JLL has announced the appointment of Taimur Khan as its new Head of Research. Khan will lead JLL’s research team in analysing market data, conducting in-depth market studies, and generating reports to guide decision-making and enhance the firm’s market positioning.

Khan will work closely with JLL’s Europe, Middle East and Africa teams to develop research methodologies and ensure that the firm’s research efforts align with its overall business objectives, the firm said in a statement.

“Taimur Khan brings significant expertise and a wealth of experience that will add tremendous value in delivering JLL’s market-leading research to support the real estate strategies of our clients in the region. We are excited to have Taimur on board to lead our research team and ensure that our clients receive best-in-class insights and market intelligence to drive long-term value for their assets,” said James Allan, CEO of JLL MEA.

Khan added, “I am excited for the opportunity to head an industry-leading research team and to deepen JLL’s research output to drive impact for our clients. It is an incredibly transformative time for the region’s real estate sector, and I look forward to supporting our clients with forward-looking insights to guide strategic decision-making in a rapidly evolving market.”

Khan will draw on and contribute to JLL’s global network to provide structured insights into real estate trends, strategies, and opportunities. He has produced market-leading reports and thought leadership white papers on the office, retail, industrial, and residential sectors as well as education, healthcare, and hospitality. He has focused on asset performance and macroeconomic and microeconomic analysis in his bespoke research for global clients, the statement explained.

JLL’s research adds significant value by providing clients with advantages in their planning, investment decisions, and real estate operations. With a dedicated team of research professionals, JLL leverages its extensive market knowledge, data analytics, and cutting-edge technology to deliver data-driven solutions, the statement concluded.

The post JLL MEA announces new Head of Research appeared first on Middle East Construction News.

Source: ME Construction News

The Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO), in collaboration with the Department of Municipalities and Transport (DMT), invited fully owned Emirati businesses, which are registered with the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (ADDED), to submit proposals for the Musataha Community Markets tender.

The tender offers opportunities for long-term investment to develop community markets in seven key areas in Abu Dhabi Emirate: Al Sader, Al Adlah, Al Qattarah, Al Marfa, Al Sila, Madinat Zayed, and Ghayathi. These projects involve the design, building and maintenance of community market facilities, including retail, pharmacy, supermarkets and restaurants.

Bidders are encouraged to participate in the tender, which opened on 2 September 2024 and closes on 17 October 2024. Bidders keen on submitting their proposals must confirm their interest by filling in the online form provided in the RFP documents to receive the submission link.

Proposals are to be submitted in line with the Instructions to Bidders included in the RFP  before the deadline of 17th October 2024, 5:00 PM.

The post ADIO and DMT announce tender for Musataha Community Market appeared first on Middle East Construction News.

Source: ME Construction News

Aramco and ROSHN announced the commencement of construction on Aramco Stadium, Al Khobar’s new 47,000-seat stadium which is planned to meet international standards for football competitions, such as the 2027 AFC Asian Cup, the FIFA World Cup 2034 which the Kingdom is bidding to host, as well as other entertainment events.

Dar Al-Handasah Consultants (Shair and Partners) Dar was responsible for developing and delivering the detailed design of the new stadium; the architect’s vision for the structure is said to be inspired by the natural environment. Dar also delivered the detailed design of the mixed-use masterplan facilities and infrastructure.

Dar’s sister Sidara company Maffeis Engineering, a structural engineering consultancy, delivered the detailed design of the structurally unique roof and façade system, said a statement.

Dar also crafted the sustainability strategy for the stadium, targeting LEED and Mostadam certifications and setting standards for sustainable stadiums in hot climates, while aligning with Saudi Vision 2030, the Saudi Green Initiative and local and international regulations. The strategy includes measures for implementing passive and active energy efficiency incorporating demand response technologies, reducing water use, diverting operational waste away from landfills, and specifying eco-friendly, local, and recycled products.

The post Aramco & ROSHN collaborate for Aramco Stadium appeared first on Middle East Construction News.

Source: ME Construction News

Millennium Hotels and Resorts MEA, under the management of Lakhraim Group, has announced plans to expand with the addition of 65 new hotels across the region. The group is said to already have a portfolio of 59 hotels in the MEA region.

From a single property in Abu Dhabi, Lakhraim Group now include properties like the The Biltmore Hotel Villas Dubai, Millennium Al Masar Jeddah, and Millennium Place Hotel Doha, said a statement.

Under its Tetra Hotels & Resorts brand, Lakhraim Group is creating a new dining destination in Dubai with the launch of Limestone House in DIFC. Currently undergoing renovation, Limestone House will host several Michelin-starred restaurants. Additionally, the group is developing The Biltmore House on Sheikh Zayed Road, a destination with luxury dining, retail outlets, a wellness center, and office space.

“We are thrilled to announce the rapid expansion of Millennium Hotels and Resorts MEA, which underscores our commitment to providing exceptional hospitality experiences across the region. Simultaneously, Tetra Hotels & Resorts is redefining luxury with innovative concepts that cater to the evolving needs of discerning travellers. These strategic moves solidify Lakhraim Group’s position as a leading force in the hospitality industry,” stated Ali Hamad Lakhraim, Chairman and Founder of Lakhraim Group.

He continued, “Each business compliments the others creating a powerful synergy within our group. Our journey exemplifies what can be achieved through dedication and hard work.”

“Dubai’s dynamic business environment and supportive infrastructure have been instrumental to Lakhraim Group’s success, our vision is to be a leading force in shaping the region’s future through strategic investments and innovative ventures. By capitalising on Dubai’s growth trajectory, we aim to create sustainable value for our stakeholders, while contributing to the city’s economic prosperity,” says Fahad Abdulrahim Kazim, Group CEO of Lakhraim Group and CEO of Millennium Hotels & Resorts MEA.

The city’s economy, coupled with its strategic location, has made it a platform for the group’s expansion initiatives. According to the World Bank, the UAE’s GDP is expected to grow by 4.1% in 2025, solidifying its position as a leading global economy.

The post Lakhraim Group announces Millenium Hotel and Resort expansion drive appeared first on Middle East Construction News.

Source: ME Construction News

Bloom Holding has announced the handover process of units in Cordoba has begun within the first phase of Bloom Living, the developer’s integrated and all-inclusive community in Abu Dhabi.

Cordoba’s handover process started ahead of its scheduled delivery date, which was set for December 2024, presenting 257 residential units with modern finishing complimented by exceptional facilities. The completion of this phase follows its successful launch in March 2022, where all units were sold out within four hours of release onto the market, the developer said.

Carlos Wakim, CEO of Bloom Holding said: “Delivering Cordoba earlier than anticipated demonstrates our commitment to excellence and our ability to deliver beyond our promises without compromising on quality, which has always been at the heart of our value proposition and is why so many people continue to invest in Bloom developments. Cordoba is a perfect example of our ambition to develop premium units and provide our customers with an asset that delivers a great lifestyle with long-term value value. We are glad that our valued homeowners will be able to enjoy their new homes and investments sooner.”

“Cordoba’s swift handover will lead the way for the timely delivery of many more Bloom Living phases. Each phase has been carefully designed with unparalleled attention to detail and uniqueness. Unlike any other development, Bloom Living is a lifestyle destination centred on community living and is designed to provide an aspirational hub in which people of all backgrounds can flourish. We look forward to welcoming our first residents to this outstanding vibrant community,” he added.

Those living within Cordoba can benefit from a wide range of facilities available at Bloom Living, all within a short walking distance. Residents can explore the beauty of nature at Bloom Living’s multiple walkways, cycling tracks, and linear parks that connect the community’s neighborhoods. They can also enjoy their time at the community’s main clubhouse which provides easy access to pools, sports, and recreational facilities, as well as a wellness centre, said a statement from the developer.

Additionally, at the heart of Bloom Living lies a Town Center that offers retail and F&B options. The focal point at Bloom Living will be a large lake around which residents can walk, run, and cycle in designated trails. For gatherings and leisure activities, the community features multi-purpose amphitheaters and Sunset and Sunrise Plazas.

Inspired by Mediterranean Spanish architecture and built over an area of 2.2m sqm, Bloom Living features more than 4,500 homes, including a selection of villas, townhouses, and apartments, to suit the unique needs of residents of all generations. The gated community is located within Zayed City and close to Abu Dhabi International Airport. Bloom Living has been designated as an investment zone allowing buyers of all nationalities to purchase residential units in the development.

The post Bloom Holding begins handover process for Cordoba appeared first on Middle East Construction News.

Source: ME Construction News

Qatar Energy has announced it will build a new solar power ‘mega project’ that will more than double the State of Qatar’s solar energy production. It will significantly contribute to lower carbon emissions, within the framework of a realistic energy transition.

The new project will boost Qatar’s solar power production capacity to about 4,000MW; it will actually be one of the world’s largest solar power plants, and will be based in the Dukhan area. The overall production capacity will be more than 2,000MW.

The announcement was made by Saad Al-Kaabi, the Minister of State for Energy Affairs, during a press conference held at the headquarters of Qatar Energy in Doha. He said: “I am pleased to announce that, in line with our Sustainability Strategy, we will more than double our solar power production capacity to about 4,000 megawatts by 2030 through the world-scale, 2,000 megawatt Dukhan Solar Power Plant.”

He added, “I would like to emphasise that developing solar power plants is one of Qatar’s most crucial initiatives to reduce CO2 emissions, develop sustainability projects, and diversify electricity production, reducing carbon dioxide emissions by more than 4.7m tons per annum.”

The new solar project will be added to Qatar Energy’s solar power portfolio; this includes the existing Al-Kharsaah solar power plant, which was inaugurated in 2022 with a capacity of 800MW, and two solar power projects being built in Ras Laffan and Mesaieed industrial cities. These will have a total production capacity of 875MW and are expected to start production before the end of this year.

The post New solar ‘mega project’ announced for Qatar appeared first on Middle East Construction News.

Source: ME Construction News

NEOM has announced a partnership with international hospitality brand Zannier Hotels to develop a new luxury eco-resort in Zardun, one of its key hospitality destinations in the Magna region.

According to NEOM, Zannier Zardun will offer a ‘tranquil retreat’, at the heart of the 4sqkm Zardun resort. It will overlook the waters of the Gulf of Aqaba, and feature 100 distinctive rooms and suites, spread across three individually themed buildings. Guests at Zannier Zardun will enjoy a range of activities, including nature conservation programmes, sports, and leisure activities. The resort will also feature an ‘experience centre’ with a 360-degree observation deck, offering visitors unparalleled views of the surrounding area.

Arnaud Zannier, Founder and CEO of Zannier Hotels said: “This partnership marks a significant milestone, solidifying our position among top-tier hospitality brands. It highlights our ambitious vision and commitment to excellence, serving as both a cornerstone for our brand’s evolution and a testament to our emergence as a formidable contender in the luxury hospitality market.”

As part of NEOM and Zannier Hotels’ dedication to preserving and enhancing the natural environment, the resort will feature a series of lush oases designed to support diverse habitats, aiding the reintroduction of native animal, tree, and plant species.

Jeremy Lester, Executive Director, Magna, commented, “Zannier Zardun epitomises NEOM’s dedication to crafting unrivalled experiences that celebrate the precious environment and rich heritage of Magna. Together, we will carefully and diligently cultivate and conserve the vibrant ecosystem along the coast for future generations. This partnership with Zannier Hotels reflects a unified vision where ultra-luxury and sustainability coexist in perfect harmony. Zannier Zardun charters new horizons, merging our grand ambitions and shared values to create lasting memories for our guests and visitors to cherish.”

The post Zannier Hotels to create top-tier NEOM resort appeared first on Middle East Construction News.

Source: ME Construction News

DAMAC Properties has announced the launch of its inaugural project in Ras Al Khaimah – Shoreline by DAMAC, located on the shores of Al Marjan Island.

The beachfront residence is being designed in collaboration with contemporary art icon Vincent Faudemer’s collection, BABOLEX, bringing a harmonious blend of funky and chic detailing to create a modern aesthetic with comfortable living for residents. Shoreline by DAMAC marks the developer’s second collaboration with BABOLEX, following the Coral Reef by DAMAC development in Dubai, said a statement from DAMAC.

The new development highlights the developer’s commitment to creating living spaces that combine sophistication with tranquillity. Situated on the Island 4 on Al Marjan Island, it will offer a five-star resort experience, featuring direct access to the beach. The Shoreline is designed to offer residents unobstructed views of the Arabian Gulf, complemented amenities such as landscaped gardens, fitness centres, running tracks, swimming pools, wellness areas, a sunset bar and floating cabana, it added.

Mohammed Tahaineh, General Manager of Projects at DAMAC added, “We are thrilled to bring our expertise and commitment to unparalleled luxury and excellence to Ras Al Khaimah, an emirate that is fast emerging as a premier destination for residents, holiday homeowners, and investors alike. Shoreline by DAMAC is more than just a residential development.”

“It embodies the aspirations and goals of the UAE’s evolving population. What sets our new development apart is its prime waterfront location, with convenient proximity to some of the region’s most exciting attractions, combined with our exclusive architecture and collaboration with BABOLEX. This partnership brings innovation and art-inspired living spaces that blend comfort and sophistication,” added Tahaineh.

The government’s supportive initiatives, regulations, and residency eligibility have further fuelled demand for residential properties, particularly apartments, making the city attract the investors and those seeking holiday homes amidst its natural beauty. Shoreline by DAMAC is set to meet this demand, offering apartments tailored to the needs of modern residents and investors, the statement concluded.

The post DAMAC Properties expands into Ras Al Khaimah appeared first on Middle East Construction News.

Source: ME Construction News

SOL Properties has begun construction of the residential ‘Fairmont Residences Solara Tower Dubai’, which is said to further elevate the regional real estate landscape by implementing stringent green building principles and advanced energy-efficient technologies.

The project will implement energy management systems, water-efficient fixtures and other sustainable features to reduce utility bills and its carbon footprint. The company has delivered several projects, consolidating luxury and sustainability in the UAE real estate landscape, said a statement from the developer.

Fairmont Residences Solara Tower Dubai aims to bring a new level of service to Dubai under Fairmont Hotels & Resorts, a hotel brand within the Accor group. Fairmont will guide the project’s design, ensuring the brand’s commitment for providing homeowners with exclusive privileges. Residents will enjoy access to services and amenities, a private swimming pool, fitness centre, and spa, offering a hotel-like experience within the comfort of their own home and the tower as a significant landmark.

The initiative by Fairmont and SOL Properties showcases both brands’ long-standing commitment to sustainable development, aligning with the UAE’s Green Agenda 2030 and reinforcing the nation’s status as a global sustainability hub.

The Fairmont Residences Solara Tower Dubai is said to be a residence for upscale urban living, and uses sustainably sourced materials such as post-tension slabs to reduce material cost while enhancing structural integrity. Similarly, by leveraging prefabricated steel structural components that facilitate speedy on-site assembly, reduce construction time, enhance precision and promote environmental preservation by limiting power use and waste production, it added.

In addition, the project will feature self-shading balconies to reduce the need for air conditioning and electric-powered lights, thus reducing utility bills and the building’s carbon footprint. Advanced technologies, such as BIM are being utilised to enhance the project’s overall efficiency.

Ajay Bhatia, Founder and CEO of SOL Properties said, “We, at SOL Properties, strive to elevate UAE residents’ quality of life by synergising luxury and sustainability. In recent years, we have witnessed remarkable growth in the demand for sustainable luxury residences within the UAE as luxury homebuyers are increasingly seeking residences that align with their environmental values without compromising on comfort and design.”

“Hence, we remain committed to catering to the evolving demands of our clients by employing innovative designs and eco-friendly practices that enhance the luxury living experience. We are pleased to reveal that the construction of the Fairmont Residences Solara Tower Dubai is expected to be completed by Q4 2027,” Bhatia added.

The project utilises technology that streamline design, planning and coordination to minimise errors to project management and uphold sustainable standards, the statement concluded.

The post SOL Properties announces stringent green building principles for Solara Tower appeared first on Middle East Construction News.

Source: ME Construction News

Unique Properties has expanded into the secondary market, it has announced. Having secured 36% of its transactions in this segment since January 2024, the company has brought on board Chris Jones and André Henry Watson as Sales Directors. With their combined expertise, they will spearhead the company’s continued growth and strategic direction in this dynamic market.

The additions to the team marks a step in the company’s strategic growth plan by focusing on Dubai’s secondary market, which accounted for 41% of total transactions in 2023 according to Deloitte’s Real Estate Predictions 2024, said a statement from the firm.

With 17 years of experience across the UK and UAE real estate sectors, including 15 years in management, Chris recognised the potential growth and established the secondary market division at Unique Properties less than a year ago, and now leads a team of over 30 real estate agents. Known for his ability to drive sales growth and expand market share, he is responsible for crafting and executing innovative sales strategies, setting ambitious targets, and mentoring his team to achieve exceptional results.

The division is focused on seizing opportunities in high-demand areas like Downtown, Business Bay, Dubai Creek Harbour, Dubai Marina, Palm Jumeirah, Arabian Ranches, Emaar South, Emirates Living, Jumeirah Living and the townhouse communities surrounding the Al Qudra Road, the statement explained.

Commenting on the new leadership team, Armin Jalili, Partner, and Board Member of Unique Properties said, “The secondary market offers immense opportunities for growth, with Chris and André leading the charge, we are confident in our ability to expand our presence in this critical market segment. Their leadership will be pivotal in helping us connect more buyers with the exceptional properties Dubai has to offer, further cementing our position as one of the leading brokerage firms in the industry. Chris and André’s expertise will also significantly influence Dubai’s real estate market, driving innovation and excellence.”

Unique Properties said it will capitalise on its state-of-the-art CRM system, which incorporates years of buyer data, allowing the company to more effectively penetrate the secondary market. This technology not only streamlines client interactions but also improves the ability to quickly match buyers with suitable properties.

By leveraging this database, Unique Properties can better predict market trends and client preferences, delivering a more personalized and efficient service. Alongside the introduction of its dedicated call centre in October 2024, this technological advantage positions the company as a key player in the secondary real estate market, the statement concluded.

The post Unique Properties expands into secondary market appeared first on Middle East Construction News.

Source: ME Construction News