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U+A has appointed Liliana Momcilovic as Head of Interior Design. The move is said to strengthen its leadership team with her expertise in high-end residential, hospitality, and mixed-use developments.

With over two and a half decades of international experience, including seventeen years in the Middle East, Momcilovic has consistently delivered innovative and design-driven solutions across a diverse range of markets, said a statement from U+A, which is a subsidiary of the Egis Group.

Momcilovic commented, “As the Head of Interior Design at U+A, my goal is to reshape our team into a space where each member’s strengths are recognised, nurtured, and empowered. I want to inspire and encourage everyone to explore emerging technologies and innovative approaches that enhance how we express our ideas. Through this, we will strive to surpass client expectations while taking pride in our work, continuously pushing ourselves to new creative heights and redefining what’s possible in design.”

Her ability to bridge design disciplines and drive forward-thinking solutions established her in the field. Passionate about innovation and the evolution of interior architecture, she has been integrating technologies such as 3D printing, digital automation, and wellness-oriented design into contemporary developments, the statement outlined.

Momcilovic, an architect and interior designer with a Master’s Degree in Architectural Engineering from the Faculty of Architecture at the University of Belgrade, has held leadership positions in property developers, architecture and interior design firms in Serbia and the UAE.

Throughout her career, she has led multidisciplinary teams, developed interior design strategies, and implemented solutions that integrate sustainability, smart technology, and contemporary aesthetics. Her expertise spans concept design, standardisation of hospitality and residential interiors, and the creation of functional spaces that enhance user experience, the statement concluded.

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Source: ME Construction News

SENNEBOGEN has agreed a strategic partnership to locally manufacture crawler cranes through its national partner PWS and Bersy Engineering Consultancy Bec-Fze with backing from the National Industrial Development Center (NIDC), the industrial investment arm of the government of Saudi Arabia.

As part of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 and its ongoing efforts to localise strategic industries, Pipes & Wells Services Company (PWS), a subsidiary company of Abdel Hadi A. Al-Qahtani & Sons (AHQ), signed the industrial partnership with the leading German manufacturer “to manufacture an attractive product line of crawler cranes within the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia” this week.

The deal was sealed with the support and presence of the National Industrial Development Center (NIDC), with “the goal of enhancing technology transfer and advancing local manufacturing capabilities”.

The official agreement was signed by Abdulmalik Alqahtani on behalf of PWS, Erich Sennebogen on behalf of SENNEBOGEN, and Eng. Bakr Bersy Bersy on behalf of BEC. The signing ceremony was also attended by Eng. Mohammed Atia Nosser, General Manager of the Equipment Division at PWS, along with the Executive Vice President of the NIDC and the Manager of the Machinery and Equipment Sector at the Center.

Saudi Arabia’s construction industry is emerging as a global leader, showcasing substantial investment and employment opportunities for both domestic and international companies. The nation’s focus on mega-projects and advanced infrastructure initiatives is successfully attracting foreign businesses by promoting an environment centered on sustainability and innovation.

This transformation is evident in the machinery sector of the Middle East, where the demand for various types of equipment continues to rise. SENNEBOGEN and PWS, recoognises this trend and are poised to invest in the production of the first crawler cranes manufactured in Saudi Arabia, noted Hasan Al-Shehri, Business & Product Development Manager at NIDC.

“I am honored to be part of this localisation journey, and we eagerly anticipate the establishment of a state-of-the-art factory in the country soon.”

“This initiative is part of the NIDC’s efforts to promote collaboration between local and international companies and to bolster the growth of the Kingdom’s industrial sector, positioning it among the world’s leading nations in this domain.

“This partnership aims to enhance the transfer of cutting-edge industrial technologies and develop local manufacturing capabilities, marking a significant milestone in the localisation of the heavy equipment manufacturing sector,” said Al-Shehri “It will also strengthen local supply chains, create high-quality job opportunities, facilitate knowledge transfer, and empower national talents.”

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Source: ME Construction News

In industrial settings, safety is paramount, especially in environments where flammable or toxic gases are present. A robust gas detection system is an important line of defense, but it’s not the whole story. Integrating flame detection into your safety setup can create a safer and more reliable environment.

The Role of Gas and Flame Detection Systems 

Gas detection systems are designed to identify harmful gases in the air, whether combustible, toxic, or asphyxiating. They provide early warnings, helping to enable preventive action before conditions become dangerous. However, gas detection alone doesn’t account for what happens when a gas leak ignites.

Flame detection systems complement gas detectors by identifying the presence of fire, which may occur even where gas concentration hasn’t yet reached detectable levels. Together, these systems can contribute to a more comprehensive safety net that addresses both potential and actual hazards.

Seven Reasons to Include Flame Detection in Gas Detection Systems 

1. More Comprehensive Hazard Mitigation

Gas detectors and flame detectors work hand-in-hand to prevent accidents and mitigate risks. While gas detectors alert you to the presence of a leak, flame detectors respond to fires that could result from undetected or ignited gases.

2. Faster Response to Fire Emergencies

A gas leak can ignite in seconds, turning a potential hazard into an active emergency. Flame detectors react in real-time to the presence of a flame, helping to enable prompt action to contain the fire and prevent escalation.

3. Helps Eliminate Blind Spots

Gas detection systems can only monitor specific zones. In scenarios where a leak occurs outside the detection range or a minor leak ignites directly, flame detectors can be an important second layer of protection.

4. Tailored for High-risk Industries

In industries like oil and gas, petrochemicals, and manufacturing, the risk of fire due to flammable gases is ever present. Flame detection helps protect these high-stakes environments against both minor and catastrophic ignition events.

5. Meeting Regulatory Standards

Safety regulations often require both gas and flame detection systems for compliance. Adhering to these standards not only protects your team and assets but also ensures your operations meet legal and industry benchmarks.

6. Minimizing Damage and Downtime

Early flame detection can activate suppression systems, limit the spread of fire, and enhance the safety of personnel. By containing incidents quickly, businesses can avoid costly equipment damage and extended downtime.

7. Enhanced Operational Safety and Continuity

Combining gas and flame detection creates a more resilient safety framework that reduces the likelihood of accidents and enables a quicker recovery in the event of an incident. This reliability is key to maintaining trust and productivity.

Despite its importance, users might hesitate to include flame detection in their safety systems due to perceived challenges such as cost, complexity, or maintenance. Users may also assume that gas detection alone is sufficient for preventing incidents, underestimating the speed at which a leak can escalate into a fire. Addressing these misconceptions and highlighting the critical role of flame detection in mitigating catastrophic events is key to overcoming reluctance and ensuring comprehensive safety solutions.

The Bottom Line: A Layered Defense is Key 

Safety in industrial environments is not about choosing between gas or flame detection—it’s about understanding the benefits of both to build a layered defense. While gas detectors prevent potential hazards by identifying leaks, flame detectors act as a safeguard when ignition occurs.

Safety managers may consider this combination a necessity in today’s high risk, high stakes industries. By integrating flame detection into your gas detection system, you help to ensure that your operations are protected from the full spectrum of potential hazards, safeguarding lives, assets, and your reputation.

Ready to Enhance Your Safety System? 

Investing in a comprehensive detection system is an investment in the future of your business. Discover how gas and flame detection solutions can work together to create a safer workplace.

Talk to an expert today

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The American Concrete Institute (ACI) and the Precast/Prestressed Concrete Institute (PCI) have jointly released the ACI/PCI CODE-319-25 in PDF format. This code offers valuable insights into the materials, design, and detailing of structural precast concrete buildings and non-building structures.

Developed through a general agreement process, ACI/PCI CODE-319-25 sets minimum requirements for plant-produced and site-produced structural precast concrete incorporating non pre-stressed or pre-tensioned reinforcement. The Design Standard Committee of PCI played important role in shaping the code’s provisions and commentary, contributing their expertise to advance the industry.

ACI 319 PLUS subscribers have had exclusive digital access to ACI/PCI CODE-319-25 through the ACI PLUS Platform, featuring digital notetaking, search capabilities, 3D graphics, and cross-referencing tools. With this release, the PDF version is now available for wider accessibility, ahead of the physical print edition.

“The collaboration between ACI and PCI to produce ACI/PCI CODE 319-25 has been phenomenal said Andrea Schokker, ACI/PCI Committee 319 Chair, we owe its success to the dedication and expertise of committee members and staff in both organizations, and we look forward to continuing this strong partnership in the next cycle.”

ACI recently expanded its ACI PLUS Platform to provide industry professionals with interactive digital access to multiple new concrete codes and resources. In addition to ACI 319 PLUS, the platform’s subscriptions include ACI 318 PLUS, ACI 320 PLUS, and the ACI 562 PLUS Repair Subscription, offering subscribers access to up-to-date codes, design examples, and supplementary materials.

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Shamal have awarded the main works contract for its upcoming Baccarat Hotel and Residences Dubai to Arabian Construction Co. (ACC). The UAE-based contractor specialises in complex construction and infrastructure projects, with developments including high-rises and five-star hotels, in the UAE and internationally. Baccarat Hotel and Residences Dubai will include hotel rooms and residences.

The groundbreaking for the project took place in January 2024; with all enabling works and infrastructure packages now 100% complete, the main works contractor will start mobilisation imminently. Arabian Construction brings in expertise in executing complex design structures, and has a deep understanding of the distinctive architectural and design requirements for the project.

“We are delighted to mark another milestone in our journey to enrich Dubai’s world-class skyline with the legendary Baccarat brand. We are particularly pleased to partner with such a well-established and accomplished contractor in this dynamic city,” said Abdulla Binhabtoor, Chief Executive Officer, Shamal.

“A development of the calibre of Baccarat Hotel and Residences Dubai representing exquisite hospitality and living demands the best in the industry for every element, and we are confident that our development partners H&H alongside Arabian Construction Co. will enable us to fulfil our promise to deliver the ultimate in luxury for both our visitors and residents alike,” Binhabtoor added.

Miltos Bossinis, Chief Executive Officer, H&H. said, “We are proud to partner with Shamal on developing this architectural landmark that will add greater allure to the city’s skyline. We are pleased to have Arabian Construction Co. on board to build further on our vision of creating exceptional experiences through development and design.”

Maher Merehbi, Chief Executive Officer, Arabian Construction Co. commented, “We are proud to be named as the main contractor for the prestigious Baccarat Hotel and Residences Dubai, which will be a beacon of luxury and elegance on Downtown Dubai’s awe-inspiring skyline. Our considerable expertise and experience make us the ideal partner for such an iconic brand as Baccarat, and our passion for excellence and the highest of quality and standards is shared with Shamal and H&H. Together, we look forward to bringing this magnificent development to life.”

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HKR announced the promotion of Ayna Azhigali to Director. Azhigali has been an integral part of HKR for the past ten years, from Senior Architect to Associate, Associate Director, and now Director. Her expertise spans all project design and delivery stages, with strengths in residential mixed-use, hospitality and workplace in both UK and MENA region, said the company.

Azhigali has a record of securing planning approvals and leading projects through construction. Her recent work includes delivering one of the fully volumetric residential developments, comprising 9,000 apartments in KSA and designing a large-scale mixed-use residential scheme in the UK, which will provide 348 new affordable homes across four blocks with a new public realm, retail and refurbishment of Grade Two listed train station.

Kola Ojeyomi, Managing Director of HKR said, “Ayna’s promotion to Director is a testament to her dedication, leadership, and exceptional design expertise. She has been instrumental in delivering high-quality projects that reflect HKR’s ethos always pioneering and challenging convention. As we continue our expansion, particularly in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and Uzbekistan, Ayna’s insight and experience will be invaluable in shaping the future of industrialised design and construction while further reinforcing HKR’s position as a global leader in design consultancy.”

Azhigali commented, “I’m truly inspired to step into this role at a pivotal moment when HKR is leading the charge in innovation in design and construction. This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to HKR’s bold vision for the future, where design excellence thrives within a framework of cutting-edge technology and AI-driven solutions. Designing within context, delivering beyond expectation is the team’s guiding principle. I’m excited to be part of it, helping shape the future of our industry and pushing the limits of what’s possible.”

In recent years, the firm has positioned itself at the forefront of the industry, improving construction efficiency and reducing environmental impact through technologies. HKR has developed in-house AI-driven design tools that optimise building performance and streamline project workflows, revolutionising the design process and the client experience, the statement concluded.

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The Minister of Public Works, Noura Al Mashaan, has signed a design contract with Turkish company Proyapi for the first phase of its GCC railway network to initiate the design of the initial phase of the Kuwait-to-Gulf countries railway project. The scope of work includes study, detailed design, and tender document preparation.

The consultancy contract was awarded to Proyapi in January for US $8.1mn, with the advisory period set to last about a year. The Kuwaiti part of the project is scheduled to be completed by 2030. The Kuwaiti segment of this project will feature a 111km track running from Shadadiya (site of the main Kuwait Railway Station on a two million sqm plot) to Nuwaiseeb.

This strategic project aligns with the GCC vision to establish a 2,177km transnational railway network connecting all member states from Kuwait to Oman. The six Gulf Cooperation Council countries agreed to build the rail network in 2009 and construction has started on railways in the UAE, Oman and Saudi Arabia.

Ahmed Al-Saleh, Assistant Undersecretary for Planning and Development and Official Spokesperson for the Ministry of Public Works, said, “The project has great social and economic importance for the smooth transport of passengers and goods, it is being implemented in line with the desire of the leaders of the Gulf Cooperation Council countries”.

“The signing ceremony marked the commencement of the project in Kuwait. Once you sign the design contract, you’ve started and placed the wheels on the right track, it was not possible to determine the final cost of the Kuwaiti part of the project until the final design is completed,” he added.

Construction is already underway in the UAE, Oman, and Saudi Arabia, and the project aims to boost regional trade, travel, and tourism. Once completed, the network will provide both passenger and freight transportation services across the region. The agreement encompasses design and engineering studies, soil testing, route mapping, and the preparation of tender documents for the subsequent construction phase. Once the design work is finalised, Kuwait will move forward with inviting bids for the actual construction.

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Source: ME Construction News