The event brought together for the first time crane users and owners, manufacturers and dealers, construction contractors and government safety bodies. Delegates came from the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and other Gulf Cooperation Council countries, Europe, the US and Asia.
Over the two day conference, the need for greater links between different parts of the industry was a common theme. “We need to come together to improve safety standards,” said Imad Al-Jamal, vice chairman of the UAE Contractors’ Association higher technical consultative committee, and chairman of the first day of the conference. “Why aren’t there Middle East trade associations?” he asked.
“I think it’s very important that we and all the other constructors come forward and talk like this – that’s what is going to make it happen,” said Bishoy Azmy, deputy general manager, Al Shafar General Contracting.
