Elite Residence photos, Dubai Marina , 30/April/2010

The Torch photos, Dubai Marina , 30/April/2010

Pentominium photos, Dubai Marina , 30/April/2010

Al Tayer: 7 new Dubai Metro Stations ready to receive passengers tomorrow, Friday

Al Tayer: 7 new Dubai Metro Stations ready to receive passengers tomorrow, Friday

Roads & Transport Authority – Mohammed Al Munji:

The Roads & Transport Authority (RTA) is all set to open tomorrow, Friday, seven new metro stations; namely: Emirates, Airport Terminal 1, Al Karama, Emirates Towers, Dubai Internet City, Dubai Marina, and Ibn Battuta stations. The new stations will receive passengers as of 02 pm tomorrow up to midnight, and reopen for passenger service from Saturday to Thursday from 06 am up to 11 pm.

As of tomorrow, Friday, RTA Unified Automated Fare Collection Dep’t will offer Nol Blue Cards instead of Nol Silver Cards at the same cost and for a limited period; as the RTA had already sold about 2 million Nol Silver Cards since last August.
H.E. Mattar Al Tayer, Chairman of the Board and Executive Director of the RTA stressed that the new stations were ready to receive passengers. 20 trains will be operated during peak time and 15 trains during off-peak time and the service will be run on a 6 minutes heady (frequency) during peak time and 8 minutes headway during off-peak time.

“The Contractor has put the final touches to the new stations, including the finishing works on the floors, fitting & commissioning of escalators and lifts, internal lighting and fittings required for special needs passengers such as tactile floor guiding optically impaired commuters to their intended destinations in addition to the audio-visual PA systems. Due attention has also been given to the finishing works of walls and aesthetic elements of all stations. The interior design of stations has been inspired by their historical implications and themed after the four elements of nature: Water, Air, Fire and Earth. Inspection was carried out to pedestrian footbridges linking the metro stations with both sides of the road. These elevated walkways are air-conditioned and offer a wide space for the movement of the public crossing between the two sides of Sheikh Zayed Road, and have been fitted with travelators and feature top quality finishing in a way that brings about a revolution in the link between pedestrians and the city, besides advancing the drive towards minimizing the reliance on private vehicles. Inspection also included arrangements made for allocating parking spaces for buses and taxis at each station as well as the required directional signage and others.

Al Tayer added: “Serco Co, which is attending to Dubai Metro operation, has also finalized all trial technical testing of the metro operations, including testing the communication system, auto operation systems, power feed, air-conditioning, onboard electromechanical systems, signaling & lighting system and integration & coordination with various subsystems and components. The operator has also finalized the training of front-end employees deployed at stations on various systems and they have already joined up their duties in different locations several days ago following the completion of intensive training courses in the fields of customer service, implementation of rules and regulations introduced by the RTA for safeguarding the project facilities, and enforcement of the law against offenders.
“Public Transport Agency has completed the training of bus drivers on the new Feeder Bus service for the metro stations to be opened. 28 feeder buses have been deployed to link the metro stations with the neighbourhood and the service will be run at 13-20 minutes headway” stated Al Tayer.

It is worth-mentioning that since its inception on 090909 till the end of last March, Dubai Metro has lifted about 13.68 million passengers and the number of daily ridership is about 80 thousand passengers. The number is geared to rise in excess of 100 thousand passengers with the opening of the new metro stations. The number of the metro users is estimated to hit 35 million passengers in 2010 and is likely to receive a further boost in August 2011 with the operation of the Green Line; which serves vital areas with intense commercial and public activities as well as high population density.

Nol Blue Cards instead of Silver Cards at the same cost for a limited period

RTA Unified Automated Fare Collection Card Dep’t announced that as of today, Friday, it will offer to the public Nol Blue Cards instead of Nol Silver Cards at the same cost and for a limited period as the stock of Nol Silver Cards has run out in an exceptional manner beyond the wildest expectations with the RTA succeeding in selling two million cards since August 2009.
Mohammed Al Mudharreb, Director of RTA Unified Automated Fare Collection Card Dep’t, said: “The current lacking of Nol Silver Cards is attributed to the delay in shipment due to flight cancellations triggered by Iceland volcanic ashes, thus disrupting the shipment of the cargo from Europe where the card suppliers are located.

“In order to ensure the good conduct of this service in a way that ensures safe, smooth and enjoyable transit to all public transport commuters in Dubai Emirate, RTA decided to sell Nol Blue Cards at the same cost of Nol Silver Cards (20 dirham); however the difference between the alternative Nol Blue Card and the standard Nol Blue Card is the lack of the name and photo of the card holder, besides that it is written at the back of the card: “This Card is treated as Nol Silver Card”. Customers can retain this card which will be valid for five years and there will be no need to replace it unless the customer wishes to do so” he said.
Al Mudhareeb continued: “In the meantime, RTA is keen to offer advanced and excellent services to public transport commuters in Dubai Emirate hailing from different backgrounds at world-class standards as part of its ceaseless efforts to attract more community members to use mass transit modes in the emirate.

Wide Reception for the Stations Opening

A number of key officials stated that the opening of the new stations will stimulate the economic and tourist movement in the Emirate and contribute to providing alternative transit modes. H.E. Hilal Saeed Al Marri, CEO of Dubai World Trade Center, stated the opening of several Dubai Metro stations, particularly the Dubai World Trade Center Station, “will contribute to transporting visitors of the exhibitions, conventions and various events hosted by the Dubai World Trade Center the year round. The metro will also actively contribute to alleviating congestion of Dubai city with the completion of other stations and phases”.

Al Marri expected that about 30% of visitors of events held Dubai World Trade Center, whose number is in excess of 1.2 million visitors p.a., would use Dubai Metro as it would ease the transit between from and to the event venues whether at Dubai International Convention Center or Dubai Airport Expo Center. It would also link them with several hotels, shopping malls and Dubai downtown areas; which attract visitors and tourists for tours or shopping purposes, he noted.
Al Marri hailed the vital role played by the RTA in constructing roads and bridges, and providing Dubai with the latest transit modes and facilities fitted to serve citizens, residents and visitors, and facilitating mobility across the city on various modes such the state-of-the-art electricity-powered Dubai Metro.
“Our existing cooperation with the RTA supports our efforts and contribute to realizing our overall objective of making Dubai a leading global destination in the filed of exhibitions, conventions and key events; which corresponds to the futuristic vision of HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, for Dubai.

Emirates Station

Ali Al Soori, Senior Vice President - Chairman's Office, Facilities/Projects Management at Emirates Group, welcomed the opening of Emirates Station, which provides a direct link with the Head Office of the Group through a bridge leading to the main lounge of the second floor of the building.
“Our employees have been waiting for long for the opening of this station; which will assist their mobility from their homes to the Head office of Emirates Group. The Metro will also be vital mode for those employees whose work requires shuttling between the Head Office and Dubai International Airport or other places across Dubai” he said.
Al Soori added: “Based on a previous survey, we expect our employees will uptake the metro in great numbers; which will reflect positively on the environment through cutting the number of vehicles they use”.

Dubai Internet City Station

Malek Al Malek, Managing Director, Dubai Internet City and Dubai Outsource Zone, said: “Dubai Internet City feel honoured that one of the Dubai Metro stations is to be named after Dubai Internet City. Dubai Internet City is a landmark destination in the UAE and the first among the TECOM Investments free zones. DIC is home to over 25,000 professionals who commute daily from across Dubai and other emirates in the UAE.
He added: “Dubai Internet City Station is located between the Sharaf DG and Nakeel Metro Stations. It will have a minimum of 5 retail outlets in addition to more facilities and services that are available in other metro stations. Feeder bus services named (F32A) will operate from the station to the DIC Community and other destinations in the neighborhood including Marina MS Seaside Mina Al Siyahi Hotel, Arenco Building, HSBC Building, DMC Building 14, Infotech DIC, Ten Sports Channel, Palladium DMC, TECOM MS Seaside, Schlumberger DIC, University of Wollongong Dubai (UOWD DIC), University of Exeter, DKV Conference Center, DKV Block3 and Dubai Properties.

Photo captions:
- Mattar Al Tayer
- Mohammed Al Mudharreb
- Emirates Station one of the new stations served by the Metro
- Dubai Metro ready for serving the new stations.

Emaar’s cautious approach to managing costs and commitment to delivery drives 2010 growth strategy

Emaar’s cautious approach to managing costs and commitment to delivery drives 2010 growth strategy

• Focus on ‘affordable luxury’ segment to meet needs of youthful population in Emaar’s key growth markets
• 12th AGM reiterates commitment to project delivery and business segmentation
• Emaar currently operates in 16 countries and has over 94 million sq ft of completed real estate development


Dubai, UAE; April 29, 2010: Emaar Properties PJSC, the global property developer, announced today at its 12th Annual General Meeting that its growth strategy for 2010 derives strength and momentum from the cautious approach followed by the company in managing costs and reducing reliance on debt capital markets during 2009, one of the challenging years for businesses globally.

At the 12th AGM of Emaar, the assembly approved the non-distribution of dividends for 2009 and to reinvest the profits for the sustained, long-term growth of the company. The assembly also approved the Directors’ Report, Auditor’s Report and financial statements, and appointed Ernst & Young as the Auditors for the year 2010. The assembly also approved the report of the Board of Directors on the activities and financial position of the company for the fiscal year 2009, the balance sheet and profit & loss account.

Addressing shareholders, Mr Mohamed Alabbar, Chairman, Emaar Properties, explained that Emaar’s achievements in 2009 are a mark of the company’s inherent strength and robust fundamentals. “At Emaar, we have always adopted a cautious approach to managing costs at the early stage. We have made concerted efforts to reduce our reliance on debt capital markets and have depended mostly on internal resources.”

He said: “During the most challenging year for businesses globally, we focused on the timely completion of existing projects in Dubai and other global markets through efficient resource optimization.”

Among the key growth strategies for Emaar is its focus on developing real estate projects in the mid-market, affordable housing segment across all the countries in which it operates. Mr Alabbar said this focus on the “affordable luxury” segment will be complemented by the company’s continued commitment to project delivery and business segmentation. “We understand the need to develop real estate targeting the needs of youth in our markets. Emaar will meet their lifestyle aspirations.”

The crowning accomplishment of Emaar was the opening of Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building. “This singular feat of architecture and engineering reminds us that dreams, when grounded on firm foundations, will result in world-class achievements,” said Mr Alabbar. “All our business segments recorded tangible growth in 2009, with malls and hospitality making strong contributions to our revenue stream. Continuing this growth momentum, we recently opened the world’s first Armani Hotel in Burj Khalifa.”

Emaar today operates in 16 countries and has over 94 million sq ft of completed real estate development. The company delivered approximately 3,100 units during 2009, and revenues from malls and hospitality businesses increased significantly.

In 2009, Emaar Properties recorded annual net profits from continued operations of AED 2.051 billion (US$ 558.5 million) and annual revenue of AED 8.413 billion (US$ 2.290 billion).

About Emaar Properties PJSC:
Emaar Properties PJSC, listed on the Dubai Financial Market, is a global property developer with a significant presence in key markets world-wide. Besides building residential and commercial properties, the company also has proven competencies in shopping malls & retail, hospitality & leisure, healthcare and financial services sectors.

Emaar inaugurated Burj Khalifa, the world's tallest building and free-standing structure, and has opened The Dubai Mall, the world’s largest shopping centre.

In Saudi Arabia, Emaar is developing King Abdullah Economic City, the region's largest private sector-led project in Saudi Arabia, featuring a Sea Port, Central Business District, Industrial Zone, Educational Zone, Residential Communities and Resort District.

Emaar has joined hands with Giorgio Armani to strengthen its presence in hospitality. For more information, visit www.emaar.com.

Ubora Towers collages, Business Bay,Dubai

KG Tower photos, Dubai Marina , 24/April/2010

KG Tower photos, Dubai Marina , 24/April/2010

Al Husn Marina photos, aka Lootah Complex photos, Dubai Marina , 24/April/2010

Marina Star construction photos, Dubai Marina , 24/April/2010

MAPEI completes project for distinctive luxury finish of Armani Hotel, Burj Khalifa

MAPEI completes project for distinctive luxury finish of Armani Hotel, Burj Khalifa

Customised combination of MAPEI products enable rapid completion of some of the highest quality flooring ever installed in the Middle East

April 29, 2010
MAPEI, global leader in the production of adhesives, sealants and chemical products for buildings, has announced that it has recently set a new benchmark in the Middle East with its pioneering contribution to work on the Burj Khalifa, particularly the Armani Hotel, regarded as one of the most stylish and luxurious hotels in the world. MAPEI revealed that it has developed a customised combination of products to ensure optimum quality in the finishes of Armani Hotel, which is located within the Burj Khalifa, the world's tallest building that was recently unveiled in Dubai.

Laith Haboubi, Business Development Director, IBS-MAPEI, said: "The Armani Hotel was easily the most challenging part of our scope of supply to the Burj Khalifa because MAPEI was making sure not only to supply quality materials , but to ensure that the style and aesthetic requirements of the contractors were achieved. Obviously, because of the highly demanding and delicate nature of the project, some of the work that was done had not been tried in the region before, which is why the project required a lot of specialised expertise. However, we were able to call on our considerable previous overseas experience, in particular of our Technical Assistance head office in Italy."

A lot of MAPEI’s products were specifically selected for the Armani Hotel in different areas, such as using one of Mapei’s high performance cementitious adhesives product for interior floor and wall coverings KERAFLEX, which is applied as an adhesive for all types of ceramic tiles and natural stone material providing a non-vertical slip property with extended open time, allowing a more forgiving application time. While for grouting to complete the full products range, Mapei supplied KERACOLOR FF, which is a high performance cementitious grout for joints up to 6 mm. while for wet areas were waterproofed using, MAPELASTIC, a two component flexible cementitious based system. In order to provide a perfectly smooth substrate with low moisture content below the pre-engineered wooden flooring, Mapei provided ULTRAPLAN and ULTRAPLAN MAXI a range of ultrafast hardening self-levelling cementitious smoothing compounds which can be applied at different thickness [up to 30 mm]

Haboubi added, “Performance and speed are two of Mapei's key attributes in some specialist products, we provided a low moisture content screed below sensitive flooring such as carpets and wood, MAPEI supplied MAPECEM PRONTO, which is a pre-blended screed, ready for subsequent moisture sensitive flooring application within 24 hrs. While an array of MAPEI tile & natural stones adhesives such as GRANIRAPID, KERAFLEX MAXI and KERAPOXY were used to complete the distinctive finishing in various areas on the Armani Hotel and Nightclub. For the hotel's wooden flooring installation, which is one of the highest quality pre-engineered wooden flooring ever installed in the Middle East, MAPEI used ULTRABOND P990 1K, a specially formulated single-component polyurethane adhesive with very low VOC emissions and which complies to stringent GEV Emicode standards as class EC1R and it also contribute to obtain LEED IEQ credit 4.1 (low emitting materials-adhesives and sealants)”.

"It is an important component of our business strategy to be part of prestigious, groundbreaking projects such as the Burj Khalifa and Armani Hotel. Our expertise and technology are perfect for such massive projects, but it is actually the prestige and the opportunity to demonstrate our leadership in this specialist category that are important to us," said Haboubi.

"Our scope of supply to Burj Khalifa and the Armani Hotel required us to meet stringent quality standards and keep up with a very tight project timetables. MAPEI products excel and perform consistently under such high-pressure situations, which is why our system has been a popular choice by both developers and installers of high-profile and prestigious development projects," added Haboubi.

MAPEI has also been involved in some of the most challenging construction projects in the region, including Al Yas Island developments, Atlantis Hotel on Palm Jumeirah, Abu Dhabi’s Emirates Palace Hotel, Burj Al Arab and Dubai International Airport’s Terminal 1, 2 and 3 just to name a few...

About Mapei

Founded in Milan in 1937, Mapei is today the world leader in the production of adhesives and complementary products for the installation of all types of floor and wall coverings. The company is also specialized in other chemical products for building: from water-proofing to special mortars, from admixtures for concrete to products for the restoration of ancient buildings.

Mapei Group’s production may be summarized as follows: previewed sales in 2009 are 1.7 billion euros and the total number of Mapei Group employees is 6100.

The Group now counts 63 subsidiaries with 56 production facilities in operation in the 5 continents in 25 countries.

Mapei’s UAE subsidiary is Innovative Building Solutions LLC (IBS-Mapei). As part of its long-term commitment to the Middle East, the company commenced production in February 2009, at its 40,000 square metre facility at Dubai Investments Park.

Armani Hotel Dubai opens in Burj Khalifa

Armani Hotel Dubai opens in Burj Khalifa


Dubai, UAE; April 29, 2010: Fashion maestro Giorgio Armani and Mr Mohamed Alabbar, Chairman, Emaar Properties PJSC, cut the ribbon to officially open the world’s first Armani Hotel in Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building on April 27, 2010. Located on floors concourse to 8 and levels 38 & 39 of Burj Khalifa, Armani Hotel Dubai has 160 guest rooms and suites, eight restaurants, exclusive retail outlets and a spa.

Armani Hotel Dubai’s opening will be followed by the launch of Armani Hotel Milano in Italy; Armani Resort in Marrakech, Morocco; and Armani Residences villas in Marassi, Egypt.

Goldcrest Views 2 interior photos,Jumeirah Lakes Towers,JLT,Dubai,20/April/2010

Goldcrest Views 2 gym photos,Jumeirah Lakes Towers,JLT,Dubai,20/April/2010