The Arab Future Cities Summit Qatar, today announced the 2016 edition of its marquee event featuring regional and international industry experts, senior government officials and sector specialists will be held on 11-12 April at The Ritz-Carlton Hotel, Doha. Organized by global conference producers, Expotrade, the summit is considered as the premier smart cities event in the region, connecting over 400 participants from across the GCC with prominent thought leaders from around the world. The summit aims to discuss path-breaking ideas, and explore how technology can be leveraged within the smart city infrastructure to create sustainable solutions.

The 2015 edition of the summit was inaugurated by Eng. Abdulla Abdulaziz T. Al Subaie, Managing Director, Qatar Rail, in the presence of esteemed dignitaries including Hamad Ibrahim al-Bishri, deputy CEO of Qatar Rail; Dr. Rainer Schnepfleitner, department manager, Regulation and Competition Affairs, Communications Regulatory Authority (CRA); Ashraf Ali Ismael, national information assurance manager, Cyber Security Division, (Q-CERT), ICTQatar; Dr. Fethi Filali, head of technology development and applied research, Qatar Mobility Innovations Centre and Ahmad Kawakbi, ICT & Stakeholder Manager, Supreme Committee for Delivery & Legacy - FIFA World Cup Qatar who also spoke at the summit.

Developing a robust smart city ecosystem involves seamless integration, synergy and connectivity of the central pillars that constitute a city – public transport, governance operations, infrastructure, utilities, healthcare, communications, and municipal services. In accordance with Qatar’s National Vision 2030, the government has ushered in a new phase of development, incorporating smart technology, state-of-the-art infrastructure and services to provide its citizens a smart, sustainable and efficient future that ensures an improved quality of life. Additionally, hosting the FIFA World Cup 2022 has presented a gamut of growth opportunities and further propelled the concept of smart cities in this region.

Announcing the dates of the Summit, Mr. Brad Hariharan, Regional Director, Expotrade Middle East, said, “In its fifth year now, the Summit has established itself as the foremost smart cities event in the region. Setting the benchmark in promoting innovation and identifying emerging trends impacting this region, the summit presents a common platform for all stakeholders to innovate, educate and collaborate to generate ideas on making the concept of smart cities a reality. Over two days, leading experts and practitioners from across industries will share their expertise and knowledge on harnessing technological innovations and defining effective strategies to boost smart city initiatives in the region.”

The two-day conference agenda covers a broad range of forward-thinking topics such as smart connectivity, smart mobility and transportation, Internet of Everything (IoE), economical and sustainable smart vehicles, building automation, Lusail city’s innovations, cyber security amongst many more, that provide a comprehensive view of the smart city development in the State of Qatar. Over 20 speakers and industry visionaries will unveil their views on how smart city development and technology deployment will meet Qatar’s smart city vision. Keynote sessions, panel discussions and case study presentations at the Arab Future Cities Summit Qatar will provide attendees with an opportunity to gain in-depth knowledge on the latest smart city technologies and solutions influencing the smart city domain in the region.

With a plethora of networking opportunities, the summit will witness participation from technologists, developers, urban planners and researchers, investors, engineers and policy professionals from across the GCC. The 2015 edition of the summit was a runaway success and in the forthcoming year the summit is expected to be bigger before than before. The summit received appreciation from attendees and sponsors alike. Mr. Mohannad Khader, Vice President - Commercial, Qatar Cool, said, "Every year when we come here, we listen to new ideas, we get to know more people and great strategies from other well- reputed companies. It has been valuable for sure."

Safder Nazir, Regional Vice President, Smart Cities & IoT, Huawei, said, "We are glad to be back here at the Arab Future Cities in Doha. We find a very well-attended event with a high quality of guests here. We have been able to interact with a lot of people and share our vision and thought for the future of smart city development not only within Doha and Qatar but across the region as well."

More information on the Arab Future Cities Summit Qatar is available now at http://www.arabfuturecities.com/. Follow the Summit on social media with the hashtag #AFCS2016.

The Public Works Authority ‘Ashghal’ and Qatari Diar - Saudi Bin Laden Group  (QD-SBG) – Construction Contractor -working on Dukhan Highway East project, achieved a new accomplishment in the field of safety in the workplace through reaching more than 10 million man-hours without loss time injury (LTI).

This significant achievement comes as a result of Ashghal’s commitment to achieve its clear objectives and plans to maintain workers’ safety,which include the adoption of strict safety standards procedures and systems at the workplace.

Ashghal has held an awarding ceremony at its headquarters to mark this achievement. Representatives from Ashghal’s Expressway Programme, construction contractor QD-SBG , and the project supervision consultant Parsons International, attended the ceremony during which Eng. Nasser Ghaith Al Kuwari, Manager of Ashghal’s Expressway Department, awarded the certificate of appreciation to Mr Bassam Kataw Project Director of QD-SBG, for achieving 10 Million Man-Hours without Loss Time Injury, and for the company's commitment to ensuring that the required safety standards and measures are implemented.

This achievement demonstrates Ashghal's commitment to the highest safety standards in the workplace by imposing a number of safety measures on all the contractors implementing Ashghal’s projects. Ashghal aims to protect workers against workplace and commuter hazards throughout the project period.

To comply with Ashghal’s health and safety requirements, the contractor implemented a comprehensive programme to enhance safety procedures at work zones. The programme included an intensive safety training accredited to the UK and European standards, in addition to intensive health and safety discussions and awareness sessions, weekly management inspections, access control for project team and sub-contractors, emergency support vehicles, site notice boards and other related procedures.

Furthermore, Ashghal contributes to achieving workers’ safety by following a set of requirements to choose contractors, and which require the contractors to submit a clear and comprehensive plan on providing a secure working environment for workers. Ashghal’s Expressway Programme also implements a set of safety procedures and policies across all projects to ensure commitment and compliance from all contractors to achieve zero incidents: work accidents and injuries, environmental harm, and security and safety breaches.

The Dukhan Highway East project runs from the Al-Wajbah Palace Interchange (west) to the Tilted Interchange (east) and along Al-Gharrafa Road from Al-Rayyan Street (south) to Thani bin Jassim Street (north). The project works include the construction of approximately 7.5km of dual carriageway with four lanes in each direction as the mainline of Dukhan Road East, and 4.5km at Al-Gharrafa Road. Works also include the construction of seven major interchanges, service roads, and auxiliary lanes along sections of the road.

The project is part of a pedestrian friendly Avenue starting from Al Wajbah Palace to Tilted Interchange, which will connect with future projects extending to The Corniche

Infrastructure works included in the project consist of the construction of a 10 km, 2,400 mm diameter micro-tunnel for storm water, 1400mm diameter water pipe lines, high voltage cables, an Automated People Mover (APM) tunnel at Qatar Academy Interchange, 3 pedestrian/vehicular tunnels crossing the avenue, one long vehicular tunnel which will enhance Qatar Academy interchange, along with the complete set of utilities for the surrounding neighbourhood.

Dukhan Highway East is one of the key projects implemented under Ashghal’s Expressway Programme,it is the first pedestrian friendly linear infrastructure to be implemented inside the city of Doha. The rest of the Expressway Programme comprises over 50 highways and main roads projects that will be implemented and delivered within the next 5 to 7 years. This programme aims at providing an advanced road network for over 1,000 km in order to meet Qatar’s development and future needs.

It should be noted that several companies are involved in the delivery of these projects, like the “Qatari Diar Saudi Bin Laden Group” company. Ashghal supports and encourages the development of the construction market in Qatar through long term relationships with these companies.

Msheireb Properties, a subsidiary of Qatar Foundation, held a formal ceremony to mark the official opening of Msheireb Museums at Msheireb Properties' flagship project, Msheireb Downtown Doha (MDD) – the world's first sustainable downtown regeneration project, a brand new, cutting-edge development located in the heart of the capital.

The major milestone for the company was attended by Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, Chairperson, Msheireb Properties, Eng. Abdulla Hassan Al-Mehshadi, Chief Executive Officer, Msheireb Properties, and local dignitaries, VIP officials and guests of honour. The opening of Msheireb Museums represents another key milestone in the development of MDD and marks the completion of the first phase of its Heritage Quarter.Consisting of four restored historical buildings, the Museums are part of the wider regeneration of the inner city to revive the old commercial center, recreating and modernising traditional Qatari life based on community, commerce and a sense of shared destiny.

A specialised team of leading local and international architects and experts have overseen the restoration and preservation of the four historical buildings. The Heritage Houses - commonly known as the Bin Jelmood House, Company House, Mohamed bin Jassim House and Radwani House - have been restored and converted into four culturally significant museums using carefully sourced materials that retain the spirit and building techniques of the original structures.

Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser commented, “Today Msheireb Downtown Doha enters a new chapter in its history, through which it will inspire young minds of the future with the wisdom and beauty of our past. With the opening of these museums, Msheireb reaches a milestone in fulfilling its vision of maintaining our unique architectural identity in Qatar, in a location that is set to be the vibrant heart of our capital.”

Eng. Abdulla Hassan Al-Mehshadi, Chief Executive Officer said, “We are delighted to have officially opened Msheireb Museums, and I would personally like to thank Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser for attending the opening ceremony. This is a highly significant moment for Msheireb Properties. The Msheireb Downtown Doha development is a testament to Msheireb’s commitment to Qatar and to its 2030 Vision. Through this development we are seeking to preserve Qatar’s rich past while shaping its identity as a modern, progressive nation and the restoration of the four heritage houses is integral to this aspiration. Together these museums will welcome local, regional and international exhibitions and house public educational and outreach programs - with a vision to becoming a learning tool for future generations. “

Al Mehshadi added, “The opening of Msheireb Museums is a very tangible milestone on our journey to delivering MDD, and will give the people of Doha their first major glimpse into the calibre and quality that will be exhibited throughout the development, which has been constructed according to the highest ethical standards and international best practice. I would like to thank each and every person who has given their best to make this project a success.”

(Click here to read full speech of. Eng Al-Mehshadi)

On Wednesday 21 October 2015, the Public Works Authority ‘Ashghal’ in coordination with the MMUP and Members of the Central Municipal Council for Al Khor and Thakhira constituencies organised a community event with representatives from various organisations, businesses, schools, and residents in Al Khor and Al Thakira Municipality. The event aimed at familiarising the community with the most important projects that the Authority is implementing in Municipality area.

Managers of infrastructure and Buildings affairs in Ashghal, in addition to representatives from consulting and contracting companies implementing the projects located in Al Khor Al Thakhira municipality attended the event. A detailed presentation provided a comprehensive overview of the projects being implemented in Al Khor Al Thakhira municipality area was presented including the projects components, stages and features, and what has been achieved so far.

It is noteworthy that this event reflects Ashghal’s commitment to strengthening communication and outreach with the residents living in the vicinity of its projects. The event is part of Ashghal’s integrated community outreach programme, which includes various community initiatives that aim to engage communities about the progress of its projects and answer all their questions and inquires.

The following is a detailed overview of the projects that the Public Works Authority is implementing in the North of Qatar:

First: Expressway Projects

Completed Projects

1. Al Huwaila Link Road - Completed Project

Al HuwailaLink Road leading to Ras Laffan city was opened to traffic on 27^thOctober, 2014. The road which was a single carriageway with one lane in each direction without any separation was developed into a dual carriageway that includes four lanes in each direction, separated by a median. In addition, the road has been fitted with street lighting and traffic signals have been installed with cameras to monitor traffic violations on the four new intersections, to improve traffic safety.

The road will mainly serve the traffic flow from and into Ras Laffan Industrial City and will also enhance traffic flow of vehicles heading to Ras Laffan, especially heavy goods vehicles and trucks. It will do so by providing an alternative road to the Ras Laffan Road which serves as a link between Ras Laffan and Al Khor Street, which caused traffic congestion on the expressway from Doha city to Ras Laffan Industrial City.

The road is 16 km long and is connected to the Al Shamal Road at Al Huwaila intersection (intersection 66). It represents an essential part of the future expansion plan for Ras Laffan Industrial City and its vicinities. Road improvement works included, in addition to increasing the number of lanes from one to four in each direction, the establishment of four new intersections which are:

1-  The intersection between Al Huwaila Road and College Street
2-  The intersection between Al Huwaila Road and Al Shagub Street
3-  The intersection between Al Huwaila Road and Khalifa Street
4-  The intersection between Al HuwailaRoad and Al Jassasiya Street

As for the infrastructure improvement works, services networks have been established and developed completely, including: storm water drainage network, potable water network, telecommunication network and intelligent transport systems.

Under Construction Projects

1. The New Orbital Highway and Truck Route - Contract 4

The New Orbital Highway and Truck Route "Orbital" with its four contracts forms a fundamental part of the Public Works Authority's Expressway Programme. The Orbital stretches from Mesaieed Area to Al Khor and Ras Laffan Industrial City. It is considered a vital addition to the road network of Qatar as it will form a free flowing traffic route connecting the southern areas, New Hamad International Airport, and New Doha Port with the North without the need to travel through Doha city. This will in turn help to alleviate congestion within Doha, especially from heavy trucks, and better manage heavy vehicle movement.

Theproject will include a total of approximately 200 km of roads, out of which 42 km fall under the fourth contract, and 22 major interchanges including bridges and tunnels, out of which five interchanges fall under the fourth contract of the project. The infrastructure of the Orbital road will include pass ways for camels, weighing stations, side road parking bays, drainage systems, storm water drainage pipelines, Intelligent Transport Systems (ITS) and control systems, green landscape and metal beam guardrails along the length of the road.

The Orbital highway includes a unique feature which provides heavy vehicles with their own roadway which is separate from cars and other vehicles roadway. The project was designed to include five separate lanes in each direction and two separate lanes for heavy vehicles, to enhance road safety.

This contract includes the construction of five two-level interchanges as follows:

1- Truck Route / Local Access Road
2- Truck Roue / Gharrafa Road
3- Truck Roue / Al Mazrooaa Road
4- Truck Roue / Al Khor Link Road
5- Truck Roue / Al Shamal Road

2. North Road Enhancements

The project encompasses the construction of service roads along Al Shamal Road from north of Doha City at Al Duhail Interchange to Al Shamal City north of Qatar. The project also includes the construction of two new interchanges in Izghawa and Umm Salal Mohammed Areas, in addition to improvements to three existing interchanges, including Al Kaaban Interchange which connects to the Al Huwailah Link Road and which will be improved so as to facilitate its access and improve the traffic flow. Al Khor Road will also be upgraded with a link road provided between Al Shamal Road and Umm Birkah Road.

In addition, a cycle path will be constructed along the length of Al Shamal Road for families and cycling enthusiasts. The construction of service roads and improvement works, which will be implemented along the length of Al Shamal Road, will enhance the connection between the northern sections of the country with the other areas, provide a developed and safe road, and facilitate access to new developments near the highway.

The total length of the roads within this project is 95.2 km. The work on this project commenced in Q2, 2012 and it is expected to be completed in Q4, 2016.

Second: Roads &Infrastructure Projects in Al Khor and Al Thakira

The objective of Local Roads and Drainage programme is to implement projects that will develop infrastructure for existing areas, in addition to providing comprehensive infrastructure to new areas that lack infrastructure facilities. The projects include the construction of road networks, drainage networks, storm water networks, and other infrastructure utilities.

The Local Roads and Drainage Programme also includes the construction and maintenance of old and incomplete roads in the projects’ areas, improving access to residential and commercial areas, providing safe pedestrian and cyclist pathways, installing traffic signals and signboards, providing street lighting, and landscaping, in addition to the construction and development of drainage networks and systems, and surface water and groundwater drainage networks.

Completed projects

1. Extension of Al Khor Treated Sewage Effluent Network

Completed in Q4 of 2013, the project includes the extension of Al Khor Treated Sewage Effluent (TSE) Network from Al Khor Sewage Treatment Works to Al Khor Garden, as well as extension works to connect to the TSE network along Al Shamal Road at its intersection with Al Khor Road, and provide connections to supply Al Khor Southern Entrance Road with treated effluent.

Under construction Projects

1. Roads and Infrastructure of Al Khor Commercial Street

The project commenced in Q1 2014 and is expected to be completed in Q2 2016. The project’s total area is 200,000 square metres, and doesn’t include land plots as works include only the road itself.Works include the construction of a new storm network on the road which will prevent rain water from accumulating and eventually prevent deteriorating the asphalt.

Works also include rehabilitation and widening of the existing road which is 5.5 km, easing the traffic congestion and improving both commercial and residential access along Commercial Street. The project works are ongoing with more than third of the works being finalised.

2. Boundary Wall & Quarry Stabilisation Works

The project commenced in Q1, 2015 and is expected to be completed in Q4, 2015.The project includes installing a boundary wall in the New Al Khor Industrial Area and stabilising existing quarry slope, and protecting site soil from sliding. The boundary wall is 2.6 m high over a length of 9.5 km.

3. Extension of Al Khor sewage network

The project commenced in Q3 2012, and is expected to be completed in Q1, 2016. Once completed, the project will provide a permanent solution for the problem of discharging sewage water from houses, public buildings and commercial institutes to treatment plants in Al Khor, in order to eliminate the use of tanks.Approximately 90% of the project works are completed so far.

Future projects:

1. Construction and Upgrade of Road surrounding Al Khor Stadium

Work on this project will commence in Q3 2017 and is expected to be completed in Q2, 2019. The project’s total area is 350,000 square meters of the land area of the south-west of Al Khor City.The project covers the peripheral roads of proposed “Al Bayt” Stadium, and encompasses a dual carriageway with three lanes in each direction.

Third: Temporary and Emergency Roads Projects

Under construction Projects

1. Al Khor Bypass

The project includes the construction of a one-directional two-lane temporary road adjacent to the existing road(in the direction to Al Shamal – Ras Laffan and aligned to the existing road). The existing road will be in the opposite direction (direction from Ras Laffan toward the South). The road is 12.5 km long, and is expected to be completed in Q4, 2015.

2. The Road to Umm Birkah Treatment Plant

The project includes the construction of a dual road to connect the treatment plant in Umm Birkah with Ras Laffan Road, with two lanes in each direction separated by a median. The project will also include installing safety barriers for pedestrians, and is expected to be completed in Q1, 2016.

3. Al Farkiya Beach Road

The project encompasses the construction of a dual road with two lanes in each direction, separated by a central median. The road is 1.6 km long, and includes street lighting, safety barriers, and pedestrian walkways on the sides of the road. It is worth mentioning that the road being constructed passes over a marsh, therefore a soil strengthening works will be implemented to prevent the drops or cracks on the road in the future.The project is expected to be completed in Q1, 2016.

Future Projects:

1. Temporary Roads in Al Khor& Al Thakhira

The project is in the tendering phase, and is expected to be completed in Q1, 2016. The project will include building temporary roads based on requests received from Al Khor& Al Thakhira Municipality, in addition to roads that serve the residential buildings that didn’t have access roads before.

The roads requested from Al Khor& Al Thakhira Municipality include: a road to serve Al Khor Centre for Community Development, a road to link the Commercial Street with the street leading to Al Khor petrol station, and a roads to serve Al Khor project to serve 35 villas, in addition to other roads.

Fourth: Roads Maintenance Projects

Works within the Roads Maintenance projects include periodic maintenance for roads, tunnels, and bridges according to set plans, installation and maintenance of street lighting equipment and traffic signs in co-ordination with the concerned authorities, and carrying out emergency maintenance and responding to customer complaints.

The Roads Maintenance projects also include the School Zone Safety programme, which aims to enhance school zone safety, ensure the safety of students and parents upon their arrival or departure from schools, and ease the traffic congestion near schools.The programme includes establishing comprehensive solutions including safe roads in the school zones, paving, providing car parks, building medians and small roundabouts in order to manage the traffic flow in those areas. The works also include placing a sufficient number of signboards and road markings near schools. Moreover, the speed limit in school zones will be set as 30 km/h and speed bumps will be installed in order to reduce speed.

Completed projects:

1. School Zone Safety for Compass International School in Al Khor
2. School Zone Safety for Al Thakhira Elementary School for Boys

Under construction Projects:

1. School Zone Safety for Al Thakhira Primary Independent School for Gils

Future Projects:

1. School Zone Safety for Al Khor Primary Independent School for Girls (Elementary)
2. School Zone Safety for Al Khor Primary Independent School for Girls (Early Year)
3. School Zone Safety for Al Khor Independent Secondary School for Girls
4. School Zone Safety for Al Khor Independent Preparatory School for Girls
5. School Zone Safety for Al Khor Independent Model School for Boys

Fifth: Drainage Projects

The drainage projects include projects for wastewater treatment, drainage networks for surface and groundwater, laying treated sewerage pipelines for irrigation systems, in addition tothe construction of sewage water treatment plants, rehabilitation of existing pumping stationsand construction of supplementary pipelines and networks.

Completed projects:

1. Construction of Al Khor Area Sewerage for Southern Region – Package 3

The project commenced in Q4 2010, and was completed in Q3, 2013. The project included the construction of sewer lines from properties boundaries (residential or commercial) within project area up to a centralised Pumping Station under the first package of Construction of Al Khor Area Sewerage for Southern Region project. The works included the construction of about 43 km of gravity sewer lines, over 1300 concrete manholes, and approximately 2000 house connection sewers up to properties boundaries.

2. Construction of Al Khor Area Sewerage for Northern Region - Package 2

The project was completed in May 2014, and included the construction of sewer lines from properties boundaries (residential or commercial) within project area up to a centralised Pumping Station under the first package of Construction of Al Khor Area Sewerage for Southern Region project. The works included the construction of about 49 km of gravity sewer lines, over 1400 concrete manholes and approximately 2100 house connection sewers up to properties boundaries.

3. Construction of Al Khor Sewage Treatment Plant – Phase 2

The project was completed in December 2014, and included the extension of the existing Al Khor Sewage Treatment Plant which was constructed in 2009 with a capacity of 4,600 cubic meters per day, and increasing its capacity up to 9,720 cubic meters per day so as to accommodate the increasing treated sewage water works resulting from the expected population increase.

Under construction Projects:

Sewage Treatment Plant, Pumping Station, and Pipes in Al Thakhira

The project started in Q4 2015, and is expected to be completed by Q3 2018. The project aims toaccommodatethe increasedsewageflows from the catchment areas. It comprises of severalkeycomponents:Works for Al Thakira Sewage Treatment Plant which include, the design and construction of a sophisticated sewage treatment plant with a processing capacity of 56,200 cubic meters per day to treat the sewage from Al Khor and Al Thakhira areas.

Works for the Sewage Pumping Stations include, upgrading the existing pumping station in Al Khor to absorb the sewage generated from the residential and service projects planned for the region. It also includes the construction of a sewage pumping station within the current location of Al Thakhira Sewage Treatment Plant, and the construction works for the Sewage Pipes.

The construction works for sewage pipes will include two dual pipelines with an internal diameter of 500 mm and a length of about 10 km to transfer sewage water from Al Khor Pumping Station which will be upgraded. It also includes two dual pipelines with an internal diameter of 800 mm and a length of about 21 km to transfer sewage water from the new pumping station to Al Thakhira sewage treatment plant. This will be in addition to a number of pipelines with varying diameters ranging from 250 to 800 mm and a length of around 36 km to transfer treated sewage water from Al Thakhira sewage treatment plant to various places in Al Khor City to be used in irrigation.

Future Projects:

Construction of Stage II House Connections for Existing Sewerage Station and Construction of Additional House Connections

The project implementation will begin in Q1 of 2016, and it is expected to be completed in Q1 of 2017. The objective of this project is to provide live connections for properties which already have sewer lines, and to provide live house connections for the newly distributed plots which have constructed sewer lines up to boundaries. The project works will include the construction of over 2,550 house connections.

Sixth: building Projects

Ashghal’s Building Affairs is currently building a series of important educational, health, and Awqaf projects in Al Khor and Al Thakhira Municipality, in addition to a number of unique projects such as the Aquatic and Fisheries Research Centre and the Waste Separation Plant. Eight projects are currently under construction, while four projects are in the design and tender phases.

Under construction Projects:

1. Construction of Al Ghuwairiya School for Girls

The project commenced in Q2 of 2015, and it is expected to be completed in Q1 of 2016. The project’s total value is QR 51 million, and 40% of the project works is completed.

2. Construction of 2 Schools in Al Kaaban Area

The project commenced in Q1 of 2015, and it is expected to be completed in Q3 of 2016. The project’s total value is QR 134 million, and 30% of the project works is completed.

3. Construction of 1 Kindergarten in Al Thakhira Area

The kindergarten consists of 12 classrooms, administrative and teachers’ rooms, an internal gathering space with two internal playing areas, music rooms, a library hall, an outdoor playing area, buses and cars parking lots. The project commenced in Q1 of 2015, and it is expected to be completed in Q3 of 2016. The project’s total value is QR 26 million.

Health Projects

Completed projects:

Al Ghuwairiya Health Centre

Al Ghuwairiya Health Center was inaugurated at the beginning of July 2015 and covers an area of ​​20,000 square meters with a total built area of ​​2,404 square meters.

The center comprises diverse medical clinics including clinics for men, women and dental clinics, along with radiology sections, pharmacy, laboratory and other specialised clinics.

Future Projects:

1. New Al Khor Hospital – in Design phase

The hospital comprises 500 beds, operation rooms, emergency center, and external clinics. The estimated implementation value is QR 3.6 billion and the implementation is expected to begin mid-2017.

2. New Health Center in Al Khor - in tendering and awarding stage:

The estimated value of the project is QR 3.6 billion and the implementation is expected to begin in Q1 2016.

Public and Awqaf Projects:

1. Construction of the Coastguard Security Headquarters in RasMatbakh

The project commenced in Q4 2014, and is expected to be completed in Q3 2016. The project consists of the demolition and re-construction of the main building and its annexes, with a total value of QR 29 million.

2. Construction of the Aquatic & Fisheries Research Centre in Al Khor (RasMatbakh)

The project commenced in Q1 2014, and is expected to be completed in Q3 2016.  The project includes the construction of a comprehensive centre for marine resources and its annexes, including the construction of administrative buildings, laboratories, marine fish and shrimp hatcheries, staff accommodation, treated water outflow facilities, and a maintenance workshop. The completion of the project reached 48%. The projects total value is more than QR 230 million.

3. Construction of the Waste Separation Plant

The project commenced in Q3 2014, and is expected to be completed in Q4 2016. The project consists of the design and construction of waste separation, recycling and utilization plant. It also includes the construction of the plant and annexes.

Future Projects:

1. Construction of Three Mosques (in preparation for tendering)

The project is expected to commence in Q1 2016, and its expected total value is QR 17 million.

ASTAD Project Management participated in the Qatar Contractors Forum & Awards 2015 which took place on 19 - 20 October at the Intercontinental Hotel, Doha. The aim of the event was to discuss the challenges that contractors face, and consider strategies to overcome them, as well as foster collaboration for the successful delivery of projects in line with employers’ expectations and requirements. The forum also celebrated the achievements and success of Qatar’s construction industry.

The event brought together industry-leading speakers for two days of presentations, panel debates, networking sessions and interactive workshops.  As part of the sessions, ASTAD Chief Commercial Officer, Mr. Abdulaziz Al-Mulla, delivered a presentation entitled, “Achieving Best Practice in Qatar Construction Contracts - Mission Impossible?”  Mr. Al-Mulla emphasized that ineffective and unbalanced contracts are a major cause for concern throughout the industry, which could lead to negative consequences on employers due to delays and cost overruns.

ASTAD Chief Executive Officer, Ali Al-Khalifa, echoed these views: “The standard of contracts within the construction industry needs to be improved.” He added: “They are a key cause of delays, disputes and, ultimately, higher and unforeseen costs. At a time when the progression of the nation’s infrastructure is a priority, we must make a concerted effort to ensure that all construction-related contracts are effective and agreeable to all parties.”

During the presentation, Mr. Al-Mulla announced that ASTAD is leading an initiative to change the ineffective contractual culture in Qatar’s construction industry and across the region. He revealed that experts within ASTAD are making use of their experience managing and delivering major complex and iconic projects to work on a set of contract templates that are balanced, fair, effective, flexible, and, most importantly, easily customizable to suit the specific needs of projects or clients. He added that ASTAD’s solution is comprehensive and covers all the imperative aspects of a construction project including flexible payments terms, extensions of time provisions, change management, claims management, and effective dispute avoidance and resolution mechanisms - something that most current contracts do not effectively cater for.

Explaining why ASTAD has ventured into developing these contracts, Mr. Al-Mulla said: “The construction industry within the region usually imports best practices from abroad, which in some cases do not match the operational realities that are applicable in Qatar or the region. ASTAD is continuously utilizing its expertise to build upon this best practice by developing solutions that are tailored to the specific needs of the region, while maintaining the highest international standards.”

ASTAD has garnered an enviable reputation across the region for leading efforts to improve standards in the construction industry not only in Qatar, but throughout the wider Middle East.

United Development Company (UDC), one of the leading Qatari public shareholding companies and master developer of The Pearl-Qatar, announced its financial results for the third quarter of the year 2015 ended September 30, 2015.

The Company recorded a net profit attributable to equity holders of the parent of approximately QR 595 million compared to approximately QR559 million for the same period last year, an increase of 6%. While total net profit stood at approximately QR620 million compared to approximately QR589 million for the same period last year, an increase of 5%. United Development Company achieved progress in its group activities, while earnings per share for the third quarter for the year 2015 stood at QR 1.68, with an increase of 6% compared to same period last year.

The Company was able to achieve positive results during the third quarter of the year 2015 due to the strong demand on its products via residential properties sales and leasing revenues at The Pearl-Qatar, the successful launch of Medina Centrale and its subsequent representation as the central hub for retail and entertainment at The Pearl-Qatar and cost optimization and performance improvement strategies initiated by management.

Commenting on the Company's financial results, Turki Al Khater, Chairman of United Development Company said that good results achieved by the Company for the third quarter of the year 2015 is attributable to the ongoing growth of the Company's business in The Pearl-Qatar this year, where UDC instigated a number of high quality residential units and commercial leasing initiatives in distinctive areas of the Island, particularly Medina Central and Porto Arabia.

Revealing that UDC will soon be offering for sale residential plots at The Pearl-Qatar, which enhances the Company prominent position in the real estate market. Al Khater added, “The potential progress in our activities will lead to affirmative growth for the remainder of this year and we are  looking forward to continuing this trend for our clients and shareholders.” Ibrahim Jassim Al-Othman, President and Chief Executive Officer of United Development Company, said, “Our financial results for the third quarter of the year 2015 reflects a positive performance by the Company, showing UDC’s ability to perform in a very competitive marketplace”.

Al-Othman added, “We are confident our strategic plans will continue to enhance the variety of UDC’s business activities and to keep up the momentum for growth in the fourth quarter of the year, particularly as we stress on cost optimization and focus on our core business.”

“The Group’s yielding assets confirm the success of UDC’s strategy of diversifying and developing its investments in the Pearl Qatar Project,” the UDC President and Chief Executive Officer further explained. “This, coupled with our Company’s clear vision for the requirements of the Qatari market, allow us to introduce our products at the right time, meet our investors’ expectation, apply effective cost optimization strategies, focus on our core business while continuing to identify new opportunities to sustain revenue and growth in the long haul.”

During the third quarter of the year, United Development Company restructured the organization of the Company and its subsidiaries, in a way to improve performance and cost optimization. Throughout its 15 years of activity, United Development Company has played a key role in the development of Qatar through creation of successful partnerships and urban development projects, namely the flagship man-made Island, The Pearl-Qatar. Owned and developed by UDC, The Pearl-Qatar is located 350 meters offshore of Doha’s West Bay District and is one of the largest mixed-use urban developments in Qatar.

Bringing together key players across the landscape industry’s value chain, the first day of Future Landscape & Public Realm Qatar has successfully ended. Held at The Intercontinental Hotel The City, Doha, this event focuses on exploring the challenges and opportunities in creating sustainable and attractive outdoor environments for Qatar with an emphasis on the development of youth and sporting facilities.

A large number of exciting presentations were delivered today among which we can mention: “Melbourne, the world’s most livable city” by Tim O’Loan from AECOM, Melbourne, Australia, “Childhood Obesity; Turning back the tide. Youth, Recreation and the Public Realm” by Simon Oxenhem, from Convic, and “Re-assigning ‘leftover space’ for leisure and sports use” by Hrvoje Cindrić, from Arup.  

The response to this event was hugely positive as delegates and sponsors enjoyed the high quality of the speaker panel as well as the opportunities to network with the industry’s key decision makers. “If you are dealing with landscaping and want to connect with the industry’s stakeholder and contribute to Qatar’s public realm, you must attend!” stated the Director of EKA Group, while an architect from Qatar Foundation said that it is a “highly successful and informative event”.

Future Landscape & Public Realm Qatar - Day 1 ended with an exclusive film viewing on The Story of Eden, where attendees watched the creation of one of the world’s most remarkable projects.

Future Landscape & Public Realm Qatar – Day 2 will host speakers from Ministry of Municipality and Urban Planning, Public Works Authority, Qatar University, AECOM, Atkins, Cracknell, Nakheel Landscapes, OMA and Archikid Academy - Kuwait City, and will be discussing the latest updates and case studies in the landscape industry with a panel discussion not to be missed!

For more information about the conference, please visit www.futurelandscapeqatar.com

The GCC will increase its total seawater desalination capacity by nearly 40 per cent by 2020 in an effort to meet the rapidly increasing demand for potable water in the region, according to new figures revealed by the International Water Summit in collaboration with MEED Projects. According to the data produced by MEED Projects, the GCC’s current seawater desalination capacity of approximately 4,000 million imperial gallons a day (MIGD) is set to increase to more than 5,500MIGD – nearly 40 per cent –  over the next 5 years as the GCC states invest heavily in increasing potable water supply.

Desalination is becoming an increasingly important matter for countries like the UAE and Qatar which have experienced rapid rises in demand for water on the back of strong economic and population growth, and Saudi Arabia where groundwater supplies are depleting. As a result, there is a growing need for new water resources, says Ed James, Director of Content & Analysis at MEED Projects, the region’s leading online projects tracking service.

Currently, demand for potable water in the region is about 3,300MIGD, and is expected to grow to about 5,200MIGD by 2020. While current reserve margins between supply and demand appear to be at comfortable levels, at country and local network levels the supply-demand gaps are much smaller. For example, while Qatar and the UAE have enjoyed comfortable reserve margins in recent years, Saudi Arabia, Oman and Kuwait have faced real challenges meeting demand, especially during the summer months. Ageing plants also do not always operate at full design capacity, further reducing the theoretical total output.

“As oil revenues decrease and the issue of water has risen up the political agenda, governments have acted to try and dampen demand and reduce capital and operational expenditure. For example, earlier this year Abu Dhabi imposed water tariffs for the first time for UAE nationals while increasing existing prices for expatriate users as a means of decreasing subsidies and lowering demand. The move emulated Dubai’s decision in 2010 to raise water tariffs with the result that annual demand growth slowed from 10 per cent to just 4 per cent in the emirate,” James says.

“Our data shows that over the last 10 years, the region has invested USD 76 billion in standalone water projects. If we add the power component investment of these desalination facilities, that figure exceeds well over USD 100 billion. Going forward, we expect the largest investments to be made in Saudi Arabia, Abu Dhabi, Oman and Kuwait, which have the steepest short-term demand projections. The addition of more than 1,500MIGD of new capacity will likely require a similarly large amount of investment.

A major driver of these investments will go towards developing less energy-intensive methods of desalinating water, added James. Traditionally dominant forms of thermal distillation in the region, such as multi-stage flash (MSF) or multiple-effect distillation (MED), require large amounts of energy, and have become less attractive as GCC states find themselves burning increasing amounts of hydrocarbons that could instead be conserved, exported or exploited to develop heavy industry.

“Reverse osmosis (RO) membrane technology is becoming increasingly prevalent in the region because it relies on a chemical rather than thermal solution to desalinating seawater. Not only does the technology save on power, but it means countries can also lower their potential carbon emissions,” says James. In 2013, the UAE clean energy company Masdar launched a pilot program to test and develop advanced energy-efficient seawater desalination technologies, such as reverse and forward osmosis, suitable to be powered by renewable energy. The long-term goal of the program is to implement renewable energy-powered desalination plants in the UAE and to have a facility at commercial scale by 2020.

Four international water technology companies have been selected to construct small-scale desalination plants along the Abu Dhabi-Dubai border in this phase of the pilot project that will run until 2016. Water efficiency and sustainability form the core of the 2016 International Water Summit, which brings together world leaders, field experts, academia luminaries, and business innovators to accelerate the development of sustainable strategies and technologies.

“With growing demand and the large investments being made towards desalination projects in the region, greater awareness and discussion is needed more than ever before around sustainable practice,” James said. “Events like IWS allow industry professionals from around the world to share their knowledge and expertise with decision makers and stakeholders who are increasingly looking for the most energy efficient ways of producing consumable water.” 

The International Water Summit, part of Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week, takes place 18-21 January 2016 at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre.

London remains a key destination for Qatari property investors as per Chestertons, the international property agency established in 1805. In line with this statement, to get Qatari investors acquainted with London’s prime property projects, Chestertons will be unveiling a key premium project. ‘Wardian’, an exclusive QAR 3.3 billion project by London’s leading developer Eco World Ballymore. Chestertons will unveil further details on this project from 02^nd to 04^th November at ‘Sheraton Doha Resort and Convention Hotel.

“London has been a favourite choice of location with Qatari property investors. The percentage of investors from this region buying London based properties has significantly grown each year. On the other hand population growth in the capital continues to outstrip supply and these conditions are set to continue. In addition to the attractive location, London offers a safe and tolerant multi-cultural environment, transparent legal systems, coupled with a good choice of both lifestyle and investment properties. London stands out as a truly global capital and it remains a completely different market from any other region in the UK in terms of scale, pricing and future growth prospects,” said Samuel Warren, Global Director of International Residential Developments, Chestertons.

The first residents are expected to move in during 2019. The prices for the suites range - from US$613,000; 1 bedroom apartment - from US$815,000; and 2 bedroom apartment - from US$1.07 million. “Wardian is an extraordinary opportunity to invest into one of the most visionary and exciting projects London has seen in recent years – blending modern architecture with picturesque landscaping, it sets a new standard for high-rise living in the heart of London’s new metropolis. Alongside the apartments, Wardian London will contain a vibrant rooftop observatory bar, with a vision for London’s highest botanical gin garden; two restaurants; 24 hour concierge; and a 25 metre open air swimming pool, set within a flourishing tropical environment. Eco World Ballymore is one of the visionary developers that will continue to manage the development after completion so residents will also benefit from their ongoing exceptional service levels,” said Samuel.

The development, offers 624 new private suites and apartments contained in two high-end residential towers. Overlooking South Dock with commanding views of Canary Wharf, each apartment offers an extensive private ‘sky garden’, up to 37.2 square metres in size. Wardian London will provide a tranquil oasis within the heart of London’s most lively business district, promoting a sense of wellbeing and creating a serene escape within the city.

Head of Sales for Chestertons Middle East, Faisal Khokhar, stated, “Ballymore has extensive experience in London, having completed a number of property developments near to Canary Wharf including Providence Tower, New Providence Wharf, London City Island, Royal Wharf and Pan Peninsula. Over the past 25 years Ballymore has played a crucial role in the residential contribution to the area surrounding Canary Wharf which is now considered the pre-eminent financial centre of Europe and a world-leading business centre. As London’s focus shifts east the opportunities in this area are set to grow. For investor landlords and residents alike, this opportunity is not to be missed.”

Meeting the growing demand for residential property in East London, Wardian London reinforces the Docklands area as the new hub for East London. Just a three minute walk from Canary Wharf, Wardian London will comprise of suites, apartments and penthouses in two luxurious tall buildings rising to 50 and 55 storeys. “The project has unparalleled transport connections. Reliable and frequent London-wide transport links - Jubilee Line from Canary Wharf and DLR from Heron Quay or South Quay - complemented by flights from the nearby London City Airport across the continent. It is a 3 minute walk from Canary Wharf; Bond Street is accessible in 20 minutes and Stratford in 15 minutes. Connectivity is soon to be further enhanced with the arrival of Crossrail at Canary Wharf,” added Faisal.

Chestertons aims to cater to Qatari investors who wish to expand their regional or international real estate portfolios, or both, and individuals who simply wish to buy first or second homes in UAE or abroad. For further details about this visionary project or to discuss other London property please contact the team on 00971 56 2418064 or email enquiry.international@chestertons.com.

The Public Works Authority announced the commencement of preparation works on Aziziya Street between Umm Al Kharj Street junction and Salwa Road as part of developing roads and infrastructure in Aziziya East. The works will start on Saturday 31^stOctober 2015 and will last three months.

During the works only the service, slip roads and parking areas will be closed. All streets in the area will remain open to traffic in both directions, except on Leslaimi Street, which will be one way due to width constraints. While northern end of Ibn Ammir Street will be closed. (as shown in the map). The Public Works Authority is implementing this preparation works to enable construction works of roads and infrastructure in Azizia East, which includes the development of roads, drainage and new infrastructure in the area for residents and visitors of Azizia East, in addition to improve the accesses to residential and commercial properties.

The Public Works Auhtority, Ashghal, announced that in accordance with the recommendations of the Traffic Congestions Committee, the newly built signal-controlled intersection on the Corniche Street between the Emiri Diwan and the National Theatre has opened on the morning of 28 October 2015.

The new intersection will enable Corniche Street users coming from Al Diwan Intersection towards the National Theatre Intersection to either make left-hand turns onto Al Rumailah Street or U-turns to the other side of the street opposite of Al Corniche Street, without the need to continue until the National Theatre Intersection then make a U-turn. This will significantly reduce traffic congestion at the National Theatre Intersection. The Operations and Maintenance Department in Ashghal completed and opened the intersection to traffic within a period not exceeding five weeks and ahead of schedule.

The expansion works have also been completed and included the construction of an additional lane on the left side of Al Corniche Street, for a distance of 375m towards National Theatre Intersection. This will enable vehicles to turn left towards Mohammed bin Thani Street by using three lanes instead of two. Works also included widening the road and making it three lanes instead of two for a distance of 475m for vehicles coming from Majlis Al Taawon Street and going right onto Mohammed bin Thani Street and right onto Al Corniche Street.

An additional lane was also built on part of Mohammed bin Thani Street heading right towards Majlis Al Taawon Street, to become two lanes instead of one for a distance of 230m. This is in addition to the construction of a new lane on Mohammed bin Thani Street, from its intersection with Majlis Al Taawon Street for a distance of about 50m. Paving and beautification works are being finalized in coordination with the Doha Municipality.

Capstone Property, a leading Qatar-based property services company focusing on real estate and property management, has received the Outstanding Achievement for Continuous Contribution to Qatar Real Estate Industry and for Supporting Qatar Living Award at an awarding ceremony held last Thursday, October 15, at the Sheraton Hotel, Doha. The ceremony was organised by Qatar Living, the ultimate knowledge gateway to Qatar, as the company marked 10 years since it had been established.

Since its inception, Capstone has established itself as the leading property and real estate agency in Qatar offering a range of professional services including property sales, leasing and marketing, property management as well as consultancy and valuation. Whether individual or whole towers, Capstone has a number of commercial and residential properties that it leases and manages at The Pearl, Qatar including Viva Bahriya, Porto Arabia and Qanat Quartier, in addition to more than 15 buildings around Doha that cater to Capstone’s individual clients as well as corporate ones, such as Qatar Airways.

Capstone and Qatar Living’s ongoing partnership began back in 2012, as Capstone worked on meeting the growing needs of Qatar’s rapidly increasing number of residents and finding properties for them to live in. As the ultimate Qatari information hub, Qatar Living provided the ideal platform for Capstone to share its services and property portfolio with local residents. Mr. Anthony Awkar, Managing Partner of Capstone, said: “We are delighted to be receiving such a fantastic award and this is a wonderful testament to our long standing partnership with Qatar Living. As a leading real estate company in Qatar, Capstone is committed to giving back to the local community that it operates in, as well as in meeting and exceeding the property needs of Qatar’s residents.”

Mr. Awkar continued: “At Capstone, we hope to revolutionise real estate industry standards and are unwavering in our dedication to provide residents with unique, tailored solutions, and we thank Qatar Living for supporting us on this journey.”

Also during the gala dinner to celebrate Qatar Living’s 10^th anniversary, Ms. Rochelle Zonnenberg, Marketing and Sales Director at Qatar Living, said: “Qatar is a growing economy that host a large community of expats. People move to the country to build their careers and start new lives. We know from our users that are of different nationalities that finding the right home in a new country is always a challenge. Capstone has helped us bridge the gap by providing Qatar's community with various housing options and great service that are available at the click on Qatar Living.”

TADMUR Contracting, a subsidiary of TADMUR Holding - one of Qatar’s most trusted and successful business conglomerates, has earned a Gold LEED Certification for its Evergreen building. The project is located within Energy City Qatar (ECQ), a site connected to the wider Lusail development.

The building’s Gold LEED Certification was achieved by TADMUR Contracting after having met the stringent standards related to Energy and Environmental Design, in compliance with LEED of the United States Green Building Council (USBGC) requirements. It is also in compliance with the strict environment-friendly, Green Building guidelines and GSAS issued for all constructions within ECQ. Such achievement has enabled TADMUR Contracting to become the first contracting firm to have earned the second highest LEED rating within ECQ and one of only three such companies to have done so throughout Qatar.

“The revival of the construction boom in Qatar and across the region has presented serious environmental issues and concerns,” said Dafer Mustafa Hallawa, CEO of TADMUR Holding. “However, our strong commitment towards sustainable development drives us to implement projects that strictly complies with and adheres to Global Green Building and environment-friendly quality and standards. “At the same time, our assurance of delivering quality excellence in design and construction is an integral part of our corporate responsibility to the present and future generations of the state of Qatar and community” he added. “We are therefore proud of this achievement and vow to earn even more LEED certifications for our upcoming projects.”   

The Evergreen building is owned and developed by TADMUR Holding. It will be operated and maintained by OCS Qatar, another subsidiary of TADMUR Holding. This shall ensure that Evergreen Building constantly adheres to the highest Green Building standards. TADMUR Contracting implemented and constructed an innovative design for Evergreen that helps reduce carbon footprint and cuts utility bills. Its sustainable design also maximizes human benefits, which include energy efficiency, reduced environmental impact and improved indoor environment quality.

Among its key environment-friendly features, a water re-use system that results in reduced water consumption, 50% less potable water use for building conveyance through high-efficiency fixtures, an Indoor Environment Quality performance plan that meets the minimum requirement of ASHRAE 62-1999, storage and collection facilities for recyclables, photo-voltaic cells / solar panels suitably located on the roof for 15-20% savings on energy and landscape lighting that comply with LEED Light Pollution Reduction standards.

With a plot area of 7,044 m², the Evergreen building has total built-up area of 21,566 m². It comprises a ground floor, mezzanine, and 3 floors, as well as two basement parking area with 234 parking slots, 42 bicycle racks and five motorcycle racks. It also has four elevators for the public and one service elevator. In addition to TADMUR Contracting other TADMUR Holding’s market-leading subsidiaries who contributed to this achievement are, TAKYEEF Electromechanical, TADMUR Logistics, TADMUR Trading, TADMUR Roofs & Pools, OCS Qatar, Norwood Qatar, Arabian Supplies and Roots Energy & Engineering Services.

Operating across Qatar, some TADMUR Contracting completed projects includes some landmark projects, among those are Student Center at Qatar Foundation, Qatar University Library, Qatar Airways Premium terminal at Doha International Airport, Doha Women’s Sports Club at Aspire Zone along with Schools for PWA, Commercial Buildings and Residential Compounds. Such achievement was realized due to TADMUR Contracting vision “To be recognized by all stakeholders as a leading contributor in the field of construction in the State of Qatar, based upon trust, honesty and integrity”.

Msheireb Properties, a subsidiary of Qatar Foundation, and the developer behind the flagship project Msheireb Downtown Doha, will be participating at the upcoming 5th Civil Defence Exhibition and Conference in Doha. The company will showcase a world class development designed and built to resurrect Qatari architecture and operate using modern technology and sustainable infrastructure. Msheireb Properties is also a platinum sponsor of the event.

The event will take place from 2^nd to 4^th November in the Doha Exhibition and Convention Center, under the patronage of His Excellency Sheikh Abdullah Bin Nasser Bin Khalifa Al-Thani, Prime Minister and Minister of Interior. Eng Abdulla Hassan Al Mehshadi, Chief Executive Officer, Msheireb Properties emphasised that Msheireb Properties’ participation as platinum sponsors is highly relevant, as it falls within the company’s remit to enhance safety and security regulations and further reinforces the company’s commitment to implement the standards and guidelines set forth by the Civil Defence Authority.

Al Mehshadi commented: “Msheireb Downtown Doha is the world’s first sustainable urban regeneration project which also employs world class technologies across the entire development. The entire project features sustainable design that consumes fewer resources, generates less waste, costs less to operate, and achieves a reduced carbon footprint. This is completely in line with the smart city concept and strategy set forward for this project. “Once complete, MDD will feature 5,200 solar rooftop panels totaling 8,400 square metres, which demonstrates just how much the development will rely on renewable energy. Almost all the buildings in MDD will have enough solar photovoltaic electricity panels to meet 75 percent of annual demand for electricity and hot water.

“The technological solutions that will be provided to MDD will ensure that Msheireb is recognised for its innovative leadership in the use of these technologies to deliver a great place to live and work, while pioneering the development of a smart community and city,” says Al Mehshadi.”

Msheireb Downtown Doha is set to be the world’s largest certified sustainable community, with over 60 buildings meeting the LEED Gold standard for environmental performance, and some buildings attaining a Platinum rating. The development will reduce carbon dioxide emissions by an estimated 110,000 tons per year—equal to emissions of more than 18 thousand automobiles, consuming over 42 million litres of gasoline. The project has been mapped with five localised connected facility management hubs across the site capturing web enabled CCTV system (External Public Realm, Internal Public Realm, Primary Service Areas and Service Tunnels, Lifts and Lobbies); and ICT Infrastructure.

The Public Works Authority ‘Ashghal’ announced a temporary closure of one lane on the roads surrounding Al Hizm and Environment Roundabout and parts of Al Khafji Street as shown in the attached map. The closure will start on Tuesday 3^rd of November 2015 and will last for 6 months. During this period, two lanes will remain open in all directions on the two mentioned roundabouts, while accesses to schools, residential and commercial institutes remain open. 

Works are part of phase two and three of Al Khafji Street development project. Phase two includes converting Environment Roundabout to a signal-controlled intersection and widening Al Khafji Street from Environment Roundabout to Al Shamal Bridge, and from Environment Roundabout to phase one of the project (Jelaiha Intersection) to become four lanes instead of three, in addition to developing and widening Environment Street. 

Phase three, which is the final phase of the project, includes converting Al Hizm Roundabout to a signal-controlled intersection and widening Al Khafji Street from Al Hizm Roundabout to become four lanes instead of three for a distance of 350 metres towards Al Jamia Signals, and from Al Hizm Roundabout to connect it with phase one (Jelaiha Intersection) to become four lanes instead of three. Ashghal will install road signs to advice motorists of the closure. The authority requests all road users to abide by the speed limits, and follow the road signs to ensure their safety. 

United Development Company (UDC), one of the leading Qatari shareholding companies and master developer of The Pearl-Qatar, participated today in the 5^th Civil Defense Exhibition and Conference as platinum sponsor. The event, held under the patronage of Prime Minister and Minister of the Interior, His Excellency Sheikh Abdullah Bin Nasser Khalifa Al Thani, takes place between November 2 and 4 at the Doha Exhibition Center.

The Civil Defense Exhibition and Conference showcases and evaluates a wide-range of fire safety issues, along with the latest technological advancements designed to ensure the safety of personnel in local industries. Displayed at the UDC stand are the latest technology solutions used in the field of safety and construction, particularly at the Company’s construction sites in The Pearl-Qatar, and a number of senior state officials and personalities visiting the company's stand were introduced to the Company's experiences in this field.

“The safety and protection of our residents, our infrastructure, and our community is our priority,” UDC President and CEO Ibrahim Al-Othman said, speaking specifically about The Pearl-Qatar. “As a socially responsible corporate citizen we are delighted to contribute to this important exhibition, which highlights the progress we have already made. The event allows us to network and meet with other individuals and organizations, and to discover new ways, methods and technologies that will improve safety standards for everyone." He further added, “We are also in total cooperation with The General Directorate of Civil Defense to ensure that all contractors operating on the Island comply with the set regulations for construction in Qatar, and that they receive fire safety and other necessary clearances.”

It is worth mentioning that The Pearl-Qatar facilities and common areas are equipped with the latest firefighting technology, particularly firefighting in water-bound environments like The Pearl-Qatar. Everything from safely working at dangerous heights to safe use of machinery to wearing the correct personal protective equipment and clothing is strictly required and followed. Even the daily temperatures during summer are monitored to ensure workers operate within the legal safety limits.

But it’s not just the health and safety of the workers that is important. All health and safety issues relating to the residents are equally catered for through a highly-trained and experienced health and safety team using some of the most sophisticated technology available to guarantee the safety and security of visitors and residents. And it’s not just on land, but securing the 35-kilometer coastline of The Pearl-Qatar has equal priority. Here, high-tech and high-speed boats, state-of-the-art technology and navigation systems combine with the Qatari Coastguard to provide the best response to sea searches, risk operations, and emergency cases.

To ensure the upkeep of the Island’s high safety and maintenance standards, The Pearl-Qatar has two Operation Command and Control Centers (OCCC) designed to control and monitor the entire Island and to work closely with the local Civil Defense authorities and The Pearl-Qatar’s fire station, inaugurated in May 2014. Highly advanced subsystems are also in place and are integrated via an advanced telecommunication network. This includes a CCTV System spanning the whole Island with surveillance cameras to maintain the unparalleled security existing in the Island.

There is also a Building Management System (BMS) which controls and monitors all the lighting systems, elevators, cooling systems, emergency power systems, central battery systems, and fire alarms. UDC has for 15 years of continuous activity, played a key role in Qatar’s urban development process through investment in successful partnerships, and implementation of the creative vision of The Pearl-Qatar, a man-made island 350 meters offshore the affluent West Bay area, and one of the country’s iconic sites. This project has now become one of the largest mixed-use developments in the Gulf region.

The Public Works Authority, Ashghal, announced that traffic on Bin Zaben Roundabout, known as Al Mukafaha Roundabout will be diverted to a signal-controlled intersection that was newly built to allow for the construction of Al Rayyan Street intersection with BuErayyen Street. The new intersection will ease traffic congestion in the area throughout the construction period.

Al Mukafaha Roundabout will be closed to traffic and commuters will be able to use the new signal controlled intersection and any alternative routes as of Friday morning 6 November 2015.

It is worth nothing that the new intersection will ease traffic congestion as it will include three lanes instead of the existing two-lanes on the New Al Rayyan Road and Bu Erayyen Street, thus easing traffic congestion in the area.The authority requests road users to use internal and local roads surrounding the diversion area at the Bin Zaben Roundabout from 1:00 am until 11:00 am of Friday 6 November until work is complete and traffic is diverted to the new signal-controlled diversion.

Vehicles coming from residential areas in Al Rayyan area and heading toward Bu Erayyen Street are required to use the new alternative route parallel to the existing closed road which can be accessed via the northern or southern sides. Vehicles can also use a local road that leads to Al Ishra Street located south of the new road which is the alternative route to the existing Bu Erayyen road. Road users heading from residential areas toward the New Al Rayyan Road can drive on the new alternative route which is parallel to the existing road to reach Al Rayyan Roundabout as shown in the attached maps.

The authority requests all road users to abide by the speed limits, and follow the road signs to ensure their safety.

United Development Company (UDC), a leading Qatari shareholding company and master developer of The Pearl-Qatar, today announced as the Silver sponsor of the 24th World ITMA Congress on Traffic Medicine and Road Safety, to be held in Doha from November 16 to 18 at Sheraton Doha Hotel.

The conference is held under the patronage of His Excellency Sheikh Abdullah Bin Nasser Bin Khalifa Al-Thani, Prime Minister and Minister of Interior. The agreement was signed by Brigadier Engineer Muhammad Abdullah Al-Maliki, Secretary of the National Traffic Safety Committee and the Chairman of the Organizing Committee, and Mr. Hussain Akbar Al-Baker, UDC A/Director of Marketing and Communication, during a press conference held this morning at the Company's headquarters in West Bay, Doha.

Present at the signing ceremony was also Brigadier Mohamed Saad Al-Kharji, the General Director of the Ministry of Interior’s Traffic Department and UDC President & Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Ibrahim J. Al Othman. Organized by the Ministry of Interior and represented by the National Committee for Traffic Safety in collaboration with the World Organization for Traffic Medicine, the conference is set to discuss issues related to emergency medical services enabling legislation, regulations and awareness programs as well as the technical measures required to achieve proper road safety administration.

Commenting on the Silver Sponsorship of the Conference, Mr. Ibrahim Jassem Al-Othman, UDC President & Chief Executive Officer said, "The ongoing cooperation between the Ministry of Interior and the National Committee for Traffic Safety is in line with our vision and our commitment to support Qatar's National Traffic Safety objectives and to enhance public safety on Qatar’s roads.”

Al-Othman further added, "UDC’s Silver Sponsorship of the conference reflects our adamancy towards ensuring safety of the community residing not only at The Pearl but also around Qatar. We are, therefore, delighted to extend our support to research initiatives and discussions that promote traffic safety and the development of effective medicine in cases of injury. This Conference will represent a great opportunity for exchanges between experts from many disciplines connected to traffic safety and traffic injuries."

For his part, Brigadier Engineer Muhammad Abdullah Al-Maliki, Secretary of the National Traffic Safety Committee and the Chairman of the Organizing Committee of 24th World ITMA stated, “This international congress will focus on the progress in traffic safety and traffic injury prevention and treatment in recent years, and will bring famous traffic medicine experts together to share the most advanced traffic medicine concepts, theories and techniques in order to promote traffic crash prevention, traffic safety, first-aid medical treatment, and accordingly reduce the mortality and disability resulting from traffic injury and to subsequently raise the road user's health standard and the quality of life.”

Brig. Mohamed Saad Al Kharji, Director-General of the Ministry of Interior's Traffic Department stressed that the 24^th World ITMA Congress will focus on substantial progress in the field of traffic safety, discussing injury prevention tactics available for use. Al Kharji went on to say that the conference will bring together, under one umbrella, several international experts in the field of traffic medicine to share and exchange views on the latest concepts developed in the first aid and medical treatment, and also elaborates on roles that would lead to make enormous contributions to the field of traffic medicine.

Al-Kharji confirmed that the Traffic Department will fully collaborate with the Pearl-Qatar to implement solutions that will ease traffic congestion on the Island. The conference will bring together under its umbrella global experts in congestion medicine to share and exchange views on the latest concepts and advanced theories and methods of traffic medicine and to support and promote a culture of prevention of traffic accidents and traffic safety, first aid and medical treatment.

Delegates to this congress will include medical doctors, physiologists, psychologists, traffic safety experts, vehicle designers and manufacturers, engineers, policy makers, police officers, and insurance experts. The official opening of the three-day congress is set for 16 November 2015. Special workshops will also be held on November 15 and will cover traffic accidents related to youth. The congress has been divided into four sections including: engineering and traffic safety, social media, law enforcement and health and pro-accident handling.

TAFAWOQ, the world-class Project Management Centre of Excellence, recently hosted a Risk Management Workshop for Decision Makers in Doha, as part of its commitment to develop the competencies of project management professionals to help deliver Qatar’s capital investment projects.

More than 50 project management professionals from 16 major Qatari organizations such as Qatar Petroleum, Qatargas, Rasgas, Oryx GTL and Qatar Foundation, attended the ‘Designing and Implementing Risk Management Capabilities – Practical Applications’ workshop. The session was delivered by Cyril Salibi, Corporate Risk Director at ASTAD Project Management, a seasoned risk professional, with more than 25 years of international multi-disciplinary corporate and operational risk experience.

TAFAWOQ's Director Bader Al-Jaidah expressed his pride relating to TAFAWOQ’s success in attracting and training more than 450 project professionals since its establishment in 2012. “With billions of Qatari Riyals being invested in the development of new projects across Qatar, building risk management capability is vital to delivering timely, high-quality complex projects, which is central to Qatar’s rapid infrastructure development.  We, at TAFAWOQ, are mindful of the challenges that Qatar’s project management professionals encounter while managing high-risk investment projects, and our programmes and series of workshops aim to address those challenges and brainstorm strategic solutions,” said Al-Jaidah.

During the interactive seminar, a case study was presented to the participants who then worked in teams to develop risk assessment matrices, to be able to manage and report any risks early on in the project development phase. Many aspects such as Strategic, Operational, Financial, Safety and Health, Legal and Compliance risks were also addressed.

Commenting on the seminar, Salibi said, “Effective risk management holds the key to developing an economy that is operationally sound and able to meet the challenges of building iconic projects that are complex and unique in nature. As an industry leader, ASTAD operates according to international best practices, especially in Risk Management. Our team of global specialists provide world class portfolio and project Risk services that enable effective decision making and contingency planning. We employ a simple but robust approach which includes risk planning, risk identification, assessment, management, and reporting and quantitative risk analysis supporting more informed decisions in relation with the risk return equation.”

“I am proud to have the opportunity to share our knowledge with Qatar’s project management professionals and provide first-hand conceptual and practical project risk management tools and techniques that will enable them to achieve their project objectives and add value in their business processes. This will undoubtedly create a stronger risk management culture across projects and organisations in Qatar,” he added. According to Abdulaziz Darwish, Head of Project Engineering at Qatar Petroleum, the workshop provided a unique opportunity where individual project management professionals were able to gather with their peers and share their knowledge.

”Risk Management is fundamental in my line of business. Risks affect every stage of planning and implementation, and the principles learnt in today’s workshop will help to build a strong national culture of risk management,” he said. “This workshop, hosted by TAFAWOQ, facilitated a valuable opportunity for me to meet with my peers to discuss current industry concerns and innovations that will contribute to our professional development, as we continue to work towards the progress and implementation of a risk framework that reflects the high standards depicted in the Qatar National Vision 2030.”

TAFAWOQ, a partnership between Qatar Petroleum, Qatar Shell, and Hamad Bin Khalifa University, offers world-class training for project professionals through unique programmes to further develop the competencies of the thriving project management community in Qatar. TAFAWOQ’s curriculum is aligned with the Association for Project Management (APM), the largest professional body in Europe with 500 corporate and 18,500 individual members. APM accredited TAFAWOQ’s “Essentials of Project Management” course last year and since then 57 project professionals successfully passed and obtained the (APMA Level-D) certificate.  

For information about TAFAWOQ and its programmes please visit: www.tafawoq.com