"The main driver of this project of course is that we want to create our own modern headquarters. But for us, that means more than just putting up a building," commented Alturki. "Over more than three decades, Alturki Group's success as a family owned business is that we have always considered how to add value to the local community. We thought of the resources that were lacking in the area and we have tried to incorporate many of them into the Alturki Business Park. These include an auditorium and three multi-purpose rooms, each with video conferencing, which will be available to all for a variety of events, such as meetings, seminars and road shows. We also were concerned that there were no green spaces in the area near our project. So with the cooperation of the municipality, we are developing the municipal land beside the Alturki Business Park to be a public park and recreation area for local families to enjoy."

Another important aspect in creating their headquarters was the architecture. Alturki explained that architecture is a passion for his father, Khalid Ali Alturki, the group's chairman. He wanted to have an iconic structure built; a structure that would push other developers to upgrade their projects in the area.

"For that reason we went to Pei Partnership Architects. Founded by Chien Chung Pei and Li Chung Pei, the sons and protégés of famous Chinese-American architect I. M. Pei, it is one of the top international architectural firms and has received numerous awards. We asked them to create for us a headquarters that would be modern, but not too trendy, and which would offer many environmental and functional advantages," said Alturki. "Although it's not completed yet, the beauty of the tower is already emerging. It will be a wonderful place to work. Already too, our project is spurring others to invest more in their building designs. We've heard that someone is bringing in the UK's Norman Foster. It's great to see people start thinking about architecture and commissioning some nice designs to improve the skyline here."

Once completed, Alturki Business Park (www.alturkibp.com) will offer over 12,400 m2 net leasable area (NLA), Grade A quality. According to research from Colliers International, that is unusual in the Eastern Province where nearly 80 percent of the office space is Grade B quality. The main feature of the business park is the cylindrical 14-story tower, which is surrounded by five 3-story buildings each made up of two self-contained loft offices. The business park is a "smart" facility with fiber optic connections and high tech systems installed for building management, sophisticated security and seamless communications.

"The services available to our tenants will be of a quality not previously seen in commercial properties in the Eastern Province," said Alturki. "Our aim is to create a supportive environment for productive business. Our tower includes an on-site gym, café, underground parking and 24-hour building services. Our business center will provide copying, printing and courier services. Technical staff will ensure connectivity requirements are met. The tower is fully accessible to enable individuals with special needs. In addition, it is important to us that we consider the environmental impacts of our property, and we are turning to 'green' solutions in areas from lighting to waste water management. I am sure there will be some developers trying to compete with Alturki Business Park, but at the end of the day the location of course is always key. I believe we have a unique location where we are creating a premium offering and an excellent value proposition for our tenants and the local community."