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August 27, 2024 foasummit0

Short-term rentals in Dubai are reshaping the rental market, with a 30% increase in demand compared to last year. Industry experts note that the trend is revolutionising the region’s real estate scene, offering remarkable returns for property owners, and accommodation options to visitors.

“Over the past year, we have seen short-term rentals in Dubai surge, with a 30% increase in bookings due to rising tourism and a demand for flexible living options. This has led to investor returns up to 20% higher than traditional leases. In comparison, long-term rentals offer steady income, maintaining an average annual yield of 7%,” says Myles Rothwell, Managing Director at Edwards and Towers.

Cherif Sleiman, Chief Revenue Officer at Property Finder notes, “When searching for an ideal short-term rental, thorough research is crucial. Our recent white paper, titled Opening Doors: Insights, Trends and Forecasts for Real Estate in the UAE, reveals that most short-term renters with families for example, prefer lifestyle-oriented communities with vibrant assets and good connectivity. While consumers seek unique experiences curated by diverse hosts, for investors, this is an opportunity to select properties that promise the best returns. Indeed, the growth of short-term rentals is a thrilling development within the real estate sector, and we look forward to its continued success.”

Beyond the increase in demand, there are specific areas which are becoming more well known for the short-term rental options they offer. Anthony Joseph Abou Jaoude, Founder and CEO of Primestay says areas such as Business Bay, Arjan, Jumeirah Village Circle, Downtown Dubai, Palm Jumeirah, and DAMAC Hills are particularly popular. These vibrant locales offer a rich blend of world-class amenities and trendy communities, providing unique experiences and effortless access to the city’s attractions, the statement noted.

“In recent years, Dubai has become a travel destination, with visitors willing to pay more for high-end accommodations. A significant trend is that families and groups prefer larger holiday homes over multiple hotel rooms, driving up the demand for vacation villas and spacious apartments for short-term rentals. In early 2023 up to date 2024, Dubai’s rising demand for short-term rentals presents landlords with lucrative opportunities for high occupancy rates and attractive rental yields. Dubai’s vibrant tourism scene ensures strong demand for short-term rentals, offering landlords and investors a steady and profitable income stream,” Anthony adds.

“Dubai’s short-term rental market is experiencing rapid growth, with new operators entering the scene. However, the market remains fragmented, with the top five companies making up less than 10% of the offerings. Over the next one-two years, I anticipate a wave of consolidation, with some operators scaling up to manage 100+ units, while others may exit the market. We can also expect tighter government regulations to ensure compliance with licensing and guidelines. Additionally, technological advancements like AI-driven tools and smart home features will enhance both guest experiences and operational efficiency. Finally, as remote work becomes more prevalent, we foresee a growing demand from digital nomads seeking flexible, short-term accommodations,” states Nina Klishevich, General Manager, Blueground.

As winter approaches, the city gears up for a surge in visitors with diverse tastes and preferences. Keeping a finger on the pulse of these needs is critical for investors looking to maximise a property’s value in this segment, the statement concluded.

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Source: ME Construction News


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August 27, 2024 foasummit0

The Riyadh Metro will commence operations this year according to Saudi Minister of Transport and Logistics Services, Saleh Al-Jasser. The minister emphasised that Riyadh Metro, in terms of scale, stands as the largest metro project globally to be constructed in a single phase.

The metro is part of the King Abdulaziz Project for Riyadh Public Transport, which aims to equip Riyadh with a public transport system that will provide all population groups with suitable public transport services. It is designed to accommodate existing and projected future mobility needs in Riyadh.

The public transport network will create an interconnected city, and features: six metro lines; 84 metro stations; 80 bus routes; 2,860 bus stops and 842 buses.

With six lines at a total length of 176km and 84 metro stations, the metro network will cover most of the city’s densely populated areas, public facilities, and the educational, commercial, and medical institutions. The network will be connected to King Khalid International Airport and King Abdullah Financial District, the main universities, downtown Riyadh, and the public transport center.

The metro will comprise:

Blue line: Axis of Al-Olaya – Al-Batha – Al-Hayer roads, with a total length of 38km
Red line: Axis of King Abdullah Road, with a total length of 25.3km
Orange line: Axis of Al-Madinah Al-Munawarah Road – Prince Saad Bin Abdurrahman I Road, with a total length of 40.7km
Yellow line: Axis of King Khalid International Airport Road, with a total length of 29.6km
Green line: Axis of King Abdulaziz Road, with a total length of 12.9km
Violet line: Axis of Abdurrahman Bin Awf Road – Sheikh Hassan Bin Hussain Bin Ali Road, with a total length of 30km

The Riyadh Metro project includes four main stations located in highly populated areas, at the intersections of metro lines and the bus network. The stations provide support services such as parking lots, ticket outlets, shops, and customer service offices. The four main stations are: Qasr Al-Hukm District; King Abdullah Financial District (KAFD); Western Metro Station; and STC Station.

Combined, the transport network and infrastructure will have a passenger capacity of 1.7m passengers per day in the initial operation phase.

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Source: ME Construction News


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August 26, 2024 foasummit0

The Big Project Middle East (BPME) editorial team has announced that the 2024 edition of its Construction Intel Summit KSA will take place on 16 October. The one-day event will take place at the Radisson BLU Hotel in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, the BPME editorial team confirmed.

The event will comprise keynote speeches, high-level panel discussions, and expert presentations and will focus on several themes including: accelerating the pace of construction in the Kingdom, maintaining construction quality and project vision over long delivery timelines, leveraging PPPs to develop civil and social infrastructure, building robust supply chains, and growing local construction content.

The event will bring together expert speakers from Saudi-based developers, consultants, contractors, suppliers and technology firms. Registration is complementary but mandatory.

“Saudi Arabia’s construction market is one of the most vibrant in the world, with an estimated value of approximately US $70.3bn according to the International Trade Administration organisation. Going forward, that value is expected to $91.36bn by 2029 as the Kingdom continues its journey to achieving the goals of Vision 2030 and the National Development Plan. The Kingdom has had some remarkable achievements since it embarked on its transformation journey but there’s still a long road ahead, which is why the key theme this year is on accelerating construction in the Kingdom, touching on several key issues connected with that goal,” said Jason Saundalkar, Head of Content at Big Project Middle East.

The 2024 Construction Intel Summit KSA is supported by:

Gold Sponsor: RIB | BuildSmart, RIB | Candy, RIB | CostX
Strategic Sponsor: ALEC, KEO International Consultants

To discuss participating at the event as a speaker, contact conference producer Jason Saundalkar on Jason.s@cpitrademedia.com. Sponsorship inquires can be addressed to Raz Islam (raz.islam@cpitrademedia.com) or Arif Bari (arif.bari@cpitrademedia.com).

To learn more about the 2024 Construction Intel Summit KSA, please click here.

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Source: ME Construction News


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August 26, 2024 foasummit0

Horton Interiors has appointed Abdelmouamine Bougandoura to the position of Managing Director. Previously serving as Operations Director, his new role comes as a recognition of his leadership and track record in managing design and projects that consistently meet and exceed client expectations, the firm said in a statement.

In his earlier role Bougandoura was instrumental in delivering projects within scope, schedule, and budget, while maintaining standards of quality, with clients including Omniyat, Gensler, Allsop & Allsop, Mohammed Bin Rashid University, and Amanat Holdings.

“Having worked at Horton’s for six years, I have been privy to its impressive growth. We are coming into a new period of growth for the business as we outgrow our existing office space and move to bigger premises. We are also about to launch something completely new on the market so it’s an exciting opportunity for me to lead all of this. The next twelve months will see a lot of change, a lot of growth for the business and we don’t expect it to end with just the planned activities. Watch this space,” stated Bougandoura.

“We are thrilled to have Abdel step into this new role. His leadership and deep understanding of our mission to create spaces that not only showcase brands but also enhance operational efficiency have been key to our growth to date. We are confident that under his direction, Horton Interiors will continue to deliver outstanding results that exceed client expectations,” commented Abdelbasset Betraoui, CEO of Horton Interiors.

With a team of around 80 employees, Bougandoura will report to the CEO and lead the charge in remaining dedicated to transforming spaces into stylish, functional environments that are tailored to the specific needs of each client. The company’s mission is to create spaces that not only look exceptional but also provide maximum return on investment by aligning with clients’ operational goals and budgetary requirements, the statement concluded.

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Source: ME Construction News


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August 26, 2024 foasummit0

Taraf, the real estate division of investment holding group Yas Holding, has announced T.M.F. Euro Foundation as the contractor for enabling works on CELLO Residences, a set of premium residences in the heart of Jumeirah Village Circle (JVC).

CELLO residences will feature architecture and interiors, offering an integration of work, living, and leisure. From open studios to one-to-three-bedroom apartments and four-bedroom penthouses, CELLO will epitomise contemporary living, the statement explained.

Low Ping, Group CEO of Yas Holding commented, “We are pleased to announce the collaboration with T.M.F. Euro Foundation (L.L.C.) on the enabling works for CELLO Residences, our latest project in JVC. We are confident that TMF’s extensive expertise and commitment to excellence and innovation will be pivotal in delivering the project. As we continue the journey to bring CELLO to fruition, we are committed to working alongside the finest in the industry; together, we will redefine the essence of luxury living, setting new benchmarks for ‘Work, Live and Play’ residential developments.”

Taraf’s fourth project, CELLO is situated close to Halfa Park & Community Park, Circle Mall, JSS International School, and Five Jumeirah Village, offering retail stores, restaurants, bars and cafés, nearby Al Khail Road and Hessa Street providing onward access to the rest of the city for business or leisure, the statement noted.

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Source: ME Construction News


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August 26, 2024 foasummit0

NMDC Group has secured a contract worth more than US $200mn from Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC) for marine dredging works in the Ruwais LNG project. The project introduces the first LNG export facility in the Middle East and Africa to use clean energy, showcasing NMDC Group’s capabilities in handling significant marine infrastructure projects and their dedication to advancing vital energy projects globally.

The contract encompasses dredging operations, involving the removal of approximately 15m cubic metres of material across a 5km channel with a 245m width. NMDC Group will also install vital navigational aids, ensuring safe maritime access to the new LNG facility.

The LNG project will feature two natural gas liquefaction trains with a combined capacity of 9.6m metric tons per annum. The facility’s use of renewable energy-powered electric motors positions it among the world’s lowest-carbon-intensity LNG plants.

Eng. Yasser Zaghloul, NMDC Group CEO said, “Securing this contract for ADNOC’s pioneering LNG project underscores NMDC Group’s exceptional capabilities in delivering complex marine infrastructure. This project, which harnesses clean energy, aligns perfectly with our commitment to sustainability—a value deeply rooted in our corporate culture. It strengthens our longstanding partnership with ADNOC and highlights our dedication to advancing the UAE’s energy sector.”

“We are determined to execute this project with the utmost precision, adhering to the highest standards of safety, quality, and environmental responsibility. Our innovative approach and technical expertise will be instrumental in bringing this low-carbon LNG facility to fruition, significantly enhancing the UAE’s standing in the global energy landscape,” he added.

Eng. Niels de Bruijn, NMDC Dredging & Marine CEO commented, “We are honored to be entrusted with this critical marine dredging project by ADNOC. Our team’s extensive experience in executing large-scale dredging operations, coupled with our state-of-the-art fleet and innovative solutions, will ensure the successful delivery of this project. We are committed to supporting the UAE’s vision of becoming a global leader in low-carbon LNG production, and this project marks a significant step towards achieving that goal.”

This strategic project enables NMDC Group to play a crucial role in expanding the UAE’s LNG production capacity, reinforcing the nation’s position as a key global supplier of natural gas. It aligns with the UAE’s commitment to meeting rising global energy demands, while prioritising sustainability and minimising carbon emissions, the firm said in its statement.

Earlier in June, NMDC Energy, a subsidiary of NMDC Group, in collaboration with Technip Energies, was awarded a $5.5bn contract by ADNOC for the engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) of the LNG growth project.

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Source: ME Construction News


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August 23, 2024 foasummit0

International real estate developer MERED has announced the opening of its new headquarters in Dubai Internet City. The 45th-floor office was designed by Italian design house, Pininfarina.

The new office, spanning 1,300sqm, is said to reflect the developer’s continuous growth and evolving design philosophy, while also integrating distinctive elements to highlight its strong brand identity. The office space references MERED’s best-known building, Iconic Tower, with a design concept centered on ‘Connection and Contrast’, said a statement from the firm.

The sales area, using neutral tones Hungarian wood and Hi-Macs acrylic stone, is said to mirror the high-quality finishes of the developer’s upscale residences, creating a premium atmosphere. In contrast, the operational area is designed with functionality in mind, featuring darker tones and serviceable industrial materials, the firm stated.

“As the UAE real estate market is set to grow to $0.76 trillion by 2029, our new headquarters in the central business hub of the region demonstrates our commitment to leading and shaping this growth. This space, especially the mock-up room, offers a comprehensive experience for our potential buyers, giving them a true sense of life in the Iconic Tower. We are keen to continue our journey to bring the future of upscale living to life, blending cutting-edge design with world-class amenities,” said CEO Diana Nilipovscaia.

Over the past year, the developer is said to have secured approvals from key government authorities and broken ground for the Iconic Tower project. With design and contractor procurement nearing completion – and main construction slated to begin shortly – the project is set to become the tallest structure in Dubai Internet City, at 286.4m.

Iconic Tower will feature 310 luxury apartments and world-class amenities, with unit handovers expected by Q3 2027, the firm noted.

In addition, Mered has acquired a prime 11,890sqm waterfront plot on Al Reem Island, Abu Dhabi, one of the top locations in the capital city for luxury apartments, the statement concluded.

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Source: ME Construction News


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August 23, 2024 foasummit0

Facilities management (FM) company HITEK Services, which is part of the Farnek group of companies, has acquired multiple contracts in Saudi Arabia, it has announced. The firm’s agreements with organisations such as the Safari Group and Omni Facility Management are said to showcase HITEK’s commitment to support the Kingdom’s development goals in healthcare, education, and cultural preservation.

HITEK’s partnership with the Safari Group includes projects such as operations and maintenance (O&M) of the 176-bed Neuroscience and Trauma Care Center (NTCC) in Jeddah.

Javeria Aijaz, Managing Director of HITEK Services stated, “HITEK’s role is to ensure the smooth operation of this critical healthcare facility. Using our CAFMTEK solution, HITEK will help to digitalise work order, maintenance and asset management, by tailoring our system to meet KAPSH’s specific needs, affording seamless integration with existing processes and workflows.”

He added, “These contracts not only represent significant business growth but also underscore our dedication to supporting Saudi Arabia’s development goals in healthcare, education and cultural preservation. We are proud to partner with these leading organisations to create an effective and sustainable impact.”

HITEK said it has signed an independent three-year contract to leverage its solutions to enhance the operational efficiency and sustainability of organisations such as the Prince Mohammad bin Fahd University (PMU) a private non-profit university.

Sabith Sasikumar, Head of Facilities Management at Omni commented, “HITEK addresses FM challenges faced by many of our clients, by providing an integrated solution that connects, tracks and monitors building assets, providing real time data. This presents a holistic overview of all vital facility systems, which can reduce traditional manpower costs by up to 17% and enhance asset life cycles by digitalising FM service delivery”.

“By connecting a building’s assets and data points using flexible, scalable and analytical platforms, the SAAS-based solution can also be managed from one central point, utilising IoT, Building Management Systems (BMS), Cloud, Machine Learning (ML) and AI technologies,” he concluded.

HITEK has also been tasked with preserving the infrastructure of the Historical Diriyah, Riyadh (HDRI), a UNESCO World Heritage site, and to safeguard cultural heritage through meticulous and digitalised facility management. HITEK’s scope of work includes contract management, workflows, job plans, inventory management SLA and KPIs as well as dashboards and reports, the firm said.

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Source: ME Construction News


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August 23, 2024 foasummit0

TECOM Group has completed the acquisition of new commercial and industrial assets as part of a plan which was announced in May 2024. In addition, the group plans to develop premium Grade-A office spaces at Dubai Internet City with the launch of Innovation Hub Phase 3, which will bring the firm’s investments in 2024 to more than US $544mn.

“The new strategic acquisitions and projects reflect TECOM Group’s vision of fostering sustainable growth. TECOM Group is committed to continuing its pivotal role in bolstering the UAE’s and Dubai’s knowledge-based economy and shaping the future of business through our world-class ecosystems that attract and empower globally renowned companies and talent across our 10 specialised business districts,” explained Abdulla Belhoul, Chief Executive Officer of TECOM Group PJSC.

He added, “Dubai is a globally renowned business and investment hub that offers attractive economic opportunities and robust business frameworks for local and international investors across myriad sectors. Underpinned by Dubai Economic Agenda ‘D33’, our business model is fostering an environment conducive to sustainable growth and excellence for the long term.”

The group said it has commenced the development of six Grade-A office buildings within Phase 2 of Dubai Design District (d3). The new development spans a gross floor area of 629,000sqft.

The development will feature office spaces with views of the Dubai skyline, including the Burj Khalifa. It is designed to meet the needs of TECOM Group’s existing and future clients, and will accommodate customer demand, including from global companies in the creative sectors. In addition to its sustainable buildings, the project will also include sports facilities, community spaces, parking, fine dining options, and surrounding residential developments. The vibrant hub will promote work-life balance within a dynamic community, the firm said.

Commenting on the launch, Belhoul noted, “Phase 2 of Dubai Design District (d3) is a landmark development that will significantly contribute to Dubai’s thriving design, fashion, and creative sectors. Spanning a GLA of more than 500,000sqft, this new office space will be built in line with LEED certification standards and is set for completion by H1 2028. It promises to deliver substantial long-term growth and further elevate our design sector’s infrastructure, enabling d3 to attract global talent and solidify Dubai’s position as a premier global centre for culture and creativity.”

TECOM Group also announced the launch of Grade-A offices at Dubai Internet City with its Innovation Hub Phase 3 development that will address the growing demand for commercial real estate in the city. Set for completion in mid-2027, Innovation Hub Phase 3 will offer premium office spaces and headquarters tailored to customer specifications across a GLA of more than 167,000sqft.

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Source: ME Construction News


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August 23, 2024 foasummit0

3DXB Group has launched 3D-printed furniture that can be customised and produced quickly meaning that schools, hospitals, and residential communities can benefit from modern designs that enhance functionality while contributing to environmental sustainability, the firm said.

“3D printing allows us to create tailored outdoor furniture that meets the specific requirements of each space. Our products are customisable to meet the specific needs of different environments and contribute to Dubai’s broader sustainability goals by minimising waste and reducing carbon footprints,” said Badar Rashid AlBlooshi, Chairman of 3DXB Group.

AlBalooshi added, “3DXB Group provides tailored furniture options that enhance aesthetic appeal and meet the practical needs of Dubai’s evolving urban landscape.”

3DXB Group says that it supports the Dubai 2040 Plan’s goals of reducing automobile dependency and increasing walkability by ensuring that outdoor spaces are well-equipped with comfortable and attractive furniture that encourages outdoor activities. This is particularly important as Dubai plans to develop a connected and pedestrian network to promote walking and cycling, which are key components of the city’s mobility strategy.

The Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan, which aims to increase the emirate’s population by 75% to 5.8m by 2040, emphasises the need for sustainable infrastructure and public amenities to support this growth. Part of this vision includes expanding public and green spaces, where innovative solutions like 3D-printed outdoor furniture can play a crucial role.

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Source: ME Construction News