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Emirates Glass: Pioneering Excellence in Architectural Glass Manufacturing and Innovation

By: Rizwanulla Khan, Emirates Glass LLC

Can you provide an overview of Emirates Glass LLC’s core products and services, and how it contributes to the glass industry in the Middle East and globally?

Our product range includes more than 400 different and in-house developed performance coatings, from hard and solar control coatings to low-emissivity single and double silver, selective double silver, coatings across the entire colour spectrum to meet even the most challenging requirements we receive from consultants and architects in terms of performance and aesthetics. Emirates Glass also provides a wide array of double or triple-glazed insulating glass units, safety, bullet-resistant and laminated glass, non-rectangular and bent elements – or a combination of any of the above. Some more special products include glazing units with captured or suspended elements for aesthetic or performance-enhancing applications such as honeycomb diffusers, metal and synthetic meshes, or mashrabiya inserts to reflect our local heritage and ability to integrate traditional elements in modern and contemporary architecture.

Emirates Glass has also provided ARMAX, our own anti-reflective coated glass to the Emaar SkyView and many other prestigious VVIP villa projects. The walls, roof, and floor of the SkyWalk, a cantilevered walkway that extends out of one of the towers more than 50 floors above ground, are made entirely out of our glass.

Emirates Glass also offers SmartLite – the state-of-the-art switchable glass, which changes its state in just about 400 milliseconds at the flick of a switch and turns from a clear to an opaque glass panel and can have multiple levels of privacy to create on-demand privacy while also allowing for plenty of natural light whenever needed.

ArmourLite – Bullet Resistant glass is also offered by Emirates Glass which is a multi-layered laminated glass with a combination of glass lites and Polycarbonate sheets to give the glass the required ballistic resistance. As such, bullet-resistant glass combinations are much thicker than the conventional architectural glass panels which are designed primarily as IG units for achieving the required thermal performance.

Emirates Glass has also partnered with the international technology group SCHOTT to provide high-performance glazing that combines fire resistance and design freedom uniquely. With rich colour nuances and an abundance of patterns, the new offering opens attractive possibilities for fire-resistant glazing of façades, partition walls, skylights, roof lights, doors, and windows that meet international safety requirements. These glass types are EN (European) and UL (Underwriter Laboratories) certified and deliver barrier times of up to 120 minutes. In combination with other functional glass for double-glazing constructions, these fire-resistant glasses also fulfill energy efficiency requirements.

All our products are developed and manufactured locally here in the UAE. Within our group of companies, we combine the entire supply and value chain of glass – from raw glass manufacturing in Abu Dhabi, and overcoating in Dubai Investment Park, to processing, laminating, and fabrication of insulating glass units in Al Quoz. Having all of this under one roof is unique in the region as we are geographically close to our customers and their projects which means being able to provide immediate personal support during design and construction periods but also the shortest turnaround and lead times as well as delivery. We are providing glass solutions as a “One-Stop-Shop”, so our customers have a single point of contact for every element used and every production step is taken. Emirates Glass prides itself on having a complete facility for full glass supply – from raw materials to high-performance insulated glass units installed on iconic projects in the world.

Could you elaborate on the history and evolution of Emirates Glass LLC, highlighting key milestones and advancements in your manufacturing processes?

Emirates Glass was established in 1997 by Khalid Bin Kalban to become the leading provider of energy-efficient architectural glass in the Middle East. Since its inception the company has been an integral part of Dubai’s growth and evolution, having supplied glazing and expertise for many of the most iconic buildings across the city. However, Emirates Glass has also expanded its international presence and we are proud to have supplied our solutions to GCC countries such as Saudi Arabia, Oman, and Kuwait, but also to Azerbaijan, Turkey, India, Sri Lanka, Pakistan, Bangladesh, East and South Africa and even Canada.

Starting from a Leybold (Germany) 6-cathode coating line with a loading bed of 2440 x 3600mm and an annual coating capacity of 750,000sqm of MSVD sputter-coated glass, Emirates Glass has progressed to a 20-cathode line from Applied Materials GmbH (formerly Leybold, Germany), a loading bed of 3300 x 7000mm and an annual capacity of 3,500,000sqm of MSVD sputter-coated glass. This addition enabled Emirates Glass to enter a new and extensive market of post-temperable stock sheets for “downstream” processing into finished architectural glass products by our customers themselves. The acquisition of the new TERRA-G coater has facilitated the swift development and production of the innovative new range of Solite Double Silver, Superlite Temperable Double Silver, Elite Solar-Low-E coating on clear, and Classic ST range of solar control colour coating on clear.

The company has upgraded its offerings through the installation of the Vortex pro turbo series high-performance flat tempering line to provide high-quality, large tempered glass. The new tempering line is equipped with state-of-the-art technology and is designed to produce large glasses that are up to 8 meters long. The line is specially designed to temper high-performance coated glass with the lowest emissivity and highest quality.

Emirates Glass LLC is also in the process of installing a LISEC Jumbo Cutting Line that is capable of handling and cutting glass sheets up to 8 meters ensuring high levels of precision with the use of advanced cutting tools and CNC technology. It is expected to optimise production by reducing manual labour, incorporating quality control measures, and minimizing waste, contributing to the efficiency and versatility of modern glass manufacturing while prioritizing safety and environmental considerations.

Next in line is the Vitro-Jet FS Jumbo digital Production line from Tecglass that can reproduce any graphic design in the most varied sizes at the fastest speeds. Robust communication between the sensors and gets all production information directly from the software without going through the ERP; thereby reducing production time and increasing flexibility and efficiency.

How does Emirates Glass differentiate itself from competitors in terms of product quality and innovation, particularly in the field of architectural glass coatings?

• Having a complete facility for full glass supply – from raw materials to high-performance insulated glass units installed on iconic projects in the world, Emirates Glass LLC is providing glass solutions as a “ONE-STOP-SHOP”, so our customers have a single point of contact for every element used and every production step is taken.
• Emirates Glass is a home-grown UAE company so everything made and supplied by us is a contribution to the local economy and industrial landscape of what we all call our home. This also means being geographically close to our customers and their projects and being able to provide immediate personal support throughout the design and construction stage.
• Emirates Glass has a positive and resourceful customer service that aims to create the best experience for your customers. The team consists of intelligent and independent individuals who share the company’s passion and vision.
• Emirates Glass has a proactive approach and focuses on delivering quality products consistently. The team anticipates future advances in technology, customer service, and production, and incorporates them into their game plans.
• Emirates Glass has also built a new warehouse which will boost operational efficiencies based on the “3A principle”:

1. Accessibility
2. Adaptability
3. Availability

Can you discuss the role of Emirates Glass and how it aligns with Dubai Investments’ mission for growth and diversification?

As a subsidiary of Dubai Investments PJSC, Emirates Glass is at the forefront of the construction sector’s glass processing industry, offering cutting-edge architectural and industrial glass solutions. Our commitment to innovation, quality, and sustainability aligns seamlessly with Dubai Investments’ vision to promote economic growth and diversify its portfolio.

Emirates Glass actively supports UAE’s ambitious urban development projects by providing state-of-the-art glass products that not only enhance the aesthetic appeal of buildings but also improve energy efficiency and sustainability. Our advanced solar control and low-emissivity glass solutions have become integral to sustainable construction practices in the region, reducing energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions. This aligns perfectly with Dubai Investments’ commitment to environmental responsibility and sustainable development.

Furthermore, Emirates Glass contributes to the diversification strategy by serving a wide range of industries, including construction, automotive, and industrial sectors. Our versatile glass products cater to diverse needs, which resonates with Dubai Investments’ approach of spreading risk across various sectors and achieving balanced growth.

In essence, Emirates Glass’ innovative and sustainable glass solutions play a vital role in fulfilling Dubai Investments’ mission for growth and diversification by supporting the development of the region’s infrastructure, contributing to sustainability goals, and serving as a key player in multiple industries.

What can you tell us about the EmiCool® range of solar control glass and its significance in minimizing solar heat gain in the Gulf environment?

The EmiCool® range of solar control glass is a flagship product of Emirates Glass, specifically engineered to address the unique challenges posed by the Gulf environment, characterized by scorching temperatures and intense solar radiation. EmiCool® glass products hold immense significance in minimizing solar heat gain for several reasons. They are designed to block incoming solar radiation, reducing the amount of heat that enters a building. This ensures that natural light is not compromised, creating well-lit, pleasant, and comfortable indoor temperatures, reducing the need for excessive air conditioning, and lowering energy consumption. It also contributes significantly to energy efficiency regulations in buildings by reducing carbon footprint, aligning with sustainability goals, and Green building certifications and practices.

Emirates Glass has seen significant growth in its manufacturing capacity over the years. Could you share insights into the expansion plans and how they have impacted your ability to serve diverse markets?

Emirates Glass’ expansion plans have been instrumental in our ability to serve diverse markets. Increasing our manufacturing capacity – moving from a standard glass processor to becoming a Jumbo Glass Processor by investing in state-of-the-art glass processing lines, has significantly boosted our output. Emirates Glass has incorporated cutting-edge technologies into its processes, enhancing production efficiency, product quality, and customization capabilities. This expansion has not only enabled us to meet the growing demand for our products in the Gulf region but has also positioned us as a competitive player in international markets, whether it’s high-performance glass for skyscrapers or precision-engineered glass for automobiles.

These strategic growth initiatives reflect our commitment to excellence and our dedication to delivering high-quality glass solutions to customers around the world.

The acquisition of the TERRA-G coater has introduced innovative coatings like SOLITE DOUBLE SILVER and ELITE SOLAR-LOW-E. Could you explain the advantages and applications of these coatings in architectural glass products?

These coatings bring significant advantages and find diverse applications in architectural glass products. These coatings are designed to minimize heat transfer through the glass while allowing visible light to pass through. This leads to improved energy efficiency in buildings by reducing the need for cooling during hot periods and effectively traps heat inside during colder months, creating a balanced indoor climate. It is particularly valuable in regions with intense sunlight like the Gulf, helping maintain comfortable indoor temperatures and lowering energy consumption. These coatings can also be customized, catering to specific architectural designs and performance requirements.

Beyond their functional advantages, these coatings also enhance the aesthetics of architectural glass products. They can be incorporated into various design styles and building types, adding a modern and sophisticated touch to structures. Whether it’s energy-efficient residential windows or large-scale commercial façades, these coatings can be tailored to suit a wide range of applications aligning with green building certifications and energy efficiency regulations.

How does Emirates Glass maintain a flexible approach to diversification and product development, and what strategies have been employed to penetrate markets in the Gulf and beyond?

Emirates Glass maintains a flexible approach to diversification and product development by combining a customer-centric approach, innovation, and strategic planning. Our strategies for penetrating markets in the Gulf and beyond have been instrumental in our success:

• Market Research and Analysis: We conduct extensive market research to identify emerging trends, customer demands, and regional preferences. We collaborate with architects, designers, contractors, and developers to better understand market dynamics and customer expectations. These partnerships also help us gain insights into upcoming projects and trends and allow us to tailor our product offerings to meet specific market needs.
• Product Innovation: We prioritize continuous product development, investing in research and development to create cutting-edge glass solutions. This includes energy-efficient coatings, advanced solar control technologies, and eco-friendly products, ensuring that we stay at the forefront of industry advancements.
• Customization: We offer a high degree of customization, allowing us to adapt our products to suit the architectural and design requirements of diverse markets. This flexibility enables us to meet the unique demands of various projects, from residential to commercial and industrial.
• Sustainability Focus: Our commitment to sustainability aligns with global trends and market demands for eco-friendly solutions. Our sustainable glass products cater to environmentally conscious customers and align with green building certifications and regulations.
• Quality Assurance: We adhere to international quality standards and certifications, ensuring that our products meet the highest quality and safety requirements. This commitment to quality enhances our credibility in both domestic and international markets.

What quality control and sustainability measures does Emirates Glass employ in its manufacturing processes to ensure the best quality products are delivered?

Emirates Glass places a strong emphasis on quality control and sustainability in its manufacturing processes to consistently deliver the highest quality products. Our commitment to these principles is integral to our operations, and we employ a range of measures to ensure excellence in our glass manufacturing:

• Stringent Quality Standards: Emirates Glass adheres to rigorous quality standards and certifications, both internationally and regionally, ensuring that our products meet or exceed industry benchmarks for safety and performance.
• Advanced Testing Facilities: We have state-of-the-art testing facilities to conduct comprehensive quality checks at various stages of production. This includes assessments for optical clarity, thermal performance, impact resistance, and durability.
• Sustainability Integration: Sustainability is a core value, and we integrate eco-friendly practices throughout our manufacturing processes. This includes using sustainable materials, recycling glass waste, and optimizing energy consumption to minimize our environmental footprint.
• Quality Assurance Teams: Our dedicated quality assurance team works meticulously to monitor and inspect every batch of glass, ensuring that it meets our strict quality criteria. Any deviations from standards are promptly addressed.
• Green Certifications: Many of our products, including those with energy-efficient coatings, low-emissivity properties, and recycled content, contribute to green building certifications like LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design), and Green Building Council Regulations, demonstrating our commitment to sustainability.
• Waste Reduction: We actively pursue waste reduction strategies, such as recycling glass cullet and optimizing cutting processes to minimize waste generation. This not only reduces environmental impact but also enhances efficiency.

Emirates Glass is unwavering in its dedication to quality control and sustainability measures in manufacturing. Our comprehensive quality assurance processes, commitment to sustainability, adherence to industry standards, and continuous improvement efforts collectively ensure that we deliver the best quality glass products to our customers while minimizing our environmental impact. These practices reflect our ongoing commitment to excellence and responsible corporate citizenship.

Can you provide an overview of the company’s vision to be the “most esteemed” in the glass industry and the strategies in place to achieve this vision?

Emirates Glass strives to be known as a company that provides high-quality glass products and services, delivered with exceptional customer service. Our focus is on building a reputation for reliability, innovation, and a commitment to sustainability. By consistently delivering on these values, Emirates Glass differentiates itself from its competitors and establishes itself as a trusted and respected brand in the glass industry.

Our vision is driven by a holistic approach that encompasses innovation, quality, sustainability, customer-centricity, global expansion, collaboration, employee development, and community engagement. These strategies collectively form the foundation upon which we continually strive to lead the industry and be recognised as a true standard-bearer of excellence and integrity.

In terms of corporate culture and employee development, how does Emirates Glass foster an environment of innovation and excellence among its workforce?

Emirates Glass fosters an environment of innovation and excellence among its workforce through a combination of corporate culture and employee development strategies. Here are key aspects of how the company achieves this:

• Leadership Support: Leadership plays a crucial role in setting the tone for innovation. Emirates Glass leaders actively support and champion innovative initiatives. They lead by example, demonstrating a commitment to creativity and a willingness to take calculated risks.
• Training and Development: Emirates Glass invests in employee training and development programs that nurture technical skills and soft skills. These skills are essential for fostering innovation and excellence.
• Recognition and Rewards: Employees are recognised and rewarded for their contributions to innovation and excellence. This can include monetary incentives, promotions, or public acknowledgement. These rewards serve as motivation and reinforce the culture of innovation.
• Continuous Learning: Emirates Glass encourages a culture of continual learning and improvement. Employees are supported in pursuing further education, attending workshops, and staying updated on industry trends. This ensures that they remain at the forefront of their fields.
• Celebrating Success: Emirates Glass celebrates the success of innovative projects and initiatives. Recognising achievements not only boost morale but also reinforces the importance of innovation within the organisation.

These initiatives create an environment where employees are motivated to excel, contribute new ideas, and drive the company’s success in the glass industry.