We Did It! Proactive Wins 2nd Prize at the International Gypsum Trophy

 

At Proactive Technical Services L.L.C, we’ve always tried to go a little further. In the way we build, the way we think, and the way we approach sustainability. Some of that happens quietly, behind the scenes. Other times, it gets noticed.

We’re proud to share that our work has been recognized on a global level.

Our team has won 2nd Prize in the Façades category at the Saint-Gobain International Gypsum Trophy 2025 for the Mina Zayed Car Park project in Abu Dhabi.

It’s a big moment for us. Not just because of the award itself, but because of what it stands for. The craft, the planning, the long hours, and the small decisions that made the project what it is.

This isn’t the finish line. But it’s one of those milestones that reminds us we’re on the right track.

 

About the International Gypsum Trophy

Held every two years since 1998, the International Gypsum Trophy is organized by Saint-Gobain and showcases the world’s most innovative and technically advanced gypsum projects.

With entries from over 27 countries, this competition honors craftsmanship, sustainability, and smart construction practices in various categories such as:

• Façades
• Innovation
• Ceilings
• Residential
• Business & Institutional
• Culture, Education & Leisure

It is the highest global recognition for professionals working with gypsum systems.

 

Mina Zayed Car Park: A Landmark Achievement

Our winning project, the Mina Zayed Car Park, is located in the heart of Abu Dhabi’s historic port area—Mina Zayed—which is now transforming into a vibrant urban and tourist destination.

Project Highlights:

• Size: 4,000 m²
• Levels: 2
• Capacity: 500+ cars
• Client: Modon
• Architect: AEDAS

The structure features a stunning façade inspired by traditional Islamic horseshoe arches, giving visitors an aesthetic first impression that blends culture with contemporary functionality.

 

 

Overcoming Complex Challenges

Our journey to success wasn’t easy—but we thrive under pressure. Here’s how we turned challenges into innovation:

Key Challenges We Faced:

• Structural Load Management: Designed a metal framework that could handle high wind and live loads, all under 50 kg in system weight.
• Head Deflection Requirements: Met unexpected consultant requirements post-design by engineering custom, non-wasteful solutions.
• Complex Junction Engineering: Designed and executed a self-supporting junction between pseudo-columns and beams with no structural background.
• Precision in Arches: Achieved high-accuracy arch installations within tight timelines using special bottom channels for alignment.

 

Our Breakthrough Achievements

• Developed the UAE’s first self-supporting cross-junction system between columns and beams.
• Delivered a flawless façade with no visible joints, fully aligned with the architect’s vision.
• Created custom joint termination and deflection head details in partnership with the installation team.
• Finished the project ahead of schedule, despite initial delays in system selection and façade design.

These milestones are a testament to the technical expertise and commitment of our entire team.

 

Building Sustainability into Every Detail

Sustainability wasn’t just a feature of this project—it was a driving principle. Here’s how we made an environmental impact:

• Drywall over Blockwork: Replaced traditional blockwork with lightweight drywall systems, reducing concrete usage significantly.
• Water Efficiency: Cut water consumption compared to traditional construction techniques.
• Reduced Emissions: Sourced materials from Gyproc and Weber factories within 50 km of the site, reducing transportation emissions.
• Smart Design Choices: Used modular and lightweight systems to minimize waste and enhance recyclability.

This project has proven that sustainable building can go hand-in-hand with structural beauty and performance.

 

 

Who We Are: Proactive Technical Services L.L.C

Since our founding in 2011, Proactive has become one of the UAE’s most trusted names in false ceilings, façade works, and gypsum decorations.

At a Glance:

• Company: Proactive Technical Services L.L.C
• Part of: Investment Corporation of Dubai (ICD)
• Main Representative: Mr. Ramy Al Baghdady
• Team Size: 600+
• Partner: PURELINE DESIGN WORKS LLC
• Specialties: Gypsum systems, ceiling solutions, and complex façade engineering

We’re proud of how we bring together creativity, solid engineering, and a focus on sustainability. It’s this mix that’s helped us earn the trust of clients on some of the UAE’s more complex, high-profile projects.

A Heartfelt Thank You

This win is not just a victory for our company—it’s a celebration of the incredible collaboration between our team, our client, our partners, and the technical support provided by Saint-Gobain.

We thank our client Modon, the architects at AEDAS, and everyone who believed in our vision and execution.

To Saint-Gobain, thank you for providing the materials, expertise, and global platform to showcase our capabilities.

What’s Next?

This award fuels our ambition. We are more determined than ever to:

• Deliver projects with zero compromise on quality,
• Continue innovating with sustainable building methods,
• And raise the bar on what’s possible in façade and gypsum systems.

At Proactive, we don’t just build structures—we shape experiences.