Saudi-based Al Abdul Karim Holding (AKH) company has announced the opening of its new headquarters in the Dammam region of the kingdom.

Designed as an ‘intelligent’ building by Dewan Architects + Engineers, the tower is equipped with a state-of-the-art telecommunication system, a CCTV system, access control system, energy-saving system, computer-based building management system (BMS), a sophisticated data centre and an advanced audiovisual system for the conference rooms.

The tower also has its own back-up standby electricity generator and a built-in uninterruptible power supply (UPS). Ample car parking is available in the basement and across seven levels of the podium, said the statement from AKH.

Work on the 37-storey building, which ranks as the tallest in Dammam and the 30th in the kingdom, was supervised by Dewan Architects + Engineers.

Setting out to impress, the striking design of the AKH Tower – with its gleaming glass, geometric patterns and soaring height – is already a talking point in Dammam, the oil capital of Saudi Arabia’s Eastern Province, said a company spokesman.

"A compelling sight by day or night, it also serves as memorable landmark for all to navigate by. Offering prime office space with unrestricted views, most of the office space is reserved for AKH’s own use, but several floors are available for tenant companies," he stated.

Ammar Al Assam, the executive director of Dewan Architects + Engineers, said an eye-catching design aspect is the way that angled lines run across the building.

"These embrace the podium and then continue upwards towards the tower, innovatively taking the form of ramps and other vertical circulation elements. This distinctive approach allows the podium to be more than just an architectural component, but rather an integral part of the tower’s intricate design and character," he noted.

Al Assam pointed out that the shape of the tower was more than just a visual treat and it also contributes to a versatile, highly functional design.

 “The tower’s façade and slanting volumes make for arresting lines and configurations within the interior, creating distinctive and dynamic office spaces on every floor, which allows the building to cater to numerous companies with varying spatial needs,” he noted.

According to him, the tower is destined to become a landmark building in Dammam. "The high-quality design of AKH Tower means that visually it looks incredible from every single angle. We’re proud to be making a lasting impression on Dammam’s skyline," he added.-TradeArabia News Service