During the Fleming Gulf Summit, Climate Control Middle East interviewed Tarek El-Far of Ista Middle East, just days prior to Qatar’s successful 2022 bid. Excerpts…

How do you perceive Qatar as developing?

Tarek El-Far

The real estate is booming here in Qatar, and projects are coming up in a structured manner. Qatar reminds me of UAE, 10 years ago, but with stricter measures in place. If they get 2022, that will multiply business. I have learned that the country is planning to spend $140 billion on infrastructure over the next 10 years, which is good news.

And how is Ista planning to respond to the exciting developments?

Currently, we are supplying only hardware but want to highlight the importance of energy savings. Moreover, we will be setting up a full-fledged team in Qatar; currently, we are operating out of Dubai. If it is to be a community-scale development, our involvement and our presence will be significant.

Generally speaking, how do you see the sub metering side of things panning out in the market?

In Dubai, the new strata law has raised a question: how do we do it if not with sub-metering. Currently, though, the design and access to sub metering is not good in the UAE. We, as a company, bring 200 years of experience, and that’s why we are in the market. We have major success stories in the UAE. People have to realise that a meter is beyond good looks.

What specific solutions would you look to offer Qatar?

As Ista, we have wireless systems, and so access does not matter. Everything is handled remotely. We will provide O&M on monthly-contracting-basis fee. Qatar consultants are making use of wireless technology. They trust wireless. I have come across several specs that have wireless. Whatever said and done, if meters are there, you need good partners for reading and for billing.