Region's real estate movers & shakers to debate the tall tower phenomenon

Two hundred of the leading players involved in the unprecedented demand for turnkey design and construction of tall buildings and skyscrapers in the region are scheduled to gather at the upcoming, two-day Building Tall forum (Park Hyatt, Dubai, United Arab Emirates, January 30-31 2007).

The line-up of both regional and international delegates spans across 23 countries including China, Russia, India and USA.

According to Edmund O'Sullivan, editorial director of the conference organiser, MEED, with high-rise culture pushing the limits of innovation within the Middle East and internationally, this forum is 'not before time'.

He said that MEED's Building Tall conference is an opportunity to address the issues around what makes a safe, effective yet iconic structure, and how to turn it into a successful business enterprise.

"Designing and engineering landmark structures requires a particular expertise, visionary thinking, and new ways of overcoming practical challenges.

"We must be alert of all possible scenarios in order to manage a successful, multi-faceted building process, and to later ensure an accurate, sustainable build-to-lifestyle outcome," observed O'Sullivan, also the event chairman.

Joining O'Sullivan on stage during the two-day event is Emaar's executive director of projects, Greg Sang, and 'near-celebrity' architect, Hazel Wong, among others. Wong is responsible for the pioneering, landmark duo-structure, Emirates Towers (located on Dubai's Sheikh Zayed Road).

According to O'Sullivan, delegates will be privy to project updates including the Burj Dubai - the tallest tower in the world, plus hear case studies from Abu Dhabi's Reem Island project, among others.