Emirates Global Aluminum (EGA) has announced the implementation of a digital greenhouse gas emissions tracking system to enhance transparency and accelerate decarbonisation, in line with the UAE’s National MRV Transparency System.

The Greenhouse Gas measurement, reporting, and verification system is a centralised digital platform for Scope 1 and 2 emissions data. The platform enables EGA to automate emissions tracking, documentation, and validation by independent third-party auditors. The data is reported using standardised dashboards to relevant stakeholders, including government organisation and customers.

The UAE is first in the region to develop an integrated greenhouse gas emissions and air quality monitoring, reporting and verification system. The National MRV Transparency System supports the National Climate Action plan, meets international reporting obligations, tracks progress, and delivers on the of the National Air Quality Agenda 2031.

Abdulnasser Bin Kalban, Chief Executive Officer of Emirates Global Aluminium added, “Our GHG MRV solution will help EGA to meet evolving regulatory requirements while maintaining transparency and auditability of our emissions data throughout the value chain of our production processes. This tool is an important step in achieving our bold aspiration of embedding sustainability in everything we do and reaching Net Zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.”

The Ministry of Climate Change & Environment has mandated that companies report greenhouse gas emissions data to track our nation’s fulfilment of its commitment to reach net zero by 2050. EGA has publicly committed to reaching net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050, in line with the UAE Net Zero by 2050 strategic initiative, the statement concluded.

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The Emirates Nuclear Energy Corporation (ENEC) announced a historic milestone for the United Arab Emirates (UAE) with the fourth unit of the Barakah Nuclear Energy Plant entering commercial operations, marking its full delivery.

The milestone aligns with ENEC’s promise to bring clean, abundant electricity to the UAE. The plant has been delivered in accordance with the UAE’s 2008 policy commitments for nuclear energy development, meeting the highest standards of safety, security and transparency, said a statement from ENEC.

The Barakah Plant is now generating 40TWh of electricity per year, nearly equivalent to the annual electricity consumption of New Zealand, and provides up to 25% of the UAE’s electricity. This clean and carbon-free energy is enough to power 16m EVs annually. The 22.4m tons of annual carbon emissions prevented by the Barakah Plant are equivalent to removing 4.6m cars from the roads each year and contribute to achieving 24% of the nation’s 2030 decarbonisation commitments (Nationally Determined Contributions, known as NDCs).

“In 2008, the UAE’s visionary leadership took a data-led, long-term approach by issuing a comprehensive policy for the development of civil nuclear energy in the UAE to transform the nation’s energy supply. As Unit 4 of Barakah enters commercial operations, that vision has been realized, with one in every four electrons on the UAE grid coming from Barakah, providing up to 25% of the UAE’s electricity needs, and positioning the nation as a leader in civil nuclear development globally. This source of clean electricity will act as a magnet, attracting additional investment in the UAE by sustainably minded, but energy intensive industries from around the globe,” said H.E. Khaldoon Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman, Board of Directors, ENEC.

H.E. Mohamed Al Hammadi, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of ENEC added, “We are enormously proud of this monumental achievement for UAE, and are grateful for the continuous support of the UAE leadership, as we usher in a new era of clean energy for the country. Today, the UAE has added more clean electricity per capita in the past five years than any other nation, with 75% of this coming from Barakah. This clearly demonstrates that integrating nuclear energy into the UAE power’s mix and alongside growing renewable energy sources was the right decision, boosting energy security and establishing the UAE as a regional leader in this growing sector.”

“Barakah is making a positive impact on the lives of every person in the UAE through the clean electricity we generate around the clock. The Barakah nuclear energy plant offers a new model for the world and demonstrates that nuclear energy is bankable and can be delivered efficiently, with our units coming online within eight years from first concrete pour to fuel load and achieving a 40% improvement in schedule from start of operational readiness to commercial operations for Unit 4 compared to Unit 1,” added Hammadi.

Nasser Al Nasseri, Chief Executive Officer of Barakah One Company, ENEC’s joint venture subsidiary which oversees the financial and commercial interests of the Barakah Plant said, “Today, the Barakah Plant is generating a quarter of the UAE’s electricity needs in a reliable and efficient manner, providing a stable pipeline of power for the next 60 years. The certainty of power output and the inherent low volatility of pricing afforded by the Barakah plant offers a strong foundation upon which to build and grow, both for the UAE power sector and for consumers, highlighting one of the key benefits of modern nuclear energy plants. Combined with one of the highest energy returns on investment rates of any energy form, Barakah will be delivering returns for the nation for generations to come.”

The commercial operations of four units of the Barakah Plant come amid the growing global recognition of the pivotal role of nuclear energy in decarbonizing the energy systems and achieving Net Zero. The International Energy Agency (IEA) predicts that global electricity demand is expected to rise at a faster rate over the next three years, growing by an average of 3.4% annually through 2026.

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QUBE Development has begun sales for its MIDORA Residences project which is situated in Jumeirah Village Circle. This new development is said to emphasise QUBE’s commitment providing units with green spaces and convenient amenities to cater to modern life. MIDORA Residences was designed by Japanese architectural firm Nikken Sekkei and features 492 units including apartments and duplexes.

MIDORA Residences embodies a green urban oasis, surrounded on three sides by parks, and connectivity to landmarks, including airports and key highways. The area is also a market within the Dubai Southeast submarket, emerging as the number one choice for families and investors alike.

Project Director of MIDORA Residences, Alisa Novokhatko, commented, “A strong response from local and international investors reaffirms Dubai’s demand for thoughtfully designed, green living spaces. Interest in MIDORA Residences highlights the long-term investment potential of JVC.  This project is designed to cater to the needs of residents, with integrated cutting-edge features and meticulously planned amenities to ensure that MIDORA Residences stands out as the future of urban living.”

MIDORA Residences will feature a dedicated children’s developmental area, along with indoor and outdoor playgrounds, providing a safe space for children to learn and play. Residents can benefit from a range of wellness facilities, including one of the largest swimming pools in JVC, a professionally equipped gym, and yoga rooms, the developer said in its statement.

The project also features premium office spaces and facilities, the latter of which will provide each resident with services needed to unwind and enhance quality of living. A personalised 24-hour concierge service is a key part of the development, and the project also has green walkways and private BBQ areas. Units are said to be fully equipped with kitchen appliances and a smart home system that simplifies daily routines.

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JLL has announced the appointment of Taimur Khan as its new Head of Research. Khan will lead JLL’s research team in analysing market data, conducting in-depth market studies, and generating reports to guide decision-making and enhance the firm’s market positioning.

Khan will work closely with JLL’s Europe, Middle East and Africa teams to develop research methodologies and ensure that the firm’s research efforts align with its overall business objectives, the firm said in a statement.

“Taimur Khan brings significant expertise and a wealth of experience that will add tremendous value in delivering JLL’s market-leading research to support the real estate strategies of our clients in the region. We are excited to have Taimur on board to lead our research team and ensure that our clients receive best-in-class insights and market intelligence to drive long-term value for their assets,” said James Allan, CEO of JLL MEA.

Khan added, “I am excited for the opportunity to head an industry-leading research team and to deepen JLL’s research output to drive impact for our clients. It is an incredibly transformative time for the region’s real estate sector, and I look forward to supporting our clients with forward-looking insights to guide strategic decision-making in a rapidly evolving market.”

Khan will draw on and contribute to JLL’s global network to provide structured insights into real estate trends, strategies, and opportunities. He has produced market-leading reports and thought leadership white papers on the office, retail, industrial, and residential sectors as well as education, healthcare, and hospitality. He has focused on asset performance and macroeconomic and microeconomic analysis in his bespoke research for global clients, the statement explained.

JLL’s research adds significant value by providing clients with advantages in their planning, investment decisions, and real estate operations. With a dedicated team of research professionals, JLL leverages its extensive market knowledge, data analytics, and cutting-edge technology to deliver data-driven solutions, the statement concluded.

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The Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO), in collaboration with the Department of Municipalities and Transport (DMT), invited fully owned Emirati businesses, which are registered with the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (ADDED), to submit proposals for the Musataha Community Markets tender.

The tender offers opportunities for long-term investment to develop community markets in seven key areas in Abu Dhabi Emirate: Al Sader, Al Adlah, Al Qattarah, Al Marfa, Al Sila, Madinat Zayed, and Ghayathi. These projects involve the design, building and maintenance of community market facilities, including retail, pharmacy, supermarkets and restaurants.

Bidders are encouraged to participate in the tender, which opened on 2 September 2024 and closes on 17 October 2024. Bidders keen on submitting their proposals must confirm their interest by filling in the online form provided in the RFP documents to receive the submission link.

Proposals are to be submitted in line with the Instructions to Bidders included in the RFP  before the deadline of 17th October 2024, 5:00 PM.

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Aramco and ROSHN announced the commencement of construction on Aramco Stadium, Al Khobar’s new 47,000-seat stadium which is planned to meet international standards for football competitions, such as the 2027 AFC Asian Cup, the FIFA World Cup 2034 which the Kingdom is bidding to host, as well as other entertainment events.

Dar Al-Handasah Consultants (Shair and Partners) Dar was responsible for developing and delivering the detailed design of the new stadium; the architect’s vision for the structure is said to be inspired by the natural environment. Dar also delivered the detailed design of the mixed-use masterplan facilities and infrastructure.

Dar’s sister Sidara company Maffeis Engineering, a structural engineering consultancy, delivered the detailed design of the structurally unique roof and façade system, said a statement.

Dar also crafted the sustainability strategy for the stadium, targeting LEED and Mostadam certifications and setting standards for sustainable stadiums in hot climates, while aligning with Saudi Vision 2030, the Saudi Green Initiative and local and international regulations. The strategy includes measures for implementing passive and active energy efficiency incorporating demand response technologies, reducing water use, diverting operational waste away from landfills, and specifying eco-friendly, local, and recycled products.

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Millennium Hotels and Resorts MEA, under the management of Lakhraim Group, has announced plans to expand with the addition of 65 new hotels across the region. The group is said to already have a portfolio of 59 hotels in the MEA region.

From a single property in Abu Dhabi, Lakhraim Group now include properties like the The Biltmore Hotel Villas Dubai, Millennium Al Masar Jeddah, and Millennium Place Hotel Doha, said a statement.

Under its Tetra Hotels & Resorts brand, Lakhraim Group is creating a new dining destination in Dubai with the launch of Limestone House in DIFC. Currently undergoing renovation, Limestone House will host several Michelin-starred restaurants. Additionally, the group is developing The Biltmore House on Sheikh Zayed Road, a destination with luxury dining, retail outlets, a wellness center, and office space.

“We are thrilled to announce the rapid expansion of Millennium Hotels and Resorts MEA, which underscores our commitment to providing exceptional hospitality experiences across the region. Simultaneously, Tetra Hotels & Resorts is redefining luxury with innovative concepts that cater to the evolving needs of discerning travellers. These strategic moves solidify Lakhraim Group’s position as a leading force in the hospitality industry,” stated Ali Hamad Lakhraim, Chairman and Founder of Lakhraim Group.

He continued, “Each business compliments the others creating a powerful synergy within our group. Our journey exemplifies what can be achieved through dedication and hard work.”

“Dubai’s dynamic business environment and supportive infrastructure have been instrumental to Lakhraim Group’s success, our vision is to be a leading force in shaping the region’s future through strategic investments and innovative ventures. By capitalising on Dubai’s growth trajectory, we aim to create sustainable value for our stakeholders, while contributing to the city’s economic prosperity,” says Fahad Abdulrahim Kazim, Group CEO of Lakhraim Group and CEO of Millennium Hotels & Resorts MEA.

The city’s economy, coupled with its strategic location, has made it a platform for the group’s expansion initiatives. According to the World Bank, the UAE’s GDP is expected to grow by 4.1% in 2025, solidifying its position as a leading global economy.

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Bloom Holding has announced the handover process of units in Cordoba has begun within the first phase of Bloom Living, the developer’s integrated and all-inclusive community in Abu Dhabi.

Cordoba’s handover process started ahead of its scheduled delivery date, which was set for December 2024, presenting 257 residential units with modern finishing complimented by exceptional facilities. The completion of this phase follows its successful launch in March 2022, where all units were sold out within four hours of release onto the market, the developer said.

Carlos Wakim, CEO of Bloom Holding said: “Delivering Cordoba earlier than anticipated demonstrates our commitment to excellence and our ability to deliver beyond our promises without compromising on quality, which has always been at the heart of our value proposition and is why so many people continue to invest in Bloom developments. Cordoba is a perfect example of our ambition to develop premium units and provide our customers with an asset that delivers a great lifestyle with long-term value value. We are glad that our valued homeowners will be able to enjoy their new homes and investments sooner.”

“Cordoba’s swift handover will lead the way for the timely delivery of many more Bloom Living phases. Each phase has been carefully designed with unparalleled attention to detail and uniqueness. Unlike any other development, Bloom Living is a lifestyle destination centred on community living and is designed to provide an aspirational hub in which people of all backgrounds can flourish. We look forward to welcoming our first residents to this outstanding vibrant community,” he added.

Those living within Cordoba can benefit from a wide range of facilities available at Bloom Living, all within a short walking distance. Residents can explore the beauty of nature at Bloom Living’s multiple walkways, cycling tracks, and linear parks that connect the community’s neighborhoods. They can also enjoy their time at the community’s main clubhouse which provides easy access to pools, sports, and recreational facilities, as well as a wellness centre, said a statement from the developer.

Additionally, at the heart of Bloom Living lies a Town Center that offers retail and F&B options. The focal point at Bloom Living will be a large lake around which residents can walk, run, and cycle in designated trails. For gatherings and leisure activities, the community features multi-purpose amphitheaters and Sunset and Sunrise Plazas.

Inspired by Mediterranean Spanish architecture and built over an area of 2.2m sqm, Bloom Living features more than 4,500 homes, including a selection of villas, townhouses, and apartments, to suit the unique needs of residents of all generations. The gated community is located within Zayed City and close to Abu Dhabi International Airport. Bloom Living has been designated as an investment zone allowing buyers of all nationalities to purchase residential units in the development.

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Qatar Energy has announced it will build a new solar power ‘mega project’ that will more than double the State of Qatar’s solar energy production. It will significantly contribute to lower carbon emissions, within the framework of a realistic energy transition.

The new project will boost Qatar’s solar power production capacity to about 4,000MW; it will actually be one of the world’s largest solar power plants, and will be based in the Dukhan area. The overall production capacity will be more than 2,000MW.

The announcement was made by Saad Al-Kaabi, the Minister of State for Energy Affairs, during a press conference held at the headquarters of Qatar Energy in Doha. He said: “I am pleased to announce that, in line with our Sustainability Strategy, we will more than double our solar power production capacity to about 4,000 megawatts by 2030 through the world-scale, 2,000 megawatt Dukhan Solar Power Plant.”

He added, “I would like to emphasise that developing solar power plants is one of Qatar’s most crucial initiatives to reduce CO2 emissions, develop sustainability projects, and diversify electricity production, reducing carbon dioxide emissions by more than 4.7m tons per annum.”

The new solar project will be added to Qatar Energy’s solar power portfolio; this includes the existing Al-Kharsaah solar power plant, which was inaugurated in 2022 with a capacity of 800MW, and two solar power projects being built in Ras Laffan and Mesaieed industrial cities. These will have a total production capacity of 875MW and are expected to start production before the end of this year.

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NEOM has announced a partnership with international hospitality brand Zannier Hotels to develop a new luxury eco-resort in Zardun, one of its key hospitality destinations in the Magna region.

According to NEOM, Zannier Zardun will offer a ‘tranquil retreat’, at the heart of the 4sqkm Zardun resort. It will overlook the waters of the Gulf of Aqaba, and feature 100 distinctive rooms and suites, spread across three individually themed buildings. Guests at Zannier Zardun will enjoy a range of activities, including nature conservation programmes, sports, and leisure activities. The resort will also feature an ‘experience centre’ with a 360-degree observation deck, offering visitors unparalleled views of the surrounding area.

Arnaud Zannier, Founder and CEO of Zannier Hotels said: “This partnership marks a significant milestone, solidifying our position among top-tier hospitality brands. It highlights our ambitious vision and commitment to excellence, serving as both a cornerstone for our brand’s evolution and a testament to our emergence as a formidable contender in the luxury hospitality market.”

As part of NEOM and Zannier Hotels’ dedication to preserving and enhancing the natural environment, the resort will feature a series of lush oases designed to support diverse habitats, aiding the reintroduction of native animal, tree, and plant species.

Jeremy Lester, Executive Director, Magna, commented, “Zannier Zardun epitomises NEOM’s dedication to crafting unrivalled experiences that celebrate the precious environment and rich heritage of Magna. Together, we will carefully and diligently cultivate and conserve the vibrant ecosystem along the coast for future generations. This partnership with Zannier Hotels reflects a unified vision where ultra-luxury and sustainability coexist in perfect harmony. Zannier Zardun charters new horizons, merging our grand ambitions and shared values to create lasting memories for our guests and visitors to cherish.”

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Source: ME Construction News