< Previous| POWER 100 | 88 JUNE 2023 An award-winning, international PU system house, Pearl Polyurethane Systems has been making headlines recently and moving markets, while driving R&D and new polyurethane industry innovations, both across MENA and internationally. Since his appointment in 2021, Martin Kruczinna has made his mark on the company, drawing on over a decade of polyurethane industry experience both in Germany and internationally. Kruczinna’s leadership has propelled the polyurethane solutions innovator from its origins as the largest system house in the Middle East and Africa. Through the effective execution of the PearlX2 growth strategy, the company has achieved remarkable progress, positioning itself as an industry leader. The company is also expanding its production footprint in Saudi Arabia, and a regional office opening in Egypt in 2023, to further meet growing customer demand. Today, Pearl Polyurethane is widely recognised as an international leader in the building and infrastructure insulation sector while also offering a comprehensive range of polyurethane formulations, prepolymers and polyesters for the production of high-performance polyurethane foams and elastomers. In addition, Pearl’s award- winning EcoPearl low lambda insulation product offers an overall improvement of up to 20% in insulation performance over comparable products, making it more sustainable. In 2021, Pearl was the first PU system house in the MENA region to introduce climate-neutral MDI products using alternative raw materials based on plant waste rather than fossil fuels. Under Kruczinna’s stewardship, manufacturers and end users globally are now also benefiting from the increased availability of PU-based adhesives following the introduction of its new PearlBond adhesive range. Under Kruczinna’s leadership, the company has maintained a consistent stream of product innovations. One notable recent addition is the DuraPearl Spray Elastomer System, a polyurea-based solution that surpasses epoxy in strength and flexibility by up to four times and 98%, respectively. Furthermore, polyurea-based spray coatings cure up to six times faster than epoxy alternatives, enhancing productivity for spray coating operators Finally, Kruczinna also remains focused on ensuring Pearl continues to act as a positive change agent against global warming, with Pearl currently the only polyurethane company in the region to be part of the ISCC-approved sustainability certification system. MARTIN KRUCZINNA CEO, Pearl Polyurethane Systems 15 “MARTIN KRUCZINNA’S LEADERSHIP HAS PROPELLED PEARL POLYURETHANE SYSTEMS INTO AN INDUSTRY LEADER”FOR SPONSORSHIP ENQUIRIES Moutaz Gadelhak Senior Sales Manager, Construction Week Middle East T: +971 4 444 3177 M: +971 58 287 6309 E: moutaz.gadelhak@itp.com FOR EVENT ENQUIRIES Parul Rana Conference Producer T: +971 4 444 3226 M: +971 58 215 9280 E: parul.rana@itp.com LEARNING FROM GCC LEADERS OF THE CONSTRUCTION SECTOR ENQUIRE ABOUT SPONSORSHIP CONSTRUCTIONWEEKLIVE.COM 20 Wednesday 20th September 2023 Grosvenor House, Dubai, UAE SCAN TO VISIT WEBSITE Silver SponsorBronze SponsorSilver SponsorSilver SponsorBronze SponsorBronze SponsorSupporting Partner| POWER 100 | 90 JUNE 2023JUNE 2023 91 | POWER 100 | Spearheading the UK-based architectural and design firm is Norman Foster, the Founder and Executive Chairman of Foster + Partners. Over the past year, Foster + Partners has secured significant contract wins and worked on notable projects in the Middle East. In June 2020, Foster + Partners was chosen by the Saudi Arabian gigaproject AMAALA to design an airport inspired by the optical illusion of a desert mirage. Additionally, Foster + Partners designed the Coral Bloom island concept for Red Sea Global, formerly The Red Sea Shaun Killa, a Design Partner at Killa Design, has gained recognition for his distinctive approach to architecture, placing a strong emphasis on sustainability and pushing the boundaries of conventional design. With an impressive track record spanning over 25 years, Killa is an acclaimed architect who prioritises design excellence. His philosophy revolves around the creation of innovative, low-carbon sustainable buildings that defy architectural norms, resulting in the development of iconic projects such as the Almas Tower, Dubai Opera House, and the Bahrain World Trade Centre—the first-ever integration of wind turbines on a large-scale building. Established in Dubai in 2015, Killa Design has been involved in several notable projects, including the critically acclaimed designs for the Museum of the Future, the Address Beach Resort, W Hotel Namaste, Vida Dubai Marina & Yacht Club, Marsa Al Arab, Sheybarah Island, Aykon Twin Towers, and the Office of the Future— Development Company (TRSDC), in 2021. This nature-inspired design will be implemented across 11 resorts on the dolphin-shaped island, blending harmoniously with the pristine natural environment. The Middle East has witnessed Foster + Partners’ involvement in various projects, including the ICD Brookfield Place Tower, South Sabah Al-Ahmad masterplan, Kuwait International Airport Terminal 2, headquarters of the National Bank of Kuwait, headquarters of banking company Samba in Saudi Arabia, Zayed National Museum, Jeddah Metro, House of Wisdom (HOW) in Sharjah, and the Jabal Omar development in Saudi Arabia, featuring a built-up area of approximately two million m2, among others. In November 2022, Foster + Partners secured a contract to design a luxury residential project in Dubai called ‘Palm Flower,’ which will be located on the trunk of the Palm Jumeirah in Dubai. The design studio has also created a provisional concept design for a Skyports Infrastructure vertiport terminal next to DXB airport, which has been endorsed the world’s first occupied 3D-printed building. Presently, Killa is actively engaged in the construction of exciting projects such as the Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab Hotel in Dubai, Sheybarah Resort for the Red Sea Development in Saudi Arabia, Palm Residence, Cavalli Residential Towers, and others. Additionally, Killa also assumes the role of a keynote speaker at various global conferences, where he inspires architects and developers to challenge the status quo. His speeches focus on the significance of sustainable buildings and masterplans, aiming to enhance the urban habitat, improve the lives of its inhabitants, and aggressively reduce carbon emissions from the built environment. Through his remarkable career, Killa has established himself as a visionary architect, renowned for his sustainable designs and unwavering commitment to pushing architectural boundaries. His works continue to leave a lasting impact on the industry, inspiring professionals worldwide to embrace sustainability and innovation in their own practices. by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, earlier this year. Around the same time, Foster + Partners designed Apple BKC, Apple’s first flagship store in India opened to the public. The store is a symbiosis of Apple’s unique design approach and also achieved the LEED Platinum certification. SHAUN KILLA Founder & Executive Chairman, Foster + Partners Design Partner, Killa Design 1 NORMAN FOSTER 2| POWER 100 | 92 JUNE 2023 In the third position in Construction Week’s Power 100 2023 list is Shams Naga, the visionary founder and principal of NAGA Architects, and the Founder and Chairman of DHB Group. Since its establishment in 2000, NAGA Architects, Designers, and Planners have gained prominence and recognition as a notable player. With strategically positioned offices spanning the Middle East and North America, the firm has firmly established itself as a leader in the field. In 2022, NAGA Architects achieved remarkable accomplishments, making it arguably the most successful year in its 22-year history. The firm expanded into new areas of expertise, such as master planning and infrastructure design, resulting in the addition of approximately 40 architects and engineers to its team. NAGA Architects solidified relationships with key entities like NHC and MoMRAH, participating in projects such as Al Fursan and Al Khuzam, contributing to the design and planning of over 55 million m2 of development. In addition, collaborations with private developers led to the firm covering a total area of 1.5 million m2 in Saudi Arabia. Furthermore, recognised for their expertise, NAGA Architects was entrusted with drafting architectural guidelines for several regions in KSA, demonstrating industry leadership in shaping urban landscapes. In Dubai, the company made headlines with the iconic Palm Villas project, which sold for a record-breaking $18.3 million, resulting in the firm continuing to establish a strong presence in the luxury and ultra-luxury markets. Furthermore, the appointment of Amr Attia, previously associated with WATG and AECOM, as the CEO of NAGA KSA, strengthens the firm’s capabilities and leadership in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The company also completed several noteworthy projects in 2022, including Saadiyat Lagoons, Nesaj Town in Jeddah, Safwa, and Riyadh, Khobar Commercial Plaza, and Al Jewan Residential Development. These accomplishments highlight the firm’s expertise in delivering exceptional architectural designs and contributing to developing vibrant communities. Under Naga’s guidance, NAGA Architects strongly emphasises corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives, particularly in Egypt. For example, the firm actively supports multiple regional hospitals by sponsoring and contributing essential medical equipment. Additionally, the firm seeks partnerships with NGOs in Egypt to provide various forms of livelihood support to deserving families in need. Through these initiatives, NAGA Architects aims to make a positive and lasting impact on the local communities it serves. SHAMS NAGA Founder, NAGA Architects 3 “IN 2022, NAGA ARCHITECTS EXPANDED INTO NEW AREAS OF EXPERTISE, SUCH AS MASTER PLANNING AND INFRASTRUCTURE DESIGN”JUNE 2023 93 | POWER 100 | Pedram Rad, the Managing Director of U+A, has achieved significant growth and success within the last 12 months. Notably, U+A entered into a strategic partnership with Egis, marking a significant milestone for the company. Additionally, U+A experienced growth in various sectors, including landscape design for hospitality resorts and urban public realms, urban planning and master planning, sustainability, research and development, and CGI and visualisation. U+A was founded in 2006 and has since, worked on notable projects as lead consultants in multiple sectors, including hospitality, education, entertainment, mixed- use, commercial and residential developments, to name a few. In terms of human resources, U+A expanded its team by adding over 50 experts, resulting in a total of 198 employees, a remarkable 45% increase from 2021. Geographically, U+A also witnessed significant growth in its Saudi branch, both in terms of project numbers and contract values, through its partnership with Egis. As a result, the company’s revenue also saw a substantial increase. Under Rad’s leadership, U+A spearheaded and completed several key projects. These include two high-end resorts in the Red Sea area, the ongoing development of Sindalah Island, which encompasses a hospitality village, yacht club, F&B, and marina; and Expo Valley, a luxurious residential development situated in the heart of Dubai’s future city, Expo. U+A’s portfolio consists of over $2.72 billion worth of projects in the Middle East, both completed and ongoing. Looking ahead, U+A faces the challenge of resourcing and talent acquisition due to the numerous projects and developments in the Middle East region. In terms of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), the company has adopted initiatives focused on two streams. Firstly, a people-centric model aims to support U+A’s workforce in achieving a healthy work-life balance by offering mobility between offices worldwide, providing free training opportunities, and fostering a comfortable and homely office environment. Secondly, U+A has taken the initiative to introduce sustainability and a net- zero approach into its design process, irrespective of contractual agreements and service offerings. Under Rad’s guidance, over the last 12 months, U+A has not only achieved remarkable growth and project success but has also prioritised the well- being of its employees and embraced sustainability as core values within the organisation. PEDRAM RAD MD, U+A 4 “U+A’S PORTFOLIO CONSISTS OF OVER $2.72 BILLION WORTH OF PROJECTS IN THE MIDDLE EAST”| POWER 100 | 94 JUNE 2023 Brian Johnson is the Principal and Managing Partner of Godwin Austen Johnson (GAJ), a leading architecture and design firm based in UAE. With over three decades of experience in the industry, Johnson has established himself as a prominent figure and has been recognised on the Power 100 list this year for his exceptional leadership skills and the strength of GAJ’s team. Under Johnson’s guidance, GAJ has played a significant role in the development of the UAE’s infrastructure. The firm has been involved in numerous Kerem Cengiz is the Managing Director — MENA of LWK + PARTNERS, a renowned architecture and design firm. With a strong commitment to sustainable design, Cengiz has been instrumental in incorporating green building principles and technologies into the company’s projects. Under his leadership, LWK has successfully integrated energy- efficient technologies, materials, and passive design strategies into notable developments such as the recently launched DIFC Living & Innovation Two in Dubai and The LOOP in Hong Kong. These environmentally friendly residential projects feature green roofs, passive design components, and energy- efficient building systems. Cengiz’s expertise extends beyond sustainability to include Transit- Oriented Developments (TOD), where LWK has been a strong advocate for promoting public transport, walkability, and reducing reliance on private vehicles. Vertical urbanism is another area where LWK’s expertise shines. Recognising the challenges posed notable projects, including the Dubai Creek Golf Clubhouse and several prominent education projects in the region. Their key markets encompass the UAE, Oman, and Saudi Arabia, where they have left a lasting impact through their innovative designs. Johnson attributes GAJ’s success to the exceptional talent and dedication of the individuals within the company. The team, consisting of experts from various disciplines, has successfully completed several significant projects in recent years. Notable examples include The WB Abu Dhabi, Curio Collection by Hilton, situated near the new Warner Bros. Theme Park on Yas Island. Additionally, GAJ designed and delivered the DoubleTree by Hilton Abu Dhabi Yas Island Residences, intricately linked to the WB hotel. In a bid to further contribute to the industry, GAJ has introduced an internship program that welcomes students from different universities. This program provides aspiring architects and designers with an opportunity to develop their skills under the guidance of by urban density and limited land resources, the company has excelled in creating compact and sustainable urban environments through high-rise buildings. Moreover, LWK + PARTNERS has also demonstrated a keen ability to design public spaces that foster social interaction and vibrant pedestrian- friendly environments. Notable examples include their collaboration with Diriyah Company in Saudi Arabia, which features a network of public spaces, pocket parks, promenades, and outdoor event areas that encourage creativity and collaboration. Collaboration with local partners has been a key initiative for LWK, allowing them to leverage local expertise while sharing their own knowledge and experience in design and planning. This approach has led to successful partnerships with architectural firms and developers across KSA, Middle East, and South Asia. LWK has also prioritised corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives, contributing to a more sustainable and inclusive construction and design sector. experienced professionals at GAJ. Through Johnson’s leadership and GAJ’s commitment to excellence, the firm continues to make a significant impact in the field of architecture and design, solidifying its position as a key player in the region’s development. BRIAN JOHNSON KEREM CENGIZ Principal & Managing Partner, GAJ MD-MENA, LWK + Partners 5 6JUNE 2023 95 | POWER 100 | Ammar Al Assam is the CEO of Dewan Architects + Engineers, a leading architectural firm known for its exceptional projects and innovative approach. Under his leadership, Dewan has achieved remarkable success in key markets such as the UAE and Saudi Arabia, securing projects primarily in the residential, hospitality, and education sectors. Dewan Architects + Engineers has also expanded its presence in secondary markets like Vietnam and Iraq. The opening of their first office in Vietnam Next on the list is Matthew Squires, CEO of SSH, a UAE- based architectural firm operating within the MENA region. With a notable increase in activity in the consulting sector across their chosen markets, SSH has strategically positioned itself for market recovery. The company has undergone a restructuring process to adopt a more agile and resilient delivery model while strengthening its understanding of clients’ development objectives. Additionally, SSH also focused on providing perceived value to existing and new clients and has achieved an impressive net revenue backlog, surpassing its average intake over the previous three years by 60%. This success has positioned SSH favourably for its upcoming three-year business plan, which anticipates a remarkable 55% growth in headcount in 2023. The key drivers behind this growth are the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the UAE, with promising signs of improvement in Kuwait, Oman, and Bahrain. Additionally, SSH has expanded its business into Egypt, aligning with the company’s has not only supported their growth in the country but also strengthened their presence in Southeast Asia. With an eye towards expansion, the company plans to double the size of its Cairo and Manila offices by the end of the year to meet the increasing demand for their services. Al Assam’s leadership has propelled Dewan into the digital realm with the establishment of the Metaverse Architecture Department (MAD). They have acquired virtual real estate in Decentraland and conceptualised their own metaverse called “BABEL 4.0,” fostering cultural exchange and knowledge-sharing among over 50 nationalities. Leveraging the power of virtual reality (VR) and artificial intelligence (AI), Dewan aims to push the boundaries of possibilities in the architectural industry. Dewan Architects + Engineers has successfully secured multiple design and supervision contracts, including partnerships with Red Sea Global for projects aligned with Vision 2030. Notable achievements include the strategic direction to strengthen the SSH brand and extend operations throughout the MEA region. This approach aims to diversify SSH’s portfolio and is expected to continue throughout 2023. In an industry facing evolving challenges, SSH distinguishes itself by resisting the urge to return to business as usual. The company prides itself on actively listening, learning, and innovating to address these challenges in the building services sector. Through the agility of their design teams and their unwavering passion and purpose, SSH earns the trust of clients, positioning themselves as the preferred A/E consultant. In terms of its internal approach, SSH operates within strict legal and ethical guidelines in all its activities. The firm provides a challenging and rewarding environment for all employees and maintains a sharp focus on professional excellence, health and safety, as well as environmental awareness. According to SSH, it is in the company’s mission to work together towards shaping future environments through innovation, creativity, and collaboration. completion of the Nur-Sultan Grand Mosque in Kazakhstan, the largest mosque in Central Asia, and their role as lead consultants for prestigious developments such as Amaala Triple Bay Yacht Club, Port De La Mer, and Reem Mall. AMMAR AL ASSAM MATTHEW SQUIRES CEO, Dewan Architects & Engineers CEO, SSH Design 7 8| POWER 100 | 96 JUNE 2023 Bishop Design, led by Paul Bishop, has established itself as a prominent studio in the architectural and design scene. The firm’s journey began in a shared warehouse in Dubai’s Al Quoz district, where they have grown to achieve remarkable milestones. In the last 12 months, Bishop Design has been immersed in several prestigious endeavours. Noteworthy among these is the creation of Mesa at Tomorrowland’s Terra Solis. Bishop Design is also actively involved in shaping Riyadh’s vibrant food and beverage scene through the Oman-based architectural firm Hoehler + alSalmy (H+S) commemorated 14 years of service and operation in the Sultanate in 2023, following an official rebranding from Hoehler+Partner (H+P) in 2016. Guided by managing director, partner, and lead architect Muhammad Al Salmy, H+S maintained a strong focus on growth, expansion, and global presence throughout the last year. In 2021, Muhammad Al Salmy acquired 100% ownership of H+S while maintaining the joint venture agreement with H+P Germany. This milestone marked a personal success and propelled H+S towards solidifying its position as an Omani firm with a truly global reach and presence. Notably, H+S secured and worked on several prestigious projects, such as designing and supervising the Dabba Archaeological Centre, a project of architectural and cultural significance, the Khazaen Economic City headquarters building, the Ravine Mall at GUTech, the Diplomatic Institute at the Foreign Ministry, and development of five distinct venues within the Laysen Valley Development. Another exciting addition to their portfolio is the eccentric Colombian-inspired restaurant, En Fuego, at Atlantis The Palm. As Bishop’s influence extends to promising destinations like the US and Saudi Arabia, his design expertise is leaving a lasting impact on each unique demographic. Dubai, however, remains the flagship location in his extensive portfolio, representing the foundation of his design prowess and accomplishments. The firm’s commitment to growth and expansion is evident through the establishment of a new branch in Miami, which has led to team expansion and increased opportunities in international markets. In terms of corporate social responsibility, Bishop Design has taken proactive steps by establishing the Paul Bishop Design Scholarship in collaboration with Kingston University in the UK. This scholarship aims to provide financial support to talented design students facing barriers to furthering their studies. In addition, the firm’s young designers are generously dedicating their a boutique four-star chalet-only resort in Jabel Akhdar. Additionally, the firm undertook international projects such as the redesign and refurbishment of a chalet in Davos, Switzerland, and the interior design of a high-end apartment in London. As part of its corporate social responsibility initiatives, H+S has been developing an environmental awareness application to promote sustainability in the country. The firm also dedicates considerable effort and time to train and mentor future generations of Omani architects and engineers. Moreover, H+S actively engages Omani intern students, providing them with hands-on learning experiences and fostering a deeper understanding of their studies, in alignment with the country’s Omanisation initiatives. Through their remarkable accomplishments, commitment to sustainability, and investment in the next generation, H+S continues to make a significant impact in Oman’s architectural landscape and beyond. time to giving back to the institutes they graduated from. Moreover, Bishop is actively exploring a collaborative initiative in Miami, aimed at providing valuable career opportunities for individuals who may be facing challenges in their professional journey. PAUL BISHOP MUHAMMAD AL SALMY Owner & Founder, Bishop Design MD, Partner & Lead Architect, Hoehler + alSalmy 9 10FUTURE OF BIM & DIGITAL TWINS STARTS HERE! 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Keynote speakers include: DR SABIH KHISAF Committee Chairman, Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE), & Head of Engineering, HYPERLOOP CASEY RUTLAND Vice Chair, nima & Chair, buildingSMART UK & Ireland PRAKASH SINGHANI Digital Construction Thought Leader, Co-Founder & CEO, Navatech Group PRAVIN HUNGUND Chief Technology Offi cer, Metaz Digital, and Chapter President VR/AR association SANDEEP DESAI EVP – Information and Business Process, AFCONS Infrastructure MEDIA PARTNER DIGITAL CONSTRUCTION INDIA CONFERENCE & EXPO 2023 ENABLING DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION SUPPORTING PARTNERSOFFICIAL SUPPORTER POWERED BYNext >