

Faces of Sustainability - Interview with Amer Bin Ahmed, MD of Knauf Middle East

AMER BIN AHMED, MD OF KNAUF MIDDLE EAST

49 49

50

Boris Micka Associates

SAUDI PAVILION, EXPO SHANGHAI 2010

Boris Micka Associates

A DIFFERENT KIND OF DESIGN FIRM AT BORIS MICKA ASSOCIATES (BMA) THE OBJECTIVE OF DESIGN IS TO CREATE A SPATIAL EXPERIENCE WITH UNIVERSAL RESONANCE THAT WILL COMMUNICATE A CLEAR MESSAGE, THAT WILL LAST IN THE MIND OF THE SPECTATORS. “Our team is architects at its core, but because of the diverse

set, one image, that can be transformed by space, by light,

experience by each person and the rapid advancement in

by projection, into something else. I am looking at a space

technology over the years, we are evolved into a different breed”

beyond the interior designer or an architect, I see myself as

explains BMA founder Boris Micka. “Besides designing architecture

a theatre director – I want a reaction from the audience.”

as the shell and container, we follow through with an inner

voice for the interior, we create scenography and multimedia

Boris emphasizes that to create a space that is happy, sad, or

contents, so all kinds of skills and talents are involved.”

monumental, some magic is needed. Turn a corner in a building,

and suddenly you are in or under something completely

It is a very multicultural team too, and this is something that is

unexpected. The breath-stopping moment is critical.

at the heart of the firm’s DNA. “We are based in Seville, Spain,

“I must confess, we may not be excited by the typical

and all of us are here because we love the Spanish culture

commercial architecture – we are what we are, “admits Boris.

and environment. The historical Islamic heritage of Andalucia

“At BMA, we think more artistically, we are not concerned

allows us to understand the clients in the Middle East. The

with limits, but create things to communicate in inspiring

cultural link is still alive between these two beautiful areas.”

ways. It’s branding, if you want to leave an impact or

impression, you have to insist on creating wonder and awe.

MOMENTS OF AWE A multidisciplinary approach is at the heart of the BMA process,

TRADITION AND ORIGINALITY

something that Boris Micka learned whilst studying with

There can be no argument that design and architecture in

the famed Professor Josef Svoboda in Prague University of

the Middle East are exciting, but as Boris points out, there are

Architecture. “It is a way in which I can summarise the impact

certain very crucial decisions that have to be taken, particularly

of our creation. Summarise all messages and feelings in one

in Saudi Arabia. KSA is starting a new chapter and building a

Boris Micka Associates

51 51

SAUDI PAVILION, EXPO DUBAI 2020

EXHIBITION TREASURES OF AGA KHAN

ISTANBUL ARCHAEOLOGICAL MUSEUM

lot of absolutely amazing projects with architecture that has to be something

processes that tend to clutter project management are reduced to the

completely new and distinctive, and Saudis have to manage their own style.

minimal, to release more time for creation. In this process it is inevitable

The teams working in Saudi Arabia have to be highly educated on what is the

that we continually challenge ourselves with new approaches and ideas, it

country about, what is its’ tradition, what are the climatic conditions – otherwise,

would be unexciting for us and our clients to repeat existing designs.”

the result might not be sustainable from a cultural or operational point of view. And I think sustainability is very high on the Kingdom’s list right now.

“The most important thing,” Boris explains, “is to be true to ourselves – we never work with a project we don’t agree with. Integrity is necessary to ensure quality.”

DISCOVER WHAT IS POSSIBLE A major strength of BMA, which gives the firm a considerable edge, is its

NOTE:

efficacy and speed. BMA always converts the development of the project

BMA’s current KSA pavilion design for Dubai Expo has already

into an enjoyable process. “We engage the clients to participate actively in

been spotted in a few international design publications as the

the project, creating strong and fast communications. The bureaucratic

top 10 anticipated architecture in 2020 to watch out for. www.borismicka.com

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