The second edition of Arabian Tunnelling Conference and Exhibition organised by the Society of Engineers – UAE and in partnership with International Tunnelling and Underground Space Association has been inaugurated by Essa Al Maidoor, Director- General of Dubai Health Authority and President of Society of Engineers – UAE in Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC).
The opening ceremony was attended by high officials from various government and private entities related to tunnelling industry from across the globe.
Essa Al Maidoor said, “The United Arab Emirates has many leadership characteristics that have made us advanced its position at the global level. Over the past years, our country has achieved development that reflects in the prosperity and continuous progress in all fields. The high quality of road projects in UAE enabled the country to rank first in the world in terms of quality of roads, UAE ranked third in the world in Quality of overall infrastructure on the Global Competitiveness Index (GCI) for 2014-2015,which directly contributed in the promotion of international trade and the growing travel and tourism sector.” Al Maidoor also added that the “Incessant efforts in the development of the infrastructure sector continue to evolve rapidly to keep pace with the growing demands in the cultural and urban evolution in the state which is support by our leaders through launching arrays of progressive projects at the level of road networks, railway, subway, tunnel projects, ports and major airports and free zones developments, which depend on the most important global competitive standards and apply the concepts of sustainable development. This reflects the growing interest in achieving economic development under the protection of the environment that reduces energy consumption and optimum utilization of natural resources and greater reliance on renewable energy sources.
Al Maidoor praised the methods and characteristics of all infrastructure projects in the UAE that provides latest international standards in the stages of design and operation, which relies on the first stage of sustainable design and combines aesthetic appearance and modern innovation in addition to achieve the highest standards of efficiency and environmental conservation levels. It is also in the operation and management of infrastructure projects stage where many of the cutting-edge solutions ensure optimal application of the best international standards, where we are relying on clean and renewable energy, and several sustainable solutions such as the application of the highest security and safety and the provision of network intelligent lighting and ensure indoor air quality standards, which contributes to the reduction of environmental pollution and preserve the urban green and sustainable environment.
He said that the infrastructure projects in the UAE is characterised by high level of efficiency of public services that the community needs it in their daily livesand the use of the most advanced technologies in the completion of the transaction contributes to raising the quality of life for its citizens and residents.
He added that the “The UAE has developed a high-quality transport links where implementation and operation of the network are the most important infrastructure elements in the state that supports significantly the growth and prosperity through the provision of road network and transportation system with advanced technology which include railways, bridges and tunnels and taking into account the environmental considerations and public health and safety, in addition to providing public transport system is characterised by the highest levels of traffic safety and enables users to easily use and provide them with the highest levels of comfort and quality in services which contributes to this kind of infrastructure projects in development investments to guarantee ease of movement between different parts of the country, and solving traffic congestion and stimulate the tourism sector problems, stating the most prominent of these projects in the transportation sector are the Etihad Rail , formerly known as Union Railway , was established to manage the development, construction and operation of the United Arab Emirates’ national freight and passenger railway network.
The 1,200-kilometre railway network will be built in three stages to link the principal centres of population and industry of the UAE, as well as to form a vital part of the wider Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) railway network that will connect the UAE with Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Oman, Bahrain and Kuwait. The Etihad Rail network will be delivered in three stages, with commercial operations commencing in 2014 and ending in 2018. Dubai Metro, which was launched in 2009, is one of the leading infrastructure projects in the country which used the most prominent state of the art technology in the field of railway industry and is known as the world’s longest fully automated metro network with a route length of 75 kilometre, which also features an operating efficiently distinct and achieve the highest international safety standards and has a six stations underground.
Maidoor added, “Tunnel projects are considered a long-term investment for the continuous growth and prosperity of our country, as its role in reducing traffic congestion and easing the flow of traffic by utilization of underground spaces ensures the safety and ease of movement were UAE has the latest transportation system and range of tunneling projects that runs in the region, among them are the Sheikh Zayed Tunnel in Abu Dhabi Street, the longest tunnel in the Middle East which runs for 3.6 kilometers, including 2.4 kilometers covered section. The project was completed to join the integrated modern giant infrastructure components in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi where it provides an ideal environment with the highest sustainable environment and safety standards through the use of the latest global technology in the field of monitoring, control and management system of the tunnel. The Rashid Hospital Tunnel in Dubai, which is estimated to cost about 722 million dirhams, contributes to alleviate traffic congestion in the highly clogged vicinity of Rashid Hospital and increase the ease of traffic flow in the region. The importance of the tunnel projects is not only for the use of Roads and Transport projects, the role of tunnels goes beyond to the level of infrastructure services as it is alsoused for the extensions of electricity, water and sanitation services that constituted the backbone of the infrastructure pillar.
He also added,”Abu Dhabi is witnessing a qualitative leap in the field of infrastructure projects as they launch a series of mega-projects that contributes to enhancing the status of the emirate as a Global City through higher sustainable levels of economic growth. The strategic objectives of Abu Dhabi in the establishment of a modern, spacious and flexible infrastructure contributes and support the prosperity and diversity of economic activity and raise the standard of living for all its citizens.
Abu Dhabi has launched a full range of projects that included the establishment of an integrated sector of clean energy and to develop and expand transportation network in land, sea and air, including train projects and the expansion of Abu Dhabi International Airport. In addition, the Strategic Tunnel Enhancement Programme (STEP) is one of the project which aims to collect and transport wastewater from Abu Dhabi Island and the mainland, and some of the surrounding islands, as is the development of the strategic tunnel program of the longest tunnels sewage regression in the world.
On the other hand, Soren Eskesen, President of the International Tunnelling and Underground Space Association, stated that “Seeing and experiencing the tunnel projects in various countries around the world a great development translated by launching tunnels and quality projects in many countries in the framework of the strategic objectives for the development of infrastructure, where is the infrastructure of successful and effective the most important elements of sustainable economic growth, and plays an important role in tunnelling sector.
International Tunnelling and Underground Space Association partnered with the Society of Engineers – UAE to witness the state of unprecedented growth in the field of infrastructure, making it by example and point of international experts and specialists in the field of engineering projects to benefit from the experience gained by the United Arab Emirates and the exchange of experiences and information with the engineering profession.” Eskesen also added “Our participation and partnership in the first edition of the Arabian Tunnelling Conference last year was one of our greatest experience which give us esteemed pleasure and pride that our continuous cooperation and partnership with the Society of Engineers – UAE in organizing this important event has great addition to the development of tunneling industry in the world.” Olivier Vion, Executive Director of theInternational Tunnelling and Underground Space Association, said “The joint partnership with the Society of Engineers – UAE in organizing the Arabian Tunnelling Conference aims to develop the tunneling industry on a global level through the convergence of specialists and experts in the field. The first day of the ATC conference has delivered an important opportunity for lectures and scientific researches provided by the government and private sector in the UAE and across the globe. We are also looking forward to benefiting from Abu Dhabi’s experience in the field of tunnel projects as they have the two of the biggest tunnel projects, the Sheikh Zayed tunnel and the Strategic Tunnel Enhancement Programme (STEP).” Maged Farouk Hanna, General Manager of the Society of Engineers – UAE said “The Arabian Tunnelling Conference and Exhibition is an ideal platform for all participants to develop their skills and knowledge in the areas of tunneling, project management and sustainability. The conference will run for two days, from 09 to 10 December which will present innovative and interesting scientific programs which will be presented by renowned international experts in tunneling industry. Mr. SorsenEskesen,International Tunnelling and Underground Space Association, opened the Conference session through a presentation and discussion ona rapid transit system that serves the city of Copenhagen in Denmark, Professor Arnold Dix discussed the optimal use of underground space and means to promote progress in the areas of planning, design, implementation, maintenance and operation of these facilities, which play a major role in the field of infrastructure services. The conference was participated by governmental bodies where Abu Dhabi Municipality has provided a presentation on Sheikh Zayed tunnel which dealt with the most prominent and the latest solutions and technologies that were used in this huge project, and the Abu Dhabi Gas Industries Ltd (GASCO) presented a working paper addressed the ways and methods of applying the criteria of sustainability, security and safety in road projects.” As part of the ongoing initiative of the Society of Engineers – UAE todevelop the skills and expertise of the students in engineering sector, a special activities and events are offered continuously to all students which enable them to connect and network with young engineers and experts and be involve in major engineering activities to communicate with their fellow engineers in the working field. Mr. Maged Hanna stated that the Society of Engineers – UAE also organized a Young Engineers Forum which was attended by nearly 150 students from various universities, where students has been offered and presented a scientific lectures and program that was designed especially for them that includes important topics like Overview and Introduction to Tunneling presented by Dr. Edgar Small, Geological Aspects of Tunnel Engineering was discussed by Eng. Jonathan Cottam, Tunnel Boring Machines presented by Dr. Karin Bappler, Tunnel Support, Tunnel Lining and Shotcrete delivered by Eng. Nick Chittendenwhile Mr. Olivier Vion discussed with young engineers the Importance of Underground Space Use – A Sustainable Development. At the end of the sessions a panel discussion about Career Development from Younger Members was offered to all the future engineers.
Maged Hanna said, “The first edition of the Arabian Tunnelling Awards 2014 is a prestigious international award which will recognize and honor the tangible achievements of individuals and organizations having made a significant contribution to the advancement and sustainable tunneling industry. The award will encourage winners to sustain their dedication in work and give them opportunity to raise their profile, extend their professional networking and achieve quality projects that will help world economies and communities to progress. The four awards categories are: Best Project Managerfor Tunnelling Projects was won by Mr. Robert Marshall, Best Sustainable Tunnels won by Abu Dhabi Municipality for the Sheikh Zayed Tunnel project, the Best Tunnel Designwas awarded to Sharjah Roads and Transport Authority for the KhorfakkanTunnel and the Best for Tunnel Innovationwasawarded to Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) for the Dubai Metro. The award will encourage the application of best practices in the field of engineering and will provide great encouragement for individuals and organizations to achieve higher levels of excellence and leadership.
Maged Hanna noted that “The Society of Engineers -UAE organizes site visits on the third day of the event, Thursday, December 11, 2014, to the two of the biggest tunneling projects in the United Arab Emirates in cooperation with competent government entities, Abu Dhabi Municipality and Abu Dhabi Sewerage Services Company. In the first site visit, delegates will be able to experience the best practices in Sheikh Zayed Tunnel through a presentation of the project, visit to the control rooms and a tour on the tunnel. The second site visit will be in Strategic Tunnel Enhancement Programme – STEP where engineers will be able to listen to a presentation about the project’s features and the most important roles of sanitation services in the field. In addition, there will be a visit to the tunnel and see the large excavation work site which uses the latest drilling machines. The site visits are great opportunity for engineers to take advantage of the practical experiences and learn about the design, safety standards, risk prevention and implementation of modern foundations of projects in the tunneling industry which ensures the completion of engineering projects according to the highest levels and latest international standards.
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In This Article Etihad Rail, Rashid Hospital Related Arabian Tunnelling Conference 2014 Officially Open for Abstracts Society of Engineers ? UAE signed MoU with Association of Mechatronics in Sicily Society of Engineers UAE expresses bid for World Tunnelling Congress in 2018 16th Water, Energy, Technology, and Environment Exhibition (WETEX) 2014 opened Underground space sustainability to be in the spotlight at inaugural Arabian Tunnelling Conference Inauguration of Arabian Tunnelling Conference & Exhibition 2014 UAE – The second edition of Arabian Tunnelling Conference and Exhibition organized by the Society of Engineers – UAE and in partnership with International Tunnelling and Underground Space Association has been inaugurated by His Excellency Engr. Essa Al Maidoor, Director General of Dubai Health Authority and President of Society of Engineers – UAE in Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre. The opening ceremony was attended by high officials from various government and private entities related to tunnelling industry from across the globe.
Engineer Essa Al Maidoor said “The United Arab Emirates has many leadership characteristics that havemade us advanced its position at the global level. Over the past years, our country has achieved development that reflectsin the prosperity and continuous progress in all fields. The high quality of road projects in UAE enabled the country to rank first in the world in terms of quality of roads, UAE ranked third in the world in Quality of overall infrastructure on the Global Competitiveness Index (GCI) for 2014-2015,which directly contributed in the promotion of international trade and the growing travel and tourism sector.” Al Maidoor also added “Incessant efforts in the development of the infrastructure sector continue to evolve rapidly to keep pace with the growing demands in the cultural and urban evolution in the state which is support by our leaders through launching arrays of progressive projects at the level of road networks, railway, subway, tunnel projects, ports and major airports and free zones developments which depend on the most important global competitive standards and apply the concepts of sustainable development. This reflects the growing interest in achieving economic development under the protection of the environment that reduces energy consumption and optimum utilization of natural resources and greater reliance on renewable energy sources.
Al Maidoor praised the methods and characteristics of all infrastructure projects in the UAE that provides latest international standards in the stages of design and operation, which relies on the first stage of sustainable design and combines aesthetic appearance and modern innovation in addition to achieve the highest standards of efficiency and environmental conservation levels. It is also in the operation and management of infrastructure projects stage where many of the cutting-edge solutions ensure optimal application of the best international standards, where we are relying on clean and renewable energy, and several sustainable solutions such as the application of the highest security and safety and the provision of network intelligent lighting and ensure indoor air quality standards, which contributes to the reduction of environmental pollution and preserve the urban green and sustainable environment.
He said that the infrastructure projects in the United Arab Emirates is characterized by high level of efficiency of public services that the community needs it in their daily livesand the use of the most advanced technologies in the completion of the transaction contributes to raising the quality of life for its citizens and residents.
He added “The United Arab Emirates has developed a high-quality transport links where implementation and operation of the networkare the most important infrastructure elements in the state that supports significantly the growth and prosperity through the provision of road network and transportation system with advanced technology which include railways, bridges and tunnelsand taking into account the environmental considerations and public health and safety, in addition to providing public transport system is characterized by the highest levels of traffic safety and enables users to easily use and provide them with the highest levels of comfort and quality in services which contributes to this kind of infrastructure projects in development investments to guarantee ease of movement between different parts of the country, and solving traffic congestion and stimulate the tourism sector problems, stating the most prominent of these projects in the transportation sector are the Etihad Rail , formerly known as Union Railway , was established to manage the development, construction and operation of the United Arab Emirates’ national freight and passenger railway network. The 1,200-kilometre railway network will be built in three stages to link the principal centres of population and industry of the UAE, as well as to form a vital part of the wider Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) railway network that will connect the UAE with Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Oman, Bahrain and Kuwait. The Etihad Rail network will be delivered in three stages, with commercial operations commencing in 2014 and ending in 2018. Dubai Metro, which was launched in 2009, is one of the leading infrastructure projects in the country which used the most prominent state of the art technology in the field of railway industry and is known as the world’s longest fully automated metro network with a route length of 75 kilometre which also features an operating efficiently distinct and achieve the highest international safety standards and has a six stations underground.
Maidoor added “Tunnel projects are considered a long-term investment for the continuous growth and prosperityof our country, as its role in reducing traffic congestion and easing the flow of traffic by utilization of underground spaces ensures the safety and ease of movement were UAE has the latest transportation system and range of tunneling projects that runs in the region, among them are the Sheikh Zayed Tunnel in Abu Dhabi Street, the longest tunnel in the Middle East which runs for 3.6 kilometres, including 2.4 kilometres covered section. The project was completed to join the integrated modern giant infrastructure components in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi where it provides an ideal environment with the highest sustainable environment and safety standards through the use of the latest global technology in the field of monitoring, control and management system of the tunnel. The Rashid Hospital Tunnel in Dubai, which is estimated to cost about 722 million dirhams, contributes to alleviate traffic congestion in the highly clogged vicinity of Rashid Hospital and increase the ease of traffic flow in the region. The importance of the tunnel projects is not only for the use of Roads and Transport projects, the role of tunnels goes beyond to the level of infrastructure services as it is alsoused for the extensions of electricity, water and sanitation services that constituted the backbone of the infrastructure pillar.
He also added,”Abu Dhabi is witnessing a qualitative leap in the field of infrastructure projects as they launch a series of mega-projects that contributes to enhancing the status of the emirate as a Global City through higher sustainable levels of economic growth. The strategic objectives of Abu Dhabi in the establishment of a modern, spacious and flexible infrastructure contributes and support the prosperity and diversity of economic activity and raise the standard of living for all its citizens. Abu Dhabi has launched a full range of projects that included the establishment of an integrated sector of clean energy and to develop and expand transportation network in land, sea and air, including train projects and the expansion of Abu Dhabi International Airport. In addition, the Strategic Tunnel Enhancement Programme (STEP) is one of the project which aims to collect and transport wastewater from Abu Dhabi Island and the mainland, and some of the surrounding islands, as is the development of the strategic tunnel program of the longest tunnels sewage regression in the world.
On the other hand, Mr. SorenEskesen, President of the International Tunnelling and Underground Space Association, stated that “Seeing and experiencing the tunnel projects in various countries around the world a great development translated by launching tunnels and quality projects in many countries in the framework of the strategic objectives for the development of infrastructure, where is the infrastructure of successful and effective the most important elements of sustainable economic growth, and plays an important role in tunnelling sector. International Tunnelling and Underground Space Associationpartnered with the Society of Engineers – UAE to witness the state of unprecedented growth in the field of infrastructure, making it by example and point of international experts and specialists in the field of engineering projects to benefit from the experience gained by the United Arab Emirates and the exchange of experiences and information with the engineering profession.” Eskesen also added “Our participation and partnership in the first edition of the Arabian Tunnelling Conference last year was one of our greatest experience which give us esteemed pleasure and pride that our continuous cooperation and partnership with the Society of Engineers – UAE in organizing this important event has great addition to the development of tunneling industry in the world.” Mr. Olivier Vion, Executive Director of theInternational Tunnelling and Underground Space Association, said “The joint partnership with the Society of Engineers – UAE in organizing the Arabian Tunnelling Conference aims to develop the tunneling industry on a global level through the convergence of specialists and experts in the field. The first day of the ATC conference has delivered an important opportunity for lectures and scientific researches provided by the government and private sector in the UAE and across the globe. We are also looking forward to benefiting from Abu Dhabi’s experience in the field of tunnel projects as they have the two of the biggest tunnel projects, the Sheikh Zayed tunnel and the Strategic Tunnel Enhancement Programme (STEP).” Mr. Maged Farouk Hanna, General Manager of the Society of Engineers – UAE said “The Arabian Tunnelling Conference and Exhibition is an ideal platform for all participants to develop their skills and knowledge in the areas of tunneling, project management and sustainability. The conference will run for two days, from 09 to 10 December which will present innovative and interesting scientific programs which will be presented by renowned international experts in tunneling industry. Mr. SorsenEskesen,International Tunnelling and Underground Space Association, opened the Conference session through a presentation and discussion ona rapid transit system that serves the city of Copenhagen in Denmark, Professor Arnold Dix discussed the optimal use of underground space and means to promote progress in the areas of planning, design, implementation, maintenance and operation of these facilities, which play a major role in the field of infrastructure services. The conference was participated by governmental bodies where Abu Dhabi Municipality has provided a presentation on Sheikh Zayed tunnel which dealt with the most prominent and the latest solutions and technologies that were used in this huge project, and the Abu Dhabi Gas Industries Ltd (GASCO) presented a working paper addressed the ways and methods of applying the criteria of sustainability, security and safety in road projects.” As part of the ongoing initiative of the Society of Engineers – UAE todevelop the skills and expertise of the students in engineering sector, a special activities and events are offered continuously to all students which enable them to connect and network with young engineers and experts and be involve in major engineering activities to communicate with their fellow engineers in the working field. Mr. Maged Hanna stated that the Society of Engineers – UAE also organized a Young Engineers Forum which was attended by nearly 150 students from various universities, where students has been offered and presented a scientific lectures and program that was designed especially for them that includes important topics like Overview and Introduction to Tunneling presented by Dr. Edgar Small, Geological Aspects of Tunnel Engineering was discussed by Eng. Jonathan Cottam, Tunnel Boring Machines presented by Dr. Karin Bappler, Tunnel Support, Tunnel Lining and Shotcrete delivered by Eng. Nick Chittendenwhile Mr. Olivier Vion discussed with young engineers the Importance of Underground Space Use – A Sustainable Development. At the end of the sessions a panel discussion about Career Development from Younger Members was offered to all the future engineers.
Maged Hanna said, “The first edition of the Arabian Tunnelling Awards 2014 is a prestigious international award which will recognize and honor the tangible achievements of individuals and organizations having made a significant contribution to the advancement and sustainable tunneling industry. The award will encourage winners to sustain their dedication in work and give them opportunity to raise their profile, extend their professional networking and achieve quality projects that will help world economies and communities to progress.The four awards categories are: Best Project Managerfor Tunnelling Projects was won by Mr. Robert Marshall, Best Sustainable Tunnels won by Abu Dhabi Municipality for the Sheikh Zayed Tunnel project, the Best Tunnel Designwas awarded to Sharjah Roads and Transport Authority for theKhorfakkanTunnel and the Best for Tunnel Innovationwasawarded to Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) for the Dubai Metro. The award will encourage the application of best practices in the field of engineering and will provide great encouragement for individuals and organizations to achieve higher levels of excellence and leadership.
Maged Hanna noted that “The Society of Engineers -UAE organizes site visits on the third day of the event, Thursday, December 11, 2014, to the two of the biggest tunneling projects in the United Arab Emirates in cooperation with competent government entities, Abu Dhabi Municipality and Abu Dhabi Sewerage Services Company. In the first site visit, delegates will be able to experience the best practices in Sheikh Zayed Tunnel through a presentation of the project, visit to the control rooms and a tour on the tunnel. The second site visit will be in Strategic Tunnel Enhancement Programme – STEP where engineers will be able to listen to a presentation about the project’s features and the most important roles of sanitation services in the field. In addition, there will be a visit to the tunnel and see the large excavation work site which uses the latest drilling machines. The site visits are great opportunity for engineers to take advantage of the practical experiences and learn about the design, safety standards, risk prevention and implementation of modern foundations of projects in the tunneling industry which ensures the completion of engineering projects according to the highest levels and latest international standards.
Source : WAM News Agency for United Arab Emirates
