< PreviousCOVER STORY 50MAY 2024 advancements not only enhance the quality of life for residents but also reinforce the overall sustainability and effi ciency of the Masaar community,” he reinforces. Arada is also investing in a major new research and development (R&D) facility in Sharjah through a joint venture agreement with Hungarian water tech fi rm Biopolus, Sharjah Research Technology and Innovation Park (SRTIP), and Metito. “The partnership aims to develop and implement upgraded versions of the existing Biopolus organic water treatment technology. The long-COVER STORY 51MAY 2024 term vision for the R&D facility is to create an improved ‘Biopolus 2.0’ version of the technology and establish Sharjah as a global hub for this process. We are currently building a water treatment plant to treat, recycle and produce treated water for irrigation purposes, utilising the Biopolus Metabolic Network Reactor (MNR) technology. Upon the success of this promising R&D project, we intend to replicate the technology for Masaar and other communities and signifi cantly raise sustainability standards for developers in the region,” explains Alkhoshaibi. A SHIFT FROM TRADITIONAL NOTIONS According to a report by property consultancy fi rm JLL, sustainability is emerging as a key focus area in the UAE’s real estate sector. The report highlights that over 80% of investors prioritise sustainable urban planning, and over 70% of foreign investors are willing to pay a premium for green projects. Additionally, sustainable initiatives like mixed-use communities and pedestrian- friendly streets can lead to higher rental yields and property values. Moreover, UAE’s real estate sector is projected to reach $710 billion by 2024. By implementing green practices, the sector can help the country achieve its carbon emission reduction goals and potentially increase the GDP by $1 trillion by 2050. So, developers who launch sustainable community-centric developments with world-class amenities will not only cater to a variety of consumer preferences and lifestyles, but also reshape the UAE’s real estate landscape, adhere to both regional and global green objectives, and inject added value to the country’s economy as a whole. Left: Exterior of 5BR Sendian Park Villa; Aerial view of Saro at Masaar Right: The Loop at Masaar52MAY 202452MAY 202453MAY 2024 CRAFTED CONCEPTS Peeking into the world of design and architecture in the Middle East’s real estate scene 53MAY 2024CRAFTED CONCEPTS 54MAY 2024 FLIGHT OF INNOVATION Inside flydubai’s unconventional HQ, where functionality, aesthetics, and sustainability come together to create a futuristic office space Interview by Angitha Pradeep CRAFTED CONCEPTS 54MAY 2024CRAFTED CONCEPTS 55MAY 2024 CRAFTED CONCEPTS 55MAY 2024CRAFTED CONCEPTS 56MAY 2024 flydubai, the innovative and vibrant airline, elevated its operations with the unveiling of its expansive 8,3612.7 m2 headquarters in Dubai earlier this year. This architectural marvel, a testament to fl ydubai’s ethos of agility and innovation, was brought to life through a partnership with Dewan Architects + Engineers. Designed to encapsulate the essence of the fl ydubai brand, the headquarters is more than a workspace; it’s a hub designed to nurture creativity, collaboration, and well-being among employees. Strategically located between Dubai International (DXB) and Dubai World Central (DWC) airports, the headquarters exemplifi es the airline’s commitment to effi ciency and convenience. Drawing inspiration from historical architectural concepts, the design integrates urban and architectural scales, creating an environment that fosters community and connection. CW Property Middle East speaks to Dewan Architects + Engineers to learn more about the journey of creating Images supplied by: Dewan Architects + Engineers Left: fl ydubai’s HQ in Dubai designed in partnership with Dewan Architects + Engineers; Concept design was to create a futuristic workspace Right: fl ydubai HQ interior The building features unique and unusual spaces that are uncommon in traditional offi ce buildings, such as fl ight simulation units, emergency drills and training halls, and fl ydubai’s primary data centre” CRAFTED CONCEPTSCRAFTED CONCEPTS 57MAY 2024CRAFTED CONCEPTS 58MAY 2024CRAFTED CONCEPTS 59MAY 2024 this futuristic workspace, exploring its innovative design, sustainability features, and impact on employee well-being and productivity. Could you elaborate on the evolution of the headquarters’ design concept from its initial inception to the fi nal architectural narrative? As a standard procedure, the initial phase of concept design begins with data collection. For this project, we had to create a detailed document due to the complexity of the design components (simulation rooms, data centres, training halls, etc.). We began with a pre-concept, and the client appreciated the design. However, due to cost limitations, we had to simplify the details on the façade. It’s essential to note that the design wasn’t just about aesthetics; it also achieved a balance of various performance criteria using a mix of raw materials with refi ned details and a touch of greenery. Vibrant colours were added to bring energy to the workspace. This approach to the design met fl ydubai’s requirements for a workspace that fosters creativity, collaboration, and well-being. The fully functional workspace includes an open offi ce layout combined with elements from the landscape, creating a cohesive design language. The absence of traditional borders encourages easy collaboration among employees. Writable surfaces are prevalent in the offi ce, facilitating impromptu meetings and brainstorming sessions without compromising privacy. The design also accounted for multi- purpose ‘quiet’ spaces for private meetings and phone calls. Additionally, the goal was to provide employees with complete fl exibility in their workspace, allowing them to work in a place that suits their needs. This approach challenges the Left: Design accounted for multi-purpose ‘quiet’ spaces for private meetings and phone calls Right: Environmentally responsible architecture was used throughout the spaceNext >