ALEC Engineering & Contracting (ALEC) and Dubai Cares have joined forces once again and have signed a new three-year agreement for Dubai Cares’ ‘Volunteer Emirates’ initiative. The move follows a successful collaboration with Dubai Cares to revamp the classroom and playground facilities at the National Charity School for Girls and Boys in Ajman last year.

As part of the new partnership, ALEC is committing an additional US $163,000 towards enhancing the learning environment at three UAE-based non-profit schools by 2026, bringing its total contribution to $218,000 and a total of four schools in the UAE.

As part of this extended partnership, ALEC supported the refurbishment of the National Charity School Primary in Dubai, where 130 volunteers came together on 9 November to assemble classroom desks, relocate new school furniture, equip the teachers’ lounge with new desks, chairs and cabinets, as well as set up a new sensory room for the students of determination with sensory and educational tools and paint educational murals across the school walls.

This collaborative effort aims to give the National Charity School Primary in Dubai a facelift, creating a learning environment that empowers students to reach their full potential. The enhancements will not only improve the school’s overall learning environment, but also establish a nurturing space where students can truly flourish, said a statement from ALEC.

Dubai Cares plays a key role in helping achieve the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 4, which aims to ensure inclusive and quality education for all and promote lifelong learning by 2030. ALEC is a participant of the United Nations Global Compact initiative that fosters responsible corporate citizenship and promotes universal social and environmental principles to address the challenges of globalisation, the statement added.

“As a participant in the United Nations Global Compact, ALEC’s values resonate deeply with those of Dubai Cares, making our partnership especially impactful,” said Abdulla Ahmed Alshehhi, Chief Operating Officer at Dubai Cares.

He added, “Our collaboration this year at the National Charity School Primary in Dubai is a testament to what we can accomplish together. ALEC’s support has led to meaningful enhancements, from providing high-quality desks and educational tools to adding vibrant murals that bring life to the school’s spaces and setting up a sensory room for the students of determination. These improvements create a supportive and inclusive learning environment where students feel encouraged and empowered to reach their full potential. We extend our heartfelt thanks to ALEC for their ongoing commitment and to each volunteer who contributed their time and effort to make this initiative a success.”

“Equitability, and the opportunity for continuous development are values we proudly champion in our own workforce at ALEC, and our support of the incredible initiatives by Dubai Cares are an extension of this commitment to the wider community. I thank Dubai Cares for giving us the opportunity and look forward to seeing our partnership flourish as together, we drive impactful change and benefits to communities,” stated John Deeb, CFO & COO at ALEC.

In addition, ALEC has committed to Dubai Cares’ ‘Adopt a School’ initiative. Over a nearly three-year period, Dubai Cares will utilise the funds to construct a three-classroom school at a village in the Western Region of Nepal, and then offer quality primary education to 90 girls and boys from underprivileged backgrounds. Additionally, this programme will include adult education and literacy classes, benefiting 40 adults from the local community.

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Source: ME Construction News

Dubai’s commercial office market is reaching new heights, with demand driving occupancy rates and rental growth across prime business districts, as per Savills’ Q3 2024 Dubai Office Market report. Driven by a rise in new business registrations and expansion activities by existing firms, including those in finance and technology sectors, the city’s real estate landscape is more competitive than ever, positioning Dubai as a top global business destination, said a statement.

According to the report, over 24,000 new businesses were registered in the first half of 2024, marking a 5% year-on-year growth. This surge underscores the economic momentum fuelled by the Dubai Economic Agenda (D33) and highlights the emirate as a hub for international trade and innovation. Key business areas such as DIFC, Downtown, and Business Bay now boast occupancy rates between 95% and 97% reflecting robust demand for high quality office spaces.

Average Grade A rental values surged by 25% year-on-year, with specific locations like Business Bay and Downtown experiencing jumps of 44% and 36%, respectively. DIFC’s properties lead the market, reporting rent increases as high as 25%, while new developments such as DIFC Square and Immersive Tower are set to add over 10m sqft of premium office space by 2028, the report outlined.

“Dubai’s office market growth underscores its appeal as a global business hub, bolstered by ease of setup, favourable tax conditions, and a strategic location. Businesses are establishing or expanding their presence here, recognising the value of high-quality office spaces that support talent attraction and growth. This demand signals further market evolution in the years ahead,” said Toby Hall, Head of Commercial Agency at Savills Middle East.

Paula Walshe, Director of Transactional Services at Savills Middle East added, “The unprecedented rental increases and high occupancy rates demonstrate Dubai’s standing as a premier destination for global business expansion. We’re seeing strong interest from international firms, especially in finance and technology, prioritising flexible office spaces to meet their ambitious growth targets and align with Dubai’s strategic vision.”

In addition, the rise of hybrid working models has led to a growing demand for flexible workspaces, with companies opting for open-plan layouts and co-working solutions like those offered by Executive Centre and Cloud Spaces. These spaces are particularly attractive for startups and new entrants seeking flexible lease terms and a rapid operational setup.

Demand for office space is concentrated in areas with prime offerings, yet more affordable options are also experiencing significant rental increases, as seen in Dubai Science Park and Dubai Investments Park, which recorded a 37% year-on-year rise. Expo City is emerging as a competitive option, offering high-quality facilities with strong transport links at a lower price point than the central business districts.

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Source: ME Construction News

Property Monitor has appointed Henry Bacha as its Chief Executive Officer. The appointment comes as Property Monitor enters a new phase in its growth, with expansion plans across the UAE and ventures into new markets, said a statement from the company.

Bacha, who previously held the position of CEO at Property Monitor’s parent company – Cavendish Maxwell – has more than 25 years’ experience in the Middle East and Europe through senior roles in real estate advisory, financial services, tourism and media.

He is said to be a leader in innovation, strategy, marketing, business development and property technology. Bacha’s previous positions include Chief Commercial Officer and Chief Marketing Officer at Abu Dhabi Finance and a range of consultancy roles serving the banking and finance sector.

“Property Monitor has gone from strength to strength since its commercial launch in 2018, with ongoing enhancements and services that provide real estate stakeholders and decision makers with unrivalled tools, information and intelligence.  We are proud to play a key role in the continued success of Dubai’s property sector, and, as we further evolve the business, look forward to bringing more products to market both here in the UAE and the wider Middle East,” said Bacha.

Jay Grant, Founder of Cavendish Maxwell added, “Henry is a born leader whose skills, dedication and expertise have been pivotal to the Cavendish Maxwell success story – and are now fundamental to Property Monitor’s continued expansion and development. I am confident that with Henry at the helm, Property Monitor will not only retain its market leading position in the UAE but will evolve to become the market leading source for real estate intelligence in the MENA region.”

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Source: ME Construction News

The Middle East Consultant (MEC) team has unveiled the shortlist for the 2024 edition of the annual Middle East Consultant Awards (MEC Awards). The gala event willis scheduled to take place on 14 November at the Ritz Carlton JBR, Dubai.

As before, the awards categories have been segmented into three main categories: Company; Project and People. Over 140 nominations were submitted across the Awards’ various categories and 23 winners will be recognised on the night of the awards.

The MEC team also confirmed that the gala night will be split into two distinct segments; the ED&I Awards shortlist and winners will be revealed only on the night of the awards, ahead of the MEC Award winners. A short networking break will separate the two Award programmes on the day. The MEC team confirmed that they were combining the ED&I Awards and MEC Awards on 1 October, with the goal of exposing ED&I winners to the broader MEC audience.

The full short list of the 2024 MEC Awards is as follows:

Interior Design Company of the Year

• KEO Design
• SAY Studio

Architectural Company of the Year

• Boozhgan Architectural Studio
• Dewan Architects + Engineers
• Gensler Middle East
• Memar Architecture
• Mohamed Tabat Architects
• RSP

Cost Consulting Company of the Year

• AESG
• Baker Wilkins & Smith
• C-Quest International
• Northcroft Middle East LLC
• Omnium
• Turner & Townsend Middle East

Dispute Resolution Company of the Year

• HKA
• Secretariat
• Turner & Townsend Middle East

Gender & Ethical Employment Champion of the Year

• AESG
• AtkinsRealis

HR  + Wellness Champion of the Year

• AECOM
• Atkins Realis

Company of the Year

• AESG
• Al Ajmi Engineering Consultants
• Atkins Realis
• Dewan
• KEO International Consultants
• KPM

MEP Engineering Company of the Year

• AESG
• Al Suweidi Engineering Consultancy
• KPM

On-site Health & Safety Champion of the Year

• JLL
• Ministry of Culture, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

Specialist Consulting Company of the Year

• AESG
• KPM
• STONEX Consulting
• Tenable Fire Engineering Consultancy
• Turner & Townsend Middle East

Structural Engineering Company of the Year

• ASG NVS
• KPM

Project Management Company of the Year

• Aji Group
• Compass Project Consulting
• JLL
• Omnium

Sustainable Consultancy of the Year

• AECOM
• AESG
• AtkinsRealis
• Climatize
• Cundall
• JLL
• LWK + Partners

Project of the Year – Government & Infrastructure

• AECOM – Terminal A, Zayed International Airport
• Cundall – Greater Muscat Structure Plan
• DesignFit LLC– DIFC Courts

Project of the Year – Hospitality & Tourism

• AECOM – COP 28
• Atkins Realis – Qetaifan Island
• FSK & Partners – Anantara Santorini Abu Dhabi Retreat
• JT + Partners – LXR Island Resort by Hilton
• Kalbod Design Studio – Ice Cube Hotel
• KPM – JW Marriott Hotel and Residence
• MZ Architects – Teamlab Phenomena
• RSP – BAPS Hindu Mandir Complex
• Serco – Amaala Yacht Club
• Valcarce Architects – GAIA

Project of the Year – Residential & Commercial

• AECOM – Baccharat Hotel & Residences
• CSQ Project Development Consultancies – Cloud Spaces, Circle Mall
• Gensler Middle East – Ras Al Khaimah Central Premium Commercial Hub
• Godwin Austen Johnson – Serenia Living
• JT + Partners – The Pinnacle Tower
• Kalbod Design Studio – Zephyr House
• KPM – Azizi Venice
• MZ Architects – Sea La Vie
• Parsons – King Abdullah Financial District – Residential & Commercial Towers
• Serco – DAMAC Lagoons
• Serco – The Link, Masdar City
• Trust Engineering Consultancy – One Pearl GV101 Residential Building

Project of the Year – Retail and Public Facilities

• JT + Partners – The Office Headquarters
• Kalbod Design Studio – Dubai Art Museum
• Trust Engineering Consultancy – ECQ11 Corporate Office Building

C-Suite Executive of the Year

• AESG – Saeed Al Abbar
• Al Khoory Solutions LLC – Tabish Abrar
• Dewan – Ammar Alassam
• KPM – Kashif Fakih
• Serco – Engi Jaber

Under 30 Champion of the Year

• AECOM – Limi Suresh Engoor
• AtkinsRealis – Fathima Mubarak
• Baker Wilkins & Smith – Ahmed Alsaad
• CSQ Project Development Consultants – Laura Davies
• Godwin Austen Johnson – Hannah Alcantara
• JT + Partners – Muhammed Hisham
• Mirage – Hind Abusnana
• Omnium – Anel Seidakhmetova
• Serco – Hiba Ahmed
• Turner & Townsend – Uwais Paderwala

Multi-Discipline Consulting Company of the Year

• AECOM
• Aji Group
• AtkinsRealis
• CSQ Project Development Consultants
• Cundall
• FSK & Partners
• Jacobs
• KEO International Consultants
• TGP International
• Zutari Middle East

Read more about the MEC Awards by clicking here.

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Source: ME Construction News

Ahmed Darwish Al Muhairi, General Manager, Islamic Affairs & Charitable Activities Department said, “The opening of the first Net Zero emissions mosque in the Middle East is an achievement that reflects our deep commitment to the principles of sustainability and represents a significant shift in the field of environmental sustainability and highlights our fruitful collaboration with Majid Al Futtaim in implementing this initiative. It serves as a live example of a successful partnership between the public and private sectors, setting a new standard for responsible innovation in building and maintenance, it also aligns with the noble Islamic values that advocate for environmental preservation and protection.”

Muhairi added, “This project perfectly aligns with the United Arab Emirates’ Vision 2030, which focuses on achieving a balance between economic development and environmental conservation. We reaffirm our commitment to supporting this ambitious green agenda, and we hope that this project will inspire more initiatives across the region and the world. It encourages all sectors to adopt innovative solutions that contribute to building a sustainable environment, ensuring safety and prosperity for future generations.”

Ahmed Galal Ismail, Chief Executive Officer, Majid Al Futtaim Holding commented, “It is a great honour to inaugurate the Majid Al Futtaim Mosque, a symbol of our late Founder’s enduring legacy and a tribute to his commitment to serve the communities in which we operate. As the first Net Positive mosque in the region, this space has been thoughtfully designed as a cornerstone of the community, blending sustainable design principles with Islamic values.We would like to thank the Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department for their full support of this project, helping us to maximise our positive social and environmental impact.”

As a result of a series of key sustainable features, the Majid Al Futtaim Mosque is first project to achieve BREEAM certification. This recognises measures of performance, which are set against established benchmarks, evaluating the building’s specification, design, construction, and use.

The mosque’s construction incorporates advanced mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) systems, renewable energy sources, and sustainable building practices designed to achieve a net-positive status. Key features include a renewable energy system with  203 solar photovoltaic panels, providing a total installed solar capacity of 116.73kWp and generating over 204,121kWh annually, providing more than 115% of the mosque’s energy demand.

The excess green energy  is supplied back to the grid to be used across the community. Additional energy-efficient systems include a solar-powered hot water system, LED lighting, an efficient HVAC setup, EV charging stations and a Building Management System (BMS) to optimise energy consumption. Water efficiency, air quality, and non-toxic materials have been employed to ensure a healthy environment, with responsibly sourced, low-carbon materials prioritised to  reduce its overall carbon footprint.

The first of its kind structure reinforces Majid Al Futtaim’s commitment to building a cleaner tomorrow and aim to achieve Net Positive in carbon and water for all its operating companies by 2040, the statement concluded.

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Source: ME Construction News

Developer Rashed Darwish Al Ketbi (RDK) Group has unveiled Tower Two, a New Marriott International Branded Residences Tower in Al Barsha South, Dubai. Each apartment aims to offer a sophisticated lifestyle and views of landmarks, including the Burj Khalifa and Burj Al Arab.

Tower One is now 90% occupied, with Tower Two offering 137 fully furnished units across 24 floors, ready for immediate move-in. The units are said to feature luxury finishes, including Italian marble in the kitchens.

“At RDK Group, we are overjoyed with the launch of Tower Two, with ready to move in units, and the forthcoming opening of Tower Three at Marriott Residences Al Barsha South, Dubai. These properties set a new benchmark for luxury living in Dubai, something we are proud to play our part in delivering. Building on our ongoing partnership with Marriott International, this success paves the way for exciting projects ahead, including the upcoming launch of the Autograph Collection and The Westin Residences,” said Raja Zeidan, Chief Operations Officer of RDK Group.

The project features 24/7 reception and security services and a number of amenities including an outdoor pool and jacuzzi, a fully equipped gym, saunas, games room, kid’s playground, two well-equipped meeting rooms, and an exclusive residents lounge offering refreshments throughout the day and two well-equipped meeting rooms.

RDK Group has confirmed plans to launch Tower Three by the end of 2024. Having received significant interest from investors, RDK Group expects continued sales to reflect the high appetite for these state-of-the-art properties. Through its ongoing relationship with Marriott International, RDK Group is providing buyers with destination living that re-imagines the possibilities of comfort, luxury, and style, the statement outlined.

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Source: ME Construction News

HDR announced the appointment of Steve Feeney as Head of Transportation for the United Kingdom, a key growth area for the firm’s global multidisciplinary professional services consultancy.

In his new role, Feeney will expand HDR’s business in the UK’s transportation infrastructure markets including highways and bridges, transit and heavy rail, aviation, ports and maritime. He will leverage the firm’s extensive North American, Middle East, and Asia-Pacific experience to provide holistic advisory, architectural and engineering services to transportation clients across the UK.

Feeney has two decades of experience in the infrastructure industry, with a background spanning the UK, Asia and North America. His expertise includes project and programme management, commercial management, and organisational change.

Prior to joining HDR, Feeney held a senior leadership role at another infrastructure consultancy where he was responsible for securing rail consulting and design projects across Europe. He is said to have served as Programme Manager of Phase 1 enabling works for High Speed Two, a planned $72.3bn high speed rail network linking London with Birmingham.

“Working with HDR’s global transportation professionals, as well as the established UK team, we have a fantastic opportunity to offer clients innovative and sustainable transportation solutions. My main goal is to leverage HDR’s diverse multidisciplinary expertise and tailored approach to deliver the same level of excellence within the UK that HDR is known for in other markets and regions across the globe,” said Feeney.

“Steve’s considerable experience and background in the transportation industry will be a valuable asset for HDR’s clients in the UK. Our UK-based professionals are providing complete AEC project lifecycle advisory and design services to clients in numerous markets including commercial, real estate, telecom and data, health, power, and more. We’re excited to grow our portfolio and bring our diversified skillset and experience in the global transportation infrastructure market to improve mobility, strengthen economies, and enhance quality of life in communities across the UK,” added HDR Global Transportation President Tom McLaughlin.

Based in London, Feeney joins more than 300 HDR employees in the UK, and 13,000-plus employees worldwide. As the leader of the firm’s UK transportation practice, he will work with other regional leaders to strengthen the transport practice and partner with a worldwide network of technical leaders to offer streamlined multidisciplinary solutions. Feeney will also build strategic partnerships with other firms and be responsible for delivering an exceptional client experience, the statement concluded.

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Source: ME Construction News

Ezdihar Real Estate Development has launched Ezdihar Park, an office and lifestyle project located on Prince Turki Al Awwal Road within the King Saud University district.

The state-of-the-art office park development is set to redefine Riyadh’s commercial landscape, offering much-needed office space amid a period of record-high demand driven by Riyadh’s flourishing business climate. Following the completion of the design phase, excavation work has now commenced, said a statement.

As Riyadh rises as a premier business hub in the Middle East, the demand for high-quality office spaces is soaring. Ezdihar Park is strategically designed to address this demand, offering over 100,000sqm of leasable office space complemented by 70,000sqm of landscaped surroundings across 23 architecturally distinct buildings, the statement noted.

“The launch of Ezdihar Park on Prince Turki Al Awwal Road strengthens our commitment to delivering world-class, commercial environments that elevate Riyadh’s standing as a global business hub. We’re confident that Ezdihar Park will meet the rising demand for premium office spaces designed to support sustainable operations, providing companies with a dynamic environment that enhances productivity, collaboration, and overall quality of life. The project not only represents an opportunity for growth, but also highlights its strategic importance in attracting international businesses and investors to Saudi Arabia. We look forward to seeing the positive impact on Riyadh’s economy and its expanding business landscape,” said AbdulMohsen bin Fawaz AlHokair, CEO of Ezdihar Real Estate Development.

With the Regional Headquarters Program drawing global companies to Riyadh, Ezdihar Park answers to the critical need for office space in a market that experiences rapid influx of businesses and investors, increased rental rates and a scarcity of available space. Ezdihar Park provides a variety of premium, customizable office configurations including single buildings, full floors, and multi-building cluster- to meet the needs of diverse business tenants, the statement added.

Positioned near major destinations such as U Walk and the King Abdullah Financial District (KAFD), Ezdihar Park is at the very centre of Riyadh, with easy access to primary transit routes and metro lines. The development is set to become a key commercial hub, attracting local and international businesses that seek proximity to Riyadh’s government and business districts, the statement noted.

Ezdihar Park’s design combines traditional Najdi and Salmani architectural with modern elements, creating an inspiring space with rooftop terraces, sky gardens, expansive lobbies, and high-tech amenities to serve both tenants and visitors. The project will also feature retail and F&B pavilions, including international restaurants, fitness centers, wellness spaces, green areas, and shaded walkways, ensuring a comprehensive lifestyle offering.

As a sustainable development, Ezdihar Park incorporates energy-efficient systems, solar panels, and locally sourced materials, reinforcing its commitment to environmental stewardship and positioning it as one of Riyadh’s greenest office developments. With over 3,000 underground parking spaces, EV charging stations, and racks for bikes and scooters, the park prioritises walkability, connectivity, and a low environmental impact, the statement concluded.

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Source: ME Construction News

NMDC Dredging & Marine, part of NMDC Group is set to begin work on a project valued at more than US $300mn for the TA’ZIZ master development, the UAE’s chemicals and transition fuels ecosystem.

The firm will provide engineering, procurement, and construction support to develop a dedicated chemicals port. When the port is complete, it will facilitate the export of chemicals and transition fuels, ensuring operational connectivity to regional and global markets and enhancing access to imported supplies, said a statement.

Yasser Zaghloul, CEO of NMDC Group said, “NMDC Group is proud to be a strategic facilitator of this profoundly significant project, and we’re delighted that our capabilities will help to advance the UAE’s ‘pro-climate, pro-growth’ economic aspirations.”

Niels de Bruijn, CEO of NMDC Dredging & Marine noted, “Our marine, dredging and construction works at TA’ZIZ will enable the establishment of a dedicated chemicals port, ensuring the efficient transportation of goods and providing the necessary support and reach for key markets around the globe.”

NMDC Dredging & Marine’s contribution to the TA’ZIZ project follows a series of announcements in 2024 by the group. In September 2024. NMDC Energy has also joined a group of 15 listed entities, known as the FADXI15, forming a Shariah compliant index for global Islamic investors.

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Source: ME Construction News

Al Sayyah Group has announced Butterfly Towers, a new residential development in Arjan, Dubai. The development comprises 434 residential units and will offer residents a high standard of living.

The units include 28 studios, 238 one-bedroom apartments, 152 two-bedroom apartments and 16 three-bedroom apartments, along with retail shops, designed for families, singles, and professionals, said a statement.

Demand for quality residential properties is on the rise, driven by population growth, an increasing expatriate presence, and a stable economic environment. Investors are actively seeking opportunities in developing areas like Arjan, where infrastructure improvements and community amenities are expected to elevate property value, the developer said.

With contemporary interiors, layouts, and balconies, the project promises a lifestyle of comfort and elegance. Residents of Butterfly Towers will benefit from convenient access to major landmarks like Dubai Miracle Garden and Dubai Hills Mall, along with connectivity to the city via key highways, including Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road, said a statement from the firm.

“Butterfly Towers is not just a residential development; it’s a transformative vision that blends luxury and sustainability, setting a new standard for urban living in Dubai. It embodies the notion that graceful ideas have the potential to grow and evolve into impactful outcomes for the entire community when thought-out strategically and developed with foresight. Butterfly Towers reflects Al Sayyah Group’s vision of creating communities that are both luxurious and sustainable, offering a seamless blend of modern amenities, eco-friendly features, and exceptional convenience,” said Marwan Al Sayyah, CEO of Al Sayyah Group.

The project takes its inspiration from the elegance and impactful nature of butterflies, merging contemporary architecture with lush green surroundings. Drawing on the ‘Butterfly Effect’, each deliberate design choice aims to create a luxurious living experience that resonates throughout the development. It offers a retreat within the city, where world-class amenities and stunning views unite to deliver a lifestyle of grace, comfort, and positive change, the statement explained.

As the construction of Butterfly Towers approaches completion, this development is anticipated to attract discerning buyers seeking a long-term investment and an exceptional lifestyle in one of Dubai’s most promising and thriving communities, the developer concluded.

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Source: ME Construction News