London-based Element Materials Technology has opened a new laboratory in Duqm, Oman, adding to existing facilities in Muscat and Sohar. The new site boosts access to expert testing services for Element’s construction and civil engineering customers in the region, initially offering a range of concrete, soils and aggregates testing services.
The new facility will also be ideally positioned for the petrochemical complex and infrastructure projects in Duqm, Element said.
Element EVP of infrastructure, Matt Davies, said: “Our new laboratory in Duqm creates an unparalleled offering for customers in the region as our three facilities provide a local service, while still connecting to a large, regional network of technical capability and expertise. Our satellite office in Salalah, which has also just opened, rounds out this local offering by providing additional testing services for the construction industry.
“We have had a long-term presence in Oman and have strong relationships with many existing customers. With this increased capacity and strategically located facilities, our aim is to provide them with a more efficient service, while also bringing in new customers who will benefit from the competitive turnaround times offered by our local service.”
Private equity-owned Element has been growing rapidly in recent times, boosted by acquisition, notably including those of rival UK testing services providers Exova and Northumbrian Water’s air quality business last year (EA 4-Jul-17, EA 2-Nov-17).
In other developments in the Middle East region, Australian-headquartered consultancy GHD is also expanding its regional presence, with the opening of a new office in Dubai. GHD Dubai office manager, Iain Caution, said: “We’ve helped deliver some fantastic projects for our clients in Dubai over the past few years, and built some strong relationships along the way. Getting closer to our clients in Dubai means we can be even more responsive to their needs.”
The Australian firm already employs 130 staff at offices in Abu Dhabi.
