Trade Arabia XML Feed

Dorma Gulf opens office in Qatar

Sun, 29 Apr 2012 14:46:21 GMT

Dorma, the trusted global partner for premium access solutions and services, has opened its representative office in Doha.

The Qatar office is set to provide clients and partners with customised and integrated solutions with an improved process from specification to technical support. Dorma Qatar will be a full-fledged country office in charge of complete operational control of Dorma’s strategic business in Qatar.

Dorma Qatar has been represented in the region for over 15 years through its trusted partners and now with its newly opened office Dorma can reach its client base directly through its extensive network and on ground experience of the Qatar market. The Qatar office opening comes close on heels to Dorma Kuwait’s acquisition of the Door Service Centre late last year.

Sami Al-Naji, country manager, Dorma Qatar said, “Doha is a huge market for Dorma, with the world’s attention on Qatar, the region has taken strides to help improve and build the city’s infrastructure.”

“The move will strengthen Dorma’s market position in the region and enable the company to rollout its extensive product portfolio. Dorma has increased its market share in the Middle East and North Africa over the past 15 years and is a market leader in door controls and automatic business with a 45 per cent share of the market in Qatar.”

“Given Dorma’s product superiority, we aim to increase our market share in the next few years to help reach out to potential clients,” Al-Naji added. – TradeArabia News Service

Saudi Insulated Blocks in key accord

Sun, 29 Apr 2012 14:46:21 GMT

Saudi Insulated Blocks Company (Sibco), the specialist manufacturer of lightweight concrete, signed an agency agreement with Bahrain-based construction group Janada during gulfBID 2012.

"This is an important move for us in helping to expand our business in Bahrain," said Sibco export department official Tarek Olama.

"We see Bahrain as a busy economy and we see potential to expand our business here through Janada.

"We currently have five customers in Bahrain but working in partnership with an agent should help to expand this," he said.

"The construction business in Bahrain is clearly picking up and that is a message we have been getting across to visitors to our stand during the show and we are keen to play a role in this expansion," he added.-TradeArabia News Service

Aldar Q1 profit hits $130m

Sun, 29 Apr 2012 14:46:21 GMT

Aldar Properties, Abu Dhabi's struggling developer currently in merger talks with rival Sorouh Real Estate, more than doubled its first quarter net profit on land and residential unit sales to the government.

The builder of the Yas Marina Formula One Circuit said in a statement on Saturday that it made a net profit of Dh478.2 million ($130.2 million) compared to Dh189.1 million in the same period in 2011.

Analyst estimates for the company ranged from a net loss of Dh91 million by Sico Bahrain to a net profit of Dh193.2 million by Global Investment House.

Revenue for the quarter was Dh3.58 billion, compared to Dh784.7 million in the same quarter last year, the company said.

The revenue boost was due to a Dh2.2 billion related to sale contracts signed in 2011 with the government of Abu Dhabi and other related entities, the company said.

'The results reflect the significant deliveries of residential units and land plots at Al Raha Beach that began in the quarter and will continue through the year, supported by strong recurring revenues from our operating businesses,' Ali Eid AlMheiri, chairman of Aldar said in the statement.

Aldar's total cash and bank balance was 5.8 billion dirhams at the end of the first quarter of 2012. The company signed a 4 billion dirhams revolving credit facility with National Bank of Abu Dhabi earlier this month.

Aldar, rescued twice by Abu Dhabi with funds amounting to nearly $10 billion, said last month that it may merge with Sorouh in what would be a government-backed tie-up.

Abu Dhabi's largest developer by market value has been at the front of a property market slump in Abu Dhabi, the capital of the United Arab Emirates, which is facing challenges amid a huge supply of high-end homes entering the market.

Property prices in Abu Dhabi are expected to fall another 11 percent from here, a Reuters poll showed in January.

State investment fund Mubadala, which earlier owned a 49 per cent stake in Aldar, transferred a 14-percent stake to Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank in return for a loan facility.

Abu Dhabi has held talks to offload all or part of the 49-per cent government stake in struggling Aldar in an attempt to stop its falling asset value from dragging down Mubadala.-Reuters

UAE firms 'must adopt green cooling systems'

Sun, 29 Apr 2012 14:46:21 GMT

Al Reyadah, an UAE-based contracting company that serves clients in the Gulf region, has urged real estate developers to adopt the latest eco-friendly cooling systems that enhance the environmental sustainability in the UAE.

The call was made on the sidelines of the Cityscape Abu Dhabi 2012 that concluded recently at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre with the participation of local and international real estate companies and developers.

Mohammed Swairjo, the general manager of Al Reyadah said, “We feel it is our responsibility to stress the importance of adopting latest eco-friendly cooling technologies before the participants at the Cityscape Abu Dhabi. These technologies can assist in the environmental sustainability of the region, through saving the consumption of energy resources, such as water.”

Al Reyadah, he said, is providing cooling management services to different sectors, including hospitals, schools, universities, sportive clubs, factories, residential units, offices and other facilities.

It aims at developing and building long term relationships with its customers to ensure a reliable service, said Swairjo.

Al Reyadah, he said, had won many contracts for the management of cooling systems, including 19 luxury villas owned by B2B Hotels & Properties and Masar Printing Press which is the print arm of Awraq Publishing while it has provided Al Rahma Medical store owned by Ismail Al Khaja & Sons Group with AC built and design services.

“Our advanced cooling systems in buildings and towers are saving significant quantities of power, because it is associated with an advanced system that controls all cooling sizes at one place, as the rates of cooling differ from place to another in the same building such as windows, doors, corridors and other places,” he added.-TradeArabia News Service

Maskan Arabia to unveil key Saudi projects

Sun, 29 Apr 2012 14:46:21 GMT

Maskan Arabia, a leading construction company in Saudi Arabia, will showcase its latest housing projects at the Riyadh Real Estate and Urban Development Exhibition 2012 (Restatex 2012) which opens today (April 29).

The event, which will run till May 2 at Riyadh International Exhibition Center, will see Maskan Arabia highlight the necessity of providing affordable finance to developers for carrying out more housing projects.

Most of the development companies in Saudi Arabia aspire to accelerate new housing projects, said a senior official.

Consequently, investors need to take into consideration the high cost of construction and the shortage of qualified contractors, which makes their prices high according to supply and demand balance, while the quality of individual contractors' work does not meet the required standards, remarked Hossam Al-Rashoudi, the CEO of Maskan Arabia.

However, the high cost of construction is not the only obstacle that real estate development companies face.

In fact, high prices of white lands and lack of proper financing solutions signify the main problem that prevents citizens from obtaining proper affordable housing for their families and represent a major challenge for investors in this field, he added.-TradeArabia News Service

Bahrain works ministry reviews strategic plan

Sun, 29 Apr 2012 14:46:21 GMT

The Bahrain Ministry of Works held its annual strategy review meeting under the chairmanship of Minister of Works Essam bin Abdulla Khalaf.

The meeting was attended by the Ministry’s undersecretary, assistant undersecretaries, advisors, directors and all staff the involved in strategy management.

At the meeting, strategic planning head Raja Al Zayani highlighted the key issues that could impact the delivery of the different services provided by the Ministry.

Pan Najm Al Deen shed light on the sanitary engineering sector and ways to handle sewage problems and the deterioration of sewage networks in the Kingdom.

With regard to the roads sector, Sayyed Badir Alawi delivered a presentation under the title ‘Reputation Management’ in which he referred to the categorization of work environment, while the head of central planning office Dominic McPolin highlighted the role of the ministry in handling its various responsibilities.

Abdulla Khalaf reiterated the importance of strategic management in handling different projects and also extended thanks to all the attendees.-TradeArabia News Service

Nass receives first backhoe loader

Sun, 29 Apr 2012 14:46:21 GMT

Nass Commercial, a subsidiary of Nass Corporation and the sole distributors of CASE equipment and machinery, recently received delivery of the first CASE 695ST Backhoe Loader to Bahrain.

“We have sold several backhoe loaders in Bahrain but the Model 695ST is the first. With its introduction, we aim at penetrating the Bahraini construction sector with CASE’s extensive range of construction equipment and machinery,” said Bashar Nass, general manager of Nass Commercial.

The 695ST model is a four equal-sized wheel machine powered by a 110hp engine driving through a powershift transmission.

The new backhoe can accommodate several types of attachments including 6-in-1 buckets, augers, snowblades, hammers and v-type buckets, among others. Nass Commercial has also placed orders for additional units to comply with requests from other clients.

“The construction industry in our country is picking up and all indicators suggest that this trend will continue to flourish in the foreseeable future. Our clients will be delighted to know that our diverse range of CASE heavy equipment will greatly benefit us with increased productivity and profitability," Nass added.

“With the introduction of new and enhanced equipment and techniques, we at Nass wish to capitalize on our position and take advantage of the various opportunities the market has to offer in terms of infrastructural development and upcoming construction projects” he concluded.

After the delivery of Motor Graders to Bahrain last month, Nass Commercial is now tapping into a territory of backhoes which has primarily been dominated by other manufacturers.

The new Model 695ST will be delivered to Nass Asphalt who intend to utilize it in several high profile projects across Bahrain like rehabilitation of Manama roads - Hoora, Sheikh Isa Bin Salman Highway, Northern Roads, Sheikh Isa Bin Salman Causeway etc. – TradeArabia News Service

Saudi construction major implements SAP solution

Sun, 29 Apr 2012 14:46:21 GMT

Saudi Arabia-based Gulf Consolidated Contractors Company (GCC) has bolstered its capabilities with the implementation of cutting-edge IT solutions from SAP, the world’s leading business software company.

By integrating and enhancing its core processes, the conglomerate - which includes the construction arms of Fafco-Petcon (Abdullah Fouad), Abdullah H Al-Shuwayer, Al-Tamimi and Al-Jabr Trading – will be better able to serve key customers such as Saudi Aramco, Saudi Electricity and Sabic, said a statement.

GCC will initially adopt SAP’s Business-in-One solution, which has been specifically tailored to the construction industry to automate systems, improve overall efficiency and provide critical, real-time business insights.

“As Saudi Arabia and the Middle East continue their rapid and visionary evolution, the construction industry must adapt to keep pace,” said Waleed A Abubshait, president, GCC.

“This is a big challenge, but one we are well-placed to meet as long as we never lose sight of innovation in all its forms - least particularly when it comes to IT. To this end, SAP will be a vital ally as we move forward, providing us with a peerless digital platform – be it on site, in the cloud or on our mobile devices – that enables end-to-end visibility, drives sustainable business practices and dramatically enhances acuity for swifter decision-making,” he said.

SAP’s Business All-in-One is designed for rapid implementation, delivers a fast return on investment and has the flexibility to adapt as business needs change. It encompasses every aspect of operations, from project management, procurement and financial control to environmental compliance, quality management and overall business transparency, said the statement.

“GCC’s determination to continually benchmark against the very best and adopt the latest IT technologies is laudable and serves as a tremendous example not only to Saudi Arabia, but also the world’s construction industry as a whole. By using SAP solutions to enhance its processes, empower its employees and maximize value wherever possible, GCC’s future is hugely exciting and something we are genuinely honoured to be part of,” said Sam Alkharrat, managing director, SAP Mena. – TradeArabia News Service

UMG completes Oman turnkey project

Sun, 29 Apr 2012 14:46:20 GMT

Unique Maritime Group (UMG), a leading integrated turnkey subsea and offshore solution provider, said one of its unit has completed the first turnkey sludge & slops project for the Oman government.

Unique Tile Services, a joint venture between Dubai-based maritime organization Tile Marine and UMG, said it has reached the commissioning and training phase of a sludge & slops project at Duqm Dry Docks, Oman’s first ship repair facility.

Using waste treatment plants designed by nature environmental solutions, the facility uses the latest in environmental technology to biologically process oily tank washings taken from tankers undergoing maintenance at the dockyard complex, it stated.

Breaking ground in 2011, this marks the final stage of completion of Unique’s first turnkey project for the Oman Government, according to a top official.

The facility can receive up to 10,000 cu m of slops and has already begun receiving consignments of slops cargo as the training team assists the Oman Drydock Company open for business, said Ian Huggins, the general manager at Unique System.

“Unique’s project management skills were tested during this demanding project as the facility lies some 500km from the nearest port and city,' remarked Huggins.

'The logistics of designing and constructing this remote project presented constant challenges for the engineers and managers based in the UK, Norway, Gibraltar, UAE and Muscat. I am proud of my team who not only faced these challenges but also overcame them with success,' he added.

UMG is a specialist in the provision of services, and the sale and rental of equipment for the marine, diving, hydrographic, oceanographic, and NDT market sectors.-TradeArabia News Service

Bahrain construction sector back in business

Thu, 26 Apr 2012 06:26:04 GMT

Things are looking up in the construction industry, according to leading players in the sector who were claiming Bahrain was very much back in business after the disruption a year ago.

That was the view being expressed by exhibitors at the region's leading construction exhibition gulfBID 2012, which opened at the Bahrain International Exhibition and Conference Centre.

The exhibition was opened by His Royal Highness Prime Minister Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa.

Al Yusuf Thermo Glass, a regular exhibitor at the event, was talking about expansion plans and showcasing its latest range of Keller paint coatings for glass.

'We produced this new product last year and we are launching it at this show with a product range that can offer 18,000 different colours and shades that can be used on floors and walls,' said projects manager Mohammed Al Thahaba.

'We have already done a deal with the Mazda showroom in Bahrain and are expecting to sign a deal worth around $900,000 with a Nigerian company in the very near future.

'Business is looking good again and we are investing in our factory and we expect to finalise a new lamination line by next year.

'It is good to be back at gulfBID which is an excellent opportunity to talk to existing and new clients and we are already planning to return next year,' he added.

Real estate and property to construction and building materials company Grnata Group were also pleased about the return of the event.

'This is the third time we have taken part and it is an important event for us at a time of an upturn in the industry,' said Budaiya branch manager Mohammed Khalid.

'It is a show where we can meet people it would be hard to see in our normal daily life as it brings together in one place all the leading and successful traders and contractors.

'The people who come here are serious people who are looking to do business. Most of the important companies in the industry are here.'

Stallion, the decor and wallpaper company, were taking part in their fourth gulfBID.

'We are showcasing our range of wallpapers and tiles and even for a first day we have received a lot of interest from both individuals and commercial buyers,' said director Nadia Dashti.

Saudi Arabian scaffolding specialists Manar Al Omran also welcomed the return of the event.

'It is important for us as we can meet all our main contractors here,' said civil engineer Adnan Diab.

'We operate from 50 branches and gullfBID is an event where we can meet people from across the region,' he added.

Building materials firm to shop fitters and designers Al Nooh general manager Maki Ali Al Nooh said they had been very busy with visitors from the start of the first day.

'This is our second time at the show and we were disappointed it was cancelled last year because it is an ideal venue to meet customers from across our entire range of products and operations.'

Bio-Remedies, which specialises in water softening systems and products, is looking to meet both commercial and domestic customers at the show.

'We have been very busy in the morning and this event is clearly the right place to be for us,' said vice-president Annet Al Ammari.-TradeArabia News Service

DSI wins $128m Abu Dhabi utility project

Thu, 26 Apr 2012 06:26:03 GMT

Drake & Scull International (DSI), a regional market leader in integrated design, engineering and construction sector, said its water and power unit has won a Dh470 million ($128 million) subcontract for a utility proect in Abu Dhabi.

The UAE-based company is a specialist in the disciplines of civil contracting mechanical, electrical and plumbing (MEP) sector.

Drake & Scull Water and Power said it had won a subcontract from Abu Dhabi Sewerage Services Company (ADSSC) for the design review, procurement & construction of MEP & instrumentation works for the strategic tunnel enhancement programme (STEP) pumping station in the emirate.

Developed by ADSSC, it will be one of the longest gravity-driven wastewater tunnels in the world designed to reduce the pressure on the current Emirate Sewerage system and to expand its future capacity.

The pumping station will be located at the termination of the new deep Tunnel sewer at Al Wathba area and is part of the STEP.

The construction of pumping station will be executed in partnership with the main design and build contractor “Construtora Norberto Odebrecht” a renowned International Brazilian conglomerate specialized in the fields of engineering, construction, chemicals and petrochemicals.

DSWP said it will commence the execution of the MEP package immediately after the civil works get completed.

ADSSC managing director Alan Thomson said, “I am positive that we have found the right partner to deliver this programme and to utilize their worldwide expertise to help supplement the efforts of ADSSC to be the best-practice wastewater company in the region.”

Commenting on the win, Tawfiq Abu Soud, the managing director of DSWP said, “We are delighted to have been selected to contribute to upgrading the emirate’s sewerage system. Sustainability and environmentally sound engineering practices are crucial and pivotal elements to the successful completion of the project.'

'Our expertise in environmental engineering and our partnership with Odebrecht will allow us to put in place eco-friendly engineering models and structures to protect the environment and contribute to the development of a sustainable infrastructure system in the emirate,' he added.

Since its inception, Drake & Scull Water and Power has completed several projects in the UAE, Qatar, Saudi and other GCC countries.-TradeArabia News Service

Arabtec group set to win $3bn airport deal

Thu, 26 Apr 2012 06:26:02 GMT

An Arabtec Holding consortium that includes Greek and Turkish firms is on the cusp of securing an estimated $3 billion contract for the expansion of Abu Dhabi's international airport, four industry sources told Reuters.

The group, which includes Turkey's TAV Insaat and Athens-based Consolidated Contractors Company (CCC), have pipped three rival consortia for the lucrative contract to build a midfield terminal building, sources said.

An Abu Dhabi-based source aware of the deal said the TAV-Arabtec group had been chosen but that final details still needed to be hammered out. Meanwhile, a source in the consortium said the group 'had gotten positive signals but no official information had been sent.'

'They have the lowest bid ... it's likely they will win it,' said a third source, who was involved in the bidding process, speaking on condition of anonymity.

TAV declined to comment. Arabtec and CCC officials in the United Arab Emirates were not immediately available for comment.

An ADAC spokesman said an announcement would be made only once the tender is finalised. Abu Dhabi Airports Company (ADAC) had short-listed four groups in February for the general construction contract.

The new terminal will be around 700,000 sq m in size, according to ADAC's website, and is a key part of an ambitious expansion programme at the airport in Abu Dhabi, the UAE capital.

The midfield complex will include the terminal building, passenger and cargo facilities as well as duty-free shops and restaurants for a total capacity of up to 40 million people a year. It is slated to become operational in 2017.

The other three shortlisted groups were Bechtel Corporation-ENKA-Al Jaber Group, Hyundai Engineering & Construction-Kumho Engineering & Construction-China State Construction Engineering Corporation-Al Shafar General Contracting Company and Samsung-ACC-Six Construct. - Reuters

Expos break records; Bahrain business on track

Thu, 26 Apr 2012 06:26:02 GMT

The gulfBID and gulfInteriors exhibitions, which opened in Bahrain yesterday, are breaking records not only in terms of exhibitor participation and trade visitors but also in the total value of deals signed.

Business is firmly back on track in Bahrain, said exhibitors as contracts worth over $30 million were signed after two days of the show.

The expos, at the Bahrain International Exhibition and Convention Centre (BIECC), will conclude tomorrow (April 26).

The kingdom’s Bahrain Prism Glass Factory reported signing about $19 million worth of deals, while the Dubai-based Alomi Real Wood Floors, after entering a $10-million deal on the opening day, followed it up with orders worth $1.6 million on the second day.
The first order for Bahrain Prism Glass was worth $2.2 million for the supply of 8,000 sq m of high-end architectural glass to a palace in Abu Dhabi, said T Mani, general manager of the company. “We will start supplying the glass from June 1,” he said.

The second order is worth QR27 million ($7.42 million) from Doha, Qatar, and the third from India worth $6 million, he said.
Before the show is over, Bahrain Prism will sign two more orders worth $1.27 million and $1.07 million for a five-star deluxe hotel in New Delhi, India and the Gosi Villas in Saudi Arabia’s Eastern Province respectively, he said.

“We already have around 38 projects in Bahrain and we have the capacity to supply all of them and more from our state-of-the-art 35,000 sq m factory at the Bahrain International Investment Park (BIIP), which we set up two and a half years ago at a cost of $33 million,” he said.

“We have all types of glasses ranging from architectural to bullet proof glasses. Our aim is to become a one-stop-shop for any type of glass,” he said.

Alomi’s second deal is worth $1 million for the supply of 13,000 sq m of natural oil finish tropical timber for a palace in Saudi Arabia, said company managing director Albert Douglas. It also signed a deal worth $500,000 for the supply of 20,000 sq m of British wool carpet for a wedding hall in Dammam, he said.

The company is also supplying $100,000 worth of commercial laminated flooring to a housing project in Bahrain.

“This is my sixth participation at gulfBID. And every year I go back to Dubai doing better business than before,” he said. The remarkable attendance at the show illustrated that business is firmly back on track in Bahrain, he added.

Meanwhile, Saudi Insulated Blocks Company (Sibco), one of the leading producers of cellular concrete blocks in the region, is expanding its footprint and has appointed Bahrain-based Janada Building Materials as its agent in the kingdom.

“We look forward to a fruitful engagement with Janada,” said Tarek Olama, official, export department, Sibco, after signing the agreement at the show.

Sibco, which has two factories in Riyadh and Jeddah, specialises in the manufacturing of insulating white blocks to serve Saudi Arabia’s growing construction industry.

Meanwhile, the Italian Ambassador to Bahrain Enrico Padula visited the iGuzzini stand at gulfInteriors. The Ambassador said he is delighted to visit the stand and to support the collaboration between Italy (iGuzzini) and Bahrain (Al Bait) and to highlight Italian design and quality at its highest level.

At the gulfInteriors show, Bahrain-based Berger Paints displayed its latest offering, Royale Play, which will hit the kingdom’s market in June.

“We are the leading local paint manufacturer in the kingdom and despite the troubles our business is doing good,” said R Raghupathi, manager sales and marketing, Berger Paints.

Mohammed Al Moamen, marketing director of Magic Wall Décor, said the exhibition will help expand his business within the kingdom and overseas. “I have had some very good enquiries, which I hope will translate to business,” he said.

First-time exhibitor Marmara Trading sees good market in the kingdom for its imported bathroom and sanitary ware. “Business is expected to pick up this year,” said Hani Khuzam, senior sales manager. - TradeArabia News Service

AMA seals $1.4m deal with Bramco

Thu, 26 Apr 2012 06:26:01 GMT

AMA Motors, part of the Ahmed Mansoor Al A'ali Group, yesterday (April 25) signed BD520,000 ($1.4 million) deal with the Bramco Group at gulfBID, the major exhibition for the construction sector in the region.

The deal included excavators, a truck and a Liebherr big wheel leader. And the two companies are looking to close deals on more equipment in the near future which could be worth over BD2 million.

"The Liebherr big wheel leader is the largest loader for mining on the market," said Bramco chairman and chief executive V K Dewan.

"It's not the cheapest on the market but it is the most fuel efficient. It's probably the most expensive but it is the cheapest to run and it is the most environmentally-friendly," he added.

The big wheel loader will be used in Bramco's limestone quarry in Bahrain.

"We have done a lot of business with Bramco and we look to continue doing business with them in the future," said AMA Motors general manager Simon Keen.

The company had a major display of their vehicles outside the exhibition centre and invited more than 200 clients to visit them. – TradeArabia News Service

Green buildings ‘improve profitability’

Wed, 25 Apr 2012 06:44:32 GMT

Any efforts to decrease energy expenses in buildings can increase net income for the landlord by up to 3 per cent, a report said.

Benefits for investors in green buildings include lower operating costs, improved marketability, longer useful life-spans, and more stable cash flows, added the report titled ‘Doing Well by Doing Good: Does Going Green with Commercial Real Estate Pay?’ by Cluttons, a real estate specialist.

Businesses, landlords and tenants are becoming increasingly aware of the various advantages of occupying green buildings, said Jonathan Fothergill, director of Cluttons UAE Valuations.

"Energy efficiency improvements are a direct and relatively simple way to reduce the carbon footprint of real estate,” Fothergill said.

“Steps taken to measure and monitor energy consumption can lead to efficiency improvements that translate into real economic savings, not only through a decrease in operating expenses, but also the increase in value associated with an increase in property level revenue."

Over the past 12 months Cluttons Middle East, working in tandem with a specialist energy efficiency contractor, has been researching the potential for reducing the operating costs for its property management clients and making their properties more sustainable.

Several refurbishment measures to existing buildings have been considered in an attempt to reduce operating costs and to improve energy efficiency.

This complements the efforts of the Abu Dhabi’s Urban Planning Council’s Estidama (sustainability) Pearl Rating System. This stipulates that new buildings must meet strict sustainability requirements in respect of energy and water consumption efficiency to receive approval for construction.

This is part of the UAE Governments’ target of achieving a 120 per cent reduction in the UAE’s carbon footprint by 2015.

The authority is currently drawing up guidelines that will make existing structures in the Emirate sustainable. These guidelines will call for more efficient water, lighting, cooling and insulation fixtures, among various other elements.

Two buildings in the capital have already been recognised for their sustainability efforts: Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank was awarded the LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) pre-certification for Gold Rating from the US Green Building Council for its proposed new headquarters on Airport Road in Abu Dhabi.

The building, which is under construction, will be one of the first to have received such a certification in the UAE. The integration of sustainability principles into the Sowwah Square buildings has also resulted in the accreditation by LEED Core and Shell Gold Pre-certification by the US Green Building Council. – TradeArabia News Service

Time to 'adopt new cooling technologies'

Wed, 25 Apr 2012 06:44:32 GMT

Empower, a leading district cooling services provider in the region, called upon local and Gulf-based developers to adopt district cooling technologies and gradually move away from conventional AC systems to save environmental resources.

Speaking on the sidelines of the Cityscape Abu Dhabi 2012, Ahmed Bin Shafar, the CEO of Empower, said that the time had come when adopting district cooling in the real estate units was no longer just “lovely to have it” but a critical necessity.”

Cityscape Abu Dhabi, a leading real estate and development event, will run till April 25 at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre, from 10am to 7pm daily.

Bin Shafar stressed on Empower’s firm belief that district cooling has huge potential in the region as an alternative to conventional AC systems.

District cooling service, he said, achieves economies of scale by using centralized plants instead of individual cooling units in each building. The centralized system results in lower capital and operating costs, thus reducing air-conditioning set-up and energy costs per building.

“The real estate sector is still in its early stages in most of the Arab countries and it is regarded as one of the most dynamic sectors. This makes it critical to disseminate awareness of the winning features of district cooling technologies which reduces power consumption significantly,” he stated.

Bin Shafar pointed out that apart from consuming less power, electricity or water, district cooling supported the green building concept as well as the green economy elements.

'Moreover, within the district cooling sector, Empower is creating alternatives with less cost and eco-friendly by using polished water. It operates in a range of real estate projects in Dubai including Business Bay, Dubai International Financial Center, Dubai Healthcare City, Jumeirah Beach Residence, Mirdif and City of Arabia,' he added.-TradeArabia News Service

Arabtec unit wins $137m contract

Wed, 25 Apr 2012 06:44:31 GMT

An Arabtec Holdings unit has won three contracts in Qatar and the United Arab Emirates worth $137.22 million, the Dubai builder said on Monday

The largest of the contracts, worth a combined Dh504 million, is from Qatar Petroleum for the construction of a workers facility to be built over three years, according to a statement.

The unit, Target Engineering Construction, also won a contract for civil construction work in the UAE's Das Island.

Abu Dhabi sovereign fund Aabar Investments is a key shareholder in Arabtec with a 10.45 per cent stake. – Reuters

Bahrain Premier opens top trade shows

Wed, 25 Apr 2012 06:44:31 GMT

Two of the most eagerly-anticipated gatherings on the Northern Gulf’s trade show calendar - gulfBID and gulfInteriors exhibitions - opened today (April 24) in Bahrain.

His Royal Highness Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa, Prime Minister of Bahrain, inaugurated the events this morning at the Bahrain International Exhibition and Convention Centre (BIECC).

The shows - which run concurrently till April 26 at BIECC – offer an unrivalled window into the world of two vibrant sectors which are undergoing sustained regional growth.

After inaugurating the shows, the Premier took a tour of the show.

The gulfBID and gulfInteriors, being organised by Bahrain-based Hilal Conferences & Exhibitions (HCE), together boasts of close to 140 exhibitors.

The gulfBID, being held in BIECC Hall 1 for the sixth time since 2006, showcases market leaders from the specialist construction, contracting and related sectors, who will demonstrate their brands, equipment and services to discerning visitors, who include key decision makers, project buyers and other senior executives.

With all exhibition space now allocated, gulfBID 2012 promises to be the biggest show in the series yet.

High oil prices are underpinning massive new construction and infrastructure projects in the region. The Saudi Gazette recently reported that some $750 billion-worth of projects was in the pipeline.

In Qatar meanwhile, Gulf Construction magazine quotes local bank QNB Capital as forecasting some $185 billion-worth of projects to be launched in the country in the run up to the 2022 World Cup.

In Bahrain, the energy sector will be subject to a $20 billion long-term investment programme, while up to $1 billion in new housing schemes – including 23,000 units in new cities in East Hidd, East Sitra and Northern Town by the end of 2016 - are among capital-intensive projects being planned.

Against this background, GCC contractors are increasingly focused on manufacturing and sourcing supplies in the region, reinforcing gulfBID’s pivotal position in the industry, said the HCE in a statement.

Meanwhile, the second gulfInteriors exhibition, to be held in BIECC Hall 2, will represent the cream of the local, regional and international interiors, design and furniture community.

Targeting both the consumer and business markets, the interior designers, architects, retailers and contractors at the show will epitomise style and finesse.

The latest innovative, luxury and designer products will be showcased in the fields of contract and residential furniture, interior design services and contracting, textiles and upholstery fabrics, beds and bedding, floorings and wall coverings, lighting, kitchens and bathrooms, art and accessories, ceramics, marble and granite, outdoor living, hospitality and office interiors.

For the consumer, some of Bahrain’s finest furniture and design houses will be participating, including dwp, ID Design, Trends Haus, Dream Home, Home Centre, EM Dekor, Al Bait, Alchemy and Q Home Décor. Several have announced special offers and promotions for visitors during the exhibition.

Industry data shows the Gulf’s interior design market will grow exponentially over the next few years, following an estimated $57 billion-worth of spending in 2011.

The resurgence of select GCC real estate markets, as well as the announcement of a raft of new world-class projects in the region – from hotels and mixed-use projects to villas, residential communities and as well as commercial fit-out projects – means influential interior designers now consider the buoyant northern Gulf as one of the world’s most lucrative regions.

Anwar Abdulrahman, chairman, Al Hilal Group – the parent company of HCE - said: 'Through these shows, the Group’s vision is to provide a conduit for businesses active in the region’s most economically-important sectors to connect with one another. In achieving our vision, we are indebted to the support of the government of the Kingdom of Bahrain, led by HRH The Prime Minister Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa.”

Jubran Abdulrahman, the managing director of HCE, said: “The fact that exhibition space at both shows is sold out is testament to both the pent up market demand for specialist, professionally-organised business-to-business trade exhibitions, as well as the optimism prevailing in the region.

'Our ability to consistently deliver a high calibre trade show would, however, not be possible without the valued support of our generous sponsors, not least the government of Bahrain, to whom we owe a great deal of gratitude,' said the top official.

'This includes Tamkeen, whose Tarweej Programme subsidises 80 per cent of the exhibiting costs of more than 100 small and medium-sized enterprises at the exhibitions,' he added.

Ahmed Suleiman, the HCE conference director, said: “Every year we look to raise the standard of the shows we organise. Given the sheer quality and quantity of exhibitors this year we are confident of exceeding all expectations, and look forward to reporting millions of dollars-worth of construction- and interiors-related deals.”

The gulfBID and gulfInteriors both enjoy strong support from both the public and private sector. These include Tamkeen, Bahrain’s Ministry of Industry and Commerce, the German Arab Chamber of Commerce and Industry (Ghorfa), Bahrain Chamber of Commerce and Industry, British Expertise, and the Bahrain Exhibition & Convention Authority (BECA).

Both exhibitions are open to visitors from 10am to 8pm on all three days.-TradeArabia News Service

BaPDA takes part in gulfBID

Wed, 25 Apr 2012 06:44:30 GMT

Bahrain Property Developers Association (BaPDA) has announced its participation in gulfBID 2012, a leading expo which showcases market leaders from the specialist construction, contracting and related sectors.

BaPDA has consistently demonstrated a keen commitment to effectively support and guide the property development industry, and uphold efforts to rejuvenate it through ethical practices and services.

In its role as a leading non-profit organisation, BaPDA has conducted and participated in conferences and seminars that have facilitated the exchange of information, increasing efficiency through shared experiences and expertise between members of the real estate industry in the region.

It has initiated plans to identify key areas of growth and improve standards to positively influence the industry and the national economy.

'We are committed to working in proactive partnerships with policy-makers, financiers, service providers and industry experts to provide efficient and progressive solutions to help resolve pressing challenges and ensure that the property development sector develops rapidly but in an organised, efficient, and ethical manner,' said BaPDA chairman Aaref Hejres.

'The shortage of affordable housing in the country is one such challenge that we have taken the onus to represent.

'We are happy to be a part of gulfBID at this time when so many large projects are on the anvil and soon to be launched. It provides an ideal platform for our members to benefit from, and for BaPDA to throw the spotlight on our vision for Bahrain,' he added.-TradeArabia News Service

Doosan launches new wheel loaders

Wed, 25 Apr 2012 06:44:30 GMT

Doosan, a global construction and engineering company, has launched a new range of wheel loaders for markets in the Middle East and Africa region.

Building on the design of the previous Mega range, the new Doosan DL250A, DL300A and DL420A wheel loaders offer several improvements for better performance, greater operator comfort, easier handling and serviceability, as well as increased durability, a statement said.

With bucket capacities ranging from 2.5 to 4.5 cu m, the new DLA wheel loaders are intended to meet a variety of material-handling needs from loading and transporting granular material to industrial, mining and quarrying applications.

The new DL250A loader is powered by a Doosan Tier 1 diesel engine while the DL300A and DL420A models are driven by Doosan Tier 2 engines, all of which are less sensitive to fuel quality than Tier 3 engines, whilst still offering reduced fuel consumption and emissions.

The width of both the lift arm and the tilt lever on the DL250A wheel loader has been increased as well as the dump height increased to 2865 mm at the 50-degree maximum tilt angle. All three wheel loader models offer higher static tipping loads at maximum reach with a straight frame: 11000 kg (DL250A), 14800 kg (DL300A) and 17900 kg (DL420A), according to the statement.

High operator comfort

The new ROPS/FOPS certified cab offers industry-leading operator comfort through a combination of increased space (6 per cent more volume in the DL250A and 11 per cent more in the DL300A and DL420A models); better visibility due to a wider front glass section; better air conditioning with a 30 per cent increase in air nozzles; a new instrument panel; a new layout for controls and switches and improved storage areas.

A new cab design offers better protection for the machine and operator thanks to larger mud guards, new metal grilles, new fenders, improved hand rail and step designs and a new roof cover.

New ZF axles

The new wheel loaders feature new versions of the ZF axles previously used on the Mega models. The DL250A features the MT-L3085 version II axle in the front and the MT-L3075 II axle at the rear. The MT-L3085 II is used for the rear axle on the DL300A with the ZF MT-L3095 II axle on the front. The latter is also used for the rear axle on the new DL420A, while the ZF MT-L3105 II axle is on the front.

All axles are equipped with a new breather system intended to prevent clogging from dust and sand, which can raise the temperature of the axle oil and damage seals on the axles.

Easier servicing and maintenance

In the DL250A wheel loader, the radiator grille opens wider for better access, while the swing-out fan on the DL300A and DL420A simplifies maintenance. The DL250A feature a new cooler while, in all three models, the air conditioner condenser is assembled with the coolers for better protection. In the DL250A, the air conditioner condenser can be accessed directly by lifting the grille. In the DL300A and DL420A, the air conditioner condenser can be tilted backwards to simplify cleaning.

The air cleaner features a larger filtration area enabling increased service intervals of 1500 to 2000 hours for the filters. The covers for the air cleaner are latched and easier to open. – TradeArabia News Service

Top shows boost economic climate: Premier

Wed, 25 Apr 2012 06:44:30 GMT

His Royal Highness Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa, the Prime Minister of Bahrain, today inaugurated the gulfBID and gulfInteriors exhibitions and said the shows will help improve the industrial climate of the kingdom.

The Prime Minister, after touring the exhibition being held at the Bahrain International Exhibition and Convention Centre (BIECC), said he was happy to note that the shows have grown larger over the years, which is a true reflection of the growth of the construction and interiors sectors in the country.

The government will continue to encourage the growth of these sectors, which play a key role in boosting the economy of Bahrain, he said.

HRH Prince Khalifa said he was happy that Bahrain’s Formula 1 had been a great success and commended Crown Prince His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa for organising the race in such an efficient manner.

Soon after the inauguration of the expos, two deals worth $11.33 million were signed at the show.

The biggest deal of the day was notched by Dubai-based Alomi Real Wood Floors worth $10 million for the supply of wood-plastic composite flooring to Ali and Sons from the Eastern Province of Saudi Arabia.

Earlier, Bahrain's Ahmed Mansoor Al A’ali Group (AMA) signed a deal with Bramco worth $1.33 million for the supply of construction equipment.

The shows - which run concurrently till April 26 – offer an unrivalled window into the world of two vibrant sectors which are undergoing sustained regional growth.

The gulfBID and gulfInteriors, being organised by Bahrain-based Hilal Conferences & Exhibitions (HCE), together boasts of close to 140 exhibitors.

The gulfInteriors exhibition, being held in BIECC Hall 2, represents the cream of the local, regional and international interiors, design and furniture community.

Targeting both the consumer and business markets, the interior designers, architects, retailers and contractors at the show epitomises style and finesse.

The latest innovative, luxury and designer products are showcased in the fields of contract and residential furniture, interior design services and contracting, textiles and upholstery fabrics, beds and bedding, floorings and wall coverings, lighting, kitchens and bathrooms, art and accessories, ceramics, marble and granite, outdoor living, hospitality and office interiors.

Both exhibitions are open to visitors from 10am to 8pm on all three days.-TradeArabia News Service

Bobcat unveils new compact excavators

Wed, 25 Apr 2012 06:44:29 GMT

Bobcat has launched a new limited edition version of the Bobcat E16 1.6 tonne compact excavator with unique styling, in celebration of the 25th anniversary of its compact excavator range.

The special E16 model provides an attractive complement to new enhanced versions of both the E16 and the 1.4 tonne E14 compact excavators which have also been launched by Bobcat, a statement from the company said.

Compared to the existing models, the enhanced E14 and E16 excavators feature new exterior styling.

Inside the cab, the most important improvements are the new ergonomic travel levers and pedals that have proved very successful on the larger E26 excavator model, the statement said.

The cab also incorporates as standard a new floormat and internal liner, whilst offering the largest foot space in this class of compact excavator, it said.

Optional features include a premium Bobcat radio; four tie downs; blade extension rubber pads; a new suspension seat and an auxiliary hydraulic line on the dipper stick. Taken together, these features also form the limited edition optional pack.

Featuring as standard a retractable undercarriage, both the E14 and E16 excavator models offer high quality, powerful performance, superior reliability and durability. Smooth responsive hydraulics enable precise movements and fast cycle times.

The E14, equipped with a heated cab, has an operating weight of 1500 kg and offers a maximum digging depth of 2301 mm.

The E16 offers a choice of dipper sticks: a standard dipper stick and a long dipper stick.

Equipped with heated cab, the E16 excavator with standard dipper stick has an operating weight of 1744 kg and offers a maximum digging depth of 2422 mm.

Equipped with the long dipper stick, the E16 has a maximum digging depth of 2602 mm.

Picking up and placing heavy objects is easy with either excavator model as the E14 can lift more than 300 kg whilst the larger E16 can lift more than 350 kg, it said.

The E14 and E16 can be transported on a trailer towed by a small truck, van or a mid-size passenger car.

Both models have the ‘cylinder-over-boom’ design. Since the cylinder is mounted on top of the boom, it is protected when working in tight spaces or with attachments. The oversized diameter of the cylinders enhances the breakout forces and lifting capacities of the machines.

The auxiliary hydraulic lines and workgroup hoses are mounted inside the boom and arm for optimal protection and enhanced visibility.

Attachments, which include a range of different sized digging and trenching buckets, grading buckets, hydraulic breakers, augers and the hydraulic clamp, can be easily mounted.

Both the E14 and E16 are powered by the 3-cylinder 9.9 kW Kubota D722 engine. High digging performance is enhanced by the stability provided by the dozer blade and the low centre of gravity of the machines.

They offer low noise and vibration levels, superior operator comfort, ease of serviceability and ruggedness. The spacious cab offers a large door width which, together with the low position of the superstructure, provides easy access to the cab.

Other features that contribute to the superior durability of the E14 and E16 are the steel side covers, protection for the blade cylinder, and the use of three rollers in the track system to optimise rubber track life. – TradeArabia News Service

Trucking giant eyes Bahrain construction boom

Wed, 25 Apr 2012 06:44:29 GMT

MAN Truck & Bus Middle East, one of the world's leading manufacturers of transport vehicles, said it plans to concentrate on the promising Bahraini construction sector through its national partner Ahmed Mansoor Al A'ali.

The Bahrain-based distributor, which is rebranding this division of its extensive operations as AMA Motors, has ordered 40 vehicles as it sees business booming in Bahrain's industrial sector.

'Business is certainly looking good and we have been going out to visit 50 clients a week to meet demand,' said Ahmed Mansoor Al A'ali AMA Motors general manager Simon Keen.

'To meet this demand we have revamped our showroom,' he added.

He was speaking on the opening day of gulfBID 2012 where he signed a contract for MAN deliveries.

'There is a definite feeling of confidence in the market and local purchasers are telling us the market is more confident across all industries,' he said.

'The company provides a wide range of industrial products ranging from small compactors to huge wheel leaders.

'This show is very important to our business and we have invited 200 of our customers to visit us at gulfBID.

'MAN has built a strong presence in Bahrain with a 28 per cent market share which already exceeds our target for this market,' Keen said.

'Our reputation and leadership position globally and in the Middle East region positions us strongly in terms of quality, technological advancement, safety and efficiency, both in fuel consumption and costs,' he added.

MAN plans to explore the available opportunities during the exhibition where it is launching its latest range of heavy duty construction vehicles - the TGS WW.

'The TGS WW has witnessed a very positive reception within this region with a significantly high number of orders since it entered the Middle East earlier this year,' said MAN Truck and Bus Middle East and Africa area sales manager Friedel Gevers.

'TGS is the premium range from MAN Truck & Bus, one of the world's leading manufacturers of transport vehicles.

'The TGS WW range is part of the manufacturer's Trucknology Generation, designed especially for the toughest of operations making it a reliable product for the Middle East, Africa, Russian states and Far East markets.

'MAN brings more than 250 years of industrial engineering expertise to the development of our products, which offer a superior level of efficiency, safety and performance in a wide variety of geographic and climactic conditions,' he added.

'We have a robust distribution network and the largest service support footprints among all manufacturers of heavy duty construction vehicles in the Middle East which makes us a preferred choice for some of the biggest construction clients in the region,' he added.-TradeArabia News Service

Over 2,080 firms to take part in Project Qatar

Mon, 23 Apr 2012 07:15:48 GMT

More than 2,080 companies will showcase the latest technologies, equipment and services in the construction market, at the Project Qatar exhibition.

The 9th International Trade Exhibition for Construction Technology, Building Materials, Equipment and Environmental Technology, to be held from April 30 to May 3, will occupy an area of more than 62,000 sq m at the Doha Exhibition Center, Qatar,

A roadshow was held today at the Al Bustan Rotana Hotel in Dubai to promote the expo.

Bassel Amaneddine, general manager of IFP Emirates, presented an overview of the growth of the exhibition since its inception in 2004.

He said: “Project Qatar has become a landmark event in construction exhibitions in the Middle East, thanks to the ongoing support of various strategic partners in the business community across the GCC, especially in the UAE.”

Amaneddine also revealed that exhibitors at Project Qatar will come from 48 countries, while more than 40 international business development agencies representing various countries will also be attending the event.

He added: “The construction industry in Qatar is expected to enjoy sustained growth and we are therefore pleased to welcome the participation of leading UAE companies in the exhibition. We believe that their presence will surely create a significant impact on the industry. With their vast expertise in the construction industry and real estate development, UAE companies serve as key partners and play a critical role in the growth of Qatar’s construction market.” – TradeArabia News Service

Construction machinery in big demand

Mon, 23 Apr 2012 07:15:48 GMT

Globally the construction industry is showing signs of being on the up, leading to a revival in construction activity and the resultant demand for all types of construction machinery, said industry experts.

This bodes well for the upcoming Hardware and Tools Middle East exhibition which has introduced an increased focus on machinery for this year's edition which will run from May 8 to 10 at the Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre.

According to recent market research, the Bahrain construction sector is likely to grow at an average rate of seven per cent through 2013.

Recent market research indicates that the global market for construction machinery, fuelled by considerable revival in construction activity over the last year, is set to grow at a robust 6.5 per cent annually until 2015, when it is estimated to be worth $171 billion.

"Given the continuing demand in the region due to new contracts being awarded, Hardware and Tools Middle East, the region's international trade fair for tools, hardware, materials and machinery, is now increasing its focus on the machinery section," said organiser Epoc Messe Frankfurt chief executive Ahmed Pauwels.

"The trade fair attracts key buyers and decision-makers from the region and endeavours to meet the needs of this promising market."

The newly-launched machinery segment will spotlight the aluminium, wood, steel, plastic and rubber industries and target engineers, contractors, machinery distributors, traders, building materials and manufacturers to name a few.

Considered the leading dedicated trade fair for tools, hardware, materials and machinery, the exhibition features the latest products in the full range of power and hand tools, measuring tools, pipe and plumbing tools, tool sets and cases, hardwares and consumables, compressors and plumbs, workshop and woodworking machinery.-TradeArabia News Service