UAE-based Majid Al Futtaim Properties (MAF) has awarded ISG, an international construction services company, a Dh130 million ($35 million) refurbishment work of the iconic Kempinski Mall of the Emirates Hotel.

The ISG work scope includes a complete upgrade of all 393 guest rooms, suites, and ski chalets in addition to F&B outlets, meeting rooms, gym and spa as well as the enhancement of the existing façade. ISG is expected to commence on site next month and complete the works within 20 months.

The Kempinski Mall of the Emirates refurbishment project will be completed over multiple phases. The sequencing of works and intelligent delivery techniques proposed by ISG will be key to minimising disruption to patrons of the hotel, which will remain operational throughout the refurbishment period.

ISG will work closely with the developer, hotel operator and lead consultant and architect, Aukett Swanke to deliver one of Dubai’s largest hospitality refurbishment projects at this landmark hotel, a statement said.

Stephen Embley, head of Middle East Operations, Aukett Swanke said: “It is exciting to be working on one of the most recognized hotels in Dubai. The refurbishment of Kempinski Mall of the Emirates is a challenging undertaking because it will remain a 24/7 environment throughout the programme which is made even more complex by the fact that it’s a fairly tight and confined site.

“We are depending on ISG’s experience in carrying out the fit out works with the minimum possible impact to the guests’ experience.”

During Q4 2013, MAF awarded ISG the initial refurbishment package to upgrade the hotel façade which is currently ongoing and will run in parallel to phase one of the works which includes the internal guestrooms refurbishment.

The ISG project team is headed up by Bassem Salah, general manager for Hotels and Hospitality.

“We have a team mobilised on site and already working closely with Majid Al Futtaim and Aukett Swanke to ensure that this project gets off to a great start,” Salah said.

“The preparation for a project of this scale is vital to seamless implementation and minimises the risks of working within a live environment which is particularly important as the hotel will remain open to the public throughout the refurbishment period.” – TradeArabia News Service