UAE Business Awards 2021

MEAMARKETS / UAE Business Awards 2021 43 , Apr21040 Established in 1997 byMr Khalid Bin Kalban, Emirates Glass has become a leading provider of energy efficient architectural glass in theMiddle East. Since its inception, the company has been an integral part of Dubai’s growth and evolution, as the provider of glazing and architectural expertise to some of the most iconic buildings in the city. Having consolidated its position as a local market leader, Emirates Glass has also expanded its international presence and is proud to have supplied its glazing solutions to GCC countries such as Saudi Arabia, Oman and Kuwait, but also Azerbaijan, Turkey, India, Sri Lanka, Pakistan, Bangladesh, East and South Africa, and even Canada. Best Glass Processor 2021 – Middle East Emirates Glass’ product range includes more than 400 different and inhouse developed performance coatings, from hard and solar control coatings to low-emissivity single and double silver coatings across the entire colour spectrum, to meet even the most challenging requirements of consultants and architects in terms of performance and aesthetics. It also provides a wide array of double or triple glazed insulating glass units, safety, bullet-resistant and laminated glass, non-rectangular and bent elements – or a combination of any of these. Some more special products include glazing units with captured or suspended elements for aesthetic or performance enhancing applications such as honeycomb diffusers, metal and synthetic meshes or mashrabiya inserts to reflect the company’s local heritage and ability to integrate traditional elements into modern and contemporary architecture. The glass industry in the UAE has evolved heaps and bounds in the last few decades – from usage of uncoated monolithic glass products in windows to the use of high-performance double and triple glazed insulated glass products. The technological developments in the glass industry have considerably helped to reduce cooling loads in buildings, increasing efficiency. Furthermore, international standards for glass processing have also been reviewed and modified to address glass quality and safety factors that were not addressed in the past. Local governing bodies and regulatory authorities too have implemented guidelines and regulations (e.g. Green Building Codes) that are focused on sustainability and increased efficiency. The COVID-19 outbreak has caused widespread concern and economic hardship for consumers, businesses and communities across the globe. It is also presenting a range of challenges to the construction industry; some construction projects have been delayed, and some cancelled as a result of the impacts of the pandemic on the companies and governments that commissioned them. The industry is especially vulnerable given that the bulk of its workforce is employed in onsite jobs that cannot be done remotely. Additionally, many manufacturers are facing cash-flow liquidity challenges and difficulties in managing debt obligations. The most immediate impacts are being felt at the subcontractor middle market of the industry; subcontractors may be especially vulnerable to bankruptcy, which could occur after a site shutdown of only weeks. The industry may see some manufacturers struggle to recover. The year ahead will vary for Emirates Glass, depending on the areas of operation in which it has felt the greatest impact from the pandemic. The company may focus on rebuilding lost revenue streams and require recalibrating supply networks to serve different market demands. But all in all, it includes a commitment to increasing agility operations. By continuing to invest in digital initiatives across its production process and supply network, Emirates Glass can respond to the disruptions caused by the pandemic and build resilience that can enable the company to thrive. Looking forward, Emirates Glass will further expand its reach across the GCC and Middle Eastern region. It aims to be the preferred glazing supplier in at least three more countries, with a wide range of products fulfilling the current and upcoming green building regulations. Of course, it will continue to put its blood and sweat into the development of energy efficient glass solutions and special products that will further transform the landscape from regular buildings to pieces of art and architectural ingenuity. Emirates Glass is committed to driving innovation throughout the Middle East and beyond and strives to be even closer to the creative minds within architecture firms. Company: Emirates Glass LLC Contact: Rizwanulla Khan Website: www.emiratesglass.com