In The Spotlight
![Finalist representatives will present their projects to a panel of 34 independent judges. (Image source: Bentley Systems) Last year's award ceremony](/images/bentleysystems.png#joomlaImage://local-images/bentleysystems.png?width=787&height=399)
Finalist representatives will present their projects to a panel of 34 independent judges. (Image source: Bentley Systems)
Bentley Systems announces the finalists of the 2024 Going Digital Awards
Bentley Systems, the infrastructure engineering software company, has announced the finalists for the 2024 Going Digital Awards.
This annual event celebrates the exceptional achievements of Bentley’s global users, highlighting how innovative software is driving the advancement of infrastructure worldwide, ultimately enhancing quality of life. This year, 36 finalists across 12 categories were chosen from over 250 nominations submitted by organisations from 36 countries.
Finalist representatives will present their projects to a panel of 34 independent judges, who will determine the winners. The winners will be announced on 9 October, during the 2024 Going Digital Awards ceremony at the JW Marriott Parq Vancouver.
Some of the finalists in the 2024 Going Digital Awards are:
BRIDGES AND TUNNELS
JMT – Digital Experience for I-95 Rappahannock River Crossing Construction Project, Fredericksburg, Virginia, United States
QK4, Inc. – Going Digital Survey with Bridging Kentucky, Kentucky, United States
Tecne Systra-Sws Advanced Tunneling Srl – Digital Implementation in Tunnel Assessment and Rehabilitation, Italy
CONSTRUCTION
PT Hutama Karya (Persero) – Navigating the Complexities of Jakarta MRT Phase 2A CP203 with Digital Solutions, Jakarta, South Jakarta, Indonesia
Webuild s.p.a. – 4D Modeling and Construction Management for a Pedestrian Steel Bridge Erection in the New ENI Headquarter Complex in Milan, Italy, San Donato Milanese, Lombardia to Milano, Italy
Proicere Ltd. – SPRS Retreatment (SRP) Sellafield, Seascale, Cumbria, United Kingdom
RAIL AND TRANSIT
SPL Powerlines UK – Midland Main Line Electrification, Hertfordshire, Bedfordshire, Northamptonshire, Leicestershire, Nottinghamshire, Derbyshire, and South Yorkshire; United Kingdom
Transport for London – The Elizabeth Line, London, England, United Kingdom
INECO – Master Design Stage RBDTD-LV-DS3 North Latvian Section, Latvia
ROADS AND HIGHWAYS
China Road and Bridge Corporation, China Highway Engineering Consulting Corporation – Phnom Penh – Bavet Expressway, Phnom Penh, Cambodia
WISDRI Engineering & Research Incorporation Limited – Wuhan Gaoxin 4th Road Comprehensive Reconstruction Project, Wuhan, Hubei, China
Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) – Digital Twin Implementation for NLEX-SLEX Connector Road Project, Caloocan to Manila, Metro Manila, Philippines
“Infrastructure is essential. It connects us locally and globally, supporting our society and economic growth and development,” said Kristin Fallon, chief marketing officer, Bentley Systems. “This year’s Going Digital Awards finalists represent an impressive mix of international projects that are pushing the boundaries of what’s possible on land, at sea, and underground. These programs highlight engineering genius; they showcase the teams of infrastructure professionals that are unlocking the power of data with AI, digital twins, immersive visualisations, and more, to make modern life possible. We applaud and celebrate each finalist for their outstanding achievements to make better, more resilient critical infrastructure for an improved quality of life.”
![The first phase of the industrial park, with an investment of US$360mn, will cover over 450,000 sq m in Al Ghail and Al Hulaila. (Image source: RAKEZ) The signing ceremony.](/images/2024/august/rakezchina.png#joomlaImage://local-images/2024/august/rakezchina.png?width=787&height=399)
The first phase of the industrial park, with an investment of US$360mn, will cover over 450,000 sq m in Al Ghail and Al Hulaila. (Image source: RAKEZ)
RAKEZ oversees agreements with Chinese firms
His Highness Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, UAE Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah, presided over the official lease signing ceremony between China's leading Shandong Timber and Wood Products Association (STWPA) and Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone (RAKEZ) to establish the Zhong A Shandong Industrial Park in Ras Al Khaimah.
The lease agreement was signed by Yang Yuelu, President of STWPA and Chairman of Zhong A Shandong Industrial Park, and Ramy Jallad, Group CEO of RAKEZ.
The first phase of the industrial park, with an investment of US$360mn, will cover over 450,000 sq m in Al Ghail and Al Hulaila within RAKEZ. The park is set to expand further, ultimately occupying over 1 million m2 in Al Ghail over the next three years. Once completed, the project will introduce more than 60 new companies, particularly in the wood and food and beverage sectors, and generate over 3,500 new jobs in the next five years.
STWPA, which has established similar ventures in China, Indonesia, and Ethiopia, attracts a variety of businesses in sectors such as chemicals, mechanical and electrical, and glass. In Ras Al Khaimah, the industrial park will offer ready-made infrastructure for Chinese investors, with RAKEZ and its partners facilitating their business setup. The park has already attracted F&B and plywood manufacturers.
The UAE holds a pivotal role in China’s global trade strategy, serving as China's largest trade partner in the Arab region and re-exporting around 60% of Chinese trade to over 400 cities across the MENA region. Additionally, the UAE has secured numerous international trade agreements that bolster the country's appeal as a manufacturing hub for global companies. This strategic position has propelled the UAE up the FDI league tables, solidifying its reputation as a prime destination for international investment.
Recognising the significance of Chinese businesses in diversifying Ras Al Khaimah's industrial base, RAKEZ actively engages with Chinese entrepreneurs, government officials, and media representatives through strategic meetings and roadshows across Chinese cities. These efforts to foster a thriving business and investment environment have attracted over 200 Chinese companies to RAKEZ, spanning industries such as recycling, LED lighting, engineering, and packaging, among others.
![The National Green Hydrogen Council will oversee the implementation of the strategy on an annual basis. (Image source: Adobe Stock) Image of earth.](/images/2024/may/AdobeStock_310689714.webp#joomlaImage://local-images/2024/may/AdobeStock_310689714.webp?width=787&height=399)
The National Green Hydrogen Council will oversee the implementation of the strategy on an annual basis. (Image source: Adobe Stock)
Egypt develops its hydrogen strategy
The Egyptian government has announced the launch of its National Strategy for Low-Carbon Hydrogen, according to a statement on 15 August.
Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly highlighted that the strategy is a key part of Egypt’s efforts to reduce carbon emissions and diversify its clean and sustainable energy sources in line with its international commitments.
The strategy also aims to strengthen collaboration with global partners and financial institutions to support research, development, and investment in the hydrogen sector, as noted by Cabinet Spokesperson Mohamed El-Homosany. Additionally, the strategy is focused on improving the economic efficiency of utilizing domestic resources.
El-Homosany further stated that the National Green Hydrogen Council will oversee the implementation of the strategy on an annual basis.
The strategy is expected to significantly boost Egypt’s gross domestic product (GDP), potentially reaching up to US$18bn by 2040, and create over 100,000 job opportunities this year. It is also anticipated to enhance Egypt’s energy security, reduce carbon dioxide emissions, and promote the transition to a green economy.
![Environmentally, the annual generation of 1.1 GWh of clean energy could power a small town for several days to a week. (Image source: Canva)](/images/2024/august/solardubal.webp#joomlaImage://local-images/2024/august/solardubal.webp?width=787&height=399)
Environmentally, the annual generation of 1.1 GWh of clean energy could power a small town for several days to a week. (Image source: Canva)
DUBAL installs solar panels atop its aluminium subsidiary
DUBAL Extrusion Investment has completed the rooftop solar power generation project (phase I) at OSE Industries, a local aluminium extrusion company owned by DEI.
The rooftop solar power project, implemented by Emirates Electrical Engineering LLC, became operational at the beginning of July and is situated on the rooftops of buildings 1 and 2 of the OSE plant.
With a rated capacity of 633 kilowatts peak (kWp), the system is anticipated to generate 1.1 gigawatt-hours (GWh) of clean electricity annually, potentially covering up to 12% of OSE Industries’ annual electricity needs. Environmentally, the annual generation of 1.1 GWh of clean energy could power a small town for several days to a week, reducing carbon emissions by 440,000 kg CO2e and promoting sustainable practices.
The project was carried out under a Solar Lease Agreement, removing upfront costs and providing a hassle-free approach to operation, maintenance, and affordable energy rates.
The supplier is responsible for monitoring the system’s performance, maintaining its cleanliness, and ensuring the availability of spare components. Preliminary data for July 2024 shows that the solar system generated 109.5 megawatt-hours (MWh) of electricity, meeting 12% of the monthly demand and contributing to a reduction of 43,800 kg CO2e in carbon emissions.
Phase II of the project, which will extend to the remaining buildings and service areas, is planned for commissioning in 2025. This project reflects DEI’s dedication to advancing the UAE’s sustainability goals, including the DEWA SHAMS Dubai Initiative, Dubai Clean Energy Strategy 2050, and UAE Net Zero 2050.
Innovative water solutions for the MENA Region: join Brentwood's final webinar
The MENA region is increasingly facing severe challenges in the water sector. Issues such as water scarcity and high energy costs are creating a growing demand for sustainable and cost-effective treatment solutions for water reuse. Brentwood, with its proven expertise in drinking water and wastewater treatment technologies, sedimentation technology, sludge collection and removal systems, and biofilm processes, is at the forefront of addressing these challenges.
Brentwood are excited to invite you for its final session in or three-part webinar series on water technology, specifically focused on the MENA region. This session aims to provide technical insights into sustainable, efficient, and cost-effective water management solutions tailored for the unique challenges of the region.
Brentwood's featured speaker, Dr. Noama Shareef, will share her extensive knowledge and present various technical solutions for addressing water and wastewater treatment challenges in the MENA region. Dr. Shareef's expertise in the field ensures that attendees will gain valuable insights into the latest advancements and practical applications in water treatment technologies. Following her presentation, there will be an interactive Q&A session, allowing participants to engage directly with Dr. Shareef and get their specific questions answered. The entire webinar will be conducted in Arabic, making it accessible to many attendees in the region.
We encourage you to register now to secure your spot for this informative session. The webinar will focus on the application of lamella settlers as a solution for improving sedimentation processes in water and wastewater treatment plants.
These advanced technologies are essential for enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of sedimentation processes, which are critical components of water and wastewater treatment systems.
Mark your calendar for Wednesday, 23 October 2024, from 5:00 to 6:00 PM GMT+1. This is an excellent opportunity to stay informed about the latest developments in water technology and to learn from a leading expert in the field.
Additionally, if you missed the previous sessions in our webinar series, you can watch them on-demand at your convenience. We have made the recordings available to ensure that you have access to all the valuable content and insights shared during the series.
Register now for the final session of our MENA water technology webinar series: https://hubs.ly/Q02HsRdD0. Don’t miss this chance to enhance your knowledge and stay ahead in the ever-evolving field of water treatment technology.
Watch past webinars on-demand here: https://hubs.ly/Q02HsRm-0.
![This webinar is an essential event for professionals in the construction industry. (Image source: ACP) This webinar is an essential event for professionals in the construction industry](/images/2024/august/kcepr.png#joomlaImage://local-images/2024/august/kcepr.png?width=787&height=399)
This webinar is an essential event for professionals in the construction industry. (Image source: ACP)
Khansaheb Civil Engineering hosts groundbreaking webinar on digital delivery in construction
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Dubai, UAE – August 27, 2024 – Khansaheb Civil Engineering (KCE), in collaboration with Autodesk, is set to host a webinar that will delve into the transformative effects of adopting a Common Data Environment (CDE) within the construction industry. The webinar will showcase how KCE has revolutionised its construction operations by leveraging digital solutions, significantly improving project efficiency, quality, and client satisfaction.
The webinar, titled “KCE: Revolutionising Construction Operations through Digital Delivery”, is scheduled for 18 September 2024. Participants will gain insights into how KCE utilised Autodesk Construction Cloud (ACC) as a comprehensive CDE solution across all project phases—from preconstruction to construction. This platform enabled KCE to centralise project data, streamline workflows, and ensure high accuracy in information exchange, ultimately delivering faster and more effective construction outcomes.
During this session, you will learn how KCE:
* Utilised Autodesk Construction Cloud (ACC) as a comprehensive solution for CDE needs across all project phases, from preconstruction through to construction, centralising project data in one place, including BIM Coordination, collaboration, and issue management.
* Streamlined daily tasks such as drawings, material submittals, site inspections, and snag lists, revolutionising workflow.
* Exchanged vast amounts of information with multiple parties, ensuring high accuracy and speed, delivering the right information at the right time, resulting in faster construction processes, improved quality, greater client satisfaction, and enhanced project outcomes.
* Managed to have one-click access to drawings, models, and Microsoft Office files, and handled file version control, comparison, and change management, all within a single platform.
This webinar is an essential event for professionals in the construction industry who are looking to enhance their operations through digital solutions. Attendees will have the opportunity to hear directly from experts at KCE and Autodesk about the practical applications and benefits of using a Common Data Environment.
Registration: The webinar is free to attend, but spaces are limited. To secure your spot, please register at https://alaincharlestraining.com/webinar2/kce-autodesk-webinar
For more information, please contact:
Imran Uddin
Project Manager - Events
Technical Review Middle East
Alain Charles Publishing
+44 (0) 20 78347676
About Khansaheb Civil Engineering:
Khansaheb Civil Engineering is a leading construction company in the UAE, committed to delivering high-quality construction services through innovation and excellence. With a focus on sustainability and client satisfaction, KCE continues to be at the forefront of the construction industry.
About Autodesk UAE:
Autodesk is a global leader in design and make technology, providing innovative solutions for industries including architecture, engineering, construction, manufacturing, and media and entertainment. Autodesk supports the region's construction industry with advanced digital tools and platforms.
-ENDS-
![Discover the enhanced JCB 3CX Backhoe Loaders, arriving this July with upgraded features for superior performance. (Image source: Bell Equipment) 3CX](/images/3CX%20Edited-blue-nosun.webp#joomlaImage://local-images/3CX Edited-blue-nosun.webp?width=747&height=399)
Discover the enhanced JCB 3CX Backhoe Loaders, arriving this July with upgraded features for superior performance. (Image source: Bell Equipment)
Revolutionising Backhoe efficiency with JCB 3CX
The updated range of JCB 3CX Backhoe Loaders is set to arrive on South African shores this July, promising to build on the brand’s popularity with enhanced features aimed at delivering improved comfort, versatility, and productivity, thereby reducing costs and boosting efficiency
Bell Equipment sales product manager for JCB products, Massyn Jansen Van Vuuren, commented, “This new model range will replace the existing JCB 3CX Eco, 3DX and 3CX Global product lineup. The new cab makeover is the most noticeable change and is bound to impress. The striking new design uses high quality moulded plastics, and the pillars and roof are light grey in colour to give a lighter and more spacious feel.
“Most importantly the new cab places a huge focus on operator safety, comfort, and ease of operation. For example, the loader lever has been simplified to operate like a wheel loader. The 3CX range now has a single lever loader control incorporating an F-N-R directional switch so an operator can control the loader and transmission with one hand. In addition, there is a proportional switch on the side of the lever to operate the 6-in-1 bucket, which further reduces the effort needed to operate the machine.”
Enhanced features
The new EasyShift transmission with 'kick down' comes standard across the range, simplifying gear changes via a rotation of the F-N-R directional lever next to the steering wheel. The kick down switch, located on the floor, allows operators to shift from second to first gear for added power during loading or site work."
“All cabs are ROPS/FOPS certified and the seat rotation area is larger to give the operator more room, which together with improved cab sealing to keep out water and dust, creates a cleaner and more pleasant workspace. There is also improved visibility to the working area behind the machine,” remarked Massyn.
In addition, the 3CX Plus model introduces a high-performance HVAC air conditioning system with 21 adjustable air vents strategically positioned around the front console, ‘B’ pillar, and rear of the machine, optimising comfort and demisting performance. The 3CX features a standard fan mounted on the B pillar."
Under the hood, the JCB 3CX range benefits from enhanced hydraulic efficiency due to new standard variable displacement piston pumps across all models. The larger pump provides 150lpm, a 39% increase over the previous model, allowing for reduced engine speed while maintaining productivity, effectively cutting fuel consumption. Moreover, the variable flow pump operates on demand, reducing engine load and further improving fuel efficiency.
The Plus and Pro models feature a standard Smooth Ride System for improved road handling and can be equipped with a versatile 6-in-1 shovel, optionally fitted with flip-over forks for increased functionality. “The 6-in-1 shovel can be used for dozing, loading, digging, grabbing, spreading, and grading while the optional flip over forks are ideal for machines that will double up as a forklift for pick and place activities around the work site and to unload vehicles,” he added.
Lighting has been upgraded with six LED work lights replacing halogen lights. Front-mounted adjustable LEDs and rear-mounted LEDs, two of which are adjustable, enhance nighttime visibility. A 'guide me home' light system keeps work lights illuminated for 30 seconds after the ignition is turned off, aiding safe exit from the machine and worksite during nighttime operations.
Other standard features include an in-cab boom lock, front and rear wash/wiper functions, Return To Dig function, electronic throttle control, Bluetooth radio and USB ports, front and side LCD display, adjustable steering column, and a battery isolator key for electrical isolation during maintenance.
"All in all, the new 3CX range has a machine to suit all requirements and we expect these new machines to add real value and strengthen JCB’s position as the world’s leading brand of Backhoe Loaders. We have a fleet of units that will be used across the country to familiarise customers with the new range and the improvements, so we encourage customers to contact their nearest Bell dealer and experience the machines for themselves,” concluded Massyn.
EGA highlights achievements on Emirati Women's Day
Emirates Global Aluminium announced that over 110 women have joined the company since Emirati Women’s Day 2023, including 67 UAE nationals.
EGA now employs over 550 women in the UAE in total, including more than 195 in operations. The company is aiming for 25 per cent of supervisory roles to be held by women by 2025, up from around 20 per cent today, and 15 per cent of all positions by 2026. EGA marked Emirati Women’s Day with the launch a new initiative dedicated to promoting gender diversity across UAE industry.
EGA's Break the Mould initiative seeks to inspire young women interested in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) to follow the path of trailblazing women who have made notable contributions to the UAE's industrial sector.
The UAE stands out as one of the few countries globally where more women than men graduate in STEM fields. In celebration of Emirati Women’s Day, EGA’s Women’s Network hosted an event for all female employees at EGA, highlighting the progress made in gender diversity and exploring ways to further enhance it.
In 2022, EGA opened its long-standing National Training programmes for industrial operations roles to women for the first time, resulting in women making up 20% of new entrants in the first full year. Additionally, EGA introduced the Challenger Programme last year, which unites leading industrial companies to accelerate gender diversity by tackling common practical challenges.
EGA is also a signatory of the United Nations' Women’s Empowerment Principles and is committed to advancing gender diversity across its operations while advocating for the role of women in both industry and society.
Abdulnasser Bin Kalban, Chief Executive Officer of Emirates Global Aluminium, said: “At EGA and in the UAE industrial sector, pioneering women are making significant contributions and inspire many more women to follow in their footsteps. Emirati Women’s Day is an opportunity to celebrate their achievements in our industry and our nation. We believe that diversity leads to improved business performance, and we are committed to creating more opportunities for women and to inspire the next generation of women leaders and innovators in the UAE.”
![The framework was developed in collaboration with industry experts and co-ESG advisors. (Image source: Etihad Rail) Image of a train.](/images/2024/august/tabreedchairman%201.png#joomlaImage://local-images/2024/august/tabreedchairman 1.png?width=787&height=399)
The framework was developed in collaboration with industry experts and co-ESG advisors. (Image source: Etihad Rail)
Etihad Rail launches its ESG strategy
Etihad Rail, the developer and operator of the UAE National Rail Network, has introduced its Sustainable Finance Framework.
This comprehensive guide is designed to align the company's future financing efforts with its Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) Strategy, particularly focusing on Clean Transportation, Green Buildings, and Pollution Prevention and Control.
The framework was developed in collaboration with industry experts and co-ESG advisors, First Abu Dhabi Bank and Standard Chartered Bank, to ensure its alignment with the Green Loan and Bond Principles. The robustness of the framework was further validated by Det Norske Veritas (DNV) through a Second Party Opinion (SPO).
Key characteristics
The framework outlines a structured approach for Etihad Rail to assess and finance sustainable projects, detailing four key components: adherence to Green Loan and Bond Principles to meet international sustainability standards, clear criteria for the allocation of funds towards sustainable initiatives, a rigorous process for project evaluation and selection, and transparent management and reporting of funds.
Aligned with Etihad Rail's ESG strategy, the framework includes mechanisms for assessing environmental risks and promoting transparency in ESG initiatives. It not only supports informed investment decisions that mitigate environmental risks and leverage sustainable market opportunities but also encourages collaboration and knowledge-sharing among industry stakeholders, regulators, and investors, thereby fostering a transition towards a more sustainable financial system.
Ali Tabbal, chief financial officer at Etihad Rail said, “The introduction of our Sustainable Finance Framework is a testament to Etihad Rail’s commitment to integrate and uphold sustainable practices in all our operations. Through responsible financial practices, we are further underscoring this dedication by driving positive environmental and social impact in the region across the transportation, logistics, and infrastructure sectors. This framework is a pivotal element of our broader ESG strategy, directly aligning with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals. It provides a clear roadmap for integrating ESG considerations into investment decisions, empowering companies to generate long-term sustainable value. By doing so, we are not only fostering a transition to a low-carbon, resilient economy but also supporting the UAE’s Net Zero 2050 Strategy and contributing to the nation’s vision for a sustainable future.”
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HANNOVER MESSE
Venue:
Hannover
Dates:
17-21 April 2023
Website:
https://www.hannovermesse.de/en/