trojan times...villas in dubai and abu dhabi, the maple townhouses, akoya oxygen homes, nad al...

2018 1st Issue www.trojanholding.ae

TROJANTIMESYour quarterly insight into the world of Trojan

Hitech Concrete ProductsWe put concrete into shape

ContentsYour guide to this issue

We delve deep into the world of concrete with Hitech in this issue of Trojan Times.

A word from our MD

Recognizing and celebrating the achievements of 2017

New Projects: Latest awarded and ongoing projects

• Yas Acres

• Mudon 2, Dubai

• Kasr Al Bahr

• Al Samha, Abu Dhabi

• Al Sarfa Villas

• Arzana Hotel Resort

• Harbour Gate Maple Phase 3

Featured Company: Hitech

Featured Project: The Palm Tower.

• Interview with Palm Tower PM: Eng. Mohamed Mahmoud

Events

Interview: CFO Yousuf Kamil | Topic: VAT

Trojan Times2018 1st issue

A word fromour Managing DirectorAs our founding father Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan once stated:

“Every individual has to perform his duty. Man is mortal, but his work is not. Therefore, work is greater than wealth.”

With this insight fresh in my mind, I, as well as the team at Trojan Holding, will be dedicating 2018 to the pursuit of the steadfast notion that one individual can do it all - shown by our subsidiaries and the broad range of work they collectively achieve. We look forward to further embed the values lived by the late Sheikh Zayed, by building impactful projects in our society with respect and tolerance. Focusing on the needs of the UAE, we will invest in our team of experts to take on development challenges as we strive for excellence; and in doing so, create projects that empower people’s lives every day and make a difference in our communities.

Eng. Hamad Al AmeriManaging Director

Trojan 2017 projects:

Emirati Housing DevelopmentInspired by the Abu Dhabi 2030 initiative, Jebel Hafeet, Al Ain, is a community tailored exclusively to the Emirati way of living. Complete with 3,000 housing units, NPC managed the necessary infrastructure work. The community is home to 8 mosques, schools, retail units, a women’s center and medical center. The mosques were built using traditional Emirati designs, including minimalist exterior styling, shaded outdoor spaces and earthy color schemes. Responsible for the design and build of each of the 3,000 villas, Tamouh took a lead time of 48 months to complete the project.

Non-residential, Zone KSituated in Yas Island, Zone K, the construction of these non-residential buildings has seen the arrival of a new school, mosque, retail units and recreational club to the island. Taking just 22 months to complete, these new additions to West Yas Villas are being recognized as a prime attraction to the community by project developer Aldar.

Akoya by DAMACWith dedicated space for bicycles and hybrid cars, Akoya by DAMAC is a testament to the region’s interest in environmental communities. Located in Dubailand, Dubai, the project offers its residents luxurious residential, shopping, dining, entertainment and leisure facilities. Trojan Holding oversaw the construction, completion, testing, commissioning and maintenance of Phase 1 of the development, including all 446 of its breath-taking villas.

A recognition & celebration of our achievements


New projectsLatest awarded and ongoing projects

Mudon 2, DubaiWith a total built-up area of 115,064.78 sqm, Mudon 2 Phase 3 is set to be the latest addition to the ever-changing skyline of Dubailand, Dubai. A community boasting 2 to 5-bedroom villas, Mudon 2 will see residents move into the 490 corner properties and townhouses after a speedy 25-month construction period. Part of the larger Mudon community, residents of Mudon 2 will have access to community schools, parks, gyms, a community center, cycle & walking paths, childrens’ play areas and a nursery.

Al Samha, Abu Dhabi With each plot consisting of 5-bedrooms and spreading over two storeys, these Emirati-inspired villas are perfectly suited to large families looking to escape the busy streets of Abu Dhabi city. The construction of the 250 villa project will see the addition of a mosque & imam house, 6 parks, retail units and 7 sub-stations to the community.

Yas Acres - Abu Dhabi, UAEAldar Properties has awarded Trojan General Contracting with an AED 1.7bn ($462mn) main contract for the first three precincts of its flagship development on Yas Island – Yas Acres. Trojan Holding will mobilize on site immediately as it works on all infrastructure, 652 villas and townhouses, the golf course, golf club house, mosque, retail and community clubs. This follows the recent completion of the early works package, with Yas Acres recently surpassing its first construction milestone of 10 percent completion. The main package will be delivered over a period of 32 months, and across the precincts launched thus far. Aldar is committed to handing over the first homes in Yas Acres to purchasers at the end of 2019. The development comprises a total of 1,315 homes, a golf course, schools, retail, and other leisure amenities.

Kasr Al Bahr Trojan Holding rehabilitated the Old Military Hospital Al Marie Feuillet in Luxury Hotel at Prefecture, Rabat Hassan, Morocco. The project took about 5 months to complete.


Al Sarfa Villas Located in Al Sufouh, Dubai, near GEMS Wellington School and Sheikh Zayed Road; the Al Sarfa Villas project is estimated to take 455 days from start to completion. Funded by Meraas Development LLC, and spanning over 17,4742.2 sqm, the project is comprised of 44 different villa types, 4 ancillary buildings; including a club house, guard house, LV room 1 & LV room 2; 34 swimming pools and precast boundary walls.

Arzana Hotel ResortInspired by the Moroccan dialect, this 125-room luxury boutique hotel is situated along the idyllic Moroccan coastline. Boasting 3 dining concepts, exclusive spas, swimming pools and sea views, Arzana Hotel will cater for guests and residents all year round. Looking after the hotel’s earthworks, Trojan Holding will provide a crucial role in the construction of this luxurious complex.

Maple Phase 3Leading the design and construction of 562 townhouses in Maple Phase 3, Dubai Hills Estate, Trojan Holding will bolster the community with immaculately finished 3, 4, and 5-bedroom homes. With construction starting in September 2017, date of completion is set to be late October 2019. Funded by Dubai Hills Estate LLC, and with a built-up area of 130,270 sqm, Maple Phase 3 will join a thriving community, complete with a childrens’ playgrounds and swimming pool.

Harbour Gate Located on plot A030 of The Island District of Dubai Creek Harbour, Harbour Gate, which was master planned by EMAAR Development LLC, is a luxurious residential development, which is set to be handed over on March 17th, 2020. The total built-up area of the project is approximately 105,000 sqm with private pools, gym, childrens’ area, private parking and a landscaped leisure deck. With units ranging from 1 to 4-bedrooms, the spacious project boasts creekside flare with breath-taking Dubai Creek Tower views.

THIS DRAWING IS NOT TO BE SCALED.

REFER TO RELEVANT SURVEY, STRUCTURAL, MECHANICAL, ELECTRICAL,LANDSCAPE, ETC. CONSULTANT DRAWINGS & SPECIFICATIONS BEFOREPROCEEDING WITH THE WORK.

DETAIL DRAWINGS SHOWN ARE INDICATIVE OF DESIGN INTENT. CONTRACTORTO SUBMIT SHOP DRAWINGS AND SAMPLE PER SPECIFICATIONS TODESIGNER'S APPROVAL PRIOR TO CONSTRUCTION OR FABRICATION.

CONSTRUCTION MUST CONFORM TO ALL APPLICABLE CODES ANDREQUIREMENTS OF AUTHORITIES HAVING JURISDICTION.

THE CONTRACTOR WORKING FROM DRAWINGS NOT SPECIFICALLY MARKED"FOR CONSTRUCTION" MUST ASSUME FULL RESPONSIBILITY AND BEARCOSTS FOR ANY CORRECTIONS OR DAMAGES RESULTING FROM THIS WORK.

THIS DRAWING, AS AN INSTRUMENT OF SERVICE IS PROVIDED BY AND IS THEPROPERTY OF THE ARCHITECT.

THE CONTRACTOR SHALL VERIFY THE CONTENT OF THIS DRAWING ANDSHALL NOTIFY THE CONSULTANTS OF ANY DEVIATION OR DISCREPANCY.

CORRECTNESS, BUILDABILITY AND STABILITY OF THE CONSTRUCTION SHALLREMAIN SOLE RESPONSIBILITY OF THE CONTRACTOR.

REVISIONS :

SCALE :

DATE :

DRAWN BY :

REVIEWED BY :

TITLE :

DRAWING NO. REV NO.

NOTES :

ISSUE STATUS :

CONSULTANT :

LEAD CONSULTANT :

CLIENT / DEVELOPER :

PROJECT TITLE :

KEY PLAN :

NORTH

QIBLA

GROUND FLOOR = ± 0.00 PROJECT LEVEL = + 3.75 DMD LEVEL

ALL LEVELS AND PLOT COORDINATES INDICATED ARE IN MILLIMETERS AND AREFLOOR FINISH LEVEL OR TOP OF WALL LEVEL UNLESS OTHERWISE SPECIFIED.

THIS DRAWING, THE DESIGNS AND DETAILS SHOWN ARE THE COPYRIGHT OFU+A ARCHITECTS AND SHALL NOT BE COPIED OR REPRODUCED IN ANY FORMWITHOUT THEIR WRITTEN CONSENT

© U+A ARCHITECTS

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AL SARFA VILLA COMPOUNDPLOT NO. 3720556AL SAFOUH FIRST

REV. DATE DESCRIPTION1 29.05.2017 IFC REV 01


Featured Company:HITECH CONCRETE PRODUCTSA leader in the field of precast concrete products, masonry blocks and paving stones, Hitech is a leading specialist concrete product manufacturer in the UAE. Part of the continued vision of Hitech management, the company is focused on supplying high quality, innovative, and customized precast concrete solutions to convert traditional cast in-situ projects.

Hitech’s current project portfolio includes 3,558 precast villas in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, the Maple townhouses, Akoya Oxygen homes, Nad Al Sheba, Mudon townhouses, Yas Island villas, Jebel Hafeet and Ain Al Fayda villas, and the ADNOC Ruwais housing complex expansion.

With a multinational workforce and assets worth over AED 300 million, Hitech is a member of ACI (American Concrete Institute), PCI (Precast / Pre-stressed Concrete Institute), IPHA (International Pre-stressed Hollowcore Association), and GRCA (International Glassfibre Reinforced Concrete Association).

An ISO 9001:2008 company, Hitech specializes in giving turnkey precast solution for large-scale community building

and infrastructure projects. Offering a slab thicknesses from 150 to 500 mm and widths of 1.2 to 2.4 m, Hitech offers a complete range of hollowcore slab components, adding to the appeal of their highly efficient design and broad range of load carrying abilities.

2014 – Increasing CapacityIn 2014, Hitech’s Abu Dhabi factory expanded its operations by installing a new hollowcore line in order to meet the severe demands on its production capacity. Today, Hitech produces in 2 shifts between 700 and 950 cubic meters of precast and pre-stressed concrete elements, utilizing five 180-meter-long hollowcore beds and 120 tilting tables, with the aid of over 1,400 production personnel.

2017 – Continued Growth with a new Dubai production facilityWith manufacturing facilities in Abu Dhabi and Al Ain, Hitech’s 3rd location - a new precast manufacturing plant in Dubai – is under construction and expected to be completed by Q1 of 2018. We look forward to bringing our specialties in mobile precast facilities to the emirate of Dubai, pairing the quality of precast concrete with minimal transportation and logistics issues.


2017 – A step towards our growth in GCCFollowing from our successful project in Oman, we have continued momentum and stepped towards Saudi Arabia with our precast superstructure and boundary wall project. Thanks to this continued momentum, we will be setting up a new factory in Saudi Arabia to facilitate the production of all assets for the project.

Hitech Block FactoryIn 2014 a shift in the brick divisions started, we endeavoured to build Hitech Block Factory to become one of the leading manufacturer of blocks, interlocking tiles, and kerbstone products in the UAE. Our implementation of strict quality and production measures ensured customer satisfaction, while our rapid production processes meant we were able to produce products speedily to meet market demand.

Our kerbstone factory was the latest addition to the division; taking care of special products like interlocking pavers and wet pressed tiles. In addition to this, a new production line with unique kerbstone sizes and wheel stoppers has been introduced to offer the market a high capacity and superior quality of product.

Thanks to the success of recent projects with reputable firms, consultants and clients, Hitech Block Factory is ranking within the top 2 factories in Abu Dhabi, and the top 5 factories in the UAE as a whole.


Featured Project: The Palm Tower


The Palm Tower, a 52-storey hotel and residential complex will see 432 residences and a 290-room five-star hotel reinvigorate the look and feel of the base of Palm Jumeirah. Complete with fully furnished studios, one, two & three-bedroom apartments, and world-class dining and leisure facilities; The Palm Tower will offer stunning views across Dubai and direct access to Nakheel Mall, once completed. Set to be the crown in the jewel of the Palm Jumeriah development, The Palm Tower is due for completion in 2018.


Interview with the Palm Tower PM: Eng. Mohamed Mahmoud

What differentiates The Palm Tower project from other projects?The Palm Tower is set to be the tallest tower on the world-renowned Palm Jumeirah, and its unique design will see it be part of one of the UAE’s largest malls ‘Nakheel Mall’. As one of the main developers in Dubai, Nakheel sees this project as offering a new landmark in the heart of Palm Jumeirah. Nakheel considers this project one of the most important developments currently in progress, adding considerable value to the residents who will soon enjoy the 5-star St. Regis Hotel and residential apartments within.

Were there any challenges faced and how did you overcome them?In truth, yes this project has had many challenges; but I’m pleased to say that they have been managed successfully to date. The most pressing concern was how to build a mega project in a high-profile area without affecting the surrounding occupants. To counteract this, mobilization was activated by utilizing the latest equipment with acoustic treatment, helping reduce noise pollution.

Our second biggest concern were the logistics constraints, and more specifically the space within which we could operate. An issue that was potentially disastrous was overcome by effectively managing daily deliverables, and perfecting supply schedules.

Thirdly, to meet our 6-day construction cycle we utilized formwork systems and qualified resources; working for twenty-four hours without affecting the project budget, this enabled us to overcome

issues and stick to schedule despite the significant changes made to the original design.

Lastly, but not least, the absence of the design information for the hotel was overcome by looking back on lessons learned from previous experience; several technical workshops were also held with the employer design team to allow provisions until the design stage was finalized. This allowed the project to progress without bearing the risk of abortive action.

What will The Palm Tower offer residents in terms of amenities and facilities?Residents at The Palm Tower will enjoy many 5-star facilities available in the building while enjoying the views of

Palm Jumeirah and the Arabian Gulf from four elevations. Residents will have access to world-class shopping at Nakheel Mall, the 5-star St. Regis Hotel, viewing decks and restaurants, and a stunning infinity pool on the Tower’s 50th floor. Surrounding the tower are many other attractions, such as Atlantis The Palm and a handful of world-class hotels; The Palm Tower is truly one of the best places for residents who are looking for luxury.

What’s your approach to managing a project of this scale?Our main objective with this project was to partner with a leading developer in Dubai, Nakheel, to deliver a mega landmark project, on time and on budget, while ensuring exceptional safety and quality standards.


As of today, the project is successfully within budget, recording 4 million safe man-hours, with the staff engaged in the project gaining valuable new experience, working under extreme pressure and managing unlimited daily challenges associated to the project construction.

Describe a typical day managing The Palm Tower project?Despite there being no ‘typical day’ in the construction field, we generally start by reviewing the day ahead with the team, and by looking back at the work completed in the previous day. From here we make any necessary corrective action, and conduct pre-scheduled meetings with the suppliers and subcontractors to monitor their progress. We then hold an open discussion with the team to discuss and implement any new ideas, taking the necessary action on the documents received from employer, engineer, or subcontractor. Finally, we follow up with Head Office for any urgent issues.

For a project this large, how do you determine realistic schedules?Defining the scope of work correctly and understanding our obligations, and those of our stakeholders, is one of the main factors to consider when building a realistic schedule.

This pre-planning will allow all the stakeholders involved sufficient time to provide the necessary information and / or decisions if needed. This shall be followed by regular updates to consider the changes and avoid unrealistic scheduling.

What tools are used to monitor progress of a project?Building a comprehensive schedule and defining the scope of work in a proper sequence is the main tool we use to manage a project of this size. Absence of proper scheduling may lead to undesired surprises during construction or the handover phase.

The project schedule shall be broken down into smaller tools for the project team, each one as per his or her responsibilities. These include, but are not limited to, a one to two-month look ahead, regular meetings with subcontractors, monitoring labor productivity on a daily basis and proper communication protocol between the project team to achieve daily targets.

What are your tips for running a project of this scale?My main tip would be to establish a proper study for the project documents at an early stage. Building a realistic schedule by considering only the valid and reasonable comments from the

employer is the most essential point in achieving a productive construction phase.

Here are a handful of other tips to help effectively run a large-scale project:

• Analyze the budget and find solutions for items not included within it.

• Allocate manpower and resources effectively.

• Release idle manpower.• Plan ahead and update your

strategies as per the current status.• Find solutions for employer technical

problems without affecting the company’s rights.

• Make use of qualified staff and subcontractors.

• Regularly evaluate staff.• Allow site teams to implement their

ideas, especially for operations, then share their findings with others.


Trojan Holding BuzzThe latest news within theTrojan Holding family

As an ongoing drive to ensure the wellbeing of our workers, we have taken steps to protect them from the cooler climate this winter. On January 14th, over 1100 workers on the Mudon development, Arabella I and J, were given winter jackets to help with the cold conditions; we hope that it helps them stay warm and productive for the remainder of the winter months.

Thank you to all who gathered for the joint Martyr’s Day and UAE National Day celebrations at Trojan Head Office. More than 300 employees assembled for the event, with the inclusion of our special guests from Al Moatasem Primary School who added lots of joy to the event through their Emirati dances. During the event attendees witnessed the UAE flag raising ceremony which was accompanied by a passionate speech from our MD, Eng. Hamad Al Ameri.

In his speech, Eng. Hamad paid respect to the sacrifice and dedication of the Emirati martyrs who gave their lives in the field of service; he also marked the birthday of Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him). Again, we would like to thank all those who attended for making the event a success. We look forward to many successful celebrations in the years to come.

Keeping our workers warm

46th UAE National Day Celebration


Reem Emirates Aluminum employees were honored to visit Wahat Al Karama (Oasis of Dignity) coinciding with Commemoration Day to salute the martyrdom of soldiers who lost their lives defending the sovereignty of the nation.

The occassion recognized the sacrifices and dedication of Emirati martyrs who have given their life in the UAE and abroad in the field of civil, military and humanitarian service. The values of sacrifice, dedication and loyalty, of the UAE citizens who sacrificed their lives in battles of heroism, dedication and national duty are never forgotten.

As we celebrate another momentous UAE Flag Day, we would like to thank all those who attended today’s celebrations. It is days like today that help us pay our gratitude to the UAE as we realign with the mission and values established by our country’s founding fathers.

It was great to see all our colleagues from around the world taking to the spirit of the day and celebrating the country we all call home.We look forward to many more patriotic celebrations in years to come.

Trojan participated in an open panel discussion about Artificial Intelligence in Future Cities and Smart Manufacturing at GITEX 2017 Dubai.

GITEX is the #1 Tech Event in Asia, Middle East & Africa. It is the largest meeting platform of MENA government entities, global corporates, start-ups with over 100K visitors, key players from every industry, government decision makers, corporate buyers, innovators and futurists. The event serves to uncover new perspectives, explore game-changing ideas with conferences and master the smart adoptions that will facilitate advancement.

REA employees visit Wahat Al Karama

Trojan Celebrate UAE Flag Day

Artificial Intelligence in Future Cities - Gitex 2017


How did the implementation of VAT in the UAE affect future Trojan Holding projects?VAT is applicable on all ongoing and future secured projects with effect from January 1, 2018. As a general rule, VAT shall be collected from customers / clients on the work performed, and goods delivered / sold. On the other hand, VAT shall be paid on most of the goods / materials supplied and work performed by their third parties.

There is no doubt that careful assessment and costing review is needed on most ongoing projects and on a project by project basis where the contract or local purchase orders are silent on VAT applicability. It is this in particular, on these projects that recovery of input tax is not straightforward or might require some time to access. The other important consideration to take into account is the impact in cash flow as well.

What are the risks and how to avoid working with suppliers unregistered for VAT?Keep in mind that the responsibility of the tax registration is on the taxpayer and not their customers, as long as we

have not been charged with VAT. Also, in case we could be doing business with a certain supplier that is exceeding the mandatory registration threshold, we will need to inquire with them as to why they are not registered. Of course, we should not expect to be charged tax from any supplier who is not registered for tax and does not have a TRN.

Will the implementation of VAT on the construction industry influence the cost of living in the UAE?The impact, if any, might incur only on the exempted supplies which are above three-year-old residential properties, as the tax on this kind of supply is not recoverable. The construction of newly developed residential or commercial projects is zero-rated or chargeable at the standard rate, which for both taxes is recoverable; accordingly, we should not expect a big impact except for normal inflation.

With the introduction of VAT, mention 4 tips on how to maintain a healthy working capital balance?The implementation of VAT is putting the efficiency of business on the agenda, and therefore efficiency is more important than any time before as it will have a direct impact on cash flow. Some areas need to be reconsidered and policies developed on the following;

• Estimates are to be done accurately and reflect inflation and VAT impact on the project.

• Billings made on time and collected within the shortest period possible.

• No supplies or service should be accepted without a vendor or service provider tax invoice and extend

payment terms to vendors or service providers to the maximum period possible.

• Goods received with supplier tax invoice to be verified and reported to accounts within the shortest period. Similarly, with the case of service providers.

How did the government aid in the transition of VAT application?The regulations and the Federal Tax Authority (FTA) have provided transitional rules that will help businesses and taxpayers on reducing the impact of tax on their business. Also, there are numbers of sectors and supplies that are exempt and zero-rated.

Describe the complexities caused by VAT implementation and how they were tackled?The implementation of VAT requires a great deal of attention on the following areas in order to ensure our readiness for VAT:

• Compliance: we will work diligently to ensure we report our tax returns, pay tax on time, and be able to recover the maximum tax amount possible in accordance with the regulations. This would also require that we have the appropriate policies and procedures in place, and have a good ERP tool and controls that ensure we report accordingly.

• Implementations and awareness: to ensure that all our staff are capable of dealing and managing VAT to the best interest of the company.

• Pricing and costing: in order to reflect the cost on our pricing and ensure it does not impact our profitability, cash flows and going concerns.

Interview: CFO Yousuf Kamil: Topic: VAT

trojan times...villas in dubai and abu dhabi, the maple townhouses, akoya oxygen homes, nad al...

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