Dubai Constructions Update by Imre Solt

Shahla Tower site photos, Dubai Marina , 21/January/2012

2012-02-02T20:26:00.001+04:00

KPM Tower site photos, Dubai Marina , 21/January/2012

2012-02-02T20:25:00.000+04:00

Dream Tower site photos, Dubai Marina , 21/January/2012

2012-02-02T20:24:00.000+04:00

My Tower photos, Dubai Marina , 21/January/2012

2012-02-02T20:21:00.000+04:00

RTA adds more Nol card selling outlets as new agents appointed

2012-02-02T11:48:00.001+04:00

RTA adds more Nol card selling outlets as new agents appointed

The Roads & Transport Authority – Nashwan Attaa'ee:
The Roads & Transport Authority (RTA) has beefed up the selling points of the Unified Fare Cards (Nol cards) as part of its ongoing efforts to broaden the scope of service delivery, and make these cards readily available for mass transit commuters, spanning the metro, public buses, and the water bus as well as motorists in paying for parking fees in Dubai.

Mohammad Yousuf Al Mudharreb, Director of the Unified Automated Fare Collection at RTA Corporate Technical Support Services Sector, stressed the importance of expanding the selling points of Nol cards to serve the largest possible segment of public transport users, particularly with the launch on 9 September last year of the Dubai Metro Green Line; which played a crucial role in integrating mass transit network in Dubai, and serving numerous landmarks & key business spots in the Emirate.
"To implement this Decision, the Unified Automated Fare Collection Dep't at RTA Corporate Technical Support Services Sector increased the number of selling outlets of various types of Nol cards following the signing bilateral agreements with Al Fardan Exchange, Al Maya Group, and Aswaq; which are amongst the leading business entities with extensive selling outlets across the UAE. Accordingly Nol cards will be available for selling at 39 outlets at Al Fardan Exchange, 30 outlets at Al Maya Group, and 7 outlets at Aswaq," announced Al Mudharreb.

"The new selling outlets will be subject to the same terms & conditions applicable to other selling outlets since the initial offering of Nol cards; which include a stipulation of maintaining a unified price at all existing and new selling outlets.
"The RTA is always seeking to open new channels & outlets for the delivery of services & products in collaboration with a plethora of government, semi-government and private entities to keep abreast of the growing demand for RTA services by public transport users in Dubai Emirate. We have high regards for the role to be played by Al Fardan Exchange, Al Maya Group, and Aswaq as they sprawl the entire Emirates of the country," said the Director of the Unified Automated Fare Collection in a concluding remark.

It is note-worthy that RTA has launched a special offer involving a 50% discount on personalized Nol Blue Cards on the first of January and runs through the last day of February 2012.

JLT road works photos,Jumeirah Lakes Towers Dubai , 20/January/2012

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Jumeirah Heights photo, Dubai , 20/January/2012

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Jumeirah Park photos,Dubai , 20/January/2012

2012-02-01T16:15:00.002+04:00

JLT cluster K photos,Vue De Lac, Vista De Lago, Jumeirah Lakes Towers,JLT, Dubai , 20/January/2012

2012-01-31T20:03:00.000+04:00

Dubai Star photos, Jumeirah Lakes Towers,JLT, Dubai , 20/January/2012

2012-01-31T19:02:00.000+04:00

2012-01-31T18:37:00.001+04:00

RTA launches new bus route, develop others

The new route links the International City with Warsan 3

The Roads & Transport Authority – Nashwan Attaa'ee:
The Roads & Transport Authority (RTA) has announced the launch of a new bus route on Feb 3 to link the International City with Warsan 3 and the service will be operational on Fridays.

The move has been taken as part of RTA's efforts to play an active role in booting the integration of a sophisticated public transit network.
Commenting on the above, Ahmed Mohammed Al Hammadi, Acting CEO of RTA Public Transport Agency, said: "The Bus Dep't of Public Transport Agency will launch on Feb 3 a new route in Dubai Emirate named as Route (333) with a path connecting several localities including Warsan (2) as well as other vital spots within the International City such as the Post Office (2), Dragon Mart, and Civil Defence (1). It also links key spots at Warsan (2) such as Workers Compound (2), and Trucks Parking (2) in addition to key areas at Warsan (3) such as Khawaneej Flowers Nursery, and Nad El Sheba Nursery among other key areas covered by this route."
Transit services on other routes have also been upgraded such as extending the path of Route (C14) to Al Nahdah (1) to reach May Tower. The path of Route (22) has also been modified to serve Dubai Courts in the direction of the Dubai Healthcare City, Route (F16) has been modified to start from the Business Bay Metro Station where the route has been adjusted at Al Wasl Street and Jumeirah. The path of Route (F60) at Safa has also been modified, and the path of Route (F48) has been modified to the Dubai Investment Park, particularly Madina Supermarket. Moreover, the path of Route (365) at the Dubai Silicon Valley to serve IT Plaza, and the path of Route (F44) at the Jebel Ali area has been modified.

"The RTA is keen on widening & upgrading the public transport network to keep abreast of the urbanization drive and the economic growth in Dubai Emirate. The public transport routes are one of the key strategic initiatives & key pillars of raising the percentage of trips made by public transport means through enticing various segments of the community to use mass transit systems in their daily travels. Such a practice is poised to have positive impacts on traffic flow and cleaning the environment since the rise in the public transport riders will curtail traffic congestions & crashes, raise traffic safety and considerably minimize the environmental pollution triggered by the massive numbers of private vehicles.

Laguna Tower, Lakeside Residence and New Dubai Gate 2 photo, Jumeirah Lakes Towers,JLT, Dubai , 20/January/2012

2012-01-31T17:59:00.000+04:00

Almas Tower spire photos, Jumeirah Lakes Towers,JLT, Dubai , 20/January/2012

2012-01-30T19:58:00.000+04:00

Platinum Tower photos, Jumeirah Lakes Towers,JLT, Dubai , 20/January/2012

2012-01-30T19:57:00.000+04:00

The Dome photos, Jumeirah Lakes Towers,JLT, Dubai , 20/January/2012

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Jumeirah Towers photos, Dubai Marina , 20/January/2012

2012-01-30T19:46:00.003+04:00

Marina Wharf 2 photos, Dubai Marina , 20/January/2012

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Bay Central photos, Dubai Marina , 20/January/2012

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Infinity Tower photos, Dubai Marina , 20/January/2012

2012-01-29T18:06:00.001+04:00

Palm Jumeirah Dubai: RERA approves Oceana community service charge

2012-01-29T14:28:00.001+04:00

RERA approves Oceana community service charge

Stakeholders of Oceana Residence agree after a thorough internal process and commitment to transparency - AED17.50 per square foot

As issues concerning the transparency and breakdown of service charges across the emirate’s property market continue to fuel debate amongst owners and developers, Asteco Property Management reports that Dubai’s Real Estate Regulatory Authority (RERA) has approved the 2012 service charge budget for its Oceana residential and resort community on The Palm Jumeirah, Dubai.

Commenting on the announcement, John Stevens, Director, Asteco Property Management, said: “This is not the first complex in the city to receive approval, but as a mixed-use resort community with multiple facets, naturally we are pleased to conclude this issue with the full cooperation and involvement of the Interim Owners Association Board.

“In order to reach the final budget figure we had to detail the expenses for all of the buildings within the development, calculate the applicable fees for the communal areas and also the proportion of services utilised by the hotel and commercial elements, compared to the residential units,” he added.

To ensure that owners across the different asset classes of the community are being treated with parity, Asteco Property Management retendered all building services, which included detailed negotiations with the relevant sub-contracted companies, in order to present a mutually acceptable budget figure of AED17.50 per square foot. Compared to the previous figure there is a 30% reduction and the budget figure is in line with similar developments on the Palm Jumeirah.

“Our commitment to supporting transparency across the emirate’s real estate sector, particularly in the high profile area of service charges, saw us engage with Oceana’s developer, the Interim Owners Association and building management group through each stage of this comprehensive exercise,” said Stevens.
“The meticulous Asteco budgetary process is in line with the stringent requirements and spirit of the jointly owned property law, and is a model that we apply throughout our property portfolio,” he added.

About Asteco

Asteco, a major regional and international real estate services firm and the largest property services company in the United Arab Emirates, was founded in Dubai in 1985. Asteco offers independent market analysis, design development consultancy and valuation services, sales and leasing services, as well as asset management and property management services.

About Oceana

Oceana is a mixed use beachfront hotel, commercial and residential resort community with 644 residences, centrally located on the trunk of The Palm with private beach access. The development also offers the popular West 14th New York style steakhouse.

Elite Residence photos, Dubai Marina , 20/January/2012

2012-01-28T18:22:00.001+04:00

Princess Tower photos, Dubai Marina , 20/January/2012

2012-01-28T18:17:00.001+04:00

23 Marina Tower photos, Dubai Marina , 20/January/2012

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Burj Khalifa photos, Downtown Dubai, January 2012

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Marina Sail 2 Br apartment interior photos, Dubai Marina, 13/January/2012

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Dubai Marina Motor Yacht Club photos, Dubai , 13/January/2012

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Horizon Tower photo, Dubai Marina , 13/January/2012

2012-01-25T20:45:00.000+04:00

79 trains serviced, cleaned every 3 days: Al Tayer

2012-01-25T14:18:00.001+04:00

79 trains serviced, cleaned every 3 days: Al Tayer

The Roads & Transport Authority – Mohammed Al Munji:
His Excellency Mattar Al Tayer, Chairman of the Board and Executive Director of the Roads & Transport Authority (RTA), reiterated RTA's commitment to the highest safety & security standards for the sake of Dubai Metro users from the moment they enter the station till they leave it in the context of efforts made to realize RTA's vision of providing Safe & Smooth Transport for All.
Al Tayer made this statement during a visit to inspect the work progress in the Metro Depot at Al Rashidya where the metro carriages are being serviced and cleaned. Accompanying Al Tayer in the visit were the Director of Rail Operation Ramadan Abdullah, Director of Rail Maintenance Ali bin Abdul Qadir, and several managers & engineers.

During the tour, Al Tayer was briefed by Adnan Al Hamadi about the methodology and mechanism adopted in the workshop in carrying out the maintenance & cleaning works of 79 trains. At the metro depot at Al Rashidya, maintenance and cleaning works of 62 trains shuttling on the Red Line are being carried out, and the workshop also carries maintenance & cleaning works for the 17 trains deployed on the Green Line.
Briefing H.E. Mattar Al Tayer, Al Hammadi said: "All trains are subjected to maintenance works every three days. Works carried out include visual inspection of the rail carriages from the inside and outside, but a specific technical inspection is carried out for carriages every three months, six months and one year. As to washing & cleaning, the trains are being washed from the outside once every three days while the internal cleaning of trains is done every day. Upon the end of each train journey, workers carry out express cleaning works of carriages. Workers deployed at the Al Rashidiya Depot on the Red Line include 3 engineers, 30 technicians, 6 team heads, and 15 engineers & technicians distributed at the stations of the Red Line.

Al Tayer made a tour to inspect various sections of the Depot where trains maintenance & cleaning is done. Facilities in place include a number of giant gantries and advanced electronic systems enabling the staff to handle the maintenance of 3 trains at a time. The Depot is fitted with air-conditioners, and an advanced fire-fighting system. Al Tayer reviewed the safety aspects in place, and the provision of security & safety to the staff at the highest global standards. He directed the officials to qualify Emiratis to join the Dubai Metro, particularly in sophisticated technical specialties, and map out a timeline for training them to be competent enough to operate & maintain trains over the next years.

The Dubai Metro has three depots for maintaining and cleaning of trains; two depots on the Red Line at Al Rashidiya and Jebel Ali, and one on the Green Line at Al Qusais. Besides the workshop, Al Rashidiya Depot comprises the Main Rail Operations Control Center; which is the watchful eye on the rolling stock throughout the day to ensure the safety of users. Through this Center, it is possible to exercise full control of the daily metro operations on both the Red and Green Lines. Each line has a set of separate monitoring screens in addition to a giant display monitor for both lines. There are 37 separate screens for the Red Line and 28 separate screens for the Green Line. The Center also enables controlling, supervising and monitoring the movement of trains as well as associated systems through supervising the performance of the automatic train movement systems, communication systems, electrical transformers, and power feed systems for trains and stations. The Center has several sections run by highly qualified technical staffs who attend to the implementation of the metro operation protocols, safe train operation, management of emergency cases, and taking correct decisions to overcome difficulties. Through the Center, it will be possible to communicate with passengers through on board communication systems and at the Control Room in emergency cases.

The Rail Control Center attends to the provision and management of passenger information system, management of train access to the track, controlling the train operation and stopping, monitoring the environment control, and monitoring the electrical network, including power feed for trains and stations. It also enables overseeing the safety systems such as firefighting systems, ventilation systems in the tunnel, stations and trains, air-conditioning system of trains, and ensuring the safety of doors, brakes, and engines in each train separately.

Marina Residence photo, Dubai Marina, 13/January/2012

2012-01-24T19:20:00.000+04:00

Azurre Building photo, Dubai Marina, 13/January/2012

2012-01-24T19:19:00.001+04:00

Emerald Residence photos, Dubai Marina, 13/January/2012

2012-01-24T19:15:00.001+04:00

Princess Tower photos, Dubai Marina , 13/January/2012

2012-01-23T19:23:00.002+04:00

The Summit Tower site photo, Dubai Marina , 13/January/2012

2012-01-23T19:19:00.001+04:00

RTA to complete construction of bike stands in 1st Qtr 2012

2012-01-23T12:26:00.000+04:00

RTA to complete construction of bike stands in 1st Qtr 2012

3000 bike stands to be allocated for the Red & Green Line Metro lines

The Roads & Transport Authority – Manal Khalid:
The Roads & Transport Authority (RTA) has completed the construction of a large number of bike stands as part of the initial phase of allocating bike stands at Dubai Metro stations on both the Red and Green Lines with a view to enhancing integrated public transport systems in Dubai Emirate, and accordingly encourage the public to use bikes particularly in short trips. The rest of bike stands, the total number of which is 3000 stands, are set to be completed in the first quarter of this year.

Engineer Maitha bin Udai, CEO of Traffic & Roads Agency, said:"The RTA is always seeking to boost various public transit modes and bring them in line with the best practices worldwide. The use of bikes is a positive practice that contributes to easing the intensive use of vehicles and accordingly alleviates the ensuing environmental pollution. We are therefore focusing on this project and seeking to turn it into a reality in cooperation with RTA Rail Agency.

"The project comprises the construction of about 3000 bike stands near the metro stations on the Red and Green Lines. Phase I of the project, which has been completed earlier, comprised the construction of 212 bike stands at 8 stations on the Red Line out of a total of 1974 stands. These include 96 stands at Al Rashidiya Station, 16 stands at Khalid bin Al Waleed Station, 32 stands at Jafliyah Station, 16 stands at Financial Center Station, 32 stands at Mall of the Emirates Station, 16 stands at Ibn Battuta Station, and about 4 stands at Nakheel Station. RTA has completed the construction of bases for about 1200 new stands at the Red Line stations and it is planned to have them completed by the first quarter of this year.

"Phase II of the Project, which will be started in future, comprises the construction of bases for about 1100 stands on the Green Line stations. These stands are subject to increase following the completion of comprehensive surveys that will be continuously undertaken by the concerned departments at the Traffic & Roads Agency. Accordingly, it will be possible to identify the number of users and the most popular stations in order to fit them with more stands in future. Should the project prove successful, we have plans in place to allocate stands at the business & vital locations in Dubai Emirate that have dedicated lanes for bikes.

"It is imperative to accomplish this Project in order for bikers to avoid disorderly parking of bikes at non-designated places through parking them beside lighting poles, traffic signals or tying them to trees. Such practices inflict damage to public properties, block the visibility of motorists & road users, and distort the general appearance of the neighbourhood, particularly the tourist areas. Bike stands have been designed in a way that makes them accessible, easy to use and satisfactory to all parties.

Infinity Tower photos, Dubai Marina,13/January/2012

2012-01-22T19:00:00.001+04:00

Elite Residence photos, Dubai Marina,13/January/2012

2012-01-22T18:57:00.001+04:00

346 m passengers used public transport means in Dubai in 2011

2012-01-22T10:12:00.001+04:00

346 m passengers used public transport means in Dubai in 2011

• Daily ridership of public transport touches 963 thousand passengers per day
• Al Tayer: 69 m riders used Dubai Metro last year

The Roads & Transport Authority – Mohammed Al Munji:
His Excellency Mattar Al Tayer, Chairman of the Board and Executive Director of the Roads & Transport Authority (RTA), revealed that the public transport means of the RTA, which span the Dubai Metro, public buses, marine transit modes and taxis (Dubai Taxi only), have lifted in 2011 more than 346.5 million passengers compared with 332 million passengers lifted in 2010, according to the recent figures released by RTA's Statistics Section. The average number of daily riders of public transport means reached 963 thousand passengers whereas the figure was in the range of 922 thousand passengers in 2010.

"In keeping with the drive to enhance the integration of public transport modes as outlined in RTA's Strategic Plan, which is aligned with the Dubai Strategic Plan (Infrastructure Sector) aimed at providing an integrated roads & transport system that ensures smooth traffic flow & high safety levels to all users, the RTA has been endeavouring to upgrade the mass transit systems to make them the ideal choice of people in the Emirate. These efforts come in implementation of RTA strategic objective of minimizing the use of private vehicles and maximizing the use of public transit means (including taxis) from 13% in 2006 to 30% in 2030. In 2010 this rate reached 15% and in the middle of last year it jumped to 19%," said Al Tayer.

"The Dubai Metro, comprising the Red and Green Lines, has lifted more than 69 million passengers in 2011. The number of commuters who used the Red Line reached 60.024 million passengers, and the number of commuters who used the Green Line, which has been launched on 09/09/2011, reached 8.982 million passengers, thus the daily ridership of the metro currently exceeds 191 thousand passengers. The total ridership of public buses in 2011 reached 107.407 million passengers making an average of about 298 thousand passengers per day. The total ridership of marine transit modes, which include abras, water bus and water taxi, reached about 14.221 million passengers where abras ferried 13.8 million passengers, water bus lifted 371 thousand passengers and the water taxi lifted about 13 thousand passengers, thus the average daily ridership of marine transit modes is about 39,500 passengers per day.

"Taxis (Dubai Taxi only) made 62.36 million trips lifting about 155.9 million passengers in 2011. Dubai taxicabs in Dubai Emirate make about 173,223 trips per day and lift about 433 thousand passengers per day," added RTA Chairman of the Board and Executive Director.
"The huge investments injected by the Dubai Government for the development of the infrastructure of transport sector have proved both successful & effective. The healthy growth in public transport users reflects the undergoing evolution in the culture of using public transport means by the public spanning all spectrums of the community, particularly with the availability of the metro service. The use of mass transit means has a host of benefits as it enhances the psychological & physical relief of passengers, reduces crashes, cuts outlays on fuel & maintenance of private vehicles, and rids the public of the hassle of finding parking slots; which has emerged as a key challenge facing modern cities across the globe, let alone that using public transport means effectively contributes to reducing environmental pollution resulting from the massive number of private cars; which gives rise to several ailments, such as respiratory diseases.

"RTA is always seeking to improve its business practices through offering a myriad of innovative solutions & strategic initiatives stemming from its vision of providing Safe & Smooth Transport for All. On the 1st November 2010, the RTA inaugurated the Public Transport Day initiative enabling Nol card holders to use the metro, buses and water bus free of charge for one day. The total number of riders using the metro, buses and water taxi on the second edition of the event clocked 693,221 passengers recording a 34% rise on the average numbers of commuters at that time. RTA is proceeding ahead with improvements of the quality of services rendered to the public in keeping with the regional & global profile of Dubai in the business, economic, service, financial, real estate, and tourists sectors among others," said Al Tayer in a concluding remark.

Captions:
 Mattar Al Tayer
 The number of metro riders is continuously on the rise
 Public buses linking various parts of Dubai Emirate
 The marine transit modes link the two shores of Dubai Creek

23 Marina Tower photos, Dubai Marina , 13/January/2012

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Pentominium photos, Dubai Marina , 13/January/2012

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Bay Central photos, Dubai Marina , 13/January/2012

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Princess Tower photos, Dubai Marina , 8/January/2012

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Damac Heights Tower site photos, Dubai Marina , 8/January/2012

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Princess Tower photos, Dubai Marina, 6/December/2012

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23 Marina Tower photos, Dubai Marina , 6/January/2012

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Delta 2 site photos, Dubai Marina , 6/January/2012

2012-01-16T20:06:00.000+04:00

My Tower construction photos, Dubai Marina , 6/January/2012

2012-01-16T20:05:00.000+04:00

RTA tackles vibrations, noise generated by Dubai Metro

2012-01-16T15:33:00.000+04:00

RTA tackles vibrations, noise generated by Dubai Metro

The Roads & Transport Authority – Nashwan Attaa’ee:

The Roads & Transport Authority (RTA) is always keen on adopting the best practices & means of enhancing its work mechanism and improving service offering to various community segments in such a way that renders public transit modes safer & smoother, and the best means of mobility across Dubai Emirate.

Among issues the RTA is seeking to tackle is the vibrations and noise generated by the daily shuttling of the Dubai Metro; which is an inevitable occurrence given the continuous daily movement of the rolling stock to lift passengers to various destinations in Dubai Emirate via the Red & Green Lines of the Dubai Metro.

To cope with these two phenomena in a practical & effective manner, the RTA Rail Agency has recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding in a form of a Joint Agreement with Gerb Worldwide; a leading German company in the field of monitoring & rectifying vibration and tackling it in a way that ensures maximum degree of safe & smooth mobility for all.
The Agreement was signed on behalf of the RTA by the CEO of Rail Agency Adnan Al Hammadi, and for Gerb by Hassan Al Araj the Managing Director of Eco Co; which is the regional representative of Gerb based in Abu Dhabi.

“Pursuant to this Agreement, the Rail Agency will work with Gerb in conducting site surveys to assess the areas experiencing vibrations & noises due to the movement of trains in order to analyze the extent of their impact and come out with practical and effective suggestions & remedial solutions for improving the current position; where Gerb will be performing a consultancy role for 6 months in collaboration with the teams of the Rail Agency.

“The site teams of the Agency have monitored and diagnosed vibrations and noises in the metro facilities and it was confirmed that the rates of these two phenomena fall short of the levels that neither amount to causing inconvenience nor fall under the domain of stipulations stated by other relevant entities such as the Dubai Municipality. However, we will still spare no efforts in attaining the highest levels in line with the best global standards of the industry; a move which echoes RTA’s drive to deliver safe, smooth and sustainable transit services,” added Al Hammadi.

For his part the Managing Director Hassan Al Araj of Eco Co was delighted to sign this Agreement with the Rail Agency, considering it a crucial step towards opening new horizons of joint cooperation with the RTA.

“This Agreement brings about a valuable addition to our Co. as the RTA has a high profile in public transport sector, and the achievements it made in this sector have become a turning point not only for the UAE but the entire region,” he added.

Infinity Tower photos, Dubai Marina , 6/January/2012

2012-01-15T20:27:00.001+04:00

The Lighthouse Tower plot photos, Dubai Marina , 6/January/2012

2012-01-15T20:24:00.002+04:00

Skydive Dubai extension photo, Dubai , 3/January/2012

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Ritz Carlton Hotel extension construction photo, Dubai Marina , 3/January/2012

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Botanica Tower lobby and entrance photos, Dubai Marina, 3/January/2012

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Botanica Tower gym , sauna and steam room photos, Dubai Marina, 3/January/2012

2012-01-13T20:50:00.002+04:00

Botanica Tower swimming pool area photos, Dubai Marina , 3/January/2012

2012-01-12T21:30:00.003+04:00

The World Dubai:RTA signs strategic partnership pact with Royal Island Beach Club

2012-01-12T13:25:00.001+04:00

RTA signs strategic partnership pact with Royal Island Beach Club

The Roads & Transport Authority – Nashwan Attaa'ee:
The Public Transport Agency at the Roads & Transport Authority (RTA) and the Royal Island Beach Club, the owner of Lebanon Island, The World islands, have agreed to operate marine transit means, namely Water Taxi and Ferry Dubai, at the Club-owned Lebanon Island; the first island to be opened in The World project.

To this effect, a strategic partnership agreement in a form of Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) has recently been signed between the Public Transport Agency and the Royal Island Beach Club at the Head Office of the Agency in Dubai.

For the RTA the Agreement was signed by the Acting CEO of Public Transport Agency Ahmed Al Hammadi, and for the Royal Island Beach Club the signing was made by the CEO of the Club Wakil Ahmed Azmi in the presence of several directors and managers from both parties.
Al Hammadi reiterated RTA's serious endeavours to open up joint cooperative channels with the tourist operators in the UAE through launching joint ventures and reciprocal activities in the field of marine transport in Dubai with a view to boosting tourism in the Emirate and keeping abreast of the progress afoot in this field.

"The objectives of signing this Agreement revolve around achieving mutual benefits through outlining the framework of the partnership relationships between both parties. Specifically, it calls for making joint efforts to improve the performance & efficiency of marine transit services such as the Water Taxi and Ferry Dubai services, engaging in new investment prospects in commercial marine transport services, cooperating in the fields of advertising & marketing to promote RTA's marine transit modes through profiling the Water Bus, Water Taxi and Ferry Dubai in the Club's media channels including its website, and broadening the reach of RTA's marine transit means, namely Water Taxi and Ferry Dubai.
"In keeping with the current & future drive of the Dubai Government to enhance the interaction between the public & private sectors, the RTA has opened communication channels and held meetings with developers in the private sector. In this regard the Public Transport Agency has kicked off this drive by inviting the Royal Island Beach Club to sign this Agreement as an initial step down the track of prospective activities between the two parties," continued Al Hammadi.

He articulated RTA's readiness to play a vital role in developing tourism, and effectively contributing to broadening the scope of tourism in general and tourist transport in particular out of its belief in the vitality of supplementing the tourist sector with this service; which, he says, is a key pillar of tourist sector's business and an important source of generating income in this regard.

For his part the CEO of the Royal Island Beach Club Wakil Ahmed Azmi was delighted with the signing of this Agreement with the RTA, considering it one of the key initiatives undertaken by the Club in one of the most booming sectors in Dubai Emirate. He also expressed the Club's willingness to cooperate with the Public Transport Agency in promoting the tourist marine transport.

"This Agreement is a crucial step in establishing the pillars of joint cooperation between the two parties for serving the tourist & service sectors in Dubai Emirate," said Azmi in a final remark.

Botanical garden photos on the 27th floor, Botanica Tower,Dubai Marina , 3/January/2012

2012-01-11T18:58:00.003+04:00

Empower completes 4th phase of District Cooling network in Business Bay

2012-01-11T15:24:00.000+04:00

Empower completes 4th phase of District Cooling network in Business Bay

Company uses ELIPS isolated pipes that saved 25 percent of project cost

Dubai, UAE, 11th January 2012: Emirates Central Cooling Systems Corporation (Empower) has completed the fourth phase of the 70,000 refrigeration tonne (RT) district cooling network stretching from the Bay Square to the end of Business Bay on north-west side, one month ahead of schedule.

With this completion, the company has completed the integrated district cooling services to the entire Business Bay project.

The company had earlier completed the third phase of the project which includes “The Bay Square” extending to the rear of the Executive Towers with 50000 refrigeration tonne (RT). The network, starting at Bay Square and ending at Doha Street, extends over a distance of approximately 2.5km. With this section, the upper side piping network will be fully completed and connected to Empower’s Business Bay Executive Towers (BBET) main plant.

Ahmed Bin Shafar, CEO of Empower, said: “We are delighted to complete the project with a high level of efficiency, seamlessness, precision and within the set budget and timeline. For this project, Empower supplied pipes to the project manufactured by its joint venture Empower-Logstor Insulated Pipes Systems (ELIPS), UAE's largest pre-insulated pipe manufacturing facility. This has allowed us to save 25 percent of the total cost of the project. Moreover, the site supervision was carried out entirely by Empower staff.”

Bin Shafar added: “We always work according to the timeline by constructing temporary and semi permanent work stations as per the actual demand. We have deployed the best technologies in constructing this world class network to ensure highest performance and quality.”

“District cooling systems (DCS) achieve economies of scale by using centralised plants instead of individual cooling units in each building. The centralised system results in diminishing capital and operating costs, thus reducing air-conditioning set-up and energy costs per building,” said Bin Shafar.

Bin Shafar added: “We are proud to say that the fourth phase of the Business Bay Network was implemented totally by using ELIPS isolated pipes.”

Empower entered this joint venture of launching ELIPS with an eye on securing the supply chain of pre-insulated pipes used in District Cooling Services (DCS) networks which constitute 20-25% of the total capital investment of any network. ELIPS ensures timely delivery and installation of pipe networks that had major impact on Empower’s project timelines.

“ELIPS maintains high quality of insulation and casing of pipes, enhancing efficiency and maintenance costs of District Cooling Systems services,” Bin Shafar said.

Commenting on the benefits of district cooling, Bin Shafar added: “District cooling is 50% more efficient than conventional air conditioning solutions; it also removes the heavy load on the electricity grid when the demand for cooling is high. District cooling is the most eco-friendly air-conditioning technology in meeting the world’s CO2 reduction targets. Therefore we believe that the global growth in district cooling systems will be huge in the years to come.”

“Empower’s position as the region's number one company for district cooling has now been consolidated with the completion of the entire network infrastructure of Business Bay,” said Bin Shafar.

Empower provides energy-efficient district cooling services to Business Bay along other projects, including large-scale real estate developments such as Dubai International Financial Center, Dubai Healthcare City, Jumeirah Beach Residence and City Of Arabia.

Botanica Tower 1 Br Type 10 interior photos,Dubai Marina , 3/January/2012

2012-01-10T18:06:00.001+04:00

Claren Towers photos, Downtown Dubai, 30/December/2011

2012-01-09T20:20:00.000+04:00

Boulevard Central photos, Downtown Dubai, 30/December/2011

2012-01-09T20:19:00.000+04:00

29 Burj Dubai Boulevard construction photos, , Downtown Dubai, 30/December/2011

2012-01-09T20:18:00.000+04:00

Standpoint Residences photos, Downtown Dubai, 30/December/2011

2012-01-09T20:16:00.000+04:00

Dubai launches Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park

2012-01-09T17:04:00.002+04:00

Under the guidance and patronage of HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum

Dubai launches Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park

A milestone towards a sustainable future

Dubai, UAE, 9 January 2012: Under the guidance and patronage of HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, The Supreme Council of Energy (SCE) for Dubai has launched the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park. This is a leading project implemented by the SCE and managed and operated by Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA).

This is the first utility-scale production capacity park of its kind in the region and a prelude to the introduction of promising projects to use renewable energy in electricity production in Dubai. This project will use solar radiations that are available all year-round to produce electricity using the latest technology available in international markets. This will, in turn, play an important role in supporting sustainable development plans and preserve natural resources while protecting the environment from pollution.

Diversification of the energy mix is one of the UAE’s top priorities. HH Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, said,” The UAE is striving to develop and boost its rich resources and expertise in the international energy markets and enhance its leading role as a world center for renewable energy research and development.”

Also, HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, has stressed the importance of preserving environmental and energy resources: “We recognize that preserving our energy resources will be one of the greatest challenges in our drive towards sustainable development. This, however, will not materialize unless the different facets of our society adopt energy conservation principles in their core values. The future generations will be the chief beneficiary of our achievements and the best judge of what we accomplish in this field.”

In his speech during the announcement of the Mohammed bin Rashid al Maktoum Solar Park, HE Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, Vice Chairman of the Supreme Council of Energy and MD & CEO of DEWA, on behalf of HH Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman of the Supreme Council of Energy, highlighted the advanced position achieved by the UAE in its continuous quest to achieve sustainable development and build a competitive economy in a future that depends less on fossil fuel energy through a range of sustainable energy sources.

“Dubai has made great and unprecedented achievements, which has made it one of the world’s most competitive countries. This prominent position is the culmination of the efforts of our leadership to create a stimulating business environment, characterized by a cutting-edge and robust infrastructure and world-class, efficient and reliable services. These services have greatly contributed to establishing Dubai’s reputation as a globally-preferred hub for finance, business and tourism,” said HH Sheikh Ahmed.

“In line with the vision of HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, to promote Dubai’s sustainable development, Dubai Integrated Energy Strategy 2030 has been developed in alignment with the strategy of The Government Of Dubai. This energy strategy puts security of supply amongst its key objectives; to achieve sustainable development, meet the needs of both present and future generations and to create an urban infrastructure with sustainable resources for the Emirate of Dubai,” added HH Sheikh Ahmed.

“Therefore, the Supreme Council of Energy is meeting its responsibility to continue our relentless pursuit to provide clean-energy solutions to efficiently meet our future requirements and develop a reduced carbon-footprint economy. This is why we are investigating the utilization of renewable energy; especially solar energy, which is both sustainable and eco-friendly.”

“The importance of this step, which comes within a global movement to source new sources of energy using renewable energy resources, and among them solar energy, to preserve the natural resources and curb CO2 emissions will contribute to establishing a clean and healthy environment to live in, according to a scientific study we have undertaken to research the opportunities for using solar energy in electricity generation,” said HE Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, Vice Chairman of The SCE and MD & CEO of DEWA.

HE Saeed Al Tayer explained that the Dubai Integrated Energy Strategy 2030 has included a plan for diversifying the energy sources in Dubai so that solar energy contributes 1% to the overall energy production for Dubai by 2020 and this will increase to 5% by 2030. This is in addition to generating 12% from nuclear power and 12% from clean coal. The remainder will come from gas.

“The Supreme Council of Energy shares with the world the challenges in the production and management of energy in an efficient and reliable manner. The Dubai Global Energy Forum, which had its inaugural session in April 2011, focused its deliberations over three days on the challenges affecting energy in all their forms, as well as sustainable development and climate change.”

“The first project of the park will witness the production of power using photovoltaic cell technology, with a production capacity of 10MW by 2013. By 2030, the park will produce 1,000MW on the completion of all its phases,” added His Excellency.

Burj Khalifa pictures, Downtown Dubai, December 2011

2012-01-08T20:06:00.001+04:00

RTA to open key phases of Al Khail Road Widening Project in the first half of 2012, costing AED1.9b

2012-01-08T10:23:00.000+04:00

RTA to open key phases of Al Khail Road Widening Project in the first half of 2012, costing AED1.9b

Al Tayer: Completion rate hits 90% in some project phases

The Roads & Transport Authority – Mohammed Al Munji:
H.E. Mattar Al Tayer, Chairman of the Board and Executive Director of the Roads & Transport Authority (RTA), announced that the completion rate in Al Khail Road Widening & Improvement Project clocked 90% in some stages, and the first half of this year would see the opening of key phases of the Project; which is viewed as one of the biggest projects currently undertaken by the RTA. "The importance of the project stems from the fact that it acts as an extension of the Business Bay Crossing, and reflects RTA's efforts to open up auxiliary traffic corridors to Sheikh Zayed Road and Emirates Road; as these two roads account for a huge portion of the high traffic movement. Due to the massive nature of the Project, RTA divided it into six phases and the work is currently underway in four phases costing about 1.925 billion dirham in total," he continued.

Al Tayer made this statement during his tour of Al Khail Road Widening & Improvement Project, accompanied by engineer Maitha Mohammed bin Udai, CEO of Traffic & Roads Agency, and a number of Directors & engineers of the RTA as well as project contractors.
Al Tayer kicked off his tour by inspecting the work progress in the initial phase of Al Khail Road Widening & Improvement Project, costing about 575 million dirham aiming at easing the traffic flow in the direction from Al Khail Road towards Emirates Road and vice versa besides ensuring the smooth traffic flow to the real estate projects in the area.
In a meeting with the engineers of the Contractor firm, Al Tayer was briefed on the work progress in Phase I of the Project where completion rate has hit almost 90%. This Phase encompasses the construction of a new bridge to replace the circular surface intersection on Emirates Road, thus enabling free traffic movement in all directions, and the construction of two elevated road links; the first links the Emirates Road in the direction of Al Khail Road, and the second links Al Khail Road in the direction of Emirates Road. It also comprises increasing the number of lanes from four to six in both directions of Emirates Road and Al Khail Road, besides the traffic signals & signage and other related utility works.

"By the end of last September, RTA opened the widening of Emirates Roads, and in next June RTA will open the bypass slopes that serve the traffic movement from Al Khail Road to Dubai and from Abu Dhabi to Al Khail Road," announced Al Tayer.

Al Tayer also inspected the work progress in Phase II of the Project costing about 762 million dirham. "This Phase encompasses the construction of two new flyovers on Al Khail Road to ensure a smooth traffic flow in all directions to replace the existing two R/As at the intersection of Al Khail Road with Street 319 and Street 323 at Al Qouz residential area. It also includes the widening of Al Khail Road from four to six lanes in each direction, and constructing an elevated road link inbound from Al Qouz area and outbound to Al Khail Road; which is currently underway. Phase II of the Project also includes various road works such as pavements, lighting, traffic signals, and traffic signs in addition to some traffic diversions, removal of some existing utility services conflicting with the project works, and the new utility works required for the project completion.
"When opened in the last quarter of this year, this Project, where completion rate is currently as much as 75%, will contribute to a smooth traffic flow in Al Khail Road through increasing the lane capacity from four to six, and offer a safe & smooth traffic in all roads linked with Al Khail Road. It is also poised to alleviate the traffic congestions in the traffic from Al Qouz area heading towards Al Khail Road through offering an elevated link of the traffic coming from Al Qouz moving in the direction of Dubai. It will also help the smooth traffic movement in the intersections with Al Khail Road from one side and Streets No 323 and 319 from the other, besides easing the bulky vehicular movement at Intersection No 19," elaborated Al Tayer.

RTA Chairman of the Board and Executive Director inspected the work progress in Phase III of Al Khail Road Improvement Project, costing about 282 million dirham. This Phase encompasses the widening of Al Khail Road from four to six lanes in each direction from the intersection of Umm Suqeim Road up to the intersection with Emirates Road, and modifying the curves at Intersection No 13. In the past few days, the widening of Al Khail Road was completed and the residual works will be completed by the end of next April, revealed Al Tayer.

H.E. Mattar Al Tayer concluded his site tour by inspecting the work progress in Phase IV of Al Khail Road Widening Project; costing 307.368 million dirham where the project completion rate has exceeded 50%. The project entails replacing the existing R/A at the intersection of Al Khail Road and Umm Suqeim Road by transforming it into a free multi-level interchange to ensure a smooth vehicular traffic flow in all directions. It also encompasses the widening of Al Khail Road from four to six lanes in each direction besides shifting & protecting the utility lines impacted by the free interchange and the associated landscaping works.

"The new interchange will ensure easy access to the surrounding areas of the Project such as Al Barsha, Southern Al Barsha, and Al Qouz Industrial Area among others; which will streamline the traffic movement in the neighbourhood," said Al Tayer in a concluding remark.

Captions
• Mattar Al Tayer attends to a briefing about the work progress in the project
• Layout of Al Khail Road Widening Project

Burjside Boulevard construction photos, Downtown Dubai, 30/December/2011

2012-01-07T20:05:00.002+04:00

Burj Al Nujoom photos, Downtown Dubai, 30/December/2011

2012-01-07T20:02:00.000+04:00

Marsa Tower and ARJ Tower, 2CDE photos,Dubai Marina , December 2011

2012-01-06T18:10:00.001+04:00

Marina Quays photos,Dubai Marina , December 2011

2012-01-06T18:04:00.000+04:00

Dubai Marina photos, UAE,December 2011

2012-01-05T21:02:00.003+04:00

Elite Residences photos, Dubai Marina , December 2011

2012-01-05T21:01:00.000+04:00

Princess Tower photos, Dubai Marina , December 2011

2012-01-05T20:57:00.002+04:00

Bay Central construction photos, Dubai Marina , December 2011

2012-01-04T19:21:00.002+04:00

Pier 8 construction photos, Dubai Marina , December 2011

2012-01-04T19:15:00.001+04:00

The Atlantic construction photos, Dubai Marina , December 2011

2012-01-04T19:03:00.003+04:00

Palm Jumeirah villa photos , Dubai, UAE, December 2011

2012-01-03T21:00:00.003+04:00

The Fairmont Palm Residence photo, Palm Jumeirah, Dubai, December 2011

2012-01-02T19:08:00.000+04:00

One and Only The Palm photos,Royal Mirage, Palm Jumeirah, Dubai, December 2011

2012-01-02T19:05:00.001+04:00

Zabeel Saray Hotel and Royal Residences photos, Palm Jumeirah, Dubai, December 2011

2012-01-02T19:03:00.000+04:00

Taj Exotica Resort and Spa, The Grandeur Residences photos, Palm Jumeirah, Dubai, December 2011

2012-01-02T19:01:00.000+04:00

Sea View Club construction photos, Palm Jumeirah, Dubai, December 2011

2012-01-02T19:00:00.000+04:00

Kempinski and Emerald Palace photos, Palm Jumeirah, Dubai, December 2011

2012-01-02T18:58:00.001+04:00

Palm Jumeirah Sofitel Resort photos, Dubai, December 2011

2012-01-02T18:55:00.000+04:00

Kingdom of Sheba and Balqis Residence photos, Palm Jumeirah, Dubai, December 2011

2012-01-02T18:52:00.001+04:00

Burj Khalifa fireworks photos, NYE 2012 , Downtown Dubai, UAE , 1/January/2012

2012-01-01T01:50:00.002+04:00

Happy New Year , Dubai, 31/December/2011

2011-12-31T21:35:00.000+04:00

Infinity Tower photos,Dubai Marina, 24/December/2011

2011-12-31T14:47:00.000+04:00

Atlantis The Palm photos,Palm Jumeirah, Dubai , 24/December/2011

2011-12-31T13:42:00.001+04:00

Burj Khalifa photos, Downtown Dubai, United Arab Emirates, 30/December/2011

2011-12-31T11:52:00.002+04:00

Dubai Ferry photos, Dubai Marina , 24/December/2011

2011-12-31T11:36:00.001+04:00