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Source: ME Construction News
The role of an architect comes with tremendous responsibility. What we build, where we build, and – more importantly – how we build is reliant on the effective collaboration of teams, a keen sense of the environment and overcoming operational roadblocks. Most of the challenges we face are not unique and are common to all architects regardless of the type of project we are working on. Here are the top five:
Budget restrictions
Probably the most frustrating obstacle is budget. Architects frequently encounter project cost restrictions, especially when working on projects with limited budgets. We have all encountered clients who prefer not to divulge budgets in advance, revealing this information only after they have insisted on the best solutions but given tight margins.
Budget restrictions and cost-related information makes it difficult to achieve their design objectives leading to concessions in materials, construction procedures, and operational aspects of the project. The advantages of sharing the budget early on are that funds can be planned and allocated more effectively.
Keeping projects on track
If there is one thing that is designed to increase stress levels within a team, it is time pressures. Architects must, consistently, meet strict deadlines to keep projects on track with the programme which invariably results in long working hours and increased stress levels.
Managing the different components of a project, such as design, construction, and stakeholder engagement, is a complex and time-consuming process. Added to this are the invariable project delays and setbacks, which are inevitable in the industry and designers must be ready to adapt and develop solutions to stay in control.
Evolve or expire
Architecture is an evolving discipline and architects must keep abreast of new technologies and materials to stay competitive and to give their clients the best solutions. While this might seem straightforward, the challenges this brings include the expense of staying updated; the software and hardware required; the skillset and the expense of upgrading systems. Failing to embrace digital tools will almost certainly hinder firms as they struggle to communicate effectively or forge the collaboration they need to deliver projects.
Staying sustainable
Sustainable building design has never been more important to the future of our environment and we, as designers, are conscious of the impact the buildings we design have on the environment. An environmentally friendly, innovative, and competitive construction industry can play a crucial role in contributing to a long-term climate and energy ambition through a number of different measures whether that is through sourcing new low carbon footprint material or conserving energy by using less fossil fuel produced energy. Constructing environmentally efficient buildings demands a delicate balance of function, aesthetics, economy, and sustainability.
Managing diverse teams
Managing large and diverse teams can be challenging. While large teams may mean extra resources and greater overall productivity, they can also present challenges. Working with individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds and with varying degrees of technical skills, as well as those working remotely requires superior team leadership to bring the team together on a project. It requires the understanding of the generational divide and what each generation can bring to a collaborative workplace in terms of expertise and working styles.
While managing office-based teams is certainly demanding, remote working brings its own set of challenges, from, often, inadequate communication and a lack of face-to-face interaction to tracking tasks and productivity. And for many of us, the remote working or hybrid working model has been a steep learning curve forcing us to adapt accordingly.
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Source: ME Construction News
In a bid to support and boost the growth of the construction sector in the emirate, the Dubai Chamber of Commerce has announced the launch of four business groups: building materials; cement and ready-mix; ceramics and paint coating, and gypsum.
According to Dubai Chamber of Commerce’s President & CEO, Mohammad Ali Rashed Lootah, the groups will encourage transparent communication among their members, and drive the growth of the construction sector in Dubai, which had a market size valued at US $81bn in 2021, with a projected average annual growth rate of more than 3% from 2023 to 2026.
Lootah said that between 2011 and 2021, Dubai’s trade in paint and gypsum amounted to $3.16bn, whereas ceramic trade was $9.63bn, cement trade was $151.1mn, and building materials trade was $67.36bn. He noted that the new business groups have been launched to promote the growth of construction companies and raise the profile of Dubai’s building sector in the global market.
In late June 2022, Dubai Municipality launched several technical activities around 3D printing technologies, and Omnix and Abu Dhabi Municipality collaborated to push a mandate relating to infrastructure projects.
The business groups will provide a platform for stakeholders and government entities to address industry-level challenges and policy matters related to the construction industry, the statement said.
The Dubai Chamber of Commerce plans to expand the number of business groups representing different economic sectors and activities to 100 by March 2023, he concluded.
In late January 2023, a 3D underground scanning project was launched in Dubai by Dubai Municipality.
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Source: ME Construction News
Abu Dhabi developer Aldar Properties has announced the launch of its boutique residential project, Manarat Living, in Abu Dhabi’s cultural district on Saadiyat Island.
According to the developer, the project will feature 273 homes located close to the cultural hub of Manarat Al Saadiyat, where year-round art exhibitions, workshops, and performances can be enjoyed. Manaret Al Saadiyat has been created to offer one of the world’s leading centres of cultural entertainment, showcasing art and media from around the globe.
Manarat Living will feature a range of sustainable design and building features, including the use of eco-efficient water fixtures, green building technologies, and a wide selection of sustainable construction materials, the statement from Aldar pointed out.
In late November 2022, Aldar said it was joining the Clean Energy Business Council and, in early January 2023, Aldar launched Sustainable City – Yas Island.
The development has been designed to achieve a two-pearl rating, as per the Estidama sustainability rating system, it added.
According to Aldar, the community is also within walking distance of many attractions including one of the UAE’s best beaches, the thriving restaurant and social scene at Mamsha Al Saadiyat and Soul Beach, five exceptional museums, the Abrahamic Family House, and one of Abu Dhabi’s premier schools.
In early February 2023, Aldar Properties formed a JV with Dubai Holding to enter the Dubai market.
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Source: ME Construction News
Developer DAMAC Properties has awarded China State Construction Engineering Corporation the main works construction contract for its 71-storey Cavalli Tower.
In a statement, DAMAC said that the contract is valued at approximately US $241.2mn and finalises the main works construction of the luxury high-rise residential tower in Dubai Marina. Once complete, the Cavalli Tower will feature interior designs by Italian fashion house Roberto Cavalli.
Offering views of the Palm Jumeirah, the design of the tower comes from Shaun Killa; it has a development value of approximately $544.5mn and comprises 436 units divided into three sections.
The developer explained that the first section is considered ‘luxury’, the middle section offers what it calls ‘upper luxury’ units, while the top floors will provide ‘super luxury’ features and finishes within those units.
In early December 2022, the developer launched Cavalli Couture at Safa Park in Dubai.
The tower’s ‘luxury’ and ‘upper luxury’ sections will have access to a private sky pool and sky gardens, while the ‘super luxury’ category features an exclusive infinity pool, a cigar lounge, and a private pavilion where residents can host their own private dinner parties. In addition, every home in the ‘super-luxury’ category will have its own private pool or jacuzzi.
The units will range from two-bedroom apartments to five-bedroom duplexes. All will feature high ceilings and sea views from the unit’s balcony. Other distinct features of Cavalli Tower include a four-storey lobby, a Malibu Bay-inspired beach pool in the gardens and bespoke services such as 24-hour butler service, a la carte housekeeping service and more.
“Following a rigorous selection process, we are proud to appoint China State Construction Engineering Corporation as our primary contractor to assist in building a truly iconic building that embodies sophistication and elegance,” stated Mohammed Tahaineh, General Manager of Projects at DAMAC Properties.
“We are very pleased with the progress we’ve made thus far in bringing this landmark project into fruition. With construction works steadily progressing, Cavalli Tower is shaping up beautifully and will be among DAMAC Properties iconic branded residences additions,” he added.
In late December 2022, the developer launched the ‘Ibiza’ residential cluster within its Damac Lagoons master development in Dubai.
The enabling works for Cavalli Tower were completed by the National Piling Corporation (NPC) and the company’s piling and excavation works were finished in December 2022.
DAMAC Properties and China State Construction Engineering Corporation have previously worked together with the latter being named as the primary contractor for DAMAC Aykon City located on Sheikh Zayed Road.
In late January 2023, the developer launched DAMAC Bay by Cavalli.
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Source: ME Construction News
Al Zorah Development Company, a joint venture (JV) between the Ajman government and Solidere International, has announced the launch of its new beachside residential project – Seaside Hills Residence, located in the northern emirate of Ajman.
The development will comprises three interconnected buildings with a total of 90 residential apartments, all with views of the waterfront. The units include one, two, and three-bedroom apartments up to 2,550sqft, as well as two luxurious four-bedroom penthouses (up to 4,285sqft), with designated basement parking and in-house maid’s quarters.
The floor plans with uninterrupted panoramic sea views are complemented by fully fitted kitchens and bathrooms and spacious terraces, balconies, private beach access and lush green spaces for quality time outdoors, the firm said.
In late May 2022, Al Zorah launched a 21 villa residential project and, in early July 2022, MEFMA inked a MOU with Ajman’s Department of Land and Real Estate Regulation.
Commenting on the launch of the project, Al Zorah Development Company CEO George Saad said, “This neighbourhood community was meticulously curated to offer a modern lifestyle without sacrificing access to nature. We took inspiration from the beautiful natural landscape of the area to provide our residents with a truly unique experience. Seaside Hills Residence is located in close proximity to The Oberoi Beach Resort, where residents may relax and unwind, and Al Zorah Golf Club, where they can play golf on the renowned 18-hole championship golf course.”
He added, “Residents will also benefit from around-the-clock surveillance security, secure entrances, and private beach access. The charming neighborhood is well maintained and landscaped on a regular basis. Seaside Hills Residence is our take on truly modern living for the whole family. We are confident that our new project will be the Emirate’s dream residential destination.”
The development also includes ample walkways allowing pedestrian access to facilities throughout the community, including a children’s playground, a community pool, an indoor and outdoor state-of-the-art gym, and a business centre.
In late August 2022, it was announced that work on Ajman’s Sheikh Ammar Street Development project was more than 65% completed.
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Source: ME Construction News
The Sharjah Electricity, Water and Gas Authority (SEWA) said it implemented and finalised a number of key development projects in Khorfakkan city last year. These included the setting up of 36 sub-distribution stations, in addition to a main-hub distribution station 11/33 kV (Al Haray Station No. 3).
Other work included the modernisation of a 3000kV amperes power station in Nahwa area, replacing the existing electric generators with contemporary, high-capacity equipment. More than 80% of the work has been completed on the Al Haray Station which will have a total capacity of 60MVA, able to supply 502 residential plots in the area, the utility major said.
SEWA said it also completed water connections to 344 residential villas, again via the Al Haray project.
In late January 2023, the SWPC issued RFQs to 35 companies for the Jubail 4 & 6 IWPs and, a senior official said that the construction of a key highway to East Sitra was on track for completion.
Ahmed Al Mulla, Director of Khorfakkan Department of SEWA confirmed that the authority continues to implement all development projects in Khorfakkan city, comprising both electricity and lighting networks, along with water projects.
He explained that SEWA is conducting a study for the development of two distribution substations, with a total capacity of adding 3000kVA to the Khorfakkan distribution network, to feed the Khorfakkan Corniche development project (affiliated with Shurooq). The authority will also follow up on the new hotel project in the Al Mudaifi area, with a total capacity of 17,500 kVA, and a health centre project in Yarmouk.
In early February 2023, DEWA said it had spent US $871mn on new projects in 2022.
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Source: ME Construction News
Ahead of the new year, in December 2022, regional construction veteran Nicky Dobreanu joined Omnium International as Branch Director. In an exclusive conversation with Middle East Construction News (MECN), Dobreanu says that he had previously worked with the Dubai-headquartered quantity surveying firm on numerous projects.
Talking to MECN about his focus and goals as a Director at the firm, Dobreanu says, “My particular focus is to support the projects of our growing client base, especially those under development in Saudi Arabia and the UAE. Outside of the technical role, as a Branch Director, I’m keen to be more deeply involved in the training and professional mentoring of our staff, our greatest asset.”
“From the point of view of my Director’s role, my personal interest is to lead diversification of the business in the area of project consultancy, focusing on all aspects of sustainability. I would like to strengthen our ability to guide clients, and the industry as a whole, towards decarbonisation.”
Dobreanu points out that Omnium has won several awards for its employee care programmes, and notes that he sees this aspect as being a cornerstone of Omnium’s appeal and continuing success.
At the 2022 Middle East Consultant Awards Omnium International was awarded in two categories: Health & Safety and Wellness Champion of the Year and Cost Consulting Company of the Year, while Peter Westeng, Chairman of Omnium International, was bestowed MEC’s Lifetime Achievement Award.
“I believe that if our staff know that they are valued, trusted and have genuine opportunities to advance their careers, while also working on some of the most fascinating construction projects in the industry, they will stay with us in the long-term. This only serves to strengthen the company and provides our clients with unmatched teams of experienced professionals. Furthermore, Omnium takes seriously its commitment to ensure a diverse, inclusive business which allows progression based on merit and ability – I am confident that I can act to continue the development of the company in this direction.”
Discussing what he would like to achieve during his first six months, Dobreanu responds, “I look forward to building upon the strong collaborative working framework already in place at Omnium. Omnium has a strong track record of building excellent client relationships from the start, and creating a strong working partnership with all project team members and stakeholders – something I was witness to in my previous roles. This collaborative approach really instils trust and confidence in a project team, and I look forward to making my own mark on building on those solid relationships with my client base and project teams.”
On a more personal note, he says, “I want to dedicate some more time to CSR campaigns and giving back to the local and global community, to those less fortunate from around the world. I want to support and inspire the next generation of Omnium speakers, who will become the public face of the company at the numerous industry events, panel discussions and conferences that we take part in, allowing them to confidently share the remarkable work they do for our clients.”
“At Omnium, we will keep our people at the heart of everything we do and empower their productivity with technology – and we will always try to take time to reconnect to each other and the purpose of the company,” he states.
In June 2022, Omnium’s Fernando Freitas revealed he’s keen to continue expanding Omnium’s global reach and spearhead its move to decarbonisation services in the long term.
Dobreanu is a veteran of the regional construction industry, having held senior positions at ALDAR Properties, KEO, Gleeds, while also working with the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS), the Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB) and many others. He has participated in a number of industry events organised by Middle East Consultant and Big Project Middle East.
Given his vast experience, Dobreanu has amassed a wealth of experience on the region’s nuances, and the issues that affect companies and projects.
Asked about some of his key learnings and how he intends to leverage them in his new role, Dobreanu says, “One of the main takeaways focuses on aspects relating to our most essential asset, our staff. This covers aspects relating to culture, recruitment, retention, engagement and work-life balance. I expect to see a rise in purpose-led organisations, where collaboration is empowered irrespective of your background, experience, gender, or race. In order to unlock the true power and potential of all, and as Korn Ferry puts it, firms will need to address the issues of ‘invisible people and unheard voices’.”
“A second take away is the need to really focus on sustainability, again in all its dimensions. And a good starting for this for any firm or individual, would be the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals. Investors, clients, customers and employees are all turning their backs on businesses that will not commit to building a sustainable future, and demand for companies to act will only grow in 2023 and the years to come.”
In early March 2022, Omnium expanded its main board with the addition of Fernando Freitas.
Lastly, the use of digital transformation of the built environment is gaining momentum, and this should be on everyone’s agenda, he points out.
He concludes, “All digital technologies have the potential to improve the design, construction, operation, and maintenance of buildings and infrastructure, making them safer, more energy-efficient, and more sustainable, while also improving the collaboration and communication among all stakeholders involved in construction projects.”
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Source: ME Construction News
Parsons has secured a major contract from Rua Al Madinah Holding Company to provide construction project management consultancy and contract administration services (PMCM) for a key development in Madinah.
Spread over a 1.5m sqm area, the Rua Al Madinah project will have 63% open, green spaces as well as new modes of transportation and parking, designed to provide easy access to the main mosque, surrounding residences, and commercial spaces. The expansive mixed-use project will also boast 47,000 hotel rooms, able to accommodate the estimated 30m pilgrims visiting the Saudi city throughout the next decade.
The Rua Al Madinah project represents the first phase of the Madinah Central Area mega-development and is projected to add $37mn to the GDP, as well as creating more than 93,000 new jobs. Parsons said that with regard to the $15mn PMCM contract, it will manage the main infrastructure works including the tunnel, road and all utility set-up.
Pierre Santoni, President for Middle East and Africa, Parsons commented, “The Kingdom has several mega-projects that are driving the economic and social transformation of the region, while highlighting its hospitality and heritage. The Rua Al Madinah project is a key initiative towards the realisation of Saudi Vision 2030.”
In late October 2022, it was announced that over 100 historical Islamic sites would be renovated in Madinah and, in early November 2022, Saudi Arabia’s SPGA invited pre-qualification bids for a TOD project in Makkah.
He added that the development is designed to elevate the city’s cultural and historical heritage, improve the quality of life for its residents, and enrich the visitor experience for Islamic pilgrims, “Moreover, we are dedicated to helping our client achieve their vision of reforming Madinah into a modern Islamic and cultural destination for pilgrims and a revitalised urban center for its residents.”
Santoni said Parsons has been serving as a trusted project management firm in the Middle East for more than 60 years.
He concluded, “With a regional team of more than 5,000 employees, our professionals bring domain expertise across multiple disciplines, including smart mobility, asset management, critical infrastructure, master planning, urban planning, and landscape architecture.”
In late November 2022, PIF subsidiary SEVEN said it would invest $13.3bn into 21 integrated entertainment destinations in KSA.
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Source: ME Construction News
An agreement between Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF) and AeroFarms has been inked. As per the terms of the deal, a new company will be set-up in Riyadh, and will focus on building and operating indoor vertical farms in the MENA region.
According to PIF, the partnership aligns with its strategy, which focuses on developing and enabling the capabilities of key sectors, including food and agriculture. The Saudi sovereign wealth fund said the move will contribute to improving trade balance, localise technologies, develop industries and the overall growth and diversification of the Saudi economy.
It also said that it is investing to localise new agricultural technologies that can benefit the local private sector, expanding its market reach and positioning Saudi Arabia as a leader in vertical farming.
The first farm in Saudi Arabia, which is expected to be the largest indoor vertical farm of its kind in the region, will have an annual production capacity of up to 1.1m kgs of agricultural crops.
In early May 2021, Dubai launched the Food Tech Valley business park.
“The agreement with AeroFarms will lead to the establishment of indoor vertical farms in Saudi Arabia and the wider MENA region, increasing regional reliance on locally produced, high-quality crops grown in a sustainable way using the latest technologies. PIF is enabling the growth of the food and agriculture sector and localizing technology that can benefit private sector industry participants,” said Majed AlAssaf, the Head of Consumer Goods and Retail, MENA Investments Division at PIF.
According to PIF, the agreement will optimise the utilisation of natural resources, including water and agricultural lands, through the implementation of indoor vertical farming, with no need for arable land, resulting in significantly higher yields and using up to 95% less water versus traditional field farming.
The partnership is expected to enable sustainable, local sourcing of high-quality crops all year round, grown using AeroFarms’ proprietary smart agriculture technology (AgTech) platform, which helps solve broader supply chain needs in the industry. The joint venture plans to build and operate several farms across the region in the next few years, PIF explained.
David Rosenberg, Co-Founder and CEO of AeroFarms remarked, “Our mission is to grow the best plants possible for the betterment of humanity, and we created AeroFarms to help solve the greatest agriculture challenges and increase food resiliency around the world. We are excited to partner with PIF to build our first large-scale commercial farm in Saudi Arabia, where the growing conditions are challenging with limited access to fresh water and arable land, and we envision building together smart indoor vertical farms throughout the broader MENA region.”
In late May 2022, ADAFSA awarded a $84.3mn contract to develop two farms in the UAE.
AeroFarms has a strong track record of creating large-scale commercial farms with a reputation for high quality and consistency of production, along with experienced management, and an advanced technology and R&D team, he concluded.
In late August 2022, Group AMANA delivered the world’s largest vertical farm in Dubai South.
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Source: ME Construction News