Ireland has unveiled what’s billed as ‘Europe’s first’ 3D-printed concrete social housing project. The 3D concrete printed (3DCP) dwellings are in Grange Close, Dundalk, County Louth, Ireland. The 330m² footprint includes three three-bedroom houses.

A public-private housing development consortium in Ireland consisting of Louth County Council, 3D-printing firm Harcourt Technologies, and materials provider Roadstone are said to have built the homes using a BOD2 3D Construction Printer from Cobod.

Designed to meet Eurocode 6 masonry standard, the boundaries of the housing development are composed of cavity walls: two 10cm-thick skins with a 150mm cavity in-between. Cobod, the Denmark-based 3D printer provider, said the walls were constructed without reinforcement and meets EN206, Eurocode 6 for un-reinforced masonry construction and ISO/ASTM standards.

The use of the 3DCP technology meant 35% faster construction and completion in just 132 days compared to conventional methods requiring more than 200 days, with the 3D printed superstructure completed in just 12 printing days,” claimed Cobod. 50% of the time savings came directly from 3D printing the wall system said the firm.

The printing firm added that remaining savings were achieved alongside what could be called a modular approach. Referring to ‘the precision of 3D construction printing’, Cobod said it was able to employ “seamless integration of other building components – such as partition walls, floor systems, and trusses – to already be considered during the planning and preparation phases, resulting in a more efficient construction process.”

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Urban Properties Development (UPD) announced the launch of Urban Life Residences, an US $81mn freehold project located in Business Bay. Urban Life Residences is already under construction, with completion and handover scheduled for the second quarter of 2026, the developer explained.

Residents will enjoy being just 10 minutes from Dubai Mall, 20 minutes from Dubai International Airport, 15 minutes from Mall of the Emirates, and 15 minutes from Kite Beach. The tower is nestled next to a planned 10,000sqm public park located on the East End of Business Bay, providing a serene and vibrant environment for residents to enjoy, said a statement from the developer.

Urban Life Residences is UPD’s first foray into premium freehold real estate. The project focuses on design, quality, timely delivery, and living spaces. Every detail has been crafted to prioritise green spaces and natural environments, integrated with modern urban living. The development will offer a variety of unit types, ensuring it caters to diverse lifestyle needs with studios, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom apartments with total of 146 units.

Residents will benefit from amenities such as Dubai’s first AI-powered state-of-the-art gym in a residence, an outdoor pool deck on the podium level, cinema room, co-seating spaces for social and recreational use, a dedicated children’s play area, and outdoor social pod decks with plunge pools on levels six and 10.

The developer’s approach is design-led, emphasising architecture, interiors, functional floor plans, high-quality materials, and curated amenities. UPD benefits from the expertise of its parent group, JAMS Investment, which owns and manages a portfolio of residential rental properties, offices, hotel apartments, and contracting businesses across Dubai.

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Developer MERED has appointed Currie & Brown as the cost management consultant for its flagship project – ICONIC Residences design by Pininfarina.

Currie & Brown’s role on the ICONIC Residences project is to ensure cost-effective solutions that align with MERED’s commitment to quality and sustainability.

Michael Belton, Chief Executive Officer at MERED commented, “We are proud to partner with Currie & Brown, whose proven expertise in managing complex projects ensures that ICONIC Residences will be delivered on time and to the highest standards, meeting the expectations of both stakeholders and future residents.”

“Their global reputation for delivering high-profile projects gives us the confidence to push boundaries, creating a development that not only stands as a landmark but also embodies innovation, sustainability, and timeless value,” he added

Jamie Kirkwood, Senior Director at Currie & Brown stated: “ICONIC Residences is a project that demonstrates the innovation, luxury, and architectural excellence that the UAE stands for. We are proud to contribute our expertise in cost management to ensure its successful execution and delivery for a development that will become one of Dubai’s most sought-after premium addresses.”

ICONIC Residences design by Pininfarina, addresses the growing demand for luxury homes in Dubai. MERED has secured government approvals, commencing construction, and targeting completion by Q3 2027. Rising 290m, it will be the tallest residential tower in Dubai Internet City, offering 310 apartments and amenities, the statement noted.

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Wasl has partnered with Etihad Energy Services to drive a series of sustainability initiatives across Wasl’s real estate portfolio. This continued sustainability journey of Wasl encompasses further solar photovoltaic (PV) installations, building retrofits, electric vehicle (EV) charging stations, and the establishment of an advanced Command Control Centre, said a statement.

The partnership will include the installation of photovoltaic solar energy systems on the rooftops of 77 Wasl properties, achieving a total capacity of 4,000kWp. These systems are expected to generate an annual output of 6.7m kilowatt-hours (KWh), contributing to a reduction in energy consumption of up to 34%. Some properties will rely on solar energy to cover more than 80% of electricity needs. This step will help reduce carbon dioxide emissions by 2,666t annually.

In the second phase of the project, 46 properties will undergo renovations that contribute to improving energy and water consumption efficiency. These improvements are expected to achieve a reduction in electricity consumption by 14.6m KWh annually, and in water consumption by 1.4m gallons, leading to a reduction in carbon dioxide emissions by about 5,817t annually. These improvements will contribute to enhancing tenant comfort and operational efficiency.

This partnership includes the establishment of the Command-and-Control Centre (CCC), a model for digital transformation in energy management. This advanced centre will oversee the performance of assets in more than 300 properties, where vital systems such as air conditioning and solar energy systems are remotely controlled. Using AI technologies, the centre will ensure optimal asset performance, improves indoor air quality, reduces operational costs, and enables predictive maintenance to ensure long-term service efficiency.

Wasl is committed to supporting green transportation and providing the necessary infrastructure to enhance sustainable mobility solutions, and is installing a number of electric vehicle charging stations at several locations, the firm said.

Commenting on this partnership, Dr. Waleed Al Nuaimi, CEO of Etihad Energy Services Company said, “We are proud to cooperate with Wasl and support its journey towards sustainability. This project reflects our shared commitment to achieving Dubai’s sustainability goals by adopting innovative solutions for renewable energy and increasing consumption efficiency. We are contributing to achieving the long-term environmental goals of the UAE while sustainably improving residents’ quality of life.”

Salem Al Nuaimi, Director of Asset Services and Solutions Management at Wasl added, “Sustainability is at the core of our operations at Wasl, and this partnership represents a pivotal step towards enhancing our real estate portfolio’s environmental performance. These projects also allow us to achieve positive environmental results while providing sustainable and comfortable spaces for our customers.”

This partnership exemplifies how collaboration and innovation can lead to impactful, sustainable development. By leveraging technology, renewable energy solutions, and energy-efficient practices, both organisations are setting new benchmarks for environmental stewardship and operational excellence in Dubai’s real estate sector.

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Grandweld Shipyards says it has become the first shipbuilding company in the Middle East to harness solar energy on a large scale to meet its energy requirements. The company currently generates 50 % of its energy needs through renewable sources following the successful completion of Phase One of its solar panel project, underscoring its commitment to the Dubai Clean Energy Strategy 2050 and the Dubai Net Zero Emissions Strategy 2050.

This project, which aligns with Dubai Electricity and Water Authority’s (DEWA) vision for clean energy, has solidified the company’s status in driving sustainability in the region’s maritime sector. With a current production capacity of 569kWp, the solar project meets half of the total energy requirements for the company’s office building and construction processes through solar power.

Grandweld aims to achieve its ambitious goal of becoming a 100% green shipyard by the end of next year by meeting 100 % of its energy needs through renewable sources, setting a new benchmark for sustainability in the shipbuilding industry. In the next phase of this innovative project, Grandweld plans to exceed its internal energy requirements and contribute energy to support the UAE’s commitment to building a sustainable future, said a statement.

Jamal Abki, General Manager of Grandweld Shipyards, commented, “We prioritise sustainability in every aspect of our operations. In alignment with the UAE’s vision to shift towards clean and renewable energy, this solar energy initiative highlights our unwavering commitment to sustainability and innovation. As the first shipbuilding company in the Middle East to adopt renewable energy on this large scale, we are pleased to lead the change in creating a cleaner, greener future for the maritime industry. We encourage other companies in the industry to follow us and contribute to a sustainable world.”

The company’s shipyard incorporates advanced energy-efficient features, such as light-sensitive building systems, to minimise its environmental impact, and to follow eco-friendly construction principles. This dedication to sustainable practices was recognised in 2012 when Grandweld achieved the Leed Gold Membership from the U.S. Green Building Council.

By pioneering sustainable initiatives and setting new industry standards, Grandweld Shipyards is shaping the future of the maritime industry and contributing to a more sustainable world. With Phase Two of the solar project currently underway, the company aims to improve sustainability in shipbuilding and support the UAE’s larger objectives for environmental preservation and the use of renewable energy. By the end of Phase Two, expected to conclude in 2025, the project will achieve a milestone by generating a total power capacity of 1.3MW, further reinforcing its commitment to green energy initiatives.

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Five bids have been submitted for the construction of the longest railway tunnel in Poland. The project is said to be part of a new high-speed connection to the major transport hub and airport known as Centralny Port Komunikacyjny (CPK).

The tender involves constructing the tunnel from the ‘Retkinia’ chamber to the ‘Fabryczna’ chamber, along with the infrastructure needed for the tunnel, chambers, and railway line. The tunnel will primarily serve high-speed trains travelling between three major Polish cities: Warsaw, Wrocław, and Poznań.

CPK has allocated US $702.72mn gross for the project. The lowest bid was $519.84mn gross, while the highest was gross $675.44mn.

“This is an exceptionally ambitious undertaking, as the Łódź tunnel will have the largest diameter of any underground structure built to date using the TBM method in Poland. It will also be the longest tunnel constructed as a single section,” said Deputy Minister of Infrastructure and CPK Government Commissioner, Maciej Lasek.

The awarded contractor is expected to complete the project within 46 months of signing the contract, anticipated to take place in the second half of 2025. Tunnel drilling is set to commence in the fourth quarter of 2026 and is expected to be completed by the third quarter of 2028.

The entire section of line 85 between Warsaw and Łódź is scheduled to be operational by 2032, coinciding with the opening of the new national airport. Once completed, the train journey between the two cities will be reduced to approximately 40 minutes.

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Abu Dhabi Future Energy Company (Masdar) and Emirates Water and Electricity Company (EWEC) have announced plans to build the world’s first large-scale ‘round the clock’ giga-scale project, combining solar power and battery storage.

In the presence of President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the project was launched by Dr Sultan Al Jaber, Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology and Chairman of Masdar, and Mohamed Hassan Alsuwaidi, Minister of Investment. The launch marks a pivotal moment in the UAE’s clean energy transformation, allowing renewable energy to be dispatched 24 hours a day, seven days a week, reaffirming the country’s position as a global pioneer in renewable energy deployment.

Delivering up to one gigawatt (GW) of base load power every day – generated from renewable energy – it will be the largest combined solar and battery energy storage system (BESS) in the world. Located in Abu Dhabi, the project will feature a 5.2GW (DC) solar photovoltaic (PV) plant, coupled with a 19 gigawatt-hour (GWh) BESS, setting a global benchmark in clean energy innovation.

Dr Sultan Al Jaber said, “For decades, the biggest barrier facing renewable energy has been intermittency – to be able to source uninterrupted clean power day and night. This has been the moonshot challenge of our time, and now, thanks to the resolute support of President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, with this groundbreaking project we have found the solution.”

“In collaboration with EWEC and our partners, we will develop a renewable energy facility capable of providing clean energy round the clock. For the first time ever, this will transform renewable energy into a world-leading 1GW of reliable baseload energy every day on an unprecedented scale – a first step that could become a giant leap for the world.”

Mohamed Hassan Alsuwaidi commented, “The accelerated integration of solar power and advanced battery energy storage sets a new benchmark in clean energy, driving sustainability and reducing carbon emissions. By advancing energy infrastructure, we are leading the way in developing cost-effective, scalable renewable energy, solidifying Abu Dhabi’s position as a key player in shaping the future of global energy. Guided by the UAE leadership, this united effort within the energy sector powers the nation’s technological advancement, ushering in a new era of intelligence, resilience, flexibility, and commercial opportunity while ensuring sustainable and uninterrupted energy for exponential growth.”

Othman Al Ali, Chief Executive Officer of EWEC added, “By launching the world’s largest solar PV and Battery Energy Storage System, Abu Dhabi is setting a new global standard for sustainable energy development and innovation. This landmark project embodies EWEC’s unwavering commitment to decarbonising the energy sector, while driving the UAE’s socioeconomic growth. As the backbone of the nation’s clean energy transition, this facility supports critical industries such as AI and advanced technologies, ensuring their power needs are met sustainably and reliably.”

“This project not only underscores Abu Dhabi’s growing reputation as a leader in utility-scale renewable energy innovation but also cements EWEC’s role in ensuring energy security for future generations. Collaborating with partners like Masdar and TAQA Transmission to facilitate the development of network infrastructure enables the achievement of our transformational milestones that accelerate the UAE’s journey to achieving its Net Zero by 2050 strategic initiative,” he added.

The solar PV and BESS facility will provide unparalleled stability and efficiency by overcoming the intermittency challenges of renewable energy. The 19GWh battery storage facility will enable seamless integration of solar power into the grid.

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UAE-based Mira Developments and the ARAV Group, the firm behind the John Richmond brand, have announced a global partnership. The partnership will see the development of fully furnished residences, five-star hotels, and cafes, the first projects will be across the UAE, in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Ras Al Khaimah.

Each development will combine John Richmond’s design philosophy with Mira Developments’ expertise in delivering fully furnished luxury homes, hotel-style services, and designed community spaces.

Every John Richmond-branded property will embody the brand’s aesthetic, inspired by the energy of rock ‘n’ roll and an exploration of street culture. These residences will showcase bold designs, premium materials, and innovative details that define the brand’s signature style.

Art installations and upscale furnishings, developed in collaboration with FormItalia Luxury Group, will further enhance the environment, blending fashion and interior design.

John Richmond commented: “When I was sixteen, I was accepted at Manchester University to study architecture. At the last minute, I changed my mind and went to London to study fashion. I never lost my love of architecture, and to be involved in this venture is like all my dreams come true.”

“We are thrilled to bring John Richmond’s distinctive aesthetic to the world of luxury living,” said Mena Marano, CEO of ARAV Group and proprietor of the brand. “This partnership marks an exciting milestone, showcasing how fashion and lifestyle can converge to redefine sophistication.”

Tamara Getigezheva, Co-founder of Mira Group stated, “Mira Developments is delighted to partner with John Richmond and the ARAV Group, bringing the brand’s distinctive fashion-forward vision to our luxury properties. Together, we will create spaces that seamlessly blend rebellious energy with refined elegance and exceptional craftsmanship.”

With new properties in Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Ras Al Khaimah, Mira Developments continues to redefine living with its unique approach to fully furnished branded properties and premium services like complimentary valet parking and free housekeeping.

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Kuwait Real Estate Company (Aqarat), in collaboration with IFA Hotels and Resorts, has launched the Al Tay Hills project in Sharjah. The project, with a total cost of US $952.9mn, spans over six million sqft and includes 1,100 villas and townhouses with diverse designs and sizes to meet various client needs.

The units range from three to six bedrooms, each featuring private pools and modern designs combining luxury and comfort. The first phase of the project’s three phases is scheduled for delivery in the first quarter of 2028.

Al Tay Hills is being developed in a strategic location near the Sharjah Grand Mosque and directly on Emirates Road, at the main intersection bordering Dubai. The project is said to be minutes away from Dubai International Airport, Downtown Dubai, and Sharjah International Airport.

Al Tay Hills has the longest ‘green river’ in the UAE, serving as the natural lung and central artery of the development. This river stretches over 2.5km and features extensive green, landscaped spaces. The river serves as the project’s arterial park, offering residents and visitors stunning views, fresh air, and a number of relaxation and recreational zones.

At Tay will offer a comprehensive array of facilities and services, including playgrounds for adults and children, a mosque, restaurants, cafes, retail outlets, swimming pools, and dedicated walking and cycling paths totaling 11km. This creates an exceptional living experience that merges modern life with nature, said a statement.

Ibrahim Saleh Al-Therban, Chairman, Kuwait Real Estate Company said, “We are delighted with the Al-Tay project, which is one of Aqarat’s largest and most ambitious projects. We hope Al-Tay Hills achieves significant sales success, especially as it combines modern designs with a strategic location, making it an exceptional opportunity for both investors and residents alike.”

Khaled Esbaitah, Chairman of IFA Hotels and Resorts, commented, “We are proud to announce our latest expansion in the UAE’s real estate portfolio, building on the company’s successes and track record in project development. We are now transferring our distinguished expertise in land development, gained from local, regional, and global markets, to the emirate of Sharjah. The Al Tay Hills reflects our vision of blending Sharjah’s values and traditions with a distinctive modern environment that provides homeowners with safe and sustainable living conditions that align with the highest global standards, while preserving the Emirate’s rich traditions.”

The development blends modern architectural designs with scenic nature, offering a serene and harmonious lifestyle. It reflects Sharjah’s vision of promoting a sustainable green environment that protects nature and biodiversity, the company said.

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Etihad Rail has introduced the region’s first-ever ‘CO2 Emission Avoidance and Reduction Certificates’, an innovative initiative that highlights the environmental benefits of rail transport for its customers.

This significant milestone reinforces Etihad Rail’s role as a key contributor to the UAE’s climate change agenda, aligning with the nation’s Net Zero by 2050 Strategy through a transparent Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) framework linked to the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), said a statement from the company.

The certificates – powered by EcoTransIT, a tool for assessing the environmental impact of transport- quantify and validate the carbon savings businesses achieved by choosing rail over alternative transport modes, directly contributing to the UAE’s decarbonisation goals. Using EcoTransIT’s accredited methodology, the certificates calculate CO2 Equivalents (CO2e) by factoring in direct emissions from diesel and indirect emissions from biofuels (where applicable).

The process includes Well-to-Wheel (WTW) analysis, covering the full lifecycle of fuel use – from extraction to combustion – ensuring an accurate measurement of the environmental impact of each tonne-kilometre transported. It also accounts for cargo weight and distance using shipment-specific data and geocoordinates. For comparison, rail freight emissions are calculated in comparison to truck emissions, providing a clear basis to highlight rail’s environmental advantages.

By launching these certificates, Etihad Rail is empowering its customers by providing credible and tangible data that reflects the positive environmental impact of their shift from road to rail. This initiative not only supports businesses’ ESG objectives and commitments but also presents an opportunity to showcase their leadership in environmental stewardship, said the company.

By adopting rail as a primary mode of transport, companies can align their operations with the ‘Reduction of Climate Change Effects’, ensuring compliance with national climate regulations while advancing their sustainability goals. These certificates allow customers to enhance their corporate sustainability reports, improve ESG Ratings, attract environmentally conscious stakeholders.

“At Etihad Rail, sustainability is not just a commitment – it is a cornerstone of our identity and operations. The introduction of our CO2 Emission Avoidance and Reduction Certificates underscores our dedication to pioneering climate action and delivering tangible value to our customers. This initiative empowers businesses to take active roles in reducing their carbon footprint, while leveraging the unparalleled efficiency and reliability of rail transport. By aligning with the UAE’s Net Zero by 2050 Strategy and the UAE Climate Change law, we are driving transformative change in the logistics sector, building a more sustainable future for the UAE and the region,” said Omar Alsebeyi, Executive Director of Commercial & Performance of Etihad Rail.

He added: “The introduction of Etihad Rail’s CO2 Emission Avoidance and Reduction Certificates presents a unique value proposition for our customers. As businesses increasingly prioritise environmental responsibility, these certificates not only allow them to align their operations with the UAE’s decarbonisation goals but also demonstrate their commitment to sustainability. We’re proud to be part of this pioneering initiative that is rapidly becoming a key market differentiator, helping us attract and retain customers focused on reducing their environmental impact while enhancing their logistics operations.”

Etihad Rail aims to transport 60m tonnes of cargo annually by 2030, contributing to the UAE’s economic diversification, enhancing supply chain resilience, and contributing to its climate targets. Etihad Rail’s operations are projected to reduce CO2 emissions from the UAE’s road transport sector by 21% annually by 2050, taking up to 300 trucks off the roads for every train journey and removing 8.2m tonnes of CO2 per year.

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