< Previouswww.mepmiddleeast.com20 MEP Middle East | June 2024 COVER STORY 165,000 m2 area. The building’s multi-use facilities, including a five-star hotel, serviced apartments, residential units, and restaurants, added to the complexity of designing the building services. This project has now become a landmark destination in Dubai.” “The opportunity to be part of such projects is what brought me to the UAE 10 years ago. My first project when I arrived was the Raffles Hotel in Jeddah, which included a 24-storey hotel tower and a 53-storey residential tower on a common podium overlooking the Corniche in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. The Raffles Hotel project was a fantastic opportunity to work on a prestigious development in a prime location,” he reflects. INTEGRATED PROJECT DELIVERY It is well-known that maintaining strong relationships with clients and stakeholders throughout the project’s duration is crucial, and this is where integrated project delivery (IPD) shines. IPD emphasises collaboration and transparency, fostering an environment where open communication and trust are paramount. By involving all parties early and continuously in the process, IPD ensures that clients and stakeholders are actively engaged and informed. “The main thing is keeping in contact. It’s communication, particularly when the design teams are spread across various regions,” Scott explains, adding that KPM ensures regular in-person client meetings, with towards IPD approaches. He says successful project management is another crucial aspect of achieving seamless IPD. KPM’s teams are dedicated to constructability, modern methods of construction, and project management. “We have our constructability team focused on standardising design elements and off- site fabrication,” Scott says. “Our engineers focus on design and documentation, while our project management team handles the client interface and administrative side of project delivery.” Here, he highlights the Azizi Venice project (Plot PRW) in Dubai South, “We have been appointed as the LDC acting as the client’s design partner for the delivery of the plot within this residential development. We have formed a professional and comprehensive team and are embracing an IPD methodology to ensure we achieve the project objectives and client satisfaction. “The whole development will be surrounded by an artificial lagoon to create the feel of the city of Venice. Our plot comprises ten buildings with a total GFA of 270,000 m2, with a total of 4900 apartments over three common basement levels, surrounded by the lagoon. Meanwhile, the ground floor will feature high-end pavilions, F&B, and retail spaces to activate the area and serve the community.” leadership convening monthly in different regions. “It’s about building new relationships and, more importantly, maintaining the existing ones,” he adds. Scott also highlights the need for greater collaboration among industry stakeholders. “In many projects, MEP consultants, contractors, architects, and others operate in silos, leading to inefficiencies and delays,” he says. To address this, KPM fosters a culture of collaboration and communication, moving The SLS Tower in Dubai Successful project management is a crucial aspect of achieving seamless integrated project delivery “ To remain at the forefront of sustainability, we must continue to evolve and be pioneers in understanding and implementing engineering change”www.mepmiddleeast.comJune 2024 | MEP Middle East 21 COVER STORY VISION FOR THE FUTURE Looking ahead, Scott sees significant growth opportunities in the Middle East. “There are huge opportunities in the Middle East, and the continued investment in the kingdom will be a key focus for us,” he says, revealing that KPM is involved in significant regional projects, including those in NEOM. He also notes that KPM’s growth strategy includes both organic growth and strategic appointments, as well as bringing new service lines into the business. The company operates across several key locations, including offices in Dubai, Riyadh, London, and Mumbai. KPM is also expanding its business in the UK. “We are a team of 210 professionals and growing, with around 120 people dedicated to MEP. It’s a big and diverse team, which is a challenge to manage but also a strength,” he explains. It’s clear that KPM’s comprehensive approach integrates technology, sustainability, and client relationships, creating a solid foundation for growth. Scott underscores the importance of this strategy, pointing out that this holistic approach is the backbone of the multidisciplinary company’s approach to MEP design delivery, especially for better preparedness and resilience to external factors. “Recent extreme weather events, the pandemic, wars and natural disasters, have necessitated a change in our focus. We realise that resilience and disaster readiness will have to become an integral part of our design thinking. Similarly, there needs to be greater emphasis on facilities related to food security and health and wellbeing,” he says. In concluding the interview, Scott encapsulates KPM’s vision: “At KPM, we are dedicated to advancing sustainability, innovation, and client satisfaction. Our holistic approach ensures that we remain at the forefront of the industry, continually pushing boundaries and setting new standards in engineering consultancy. “We are excited about the future and remain committed to making a meaningful impact in the built environment.” KPM is dedicated to advancing sustainability and innovation to make a meaningful impact in the built environment The Azizi Venice project (Plot PRW) in Dubai South Xxx xxxxxwww.mepmiddleeast.com 22 MEP Middle East | June 2024 ADVERTORIAL Your Trusted Partner ZIEHL-ABEGG ZIEHL-ABEGG is a global supplier that develops and manufactures fans, motors, and control systems for various applications such as ventilation, refrigeration, and elevators for over 111 years. Despite the tough market conditions, in 2023, ZIEHL-ABEGG achieved the highest turnover in the company’s history of 955 million euros with a growth rate of 9.5% compared with 2022. As of today, ZIEHL-ABEGG has over 5,000 employees, 15 production plants, 30 companies and 117 sales locations worldwide. WHY ZIEHL-ABEGG? Excellent service before and after sales, end-to- end offering, application knowledge, provide out of the box solution, be close geographically to customers, and being customer focused are key factors to our success. Hence, having ZIEHL- ABEGG represented in the Middle East was welcomed by valued customers and has given us the opportunity to supply premium products for various segments as per the local requirements. Important aspects for selecting the right partner such as ZIEHL-ABEGG has also been due to the product reliability, short lead- times and be able to make a difference by encouraging the customers to explore new areas. To enhance this further, we provide smart solutions that save energy as well as reduce the operational costs medium and long term. THE RIGHT PRODUCT FOR THE RIGHT APPLICATION Our versatile range of ventilation fans for both axial and centrifugal type, provides wide choice for HVAC, refrigeration, energy savings solutions in several industries/end-users backgrounds. Having more than 30,000 article numbers in our portfolio enables ZIEHL-ABEGG experts to suggest a variant that is likely to suit the application and the customer equipment specification. However, this requires having deep understanding and know-how for the application and the customer equipment. Having experts located in the Middle East, closer to the region enhances our knowledge about the local regulations, market trends and weather conditions. Overall this is extremely important for selecting an appropriate product. ZIEHL-ABEGG’s fan selection software ‘FANselect’ is a highly versatile tool that enables the customers to do the following: - Select fans from the axial and centrifugal range for various applications. - Select fan from the AMCA certified range. - Select special fans for critical applications ADVERTORIAL www.mepmiddleeast.com June 2024 | MEP Middle East 23 Simon Engert, Public Affairs, ZIEHL-ABEGG therefore, they are likely to be affected due to external factors not related to the fan itself. However, we aim to support and work closely with our customers to figure out the best solutions that protect the fan and associated components, to solve the problem from the root. We highly encourage knowledge sharing and being transparent with our customers to develop the best solution for the market which is sustainable and environmentally friendly. THE FUTURE! At ZIEHL-ABEGG we are always looking at the future trends and most important is how to make a positive impact in the industries across the world. Starting from out of box thinking related to adopting bionics into our fan impeller designs to the continuous improvements in the motor design and finally the improvement measures to help our customers after installation. Climate change consequences are experienced in almost each any every country and ZIEHL-ABEG being a responsible company pays high attention toward sustainability and reducing our carbon footprint. Whether it was related to component sourcing, manufacturing process or energy consumption once the fans are in operation, all ongoing products development and plans consider sustainability and ensure prolonging the fan life span as well as being environmentally friendly. ZIEHL-ABEGG’s smart EC motor driven fans have unique features that also help in the field where IoT can be implemented even on fans. The ZAbluegalaxy tool offered by ZIEHL-ABEGG is a leap into the future where customers can monitor various points such as bearing life, temperature, vibration state and get alarms about unusual performance. The well-known phrase “prevention is better than cure” is the concept behind developing this IoT solution which helps customers in planning maintenance and avoid sudden stoppage and tackle the problem before happening which saves cost, efforts and time at all ends. Apart from monitoring, the enhancement of the EC motor driven fans by incorporating more features such as the active vibration measurement is ongoing as well as the product certification itself where having AMCA- Eurovent certification on ZIEHL-ABEGG fans will also ensure our customers are using the highest efficiency and reliable fans for their air- conditioning applications. (Transformers, Marine, Food industry, ATEX) - Select the electrical supply and reflect the results on the fan performance curve. - Compare two (or more) selections from all important technical aspects. - Provide accurate locations and spacing recommendations for EC plug fans in a multiple fan system, based on the customer provided dimensions for optimum performance. - Generate complete data sheets that include written specification. ZIEHL-ABEGG experts can carry out the selections and/or provide necessary training to the customers and our customers can validate these selections too. Furthermore, integrating the software in the customer supported equipment selection software eases the customer usability, and enables them to have integrated fan data within their own equipment data sheets. AFTER SALES SUPPORT ZIEHL-ABEGG is pleased to being close to its customers before and after sales. The aim has been always to provide the same or enhanced level of support all along the product ownership experience. The diverse range of products add complexity and hence having experts to support in different areas such as: installation recommendations, electrical wiring, ZIEHL- ABEGG control module wiring, analysis of unusual performance, investigation on failures, suggest solutions for site installation, extract data from the EC motors, monitoring devices/methods and general miscellaneous requests from customers is a benefit. We strongly believe that after-sales is equally important to pre-sales as correct inputs and right selections at the beginning of the selection process leads to less site related issues that need to be dealt with in a reactive way. Hence, we as a company pay high equal attention to the pre- sales and post-sales process. ZIEHL-ABEGG offers options to customers for testing the desired fans at our state-of-the-art laboratory for any diagnosis or enhancements as well as servicing should there be a requirement. As an OEM, in many cases our fans are just components in a finished product, Over 100 years of ZIEHL-ABEGG, working together with thousands of fantastic employees and with many remarkable successes worldwide, we have set our gaze on new, innovative goals, and we have already put in place new milestones. We remain faithful to our slogan – always staying one step ahead of the future – and we will continue to present high- tech and great performances from the world’s premier league. Just for our future and a world worth living in with all its diversity. ZIEHL-ABEGG strives to be and remains your trusted partner for the best and most efficient ventilation solutions. “ We are proud to be the first fan manufacturer to provide value to customers with AMCA and Eurovent Certified Fans in our portfolio!” Simon Engert, Public Affairs, ZIEHL-ABEGGwww.mepmiddleeast.com 24 MEP Middle East | June 2024 RECRUITMENT THERE NEEDS TO BE MINDSET SHIFT IN TALENT ACQUISITION By James Mowat, Director, Energi People While there is undoubtedly talent in the Middle East region, there is a substantial need to attract more skilled professionals. As a recruiter, I spend a significant amount of time educating clients about the local market because they may not be fully aware of the opportunities and dynamics in this region. Engaging with candidates, consultants, contractors and other stakeholders enables us to gain a unique perspective about job functions and talent requirements in the region. As contracting companies embark on their digital transformation journeys, they are increasingly adopting 3D modelling and simulation tools such Ladybug, Rhino and Grasshopper to automate parts of the design process. It is an ongoing challenge for us to identify and attract talent with proficiency in these areas. In this region, clients often seek candidates with extensive local experience ranging from five to ten years. However, the reality is that the local talent pool is limited and therefore we need to scout for talent internationally. Cost considerations play a significant role in the recruitment process, especially for consultants and contractors. Hiring from another country involves expenses like flights and accommodation. Many clients who insist on local experience, ironically, do not invest in enhancing the communication skills of newly recruited employees. If you invest time and money upfront in training and skill development, it can yield substantial savings in the long run. BAD HIRING DECISIONS CAN BE COSTLY I have been recruiting in this region since 2006, primarily within the MEP sector. Over my 18 years of experience, I have had my RECRUITMENT www.mepmiddleeast.com June 2024 | MEP Middle East 25 “While technical skills are indispensable, effective communication is equally crucial to the success of projects. Rather than solely seeking candidates with innate communication abilities, consider hiring people who can be trained and invest in their training programmes” James Mowat speaking at the Middle East Data Centre 360 Conference organised by ITP Media Group skills. While hiring, consider people who can be trained. For instance, if an engineer excels technically but struggles with effective communication, training can bridge that gap. Investing in your people pays off in the long term. It helps reduce attrition rates and fosters a sense of commitment among employees. When employees feel a genuine sense of belonging in an organisation, they contribute more effectively to the success of the organisation. I would like to point out the outcomes of a recent survey conducted by us to gauge the primary motivators for candidates in the MEP design industry when considering a new employer. The primary motivator, according to 37% of the respondents, is employee well-being, followed by a comprehensive benefits package (25%). This indicates a growing awareness among job seekers of the importance of workplace environments that prioritise health, mental wellness, and work-life balance. fair share of good and bad experiences throughout the hiring process, from reviewing CVs, conducting interviews, extending offers and onboarding. If a mistake occurs after hiring, it can have significant repercussions for a business, its reputation, and operating costs. One of the practices we follow that sets us apart from many competitors is being thorough with background checks. As basic as it sounds, it is surprising that some clients do not request references from candidates. It is challenging to truly verify a candidate’s claims without references. As a recruiter, I speak to candidates and do my due diligence before sending their resumes to clients. I would also reach out to people who have worked or interacted with the candidate to gather insights into their track record. References are among the best ways to evaluate a candidate’s capabilities, character, and communication skills. I cannot stress how important it is to validate such traits before making a hiring decision. Personally, I always ask every candidate for two references before proceeding with the hiring process. If a candidate hesitates or refuses to provide references, I will consider that a red flag and wonder why the candidate would not want me to speak with someone who can vouch for their abilities. Another trend to consider is job hopping, which is prevalent in the Middle East. Our clients, both in the Middle East and the UK sometimes view frequent job changes as a negative trait. Candidates may provide several reasons for job hopping, but their authenticity can be assessed only by conducting background checks. INVEST IN SKILL DEVELOPMENT AND EMPLOYEE WELL-BEING Project management roles, ideally, require cross-industry experience and the willingness and ability to collaborate. Effective internal communication is crucial, especially when we consider that every stakeholder and team member on a project contributes to its success. However, a talented engineer may not necessarily be a great communicator or collaborator. Project stakeholders can solve this problem to an extent before the start of a project. I often find myself emphasising to clients that we can mitigate potential communication challenges by recruiting proactively rather than reactively. While technical skills are indispensable, effective communication is equally crucial to the success of projects. Rather than solely seeking candidates with innate communication abilities, consider investing in training programmes to improve their References are among the best ways to evaluate a candidate’s capabilities, character and communication skillswww.mepmiddleeast.com 26 MEP Middle East | June 2024 TRAINING Daikin signs MoU agreement with public vocational training institution OFPPT to design advanced training programmes and upskill a new generation of technicians Loubna Tricha, General Director of the OFPPT, and Tuna Gulenc, Vice President of Daikin Middle East and Africa BUILDING A TALENT POOL FOR MOROCCO’S HVAC-R INDUSTRY Daikin Middle East and Africa FZE (Daikin) has signed a strategic memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Office of Vocational Training and Employment Promotion (OFPPT), the leading public institution of vocational training in Morocco to build a highly skilled HVAC-R workforce in the country. OFPPT has 72 sector-specific and multi-sectoral institutions providing training in refrigeration and air conditioning trades, serving over 6,300 young learners. In the field of refrigeration and thermal Engineering, OFPPT offers 24 training streams, including nine diploma programmes and 15 qualification programmes. Daikin and the OFPPT are joining forces to strengthen the ‘Refrigeration and Thermal Engineering’ programme in Morocco to design new advanced training programmes, update curricula, and exchange programmes. Young graduates will also be exposed to internship opportunities within Daikin’s network of partners. Loubna Tricha, general director of the OFPPT, said: “This partnership will allow us to expand our training offerings through the introduction of new courses targeting emerging professions in the sector. It will also strengthen our collaboration in engineering to design advanced training programmes that incorporate the latest technological innovations and professional practices. The partnership between the OFPPT and Daikin will also provide us with the opportunity to enhance our teaching staff in newly identified disciplines and associated technologies TRAINING through dedicated technical training sessions and immersive internships.” Leveraging its global expertise, Daikin has established a strong foundation in Africa built on collaboration with local dealers, distributors and technicians. Over the years, the company has invested in local citizenship with the establishment of brand shops, and training centres. Tuna Gulenc, vice president of Daikin Middle East and Africa, said: “After successfully establishing training centres with the right partners in Nigeria and Côte d’Ivoire, we now wish to share our expertise in Morocco. Partnering with institutions like OFPPT is not just our go-to-market strategy to advance the HVAC-R after-sales service, but with their solid network and our shared vision, we will penetrate the Moroccan HVAC-R industry to promote sustainable cooling practices that can only be met by educating the local market and its users. With this partnership, we aim to build a new generation of highly skilled workforce for the HVAC-R industry and mark our significant contribution to the socio- economic development of Morocco.” ADVERTORIAL www.mepmiddleeast.com June 2024 | MEP Middle East 27 The two-day event featured interactive seminars and workshops on EKF’s cutting-edge technologies, including IoT applications BUILDING BRIDGES ACROSS BORDERS: EKF HOSTS FIRST MEA REGION SHOWCASE the company’s comprehensive frequency converter offering captured the audience’s attention, pointing to a future where efficiency and innovation go hand in hand. Managing Director for the Middle East & Africa, Rami Obeid, encapsulated the spirit of the event, stating: “Our showcase is more than a display of products; it’s a testament to EKF’s commitment to powering progress. We’re not just building bridges across the region; we’re laying down the very infrastructure of tomorrow’s electrical landscape.” The showcase wasn’t just about the company’s products but also about the potential for forging new partnerships and collaborations, a sentiment that was palpable in the lively interactions during the social events and coffee breaks. The spirit of community matched the spirit of innovation as attendees networked and shared insights, fostering an environment ripe for future collaborations. As EKF continues to expand its in-house production capabilities, with server racks and medium-voltage enclosures coming in 2025 and a steadfast adherence to international quality standards through certifications from TÜV, ISO 9001:2015 and others, the company stands poised to cater to the growing demands of the industry across the MEA region and beyond. The EKF MEA Region Showcase, held in Dubai’s First Collection Business Bay hotel, has successfully concluded, leaving a lasting impression with its array of electrical solutions tailored for the future. Industry experts and stakeholders gathered to witness EKF’s strategic vision come to life over an insightful two-day event. EKF, a leading Russian electrical brand synonymous with quality and innovation for over two decades, actively engaged attendees with a series of interactive seminars and workshops. These sessions delved deep into its cutting-edge product offerings, providing attendees hands-on experience with EKF’s advanced technologies. The EKF Connect Home and smart devices segment showcased the seamless integration of technology into modern living spaces, and the EKF Connect IIoT platform seminar emphasised the brand’s forward-thinking approach to industrial Internet of Things applications. The event also offered a glimpse into the future, focusing on new product lines that promise to expand EKF’s impressive portfolio of over 19,000 items. Discussions on new models of modular equipment and www.mepmiddleeast.com 28 MEP Middle East | June 2024 MARKET EXPANSION Real estate development and population and economic growth have increased demand for district cooling services in Saudi Arabia Turki Al Hokair, CEO of FAS Energy, and Takefumi Nishikawa, COO of the Energy Solution & Healthcare Division at Sojitz Corporation SOJITZ ENTERS SAUDI DISTRICT COOLING MARKET THROUGH JOINT VENTURE WITH FAS ENERGY Japan-based Sojitz Corporation (Sojitz) and FAS Energy for Trading Company LLC (FAS Energy), a power and energy business owned by Saudi FAS Holding, have concluded a joint venture agreement to provide district cooling services in Saudi Arabia. The joint venture marks Sojitz’s first foray into the district cooling business in Saudi Arabia. The company plans to launch its district cooling business by providing cooling services to real estate projects of the Saudi FAS Holding group. FAS Energy aims to diversify its business areas by entering into the district cooling sector, and the company has decided to explore collaboration opportunities with Sojitz, which is engaged in energy-related businesses around the world. Amid the global trend toward decarbonisation, the markets for energy- saving services and distributed power supply continues to expand rapidly. The Saudi government has announced a target of achieving net zero carbon emissions by 2060. Increased real estate development, backed by population and economic growth, has increased demand for district cooling services, which reduce CO2 emissions compared to individual air conditioning equipment. Sojitz will continue to support the growth of its equity interests engaged in decarbonisation-related technologies at the energy interface, while leveraging the functions and ideas of its infrastructure- based business models to enhance value. Under the company’s medium-term management plan 2026, Sojitz has established the energy solutions field as a strategic focus area, and this district cooling business is one such energy solutions business. Through this business, Sojitz strives to supply district cooling services while leveraging the experience it has gained through energy-efficiency businesses in the US and Australia as well as other power generation businesses across the globe, with the aim of contributing to CO2 emission reduction and decarbonisation efforts in Saudi Arabia. Sojitz’s energy-efficiency businesses refer to the proposal and introduction of energy-saving designs and services for client buildings. McClure Company, an energy conservation business, became a consolidated subsidiary of Sojitz in 2021. Australia’s energy conservation business Ellis Air Group Pty Ltd. also became a consolidated subsidiary of Sojitz in 2023. Sojitz is providing both McClure and Ellis Air with development functions for their renewable energy generation and supply businesses while increasing value through initiatives that combine energy-saving services. CLIMATE CONTROL www.mepmiddleeast.com June 2024 | MEP Middle East 29 Each parking box will be equipped with air conditioning to enhance resident’s comfort and preserve the condition of vehicles MERED TO INTEGRATE CLIMATE- CONTROLLED PARKING SOLUTIONS AT ICONIC TOWER Real estate developer Mered is introducing climate-controlled parking solutions at its flagship project, the Iconic Tower, in Dubai. Considering the region’s hot climate, each exclusive parking box will be equipped with air conditioning and features separate access to the elevator lobby. This design not only enhances residents’ comfort but also preserves the condition of vehicles by providing a climate-controlled environment. The parking spaces will boast premium finishing, with a sporty minimalistic design. Additionally, elegant metallic champagne finishes, along with car-execution lighting, will enhance the luxurious tower designed by renowned Italian architect Pininfarina in collaboration with Mered. Diana Nilipovscaia, CEO at Mered, commented: “Dubai is known to have remarkable vehicle density, higher than in many global mega-cities. We are integrating advanced climate-controlled parking solutions at the Iconic Tower to ensure our residents and their personal vehicles have an elevated level of convenience and security. Mered’s world-class industry experts are actively engaging in strategic discussions with leading global market players, investors, and architects to create the ideal ultra-luxury living space. Our mission is to continually seek out unparalleled opportunities across various countries, setting new benchmarks in innovation and excellence. We are dedicated to enriching residents’ lives and pioneering a new standard of living that marries convenience with environmental responsibility.” At 286.4m, the Iconic Tower by Mered is set to become the tallest building in Dubai Internet City. Its fast-track development plan consists of a one-year design and contractor procurement stage, followed by a three-year main construction phase. The 66-floor tower will comprise 311 ultra-luxury residential apartments, 423 parking spaces and an array of world-class amenities including private lounges, spas, infinity pools, outdoor terraces, retail outlets, charging stations for electric vehicles and a select number of air- conditioned spots. The design of the Iconic Tower adheres to the Al-Safat Green Building Regulation and Dubai Building Code, focusing on ecological sustainability and resource efficiency. The regulations encompass various aspects such as energy, water, materials, waste management, and thermal performance. To meet these requirements, the design includes provisions for waste storage and collection, ensuring efficient management. The design also ensures that envelope materials meet thermal performance guidelines for optimal energy efficiency. Continuous insulation will be integrated into the building’s thermal envelope to minimise thermal bridges, enhancing overall performance. A minimum of 30% of the roof area will be vegetated or 75% of it will have finishes with a Solar Reflectance Index (SRI) value of 78 or higher. All pedestrian pathways will be shaded using materials with an SRI value of 78 for flat or low-sloped roofs, or an SRI value of 29 for steep-sloped roofs. Operable windows will comply with Dubai Municipality building regulations, facilitating natural ventilation. The building floor plans and glazing will be optimised to maximise natural daylight, and the main external entrance will feature a door design to prevent the loss of conditioned air, ensuring energy efficiency throughout the building. Next >