RTA Launches (Ferry without Chairs) Service to Promote Luxury of its Users

RTA Launches (Ferry without Chairs) Service to Promote Luxury of its Users

Roads and Transport Authority---Manal Khalid

The Public Transport Agency at the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) launched a new service for the ferry (Ferry without Chairs) or the (Floating Hall) which will contribute to enhancing maritime transport network in the Emirate of Dubai, which is considered one of the most important means of transport for its security and safety and entertainment to the public in accordance with the best international standards.

Mr. Hussain Khansaheb, Acting Director of Marine Transportation at the Public Transport agency: The Roads and Transport Authority attaches great importance to the maritime transport network in Dubai with the launch of a variety of enjoyable services that take the means of transport to another level and help attract the customers to either use it as a means of transportation or entertainment.
As a new service, the Roads and Transport Authority offered its users the option to remove the chairs of the " Dubai Ferry" boat to become like a floating hall, as it also upon demand can re-arrange the interior decoration in line with the desire of the user to be used for multiple purposes, such as a meeting hall or an Arab seating or round tables.
He added: the new service will be launched, which requires a reservation in advance from individuals, companies or hotels, from Al Ghubaiba Station or Marina Mall Station, as per the renter’s request, who is able to organize business meetings, weddings or any special occasions, especially that the Ferry can accommodate nearly 100 passengers , as well as the possibility of cooperation with any of the entities or companies involved in organizing this event for the purpose of providing them with tables and chairs, buffet and other supplies, with the possibility of having a distinguished Arab seating on the Ferry.

Khansaheb stressed that the main objective of this service is also to meet the needs of residents in Dubai and tourists and visitors by organizing their special occasions at the heart of the sea and at nominal prices compared to others, and navigate through the waves in order to spend a good time on board of the Ferry, noting that the process of booking the Ferry without chairs or the (Floating Hall) is through the Authority's Call Centre using the number 8009090.

It is worth noting that Dubai Ferry has been manufactured in an innovative way as the design is exceptional and attractive and gives the passenger a unique view on the facades of Dubai Maritime, in addition to high stability during sailing and that the boat is provided with additional services such as display screens and platforms to provide meals and refreshments also it contains toilets.

Moreover, this means of transport has been designed to accommodate users with special needs and supervised by an experienced crew with extensive global experience.

RTA Amends Public Buses Route to Feed Energy Metro Station

RTA Amends Public Buses Route to Feed Energy Metro Station


Roads and Transport Authority-Manal Khalid

The Public Transport Agency at the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) announced the modification of public busses route (F44) to feed Energy Metro Station which will be inaugurated the day after tomorrow on September 30th as a confirmation of the Authority's role in the integration of mass transport in the Emirate of Dubai and to strengthen it in line with the requirements of the customers.

Essa Al Hashemi, Acting Director of Planning and Business Development at the Authority said the new route which was named (F44) will start from the Energy Metro Station to Jebel Ali Hotel Residence (2), then Jebel Ali Church to the Al Muntazah Area, then to Jebel Ali Hotel Residence (1) passing by Jebel Ali Gardens area juncture (1) which includes several parking for the route starting with the number (1 to 12) reaching Ibn Battuta Center, Chinese Corner (3) then Ibn Battuta Metro Station.


He added: regarding time schedule of route (F44) from Energy Metro Station to Ibn Battuta Station, it will be operational daily as follows: From Sunday to Thursday from 5:41 am until nine in the morning at a rate of 20 minutes per trip, and from 9:00 am to noon trips will continue every 25 minutes, and from noon and until four in the afternoon of 25 minutes per trip, and from 4:00 pm to 9:oo pm trips will be every 25 minutes, The final trip will continue from 9:oo pm until 01:19 of the next morning at the rate of every 35 minutes.

Buses time schedule of buses from Energy Metro Station to Ibn Battuta Station on Friday will start at 6:45 am, trips will be every 30 minutes till 9:00 am, and from 9:00 am until 12:00pm, the trips will be every 30 minutes, and from 12:00 pm until 4:00 pm, trips every 30 minutes., and from 4:00pm until 9:00pm, and the trips will be launched every 15 minutes. While the last trips will start at 9:00 pm till 01:13 am of the following day, trips will be every 20 minutes.

The working hours of the Route on Saturday will be as follows: the first trip will start at 5:45 am till 9:00 am, trips will be every 20 minutes, and from 9:00 am until 12:00 pm (noon), trips will be every 25 minutes, and from 12:00 pm (noon) until 4:00 pm every 30 minutes, and from 4:00 pm until 9:00 pm, every 20 minutes. The last trips will be from 9:00 pm until midnight through buses every 30 minutes.

Al Hashemi stressed on the Roads and Transport Authority’s keenness on expanding and developing the network of public buses and the constant efforts to enhance it to become more integrated with other means of transit that include the Metro as well as the marine means of transport represented by the Water Bus and Taxi in a mechanism to make these modern means the ideal choice of transport in the Emirate of Dubai.

RTA Partners with Etisalat and du to Launch ‘Smart NOL’ service

RTA Partners with Etisalat and du to Launch ‘Smart NOL’ service

RTA – Nashwan Atta’ee

The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) today announced its partnership with Etisalat & du to launch its first ‘Smart Nol’ Service for Dubai commuters utilizing public transport. Smart NOL enables smoother travel and accessibility via NFC (Near Field Communication) enabled mobile phones.

“We are providing this service for NFC enabled mobile phone user via a special SIM card to use NOL services for public transport and in future for micropayments in UAE. Customers will have similar experience to NOL cards and there is no major change in using it. Currently we have more than 6 million NOL cards and we are expecting good adaptation from our customer base since UAE has a good number of NFC enabled handsets.” said Abdulla Ali Al Madani, CEO of RTA CTSS.
“By virtue of this pivotal service, you can use your NFC phone to check in and check out at the metro stations, public bus and water bus as well as reload and check your Nol balance” added Al Madani.
“RTA always endeavors to harness the latest technology so as to introduce to the public whatever makes their daily commute via public transport modes safe, smooth, enjoyable and assist them to reach their varied destinations in the nick of time,” he continued.

Commuters can utilize RTA’s Smart NOL technology by placing their mobile devices against the card readers at the passing gates of the metro stations, or validator devices onboard public buses and water buses. Smart NOL can be used to pay for daily trips via certified NFC enabled devices. Public Transport users can subscribe to the Smart NOL service through Etisalat & Du outlets and know what devices and model are compatible with the NFC service.

Khaled El Khouly, Chief Marketing Officer, Etisalat, said: “The launch of the latest NFC technology solution will be the beginning of a new era on how we empower our customers as well as service providers in the country. This will not only revolutionize the travel industry but also enhance service levels for consumers providing innovative solutions and products.”
“The partnership with RTA is in line with our long term strategy to support mGovernment and initiatives raising the profile of the country as well as impacting the lives of the people of UAE,” he added.

Fahad Al Hassawi, Chief Commercial Officer, du, said: “We believe that our role goes beyond providing telecom services to be a catalyst for society’s advancement, through our involvement in projects such as this which revolutionize the public transport experience and support the ‘Smart Government’ vision. Our collaboration with the RTA to launch NFC is in line with our ongoing commitment to innovation and enhancing customer experience. This ground-breaking new payment system will make travelling across Dubai even more easy and convenient than ever before, and we are proud to be part of it.”

“Our relationship with the RTA is long standing and we proud that we are providing Wi-Fi across all metro stations and onboard, since 2010 we have ensured that commuters enjoy world-class broadband services on-the-move. ” Al Hassawi added.
The NFC SIM cards will be available at Etisalat and du business centers from Sunday, 29th September 2013. Customers can contact their telecom service provider or RTA contact center 800 9090 for more information.

RTA to host Dubai International Projects Management Forum in Sept 2014

RTA to host Dubai International Projects Management Forum in Sept 2014

The event is held in cooperation with DEWA, Emaar

Dubai - The Roads and Transport Authority:

The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) announces the hosting of the Dubai International Projects Management Forum in cooperation with the Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) and Emaar Properties in September 2014. The event is set to feature a wide participation of an array of international experts of the industry; which is shaping up as a cornerstone of development strategies and modern management science as it has a considerable impact in terms of identifying the frameworks and parameters essential for the success of development efforts in various fields.

H.E. Mattar Al Tayer, Chairman of the Board and Executive Director of the RTA, said: “This initiative stems out of the keenness of Dubai to play a pivotal role in leading the development drive across the region, and establishing the essential ingredients for leveraging the industry based on sound scientific bases aligned with the highest standards and practices. This objective can best be served through attracting an elite bunch of top-class senior experts with wide international repute to international gatherings that can be capitalized on to act as effective platforms for knowledge transfer. It is also a testament to Dubai’s commitment to act as a communication channel contributing to the transfer of expertise & sharing of visions between gurus of various industries across the globe based on its billing as an Arab city with a global orientation.

“The Forum aims to cast light on Dubai as a leading city in Projects Management industry as its success in this field is epitomized in adopting top-notch international standards to a series of mega projects that have commanded the global attention such as Burj Khalifa, Dubai Metro, airport projects and giant ports with massive operational efficiency,” explained Al Tayer.
Detailing the contents of the Forum, Al Tayer said: “The Forum will focus on the vital role of projects management in managing and streamlining the business process in public and private entities. The projects management concepts are being applied as a modern style of managing organizations to realize their visions and objectives at the strategic or operational levels through a multi-level matrix of projects management starting from the mechanisms of managing project portfolios for selecting the most suitable projects for realizing the strategic objectives. It also covers managing the program to ensure full coordination between various projects towards realizing the common objectives set for those projects, and applying projects management methods conforming to the approved plan, time and budget limits set.

“Public and private organizations apply projects management in various business fields, particularly when it comes to translating their long-term strategic plans into projects undertaken on the ground to achieve the strategic and operational objectives. The Forum will not only focus on projects management in engineering and technological capacities, but will also shed light on other non-traditional sectors such as sport, media, film-making among others.

“The Forum will touch on a number of key aspects including maximizing the benefit from government investment in infrastructure projects, the link between corporate development projects and corporate strategic plans, highlighting the role of projects management offices in government entities, planning and following-up government projects & electronic systems applied in this field, and the importance of partnering with the private sector in undertaking mega projects,” elaborated Al Tayer.
Concluding his remarks, RTA Chairman of the Board and Executive Director said: “The Forum will target a global audience comprising of public entities and organizations, semi-government companies engaged in development projects, projects management companies, consultants and contractors as well as university professors & students and research institutes. Events of the Forum will feature main lectures, seminars and the delivery of work papers.”

Mohammed Al Abbar, Chairman of Emaar Properties, said: “Dubai has become a focal point for the entire world, thanks to its cutting-edge achievements in developing unprecedented landmark projects based on top quality and excellence standards of project management. Emaar has a wealth of experience in this field which is epitomized in developing mega global projects such as Burj Khalifa and the Dubai Mall.

“In this regard, it gives us honour to team up with the RTA and DEWA in hosting the Dubai International Projects management Forum and we are fully confident that this key event will have a vital contribution to showcasing the solid standing of Dubai as a leading international hub for projects management,” continued Al Abbar.

Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, Managing Director and CEO of DEWA, said: “The staging of this Forum and our effective engagement in the event is part of our endeavours to materialize the aspirations of our prudent leadership in fostering international events capable of boosting the profile and image of Dubai Emirate in the world stage, and showcasing the achievements made in projects management field. It also echoes the achievements made by Dubai on the ground in planning and constructing massive infrastructure projects as well as service & real estate projects. DEWA has therefore been keen on holding this event through lending all support needed by the RTA in preparing and organizing the event to ensure realization of its objectives and turning it into an extravaganza befitting the Dubai Emirate.

“The importance of this Forum stems from the very nature of topics reviewing the best global practices of projects management and opening windows of discussions, research and development with a view to coming up with the best solutions matching to the challenges confronting the implementation of various projects. The gathering will feature the participation of prominent global experts hailing from America, Asia, and Australia, and the presence of more than 30 experts who will discuss their practices, experiences and models.

“DEWA will have an active role in enriching the Forum with a host of experts and successful models in this field in the form of speakers, and presenting projects such as the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park at Al Qouz as models to be emulated.
“In the context of the strategic partnership of DEWA with the RTA, the participation of DEWA will be practical and effective through providing successful models and experiences for all events of the Forum, be it seminars, workshops or an accompanying showcase.

“Furthermore, a bunch of DEWA experts will present work papers about projects management and the best projects management practices adopted by DEWA; which have commanded a global recognition in several international events,” said the Managing Director and CEO of DEWA in a concluding remark.

Captions:
- Mattar Al Tayer
- Saeed Al Tayer
- Mohammed Al Abbar
- Logo of the Dubai International Projects management Forum

$49 billion GCC concrete market sees demand for optimisation & sustainable practices

$49 billion GCC concrete market sees demand for optimisation & sustainable practices

Middle East Concrete 2013 to focus on concrete application efficiency

Dubai, UAE. 18 September 2013: There is more than $49 billion of demand for concrete forecast within the GCC over the next two years. As such, the industry is keen to stay ahead of the trends with a prominent drive to ensure that concrete is more energy and cost efficient, as well as increase its contribution to the sustainability of buildings and infrastructure, meeting demand with innovative, long-term solutions.

Leading the projected regional demand is Saudi Arabia, with more than $30.5b of concrete forecast to be needed through 2014 and 2015. The UAE follows, but with less of a requirement at $4b – a result of the country’s further advanced infrastructure development. The GCC construction sector as a whole shows no signs of slowing down over the coming years; demand for concrete will follow a similar path, with Qatar and Kuwait also representing big business for the sector.

With this in mind, and with sustainable construction continuing to dominate industry debate, the concrete sector is working to understand its role in furthering this innovation and how concrete technologies can contribute to more sustainable building practices, whilst at the same time keeping pace with demand. This is strongly reflected in the educational content at this year’s Middle East Concrete (MEC), as concrete professionals come together to share challenges and solutions for the most effective, efficient and sustainable applications.

The free-to-attend seminar theatre will host a range of industry professionals, discussing some of the latest, leading solutions from across the market, with companies including Grace Construction Products, Elematic, Fosroc and FADOX Group taking part. Seminar topics will include Enhancing performance and durability of concrete structures through the use of construction chemicals; New applications of lightweight cellular concrete; and Glassfibre reinforced concrete (GRC) - a green building material.

In addition, there will be a full day workshop onsite focusing on Asset Maintenance; delivered by international speakers the workshop will provide delegates with all the tools and knowledge necessary to maximise the lifespan of all concrete based structures, either during the design and construction phase or during ongoing management of the facility.

Laith Haboubi, commercial director, Middle East and India at Grace Construction Products, who will be presenting a range of solutions during the technical seminars commented: “Middle East Concrete provides a perfect platform to share and showcase advances in concrete technology to the region’s concrete stakeholders, such as engineers and architects, many of whom may not have had the opportunity previously to have experience with such systems as macro-fibre reinforcement and the latest in pre-applied waterproofing systems.”

Nathan Waugh, event director, Middle East Concrete, added; “Now in its third year, MEC continues to respond to visitor demand by expanding its educational programme. More companies than ever are coming forward to present their own findings and research on best practice solutions for a variety of issues including sustainability, maintenance, and new technologies. ”

Taking place from 25-28 November at Dubai World Trade Centre, the event will also host a range of live product demonstrations, situated on the central concourse, as well as the International Concrete Sustainability Conference, in partnership with the National Ready Mixed Concrete Association (NRMCA) and Grey Matters Consultancy, which will bring a number of regional and international experts to discuss trends and challenges, including green building codes, high performance concrete applications, and recycled and alternative materials.

Ihab Bassiouni, UAE country manager, Grey Matters said, “As demand increases, so does competition, and it is important that the industry keeps ahead of the latest trends and developments. The International Concrete Sustainability Conference will bring together experts to discuss industry challenges and solutions with access to information and research that can help further drive the quality and efficiency of the concrete industry across the region.”

MEC provides a unique platform for the industry to take advantage of the opportunities available within the region; it will take place alongside the region’s largest event for the building and construction industry, The Big 5, and PMV Live, a dedicated platform for plant, machinery and vehicles.


About dmg events
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As a leading supplier of face-to-face business information, with a customer-centric focus that localizes operations and relationships, our objectives are to keep businesses informed and connect them with relevant consumers to create vibrant marketplaces across multiple event platforms and communities.
Founded in 1989, dmg events has operated in the Middle East since 1995 and owns many leading brands such as The Big 5 construction events, ADIPEC the oil & gas exhibition and conference, INDEX the interior design exhibition and The Hotel Show. For more information visit www.dmgeventsme.com
dmg events is a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Daily Mail and General Trust plc (DMGT, www.dmgt.co.uk), one of the largest media companies in the United Kingdom.

(Energy) Station on the Red Line of Dubai Metro Starts this Month

(Energy) Station on the Red Line of Dubai Metro Starts this Month

Roads and Transport Authority - Majdi Abu Zaid:

Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) announced its plan to operate a new metro station under the name (Energy) on the red line of Dubai Metro which will start from Jebel Ali and ends in Al Rashidiya area, the station will use Dubal and the surrounding areas.
Mr. Mohammed Yousef Al Mudharreb, director of Rail Operation at RTA’s Rail Agency said: Energy Station located on the red line will start on the 30th of the current month of September with the expected number of passengers benefiting from using the station will be more than 2500 on a daily basis, and the prospects of acquiring additional income for the Authority by renting retail stores, ATM locations, and by selling rights of the station’s name, as well as the opening of the station will contribute to the improvement of services provided to the customers.

He added: A plan has been set which guarantees the provision of bus services from and to the Station and its surrounding areas, which will contribute in encouraging the public to use the Station according to their needs and demands and urge them to use mass transportation, stressing that the stations that have been established for the Dubai Metro service were designed in accordance with the highest international standards in line with the project, which is considered one of the most distinctive marks in Dubai's civilized march on its land, and the Metro, since its inception on 9/9/2009, proved its status for the Emirate’s residents and visitors as an effective means of mass transit system, which Dubai allocates greatest attention to be on the high level of quality, as well as the Metro stations have granted companies the opportunity to market and interact with dealers.

Al Mathrab said: The operating of the Energy Station will be a new addition for the Metro project that will cover the needs of the public in Dubal and the surrounding areas,
He added: There are changes that will take place in terms of the Dubai Metro’s schedule to cope with the expected increase in the number of passengers in the coming period of time, the schedule of the red line will be changed where the peak hour will start at 6:30am instead of 7:00 am during the days of the week. In the addition the tabulator headway times will be adjusted on Saturdays in the peak morning and evening hours to 6 minutes, while on Fridays, the tabulator headway times will be adjusted to 6 minutes from 5:00pm to 10:00pm.

While concerning the Green Line, the train’s schedule of the peak hours will be adjusted from 07:00 am to 09:30 am, with tabulator headway of 6 minutes, from 05:30 pm to 07:00 pm, in 6-minute tabulator headway as well.

UAE to jump 2% in global built asset rankings, rising to 23rd position, says Flash Properties

UAE to jump 2% in global built asset rankings, rising to 23rd position, says Flash Properties

With built asset wealth of US$122,809 per person, UAE stands 12th in global rankings, reveals the Cityscape Global participant

Dubai, UAE, 21 September 2013: Along with Singapore and Brazil, the UAE is expected to be the highest climber over the coming decade as its built asset wealth is expected to grow by 2 per cent, moving the country up two places to 23rd in the global rankings.

This was revealed by Flash Properties, a leading regional real estate company, based on recent findings of the Global Built Asset Wealth Index, which quantifies the accumulated wealth of 30 countries’ built assets and is conducted by EC Harris in conjunction with the Centre for Economic and Business Research.

According to this Index, when it comes to built asset wealth per person, the UAE comes 12th in the global rankings, with an estimated built asset wealth of US$122,809 per person, while Saudi Arabia is in the 15th place with US$72,861.

The rankings were highlighted on the sidelines of the announcement by Flash Properties of its high-profile participation in Cityscape Global, the Middle East's largest and most influential international real estate event, taking place from 8-10 October 2013 at the Dubai World Trade Centre.

Tanzeel Gader, CEO, Flash Properties said: “The recent findings of Global Built Asset Wealth Index by analyzing the accumulated wealth of 30 countries’ built assets – encompassing all the property and infrastructure that contributes to economic productivity – is a true indicator of the great potential of the UAE’s real estate market. The country is investing aggressively in its built environment and this opens the door wide for more sustained growth of the real estate market.”

Gader added: “With more than AED 5.5 billion worth of transactions recorded by the current Dubai real estate market, is appears that 2013 will be the year of revival for real estate industry, on the back of renewed confidence of global and regional investors.”

Gader said that Flash Properties will display projects that are generating significant interest from investors and consolidating the UAE real estate market’s standing as one of the dominant players globally.

A firm with over 100 employees, Flash Properties is a well established real estate company based in Dubai. The company provides a wide range of real estate strategies and solutions in freehold, residential and commercial sector across the UAE.

Gader pointed out that the legal and regulatory authorities in Dubai were playing a phenomenal role in the growth of the real estate sector by coming up with rules and policies in sync with global practices and benchmarks.

Gader added: “Flash Properties is a full-fledged RERA compliant broker. Our rapid growth and success has made us as one of the leading brokers in Dubai real estate market. We strive to build long-term relationship with our clients based on strong principles of trust, respect and integrity.”

He added: “We strive to build long-term relationship with our clients based on strong principles of trust, respect and integrity. We are committed to deliver quality service, professionalism and optimized services that are cost-effective and efficient. Consequently, we empower our team with the necessary training to deliver excellent customer care ensuring total transparency at all times.”

JA RESORTS & HOTELS LAUNCHES TRAVEL ADVICE INITIATIVE AS FIRST PHASE OF PROPERTY TRAINING PROGRAMME – NEXT PHASE TO TARGET KSA MARKET

JA RESORTS & HOTELS LAUNCHES TRAVEL ADVICE INITIATIVE AS FIRST PHASE OF PROPERTY TRAINING PROGRAMME – NEXT PHASE TO TARGET KSA MARKET

DUBAI HOTEL GROUP TRAINS HUNDERDS OF UK TOUR OPERATORS ONLINE



Dubai, September 17 – JA Resorts & Hotels today completed the first phase of its new online training programme, which was targeted towards UK tour and travel professionals operating in the UAE leisure market.
Following a number of improvements to its individual properties, the initiative was created to ensure its travel trade partners are up to date with the numerous and extensive property upgrades, allowing them to communicate these improvements to their clients in a clear, concise and confident manner. Agents are also informed about current JA Group promotions.

More than 250 UK-based tour operators and travel agents have completed the programme, as the Dubai-based hotel chain targeted the UK’s outbound leisure market ahead of the European winter season which starts on 1st October.

“With the winter months nearly upon us, we decided now was the right time to target the United Kingdom, which is one of our top European markets. According to the Dubai Government’s Department of Trade and Commerce Marketing (DTCM), British visitor numbers in the second quarter of 2013 were up 8% year-on-year to 185,000,” said Anabela Radosevic, Director of Sales & Marketing, JA Resorts & Hotels.

Travel agents can also complete the programme module by module, with each segment covering a different property. Modules can be completed over a period of time at the user’s own pace and travel trade rates are also embedded within the programme.
“This empowers agents to become JA ambassadors, secure in the knowledge that any changes to our properties, or their rates, can be uploaded to the programme.” added Radosevic.

Travel trade professionals in Saudi Arabia will be the focus of the next phase of the training programme, followed closely by the rest of the GCC over the coming weeks ahead of the Eid Al Adha holiday and for good reason.
According to VISA’s latest outlook on the UAE, Saudi’s spent $420 million on their VISA cards in the UAE alone last year, an increase of 28% compared with 2012. If further evidence were needed, the DTCM has revealed that 710,000 Saudis travelled to Dubai, during the first two quarters of 2013, a year-on-year growth rate of 31%.

“Contracted travel agents are our business partners and we should never forget that our guests are their clients too. As a partnership, we both have a vested interest to ensure that guests receive a quality experience, one which they would like to repeat,” added Radosevic.

JA Resorts & Hotels is a diverse company encompassing a five-star all inclusive beach resort, deluxe hotel apartments, a mountain retreat, a dining cruise vessel and Dubai’s latest four-star beachfront property.
Visit www.discover-ja.com to find out more about JA’s unique training programme.


Notes
JA Resorts & Hotels is an international hospitality company based in Dubai, with over 30 years’ experience in managing and operating resorts and hotels. Its present portfolio includes the all-suite five-star JA Palm Tree Court and four-star JA Jebel Ali Beach Hotel within the award-winning JA Jebel Ali Golf Resort. On ‘The Walk’ in Dubai Marina is the four-star JA Ocean View Hotel and the deluxe hotel apartments of JA Oasis Beach Tower.
For high resolution images please visit: http://www.jaresortshotels.com/image_library

Trade Center Bridges Project nearing completion: RTA

Trade Center Bridges Project nearing completion: RTA

The project is set for opening next November

The Roads & Transport Authority – Mohammed Al Munji:
The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) announced that the company is putting the final touches to the project which is slated for opening for traffic in the second half of November this year. Completion rate in the project, which has a cost tag of 719.37 million dirham, has exceeded 90% and works have been completed in most intersecting main roads such as the Sheikh Zayed Road, Sheikh Rashid Road and Zabeel 2 Road.

The Trade Center Bridges Project is by far the largest phase of the Parallel Roads Project; which is one of the biggest road projects currently undertaken by the RTA aimed at linking the Western Parallel Road with the Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Road and Street 312 passing by the World Trade Center. The Project also serves the traffic in the opposite direction of Street 312 passing by the Trade Center heading towards Al Maktoum and Al Garhoud Bridges as well as the Dubai–Al Ain Road. It also includes improvements in signalized junctions at the Trade Center in addition to infrastructure and lighting works.

Mattar Al Tayer, Chairman of the Board and Executive Director of the RTA, said: “The project encompasses the construction of 22 bridges of precast concrete units forming a corridor spanning 4250 meters comprising two lanes in each direction together with a concrete ramp extending 120 meters added to serve the traffic outbound to Al Maktoum Bridge.”

“The RTA has accomplished key phases of the Parallel Roads Project, the last of which was the opening of vital sectors of the Improvement of the Parallel Roads Project at JAFZA South, extending from the northern part of the road leading to Al Houdh R/A up to the 10th Interchange on the Sheikh Zayed Road. Project works completed also included improvement of the Eastern & Western Parallel Roads in both directions within Jebel Ali Industrial Area, and JAFZA South, through constructing six bridges and four footbridges to ease the pressure on Sheikh Zayed Rd, and the Industrial Area, besides establishing a link between the investment and economic zones of the Dubai World’s projects, connecting them with the surrounding roads, besides linking Jebel Ali Port with Al Maktoum International Airport, and providing a road leading to the Expo Road of JAFZA. Last May, the RTA opened the service road leading to the Expo Road, and last December it opened a lane linking Al Maktoum Airport with JAFZA South. It has also opened 12 light signals on the Parallel Roads Project at the Business Bay; linking Sheikh Zayed Rd, Al Khail Rd and the Business Bay district, and offering a smooth traffic flow in Emaar and Business Bay districts through the Eastern and Western Parallel Roads,” elaborated Al Tayer.

It is worth-mentioning that in September 2011 the RTA opened Phase III of the Parallel Roads Project serving sprawling urban developments in areas such as Jebel Ali Racecourse, Emirates Hills, Springs, Meadows, Jumeirah Islands and Jumeirah Park. The Road, which extends about 20 km, constitutes 14% of the total Parallel Roads Project, and comprises 3 to 4 lanes in each direction as well as 6 bridges and 3 underpasses crossing the eastern and western roads. The RTA had earlier opened Phase I of the Parallel Roads Project including the construction of roads at Al Barsha, and Al Qouz Industrial & Residential Areas extending from Hessa Road to the south up to Meydan Road to the north in a sector extending 15 km in the Eastern Parallel Road and 18 km in the Western Parallel Road, comprising three lanes in each direction. The roads intersect several arterial & express roads such as Umm Suqeim Road, Latifa bit Hamdan Road in addition to arterial & local roads, including 25 signalized junctions. Work is up and running in Phase III at Jumeirah Lakes Towers where completion rate has exceeded 75 per cent, and construction works in the project which costs 450 million dirham are set for full completion by the end of this year.

Captions
- Mattar Al Tayer
- Trade Center Bridges nearing completion

50% of building sold as investors splash out at pre-launch presentation of Burj Pacific development in Downtown Dubai

50% of building sold as investors splash out at pre-launch presentation of Burj Pacific development in Downtown Dubai

Over AED100 million invested in Burj Pacific


Dubai-based real estate specialist Sherwoods and property development company Pacific Ventures, which concluded a pre-launch presentation for local, regional and international investors in Dubai yesterday, have recorded sales of over AED100 million as investors, bought-in to the latest high quality development in the Downtown Dubai area – Burj Pacific.

Just over half of the 140 apartments in the development, have now been sold, ahead of the general sales release today (Monday 16 September). Sales were steady over the weekend with up to 500 investors over the two-day showcase.

“The sales figures prove that confidence has indeed returned to the Dubai property market,” said Sherwoods Founder and CEO Iseeb Rehman

“It is a quality development located in a sought after location. With prices starting at just over one million Dirhams for a one-bedroom apartment, Burj Pacific represents excellent value for money,” added Rehman.

In terms of investor profile according to Rehman, it was a cross-section of local and overseas buyers, including Asians, Arabs and Europeans. Rehman also estimated that 70% of the visitors were investors looking for buy-to-let opportunities with the remaining 30% being end users.

According to Rehman, the payment plan was also key. “The initial booking deposit is 15%, plus an additional 35% during the two-year construction period with 50% balance due upon completion in the second quarter 2016,” he said.

Indian celebrity Sohail Khan, the popular Bollywood actor and TV personality, gave the Sherwoods’ sales team a pleasant surprise, when he confirmed the purchase of several apartments, on a single floor.

“This is a family investment,” he said. “These apartments will make ideal homes when we all travel to Dubai,” he added.


Situated less than 500 metres from Burj Khalifa, the twenty-storey tower comprises of 140 one, two and three-bedroom apartments and three-bedroom duplexes. More than 60% of the apartments have a view of the iconic Burj Khalifa, due to its distinctive ‘L’ shaped design.

The eight floors that make up the ‘Signature Residences’ feature fully-furnished, exclusive contemporary interiors by Tony Ashai. The California-based award-winning architect is no stranger to the UAE, having worked on innovative projects such as Dubai Lifestyle City, Shah Rukh Khan Boulevard in Ras Al Khamiah and the Santori Resorts.

“The theme of this project is ‘Celebrate Life’ and judging by the response from investors, that is exactly what they intend to do at Burj Pacific.” said Parvez Khan, Chairman of Pacific Ventures the developer of Burj Pacific.

Another celebrity, Dubai-based TV personality, entrepreneur and fashion icon Uma Ghosh Deshpande, was also at the pre-launch as the official brand ambassador for the Burj Pacific.

“This development is genuine quality from the design, to the materials, to the finishing. I am happy to associate my name with the Burj Pacific,” she said.

The Burj Pacific was designed by architects H-AO which was founded by Manoj H. Rathod, who is working experience in Dubai encompasses a number of outstanding projects including the Marriott Marquis and the Grosvenor House hotel Dubai.

“To acquire an endorsement from such a high profile personality as Uma is praise indeed. It also highlights her confidence in the quality of this project, given the track record of Pacific Ventures and the combined talents of Manoj H. Rathod and Tony Ashai,” added Khan.

For more information, please call Sherwoods Properties on 04 432 8221



Photo caption 1: Burj Pacific, the latest high-end development in the Downtown Dubai area which is due for completion in 2016.

Photo caption 2: (L to R), Parvez Khan, Uma Ghosh Deshpande and Sohail Khan at the Burj Pacific pre launch in the Address Hotel Dubai Mall.


About Sherwoods:

Originally founded in the United Kingdom in 1988, Sherwoods have been established for nearly 25 years. As the market has grown and become more demanding, we have expanded our range of services in response. Through our extensive International network of associates, Sherwoods can ensure you are offered the best value and quality property investments. We have established lasting partnerships with some of the World's most respected property developers.

While announcing its participation in Cityscape Global 2013: Omniyat to bring in two international premium hotel brands and launch three mega service apartments projects

While announcing its participation in Cityscape Global 2013: Omniyat to bring in two international premium hotel brands and launch three mega service apartments projects

Mahdi Amjad: “With 2.9 million Ft2 completed projects and over 7.3 million Ft2 projects planned or under construction, Omniyat is one of the largest developers in the Burj District”

Dubai, UAE, 14 September 2013: Omniyat, a leading developer in the Middle East, is bringing on two international, premium hotel brands to Dubai before the year ends. Moreover, the company is launching three mega service apartments projects in the Emirate during the same period.

This announcement was made at the sidelines of announcing the company’s key participation at Cityscape Global, the Middle East's largest and most influential international real estate event taking place from 8-10 October 2013 at the Dubai World Trade Centre.

Talking about Omniyat’s investment into hospitality, Mahdi Amjad, Omniyat's Executive Chairman and CEO said: “the UAE’s economic growth has increased confidence in the hospitality sector, and Dubai’s government initiative to attract 20 million tourists by 2020 and its increasing investment in tourist attractions with the increasing occupancy of current hotels have motivated the company to further invest into hospitality.”

Amjad added: “Our participation at Cityscape Global this year will bring a number of firsts for Omniyat and Dubai. We take pride on bringing two international premium hotel brands to the region as well as launching three mega service apartments projects. As a dynamic real estate company, we felt the need to invest in the rapidly growing hospitality sector in Dubai. We think that these two premium hotel brands will bring added value to the hospitality and more significantly real estate industries in Dubai.”

With a portfolio of 15 plots in the Burj district, 2.9 million Ft2 of completed projects, and over 7.3 million Ft2 projects planned or under construction, Omniyat is one of the largest developers in the Burj District.

Omniyat’s new hotels to be showcased in the three days of the show are based in Burj Khalifa District .

Amjad said that this world class district is the right location for new projects and is in keeping with the growing demand of business travelers, it boasts a robust infrastructure and is increasingly becoming the centre of business activity in Dubai.

Amjad added: “We work with partners who resonate Omniyat’s core values of individuality, style, sophistication and innovation and most importantly high ROIs for our investors and customers. We are gearing up for the growing demand and expanding in the region as well as hiring and growing the team.”

Omniyat’s approach is to engage with leading partners, including hotel operators, anchor tenants, retailers, franchises, architects and contractors to maximize the value and desirability of its real estate offerings.

Investors invited to pre-launch presentation of Burj Pacific development in Downtown Dubai this weekend

Upscale apartments go on sale Downtown

Investors invited to pre-launch presentation of Burj Pacific development in Downtown Dubai this weekend

Dubai-based real estate specialist Sherwoods Properties is holding a pre-launch presentation at the Address Hotel Downtown Dubai, for local, regional and international investors this weekend, (Saturday 14 & Sunday 15 September), showcasing the latest high-end development in the Downtown Dubai area – Burj Pacific.

Situated less than 500 metres from Burj Khalifa, the twenty-storey tower comprises of 140 one, two and three-bedroom apartments and three-bedroom duplexes. More than 60% of the apartments have a view of the iconic Burj Khalifa, due to its distinctive ‘L’ shaped design.

The eight floors that make up the ‘Signature Residences’ feature fully-furnished, exclusive contemporary interiors by Tony Ashai. The California-based award-winning architect is no stranger to the UAE, having worked on innovative projects such as Dubai Lifestyle City, Shah Rukh Khan Boulevard in Ras Al Khamiah and the Santori Resorts.

Sherwoods CEO Iseeb Rehman remarked, “This a high quality development and with prices starting at just over one million Dirhams for a one-bedroom apartment, Burj Pacific offers exceptional value for money, particularly when one remembers that it is located in the most sought after residential and business district in the region.

“We are also offering a very attractive payment plan. After an initial booking deposit of 15%, an additional 35% is spread out over the construction period and the remaining 50% balance is due upon completion of the project, which is scheduled for the second quarter 2016,” he added.

The Burj Pacific was designed by architects H-AO which was founded by Manoj H. Rathod, who’s working experience in Dubai encompasses a number of outstanding projects including the Marriott Marquis and the Grosvenor House hotel Dubai.

“Our bespoke, architect designed interiors are fashioned to attract the most discerning investors. The theme of this project is ‘Celebrate Life’ which is precisely what Burj Pacific represents,” said Parvez Khan, Chairman of Pacific Ventures the developer of Burj Pacific.

For more information, please call Sherwoods Properties on 04 432 8221


Photo caption: Burj Pacific, the latest high-end development in the Downtown Dubai area which is due for completion in 2016.


About Sherwoods:

Originally founded in the United Kingdom in 1988, Sherwoods have been established for nearly 25 years. As the market has grown and become more demanding, we have expanded our range of services in response. Through our extensive International network of associates, Sherwoods can ensure you are offered the best value and quality property investments. We have established lasting partnerships with some of the World's most respected property developers.

RTA signs Dubai Tram operation contract with Serco

RTA signs Dubai Tram operation contract with Serco

The contract extends 75 months, worth AED 105 million

Dubai- Roads & Transport Authority – Nashwan Atta’ee:
The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) signed yesterday a contract for the operation system of the Dubai Tram with the British Serco Company for a period of 75 months starting August 2013, including 15 months preparations for operation; covering the recruitment & training of employees in addition to 5 years of operation, and the total worth of the contract is AED105 million. The project contractor (Alstom-Besix consortium) will take on the maintenance of the project for 13 years and can be extended for additional 5 years.

The Agreement was signed for the RTA by H.E. Mattar Al Tayer, Chairman of the Board and Executive Director of the RTA and for Serco by H.E. David Campbell, CEO of Serco for Africa, Middle East, Asia and Australia in the presence of Abdul Mohsin Ibrahim CEO of Strategy & Corporate Governance Sector, Abdullah Al Madani CEO of Corporate Technical Support Services Sector and Abdullah Yousef Al Ali Acting CEO of Rail Agency as well as Zafar Raja CEO of Serco Middle East.
Al Tayer reaffirmed RTA’s unremitting commitment to effectively contribute to boosting the profile of Dubai as a modern metropolis that has all the ingredients of advancement and modernity, which includes deploying state-of-the-art mass transit means to make this vibrant city one of the fastest growing global cities at all fields and by all measurements.
“Serco has been selected for the operation of the Dubai Tram system following a tender put out by the RTA for which a bunch of world-class companies specialized in rail operation & maintenance have taken part.

Following the assessment of proposals submitted, Serco has been nominated for submitting the best offer, and the company has experience in operating and maintaining a number of metro and rail lines across Europe and Australia,” explained Al Tayer.
“As per the contract, the company will provide operation services for all assets of the tram system, and offer transit services to users at high-class standards tailored to the daily changes, besides protecting RTA’s assets, and operating the revenue system, and the collection of Nol cards selling & recharging proceeds. The company will also fully coordinate with both the construction contractor during the tests to be carried out in the pre-operation phase, and the maintenance contractor during the operation period. It will also attend to providing high safety levels for network users and cater to the full coordination and integration between the tram, metro and various transit means. The contract contains an article that provides for the commitment of Serco to transfer the workforce to the RTA, or any other entity selected by the RTA, upon the expiry of the contract,” he added.

“Tasking the operation and maintenance operations of the Dubai Tram to specialized world-class companies is attributed to a host of reasons highlighted by the fact that the operation of the tram warrants experience in scheduling the tram’s operational lines as well as host of sophisticated electronic, computerized and mechanical systems. The decision also underlines the need to minimize the operational costs of the tram through counting on the quality performance of private businesses, and depicts RTA’s keenness to provide top quality services at lower costs, besides freeing the RTA to focus on its core responsibilities of drafting legislations, overseeing the implementation and enforcing compliance therewith. Moreover, the privatization of tram and rail operation is practicable in a number of rail systems across the globe such as London, France, Australia, Korea, and the USA among others.

Accelerated Tempo

Highlighting the Project, Al Tayer said: "The Dubai Tram Project, which is being planned, designed and constructed pursuant to the directives of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, calling for the provision of a sophisticated transit system to serve Jumeirah Beach Residence, Marina and Al Sufouh districts, has witnessed an accelerated work tempo recently. The test run of the Tram was conducted in the facilities of Alstom Company in France, including various tests such as safety systems, electric propulsion system of the tram coaches, braking system, sudden stop during emergency cases, ground power feed of the tram track, overhead power feed in the Depot, and the tram’s doors operation mechanism. Once the trams start arriving in Dubai next December, the RTA will commission other trial tests on the test track and these tests will roll on till the official launch of the tram service in November 2014."
His Excellency David Campbell, CEO of Serco in Africa, Middle East, Asia and Australia, said that he had been absolutely excited to sign the Dubai Tram operation contract with the RTA, considering it an important step cementing the existing strategic partnership between the RTA and Serco, which operates the Dubai Metro Red & Green Lines since inception on 9/9/2009.

Campbell reiterated Serco's commitment to operate the Dubai Tram to the highest global standards of the industry, taking into account the need to boos international & prestigious standing of the Emirate of Dubai in providing mass transit modes, in addition to enhancing RTA's status and achievements made in a record time, placing Dubai at par with the world's advanced cities, despite the huge time lapse between Dubai and many advanced cosmopolitan cities, which had launched their transit network more than two hundred years ago.

Luxury and safety

The Dubai Tramway extends 14.6 km alongside Al Sufouh Road, and the initial Phase of the project envisages the construction of a 10.6 km-long track starting from the Dubai Marina and stretching up to the Tram Depot near Dubai Police Academy. The Tram network comprises 17 passenger stations, 11 of which are covered under Phase I and spread across activity and population density areas along the tramway. The fleet comprises 11 trams in the initial phase, and 14 trams will be added in Phase II to make a total of 25 operating trams. The tram is expected to lift about 27,000 riders per day at the start of operations in 2014, and the ridership is bound to hit 66,000 riders per day by 2020.

The Dubai Tram is considered the world's first tramway project powered by a ground-based electric supply system extending along the track, thus obviating the need for catenary cables. It is also the world's first tramway that uses Platform Screen Doors in passenger stations fully aligned with the tram's doors opening and shutting mechanism, providing maximum convenience, safety and security for passengers, and at the same time protecting the quality of the air-conditioning in the interior of both stations and carriages from external climatic conditions.

Each train measures 44 meters in length and has a capacity to accommodate about 300 riders. The Tram has a First Class (Gold Suite) and one cabin designated for ladies & children as well as a Silver Class cabin. The tram's carriages & stations will have deluxe interior finishing, and feature state-of-the-art technologies in the transmission and display of entertainment materials, with a passenger lounge of 44 meters.

The tram track basically extends at grade level along Al Sufouh Road but rises in an elevated section passing across certain parts of Dubai Marina due to the urban constructions in the locality. It links up with the Metro system at 2 stations, namely Dubai Marina and Jumeirah Lakes Towers via footbridges to facilitate the mobility and exchange of passengers between the two transit modes. The Tram will also be linked with the Monorail of The Palm Jumeirah at the entrance of the Palm from Al Sufouh Road to facilitate passenger movement between districts served by both modes.

Caption:
Al Tayer and Campbell signing the Dubai Tram operation contract

Millennium Airport Hotel Dubai now offers 100% Wi-Fi access throughout property; latest Triple B promotion offers free Wi-Fi after guest surveys mirror hotel.com findings

High-five for Millennium Wi-Fi

Millennium Airport Hotel Dubai now offers 100% Wi-Fi access throughout property; latest Triple B promotion offers free Wi-Fi after guest surveys mirror hotel.com findings

After installing Wi-Fi internet access throughout the hotel, the management team at the Millennium Airport Hotel Dubai is now extending free Wi-Fi anywhere on the hotel premises, to business travellers, as a part of its latest Triple B promotion.
The Triple B promotion, ‘Bed, Breakfast and Broadband’ offer comes after hotel management noticed a steady rise in the number of guests requesting free Wi-Fi which mirrored a survey earlier this year by online booking portal hotel.com, a leading provider of hotel accommodation worldwide.

That survey which took in the views of 8,600 travellers across 28 different countries found that 67% of respondents chose free Wi-Fi as the facility they most wanted to become standard throughout all hotels, when travelling on business. That figure was more than twice the 31% recorded during an amenities survey carried out by hotel.com in 2012.
“That statistic resonated with us. Moreover in 2012 only 38% of travellers considered free Wi-Fi an absolute must when booking a hotel, but this year that figure was up by 18% to 56%, so the trend to us is very clear. Even 34% of those surveyed said free Wi-Fi was the number one factor when selecting a leisure break,” said Simon Moore, General Manager, Millennium Airport Hotel Dubai.

By the end of 2014 there will be approximately 1.4 billion smart phones in circulation globally, that is one smart phone for every five people, and one in ten people will own a tablet by 2016 according to market research firm Strategy Analytics.
“These devices are becoming ever more portable and incredibly sophisticated and travellers want to stay connected to colleagues, family and friends, wherever they are, especially if they’re on business,” said Moore.
With Wi-Fi becoming more of an issue with business and indeed leisure travellers, the hotel’s full wireless connectivity, spans across 341 rooms, 8 food and beverage outlets, the swimming pool area and includes the hotel’s new wing which is adding 225 to the hotels overall inventory.

The hotel.com survey also found that free Wi-Fi was more important than free parking, and even complimentary breakfast.
“Our Triple B promotion actually covers all bases, we’ve included complimentary breakfast, and free airport shuttle for good measure,” added Moore.

For more information about The Millennium Airport Hotel Dubai, please log onto www.millenniumhotels.com

Photo caption: The hotel’s full wireless connectivity spans across 341 rooms, 8 food and beverage outlets, the swimming pool area and includes the hotel’s new wing which is adding 225 to the hotels overall inventory.

Saudi Arabia, UAE lead race to deploy solar projects

Saudi Arabia, UAE lead race to deploy solar projects

Power projects worth US$155 billion in the pipeline to generate total capacity of 84 GW by 2017

Dubai, UAE, September 2, 2013:
The UAE and Saudi Arabia have emerged as the biggest markets among GCC states for the deployment of solar power, accounting for most of the projects. The six GCC countries altogether have sanctioned solar power installation projects worth approximately US$155 billion, which will generate more than 84 GW of power when complete in 2017.

The Gulf countries will be addressing some of the main challenges related to the deployment of energy projects in desert terrain, at a high-level industry summit, called Gulf Sol 2013, taking place at the Dubai International Exhibition Centre from September 3 to 5. The event will feature government and private sector companies discussing ways of effective deployment of solar projects while also showcasing some of the latest international technologies.

At a press conference in Dubai today, Derek Burston, Director of the UK-based Bowmedia, organisers of Gulf Sol 2013, summarized the growth of the GCC photo-voltaic market as “phenomenal”. “Over the years, solar power has been acknowledged as the most promising source of renewable energy and GCC governments have demonstrated their keenness to shift from traditional energy sources to these low-cost and abundant alternatives,” he said.

“Direct radiation in many Middle Eastern countries exceeds 6 kWh per square metre per day, making for excellent solar potential. In addition, recent decreases in the costs of solar technologies coupled with rising electricity demand in these growing nations, if coupled with the right policies, could make the region a hub for solar expansion,” Burston added.

The Emirates Solar Industries Association (ESIA) estimates that the key MENA markets to adopt solar power will be Saudi Arabia, Jordan, the UAE, Kuwait as well as Morocco. All of these countries have potent economic reasons for adopting solar technologies, and none of these nations have been directly affected by recent unrest.
Speaking at the press conference, Marc Norman, Director of Emirates Solar Industries Association, said: “The economics of switching to solar energy in the Middle East is ever more compelling. With oil prices increasing, and solar technology costs plummeting, it is time for governments in the Middle East to turn talk into action.”

Gulf Sol 2013 assumes added significance given that Abu Dhabi has set a goal of generating 7% of its electricity from renewable sources by 2020 and the state-owned renewable energy company, Masdar, has announced that it will invest up to AED6 billion in alternative energy schemes alongside the UK’s Green Investment Bank (GIB). Masdar is currently evaluating solar thermal technology at its Masdar City project and has installed a field of TVP solar thermal panels as a pilot project.
On the other hand, Saudi Arabia, the world’s largest oil producer, hopes to double its installed electricity capacity by building 54 GW of renewable energy (as well as 17.6 GW of nuclear power) by 2032, of which 41 GW will obtained from the sun. Riyadh in Saudi Arabia currently boasts the world's largest solar thermal plant at 36,300 square meters, with commissioning announced in April 2012. The plant provides hot water for an estimated 40,000 students at Princess Noura Bint Abdulrahman University for Women.

Another major project in the region is Dubai's Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park, which aims for 1 GW of PV and CSP generation by 2030. The USD 3.2 billion, 48 square kilometer park is the personal project of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai.

Top agenda at the Gulf Sol 2013 summit includes discussions on feasibility of solar power projects in remote areas, the wide range of unrealized opportunities in the region for international companies and enforceable regulatory and policy frameworks for implementation of solar projects. The event is expected to be attended by more than 5,000 participants from the region and around the world and will be accompanied by interactive workshops by industry leaders.

GulfSol 2013 will also be highlighting the importance of another industry – the glass sector – which has benefited due to the high demand for solar panels. GulfSol 2013 will be held alongside the 5th edition of the popular Gulf Glass 2013 exhibition, the only specialized regional event dealing with the region’s thriving glass industry.
The twin exhibitions will allow the region’s construction and utilities sectors a unique perspective in implementing cost-effective clean energy initiatives in their construction and power projects.

Visitors to the event will be able to meet the world’s leading companies to look at and discuss the latest technologies, products and services. In addition, Gulf Glass and GulfSol have a free to attend knowledge transfer programme (Show TV) a unique forum in which visitors, exhibitors and industry leaders can discuss the glass and solar market in the region.
Some of the top names who have confirmed their participation in the event include 3M, Hyundai, 33 Green Technologies, Apex Power Concepts, Conergy, Hensel Electric Private Ltd, Kingspan, Kipp & Zonen, Robotina Group, LDK Solar Hi-Tech, Millennium Energy Industries, Premier Solar Technologies, Rentech, Spire Solar, Ruth & Rau and Green Lighting.


 
Top Solar Power Projects in the Middle East

• The largest photo-voltaic plant in the region is Enviromena's 10 MW PV plant in Masdar City, Abu Dhabi, UAE, which was commissioned in 2009. The plant comprises 50% First Solar CdTe thin-film modules and 50% c-Si technology.
• The most advanced large PV project is likely a 10 MW solar canopy project using CIS modules supplied by Solar Frontier at Saudi Aramco offices. When completed, the Al Midra project will also be the largest carport PV project globally. However, Solar Frontier has not supplied a precise expected completion date.
• Riyadh, Saudi Arabia currently boasts the world's largest solar thermal plant at 36,300 square meters, with commissioning announced in April 2012. The plant provides hot water for an estimated 40,000 students at Princess Noura Bint Abdulrahman University for Women.
• Masdar is also evaluating solar thermal technology at its Masdar City project, and has installed a field of TVP Solar thermal panels as a pilot project.
• Desertec, an ambitious project seeks to build a network of CSP, PV and wind farms across the MENA region and export the electricity to Europe via high-voltage DC lines. This vision is being advanced through both Desertec Industrial Initiative GmbH and the non-profit Desertec Foundation. The Desertec plan has hinged on very large CSP projects and high-voltage DC transmission lines linking the MENA region and Europe, including subsea transmission across the Mediterranean.
• As a leading state in the region for renewable energy development, the UAE is also conducting two ambitious projects, which are confined in geography if not in scale. The largest project announced to date is the USD 3.2 billion, 48 square kilometer Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park, which aims for 1 GW of PV and CSP generation by 2030.
• Masdar City is currently home to the region's first utility-scale PV plant at 10 MW as well as a pilot solar thermal plant, with plans to expand the solar thermal component.