OHL Arabia and Hassan Allam Construction Saudi Limited Co have jointly been awarded a contract by Saudi Arabia Railways (SAR) to execute the construction works for the Dammam 2nd Industrial City Railway Connection Project.

The project is said to be a strategic transport link in the Eastern Province near the Arabian Gulf.

As a joint venture, OHL Arabia and Hassan Allam Construction Saudi Limited Co will deliver the full scope of civil and railway works, including the development of a 22.7km single-track railway supported by extensive civil foundations, earthworks, and track infrastructure.

The project also encompasses major structural components, notably a 265m bridge across Highway HW615 and a 118m bridge over the Aramco Pipeline Corridor. The scope also covers the installation of signalling and telecommunication systems, as well as all required works for the Saudi Electricity Company (SEC) to ensure full integration of the new line into the wider network.

The project represents an important milestone in the Kingdom’s expanding rail network and supports national efforts to elevate freight mobility, industrial integration, and logistical efficiency under Saudi Arabia’s long-term transportation and infrastructure expansion plans.

The Dammam 2nd Industrial City Railway Connection Project adds to Hassan Allam Holding’s growing portfolio of major transport and mobility developments across the region, the group said.

The company is currently involved in several strategic transit systems, including Cairo Metro Line 4 and the Alexandria Raml Tram in Egypt, the monorail serving Riyadh’s King Abdullah Financial District, and the Hafeet Rail connecting Oman and the UAE. Collectively, these projects demonstrate the company’s capability in delivering complex, multi-disciplinary rail and mobility infrastructure and reflect its ongoing contribution to strengthening regional connectivity and supporting long-term economic integration.

Source: ME Construction News

Aldar and the Abu Dhabi Department of Municipalities and Transport (DMT) have announced a public-private partnership to deliver new integrated communities spanning more than 20m sqm across 5 locations in Abu Dhabi.

The new communities will bring together residential, retail, educational, and lifestyle offerings within walkable neighbourhoods, featuring green public spaces and seamless connectivity to Abu Dhabi’s wider transport networks.

The master developments will draw on Aldar’s extensive expertise delivering some of Abu Dhabi’s most iconic destinations such as Saadiyat Island, Yas Island, and Al Raha Beach. The collaboration directly supports the emirate’s broader urban development and housing priorities, including the expansion of the Value Housing Programme, a DMT-led initiative that increases access to high-quality, affordable rental housing in Abu Dhabi.

The agreement also represents a new model for urban development in the emirate, one that aligns housing accessibility, community building, and long-term economic growth within a single, coordinated framework, with DMT contributing land and Aldar serving as master developer.

The partnership was inaugurated during the Abu Dhabi Infrastructure Summit (ADIS) 2026 in the presence of  Suhail Mohamed Al Mazrouei, Minister of Energy and Infrastructure; Mohammed Ali Al Shorafa, Chairman of the Department of Municipalities and Transport – Abu Dhabi; and Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman of Aldar. The agreement was signed by Abdulla Mohamed Al Blooshi, Director General of the Urban Planning and Permits Centre at the Department of Municipalities and Transport, and Talal Al Dhiyebi, Group Chief Executive Officer of Aldar.

Talal Al Dhiyebi said, “This strategic partnership marks an important step in shaping Abu Dhabi’s next phase of urban growth. As the emirate continues to attract residents, businesses, and investment, there is a growing need for thoughtfully planned destinations that expand housing choice across multiple market segments while enhancing quality of life. Through this collaboration with DMT, we will shape communities that will meet evolving market needs and support the emirate’s long-term development ambitions. The scale and breadth of these projects reflect Aldar’s strong conviction in the long-term fundamentals of Abu Dhabi’s real estate market and our continued confidence in the emirate’s economic growth trajectory.”

Abdulla Mohamed Al Blooshi added, “This partnership with Aldar represents a new model for Abu Dhabi’s urban development, one that brings together strategic masterplanning, private-sector execution capability, and government oversight to deliver transformational growth. By collaborating with a trusted partner like Aldar, DMT can accelerate the delivery of the housing and mixed-use communities Abu Dhabi needs, while maintaining the highest standards of planning, sustainability, and quality of life.”

At the heart of the partnership is a commitment to expanding housing choice for both sale and rent, while raising the standard of community living across Abu Dhabi. At Muwaylih, Mussafah, Al Zahiya and Al Faya, the partners will create a mix of lifestyle-focused developments and Value Housing Programme homes, with design inspiration taken from the unique character and qualities of each area, serving residents across a range of market segments, the firm said.

These communities are designed to offer a quality of life defined by walkable neighbourhoods, green public spaces, schools, retail, and places to gather, connected to the wider city and built around the lifestyle needs of the people who will call them home. Located along major road networks, each destination will offer connectivity across Abu Dhabi, while fostering a strong sense of place and belonging. The partnership marks a significant expansion of the Value Housing Programme, building on a recently announced commitment to develop two integrated communities in Mohamed Bin Zayed City and Baniyas that will deliver 9,000 residential units to Abu Dhabi’s rental market.

The partners will also activate Al Mihsinah Island for the first time, creating a landmark waterfront community. Designed to combine natural coastal surroundings with thoughtfully planned residential neighbourhoods and lifestyle amenities, the development will offer a living experience that blends wellness, tranquillity, and connectivity within a waterfront setting. The partnership is a direct expression of Abu Dhabi’s urban development strategy, one that places integrated community planning, housing accessibility, and long-term liveability at its core. By combining public-sector land stewardship with private-sector development expertise, Aldar and DMT are establishing a model for purposeful and inclusive development that can be replicated across the emirate.

Source: ME Construction News

BEYOND Developments has unveiled The Yards, a US $1.09bn masterplanned destination in City of Arabia in Dubai, and simultaneously launched Arancia, the project’s first residential cluster.

Situated in one of Dubai’s fast-evolving urban districts, BEYOND’s first inland masterplan represents a significant milestone in the developer’s expansion across the UAE. The Yards reflects the company’s conviction in the long-term potential of one of Dubai’s most compelling future growth corridors.

The Yards spans 2.3m sqft of gross floor area and will be home to 1,560 residential units ranging from 1-3 bedroom apartments.

The Mediterranean-inspired masterplan is designed around a 1km green spine, with 70% of its total area committed to open landscape. It is positioned along an urban corridor that connects key employment, entertainment, and transport nodes throughout the emirate.

Adil Taqi, CEO of BEYOND Developments said, “The Yards is a US $1.09bn commitment to a district where scale, connectivity, and a genuine scarcity of quality supply are converging to create one of the most compelling long-term investment cases in Dubai. It is also a reflection of how BEYOND is growing deliberately, across emirates and across typologies, bringing our philosophy of nature-led, design-driven living to the locations we believe will define the UAE’s urban future. At BEYOND, we anticipate demand rather than follow it, and every masterplan we bring to market is an expression of that conviction.”

He added, “The fundamentals driving this market are structural, not cyclical: sustained population growth, world-class infrastructure, sound governance, and a leadership vision that continuously sets the global benchmark. BEYOND is not simply a developer operating in this market; we are a reflection of the confidence this market commands, and every masterplan we bring forward is our commitment to its continued ascent.”

The launch reflects continued confidence in Dubai’s long-term growth trajectory, supported by strong demographic expansion, significant infrastructure investment, and the city’s ability to attract global talent, businesses, and capital, he said.

The Yards benefits from a high-connectivity address, including nearby metro infrastructure as part of Dubai’s planned public transport network expansion. The strategic location places it within an area expected to see sustained demand and long-term capital appreciation as infrastructure investment and connectivity continue to advance. The site also offers direct connectivity to Dubai International Airport within 25-minutes and to Al Maktoum International Airport within 38-minutes, reinforcing its strategic positioning as both airports continue to grow.

Unveiling the masterplan’s first residential cluster, BEYOND also launched Arancia Yards, which offers 272 residences across 3 low-rise buildings spanning 1-3 bedroom typologies. The cluster is organised around a 4,200sqm landscaped sunken garden, which represents the social and experiential heart of the community, complete with 3,000sqm of rooftop terraces and more than 2,000sqm of retail and food and beverage space integrated at ground level. The low-rise, landscape-first typology reflects a deliberate product positioning: Human-scale, nature-integrated residential living that addresses a demonstrable gap in Dubai’s inland premium supply.

Ramzi Rahal, Chief Development Officer of BEYOND Developments noted, “Arancia is the first expression of The Yards vision, introducing a low-rise, nature-led community designed around wellbeing, connectivity, and everyday quality of life. It establishes the character of the wider masterplan and reflects our belief that the most enduring communities are those that place people and nature at the centre of the living experience.”

Source: ME Construction News

Gensler has completed a 25,000sqm workplace for a professional services client in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Nestled in Laysen Valley, the 12-story project sets a new benchmark for workplace design in the Kingdom, and integrates hospitality, wellness, sustainability, and cultural relevance, transforming it into a destination for both employees and clients, the firm said.

The workplace was completed in January 2026 and serves as a flagship regional office. It embodies the client’s global prominence, while maintaining connection to Saudi Arabia’s culture and aspirations. The completion comes at a time of demand for workplace environments in Riyadh.

Gensler collaborated with project partners AESG, RAM, and T&T to provide comprehensive interior design, signage, wayfinding, and environmental graphics services for the project. The workplace has achieved LEED Gold certification, a testament to Gensler’s commitment to sustainability and the well-being of its occupants.

According to Savills, office occupancy in Riyadh remains at 98%. This figure is attributed to the demand from international occupiers and businesses that are establishing regional headquarters in the city. Riyadh’s office market continues to thrive due to the positive impact of Vision 2030 initiatives, the influx of foreign investment, and the steady growth of the Kingdom’s non-oil economy.

The growing emphasis on workplace quality is reflected in Gensler’s latest Global Workplace Survey, which found that employees in Saudi Arabia increasingly view the office as a place to collaborate, learn, and access the resources they need to perform at their best, said a statement.

The research also found that workers prioritise environments that support physical and mental wellbeing, provide access to outdoor spaces, offer opportunities for training and coaching, and include quiet areas for focused work. These findings reinforce the growing role of the workplace as a strategic tool for attracting and retaining talent in the Kingdom.

Joyce Jarjoura, Studio Director and Senior Associate, Gensler Middle East stated, “The most successful workplaces create an emotional connection with the people who use them. ‘An Orchestra of Impressions’ was developed to deliver a series of experiences rooted in Saudi culture while supporting the needs of a modern global workforce. Through carefully considered materials, hospitality-driven amenities, and spaces designed for both focus and collaboration, we created a workplace that is memorable, authentic, and adaptable to evolving employee and client expectations.”

Central refreshment hubs and flexible meeting environments encourage interaction and knowledge sharing. Strategically placed staff amenities around the building core provide easy access to natural daylight, enhancing the ambiance of both open-plan and private workspaces. A standout feature of the project is its hospitality-inspired penthouse level, which serves as social and wellness hub. The floor boasts a café, outdoor terrace, wellness area, and games zone, offering employees opportunities to connect, recharge, and foster a stronger sense of community, the firm said.

The project’s emphasis on hospitality, wellbeing, and community-building aligns closely with broader workplace trends identified by Gensler’s research. According to the firm’s latest Global Workplace Survey, employees in Saudi Arabia desire workplaces that feel productive, professional, creative, and inspiring.

As demand for quality office environments continues to rise, organisations are increasingly seeking workplaces that combine flexibility, wellness, sustainability, and hospitality-led experiences while reinforcing organisational culture and brand identity, the company explained.

As Saudi Arabia embarks on its transformation under Vision 2030, workplace environments play a crucial role in attracting global talent, supporting innovation, and strengthening organisational culture, the statement concluded.

Source: ME Construction News

The RTA has announced that 90% of the work has been completed on a 1,500m bridge featuring 2 lanes in each direction, providing direct entry and exit between Sheikh Zayed Road and Dubai Harbour.

The project forms part of the RTA’s ongoing efforts to develop advanced infrastructure that enhances road network efficiency and keeps pace with Dubai’s rapid urban and tourism growth, supporting smoother traffic flow and improving connectivity with major development projects and key attractions.

The contractor has made significant progress, completing a substantial portion of the foundations, columns and concrete barriers. The project currently has 1,400 engineers and workers across 12 teams, with more than 4.2m work hours recorded since commencement, while upholding the highest occupational safety measures. More than 45,000cu/m of concrete and 8,273t of steel have been used in the project, the RTA said.

According to the project timeline, the bridge will open to traffic this June for motorists travelling from Sheikh Zayed Road, from both Deira and Jebel Ali, towards Dubai Harbour.

In July, traffic will open from Dubai Harbour towards Al Naseem Street, as well as from the new bridge towards the intersection of King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud Street and Al Naseem Street.

Mattar Al Tayer, Director General, Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of the RTA said, “The project translates the directives of the wise leadership to develop integrated infrastructure that supports Dubai’s rapid urban and economic growth. It also forms part of RTA’s ongoing efforts to develop an integrated and connected road network, while enhancing infrastructure readiness to support future growth across key areas.”

“The project represents a model of public-private partnership and integration between road infrastructure projects and urban development through cooperation and coordination with Shamal Holding. It will help provide sustainable traffic solutions that support seamless access to Dubai Harbour, one of the emirate’s leading waterfront and tourism destinations, while enhancing mobility efficiency and quality of life for residents and visitors, in line with Dubai’s vision to consolidate its position as the best city in the world to live and work.”

“Work on the project is progressing at an accelerated pace, with completion reaching 90%. The project includes the construction of a 1,500m bridge with 2-lanes in each direction, starting from Interchange 5 on Sheikh Zayed Road near American University in Dubai, passing through the intersection of Al Naseem Street and Al Falak Street, crossing over the intersection of King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud Street, and extending to Dubai Harbour Street,” he stated.

“The bridge will have a total capacity of up to 6,000 vehicles per hour in both directions. The project also includes at-grade improvement works at 4-key intersections along the bridge corridor, enhancing traffic flow and improving connectivity to the area. Upon opening, the project will reduce journey time from 12 minutes to 3 minutes and improve traffic flow to and from Dubai Harbour and surrounding areas,” he stated.

Shamal Holding CEO Abdulla Binhabtoor continued, “This bridge is an important milestone in the evolution of Dubai Harbour and a testament to what can be achieved through strong collaboration with the Roads and Transport Authority. Enhanced connectivity is fundamental to creating great destinations, and this development will play a significant role in supporting Dubai Harbour’s continued growth as one of the region’s leading seafront districts.”

“At Shamal, we invest with a long-term perspective, focusing on opportunities that create lasting value and contribute to the future of the city. The completion of this bridge reflects that commitment, strengthening the destination today while helping to shape its next chapter for years to come,” he added.

Source: ME Construction News

Abu Dhabi National Company for Building Materials (BILDCO) has announced a partnership with Wujod Real Estate Development to develop an integrated sustainable city in Abu Dhabi.

The partnership marks a significant step in both companies’ commitment to supporting Abu Dhabi’s long-term economic diversification strategy through the development of a highly curated low-density ecosystem integrating ecological estate living, wellness destinations, equestrian culture, innovation hubs, productive landscapes, and future-focused lifestyle infrastructure.

The project will cover an initial area of approximately 10m sqm. Investments for the first phase are estimated at US $544.4mn, with implementation to proceed in line with approved development plans and regulatory requirements.

Commenting on the partnership, Shamsa Sulaiman Al Fahim, Acting Chief Executive Officer of BILDCO, said the collaboration reflects the company’s continued commitment to excellence, expansion, and development, while contributing to Abu Dhabi’s economic growth and the wider UAE economy.

“At BILDCO, we are proud of our role as an active partner in supporting the evolution of the UAE’s real estate sector by providing building materials and solutions that meet the requirements of modern developments and contribute to sustainable urban growth,” she said.

Al Fahim added that the company continues to enhance its operational and production capabilities in line with growing demand in the real estate market, while supporting the delivery of quality-driven and sustainability-focused projects.

She said BILDCO remains committed to delivering products and services that help build more efficient and sustainable communities, while supporting Abu Dhabi’s vision for a future-ready urban environment.

Issa Ataya, Founder and CEO of Wujod Real Estate Development, said the company aims to go beyond conventional real estate projects to create destinations that enhance wellbeing, elevate lifestyles, and generate sustainable long-term value.

“This strategic partnership with BILDCO represents the beginning of a transformative new chapter for Abu Dhabi through the creation of a new category of low-density ecological and lifestyle-led development,” he said.

Ataya said the project will integrate ecological estate living, wellness economies, innovation ecosystems, and destination hospitality within one of the region’s most ambitious low-density masterplans.

He added that the development is designed not only as a residential destination but also as a long-term platform for wellness economies, tourism, innovation ecosystems, and sustainable value creation.

Source: ME Construction News

Sharafi Group Investments has launched Marea Residences, a boutique luxury waterfront development located on Dubai Islands. Marea Residences offers residents seamless connectivity to Downtown Dubai, DIFC, Dubai International Airport, Al Khail Road, and Sheikh Zayed Road, while placing them moments away from the Dubai Islands Mall, marina, beaches, and waterfront boardwalk, the company said.

The G+2+12-floor residential project will feature a collection of semi-furnished 1 and 2 bedroom residences with jacuzzis, alongside expansive 2 and 3 bedroom duplexes with maid’s rooms and private plunge pools. Designed to reflect a resort-inspired lifestyle, the development includes an infinity pool, gymnasium, sauna, Turkish hammam, tanning deck, and curated lounge spaces. The project is scheduled for handover in Q4 2027.

Adding a distinctive hospitality dimension to the project, residents and tenants of Marea Residences will have access to a dedicated hospitality package through Allure Hotel, Sharafi Group Investments’ upcoming 4-star hospitality property set to open on Dubai Islands in 2026.

Sharafi Group Investments currently operates 5 hotels and has completed 20 proprietary developments across Dubai, with 2 additional projects under construction on Dubai Islands. Through its contracting division, the group is also delivering projects for developers including Leos Developments, Avenew Development, Prestige One Developments, and MYK Global Limited.

On the new launch, CEO Abdulla Sharafi said: “Marea Residences is an inspiration drawn from our legacy of precision, quality and customer centricity. The project captures the true essence of resort island living while offering comfort, sophistication, and strong investment value for residents and investors alike.”

The project is being brought to market in partnership with DRE Homes, with its master agency division, DRE-X, appointed to lead the launch and sales strategy for the development. The collaboration is expected to strengthen broker engagement, qualified buyer outreach, and premium market positioning within Dubai’s luxury residential segment.

Qurat Ul Ain, the Co-Founder and Chief Legal Officer of DRE-X, DRE Homes concluded, “This project is a testament to Sharafi Group’s legacy, quality and precision and will truly be a masterpiece on Dubai Islands.  The launch will happen in phases and construction work has already commenced. We are proud to lead the launch of this project through a premium broker-led strategy.”

Source: ME Construction News

Shamal Holding has announced that new assets across its Dubai Harbour and Al Sufouh portfolios have received Building Completion Certificates (BCC) and are now operational, marking the latest milestones in the firm’s long-term program of portfolio development across the city.

At Dubai Harbour, Shamal is advancing a coordinated investment and place-making program towards the evolution of an integrated maritime lifestyle destination.

The latest asset to come online is a 9-storey multi-storey car park spanning 31,487sqm. The facility includes rooftop parking and provides a total of 845 spaces, directly addressing one of Dubai Harbour’s most pressing infrastructure needs as the destination continues to scale.

Within its expanding leasehold portfolio, Shamal has delivered 39 contemporary villas and a clubhouse in Al Sufouh.

Each villa features modern architecture and a private pool. With BCCs now secured, leasing is set to commence in June 2026.

Richard Taylor, Chief Development Officer of Shamal Holding said, “These milestones reflect the disciplined approach we take across every project in our portfolio. At Shamal, we focus on distinctive assets that create long-term cultural, commercial and experiential value, across marinas, hospitality, islands and strategic infrastructure.”

“We prioritise quality and technical excellence over scale, working closely with best-in-class partners to deliver to the highest standards. These completions are a direct expression of that commitment,” he stated.

Source: ME Construction News

Korea Electric Power Corporation (KEPCO) has won the contract for the second phase of the Jafurah combined cycle power plant project in Saudi Arabia, according to a news report.

The state-owned Yonhap News Agency reported that the company signed a power and steam sales agreement with Saudi Aramco for the second phase of the Jafurah power plant construction and operation project. This agreement was confirmed by a company statement.

It was also revealed that South Korea’s Doosan Enerbility has secured an Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) contract valued at US $556mn from KEPCO for the construction of a plant.

The Jafurah project aims to establish a combined-cycle power plant with an installed capacity of 331MW; this plant will generate 465t of steam per hour. Upon its completion in June 2029, the plant will provide Aramco with power and steam for a duration of 17 years.

KEPCO, in collaboration with Aramco, has established a special purpose vehicle (SPV) to manage the project. The contract has been funded through the Export-Import Bank of Korea. The report anticipates that the project will generate combined export revenues of $790mn for local companies.

In February 2026, Aramco announced the commencement of production at its Jafurah unconventional gas field. Spanning an area of 17,000sqkm, Jafurah is estimated to contain an 229t standard cubic feet of raw gas and 75b stock tank barrels of condensate.

Source: ME Construction News

AMEA Power has secured Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) contracts for 2-standalone battery energy storage system (BESS) projects in Egypt. These projects have a combined capacity of 1,500 megawatt-hours (MWh).

The contracts for the 500MWh Horus BESS project in Zafarana and the 1,000MWh Nefertiti BESS project in Benban were signed with China Energy Engineering Corporation (Energy China), according to the Egyptian Electricity Transmission Company (EETC).

The EPC contracts were signed in the presence of Mahmoud Esmat, Egypt’s Minister of Electricity and Renewable Energy. Earlier in February 2025, AMEA Power had already signed Capacity Purchase Agreements (CPAs) for these two BESS projects with EETC.

In July 2025, AMEA Power commissioned a 300MWh BESS extension for its existing 500MW Abydos solar PV plant in Aswan. This achievement marks Egypt’s first-ever utility-scale BESS facility. Egypt has set a target of achieving a battery storage capacity of 14,320MWh by 2028.

In addition to the Abydos BESS project, AMEA Power is also developing a 1,000MW solar PV plant in partnership with Japan’s Kyuden International. This project will be combined with a 600MWh BESS (Abydos II) in Aswan. The total cost of this project is estimated to be US $700mn.

The Minister also witnessed the signing of an agreement to establish a BESS plant in Egypt. This plant will have an annual production capacity of 3,000MWh and will be developed by AMEA Power, Gotion, and China Energy International Group (Energy China International).

Source: ME Construction News