Al Jaber Issue 7

issue 7 – spring 2014

on track How AJTGC is driving forward a series of major transport projects AREAS OF OPERATION: UAE | OMAN | QATAR | MONTENEGRO

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contents

04 Practical Thinking CEO David Nelson reveals his hands-on approach to business 06 global process 16 systems Blending in-house design with fabrication services 16 building the Dream Work commences on the 08 ePIC Task prestigious Hidd Al Saadiyat Villas Creating an oasis in the desert for Qatar Petroleum 20 on Track How AJTGC is driving forward a 10 bigger and better series of major transport projects AJES’s massive expansion of the Upper Zakum offshore 22 high Flyer oil field ALEC forges ahead with Dubai and Abu Dhabi airport infrastructure 12 at the ready Supplying prefabricated 26 al Jaber News solutions at the drop of a hat Round-up of the latest events from Al Jaber Group 14 safe Hands for AREAS OF OPERATION: heavy Work 28 launching new craft UAE | OMAN | QATAR | MONTENEGRO AJHL raises the bar for Procuring the most sophisticated heavy-lift operations landing carriers

CW advert.indd 1 11/25/13 5:15 PM a commitment to uae nationals

Al Jaber Group has been a cornerstone in the development of Abu Dhabi and the UAE since it was established 44 years ago. Ever since the inception of the Group, our vision has been to ensure our commitment to UAE Nationals in playing a major role in the future of our Group.

We aim to boost the contribution of UAE Nationals in the achievement of our strategies and business goals, consequent- ly ensuring sustainable and growing careers for them in the private sector.

Over the years we have succeeded in attracting impressive local talent; and our pursuit continues to provide career opportunities to our sons, brothers and sisters to become an integral part of one of the leading groups of companies in the UAE and wider region.

Al Jaber Group is fully committed to providing our fellow citizens a highly professional and dynamic business environment, where they can enhance their career advancement and fulfil their objectives and goals.

Our success in maintaining some of the highest staff retention rates in the UAE and the region is evidence of our approach towards all Al Jaber Group employees.

We are proud to be a fully-owned national group of companies that has contributed to the development of our country, and we look forward to seeing more national talent joining our team of professionals and experts.

Obaid Khaleefa Al Jaber Al Murri Chairman

2 Al Jaber World welcome to

elcome to the latest edition of Al Jaber World. In this special issue, we commemorate yet another exceptional year across each of our companies. W Firstly, Al Jaber Transport & General Contracting (AJTGC) is undertaking a series of major projects to expand the GCC’s transport network. In the UAE, AJTGC is using its vast experience to help build the prestigious Etihad Rail project, the 1,200-kilometre national rail network which, when completed, will extend across the UAE from Saudi Arabia to Oman. Closer to home, Al Jaber Building (AJB) is furthering its extensive portfolio with the luxurious Hidd Al Saadiyat Villas Development in the UAE capital. Spanning more than 1.5 million square metres, the exclusive beachfront project represents one of the group’s major project wins of the year, and draws upon AJB’s unparalleled experience of delivering villas for similarly prestigious projects. Also on the home front, Al Jaber Prefab Factory (AJPF) continues to expand its impressive operations. The 1,200-staffed company delivers quality pre-fabricated products to an even wider range of clients across the UAE, the Middle East, North Africa and central Asia. Meanwhile, the world-class technical and logistical skills of Al Jaber & Partners Qatar were used to overcome significant challenges in Qatar’s Mesaieed Industrial City, where our team of engineers transformed a low-lying marsh area into a thriving hub for the import of gabbro. Ambitious plans were also unveiled and announced at Al Jaber LEGT Engineering & Contracting (ALEC) with Abu Dhabi and Dubai airports both benefitting from expansion projects. As Abu Dhabi Airport showcased a new, state-of-the-art arrivals hall and tunnel, Dubai International airport revealed ALEC’s future plans to construct Concourse D which, when completed, will accommodate more than 100 foreign carrier airlines. Looking overseas, McConnell Dowell South East Asia Pte Ltd enlisted the capabilities of Al Jaber Heavy Lift (AJHL) in the continued development of Jurong Port, Singapore. AJHL also set a new industry record in 2013 with its handling of the world’s largest crude column at the UAE’s landmark Ruwais Refinery Expansion Project, one of the world’s most prestigious petrochemical projects. Al Jaber Shipping Agency and Marine Works is first in line to procure the most technically advanced machinery and recently acquired the Al Jaber 72, a landing craft cum container carrier with strong capabilities. And so, finally, please join me in bidding farewell to a remarkably successful 2013 and looking forward with great anticipation to another memorable year of groundbreaking projects all around the world.

Mohamed Al Jaber Group President and Vice Chairman

Al Jaber World 3 ceo interview Practical thinking CEO David Nelson discusses his hands-on approach to business and future vision for Al Jaber Group

e may have decades of international experi- The coal company was later taken over by Shell, ence in a range of sectors, but David Nelson is not and Nelson worked in the trading department for the Hthe type of CEO to hibernate in his office with the international energy giant for 18 months in Sydney before door shut. Nelson developed a more personal and hands-on moving to its London head office. Having worked for approach having studied Chemical Engineering and work- Shell in the UK capital for seven years, Nelson moved to ing in his native Australia, as well as Europe and Asia. Hong Kong in 2000 to one of Shell’s joint ventures, power “Of course, I have certain interactions in the office, but I company InterGen. can’t stay there all the time,” he remarks. “Early in my career, Nelson’s current position as CEO of Al Jaber I learnt that it’s better to get out and actually see what’s Group is his third chief executive role in 12 years. His happening. I need to have a good understanding of the entire first CEO role was in Brisbane, Australia, running business, so I make an effort to visit the various operations InterGen’s power generation company. He then moved and talk to people. to UGL, a Sydney-based engineering company, where “I’m very transparent he managed more than and I try to be accessible. If 6,000 employees spanning people don’t know about our operations in nine issues and vision, then how I’m very transparent and I countries, including the can they align behind them? Kingdom of Saudi Arabia We are all part of the same try to be accessible. If people and Qatar. team.” It was during his don’t know about the issues Elaborating on how first job working for a coal and the vision, then how can he attained the Al Jaber company in Australia that Group role, Nelson says, Nelson demonstrated his they align behind them? “I was approached about practical talent. the job while I was in “I started off as a Australia. researcher, but it just wasn’t I found out about the for me,” he admits. “I discovered that I enjoyed getting out group’s high reputation for quality and integrity and that and being in direct contact with people in the field, where was really important to me. I developed plenty of experience when I worked at a new “I’m originally an engineer, so I love the big toys and coal mine. As a new graduate, I earned the respect of my there are plenty of them at Al Jaber Group. Every day we colleagues when, in the middle of the night I helped them work the biggest mobile equipment fleet in the GCC.” shovel out a crusher that had broken down.”

4 Al Jaber World Nelson also felt a great company – I’m truly in connection with the Al awe of what the Al Jaber Jaber family, right from family has achieved. Our the interview stage. “I Chairman started with one came here twice and there Land Rover in the desert was such a great rapport and has grown this huge with the family,” he says. conglomerate. “They made me feel very “Not only is it big, but it welcome.” is very well regarded.” He He adds that the also highlights the need relationship is going from to react to the matured strength to strength. “Each economic conditions in month we have a greater the Middle East. There is understanding of each a dynamic change in the other. We have aligned whole region.” thinking and we’re solving Businesses have problems together.” matured here which The experience of living means that there is greater in Abu Dhabi has exceeded sophistication, both in Nelson’s expectations. “My our competitors and our time here so far has been customers. We need to overwhelmingly great in all understand this new aspects.” dynamic and improve our Nelson also praises efficiency to react to it.” the excellent business The best way for Al conditions within the Jaber Group to react to UAE’s capital. “Abu Dhabi this change, says Nelson, has a strong economy is to ‘supercharge’. He - based on oil and gas explains: “The growth but diversified - with has been fantastic but we impressive growth and are suffering an economic strong potential.” plateau. Given the changed With a wealth of dynamic, how do we experience gleaned from good business practice is maintain the growth working across three universal – you apply the trajectory? continents, Nelson knows “Instead of altering the how to adapt his approach same fundamentals in direction of our business to regional styles of doing different cultures sectors, I believe we need business. a new impetus by ongoing “Good business practice improvement.” is universal: you apply Nelson stresses that the the same fundamentals key is to focus and build on in different cultures. But I’ve also learnt the need to the existing strengths of Al Jaber Group. “We shouldn’t be sensitive, humble and understand there will be change the businesses we are in,” he concludes. “We need differences in each culture and company. You can’t just to focus on our strong base as a civil contractor in strong barge in and apply a cookie cutter approach.” sectors and strong geographies. Moving forward, Nelson believes it is essential to We have an expansion aspiration but we shouldn’t be retain the ‘essence’ of Al Jaber Group’s 40-year heritage. too broad; let’s stick to what we do well and optimise that. He continues: “We need to maintain the preeminent If we achieve this then the company will grow strongly reputation for quality and reliability. It’s a fantastic and thrive.”

Al Jaber World 5

qatar project

epic task Al Jaber & Partners – Qatar (AJP) has created an oasis in the desert for Qatar Petroleum

he precise technical and Qatar Petroleum will offer an extensive MIC PROJECT DETAILS logistical expertise of Al Jaber ecosystem of services to all industries in T& Partners (AJP) has helped Mesaieed, 40 kilometres south of Doha. Contract type: EPIC for earthworks, filling, roads overcome significant challenges at New infrastructure will attract light, network and infrastructure the Gabbro Support Services Area of medium and support organisations to Location: Mesaieed Industrial City, Qatar Mesaieed Industrial City (MIC). complement the larger businesses and Client: Qatar Petroleum A highly qualified team of engineers diversify the growing community. took on the task of transforming a low- The Gabbro Support Services Area Contract Value: AED 788 million lying marsh area into a thriving hub Project, for which Qatar Petroleum Launch Date: July 2009 for the utilisation of gabbro aggregates. engaged AJP’s services, is central to Completion Date: June 2013 The scale of the 25-year MIC project Qatar’s national initiative to take all Manpower: 1,000 reflects the country’s ambitious aggregate for construction from Equipments in Use: 341 development vision. Once a simple imported gabbro rather than using port, the expanding directorate of local limestone.

8 Al Jaber World The project is located 40 kilometres south of Doha in the Mesaieed Industrial City

stones. It would not have been possible without the strong commitment of everybody in the team.” A large number of third-party stakeholders, including utility providers, civil defence and environmental agencies, had ongoing operations within the The first major challenge was to raise soil strength and stability required in project boundary. the overall site level by nearly two certain areas. To ensure requirements such as metres, requiring the transportation of Project Manager Laith Toma temporary road closures were met, more than seven million cubic metres explains how AJP solved the second AJP engaged all stakeholders from the of reclaimed material. major problem of a high water table very start. Heavy live traffic passing The worst affected areas then due to aggressive seawater. through the busy site required required stabilisation. Demonstrating “AJP engineered an intricate bespoke rigorous safety standards. Toma says their flexibility and great depth of dewatering solution, which included strong stakeholder management was expertise, AJP deployed a rare method multiple deep bore holes, which fed into critical to the project’s resounding of surcharge loading to achieve the settlement and filtration lagoons that success. cleans the water in accordance with “It ensured we fulfilled their Qatar’s strict environmental require- expectations every step of the way. getting it right first ments. It allowed us to be able to pump Getting it right first time meant we never the excess water back into the sea. had to go back and fix or redesign things. time meant we never “We ran a precise logistical operation Obviously, this not only eliminated any had to go back and fix or and employed engineering know-how unnecessary delays it also kept the redesign things” to meet the client’s stringent mile- schedule on time.”

Al Jaber World 9 a well-oiled machine JES is already one of the Al Jaber Energy Services (AJES) may be region’s most prestigious A engineering, procurement entering new waters with the expansion of and construction contractors, with multi-discipline expertise the Upper Zakum offshore oil field, but with in civil, mechanical, electrical, decades of experience, the company instrumentation and pipeline works. AJES’s involvement in the is more than capable of the challenge expansion of the Upper Zakum oil field will strengthen its fine reputation, as the company contributes to the construction of The expansion project, will be construction teams with a consistent, artificial islands that will house state- spread across two phases set to finish adequate supply is a key challenge Expansion of the of-the-art oil production facilities. in 2017. AJES is delivering Early Civil that AJES Procurement and Marine ambitious Upper Upper Zakum is located 84 Works solutions across all four new Transportation teams are well- Zakum offshore oil kilometres off the north west coast of artificial islands. equipped to meet. field gets underway Abu Dhabi and is the second largest AJES’s significant multi-discipline The first phase of this ambitious offshore oilfield in the world. The capabilities are central to the project’s expansion involves the development of expansion will see oil production smooth running. More than 90 offshore facilities. Underwater pipelines increase to 750,000 barrels per day, per cent of the structural concrete measuring 240 kilometres long and 128 sustainable for a minimum of 25 years. required is precast, so providing kilometres of fibre-optic cables will link

10 Al Jaber World energy

Upper Zakum In numbers 750,000 oil barrels to be produced per day after expansion 16,000 staff members fully dedicated offshore structures to the mainland. The four islands sit in depths of Jackets, riser platforms, flare towers and water ranging from five to 15 metres to AJES projects bridges are scheduled to complete in and are constructed with sand and rock 2015, as the second phase commences. imported from quarries across the UAE. The latter half of the project will The ambitious scope of the Upper see the deployment of innovative Zakum project is natural territory for technologies to develop facilities that an experienced company like AJES 240 will include wellhead control, crude with an extensive, highly skilled oil processing sites and export pumps. workforce: of Al Jaber Group’s 40,000 kilometres of Accommodation for more than 2,000 employees, 16,000 are fully dedicated people will also commence, as well to AJES projects. underwater pipelines as recreational areas, a mosque and For decades, AJES has risen to operations offices. countless client requests combining Across the four islands AJES sophisticated expertise and technology will provide telecom towers, with simplified processes. AJES boasts 84 kilometres drilling shelters, helipads, harbour an exemplary track record and is construction, piping, drilling and proud to add the Upper Zakum from the oil field to seawater intake trenches, as well as expansion programme to its portfolio roads and interim camps. of complex projects. Abu Dhabi’s coast

Al Jaber World 11 Qualityevery prefab time From temporary site office facilities to permanent steel frame buildings, Al Jaber Prefab Factory (AJPF) offers a full range of ready-made solutions

hether a compact, on-site pre-fabricated products to the highest service all of Al Jaber Group’s construction office or a specification. An impressive array of AJPF has supplied construction companies. Such is its Wmulti-storey unit for up to superior finishing options including prefabricated success that AJPF has now expanded 10,000 people, AJPF has the outstanding frames, skirting and trims ensures the buildings to a vast its operations to provide vital prefab industry expertise and technical skill in-house design team delivers bespoke range of clients solutions to external clients throughout base to take on the most challenging of solutions for each client’s needs. the UAE, the wider Middle East region, prefabrication tasks, regardless of size, AJPF was set up more than 30 years North Africa and central Asia. scale or location. ago to complement the phenomenal From its twin state-of-the-art growth and expansion within the Al AJPF’s factories are particularly manufacturing facilities in Abu Dhabi’s Jaber Group. Today, the company specialised in the manufacture of Musaffah and Al Wathba, the company employs more than 1,200 staff and its portable cabins and accommodation produces a wide range of quality hi-tech factories and expert workforce units to support the region’s thriving

12 Al Jaber World Prefabrication

In numbers 10,000 people capacity 1,200 staff 3 continents

AJPF’s expertise enables it to provide custom-designed portable buildings and workshops alongside civil contracting works within the group. It also has a wealth of experience in the fields of electro-mechanical works and steel structure projects such as warehouses, water tank fabrication and during the installation stages. Recent projects demonstrate the company’s flexibility to create an impressive choice of building styles, from shiny, futuristic factories to construction and industrial sectors. The delivery. Each prefabricated component wooden, more traditional-style company is also renowned for delivering undergoes stringent and rigorous testing AJPF also designs and housing designs. quality prefab solutions including family to ensure it meets the highest standards. constructs villas and AJPF’s clients include globally camps, mosques, clinics, laundries, Today, the company offers build, chalets recognised, blue chip companies such mobile washrooms and kitchen facilities. operate and maintain (BOM) fast-track as Emirates, Siemens and Hyundai, Elsewhere, AJPF is also highly turnkey solutions across numerous government and military organisations skilled in the foundation, design and fields, from prefabricated temporary, as well as oil companies including construction of economic-style villas, semi-permanent and permanent steel ADNOC and Qatar Petroleum. as well as bespoke villas and chalets. frame buildings to site office facilities The company’s success has been Extensive in-house design capabilities and accommodation complexes. proven across the GCC, as well as mean layouts can be fully customised to on projects in Afghanistan, Jordan, meet whatever the requirements, while Azerbaijan and Libya. a range of styles from traditional to ajpf also delivers prefab The impressive client base and contemporary can be selected from the diversity of project locations reflects design office. solutions including AJPF’s ongoing commitment to Since its launch, AJPF has built mosques, clinics, laundries delivering exceptional prefab solutions a reputation for professionalism, again and again, whether for temporary reliability, on-time production and and kitchen facilities” structures or permanent buildings.

Al Jaber World 13 safe hands, heavy work

Demanding and delicate, heavy lift is a highly critical area of construction engineering. Al Jaber Heavy Lift (AJHL) is a world leader as the recent completion of two ambitious projects proves

n impressive industry standard Meanwhile in Singapore, AJHL has been set by Al Jaber Heavy notched up another success when A Lift and Transport, with McConnell Dowell South East Asia the handling of the world’s largest Pte Ltd engaged AJHL to continue crude column at the Ruwais Refinery the development of the modern city Expansion Project, UAE. state. Jurong Town Council awarded The crude column at Ruwais was McConnell Dowell a contract for the 94 metres long, weighed 1,261 tonnes construction of a new cement offloading and required some of AJHL’s most facility. McConnell Dowell engaged sophisticated equipment to take on the AJHL to load out and barge two 500 project’s complex marine, overland and tonne per hour ship unloaders, which lifting elements. will receive bulk cement from cargo A marine spread, comprising a 350- vessels at the new facility. foot class barge and a 50-tonne bollard The German-designed unloaders pull tug with 76 axle lines of self- were fabricated in Batam, Indonesia, propelled modular trailers, was deployed from where AJHL transported them 35 for the loading operations. The column nautical miles across the world’s busiest was then installed onto its foundation by shipping lanes to Jurong. a 3,200-tonne capacity crane. On arrival at the port AJHL faced the This Ruwais project further raises challenge of an unconventional loadout, AJHL’s profile as a key player on discharging both ship loaders over the one of the world’s most prestigious side of the barge, rather than the stern or petrochemical projects. The refinery bow. The highly critical operation took is one of the largest in the UAE with two hours and 45 minutes, based on a capacity set to expand by 400,000 three-hour prediction. Fourteen pumps barrels a day after the completion of this were employed throughout to maintain landmark expansion project. AJHL has correct heal and trip on the barge. been charged with handling 145,000 freight tonnes of project equipment, Health and safety is a central element including the column. of AJHL’s work philosophy and was at AJHL’s expertise was engaged from the heart of both the Ruwais and Jurong the very start of the Ruwais expansion projects. As an ISO 9001, ISO 14001 operation. The company was involved and OHSAS 18001-certified company, from pre-bidding stage, helping to its quality procedures meet the highest overcome the commercial, safety and international standards. technical challenges posed by a project AJHL takes immense pride in of this scale. the successful completion of these This close engagement with the two highly critical projects, which client’s engineers and technical demonstrate the faith global EPC personnel allowed the team to contractors have in its expertise, Right: AJHL worked optimise equipment requirements and reliability and project-management on a key project ensure there was minimal, if not, zero capabilities – attributes that make AJHL in Jurong Port, lost time. a world-leader in this specialist field. Singapore

14 Al Jaber World heavy lift

In numbers - JURONG PORT PROJECT

500 165 tonnes minute weight of ship operation unloaders 14 35 pumps used nautical miles transportation distance

Al Jaber World 15 building the dream

The prestigious beachside Hidd Al Saadiyat Villas is the latest addition to Al Jaber Building’s extensive portfolio

16 Al Jaber World construction

ining 7 kilometres of picturesque waterfront and spanning more than 1.5 million square metres, the exclusive Hidd Al Saadiyat L Villas Development will be one of Abu Dhabi’s flagship residential neighbourhoods. Leading real estate developer Saadiyat Development and Investment Company (SDIC) has awarded the AED 1.77 billion construction, completion and handover contract for the prestigious project to Al Jaber Building (AJB), drawing upon the company’s extensive experience developing more than 7,000 villas for similarly prestigious projects. The project is set for completion in March 2016 and will include 462 luxurious villas, two community centres and a landscape of parks to complement the island’s pristine white beaches.

Al Jaber World 17 construction

Renderings of the upcoming Hidd Al Saadiyat Villas

At the contract signing ceremony, H.E. of our partners and look forward to a we are delighted to be Hamad Rashed Al Neaimi, Chairman of successful relationship with Al Jaber SDIC, expressed his pleasure at having Group.” awarded a third huge AJB on board: project at saadiyat island” “We are pleased to appoint Al Jaber H.E. Obaid Khaleefa Al Jaber Al Building to develop Hidd Al Saadiyat Murri, Chairman of Al Jaber Group, Villas. This is a place for those who commented: “We are delighted to be auspicious project is a great privilege have fond memories of the island and awarded a third huge project at Saadiyat for Al Jaber Building and an important its culture, traditions, and who are Island and are honoured to be able continuation of Al Jaber Group’s historic passionate about preserving it for the to work with Saadiyat Development and ongoing dedication to develop the enjoyment of future generations.” & Investment Company. This project UAE and wider region.” He continued: “Hidd Al Saadiyat is set to be an important landmark The villa residences will be in keeping Villas is an exceptional development development and Al Jaber Group is with the Saadiyat Island promise of that uplifts luxury living standards in committed to delivering the highest first-class living. In addition to extensive the UAE and the region. We have gone standards of quality and service. living space finished to the highest through a meticulous selection process “To be the key contractor on such an specification, the new homes will offer

18 Al Jaber World In numbers 1.77 AED billion contract 2 462 community villas centres

hidd al saadiyat villas is an exceptional direct access to the beach, balconies with of Dubai’s Waterfront Veneto Project development that uplifts breathtaking views and spacious areas and 583 villas for Dubai Sports City at for entertaining both inside and out. Victory Heights. luxury living standards” Privacy and safety will be guaranteed Abu Dhabi’s Hidd Al Saadiyat Villas in a living environment that has been puts AJB at the heart of one of the Gulf The project offers the open over the course of the next three inspired by modern and traditional region’s most exciting new offerings. The best in beach-side years and are widely anticipated by art Arabian designs. wider Saadiyat Island promises a show- living, close to the lovers worldwide. AJB’s experience and attention to stopping array of recreational, cultural heart of Abu Dhabi Beach lovers are already enjoying the detail will come to the fore delivering and educational opportunities. white sands and blue waters of Saadiyat this celebration of high-end island living Public Beach, part of the Saadiyat in the Arabian Gulf. Residents will be able to educate their Beach project. Hidd Al Saadiyat Villa children at internationally renowned residents will also be able to unwind on Established in 1989, to provide the nursery and school institutions, while the Saadiyat Beach Golf Club’s extensive most up-to-date solutions in the areas of university students will benefit from the course. Designed by golf legend Gary housing, villas and urban developments, newest branch of New York University. Player, the stunning 18-hole Saadiyat Al Jaber Building has stayed true to its The campus will offer a comprehensive Beach Golf Club course will be the founding vision with a series of multi- academic programme as well as a Gulf’s first tidal course, partially billion dirham prestigious residential research centre. flooding at high-tide. projects across the Arabian peninsular. The island’s cultural scene will include Offering the ultimate in beach living, The company’s most recent accolades names from the world stage. Zayed and world-class leisure facilities within a include the winning of contracts for 740 National Museum, Louvre Abu Dhabi stone’s throw, the Hidd Al Saadiyat Villas luxury villas in the residential district and Guggenheim Abu Dhabi are set to will be the envy of the world.

Al Jaber World 19 roadsRail

gettinggetting thethe showshow onon tracktrack Al Jaber Transport & General Contracting (AJTGC) is clocking up the miles with a series of major projects to expand the region’s transport network

ecent months have been busy structures such as culverts, utility ducts An additional challenge is the at AJTGC with the start and and road underpasses in this massive Transporting materials proposed rail track, which runs over R completion of a series of key scale project. across the desert to highly critical national infrastructure, projects that will significantly improve help build the national such as gas and crude oil lines. This connectivity across the GCC. One of the major challenges of this rail network has necessitated close coordination Etihad Rail, developers of the 1,200- project is its location, and the vast between AJTGC and various kilometre national rail network that distance over which it is envisaged. authorities such as Gasco, Adco, will extend across the UAE from KSA In particular, the desert terrain in the Takreer and Transco to understand to Oman, has engaged the expertise of Liwa to Shah Section has meant that their requirements, whilst ensuring that AJTGC to develop this groundbreaking mountains of sand have had to be day-to-day infrastructure operations regional transport initiative for freight levelled for the construction of railway remain unaffected. and passengers. embankments. Preparations for Stage One of Etihad The project is a central pillar of the As one of the region’s major earth Rail have begun on the challenging 264 UAE Vision 2021, and one of the key moving and infrastructure contractors, kilometre Shah to Habshan stretch, economic projects for growth and AJTGC is able to mobilise a vast array and track-laying is already underway. diversification. Upon completion, of equipment and plants. The company Scheduled for completion in April 2014, the rail network will help to bring has employed specialist construction AJTGC currently has a workforce of businesses closer, facilitate more machinery on the project, such as GPS 2,500 people directly assigned to this efficient trade and extend geographic controlled earth work and machinery, preliminary section. markets. including dozers, graders and dumper The overall Etihad Rail project, AJTGC is using its wealth of industry trucks, to increase the accuracy of the which will eventually connect the UAE experience to provide overbridges finished works and to optimise the with KSA, Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain and and service roads, as well as minor embankment construction process. Oman, is expected to be ready by 2018.

20 Al Jaber World AJTGC’s breadth of involvement within this impressive venture makes it a proud and prominent player in the delivery of one of the most ambitious transport networks in the region.

One of AJTGC’s key strengths is the availability of its own asphalt, aggregate and concrete supplies, which help to ensure the delivery of projects on time. In particular, two new contracts in Abu Dhabi are benefitting from this facility. The first is a AED 300 million contract for the dualisation of the Madinat Zayed to Ghayathi Road, which was awarded to AJTGC by the Department of Transport. Included in the remit is the construction of 80 kilometres of asphalt road as well as an underpass, gate access, U-turn, layby and service duct facilities. AJTGC will also be responsible for road markings and street lighting at Bringing together public, Stretches of the track, potable water works, street lighting and junctions. Work started in September commercial, retail and residential which runs from the the sewerage, electrical and telephone 2013 and is scheduled to take 600 days. facilities in one destination, MBZ will UAE across Saudi networks. Almost all of the vital material eventually be home to a population of Arabia to Oman One of the main challenges of the requirements for this project are able 85,000 across approximately 5.8 million operation is to ensure and maintain the to be sourced internally, thanks to the square metres of developed land. smooth, safe and unhindered traffic of impressive existing infrastructure of Al The second contract for the vehicles, travelling in either direction, Jaber Group’s subsidiary companies in development of MBZ was awarded to during the construction phases. the project vicinity. AJTGC in July 2013 increasing the total To achieve this, AJTGC has Concrete is being supplied by investment to AED 400 million. The undertaken detailed traffic Xtramix from its plant at Madinat construction commenced in August management studies and has liaised Zayed, while the aggregates and asphalt 2013 and the expected finish date is with the Department of Transport will be supplied by Al Jaber Crushers April 2015. and traffic police to meet their through their factories in Mafraq. A requirements while proposing how to new asphalt plant dedicated specifically Currently in the construction stage, manage the general traffic flow during to this project will also be established the project involves a new, two-lane these crucial phases. either in Mirfa or Tarif. highway adjacent to the existing dual As AJTGC forges ahead with its Meanwhile, AJTGC’s expertise is carriageway. As a part of the project, portfolio of landmark projects, the also being used in the development of AJTGC is also responsible for any company continues to demonstrate its Abu Dhabi’s Mohammed Bin Zayed internal roads and parking spaces, the adherence to high quality, reliability (MBZ) City. storm water drainage pipelines, the and efficiency.

Al Jaber World 21 airports

high flyer22 Al Jaber World Al Jaber LEGT Engineering & Contracting (ALEC) is taking the aviation sector by storm, with major airport projects in Abu Dhabi and Dubai

Al Jaber World 23 airports

bu Dhabi and Dubai airports Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, are at the heart of the UAE’s has described Dubai International as a A ambitious economic priority, stating: “It represents the face expansion plans and Al Jaber LEGT of the country and is the symbol of its Engineering & Contracting (ALEC) is culture and progress.” proud to be making major contributions ALEC is helping to lead the third to the new infrastructure at both phase of DXB’s expansion plan. PROJECT DETAILS international transport hubs. Meanwhile a major milestone in Abu Dubai International Airport (DXB) is Dhabi International Airport’s Capacity Project: new Arrivals Hall and Tunnel on track to become the world’s busiest Enhancement Plan has been reached, Location: Abu Dhabi International Airport hub by 2015, having already boosted with ALEC’s successful completion of Built up Area: 4,600 square metres traffic to approximately 57.7 million a new 4,600 square metre arrivals hall Contract Period: 276 days, reduced to 170 days passengers in 2012. and tunnel linking Terminals 1 and 3. UAE Vice President, Prime Minister In anticipation of continued passenger Contract Value: AED 60 million (US$ 16.3 million) and Ruler of Dubai, H.H. Sheikh growth, Abu Dhabi Airports Company Client: ADAC the new arrivals hall is a vital component of the airport’s capacity enhancement plan”

(ADAC) engaged ALEC for this vital The new arrivals component of the airport’s Capacity hall and tunnel at Enhancement Plan. Abu Dhabi International Airport Abu Dhabi’s 2030 Vision, driven (above and left) by H.H. Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE and Ruler of Abu Dhabi, will diversify the economy away from reliance on the oil sector. Building an open, efficient, effective and globally integrated business environment is a key objective and Abu Dhabi International Airport (AUH) will help realise that goal. The state-of-the-art arrivals hall is a steel frame construction with a glass façade and contains meet-and-greet areas, washroom facilities, prayer rooms, food and beverage and car rental outlets as well as other retail concession stands. Operations continued in the

24 Al Jaber World PROJECT DETAILS

Project: Concourse D Location: Dubai International New Concourse Building: 150,000 square metres New Apron: 250,000 square metres Terminal 1 Upgrade: 90,000 square metres New APM Link: 1.5 kilometres Client: Dubai Aviation Engineering Projects (DAEP)

building during construction, so careful planning was required to ensure services were not disrupted. Meticulous planning and sequencing was also critical in the construction of a tunnel beneath the main airport access road linking the terminal building and arrivals hall. An immutable 60-day shutdown of the main access road meant that works had to be executed on time to avoid unnecessary disruption to the smooth running of the airport. The tunnel consists of a vertical core to accommodate two elevators and two travelators. Works were successfully completed ahead of schedule allowing the road to re-open 10-days early. to bring it up to the world-class A recycling programme, the use of ALEC was the lead contractor for this standards of Emirates Terminal 3. renewable energy and a commitment project, managing various sub-contracts Exclusively for Emirates, Terminal The construction of to using locally-sourced and recycled and associated packages. The original 3 increased DXB’s total capacity by Concourse D at Dubai materials are among steps being taken in timescale was 276 days, subsequently 43 million passengers per year to 60 International Airport to construct the new concourse, as well reduced to 170 days following a request million when it opened in 2008 with an (above) as the installation of 192 solar panels from the client to accelerate works. associated concourse. over 450 square metres of roof space. ALEC successfully completed the Enabling works at Terminal 1 Construction risk management is a key project in the required period. began in June 2012 to turn live airside focus. Thanks to world-class standards stands into a landside construction in health, safety and environmental Dubai Terminal 1 will be undertaking environment. Drawing on practical management, ALEC is proud to have the third phase of its Expansion solutions and lessons learned during achieved five million man-hours free of Project, with ALEC contracted for the the recently completed Concourse a lost-time injury, which the company construction of an additional concourse A project, ALEC is celebrating the aims to exceed in the future. building (Concourse D). This will be significant progression of construction As air-travel capacity booms across linked to the existing terminal facility just over a year after first breaking the region, the UAE’s two biggest by a new, elevated rail link served by an ground for the foundation works. airports – DXB and AUH – are both Automated People Mover. rapidly becoming epicentres of Concourse D will accommodate In line with Dubai Airport’s long-term international aviation. The recent more than 100 foreign carrier airlines. aim for carbon neutral growth, special projects make ALEC a key player in The project also includes a major measures are being taken to improve the country’s record-breaking aviation refurbishment of the terminal building energy efficiency and sustainability. expansion effort.

Al Jaber World 25 news

HH Sheikh Hazza (left) attends iftar at the Shangri-La Hotel, Qaryat Al Beri H.H. Sheikh hazza bin zayed al nahyan attends Iftar H.H. Sheikh Hazza bin Zayed Al Nahyan, National Security Abu Dhabi on the occasion of the Holy Month of Ramadan last Advisor and Vice Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Executive year. The iftar banquet was also attended by Sultan Rashid Al Council, attended an iftar banquet hosted by Obaid Khaleefa Dhahiri, a member of the Federal National Council, as well as a Al Jaber Al Murri at the Shangri-La Hotel, Qaryat Al Beri in number of other senior officials.

AJCD exhibits its expertise at Big 5

Al Jaber Carpentry & Décor showcased its services and products at Dubai’s Big 5 exhibition, the Middle East’s largest building sector fair, held in November 2013. Hussam Ghazali, managing director of Al Jaber Carpentry & Décor, commented: “Big 5 is a great opportunity for companies like ours. It attracts all construction specialists and decision makers from across the GCC and the world. “Our areas of expertise range from producing quality wooden products for five-star hotels, luxury villas and palaces as well as commercial and retail projects. We cater to a wide range of customer requirements within a timely manner, adapting a professional approach and utilising the latest skills and technology,” he added. Al Jaber Carpentry & Décor was established in 2006 to On the stand at cater to the needs of Al Jaber Group companies. Its services the Big 5 exhibition were later extended to external clients.

26 Al Jaber World update

ALEC embraces key digital platform

Al Jaber LEGT Engineering and Contracting (ALEC) has installed web application Microsoft Sharepoint to enhance collaboration, productivity and efficiency across its business. The platform, known as ALEC Central, merges company processes, procedures and relevant project data, as well as up-to-date news and information. Employees will be able to communicate and collaborate via the system regardless of their location, Enhancing the role of through a range of connected devices including tablets and smart phones. women in the workplace “Our projects take place at a range of locations and we are using technology to H.E. Fatima Obaid Al Jaber, chairwoman noting that the organisation has upgraded enhance collaboration and increase the of the Executive Authority for Abu Dhabi the role of Emirati businesswomen in various sense of working together and sharing Businesswomen Council and board member of economic and service activities in Abu Dhabi. knowledge across our people,” said Kez Al Jaber Group, met the British State Minister Furthermore, the council has strengthened Taylor, ALEC CEO. Baroness Sayeeda Warsi to discuss the exchange relations with its Gulf and Arab counterparts, “Microsoft’s has assisted us in coming of the best practices to support and enhance the and provided opportunities for women’s up with a collaborative platform, role of businesswomen in the workplace. training. Sharepoint, where we can improve H.E. Fatima Al Jaber briefed Baroness The British minister expressed her readiness communication, and our systems can be Warsi on the achievements and future plans to cooperate with the businesswomen in Abu better implemented as a business,” Kez of the Abu Dhabi Businesswomen Council, Dhabi through the Council. Taylor continued.

Al Jaber Blazers make it to cricket final

Al Jaber Blazers received The Al Jaber Blazers made it to the another local team from Dubai, received a cheque for AED 25,000 final of the 2013 Sprite Cricket Stars prize money of AED 25,000. Tournament, which was played out The inaugural Sprite Cricket Stars in front of more than 9,000 fans at the Tournament took place in 2011, with Dubai Cricket Stadium. the idea of finding the best cricketers in The competition, held under the labour accommodations. Its huge success patronage of the Ministry of Labour meant the decision was taken to open and in partnership with Coca-Cola the event to all residents in the UAE in Middle East, saw 16 teams battle it out subsequent years. over five months. The eventual winners, Sprite Cricket Stars ambassador SS Lootah Spinners from Dubai, were Akhtar, commented: “I have been presented with a cheque for AED 50,000 extremely impressed by the standard of by former Pakistan pacer Shoaib Akhtar, cricket on display and, as expected, the while runners-up Al Jaber Blazers, finals did not disappoint.”

Al Jaber World 27 marine Launching Ahead Al Jaber Shipping Agency and Marine Works acquires technically superior landing craft to meet latest oil field challenges

dvances across oil fields in Abu Dhabi Jaber’s Upper Zakum Development project. have encouraged Al Jaber Group to look Al Jaber is delighted with its purchase and A closely at expanding its fleet of large and with its general, long-term decision to expand its heavy duty landing crafts, particularly in the last landing craft, not only to address the advances in decade. Sophisticated landing crafts are needed Abu Dhabi’s oil fields but also to keep ahead of to move materials around more quickly, a priority competitors, vying for the same contracts. in the industry. Unlike other companies, Al Jaber For now, no other company, in either the UAE or Shipping Agency and Marine Works is first in the Middle East, hold such large landing crafts. line to procure the most technically advanced machinery and recently acquired the Al Jaber 72, a landing craft cum container carrier which has AL JABER 72 strong capabilities in these challenging times. MAIN SPECIFICATIONS: The state-of-the-art vessel is a low draught, oil field compliant multipurpose landing craft • LOA( Length Overall): 75.89 metres which will be employed for oil field construction • Two Main Mitsubishi Engines: support, rig moves and has additional capability for container transportation. Fitted with two 2,000 brake horsepower Mitsubishi engines, the 76 metre long, 18 metre • (759 kilowatts) beam vessel can reach speeds of up to 12 knots • Breadth Moulded: 18.6 metres in fair weather conditions. The technologically • Depth Moulded: 5.181 metres advanced heavy duty landing craft meets all • Maximum Draft: 3.962 metres modern construction standards and complies • Deck Strength: 7 tonnes square metres with international trade requirements. The Al Jaber 72 provides advanced marine logistical • Clear Deck Space: Approx. 800 square metres solutions to our customers as well as those for Al • Container Capacity: 162Teu

28 Al Jaber World