Desert Skiing

Today I went skiing for the first time in my life inside the Emirates Mall. Yes, I went skiing INSIDE a mall! There is an attraction called Ski Dubai which contains 22,500m^2 of snow covered slopes. This trip has contained many once in a lifetime experiences, but this one has to rank somewhere near the top.

Logan and myself were the only two who decided to take this journey on a spur of the moment decision at the end of our first full day in Dubai. We began our day by touring a string of 5 star hotels lead by our friend Ron from FTR. Today also included a trip to the tallest building in the world, the Burj Khalifa (myself or one of my my colleagues will be blogging about that later). After doing all that touring most of the group was tired, but I guess the adrenalin of the situation influenced my choice to try skiing.

Ski Dubai has 5 hills of varying slope and difficulty. I started on the easy one. The first trip down I took a pretty awkwardly comical fall, and unfortunately Logan has video evidence to prove this. But I am proud to say that it was my first and last fall of the day and my advice for all the future first time skiers is to master the wedge (experience skiers, you know what I mean).

But perhaps the most interesting thing about this trip was the diverse group of ages and backgrounds congregating on the slopes. On the lift ride to the top of the first slope we talked to an IT office manager from Australia who was on holiday, and I received some advice from young Indian boy who was traveling with his parents. I met the boy when I came spinning down the slope backwards in a desperate attempt to stop myself from hitting the fence. He just laughed at me and said, “bend you knees more” as he zipped down the hill and caught air on a ramp.

Its these unique experiences that make me not regret my decision to try something like Ski Dubai or visit the middle east, after all, how many chances will I get to go skiing in the desert.

saudi market and skiing in Dubai

Hello all,

I just wanted to take this time to thank everyone at FTR International Inc. for everything that they did for all of us. They were the best hosts anyone could have ever asked for and each of their employees was extremely kind and respectful to all of us. I was extremely impressed with how proffessional each and every one of their employees was. There is no way of putting how thankful I am into words.

On our last day in Saudi Arabia yesterday, we all got to do a bit of shopping at the local markets. It was great to see the culture one last time before we had to take off. It was also fun for all of us to test out our bargaining skills. We also had the pleasure of eating dinner with the KSU proffessors in the Civil Engineering department, as well as some of their students that we previously met during our visit to the university. They were all extremely kind and it was great to have the chance to hang out with some locals. Everybody that I got the chance to meet in Saudi Arabia was incredibly generous. For example, while at a photo shop, I was buying photo prints for some gifts for some gifts to some of the FTR employees. While in the shop, I got to converse with a local from Saudi Arabia and found out his brother lives in South Bend. After only a few minutes of talking, he insisted that he purchase our photos since we are guests in his country. This is just one of the many examples of how generous and hospitable the Saudi locals are.

Today, we got the chance to tour Dubai with our wonderful host Ron. It was a spectacular sight to see all of the towers and incredible hotels throughout the city. In one day, we went to the top of the tallest building in the world (Burj Khalifa), walked around the biggest mall in the world (Dubai Mall), saw the worlds largest aquarium and largest candystore. It was one amazing day but fortunately we also got the chance to see Dubai's indoor ski park called Ski Dubai. Unfortunately, only JD and myself got to go. This was one heck of an experience, especially since it was JD's first time ever skiing. Not many people can say their first time skiing was in the middle of the desert. I have never seen someone pick up skiing as fast as he did, so props to you JD. That is all for today, tomorrow we get to tour Abu Dhabi before we head back to Chicago.

Ski Dubai

Thanks,

Logan

This sand box is big enough for all of us

Branden here:

I want to start by saying hello to all my family and friends who are back home in the states.  Thank you for all your support and I am looking forward to coming home and seeing you all soon, especially looking forward to walking down that terminal.

Many have asked what this experience is like in Saudi Arabia, what are you doing, and why.  I laugh because I remember at the beginning of this week I was talking to my father on the phone and he said, “I am sure it is a lot of fun.  My favorite thing when I was a child was playing in my sandbox in the backyard with all the trucks moving the sand and dirt and building things with my friends.”  Although it has been a week since he told me this, it has been replaying in my mind all week.   I thought about what he said, I can compare this common childhood memory that many of us valued so greatly directly with my experiences here in the Middle East.  The Middle East is like a giant sandbox, a very big one with many projects, sand moving equipment, and friends.  See just as my dad did as a child the people here in the Middle East are doing it to advance their cities and to build infrastructure for their futures.  And who are the friends you might ask? Well, the friends are people from all around the world who come here for work to support their families and search for new opportunities.  Just like my father welcomed his friends to his sandbox, we have been welcomed as well and have been given an experience that none of us will ever forget.  The people are genuine and always willing to reach their hand out to another friend and welcome anyone through their doors.  

Only a few more days left here on this Global Construction Management journey though the Middle East.  I have learned more than I could have ever imagined, met people who have impacted me in more ways than one, and seen things that many only dream of.  I am truly grateful for all those relationships that have grown in this journey and I hope to keep in touch with everyone.  For the four other gentlemen who have made this journey with me I want to thank you for all the great times, laughs, memories, and heart-to-hearts.  This trip would not have been the same without all of you.  I am glad we have a few more days to make a few more, this is not goodbye, but onward with the next part of our journey though the Middle East. 

And right now I say goodbye from Dubai.

Branden

We mean business

Departure from the homeland, to the homeland

In exactly one hour, this study abroad experience in Saudi Arabia will be nothing more than a series of memories. Every impression, every thought, and every feeling will become accessible only in reminiscent fantasies and misplaced feelings of nostalgia. But that which remains in thought is powerful, and will forever re-forge our self-perception and expand the capacity of our knowledge as students and more importantly, human beings. On this trip, we have all learned a tremendous amount about the international construction industry, Saudi Arabian customs, life as an FTR employee, each other, and perhaps most importantly, ourselves. Although I feel a great deal of grief now as I am attempting to capture my last thoughts before we depart, I can confidently say that I am happy, so dearly happy, to have been a part of such a groundbreaking academic program that broke the barriers of both intellectual and social magnitudes.

Specifically, I applaud everyone on the FTR Staff for their hard work, preparation, and patience with us as a group, and my only wish is that everything you have taught us is transmitted throughout Purdue University as a whole and beyond. Your zealous efforts required to compose this program reflect and characterize your love for academia and excellence, and for that I say, "Thank you". I can only dream of working with a staff half as genuine as yours, and I look forward to working with each and every one of you someday.

Finally, I want to thank every citizen of Saudi Arabia that we have come across. Whether you are an SBG employer, a student at King Saud University, or a random stranger that we may have bumped into, your interaction with us helped mold this entire experience, one with no regrets, and for that I am eternally grateful. This is why I say goodbye to my homeland, the land of my culture, my religion and my people, because I am truly leaving the place of my origin and it does hurt, but this is why I can also say that I hope to see you all again soon and visit this beautiful city of Riyadh sooner rather than later. Goodbye Saudi, and see you soon, Irvine.

-Nazir

Out to the Dessert as Salim (aka Desert)

The Purdue group in the Saudi Arabia desert. 

Branden here again:

This was our first big trip away from Riyadh, the jobsites, and our villas.  We all were very excited and be no means were we let down. None of us could have even prepared for what this weekend entailed. 

The group enjoying the Saudi desert evening.

We spent one night out in the desert and enjoyed every minute of it.  The evening we participated in a desert rally race around the desert and yes mother I wore my safety belt.  Each and everyone of us had the opportunity to team up with a local from the area as we sped through the desert against the clock.  The bragging rights go to Team Nazir who picked up first place, Team Logan who picked up second, and Team Branden who picked up third.  We all had a great time.

Desert Rally

The next morning we went on a desert safari ride, where we ventured out to see animal wild life and many spectacular views.

Nazir and JD and their new decked out Hummer ride.

Before the end of our 75km journey out into the desert we had the opportunity to stop at a gas station and check out some local goods.  As Fossil, our driver, filled up our van we all made our way into the station.  Also I might add, gas here is only $0.70 a gallon and the lowest they offer is 91 octane.

Group shot in the safari truck before leaving the main complex to venture out into the desert heat.

JD and Bryan riding through the desert on the safari adventure.

Desert wildlife

Branden and Salim posing with the amazing desert views behind them.

The model shot of the week.  Ladies and gentleman I give you Mr. Dawkins and Mr. Morris.

Professor Brad Benhart and his tradition Saudi Arabia dress shielding him from the desert sun.

Branden and Nazir

Bryan Morris and Morris Motors a car and car make none of us have ever heard of.  We had the opportunity to see and sit in several vintage cars that were located out here in the desert.  It was a rare collection that all of us enjoyed. 

Branden, JD, and Logan

JD and his newest Saudi friend which he met in the buildings lobby.  For sure reason after he feed it, it became stiff.

Brad, Branden, and Nazir as they look over the Saudi desert. 

Our lunch feast. This consisted of lots and lots of food as you can see. 

After a wonder lunch, Saudi style, we all took the advantage of the summer sun and played an hour and a half 2 vs. 2 game of desert volleyball.  We all thought it would be pretty cool to say that we played volleyball in the desert.  So we played, and yes it was very hot to say the least.   I also should add that Bryan and Nazir won over JD and I.  It was a lot of fun and a closeback and forth match. 

Bryan Morris reaching for the ball in our heated match.

Nazir laying out to save the point for his team.  I think in this particular all he got was a lot of sand.

The winning team and the trophy game ball.  It was a great match.

The biggest thing we all learned from this experience was not only how to have a great time away from everything in Riyadh, but we learned a lot more about each other and the group grew even closer though this exciting experience together. 

Until next time.

Branden

Lots of catching up to do...

Branden here:

So, we all have a lot of catching up to do.  The hard part is where to start.  This entire trip has been so amazing, no words or even pictures can begin to explain what we are experiencing, learning, and feeling while here in the Middle East.  Everyone has been so welcoming still, even 9 days into our trip.  I hope you at home can see all of this as well through our experiences, words, and photos that we truly are enjoying this experience and truly get a feel for how great this country and its people really are.  I am going to be adding several quick blog post with photos and quick overviews from those experiences.  Please if you would like for us to go into more depth or have any questions about anything don’t hesitate to let us know.  We truly are enjoying ourselves and honestly love talking about all our experiences as well.  I hope you all are excited for more, because there is so much more to come!

Please check back later in the day.

Until next time.

Branden

To the FTR Team

For those reading this blog there is no way we can properly praise the efforts of FTR.  Not only have they taken the time to show us around and sponsor the trip, they have spent a great deal of time preparing for our visit.  Each of the team members prepared presentations, case studies, and lectures to coincide with their respective work on the project.  Any of these people could become professional trainers.  We have received a great deal of information that we can use in our programs back at Purdue.  I have to give a special thanks to Nazir Katbi, Bruce Snow, and Salim Zerkli.   These three gentlemen, along with the entire FTR staff, have treated us just like Family. 

A Special thanks to Kaled Al Mashary

Last night we were hosted to a traditional Saudi Arabian dinner by Kaled Al Mashary.  He has traveled the world and was a wonderful host.  The dinner was an experience that constituted a feast.  He made sure that we tried each of the dishes, teas, and desserts.  I’m sure the students will post some photos of the food.  It was delicious.  Thank you Kaled!  

Another Note for the Parents from Prof. Brad Benhart

As you can see by the lack of posts the last couple of days, we have been extremely busy.  I have a couple perspectives that I know the students won’t post which I thought you would be interested in.  Several nights ago we were hosted by Nizar Katbi, President & CEO of FTR, to a Syrian Feast.  There were more than 50 people including many employees and friends of the company.  Each of the students was asked to stand, introduce themselves, and say a word about their trip so far.  They all did a great job.  It is one thing to do public speaking, but to do it in an international setting is really impressive.

On Sunday we went to King Saud University and met with faculty and students.  Again, we put the students in an international teamwork exercise.  They were partnered with five Saudi Arabian students and were given a team project to develop and present in two hours.  All of the students jumped in, delegated the work, collaborated, and gave a ten-minute presentation to the combined faculty.  They had to field questions from faculty of both universities.  They handled it great and all were impressed. 

Tomorrow morning they will present their summary on what they learned here in Riyadh.  I am confident they will again impress those around them. 

Update from Bryan

The last few days we have been going nonstop and everyone has been completely exhausted. In the evenings we've been going to some really nice restaurants. In the US a nice restaurant would consist of a rather small portion of food. Here food comes in by the truckloads literally putting you into a food coma. Every evening I attempt to blog about our days experiences but keep finding myself asleep at my desk.

Thursday evening we had the opportunity for an evening in the desert. We stayed at a nice place called Saudi Safari. (see photo) 

It was a nice relaxing evening for us. We played some desert volleyball and took a Safari ride to see  animals running around the desert. After a few miles into our desert safari ride we stopped atop a hill and took some photos. Brad and Branden used this opportunity for a quick photo shoot:

Saturday was probably our most important day of the trip. We were on King Saud University Girls Campus shadowing the FTR International Safety team.  The safety presentations given by James Moffat, Jeff Freundlich and Richard Sellars were excellent. Richard gave a presentation on Crane and Rigging. I walked away with valuable information. These gentlemen have an extremely difficult task at hand and I applaud them for the job they have and will continue to do. 

Sunday we spent the day at the KSU Boys campus meeting the entire Engineering Department. We listened to presentations on their program as well as research that was taking place. We were given tours around all of their labs and had a nice lunch with the head of Civil Engineering. That afternoon we were partnered with a student and given a task to complete. It was a wonderful interacting with them. 

That's all for now.  Pictures will be coming up soon from everyone. 

King Saud University Girls Campus - Group Shots

Cranes...lots of cranes

                                                                       

The video connected with this blog is of the Financial District located in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. This is currently one of the largest construction projects in the world, and over 300 cranes will be used during its duration. To give some perspective, I know of a large project in the US that boasts 2 tower cranes and a few crawlers. Not to degrade the project, but hopefully that should shed a little light on the scale of the work going on here in the Financial District.

It is so impressive and humbling to drive past these massive cranes, and to think that this is considered commonplace throughout Saudi Arabia and other Middle Eastern areas is truly mind-blowing! Dubai has consistently held between 15-25% of the world’s cranes in an area slightly smaller than the state of Maine. I’ve heard stories of how this area has even used tower cranes in the residential sector of construction.

In the short time we have been abroad I would have to say the most impressive thing that I have noticed is the scale of the projects. What I mean to say that their big projects are REALLY BIG and REALLY EXPENSIVE! When you deal with projects of this magnitude the cranes just come with the territory.

The end result is a truly unique skyline that I recommend everyone come to see in person. Thanks for reading!

-JD

JD in the Desert

     

KSU-First Impression

Wow. Just...wow. 34 buildings. $2.2 billion. 14,000 workers on site. 52 tower cranes. 130+ crawler cranes. My God.

After spending the morning and early afternoon on perhaps the largest job I will ever set foot on, I have to say that I am indeed humbled. Construction on such a massive scale is unprecedented, and my hat is off to SBG and all of the FTR crew for getting this job to where it is now. As you might know, the entire structure is done with cast in place or precast concrete, and as a result this University will probably be around forever.

As a group, we learned a lot today. We were lectured on project management skills as well as scheduling and its importance to this job, specifically. The University schedule is very unique, seeing as it is constantly modified and changed, but must still adhere to the project completion date of October 31st, 2011. The king is coming that day and it must be prepared and finished for his arrival.
If you can tell, I am just assembling randomized thoughts in a somewhat coherent pattern at the moment. It was indeed an overwhelming day and I think I might need to settle down and reflect on everything we saw. It'll be very interesting to come back on Saturday and discuss safety on this job in particular. I'm definitely excited for that.
Hope everyone back home is enjoying the summer as much as I am, and I look forward to providing more fun info about the trip. Tonight's plan: Desert Safari.
-Nazir

2nd Full Day in Riyadh

Branden Here:

The team is all here back in the villas after another successful day here in the Mid East.   Today we were able to get out of the villas for the day and spent the majority of our time at KAPSARC.  If you have not checked out the YouTube video that Bryan posted earlier you are missing out.  This was a once in a lifetime opportunity for all of us.  Although this project is still in its early stages with steel being erected and a few of the structures just starting to take shape, it was still an experience that I can barley put into words.  I guess it just goes without saying especially when you are dealing with an iconic world-renowned project.  Hopefully a few of the other guys can put it into words for you.

I can’t believe this is only the second full day here in Saudi Arabia.  There is still so much more to come.  I think I am going to call it an early night and try to get caught up on some needed rest.  Tomorrow is a big day and you would not believe what is in store for tomorrow evening.  Check back later to read about our experiences to come.   

Unit next time.

Branden

KAPSARC Team Pic

Picture of us today at the KAPSARC project with Parikshit Jawale, the HSE Manager for Drake & Scull, who was just one of the numerous individuals who worked with us today on site.         

To the Parents - a message from Prof. Brad Benhart

By now you have been able to hear your son’s voice and been able to see the blog.  I hope any concerns about this trip have been eased.  As Logan pointed out in his post this evening, the Middle East is often misrepresented and misunderstood.  We are having a wonderful time and are very comfortable here in Riyadh.  Our FTR hosts could not be more gracious.

As a fellow parent,  I thought I might post some of those things that mothers and fathers would like to know.  The villa’s are all 3-4 bedrooms and all have a central courtyard that can only be accessed through each villa.  There are four villas all connected.  One of the villas  is the corporate headquarters for FTR here in Saudi Arabia.  The students are spread out and housed in each of these villas with the executives of FTR.  These gentleman are full-time employees of our host company who have relocated from the US.  Quite a few went to competing Big Ten universities so there has been some healthy teasing.  They have really taken our students under the wings to show them both Saudi Arabia and these iconic construction projects.  We travel as a group with these teams and always have a FTR driver.  There are many people watching over our group.  

FTR has put together a complete schedule for us including all of our meals.  We are all anticipating a weight gain.  The students had great fun pointing out that my safety vest was on the snug side.  I reminded them that it comes with age.  I will let the students keep you abreast of their insights, reactions, and learning experience.  I am really enjoying watching their reactions to these once in a lifetime experiences.

If for any reason you need to talk to me, feel free to call the student’s international phone and ask to have me call you, or e-mail me with a phone number to reach you at.  You should already have my  e-mail, if not, it is bbenhart@purdue.edu.   

Thank you for allowing your sons and loved ones to attend this program.  I am sincere in saying that they are the “cream of the crop” and a joy to be around.  They continue to impress everyone they meet.  They represent their families, BCM, and Purdue with young professionalism.  I am very proud of them as I am sure you are as well. 

Sincerely,

Brad Benhart

To the FTR Team -

If we haven’t said it enough, thank you for this opportunity.  We are having a wonderful time and can not express our appreciation for this experience.  Our first two days have been incredible. Thank you! 

Sincerely, 

Brad Benhart

Money, Money, Money

Today we had the opportunity to exchange our US dollars for some Saudi riyal (SAR).  We exchanged at a rate of 3.730005 SAR for 1 US dollar.

$100 US = 373 SAR

Brad and Branden

Professor Brad Benhart and Branden Burke smiling on the streets of downtown Riyadh. 

Its Friday! (the Saudi Arabia Friday that is)

Interesting fact of the day:

Here in Saudi Arabia, their weekend takes place on Thursday and Friday, unlike the American weekend of Saturday and Sunday. However, in many cases companies work a six-day workweek starting on Saturday and ending on Thursday. Friday is always taken off as it is a day for prayer, similar to Sundays in American culture. 

Balanced Diet

Nazir's definition of dinner Tuesday night.  I am sure his parents would be proud.

Changing Views

From Logan,

Today we got to visit the KAPSARC site here in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Unfortunately, we did not get to take any pictures since it is a government site. The logistics of the building and the workforce and safety involved were extremely impressive. We learned tons about different construction topics including advice on interviewing that you cannot put a price on.

In only two full days of being in Saudi Arabia, I have already learned more than I could have imagined. Coming into this trip, my views on the Middle East were a bit skeptical. After being here in person, my views have changed dramatically. The people here are extremely hospitable and have been nothing but generous to all of us. I feel like the news in America skews people’s views of this region in a negative way. I feel that the one major thing that I can do when I get back to America is to promote that the Middle East is a great place to be.

I also did not expect Saudi to be so similar to life back home. There are American chain restaurants such as Fridays and Applebees throughout the town of Riyadh. Before coming here, I would have never expected to see everyday life be so similar to that in America.

That’s all for now.

Branden's and Jonathan's Crib

Join Branden and JD as they give the grand tour of their spacious living quarters.  Enjoy the tour, all the Villas that we are staying in have 4 stories, 4 bed rooms, 6 bath, full kitchen, dining room, living room, and office.

Day 4 Preview

From Bryan:

After a full day of meals fit for kings I finally got a good nights rest.

Instead of summarizing what happened yesterday, I'd like to preview today's events. We will be heading to KAPSARC, which stands for King Abdullah Petroleum Studies and Research Center. I encourage you to visit this link KAPSARC. The design of this facility is simply amazing.

Current design for KAPSARC is set to achieve LEED Platinum and will be the largest of its kind in the world. Our host,  FTR International Inc. will be presenting on their role as Safety Managers of the project as well as allowing us to take a job site tour.

That's all for now.

Nazir's Summary - Day 3

Sooo much food...

We are finishing up our first full day in Saudi Arabia and the amount of hospitality FTR provided has been awesome! We heard presentation on two of their projects and also learned a little about the safety program. Thanks Bruce, David, and Jamie (hope I spelled your name right) the presentations were great.

I believe the guys would agree with me that a food has not been a problem for us. We eat like kings for every meal and a standing joke has been that we will all gain 5lb. by the end of the trip. I wouldn't mind it.

Thanks to all who have subscribed and stay tuned for more!

One of the traditional breakfast platers.  The dish includes hummus, tomatoes, cucumber, egg, lettuce/green things, yogurt, black olives, and cheese (which is wonderful)

JD

Bryan's First Words

Sleep much?

Logan here:

Well the first day of activities is in the books. Here in Saudi Arabia, all of us are going to get a bit more sleep in before we head to dinner at TGIF. The time difference is definitely taking its toll on all of us. It’s definitely going to be exciting to go on a site visit to KAPSARC tomorrow. Day one was definitely an experience already. We got to experience some Saudi breakfast and bbq for lunch. More updates to come after we get to visit some sites.

Hot, Hot, and More Hot!

BCM Saudi Group -
I am sure in a few more days you will never complain about our Mid-west winter again. When I arrived in Abu Dhabi last nigt it was about 100 degrees at 10 pm. Be careful and drink plenty of water. Remember that the sand can get really hot...even at night.

I appreciate the blogs and know this will be one great experience for everyone.

Good Morning America

From Branden:

Hello all, it is Tuesday 4am in the U.S. here in Saudi it is 12 noon and we are getting ready for lunch. The time difference is a little tough to adjust to, but we are all doing our best.  I think we all were a little slow to rise this morning, while others had difficulty sleeping, I am sure many more updates to come. 

Our day so far has consisted of an early rise, a great hearty breakfast feast, company presentations from our host’s FTR International, and now lunch. 

I want to leave you with one of our many views from the villas we are staying in.  This particular picture is off Bryan's balcony overlooking the city of Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. 

Plane Ride

From left to right (Bryan, Nazir, Jonathan)

First Stop: Germany

Salutations everyone! We just arrived in Munich and are curently experiencing a 3 hour layover here. The flight was alright; pretty quick for nine hours. Definitely looking forward to getting to Saudi and kicking this thing off for real. I think the only thing more exciting than getting there is watching J.D. hyperventilate on the next flight's takeoff and landing. More posts to come! Later all.

-Nazir

Munich

From Bryan:

We just arrived in Munich after a 9 hour flight from Chicago. The air conditioner on the plane was going in and out so it was pretty hot at times. Other than that Lufthansa is a pretty nice Airline. The food is great and alcohol is served with every meal.  

We are waiting for a few hours on our connection flight to Riyadh. We're all pretty tired from the flight since no one slept. Luckily we will arrive in Riyadh this evening and can get some sleep. That's all for now.  

Here we GO!

From Branden:

Good evening, Branden Burke here on the eve before we leave for our trip.   I would like to thank all of you have chosen to follow us on our journey through our blog.  I encourage all of you to continue to check back throughout this week and next and to even share this with others who may be interested.  Also, don’t hesitate to comment and post your own thoughts.  We all look forward to having you follow us.

It is our goal with this blog to share our experiences, thoughts, and what ever is on our mind throughout our trip through Saudi Arabia and the UAE. 

This one is to all my family and friends.  Thank you for being supportive of me and my journey across the world.  I bid you adieu.  I have not had the opportunity to travel out of the country before now, so I am very excited for tomorrow.  This is a once in a lifetime opportunity for all of us and we are all grateful to have all this support. 

Until next time.

Branden