LIVE & VISUAL COMMUNICATIONOutstanding Production Achievement

Outstanding Production Achievement

Best Event Theme/Decor

HIGHLY COMMENDED

Best Corporate Product or Service Launch

Best Event Design

HIGHLY COMMENDED

Best Innovative Entertainment

HIGHLY COMMENDED

2010 Best AV/Video Solution

HIGHLY COMMENDED

Best Event Design

HIGHLY COMMENDED

Outstanding Production Achievement

Established in the UAE in 1996, HQ offers a complete range of high end event services; combining strategic

thought with passionate creativity, precise technical ability and great attention to detail, to deliver exceptional

pieces of live and visual communication.

The design studio at HQ offers a strong combination of technical, graphic, stage set, interior, audio visual and

multi-media design expertise, using the latest technologies to evaluate, visualize, construct and implement

considered solutions.

HQ has successfully delivered many of the region’s most spectacular and highly acclaimed government and

corporate events, ceremonies and festivals, positioning the company firmly as a market leader.

LIVE & VISUAL

LIVE & VISUAL COMMUNICATION

HQ Creative L.L.C.

Abu Dhabi2nd Floor, Ali & Sons Building

PO Box 915, Abu Dhabi, U.A.E.t: +971 (0)2 679 7627

DubaiOffice 103, Liberty Building

PO Box 61886, Dubai, U.A.E.t: +971 (0)4 282 8848f: +971 (0)4 282 8851

e: info@hqcreative.ae hqcreativeuae.com

EVENT DESIGN & PRODUCTIONCorporate & Gala EventsLarge Scale Shows & CeremoniesFestivals & Public Celebrations

DÉCOR, THEMING & BRANDINGCity & Venue Decoration ProgrammesMall Seasonal DécorStage SetsSpecial Events Theming & Décor

TEMPORAL SPACESStructures & Exhibition StandsInteractive ExperiencesThemed Environments

COMMUNICATION

With an audience of over 2000 Royals, Dignitaries, Global Leaders and International Students, Burj Khalifa Island provided the perfect setting for an Opening Ceremony of soaring proportions. A powerful mix of ceremony, music, culture, futuristic special effects and show-stopping pyrotechnics, highlights of the 2 hour programme included a truly inspirational performance by the UAE’s first ‘rap’ act and a computerised tracking projection screen which opened to reveal an astounding ‘vertical drumming’ show , 40 metres above ground and choreographed to the spectacular Dubai Fountain. The event also witnessed the record breaking climb of the 828m tall Burj Khalifa by famous climber Alain Robert ‘The French Spiderman’.

HCT Education Without Borders 2011 Opening Ceremony

State Visit of HM Queen Elizabeth IIHQ is extremely proud to have supported the UAE Federal Government in the design, production and management of all press and public events surrounding the State Visit of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. With a series of 7 primary events over a 20 hour period, the project required meticulous planning and very careful consideration of the important requirements of various security and protocol services.

In addition to the complex technical and logistical challenges associated with such high profile events; from a creative perspective, the Launch Event for the Zayed National Museum was one of the biggest tests for HQ. Several bespoke, contemporary structures were designed to create a seamless and spectacular event space containing both public and very private areas - worthy of not only hosting Royal guests and global media, but also impressing one of the worlds’ leading architects and guarding a model of one of the most incredible examples of modern architecture.

Abu Dhabi Art 2009Structures & VIP Majlis

‘Unusual, Stylish and Exciting ...’The architectural design of the VIP Majlis and Design Studio structures was itself a talking point of Abu Dhabi’s stylish Art Fair. An abstract concept was adopted for the interior design of the ‘The Majlis’ - using a series of clean white partitions, each angled at 10 degrees and edged with mirrors, to create a false sense of perspective and define the various lounge, theatre and reception spaces within. Referencing the Abu Dhabi Art brand identity and vibrant pink 2009 colour scheme throughout, the VIP Majlis incorporated an external, decked ‘Terrace’ area where guests could relax and enjoy the stunning ocean views.

In year 2, the Abu Dhabi Art identity reflected an environmental theme and fresh green colour palette. Interior designs and finishes embraced a variety of natural materials such as wood, slate, moss, grass and even ‘air plants’ imported from the Czech Republic. Digitally printed fabric panels were suspended from the ceiling, creating a ‘virtual oasis’ to soften the space and diffuse sunlight during the daytime. On the external ‘Terrace’, this year adorned with cactus and desert plants, guests could relax under sun canopies and enjoy live music courtesy of ‘Lola’ the iconic VW Camper/ DJ Booth. The Opening Reception, which extended throughout the Emirates Palace grounds, stayed true to the environmental theme - mixing an exciting range of expandable cardboard furniture with a variety of custom made wooden pieces and carefully designed lighting effects to create a subtle, contemporary and very elegant ambience.

Abu Dhabi Art 2010

Sheikh Zayed Book Awards2009, 2010 & 2011

An impressive stage set, theatrical lighting, multi-layered projections and live orchestral interludes were signatures of this important, and very formal, international awards ceremony. Broadcast live, and attended by the senior Royals and dignitaries, every element of this event was meticulously designed and beautifully detailed to reflect the significance of the occasion without distracting from its integrity.

Tour of OmanCeremonies & Race InfrastructureThe stage set for the Tour of Oman Opening Ceremony spanned a 4-lane highway on the beautiful Muttrah Corniche in the heart of Muscat, where, against an illuminated mountain backdrop, vibrant multimedia projections and cultural performers welcomed guests to Oman and kicked off the exciting first leg of the Race. Over the five days that followed, HQ provided infrastructure and daylight viewing screens to support the 128 cyclists, support teams, race officials, media and spectators as the Tour moved through various provinces of Oman, closing with a glittering Awards Ceremony immediately after the final race.

Costa DeliziosaShip Naming CeremonyThe official naming ceremony of the ‘Costa Deliziosa’ in Dubai, marked an important partnership between Costa Cruises and Dubai Department of Tourism & Commerce Marketing. As the ship was welcomed in to Port Rashid, 2000 passengers disembarked and joined VIP guests for a celebration of Emirati and Italian cultures.

Dubai Metro Official Inauguration ’09.09.09’

Working closely with the RTA, HQ was honoured to have been entrusted with the historic launch event for Metro Dubai. Meticulous planning, design and logistics management of this multi venue event were the secret of its success. The remarkable evening began at Mall of the Emirates where, in a beautiful, custom designed presentation theatre, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid and several hundred distinguished guests were passionately addressed by the Chairman of the RTA, His Excellency Matar Al Tayer. Following the proud speech, guests were invited to put on custom Porsche Design viewing glasses to enjoy a specially commissioned 3D film – the first ever in the region. After a standing ovation, guests were escorted to Mall of the Emirates Metro Station for the official inauguration of the Red Line and the first train journey.

The complete journey took guests on a tour of 6 of the Dubai Metro Stations, where, His Highness unveiled a series of ‘Legacy Pieces’ to mark the occasion. ‘A Moment in Time’The Red Line was officially opened at 9 seconds, past 9 minutes, past 9pm. The exact moment His Highness swipe the first Nol card was frozen in time, in a large commemorative digital clock.

‘Commemoration’Appropriately, at Financial Centre Station His Highness was presented with a giant commemorative coin which he placed in a motorized display case. ‘Achievement’His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid activated stunning precision laser installation, at Khalid Bin Waleed Station. Brilliant red laser beams appeared to take individual letters out of glass etched poems written by High Highness Sheikh Mohammed about the achievements of Dubai. The letters, when reassembled, spelt out the words RTA – Metro Dubai.‘Message to the Future’

At Union Station His Highness Sheikh Mohammed wrote and signed a secret letter. In line with the ‘Heritage; theme of the station’s interior, the letter was sealed in a giant ornate ‘Mezzuzah’, to be opened by the children of the future. Also at Union Station, a three part exhibition; ‘Metrospective’ chronologically documented the Metro project through photographic, physical and multimedia displays, the final piece on the timeline being a photograph of His Highness swiping the first Nol card at 9 seconds, past 9 minutes, past 9. ‘The Evolution of Architecture’ explored the design inspiration and development of the stunning Metro Stations. The centrepiece of the Exhibition showcased the ‘History of the RTA’ using interactive, tracking plasma screen technologies. ‘Momentum’At the final destination, Rashidiya Station, His Highness placed the last brick in a giant LEGO sculpture, carefully made from 141,117 LEGO bricks and taking 178 man hours to create.

Vodafone Star Numbers Auction and Network Switch On‘Painting By Numbers’From the moment guests arrived, energy, vitality and colour were the order of the evening. Following a vibrant reception, guests were invited inside the main event space and immersed in an ever changing colour palette of lighting and video through synchronized stage, wall and ceiling projections.

After successfully turning on the network, Vodafone Qatar invited Sotheby’s to orchestrate the ‘Star Numbers Auction’.

The ‘Painting by Numbers’ theme was carried throughout the event by Kinetic Artist, Norman Perryman whose live projected paintings injected colour and movement throughout the space. The evening included explosive performances by ‘Bond’ and ‘Circle Percussion’ who were both integrated into Norman’s ever-evolving canvas.

Queen Elizabeth II ‘Arrival in Dubai’“HQ’s role in coordinating all the various parties involved was executed without flaw. The team was 100% focused, dedicated and reliable. They consistently went the extra distance, adding value to every aspect of the arrangements and execution. On what was for us an extremely important occasion, viewed by millions around the world and with absolutely no margin for error, I cannot recommend HQ highly enough”

Frances McElwaineDirector of Marketing , QE2 / Nakheel Hotels / QE2 Enterprises / Nakheel PJSC

In November of 2008 HQ Creative conceived, designed and choreographed the arrival of the QE II to her new home. Greeted and escorted by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum’s private yacht ‘MY Dubai’, Emirates Airline’s new A380, the Royal Navy, the UAE Coastguard and a large flotilla of privately owned boats and yachts, requiring meticulous planning.

HQ recorded the event on 17 HD broadcast cameras including the famous ‘cineflex’ camera system mounted on a Bell 412 helicopter. The event was up-linked via satellite and transmitted live to the world’s press with over 100 hours of footage recorded and archived for future use.

Abu Dhabi Tawteen CouncilAn imposing stage set provided an impressive backdrop for this important Government event which opened with a synchronised multimedia and live performance sequence; the powerful rhythms of mass Emirati drummers fused with a classical Aria, sung by two sopranos. Following a formal awards presentation to Abu Dhabi Tawteen Council partner institutes and organisations, a celebratory full colour laser performance and special effects sequence closed the ceremony, with the final message communicated through a choreographed pyrotechnic release of giant banners across the entire set.

Abu Dhabi Awards2005, 2006, 2007 & 2008HQ creative is proud to have worked alongside the Executive Affairs Authority team to design and produce the prestigious Abu Dhabi Awards Ceremony.

Nurai Island Sales Centre LaunchWhilst guests enjoyed an ‘up close and personal’ performance by iconic music artist Lionel Ritchie, images of the finished project were viewed on a 40 metre wide bespoke screen which then opened horizontally to spectacular fireworks and a ‘kabuki drop’ reveal of the Sales Centre.

After a guided tour of the centre, guests were invited back into the reception tent before boarding their waiting helicopters.

DIFC Annual Celebration2005, 2006 & 2007

“A spectacle that, even by Dubai’s high standards, was unique in its scope, scale and ambition”

“Shows like DIFC’s are ambitious in the extreme; pushing technical boundaries”

“One of the most challenging (shows in the world) in terms of the site, location,

fulfilling the conceptual brief and impressing the most influential people”

Total Production International Magazine

“I would like to extend my personal appreciation and gratitude to HQ for the great work that you have done, the feedback we are receiving

is fantastic and beyond expectation, I think you deserve the congratulations as much as we do. Thank you”

Bisher Barazi - Chief Financial Officer, DIFC

“Based on our experience we have come to view HQ Creative as a solid, professional and reliable supplier”

Dr. Omar Bin Sulaiman - Governor, DIFC

HQ is very proud to have designed and produced all three of DIFC’s acclaimed Annual Celebration Events...

‘One Voice’In 2007 the multimedia spectacular was programmed to an orchestral score played live by the 95 piece Armenian Philharmonic Orchestra and to the voices of a 350 strong choir, dramatically revealed in a massive kabuki drop during the performance. Opening with an emotional vocal performance, as the show gathered pace the grandstand shook and the ground rumbled as the projected building appeared to be pushed aside, dramatically revealing 174 metre of uber high definition video projection. The show continued to amaze as giant CGI sequences were synchronised with 4800 time-coded pyro effects and a revolutionary spinning flame system specially designed for the show. The glittering evening concluded with a series of memorable performances by headline artists Il Divo, Syrian soprano Talar Kekranjian and Amal Maher.

‘Time, Space & Energy’In 2006 the physics themed Corporate Suite opened with a’ Big Bang’, synchronised to an orchestral explosion and a volley of overhead pyrotechnic comets as the entire Gate building became the world’s largest high definition projection screen, taking guests on an accelerated journey through time and space. The 25 minute spectacular included a gravity defying ‘vertical catwalk’ performance as the audience was virtually transported through The Gate for a glimpse of the masterplans for the new financial district and iconic vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed for the future of Dubai on the world stage. The evening also included a creative musical fusion of traditional UAE cultural performers and a contemporary string quartet and headline performance by Jose Carreras and Lebanese Soprano Hiba Al Kawas, who also sung a special operatic arrangement of one of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid’s poems.

‘Notes of Success’In 2005 DIFC marked its first anniversary. The ‘show told the remarkable story of Dubai, thorough multiple show technologies and injections of live kinetic painting performances, beautifully choreographed to an musical score, performed by the 73 piece Czech National Symphony Orchestra, who were revealed on a 17 metre revolving platform. The 20 minute ‘son et lumiere’ was complemented by an emotional performance by legendary tenor, Andrea Boccelli.

Abu Dhabi Police Golden Jubilee Celebration

Abu Dhabi Police Golden Jubilee CelebrationFollowing opening speeches and poetry readings, the Abu Dhabi Police Golden Jubilee Celebrations kicked off with a stunning, mass choreographed sequence featuring over 700 police cadets bearing torches of fire.

For the first time ever, industrial robots were used in a show, equipped with full colour and fibre-fed laser systems all programmed to perform a choreographed gun drill alongside traditional UAE desert riflemen.

The skills of ADPD Special Forces Units were showcased through a series of ‘007’ style videos and live action sequences, including helicopters, abseilers, high-speed car chases and K9 units, all tightly choreographed and synchronised to dramatic special effects, with no margin for error.

The 90-minute spectacular culminated in a 30-minute parade of marching units and vehicles representing 50 years of history, followed by a breathtaking laser and pyrotechnics finale.

DIFC Week 2007DIFC Week brings together international and regional experts in business and finance, to address relevant challenges and opportunities.

HQ Creative provided the permanent conference venue in the DIFC district and transformed the structure into a space worthy of this important event. HQ also supplied all venue management, audio visual, lighting and technical support.

XVIII Arabian Gulf Cup Draw Event‘Adrenaline’ A FIFA orchestrated draw ceremony, officiated by 2006 Italian World Cup winning team captain, Fabio Cannavaro, at the Al Jazeira Stadium in Abu Dhabi.

Broadcasted live, a custom AV sequence marked the start of the event, while broadcast graphics were used in real-time as the draw took place.

Indoor pyrotechnics and a newly developed ‘pan and tilt’ flame system were showcased in a high energy show which included several segments of energetically choreographed live performance and special effects, including a 3 metre diameter remote controlled flying football.

“This show flew by in a spectacular style, a dynamic collage of eye - candy, action and excitement combining ideas, colour, culture and seat edge anticipation of what might come next. It very much set the tone for the Gulf Cup and has already become a major talking point in the region”

CX magazine

XVIII Arabian Gulf Cup Opening Ceremony

Prior to the opening game of the 2007 Arabian Gulf Cup, HQ created an Olympic-style opening ceremony, incorporating a massive overhead flying system used to fly different elements into the show, including a 12 metre diameter high resolution projection sphere and aerial artists.

On the ground, galloping horses and a cast of over 2,400 performers, including UAE riflemen, school children and international artists, wowed the full stadium.

The highlight of the show was a giant portrait of His Highness Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed, painted live by 600 police cadets in less than 2 minutes.

Immediately after the frenzy of aerial fireworks that closed the show, 270 precisely rehearsed crew members sprung into action, stripping the stadium of all infrastructure, technical equipment and a massive ground cover in less than 6 minutes, ready for the opening match.

“Well done to the entire team for a job very well done… not only was the whole event programme creatively designed but beautifully executed! It was a pleasure working with you on this amazing project”

Gaiti Rabbani - DMCC

28th Annual Burgenstock Commodities & Futures Conference Gala

‘Expressions of Dubai’As hosts, Dubai Multi Commodities Centre (DMCC) and Dubai Gold & Commodities Exchange (DGCX), commissioned HQ Creative to take Arabian culture and hospitality to Lake Geneva.

At a beautiful themed reception in the Montreaux Palace Gardens, falcons, cultural performance troupes, henna artists and calligraphers introduced guests to the sights, sounds, fragrances and flavours of Dubai.

Throughout dinner guests were immersed in seamless 360 degree video projection and transported to 21st Century Arabia via a stunning multimedia production; choreographed to music and injected with contemporary, live performance and special effects.

At the end of the performance, remote controlled pyro candles on each table were ignited on cue to the final beat of music.

Business Bay Crossing Inauguration “The opening of Business Bay Crossing was a monumental occasion. HQ embraced the challenge and tremendous logistical task of coordinating multiple event components and various RTA vehicles - on land and across water. The bridge came alive with colour”.

As VVIP buses broke through a giant red ribbon stretched across the foot of the bridge, a cavalcade of RTA taxis and buses swept across in the opposite direction to greet them.

His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum unveiled a commemorative plaque, initiating a rapid-chase of spectacular, daytime pyrotechnic streamers across the 1.6 km structure.

‘Spirit of Dubai’ Landmark Tour

HQ Creative’s professionalism, creativity, excellent planning, overall logistical management and client servicing were a huge contributor to the success of the ‘Spirit of Dubai’s’ tour of Europe in Winter 2006. A complicated and challenging campaign was only possible through HQ’s involvement.”

Charlie Taylor, Senior PR Manager - Nakheel

‘Spirit of Dubai’HQ coordinated a tour of the largest commercial airship in the world to mark the opening of Palm Jumeirah.

The airship flew over London, Paris, Rome, Athens and Cairo. Taking in iconic landmarks such as Big Ben, The London Eye, Stonehenge, the Eiffel Tower, the Leaning Tower of Pisa and the Colosseum.

Followed by film crews in a dedicated helicopter unit, the flight was supported by touring exhibition units and a fleet of branded buses and vehicles for European crew and media, hosting press events and journalist flights in each City.

MOE Grand Opening‘The Fashion Theatre’ Fashion, Fabrics & Snow! Wintry white haute couture costumes, acrobatic catwalk models and cirque performers were brought together with theatre, performance art and astonishing aerial artistry in this contemporary stage show, designed and produced exclusively for Mall of the Emirates.

Dubai Festival CityRetailers Launch Event A working construction site was transformed into an elegant venue for over 800 VIP’s and corporate guests.

The evening began with a slick corporate presentation, followed by a choreographed laser and pyrotechnics spectacular, further synchronised to aerial fireworks and the illumination of the giant tower cranes over the site.

Throughout dinner a variety of world class acrobats, fire-dancers and jugglers performed to the sounds of a live jazz band.

Corporate Launches

Art, Talk & DuA hotel ballroom was turned into a modern art gallery for Du’s first pre-launch VIP networking event. A collection of contemporary painting, photography and sculpture was specially commissioned for the occasion, each piece designed around a narrative of ‘communication’ and brand specific messaging.

Aabar Track DayHQ designed, built and managed a branded VIP hospitality experience space for the Mercedes/Abaar Track Day at the then recently opened Yas Marina Circuit.

Mubadala F1 &FIFA FanzonesFor two consecutive years HQ has been awarded the contract to create and produce interactive F1 and FIFA visitor experiences, designed to engage, educate and convey Mubadala’s positioning, crossover and core activities within major sporting and related industrial sectors.

‘Summer In Abu Dhabi’HQ transformed the 13,000 square metre ADNEC exhibition halls into seven themed ‘islands’ bursting with fun filled shows and activities.

Major edutainment attractions included the exciting family interactive exhibition ‘The Science of Spying’ which had recently completed its highly successful Premier in The London Science Museum; and the award winning, international touring exhibition ‘The Robot Zoo’.

A programme of live performances throughout the day included International Children’s Theatre Productions, Circus Shows, Freestyle, BMXsters, UV Puppet Theatre and appearances by well known Children’s Characters. With everything from Arts & Craft Workshops, Secret Story Gardens and a Mini Cinema to Optical Illusions, Climbing Walls, Laser Mazes, Remote ‘CamCar’ Racing and a variety of lively Fun Fair Rides & Games… Summer in Abu Dhabi was a resounding success.

‘Bride of the Orchard’The ‘Fruit of the Date Palm’ exhibition illustrates the importance and significance of one of the oldest

crops known to man, one that is intrinsic to the culture and history of the Arabic people and the Islamic way of life.

Ramadan Cultural GalleryThis stylish installation acted as a link to the past, present and future, increasing awareness and understanding of the relevance and meaning of Ramadan. Information relating to important aspects of Islam was beautifully displayed next to original artwork pieces by local Calligraphy artists. The Gallery included information and visual displays of iconic Mosques from around the World, Cultural Traditions and a custom designed installation depicting the phases of the moon against a background of Fibre optic lighting.

‘Jungle’Trek through the densely tangled undergrowth to the distant sounds of tribal drums and discover a variety of life size, animatronic jungle animals in their natural habitats - from Hippos bathing in the waterfalls to cheeky monkeys swinging in the vines. Board the ‘Riverboat Adventure’ and take a slow cruise down the winding river or jump on the ‘Runaway Train’ and explore the ancient ruins at King Solomon’s mines. Lush tropical foliage, tribal masks, tiki torches, props and special effects add true jungle authenticity to this educational adventure through a place of ancient legends.

‘Monster Creepy Crawlies’From massive scorpions to huge stag beetles, gigantic ladybirds and other creepy crawlies, this family-friendly

exhibition provides a bugs eye view of the world of creepy crawlies, with larger than life models of insects, arachnids and molluscs; some magnified up to 400 times their actual size.

‘Melody Maker’A magical musical playground of interactive, virtual and real instruments, aimed at developing a greater understanding and appreciation of music and sound.

‘Woody Woodruff’Sit under the shade of this giant animatronic tree and sing along with him and the

family of animated creatures that live in his ‘Beautiful, Big Green Hair’.

‘It’s Just An Illusion’Challenge all the senses and trick the brain with mind boggling exhibits and puzzles which leave visitors questioning ‘How Is This Possible ?’

Al Ain Aerial FiestaHundreds of children, community groups, themed floats, marching bands, street entertainers and carnival masquerade performers paraded through town to provide a lively and colourful opening to the Al Ain Flower Show & Festival.

Breathtaking civil and military aerobatics displays, hot air balloons, sky divers and stunt kites formed the focal entertainment for the inaugural Al Ain Aerial Fiesta, planned and managed by HQ.

Al Ain Flower Show and Festival2000, 2001, 2002 & 2003The annual Al Ain Flower Show showcased and displayed competition gardens throughout the various categories, designed by landscaping professionals, government departments and community groups.

In addition to floral exhibits and a variety of ‘homes and garden’ products, the show was completed with local and international entertainment, stage shows and festival attractions throughout the city, drawing many visitors and receiving significant media attention and acclaim.

Street & City DecorationFrom directional signage and entry statements to flags, banners and decorative lighting. HQ has planned, designed and produced acclaimed City and Outdoor Decoration Programmes for many major festivals and occasions throughout the region.

Mall Seasonal DécorIn this magical Christmas installation Santa’s Grotto was reinvented as a giant, illuminated igloo.

A ‘cracked ice’ path led visitors through a village of LED Christmas trees, colour changing igloos and light-hearted displays of ‘cool’, custom-designed, animated penguins and polar bears, some of whom ‘performed’ in an enclosed ice rink under the stunning 12m tall Christmas tree.

Sheer fabrics and authentic mosque lanterns teamed with contemporary décor elements and lines of sparkling white lights to create modern and stylish Ramadan displays.

In another installation, a contemporary majlis, topped by magnificent colour-changing minaret towers in the Mall of the Emirates Galleria complemented decorative ‘souk’ stalls displaying an array of traditional Arabic artifacts, souvenirs and gifts.

Design Work