Dubai Investments and Emirates Glass host over 100 industry officials in MENA Forum

Dubai Investments PJSC, the leading, diversified investment company listed on the Dubai Financial Market, and its glass subsidiary Emirates Glass LLC – one of the largest processors of flat architectural glass in the region, hosted the annual Glass and Glazing Federation [GGF] MENA Technical Forum in Dubai on Thursday.

The one-day forum, held at Dubai Investments headquarters in Dubai Investments Park, focused on latest glass processing techniques, the international standards on glass specifications, fire glazing and regulations in the UAE, use of sealants, installation of laminated glass and structural interlayers, among others, presented by specialists and experts from leading glass companies and related industries.

Over 100 officials from across the world, including representatives from glass companies, architects, consultants, glass suppliers and processors, attended the forum.

The international panel of speakers included Nigel Rees – CEO of GGF, who made the introductory keynote address; Richard Kells – GGF Technical Officer, who spoke on the glass designs and strength aspects; John Reeves, Chairman of GGF MENA and Senior Technical Manager of Emirates Glass, who provided an overview of security glass products and standards; Iskandar Bendaly, Operations Director of Dow Corning Europe, who presented detailed information on Insulating Glass Unit edge sealants and compatibilities; and Jean Philippe Kayl from Intertek, who spoke about fire rated glazing.

Abdulaziz Bin Yagub Al Serkal, General Manager of Dubai Investments PJSC, said:

“The glass sector is going through a growth phase. As a result, innovation, new product development and knowledge of emerging standards – particularly in technical aspects – are important for the industry to meet the increasing demand for higher performance in architectural glass.

The glass companies under Dubai Investments portfolio are committed to offering the industry’s best practices across their complete product range. The Glass and Glazing Federation Forum is a great platform to focus on the advancement and latest technical innovation in the sector.”

Recognised by governments and organisations internationally, the GGF is known as the voice of the Industry. It plays a crucial role in setting standards through membership consultation which, evolve into building regulations, construction product regulations, European Committee for Standardization (CEN) standards, and associated rules that govern the use of Architectural Glass in buildings.

The global flat glass industry is forecast to surge at a Combined Annual Growth Rate [CAGR] of 5.5% from 2016 to 2021. The major drivers of growth for this market are growth in the construction market, rising automotive production and sales & technological advancements.