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Leading UAE-based smart and green FM company Farnek has launched a state-of-the-art online carbon footprint calculation tool, ‘CarbonTek’ which can measure and analyse carbon emissions and identify carbon emission hotspots. The online tool caters to any type of business and has the flexibility to adapt to any operational activity.

Responding to market demand and developed by Farnek’s in-house carbon management experts, with support from software developers from sister company HITEK, the digital tool calculates carbon emissions across all three scopes of emissions – Scope 1, 2 and 3 emissions in accordance with Greenhouse Gas Protocol (GHG) – a widely used greenhouse gas accounting and reporting standard.

The online solution can also be customised to generate carbon emission reports for industry sectors such as hospitality, manufacturing, commercial offices and logistics, according to the type and scope of business operations, accommodating access from multiple users in multiple locations.

Commenting on the launch, which was held at Farnek’s control and command centre in Farnek Village, Habiba Al Marashi, Founder & President of Arabia CSR Network, The Co-Founder, Chairperson of Emirates Environmental Group (EEG) and Co-Founder and Treasurer of Emirates Green Building Council (GBC), said:

“In October 2021, the UAE announced its Net Zero by 2050 Strategic Initiative and more recently raised its 2030 climate target to 31% from the original 23% and to help the UAE achieve its commitment, the private sector has a vital role to play.

“Initially that should be assessing the carbon footprint of business operations and it is with the support of innovative digital tools such as CarbonTek that many companies can now begin their journey confidently and methodically towards net zero.”

Farnek provides a five-step approach from assessment-to-communicate throughout the whole process of the net zero journey – training about the net zero concept and climate change; carbon footprint calculation; identifying emissions hotspots and setting reduction targets; preparing a plan for decarbonisation and finally monitoring and communicating milestone achievements.

“Farnek offers a turnkey market proposition, combining the attributes of CarbonTek with a team of certified carbon auditors and net zero consultants, which define operational boundaries and set the baseline year for carbon emissions.

“Once baseline emissions have been determined, science-based targets and recommendations can be implemented, to further reduce emissions and help businesses accelerate their net zero journey,” said Nadia Ibrahim, Associate Director – Consultancy and Sustainability, at Farnek.

According to Ibrahim, there is an array of generic tools to calculate a business’s carbon footprint on the market, however, they are mostly developed in other parts of the world.

“As such, these tools mostly use emission factors that are relative to the country it has been developed in and often cannot reflect the actual emission requirements relevant to the UAE.

“These tools can also be somewhat rigid and difficult to customise to an individual business and therefore cannot accurately measure nor identify the exact carbon footprint of a UAE business. Measuring carbon emissions and identifying hotspots is essential if UAE organisations are to achieve their decarbonisation goals,” added Ibrahim.  

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For more information, log on to www.farnek.com

Photo caption: L-R: Waqar Ahmed, Assistant Manager Sustainability, Farnek, Javeria Aijaz, Managing Director, HITEK, Nadia Ibrahim, Habiba Al Marashi, Markus Oberlin, CEO, Farnek.

About Farnek:

Farnek is the leading provider of sustainable and technology-driven Facilities Management in the United Arab Emirates. Established in the UAE since 1980, Farnek Services LLC is a Swiss-owned independent total facilities management company.

With a skilled workforce of more than 8,000 employees, Farnek delivers professional Facilities Management and security services across several sectors; Aviation, Hospitality, Banking, Retail, Shopping Malls, Telecom, Residential, Commercial, Infrastructure, Government, Education, Leisure and Entertainment.

Emissions calculation critical part of the process for Oriental Press to develop net zero 2050 roadmap

Dubai, United Arab Emirates, 24 October 2022: Leading UAE-based smart and green facilities management (FM) company Farnek, has recently concluded a corporate carbon footprint assessment for UAE-based printer, Oriental Press.

Measuring CO2e emissions was the initial phase of the project which involved comprehensive data mapping and categorisation for all of its existing printing operations. These included energy and fuel consumption, purchased materials such as substrates, printing plates, ink, IPA, rubber blanket, packaging materials and auxiliary materials, upstream and downstream transportation, and other supply chain categories.

Through cutting-edge software provided by an independent third-party, Farnek was able to calculate Oriental’s CO2e emissions using consumption data and recognised scientific databases for measuring emission factors, in accordance with Greenhouse Gas Protocol, Corporate Value Chain (Scope 3) and ISO 14064 standards.

Using an operational control approach, Farnek has calculated the carbon footprint for all of Oriental’s business activities in Dubai, for the full year Jan 2021 to Dec 2021. That resulted in a total of 18,864 tonnes of CO2e, with Scope 1 (direct emissions) accounting for 5.3% of the total, Scope 2 (indirect emissions) – 12.2% and Scope 3 (all other emissions) – 82.5%.

Commenting on the results, Nadia Ibrahim, Associate Director – Consultancy & Sustainabiity at Farnek said: “The highest source of emissions for Oriental Press was from their raw materials – paper substrates which resulted in 51.9% of their CO2e emissions, whereas electricity consumption accounted for just 12.2% of total carbon emissions.

“Upstream and downstream transportation for their purchased goods and product delivery to their customers, accounted for 8.73% of total carbon emissions, while refrigerant leaks accounted for 4.95% of overall carbon emissions.

“Oriental Press was committed to reducing, reusing and recycling the waste it generates and over 92% of that waste is now recycled.”

As part of their ongoing sustainability commitments, Oriental Press is already using FSC and PEFC certified papers among other certificates, 100% recycled greyboard, vegetable-based ink, water-based glue and alcohol-free fountain solutions.

The completion of their carbon footprint assessment is the first step towards achieving net zero emissions by 2050. Through this comprehensive assessment, the major emission hotspots have been identified where Oriental Press will now drive their decarbonisation efforts.

“Reducing emissions from our existing resources is our first and utmost priority for our net zero roadmap,” said Mohamed Al Zeera, Managing Director, Oriental Press.

In order to reduce carbon emissions associated with electricity consumption, Oriental Press has planned to conduct an in-depth energy audit of their production facility to identify the major energy consuming assets and implement energy conservation measures to further reduce energy consumption, followed by a transition to renewable energy sources.

“Our decarbonisation plan will be a continuous process and remain an integral part of our corporate strategy. Farnek has also recommended setting short-, medium- and long-term targets, principally because some measures can be implemented quickly whereas others can take time and require significant capital investment, which will need to be planned and budgeted for,” added Al Zeera.

Farnek’s business development team has won 16 new contracts in the UAE capital so far this year, with a combined revenue of more than AED 50 million. The scope of work across these contracts includes cleaning, maintenance, security, hospitality and Total Facilities Management, covering a variety of vertical sectors such as education, prestige properties, food processing, residential towers and a sports complex.

Derek Ford, Senior Director Business Development & Key Accounts at Farnek, said: “These latest contract wins are a testimony to our extensive service offering, comprehensive understanding of market demand across various sectors in Abu Dhabi and our market-leading position in terms of technical ability and sustainability.”

By embracing the Internet of Things (IoT), Cloud, Machine Learning (ML) and Artificial Intelligence (AI) based technologies as part of the company’s security operations, Farnek is steadily increasing its market share particularly in Abu Dhabi, landing over AED 10 million in new security contracts last year and deploying more than 200 guards in the oil & gas, real estate, tourism and hospitality, construction, and education sectors.

Leading UAE-based FM company to support the UAE’s decarbonisation drive in line with the UAE net zero by 2050 Strategic Initiative

Dubai, United Arab Emirates, 11 October 2022: Leading UAE-based smart and green facilities management (FM) company Farnek has joined a select group of major UAE organisations and signed a Climate-Responsible Pledge to support the UAE’s decarbonisation drive in line with the UAE net zero by 2050 Strategic Initiative.

The signing ceremony took place at the Fifth National Dialogue for Climate Ambition (NDCA) in Abu Dhabi, hosted by The Ministry of Climate Change and Environment (MOCCAE). Dignitaries at the event included HE Mariam bint Mohammed Almheiri, Minister of Climate Change and the Environment and the Rt Hon. Vincent Keaveny, Lord Mayor of the City of London.

“By signing this pledge, we have committed to stepping up our efforts to combat climate change by measuring and reporting our greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions transparently, developing ambitious but realistic science-based plans to reduce our carbon footprint and sharing these plans with the UAE government to contribute towards the UAE achieving its national net zero targets by 2050,” said Markus Oberlin, CEO, Farnek.

“Furthermore, by integrating sustainability principles across our operations, we will adopt an all-inclusive approach that engages youth, women, and vulnerable segments of society,” he added.

The UAE Climate-Responsible Companies Pledge is part of MOCCAE’s initiatives focused on scaling up the UAE’s climate action in response to the call of the Glasgow Climate Pact, an outcome of the 26th UN Climate Change Conference (COP26), for countries to seek higher GHG emission reduction targets.

Apart from Farnek, representatives from other UAE organisations, such as the Central Bank of the UAE (CBUAE), TAQA, SirajPower, Taka Solutions, Talabat and Zurich Insurance Middle East, were also present, amongst others. Previous signatories included BEEAH, Emirates Nature-WWF, Majid Al Futtaim Group, Standard Chartered Bank, HSBC, Masdar, Emirates Global Aluminium, Emirates Steel Arkan Group, Aldar Properties, Emirates Environmental Group and the Chalhoub Group.  

Farnek has already unveiled its roadmap to achieve net zero emissions by 2050. Using 2021 as a baseline, Farnek consultants have identified the scope and boundaries to measure its carbon footprint accurately.

Apart from building performance, such as energy and water consumption, Farnek is also considering employee travel, logistics, purchased goods and services, waste disposal, and focusing on recycling, renewables and other lower carbon alternatives.

Moreover, Farnek has set emission targets for each category and applied an initial five-year reduction goal, which will be reviewed annually to monitor progress and adjust if necessary.

Nadia Ibrahim, Associate Director – Consultancy & Sustainability at Farnek, commented: “By 2026, we aim to reduce our electricity, water, refrigerants and fuel consumption by 30%. We will also cut our waste by 10% and lower emissions associated with purchased goods and services by 5%.”

In 2031 Farnek’s objective is to decrease its emissions in these categories by up to 50%, and by 2048 its carbon footprint will have been cut by up to 90% overall.

“It is impossible to become carbon neutral by reduction methods alone, so the remaining 10% will be offset, by supporting certified carbon offset projects, thereby achieving our Net Zero target by 2050,” added Ibrahim.

Dubai, United Arab Emirates, 29 September 2022: Leading UAE-based maintenance specialist Hitches & Glitches (H&G), a part of the Farnek Group, has launched a dedicated division to provide a comprehensive suite of services for standalone restaurants, bakeries and hotel kitchens across the UAE.

The new division has been launched to tackle the major issues facing commercial kitchens in the UAE today. They include gas and electricity supply for cookers and ovens, temperature faults with fryers, poor performing dishwashers, blocked sinks and drains, refrigeration as well as air conditioning and ventilation.

“Addressing these issues requires a dedicated and experienced, specialist maintenance team with multi skill sets,” said Zohaib Azhar, Head of Operations at Hitches & Glitches.   

“Many hotels made kitchen technicians redundant during the pandemic and now rely on external contractors to fulfill this role. There is a dearth of quality companies that have dedicated teams specialising in commercial kitchen maintenance.

“Many small independent firms do exist, but they do not necessarily have the support of a larger organisation to plan regular preventative maintenance visits, test equipment, source parts and offer an 24/7 emergency response.

“Furthermore, technology is transforming the way in which kitchens function and technicians need to be highly skilled and up-to-date with the latest equipment,” he added.

With the support of its parent company Farnek, H&G’s new dedicated division can procure spare parts quickly and proficiently from approved suppliers both locally and internationally, for any kind of kitchen equipment. H&G can also supply and install kitchen equipment, whether it’s as straightforward as replacing a component, or broader service support during a renovation or indeed installing a complete kitchen in a new restaurant.

And it’s not just asset failure, kitchen hygiene is of paramount importance and requires highly trained and experienced cleaners to ensure that kitchen environments comply with the local government’s latest health and safety regulations.

Sustainability is also another issue that restaurant managers are contending with. H&G in conjunction with Farnek, can provide consultancy to evaluate and reduce kitchen waste, energy and water consumption.    

“Another key benefit is we are present in all seven emirates, so customers with multiple F&B outlets across the UAE can be covered under one contract, providing consistent service efficiency, cost-effectively and conveniently.

“The worst nightmare for any chef and restaurant manager is an equipment breakdown especially during busy evening and weekend services, which could cost thousands of dirhams in lost revenue and damage to their reputation,” added Azhar.

To find out more, call 800 42634 or visit www.hitchesglitches.com

Javeria Aijaz, managing director of HITEK, a UAE-based smart FM technology solutions company, will deliver the keynote address at the Middle East FM Association (MEFMA) one-day conference at the Hilton Hotel in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, on 12 October 2022.

Aijaz will address regional facilities management (FM) professionals about the key issues moving towards sustainable development during a presentation entitled ‘Sustainable Technologies for Futuristic & Smart Cities’. Aijaz will focus on how remote digital solutions can connect people, assets and spaces, to make FM more efficient and sustainable.

“The FM industry is facing major challenges in the way properties are operated and managed. Buildings are becoming smarter, with the rapid development of artificial intelligence (AI), the digitisation of asset management is complicated further by corporate Net Zero ambitions,” said Aijaz.  

“Advanced digital solutions such as HITEK, can now integrate with any existing technologies such as BMS, built on open protocol and can now activate a variety of bespoke or white-labeled portfolio solutions, linking smart buildings with a digitally connected workforce.

“Quite apart from the technological advances, as an industry we must also invest in human capital, to ensure that we create a smart and capable workforce, to deliver these cost-efficient benefits to building owners, managers and their staff, as well as an enhanced experienced for their tenants,” added Aijaz.

Other prominent speakers at the MEFMA conference include Ali Al Suwaidi, VP of MEFMA, Mohammed Al Marshad, VC of Board of Directors at Riyadh Chamber and & Chairman of National Real Estate Committee, Federation of Saudi Chambers and Samar Yamak, Director of Smart Cities, PWC Middle East.

Further topics under discussion include, ‘Embracing Technology & Innovation in transforming the FM industry’, ‘Technology Implementation: The forefront of FM innovation’, ‘FM Contribution towards successfully managing KSA’s Mixed-use Projects’ and FM Engagement towards achieving Business Excellence & Sustainability’.

Part of the Farnek Group, HITEK’s digital solution connects people, assets and spaces from multiple remote sites, using intelligent analytical platforms, for cleaning, security and maintenance. They are centrally managed and monitored by utilising the Internet of Things (IoT), Building Management Systems (BMS), Cloud, Machine Learning (ML) and Artificial Intelligence (AI) based technologies.

The solutions support operational efficiencies, staff welfare, and sustainability while saving clients significant amounts of money by reducing manpower costs by up to 17% by transferring from traditional FM operational management to HITEK’s smart management.

HITEK’s 24/7 command and control room or ‘nerve centre’, is located at Farnek’s state-of-the-art staff accommodation centre in Jebel Ali. Being 5G and Wi-Fi 6 enabled, HITEK can take advantage of increased bandwidth, ultra-low latency and enhanced security.

• Leading UAE-based FM company Farnek launches upgraded remote online tool to measure, analyse and benchmark hotel utilities and waste performance

• On average 4–5-star UAE hotels can potentially save AED 373,000 pa on energy & AED 125,000 pa on water costs alone

• Total savings equivalent to 835 room nights using STR data for Dubai hotel average room rates in 2021

Dubai, United Arab Emirates, 14 September 2022: Leading UAE-based smart and green FM company Farnek, has discovered that four and five-star hotels in the UAE could potentially be saving up to 10% annually on their utility bills. Put into perspective that is the equivalent of more than 835 room nights, according to STR figures for the average daily rate (AED 594) of Dubai hotels in 2021.

The analysis which was conducted by Farnek’s in-house team of sustainability consultants, used data from its own hotel clients, as well from the EGBC Hotel Benchmarking Study. The team found that on average these hotels could potentially save AED 373,000 and AED 125,000 on energy and water consumption respectively, as well as additional costs for waste disposal.

“On average four and five-star hotels in the UAE spend AED 4.98 million per annum on their utility bills. By measuring, analysing and benchmarking their performance, hotels have the potential to cut their utility bills by up to 10% or AED 498,000. Of course, these are only average figures and are relative to the size of the hotel. Larger five-star resort hotels will save significantly more money than a boutique city hotel,” said Nadia Ibrahim, Associate Director – Consultancy & Sustainability at Farnek.

To help address the situation, Farnek through its innovative FM solutions company HITEK, has launched a new and upgraded version of its state-of-the-art online remote monitoring tool ‘Hotel Optimizer’ which has been helping hospitality businesses for the past 20 years in the Middle East, Africa, Asia and Europe.

The digital solution supports hotel operational efficiency, by identifying potential savings through monitoring, analysing and benchmarking energy and water consumption, as well as waste generation.  

“The key upgrade feature of this tool is its ‘Genuine Performance’ indicator, a unique algorithm which reflects the actual energy and water consumption of a hotel after analysing all the variables impacting the consumption of a hotel and their associated costs,” said Javeria Aijaz, Managing Director, HITEK.

There are multiple variables to consider that can influence the hotel’s indoor environmental metrics such as occupancy, guest nights, number of guest rooms, F&B covers, laundry, guest profiles, staffing levels, transportation, air-conditioned areas and even general weather conditions.

Moreover, the tool can benchmark a hotel’s own historical performance as well as providing a comparison with similar sized properties, using an energy utilization index EUI (kWh/m2/year), water utilization index WUI (litres/guest nights), waste generation (kg/guest night) and waste diversion, highlighting specific operational costs.

In addition, hotel owners and operators will periodically receive environmental performance reports, together with specific improvement recommendations from Farnek’s team of energy, waste and carbon consultants.

Dubai-based hotel to digitalise the guest journey from pre-arrival to check out, enhancing the guest experience & improving operational efficiency  

Dubai-based INK Hotel has signed an agreement with HITEK, part of leading UAE-based smart and green facilities management (FM) group Farnek, to use its ground-breaking hospitality app, Flexi-Guest, which will digitalise the hotel’s guest journey from the initial reservation through to check out.

The app, which was developed in-house by HITEK, will interface with the hotel’s property management system (PMS) affording guests a whole suite of services from uploading travel documents, such as vaccination certificates, ordering a car on arrival, room service and laundry. The hotel app can also send automated electronic updates and alerts to the guest, as well as e-registration documents, e-invoices and e-receipts, all in one convenient space.

“One major factor for adopting Flexi-Guest, is that it can interface with our property management system and our point-of-sale terminals, affording a seamless process, from order to delivery and ultimately guest folio,” said Judit Toth, General Manager of the INK Hotel.

“Flexi-Guest supports our key strategic operational objectives. First and foremost, it offers an enhanced customer experience, providing a seamless pre-arrival and check-in procedure, which will appeal to our guests.

“During their stay, they can order room service, laundry, request late check outs, invoices or even order a car to go to the airport. And because the app manages secure online payments, guest can settle bills without visiting reception to check out.

“The hotel benefits are clear. We operate more cost-efficiently, with the added advantage of driving incremental revenue through room service and e-concierge services,” added Toth.

INK is a dynamic, tech-led, brand developed by Vivere Hospitality, a Dubai-based hospitality management company and is aimed at the tech-savvy Millennials and Zoomers. Opened earlier this year and located in the Al Jaddaf waterfront community, the INK Hotel is a boutique property consisting of 63 rooms, one restaurant, Bistro by INK, a coffee bar – INKSPRESSO as well as a rooftop swimming pool and pop-up gym.

HITEK successfully completed a six-month pilot of the app, at the Expo Village, managing the reservation services, concierge, front office services and housekeeping, for the 2,273 apartments, located at Expo 2022.

“Another outstanding aspect of Flexi-Guest is the sustainability feature. The app can estimate the carbon emissions generated by any guest during their stay and provide a cost should the guest wish to offset their carbon footprint,” commented Javeria Aijaz, Managing Director of HITEK.

The INK Hotel already has impressive green credentials. It has installed rooftop solar panels, uses organic soap and shower gel and room key cards. The staff uniforms are made from sustainable materials and there is a zero-plastic policy, by utilising refillable glass water bottles.   

“We are also looking at adding Farnek’s Hotel Optimizer software, which can record, analyse and benchmark our energy and water consumption, as well as waste generation, which will support our ambitions to operate more sustainably and limit our impact on the environment,” said Toth.

Furthermore, Farnek is also a preferred partner and auditor for Green Globe the worldwide sustainability accreditation system based on internationally accepted criteria for sustainable operation and management of travel and tourism businesses.

• ‘Eco-friendly travelers’ are gradually putting pressure on hospitality businesses in the region to incorporate green concepts and sustainability practices into their services
• The industry impacts environment through its considerable energy and water consumption and the waste it generates, especially organic waste and single-use disposables

Dubai, UAE — Growing concerns about environmental sustainability and ‘eco-friendly travelers’ are gradually putting pressure on hospitality businesses to incorporate green concepts and sustainability practices into their service delivery.

The hospitality industry impacts the environment through its considerable energy and water consumption and the waste it generates, especially organic waste and single-use disposables.

Hotels also negatively impact the biodiversity of the natural environment as certain hotels are located in ecologically diverse areas.

Like any other industry, the hotel sector contributes to global carbon emissions. In fact, it is currently responsible for approximately 1% of total emissions, according to UNWTO, and this is set to increase as demand continues to grow.

Moreover, according to a study by the Sustainable Hospitality Alliance, the hotel industry needs to cut carbon emissions by 66% per room by 2030 to counteract the emissions that correspond to its estimated growth.

Nadia Ibrahim, Associate Director of Consultancy & Sustainability at leading UAE-based smart and green facilities management (FM) company Farnek, has revealed how all hotels throughout the GCC region can create a bespoke roadmap to achieve Net Zero emissions by 2050.

Ibrahim highlighted that some international hospitality brands might already have strategies to achieve their Net Zero ambitions.

However, many independent hotels, mainly three and four-star properties, would require external support from consultants to design, plan and execute a carbon-neutral roadmap.

Sustainable, zero-emissions steps

In an interview with TRENDS, Ibrahim described the steps hotels should take to achieve improved sustainability and zero emissions.

“Net Zero, as a strategy, should be approached methodically,” she said.

“Primarily, hotels need to calculate their current carbon footprint. A detailed assessment of Scope 1, Scope 2, and Scope 3 (direct, indirect & all other emissions) is critical to understanding which activities and processes create most of their carbon emissions. Digital tools are available to measure this. For example, Farnek has developed an online carbon calculator called CARBONTEK, which has a specific module for calculating a hotel’s carbon emissions.

Once Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emissions are measured, the next step is to develop carbon reduction plans, technically known as Decarbonization. This includes planning various methodologies for reducing existing carbon emissions through various actions such as:

1. Retrofitting existing buildings with energy-efficient systems – 60% of a building’s carbon emissions are directly related to energy consumption
2. Installing smart-energy monitoring systems
3. Eliminating single-use disposables
4. Conducting sustainable procurement
5. Going paperless
6. Promoting sustainable building design
7. Reducing food waste by addressing overproduction
8. Creating awareness amongst staff and guests
9. Using renewables to reduce reliance on conventional energy sources

Ibrahim added that the decarbonization plan should be aligned with short- and long-term targets to reach at least a 90% reduction before 2050 before offsetting unavoidable emissions. This requires corporate commitment, resources, budget, trained staff, and partnerships with Net Zero experts to create an achievable plan with reduction targets.

Hotels in the GCC that are developing sustainable plans

Concerted efforts have been made over the past decade and hotels in the GCC region and the UAE to develop plans for sustainability and net zero emissions.

Leading international brands like Accor, Mariott, Hilton, IHG, Radisson, and groups such as Anantara and Jumeirah have already adopted sustainable practices. Additionally, international certification programs like Green Globe have also played a key role in formalizing the sustainability process.

However, according to Ibrahim, the plan toward Net Zero is not an easy process.

“Most international brands already have strategies but implementing them in a regional context might be challenging due to insufficiently trained staff. Also, when it comes to regional and local groups and independent hotels achieving Net Zero, although there is commitment, it often lacks any real strategic vision,” she said.

Ibrahim went on to note that the confusion about what Net Zero means and the process and actions required to make a clear corporate commitment exacerbates the situation. This is especially true when calculating their carbon footprint for Scope 3, which can be quite complex. Hotel management is likewise worried about how to incorporate sustainable measures without negatively impacting the overall visitor experience.

Furthermore, finance is an issue, particularly in light of the economic crisis caused by the pandemic. The hotel sector is still recovering and reluctant to invest heavily, and even though there are substantial returns through lower utility bills and waste collection fees, it can be difficult at times to demonstrate that clearly, especially in the short term.

A difficult journey, but not impossible

Reaching Net Zero Emissions targets by 2050 is a complex but not impossible journey. In the UAE, initiatives such as Dubai Sustainable Tourism, as well as similar campaigns by the Abu Dhabi Department of Culture and Tourism and the Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Authority, have been launched to guide and drive sustainability.

“Further coordinated government support will be required to achieve Net Zero,” Ibrahim said, adding that this could include setting targets, developing a regulatory framework, providing cost-effective technologies, subsidies, and fiscal incentives, sharing research data, promoting voluntary carbon markets, and leveraging private sector expertise.

She also believes that any country can achieve Net Zero if there is total commitment, with governments, the private sector, and the general public all working in harmony, supported by the inevitable technological advances.

UAE-based FM company sends essentials & staple food stuff to families of 131 Sri Lankan employees as island nation suffers from its worst economic crisis

Dubai, United Arab Emirates, 01 September, 2022: The staff welfare committee at leading UAE-based smart and green facilities management (FM) company Farnek, has initiated a humanitarian project by dispatching 4.6 metric tonnes of basic food stuff and other essentials to 131 families in Sri Lanka.

Farnek’s Sri Lankan employees were invited to a meeting, where staff welfare officers explained the project in detail, from initiation to dispatch. After the meeting, collection boxes were placed throughout Farnek’s offices and Farnek Village, its staff accommodation centre, for staff members to make donations.

Farnek doubled the amount collected, and through its procurement department, bought a range of everyday necessities which included rice, flour, salt, milk powder, biscuits, daal and chickpeas, as well as washing powder, tooth paste and soap.

Management and employees gave up their free time to pack the boxes before they were shipped to Sri Lanka. In total 131 boxes weighing a combined 4.6 tonnes were assembled. Farnek’s Sri Lankan employees added their home addresses and were also given the opportunity to place a personal message to their families inside the box. When they arrive in Colombo, couriers will deliver the boxes direct to the homes of these needy families.

The island nation is suffering from its worst political and economic crisis in living memory and families are struggling to survive. Sri Lanka relies on imports and with the country’s foreign currency reserves plummeting 99% to a mere $50 million since 2019, buying imported goods is extremely challenging, pushing up the price of domestic goods.  

“This humanitarian drive was initiated by our staff welfare team, to the delight of our Sri Lankan employees. The situation over there is heartbreaking and we wanted to do something practical to help ordinary families that are struggling on a daily basis,” commented Markus Oberlin, CEO, Farnek.   

“People have to wait in queues for hours if not days just to get everyday household basics. Petrol is being rationed, there is a food shortage, inflation is running at 60% and food prices have almost doubled, hitting the poorest in society the hardest,” he added.

Farnek has a track record of supporting the families of its employees, especially when they have been faced with real hardship. Farnek sent relief packages to Nepal after the destructive earthquake in 2015 and to South India in 2019, after the devastating floods.

For more information, log on to www.farnek.com

• Farnek reinforces award-winning security credentials with a raft of new and retained security contract wins across Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Ras Al Khaimah and Umm Al Quwain;

• The company will mobilise 420 security guards across sectors including energy, healthcare, finance, manufacturing, and residential, amongst others

Dubai, United Arab Emirates, 29 August 2022: Leading UAE-based smart and green facilities management (FM) company Farnek has underscored its security credentials with a host of new and retained contract wins, totalling more than AED 42.4 million in the last 12 months.

The company has seen success in security contracts across a diverse range of sectors, including energy, healthcare, finance, manufacturing, education, residential, events and exhibitions, construction and government, where they will mobilise 420 members to locations in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Ras Al Khaimah and Umm Al Quwain to provide a range of security services including guarding, maintenance, control and monitoring, inspections, and site reporting amongst others.

Markus Oberlin, the CEO of Farnek, said: “At Farnek, we provide cutting-edge security solutions that incorporate flexible and integrated technologies and are supported by highly competent security personnel. This has resonated with several of our clients and partners and is representative of the demand that has seen our security division witness unprecedented growth in the last 12 months.

“Our primary objective is to ensure the safety and security of our client’s facilities. To do this, all our personnel have undergone a rigorous vetting process and come from various backgrounds, including the armed forces and police departments, ensuring they are well-versed in dealing with any situation.”

New contracts in the healthcare sector include RR Facility Management, a specialist in providing PCR test centre services, across the Northern Emirates, with 50 security guards to oversee operations.  Elsewhere, 15 Farnek security personnel will be utilised across Unilab sites in Dubai and Ajman.

In the real estate sector, Farnek will deploy 14 members of staff to the new 23 Marina development in Dubai. At the same time, wins in government, construction, and the financial industry include the Federal Authority for Human Resources, Ramky Enviro and Banque Misr, respectively.

In terms of security automatisation, Farnek uses the Internet of Things (IoT), Cloud, Machine Learning (ML) and Artificial Intelligence (AI) based technologies as part of the company’s security operations. The company successfully developed the HITEK Solution 4.0 – a Huawei-based AI surveillance system that monitors local CCTV and remote channels. Integrated with our 24/7 operational command control centre, the AI element addresses behaviours such as loitering through facial recognition and personal attributes.

To digitise the incident management process and increase resilience through enhanced operational capabilities, Farnek has also developed its in-house Security Plus mobile application, which captures real-time information from customers’ sites.

“This technology enables us to identify and document the full spectrum of security-related activities, ensuring our contractual commitments are met, and customer satisfaction is achieved,” added Oberlin.

Further enhancing Farnek’s award-winning security credential is its unique Android watch which is programmed, coded and developed in-house and provides attendance and incident reporting, call facilities, geo-fencing, photo and video functions and health monitoring. All watches are connected to the company’s 24/7 command and control room in Farnek Village, Jebel Ali.

The control centre uses 5G and is Wi-Fi 6 enabled, meaning Farnek can take advantage of increased bandwidth, ultra-low latency and enhanced security to connect assets from multiple sites so that they can be centrally monitored and managed, guards can also be provided with real-time updates.

Farnek has recently garnered a range of prestigious accolades, with Dubai Police commending the company for the best security-related practice at Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park in Al Qudra – the largest solar park in the Middle East. Abu Dhabi Police General Command recognised Farnek for its efforts and outstanding cooperation. Finally, at the recent FM Middle East Awards, Farnek was named Security Company of the Year 2022.

“By listening to what our clients want and providing them with expert insight and state-of-the-art technology, we’re able to offer a service that eclipses anything else on the market in the UAE,” said Oberlin.

-Ends-

For more information, log on to www.farnek.com

Zohaib Azhar to head up operations at UAE-based home maintenance specialist

Dubai, United Arab Emirates, 23 August 2022: Leading UAE-based home maintenance specialist Hitches & Glitches (H&G), a part of the Farnek Group, has appointed Zohaib Azhar as head of operations to drive its green digital strategy for hard and soft FM services, including energy management.

In his new position, Azhar will manage all commercial aspects of H&G’s FM projects including cash flow and profitability, asset strategy and the implementation of operational policies, document control and reporting.

Commenting on Azhar’s appointment, Markus Oberlin, CEO Farnek said: “Zohaib is a multi-award-winning, RICS-qualified professional, who has risen very quickly through the ranks over the past five years and epitomises our ‘Farnek First’ policy of promoting from within.

“During his time with us he has successfully ensured that all of our projects were aligned with our strategic objectives, using smart and sustainable techniques to guarantee efficient and effective service delivery.”

Azhar is now responsible for managing over 500 employees, operating 100 vehicles across all seven emirates, servicing 6,000 customers, providing a broad range of services including electrical and plumbing, air conditioning, water tank cleaning, pool maintenance and general handyman services.

Azhar has also been tasked with advancing the H&G Home Services app – a one stop solution for any cleaning or maintenance work required by tenants or homeowners, which features access to a 24/7 Customer Care Centre and emergency call outs.

The app has an Uber-style tracking system, enabling users to follow the progress of their home maintenance service requests and track the exact arrival time of the technician live on google maps. It also affords customers the convenience of approving the cost of materials to complete their home repair online, if required.

“Advancing the green and digital aspects of home maintenance and cleaning, are critical to our success. Customers today want an affordable, convenient, efficient and effective solution that interfaces seamlessly with their busy lifestyles, while minimising our impact on the environment,” said Azhar.

Moreover, H&G can supply and install smart home gadgets such as RING video doorbells and security lighting, as well as NEST air conditioning controls. Tenants and homeowners can not only secure their properties while they are away, but they can also save on utility bills and be kinder to the environment.

H&G has also expanded its operations to manage facilities in restaurants and offices, which require a more specialised, flexible and responsive approach. This is especially true for commercial kitchen maintenance, where a number of services maybe required from specialist deep cleaning, disinfection, maintenance and repair to certified health and safety consultation.     

To find out more, call 800 42634 or visit www.hitchesglitches.com

Nadia Ibrahim outlines how regional hotels can design, plan & execute a Net Zero strategy during recent Swiss Business Council webinar

Dubai, United Arab Emirates, Tuesday 16 August, 2022: Nadia Ibrahim, Associate Director of Consultancy & Sustainability at leading UAE-based smart and green facilities management (FM) company Farnek, has revealed how all hotels throughout the region can create a bespoke roadmap to achieve Net Zero emissions by 2050.

During her webinar presentation in conjunction with the Swiss Business Council, which was attended by key hospitality figures from across the region, Ibrahim highlighted the fact that some international hospitality brands may already have strategies in place to achieve their Net Zero ambitions.

However, many independent hotels, particularly three and four-star properties would require external support from consultants to design, plan and execute a carbon neutral roadmap.

“Major international hotel brands such as Accor, Hilton and Marriott have the necessary resources to achieve their sustainability goals, but many privately-owned independent hotels will not have the means to access dedicated internal support.

“There is also general confusion about what Net Zero means and the process and actions required to make a corporate commitment and how a hotel’s carbon footprint can be measured and reduced without affecting the operation or guest experience,” said Ibrahim.

It is widely reported that tourism and specifically hotels account for 8% and 1% respectively of total global carbon emissions. But implementing a carbon reduction plan is not an easy task, with multiple internal and external challenges. The most common of which are carbon footprint assessments across the hotel and its value chain, a lack of financial resources with little or no budget allocated for climate related activities, the higher costs associated with sustainable products and insufficient regulatory incentives to support a hotel’s Net Zero transition.

Ibrahim, who was elected to the board of the official Local Network of the UN Global Compact in the UAE earlier this year, also empahsised to delegates that despite the challenges, sustainability in hospitality is an undeniable trend which also affords operational savings, competitive advantage and strengthens relationships with stakeholders.

“Reducing energy output, water consumption and waste, will save a hotel operation money through lower utility bills and landfill costs. Moreover, 81% of travellers that responded to a 2021 booking.com survey said that they wanted to stay in sustainable accommodation and a further 49% claimed there was not enough choice,” said Ibrahim.

Leading by example, Farnek consultants have already identified the scope and boundaries, to accurately measure and reduce its own carbon footprint. Apart from building performance, such as energy and water consumption, Farnek is also taking into account employee travel, logistics, purchased goods and services, waste disposal, as well as focusing on recycling, renewables and other lower carbon alternatives.

“It is impossible to become carbon neutral by reduction methods alone, so hotels will need to offset a certain percentage of their emissions, by supporting certified carbon offset projects, such as providing clean cooking fuel to isolated communities in Africa to help prevent deforestation,” added Ibrahim.

Farnek has also developed an in-house, online solution called Hotel Optimizer which can carry out and benchmark complete energy, water and waste audits for hotel owners and managers.

Furthermore, Farnek is the preferred partner in the Middle East for Green Globe Certification, the premier worldwide sustainability management system and certification for the hospitality, travel and tourism industry.

“It is essential that hotels start to plan their environmental strategy now if they are to play their part and support the overall Net Zero goals of their respective governments, particularly those in the UAE, who will host the COP 28 meeting in Abu Dhabi next year,” concluded Ibrahim.

For more information, log on to www.farnek.com

UAE-based HITEK, to provide technical support to major Sudanese FM company TAD, to help transform its business strategy in North & East Africa into a more digital and sustainable offering    

Leading UAE-based IT smart Facilities Management (FM) solutions company HITEK Services, which is part of the Farnek group of companies, has signed a two-year contract with major, tier one Sudanese total FM company, TAD.

Under the terms of the agreement, which is HITEK’s first overseas venture, the company will provide TAD with state-of-the-art connected, automated and intelligent FM solutions which complement a leaner and more sustainable operational process, improving productivity while reducing energy consumption for building owners and managers.

HITEK’s solutions architecture and design, as well as its technical sales support, will transform TAD’s FM service offering into a fully digital and sustainable proposition by utilising HITEK’s CAFM suite, which includes a state-of-the-art WhatsApp AI Chatbot.

This provides real-time visibility across various services and can also monitor, escalate and report dynamically through mobility, web portal and automated email reports. HITEK’s WhatsApp AI Chatbot provides connectivity to onsite project teams wherever they are, through an integrated mobile CAFM, streamlining service requests and once complete an automated closure notification.

“TAD has a workforce of over 1,500 employees spread over vast areas, particularly in Egypt and East Africa and HITEK’s CAFM will offer TAD a distinct competitive advantage by digitalising, connecting and automating facilities management, using innovative technologies that integrate people, process, assets and facilities logically and seamlessly,” said Javeria Aijaz, MD – HITEK Services.  

“We are receiving enquiries for HITEK services from FM professionals right across the MENA region, who want to digitalise asset management, as well as monitor and control their assets and the performance of FM service providers. The FM market throughout MENA is becoming more informed of how properties can be maintained in a more efficient and cost-effective manner, which is creating exceptional demand for digitalised day-to-day operations,” added Aijaz.

Headquartered in Khartoum, Sudan, award-winning TAD, which focuses on delivering a complete suite of both hard and soft FM offerings to companies across North and East Africa, has grown five-fold over the last five years to become one of the most distinguished facilities management companies across the entire region.

The firm has worked alongside some of the biggest national and international companies that operate in the region, including Ericsson, Zain, UN, Huawei, NGO’s and national embassies. Using HITEK’s CADFM software, TAD can now develop and deliver customised service level agreements (SLAs) for both hard and soft services, across its entire client portfolio, as well as attracting new prospective customers.

“HITEK’s mobility solution makes TAD so much more cost-efficient. Management will have access to updates from all of our customer’s sites and assets with a single tap. It gives me digital and automatic reporting, which helps me improve my FM services.

“Their unique WhatsApp Chatbot made it really simple to submit and automate support requests, which I had never encountered with any other solution. Whether it was Service Requests, Audits, or Management Reporting, the mobile solution enabled the workers and supervisors to communicate live and in real-time” said Mohamed Abdelhamied – CEO TAD.

TAD has been awarded the internationally recognised ISO 41001: 2018 certification in International FM and is the first ISO 41001 FM company in Sudan. Unquestionably, one of TAD’s crowning achievements is their state-of-the-art in-house training centre. A one-of-a-kind facility within the East and North Africa region, the centre is the firm’s way of delivering on their corporate and social responsibility to help the local community.

Trainees can learn new skills completely free of charge, whilst also receiving daily allowances, for meals, and a certified qualification at the end. Graduates can then choose to either stay with the company, if there are positions available, or seek other jobs in the market with their newfound accreditation.

Photo caption: (L-R) Mohamed Abdelhamied – CEO TAD and Javeria Aijaz, MD – HITEK Services.

Nadia Ibrahim, Associate Director for Sustainability at leading UAE-based, smart and green Facilities Management (FM) company Farnek, has been elected to the board of the official Local Network of the UN Global Compact in the UAE, for a three-year tenure.

As a new board member, Ibrahim will act as an ambassador for the Local Network of the UNGC and her key responsibilities include, supporting strategic objectives, supporting organisational risk management, recruitment and growth of the network and leading or co-lead at least one task force or strategic objective.

Commenting Ibrahim said: “I am proud to represent Farnek, the GCN UAE participants and all other stakeholders as a member of the board. I am looking forward to working closely with my fellow board members, engaging with our participants and other private sector companies and together making a real difference, locally as well as regionally, supporting the UN Global Compact.”

Headed by Chairman Eng. Waleed Salman, who is EVP, Business Development & Excellence, DEWA, the UAE board is comprised of members from a cross-section of the UAE’s business community. Initial candidates were selected by a sub-committee, which reviewed and shortlisted applications. Four new board members were elected by the 176 participating companies in the UAE, to represent them during the next 2022-2025 board tenure.

The other new board members joining Ibrahim include Ayesha Khan, the founder of Food ATM, Alia Ali Mubarak Busamra, the chief sustainability officer at the ENOC Group and Hanife Ymer, who is the head of sustainability services at global commercial real estate services company, JLL (Jones Lang LaSalle).

The GCN-UAE is one of 69 Local Networks around the world that operates through a signed Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the UNGC HQ. Each network is independent and self-managed, with a unique mandate to provide direct local support to all participants based in their respective countries, with direct communication and guidance from UNGC HQ.

Hosted by the World Green Economy Organization and established in 2015, the GCN-UAE works closely with the UNGC HQ to provide opportunities for learning, policy dialogue, and partnerships on the Ten Principles of responsible conduct and its 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

The UNGC’s Ten Principles and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are all-encompassing frameworks designed to achieve a future with social justice at its core, which helps to create dynamic partnerships specifically within the business community to mobilise the required resources and investments, vital to realising the aspirations of the organisation.

According to the GCN-UAE many private sector organisations have already pledged to align their strategies and operations with the Ten Principles and the SDGs. And by ensuring sustained actions on the ground, the GCN-UAE aims to widen the role and the scope of the private sector’s participation, by urging more active incorporation of environmental, social and governance factors into contemporary business processes.

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For more information, log on to www.farnek.com

Photo caption: Nadia Ibrahim

Appointment made amid upsurge in demand for FM technology solutions across all vertical sectors

Dubai, United Arab Emirates, 16 June 2022: Facilities Management (FM)technology solutions company, HITEK, which is a part of leading UAE-based smart and green FM company Farnek, has appointed Amit Madan as Head of Sales, to direct the company’s revenue growth strategy.

Madan, who reports directly to HITEK’s managing director, Javeria Aijaz,will be responsible forsupporting the company’s corporate strategic plan, by implementing an aggressive revenue growth strategy.

His responsibilities include directing business development, enhancing key client relationships, revenue generation and budget accountability. Madan will also be responsible for creating new revenue streams, as well as developing greater brand and product awareness among building owners, facilities managers and operators, throughout the UAE.

“HITEK was only launched in January this year and being a part of the Farnek Group, we have already benefited from the considerable support from the corporate sales and marketing team.

“However, due to the extraordinary demand for our innovative FM technology solutions, at this stage in our development, it became apparent that we would need a dedicated professional to coordinate with the corporate sales team and drive our revenue growth.

“With his strong technical and commercial background, as well as his considerable sales experience in the UAE FM market, Amit was the ideal candidate, to fulfil this role,” said Aijaz.     

The holder of an Executive Master’s in Business Administration, with a specialisation in Project Management & Environmental Studies and with more than 17 years’ experience in the UAE, Madan previously held key senior business development roles with major FM companies such as ServeU, Imdaad and Engie Cofely, generating over 550 million dirhams in revenue over the past eight years.

Commenting on his appointment, Madan said: “HITEK is clearly a market leader. It has a very distinct competitive edge, especially at a time when the FM industry is facing major challenges in the way buildings are operated and therefore managed.

“Buildings are becoming smarter, through the rapid development of artificial intelligence and the digitisation of asset management, which is further complicated when environmental issues are brought into the equation,” said Madan.

“Because HITEK can integrate with any existing technologies like BMS, built on open protocol, HITEK can now activate a variety of bespoke, white-labeled portfolio solutions, to building managers and other FM professionals, linking smart buildings with a digitally connected workforce.

“HITEK is working in line with UAE Government strategic mission of paperless & Digitalization and NET Zero 2050 vision, where all HITEK products are integral part to achieve the country’s goals. Our solutions support staff welfare, sustainability and operational efficiencies, reducing manpower costs by up to 17%.

“With more innovative smart products in the pipeline, HITEK will undoubtedly continue to lead from the front and I am looking forward to playing a key role in its success,” he added.

The HITEK solution is a unique and compelling market proposition, which connects people, assets and spaces from multiple remote sites, using intelligent analytical platforms, for cleaning, security and maintenance, so they can be centrally managed and monitored by utilising the Internet of Things (IoT), Building Management Systems (BMS), Cloud, Machine Learning (ML) and Artificial Intelligence (AI) based technologies.

“HITEK’s 24/7 command and control room or ‘nerve centre’, is located at Farnek’s state-of-the-art staff accommodation centre in Jebel Ali, allowing us to rollout more connected and transformative applications of technology that not only uplift the face of FM digitalisation, but also offer enhanced efficiency, as technology advances, interfacing with all aspects of FM,” added Aijaz.

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For more information, log on to www.farnek.com

Photo caption: Amit Madan, Head of Sales, HITEK.

Javeria Aijaz, Managing Director of UAE-based innovative smart FM technology solutions company HITEK, addressed delegates today (Friday 10 June) at the ‘Innovation in Facilities Management Forum – Future of FM Summit’, which is taking place at the Sofitel Dubai the Palm hotel in Dubai.

The forum brought together FM professionals from all over the Middle East to discuss the future of FM and how the usage of technology, AI, software, automation, drones are enabling the FM industry to become more innovative and efficient.

The panel session, which also featured Prabhu Ramachandran, Founder & CEO of Facilio and Dustine Stanley, Director of Netix and David Nice, Associate Director at Emrill Services, focused specifically on how vendors can enhance the technological experience of users, by explaining the intricate features and benefits of their products, to both ease and accelerate the demanding process of adopting new technologies, making companies smarter.

“HITEK epitomises the way in which facility maintenance services will be delivered in the future. It digitalises, connects and automates facilities management, by using innovative technologies that integrate people, process, assets and facilities in a logical and seamless fashion,” said Aijaz.

“It is essential that FM professionals throughout the region, keep pace with technological advances, to improve efficiency and to stay competitive. And to enable that, it is equally important that technology vendors should shoulder part of the responsibility to alleviate and fast-track digital transition, wherever possible,” she added.  

Part of the Farnek Group, HITEK’s digital solution connects people, assets and spaces from multiple remote sites, using intelligent analytical platforms, for cleaning, security and maintenance. They are centrally managed and monitored by utilising the Internet of Things (IoT), Building Management Systems (BMS), Cloud, Machine Learning (ML) and Artificial Intelligence (AI) based technologies.

The solutions support operational efficiencies, staff welfare, and sustainability while saving clients significant amounts of money by reducing manpower costs by up to 17% by transferring from traditional FM operational management to HITEK’s smart management.

“HITEK’s 24/7 command and control room or ‘nerve centre’, is located at Farnek’s state-of-the-art staff accommodation centre in Jebel Ali. Being 5G and Wi-Fi 6 enabled, HITEK can take advantage of increased bandwidth, ultra-low latency and enhanced security,” said Aijaz.

“This will allow us to rollout more connected and transformative applications of technology that not only uplift the face of FM digitalisation, but also offer enhanced efficiency, as technology advances, interfacing with all aspects of FM,” she added.

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For more information, log on to on www.hitek.ai

Dubai, United Arab Emirates, 2 June 2022: Nadia Ibrahim, Associate Director- Consultancy & Sustainability at leading UAE-based smart and green facilities management (FM) company Farnek, addressed delegates yesterday (Wednesday 1 June 2022) at the second Retrofit Tech Abu Dhabi Summit.

During a panel session on the opening day, entitled Net-Zero Energy Projects – Challenges, Opportunities and the Realities, Ibrahim offered her considered opinion on how best to achieve the UAE capital’s Net Zero ambitions through retrofitting existing buildings.

“Looking at the big picture, Net Zero is a tool to stabilise climate change, through the significant reduction of carbon emissions. I like to use the term ‘Regenerative Design’ rather than retrofitting.What we need are designs that focus on reducing carbon emissions, rather than those which merely emphasise energy & cost savings alone,” said Ibrahim.

She went on to describe a strategic approach including the overall assessment of buildings using advanced modelling tools, the differing levels of refurbishment, the renewable energy component and the increased awareness and use of digital tools, such as Farnek’s groundbreaking HITEK solution, which integrates with Building Management Systems (BMS), to identify, design and focus on reducing carbon emissions through energy reduction & materials management.

However, Ibrahim also acknowledged the challenges faced when trying to execute a retrofitting project.  

“One barrier is commonly referred to as the “split incentive”. This is where the landlord is responsible for the capital expenditure to make the efficiency improvements, but the tenant is the one who is likely to benefit from lower energy bills. Overcoming this barrier through both regulatory and voluntary measures will be key to making progress on this front.

“Inadequate financial support is also holding back energy efficiency and green government initiatives. Most buildings are privately-owned but local developers and investors are reluctant to commit to the initial capital expense because risk-averse banks are unlikely to offer financial backing for what is still a relatively new process.

“UAE banks should develop risk analysis mechanisms to measure the potential for lending to this market and energy services companies (ESCOs) should raise awareness within the financial community and try to complete as many projects as possible to establish a track record. Banks could also create energy efficiency funds, while   investors should be encouraged to take a longer-term view of the returns, which in some cases can continue for up to 30 years,” she added.

In terms of other solutions, Ibrahim suggested that government incentives would be key to unlocking and accelerating retrofitting projects, such as rebates, subsidies and in the near future tax credits.

The event, which is taking place at the Conrad Hotel, in Abu Dhabi’s Etihad Towers, has attracted over 300 delegates, officially co-hosted by Abu Dhabi Energy Services (ADES), bringing together key stakeholders across theenergy efficiency, sustainabilityand retrofitting sectors, to help achieve Abu Dhabi’s energy goals.

Moderated by Hassan Younes, Co-CEO and Founder, GRFN, other notable speakers on the panel included, Majid Ideisian, Project Manager Financial Sustainability and Investment Department, Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure, Eng. Mohamed Al Hadhrami, Energy & Water Efficiency Accelerators Directorate, Abu Dhabi Department of Energy Amer Bin Ahmed, Managing Director, Knauf Middle East

The UAE has already committed to Net Zero by 2050 and will host COP 28 in 2023. Abu Dhabi also has progressive plans such as the Demand Side Management and Energy Rationalization Strategy 2030, which will initiate large-scale retrofitting and energy efficiency projects, for which sustainable design and energy efficient performance will be of paramount importance, to achieving its Net Zero targets.  

Farnek has been a member of the Energy Services Company (ESCO) accreditation scheme since March 2017. The scheme was primarily set up to give building owners, and managers added confidence, that the accredited companies had the experience, capabilities, financial strength, HSE and related equipment, to retrofit buildings to international standards.

“In essence Farnek is fully equipped to identify, design, deliver and finance energy reduction for and on behalf of building owners, which creates not only more cost-effective buildings but a cleaner environment,” added Ibrahim.

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For more information, log on to www.farnek.com

Photo caption: Nadia Ibrahim addressing delegates yesterday at the second Retrofit Tech Abu Dhabi Summit.

Farnek’s Associate Director of Sustainability, Nadia Ibrahim, joined a panel discussion on sustainability and Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) compliant procurement practices at The Hotel Show  

Dubai, United Arab Emirates, Wednesday, 25 May 2022: Nadia Ibrahim, Farnek’s Associate Director of Sustainability, underscored the company’s smart and green facilities management credentials when she took to the stage during the opening day of The Hotel Show, which is taking place at the Dubai World Trade Centre until 26 May 2022.

As part of the session, Sustainable Procurement – a 360 overview of ESG compliant procurement, Ibrahim outlined the importance of ensuring environmental, social and governance (ESG) in procurement by highlighting, amongst other factors, the importance of responsible sourcing.

She said: “We work with many clients and manage more than 2,000 suppliers, so ESG is an integrated and integral part of our corporate values. We ensure that we responsibly procure products and services on behalf of our clients, suppliers, and employees while recognising and awarding those committed to ESG practices.”

In addition, Ibrahim also outlined the importance of the tourism and hospitality sector adopting a net-zero strategy, to positively impact climate change to meet the environmental demands of various stakeholders, including customers.

Other distinguished panel members included representatives from Accor, Kerten Hospitality, Premier Inn Middle East, and the consultancy AESG.

The discussion focused on how companies are now more accountable for their sourcing and how ESG has become a key element of every department and division within the hotel sector. The traditional role of procurement officers was also discussed, and it was noted they have now become one of the key drivers of sustainability. However, it was agreed that there is still more work to be done in this sector.

For its part, Farnek recently unveiled a roadmap to achieve Net Zero emissions by 2050, in line with the UAE’s strategic initiative, announced in October last year. Using 2021 as a baseline, Farnek consultants have already identified the scope and boundaries to accurately measure its carbon footprint.

In addition to building performance, which includes energy and water consumption, Farnek also considers employee travel, logistics, purchased goods and services, and waste disposal, while focusing on recycling, renewables and other lower-carbon alternatives.

“Transparency, gauging progress and making adjustments will be important factors to the success of achieving our net-zero ambitions,” said Ibrahim. “We are confident that within the next five years, we will have reduced our electricity, water, refrigerants and fuel consumption by 30%, cut our waste by 10% and lower emissions associated with purchased goods and services by 5%,” she added.

In 2031 Farnek’s objective is to decrease its emissions in these categories by up to 50%, and by 2048 its carbon footprint will have been cut by up to 90% overall.

Market-leading and multi-award-winning Farnek has been a long-term advocate of sustainability, the company is the preferred partner in the Middle East for Green Globe Certification, the premier worldwide sustainability management system and certification for the hospitality, travel and tourism industry.

Farnek has also developed an in-house, online solution called Optimizer which can carry out and benchmark total energy, water and waste audit for building owners and managers. Farnek will also share its expertise when Ibrahim addresses members of the Swiss Business Council on 8 June during a dedicated webinar, to showcase the measures Farnek has undertaken to drive ESG best practice throughout the company.

As part of the company’s overall participation at the event, Farnek is also showcasing its dedicated standalone hotel management company, ‘Trendz’, offering a unique 360-degree service for hotel owners and operating companies, with a focus on sustainability, technology and outsourcing, three of the most important trends in hospitality today.

In terms of technology, Farnek has developed an in-house app called ‘Flexi-Guest’, which digitalises the guest journey from pre-arrival to check out. The app interfaces with a hotel’s property management system (PMS), affording guests a whole suite of services, automated electronic updates and alerts to the guest, as well as e-registration documents, e-invoices and e-receipts, all in one convenient space.

Farnek’s HITEK digital solution will also be showcased. Able to integrate with Building Management Systems (BMS), it is fully equipped to identify, design, deliver, and finance energy reduction for and on behalf of building owners, creating more cost-effective buildings and a cleaner environment.

The Farnek stand can be found in Hall 1 of The Hotel Show.

For more information, log on to www.farnek.com

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Top executives from leading FM provider Farnek to present a 360-degree market proposition to hotel owners & operators at The Hotel Show

Dubai, United Arab Emirates, 18 May 2022: Leading UAE-based smart and green facilities management (FM) company Farnek will participate as a sustainability partner in this year’s Hotel Show, which opens on Tuesday, 24May, at the Dubai World Trade Centre.

Farnek, which recently launched a dedicated standalone hotel management company called ‘Trendz’, offers a unique 360-degree service for hotel owners and operating companies with an accent on sustainability, technology and outsourcing, three of the most important trends in hospitality today.

“Guests today demand green, tech-driven hotels that offer value for money. That puts pressure on hotel operators to present credible environmental programmes and investment in technology while striving for cost-efficiency,” said Walter Knight, Director of hospitality, Farnek.

Established over 40 years ago, with 8,000 employees, Farnek has traditionally provided manpower and outsourcing services, such as cleaning, security and property maintenance, all areas of a hotel’s operation that are now integral to sustainability and cost-efficiency.

Furthermore, highlighting its 360-degree proposition, Farnek was chosen to manage the 2,273 apartments in Expo Village, including reservation services, concierge, front office services and housekeeping.

In terms of technology, Farnek has developed an in-house app called ‘Flexi-Guest’, which digitalises the guest journey from pre-arrival to check out. The app interfaces with a hotel’s property management system (PMS), affording guests a whole suite of services from uploading travel documents, such as vaccination certificates, ordering a car on arrival, room service and laundry. The hotel app can also send automated electronic updates and alerts to the guest, as well as e-registration documents, e-invoices and e-receipts, all in one convenient space.

Sustainability is another key issue for hotels. Speaking at the Hotel Show, during a conference session entitled Sustainable Procurement – a 360 overview of ESG compliant Procurement, Nadia Ibrahim, Farnek’s Associate Director of Consultancy and Sustainability, will be sharing her thoughts with industry professionals on the adoption of environmental, social, and corporate governance (ESG) standards in the procurement process and how this can be integrated into a hotel’s supply chain process, as well as collaborating with suppliers to reduce the negative environmental and social impacts of business through responsible sourcing.

“With the UAE strategy to become Net Zero by 2050, it is vital that hotels consider the impact their operations have on the environment and put a strategic roadmap in place to reduce their carbon emissions. The UAE government can’t achieve its sustainability goals without support from the private sector,” said Ibrahim.

Hotel owners and operators will also need to implement strategic plans to initiate large-scale retrofitting and energy efficiency projects, for which sustainable design and energy-efficient performance will be of paramount importance.

Integrating with Building Management Systems (BMS), Farnek’s HITEK digital solution is fully equipped to identify, design, deliver, and finance energy reduction for and on behalf of building owners, which creates more cost-effective buildings and a cleaner environment.

Farnek will also be focusing on outsourcing, particularly in housekeeping, an area Farnek believes training is of the utmost importance. “Outsourced staff must be highly trained in all areas of their job; that’s fundamental. But it is just as important that they understand the essence of the brand they are working for and how to become an integral part of the hotel team, not just a contracted worker in a uniform,” commented Knight.   

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For more information, log on to www.farnek.com

About Farnek:

Farnek is the leading provider of sustainable and technology-driven Facilities Management in the United Arab Emirates. Established in the UAE since 1980, Farnek Services LLC is a Swiss-owned independent total facilities management company.

With a skilled workforce of more than 8,000 employees, Farnek delivers professional Facilities Management and security services across several sectors; Aviation, Hospitality, Banking, Retail, Shopping Malls, Telecom, Residential, Commercial, Infrastructure, Government, Education, Leisure and Entertainment.

Walter Knight, Farnek’s director of hospitality, presented Flexi-Guest to hundreds of delegates at the annual Arabian Travel Market in Dubai on Wednesday 11 May 2022.

Speaking on the ATM Global Stage, Knight explained how the app digitalises the guest journey from pre-arrival to check out, enhancing the guest experience, during a panel session entitled ‘What guests really want’, moderated by media personality, Gemma Greenwood.  

The app which was developed in-house by Farnek’s award-winning technology and innovation division, interfaces with the hotel’s property management system (PMS) affording guests an array of services from uploading travel documents, such as vaccination certificates, ordering a car on arrival, room service and laundry.

The hotel app can also send automated electronic updates and alerts to the guest, as well as e-registration documents, e-invoices and e-receipts, all in one convenient space.

Knight said, “Flexi-Guest achieves three main hotel objectives. First of all, it offers the guest an enhanced experience, providing a seamless pre-arrival and check-in procedure.

“Secondly, during the stay, guests can order room service in advance, have laundry picked up or delivered, request early or late check outs, invoices or order a car to go to the airport. Because the app manages secure online payments, the guest doesn’t even need to physically visit the reception.

“Finally, the hotel benefits too. If the experience is good, the guest is more likely to return and also recommend the hotel to friends and colleagues. The hotel operates more efficiently, saving staff time and expense and has the added advantage of driving revenue through F&B and e-concierge services,” added Knight.

In terms of sustainability Flexi-Guest can estimate the carbon emissions generated by any guest during their stay and provide a cost and a range of options, should any guests wish to offset their carbon footprint.

For more information, log on to www.farnek.com

About Farnek: Farnek is the leading provider of sustainable and technology-driven Facilities Management in the United Arab Emirates. Established in the UAE since 1980, Farnek Services LLC is a Swiss-owned independent total facilities management company. With a skilled workforce of more than 8,000 employees, Farnek delivers professional Facilities Management services across several sectors: Aviation, Hospitality, Banking, Retail, Telecom, Residential, Commercial, Infrastructure, Government, Education, Leisure, and Entertainment.

Leading UAE-based smart and green facilities management (FM) company Farnek has promoted UK National Derek Ford, to Senior Director of Business Development (BD) and Key Accounts.

Ford, who joined Farnek in 2016 as a project director of total FM services, has a wealth of experience, including a 23-year career as an engineer in the British Army, with posts in Germany and Oman.

Reporting directly to CEO, Markus Oberlin, Ford’s new responsibilities include aligning BD with corporate strategy, directing all sales activities including diversifying into new business sectors, managing key accounts and JV contracts, leading, motivating, and developing the BD team, improving efficiency and quality management, as well as revenue accountability.

“Derek has been directing our Total Facilities Management (TFM) and Hard Facilities Management (HFM) service teams on key projects including Expo 2020, Burj Khalifa, Dubai Fountains, the Dubai Mall and Dubai Airport. His exemplary engineering qualifications and in-depth knowledge of managing complex facilities made him the outstanding candidate to direct our business development strategy,” said Markus Oberlin, CEO, Farnek.

After a distinguished career in the British Army, in 2012, Ford was handed responsibility as a consultant technical officer by the NATO Support and Procurement Agency (NSPA), to oversee multiple operational and maintenance contracts for infrastructure and technical airfield facilities and the delivery of MEP and infrastructure contracts for multinational agencies, in Kandahar, Afghanistan.

After a brief training project for PDO in Oman, Ford returned to Kandahar in 2014, at the request of the NSPA, as a lead engineer and senior technical officer, to manage the airfield engineering department, offering strategic engineering and operational advice

In 2016, Ford was appointed director of FM management contracts at Dubai’s City Walk, where he was responsible for mobilising and delivering FM services for the mixed-use complex, consisting of retail, F&B outlets, leisure and entertainment, the master community and residential units. More recently, he was project director of the Burj Khalifa, responsible for the delivery of HFM services and the day-to-day management of a multi-disciplined FM team.

“The UAE FM market is not only intensely competitive, but it is also becoming increasingly multifaceted, with technological advances, combined with demand for environmentally friendly operations.

“Farnek has invested more than one million dollars developing technologies that are innovative and impactful, offering smart and sustainable solutions with a Net Zero plan powered by cloud, mobility, IoT and AI platforms. This is the future of FM and I am looking forward to playing an integral role in the development of a market proposition, fit for smart cities,” commented Ford.

Farnek’s new corporate structure also includes a number of other senior appointments to boost the company’s presence particularly in Abu Dhabi and the Northern Emirates, as well as within its residential maintenance company, Hitches & Glitches.

“Besides growing demand for technology and sustainability, market verticals are diverging as well, so we have restructured our organisation, creating dedicated business units, such as HITEK (technology and innovation) and Trendz (hospitality management) to address these challenges and to capitalise on the inevitable opportunities that lie ahead,” added Oberlin.

UAE-based smart & green FM company to launch 360-degree hotel management

at Arabian Travel Market 2022

Leading UAE-based smart and green facilities management (FM) company Farnek, is to launch ‘Trendz’ a new standalone hotel management company, at Arabian Travel Market (ATM), which takes place at the Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) on 9-12 May 2022.

“‘Trendz’ offers a unique 360-degree service for hotel owners and operating companies with an accent on technology and sustainability, two of the most important trends in hospitality today,” said Walter Knight, Director of hospitality at Farnek.

“Farnek, which has over 8,000 employees, has traditionally provided manpower and outsourcing services, such as cleaning, security and property maintenance. However, ‘Trendz’ takes that market proposition one stage further, managing front office requirements, reservations, concierge, housekeeping and room service – we can also manage sales operations, marketing and PR.

“It is a cost-effective and totally flexible hospitality proposition. Hotels can engage with us for specific operational requirements or contract us to manage an entire property, either under the ‘Trendz’ brand or as a white label product,” added Knight.

One of Farnek’s most recent accomplishments, was the development of an app called ‘Flexi-Guest’ which digitalises the guest journey from pre arrival to check out.         

The app, which was developed in-house, interfaces with a hotel’s property management system (PMS) affording guests a whole suite of services from uploading travel documents, such as vaccination certificates, ordering a car on arrival, room service and laundry. The hotel app can also send automated electronic updates and alerts to the guest, as well as e-registration documents, e-invoices and e-receipts, all in one convenient space.

“This gives the guest an enhanced experience, providing a seamless pre-arrival and check-in procedure. They can order room service in advance, have laundry picked up or delivered, request early or late check outs, view and pay invoices with secure online payments.

“If the guest experience is good, that develops loyalty and improves online ratings. The hotel operates more efficiently, saving staff time and expense and has the added advantage of driving revenue through F&B and e-concierge services,” added Knight.

Farnek has just completed a successful trial of the app, having secured a contract for the Expo Village, situated on the Expo 2020 site. Farnek was responsible for managing the reservation services, concierge, front office services and housekeeping, for 2,273 apartments during the show.

Sustainability is key to Farnek’s hospitality strategy and Flexi-Guest can estimate the carbon emissions generated by any guest during their stay and provide a cost should the guest wish to offset their carbon footprint. Indeed, visitors to Farnek’s stand at ATM, will be able to measure their own carbon footprint, with an option to contribute to a range of sustainable projects to offset their impact on the environment, while participating in the show.  

“The fact that Flexi-Guest can interface with any hotel property management system, makes it extremely marketable, hotels can simply pay a licence fee to use it and we are already looking at upgrading Flexi-Guest, so that management reports can be generated in real time,” added Knight.   

Hoteliers will also be able to take advantage of Farnek’s Hotel Optimizer software, which records, analyses and benchmarks energy and water consumption, as well as waste generation, resulting in a more cost-efficient and sustainable operation. Farnek can also support hotels that wish to develop and implement Net Zero carbon strategies.

Furthermore, Farnek is a preferred partner and auditor for Green Globe the worldwide sustainability accreditation system based on internationally accepted criteria for sustainable operation and management of travel and tourism businesses. An essential attribute for green listings on booking.com, or to be labelled ‘Eco-Certified’ in Google search results. “We believe that our 360-degree market proposition for the hotel sector, is unrivalled and our participation at the ATM provides us with an ideal platform to showcase our services to a targeted audience of over 20,000, local, regional and international travel and tourism professionals,” added Knight.

Leading UAE-based smart and green facilities management (FM) company Farnek, is currently showcasing its HITEK smart solutions at the Retrofit Tech MENA Summit, which is taking place at the Movenpick Grand Al Bustan in Dubai.

The series of events provides an inclusive platform for key players in the energy efficiency, sustainability and retrofitting sectors, to support the region’s sustainability goals.

Four countries in the GCC region have already committed to Net Zero targets, the UAE and Oman by 2050, while Saudi Arabia and Bahrain have targeted a date of 2060. Qatar and Iraq have also announced plans to reduce their carbon emissions, with Egypt and the UAE hosting COP 27 & COP 28 in 2022 and 2023 respectively.

“In partnership with the private sector, strategic plans will need to be put in place to initiate large-scale retrofitting and energy efficiency projects, for which sustainable design and energy efficient performance will be of paramount importance,” said Markus Oberlin, CEO, Farnek

“Integrating with Building Management Systems (BMS), the HITEK digital solution is fully equipped to identify, design, deliver and finance energy reduction for and on behalf of building owners, which creates not only more cost-effective buildings but a cleaner environment,” he added.

Farnek has been a member of the Energy Services Company (ESCO) accreditation scheme since March 2017. The scheme was primarily set up to give building owners, and managers added confidence, that the accredited companies had the experience, capabilities, financial strength, HSE and related equipment, to retrofit buildings to international standards.

Under the ESCO programme there are two different business models, catering for the most popular approaches to energy performance contracting.

The shared savings model refers to ESCO investment into the equipment and materials to generate energy efficiency and is remunerated from a predetermined percentage of the savings generated.

The guaranteed savings is a more traditional model, whereby an ESCO would recommend implementing energy-saving solutions (ring-fenced by contractual key performance indicators) and the building owner provides the financing. Either way both contracts are intended to be fair and balanced and allocate risk proportionately between the ESCO and the building owner.

HITEK can also connect assets from multiple sites so they can be centrally monitored and managed by utilising the Internet of Things (IoT), Cloud, Machine Learning (ML) and Artificial Intelligence (AI) based technologies.

“By linking smart buildings with a digitally connected workforce, the system affords operational efficiencies and supports staff welfare. Customers can save up to 17% of their manpower costs by transferring from traditional FM operational management to HITEK’s smart management, which also reduces carbon emissions still further,” said Oberlin.

Farnek has a dedicated sustainability area on its stand, providing a comprehensive bouquet of green products and services. Farnek can help building owners with Net Zero strategic planning, from concept to implementation and management. It has consultants on hand to explain the benefits of energy audits and advise on waste management, Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) as well as LEED certification.

For hotel and leisure properties, Farnek is the preferred partner of Green Globe Certification and can measure and benchmark energy and water consumption, using an online tool called Hotel Optimizer, as well as calculating carbon emissions.

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For more information, log on to www.farnek.com

Photo caption: (L-R) Nadia Ibrahim, Associate Director- Consultancy & Sustainability at Farnek with Javeria Aijaz, Managing Director – HITEK, at the Retrofit MENA Tech Summit.

About Farnek:

Farnek is the leading provider of sustainable and technology-driven Facilities Management in the United Arab Emirates. Established in the UAE since 1980, Farnek Services LLC is a Swiss-owned independent total facilities management company. With a skilled workforce of more than 8,000 employees, Farnek delivers professional Facilities Management and security services across several sectors; Aviation, Hospitality, Banking, Retail, Shopping Malls, Telecom, Residential, Commercial, Infrastructure, Government, Education, Leisure and Entertainment.

Photo : (L-R): Ryan Mitchell, Markus Oberlin, Rina Anjelina, Ahmed Al Khatib, HE Major General Obaid Muhair bin Suroor, Ranjit Raj & Baber Hussain.

Ranjith Raj, HSE Manager at Expo 2020 for UAE-based FM company Farnek, recognised for excellence in health & safety

Dubai, United Arab Emirates, Monday 28February 2022: Ranjit Raj, HSE Manager for leading UAE-based smart and green facilities management (FM) company Farnek, was honoured with the Taqdeer Health & Safety Manager Award during a gala ceremony, which took place in Dubai Exhibition Centre (DEC) at the Expo 2020 site on Thursday 24 February 2022.  

Held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Dubai Crown Prince and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai, the special edition of the Taqdeer Awards was organised to recognise excellence amongst Expo 2020 contractors and service providers for their ongoing commitment to ensuring worker welfare and implementing the highest health, safety, quality and environment (HSQE) standards. 

After receiving his award from HE Major General Obaid Muhair bin Suroor, Deputy Director of the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners affairs in Dubai (GDRFA-Dubai) and Ahmed Al Khatib, Chief Development and Delivery Officer – Expo 2020, Raj said:

“The Covid pandemic presented many challenges at the Expo 2020 site. Farnek’s HSE and welfare teams acted swiftly to provide strategic crisis management to limit the spread of Covid amongst our workers. The result was little if any disruption to our operational service delivery.

“Our approach included comprehensive risk based Covid controls on site, close coordination with Expo HSE and WW teams and updated physical infrastructure at Farnek Village, our staff accommodation centre.”

“Our workforce played a significant role in limiting any further outbreaks, they all performed responsibly, well aware of the potential impact on their colleagues and the operation. This understanding and cooperation was key to the success of our mitigation plan, it was true team spirit.”

Raj’s colleagues were quick to congratulate him, Babar Hussain, Farnek’s Head of HSE said, “With Ranjit’s support, I oversaw the implementation of a detailed tracking, monitoring and reporting system which included the use of thermal scanning biometrics machines which automatically alerted management, of any staff with elevated body temperatures. It was exceptional teamwork.”

And Ryan Mitchell, Farnek’s Worker Welfare Manager added, “Coming from an HSE background myself, I share a similar professional perspective and appreciation for what this remarkable recognition means.”

Besides Raj’s award, Farnek was also recognised for its excellence in the categories of worker welfare and H&S across Dubai. To qualify, Farnek had to provide examples of their best employment practices and comprehensive use of global benchmarks including labour policies; facilities and infrastructure; health and safety; labour security; recruitment and wages; justice and transparency; labour perceptions and other key performance indicators.

Rewarding its endeavours, Farnek was awarded with Taqdeer Gold Excellence Cards, whilst the entire workforce receives Taqdeer Blue Excellence Cards in appreciation of their dedication.

The cards allow Farnek to save millions of dirhams annually through government incentives from four government bodies, the RTA, DEWA, DM and GDRFA-Dubai. Farnek’s employees can also take advantage of discounts offered by more than 60 establishments and shops throughout Dubai.

“This not only provides our employees with well-deserved recognition, it also reassures existing and potential customers that our staff welfare programmes and health and safety initiatives are best in class,” said Markus Oberlin, CEO, Farnek.

For more information, log on to www.farnek.com

PID Owners Association Management LLC (PIDOAM), a subsidiary of Dubai Investments PJSC has awarded Farnek – a UAE based smart and green facilities management (FM) company, a two-year Total Facilities Management (TFM) contract.

Under the agreement, Farnek will deploy more than 100 employees, responsible for maintaining the Mechanical, Electrical and Plumbing (MEP), cleaning and security services for the Green Community, DIP common areas  

“PIDOAM is focused on channeling resources towards ensuring well managed communities and various initiatives are being planned to be implemented in the pursuit of achieving this. Farnek’s innovative solutions coupled with its technological capabilities will enhance and improve the overall ambience for the residents while maintaining the green quotient, reiterating the community as a sustainable development, promoting a healthy lifestyle”, said Saood Al Mutaiwee, General Manager, PIDOAM.

Markus Oberlin, CEO, Farnek commented, “The Green Community is the first residential development to benefit from Farnek’s innovative inhouse FM technology HITEK, using CAFM for smart FM services. The state-of-the-art connected, automated and intelligent solution complements a leaner and more sustainable operational process that increases productivity and reduces energy consumption.”

The residents of Green Community, DIP will also be able to access Hitches & Glitches Home Services App – a one stop solution for any cleaning or maintenance work that may need to be carried out at their own properties, including access to a 24/7 Customer Care Centre.

For more information, log on to www.farnek.com

Photo caption 1: Saood Al Mutaiwee, General Manager, PID OAM at the signing ceremony with Markus Oberlin, CEO, Farnek.

Photo caption 2: (From left to right): Adarsh Cherian, Compliance Officer, PID; Freejo Francis, Manager, HOA, PID; Saood Al Mutaiwee, General Manager, PID OAM; Markus Oberlin, CEO, Farnek; Kelvin Vargheese, Senior Director, TFM, Farnek and Julian Khalil, Senior Director, Security and Soft Services Farnek.

About Farnek:

Farnek is the leading provider of sustainable and technology-driven Facilities Management in the United Arab Emirates. Established in the UAE since 1980, Farnek Services LLC is a Swiss-owned independent total facilities management company.

With a skilled workforce of more than 8,000 employees, Farnek delivers professional Facilities Management and security services across several sectors; Aviation, Hospitality, Banking, Retail, Shopping Malls, Telecom, Residential, Commercial, Infrastructure, Government, Education, Leisure and Entertainment.

Leading UAE-based smart and green facilities management (FM) company Farnek has launched a new smart FM technology solutions company, HITEK, under the leadership of managing director, Javeria Aijaz, who was previously senior Director – Technology & Innovations at Farnek.

Developed in-house, the HITEK solution 4.0, was originally launched in Q3 last year, connecting people, assets and spaces from multiple remote sites, using intelligent analytical platforms, for cleaning, security and maintenance, so they could be smartly centrally managed and monitored by utilising the Internet of Things (IoT), Building Management Systems (BMS), Cloud, Machine Learning (ML) and Artificial Intelligence (AI) based technologies.

Commenting, Markus Oberlin, CEO at Farnek said: “After developing the HITEK brand as a cutting-edge technological FM proposition, we received enquiries from both our customers, trade associations and government departments, as well as other industry peers.

“It soon became apparent that there was huge potential for this innovative solution. Because HITEK can integrate with any existing technologies like BMS, built on open protocol, HITEK can now activate a variety of bespoke, white-labelled portfolio solutions, to building managers and FM professionals, as well as other FM consultancies, linking smart buildings with a digitally connected workforce.

“HITEK has a distinct competitive edge, especially within an FM industry facing major challenges in the way properties are operated and managed. Buildings are becoming ever smarter, with the rapid development of artificial intelligence, the digitisation of asset management and complicated further by corporate Net Zero ambitions,” said Oberlin.

The solutions support operational efficiencies, staff welfare, and sustainability while saving clients significant amounts of money by reducing manpower costs by up to 17% by transferring from traditional FM operational management to HITEK’s smart management.

Under Aijaz’s direction, Farnek’s award-winning in-house technology team has developed a range of cutting-edge technologies and initiatives such as a CAFM, BMS, IoT Remote monitoring, smart washroom, wearable technology, HSEQ App, eProcurement, telematics solutions, facial recognition, and benchmarking and forecasting software to make buildings more efficient and ultimately more sustainable.

“HITEK’s 24/7 command and control room or ‘nerve centre’, is located at Farnek’s state-of-the-art staff accommodation centre in Jebel Ali. Being 5G and Wi-Fi 6 enabled, HITEK can take advantage of increased bandwidth, ultra-low latency and enhanced security,” said Aijaz.

“This will allow us to roll out more connected and transformative applications of technology that not only uplift the face of FM digitalisation but also offer enhanced efficiency, as technology advances, interfacing with all aspects of FM,” she added.

The flexible HITEK 4.0 solution has already been implemented by a number of Farnek’s existing customers including Aster Healthcare and the Green Community residential development in Dubai Investments Park.

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For more information, log on to www.hitek.ai

About Farnek: Farnek is the leading provider of sustainable and technology-driven Facilities Management in the United Arab Emirates. Established in the UAE since 1980, Farnek Services LLC is a Swiss-owned independent total facilities management company. With a skilled workforce of more than 8,000 employees, Farnek delivers professional Facilities Management services across several sectors: Aviation, Hospitality, Banking, Retail, Telecom, Residential, Commercial, Infrastructure, Government, Education, Leisure, and Entertainment.

Leading UAE-based smart and green facilities management (FM) company Farnek, has unveiled its roadmap to achieve Net Zero emissions by 2050, supporting the UAE’s strategic initiative, announced in October last year.

“In terms of corporate business strategy, Net Zero is the future. If the UAE is to achieve its Net Zero ambitions, the private sector must support the government and with COP 28 being held in Abu Dhabi, it is vital that organisations start to plan their environmental strategy now,” commented Markus Oberlin, CEO, Farnek.

“Not only that, but sustainability also affords operational savings, competitive advantage and strengthens relationships with stakeholders. We see climate action as a business-critical issue that needs to be addressed within our own operations and across our value chain first, setting a good example,” he added.  

Using 2021 as a baseline, Farnek consultants have already identified the scope and boundaries, to accurately measure its carbon footprint. Apart from building performance, such as energy and water consumption, Farnek is also taking into account, employee travel, logistics, purchased goods and services, waste disposal, as well as focusing on recycling, renewables and other lower-carbon alternatives.

Farnek’s carbon emissions will be calculated using software designed by ClimatePartner, an international solutions provider for corporate climate action, based in Munich, Germany.

“We have already set emission targets for each category and applied an initial five-year reduction goal, which will be reviewed annually to gauge progress, make adjustments if necessary and disclose the results to be transparent,” said Nadia Ibrahim, head of sustainability at Farnek.

“By 2026 we aim to reduce our electricity, water, refrigerants and fuel consumption by 30%. We will also cut our waste by 10% and lower emissions associated with purchased goods and services by 5%,” she added.

In 2031 Farnek’s objective is to decrease its emissions in these categories by up to 50% and by 2048 its carbon footprint will have been cut by up to 90% overall.

“It is impossible to become carbon neutral by reduction methods alone, so the remaining 10% will be offset with ClimatePartner, by supporting certified carbon offset projects, thereby achieving our Net Zero target by 2050,” said Ibrahim.

Market-leading and multi-award-winning Farnek has been a long-term advocate of sustainability, in 2007 Farnek was awarded the Emirates Energy Award for its innovative research project which benchmarked energy and water consumption of Dubai’s five-star hotels with similar properties in Europe.

Indeed, Farnek is the preferred partner in the Middle East for Green Globe Certification, the premier worldwide sustainability management system and certification for the hospitality, travel and tourism industry.

Farnek has also developed an in-house, online solution called Optimizer which can carry out and benchmark complete energy, water and waste audits for building owners and managers.

Further underscoring its green credentials, Farnek inaugurated a rooftop vertical garden at its staff accommodation centre, Farnek Village last year, which grows salad plants for Farnek’s staff canteen. The food waste generated, which is calculated at around 125kg per day, is composted and returned to the garden closing the loop and creating a circular economy.

For more information, log on to www.farnek.com

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About Farnek:

Farnek is the leading provider of sustainable and technology-driven Facilities Management in the United Arab Emirates. Established in the UAE since 1980, Farnek Services LLC is a Swiss-owned independent total facilities management company.

With a skilled workforce of more than 8,000 employees, Farnek delivers professional Facilities Management and security services across several sectors; Aviation, Hospitality, Banking, Retail, Shopping Malls, Telecom, Residential, Commercial, Infrastructure, Government, Education, Leisure and Entertainment.

No FM professional in the UAE will need to be told just how demanding the past 18 months have been for the industry.

However, with economic recovery gathering pace (the UAE Central Bank is forecasting growth of 4.2% for this year) and technology and sustainability driving both government and corporate strategy, what will the FM industry landscape look like in 2022?

Markus Oberlin, CEO of UAE-based Farnek, which was placed at number four in FM Middle East’s 2021 FM Power 50, shares his top three industry trends to watch out for in 2022.  

1. Sustainability

Unless you’ve been living under a rock, the environment is now one of the most important issues facing us as individual consumers and commercial organisations. Following the UAE’s recent announcement that it aims to be carbon neutral by 2050, both the public sector and private sector companies will have to participate, it will need to be a collective effort!

To achieve that goal companies will need to put a strategy in place now, to initially reduce carbon emissions and then to offset the remaining emissions. Initiatives such as energy and waste management, developing a sustainable supply chain, smart fleet management to cut down fuel consumption and introducing electric vehicles, will all trend significantly in 2022.

In addition, there will be an associated trend in the hotel and hospitality sector, with increasing numbers of travellers preferring to stay in eco-friendly properties. Many hotels & resorts around the globe have embarked on campaigns that aim to reduce their impact on the environment. Some were independently audited, others chose self-declaration. However, then came the game-changer.

After exponential growth for the search term ‘green hotel’ Google decided to highlight hotels with independent certification with a green logo saying ‘Eco-certified’. Hotels without third party accreditation were not. You don’t need to be a rocket scientist to work out what is going to happen in 2022.

2. Employee welfare

Happy, motivated and dedicated employees, make our customers happy. And it’s not just because it’s a win-win situation, it’s the right thing to do. In a labour-intensive industry such as FM, (Farnek currently has over 8,000 employees), it is vital that management recognise the importance of staff welfare if we as an industry want to continue attracting the brightest talent.

Quality staff accommodation is essential, like Farnek Village our state-of-the-art employee centre. High speed connectivity should be standard, as well as a variety of recreational facilities, good healthcare amenities and comfortable and reliable transportation.

Personal development is also exceptionally important – online educational and training support with tangible career prospects.

But most of all we should respect and celebrate cultural diversity throughout the workforce, with equal opportunities for all. This will drive human resources strategy in 2022.

3. Technology-driven FM that adds all-round value

IoT, AI, Big Data, smart devices and a connected workforce are all terms we have become familiar with and as they continue to evolve, they are transforming the way in which facilities are managed.

Putting that into context, according to research firm Statistica, by 2025 more than 74 billion IoT devices are expected to be installed globally, clearly indicating that this trend will accelerate throughout 2022 and beyond.

To manage this more effectively, assets will be connected to a remote centralised command room where qualified engineers can consolidate, process and analyse all data submitted in real time. Then through a connected workforce, manpower, tools and spare parts can be allocated and dispatched.

Once enough data has been collected a planned preventative maintenance schedule can be put in place. That can extend the lifespan of assets, reduce the risk of disruption and support a more cost-effective and organised workforce, as opposed to relying on the traditional method of scheduling based on running hours or alternatively using a time-based schedule, or indeed simply reacting to asset failure.

Other technological trends next year will include those which add value to the business partnership. Sensors used in facilities can gather a significant amount of data, which can be used to calculate customer footfall, average room temperatures, energy output and water consumption. In addition, biometric devices can check employee time attendance, as well as their welfare – heart rate, blood pressure and body temperature.

Creating added value to gain a competitive advantage will be another major trend in 2022.

Leading UAE-based smart and green facilities management (FM) company Farnek, has launched its remote monitoring solution using the Internet of Things (IoT) with a pilot project at select Aster facilities in UAE.

Sensors, located at the select Aster pharmacies and clinics, will record temperature changes and energy consumption based on current voltage, amongst other data which includes footfall. These statistics are then collated by a remote management system, which provides live readings for Farnek technicians.

The data is then subsequently driven by Machine Learning (ML) and an artificial intelligence (AI) based analytical platform, producing timely alerts, analytical reports and dashboards utilised for day-to-day and predictive maintenance, forecasting and planning.

Thresholds can then be set and benchmarked against similar facilities and assets and if there is a breach of those standards, alerts are sent in real time to a 24/7 command centre and technical teams who by using mobility solutions can take appropriate action. The platform also uses encryption protocols safeguarding the data with bank grade security.

“Introduction of the smart system at these select facilities will enable us to set a model for IoT enabled facilities management aimed at bringing in energy efficient and effective management which would enhance a customer’s experience with Aster. With plans to extend the set-up to all Aster clinics, pharmacies and hospitals, the introduction is in alignment with Aster’s ESG goals,” said Hanie Abdul Sathar, Director of EuroHealth Systems – managing the project for Aster.

“The project highlights how we can provide practical business intelligence to our customers and as such add real value to our market proposition. Data about footfall, can be extremely valuable to our clients. If they correlated footfall with revenue and product portfolio over regular periods and benchmarked that with other stores in different locations, it could initiate changes in stock ordering or opening times. It could also help managers plan their staffing requirements to cover heavy demand periods,” said Markus Oberlin, CEO, Farnek.

“With measurement thresholds agreed and set, if the temperature goes beyond a certain point, we know exactly where the problem is and a maintenance team can be dispatched to rectify the issue unless the external variables are in question. This is the future of predictive facilities management,” Commented, Senior Director of Technology & Innovations, Javeria Aijaz.

“This is an extremely exciting juncture for FM. It is where ML and AI come into play as we are harnessing big data from all participating Aster locations. That immediately gives us a valuable benchmark,” commented Kelvin Vargheese, Senior Director – Total Facilities Management, Farnek.

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For more information, log on to www.farnek.com

Photo caption:

About Aster DM Healthcare

Aster DM Healthcare Limited is one of the largest private healthcare service providers operating in GCC and in India. With an inherent emphasis on clinical excellence, we are one of the few entities in the world with a strong presence across primary, secondary, tertiary, and quaternary healthcare through our 27 hospitals, 126 clinics/ labs^{Error! Bookmark not defined.} and over 300 pharmacies in seven countries, including India. We have over 22,000 plus dedicated staff including 3,029 doctors and 6,729 nurses across the geographies that we are present in, delivering a simple yet strong promise to our different stakeholders: “We’ll treat you well.” We reach out to all economic segments in the GCC states through our differentiated healthcare services across the “Aster”, “Medcare” and “Access” brands.

About Farnek:

Farnek is the leading provider of sustainable and technology-driven Facilities Management in the United Arab Emirates. Established in the UAE since 1980, Farnek Services LLC is a Swiss-owned independent total facilities management company. With a skilled workforce of more than 8,000 employees, Farnek delivers professional Facilities Management services across several sectors: Aviation, Hospitality, Banking, Retail, Shopping Malls, Telecom, Residential, Commercial, Infrastructure, Government, Education, Leisure, and Entertainment.

Leading UAE-based smart and green facilities management (FM) company Farnek, has signed an agreement with Oriental Press, to manage its carbon emissions and to realise its goal as the first carbon neutral printer in the UAE and wider Gulf region.

The first phase of the project involves measuring the existing carbon footprint of the printing operation, including raw materials, energy consumption, production facilities, transportation, and other supply chain components.

Once Oriental’s CO2 footprint has been measured, Farnek can then focus on effective ways to reduce existing emissions and subsequently plan to offset the remaining unavoidable emissions, using cutting-edge software provided by ClimatePartner, Farnek’s strategic carbon management partner.

“That enables Oriental to offer carbon neutral paper products and pave the way for an upstream and downstream sustainability strategy, encouraging its suppliers and customers to become net zero too,” said Markus Oberlin, CEO, Farnek.

“A positive environmental strategy is no longer an option for commercial organisations, consumers today are demanding products that are sustainable and it is not only the printing industry that can benefit from carbon neutral products, the manufacturing industry in general can as well,” added Oberlin.

Established in 1952 the Oriental Group has grown to become one of the world’s premier printers, exporting products to over 80 countries worldwide. With modern manufacturing plants in Dubai and Bahrain, and Sales & Marketing offices in the Middle East and Europe, Oriental manufactures a comprehensive range of high-quality products in six business divisions: books, commercial printing, paperboard packaging, flexible packaging, security printing, and of course digital.

Oriental has two main production facilities, one in Jebel Ali, Dubai, where the focus is on soft and hard cover colour book manufacturing, most of which are exported to global markets. In Bahrain, through their 23,000 sqm printing complex, a commercial printing facility produces magazines, promotional material, annual reports, calendars and office stationery. In addition to this, there are separate facilities for production of paperboard packaging and flexible packaging products. And a separate security printing factory produces postage and revenue stamps, cheques, share certificates, and many other high security items.

“Amongst other certificates, we are already FSC accredited, which means that we only source paper that comes from well-managed forests and recycling. Reducing and offsetting our carbon emissions is the next stage of our environmental journey,” said Mohamed Al Zeera, Managing Director, Oriental Press.

“Carbon offset projects help counteract the release of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, whilst simultaneously improving the livelihood of people around the world. By supporting carbon offset projects, we can offset emissions that are currently unavoidable and therefore reduce our overall environmental impact.

“If the UAE is to achieve its commitment of net zero emissions by 2050, the government will need the support of the private sector, not only by reducing but offsetting their emissions,” added Al Zeera.   

ClimatePartner has been offering a wide variety of environmental solutions since 2006, ranging from carbon management strategies to enabling climate neutral products and services. They are also involved with numerous internationally recognised carbon offset projects and in addition, the company has also developed an IT solution for calculating carbon footprints and offsetting carbon emissions in order to make products and services carbon neutral.

“The climate neutrality of products can be verified online and stakeholders are be able to see the amount of GHG emissions that are generated during the production process and the type of climate action project that has been selected to offset those emissions,” said Nadia Ibrahim, Head of Sustainability, Farnek.

Practicing what it preaches as well as underscoring still further, its green credentials, earlier this year, Farnek inaugurated a rooftop vertical garden which grows salad plants for Farnek’s staff canteen. The food waste generated, which is calculated at around 125kg per day, is composted and returned to the garden closing the loop and creating a circular economy.

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For more information, log on to www.farnek.com

Photo captions: Mohamed Al Zeera, Managing Director, Oriental Press, signs the agreement with Nadia Ibrahim, Head of Sustainability, Farnek.

About Farnek:

Farnek is the leading provider of sustainable and technology-driven Facilities Management in the United Arab Emirates. Established in the UAE since 1980, Farnek Services LLC is a Swiss-owned independent total facilities management company.

With a skilled workforce of more than 8,000 employees, Farnek delivers professional Facilities Management and security services across several sectors; Aviation, Hospitality, Banking, Retail, Shopping Malls, Telecom, Residential, Commercial, Infrastructure, Government, Education, Leisure and Entertainment.

Farnek, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the leading global provider of information and communications technology (ICT) infrastructure and smart devices, Huawei.

Under the terms of the technical partnership, Huawei will assist Farnek with periodic knowledge transfer and support on smart initiatives, developed and supported via Farnek’s AED 200 million state-of-the-art staff accommodation centre – ‘Farnek Village’ located in Dubai South.

More specifically, Huawei will be supporting Farnek’s latest smart initiative, HITEK solution 4.0. by not only providing Wi-Fi 6 connectivity, powered by AI and Huawei Smart City, but also bringing operational technologies including AI security platforms and smart plant rooms. This will contribute towards Farnek’s increased agility, efficiency and dynamism.

HITEK 4.0 uses the increased bandwidth, ultra-low latency and enhanced security, to connect assets from multiple sites, so that they can be centrally monitored and managed.

This is achieved through the concept of a digitally connected workforce and customers, to its in-house stream of technically advanced and cost-effective solutions, utilising the Internet of Things (IoT), Mobility, Cloud, Machine Learning (ML) and Artificial Intelligence (AI) based technologies, amongst others.

“The system supports operational efficiencies, staff welfare, and sustainability while saving clients significant amounts of money by reducing manpower costs by up to 17% by transferring from traditional FM operational management to HITEK’s smart management,” said Markus Oberlin, CEO, Farnek.

“Delivering quality services and offering a seamless experience, which enhances our business capabilities, through our connected workforce, has always been our top priority and this is one of the main reasons why we decided to partner with Huawei,” added Oberlin.

Commenting on the technical aspect of the agreement, Javeria Aijaz, Senior Director – Technology & Innovations, Farnek, said: “Huawei is renowned for implementing the industry’s best enterprise high-speed network with Wi-Fi 6 and Smart innovative technologies which will be the basis for many of our innovative solutions moving forward, based on IoT, AI, high speed internet/network and smart gadgets.”

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Photo caption: Markus Oberlin, CEO, Farnek, signs the MOU with Dongyue Ouyang Managing Director, Huawei UAE Enterprise.

About Farnek

Farnek is the leading provider of sustainable and technology-driven Facilities Management in the United Arab Emirates. Established in the UAE since 1980, Farnek Services LLC is a Swiss-owned independent total facilities management company. With a skilled workforce of more than 8,000 employees, Farnek delivers professional Facilities Management services across several sectors: Aviation, Hospitality, Banking, Retail, Telecom, Residential, Commercial, Infrastructure, Government, Education, Leisure, and Entertainment.

For more information, log on to www.farnek.com