Index Tower DIFC

Index Tower, a AED 2 billion development, is the tallest building in Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) and was designed by the renowned firm Foster & Partners.  The Iterum team was invited to respond to an RfP to investigate and develop a mitigation plan and solution to combat the breakdown of the glazed laminated units on the façade. Our tender was successful and we were appointed to implement the multi-phased project:

• In phase one a technical assessment of the defect was undertaken as well as an initial study of the infrastructure of the building.  This allowed us to determine its capacity to support the potential replacement programme. 

• During phase two Iterum conducted an investigation and pre-qualification checks of specialist contractors that could carry out the most efficient and successful design and build solution.

• Phase three included mobilisation of the appointed contractor and overseeing the scope of works.

During the eight-month duration of this project, over 65 units had to be replaced.  Due to the complexity of the activities, the team designed and constructed a 200-metre protective birdcage scaffold to allow the building to remain operational at all times.  We purpose-built scaffolding and lifting equipment to carry out the raising of each glazed 375kg unit that were 3-metres long.  Specialist colour tinted glazed units procured in Germany were examined and replicated locally to ensure a lasting future for the building and its operations.  The methodology of lifting and replacement between 100-395 metres high was developed by the appointed specialist, Intertek in partnership with the Iterum team and was approved by DIFC Authority and Dubai Municipality.