< Previous| CITY FOCUS | 10 MARCH 2024 The Bahrain Capital Governorate is set to build a 4,238m2 Central Market, various multi-purpose parks, and a football stadium I n a strategic move to transform Sitra, Bahrain into a vibrant hub, major social infrastructure projects are underway. Leading the change is the Central Market development, spanning a sprawling 4,238 square metres and set to redefi ne the heart of Sitra. Complementing this endeavour are two versatile multi-purpose parks slated for Block 611, promising to infuse life and leisure into one community. These groundbreaking initiatives form part of the Bahrain Capital Governorate’s sweeping improvement agenda, as relayed by BNA and endorsed by esteemed senior ministers. During a recent site visit to Sitra, Minister Wael bin Nasser Al Mubarak, alongside Minister Ibrahim bin Hassan Al Hawaj, took stock of the progress in the ninth constituency. These ventures are integral components of the third development REVITALISING SITRA: BAHRAIN UNVEILS PLANS TO DEVELOP ITS SOCIAL INFRASTRUCTURE by the National Aff orestation Campaign. Echoing these sentiments, Al Hawaj reaffi rmed the Works Ministry’s steadfast execution of a comprehensive strategy aimed at bolstering urban and investment development. With a laser focus on enhancing public services and infrastructure, these eff orts are poised to catalyse national economic growth and fulfi l citizen aspirations. The ministry’s proactive stance extends to vital sanitation projects, with concerted eff orts to expand sewage network connectivity to homes and buildings in blocks 623, 624, 607, and 608. Simultaneously, road paving initiatives in Ma’ameer, Eker, and Sitra are underway, promising smoother traffi c fl ow and robust rainwater drainage systems. As Sitra embarks on this transformative journey, the future gleams with promise, heralding a new era of prosperity and progress. package, focusing on vital infrastructure enhancements. Underlining the pivotal role of collaboration between governmental branches, Al Mubarak and Al Hawaj emphasised the Capital Municipal Council’s oversight in ensuring project effi cacy. Al Mubarak reiterated the ministry’s steadfast commitment to delivering top-notch municipal services, enriching infrastructure, and catering to community needs. Moreover, Al Mubarak revealed ambitious plans for an expansive 8,200-square- metre football stadium in Block 608, further enriching Sitra’s recreational landscape. Noteworthy mentions include the recent rejuvenation of Ma’ameer Park in partnership with Bapco, alongside upcoming ventures like the scenic Seafront in Eker Village and widespread aff orestation drives championed TUESDAY 5TH MARCH 2024 CROWNE PLAZA RIYADH AL WAHA, SAUDI ARABIA MOUTAZ GADELHAK Commercial Director T: +971 4 444 3177 M: +971 58 287 6309 E: Moutaz.Gadelhak@itp.com GET IN TOUCH BUILDING THE FUTURE: ALL ROADS LEAD TO EXPO The Construction Week KSA Infrastructure Summit 2024 is a pivotal event that assembles the most influential minds in the construction and infrastructure sector to advance Saudi Arabia’s ambitious development agenda. This summit is more than a gathering; it’s a platform for transformative discussions and collaborative initiatives that will leave an indelible mark on the Kingdom’s construction landscape. www.constructionweeklive.com Platinum Sponsor Silver SponsorGold SponsorSupporting Partner Exhibitor PartnerSupported BySupporting PartnerSupporting Partner Silver SponsorBronze SponsorSilver Sponsor Supporting PartnerSupporting PartnerSupporting Partner| TECHNOLOGY | 12 MARCH 2024 Design and manufacturing company, Kidzink unveils student-designed learning spaces in Dubai In an exciting partnership between a locally driven educational design fi rm and a prestigious UAE school, students are taking the reins to craft a cutting-edge classroom experience in the heart of Dubai. Spearheaded by Kidzink, an esteemed educational design and manufacturing company dedicated to cultivating potential and fueling creativity, alongside Nord Anglia International School Dubai (NAS Dubai), this initiative marks a pioneering step in educational collaboration. Commencing in October 2023, the project enlisted the imagination and ingenuity of over 200 NAS Dubai students, aged 10 to 11. As part of the Design, Innovation, Computing, and Enterprise (DICE) curriculum, these young innovators were tasked with conceptualising their perfect learning environment. With the unwavering guidance and support of Kidzink’s multidisciplinary team, including educators, designers, builders, architects, and manufacturers, the students are not just imagining but actively shaping the future of education. Kicking off the 4-month initiative, the students worked with Kidzink designers MINECRAFT CLASSROOMS? to imagine exciting, well-being-oriented spaces that they themselves would like to learn in. The process saw the students research, design, prototype, test, and evaluate classrooms that align with the DICE curriculum, emphasising well-being and inclusion. In January, the student designers then presented their fi nal designs at Kidzink Dubai Headquarters. The winning entry— imagined in Minecraft—was from a three- person team comprising students Hridaan Shewakramani, Euiseo Jeong, and Omar Abouricheh. Designed in Minecraft, a design-oriented video game, the entry will be built by KidzInk for NAS Dubai as a learning space in the school. According to Kidzink’s Interior Design Director and judge Zarveen Saleem, the winning team’s exemplary application of the design process, coupled with exceptional presentation skills set them apart: “The team’s work was creative and visionary and it truly inspired us at Kidzink. Their ability to breathe life into their ideas within the Minecraft platform was nothing short of amazing, illustrating the powerful synergy between learning and play, creativity, and technology.” The three nal teams at the Kidzink HQ THURSDAY 7TH MARCH 2024 FAIRMONT THE PALM, DUBAI, UAE Where Infrastructure Meets Innovation Step into Middle East Data Centre 360 – an exclusive platform tailored for B2B professionals in the technology and MEP (Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing) sectors, offering an unparalleled exploration of the future of data centres. Be prepared for insightful discussions led by our esteemed speakers, contributing to the crucial dialogue on constructing resilient, efficient, and sustainable data infrastructure. LAST CHANCE TO REGISTER GET IN TOUCH Priyanka Pillai Group Commercial Manager, edge T: +971 4 444 3399 E: priyanka.pillai@itp.com Oliver Osea Senior Commercial Manager, MEP Middle East T: +971 4 444 3129 E: oliver.osea@itp.com ITP.EVENTS/ MIDDLEEAS T DATACENTRE360 IN PARTNERSHIP WITH SCAN TO REGISTER GOLD SPONSORGOLD SPONSORSTRATEGIC DATA CENTRE FINANCING PARTNER HEADLINE SPONSOR – ICT PARTNER| PROJECTS | 14 MARCH 2024 Holding a total value of $353.8 million, East & West Properties’ newest development comprises 260 residences spread over 84 storeys. The 345-metre tower will include amenities such as a Turkish bath, a steam room, a signature Rixos Wellness Centre, a sky lounge pool, a private screen room, jogging tracks, and many more. The project is slated for completion in Q2 2027. Swiss property developer DHG Properties is set to offi cially launch off -plan sales for its inaugural residential development in Dubai. The upcoming project is a 430-unit spectacle that will grace the skies of Jumeirah Village Circle (JVC), contributing to the city’s upward real estate trajectory and prediction of Dubai’s real estate market growing by approximately 15% in 2024. DHG PROPERTIES’ FIRST RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT PROJECT Construction Week Middle East unveils the most anticipated, innovative, and creative project launches in February 2024, ranging from ultra-luxury residentials to vibrant urban developments RIXOS FINANCIAL CENTRE ROAD DUBAI RESIDENCES| PROJECTS | MARCH 2024 15 LAUNCH Art Bay is Dutco and Ellington Properties’ fi rst project in the Al Jaddaf community, combining art and architecture in an idyllic waterfront setting. The development comprises of 266 studios and one- to three-bedroom apartments along with retail space on the waterfront promenade. Amenities include a yoga and fi tness studio, and a theatre-inspired clubhouse, among others. Designed by architecture fi rm Arkiplan, the Kempinski Marina Residences blends tradition and modernity, balancing proportions and lines in its overall design. The development will feature a curated collection of 453 sophisticated apartments, ranging from one to fi ve- bedroom duplexes. In terms of design, the interiors will embrace a clean and minimalistic aesthetic. ART BAY KEMPINSKI MARINA RESIDENCES16 MARCH 2024 | TECHNOLOGY | THE DIGITAL EDGE Mounia Bedran, Director of the Centre of Excellence in Digital Services at Khatib & Alami, shares insights on the rm’s digital transformation and its impact on the engineering and architectural sectors I n an exclusive interview with Mounia Bedran, Director of the Centre of Excellence in Digital Services at Khatib & Alami (K&A), we delve into the strategic vision and digital transformation initiatives propelling K&A to the forefront of the engineering and architectural consulting sectors. With a focus on innovation and integration of advanced digital services, Bedran reveals how the consultancy is reshaping industry standards and enhancing client value through technological excellence and strategic innovation. Can you describe the digital transformation strategy that K&A has undertaken in recent years? How has this impacted your engineering and architectural consulting approach across your projects? Our vision is to become a pioneer in the support and adoption of innovative digital services. While many companies are going through a lengthy change management process to embrace digital transformation, digital innovation is rooted in our DNA. Driven by the highest levels of our organisation, we have been delivering top-tier geospatial digital services for more than three decades. Ongoing investment in talent development is necessary to remain at the forefront of innovation. K&A engineers and planners have long been empowered with technology, giving us a competitive edge, leading to increased effi ciency, reduced costs and risks, and improved customer experience. Moreover, K&A integrates engineering capabilities with digital expertise, enabling the early adoption of emerging technologies such as AI, IoT, AR/VR, BIM, and Digital Twin. This seamless integration ensures that K&A consistently achieves unparalleled excellence. By applying digital transformation to engineering and architectural consulting across diff erent projects, we are able to achieve positive impacts through improving collaboration, expediting project delivery, saving costs, and the ability to off er innovative solutions to clients. What are some of the innovative digital MARCH 2024 17 | TECHNOLOGY | services that Khatib & Alami is currently developing or has recently launched? At K&A, we harness the power of cutting-edge technology to enhance our planning, design, and construction supervision capabilities. We aim to foster innovation, streamline processes, and deliver superior outcomes. Our expertise spans a diverse range of advanced functionalities, and we are continuously expanding our knowledge to stay at the forefront of industry advancements. Years ago, we integrated 3D technology and tools in our design review, which streamlined the design process across multiple disciplines. Currently, we off er immersive experiences to our clients using gaming engines for cases like modelling simulations, such as fl ooding scenarios. Our engineers also integrate AI-powered tools into the topographic survey workfl ows. We have trained AI models to automatically detect and extract topographic features from aerial and satellite imagery. By automating this process, we fast-track the survey workfl ow and signifi cantly reduce costs. For façade orientation optimisation, urban planners use tools to determine the orientation of buildings, optimising daylighting and energy effi ciency. AI also helps our engineers eliminate design alternatives, increasing accuracy and effi ciency during the design phase. We have developed a 3D city-level dynamic digital twin to analyse the electricity consumption patterns mapped on every unit, fl oor, building, and plot. With data gaining importance in construction and urban planning, how does Khatib & Alami manage, analyse, and leverage large datasets in its projects? We specialise in managing large datasets related to construction supervision and urban planning projects. This involves data collection from various sources, including satellite imagery, surveys, sensors, and public records. The collected data encompasses information related to topography, land use, environmental conditions, traffi c patterns, and more. Large datasets are then stored in secure and scalable databases or cloud- based platforms to ensure accessibility and collaboration among project stakeholders. K&A emphasises proper data governance practices to maintain data integrity and security. We also utilise advanced analytics tools and algorithms to process and analyse the collected data. The aim is to extract meaningful insights, identify patterns, and make predictions relevant to project goals. We utilise geospatial analysis to integrate the various data sources, visualise spatial relationships, optimise site selection, and understand the impact of multiple factors on project outcomes. For instance, in an urban redevelopment project for one of the city’s districts, K&A leveraged data analytics for traffi c fl ow analysis. This was done using historical and real-time traffi c data to identify the area’s congestion points, peak hours, and traffi c patterns. Demographic analysis was also conducted to understand the population’s needs, preferences, and density in diff erent district zones. An environmental impact assessment was done using environmental data to assess factors like air quality, noise levels, and green spaces to minimise the project’s ecological footprint. Additionally, data analytics was applied to optimise infrastructure, such as the placement of roads, public transportation routes, and utilities, based on predicted usage patterns and future growth projections. By leveraging data analytics, we created a holistic view of the project, leading to a well- informed and optimised urban redevelopment plan that considers traffi c management, environmental sustainability, infrastructure effi ciency, and community satisfaction. How is K&A integrating emerging technologies into its service off erings? What are some challenges in adopting these technologies, and how do you address them? We have been delivering digital services for more than three decades. Here’s a glimpse of our latest service off erings that seamlessly integrate emerging technologies: Smart and cognitive cities: At K&A, we foster multidisciplinary collaboration from the outset to imagine, design, build, and manage smart cities. This includes integrating big IoT data analytics into the fabric of cities to optimise the effi ciency of operations and services. Reality capture and digital twins: We deliver 3D reality models that exceed the expected deliverables and simulate risks of environmental change. In one of our fi rst projects, using AI models built in-house, we captured and processed 330,000 images in 90 days, 35 days ahead of schedule, with improved quality and accuracy at reduced costs. BIM and GIS tailored standards, procedures, and templates: We develop tailored BIM and GIS standards, procedures, templates, and management documents to support BIM implementation throughout the assets’ lifecycle from design to operation and provide a base for future digital twins. BIM to GIS ETL tools: Utilising the Esri and Autodesk collaboration, we developed BIM to GIS ETL tools to automatically convert large BIM models to a GIS database based on the client’s own database and data dictionary. Integrating emerging technologies poses challenges, including data security concerns from extensive IoT device usage and vast data collection. Ensuring data privacy demands strong protective measures. Additionally, the complexity of merging various technologies requires system interoperability, and adopting new technologies demands a skilled workforce, necessitating substantial investment in equipment and training. Despite these challenges, various opportunities come with the integration of emerging technologies. This includes improving effi ciency, optimising resource allocation, harnessing data-driven insights, and leveraging real-time feedback for informed decision-making. Furthermore, emerging technologies have the potential to drive innovative, sustainable design processes that deliver greater value to clients and unlock new possibilities. How do digital platforms or tools enhance client collaboration, communication, and overall satisfaction? The foundation of K&A’s business is underpinned by industry-leading software, including BIM 360 and SAP. This robust foundation not only fortifi es us against external challenges but also fosters outstanding productivity and collaboration across our design centres. It provides a single source of truth and facilitates transparent and effi cient workfl ows and approvals, consequently enhancing our ability to surpass delivery timelines. “K&A emphasises proper data governance practices to maintain data integrity and security”| TECHNOLOGY | 18 MARCH 2024 ACCELERATING ACTIVATION AND OPERATIONAL READINESS OF THEME PARKS IN KSA In today’s era of rapid technological advancements, ‘smart destinations’ have emerged as a transformative concept in travel, tourism, and urban planning Theme parks and attractions, as key components of smart destinations, are meticulously designed to off er visitors a unique and thrilling escape into fantasy worlds, historical eras, or fi ctional universes. They provide entertainment opportunities and enhance the quality of life of visitors and residents; which is one of the key objectives of the Saudi Vision 2030. Consumer spending at theme parks and related destinations in the MENA region is projected to grow at an annual rate of 10.9%, from $282 million in 2019 to $474 million by 2024, according to a report by the International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions (IAAPA). Such growth is faster than that of the world’s two largest theme park markets—North America, which is set to grow 2.3% annually to $29.5 billion by 2024, and Asia Pacifi c, predicted to grow by 5% to $26.3 billion. In Saudi Arabia, the Public Investment Fund (PIF), is investing $13.5 billion (SAR50 billion) to build 21 entertainment complexes and two theme parks across 14 cities. Qiddiya has Words by Hesham Ghaleb, Smart Destinations Partner, PwC Middle East IMMERSIVE RIDES: Theme parks are leveraging artifi cial intelligence (AI), AR, VR, holograms, LED screens, audiovisual (AV) eff ects, and projection mapping to create immersive rides and virtual landscapes, enhancing the art and entertainment blend. SeaWorld Abu Dhabi takes guests on an immersive journey through the ocean’s depths using cutting-edge technology on the world’s largest cylindrical 360-degree LED screen. INTERACTIVE AND GAMIFIED ATTRACTIONS: Attractions are incorporating “phygital” technology to merge physical and digital experiences, off ering real-life video game adventures. This technology also enhances guest engagement in waiting queues and through interactive maps, as seen in Super Nintendo World at Universal Studios Hollywood. PERSONALISED EXPERIENCES: Technologies off er real-time recommendations based on visitors’ interests. Advanced use cases include attractions adapting storytelling to individual preferences and responses. For instance, the Disney MagicBand system allows visitors invested close to $1.8 billion (SAR6.5 billion) to build the SixFlags Theme Park and Water Park. THE RIG was also recently announced as the world’s fi rst off shore tourist and entertainment project in the Arabian Gulf inspired by Saudi Arabia’s oil and gas heritage. Theme parks and attractions have continued to push boundaries to diff erentiate, given the rising consumer demand for immersive experiences, featuring captivating environments, rich storytelling and interactive elements. The integration of advanced technologies, such as virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), and cutting-edge multimedia plays a crucial role in enhancing these immersive experiences, making each visit memorable. TRANSFORMATIVE TECH TRENDS IN THEME PARKS The landscape of theme parks and attractions is evolving rapidly, driven by technological and digital innovations. Below is the summary of the key trends:| TECHNOLOGY | MARCH 2024 19 to link their preferences, reservations, and other data to a wearable band, enabling personalised interactions, ride reservations, and photo opportunities. Yas Island’s theme parks and experiences are providing GenAI powered personalised customer guidance and information. GUEST INTERACTIONS THROUGH ROBOTICS: Disney and other parks are deploying robots modelled after famous animated characters, capable of autonomous movement and interaction. Disney is also deploying baby Groot, a character from Guardians of the Galaxy movie that waves, winks and dances for the guests. TECHNOLOGY ACTIVATION PLAYBOOK PwC Middle East has created a technology activation playbook specifi cally for this sector. It guides theme parks and attractions through a structured technology implementation journey—from defi ning operating models to establishing a partnership ecosystem. Our playbook provides a comprehensive suite of tools, including frameworks, methodologies, guiding principles, readiness assessments and templates, to support every stage of technology activation, ensuring a sophisticated technological experience for visitors, citizens, and operators. EXPERIENCE DEFINITION: Validates the experience vision and pillars established by the business owners of the theme parks and attractions such as data-driven marketing, immersive guest experiences and value-added services. It pivots around the personas of guests, operators and regulators, mapping their journeys to experience pillars and defi ning a catalogue of smart services and technology use cases, including custom persona journeys and use case functions. BUSINESS ENABLERS: Inspired by departmental strategies, the playbook augments proven frameworks to assist with the reference architecture, technology stack, and ideal vendor selection to activate key business capabilities such as Personalisation, etc. Development of theme parks at multiple locations will involve Lead Design Consultants (LDCs), PMC consultants and a board of procurement offi ce which requires a well- established procurement and supply chain strategy to align the scope activities of each stakeholder and its interaction model with the technology teams. TECHNOLOGY FOUNDATION: Once the overall strategy is established, we develop the target technical foundations and introduce custom architecture blueprints for business, application, data, and integration tailored to theme parks and attractions. This foundation supports the activation and operationalisation of the technology ecosystem. The playbook leverages proven methodologies and frameworks to defi ne detailed requirements for each smart service and technology touchpoint. The playbook analyses the organisational structure and recommends an IT operating model that integrates various functions for eff ective governance, aiming to deliver a future-proof model for theme parks. TECHNOLOGY ACTIVATION: After vendor selection and onboarding, the playbook facilitates the implementation phase through its proven and recommended software delivery lifecycle (SDLC) templates and process framework, ensuring eff ective execution, PMO and governance as a Master Systems Integrator partner. It also guides through designing and orchestrating a middleware layer for seamless integration among product systems. OPERATIONAL READINESS: The playbook establishes a comprehensive readiness plan for the opening day, outlining key milestones, tasks to be completed, and dependencies between delivery and the IT team. It covers testing all technology systems, and staff training programmes and provides checklists for ensuring all initiatives and programmes are ready before launch. STREAMLINING TECHNOLOGY ACTIVATION Today, most of the industry players recognise their technology needs but struggle with the proper sequence and methodology for eff ective activation, often encountering delays. The key to overcoming these challenges lies in establishing synergies among IT, delivery, and procurement teams. An experienced partner can off er the strategic insight and execution plan necessary for success. Our comprehensive technology activation playbook equips us with state-of-the-art assets and accelerators, ensuring we can meet ambitious objectives for our clients in the theme park realm. Render of SixFlags, Qiddiya in Saudi Arabia THE RIG, Arabian GulfNext >