Israel Engineers Association for Construction and Infrastructure

Contents
The Symposium Hosts: Israel Engineering Association for Construction and Infrastrcture 3
Background: Construction and Infrastructure in Israel 4
The Destination: Why Israel 5
Easy Access: Average Flying Time to Israel 6
General Information: Some Usfull Facts 7
Tel Aviv: The City That Never Sleeps 8
fib 2013 Symposium - Engineering a Concrete Future : In a Nutshell 9
Professional Conference Organizing: Requirements & Arrangements 10
International Standards: Suggested Venues 11
Discover Israel: Pre & Post Conference Tours, Accompanying Guests` Tours 12
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The Symposium Hosts:
Israel Engineers Association for Construction and Infrastructure
(IEACI)
The engineers association for construction and infrastructure is the representative trade
union of civil engineers in Israel. The association, which was established in 1998, now
numbers some 2,700 engineers. Internationally, IEACI is a member of fib (formerly CEB-FIP)
since 1985. Prominent fellows of IEACI are members of IABSE, ASCE, ACI and other
international professional organizations.
The professional activity of the association is carried out by means of 12 professional units
that cover all civil engineering areas – structural engineering, building management,
green building, traffic and transportation, roads, geotechnics, materials and technologies,
water, sewage and drainage, maintenance, tunneling, fire safety and control.
The association seeks to promote the civil engineering profession and the status of civil
engineers in Israel by way of professional amelioration and involvement in legislation and
political echelon decisions regarding planning and construction matters.
Professional enhancement activities include courses, seminars, workshops and professional
tours aimed at ameliorating civil engineers’ qualifications and circulating current
professional knowledge concerning topics of the trade. IEACI publishes a quarterly
magazine titled "Building and Infrastructure Engineering", which is distributed to all
members and to builders.
IEACI members take active part in professional code committees of the Standards
Institution of Israel.
IEACI is involved in legislation and decisions made by politicians in all matters pertaining to
the sector of construction and infrastructure. Representatives of IEACI participate in all the
committees appointed by the various ministries, as well as in related Knesset (the Israeli
Parliament) committees.
The engineers association cooperates with Israel’s leading construction and planning
organizations, such as the Technion, The Standards Institute of Israel, The Association of
Contractors and Builders in Israel, Israel Building Center, and more.
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Background: Construction and Infrastructure in ISRAEL
Construction and infrastructure is one of the leading industries of Israel's economy. Over
the last 50 years construction and infrastructure industry had a profound impact on all
sectors of the Israeli economy. Israel's construction sector is constantly growing and is
adjusting itself to the market demands through technological innovations. The industry
nowadays is modern, capable and professional. Israeli engineers design and build
residential buildings, industrial buildings, office towers, commercial centers, skyscrapers,
interchanges, bridges and other infrastructure facilities.
Since the foundation of the state of Israel 62 years ago, two main waves of immigrations
boosted the construction industry especially that related to housing. A dramatic growth of
over 300% in new projects was triggered by the second wave in the early 90's, where
within two years the number of new projects rose from about 20,000 apartments in 1989 to
84,000 apartments in 1991. At that time Israeli economy knew a period of growth and
prosperity. In seven years, the GDP increased, from 43 billion US Dollars in 1989 to 94 billion
dollars in 1996. The construction industry led the growth, with an increase of 200% from 4
billion US Dollars in 1989 to 12 billion in 1996. Unlike previous decades, the projects in the
last two decades of real estate are mostly private initiatives rather than government ones.
Infrastructure investments have doubled in those years, when public funding was replaced
by private funds.
While walking in the cities of our country, one can see everywhere new apartment
buildings, office towers and modern malls.
Many national infrastructure projects have been completed in the last 10 years: Highway
6 – a modern tollway running along the country from south to north, Ben Gurion 2000 – a
new international airport and a major expansion of the Ashdod seaport. Other projects
are running these days: Carmel tunnels, several huge water desalination plants, sewage
purification facilities and highway and railway bridges.
The Israeli construction industry is strong and stable, and will keep leading the local
economy. AS Middle East peace process will proceed, enormous resources will be moved
to promote regional infrastructure and construction developments.
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The Destination: Why Israel
The State of Israel has embarked on its second jubilee, and it is still going strong. Lush
green valleys and golden deserts; winter snow-capped mountains and sun-washed
coral beaches; breathtaking landscapes and stunning seas, fashionable shopping
centers and buzzing oriental bazaars. Israel's history spans more than 5,000 years; its
present is contained in a tiny world of barely 13,000 square kilometers. Yet even
though the roots of Israel are deeply embedded in a heritage going back many
millennia, the country itself is very much geared to the vigour of modern-day living.
This is a State that was reborn in 1948, and since then, the pioneering spirit of its
people has created a nation, which is in the forefront of wide-ranging fields of
science, technology and culture.
The State of Israel regards scientific research, both in the academic and the industrial
perspectives, as its main natural resource. There are seven world-wide renowned
research universities in Israel and dozens of colleges. The Hi-Tech industry drives Israel's
economy. Many large international firms have established research and
development centers in Israel, including Intel, Motorola, IBM, Texas Instruments and
Microsoft. Numerous start-up companies are finding their way to fame and glory. The
Hi-Tech industry is working in conjunction with academia conducting joint research
plans, always reaching to new frontiers.
Thanks to the devotion of its people, the physical face of Israel -- much of which was
a dusty and barren desert not long ago, has blossomed into a land of milk and
honey, with an abundance of rich, productive farmlands, successful industries and
exciting cities -- and an infrastructure which forms the basis for what purely must be
one of the world's most fascinating destinations.
Israel cannot fail to impress even experienced travelers, whatever their interests may
be, capturing their imagination and widening their interest, involvement and affinity
for the land.
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Easy Access: Average Flying Time to ISRAEL
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General Information: Some Usefull Facts
Ben-Gurion International Airport
Ben-Gurion is one of the world’s safest, most secure airports (based on international
rankings) and is easily accessible from all international destinations.
The airport is situated 20 minutes from central Tel Aviv and public transportation by train,
buses and taxies is available. A transfer service from the airport to and from the Symposium
hotel can be offered to the participants.
VISAS
Participants from most countries do not require a visa to Israel. Individuals from countries
who require an entry visa to Israel should contact the Israel Embassy/Consulate in their
country prior to their arrival to Israel. Individuals from countries without diplomatic relations
with Israel should write to the Symposium Professional Congress Organizer (PCO), no later
than two months prior to the Symposium, giving them the following details: full name, date
and place of birth, passport number and date of issue, flight number and time of arrival.
The Symposium PCO will be in contact with the Israeli authorities and do its best to arrange
for a visa to be issued at the airport upon arrival.
Safety and Security
The Organizers are committed to provide Symposium participants with a safe and secure
environment throughout the week, in activities both within and outside the Symposium
venue. The State of Israel has much experience maintaining world-class security standards
and you can rest assured that your visit to Israel will be a calm and rewarding experience.
CURRENCY
The unit of currency in Israel is the New Israeli Shekel (NIS) commonly known as the Shekel.
The Shekel is a strong and fully convertible currency.
Most international credit cards are accepted.
CLIMATE
April is spring time in Israel and the weather is absolutely splendid.
Average temperatures range between 14 – 23 °C.
Information on Israel:
Ministry of Foreign Affairs:
Ministry of Tourism:
www.mfa.gov.il
www.tourism.gov.il
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Tel Aviv: The City that Never Sleeps
Tel Aviv, the first Hebrew city in modern times, was founded in 1909 and was built on the
sand dunes north of the ancient port city of Jaffa.
It is considered the liveliest city in the region - The City that Never Sleeps.
The Sea and the Shore
Tel-Aviv enjoys its location on the very shores of the Mediterranean. The coastline benefits
from dozens of kilometers of clean, fine golden sand, supervised beachfront and a vortex
of activity all the year-round. However, there is much more to do on the beach than
merely sunbathe. The waters of the Mediterranean are shared by swimmers, dippers,
surfers, windsurfers, boaters. A range of water sports is readily available, including
windsurfing and scuba diving for both beginners and experienced. The seashore
promenade, which extends along the Tel-Aviv shoreline - the area where most of the city’s
major hotels are located - is always alive with strollers, joggers, vendors, musicians and
mimes, and lots of fun. The old port of Tel Aviv, at the northern edge of the Tel-Aviv
promenade has recently turned into a vivid and flourishing area suggesting a multitude of
restaurants, events and beautiful views. The port is a perfect haven for Tel-Aviv citizens and
visitors enjoining the light breeze at the evening of warm days.
UNESCO World Culture Heritage Site
In July, 2003, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization,
(UNESCO), proclaimed it "The White City", recognizing the unique urban and historical
fabric of Tel Aviv-Jaffa as a World Cultural Heritage site. In this proclamation, the world
acknowledged the special architectural qualities of the buildings, streets, squares and
avenues of Tel Aviv. It is brimming with wonderful examples of Bauhaus architecture.
An Ideal Base for Touring
Tel-Aviv, Israel’s business, commercial and cultural center, is an ideal base for any day trips
in Israel. Jerusalem, the Galilee and the Dead Sea are just one to a couple of hours away,
with regular hourly flights from the Tel-Aviv domestic airport, to Eilat on the Red Sea in the
south of Israel.
Culture and Night Life
Tel-Aviv boasts a number of fine museums, along with its collection of works by just about
every well-known Israeli artist of the 20th century, as well as many leading figures of
Modern Art. It is also the home of the world-renowned Israel Philharmonic Orchestra.
Dramatic art, music and dance are also considered part of Tel-Aviv’s artistic forte.
The city is famous for its abundance of restaurants, cafés, and food stalls.
Last but not least, Tel-Aviv offers thriving nightlife for the late-birds. The fully-illuminated
Rothschild Boulevard, the waterfront promenade, and the Yarkon river estuary are
packed with people even hours after midnight. Bars and clubs will always offer you a drink
or a party!
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Fib Symposium 2013 - Engineering a Concrete Future:
In a Nutshell
April 20 th -24 th 850 € 400
100 local
+300
international
Tel-Aviv
The city that
never sleeps
Saturday, April 20 th - Technical Tour and Dinner for GA participants and
accompanying persons
Sunday, April 21 st - fib TC & GA Meetings. Evening Welcome Reception
Monday, April 22 nd - Wednesday, April 24 th - fib Symposium
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Professional Conference Organizing:
Requirements & Arrangements
Israel Engineers Associations for Construction and Infrastructure will appoint a local Professional
Congress Organizer (PCO), to organize a successful, smooth-running international event of the
highest standards.
One of Israel’s leading PCO’s is ORTRA Ltd, that has over 35 years of experience and 40 professional,
permanent, dynamic and creative staff members.
ORTRA is also a DMC (Destination Management Company) and a member of ICCA – (International
Congress & Convention Association). As part of its comprehensive conference management
service, ORTRA utilizes advanced web-based registration and abstract submission systems. As a
“one-stop-shop”, the company organizes and administrates conference exhibitions - down to the
very last detail.
Among its clients are all of Israel’s academic institutes, government offices, scientific associations
and major US & international Hi-Tech & pharmaceutical corporations.
For further information visit: www.ortra.com
Technical Requirements:
Plenary hall holding up to 400 participants
Meeting rooms as required
A large hall/foyer to be used for coffee breaks
Running coffee and juice during lecture hours
Audio-visual equipment in lecture halls: LCD projector 6,000 ansilumens, sound system, screen,
laptop, technicians
Signage as required, decorations
Participant’s kits including badge and Symposium program
Social Program Arrangements:
A program of special interest tours and visits will be arranged for accompanying persons on
days of TC, GA & Symposium activities (per extra charge).
Assuming that most of the participants will wish to utilize their visit to our region for
sightseeing in Israel and neighboring countries, a choice of pre- and post-conference tours
will be available. Visits to sites of professional interest can be included in the itineraries of
those tours (per extra charge).
The social events will acquaint the participants with local folklore and food:
• Welcome Reception:
On the hotel terrace overlooking the Mediterranean and Tel-Aviv beautiful beach.
• Gala Dinner :
Typical Mediterranean cuisine & authentic Israeli dance and music show by leading
Israeli performers will take place at one of the special event venues in Tel-Aviv.
• Dine Around:
Experience the distinctive aromas, flavors and colors of Tel Aviv's fine international
cuisine- from the dining rooms of the innumerable beachfront hotels, to local family-run
restaurants and intimate bistros and cafes.
After dinner at the restaurant of your choice, a walking tour in Tel Aviv brings the city's
splendor to life.
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International Standards: Suggested Venues
As proposed venues, we suggest either the Hilton Tel Aviv Hotel or the David
Intercontinental Hotel, both located along the seaside promenade, with spectacular
views. Both offer state-of-the-art conference facilities and outstanding accommodations
to ensure fib Symposium 2013 participants, the best in style and comfort.
Special accommodation rates will be offered to the participants at the Symposium
hotel, as well as other hotels in variuos categories, located within walking distance.
Hilton Tel Aviv Hotel
http://www1.hilton.com/en_US/hi/hotel/TLVHITW-Hilton-Tel-Aviv/index.doWT.srch
Perched on a cliff overlooking the Mediterranean Sea, the Hilton Tel Aviv Hotel is just
one minute from the beach. Guest rooms and public areas have wireless internet
access.
The hotel has 14 meeting rooms for 6-1500, a business centre, 17 th floor Executive
Lounge and Business Lounge.
Between and after meetings, relax by the outdoor pool, stroll on the beach, be
pampered at the spa, or dine on sushi at Yakimono Sushi Bar.
David Intercontinental Hotel Tel Aviv
http://www.ichotelsgroup.com/intercontinental/en/gb/locations/telaviv
The David Intercontinental Hotel Tel Aviv is is within easy walk of the Jaffa and within
a few meters of the seafront promenade. Guets rooms and public areas have
wireless Internet access,
Conference space is available along with a grand ballroom. There is also a Businees
Lounge and Executive Lounge.
Fine dining is available on site 24 hours a day, and there are a number of dinner
choices. Multiple lounges provide relaxation options, there is a fitness center and an
outdoor swimming pool.
David Intercontinental Hotel Tel Aviv
Hilton Tel Aviv Hotel
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Discover Israel
Before, during and after fib 2013 Symposium , participants and accompanying
guests will also have a chance to see just how many wonders this tiny land contains –
from the Galilee to the Dead Sea and the Red Sea, from the mountains to the desert,
from the historic to the ultra-hip.
Pre- & Post-Conference Tours
Jerusalem
The Old City of Jerusalem includes the Muslim Quarter, the Christian Quarter, the
Armenian Quarter, and the Jewish Quarter. Meandering down its twisted lanes will
transport you into another world. Among its most noteworthy sites of interest are the
Western Wall (the Kotel), the holiest Jewish site on earth, and the famed Via Dolorosa
("Path of Grief"). For as long as Christians have been coming to the Holy City, they
have walked this path following in the footsteps of Jesus. The Church of the Holy
Sepulchre, also known as the Church of Resurrection, is the final stop along the
route. It is believed that Christ was crucified and buried at this location.
Other points of interest in Jerusalem are the Dormition Abbey, the Mount of Olives,
the Temple Mount, Yad Vashem Holocaust Museum, and the newly renovated Israel
Museum.
Galilee
This tour begins in Nazareth, the city where Jesus spent his youth. Visit the Church of the
Annunciation and continue to Cana of the Galilee, where according to the Gospels,
Jesus performed his first miracle. Next,visit Ein Sheva (Tabgha) on the northwest shore of
the Sea of Galilee, the traditional site of the miracle of the multiplication of the loaves and
fishes, and finally walk through Kfar Nachum (Capernaum), the town reported to have
been the home of Jesus. Enjoy a panoramic view of the Sea of Galilee along the way.
Massada, Qumran & the Dead Sea
Visit Qumran where the Dead Sea scrolls were found. Float in the incomparable
Dead Sea, the lowest place on Earth. Experience the mud baths there and enjoy
lunch at an area hotel. Ascend by cable car to the top of Masada, the most visited
site in Israel, to marvel at King Herod’s desert fortress-palace and the last stronghold
of the Jewish Zealots against the Roman domination in 73 CE. Massada is a rugged
natural fortress of majestic beauty and history, which became a famous landmark
after the first Jewish-Roman war when a siege of the fortress by troops of the Roman
Empire led to a mass suicide of the site's Jewish Sicarii fugitives when defeat became
imminent.
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Tours in Tel Aviv for Accompanying Guests
While participants are busy durign session hours, accompanying guets will be able to
enjoy (at extra charge), a veriatry of captivating tours in the city of Tel Aviv, such as:
- Architecture in Tel Aviv: Bauhaus – The "White City"
- Culture and Art in Tel Aviv
- Romantic Tel Aviv
- Tastes & Colors - Tel Aviv’s Open-Air Market
- A Segway Tour along the Tel Aviv Promenade
We look forward to welcoming you to
fib Symposium 2013 - Tel Aviv 2013
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