Red Sea Global (RSG) has unveiled its Red Sea Residences residential property brand, which will enable investors to own part of its destinations along the Red Sea coast.

The residential brand aims to set new benchmarks by offering elevated residences designed by renowned architects and interior designers. Each development prioritises a sustainable lifestyle, ensuring a blend of nature and comfort. RSG is on track to compete all 16 hotels that make up Phase One of The Red Sea in 2025. The first phase of AMAALA is set to welcome its first guests later this year and by the end of 2025, RSG will have opened 25 resorts and delivered close to 450 luxury residences, it said in a statement.

“We’re pioneering the creation of a one-of-a-kind luxury residential market here in Saudi Arabia. Residents will effectively own a piece of the Red Sea, while experiencing secluded yet fully connected modern island and coastal living within the Kingdom. In line with our regenerative tourism ethos, all Red Sea Residences homes have been designed to enhance the surrounding environment and benefit nearby communities, delivering for people and planet,” said John Pagano, Group CEO of RSG.

The first development under Red Sea Residences revealed to date is located on the Shura Island at The Red Sea destination, with properties ready for handover at the end of 2025. Shura is the main hub island at The Red Sea. It is home to 11 resorts, as well as experiences and amenities including restaurants, retail districts, luxury marinas and the Kingdom’s first 18-hole island golf course.

Red Sea Residences has disclosed two branded communities on Shura initially. Four Seasons Private Residences which includes 75 three- to five-bedroom villas, offering views into the sea and across the golf course. Secondly, Ennismore’s SLS Residences, which offers 15 one- to four-bedroom residences.

Shura Marina Residences, with 36 apartments featuring one- to three-bedrooms will offer extensive balconies and terraces with sea and marina views. They will also provide direct access to the marina and the island’s high-end retail and dining options, including restaurants led by Michelin-starred chefs.

Beyond the first communities revealed by Red Sea Residences, RSG is already working on other developments. These include further properties at Shura, as well as a selection of residences at AMAALA, RSG’s wellness-focused destination opening later this year. RSG is also developing an integrated resort island community nearby that will come to market later in 2025 and deliver a unique opportunity for a multi-generational lifestyle.

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Dubai Holding Asset Management has announced that Nad Al Sheba Mall is on track to open in April 2025. The 500,000sqft mixed-use retail destination is located in the heart of Nad Al Sheba and is set to offer a selection of over 100 stores spanning fitness, retail, entertainment, F&B, healthcare, and supermarkets.

The mall features wellness facilities, including a rooftop gym, swimming pool, and padel courts, the mall provides over 900 parking spaces to ensure accessibility. Its proximity to schools and residential communities further enhances foot traffic.

Key tenants include Home Bakery, Parkers, and SALT; supermarkets like Spinneys and Union Coop; sports and fitness outlets including Go Sport and Fit N Glam; and children’s entertainment venues like Fun City and Orange Wheels, offering a diverse and engaging experience for customers, the firm said in a statement.

“Dubai’s retail sector is a key driver of economic growth, playing a pivotal role in enhancing the quality of life for residents, while reinforcing the city’s appeal as a top global destination for tourists. The emirate’s dynamic demographics, expanding population, and robust consumer demand have solidified its status as a leading retail powerhouse in the region and beyond,” said Fareed Abdelrahman, Managing Director, Retail Destinations at Dubai Holding Asset Management.

“Nad Al Sheba Mall exemplifies our commitment to creating destinations that seamlessly blend modern convenience with community-centric experiences. As a strategic addition to our retail portfolio, this mall will not only meet the daily needs of visitors but also provide businesses with opportunities to thrive in a rapidly growing market,” added Abdelrahman.

According to Statista, UAE retail sales are projected to reach US $139.1bn by 2028, up from $108.1bn in 2024, fuelled by demographics, improving macroeconomic conditions, and the rise of omni-channel retailing. These trends underscore the importance of dynamic retail spaces like Nad Al Sheba Mall, which aligns with the sector’s evolving demands.

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DAMAC Properties has announced Riverside Views, its first development of 2025. Located within the newly launched DAMAC Riverside community. The project will feature one- and two-bedroom apartments and is scheduled for handover on the 31 May 2028.

Amira Sajwani, MD, DAMAC Properties and senior executives from DAMAC headlined the press and partner event, gathering key DAMAC officials, agent partners and brokers, regional and local media members.

Sajwani, commented: “We are proud to continue listening to our customers’ feedback and bringing truly desired products to the market. Riverside Views introduces a collection of stylish one—and two-bedroom apartments housed within eight uniquely themed clusters: Teal, Azure, Marine, Indigo, Royal, Capri, Sun and Pacific. Designed to connect residents to nature and community, the project features a mix of greenery and water scenery, enhancing a sense of well-being and connection with the environment. We will continue to shape Dubai’s luxury real estate landscape and bring iconic products.”

Situated around 15 minutes each from Expo 2020 and Al Maktoum International Airport, Riverside Views promises easy accessibility and convenience through a number of amenities. Five signature dining options will be available, including Portofino Italian Restaurant, a floating island restaurant, a Zen Spa, and a hydroponic farm providing fresh greens daily. With a focus on health and wellness, fitness facilities by the water and a floating chess stage will be accessible to residents, as well as a floating opera, essential oil lakes, and peace rooms designed to encourage mindfulness and creativity.

The unveiling of Riverside Views follows a recording breaking year for DAMAC Properties, marked by the launch of three major community developments: Sun City, DAMAC Islands, and the announcement of DAMAC Riverside. Building on this momentum, DAMAC plans to introduce new projects and deliver significant construction updates throughout 2025, the firm said.

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Sobha Realty has announced the launch of Sobha Solis, its first project of 2025. Located in Dubai Motor City, the development aims to set a new benchmark in active lifestyles. Sobha Solis will offer 2,316 state-of-the-art residences, ranging from one- to three-bedroom apartments.

The project stands as the company’s first fully furnished apartment offering, and is said to be a testament to Sobha Realty’s backward integration model that ensures the highest standards of craftsmanship, quality control, and design.

PNC Menon, Founder of Sobha Group said, “The launch of Sobha Solis represents the beginning of yet another exciting year! The masterplan caters to the increasing demand for an active, wellness-oriented lifestyle in one of Dubai’s thriving urban destinations. Strategically located in Motor City, Sobha Solis offers seamless connectivity to key locales. Thoughtfully conceptualised to cater to active living, the development reflects consumer insights and our commitment to delivering quality and excellence.”

The project will feature amenities including the first-ever Arsenal-branded gym, a sunken pool surrounded by greenery, a jogging track, rock-climbing wall, tennis court, zen garden, pet park, and leisure and children’s pools. The development’s architectural design prioritises natural light and space, with large layouts, floor-to-ceiling windows, and superior sound insulation. Each apartment is fully equipped with kitchen appliances.

Motor City’s location offers connectivity and urban environment with shopping centers, dining venues, healthcare facilities, educational institutions, and recreational hubs. This makes it a destination for investors, with industry reports highlighting an average rental yield of ~9% and capital appreciation of -32%.

Sobha Solis will incorporate eco-friendly features, including double-glazed facades, energy-efficient HVAC systems, EV charging stations, and will use advanced district cooling systems. The use of locally sourced materials further reduces the project’s environmental impact, the firm said.

The projet is said to exemplify Sobha Realty’s ‘Art of The Detail’ philosophy, delivering a blend of luxury, sustainability, and modern active living in Dubai’s neighbourhoods of the future.

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The 2025 edition of the Big Project Middle East Awards (BPME Awards) took place on 29 January and recognised excellence across 24 distinct categories. This edition of the BPME Awards marked 15 years for the annual awards ceremony.

The event was held at the Ritz Carlton JBR in Dubai, and was attended by international and local delegates from across the built environment.

Nearly 160 nominations were submitted across the awards’ 31 categories, when nominations closed in mid-December 2024. Following the close of nominations, two rounds of elimination were initiated. The first was conducted internally by the Big Project Middle East (BPME) editorial team. Nominations that made it through the first round of eliminations were then passed onto a panel of six judges, with an in-person meeting taking place in early January 2025.

The judges for the 2025 BPME Awards were:

• Damir Jaksic, KEO International Consultants
• Dana Darwish, WSP
• Fernando Freitas, Omnium International
• Ghina Yamak, Zutari
• Louise Rodrigues, Aquila
• Tamara Bajic, AESG

The full list of winners and shortlisted nominees for the Big Project ME Awards 2025 are:

Big Project’s Young Professional of the Year

• Maha Babiker – Graphite
• Meera Al Blooshi – Parsons
• Suchith Govindappa – Sobha Constructions

Winner: Meera Al Blooshi – Parsons

Big Project’s Mentor of the Year

• Chris George – Sobha Constructions
• Karim Elnabawy Balbaa – Saudi Entertainment Ventures (SEVEN)
• Maxwell Connop – AtkinsRéalis

Winner: Karim Elnabawy Balbaa – Saudi Entertainment Ventures (SEVEN)

Big Project’s Team of the Year

• Beirut Office Design Team – LASCO JV SSG
• Equinix 3.1 Data Centre Team – McLaren Construction
• Team Sobha Reserve – Sobha Constructions

Winner: Equinix 3.1 Data Centre Team – McLaren Construction

Big Project’s Women of the Year

• Anita Nouri – Green Growth Planning Consultancy
• Fatma Elfeki – Graphite
• Johanna Staples – AtkinsRéalis
• Muneeswari Velusamy – Sobha Constructions

Winner: Johanna Staples – AtkinsRéalis

Big Project’s Executive of the Year

• Ahmed El-Adalany – The Arab Contractors (Osman Ahmed Osman & Co.)
• Joseph Charles – Pinnacle Interiors
• Mariam Azmy – Innovo Group
• Senthil Kumar Parasuraman – Sobha Constructions

Winner: Joseph Charles – Pinnacle Interiors

Sustainable Contractor of the Year

• ACCIONA
• Innovo Group
• The Arab Contractors (Osman Ahmed Osman & Co.)

Winner: Innovo Group

Sustainable Project of the Year

• KAFD Fire Station – Parsons
• Sharjah Sustainable City
• ZāZEN Gardens & ZāZEN Ivy – ZāZEN Properties

Winner: KAFD Fire Station – Parsons

Small Developer of the Year

No shortlist

Winner: Aurora Real Estate Development

Skills Development Programme of the Year

• School of the Future Initiative – AtkinsRéalis
• Sobha Institute of Construction Excellence – Sobha Constructions

Winner: Sobha Institute of Construction Excellence – Sobha Constructions

Fit-Out Contractor of the Year

• ALEC FITOUT
• DEPA
• HTS Interior Design
• Pinnacle Interiors

Winner: DEPA

MEP Contractor of the Year

• ALEMCO
• The Arab Contractors (Osman Ahmed Osman & Co.)
• LASCO JV SSG

Winner: LASCO JV SSG

Infrastructure Contractor of the Year

• China State Construction Engineering Corporation ME
• Orascom Construction
• Sobha Constructions

Winner: China State Construction Engineering Corporation ME

Small Contractor of the Year

• ECC Fit Out & Construction
• Pinnacle Interiors

Winner: ECC Fit Out & Construction

Mid-sized Contractor of the Year

• Engineering Contracting Company (ECC)
• LASCO JV SSG
• McLaren Construction

Winner: McLaren Construction

Large Contractor of the Year

• ALEC Engineering & Contracting
• Innovo Group
• The Arab Contractors (Osman Ahmed Osman & Co.)

Winner 1 (International): The Arab Contractors (Osman Ahmed Osman & Co.)

Winner 2 (GCC): ALEC Engineering & Contracting

Fit-Out Project of the Year

• HuQQa – Shisha Lounge & Turkish Restaurant – Pinnacle Interiors
• One Za’abeel Tower – DEPA

Winner: One Za’abeel Tower – DEPA

Project of the Year: Offsite Construction

No shortlist

Winner: Rove Hotel, Al Marjan Island – China State Construction Engineering Corporation ME

MEP Project of the Year

• Basrah Water Supply Improvement Project P3 & P4 – The Arab Contractors (Osman Ahmed Osman & Co.)
• Creek Vista Grande – Sobha Constructions
• WTB Skylight 1 & 2 – LASCO JV SSG

Winner: Basrah Water Supply Improvement Project P3 & P4 – The Arab Contractors (Osman Ahmed Osman & Co.)

Refurbishment & Retrofit Project of the Year

• Al Barari – Plot E10 – ECC Group
• HuQQa Shisha Lounge and Turkish Restaurant – Pinnacle Interiors
• Sheraton Hotel, Mall of the Emirates – DEPA

Winner: HuQQa Shisha Lounge and Turkish Restaurant – Pinnacle Interiors

Project of the Year – Water

• Al Khobar 2 SWRO – ACCIONA
• Basrah Water Supply Improvement Project P3 & P4 – The Arab Contractors (Osman Ahmed Osman & Co.)
• SFAX Desalination Plant – Orascom Construction

Winner: Al Khobar 2 SWRO – ACCIONA

Project of the Year – Infrastructure & Transport

• Diriyah Gate Infrastructure Construction General Contractor – Area B – China State Construction Engineering Corporation ME
• Greater Cairo Monorail – The Arab Contractors (Osman Ahmed Osman & Co.)
• Lusail Plaza Infrastructure, LRT Station, Public Car Park & Landscape – Parsons

Winner: Greater Cairo Monorail – The Arab Contractors (Osman Ahmed Osman & Co.)

Project of the Year – Leisure, Retail & Hospitality

• Qetaifan Island Project – AtkinsRéalis
• Restoration of Revolutionary Command Council Museum – The Arab Contractors (Osman Ahmed Osman & Co.)
• VISA Marassi Marina Hotel and Yacht Club – Orascom Construction

Winner: Qetaifan Island Project – AtkinsRéalis

Project of the Year – Commercial

• 6 Falak Media City – McLaren Construction
• Pinnacle Interiors D3 Office – Pinnacle Interiors

Winner: 6 Falak Media City – McLaren Construction

Project of the Year – Residential

• Athlon Premium Villas – AtkinsRéalis
• Crest Grande – Sobha Constructions
• H Three by Aurora – ECC Group
• Tilal Al Ghaf Phase A – Majid Al Futtaim

Winner (Design): Athlon Premium Villas – AtkinsRéalis

Winner (Delivery): Tilal Al Ghaf Phase A – Majid Al Futtaim

To learn more about the Big Project Middle East Awards, click here.

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SAMANA Developers in collaboration with ELIE SAAB has unveiled the Samana Ocean Views project with interiors by ELIE SAAB. This development is the first real estate project by ELIE SAAB and the developer in the Maldives. Sustainability plays a key role with a coral restoration initiative built into the project. The US $594mn development is set for completion in 2029, said a statement.

Nestled at the Maldivian archipelago, Samana Ocean Views is a 20-minute speedboat ride from Hanimaadhoo Airport or a 45-minute seaplane journey from Malé. Spanning over 507,651sqft, the 190-key development will feature beachfront villas, over-water bungalows, and poolside apartments. The design will blend soft neutral tones, fabrics, and refined finishes that harmonise with the natural surroundings.

Imran Farooq, CEO of SAMANA Developers stated, “Our strategic foresight and deep understanding of Dubai’s economic landscape have propelled Samana Developers to become the city’s seventh-largest developer. This expertise is now embodied in SAMANA Ocean Views Interiors by ELIE SAAB, a culmination of a shared vision to create an extraordinary destination where luxury, design, and natural beauty meet. We are immensely proud of this partnership with ELIE SAAB.”

Elie Saab Jr., CEO of ELIE SAAB Group added, “We are honored to collaborate with Samana Developers on this exceptional project, marking a significant step in our brand’s strategic expansion into exclusive destinations globally. This development reflects our vision of crafting immersive, one-of-a-kind lifestyle experiences that embody our philosophy of elegance and sophistication, while upholding the highest standards of luxury and individuality. The Maldives represents a key addition to our growing global portfolio, as we continue to deliver remarkable projects in strategic locations worldwide.”

Massimiliano Ferrari, CEO of Corporate Brand Maison, WW Licensee ELIE SAAB Maison added, “The interiors of Samana Ocean Views will feature the ELIE SAAB Maison furniture and home décor collection, crafted with exceptional Italian craftsmanship. Every piece is designed with a deep understanding of the Maldivian environment, ensuring that the elegance and quality of the collection harmonise perfectly with the unique beauty of the location.”

The project will offer a range of amenities designed for resort-style living. Guests can unwind at the spa and wellness centre, sample diverse culinary offerings at fine dining specialty Arabic and Japanese restaurants, or explore the underwater world through the on-site dive centre and watersports facilities. The property will also feature multiple pools, fitness centre, and entertainment options for families.

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Saudi Arabia’s airport sector operator, Matarat Holding, has awarded a contract to Spanish engineering and technology group Sener to update the masterplans for five of its major airports – Yanbu, Tabuk, Al-Baha, Al Jouf, and Al Gurayat.

As part of the deal, Sener will conduct a detailed analysis of each airport’s traffic patterns, tourism potential, facility requirements, capacity and environmental impact. The study will also forecast future demands and assess resource investment needs.

Sener has a track record that includes work at more than 190 airports and associated facilities around the world. For example, it was involved in developing the master plan of the New Mexico City International Airport (NAICM), and in the construction project of the Lublin airport in Poland.

In Saudi Arabia, where Sener has an office in Riyadh, the company has contributed to major projects, including the Riyadh Metro, enhancements to the Red Sea Gate Terminal, and technical studies and consultancy services for the Royal Commission for Jubail and Yanbu.

Announcing the contract award win, Sener said these updated masterplans will provide Matarat Holding with advanced tools for strategic planning and decision-making, enabling it to support the Saudi national aviation strategy, attract global investment, and enhance the country’s position as a regional and international aviation hub.

On the contract win, Mario Neves, Regional Country Manager of Mobility, Middle East, Sener said, “We are happy to put our experience in the airport sector at the service of the Matarat Holding Company. An airport is one of the most complex facilities in the field of transport: due to its high technical and operational requirements, it demands the cross-cutting application of different disciplines and advanced technologies. We hope our technical expertise will help develop more modern and sustainable facilities, in keeping with the vision of Matarat Holding Company for the sector.”

The collaboration also aligns with Matarat Holding’s commitment to transforming the Saudi airport sector into a global benchmark for sustainability and efficiency, in line with Saudi Vision 2030.

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Meraas has awarded a construction contract worth over US $270mn to China State Construction Engineering Corporation (Middle East) for Bluewaters Bay. Following the response received for the project, this milestone marks a significant step in creating Dubai’s next waterfront destination, with completion scheduled for Q4 2027.

Bluewaters Bay will feature two residential towers linked by a dynamic podium, offering 678 apartments, ranging from one to four bedrooms, including penthouses. The development will also host retail and F&B outlets on the podium level, complemented by amenities such as a garden, outdoor pool, children’s play area and barbecue facilities.

Khalid Al Malik, Chief Executive Officer of Dubai Holding Real Estate said, “Bluewaters Bay is nestled in a prime location within one of Dubai’s most sought-after waterfront destinations. Positioned at the gateway to Bluewaters, residents will enjoy unparalleled access to world-class entertainment such as Ain Dubai, pristine beaches, and a curated selection of retail and dining experiences. This project reflects our commitment to crafting exceptional waterfront communities that elevate Dubai’s dynamic urban landscape. We are confident that China State Construction Engineering Corporation’s expertise will bring this vision to life, creating a destination that residents and visitors will cherish.”

Tian Sanchuan, President of China State Construction Engineering Corporation (Middle East) added, “We are proud to collaborate with Dubai Holding Real Estate on the construction of Meraas’ prestigious Bluewaters Bay project. This partnership underscores our dedication to delivering world-class developments with precision and innovation. We look forward to leveraging our expertise to deliver this visionary destination and set new standards for quality and excellence.”

Bluewaters Bay integrates with Dubai’s waterfront, extending to Marina Walk and the Bluewaters boardwalk. Located within walking distance of Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR) and a short drive from the new Al Maktoum International Airport, this expanded waterfront destination offers both convenience and a wealth of lifestyle options. Easy access is provided via two main vehicle entry points – one at ground level and another conveniently located on Podium 3, accessible via a ramp bridge from the Bluewaters bridge.

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Saudi Arabia’s Oil Sustainability Program (OSP) has announced the launch of a new consortium in collaboration with NEOM and a raft of selected international partners, NovusCrete. This initiative aligns with the goals of Saudi Vision 2030, which aims to strike a balance between economic growth and environmental sustainability.

The consortium partners include the Kingdom’s sovereign wealth fund PIF (Public Investment Fund), the Saudi Investment Recycling Company (SIRC), as well as leading Swiss specialty chemicals company Sika and US-based startup ClimateCrete.

The move is aimed at developing sustainable and innovative technologies in concrete production, focusing on reducing the carbon footprint of the construction sector and enhancing the environmental efficiency of the materials used.

The new consortium is supported by leading local and international entities, including the American Concrete Institute (ACI), which established ‘Committee 243 – Seawater Concrete’, responsible for developing reports, guidelines, standards and codes on the use of seawater in concrete.

The agreement was signed by the consortium partners in the presence of Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman bin Abdulaziz, the Minister of Energy as well as Chairman of the OSP Supervisory Committee.

The NovusCrete Consortium, led by OSP, aims to develop standards and codes on the use of seawater in concrete and promote sustainability in the building and construction sectors by recycling waste, extending infrastructure lifespan, and reducing the environmental impact of the sectors.

According to OSP, the consortium marks a strategic milestone in fostering innovation and advancing sustainable development through the adoption of cutting-edge solutions designed to meet future demands.

Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman bin Abdulaziz commented: “The consortium focuses on creating new opportunities for the building and construction sector, the manufacturing sector and the Saudi value chain, and supporting the development of new technologies that can deliver sustainability and cost benefits.”

The consortium seeks to accelerate technological advancements in sustainable concrete solutions, while giving priority to localisation, via the use of seawater, polymer-based materials, recycled construction and demolition waste.

Through this collaboration, members aim to facilitate the adoption and expansion of seawater concrete applications, reinforced with Glass Fiber Reinforced Polymer (GFRP) rebars and other sustainable materials in the building and construction sector.

The participating parties aim to empower the local construction sector by focusing on environmental protection, driving innovation, and supporting the local economy – efforts led by OSP.

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