Arada has unveiled Jenna, a new upscale residential complex situated in the US $9.53bn Aljada mega community in Sharjah.

Based in Aljada’s West Boulevard, the complex’s initial 100 apartments are now available to purchase as part of Jenna 1, with the construction of all 631 homes scheduled to be completed by the end of the first quarter of 2029.

Located near Aljada’s main entrance, Jenna boasts fresh, stylish and contemporary architecture. The 6-building development includes a selection of 1-3 bedroom residences, all of which come with smart home features and high-end appliances as standard.

Jenna is in close proximity to a broad range of premium amenities, including Raffles World Academy Sharjah, which will open in September; Aljada’s sports complex, which be finished by the end of 2026; and Madar Mall, a new family entertainment destination that is on track to be completed by the end of 2028.

The complex is also situated on Aljada’s West Boulevard, which is home to a wealth of shopping and dining experiences, while Jenna residents will also benefit from exclusive access to the buildings’ gyms and swimming pools.

Ahmed Alkhoshaibi, Group CEO of Arada said, “We continue to see impressive resilience in the Sharjah real estate market, which has a well-earned reputation for stability backed by the kind of transformational communities that developers such as Arada are delivering. Offering easy access to a host of world-class amenities as part of one of the region’s top master-planned communities, homes at Jenna are perfectly designed for those who wish to live happier, healthier and more meaningful lives.”

The launch of Jenna comes amid sustained property demand across Aljada and the wider emirate. According to data released by the Sharjah Real Estate Registration Department, total trading value reached US $5bn in the first quarter of 2026, compared to US $3.6bn during the corresponding period of 2025 – a 40.7% year-on-year increase.

Source: ME Construction News

Nakheel has awarded contracts worth over US $953mn to Ginco General Contracting and United Engineering Construction (UNEC) for the construction of 544 villas on Palm Jebel Ali. This milestone marks a significant achievement in the delivery of one of Dubai’s key waterfront developments.

Under the awarded contracts, Ginco will construct 354 villas across Fronds A to D, while UNEC will deliver 190 villas on Fronds E and F. Construction is scheduled to commence this quarter, with completion targeted for Q4 2028.

Khalid Al Malik, Chief Executive Officer of Dubai Holding Real Estate said, “The awarding of these contracts signals tangible progress in the delivery of Palm Jebel Ali, with construction now progressing across multiple fronds. As momentum continues to build, Palm Jebel Ali represents one of the most significant expansions of Dubai’s urban coastline in a generation and will play a key role in supporting the emirate’s long-term growth, further strengthening its global appeal as a great place to live, invest and visit.”

Gheyath Mohammad Gheyath, Founder and Chairman of Ginco General Contracting added, “We are delighted to continue our successful journey in construction and development with Nakheel. This ongoing partnership is a testament to the strength of our relationship and our strong performance. We pledge to complete this project to the highest standards, and we remain committed to contributing to the realisation of our shared vision for this vibrant city.”

Eng. Abdul Halim Muwahid, Chairman of United Engineering Construction (UNEC) said, “Palm Jebel Ali is a remarkable project that stands as a testament to our shared vision and collaboration. Together, we are not just building communities, we are building tomorrow’s legacy, today. We deeply value our partnership with Nakheel and remain committed to sustaining and strengthening this relationship as we move forward toward continued success.”

Palm Jebel Ali plays a crucial role in Dubai’s urban expansion. It contributes to the transformation of the emirate’s southern coastline and reinforces its long-term vision for sustainable, high-quality waterfront communities, said a statement.

The awarded villas are part of a broader collection of 10 architectural styles. These styles are designed to maximise waterfront positioning and sea views while incorporating smart-home features and sustainability-focused design principles, it added.

The latest contract awards build on the progress made at Palm Jebel Ali and align with the goals of the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan and the Dubai Economic Agenda D33. These goals support Dubai’s ambition to establish itself as a global leader in premium waterfront living.

Source: ME Construction News

Qatar General Electricity and Water Corporation (Kahramaa) has invited bids for a major 2026 expansion of the country’s power transmission system.

The tender covers an engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) contract for new substations across multiple voltage levels, including 400/132/11kV, 132/11kV and 66/11kV facilities, as well as the installation of 400kV extra-high voltage cables, said Kahramaa said in a statement.

The project forms part of the utility’s broader strategy to expand its transmission network and improve reliability and operational efficiency.

The work has been divided into several packages, including the construction of new 132/11kV and 66/11kV substations, the development of a 400/220/132kV substation, upgrades to existing substations, and the installation of 400kV power cables, said the statement.

The deadline for submitting the bids has been set at May 14.

Source: ME Construction News

Dahbashi Engineering has announced its transition to on-grid solar power at its headquarters in Dubai Industrial City. The initiative underscores the company’s commitment to sustainable growth and regional energy efficiency goals.

The newly-implemented solar system at Dahbashi Engineering is designed to provide approximately 50% of the facility’s annual electricity consumption, said a statement from the company.

By leveraging the Shams Dubai net-metering framework, the project allows for any surplus power generated to be fed back into the grid, further supporting Dubai’s clean energy infrastructure, it stated.

The move comes at a pivotal time for the UAE’s renewable energy sector. According to recent industry research from Mordor Intelligence, the UAE solar energy market size is expected to grow to 48.85GW by 2030, representing a significant CAGR of 35.48%.

This rapid expansion is increasingly driven by commercial and industrial (C&I) demand, which is projected to grow at a 10.3% CAGR through 2031 as businesses seek to decouple from traditional gas-dominated power, it continued.

Co-founder and CEO Saleem Ahmed said, “Our transition to on-grid solar is a practical, long-term decision rooted in both environmental responsibility and operational stability. Integrating renewable energy is a core requirement for a resilient industrial ecosystem. This project allows us to significantly reduce our footprint while securing a predictable and efficient energy supply for decades to come.”

The initiative is estimated to deliver a 30% reduction in electricity-related operational costs. It also reflects a broader shift in the UAE power market, where behind-the-metre solar installations are becoming increasingly attractive as they can deliver tariffs significantly below standard grid rates.

“While current regulations limit the maximum allowable solar capacity at the Dubai Industrial City site to 450kW based on the total connected load, Dahbashi Engineering intends to use this project as a blueprint for potential renewable energy integrations across its wider GCC and Indian subcontinent network,” he added.

Source: ME Construction News

SSH has secured the design and supervision contract for Expo Valley Views, the upcoming chapter in Expo City Dubai’s sustainable living narrative. The development boasts over 800 planned 1-,2- and 3-bedroom apartments complemented by 10 retail units, creating a neighbourhood ecosystem, said a statement.

Featuring contemporary homes inspired by the natural rhythm of the valley, the community brings architecture, landscape and light into effortless balance, forming part of a sustainable, human-centric neighbourhood aligned with Net Zero 2050 ambitions, SSH noted.

Under the contract, SSH will provide lead design consultancy services in various fields, including architecture and interior design, structural, mechanical, electrical, and civil engineering, roads and infrastructure, and public realm and landscape design. Additionally, SSH will offer construction supervision services.

Expo Valley Views is said to be more than just a residential development; it embodies the city’s vision of creating climate conscious communities centred around comfort, nature, and connectivity. It prioritises well-being and fosters social interaction, aligning with Dubai’s forward-thinking urban vision, the statement explained.

The project blends contemporary and mid-century design and architecture, drawing inspiration from mountain landscapes. Shaded courtyards and sculpted podiums coexist with elegantly proportioned residential towers, while low-rise buildings of varying heights form a terraced skyline, the statement outlined.

Residents will have access to a range of amenities, including horse trails, multiple pools, fitness facilities, yoga terraces, an indoor kids’ club, children’s play areas, games rooms, a multi-purpose community hall, BBQ and outdoor dining spaces, an events lawn, and a central community plaza for social gatherings.

Source: ME Construction News

Dar Global has appointed Al Dahlawi Company for Contracting as the contractor responsible for delivering works at Amaya, its flagship masterplan development in Jeddah. This appointment signifies a significant milestone in the progress of the integrated urban district, which occupies 1m sqm in one of the city’s strategic location.

The scope of work encompasses the delivery of crucial phases of the masterplan, which will support the development of residential neighborhoods, commercial destinations, and community amenities within Amaya, in accordance with the project’s development timeline.

Amaya, billed as a live-work-play destination, integrates residential communities, business opportunities, retail destinations, and lifestyle amenities within a planned urban environment. Positioned as the Beverly Hills of Jeddah, it establishes a new benchmark for elevated living, exclusivity, in the city.

The appointment of the main contractor underscores Dar Global’s commitment to delivering its developments on time and in accordance with established timelines. This commitment aligns with Dar Global’s vision of transforming Jeddah into a global destination for investment, business, and modern urban living.

Amaya is a key component of Dar Global’s expanding portfolio of large-scale developments in Saudi Arabia. This development reinforces Dar Global’s strategy of creating integrated communities that prioritise connectivity, lifestyle, and long-term investment value.

The masterplan will also house Trump Plaza Jeddah, a mixed-use destination that will serve as the commercial and lifestyle hub of the development.

Source: ME Construction News

Saudi Power Procurement Company, under the supervision of the Ministry of Energy, has launched the qualification bid process for the second group of Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) package consisting of a total of 6 projects.

The combined capacity of Group 2 BESS projects is 3000MW for a 4-hour storage duration (12,000MWh).

Three of these 500MW/2000MWh projects are located in the Makkah province and one each in Madinah; Qassim and the Eastern province.

Each project will be developed under a build-own-operate (BOO) model, with the winning consortium holding 100% equity in the special purpose vehicle (SPV) set up to develop and operate the Independent Storage Provider (ISP) project.

Each SPV will enter into a storage services agreement with Saudi Power Procurement Company, it stated.

As part of the current qualification process for energy storage projects, the Principal Buyer has opened qualification for solar PV, wind and future energy storage projects to be tendered at a later stage.

The National Renewable Energy Program (NREP) aims to increase the share of installed capacities from renewable energy sources and energy storage systems in the energy mix to reach around 50% by 2030, subject to electricity demand growth.

Source: ME Construction News

Dubai has announced plans for a dedicated metro link connecting its 2 international airports, marking a significant expansion of the emirate’s fast-growing metro network.

The RTA has invited consultants to bid for a contract to study and design the proposed Airport Express Line, which will link Dubai International Airport (DXB) in Al Garhoud to Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC) in Jebel Ali, according to a MEED report.

The planned line will run approximately 55km and include 5 stations, offering integrated passenger services such as remote airline check-in, baggage drop-off and security screening, aimed at streamlining the travel experience between the two aviation hubs.

Consultants have been given until June to submit proposals for the project.

The Airport Express Line is expected to originate from the Red Line station at DXB, passing through Al Jaddaf and running along Al Khail Road to a new station at Jumeirah Village Circle (JVC), before continuing onwards to DWC.

Two other lines are also planned – one will connect the JVC station to the Al-Fardan Exchange Metro Station at Emirates Golf Club, while the second will branch towards Business Bay, where an additional station will be developed.

The alignment is understood to broadly mirror the route of the Etihad Rail high-speed railway project, currently under construction and targeted for completion by 2030.

Source: ME Construction News

Danway Saudi Arabia Contracting Company has announced that it has signed a contract with National Grid SA, a key subsidiary of Saudi Energy, for the construction of a new 110/13.8kV substation on King Abdulaziz Road in Madinah.

Valued at over US $27mn, the project will be executed over an estimated period of 23 months and represents an addition to the Kingdom’s expanding power infrastructure, said Danway in a statement.

The scope of work includes the design, engineering, supply, installation, testing, and commissioning of the substation.

The contract underscores Danway Saudi Arabia’s continued role in supporting the Kingdom’s energy sector and enhancing grid reliability, the statement added.

The project is expected to strengthen power distribution capabilities in Madinah, meeting rising demand and contributing to a more resilient and efficient electrical network, it continued.

With this milestone, Danway Saudi Arabia reinforces its commitment to delivering high-quality infrastructure solutions aligned with Saudi Arabia’s long-term energy and development goals, said a spokesman for Danway.

“This is another big step forward in our mission to support Saudi Arabia’s growing energy needs and contribute to a more resilient electrical grid. We look forward to executing this project with excellence and delivering on our commitment to quality, safety and innovation,” he stated.

Source: ME Construction News

Hassan Allam Holding has agreed to acquire MetiPro, the engineering, procurement, and construction arm of Metito group. The acquisition forms part of the group’s strategic efforts to expand its presence in the water and wastewater sector across Egypt, the Middle East, Africa, the CIS Countries, and Eastern Europe.

Bringing together two industries with over 150 years of combined expertise, the agreement establishes a scaled, integrated platform positioned to lead the next generation of sustainable water infrastructure across the MENA region.

Hassan Allam Holding’s water platform is supported by its specialist subsidiaries, including Hassan Allam Construction, Intech, Bioworks, and Ridgewood, covering the full spectrum from engineering and construction to operations and maintenance, strengthening the group’s ability to deliver large-scale desalination and wastewater mega-projects.

Eng. Hassan Allam, CEO, Hassan Allam Holding said, “This move marks a defining moment for Hassan Allam Holding and for the future of water infrastructure in our region. By bringing together MetiPro’s global expertise with our 90-year legacy of delivering complex, nation-building projects, we are creating a stronger, integrated platform and built to lead the next generation of sustainable water and wastewater mega-projects across the Middle East and Africa. As water security becomes a priority, this acquisition positions us to deliver long-term, resilient solutions that support growth, climate adaptation, and regional development.”

Eng. Karim Madwar, CEO, MetiPro added, “Joining forces with Hassan Allam Holding represents a powerful alignment of vision, capability, and ambition. With decades of experience in advanced water solutions, MetiPro has consistently delivered critical infrastructure across global markets. Hassan Allam Holding’s backing will enable us to scale our impact across the region, accelerate the delivery of complex water projects, and contribute meaningfully to securing sustainable water projects for generations to come.”

The acquisition builds on a longstanding partnership between Hassan Allam Holding and Metito, where both groups have jointly delivered landmark national projects including Al Mahsamma,  New Delta, and the ongoing West Alexandria and Abu Oweikal projects.

These projects have played a critical role in supporting Egypt’s water security objectives, sustainable agriculture, and environmental protection, and are widely regarded as benchmarks for large-scale water reuse and treatment in the region.

Source: ME Construction News