Construction value engineering in Dubai and the UAE
Value engineering finds the cost in a design that does not add value, and takes it out without reducing safety, performance or compliance. Our engineers review structural designs, reinforcement, details and specified systems, and propose practical alternatives that are cheaper or faster to build.
Where we look for value.
We start from the drawings and specifications as they stand, then look for cost that does not buy performance. Every proposal comes with the reasoning and the drawings needed for the consultant to review and approve it.
Structural design optimisation
Review of member sizes, slab thicknesses, structural systems and load assumptions to remove unnecessary concrete and steel.
Reinforcement optimisation
Review of bar sizes, spacing, laps, curtailment and detailing to reduce steel tonnage and congestion while meeting the design codes.
Foundation review
Review of foundation types and sizes, including tower crane foundations and temporary works, against the actual loads and site conditions.
Alternative systems and materials
Equivalent alternatives for specified products and systems, such as fire stopping, insulation, waterproofing, expansion joints and floating floors.
Constructability review
Details simplified so they are faster and safer to build, with fewer clashes between structure, services and finishes.
Shop drawings for approval
Revised drawings, calculations and comparison sheets prepared so VE proposals can be submitted to the consultant.
Value engineering, not cost cutting.
Function first
Each element is judged on the function it must perform. A change is only proposed if the element still does its job: carrying the load, resisting fire, stopping water or isolating noise.
Code-compliant
Proposals are checked against the applicable design codes and authority requirements before they are put forward.
Whole-life view
A cheaper item that costs more to maintain or replace is not value. We consider durability and maintenance as well as initial cost.
Early is cheaper
VE is most effective at design stage, before drawings are approved and materials are ordered. We also review projects already on site, where savings are still possible.
When value engineering pays off.
Value engineering suits most projects, and it pays off most in these situations.
Tenders over budget
When tender prices come in above budget, a VE review identifies where cost can come out of the design without redesigning the project.
Design and build contracts
Contractors pricing design and build work use VE to submit a more competitive price based on an efficient design.
Heavy or congested structures
Transfer structures, podiums, rafts and heavily reinforced elements often hold the largest savings in concrete and steel.
Specified products
Where a specification names one product or system, an approved equivalent can reduce cost or lead time.
From drawings to approved savings.
Review
We review the drawings, specifications, bill of quantities and programme, and agree priorities with you.
Propose
We identify VE options and set out the cost, programme and performance impact of each.
Design
Approved options are developed into calculations, revised drawings and comparison sheets.
Approve
We support the submission to the consultant and respond to comments until the changes are approved.
Frequently asked questions
What is value engineering in construction?
It is a structured review of a project's design and specification to deliver the required function at the lowest overall cost, by removing cost that does not add value while keeping safety, performance and compliance.
Does value engineering reduce quality?
It should not. Proper value engineering keeps the function and performance of each element and changes how it is achieved. Cost cutting that reduces performance is not value engineering.
At what stage should value engineering be done?
The earlier the better, ideally at design stage before drawings are approved. It is still useful at tender stage and during construction.
Will the consultant accept the changes?
VE proposals are submitted to the consultant with calculations and drawings. We prepare these and respond to comments, but approval rests with the consultant.
Which areas do you cover?
Dubai and the rest of the UAE.
Send your drawings for a value engineering review.
Call or WhatsApp +971 58 663 0751, or email projects@abcodubai.com. Our office is in Al Saqr Business Tower, Trade Centre 2, Dubai.