Kasun Illankoon, Managing Editor of Construction Business News Middle East, recently visited the Riviera project site to find out the progress and uniqueness of the project. Kasun spoke to Mohamed Ragheb – Chief Development Officer, Azizi Developments and Anil Pahwa – General Manager, Gardinia Building Contracting to go into details of the project and why their partnership is delivering quality project outcomes.
Mohamed Ragheb – Chief Development Officer, Azizi Developments
Tell us about the latest status of the Riviera Project?
Phase 1 of our project has reached 99% completion, while Phases 2, 3, and 4 stand at 98%, 82%, and 27%, respectively. We anticipate completion dates between Q2 2023 and Q4 2024.
Our success is rooted in prioritizing construction speed and quality, made possible through the meticulous selection of contractors and suppliers. As a developer our utmost priority is and always will be to improve lives.
We strive to ensure that our investors and end-users are satisfied, that their expectations are exceeded, and that their lifestyles are profoundly enriched with what we develop. They are the reason we’re in this business. For this, we prioritise quality and timely deliveries. This is what all our efforts stem from. It isn’t just at the top of my to do list – it is the title of it.
Our commitment to quality transcends several key areas, from the conceptualization, design, and construction of our projects, all the way to the after-sales services we provide for our investors and end-users. There are many layers to this – from the international best practices we implement here, the increasingly European materials we use, to how they are put together, to how we communicate with our clients, and more. Overall, it is the totality of our products and services that affect their ability to satisfy and surpass our stakeholder expectations, but what it really is, to us, is a mindset – one that prioritises those who will later own and/or inhabit the homes that we develop.
To us at Azizi Developments, delivering quality is not just a mere virtue, it is a core pillar to how we work and what we deliver. We instill the importance of quality in all levels of our organization, our external stakeholders, such as contractors, suppliers, and brokerage partners, and all of our processes. We see it as the key to customer happiness, positive word-of-mouth and repeat purchases – quality is what sells our properties, and that, in turn, is what drives our organizational growth.
Tell us about the features of this project?
Riviera is part of Azizi Developments’ award-winning portfolio. It is a stylish waterfront-lifestyle destination located in the heart of MBR City that is planned to comprise 75 mid- and high-rise buildings with approximately 16,000 residences upon its completion, conveniently located in the midst of many prime business, leisure and retail hubs of the city. Riviera boasts a stunning 2.7-km crystal lagoon and beach, as well as an elegant palm tree-lined boulevard.
Each building comprises approximately 200 apartments encompassing studio, one, two, and three-bedroom units, offering diverse vistas, from Downtown Dubai and Burj Khalifa to community pool and canal scenes. Every building will enjoy amenities such as a swimming pool and fitness centre.a Furthermore, Riviera will provide an extensive array of cafes, eateries, convenience stores, and shopping options, a running and cycling track winding through the entire community, more than 71 barbeque areas, numerous basketball and tennis courts, playgrounds, as well as plenty of parks and greenery throughout.
Tell us what is the unique value proposition for buyers for this project?
We place a great emphasis on delivering quality. This commitment to excellence, combined with a keen understanding of the market dynamics, has positioned Azizi Developments as one of the most reliable and trustworthy developers. By focusing on prime locations, elegant designs, and high-quality construction, we aim to provide residents with an exceptional living experience that yields strong returns on investment. Our flagship project, Riviera, offers an unparalleled waterfront lifestyle and range of amenities, which is highly in demand. As such, investors can confidently expect a rewarding investment with potential for long-term growth and value creation.
Tell us why Gardinia Contracting was the right choice for this project?
Gardenia Contracting reputation, proven track record, expertise, and commitment to quality, innovation and sustainability, with them exclusively sourcing and using top-tier construction tools, materials and techniques, and highly capable talent that ensures outstanding craftsmanship, align perfectly with our values and vision.
Their devotion to best practices, be it in the realm of technological advancements, sustainability, or quality assurance, also fits well with our pursuit of customer satisfaction and ensuring that our properties are built to last for generations to come, generating our valued clients outstanding ROIs through exceptional rental yields and value appreciation.
Their strong project management capabilities and efficient construction processes ensure timely delivery, while their collaborative approach fosters seamless communication and effective problem-solving throughout the development cycle. By partnering with Gardinia Contracting, we are confident in our ability to bring our vision to life – to turn concepts into reality – and can play our part in satiating the surging demand for world-class properties in the UAE.
As a developer, how important is it for the project to be sustainable?
At Azizi Developments, we understand the importance of incorporating sustainability best practices in our projects for long-term success, environmental stewardship, and social responsibility. We emphasize eco-friendly designs by integrating energy-efficient technologies, renewable energy sources, sustainable materials, and innovative waste management systems, among others.
By adopting sustainable practices, we proactively support the UAE’s Vision 2021 and Dubai Plan 2021, which emphasize environmental stewardship, social responsibility, and economic development.
Our profound commitment to sustainability, in addition to our adherence to the UAE’s regulatory standards and guidelines, guarantees that our projects not only create a positive environmental and societal impact but also deliver enduring value for stakeholders and align with the UAE’s broader objectives for a sustainable future.
Tell us about the design and architectural part of this project as well?
Riviera seamlessly combines a French-Mediterranean charm with Dubai’s modern urban landscape to create an alluring and lively atmosphere. This unique design approach aims to capture the essence of a ‘joie de vivre,’ going beyond mere architectural aesthetics to celebrate life and exult the spirit.
The masterplan comprises three distinctive districts that contribute to its vibrancy. The retail boulevard serves as a bustling hub, with a wide array of shopping and dining options set amidst elegant facades and intricate detailing reminiscent of a modern French-Mediterranean design. It encourages social interaction through inviting outdoor spaces, enhancing the overall appeal of the area.
The lagoon walk, nestled along the 2.7km-long swimmable crystal lagoon, offers a serene waterfront experience with a selection of artisan eateries and boutiques. This district features graceful low-rise buildings and picturesque outdoor spaces that harmonize with the natural beauty of the lagoon, evoking the tranquility of the Mediterranean coast.
Lastly, Les Jardins is a vast, lush-green social space that fosters community bonding and promotes outdoor living. Drawing inspiration from the idyllic gardens and open spaces of French-Mediterranean towns, this district provides a peaceful haven where residents can unwind, socialize, and partake in recreational activities.
Anil Pahwa – General Manager, Gardinia Building Contracting
Briefly tell us about Gardinia Building Contracting?
Gardinia Contracting specializes in delivering high-quality residential, commercial, and infrastructure projects. With a focus on innovation, sustainability, and adherence to international standards, we have built a reputation of excellence and reliability in the construction industry. Our experienced team is dedicated to ensuring that projects are completed on time, within budget, and to the highest standards.
Over the years, we have forged a long-lasting relationship with Azizi Developments, collaborating on outstanding projects such as Creek Views, Mina, and Park Avenue. This robust partnership is rooted in our mutual dedication to excellence, innovation, and adherence to the highest industry standards. By combining our expertise and resources with Azizi Developments’ impeccable vision, we have successfully delivered exceptional projects, generating value for both investors and end-users. This enduring collaboration stands as a testament to the quality and trust that both companies have cultivated over time, ensuring our continued ability to exceed client expectations and drive growth in the real estate sector.
Tell us how Gardinia Contracting stands out as a leading contractor in Dubai?
I am proud to say that we have distinguished ourselves as a leading contractor through our strong commitment to timely delivery, innovation, and technology in construction. We maintain a client-centric approach, focusing on understanding each client’s unique requirements and tailoring solutions to meet their expectations.
Our dedication to excellence is further exemplified by our robust relationship with Azizi Developments. The synergy between our two companies has resulted in the development and completion of exceptional projects on time, delivering outstanding value to investors and residents. At Gardinia Contracting, we consistently demonstrate our ability to adapt and implement cutting-edge technologies and construction methods. Our commitment to innovation ensures that projects are not only completed efficiently but also adhere to the highest industry standards.
Part of what makes us stand out is that we exclusively have higher experienced staff – all those who work for us have at least several years of experience in their respective roles.
Tell us about working on the Riviera project?
We are truly honored to collaborate with Azizi Developments on Riviera, a prestigious project set to add tremendous, unique value to Dubai’s awe-inspiring real estate landscape. In my humble opinion, Riviera will not only raise the bar of architectural excellence in Dubai, but will also reinforce the emirate’s standing as a world-class destination for international real estate investment, with this project being very popular among both local and international investors.
As a contractor, we enjoy working on projects that are unique and distinguished, and that set new trends and benchmarks. Riviera is exactly that – and that excites us. We also enjoy working on large scale projects that necessitate us to adhere to deadlines and set quality standards. As a trusted partner, we eagerly look forward to contributing to the success of this development and providing a remarkable living experience for future residents, ultimately strengthening the emirate’s position on the global stage.
Tell us about the technology and innovation used during this project?
We are incorporating cutting-edge technology to ensure efficiency, sustainability, and quality throughout the construction process. One of the key aspects of our approach is the use of advanced concrete technologies. While we source our concrete like most construction companies, we strive to use innovative concrete mixtures designed for improved strength and durability. This enables us to create structures that can withstand various environmental conditions.
In terms of material handling, we employ modernized equipment, such as automatic hydraulic formwork systems instead of relying solely on traditional manual labor. This approach enhances quality, efficiency and safety on the construction site while reducing the project’s overall timeline.
Another noteworthy aspect of our innovative approach is the use of prefabricated and modular MEP and other components, including furniture. These elements are produced and assembled in a controlled factory environment, ensuring high-quality craftsmanship and precision. Once completed, these components are transported to the construction site for quick and efficient installation. This method significantly streamlines the construction process, enabling us to meet the stringent deadlines associated with the project delivery.
Moreover, we employ highly advanced artificial intelligence modelling tools, drones for on-site surveillance, and much more. Leveraging the latest technologies is key to our success, with it making our work more efficient, safer, of a higher quality, more sustainable, and overall more aligned to our clients’ wants and needs.