What is the company’s business model, and how do you assess innovation in the sector?

We work on precast construction of any sort, whether it be for public, commercial, industrial, or residential projects. We cater to all segments in the precast industry starting from the design, manufacturing, and site execution. We also collaborate with consultants, developers, and contractors during different stages of the project life cycle. Most of the developers are government entities or large-scale private organizations. Precast technology is an innovative approach that prioritizes sustainability since manufacturing takes place in a controlled setting. Automation also plays a significant role in sustainability. When we automate steps for better resource management, the process becomes cost-effective. Abu Dhabi Precast has also started using computerised numerical control (CNC) robotics extensively since few years. We have milling robots, adaptive production table, and CNC-operated rebar work centres. We use building information modeling (BIM) for the design works. We have a strategic roadmap in order to increase our automation level and capacities. Consequently, the entire value chain within the business is now progressing in line with the strategy. The rebar welding line we are currently installing would lower the number of employees needed in the rebar work centre by performing robotic fixations, differentiating us from rivals. Precast is becoming much more cost-effective as a result of the use of cutting-edge composite structural systems and enhanced mix designs that increase durability and need less maintenance. Abu Dhabi as an entity is looking extensively at sustainability. The government motivates businesses to embrace sustainability goals. As we execute our initiatives with sustainability in mind, we are now able to do more work efficiently and on a greater scale in order to meet the market demand.

What are the company’s values regarding employee safety and CSR responsibility?

Our safety department now has over 70 personnel, compared to 20 or so employees 10 years ago. There are strict safety procedures in place at Abu Dhabi Precast. Our factory operations are aligned with the proper safety procedures following government regulations and international safety standards. Since we have permit-to-work (PTW) systems in the factory and project sites, no one is allowed to work without a work permit. This guarantees pre-work toolbox discussions, adequate trainings, and overall competence improvements. In addition, on sites, we manage our projects with our team that has safety supervision staff. Regarding CSR, we have been engaging students from colleges, universities, and vocational institutes for comprehensive job training within our factory. We have developed a training program that covers engineering, manufacturing, and project management.

How does Abu Dhabi Precast contribute to sustainability goals when it comes to waste management and C02 emissions?

Abu Dhabi precast places great importance on green production. Periodic inspections and tests are conducted to ensure that disposals or recycling are done appropriately. In Abu Dhabi, it is mandatory to hire a licensed waste management company to come in and collect our debris and waste; however, we have minimal raw materials, and all of our waste is recycled.

What are the objectives for Abu Dhabi Precast in 2023?

Our objectives are to support the supply extensively in order to fulfill the market demand, especially of Abu Dhabi, while contributing to the sustainability initiatives of the UAE. We want to ensure that as we develop our solutions, they address all of the industry requirements, including the need for buildings with greater energy efficiency and constructability for intricate designs. We want architects to exercise their ideas freely; we do not want them to limit them due to construction-related limitations. To do this, we will work with our partners to innovate. “Zero safety incidents” would be our top goal in 2023 due to the significantly higher production volume. Currently, several developments are starting, notably in Abu Dhabi. As our strategies align with the ambitions of the UAE, we are expanding our capacity further to cater to market demand, thereby contributing to the economy.