MAF Dalkia has recently strengthened its energy and facility management capabilities by expanding its portfolio to include highly specialised technical services. These comprise infrared thermography, portable appliance testing (PAT), vibration analysis and the use of an extensive range of equipment to monitor indoor environmental quality.

The diversification into this new offering is in line with emerging trends towards energy sustainability, innovation in preventative maintenance and the guarantee of safe and healthy workplace environments across all sectors.

This has strengthened the energy management team, which is working even harder to present a “green and eco-friendly” approach to each contract, according to a company official.

Mussallam ... broadening expertise.

“We are continually working with existing clients to broaden our expertise, and are always seeking diversification across new markets, industries and growth opportunities in the healthcare, telecommunications, education, banking, aviation and residential and commercial industries,” says Alexandre Mussallam, CEO of MAF Dalkia.

These specialised technical services are being implemented across MAF Dalkia’s projects in the region.

“Infrared thermography and thermal imaging has outstanding benefits for preventative and corrective maintenance in the facilities management industry. Infrared technology is a powerful, non-intrusive technique that not only detects existing defects in building components such as electric motors and distribution boards, but anticipates breakdowns or deterioration in components prior to failure,” says Mussallam.

“Additionally, in view of growing concerns for energy sustainability and savings, infrared technology can help identify building envelope air leaks and faulty or missing insulation that when corrected can minimise the building energy consumption,” he says.

Sharjah International Airport ... another key project.

MAF Dalkia’s integration of infrared thermography into the handover phases effectively reduces later operating and maintenance costs, providing long-term benefits into the future.

Commenting on trends in the facility management (FM) sector, Mussalam says integrated ‘one-stop shop’ FM services including energy management practices are becoming a must for all service providers, and a future for the industry. “Thanks to an improved awareness about energy and environment sustainability as well as public health and safety concerns, clients are increasingly opting for ‘one-stop shop’ services at the early stages of the building’s design and construction – this also reduces later operating costs and maintains their asset value over a longer life span,” he says.

MAF Dalkia offers a complete solution, which is not only attractive to businesses but has enabled it to continue to provide in-demand services moving forward, according to Mussalam.

The joint-venture firm was created in 2002 between Majid Al Futtaim Ventures – the growth engine and incubator responsible for developing new businesses that complement and reinforce the Majid Al Futtaim Holding’s leadership in its core businesses –  and Dalkia, a world leader in the management of heating and cooling networks and engineering services and maintaining energy systems.

Headquartered in Dubai, MAF Dalkia has offices across the region including Saudi Arabia, Bahrain and Oman and employs over 1,300 highly trained and multi-skilled employees. Its expertise spans a diverse number of industries including commercial, residential, industrial, healthcare, banking, education, telecommunications and aviation.

Mall of the Emirates ... managed by MAF Dalkia.

As a regional specialist in energy and multi-technical services, MAF Dalkia delivers a comprehensive portfolio of services that are tailored to meet the needs of each client. Such services include energy management, integrated facilities management, multi-technical MEP (mechanical, electrical and plumbing) services, specialised technical services such as infrared thermography, PAT tests, vibration analysis, conditional audit surveys and other niche services such as aviation-related technical services.

“MAF Dalkia also benefits from the expertise of Dalkia worldwide when it comes to training, technical support, health and safety and SOPs (standard operating procedures). We invest heavily in our health and safety and training to ensure the benefits and values preserve our culture and our resources,” he says.

The company is actively engaged in more than 85 projects in various industry sectors across the Middle East, amounting to more than 5,000 sites in total, and has ambitious expansion plans in its area of operations.

Some of its recent projects include the Sharjah International Airport. Other high-profile contracts include the mosques with Musanada in Abu Dhabi and Arcapita headquarters in Bahrain.

MAF Dalkia is also the energy and facilities manager for prestigious shopping centres, including the Mall of Emirates, Mirdif City Centre, Deira City Centre, Mega Mall and Oasis Centre. The company was honoured with four ‘best-in-class’ certifications: ISO 14001 for environmental management, ISO 50001 for energy management, Ohsas 18001 for occupational health and safety management and the renewal of its 9001 quality management system.