Hitches & Glitches (H&G) has said that it tracked a significant uptick in demand for specialised cleaning, for the UAE’s growing data centre market.

According to premier global market research and consulting organisation, Blackridge, the data centre market in the UAE is projected to experience a compound annual growth rate of 9.95% over the next five years, creating a market worth US $2.64bn by 2029.

“Data centre equipment is highly sensitive and optimal performance is critical to their success. The equipment consists of switches, routers, hubs, UPS batteries and racks which collect dust & debris like any other object. However, the cleaning process is extremely sophisticated and technical,” said Zohaib Azhar, Director of Operations at Hitches & Glitches.

“Therefore, maintaining the reliability, efficiency, and safety of these high-value assets is of paramount importance. There are international standards for controlled environments, such as the ISO 14644-1 Class 8 standard, which need to be adhered to regularly carried out by a highly trained, certified team of data centre cleaning technicians,” he added.

ASHRAE (American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers) TC 9.9 standards also provide guidelines, which focus on mission-critical facilities such as data centres, to optimise environmental control, protect equipment and ensure reliability.

The guidelines include maintaining clean air by minimising gaseous contaminants and airborne particulates, which can damage sensitive electronic equipment. They suggest regular monitoring and setting limits on particulate levels, with an emphasis on controlling dust and debris, as well as adhering to specific cleanliness levels, the statement outlined.

ASHRAE recommends specific methods for cleaning, such as using anti-static cleaning products and vacuuming with HEPA (High-Efficiency Particulate Air) filters to prevent dust from spreading. They also provide guidance on how frequently cleaning should be conducted, depending on the type of equipment and environmental conditions.

The layout and airflow design of a data centre are also critical. ASHRAE guidelines address proper airflow which reduces dust accumulation and ensures contaminants are effectively managed. Cleaning procedures should consider air flow patterns to avoid recirculating dust during routine maintenance.

“These guidelines help data centres maintain a clean and controlled environment, ensuring optimal performance and equipment longevity. Compliance with ASHRAE standards is often required for facilities to maintain high operational reliability and efficiency. Considering the significant level of investment, data centre management must ensure compliance with international standards to mitigate the chance of a serious outage, or significant downtime. To achieve that consistency, it is imperative that cleaning teams are not only fully trained but hold specialist certifications. Due to our expertise, H&G is a preferred by prominent data centre management companies such as SecureTech and ITQAN, amongst others,” Azhar added.

Although not directly related to physical cleaning, ASHRAE standards also stress the importance of maintaining proper temperature and humidity levels to avoid static discharge and corrosion, which can be exacerbated by dust and dirt buildup.

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Developer Barratt London has launched 20 homes designed for wheelchair users, as part of the company’s commitment to accessibility at its Bermondsey Heights development in London.

The apartments were created in partnership with Barratt London’s accessible homes partner AccessAble, a company providing free online Detailed Access Guides to thousands of venues across the UK and Ireland, following feedback and insights, said a statement.

Comprising two- and three-bedroom homes, the inclusive design features that are available as standard include increased door widths and hallways, additional space provision in key rooms, lowered light switches and easy access storage for wheelchairs.

Additionally, certain aspects of each home can be adapted according to individual purchasers’ needs, such as customising kitchens to include features such as the rise and fall counters, which allow the height to be manually adjusted, and the provision of a wet room.

New homes at Bermondsey Heights also benefit from energy saving and sustainability measures, such as efficient kitchen appliances and water taps, low energy lighting, highly insulated building fabric, a carbon-efficient centralised heating system, green and blue roofs, solar panels, and air source heat pumps, which provide 70% of the development’s energy.

Attzaz Rashid, Head of Design at Barratt London said, “Building accessible homes is not merely about designing the residence; it’s about ensuring that individuals with disabilities can navigate an entire development with the same dignity as anyone else living there. At Barratt London, the complete customer journey and accessibility are a cornerstone of our commitment to building inclusive and sustainable communities. 10% of our homes across the capital are constructed with DNA that lends itself to easy adaption for accessibility.”

“We are proud to launch our first accessible homes at Bermondsey Heights, delivered in close partnership with guidance from AccessAble and a range of disability consultants. Housing should be inclusive, and our vision is to use Bermondsey Heights as a blueprint for delivering wheelchair-accessible homes across the capital that go beyond the basics and truly work for Londoners,” he added.

David Livermore, Director at AccessAble, commented, “We have collaborated closely with Barratt London throughout the planning, design, and implementation phases to support the creation of accessible homes at Bermondsey Heights. We support Barratt London’s aim to ensure that these homes meet the needs of wheelchair users and offer a flexible living space that can adapt to individual requirements over time. In the drive of increased housing delivery in London, accessibility must remain a key consideration.”

Bermondsey Heights will comprise 26 stores of residential accommodation with commercial units beneath, with 163 private one-, two-, and three-bedroom homes and 90 affordable homes, including 32 apartments available for discount market sale. The development will feature landscaped courtyard gardens, a roof terrace and a children’s play area. Boasting panoramic views over the London cityscape, the apartments are expected to be completed in the summer of 2025 and are available off-plan.

The area is well connected, with numerous bus services and rail links nearby. The regeneration plans for the wider area include a 30-acre development project seeking to create up to 3,500 homes, 13 new public spaces, a thriving business district with office space, workshops, cafés and restaurants, a creative and digital hub and local retail, as well as a state-of-the-art sports complex and arena, the statement said.

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Building on the success of Phase 1, Arabian Hills Real Estate Development has officially launched the second phase of its US $6bn residential development, Arabian Hills Estate, located on the Dubai-Al Ain Road.

Spread over 244m sqft, Arabian Hills Estate will be implemented in 14 phases and will offer residential plots ranging from 12,000sqft to 132,000sqft.

This project is the culmination of a strategic partnership between Arabian Hills Real Estate Development Company and Ara Real Estate Development, the real estate division of Core International Holdings Group.

Announcing the Phase II launch, the Emirati developer said the development aligns with the company’s mission to create innovative and forward-thinking communities that cater to future generations.

This new phase offers clear opportunities for investment, with its prime location and integrated facilities designed to meet the full spectrum of residents’ needs and contributing to a strong sense of community, the statement noted.

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The Royal Commission for AlUla (RCU) and Saudi Railway Polytechnic (SRP) have inked a deal to boost the capabilities of young Saudis looking to launch a career in AlUla and the Kingdom’s growing rail sector.

The partnership aims to strengthen the long-term and sustainable development of young Saudi talent. The first stage of the agreement is planned to provide vocational training programme in railway maintenance and operation, which will build sector-specific subjects such as rolling stock and infrastructure through hands-on training, said a statement.

The regeneration of AlUla is powering the development of new mobility options across the county, including new rail and tram services such as the Experiential Tram that will link key heritage, tourist, and residential sites once complete.

Building the skills, knowledge, and capabilities of AlUla’s workforce is critical to achieving RCU’s transformational and development goals, as well as the long-term ambitions of the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 plan, said a statement.

Mohammed Alshkrah, the Human Capability Development VP at the Royal Commission for AlUla said: “The ongoing regeneration of AlUla supports the national development goals of Vision 2030 by young men and women with the knowledge and know-how needed to forge successful careers in exciting and diverse sectors, such as the growing railway sector in AlUla and the Kingdom.”

The Royal Commission for AlUla is committed to national capability development goals as it continues to be a driving force behind strategies that are nurturing and evolving a skilled and resilient workforce in diverse industries and powering growth in AlUla and KSA-wide.

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Skywell has partnered with operator National Taxi to promote sustainable transport and will supply electric vehicles for the latter’s fleet. The collaboration will not only reduce transport-related emissions but will also promote cleaner urban mobility, contributing to a healthier environment for future generations.

The cooperation supports the achievement of plans and targets for Net Zero emissions public transport in 2050, and the decarbonisation targets are set to be achieved in the coming years to reach zero emissions by 2040 for the taxi and limousine sectors.

“The integration of Skywell electric vehicles into National Taxi Operations is a key step towards supporting the UAE’s sustainability goals. Our electric vehicles are designed with the latest energy-efficient technology, ensuring a smooth transition to greener (cleaner) transportation while significantly reducing carbon emissions,” said Chena Reddy, Group Managing Director at Legend Holding Group, and Thilak Raju, Head of Automotive Dealerships at Skywell UAE.

The collaboration is part of the UAE’s efforts to promote sustainable transport and is in line with the Climate Neutrality Initiative 2050, the National Electric Vehicle Policy, and the Dubai Green Mobility Strategy 2030.

Toufic Mitri, CEO of National Taxi Company added, “We are proud to partner with Skywell UAE in this pioneering effort to make our fleet more environmentally friendly. By adopting electric vehicles, we are not only improving the efficiency of our services, but also contributing to the UAE’s broader environmental goals, and this collaboration reinforces our commitment to providing modern and sustainable mobility solutions as per RTA’s directions and plans. Dubai’s rapidly growing infrastructure to support electric mobility is currently strengthening this partnership, with 380 green charging stations for electric vehicles operating across Dubai, with plans to expand to 1,000 by 2025.”

These efforts are in line with the UAE’s Green Agenda 2030, which aims to reduce carbon emissions and increase the share of electric taxis to 100% by 2040. With the inclusion of advanced electric vehicles from Skywell, National Taxi Company is set to improve operational efficiency and alignment with the UAE’s broader environmental goals, said the statement.

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Deyaar Development has announced the launch of Park Five, a residential community in Dubai Production City. The new development is being developed at a cost of US $408mn and will focus on wellness-centric living and community engagement, and will offer residents an urban sanctuary with planned amenities and pricing.

Phase 1 of Park Five will include Elm and Ember towers, featuring a mix of studios, one-, two-, and three-bedroom residences.

“Park Five is an exciting new addition to Deyaar’s portfolio of community developments and a significant landmark on our ongoing journey of growth and transformation. Park Five has been developed in alignment with Dubai’s vision of creating sustainable and innovative urban spaces that enhance the quality of life for residents. This project reflects our commitment to delivering world-class, sustainable and value-driven developments, responding to the global investor interest in UAE real estate,” said Saeed Mohammed Al Qatami, CEO at Deyaar Development.

The development will incorporate spaces that prioritise holistic well-being. Winding through Park Five lush greenery and vibrant communal spaces are traditional sikkas, or Arabian-style pathways. The sustainability-focused design integrates energy-efficient systems, maximising natural light, and indoor-outdoor community areas to promote both environmental and personal wellness, said a statement.

The Elm and Ember towers feature amenities such as yoga lawns, outdoor co-working spaces, fitness centre, infinity-edge pools, and dedicated children’s play areas. Residents can unwind in settings such as a hammock garden, a rooftop Zen garden, and even a shaded outdoor cinema. Park Five supports active lifestyles with facilities including multi-purpose sports courts, rooftop sand volleyball courts, resort-style lap pools with lounge areas as well as kids’ pools, the statement added.

Hamdan Al Kaitoob, Vice President – Property & Community Management at Deyaar Development added, “In today’s real estate market, wellness is no longer a trend but an essential expectation. Park Five reflects this shift. We have conceptualised a community that leverages architecture and design to prioritise physical and mental well-being. With innovative designs, proximity to green spaces, and quality wellness amenities, Park Five not only enhances the lifestyle of its residents but also sets a new benchmark for wellness-focused living in Dubai, making it accessible to many more people with competitive pricing.”

With its fusion of luxury, wellness, and sustainability, Park Five is set to redefine urban living in Dubai, offering residents a vibrant, self-sustaining community that meets the growing demand for healthier lifestyles, the statement concluded.

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Foster + Partners has announced a masterplan for a new sustainable city located along Bahrain’s southwest coast. The Bilaj Al Jayazer Beach project will span 3.5km of beachfront and is designed to create a vibrant, walkable community that blends residential, commercial, and leisure spaces with a strong focus on sustainability.

Drawing inspiration from the low-rise Art Deco architecture of Miami, the design aims to bring a modern yet elements of the local culture and environment. The masterplan is organised around three primary axes, said a statement.

The first is Beach Drive, which runs the entire length of the beachfront, offering views of the coastline and serving as a central route for residents and visitors. Parallel to it is the Main Boulevard, which acts as a key link connecting different parts of the development and serving as a direct connector between the beachfront and Main Boulevard, ensuring smooth traffic flow throughout the site.

Hotels and residential buildings will be located at the end of the sites, which serve as key landmarks and focal points for the development. The overall plan aims to establish a dynamic mixed-use district that includes new homes, hotels, retail outlets, and public green spaces, creating a balanced urban environment that promotes quality of life.

The project is being developed for Edamah, the real estate arm of Bahrain Mumtalakat Holding Company, and is expected to become a major hub for both residents and tourists.

Bahrain-based construction firm Cebarco’s first phase of infrastructure works includes the installation of services such as electricity, drinking water, sewage systems, storm drainage, telecommunications, and roadways. These initial infrastructure works are expected to take around a year to complete, setting the stage for further development of the area.

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The first phase of the Riyadh Metro has been inaugurated by His Majesty King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud. The project has been deemed the backbone of the capital’s public transport network and is one of the largest driverless transportation systems in the world.

“The Riyadh Public Transport Project, which spans metro and bus networks, is the culmination of concerted efforts made by His Majesty King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, and the outcome of His Majesty’s visionary leadership while serving as Chairman of the High Commission for the Development of Arriyadh, the predecessor of RCRC,” said Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, Prime Minister, and Chairman of the Royal Commission for Riyadh City (RCRC).

On full completion, Riyadh Metro will feature six lines spanning 176km to ensure a fast, reliable and comfortable commuting experience for all. The network has been developed to transport over 3.6mn passengers at maximum capacity, and operates on a fully automated (driverless) metro system. In line with Saudi Vision 2030, Riyadh Metro will significantly bolster urban mobility and the services and logistics sector in Riyadh, said a statement.

Riyadh Metro is a key component of the Riyadh Public Transport (RPT), a well-integrated and efficient public transport network designed to serve both residents and tourists alike, and which includes metro lines, buses, feeders, Bus Rapid Transit (BRT), Bus on Demand, as well as Park & Ride facilities, it added.

H.E. Ibrahim bin Mohammed Al Sultan, Minister of State, Member of the Council of Ministers, and CEO of RCRC added, “Today, Riyadh City is reaping the benefits of this project that will reshape the capital’s image and redefine mobility for its residents and visitors. The network is in line with Riyadh’s economic, social, environmental, and urban development objectives, and represents a historic milestone in the capital’s transportation sector. Riyadh Metro is going to ease the daily lives and commute of citizens, residents and visitors, offering them a world-class urban travel experience.”

The metro will operate in phases, with the first three lines – the Blue line (Line 1), the Yellow line (Line 4), and the Purple line (Line 6) – opening to the public on 1 December. Subsequent launches of the Red line (Line 2) and the Green line (Line 5) are scheduled for 15 December, while the Orange line (Line 3) is set to launch on 5 January 2025 culminating in a complete network of six lines featuring 85 strategically located stations, including four main stations: King Abdullah Financial District (KAFD), STC, Qasr Al Hokm, and Western Station.

The Riyadh Metro is said to be a key milestone of the ambitious plans outlined by RCRC to improve mobility and enhance quality of life. The project comprises 183 trains with a total of 448 cars that were manufactured by three global train manufacturers –- Siemens (Germany), Bombardier (Canada), and Alstom (France), and features a modern and unified design by Avant Premiere (France), the statement continued.

Riyadh Metro is said to be an integral part of the city’s infrastructure network, and will provide support to Riyadh’s future development and serve as an efficient transport solution for Expo 2030 and other major events. It reflects Saudi Arabia’s commitment to sustainable urban development, driven by the need to reduce pollution, while addressing transportation demands.

Aligning with global sustainability standards and smart sustainable solutions, the network integrates environmental practices, featuring stations constructed with 20% recycled materials and local resources, and engineered to lower energy and water usage. Riyadh Metro stations demonstrate a commitment to international sustainability standards in design and execution, having won gold LEED certifications for both the KAFD and Qasr Al Hokm stations, the statement concluded.

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Arada has commenced work on the Armani Beach Residences at Palm Jumeirah following the award of the project’s first construction contract.

Designed in partnership with Armani/Casa Interior Design Studio and Tadao Ando, Armani Beach Residences at Palm Jumeirah will feature panoramic views of the Arabian Gulf and Dubai’s skyline, and feature 90,000sqft of high-quality amenities and 52 individually designed homes.

The contract to carry out enabling works at the project, which includes shoring, piling, dewatering and excavation, has been awarded to International Foundation Group (IFG). Work has commenced onsite and is expected to be completed in March next year. The main construction contract at Armani Beach Residences at Palm Jumeirah is scheduled to be awarded in the first quarter of 2025, said the developer.

Alongside the start of construction at Armani Beach Residences at Palm Jumeirah, Arada has also opened the project’s dedicated show apartment at its sales office in City Walk. The show apartment features a replica living room, master bedroom, master bathroom, boudoir and dining room, all exclusively designed by Armani/Casa, along with materials and furnishings provided by the iconic brand.

Every appointed home is defined by a desire to bring ocean and skyline views into its interior, with a wide array of configurations including two-, three-, four-, five-bedroom and penthouse residences all offering access to the exterior view. Buyers of penthouses and presidential suites will have the opportunity to work directly with Armani/Casa to deliver a truly bespoke interior scheme for their homes, said the statement.

Armani Beach Residences at Palm Jumeirah also includes two presidential suites, which combine numerous different internal function areas – including a courtyard space with reflective pool, a personalised gym, libraries, a private cinema, and a private parking lounge with space for seven cars – with an opulent mega-terrace featuring an infinity pool, the statement concluded.

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