K Developments has launched Palencia Plaza, a mixed-use project in Shorouk City, east Cairo. The project is estimated to have investments of US $31mn.

This development is part of K Developments’ strategy to expand into commercial, administrative, and medical real estate, the firm said.

Chairperson Omar El-Fayoumi said the project reflects K Developments’ focus on areas with rising demand for non-residential property, particularly in new cities experiencing population growth and expanding service-sector activity. He noted that the location was carefully chosen within an established residential area in Shorouk, ensuring a stable user base and consistent activity.

The site also benefits from proximity to major roads, including the Suez and Ismailia highways, the Ring Road, and New Cairo, as well as destinations such as Madinaty’s Open Air Mall, the French University in Egypt, and the British University in Egypt, he added.

Palencia Plaza, a 6,000sqm development on Al Horreya Street, will offer a diverse range of commercial, administrative, and medical units in varying sizes. These units, including administrative and medical facilities, and will be fully furnished and equipped with air conditioning systems.

Operational and service facilities, such as parking spaces, elevators, security systems, backup generators, and retail areas, are also part of the development. Designed by YBA under the leadership of Eng. Yasser El-Beltagy, the project emphasises functional layouts and modern architectural standards.

K Developments presents flexible payment plans, starting with a 10% down payment and extending installments up to 8-years. Palencia Plaza is being launched concurrently with the company’s residential project, Palencia Al Shorouk, as part of a broader expansion strategy encompassing new developments in the North Coast and New Cairo.

Source: ME Construction News

DHG Properties has officially broken ground on Helvetia Verde, its second residential development in Dubai.

With piling and shoring now underway as the first phase of construction, the milestone marks the commencement of works on the 20-storey high-rise in Meydan Horizon, placing the project firmly on track for delivery to homeowners and investors in Q1 2028, said the developer.

Helvetia Verde is positioned within Meydan Horizon, a live-work-play district undergoing one of Dubai’s most ambitious redevelopments. Since launch, 60% of units have already been sold, reflecting strong and sustained market momentum, it added.

This is supported by broader infrastructure developments across Dubai, including the newly announced Metro Gold Line, which is expected to drive property prices and rental appreciation of up to 30% in communities along its route. The upcoming Metro Blue Line, along with future extensions of the Green Line, is also set to enhance connectivity across key districts.

Spanning a total built-up area of 21,807sqm, Helvetia Verde is defined by sleek, elegant architecture, adding a distinctive presence to the emerging Meydan Horizon skyline.

The development comprises 108 residences in a G+2P+17 configuration, offering a mix of 1-to-3-bedroom homes, including a limited number of garden residences and exclusive top-floor penthouses with panoramic views of Downtown Dubai and the Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary, said the statement.

With just 3-to-7-units per floor, the tower maintains a high level of privacy and exclusivity, complemented by access to a turquoise lagoon, shaded promenades, landscaped parks, cafés, restaurants, and retail, it added.

Commenting on the new project, CEO and Founder Blagoje Antic said, “Breaking ground on Helvetia Verde is an important milestone in our UAE journey. It is the point at which our ‘Swiss Precision, Dubai Vision’ approach to real estate development begins to take shape in one of the city’s most promising districts. It also reflects how we approach growth in the market – not simply by expanding our presence, but by maintaining a consistent level of quality and attention to detail across every project, including Helvetia Residences in Jumeirah Village Circle, which is approaching completion, and our third development on Dubai Islands, set to break ground at the end of May 2026.”

“Together, these developments represent approximately US $354mn in development value within a short period of time and reflect our continued execution of a focused UAE growth strategy, bringing the Helvetia brand to key growth districts across Dubai,” he added.

Milos Antic, Executive Vice Chairman continued, “Meydan Horizon is emerging as one of Dubai’s most forward-looking residential districts, supported by strong infrastructure investment and long-term urban planning.”

He concluded, “These major infrastructure investments are positioning the area closer to the city’s future transport corridors, enhancing its appeal for off-plan developments. For investors, this translates into strong long-term value, while for residents, it offers greater ease of connectivity across the city. Helvetia Verde was conceived with this trajectory in mind, and today’s groundbreaking reflects our confidence in both the district and the Helvetia brand in the UAE market.”

Source: ME Construction News

Durar Group has appointed Ali & Sons as the main contractor for its branded residential development – Moonstone Interiors by Missoni – coming up on Al Marjan Island in Ras Al Khaimah.

This appointment marks a critical milestone in the project’s progression and underscores Durar Group’s delivery strategy – anchored in partnering with contractors that meet the highest standards of quality, precision, and execution, said the company in a statement.

Moonstone Interiors by Missoni is being developed by Durar F5 with Octa Properties appointed as the exclusive sales partner. The upcoming project introduces a distinctive proposition to the UAE’s branded residential market, translating the design ethos of Missoni into a fully integrated living environment.

Conceived as a holistic lifestyle destination, the development seamlessly aligns architecture, interiors, and curated experiences to deliver a cohesive and elevated residential offering, the statement explained.

The project comprises 226 sea-facing residences, each designed to maximise uninterrupted views of the Arabian Gulf, while maintaining exceptional standards of detailing, materiality, and spatial efficiency.

On the contract award, Durar Group CEO Mohammed Miqdadi said: “This marks a defining milestone for Moonstone Interiors by Missoni. At Durar, we place a premium on execution, aligning with partners who have the capability to deliver with precision, consistency and accountability.”

He continued, “Ali & Sons embodies these qualities, and we are confident in their ability to bring this development to fruition at the level it demands.”

A carefully-curated suite of amenities – including infinity pools, refined communal spaces and bespoke lifestyle programming – supports a living experience defined by privacy, wellness, and design excellence.

Strategically positioned on Al Marjan Island, the development benefits from direct beachfront access and expansive sea views, the statement outlined.

The island continues to gain prominence as a high-growth investment destination within the Northern Emirates, supported by robust infrastructure, increasing tourism demand, and its proximity to Dubai, approximately one hour away, said the developer.

The selection of Ali & Sons reflects Durar Group’s focus on execution certainty. With a strong track record in delivering complex developments across the UAE, Ali & Sons brings the technical expertise, operational rigour and delivery discipline required to realize the vision of Moonstone Interiors by Missoni to the highest standards, it added.

Source: ME Construction News

First Avenue for Real Estate Development Company has announced that it had signed an addendum to its contract with Asas Makeen Real Estate for a key residential project in Al Hada District, setting the total project cost at about US $22.9mn.

The addendum was signed after completing detailed designs and defining technical specifications and quality standards, said First Avenue in its filing to Saudi bourse Tadawul.

The residential project is located on a land plot with a total area of 23,199.09sqm. The agreement follows the company’s earlier announcement in July last year, regarding the contract for the project’s execution.

The development aims to establish a townhouse residential compound within a fully integrated urban environment. The scope of the contract includes the full execution of the project on a turnkey basis, in accordance with the approved plans, and in compliance with the technical specifications and quality standards set for the project.

The total cost includes fees payable to Asas Makeen at a rate of 14.5%, it added.

Source: ME Construction News

Emirates Water and Electricity Company (EWEC) has announced it has extended its clean energy partnership with Mediclinic Middle East for a fourth consecutive year. The agreement ensures that 100% of Mediclinic’s Abu Dhabi and Al Ain Hospitals and Clinics will continue to be powered by clean electricity, verified using Clean Energy Certificates (CECs) issued by the Abu Dhabi Department of Energy (DoE).

The renewed agreement highlights EWEC’s ongoing success in facilitating the widespread transition to renewable and clean energy across Abu Dhabi’s critical industries. Operating 6 hospitals and more than 27 clinics nationwide, Mediclinic Middle East, a division of the global Mediclinic Group, provides world-class healthcare while championing environmental stewardship.

By deploying CECs to tangibly lower its Scope 2 emissions in Abu Dhabi, the organisation is demonstrating a profound understanding that the health of our environment directly impacts the health of our communities.

The partnership highlights the importance of science-led, measurable climate action. By relying on the robust, data-driven framework of the CEC scheme, EWEC and Mediclinic Middle East are championing evidence-based decarbonisation decisions that benefit both people and the planet, said a statement.

Mohamed Almarzooqi, Chief Assets Officer at EWEC said, “Mediclinic Middle East has helped pioneer the healthcare sector’s clean energy transition in Abu Dhabi from the outset, becoming the first healthcare institution to adopt Clean Energy Certificates, and the extension of this partnership for a fourth consecutive year reflects their continued leadership.”

“Through CECs, organisations can turn climate ambition into measurable outcomes, reduce Scope 2 emissions with confidence, and demonstrate clear progress against sustainability goals using an internationally recognised standard,” he stated.

Hein van Eck, CEO of Mediclinic Middle East added, “As a leading healthcare provider, we recognise that the health of our communities is intrinsically linked to the health of our environment. Renewing our clean energy partnership with EWEC for a fourth consecutive year underscores our unwavering commitment to sustainable operations.”

“By verifying our clean electricity consumption through CECs, we are taking tangible, science-led action to reduce our carbon footprint and set a benchmark for environmental responsibility within the regional healthcare sector,” he stated.

Issued by the DoE, CECs are the only accredited instrument in Abu Dhabi for certifying the environmental and economic benefits of clean electricity consumption in line with the internationally recognised International Renewable Energy Certificate Standard (I-REC Standard).

As the Single Registrant and Auction Operator, EWEC facilitates the adoption of renewable and clean energy across diverse sectors, including healthcare, digital infrastructure, retail, hospitality and heavy industry, enabling participants to transform their environmental impact and meet rigorous international ESG  standards, the statement concluded.

Source: ME Construction News

The 2026 edition of the Value Engineering Summit took place on 6 May at the Dusit Thani Hotel in Dubai and recorded an attendance of over 240 professionals from the built environment, the editorial team at Middle East Consultant confirmed.

“Despite regional uncertainty yesterday’s Value Engineering Summit was a resounding success, with positive feedback from delegates, speakers and sponsors. I couldn’t be happier with how the day panned out,” said Jason Saundalkar Editorial Director, Built Environment and Heavy Industry Divisions at CPI Trade Media.

“We had fantastic speakers who engaged in vibrant discussions around several incredibly topical issues, and I sincerely hope that everyone who attended came away enriched in terms of knowledge and a larger professional network,” he added.

The day-long event kicked off at 9am with registrations and featured 3-panel discussions, as well as 2-presenations. Tim Shelton, Operations Director – Technology & Advisory at Omnium International Limited served as the event’s MC.

The first panel discussion ‘The Right Partners to Drive True Project Value’ discussed a number of issues including: Dubai’s new law on building quality and safety and what it means for developers and construction companies going forward; the value and niche expertise specialist firms and especially those that are focused on delivering certain types of projects can bring to the table; the pros and cons of working with multi-disciplinary firms to deliver construction projects in the GCC region, and how mindsets be shifted from ‘how inexpensive’ to ‘how intelligently’ a project can be delivered through design optimisation, material substitution etc.

The session was moderated by Nicky Dobreanu, Board Member, Middle East and Africa World Regional Board (MEA WRB) at the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS). He was joined by speakers including: Allison Wicks, Quality Integration Specialist at Qualitaz Management Consultants; Lewis Matheson, Associate Director at Rider Levett Bucknall (RLB); Manika Dhama, Partner – Real Estate Advisory at Deloitte Middle East; Paul Kelly, Managing Director at C-Quest, and Roxy Reynolds, Managing Director at OVAL.

The first presentation of the day ‘Smart contracting – Enhancing competitiveness in a highly demanding market’ was presented by Gabriel Hebert, Business Development Manager at Engineering Contracting Company (ECC). His session explored the practical approaches to enhancing competitiveness and was structured into 2 key parts: Pre-contract: From design & pricing to award – the value engineering process and Post-contract: Driving time, cost, quality, and environmental performances during project delivery.

The second panel ‘Technology & Industrialised Construction, a Game Changer?’ examined common quality issues across building projects in the GCC/Middle East region, and why this issue continues to persist; delivering fast-tracked projects efficiently using technology such as AI-enabled BIM models and advanced digital twins; leveraging industrialised construction processes/techniques such as pre-fabrication, modular construction, and 3D printing to accelerate project timelines, reduce cost and enhance quality, and the common challenges associated with leveraging technology (out-of-date hardware or software, lack of understanding etc), and industrialised construction (limited design flexibility, consistent project volume to break even etc) to deliver projects, and how these issues can be addressed effectively, and more.

The session was moderated by Mohammad Hazem Soudan, Operations Lead, Climate Response + ESG Advisory, Strategic Consulting at Jacobs. He was joined by Casey D Rutland, Chief Data & Digital Officer at Property Cortex; Christopher Smeaton, Global Digital Design Director at HBA; Fady Kobersy, Sales Director MENA at RIB Software; Ihab Ramlawi, Co-Founder & Managing Director at DuPod – An AMANA Company; Sabarikrishnan Thirunavukkarasu, Regional Head – Connected Construction at Trimble, and Tim Shelton, Operations Director – Technology & Advisory at Omnium International Limited.

The second presentation ‘Presenting CRUX Insight’s 8th Report: From Insights to Foresight’ was delivered remotely by Nader Emile, Partner at HKA. His session shared an overview of the 8th Annual CRUX Insight report and explored the top 5 causes of claims and disputes globally and in the Middle East. Emile also used his time to demonstrate the CRUX Interactive Dashboard with sector and regional insights, and encouraged delegates to take advantage of the free service via HKA’s website.

Following a 1-hour lunch break, the third panel discussion took place. The ‘Mitigating Disruptions Caused by Extraordinary Circumstances’ session was moderated by Richard Edwin, Partner at HKA Global Limited (Dubai Branch), with speakers including: Benoit Meulewaeter, Director at Accuracy; Kate Blotskaya, Senior Director at FTI Consulting; Kirsten O’Connell, Partner at Allen Overy Shearman Sterling, and Suzannah Fairbairn, Partner at Dentons & Co.

The session delved into the implications of current regional developments on contractual arrangements for projects across the GCC region; force majeure across UAE legal frameworks and what drivers can trigger a force majeure clause when contractual performance is affected?; moving away from adversarial mindsets to a collaborative mentality where parties in the supply chain work to a ‘best for the project’ goal to ensure successful project outcomes during normal- and adverse-times, and much more.

The event was supported by:

Support Partners: DesertBoard, Engineering Contracting Company (ECC), HKA, RIB, PlanRadar and RICS
Technology Partner: Trimble

Read more about the 2026 Value Engineering Summit by clicking here.

Source: ME Construction News

Azizi Developments has announced that construction across the first 14 buildings at Azizi Venice – its mixed-use community in Dubai South – has reached 39% completion. Centred around one of the world’s largest swimmable lagoons, the project represents a significant step forward for one of the emirate’s most ambitious waterfront developments, the developer explained.

Residences in the first phase are advancing rapidly. Azizi Venice 3 leads at 74% completion, followed by Venice 1 and 2 at 64% and 57% respectively. Venice 4, 5, 8, 9, and 13 are progressing between 42% and 56%, the developer explained.

Group CEO Farhad Azizi said, “Azizi Venice is taking shape as one of Dubai’s most distinctive waterfront destinations, bringing together residential, cultural, and lifestyle elements within one cohesive environment. Construction is progressing consistently, with timelines and execution standards firmly maintained.”

On completion, Azizi Venice will comprise more than 36,000 residential units across 100+ apartment complexes and over 109 ultra-luxury mansions.

For this project, Azizi is taking on the role of a master developer, responsible for constructing buildings, roads, and all infrastructure. Residences frame the lagoon shoreline, creating a picturesque setting for leisure, retail, and commercial spaces. The turquoise, desalinated waters are bordered by sandy beaches, an 8km long cycling and jogging track, yoga and sports facilities, and a vibrant promenade featuring a variety of artisan eateries and boutiques. The area is enhanced by leafy, dense, and beautifully manicured greenery, creating a serene and inviting atmosphere throughout, the developer explained.

A major attraction to be developed within Azizi Venice is The Cultural District in Dubai South, which will incorporate a collection of facilities, including an opera house, theatre, exhibition hall, and performing arts academy, said the developer.

Built to mirror Dubai’s dynamic and diverse cultural scene, the project is poised to attract creatives from around the globe. Seamlessly merging art and culture, the upcoming district will be a lively hub, enhancing the lives of Dubai South residents and visitors through a range of engaging activities and experiences, it added.

Source: ME Construction News

Shura Island Residences, a part of Red Sea Global (RSG), has welcomed its inaugural homeowners to SLS The Red Sea Residences. The move marks a significant milestone for the destination, as it brings SLS’s lifestyle-driven approach to residential living on Shura Island, said a statement.

“Welcoming our first homeowners to SLS turns our vision into a lived reality. These residents are now part of our story, shaping life on Shura Island and helping us in pioneering a regenerative approach that benefits both people and the planet. This is just the beginning of a vibrant new chapter for our community at The Red Sea,” said Stephen Cheesebrough, Head of Development at Red Sea Global.

Mishal Al Saif, the first homeowner at SLS The Red Sea Residences noted, “The Red Sea destination is no ordinary place; it represents a redefinition of global luxury tourism. As Saudis, we are proud to be part of this remarkable destination and it’s a privilege to be among the first to call it home.”

Developed in collaboration with Ennismore’s SLS brand, a curator of lifestyle hospitality and experiences, SLS The Red Sea Residences is said to represent the brand’s transformation from hotels to design-driven residential living. This exclusive collection of beach villas, ranging from 1-to-4 bedrooms, has already garnered 87% of its bookings. The residences offer an array of multi-generational amenities, set between the island’s beachfront and lagoon, reinforcing a seamless indoor–outdoor lifestyle. Set within the community is a curated lifestyle offering, centred around a main pool and Seabird Beach Bar, as well as a mix of wellness, sport and family-focused experiences, gym, padel facilities and basketball court, alongside the kids’ club, the statement explained.

Homeowners have access to lifestyle amenities, including restaurants, luxury retail, marina facilities, pristine beaches, and the Kingdom’s first island golf course, Shura Links. These are complemented by a hospitality-led ownership experience curated by SLS, offering services like concierge, security, and property management. Residents will also benefit from the Accor Ownership Benefits Programme, which provides access to over 5,000 hotels and resorts.

The residences reflect RSG’s approach to development and its long-term commitment to the natural environment. Every home is powered by 100% renewable energy, supporting a broader destination ambition to move beyond sustainability towards regeneration. By 2040, RSG aims to deliver a 30% net conservation benefit through the enhancement of biologically diverse habitats, including mangroves, seagrass, coral reefs and land vegetation. Since welcoming its first guests in 2023, The Red Sea has emerged as one of the coveted global destinations. With nine hotels now operational, the momentum continues on Shura Island, where only 2-villas remain at the SLS The Red Sea Residences, the statement said.

The dedicated Red Sea International Airport offers direct flights from Riyadh, Jeddah, Dubai, Doha, Milan, and the Maldives, ensuring residents have swift and convenient access to their homes. As Shura Island comes alive, SLS The Red Sea Residences sets the stage for a new era of living, where design, nature, and culture coexist, it concluded.

Source: ME Construction News

Palmridge has appointed JLL to deliver comprehensive project management and cost management services on a new residential development in Jumeirah Garden City, Dubai. Palmridge is the design-led real estate development arm of Emirates National Investment (ENI).

According to JLL, its Project & Development Services (PDS) team has been engaged as Project Management Consultant (PMC), acting on behalf of Palmridge, to manage and oversee the full lifecycle of Villea West, the firm’s debut project in the Dubai residential market. Villea West, which has already commenced unit sales, is set to complete in Q4 2027, reflecting Palmridge’s commitment to creating spaces that honor Emirati heritage while embracing contemporary design and modern living.

JLL’s project management and cost management services for the residential development span the entire delivery process, from initial project planning and contract administration, through design management and procurement support, to construction monitoring, coordination and health and safety oversight, culminating in project handover, the consultancy said.

“Villea West builds on Emirates National Investments’ 42-year legacy of trust, excellence, and commitment to design, quality, and timeless living. We are confident that JLL’s extensive and specialised project management experience, professionalism, and client-centric approach to project delivery will ensure superior value for our residential offerings in line with international standards, as we seek to grow and expand in the region,” said David Harman, Managing Director at Palmridge.

Gary Tracey, Head of Project & Development Services UAE at JLL added, “We are delighted to be appointed as a partner for Palmridge’s debut residential project in the UAE. This mandate reinforces our commitment to continued growth as a leading project management consultancy in the UAE, and we remain committed to delivering exceptional value and impactful results, while fulfilling Palmridge’s expectations for modern, sustainable urban living.”

According to a statement from JLL, Villea West is an 11-storey development that will comprise 229 fully furnished studio and 1-bedroom apartments. Designed by Woods Bagot, the development is conceived around a curated suite of lifestyle and wellness amenities, supporting comfort, productivity, and relaxation within an urban setting.

The architecture blends traditional motifs with contemporary form, drawing inspiration from bougainvillea, desert textures, and the area’s deep-rooted heritage. Amenities include a rooftop infinity pool, cinema and gaming room, gym and yoga studio, cold plunges, sauna, water garden, BBQ facilities, podcast studio, and a dedicated work hub, the statement concluded.

Source: ME Construction News

H&H has announced the official launch of City Tower, a 93-story mixed-use development on Sheikh Zayed Road, marking its full completion and readiness for long-term leasing from June 2026.

“City Tower reflects a more considered way of living in the city,” said Shahab Lutfi, Chairman of H&H. “Designed for professionals working in DIFC and for young families, it brings together intuitive layouts, extensive amenities and a high level of service. With less time spent on everyday tasks, in City Tower residents can focus on what is genuinely important.”

Located just outside Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) and a 2-minute walk from Emirates Towers Metro Station, City Tower rises 365m above the Trade Center. The development brings together 695 residences, ranging from studios to 4-bedroom penthouses and duplexes, alongside office and retail spaces in a single address at the centre of Dubai’s key districts.

Anchored in one of the city’s most established and connected corridors, it combines direct access to business and cultural hubs, including DIFC, Downtown and Jumeirah, with Dubai International Airport just 15 minutes away, said a statement.

The tower is designed by international architects Pelli Clarke & Partners – City Tower has disciplined geometric lines and a meticulously detailed facade. This vision for enduring living is reflected in the building’s residential mix, with nearly half of all units dedicated to 3-bedroom homes, an uncommon allocation in high-rise developments, designed to support long-term living rather than short-term turnover, it added.

Residences are shaped by clarity of layout and flow, with strong natural light, refined finishes, and low-density floors of 8-to-9 homes, creating a living environment that feels intuitive and balanced. City Tower extends beyond the apartment through a dedicated residential amenity deck, positioned as a secondary layer of living. Connected to the main tower via a skybridge above a 9-story parking structure, this private elevated oasis offers sweeping views of the city skyline, the statement outlined.

Crafted by Tihany Design, the shared spaces are designed to support genuine interaction, H&H outlined. Indoor spaces include a fully equipped gym and a dedicated movement studio, along with residents’ multi-purpose lounge and children’s play areas. Outdoors, the deck features an infinity pool, a children’s pool, two Jacuzzis, landscaped lounge areas and children’s play areas, and active zones including 2-padel courts and a mini football field.

To ensure a seamless residential experience, City Tower is managed exclusively by H&H, offering a hospitality-led approach to everyday life. Residents benefit from an exclusive concierge offering that includes everything from in-home dining with a private chef and personal fitness trainers to home nursing, pet care, and smart living digital services. On-site conveniences, including a Spinney’s supermarket and a specialty cafe, further ensure that daily necessities are always within immediate reach, it stated.

City Tower is now complete, with apartments available for move-in from June 2026.

Source: ME Construction News