Cityscape Abu Dhabi is one of the world's largest real estate events. It attracts the Mega Project developers giving them a chance to show their incredible projects to the entire world. In addition to the developers Cityscape Abu Dhabi attracts investors, architects, construction companies, the media and many others. According to Cityscape:
'Cityscape Abu Dhabi is the only annual meeting point for governmental authorities, key investors and developers, consultants, architects, designers and other real estate professionals to drive growth in Abu Dhabi’s real estate market.
'Cityscape Abu Dhabi 2012 is where the future of Abu Dhabi’s master plan and key developments are being revealed. With over 25,000 participants in attendance, Cityscape Abu Dhabi is the opportunity to build and maintain your presence in Abu Dhabi’s real estate market.'
Yesterday was the final day of Cityscape Abu Dhabi 2012 and here are some excerpts from a press release given by Cityscape which will give you a better idea of what went on there:
'Several major UAE based developers showcased their key developments to visiting investors and partners from more than 80 countries. Among them, Sorouh Real Estate launched its retail property brand Boutik, aimed at enhancing the lifestyle experience at some of its major developments. The Abu Dhabi based developer will open its first Boutik branded space in Sun and Sky Towers on Al Reem Island in June this year, hosting the first ever Waitrose supermarket in the UAE capital. In the second half of the year, Sorouh will also open the grade A shopping mall, Boutik Al Ain, home to a Carrefour hypermarket.
'Gurjit Singh, Chief Operations Officer at Sorouh said: “Cityscape Abu Dhabi continues to be the most important real estate exhibition in the MENA region, and we continue to support this annual gathering to demonstrate our commitment to Plan Abu Dhabi 2030 and the long-term vision for the economic development of the emirate.”
'Baniyas Investment and Development Company (BIDC) showcased its award winning development, Bawabat Al Sharq project, in Bani Yas city. The investment and development arm of the Bani Yas Club had a busy year in 2011, when they launched the luxurious Andalucian style villas on Bawabat Al Sharq. The distinct three, four, and five bedroom villas were the focal point of BIDC’s exhibition stand at Cityscape Abu Dhabi this year, and will begin to be handed over to owners by the end of 2013.
“Cityscape Abu Dhabi is the most important real estate show in Abu Dhabi, providing a unique platform to learn of the latest market updates of the regional real estate industry,” said Wael El Ashry, Commercial Vice President at Baniyas Investment and Development Company.
'Under the patronage of H.H General Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, Cityscape Abu Dhabi is the annual barometer for the Abu Dhabi and wider GCC real estate market, where thousands of investors gather to learn about the latest market trends and updates of many of Abu Dhabi’s master developments.
'Other major developers taking part this year at Cityscape Abu Dhabi included the Urban Planning Council, Department of Municipal Affairs, Tamouh Investments, Meraas, Aldar Properties, Aabar Properties, Mubadala, Al Maabar, Eshraq Properties, Bloom Properties, Reem Investments, and the Tourism Development & Investment Company.'
Now I want to give you a good idea of the full scope of Cityscape Abu Dhabi 2012. What follows are some of the high level exhibitors at the event:
-- Aabar Properties LLC United Arab Emirates
-- Abu Dhabi Commercial Properties LLC United Arab Emirates
-- Abu Dhabi Urban Planning Council United Arab Emirates
-- Aldar Properties PJSC United Arab Emirates
-- Allabina LCE architects United Kingdom
-- Al Maabar United Arab Emirates
-- Al Torath Engineering Consultants United Arab Emirates
-- Arabtec Eastern Model United Arab Emirates
-- Aseel Finance United Arab Emirates
-- Baniyas Investment & Development United Arab Emirates
-- Bloom Properties United Arab Emirates
-- Buettner Architects & Engineers United Arab Emirates
-- BuildUp SA – Real Estate Development And Investment Greece
-- Capital Alternatives Limited United Arab Emirates
-- Dewan Architects & Engineers United Arab Emirates
-- Dewa Projects Private Limited United Arab Emirates
-- Dhafir Development & Contracting LLC United Arab Emirates
-- Ehaf Consulting Engineers United Arab Emirates
-- Ehrlich Architects United States of America
-- Elysian Investments United Arab Emirates
-- Eshraq Properties Co (PJSC) United Arab Emirates
-- Fargain Developments United Kingdom
-- Forbes Middle East United Arab Emirates
-- Green Valley Real Estate United Arab Emirates
-- Gulf Property United Arab Emirates
-- Herald Land Real Estate Brokers LLC United Arab Emirates
-- International Capital Trading United Arab Emirates
-- KEO International Consultants United Arab Emirates
-- Kling Engineering Consultant LLC United Arab Emirates
-- Manazel Real Estate United Arab Emirates
-- Meraas Development United Arab Emirates
-- Mubadala Real Estate & Hospitality (MREH) United Arab Emirates
-- NAGA Architects, Designers & Planners United Arab Emirates
-- Nationwide Middle East Properties United Arab Emirates
-- Paragon Malls United Arab Emirates
-- Pioneer International Projects Management United Arab Emirates
-- Reem Investments United Arab Emirates
-- Sheikh Zayed Housing Programme United Arab Emirates
-- Smart Solutions Consulting Engineers (SSCE) United Arab Emirates
-- Sorouh Real Estate P.J.S.C United Arab Emirates
-- Stanly for Investment and Real Estate Development Egypt
-- Tamouh Investments United Arab Emirates
-- Three60 Estates Management United Arab Emirates
-- Tourism Development & Investment Company (TDIC) United Arab Emirates
-- Turner Construction - International LLC United Arab Emirates
-- Ventures Middle East United Arab Emirates
-- Wafra Real Estate Kuwait
As you can see Cityscape Abu Dhabi 2012 was a truly first class event and one that could not be missed by those involved in the Mega Project industry. Here is a link to the Cityscape Abu Dhabi website where you can take an even closer look at all that went on there:
http://www.cityscapeabudhabi.com/
Thursday, April 26, 2012
Wednesday, April 18, 2012
The Mega Developers: ENSHAA
In this Mega Developer post I will cover ENSHAA, a leading developer in the UAE. ENSHAA has a number of first class projects in their portfolio and the company is doing a great job developing projects of the highest quality and design.
~ ENSHAA CORPORATE PROFILE:
Inspired by a vision to contribute to the sustainable development of the United Arab Emirates and the surrounding regions, ENSHAA was established to develop premium quality commercial, residential and hospitality projects. The firm's major shareholders include Emirates Investments Group, Majid Al Futtaim Group and Abraaj Capital.
ENSHAA currently operates in the Middle East, North Africa, South Asia and Australia through an expanding portfolio of carefully conceived projects. The company has formed a number of successful joint venture partnerships with prestigious local and foreign companies. ENSHAA's portfolio includes Palazzo Versace Dubai, D1 residential tower and Emirates Financial Towers. ENSHAA is a major shareholder of Dubai based Kele Contracting LLC, in partnership with Australian affiliate Kele International Holdings. ENSHAA's acquisition of Signature Clubs International in November 2009 highlights its strategic focus on quality branded products and further expansion into the hospitality industry.
~ CHAIRMAN'S MESSAGE:
Much has happened in the region in the past couple of years. Certain sectors have been hit hard by the global economic downturn, while some have prospered as a result. What we can see now, however, is a real resurgence. Dubai's largest firms - the ones with the governance and strategic planning in place to have weathered the crisis - are rebounding strongly, pushing the market in a positive direction. And beyond the UAE, regional successes are buttressing the reputation of the region: the awarding of the 2022 World Cup to Qatar, and the countless extraordinary Saudi infrastructure projects are all combining to keep our region at the forefront of overseas investors' minds.
There will be good times ahead and - as everywhere - some bad ones too. Key to thriving is having the people and practices in place to be able to function in the hard times as well as the easy. We are confident that the past year has been well used, with a prudent and patient approach which will - literally as well as figuratively "pay dividends".
As we enter the next exciting period of growth, ENSHAA is confident of being exceptionally well placed to capitalize on opportunities, and to show that this region and ENSHAA are capable of anything.
- Sheikh Tariq Bin Faisal Al Qassimi, Chairman
~ THE ENSHAA REAL ESTATE PROJECTS:
> EMIRATES FINANCIAL TOWERS. This development is a 27-story commercial twin tower development, located in the heart of the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) featuring premium office and retail spaces, restaurants and business meeting venues. The Emirates Financial Towers with world class facilities also boasts views of the Emirates Towers and the Burj Khalifa. With the largest automated intelligent car parking system in the world, a distinct glass sky-bridge, high speed elevators and within close proximity to the metro, the Emirates Financial Towers is a prestigious business destination as well as a valuable addition to the already impressive Dubai skyline. Office units range in size from just over 6,00 sq. ft. to just under 10,000 sq. ft. (net) with flexible design, offering shared facilities and provisions for private office amenities. Emirates Financial Towers is a joint venture project between ENSHAA and MAG Group.
> PALAZZO VERSACE DUBAI. The Palazzo Versace Dubai Resort and Condominiums is a landmark project and will be located within Culture Village on the Dubai Creek, a premium waterfront location with unobstructed views of the creek. The residential wings of Ala Destra and Ala Sinistra will offer 169 luxury condominiums ranging from one to six bedrooms with access to the hotel's services. The hotel will comprise a day spa, restaurants and 217 hotel suites furnished with an exclusive line of products from the Versace Home Collection. Palazzo Versace takes the beauty, the luxury and the opulence for which the Versace name is famous and envelopes residents and guests in an ambience that is pure Versace. A project fully owned and developed by ENSHAA.
> D1 TOWER. D1's dramatic design fuses rich Middle Eastern heritage with today's technology, quality and modernity. A stunning 80-story tower, D1 offers exclusive residents' facilities, including a Skyrise lounge, private cinema, indoor pool, gymnasium and concierge services. D1 is uniquely positioned adjacent to the majestic Palazzo Versace Dubai. D1 Tower is a project fully owned and developed by ENSHAA.
~ THE ENSHAA MANAGEMENT TEAM:
-- Sheikh Tariq Bin Faisal Al Qassimi, Chairman
-- Raza Jafar, Chief Executive Officer
-- Gerard Carroll, Chief Operating Officer
-- Brian Woodside, Chief Financial Officer
-- Colin Seow, Chief Development Officer
-- Eli Hyder, Chief Legal Officer
-- Ashok Gopinath, Director of Finance
I am very impressed by the ENSHAA projects and I think the company has a very positive future.
~ CONTACT:
ENSHAA PSC
Crescent Tower Al Buheirah Corniche, 1st floor
Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
Tel: + 971 (6) 5566 827
Fax: + 971 (6) 5566 829
E-mail: info@enshaa.ae
Web: http://www.enshaa.ae/
Dubai Office:
ENSHAA PSC
Capricorn Tower, 8th floor, Sheikh Zayed Road
Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Tel: + 971 (4) 3329 330
Fax: + 971 (4) 3320 225
~ ENSHAA CORPORATE PROFILE:
Inspired by a vision to contribute to the sustainable development of the United Arab Emirates and the surrounding regions, ENSHAA was established to develop premium quality commercial, residential and hospitality projects. The firm's major shareholders include Emirates Investments Group, Majid Al Futtaim Group and Abraaj Capital.
ENSHAA currently operates in the Middle East, North Africa, South Asia and Australia through an expanding portfolio of carefully conceived projects. The company has formed a number of successful joint venture partnerships with prestigious local and foreign companies. ENSHAA's portfolio includes Palazzo Versace Dubai, D1 residential tower and Emirates Financial Towers. ENSHAA is a major shareholder of Dubai based Kele Contracting LLC, in partnership with Australian affiliate Kele International Holdings. ENSHAA's acquisition of Signature Clubs International in November 2009 highlights its strategic focus on quality branded products and further expansion into the hospitality industry.
~ CHAIRMAN'S MESSAGE:
Much has happened in the region in the past couple of years. Certain sectors have been hit hard by the global economic downturn, while some have prospered as a result. What we can see now, however, is a real resurgence. Dubai's largest firms - the ones with the governance and strategic planning in place to have weathered the crisis - are rebounding strongly, pushing the market in a positive direction. And beyond the UAE, regional successes are buttressing the reputation of the region: the awarding of the 2022 World Cup to Qatar, and the countless extraordinary Saudi infrastructure projects are all combining to keep our region at the forefront of overseas investors' minds.
There will be good times ahead and - as everywhere - some bad ones too. Key to thriving is having the people and practices in place to be able to function in the hard times as well as the easy. We are confident that the past year has been well used, with a prudent and patient approach which will - literally as well as figuratively "pay dividends".
As we enter the next exciting period of growth, ENSHAA is confident of being exceptionally well placed to capitalize on opportunities, and to show that this region and ENSHAA are capable of anything.
- Sheikh Tariq Bin Faisal Al Qassimi, Chairman
~ THE ENSHAA REAL ESTATE PROJECTS:
> EMIRATES FINANCIAL TOWERS. This development is a 27-story commercial twin tower development, located in the heart of the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) featuring premium office and retail spaces, restaurants and business meeting venues. The Emirates Financial Towers with world class facilities also boasts views of the Emirates Towers and the Burj Khalifa. With the largest automated intelligent car parking system in the world, a distinct glass sky-bridge, high speed elevators and within close proximity to the metro, the Emirates Financial Towers is a prestigious business destination as well as a valuable addition to the already impressive Dubai skyline. Office units range in size from just over 6,00 sq. ft. to just under 10,000 sq. ft. (net) with flexible design, offering shared facilities and provisions for private office amenities. Emirates Financial Towers is a joint venture project between ENSHAA and MAG Group.
> PALAZZO VERSACE DUBAI. The Palazzo Versace Dubai Resort and Condominiums is a landmark project and will be located within Culture Village on the Dubai Creek, a premium waterfront location with unobstructed views of the creek. The residential wings of Ala Destra and Ala Sinistra will offer 169 luxury condominiums ranging from one to six bedrooms with access to the hotel's services. The hotel will comprise a day spa, restaurants and 217 hotel suites furnished with an exclusive line of products from the Versace Home Collection. Palazzo Versace takes the beauty, the luxury and the opulence for which the Versace name is famous and envelopes residents and guests in an ambience that is pure Versace. A project fully owned and developed by ENSHAA.
> D1 TOWER. D1's dramatic design fuses rich Middle Eastern heritage with today's technology, quality and modernity. A stunning 80-story tower, D1 offers exclusive residents' facilities, including a Skyrise lounge, private cinema, indoor pool, gymnasium and concierge services. D1 is uniquely positioned adjacent to the majestic Palazzo Versace Dubai. D1 Tower is a project fully owned and developed by ENSHAA.
~ THE ENSHAA MANAGEMENT TEAM:
-- Sheikh Tariq Bin Faisal Al Qassimi, Chairman
-- Raza Jafar, Chief Executive Officer
-- Gerard Carroll, Chief Operating Officer
-- Brian Woodside, Chief Financial Officer
-- Colin Seow, Chief Development Officer
-- Eli Hyder, Chief Legal Officer
-- Ashok Gopinath, Director of Finance
I am very impressed by the ENSHAA projects and I think the company has a very positive future.
~ CONTACT:
ENSHAA PSC
Crescent Tower Al Buheirah Corniche, 1st floor
Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
Tel: + 971 (6) 5566 827
Fax: + 971 (6) 5566 829
E-mail: info@enshaa.ae
Web: http://www.enshaa.ae/
Dubai Office:
ENSHAA PSC
Capricorn Tower, 8th floor, Sheikh Zayed Road
Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Tel: + 971 (4) 3329 330
Fax: + 971 (4) 3320 225
Thursday, March 29, 2012
Palm Jumeirah Projects Update
Palm Jumeirah is one of the greatest Mega Projects in world history. I place it right up there with the Great Pyramids of Egypt. It is a true wonder of the world. There are many projects being developed on Palm Jumeirah and in this post I want to update ALL of them so you will know exactly what is going on at Palm Jumeirah. The format will be simple and direct. I will list the project and beside the project I will list what stage of development it is in, either:
-- Completed
-- Topped Out
-- Under Construction
-- Approved
-- Planned
-- On Hold
-- Cancelled
I will try to be as accurate as possible but please remember that Dubai real estate changes constantly and the status of a project can thus change on a moments notice. Furthermore, new projects for the island can be announced at any time.
Here we go:
> Fairmont Palm Residences, Topped Out
> Sea View Club, Approved
> The Pointe Mall, Approved
> Jumeirah Al Fattan Resort, Topped Out
> Logo Islands, Planned
> Palm Jumeirah Sofitel Resort, Under Construction
> Emerald Palace Residences, Topped Out
> Waldorf Astoria Palm Jumeirah, Planned
> Dusit Hotels and Resorts, Planned
> Movenpick Resort and Spa Palm Jumeirah, Topped Out
> Taj Exotica and Grandeur Residences, Topped Out
> Kingdom of Sheba, Under Construction
> Royal Amwaj Hotel, Topped Out
> The Village Center, On Hold
> The Golden Mile, Completed
> One and Only Resort, Completed
> Atlantis The Palm, Completed
> Shoreline Apartments, Completed
> Oceana Hotel and Luxury Apartments, Completed
> Zabeel Saray Hotel and Royal Residences, Completed
> Trump International Hotel and Tower, Cancelled
> Rixos Hotel, Completed
> The Gateway Towers, Cancelled
> Wellington International School, Approved
> Tiara Residences, Completed
> Kempinski Hotel and Residences, Completed
You should now have a good well rounded idea of what is going on at Palm Jumeirah, one of my favorite Mega Projects!
-- Completed
-- Topped Out
-- Under Construction
-- Approved
-- Planned
-- On Hold
-- Cancelled
I will try to be as accurate as possible but please remember that Dubai real estate changes constantly and the status of a project can thus change on a moments notice. Furthermore, new projects for the island can be announced at any time.
Here we go:
> Fairmont Palm Residences, Topped Out
> Sea View Club, Approved
> The Pointe Mall, Approved
> Jumeirah Al Fattan Resort, Topped Out
> Logo Islands, Planned
> Palm Jumeirah Sofitel Resort, Under Construction
> Emerald Palace Residences, Topped Out
> Waldorf Astoria Palm Jumeirah, Planned
> Dusit Hotels and Resorts, Planned
> Movenpick Resort and Spa Palm Jumeirah, Topped Out
> Taj Exotica and Grandeur Residences, Topped Out
> Kingdom of Sheba, Under Construction
> Royal Amwaj Hotel, Topped Out
> The Village Center, On Hold
> The Golden Mile, Completed
> One and Only Resort, Completed
> Atlantis The Palm, Completed
> Shoreline Apartments, Completed
> Oceana Hotel and Luxury Apartments, Completed
> Zabeel Saray Hotel and Royal Residences, Completed
> Trump International Hotel and Tower, Cancelled
> Rixos Hotel, Completed
> The Gateway Towers, Cancelled
> Wellington International School, Approved
> Tiara Residences, Completed
> Kempinski Hotel and Residences, Completed
You should now have a good well rounded idea of what is going on at Palm Jumeirah, one of my favorite Mega Projects!
Saturday, February 25, 2012
Construction Week Power 100 Top 25
Construction Week magazine is a great publication that covers the construction industry and real estate developments of the Middle East. They publish a Power List that gives the 100 most powerful and influential people (in their opinion) in the industry. I will now give you the Top 25 on their list of 100 so you can get a better idea of who exactly are some of the top players in the Mega Project industry in the Middle East.
1. Ayman Hariri, Deputy General Manager, Saudi Oger
2. Bakr Bin Laden, Chairman, Saudi Bin Laden Group
3. Riad Kamal, Chairman and Founder, Arabtec Construction LLC and CEO of Arabtec Holding
4. Mohammed Al Abbar, Chairman, Emaar Properties
5. Zuhair Hamed Fayez, Principal Founder, ZFP Consultants
6. Mohamed Ali M.K. Kubaisi, Board Manager, MIDMAC
7. Nasser Ali Al-Mawlawi, President, Ashghal
8. Hassan Al Thawadi, CEO, Qatar World Cup Bid
9. Fatima Obaid Al Jaber, Chief Operating Officer, Al Jaber Group
10. Ali Al-Khodari, Chairman, Abdullah A.M. Al-Khodari & Sons
11. Osama Hadid, Managing Director, Al Jaber Engineering
12. Said T. Khoury, Chairman and President, Consolidated Contractors Company
13. Khaled Musaed Al Seif, Chairman, El Seif Engineering Contracting
14. Mohammed Abdul Aziz Al-Shaya, Chairman and Managing Director, Mabanee Company
15. Khater Massaad, CEO and Founder, RAK Ceramics
16. Dr. P. Mohamed Ali, Founder, Galfar Engineering and Contracting Company
17. Khaldoun Tabari, Vice Chairman and CEO, Drake & Skull International
18. Mustafa Sani Sener, Board Member, President and CEO, TAV Airports Holding
19. Noor Sweid, Strategic Director, DEPA
20. Andrew Elias, CEO, KELE Contracting
21. Phillipe Dessoy, General Manager, BESIX
22. Nasser Abdul Rahman Kamal, CEO, Qatar Project Management
23. Ali Hassan Kolaghassi, CEO, Saraya Holding
24. Khalid Al Malik, Group CEO, Dubai Properties Group
25. Wael Allan, Regional Managing Director, Hyder Consulting Middle East
1. Ayman Hariri, Deputy General Manager, Saudi Oger
2. Bakr Bin Laden, Chairman, Saudi Bin Laden Group
3. Riad Kamal, Chairman and Founder, Arabtec Construction LLC and CEO of Arabtec Holding
4. Mohammed Al Abbar, Chairman, Emaar Properties
5. Zuhair Hamed Fayez, Principal Founder, ZFP Consultants
6. Mohamed Ali M.K. Kubaisi, Board Manager, MIDMAC
7. Nasser Ali Al-Mawlawi, President, Ashghal
8. Hassan Al Thawadi, CEO, Qatar World Cup Bid
9. Fatima Obaid Al Jaber, Chief Operating Officer, Al Jaber Group
10. Ali Al-Khodari, Chairman, Abdullah A.M. Al-Khodari & Sons
11. Osama Hadid, Managing Director, Al Jaber Engineering
12. Said T. Khoury, Chairman and President, Consolidated Contractors Company
13. Khaled Musaed Al Seif, Chairman, El Seif Engineering Contracting
14. Mohammed Abdul Aziz Al-Shaya, Chairman and Managing Director, Mabanee Company
15. Khater Massaad, CEO and Founder, RAK Ceramics
16. Dr. P. Mohamed Ali, Founder, Galfar Engineering and Contracting Company
17. Khaldoun Tabari, Vice Chairman and CEO, Drake & Skull International
18. Mustafa Sani Sener, Board Member, President and CEO, TAV Airports Holding
19. Noor Sweid, Strategic Director, DEPA
20. Andrew Elias, CEO, KELE Contracting
21. Phillipe Dessoy, General Manager, BESIX
22. Nasser Abdul Rahman Kamal, CEO, Qatar Project Management
23. Ali Hassan Kolaghassi, CEO, Saraya Holding
24. Khalid Al Malik, Group CEO, Dubai Properties Group
25. Wael Allan, Regional Managing Director, Hyder Consulting Middle East
Sunday, November 27, 2011
My 12 Favorite Mega Projects For 2012
With 2012 almost here in this post I am going to give you my 12 favorite Mega Projects for 2012. Some of these projects are complete, some are still under construction and some will be getting started in 2012. All of the following 12 are truly spectacular!
1. King Abdullah Economic City (KAEC), Saudi Arabia. This is the largest of all the Mega Projects in the Middle East and in fact, once complete, will be the largest Mega Project in the world. KAEC will have many different components: Seaport, Industrial Valley, Central Business District, Financial Island, Resort Area, Educational Zone, Residential Area and others. KAEC will span 168 million sqm. The master planner for the project is Emaar who is working hand in hand with SAIGA of Saudi Arabia.
2. Kingdom Tower, Saudi Arabia. Covered in my last post, Kingdom Tower will rise one mile into the sky and be the world's tallest tower once completed. Construction will begin January 2012 and when construction starts Kingdom Tower will get enormous amounts of publicity worldwide. Kingdom Tower will be so tall it will even dwarf Dubai's mighty Khalifa Tower which currently holds the title of world's tallest tower. I would not be surprised if Qatar or Abu Dhabi announced plans to build a tower even taller than Kingdom Tower!
3. YAS Island, Abu Dhabi. Construction of YAS Island has gone very, very well with Ferrari World, YAS Hotel, YAS Marina, YAS Links Golf Club, YAS Arena, and much, much more. It is a premier vacation and resort destination with a lot more to come. Abu Dhabi has hit a home run with this Mega Project.
4. Reem Island, Abu Dhabi. I have been watching Reem Island evolve since it was nothing but sand. I see it becoming a metropolis and one of the greatest Mega Projects in the world. With developments like Sun and Sky Tower, Marina Square, Shams Abu Dhabi, Tameer Towers, Solaris Tower, Tala Tower and many more Reem Island, once complete, will be the Crown Jewel of Abu Dhabi.
5. Infinity Tower, Dubai. Located in Dubai Marina, Infinity Tower is a true architectural masterpiece. The tower twists at an incredible 90 degree rotation! With development of the Pentominium Tower halted I think Infinity Tower will be the icon development of the entire Dubai Marina for a long time to come. It is completely unique and has no equal.
6. U-Bora Tower, Business Bay, Dubai. Recently completed U-Bora Tower in my opinion is the icon property of Business Bay. As one drives toward Business Bay the great U-Bora Tower can be seen jutting above all other towers in the area. The architecture is unique as U-Bora actually gets larger as it gets taller! A great location to have an office in Dubai and this project contains a smaller residential tower as well.
7. Park Towers, DIFC, Dubai. Another recently completed project, Park Towers is one of the most spectacular residential developments in Dubai. It consists of two residential towers with completely unique architecture from developer DAMAC. Location is first class being right in the heart of Dubai International Financial Center.
8. Pearl Qatar. My favorite Qatar Mega Project. The Pearl has it all: great residential and business developments, 5-star hotels, 3 marinas, numerous retail shopping venues and restaurants, entertainment of all kinds-- in short The Pearl is an entire master planned community and perfect for those wanting residential or business space in Qatar.
9. Amphibious 1000, Qatar. I covered this Mega Project in detail recently and I think it remains one of the most unique and amazing developments currently out there. Construction will start soon on Amphibious 1000 which will be a semi-submerged resort. This means that part of the project will be above water and part will be underwater. A truly amazing concept created by Giancarlo Zema Design Group.
10. Bahrain Bay. A complete master planned development consisting of 7 different zones containing residences of all kinds, business offices, commercial properties, educational facilities, marinas as well as a Four Seasons Hotel, the Arcapita Bank Headquarters, Raffles City Bahrain and Al Baraka Banking Group Headquarters. Currently this is Bahrain's premier Mega Project under construction.
11. Al Hamra Tower, Kuwait. This is Kuwait's tallest tower and to me it looks like a gigantic cobra with its unique architectural design done by Skidmore, Owings and Merrill. Al Hamra rises 1,354 ft and is the world's tallest sculpted tower. Al Hamra contains both office and commercial space and connects to a large mall/cinema complex.
12. 360 Mall, Kuwait. A unique 82,000 sqm mega mall containing many unique zones including The Grand Entrance, The Gardens, Day Journey, Main Atrium, The Boulevard, Night Journey and the Food Lounge. 360 Mall is really more than a mall, it is a complete destination that offers everything for a great day of shopping and entertainment.
1. King Abdullah Economic City (KAEC), Saudi Arabia. This is the largest of all the Mega Projects in the Middle East and in fact, once complete, will be the largest Mega Project in the world. KAEC will have many different components: Seaport, Industrial Valley, Central Business District, Financial Island, Resort Area, Educational Zone, Residential Area and others. KAEC will span 168 million sqm. The master planner for the project is Emaar who is working hand in hand with SAIGA of Saudi Arabia.
2. Kingdom Tower, Saudi Arabia. Covered in my last post, Kingdom Tower will rise one mile into the sky and be the world's tallest tower once completed. Construction will begin January 2012 and when construction starts Kingdom Tower will get enormous amounts of publicity worldwide. Kingdom Tower will be so tall it will even dwarf Dubai's mighty Khalifa Tower which currently holds the title of world's tallest tower. I would not be surprised if Qatar or Abu Dhabi announced plans to build a tower even taller than Kingdom Tower!
3. YAS Island, Abu Dhabi. Construction of YAS Island has gone very, very well with Ferrari World, YAS Hotel, YAS Marina, YAS Links Golf Club, YAS Arena, and much, much more. It is a premier vacation and resort destination with a lot more to come. Abu Dhabi has hit a home run with this Mega Project.
4. Reem Island, Abu Dhabi. I have been watching Reem Island evolve since it was nothing but sand. I see it becoming a metropolis and one of the greatest Mega Projects in the world. With developments like Sun and Sky Tower, Marina Square, Shams Abu Dhabi, Tameer Towers, Solaris Tower, Tala Tower and many more Reem Island, once complete, will be the Crown Jewel of Abu Dhabi.
5. Infinity Tower, Dubai. Located in Dubai Marina, Infinity Tower is a true architectural masterpiece. The tower twists at an incredible 90 degree rotation! With development of the Pentominium Tower halted I think Infinity Tower will be the icon development of the entire Dubai Marina for a long time to come. It is completely unique and has no equal.
6. U-Bora Tower, Business Bay, Dubai. Recently completed U-Bora Tower in my opinion is the icon property of Business Bay. As one drives toward Business Bay the great U-Bora Tower can be seen jutting above all other towers in the area. The architecture is unique as U-Bora actually gets larger as it gets taller! A great location to have an office in Dubai and this project contains a smaller residential tower as well.
7. Park Towers, DIFC, Dubai. Another recently completed project, Park Towers is one of the most spectacular residential developments in Dubai. It consists of two residential towers with completely unique architecture from developer DAMAC. Location is first class being right in the heart of Dubai International Financial Center.
8. Pearl Qatar. My favorite Qatar Mega Project. The Pearl has it all: great residential and business developments, 5-star hotels, 3 marinas, numerous retail shopping venues and restaurants, entertainment of all kinds-- in short The Pearl is an entire master planned community and perfect for those wanting residential or business space in Qatar.
9. Amphibious 1000, Qatar. I covered this Mega Project in detail recently and I think it remains one of the most unique and amazing developments currently out there. Construction will start soon on Amphibious 1000 which will be a semi-submerged resort. This means that part of the project will be above water and part will be underwater. A truly amazing concept created by Giancarlo Zema Design Group.
10. Bahrain Bay. A complete master planned development consisting of 7 different zones containing residences of all kinds, business offices, commercial properties, educational facilities, marinas as well as a Four Seasons Hotel, the Arcapita Bank Headquarters, Raffles City Bahrain and Al Baraka Banking Group Headquarters. Currently this is Bahrain's premier Mega Project under construction.
11. Al Hamra Tower, Kuwait. This is Kuwait's tallest tower and to me it looks like a gigantic cobra with its unique architectural design done by Skidmore, Owings and Merrill. Al Hamra rises 1,354 ft and is the world's tallest sculpted tower. Al Hamra contains both office and commercial space and connects to a large mall/cinema complex.
12. 360 Mall, Kuwait. A unique 82,000 sqm mega mall containing many unique zones including The Grand Entrance, The Gardens, Day Journey, Main Atrium, The Boulevard, Night Journey and the Food Lounge. 360 Mall is really more than a mall, it is a complete destination that offers everything for a great day of shopping and entertainment.
Saturday, October 8, 2011
Kingdom Tower -- Greatest Mega Project Ever?
Kingdom Tower, to be built in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, may well end up being the greatest and most famous Mega Project in world history. Why? Because it will be by far the tallest tower ever built. So tall it will dwarf Dubai's Burj Khalifa which is currently the world's tallest tower. Nothing on the scale of Kingdom Tower has ever been built and once complete the tower will instantly become a world icon! What follows is a complete description of Kingdom Tower by the architects of the project, Adrian Smith + Gordon Gill (AS+GG):
At over 1,000 meters (3,280 feet) and a total construction area of 530,000 square meters (5.7 million square feet), Kingdom Tower will be the centerpiece and first construction phase of the $20 billion Kingdom City development in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, near the Red Sea.
Expected to cost $1.2 billion to construct, Kingdom Tower will be a mixed use building featuring a luxury hotel, office space, serviced apartments, luxury condominiums and the world's highest observatory. Kingdom Tower's height will be at least 568 feet taller than Burj Khalifa, which was designed by Adrian Smith while at Skidmore, Owings & Merrill.
AS+GG's design for Kingdom Tower is both highly technological and distinctly organic. With its slender, subtly asymmetrical massing, the tower evokes a bundle of leaves shooting up from the ground-- a burst of new life that heralds more growth all around it. This symbolizes the tower as a catalyst for increased development around it.
The sleek, streamlined form of the tower was inspired by the folded fronds of young desert plant growth. The way the fronds sprout upward from the ground as a single form, then start separating from each other at the top, is an analogy of new growth fused with technology. While the design is contextual to Saudi Arabia, it also represents an evolution and a refinement of an architectural continuum of skyscraper design. The three-petal footprint is ideal for residential units, and the tapering wings produce an aerodynamic shape that helps reduce structural loading due to wind vortex shedding. The Kingdom Tower design embraces its architectural pedigree, taking full advantage of the proven design strategies and technological strategies of its lineage, refining and advancing them to achieve new heights.
The result is an elegant, cost efficient and highly constructible design that is once grounded in built tradition and aggressively forward looking, taking advantage of new and innovative thinking about technology, building materials, life-cycle considerations and energy conservation. For example, the project will feature a high performance exterior wall system that will minimize energy consumption by reducing thermal loads. In addition, each of Kingdom Tower's three sides features a series of notches that create pockets of shadow that shield areas of the building from the sun and provide outdoor terraces with stunning views of Jeddah and the Red Sea.
The great height of Kingdom Tower necessitates one of the world's most sophisticated elevator systems. The Kingdom Tower complex will contain 59 elevators, including 54 single-deck and 5 double-deck elevators, along with 12 escalators. Elevators serving the observatory will travel at a rate of 10 meters per second in both directions. Another unique feature of the design is a sky terrace, roughly 98 feet in diameter, at level 157. It is an outdoor amenity space intended for use by the penthouse floor.
The area surrounding Kingdom Tower is known as the Kingdom Tower Waterfront District. Designed by AS+GG, the 23 hectare Waterfront District provides a cohesive and pedestrian-friendly setting for the magnificent Kingdom Tower while creating a pleasant neighborhood experience nestled along the Kingdom City lakefront. The Kingdom Tower Water District encompasses a high-end shopping mall and additional development parcels that accommodate commercial and high-density residential uses, offices, two luxury hotels and high quality open spaces, including the central Tower Plaza. A serene waterfront promenade connects Kingdom Tower, the various development parcels, the open space areas and the mall together. The result is an exciting mixed use area that offers a concentrated and comprehensive experience including vibrant shopping, entertainment and open space amenities. The Waterfront District also provides an array of connections to other areas within Kingdom City's overall master plan, designed by HOK Architects.
The Waterfront District is subdivided into 13 development parcels, the largest of which are the Kingdom Tower parcel of about 90,000 square meters and the mall parcel of about 65,000 sm. Smaller mixed use parcels of between 5,000 sm and 10,000 sm are arranged in two development precincts, North and South, each with its own unifying palette of materials. The parcel sizes vary depending on the density of each site; the larger sites are farther away from Kingdom Tower, with the smaller sites stepping closer to the tower, creating the effect of an architectural amphitheater around the structure. Views of Kingdom Tower from throughout the District--including the sensitively designed 20 to 60 story buildings around the tower--are spectacular. The buildings closest to the tower are of lower heights, ensuring that the outer buildings also have access to views of Kingdom Tower.
++ Well now you have all the information direct from the architects of this amazing project. I am sure you can see why it is very possible that Kingdom Tower may well be the greatest Mega Project ever!
Here is a link to more Kingdom Tower information from AS+GG. There are many renditions of Kingdom Tower so you can see what it will look like when finished:
http://smithgill.com/media/pdfs/Kingdom_for_web4.pdf
At over 1,000 meters (3,280 feet) and a total construction area of 530,000 square meters (5.7 million square feet), Kingdom Tower will be the centerpiece and first construction phase of the $20 billion Kingdom City development in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, near the Red Sea.
Expected to cost $1.2 billion to construct, Kingdom Tower will be a mixed use building featuring a luxury hotel, office space, serviced apartments, luxury condominiums and the world's highest observatory. Kingdom Tower's height will be at least 568 feet taller than Burj Khalifa, which was designed by Adrian Smith while at Skidmore, Owings & Merrill.
AS+GG's design for Kingdom Tower is both highly technological and distinctly organic. With its slender, subtly asymmetrical massing, the tower evokes a bundle of leaves shooting up from the ground-- a burst of new life that heralds more growth all around it. This symbolizes the tower as a catalyst for increased development around it.
The sleek, streamlined form of the tower was inspired by the folded fronds of young desert plant growth. The way the fronds sprout upward from the ground as a single form, then start separating from each other at the top, is an analogy of new growth fused with technology. While the design is contextual to Saudi Arabia, it also represents an evolution and a refinement of an architectural continuum of skyscraper design. The three-petal footprint is ideal for residential units, and the tapering wings produce an aerodynamic shape that helps reduce structural loading due to wind vortex shedding. The Kingdom Tower design embraces its architectural pedigree, taking full advantage of the proven design strategies and technological strategies of its lineage, refining and advancing them to achieve new heights.
The result is an elegant, cost efficient and highly constructible design that is once grounded in built tradition and aggressively forward looking, taking advantage of new and innovative thinking about technology, building materials, life-cycle considerations and energy conservation. For example, the project will feature a high performance exterior wall system that will minimize energy consumption by reducing thermal loads. In addition, each of Kingdom Tower's three sides features a series of notches that create pockets of shadow that shield areas of the building from the sun and provide outdoor terraces with stunning views of Jeddah and the Red Sea.
The great height of Kingdom Tower necessitates one of the world's most sophisticated elevator systems. The Kingdom Tower complex will contain 59 elevators, including 54 single-deck and 5 double-deck elevators, along with 12 escalators. Elevators serving the observatory will travel at a rate of 10 meters per second in both directions. Another unique feature of the design is a sky terrace, roughly 98 feet in diameter, at level 157. It is an outdoor amenity space intended for use by the penthouse floor.
The area surrounding Kingdom Tower is known as the Kingdom Tower Waterfront District. Designed by AS+GG, the 23 hectare Waterfront District provides a cohesive and pedestrian-friendly setting for the magnificent Kingdom Tower while creating a pleasant neighborhood experience nestled along the Kingdom City lakefront. The Kingdom Tower Water District encompasses a high-end shopping mall and additional development parcels that accommodate commercial and high-density residential uses, offices, two luxury hotels and high quality open spaces, including the central Tower Plaza. A serene waterfront promenade connects Kingdom Tower, the various development parcels, the open space areas and the mall together. The result is an exciting mixed use area that offers a concentrated and comprehensive experience including vibrant shopping, entertainment and open space amenities. The Waterfront District also provides an array of connections to other areas within Kingdom City's overall master plan, designed by HOK Architects.
The Waterfront District is subdivided into 13 development parcels, the largest of which are the Kingdom Tower parcel of about 90,000 square meters and the mall parcel of about 65,000 sm. Smaller mixed use parcels of between 5,000 sm and 10,000 sm are arranged in two development precincts, North and South, each with its own unifying palette of materials. The parcel sizes vary depending on the density of each site; the larger sites are farther away from Kingdom Tower, with the smaller sites stepping closer to the tower, creating the effect of an architectural amphitheater around the structure. Views of Kingdom Tower from throughout the District--including the sensitively designed 20 to 60 story buildings around the tower--are spectacular. The buildings closest to the tower are of lower heights, ensuring that the outer buildings also have access to views of Kingdom Tower.
++ Well now you have all the information direct from the architects of this amazing project. I am sure you can see why it is very possible that Kingdom Tower may well be the greatest Mega Project ever!
Here is a link to more Kingdom Tower information from AS+GG. There are many renditions of Kingdom Tower so you can see what it will look like when finished:
http://smithgill.com/media/pdfs/Kingdom_for_web4.pdf
Wednesday, August 17, 2011
Amphibious 1000, Qatar
Qatar is going ahead with a $500 Million Mega Project that will even be more spectacular than Hydropolis, the underwater hotel that Dubai was supposed to build but never did. This innovative Mega Project has been designed by the Giancarlo Zema Design Group. It is the first semi-submerged hotel resort and will stretch out from the land into the sea and extend 1km parallel to the land with two arm-like land masses. The project is composed of a land section and a sea section. On the land area will be multiple residential buildings, office buildings and a marina with a modern and flexible harbor. All the structures are situated in a semi-circle around a central tower with a panoramic restaurant.
In the sea section there are four innovative semi-submerged hotels with underwater halls that give amazing views. The four hotels echo the soft lines of the super-yachts that will be anchored at the marina. Large diagonal glass windows make the hotels memorable, each with 75 luxury suites arranged around the perimeter of the building so each unit has a big terrace that overlooks the complex. The activities of the hotel take place in the underwater area that is surrounded by aquariums.
The hotels are situated around a central public welcome area that has an interactive museum on water life and water exhibition galleries, large perimetral aquariums and a glass tunnel that leads to the underwater observatory in the center of the whole marine park. Connected to the welcome area by the arm extensions are fitness areas, gardens and a special outdoor theatre with a moving stage that opens on the sea.
The smaller floating platforms will be anchored floating suites called Jelly Fish with underwater views within an artificial reef. At the end of each platform are lighthouses. It is possible to move everywhere thanks to electrical vehicles that respect the eco-system philosophy. Water transport is also provided by 20m aluminum yachts called Trilobis that are equipped with hydrogen engines and an underwater observatory globe. The bridge that connects the land and sea section is lined with plants that give the idea of projecting the land flora into the sea. The main structure is in steel complete with all the necessary lighting systems and teak flooring.
Amphibious 1000 has to be one of the most amazing Mega Projects under development. Qatar has the money to make it happen and it blends perfectly with the massive amounts of development going on there. Here is a link that will give you more details on the project and show you the unique architecture being used:
http://www.giancarlozema.com/A+D%20magazine.pdf
In the sea section there are four innovative semi-submerged hotels with underwater halls that give amazing views. The four hotels echo the soft lines of the super-yachts that will be anchored at the marina. Large diagonal glass windows make the hotels memorable, each with 75 luxury suites arranged around the perimeter of the building so each unit has a big terrace that overlooks the complex. The activities of the hotel take place in the underwater area that is surrounded by aquariums.
The hotels are situated around a central public welcome area that has an interactive museum on water life and water exhibition galleries, large perimetral aquariums and a glass tunnel that leads to the underwater observatory in the center of the whole marine park. Connected to the welcome area by the arm extensions are fitness areas, gardens and a special outdoor theatre with a moving stage that opens on the sea.
The smaller floating platforms will be anchored floating suites called Jelly Fish with underwater views within an artificial reef. At the end of each platform are lighthouses. It is possible to move everywhere thanks to electrical vehicles that respect the eco-system philosophy. Water transport is also provided by 20m aluminum yachts called Trilobis that are equipped with hydrogen engines and an underwater observatory globe. The bridge that connects the land and sea section is lined with plants that give the idea of projecting the land flora into the sea. The main structure is in steel complete with all the necessary lighting systems and teak flooring.
Amphibious 1000 has to be one of the most amazing Mega Projects under development. Qatar has the money to make it happen and it blends perfectly with the massive amounts of development going on there. Here is a link that will give you more details on the project and show you the unique architecture being used:
http://www.giancarlozema.com/A+D%20magazine.pdf
Sunday, July 10, 2011
UAE, Qatar, KSA & Kuwait at Top For Ultra-Wealthy Households
The GCC has some of the highest densities of Super Rich people on the planet which is a perfect environment for Mega Project growth. According to the study by Boston Consulting Group(BCG) 'Ultra High Net Worth' households, defined as those with more than $100 Million in assets under management, were most highly concentrated in Saudi Arabia, Switzerland, Hong Kong, Kuwait, Austria, Norway, Qatar, Demark, Singapore and the UAE.
Qatar, Kuwait and the UAE also made it to the top ten in terms of highest proportion of millionaire households with 8.9 percent, 8.5 percent and 2.6 percent, respectively. The MENA Region showed significant growth in wealth as assets under management which rose 8.6 percent to $4.5 Trillion in 2010 with BCG projecting it will reach $6.7 Trillion by 2015.
Regional Trends in wealth management showed a very high proportion of cash and deposits, low share of bonds and very few managed funds in Middle Eastern household portfolios.
While 56 percent of GCC investors preferred to keep their investment in cash or very short term investments like bank deposits, 31 percent preferred to invest in regional or home equity markets with 13 percent opting to invest in bonds. The trend clearly shows the risk appetite of regional investors remains low, especially when compared to levels seen before the downturn.
In the GCC wealthy households controlled a majority of wealth with Saudi households controlling 81 percent of private wealth in the country followed by Kuwait with 68 percent, Qatar with 65 percent and the UAE with 63 percent.
For the Middle East as a whole the study observed that women controlled about $500 Billion or 22 percent of private wealth in the region. Offshore wealth from the MENA Region reached $1.4 Trillion, with the major proportion held in the UK, Channel Islands, Dublin and Switzerland.
Within the region Dubai sustains its position as most prominent offshore center in the Arab world, with Saudi Arabia, Turkey, Iran, Kuwait and Russia emerging as the most important origins of offshore wealth in the region.
BCG analysts said the recent political turmoil has reversed the trend towards onshoring wealth in some countries in the Middle East but it did not have any adverse impact in household wealth in the GCC.
"For the more stable Gulf states the onshoring trend continues. Some Gulf jurisdictions, such as Dubai, are now attracting more wealth from other Middle East countries as they act as offshore centers themselves," Markus Massi, Partner and Managing Director at BCG Middle East.
It should be clear that all this wealth in the GCC creates fertile ground for the Mega Project boom we are seeing in the region. Despite the world economic downturn the GCC is still going forward with a huge number of superlative Mega Projects and the overall wealth of the region will allow this growth to continue.
Source for much of the information in this post from:
http://www.cpp-luxury.com/
Qatar, Kuwait and the UAE also made it to the top ten in terms of highest proportion of millionaire households with 8.9 percent, 8.5 percent and 2.6 percent, respectively. The MENA Region showed significant growth in wealth as assets under management which rose 8.6 percent to $4.5 Trillion in 2010 with BCG projecting it will reach $6.7 Trillion by 2015.
Regional Trends in wealth management showed a very high proportion of cash and deposits, low share of bonds and very few managed funds in Middle Eastern household portfolios.
While 56 percent of GCC investors preferred to keep their investment in cash or very short term investments like bank deposits, 31 percent preferred to invest in regional or home equity markets with 13 percent opting to invest in bonds. The trend clearly shows the risk appetite of regional investors remains low, especially when compared to levels seen before the downturn.
In the GCC wealthy households controlled a majority of wealth with Saudi households controlling 81 percent of private wealth in the country followed by Kuwait with 68 percent, Qatar with 65 percent and the UAE with 63 percent.
For the Middle East as a whole the study observed that women controlled about $500 Billion or 22 percent of private wealth in the region. Offshore wealth from the MENA Region reached $1.4 Trillion, with the major proportion held in the UK, Channel Islands, Dublin and Switzerland.
Within the region Dubai sustains its position as most prominent offshore center in the Arab world, with Saudi Arabia, Turkey, Iran, Kuwait and Russia emerging as the most important origins of offshore wealth in the region.
BCG analysts said the recent political turmoil has reversed the trend towards onshoring wealth in some countries in the Middle East but it did not have any adverse impact in household wealth in the GCC.
"For the more stable Gulf states the onshoring trend continues. Some Gulf jurisdictions, such as Dubai, are now attracting more wealth from other Middle East countries as they act as offshore centers themselves," Markus Massi, Partner and Managing Director at BCG Middle East.
It should be clear that all this wealth in the GCC creates fertile ground for the Mega Project boom we are seeing in the region. Despite the world economic downturn the GCC is still going forward with a huge number of superlative Mega Projects and the overall wealth of the region will allow this growth to continue.
Source for much of the information in this post from:
http://www.cpp-luxury.com/
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