How do maintenance contracts and access planning differ for high-rise façades in Dubai versus Almaty?

Maintenance contracts and access planning for high-rise façades differ notably between Dubai and Almaty due to climate and operational demands. In Dubai and other Gulf cities, contracts emphasize frequent cleaning cycles to manage sand and dust, water-efficient cleaning methods, durable coatings and rapid-response repairs to maintain premium appearance. Access planning prioritizes BMUs, rope-access points and sheltered anchors to enable frequent façade cleaning without disrupting building operations. Conversely, in Almaty and similar Central Asian cities, winter maintenance—including snow and ice removal, freeze-thaw protection for seals, and inspection for thermal cycling damage—dominate contractual terms. Access systems must accommodate seasonal safety protocols, and maintenance intervals are often scheduled to inspect for sealant degradation after cold seasons. Service level agreements should explicitly define cleaning frequencies, response times for glazing damage, replacement lead times for custom IGUs, and provisions for spare panels. Local supply chains and availability of specialist glazing contractors also differ; contracts should account for regional logistics, vendor warranties and lifecycle maintenance budgets to ensure façades remain safe and visually consistent in both climatic contexts.