Week of 25 November
1. A colourful Zayed National Museum (UAE)
The Zayed National Museum is one of two world-class museums which are being built by BESIX Middle East in Abu Dhabi’s Saadiyat Cultural District, alongside the Guggenheim Abu Dhabi. Recently, the museum’s lighting system was tested, which illuminated its exterior in a dynamic array of colours!
The museum will pay tribute to the life and legacy of Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, as well as showcase the rich history of the UAE. It specifically stands out for its unique design featuring glass atriums inspired by the falcon’s wing tips, a national symbol and emblem of Emirati heritage.
2. Project Meir’s impressive mock-up façade is up (Belgium)
At Project Meir in Antwerp (Belgium), the BESIX-Wycor teams have constructed an 11-metre-high mock-up façade recently. It covers two floors, and features architectural concrete and an aluminium frame. Thanks to this mock-up façade, the teams and client can refine design details, ensuring the façade applies to the client’s wishes before full-scale production begins. The façade’s final installation will be a logistical challenge, given its location on one of Belgium’s busiest shopping streets. Keep up the good work, team Meir!
Project Meir consists of both new construction and renovation, which will create a sustainable campus for Karel de Grote Hogeschool alongside a prestigious retail complex for property developer Meir Corner.
3. Safety award for Tanga Jetty team (Tanzania)
In the bay of Tanga on Tanzania’s north coast, BESIX and Ballast Nedam are designing and constructing a jetty and load-out facilities. Highlighting the team’s commitment to safety, Ballast Nedam has honoured it with the Best Safety Engagement Award for Q3 2024. This recognition also underscores our company’s dedication to making on-site safety the highest priority at every stage of construction. Congratulations, team Tanga!
4. Empowering the Brussels youth with His Majesty King Philippe (Belgium)
Non-profit organisation CAPITAL had the pleasure to welcome His Majesty King Philippe last week. Sponsored by BESIX and BESIX Foundation, amongst others, CAPITAL aims at empowering the Brussels youth through various projects and activities.
The visit showcased CAPITAL’s efforts in offering growth opportunities to thousands of young people, including JOBX, an initiative that introduces schoolchildren to the labor market. The King interacted with young participants and business leaders, sharing inspiring stories and exchanging ideas. Geert Aelbrecht, our Group’s Chief People Officer, was also present to discuss our ongoing commitment to creating a better world.
And then this… Belgian sporting and engineering excellence in one picture (UAE)
Two weeks ago, Belgian athlete Marten Van Riel made history by becoming the first Triathlon 100 World Champion in Dubai (UAE), finishing with an impressive time of 3:09:17. This long-distance thriatlon series included seven stages, with the final one in Dubai. While Marten's achievement is remarkable, it's not the reason we've included the picture below this week. In the background, you can see the magnificent Burj Khalifa, the tallest tower in the world, built by none other than BESIX!
