< PreviousTOTAL LAND AREA 446,000M2 | THE BIG PICTURE | 20 MAY 2024MAY 2024 21 | THE BIG PICTURE | Bada Al Jubail is Jubail Island Investment Company’s (JIIC) most recent beachfront gated community with a limited number of mansions boasting breathtaking vistas of the Abu Dhabi skyline. It is a secluded haven located within Jubail Island, nestled amid pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters, and surrounded by an ecosystem of mangroves. Spanning over 446,000m2, the project has a value of $1.1 billion (AED4 billion) and is set to house some of the capital’s most luxurious residential properties within a protected natural environment. [JIIC] MAY 2024 2122 MAY 2024 | HOSPITALITY | RAFFLES JEDDAH RESIDENCES: ANTICIPATING JEDDAH’S LUXURY PROPERTY GROWTH Jeff Tisdall, Chief Business Of cer at Accor One Living, explains why the rst Raf es Residences will set a new benchmark in luxury hospitality in Saudi Arabia through sustainability-guided operations This is the second Raffl es in Saudi Arabia, but the fi rst Raffl es Residences. Could you talk about why Jeddah is a prime location for the brand’s latest property when many hoteliers are targeting Riyadh? Jeddah is increasingly becoming a top destination for hoteliers and will soon welcome the fi rst Raffl es Residences in Saudi Arabia. This increasing prominence can be attributed to several factors working in Jeddah’s favour as a sought-after locale. Firstly, the city’s strategic location as a major commercial and cultural hub on the Red Sea coast attracts a diverse range of visitors, drawn to its vibrant art scene, historical signifi cance, and convenient access. Additionally, Jeddah boasts a strong demand for luxury accommodations, fuelled by a growing number of high-net-worth individuals and affl uent residents seeking upscale living experiences. By establishing Raffl es Residences in Jeddah, the brand is meeting this demand and providing luxurious residential options tailored to the discerning needs of our target market. Furthermore, Jeddah’s cosmopolitan atmosphere and rich cultural heritage align seamlessly with the Raffl es brand—with ideals of hospitality that are warm, personal, and sincere, creating private homes among one of the world’s grandest hospitality traditions. How will the Raffl es Jeddah Residences elevate the luxury standards and off erings in Saudi Arabia? Notably, the glittering gold towers of Raffl es Jeddah are reshaping Jeddah’s iconic skyline while providing residents with breath- taking views and captivating interiors. Unlike anything Jeddah has known before, the 48-storey exclusive private residential tower embraces the rich backdrop of Hejazi culture and tradition, with three, four, and even fi ve bedroom generously proportioned residences where friends and families can enjoy socialising, luxurious amenities, and the light, colour, and life of Jeddah’s enchanting coastline every day of the year. The purchase of a Raffl es Jeddah Residence showcases loyalty to the Raffl es brand, with VIP service extended globally across 5,500 hotels and resorts for homeowners. The legendary Raffl es service is now available in the privacy of the homes of a select few Raffl es Residence owners in Jeddah, off ering an exclusive and luxurious experience for world travellers. Raffl es delivers outstanding architectural design and interior craftsmanship that create a sense of place and luxury, along with world- class dining, state-of-the-art fi tness facilities, and luxurious living experiences. At our residences, Raffl es goes beyond to cultivate a community for our homeowners and personalised attentions that make them feel truly cared for—whether its private dining experiences, sommelier services, luxury vehicle storage, and so on. We collaborate extensively with our development partners in the initial phases of projects to fi nd innovate opportunities to bring the brand to life through design, the service off ering and privileges, to create an exclusive and distinctly Raffl es private residential experience. How will Raffl es Jeddah Residences foster a sense of community and connection MAY 2024 23 | HOSPITALITY | Jeddah’s cosmopolitan atmosphere and rich cultural heritage align seamlessly with the Raf es brand among residents, creating a vibrant social environment? Raffl es Residences Jeddah delicately balances the convenience and modernity of having 24/7 access to a comprehensive array of luxury services, while safeguarding at all times the privacy and exclusivity of a very special group of homeowners and ensuring service remains at all times discreet. We also play an important role in terms of community animation, by organising events and social gatherings for homeowners. With a private gym, multiple swimming pools, and 24-hour concierge service, the residences provide a luxurious living experience and a vibrant social environment that promotes community and connection for those residents who are seeking that level of engagement. With carefully designed communal spaces, such as family gathering areas, landscaped lawns for play, a yoga deck and a Pilates Studio; a private viewing deck overlooking the Corniche and the Red Sea, a prayer room; a Kids’ club, and a very compelling residents’ club—homeowners can feel free to engage in social interactions or enjoy moments of privacy. The property’s concierge services also play a vital role in fostering community engagement by facilitating introductions, organising social gatherings, and coordinating group activities or outings for residents. The concierge team can serve as a central point of contact for residents seeking to connect with their neighbours and participate in community events. Could you talk about the green initiatives and responsible tourism practices at Raffl es Jeddah Residences? Accor believes that luxury hospitality must be sustainable—the health of the world’s most beloved places is essential for continuing our adventures among them. As an Accor brand, Raffl es is contributing to this through positive luxury hospitality experiences and environmentally sensitive operations. Raffl es Residences Jeddah has embraced sustainable hospitality by implementing multiple green initiatives and responsible tourism practices to minimise its environmental impact—such as energy-effi cient lighting, water conservation measures, and waste management strategies. Additionally, the integration of smart home solutions in our residences enhances effi ciency and promotes a greener environment. Through voice command control, residents can eff ortlessly adjust settings and access features, optimising energy usage. This smart technology enables remote monitoring and management of appliances, reducing energy consumption and contributing to a more sustainable living environment. By combining these sustainable practices with innovative smart home solutions, Raffl es Residences Jeddah off ers its residents an environmentally conscious and socially responsible home, ensuring a harmonious blend of luxury and sustainability in their experience. How does the design, architecture, and overall experience of Raffl es Jeddah Residences incorporate and celebrate the city’s unique character? Luxury is felt in the heart and Raffl es Jeddah Residences has curated a luxurious living experience that is meaningful, memorable, and enriched with thoughtfully placed elements that refl ect Hejazi culture, traditions, and architecture. In a port city historically shaped by global infl uences and an artistic soul, Raffl es Jeddah Residences celebrates local artists and decorative craftsmanship. The extraordinary residences evoke Jeddah’s modern spirit, while weaving in the textures, materials and colours of the region. The striking façade of the building features distinctive mashrabiya screens, which not only create a visually captivating exterior, but also fi ll the residence interiors with beautiful and ever-shifting geometric patterns of light and shade. By seamlessly blending tradition with modernity, Raffl es Residences Jeddah off ers residents an unparalleled experience that captures the essence of the city’s rich cultural heritage. Residents have access to the vibrant social hub of the hotel, where they can experience the cuisine of three distinctive restaurants and lounges that capture the multicultural energy of Jeddah. Atorie Lounge & Patisserie, Surl’O Brasserie and Riviera off er innovative culinary experiences crafted by internationally acclaimed chefs, along with world-class alcohol-free mixology. The luxurious spa features seven treatment rooms, a VIP ladies couple suite, a relaxation room, and separate male and female thermal suites. It also includes fi tness centres and pool areas for guests to enjoy. Raf es Residences Jeddah has embraced sustainable hospitality by implementing green initiatives24 MAY 2024 | COVER STORY | Words by Angitha Pradeep THE NEXT CHAPTER As Qatar moves beyond the World Cup, its construction sector is embracing sustainable and innovative practices, charting a course towards the ambitious targets of Qatar National Vision 2030MAY 2024 25 | COVER STORY | As Qatar advances toward the ambitious targets set by its National Vision 2030, the construction and infrastructure sectors are teeming with activity. This strategic plan is designed to transform Qatar into an advanced society capable of sustaining its own development by 2030, with a strong emphasis on environmental stewardship and economic diversifi cation. According to a report by Turner and Townsend, titled ‘Qatar Market Intelligence: The Next Phase of Construction’, with the 2022 FIFA World Cup now in the rear- view mirror, Qatar’s construction sector is not merely basking in the afterglow but is actively realigning its focus toward the long-term goals of the Qatar National Vision 2030. The World Cup acted as a catalyst, spurring infrastructural development and the adoption of advanced technological practices in construction. The current focus is on maintaining this momentum with innovative projects and strategic diversifi cation that aim to bolster the economy. Following the completion of the FIFA World Cup, Qatar celebrated numerous infrastructural milestones, including the construction of new stadiums, the expansion of the metro system, and airport enhancements. Yet, the nation’s construction agenda remains ambitious and expansive. Major ongoing projects like Lusail City and the Qetaifan Islands are set to be pivotal in driving the growth of the real estate and tourism sectors. A SNAPSHOT OF MAJOR DEVELOPMENTS In 2023 and 2024, Qatar embarked on and advanced several signifi cant projects, particularly within the transportation and infrastructure sectors. Considerable investments have been directed towards improving urban connectivity and effi ciency. Key initiatives, such as the expansion of Hamad International Airport and the progression of the Qatar Rail Development Program, underscore the nation’s commitment to enhancing its transport infrastructure—a critical component of its economic diversifi cation strategy. Lusail City stands out as perhaps the most ambitious project. Spanning 38 km2, this futuristic hub is designed to accommodate over 200,000 residents and will feature extensive commercial, retail, and leisure facilities. Another notable infrastructure 26 MAY 2024 | COVER STORY | venture is Sharq Crossing, a comprehensive project featuring bridges and tunnels aimed at enhancing Doha’s connectivity. This initiative forms part of the Qatar 2050 Transport Plan, which seeks to transform the transportation landscape in anticipation of future growth. According to the report by Turner & Townsend, government spending on the healthcare and education sectors is also anticipated to increase. Additionally, the Gulf Railway program is set to begin, with Qatar’s segment linking to Saudi Arabia. Extensions of the local rail network are planned from Doha towards Al Khor in the north and Al Waqra in the south. The expansion of Qatar’s liquefi ed natural gas projects, particularly the North Field East project—located off the northeast Qatar peninsula and recognised as the world’s largest single non-associated natural gas fi eld—will signifi cantly boost the construction sector. Moreover, the completion of the stadiums for the FIFA World Cup 2022 stands as one of Qatar’s most internationally acclaimed accomplishments. These state-of-the-art venues, exemplifi ed by the Education City Stadium—referred to as the “Diamond in the Desert”—are marvels of modern engineering and sustainability. They promise long-term utility beyond the tournament, serving Qatar’s educational sector and beyond. IMPACT ON THE ECONOMY The completion of Qatar’s major projects serves a dual purpose: it bolsters Qatar’s status as a global investment destination and improves the quality of life for its residents. Valued at $53.3 billion in 2022, Qatar’s construction market is projected to grow to approximately $123.1 billion by 2030. This expected growth is driven by a commitment to sustainability and technological advancement, including smart city initiatives and green building standards. According to the Turner & Townsend report, achieving net-zero targets in the GCC requires a concerted eff ort from the government, underpinned by clear strategies and detailed plans. Qatar is advancing its environmental goals with initiatives aimed at reducing its carbon footprint and promoting sustainable development. By 2030, it is expected to lead in the number of green or carbon- neutral buildings across the Middle East and North Africa, the report noted. The success of the 2022 FIFA World Cup, which claimed to have achieved net- zero carbon emissions, also exemplifi ed how large-scale projects can align with these environmental ambitions, thanks to eff ective collaboration across the construction value chain. NAVIGATING CHALLENGES Despite a positive outlook, the report also identifi es various challenges ahead for the construction sector, primarily infl uenced Glass Bridge at Qetaifan Island Marina in Lusail Qatar Vision 2030 is designed to transform the country into an advanced society capable of sustaining its own development by 2030 “During 2023 and 2024, Qatar has embarked on and advanced several signi cant projects, particularly within the transportation and infrastructure sectors”MAY 2024 27 | COVER STORY | by global economic uncertainties such as the regional confl icts, monetary tightening worldwide, and economic downturns in key economies like China. These global issues could impact regional trading and investment relationships. As Qatar moves forward, construction fi rms will need to adapt to potential supply chain disruptions and manage the rising costs of materials and investments. Furthermore, with the skilled labour market tightening post-FIFA 2022, the sector must develop eff ective strategies to attract and retain the talent necessary for sustained growth. At the heart of Qatar’s strategic initiatives is the Qatar National Vision 2030, guiding the nation towards economic diversifi cation and sustainable development. This vision not only focuses on enhancing sectors like health, education, and sports but also aims to establish Qatar as a dynamic economic hub within the MENA region, beyond its traditional oil and gas sector. As these projects unfold, they promise to reshape Qatar’s economic landscape, setting a benchmark for future developments in the region. Qatar’s construction market is projected to grow to approximately $123.1 billion Lusail Stadium hosted ten matches at FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 Lusail City: Perhaps the most ambitious of Qatar’s projects, Lusail City is designed to eventually house 200,000 residents and 170,000 employees. It spans over 38 km2 and represents Qatar’s vision for futuristic, sustainable urban spaces. The city features state-of-the-art residential, commercial, and entertainment facilities, including the iconic Lusail Iconic Stadium, which hosted the 2022 FIFA World Cup nal. Sharq Crossing: Once completed, this engineering marvel will consist of bridges spanning 12 kilometres, linking Hamad International Airport with the cultural district of Katara and the bustling West Bay nancial district. The project aims to enhance connectivity within Doha, alleviate traf c congestion, and promote ef cient transportation networks. Qatar Rail Development: The Doha Metro and Lusail Tram are part of a larger vision to develop a comprehensive rail network that enhances connectivity and reduces carbon emissions. The Doha Metro, already partially operational, will be fully completed by 2030 and link various stadiums, residential areas, and key commercial zones. THE PULSE OF PROGRESS: MAJOR ONGOING PROJECTS28 MAY 2024 | QATAR SPECIAL REPORT | FUSING GROWTH WITH SUSTAINABILITY Gary Dodds, Country Director for Qatar at Cundall, discusses the growth of Qatar’s construction sector, citing government investment and increasing focus on sustainability as key drivers In an exclusive interview with Construction Week Middle East, Gary Dodds, Country Director for Qatar at Cundall, emphasises the consultancy’s signifi cant contribution to sustainable development in the country, underscoring its involvement in various projects and dedicated pledge to attaining net-zero carbon design across all their projects by the year 2030. He also provides insights into future trends, such as the adoption of generative AI, the circular economy, and the increasing demand for low-carbon and net-zero structures. Could you explain the impact of Qatar National Vision 2030 on the construction industry and the economy? Qatar’s construction industry is poised to enter a period of growth, with the growth rate expected to rise by 9.13% by 2029, according to Research and Markets’ latest report. This upcoming pipeline of construction projects will eff ectively drive the objectives of Vision 2030, which prioritises creating an advanced society capable of sustaining development and providing a high standard of living for its people. We can expect signifi cant government spending to be a driving force behind construction industry growth. The government’s strategic focus involves both enhancing infrastructure and diversifying the economy, reducing reliance on the oil and gas sector. This is a step-change shift towards long- term, low-carbon sustainability and resilience in Qatar’s economic landscape. With Cundall’s sustainability team expanding, what are the most sought-after sustainability projects? How is the growing concern for health and well-being infl uencing new projects? There has been a growing emphasis on MAY 2024 29 | QATAR SPECIAL REPORT | Hamad International Airport employee well-being in recent years, accentuated by the impacts of the global pandemic, with increased fl exible and hybrid working policies, and a progressively challenging landscape for retaining talent. We’ve seen increased demand for WELL- certifi ed workplaces that overtly emphasise occupant health and well-being. The internationally credible certifi cation, in tandem with studies highlighting the productivity and reputational aspects of overall indoor environmental air quality (IEQ), is changing the design and delivery of buildings. More clients seek to develop projects that prioritise indoor air quality, natural lighting, and spaces conducive to physical and mental health. Moreover, there’s growing interest in decarbonisation plans for existing buildings, net-zero carbon roadmaps for assets, and portfolios among developers and government entities. These initiatives align with broader Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) strategies, refl ecting a shift towards embedding sustainable practices and responsible development. In response to climate change concerns, there’s also an increasing emphasis on climate risk assessments in project planning. Clients are seeking designs that ensure resilience to climate-related hazards, incorporating adaptive strategies to mitigate risks. This is key to ensuring the long-term viability of urban environments and human settlements in the face of environmental challenges. What are the latest trends and innovations in retrofi tting that are gaining traction in Qatar? In Qatar, we are seeing a lot of focus on improving the effi ciency of MEP systems, as the opportunities for passive design optimisation are often limited by the constraints of the existing building, the harsh climate, and the whole life carbon of replacing existing façade systems part way through their lifecycle. Often, you can identify and rectify some straightforward signals of ineffi ciency; for example, we can make 10% to 15% energy savings improvements by managing assets more effi ciently before moving into fundamental changes. ESG targets and new energy effi ciency ratings systems are placing demands on corporations to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, water consumption, and waste to landfi ll volume across their building portfolio. Cundall has been working on projects worldwide, assisting asset owners, asset managers, and major tenants with multidisciplinary design and building performance services to ensure they can take the high-performance road to net-zero. Can you discuss Cundall’s contributions to Qatar’s built environment over the last fi ve years, particularly in sustainable development? Since Cundall Qatar’s establishment in 2011, the team’s role in shaping Qatar’s built environment and sustainable urban mobility solutions has continued to grow. One extremely noteworthy project involved providing multidisciplinary design services for the Lusail Light Rail Transit (LRT), a sustainable, state-of-the-art transportation network serving the 19 districts of Lusail City. Post-World Cup, we have seen an increased demand for sustainable design, and our team is undertaking multiple projects for important clients, including Hamad International Airport (HIA), Qatar Investment Authority, Msheireb Properties, other government institutions, and private clients across the hospitality and workplace sectors. Cundall is at the forefront of net-zero carbon design, forming a blueprint for industry, clients, developers, and peers to learn from and collaborate for a brighter, more sustainable future. We are committed to achieving net-zero carbon design on all projects by 2030. Looking towards the future, how do you see the construction industry evolving in the Middle East, particularly concerning new technologies and sustainable practices? The growing impact of climate change and the strong national visions of governments in the Middle East are having an infl uence, with more companies making commitments to developing more effi cient, zero-carbon buildings in the future. This presents a signifi cant opportunity for sustainable building proponents to accelerate retrofi ts and meet the increasing demand for low-carbon footprint and net-zero structures. Between now and 2030, we will see an explosion of generative AI whereby early- stage, multi-objective optimisation across all disciplines will become standard practice. This will inform and de-risk projects from the start, including cost analysis, code compliance, and carbon emissions reduction. The circular economy is also poised to play a pivotal role in shaping the region’s construction industry. There is already a growing recognition of the need to minimise waste and maximise resource effi ciency throughout the construction lifecycle. We expect a continued shift towards more sustainable practices, driven by both regulatory measures and market demands, greening the whole supply chain. Gary Dodds, Country Director for Qatar at CundallNext >