DAW Construction, in partnership with Qatar German Polymer Company (QGPC), unveiled a solution to redefine infrastructure development: Polymer Resin Concrete (PRC). The material is said to address critical infrastructure challenges with sustainability, durability, and efficiency, setting new standards for urban resilience.

PRC eliminates water use during production, a critical advantage as global water scarcity intensifies. Governments now face mounting pressure to minimise environmental impact, and PRC delivers a solution that combines innovation with environmental responsibility. Beyond its water-saving production process, PRC boasts a lifespan of over 100 years, far surpassing traditional concrete, which often requires costly repairs and maintenance after just a few decades, said a statement.

Tarek Musbah Abdul Rahman, General Manager of DAW Construction said, “Infrastructure today is no longer about simply building structures, it’s about sustainability, speed, and value. With Polymer Resin Concrete, we’ve introduced a material that overcomes the challenges of traditional concrete, such as corrosion and costly maintenance, while drastically reducing construction timelines. This positions the UAE as a global leader in sustainable urban development.”

PRC’s technical properties include compressive strength of up to 120MPa and a near-zero absorption rate of 0.05mm. Its lightweight design allows for easier transportation and faster installation, reducing labor and equipment costs. Additionally, PRC’s resistance to corrosion eliminates the need for reinforcements, making it particularly effective for applications such as sewer systems, drainage channels, and manhole covers.

The flexibility of PRC allows for its use in a wide range of applications, including advanced drainage systems, flood mitigation projects, and urban transport networks. Its adaptability to complex designs further enhances its appeal for infrastructure planners. By enabling faster construction, reduced material waste, and enhanced durability, PRC is positioned as the ultimate material for addressing the dual challenges of climate change and urban population growth.

Rahman commented, “The construction industry is shifting. Developers and governments are not just looking for materials; they’re seeking solutions. PRC offers a comprehensive answer by addressing critical challenges like flooding, rapid urbanisation, and environmental sustainability. By partnering with QGPC, we are bringing a transformative product to the market, ensuring the UAE continues to lead in global infrastructure innovation.”

DAW Construction and QGPC are not merely introducing a product, they are spearheading a movement toward smarter, more sustainable cities. For governments and urban developers, PRC offers not only cost efficiency but also the promise of a more resilient and sustainable future.

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Modular construction specialist, LINQ, has said it has invested in ramping up its production capabilities, and is now capable of delivering nearly 1,900 fully fit-out luxury rooms per year. The move is in response to growing demand for hotel room stock in the GCC, and calls for the construction industry to embrace new and innovative ways to construct hotels in the most rapid, efficient, and cost-effective manner.

LINQ, which is the modular construction arm of UAE-based ALEC, is the first company to have secured a modular construction license from the Dubai Municipality to pioneer G+6 buildings. The firm said it is poised to be the leading modular construction partner to regional resorts, boutique hotels and luxury serviced apartments.

Critically, by producing its ‘plug-and-play’ three- to five-star hotel rooms entirely offsite within the tightly controlled and highly optimised settings of its expansive production facility in the Dubai, the company is able to target a remarkably low material wastage – estimated by the Waste & Resources Action Program (WRAP) to be up to as much as up to 90% less than traditional construction techniques, said a statement from the company.

“When talking about 400,000 new hotel rooms being built over the next six years, every fraction counts. So, the efficiencies made possible by modular construction techniques quickly cascade to offer tremendous benefit. Paired with the potential for enhanced quality, and speed of delivery – made possible by factory-controlled production – this paradigm has the potential to play a significant role in meeting the GCC’s unprecedented demand for hotel room stock,” said Graham Petty, Operations Manager at LINQ.

Through 2024, LINQ demonstrated the feasibility and benefits of modular construction for the hospitality sector by successfully manufacturing and installing 218 serviced apartments at Sindalah, the iconic island destination in the region. Key to the success of this project was the firm’s work in pioneering sustainable materials tailored to enhance efficiency, durability, and sustainability, the statement explained.

Petty continued, “We’re challenging misconceptions around build quality and acoustic performance that relate to dry walling and other traditional techniques. By introducing a lightweight cellular concrete infill to the regional market, we can offer rooms with industry-benchmarked acoustic, thermal and fire performance.”

To further inform the market around this new construction paradigm, LINQ has developed a demo unit for a five-star hotel room that will be showcased at the upcoming Project Control Expo in the UAE. Constructed with a 50mm thick lightweight concrete floor, luxury joinery, and natural marble, this demo unit also includes the DigiValet standalone guest room management system, the company explained.

“We’re demonstrating that modular rooms can be every bit as high-quality, luxurious, and feature packed as their traditionally built counterparts. With global leading hospitality chains now signing on to adopt this approach for their properties in the UAE and Saudi Arabia, we’re at a critical inflection point. At LINQ, we’re primed for the opportunity and are excited to see this segment go from strength to strength,” concluded Petty.

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ONE Development has launched ONE/AD as the first musical themed boutique hotel integrating AI, music and wellness. Co-founded by ONE Development and Amr Diab, DO Boutique Hotels is orchestrating a fusion of bold design, wellness, evocative music  and AI, said a statement from the developer.

The launch of the new hotel chain by ONE/AD is seen as another step in support of both the UAE’s Tourism Strategy 2031 and those of the countries it is operating in, not only contributing to local and regional progress in the industry, but also the economy by facilitating the attraction of increased investment.

“Our partnership with global legend Amr Diab is a bold step towards redefining hospitality Industry. DO Boutique Hotels introduces a completely new disruptive hotel chain in the UAE, seamlessly blending music, design and AI to create spaces where luxury meets inspiration. Music is a universal language and DO Boutique Hotels will redefine hospitality by crafting unique experiences inspired by music enabling guests to connect with their creative rhythms,” said Ali Al Gebely, Founder and Chairman of ONE Development.

“Building on its expertise in real estate and AI-driven concepts, ONE Development is once again setting new benchmarks in the industry, offering a harmonious blend of comfort, elegance, and unforgettable moments.” Al Gebely added.

Amr Diab, founder of DO Boutique Hotels said, “Music has always been my way of connecting with people; this vision now reaches into hospitality. DO Boutique Hotels create inspiring spaces where innovation, culture and wellness meet, offering today’s travellers exclusivity, creativity and meaningful connections.”

DO Boutique Hotels, under the slogan “Live the Beat,” offers an holistic lifestyle, transforming ordinary moments into extraordinary experiences. Each venue serves as a hub of creativity and connection, redefining hospitality and a renewed sense of living.

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Charged with revitalising Saudi Arabia’s historic birthplace in Riyadh, Diriyah Company is driving forward its US $63.2bn transformation, and says the year will have major milestones, with new details expected on the recently announced Boulevard District – a cultural hub envisioned as the kingdom’s own Champs-Élysées.

Located just 15 minutes from the heart of Riyadh, ‘The City of Earth’ has already seen the opening of Bujairi Terrace – opposite the Unesco World Heritage Site of At-Turaif – which has now become a premium dining and events destination.

The ambitious development has seen progress on key infrastructure over the past year, including the completion in November of the super-basement of Diriyah Square, the setting for six luxury hotels. Over the past year, the developer has also significantly accelerated its overall programme, having signed major contracts for a variety of large-scale projects within the 14sqkm development area.

The three-level underground structure features parking for 10,500 vehicles, 5.7sqkm of tunnels, and two metro tracks. This work involved the excavation to a depth of 40m and the removal of 10m cu/m of rock, which was then reused elsewhere on-site.

Diriyah Company also marked the completion last month of a 1,707MVA-capacity bulk substation and a 200MVA-capacity primary substation. The $181.7mn substations, operated by Saudi Electricity Company and designed in the authentic Najdi architectural style, will power key developments including Diriyah Square, the Qurain Cultural District and Wadi Safar.

Its latest contract awards includes deal signed in November last year, for a joint venture between Nesma & Partners Contracting Company and MAN Enterprise Al Saudia for the development of Qurain Cultural District. There is also a contract with China State Construction Engineering Co-operation (CSCEC) and El Seif Engineering Contracting Company for the design and construction of assets in Diriyah’s Northern District.

This was followed early last month by the award of a consultancy contract to Omrania, a subsidiary of Egis Group, for the Boulevard District project. The firm will oversee the multidisciplinary design of buildings in three community zones along the 70m-wide boulevard, encompassing concept and detailed designs, as well as construction supervision. Omrania’s work will integrate with Diriyah’s masterplan, connecting the Boulevard District to cultural, retail, residential, and commercial assets across the development.

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The UAE’s industrial and logistics sector experienced an unprecedented 225% surge in demand in 2024, with Dubai’s new industrial space requirements reaching 40.6m sqft, according to Knight Frank’s Dubai and Abu Dhabi Industrial Markets Review 2024/2025.

The surging demand levels come hot on the heels of the UAE government’s announcement of plans to grow the size of the nation’s logistics sector from US $34.8bn to $54bn in the next seven years, through the establishment of the UAE Logistics Integration Council.

Faisal Durrani, Partner, Head of Research, MENA said, “In 2024, the UAE achieved significant economic milestones, reinforcing its position as a global trade and investment hub. The non-oil PMI reading rose to 55.4 in December from 54.2 in November, marking 48 consecutive months above 50, signaling sustained business expansion, which is translating into escalating levels of demand for industrial and logistics space. Separately, foreign direct investment and international trade also recorded substantial growth last year, further catalysing new space requirements.”

Demand peaked in Q4 2024, accounting for 34% of total requirements during 2024, Knight Frank says, for 2024 as a whole, the manufacturing (19%) and logistics (18%) sectors led demand in Dubai. Retailers & traders (13%), business services (11%), and construction & real estate (11%) then followed. The sharp increase in demand is underpinning a market-wide supply shortage, with new market entrants and expansion efforts continuing to fuel rental growth.

Adam Wynne, Partner – Head of Commercial Agency, Dubai explained, “Rents and capital values have maintained an upward trajectory. Industrial & logistics rents in Dubai surged by 33% year-on-year, with vacancy rates at just 3%. While developers are working quickly to respond to the rising level of requirements, the city’s 2040 Urban Master Plan promises to deliver a new wave of industrial and logistics demand. The 2040 masterplan emphasises the development of a world-class logistics network, for instance. This includes the expansion of existing ports and airports, the creation of new transport corridors, and the implementation of cutting-edge logistics technologies.”

Dubai’s industrial areas recorded significant rental growth in 2024, Al Quoz (Grade A): +45%, Dubai Investments Park (DIP): +48%, Dubai Industrial City: +38%, Dubai South: +26%. In Abu Dhabi, KEZAD Mussafah (ICAD) led rental growth, with rates surging 57% while Abu Dhabi Airports Free Zone (ADAFZ) recorded the highest rents.

During H2 2024, new large-scale industrial and logistics projects were announced in the Al Falah area, east of Zayed International Airport. Spanning 8.3sqkm, Al Falah is emerging as a key logistics hub for the capital. The new rail network will enhance supply chain efficiency, lower transportation costs, and offer a sustainable alternative to road freight, further boosting the appeal of underutilised industrial areas, as per Knight Frank.

One of the key milestones in 2024 was the completion of the Etihad Rail network, first announced in 2008. The rail network has established a cargo link between the emirates, driving increased demand around rail hubs. Knight Frank expects Etihad Rail to enhance the UAE’s industrial landscape by creating connectivity between industrial zones nationwide. This infrastructure is likely to increase demand in lower-rent areas, reducing price disparities across various industrial zones.

Wynne added, “Another game-changer will be the planned relocation of the city’s primary airport to Al Maktoum International in Dubai South by 2034. This includes the expected transfer of all Emirates Airlines operations which is already impacting on the availability of land for industrial and logistics use. This move, while hugely positive for the future of the city and its economy, will put further upward pressure on rents and values as Dubai continues to grapple with a shortage of prime land and high-quality warehousing.”

Maxim Talmatchi, Associate Partner, Head of Industrial & Logistics, UAE, said, “Land availability remains critically constrained, with most industrial parks operating at full capacity. The limited remaining plots are prioritising end-users, restricting speculative development opportunities. New supply is anticipated in late 2025 and beyond but is unlikely to disrupt the supply-demand balance. We expect rapid absorption of the 3.65m sqft of new space currently being developed across Dubai and Abu Dhabi which is due for delivery over the next two years.”

Rents are projected to rise by 2% per month throughout 2025 in both Abu Dhabi and Dubai, driven by tight supply and strong demand, reflecting market confidence. In the investment market, further yield compression is likely, Knight Frank says, with prime net initial yields projected to fall below 8%, signalling sustained investor confidence in the sector.

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Egis has announced the launch of its cost management services across the Middle East and South Asia – an expansion that responds directly to the evolving complexities of today’s built environment.

With the current market seeing unprecedented levels of investment in infrastructure, real estate and sustainable development, the demand for strategic cost consultancy has never been greater, the firm said.

Egis’ commitment to cost consultancy was leveraged by its acquisition of Thomas & Adamson, a UK-based cost management firm with a legacy of excellence dating back to 1935. This move significantly strengthened Egis’ advisory capabilities, enabling a robust cost management function that aligns seamlessly with client needs in the Middle East and South Asia and firmly embeds cost consultancy within the firm’s overall multidisciplinary remit, it added.

To lead the initiative, Egis has appointed Simon Trafford, an industry veteran with over 35 years of experience, as the Regional Director for Cost Consultancy. He has played a pivotal role in shaping the financial frameworks of some of the world’s most ambitious and transformative developments, with a distinguished portfolio and deep understanding of regional dynamics, financial governance and cost optimisation.

Commenting on his new role, Trafford said, “I am delighted to be joining this dynamic and rapidly expanding business. This is an exciting time to be part of Egis and contribute to their transformational journey. The acceleration of development across the market means placing greater emphasis on cost predictability, value engineering and commercial efficiency. Through our integrated delivery model, and by building on the legacy and expertise from the recent Thomas & Adamson acquisition, Egis is now uniquely positioned to tackle these challenges, delivering sustainable, future-ready cities and developments.”

Egis believes that the new division will ensure clients benefit from a seamless, end-to-end consultancy offering, where cost consultancy forms a cornerstone in realising ambitious masterplans, giga-projects, and critical national infrastructure.

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Dubai South Properties has announced the launch of Beachfront Gates, an apartment development in Dubai South’s Residential District. The new project is in response to the demand for apartments in Dubai South, following the debut of South Living, which tapped into the growing appeal of the area for modern living.

Beachfront Gates comprises two residential towers, both offering views of the beachfront community and lagoon within the master development. Currently, only one of the two towers – Beachfront Gates Tower 2 -is available for sale, that features 157 units, including one, two, and three-bedroom apartments, along with a limited number of podium units that offer large terraces.

The project offers designed apartments with families in mind which include living rooms, en-suite bathrooms, closed kitchens, and large balconies and windows to maximise natural light and ventilation. Family-friendly amenities at the podium level include dedicated kids’ play areas and entertainment zones. Additionally, the project will feature separate swimming pools for adults and kids along with a variety of sports and recreational facilities at the podium decks, ensuring a well-rounded lifestyle for all residents.

Nabil Al Kindi, CEO of Dubai South Properties said, “The successful launch and sell-out of our South Living project confirms Dubai South’s position amongst the top locations by end-users and investors. This positive market sentiment has encouraged us to launch the Beachfront Gates development. With its strategic location near Al Maktoum International Airport, spacious units, high return on investment, seamless connectivity, and state-of-the-art amenities we anticipate great response by investors.”

“Over 100 units were sold on the launch day and limited inventory is currently available, which confirms the project’s appeal to buyers. At Dubai South Properties, we remain committed to attract one million residents as part of our dedication to fulfilling the ambitious vision set forth by our wise leadership,” he added.

Dubai South has been reinforcing the Residential District with amenities for the comfort and convenience of its tenants including public parks, sports courts, retail shops, hypermarket, mosque, a petrol station and a public bus route connecting the district to the Expo Metro station. Additionally, GEMS Founders School at Dubai South, opened its doors last year. Currently, the Residential District is home to over 25,000 residents who enjoy its distinctive lifestyle, range of amenities, and several gated residential communities with apartments and townhouses.

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