Project Overview

CDE Engineering Services was appointed by ITQAN Architectural Design Consultancy, on behalf of the owner, to carry out a comprehensive structural condition assessment and develop a rehabilitation and strengthening design for an existing building located in Al Muraqqabat, Dubai.

The structure is an approximately 8-storey building constructed around 1980. The objective of the project was to evaluate the existing structural condition, identify causes of deterioration, and develop appropriate repair and strengthening solutions to restore structural integrity and ensure continued safe use.

Client

ITQAN Architectural Design Consultancy

Location

Dubai, UAE

Client Challenge

The building exhibited visible signs of deterioration in structural elements, particularly in slab soffits and areas exposed to moisture. Given the age of the structure and prolonged exposure to environmental conditions, there were concerns regarding structural capacity, durability, and long-term performance.

The client required a detailed assessment to determine the extent of damage, verify structural capacity, and develop a practical rehabilitation strategy.

Scope of Work

Our Approach

CDE conducted a detailed investigation using a combination of field testing and analytical modelling.

Representative locations were selected for testing using non-destructive and destructive methods to determine in-situ material properties and the extent of deterioration. Based on the collected data, a three-dimensional structural model of the building was developed using ETABS to evaluate structural performance under relevant loading conditions.

The assessment considered the long-term effects of creep and shrinkage, focusing primarily on verifying the strength capacity of structural elements under gravity load conditions.

Key Findings

The building had generally performed satisfactorily over its service life, with no significant issues related to settlement or global structural instability.

However, localized deterioration was observed across multiple elements. Significant corrosion of reinforcement was identified, particularly in slab soffits below wet areas, where water ingress had led to reduction in durability and material degradation.

Areas with insufficient concrete cover were more susceptible to deterioration. In addition, structural analysis revealed deficiencies in certain columns and beams based on in-situ compressive strength data, indicating the need for strengthening interventions.

Solutions & Recommendations

CDE proposed a combination of repair and strengthening measures to restore structural performance and extend service life.

All delaminated and deteriorated concrete was recommended to be removed and reinstated to protect reinforcement and maintain structural integrity. Water ingress sources, particularly in wet areas and drainage systems, were to be rectified to prevent further deterioration.

For structurally deficient elements, strengthening measures including concrete enlargement and CFRP (Carbon Fiber Reinforced Polymer) systems were proposed to enhance load-carrying capacity.

These interventions were designed to address both durability and strength requirements, ensuring long-term performance of the building.

Outcome

The study enabled the client to clearly understand the condition of the building and the causes of observed deterioration.

By combining structural assessment with targeted strengthening solutions, CDE provided a comprehensive rehabilitation strategy that ensures improved durability, enhanced structural capacity, and extended service life of the building.

Key Services Delivered