A technology campus in Abu Dhabi’s Yas Island has gone operational after Laing O’Rourke handed over the first data hall to client, Pure Data Centre.
The site, which will provide 45MW of capability overall, is Pure Data Centre’s first venture in the Middle East. The construction milestone followed successful completion of systems testing.
Achieving operational status was the first major milestone set for the project. This paves the way for the Laing O’Rourke team to focus on the next phase, completion of the central office building in May.
Pure Data Centres, which is backed by funds managed by Oaktree Capital Management, develops and operates data centres for some of the world’s largest technology companies.
Each project is designed with security, quality, sustainability and health and safety at its core, with a focus on early engagement and collaboration with its construction partner.
The Abu Dhabi project is a collaboration with Laing O’Rourke’s multi-disciplinary data centre teams who work across multiple campuses globally, with the majority of projects delivered for repeat clients.
Jim McCarthy, Pure Data Centre’s chief delivery officer, said: “The opening of our Abu Dhabi campus is an important moment in the growth of Pure DC and also for our customers in the UAE. We chose to work with Laing O’Rourke because of their impressive track record at delivering data centre projects to the highest standard.
“It has been a fantastic collaboration, with all milestones delivered on time in accordance with the plan. We hope to develop the partnership in future as Pure DC continues to expand in key territories where there is high demand for digital infrastructure.”
Ben Nicol, Laing O’Rourke’s general manager, said: “This great achievement and milestone further reinforces our position as a leading provider of data centres in this region, a sector where we have developed exceptional expertise. Our aim throughout is to deliver on every single one of our commitments and to further develop the relationship with Pure DC.”
Laing O’Rourke’s project leader, Chris Wilson added “Fantastic work, from Team Pure, on reaching this important project milestone. The team’s dedication and hard work has been crucial to our success, and I believe that our unique operating model enables us to deliver faster, safer and more efficiently, helping our clients meet the rapidly increasing need for scale and pace.
“A special thanks to Pure Data Centres for the seamless collaboration and trust throughout the process – it’s been a true partnership. Together, we’ve achieved something great, and we’re excited to continue building on this momentum.”
Main image: The site on Yas Island, Abu Dhabi
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