The Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB) is set to announce its plans to develop Institute activity in Abu Dhabi, which is the capital of the UAE and tipped to be the future hub of economic activity in the Middle East, on Tuesday 10 February at the InterContintental Hotel, Abu Dhabi.

Despite rumours and reports that the construction industry is slowing down in the Middle East, the Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB) continues to experience huge interest from the construction industry and professionals across the Gulf requiring its qualification, advice and expertise in the region. The Dubai launch in November 2008 has shown that the Institute is resilient to the economic downturn, as professionals increasingly require qualifications to be able to compete in the market during these difficult times.

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The focus on Abu Dhabi is part of the CIOB's strategic plan which will allow the Institute to play a major role in supporting industry, professionalism and key development projects in the Middle East as well as creating a link with the Indian Sub Continent, another key strategic area of interest for the Institute.

Fabio Casula, the CIOB's Head of International said: "Dubai was never intended to be the sole focus of our expansion plans. Abu Dhabi represents a major area of expansion of our activities and our experience, research and feedback from our members shows that, the industry and professionals in the Middle East are ready for quality rather than quantity in construction. Our Institute is strategically positioned to respond to such demands.

"There are major construction projects still being undertaken in Abu Dhabi, this is a centre of activity that the industry and professionals cannot afford to miss. The CIOB will be there to respond to the challenges of the industry in the current and future climate."

(CD/JM)