< Previouswww.mepmiddleeast.com20 MEP Middle East | September 2024 COVER STORY ensuring that the development operates seamlessly, from power and water supply to irrigation and communication networks. The architectural vision for AMAALA is being brought to life by Foster + Partners, an internationally renowned firm that is a key partner for several projects within the master plan, including the Equinox Resort, Village Boutique Hotel, Corallium, and Marina Hotel. Supporting these efforts are Dewan Architects and Engineers and HKS Architects, who lead the design of the AMAALA Yacht Club. Their expertise ensures that this exclusive facility meets the highest standards of luxury and functionality, while Building Knowledge General Contracting Company LLC manages the critical MEP aspects at Corallium, ensuring that the development operates with optimal efficiency. In terms of MEP-related work, the project has attracted some of the most experienced necessitates careful logistical planning and significant investment in infrastructure. “We’ve established robust supply chains to ensure the seamless flow of materials and resources,” Al Balawi explains. “Another key challenge for the project has been coordinating multiple contractors to ensure seamless integration of design, methodology, and scheduling. Additionally, the logistics of the Early Contractor Involvement (ECI) phase were complicated by the international nature of the team and COVID-related travel restrictions,” he says. The project team tackled these challenges head-on by implementing a robust ECI services plan and aiding collaboration among all stakeholders. Risk management was critical, with a focus on evaluating information gaps, technical assumptions, and prioritising issues to mitigate uncertainties. contractors in the field. Shapoorji Pallonji Mideast LLC, Kortech Sharqawi, Building Knowledge General Contracting Company LLC, Saudi Ensas Company for Engineering & Service WLL, Al Fanar Company, and ASTRA Group (Arab Supply and Trading Company) have all been brought on board to ensure that the infrastructure at AMAALA meets the expected high standards. “These firms bring extensive experience and technical expertise to the project, working closely with specialised MEP consultants to ensure the highest standards of efficiency and functionality,” says Al Balawi. OVERCOMING CHALLENGES Developing a project of this scale in the Red Sea region comes with its own unique set of challenges. The remote location, while contributing to AMAALA’s exclusivity, Equinox Resort AMAALA The project adopts sustainable construction practices, utilising innovative techniques and materials to reduce its environmental footprint MEP_Sep2024_16-21_Cover Story_13370904.indd 20MEP_Sep2024_16-21_Cover Story_13370904.indd 2028/08/2024 19:1228/08/2024 19:12www.mepmiddleeast.comSeptember 2024 | MEP Middle East 21 COVER STORY The project’s commitment to sustainability adds another layer of complexity. From the outset, AMAALA has embraced sustainable construction practices, utilising innovative techniques and materials to reduce its environmental footprint. “Minimising environmental impact is paramount to Red Sea Global’s ethos,” Al Balawi emphasises. The project is committed to using renewable energy sources and pioneering a regenerative approach to tourism that prioritises the long-term health of the Red Sea ecosystem. SUSTAINABILITY AT THE CORE AMAALA’s commitment to sustainability is not just an add-on; it is at the heart of the project, extending far beyond its operational phase, involving the entire project lifecycle from planning and design to construction and eventual operation. The project is pursuing LEED Platinum certification across its master plan, a testament to its holistic approach to sustainability. Al Balawi highlights several key initiatives, including the implementation of a low-impact development rainwater management system, smart utilities, and water conservation strategies. “Throughout the construction phase, we’ve implemented strict measures to minimise our environmental impact,” he notes. This includes responsible waste management, pollution prevention, and soil erosion control. “Once operational, AMAALA will have a state-of-the-art integrated waste management system focused on recycling and reuse. We will also treat and reuse wastewater, further minimising our environmental footprint and conserving precious resources,” he adds. Water conservation is a central focus, with innovative solutions like low-flow fixtures, efficient irrigation systems, and drought- tolerant landscaping being implemented. “To ensure we’re constantly optimising our efforts, we have implemented a sophisticated monitoring system to track energy and water use in real-time. This data will allow us to fine-tune our operations and ensure we’re always operating as sustainably as possible,” says Al Balawi. CREATING OPPORTUNITIES FOR SAUDI TALENT In alignment with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, AMAALA is creating opportunities for young Saudi talent and the private sector. The project is expected to generate up to 50,000 new jobs, many of which will be filled by talented Saudis from across the kingdom. Red Sea Global has launched several learning and development programs to equip young Saudis with the skills and knowledge needed to contribute to the kingdom’s booming tourism industry. These programs include vocational training, graduate programs, and scholarships. Al Balawi shares the success of these initiatives: “Last year, we celebrated the first graduation of students from our Vocational Training Program. Today, all 430 graduates are employed, either with RSG or one of our partners. Almost 40% of those graduates came from communities around our destinations.” The first batch of students from the RSG Scholarship Program, delivered in partnership with the University of Prince Mugrin, also graduated this year. These 107 students, who received their Bachelor’s Degrees in International Hospitality Management, are now embarking on careers that will help shape the future of Saudi Arabia’s tourism sector. This ripple effect of opportunity extends to the private sector as well, driving growth in industries such as construction, logistics, hospitality, and more. With its focus on wellness, environmental stewardship, and talent development, AMAALA is not just about creating a luxury destination; it is about setting a new standard for sustainable development and responsible tourism. The partnerships formed, the challenges overcome, and the milestones achieved all contribute to a story of innovation and collaboration. Rosewood AMAALA “Minimising environmental impact is paramount to Red Sea Global’s ethos” MEP_Sep2024_16-21_Cover Story_13370904.indd 21MEP_Sep2024_16-21_Cover Story_13370904.indd 2128/08/2024 19:1228/08/2024 19:12www.mepmiddleeast.com22 MEP Middle East | September 2024 INTERVIEW PRECISION IN PIECES ALEMCO shares exclusive insight on how modularisation is streamlining complex MEP projects for maximum efficiency By Angitha Pradeep Modularisation is becoming a game- changer, streamlining project delivery with a focus on precision and efficiency, especially within MEP installations. This approach is transforming how projects are delivered by shifting a substantial portion of the work to controlled factory settings. challenges like on-site labour and logistics, modularisation offers a breath of fresh air, making these obstacles more manageable and project timelines more predictable. Of course, no innovation comes without its hurdles. Transporting bulky modular components, for instance, presents its own Here, each component is meticulously crafted to meet exact specifications, ensuring quality and precision that are hard to match on-site. This evolution in project execution is not just about keeping up with the times; it’s about redefining efficiency. In complex projects where traditional methods often struggle with MEP_Sep2024_22-25_Alemco_13372857.indd 22MEP_Sep2024_22-25_Alemco_13372857.indd 2228/08/2024 19:1328/08/2024 19:13www.mepmiddleeast.comSeptember 2024 | MEP Middle East 23 INTERVIEW “ By maximising modular opportunities and doing the bulk of the work off-site, we have a significant reduction in the number of on-site labour” Steven Thomson, Senior Contracts Manager, ALEMCO Steven Thomson, Senior Contracts Manager, ALEMCO set of logistical challenges. But the benefits — such as superior quality control, accelerated timelines, and the integration of cutting- edge technologies like robotic systems — far outweigh these difficulties. The result? A new standard of efficiency and excellence in modern construction. In an exclusive interview with MEP Middle East, ALEMCO shares how embracing modular strategies has propelled their projects forward, turning ambitious timelines into achievable milestones. According to the contractor, this forward-thinking approach isn’t just changing the game; it’s setting a new standard for what’s possible in construction. Steven Thomson, ALEMCO’s Senior Contracts Manager, says that the modularisation strategy has allowed for unparalleled control over the quality of MEP installations. “Conditions in the modular factory can be precisely controlled compared to work done on-site,” Thomson explains. This controlled environment ensures that the quality of the finished product can be benchmarked and consistently replicated. The precision and consistency achieved in the factory setting translate into significant efficiencies on-site. Commenting on how this has delivered value to a landmark hospitality project that the company is presently working on in the UAE, Thomson highlights that “the programme for the tower guest rooms is on a 45-day cycle per floor for our first and second fix activities,” a pace made possible only through the modular approach implemented on these floors. The benefits of off-site fabrication extend beyond quality control. Thomson emphasises that “by maximising modular opportunities and doing the bulk of the work off-site, we have a significant reduction in the number of on-site labour.” This reduction not only accelerates the project timeline but also addresses one of the biggest logistical challenges in tower projects: moving the workforce efficiently to the work face. In tower construction, where hoist capacity and speed are often limiting factors, reducing the on-site workforce helps streamline operations and improve overall efficiency. NAVIGATING LOGISTICAL CHALLENGES However, the shift to modularisation isn’t without its challenges, particularly in terms of logistics. Thomson acknowledges that “with modular services, you are transporting quite a bit of ‘fresh air’ as there is spacing between the services.” This increased bulkiness compared to traditional flat-packed materials necessitates careful planning from the outset. ALEMCO has integrated modular logistics into the broader project logistics plan from day one, with “dedicated horizontal routing, leave MEP_Sep2024_22-25_Alemco_13372857.indd 23MEP_Sep2024_22-25_Alemco_13372857.indd 2328/08/2024 19:1328/08/2024 19:13www.mepmiddleeast.com24 MEP Middle East | September 2024 INTERVIEW downs, and lifting equipment designated for modular-only for vertical transportation.” He also explains how the impact of modularisation on project timelines and cost-efficiency has been profound, pointing out how when project programmes are aggressive, modular is the only way it can be achieved. As the cost-benefits of modularisation are realised especially well in certain applications, ALEMCO has worked extensively with their engineering and commercial departments to “identify and maximise worthwhile opportunities for modular solutions.” The industry has already embraced modularisation due to its numerous benefits, and ALEMCO’s processes highlight its commitment to continuous development in DFMA (Design for Manufacture and Assembly) innovations. IS JAIBOT THE FUTURE? In addition to modularisation, ALEMCO is also pioneering the use of robotic technology to further enhance efficiency and accuracy in MEP installations. ALEMCO’s Project Manager Tyron Holgate sheds light on the integration of Hilti’s Jaibot, a robotic system designed to automate the drilling process. Holgate explains that the successful implementation of the Jaibot relies on several critical criteria: availability of design information, clear and obstruction-free working areas, and commercial viability. “The robot uses the BIM model with incorporated support locations to understand where to drill,” Holgate explains. However, for the Jaibot to operate efficiently, the design information must be fully developed and frozen — a challenge on projects with expedited timelines. The Jaibot also requires an unobstructed work area to allow its continuous track system and robotic arm to move freely across the work floor. To overcome these challenges and ensure the benefits of this innovation could be leveraged on the aforementioned hospitality project, ALEMCO’s project management team negotiated being first in place, which Holgate notes has been “a massive win.” According to him, Jaibot’s real-time adjustments to site conditions have proven invaluable, particularly in reducing human error and minimising rework. “The robot records all the work it conducts and highlights any drill locations that it could not perform fully,” Holgate says, providing Tyron Holgate, Project Manager, ALEMCO “ The robot [Jaibot] records all the work it conducts and highlights any drill locations that it could not perform fully” Tyron Holgate, Project Manager, ALEMCO Modularisation allows for innovative solutions in complex installations MEP_Sep2024_22-25_Alemco_13372857.indd 24MEP_Sep2024_22-25_Alemco_13372857.indd 2428/08/2024 19:1328/08/2024 19:13www.mepmiddleeast.comSeptember 2024 | MEP Middle East 25 INTERVIEW operational teams with clarity and direction. This capability reduces the time lost during rework procedures and contributes to overall project efficiency. Looking at the long-term impact, Holgate anticipates that ALEMCO’s increasing use of robotic innovations such as the Jaibot will significantly reduce project costs, particularly in terms of labour and material efficiency. “Robotic solutions perform best in complex areas where implementation specifications vary significantly,” he notes, further pointing out that as the project progresses into more complex regions, the savings from the Jaibot are expected to grow. OVERCOMING CHALLENGES As highlighted by both Thomson and Holgate, project management is foundational to success in complex MEP implementations. ALEMCO’s Project Manager, Julian Swanepoel, details the innovative solutions and meticulous planning required to overcome these hurdles in a recent project. For this specific undertaking, Swanepoel sheds light on the practical challenges encountered during the installation of MEP modules and how the initial installation of 6-metre-long modules for the project presented significant learning curves. “We had to adjust our lifting equipment to accommodate their size while avoiding the multiple riser openings along the slabs,” he explains, adding that the curved corridors in this particular project added another layer of complexity, as the workshop lines could not accurately reflect the actual corridor layout. To overcome this, the team created jigs based on precise as-built measurements, ensuring accurate positioning within the curved corridors. According to him, one of the most significant challenges for this project was that the MEP design was not finalised when fabrication began. However, the engineering and construction teams held workshops specific to this project to make calculated decisions on the best way forward. “Space was introduced for possible add-ins, and containment included where we could,” he says. This flexible approach allowed the team to coordinate effectively once the information was available. Continuing, he adds that the logistics of installing the six-metre modules required meticulous coordination tailored to the project’s unique needs. Swanepoel explains, “The modules could not fit in the hoist, making the tower crane the only viable option for lifting them. To maximise the limited hook time available, the team designed a custom trolley capable of accommodating four full six-metre modules, which the tower crane could then lift.” The team also collaborated with ALEC, to implement derrick cranes at strategic intervals, further reducing reliance on the tower crane, all specifically for the demands of this project. The early success of the MEP module installation was a significant confidence booster for ALEMCO. “It has allowed us to refine our processes, enhance team coordination, and boost overall confidence and morale,” he reflects, underscoring that these early victories enabled the team to scale successful strategies for more complex installations, such as plant rooms, and improve their risk mitigation efforts. “This solid foundation ensures that we are better prepared to handle the challenges ahead, maintaining momentum and efficiency as the project progresses,” concludes Swanepoel. “We also ensured that we documented these lessons thoroughly, formulated actionable insights, and communicated them clearly to everyone involved—a proactive approach guaranteeing that we can apply these learnings as we move forward.” Julian Swanepoel, Project Manager, ALEMCO The team designed a custom trolley capable of accommodating four full six-metre modules “ We also ensured that we documented these lessons thoroughly—a proactive approach guaranteeing that we can apply these learnings as we move forward” Julian Swanepoel, Project Manager, ALEMCO MEP_Sep2024_22-25_Alemco_13372857.indd 25MEP_Sep2024_22-25_Alemco_13372857.indd 2528/08/2024 19:1328/08/2024 19:13SHORTLIST 26 MEP Middle East | September 2024www.mepmiddleeast.com Introducing the individuals and firms competing in the race for this year’s industry-leading award COMPANY • ADEEB Group • ALEMCO • ARCO Electromechanical • BK Gulf LLC • Khansaheb Civil Engineering • LASCO MEP Works • Oxypro Electromechanical Contractors • Specialized MEP Company MEP CONTRACTOR OF THE YEAR • AECOM • AESG • Al Suweidi Engineering Consultants • Arup Gulf • Cundall • Egis • KEO International Consultants • Meinhardt • Ramboll Middle East • Sudlows Consulting MEP CONSULTANCY OF THE YEAR MEP_Sep2024_ 26-31_Shortlist - MEP Awards_13366916.indd 26MEP_Sep2024_ 26-31_Shortlist - MEP Awards_13366916.indd 2626/08/2024 16:2726/08/2024 16:27August 2024 | MEP Middle East 27AugAugAugAugAugAugAugAugAugAugAuAugAugAuggAugAuggAugA gAugAuAAuAugAA gguu ustustustusustustustustustustustustustustustustuststusu tuu tts 2020202020202020200202022002002022002 24 24 24 24424 24 2424 2424 44422424 2222424422244424 || | ||||||| MEPMEPEPMEPMEPMEPMEPMEPMEPMEPMEPMEPMEPMEPMEPMEPMEPMMEPM PPPEPEPMME MiMiMiMiMiMiMiMiMiMMiMMMiMiMMMiMMiMMMMiM ddddlddlddlddlddlddlddlddlddlddddldddddddlddddldddddddlddd e Ee Eee Ee Ee Ee EeEe Ee Ee Ee EeEEeEEEeee EeEe aastastastsastastastastastastastastaastsstasastaastssts 272727227272727272272727272722777272277www.mepmiddleeast.com SHORTLIST September 2024 | MEP Middle East 27www.mepmiddleeast.com • Central Ventilation Systems • CMS Global • Frost GT • Leminar Air Conditioning Company • Leminar Air Conditioning Industries SUPPLIER OF THE YEAR • ADEEB Group • AtkinsRéalis • Bin Dasmal Group • Taqeef • Tecon • TTE Engineering CSR INITIATIVE OF THE YEAR • Central Ventilation Systems • CMS Global • Grundfos Gulf Distribution • Gulf Duct Industries • Hira Industries • KAD Airconditioning • Leminar Air Conditioning Industries • Rheem Manufacturing Middle East • Rubber World Industry • Trosten Industries MANUFACTURER OF THE YEAR MEP_Sep2024_ 26-31_Shortlist - MEP Awards_13366916.indd 27MEP_Sep2024_ 26-31_Shortlist - MEP Awards_13366916.indd 2726/08/2024 16:2726/08/2024 16:27SHORTLIST www.mepmiddleeast.com28 MEP Middle East | September 2024 PROJECTS • Egis – Natural History Museum, UAE • KPM – Azizi Venice, UAE • LASCO MEP Works And SSG JV – WTB Skylight 1 & 2, UAE • Ramboll Middle East – The Avenues – Riyadh, Saudi Arabia ELECTRICAL PROJECT OF THE YEAR • Buro Happold – Jeddah Opera House, Saudi Arabia • Egis – Natural History Museum, UAE • KPM – Azizi Venice, UAE • LASCO MEP Works And SSG JV – WTB Skylight 1 & 2, UAE • Ramboll Middle East – The Avenues – Riyadh, Saudi Arabia • Veristar Building Contracting – Legnano Teknoelectric Company Project, UAE MECHANICAL PROJECT OF THE YEAR • Alta Real Estate Development – Mr C Residences Jumeirah, UAE • Dar Al Handasah – Almoosa Specialist Hospital, Lebanon • Egis – Natural History Museum, UAE • EHAF Qatar Consulting Engineers – Corinthia Hotels and Residences, Qatar • Khatib & Alami – Bulgari Ocean View Residence, UAE • KPM – Azizi Venice, UAE • LASCO MEP Works And SSG JV – SS ETFE Garden, UAE • LASCO MEP Works And SSG JV – WTB Skylight 1 & 2, UAE • Miral And ALEMCO JV – SeaWorld Abu Dhabi Animal Life Safety Systems, UAE • Ramboll Middle East – The Avenues – Riyadh, Saudi Arabia GCC PROJECT OF THE YEAR • Buro Happold – Jeddah Opera House, Saudi Arabia • Egis – Natural History Museum, UAE • KPM – Azizi Venice, UAE • Ramboll Middle East – The Avenues – Riyadh, Saudi Arabia PLUMBING PROJECT OF THE YEAR MEP_Sep2024_ 26-31_Shortlist - MEP Awards_13366916.indd 28MEP_Sep2024_ 26-31_Shortlist - MEP Awards_13366916.indd 2826/08/2024 16:2726/08/2024 16:27August 2024 | MEP Middle East 29AugAugAugAugAugAugAugAugAugAugAuAugAugAuggAugAuggAugA gAugAuAAuAugAA gguu ustustustusustustustustustustustustustustustustuststusu tuu tts 2020202020202020200202022002002022002 24 24 24 24424 24 2424 2424 44422424 2222424422244424 || | ||||||| MEPMEPEPMEPMEPMEPMEPMEPMEPMEPMEPMEPMEPMEPMEPMEPMEPMMEPM PPPEPEPMME MiMiMiMiMiMiMiMiMiMMiMMMiMiMMMiMMiMMMMiM ddddlddlddlddlddlddlddlddlddlddddldddddddlddddldddddddlddd e Ee Eee Ee Ee Ee EeEe Ee Ee Ee EeEEeEEEeee EeEe aastastastsastastastastastastastastaastsstasastaastssts 29292922929292929229292929292299922299www.mepmiddleeast.com SHORTLIST www.mepmiddleeast.com SSSHSSSSSSSSSSSSSS ORTLIST September 2024 | MEP Middle East 29 • BETAM – HVAC System Work In 166 Villas, UAE • Egis – Yas Waterworld Expansion, UAE • HMS Networks – Tarshid Energy Management Project, Saudi Arabia • ITQAN Architectural Design Consultancy – HVAC System Work In Al Moosa Business Center, UAE • KPM – Elaf Taiba Hotel Refurbishment, UAE • KPM – Sheraton Hotel, Bahrain • LASCO MEP Works And SSG JV – RKN ETFE Garden, UAE • NV5 – Bab Al Shams Desert Resort And Spa Retrofitting Work, UAE • Positive Zero – Falcon Towers, UAE • TTE Engineering – Electrical Retrofit For Dubai Humanitarian, UAE RETROFIT PROJECT OF THE YEAR • Delmatic – Zayed International Airport, UAE • Egis – Natural History Museum, UAE • HMS Networks – Tarshid Energy Management Project, Saudi Arabia • LASCO MEP Works And SSG JV – The Glasshouse Project, UAE • Positive Zero – Tecom Group By Takaunify, UAE SMART PROJECT OF THE YEAR • AG Engineering And Contracting – Geothermal District Cooling Plant, UAE • Arup Gulf – Net Zero Mosque, UAE • BETAM – Ekthaar Sustainable Farming, UAE • Dar Al Handasah – Masdar Ecogym Sports Centre, UAE • Positive Zero – Port Saeed Project, UAE • SODIC – EDNC Office Buildings, Egypt • Spectrum Cube Technical Services – UAE • Tecon – Shamareek Villas, UAE SUSTAINABLE PROJECT OF THE YEAR • Dar Al Handasah – Amman Smart City Centre, Jordan • Gulf Data Hub – Gulf Data Hub – Building 4 Data Centre, UAE • King Saud University Medical City – Disaster Recovery Data Centre, Saudi Arabia • Laing O’Rourke – Khazna Data Centre Dxb2, UAE • Meinhardt – Moro Data Centre, UAE DATA CENTRE PROJECT OF THE YEAR MEP_Sep2024_ 26-31_Shortlist - MEP Awards_13366916.indd 29MEP_Sep2024_ 26-31_Shortlist - MEP Awards_13366916.indd 2926/08/2024 16:2826/08/2024 16:28Next >