After a careful prequalification and tender process, BW Interiors was chosen to partner Sweid and Sweid, Visa, and Dutco Construction in the implementation of the new, state-of-the-art, Visa regional headquarters in Dubai.
The importance of selecting the right partner was paramount in that this project was not executed in the traditional way where a shell and core space was handed over and the fit-out done thereafter. It required a fit-out partner with various unique abilities, flexibility and in-house subdivisions to enable the fit-out process to be done in parallel with the main construction works.
An enormous amount of close coordination of work activities between base build and fit-out contractor was required and daily reviews of work sequencing was done to achieve a very ambitious program.
Situated in the heart of Dubai Media City, the building and interiors is entirely bespoke to meet the modern day requirements for the world’s leader and largest digital payment organisation.
Designed by Gensler, the new headquarters is spread over the ground floor plus five additional floors and encompasses 9,290 square metres. The new space is designed as a hybrid working environment and is a realisation of Visa’s vision of a workspace for the future where their culture of collaboration, connection and community is enhanced. Essentially the new space is a place where employees, clients and partners can seamlessly collaborate to create solutions, develop user experiences and shape new ideas.
Key elements of this venue consist of G+5 floors interconnected by a monumental staircase. The entire area of the new headquarters encompasses 9,290 square metres consisting of substantial arrival experience, various areas of open plan workspace, collaboration zones, informal and formal meeting spaces, focus booth, prayer rooms, mothers’ rooms, bike racks and bespoke catering areas. Particular attention was given to all detailing including flexible lighting arrangements, high level of acoustic integrity and latest technology for IT, AV and security.
All works, including internal civil/ structural elements, interiors, MEP, and custom-made FF+E was provided by BW Interiors and our relevant in-house divisions, partners and suppliers.
The overall design language of the space is light, spacious and airy with a lean towards less is more philosophy. All the areas are carefully considered for functionality but with comfort and accessibility in mind. Finishes range from open ceilings with specialised MEP finishes to create a slick, modern but slightly industrial look in the open workspaces. Flooring materials range from Terrazzo, resilient vinyl tile to carpet and wood in relevant areas. Sound-rated, certified and proprietary glazed partitions are used throughout.
One of the highlights of the new headquarters is the one thousand square metre innovation hub which includes immersive experience zones which allows for in situ prototyping. It also features cutting edge technology such as hyper matrix wall and purpose built briefing centres. The new space also houses VISA CEMEA’s first Visa University campus.
The great success of this project is testament to teamwork, client collaboration and dedication by all stakeholders to work together to deliver on our project commitments during very difficult times whilst maintaining the highest level of health and safety standards as expected by leading tier one construction and fit-out organisations in the region.