Cundall has strengthened its sustainability services in the region with three leadership appointments in the UAE, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and Qatar. The firm says the MENA sustainability team has tripled in size over the past year, reflecting demands from governments and businesses in the region as they focus on sustainable practices to address the urgent challenges posed by climate change.

As the region accelerates its efforts to meet its national sustainability agendas, the construction industry plays a pivotal role in driving economic transformation and advancing the path toward Net Zero. The addition of key leaders to its regional offices marks a significant milestone in the company’s mission to support clients seeking cutting-edge, sustainable solutions.

Bysshe Wallace has been appointed to lead Cundall’s sustainability offering in Qatar. With over 18 years in the industry, Wallace’s experience spans life cycle analysis, ESG strategy development and strategic sustainability advisory services delivered to global and regional public and private entities.

Shahana Sayed has been appointed to drive the growth of Cundall’s sustainability services in the UAE. As a certified sustainability practitioner, with over 18 years of experience leading innovative energy efficiency and sustainability projects, Sayed specialises in guiding design and construction projects towards achieving sustainability goals.

Haytham Ayoub meanwhile is joining Cundall’s sustainability offering in Saudi Arabia. Ayoub brings over 15 years of experience managing complex, multidisciplinary consulting projects and supporting private and government clients with their Net Zero ambitions. Known for his technical expertise in energy modeling and carbon management, Ayoub will lead on driving impactful change and sustainability goals across the region and Saudi Vision 2030.

Mario Saab, Head of Sustainability MENA, explained: “As national visions across the region drive the transformation towards sustainable development, we are witnessing ambitious commitments from governments and developers alike to adopt Net Zero carbon strategies, decarbonise existing assets, and create smart, sustainable cities. This is a pivotal moment for our region, and Cundall is proud to play a leading role in shaping this future, supported by a highly skilled team across our Riyadh, Doha, Dubai and Bengaluru offices. Bysshe, Haytham, and Shahana are already making significant contributions to our clients’ ambitions, providing innovative solutions and strategic guidance to help them achieve their sustainability goals.”

Cundall is delivering strategic sustainability services for clients across the region including Msheireb Properties in Qatar, Majid Al Futtaim in the UAE, Ministry of Housing and Urban Planning in Oman, and the National Housing Company in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

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Source: ME Construction News

Diriyah Company has awarded a contract worth US $114mn to Omrania, a subsidiary of Egis Group, for its Boulevard District project. Omrania will be responsible for the provision of architectural, construction and design services.

As a multi-disciplinary consultant, Omrania will apply its strong expertise across three community areas in the flagship Boulevard District. The neighbourhood aims to become a major focal point for the $63.2bn Diriyah project and provide connectivity across multiple areas within the development’s comprehensive master plans.

Announcing the contract award, Group CEO, Jerry Inzerillo said, “Diriyah Company is delighted to have selected Omrania, one of Saudi Arabia’s most innovative and forward-thinking architecture and engineering firms, for this project. Their contemporary designs have significantly shaped Riyadh’s skyline, exemplified by iconic structures like the Kingdom Center. We look forward to leveraging their exceptional expertise to create vibrant communities in The City of Earth, establishing a new destination for people to live, work, and play.”

Alaa AbuSiam, Regional CEO, Egis Middle East & South Asia added: “We are proud to have been given this opportunity to contribute towards the architecture and design of a high-profile, sustainable community within one of Saudi Arabia, and the world’s, most exciting and dynamic urban development projects. As a Saudi company, Omrania is looking forward to applying their expertise in designing places that will inspire future generations while preserving the essence of Saudi Arabia’s architectural heritage.”

Omrania’s scope of work includes concept design, schematic design, detailed design and construction supervision within these key community zones.

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Source: ME Construction News

According to a Springfield Properties’ Q4 2024 Dubai Real Estate Market Report, total sales transaction values reached US $31.72bn. This reflects a 31.1% year-on-year increase, with transaction volumes surging 51.8% to 46,844.

At the heart of this growth lies the off-plan market, which contributed over half of the total transaction value, as well as Dubai’s thriving luxury property segment, which continues to attract high-net-worth individuals and institutional investors worldwide. Established communities like Palm Jumeirah, Downtown Dubai, and Dubai Marina remain dominant, offering a blend of exclusivity, lifestyle appeal, and long-term value.

Farooq Syed, CEO, Springfield Properties commented: “Dubai’s real estate market continues to demonstrate remarkable strength and global appeal, underpinned by strategic planning, visionary developments, and investor confidence. This growth is the result of a deliberate focus on meeting evolving buyer preferences while setting new benchmarks in quality, innovation, and sustainability. Dubai’s appeal to high-net-worth individuals is about delivering a seamless integration of lifestyle, security, and strategic value. Buyers and investors see Dubai as a city that not only offers world-class amenities but also understands their aspirations for long-term growth and stability”.

The report highlights the off-plan segment’s pivotal role in driving Dubai’s real estate success, with 30,388 transactions recorded in Q4, supported by innovative payment plans and a strong investor appetite for future-ready assets. Areas such as Dubai South and Jumeirah Village Circle emerged as growth hubs for mid-income buyers, while luxury off-plan developments in Palm Jumeirah and Dubai Hills Estate attracted a global audience seeking exclusivity and modernity.

Simultaneously, the luxury segment reinforced its position as a key driver of market value, with premium properties in Palm Jumeirah achieving the highest average sales price.

As Dubai’s population approaches four million in 2025, demand across all property segments continues to rise. Key areas such as Dubai South, with its focus on inclusivity and strategic infrastructure, are expected to complement the ongoing strength of luxury hubs like Palm Jumeirah and Downtown Dubai. The city’s alignment with the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan further highlights its commitment to building a sustainable, forward-thinking real estate ecosystem that appeals to both global investors and end-users.

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Source: ME Construction News

MERED has commenced the main construction works phase of its flagship project, ICONIC Residences Design by Pininfarina. The milestone was commemorated with a special ceremony marking the first concrete pour.

ICONIC Residences is set to redefine living with its design, elegance, amenities and advanced engineering solutions. The project is located in Dubai Internet City and offers 310 luxury apartments with direct access to Sheikh Zayed Road and proximity to hotspots like Burj Al Arab, Palm Jumeirah,  Dubai Marina, Dubai Harbour and Emirates Hills, said a statement.

Michael Belton, CEO of MERED, commented: ”The ICONIC Residences are more than just a development, they are a statement of innovation where cutting-edge design meets unparalleled luxury. As we kick off the main construction phase, we’re not just building a project, we’re bringing the most exciting Italian aesthetic and international vision to life.”

“Dubai’s luxury real estate market is growing, with 2025 to surpass last year’s milestones in property sales, making now the perfect moment to introduce a project like ICONIC Residences Design By Pininfarina. A true masterpiece that will not only elevate the skyline but will also offer residents a lifestyle that redefines luxury and timeless elegance. We’re excited to see this vision become a reality and we can’t wait to watch it transform into something extraordinary,” he added.

Giovanni de Niederhäusern, Vice President of Pininfarina added: “At Pininfarina, we aim to create timeless designs that seamlessly blend beauty and functionality. By combining innovative materials and traditional craftsmanship, we strive to deliver architectural experiences that inspire and endure. Iconic Residences reflects our commitment to excellence. We are thrilled to witness this project materialise through our successful partnership with Mered and their highly dedicated team.”

The event brought together key project contributors, including Pininfarina, SERA Group as the general contractor, as well as consultants Mirage and Currie & Brown.

With main works now underway, the ICONIC Residences design by Pininfarina is on track for completion in Q3 2027, aligning with Dubai’s continued growth as a global hub for real estate and innovation.

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Source: ME Construction News

Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has announced that 54% of the Hessa Street development project has been completed and all intersections are expected to be fully operational by the fourth quarter of 2025.

The Hessa Street development project, which spans 4.5km from its intersection with Sheikh Zayed Road to its intersection with Al Khail Road, represents a continuation of RTA’s efforts to develop road infrastructure to meet the demands of urban development and population expansion, said a statement.

The scope of work includes the upgrade of four major intersections and also includes the construction of 13.5km of cycling and e-scooter tracks, connecting Al Sufouh to Dubai Hills via Hessa Street. A key highlight of the new cycling track is the inclusion of two architecturally distinctive bridges for cyclists and pedestrians.

The first bridge crosses Sheikh Zayed Road, while the second crosses Al Khail Road. Each bridge is five metres wide, with three metres designated for the cycling and e-scooter track and two metres for pedestrian pathways.

Mattar Al Tayer, Director General and Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of RTA, commented: “Hessa Street development project is one of the key infrastructure projects aimed at enhancing Dubai’s road network. It serves several key residential and developmental areas, including Al Sufouh 2, Al Barsha Residential Area, and Jumeirah Village Circle. By 2030, the population in the areas served by this project is projected to exceed 640,000 residents. The project will double Hessa Street’s capacity, increasing it from 8,000 vehicles per hour in both directions to 16,000 vehicles per hour.”

Mattar Al Tayer was speaking at the opening of a key two-lane bridge spanning 1,000m, and set to enhance traffic flow from Hessa Street to Al Khail Road. This bridge will ensure a seamless traffic connection to Dubai’s city centre and Dubai International Airport, reducing travel time from Hessa Street to Al Khail Road from 15 minutes to just three minutes.

The overall project involves the development of four key intersections. The first is the intersection of Hessa Street with Sheikh Zayed Road, where a two-lane directional ramp will be constructed, passing over the Red Line of the Dubai Metro. This ramp will facilitate right-turn traffic from Sheikh Zayed Road onto Hessa Street heading east toward Emirates Road.

The second intersection is at Hessa Street and First Al Khail Road, where the number of lanes on the existing Hessa Street bridge will be increased from three to four in each direction. Traffic improvements will also be implemented at the surface-level, signalised junction to enhance flow.

The third intersection is at Hessa and Asayel Streets, where works include widening the current bridge from two to four lanes in each direction along Hessa Street. Meanwhile, the fourth intersection is at Hessa Street and Al Khail Road. The works include constructing a two-lane direct ramp to ensure seamless traffic flow from Hessa Street onto Al Khail Road, in a northbound direction towards Sharjah.

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Source: ME Construction News

Samana Developers has inaugurated its new office in Abu Dhabi. Located at Al Falah Tower, the office will house 40+ property consultants and experts, serving the company’s Abu Dhabi clients, who currently account for 20% of sales.

The new office will offer on-site support and access to the latest project information, allowing potential buyers to explore projects through detailed visualisations. Building on the significant price growth of its Dubai developments, Samana Developers hopes to broaden its customer base in Abu Dhabi, the firm said.

Imran Farooq, CEO of Samana Developers said, “With Dubai’s primary real estate market hitting record highs, surpassing 180,900 transactions and achieving a remarkable sales value, we are thrilled to announce the launch of our new Abu Dhabi office. This strategic move underscores our commitment to capitalise on the dynamic growth of the UAE’s real estate sector and deliver exceptional living experiences to our valued clientele.”

In addition to becoming the seventh largest real estate developer in the UAE, Samana Developers has also gone global recently, teaming up with Elie Saab on a luxury venture, Samana Ocean Views Interior by Elie Saab in the Maldives. This project covers over 507,651sqft.

With a focus on creating sustainable living spaces, SAMANA Developers has delivered a range of residential and commercial projects climbing to the seven highest off-plan sellers in 2024, the statement concluded.

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Source: ME Construction News

Saudi Entertainment Ventures (SEVEN), part of Qiddiya Investment Company (QIC), a wholly owned Public Investment Fund (PIF) entity, has announced its latest entertainment destination in the Jazan region with an investment of US $351mn. The project’s development contract has been awarded to Alfanar Projects, further advancing SEVEN’s mission to create entertainment experiences across the Kingdom.

The new entertainment destination will be adjacent to the North Corniche Park along the Jazan waterfront, offering a location near the city centre with easy access for residents and visitors from neighboring areas. Covering over 60,000sqm of land with 73,000sqm of built-up space, the project promises a diverse range of entertainment and recreational facilities tailored to the community.

Abdullah Nasser AlDawood, Chairman of SEVEN, commented: “We are excited to unveil SEVEN’s new entertainment destination in Jazan, reflecting our ongoing commitment to enriching the Kingdom’s entertainment offering and enhancing the quality of life for communities across Saudi Arabia. This destination celebrates the natural diversity and rich cultural heritage of the Jazan region, providing exceptional leisure experiences for residents and visitors alike. As SEVEN expands across the Kingdom, our focus remains on creating vibrant spaces that bring people together.”

Designed by Gensler, the project draws inspiration from Jazan’s natural beauty. It combines elements of the Red Sea coastline, the region’s mountain ranges, and the jasmine flowers for which the area is known.

Amer Alajmi, Executive Vice President of Alfanar Projects added, “We are honored to collaborate with SEVEN to develop this landmark entertainment destination in Jazan. Our shared commitment to excellence and innovation will ensure the project meets the highest quality of standards and contributes meaningfully to the Kingdom’s growing entertainment sector. This project is an exciting opportunity for Alfanar to play a key role in bringing world-class experiences to the Jazan community and beyond.”

Visitors to SEVEN’s destination in Jazan will be treated to various experiences designed to cater to all ages and preferences. The venue will feature an indoor golf course, for beginners and avid golfers. Families will also enjoy an entertainment district packed with world-class thrill rides, offering excitement and fun for everyone.

The cinema complex will boast multiple theatres, providing audiences with a premium movie-going experience. Challenge enthusiasts can test their skills on the Hot Wheels-inspired electric karting track, which will bring an adrenaline-filled racing experience to life, said a statement.

Additionally, the venue will host an indoor adventure centre by Discovery Adventures, fostering creativity and learning through hands-on activities that promise hours of imaginative play for younger visitors. Complementing the entertainment offerings, visitors can enjoy a variety of local and international dining options, with cafes, restaurants, and retail outlets.

SEVEN is investing to build 21 entertainment destinations in 14 cities around the Kingdom, which will provide unique and innovative entertainment and global partnerships from within the sector.

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Source: ME Construction News

BESIX-Plenary Group has achieved financial close on the Khalifa City School project in Abu Dhabi. The project was procured using an augmentation procurement framework within the existing Zayed City Schools public-private partnership (PPP) project. Led by Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO), the design and use of this framework for school infrastructure marks another first for the region.

The Abu Dhabi Department of Education and Knowledge (ADEK) requires Khalifa City School to be operational by August 2026, a timeline that could not be achieved via a traditional procurement process, said a statement.

Through planning and implementation, ADIO developed a specific framework that enabled the school’s infrastructure to be procured and awarded within a record time-frame of twelve months, demonstrating ADIO’s commitment to delivering critical infrastructure efficiently and on schedule. This approach aligns with broader efforts to attract and enable investments that support the emirate’s vision for world-class educational infrastructure.

Early works commenced in July, with construction scheduled to begin shortly which comprises the design, build, finance, and 18-year operation and maintenance of a new campus, which will accommodate 3,380 students in Khalifa City. The school is scheduled to be completed in time for the 2026 academic year. Zayed City Schools project delivered three state-of-the-art schools on time earlier this year.

ADIO led the augmentation process in collaboration with the ADEK and the BESIX-Plenary Group consortium. BESIX-Plenary delivered a value-for-money solution, subsequently reaching commercial and financial close, the statement explained.

Plenary Group Chief Investment Officer Paul Crowe said, “The augmentation deal underlines the flexibility of the PPP model and the ability to enhance value for money for the procurer. This project, and the underlying Zayed City Schools project, is a great demonstration of the strength and flexibility of the PPP model. The Khalifa City School is a brilliant result for ADEK and its future students and staff, and we are proud to have provided such a meaningful outcome for ADIO.”

Peter Lembrechts, General Manager of BESIX Middle East added, “BESIX’s strength lies in our unique combination of capabilities: equity investment, EPC expertise, and long-term operations and maintenance leadership. This integrated approach allows us to deliver successful projects at every stage, creating lasting value for all stakeholders.”

Elias Sfeir, Head of Concessions & Assets, BESIX Middle East commented, “Leveraging our combined financial strength, technical expertise, and a unified vision to deliver ADEK’s and ADIO’s goals for sustainability and innovation, this strong partnership will once more redefine possibilities and set new benchmarks in infrastructure development.”

Equity financing is provided by Plenary (50%) and BESIX (50%), while debt is being provided by leading domestic and international banks Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank, HSBC, Intesa Sanpaolo and Norinchukin.

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Source: ME Construction News

Ellington Properties has announced the handover of Berkeley Place, a landmark addition to Mohammed Bin Rashid City (MBR City). The residential development is said to feature innovative design and curated amenities which converge to create an unparalleled lifestyle.

Berkeley Place features 127 apartments, including studios, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom units, and each home is said to maximise space and natural light to enhance everyday living. This development transcends conventional living, with façade, layouts, and resort-inspired amenities, the developer said.

Berkeley Place goes beyond a residence, offering amenities that inspire balance and connection, with a lobby and lounge that lead to landscaped gardens for serene retreats, an urban basketball court, and an arcade room for recreation.

Eco-conscious features include EV charging stations and bicycle parking, indoor and outdoor fitness studios, yoga deck, and a rooftop infinity pool with views of Dubai’s skyline. The adjoining pool spa and terrace provide setting for relaxation and leisure, the developer noted.

Elie Naaman, Co-Founder and CEO of Ellington Properties explained, “At Ellington Properties, we believe in creating spaces that inspire and elevate daily life, Berkeley Place exemplifies our commitment to design-led living, combining innovative architecture with lifestyle-enhancing amenities in MBR City. These aren’t just homes—they represent refined living, offering residents a unique blend of comfort, style, and value. With its completion, we are proud to deliver a community that truly stands apart.”

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Source: ME Construction News

ABB’s Smart Buildings Division announced a new collaboration with the World Green Building Council’s (WorldGBC) European Regional Network (ERN), aimed at advancing sustainable, energy-efficient building practices across Europe. As a Regional Knowledge Partner, ABB will drive drive progress in low-carbon, energy-efficient buildings that align with Europe’s sustainability goals.

Leveraging its expertise in electrical and automation technologies, ABB aims to collaborate with industry leaders to advance innovative customer solutions. This partnership will provide ABB with access to a robust network of experts and member organisations, fostering valuable insights and feedback. Together, they will contribute to meeting key sustainability frameworks, such as the Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (EPBD), while supporting a cohesive approach to shaping building policy across Europe.

The World Green Building Council is dedicated to accelerating sustainability in the built environment, working with governments, businesses, and organizations to drive systemic change around the world. Through its European Regional Network of over 20 Green Building Councils and nearly 5,000 members, WorldGBC is a catalyst for positive change which aims to reduce the environmental footprint of buildings across their entire lifecycle. Recent initiatives spearheaded by the network include the BuildingLife project to develop an EU Roadmap, with a full set of recommendations to address Whole Life Carbon (WLC) in buildings across Europe, as well as 12 National Decarbonisation Roadmaps initiated to address national level needs.

“With buildings responsible for approximately 30% of final energy consumption and for 26% of global GHG emissions, the opportunity for impact is enormous,” said Mike Mustapha, President of ABB Electrification’s Smart Buildings Division. “Our collaboration with the World Green Building Council’s European network will support ABB’s efforts to share expertise and partner with organisations that maintain similar values and ambitions toward a sustainable, low-carbon future. Together, we have the potential to advance smarter, more energy-efficient buildings across Europe that foster resilient, inclusive communities.”

Laura Pallares, Head of the Europe Regional Network (ERN), WorldGBC added, “We couldn’t be more delighted that ABB has joined us as a regional member. The journey to Net Zero relies on partnerships and collaboration with like-minded organisations. Through our mutual vision for electrifying the built environment and commitment to sustainability, the opportunities for progress are endless.”

Aligned with its sustainability goals, ABB’s participation also reflects its dedication to address trends like the shift to electrified, urbanised environments. ABB’s innovative automation and energy management technologies are designed to optimise energy use, integrate renewable sources, and building intelligence, enabling customers to meet these emerging challenges effectively, while enjoying a more comfortable, personalized living and working experience.

This collaboration marks another step in ABB’s sustainability journey to provide products and solutions that support our customers sustainability needs while also reflecting its commitment to advancing a sustainable built environment across Europe. 

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Source: ME Construction News