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THE CABLING EXPERTS

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Updated : October 20, 2014 0:0  ,
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img110Norden is a manufacturer of electrical and optical solutions, catering to a wide spectrum of industries – Telecommunication, Building, Industrial and Utilities. The UK headquartered company is fast expanding its global presence entering new markets with wider product offerings. Joseph K. John, GM, Norden Communication Middle East discusses the solutions and the company’s focus in the region

Discuss your solutions focus around data centre connectivity solutions?

Norden is focused on providing high end components for Data center and server room connectivity.  High density fiber, copper systems allows higher density of servers and ports in data center environment.  Factory terminated high density cabling solutions reduce installation time and cost.

Norden MTP high density cabling solutions utilizes multi fiber push on ferrule providing connection of 12 or 24 fibers. MTP provides superior physical and optical characteristics for precision alignment with spring loaded mechanism and guide pins.  4U MTP® Patch Panel can accommodate 288 LC terminations per panel, providing higher bandwidth requirement for 10G/40G/100G.

Norden DataPro range of high density copper patching solution helps in reduction of usage in rack space, 1U 48 port patch panels and angular range of patch panels are ideally suited for Data center.

Norden  DataCAB range of floor standing racks are designed for communication rooms and data centers. The smart design and professional engineering provides easy installation and maintenance. Aisle Cabinet comes with end-of-row dual sliding doors and ceiling panels that enclose the cold aisle between rows of DataCAB Cabinets to prevent mixing of cold and hot air, optimizing cool air delivery

Please discuss the growth in the data center segment in the region?

The number of large data centers for co-location, dedicated servers, cloud servers, managed hosting, IP transit and many other hosting services are very small in the Middle East market compared to other regions. But there is gradual and steady growth in enterprise data centers; the growth in size of data has encouraged companies to invest in data centers moving way from multiple server room architecture. Investment has shifted towards enhancing existing facilities and consolidation. Outsourcing data center facility is also on the rise.

From copper cables to fibre cables- discuss some trends- are fibre cables replacing copper in most instances? What are the trends in the region?

The requirement of large enterprises for fibre cables is increasing to keep up with their growth, their requirement for higher band width. Most enterprises are moving their applications and data to the cloud servers requiring high bandwidth to the desk. Wider use of mobile devices also increasing data traffics to wireless access points, making use of fiber cables a necessity.

Yes there is high uptake of fiber cables in ME and especially in GCC for enterprise networks. Fiber cables are extensively used in big campus installations in enterprises, education institutions and airports.

Copper is still widely used in enterprise networks due to higher cost of fiber electronics and transceivers; also require higher expertise and cost for installation. Copper is used mostly in horizontal runs since fibre is more susceptible to data loss in macro and micro bends, need careful handling while installation and terminations. Fiber is mostly considered in the vertical runs and backbones.

Data rates of 10GB and above is achieved through VCSELs transceivers optimized for 850nm wavelength for OM2/OM3/OM4 multimode fiber cables to 300m link. Whereas CAT6A copper cables can achieve 10GB data transfer to 100m link.

Single mode fiber cables using 10GBASE-E can have 40km link and 100GBASE-LR4 can reach 10km link lengths for use in large enterprise with big campus. Hence fiber cables are future proof installations.

Fiber cable is not affected by electromagnetic interference like copper cables giving reliable data transfers. Fiber cable data have better security against hacking and theft due to inbuilt encoding. Fiber cable runs have lesser weight and volume of material used hence use lesser raw materials and installation materials and lesser waste of energy, considered green solution in comparison with copper cabling.

Beside data centres, discuss other verticals that you help your partners focus?

Norden’s strength is its product range. It has a very wide range of product and accessories to give customers end to end solutions in cabling. Starting from cabinets, structured cabling, Extra Low Voltage (ELV) cabling and systems that can be used in all industries. We are constantly striving to bring innovative products to our customers to give them right value.

Norden provides cabling solutions for modern building suiting to the requirement of the owner – FTTX, proprietary network architecture, extra low voltage systems, building management systems. We customize design to requirement form cabinets, cables and connectivity components. Our cabling range for this segment includes data cables, telephone cables, fiber optic cables, coaxial cables, control and instrumentation cables, speaker cables, fire resistant cables, fire alarm cables.

In IT and telecommunication, solutions range from cabinets and containments, cables and network components to data center components, intelligent networks to intelligent power distribution units. There are also inside and outside plant network cables and components for telecommunication.

We also offer a wide range of cables and components for industrial control systems – instrumentation, multi-conductor, multi-pair, bus cables. Fibre and copper cables are used extensively in the distributed control system (DCS) and the supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) systems widely used in utility systems.

Do you see data centre footprint reducing which essentially means lesser demand for products inside the data centre?

The size of data is increasing steadily with growth of in number of users; data storage space in-house and outsourced will increase to accommodate this growth. There may be a decline in new build data centers, updating and consolidation of existing ones are happening. Global hubs are getting created for virtual storage, hosting, collocation and cloud services, Dubai is a hub with great potential. There will be increase in usage of components for data center.

Discuss the size of your active partner network – do you have a distributor in the region or do you work directly with system integrators of the region?

Norden has its own warehouse facility in UAE, it is developing a strong second tier distribution network for the Middle East and Africa market. This multilayer multi location stock availability helps norden to provide quick and efficient services to its customers. In markets with immediate access from UAE Norden work directly with system integrators. In other locations we use our distributor network.

Discuss demand for DCIM solutions? What solutions do you offer in this segment?

Norden presently do not provide a full DCIM solution, we provide components that work with DCIM vendor solutions. New intelligent patching and power management solutions are new initiative from us.

Discuss the new solutions unveiled at GITEX?

Norden showcased the full range of products. The new intelligent patch panel and power management systems were launched during Gitex.

N-Connect answers the need of Infrastructure managers for a simple approach to port management tools. They want software that doesn’t require excessive training and a solution that is easy to install and upgrade. The Norden N-Connect system provides a straightforward solution that supports the core functions they use every day. As your network grows, simple updates allow the Norden S-Connect system to grow with you: additional Norden Device Scanners work together seamlessly, providing a single point of view of your network, regardless of size.

Building on NORDEN copper reliability and performance, NORDEN N- Connect Solutions combine hardware and software to provide you with a real-time, comprehensive view of your physical network infrastructure.

Data center managers use N- Power PDUs to prevent overloaded circuits that can damage and down equipment, and lost revenues. N- power PDUs allow local or remote viewing and alarms for issues that can arise at the outlet, breaker, circuit and aggregate level. With the advantage of seeing current usage feedback in an instant, the chances of overloading a PDU when adding, removing or adjusting equipment is minimized.

Remote monitoring is very simple. Just access a snapshot reading of the power usage through any internet connection. No external software is needed, and it’s compatible with SNMP and XML for easy tracking of critical data. Simple Network Management Protocol (SNMP) data traps allow trending of that data.

All of this knowledge can help data center managers’ record and display information to watch for trends that can lead to better efficiency and less downtime.

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Free Mineral Water for All: UAE Startup to Launch Groundbreaking Public Hydration Initiative

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Ourwatr

Staying hydrated just got easier, and greener, thanks to Ourwatr, that’s launching a nationwide free mineral water programme starting June 2025. It’s a first in the region: clean, refreshing mineral water made freely available across the country, delivered through a unique model that blends sustainability, community care, and social impact.

From metro stations and shopping malls to parks and government offices, thousands of chilled bottles of mineral water, sourced locally from Dibba, Fujairah, will soon be within everyone’s reach, every day. Ourwatr’s mission is simple: hydration is a right, not a privilege.

“At Ourwatr, we believe that drinking water should be accessible to all,” says Abhinav Murali, Co-founder.

“That’s why we’re giving away premium mineral water for free, and every bottle supports communities in need. It’s hydration with heart, proudly made right here in the UAE.”

Stamp of UAE quality

All Ourwatr bottles carry the prestigious EQM (Emirates Quality Mark) certification, guaranteeing they meet strict UAE national and international quality standards. When you grab a bottle, you’re assured of top-quality water, safe, pure, refreshing and approved by the country’s standardisation authority.

Mission in a bottle

With temperatures rising across the UAE, especially during summer, access to clean drinking water is more important than ever, for workers, families, children, and the elderly alike.

“In our desert climate, hydration isn’t just healthy; it’s life-saving,” adds co-founder Bharath Mohan.
“Each bottle we provide is a small act of kindness toward our community.”

Ourwatr is more than just a startup, it’s a mission in a bottle. Launched by three young, UAE-based entrepreneurs, the idea was sparked by a simple but powerful observation: access to free, convenient hydration isn’t always a given.

Wanting to change that, the trio built a business with heart at its core. The team is also in talks with various UAE charitable organisations and government agencies to expand its reach and impact. For every bottle distributed, a portion will be donated to local charities, turning everyday hydration into a meaningful act of giving.

A Model Built on Purpose and Sustainability
Ourwatr isn’t just about water, it’s about doing good. Instead of selling to consumers, the company partners with brands and organisations who cover the production and distribution costs. In return, sponsors co-brand the bottles, using them as a platform to share positive messages and shared values, while making a real difference.

“Sustainability isn’t just about less waste,  it’s about creating lasting, meaningful change,” explains Sharat Nair, Co-founder.

The bottles are crafted from recyclable materials, aligning with the UAE’s zero-waste goals and green agenda.

Backing UAE Vision 2030
Ourwatr’s initiative supports the UAE’s Vision 2030 goals around health, sustainability, and quality of life. The startup is already collaborating with local authorities to expand water access and reach as many people as possible.

More than just water, Ourwatr is delivering hope, equality, and care, one bottle at a time.

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Ardee Developments Announces Sales Launch for Fairmont Residences Al Marjan Island

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Ardee Al Marjan

Ardee Developments has announced the launch of sales for Fairmont Residences Al Marjan Island, its highly anticipated branded residential offering in partnership with Fairmont Hotels & Resorts.

Official sales will commence on 1 June 2025 with expression of interest starting 15 May 2025, marking a major milestone in the evolution of Ardee Al Marjan Island, the company’s flagship, multi-billion-dirham development set to redefine coastal living in Ras Al Khaimah.

Fairmont Residences Al Marjan Island will comprise 523 upscale residences — including apartments, townhouses, and sea villas — ranging from one to six bedrooms and spanning 86 m² to over 300 m². Every home is thoughtfully designed to embody refined beachfront living, with uninterrupted sea views and elegant interiors that reflect timeless sophistication.

Bringing together the prestige of the Fairmont brand with the ease of resort-style living, residents will enjoy exclusive access to a private beach, the Fairmont Fit Fitness Centre and Studio, family & kids pool, adults sky pool & terrace & bar, dedicated boardroom and private dining room, resident’s owners lounge as well as wellness facilities including treatment rooms, screening room, games room, kids club and seamless connectivity to the adjacent Fairmont resort.

Further enriching the offering is a tailored suite of à la carte services. From in-home catering and private chef experiences to childcare, dog walking, housekeeping, personal concierge support, and a home maintenance program while residents are away, every element is designed to simplify and enhance everyday living. In addition, residents will enjoy exclusive access to the Accor Owner Benefits Program. This includes Diamond status in the Accor Live Limitless (ALL) programme, the ability to gift Gold status to family and friends, and VIP privileges at over 5,700 hotels and resorts around the world.

With prices starting from AED 2.49 Million, Fairmont Residences Al Marjan Island offers an exclusive opportunity for discerning buyers seeking long-term value, effortless luxury, and a lifestyle defined by exceptional quality in one of the region’s most iconic coastal destinations.

Beyond the residences, guests were given an exclusive look at the next phase of the Ardee Al Marjan Island masterplan. The development is progressing into a fully integrated coastal destination that blends residences, hospitality, leisure, retail, and entertainment on an unprecedented scale.

Key components of the masterplan include branded and serviced residences, private villas, townhouses, a flagship luxury hotel, and a vibrant retail and F&B promenade. The destination will also feature a variety of curated lifestyle offerings — from wellness hubs and gaming lounges to family entertainment zones and waterfront experiences — all designed to create a future-ready, immersive community.

Prioritizing walkability, nature access, and sea connectivity, the project will boast expansive green spaces, direct beach access, and panoramic views, setting a new standard for contemporary island living in Ras Al Khaimah.

Vishal Mehta, CEO of Ardee Developments, added: “As we prepare to open sales of Fairmont Residences Al Marjan Island this June, we are proud to invite buyers into a community that reflects excellence at every level. In partnership with Al Marjan Island, Fairmont Hotels, and Christie’s International Real Estate, we are shaping a new era of luxury coastal living in Ras Al Khaimah — one defined by world-class design, hospitality, and lifestyle, brought together in a truly integrated destination.”

To support global sales efforts, Ardee Developments has appointed Christie’s International Real Estate Ras Al Khaimah as the exclusive master agency. Christie’s will lead GCC and international outreach and client servicing, ensuring a seamless buyer journey.

“This is a vibrant and integrated coastal lifestyle community that combines natural beauty, unparalleled hospitality and leisure not seen in the area before,” said Jackie Johns and Dinesh Chhatwani, Managing Partners at Christie’s International Real Estate Ras Al Khaimah. “Ras Al Khaimah’s momentum as a global hospitality and investment hub, and its rapidly growing real estate market, makes it the ideal launchpad for Ardee Developments to execute its grand vision.”

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MERED Unveils Strategic Vision for Saudi Arabia at Saudi Giga Projects 2025

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MERED

MERED outlined its long-term investment plans and strategic vision for Saudi Arabia at Saudi Giga Projects 2025 in Riyadh. The event, a key platform aligned with Vision 2030, brought together government bodies, giga project leaders, and private sector executives to discuss development, contracting, and talent-building opportunities within the Kingdom’s fast-growing construction and real estate sectors. As part of MERED’s participation, CEO Michael Belton joined a fireside chat where he shared insights into the company’s market entry approach and growth plans for the Saudi market.

“The Kingdom’s rapid urban and infrastructure growth is reshaping residential demand and creating new opportunities for long-term development,” said Michael Belton, CEO of MERED. “Vision 2030 and ongoing economic diversification are driving strong demand across residential, retail, commercial, and hospitality sectors, supported by investor-friendly reforms. In major cities like Riyadh and Jeddah, we’re seeing increased interest in premium and luxury living, as well as growing demand for Class A office spaces that reflect the ambitions of a modern business environment. MERED is well-positioned to meet these changing market needs through high-quality, innovative developments that offer lasting value.”

Yazan Al-Khalidi, Chief Commercial Director at MERED, joined a panel alongside leading developers, consultants, and contractors to discuss workforce capabilities and the skills required to deliver Saudi Arabia’s giga projects efficiently and at scale. The Kingdom’s real estate sector is projected to contribute 10% to GDP by 2030, while non-oil economic activity now accounts for over 50% of national GDP. Knight Frank’s Saudi Report 2025 reveals that 93% of high-income Saudi nationals are actively seeking to buy property, reinforcing the country’s ambition to build a competitive luxury real estate market.

Alongside its growth plans in Saudi Arabia, MERED is supporting the development of future architectural talent in line with the region’s broader goal of equipping young people with in-demand skills. As part of this effort, the company is sponsoring a select group of students to attend the Pininfarina Architecture Summer School in Turin this July, through its partnership with the prestigious Pininfarina Academy, founded by the renowned Italian design house. The program offers hands-on training and exposure to international design practices, giving participants valuable experience they can apply to architectural projects across the region.

MERED’s participation underscores its broader commitment to supporting the Kingdom’s real estate ambitions through innovation, sustainability, and knowledge transfer. With a pipeline of projects already launched in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, including the 290-meter ICONIC Residences designed by Pininfarina, the brand is well-positioned to introduce high-end, future-ready developments to the Saudi market.

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