Overview

One of the world’s busiest international airports partnered with Al Rostamani Communications to upgrade its Data Centre Infrastructure Management (DCIM) system and Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS) network. The objective was to improve operational efficiency, enhance reliability, and advance the airport’s sustainability goals.

Challenges

The airport’s existing data-centre infrastructure, weighing more than 8 metric tons and spanning 15 square metres, supported multiple technical rooms across four terminals. Key challenges included:

• Outdated VRLA battery technology: The installed VRLA batteries had limited efficiency and reliability, shorter lifespans (3–5 years), poor heat tolerance, and fewer discharge cycles.
• Lack of real-time monitoring: Limited visibility of temperature and humidity data made early risk detection difficult, increasing the likelihood of equipment failure and service disruption.
• Strict timelines and compliance requirements: The project demanded full adherence to schedules, compliance standards, and airport security procedures, all while maintaining zero downtime.
• Legacy cabling: Integration with ageing power-cabling infrastructure added implementation complexity.

The Solution

Al Rostamani Communications completed a high-performance power and data-centre upgrade across 37 locations within five months, incorporating three key elements:

1. Lithium-ion batteries: Deployed a customised UPS system with SmartLi lithium-ion technology, providing a 10-year lifespan, more discharge cycles, and a lower environmental footprint than conventional batteries.
2. Real-time monitoring: Implemented a modern DCIM platform enabling continuous visibility and control across all data centres to detect and address issues proactively.
3. Environmental sensors: Installed temperature and humidity monitoring in all data centres and technical rooms to optimise system performance and reduce operational risk.

Impact

• 97 percent system efficiency
• 55 percent reduction in floor-space usage
• 50 percent reduction in carbon emissions
• Full real-time monitoring across all data centres
• Zero downtime throughout implementation

Results

Al Rostamani Communications delivered the full data-centre power and infrastructure upgrade ahead of schedule and without service interruption. The solution advanced the airport’s sustainability agenda through a 50 percent reduction in carbon emissions, achieved significant power-usage savings, and freed up 55 percent of floor space. Real-time monitoring now supports a proactive operational model, improving performance and minimising unplanned downtime.

The airport is now equipped with a future-ready, efficient, and resilient data-centre environment capable of supporting its expanding global operations.