The ‘first’ highway in Angola, Africa will be built by contractor China Road and Bridge Corporation (CRBC). The project will span 1,400km with costs estimated to be approximately US $2.5bn, however an expected completion date has yet to be announced.

The country’s inaugural highway – which was first approved as a public/private partnership funding scheme in 2020 – will link the northern and southern regions of Angola, including connections with neighbouring Namibia and the Democratic Republic of Congo, said a report.

The provinces that are expected to see expanded infrastructure include Cunene, Zaire, and Cabinda. Bridge works are also expected to link Zaire and Angola’s Cabinda enclave.

Initial studies for the project will start later this summer with construction work expected to begin in late 2025/2026.

The post 1,400km highway to be developed in Angola, Africa appeared first on Middle East Construction News.

Source: ME Construction News

Saudi Data and AI Authority has announced the launch of a range of technical infrastructure expansion projects, as well as a suite of new data centres in Riyadh.

The data centres reflect the Saudi government’s move to make state-of-the-art data collection, storage and analysis a key priority. The initiatives for building enlarged technical infrastructure are the first of their kind in the Kingdom, and are aimed at accelerating the acquisition of relevant knowledge-sets and resources.

Speaking at the launch, Saudi Data and AI Authority President, Dr Abdullah Al Ghamdi, explained that these initiatives are part of its strategy to develop sustainable data centres built according to the best global practices and standards set by the UPTIME Institute, the global authority on data centre evaluation and classification.

The cluster of new data centers boast an electrical capacity of up to 65 kilowatts per cabin and feature highly efficient electrical and mechanical systems.

Meanwhile, the launch event was attended by senior officials responsible for the planning and roll-out of the new programmes, including Dr Essam bin Abdullah Al-Waqit, the Director of the National Information Center.

The post KSA moves towards a data-led economy appeared first on Middle East Construction News.

Source: ME Construction News

The Royal Commission for Riyadh City and the Ministry of Sport have together announced the unveiling of the designs and plans for the King Salman Stadium – slated to be one of the world’s largest sports arenas.

Situated in northern Riyadh along King Salman Road next to King Abdulaziz Park, the stadium is near vital city sites such as King Khalid International Airport, Riyadh Metro station, and major roadways, ensuring easy access from all parts of the city. The stadium will serve as the Saudi national team’s main headquarters and will host a spectrum of major sporting events and activities.

Covering over 660,000sqm, King Salman Stadium will be one element of a range of amenities for various sports activities, including commercial centres and recreational areas accessible to all age groups. This makes the stadium an accessible and compelling destination for visitors from within and outside the Kingdom.

The main stadium will have a seating capacity of 92,000 and feature a 150-seat royal suite, 120 hospitality suites, 300 VIP seats, and 2,200 dignitary seats.

The structure will feature sustainable cooling systems for the audience seats and stadium floor, along with extended indoor screens for spectators and extensive indoor gardens. A walking track with a scenic view of King Abdulaziz Park will be built around the top of the stadium.

The general plan for King Salman stadium includes multiple surrounding sports facilities spanning over 360,000sqm, including two training fields as well as fan zones, a closed sports hall, an Olympic-sized swimming pool, an athletics track, and outdoor courts for volleyball, basketball, and padel tennis. These facilities cater to all age groups and are interconnected by a 9-kilometre-long sports track surrounding King Abdulaziz Park.

The design of King Salman Stadium and its sporting facilities has been approved, with completion scheduled for the fourth quarter of 2029, said the SPA report.

Among several proposals submitted by six specialised international companies, the chosen design draws inspiration from the mountainous landscape, integrating with King Abdulaziz Park through a valley that intersects the surrounding stadium garden and green spaces.

A spokesman for the Royal Commission for Riyadh City explained, “The main stadium’s architectural design includes green walls and ceilings spanning over 96,500sqm, drawing inspiration from local urban structures and aligning with environmental sustainability and green building standards. This design will establish a distinctive global sports architectural icon capable of hosting major local and international entertainment events, enhancing Riyadh’s quality of life and elevating the city’s global ranking as one of the ‘best cities to live in the world’.”

The post King Salman Stadium will be one of world’s largest appeared first on Middle East Construction News.

Source: ME Construction News

UAE-based Azizi Developments has announced that its mixed-use community development – Azizi Venice – last week set a new record for the largest continuous concrete pour ever completed in the UAE. A 22,000cu/m raft was poured for 56 hours – starting from 26^th July until 28^th July, on the Azizi Venice lot in Dubai South.

Founder and Chairman Mirwais Azizi commented on this unique achievement: “The quality and speed at which our developments manifest from vision into reality fills us with immense pride. This extensive, record-breaking two-day concrete pour, which is the largest of its kind in the UAE, exemplifies – and serves as a testament to – the fast pace at which our latest master planned community project, Venice in Dubai South, is being constructed.”

On completion, Azizi Venice will feature more than 36,000 residential units across more than 100 apartment complexes, and over 109 ultra-luxury mansions. For the project, Azizi is taking on the role of master developer, in charge of constructing the buildings, roads, and all the infrastructure.

The Azizi Venice community is distinguished by its extensive crystal-blue water lagoon, with multiple beaches. The lagoon surrounds the complete range of condominium buildings, villas, and mansions, as well as the adjacent leisure, retail, and commercial spaces.

At the heart of the development is a luxurious, ‘greened’ pedestrian-friendly boulevard, which will be open-air in the winter and glass-covered in the summer, to ensure a temperature-controlled space, with year-round activities for residents and visitors alike.

The post Concrete pouring record set by Azizi appeared first on Middle East Construction News.

Source: ME Construction News

Emirates Water and Electricity Company (EWEC) has issued a request for proposals (RFPs) to qualified companies and consortiums for the development of a new Open-Cycle Gas Turbine (OCGT) plant located in the Madinat Zayed area.

Located approximately 120km southwest of Abu Dhabi City, the plant is expected to begin commercial operations in Q3 2027. The Madinat Zayed Independent Power Producer (IPP) project will provide up to 1.5GW (AC) of backup generation, which can be operational at very short notice.

The project is being implemented on the Independent Power Producer (IPP) programme model, where developers enter into a long-term agreement with EWEC as the sole procurer. The scope of work for the winning bidder includes development, financing, construction, operation, maintenance, and ownership of the plant (with up to 40% stake). The remaining equity will be held indirectly by the Abu Dhabi Government.

As EWEC spearheads the UAE’s shift towards renewable and clean energy, flexible, gas-fired plants like Madinat Zayed will play an increasingly important role in ensuring a reliable energy supply, as the country transitions to a fully decarbonised water and electricity system.

EWEC CEO, Othman Al Ali, commented: “EWEC is accelerating the UAE’s energy transition, in line with our strategic mission to be a leader of change within the energy sector. Commissioning the development of flexible, gas-fired plants will enable us to incorporate renewable energy sources such as solar PV and wind into the nation’s sustainable energy mix even more rapidly. Natural gas has an important, transitional role to play in securing our system while we work towards a more sustainable future. As we move forward with the Madinat Zayed project, we look forward to receiving proposals from qualified companies and consortiums.”

The deadline for sending in bids has been set for Q4 2024.

The post EWEC issues RFPs for Madinat Zayed gas plant appeared first on Middle East Construction News.

Source: ME Construction News

AESG has appointed Brent Ridgard to lead its Environmental Division in the Middle East. In his role Ridgard will lead the regional delivery of services that include environmental and social impact assessment, strategic environmental assessment, environmental management, environmental site supervision and compliance, environmental monitoring, environmental compliance and due diligence auditing, and environmental risk assessment.

The move is said to highlight the firm’s desire to continue its role in managing the environmental, social and ecological impacts of the projected growth of key countries in the Middle East.

“The urgency of mitigating climate change and protecting the unique and precious biodiversity and natural capital of the region has never been more pronounced. The Middle East is at an inflection point and must balance ambition with environmental stewardship,” said Saeed Al Abbar, CEO at AESG.

For over 13 years, AESG’s Environment Division has helped developers to pursue their projects in harmony with nature. In addition to being NCEC (Saudi National Centre for Environmental Compliance) certified, the environmental division holds Class A status from the Environment Agency Abu Dhabi and is a registered consultant with the Dubai Municipality Environmental Protection and Studies Section. In addition to this, AESG’s environmental division has worked with a number of project proponents to align with and secure funding from international lenders by facilitating compliance with International Finance Corporation (IFC) standards.

Saeed Al Abbar, CEO, AESG

The firm’s credentials have made it the partner-of-choice to the region’s most ambitious construction undertakings across a wide range of sectors including critical infrastructure, mega- and giga- projects, premier leisure and luxury travel destinations, and industrial and manufacturing facilities, the statement noted.

Al Abbar continued, “We are presently witnessing a flight of funds towards projects that demonstrably deliver on environmental sustainability commitments. The resulting surge in demand for our environmental services makes this the opportune moment to place Brent at the helm. His vision for nurturing a collaborative and innovative environment aligns perfectly with AESG’s values and goals. I’m confident in his ability to further advance the scope and quality of our sustainability and environmental portfolio, furthering our value proposition as the partner of choice for multidisciplinary integrated design engineering and design solutions that as well delivers all services relating to environmental consultancy in a pragmatic, innovative and cost-effective manner.”

Brent’s career spans over a quarter of a century, and he joins AESG from WSP where he served as the firm’s National Director of Environmental Assessment & Planning for Australia. Prior to this, he was the Middle East Director of WSP Environment and Energy, where among his many accomplishments was his contribution as the project lead in the development of Dubai’s Green Building Regulations, the statement outlined.

Ridgard concluded, “The Middle East is one of the most exciting development and construction markets, and the eyes of the world are upon it. Now is the time for the region to demonstrate its leadership and set new benchmarks for environmentally conscious development and progress. I am excited by the prospect of empowering clients to rise to the occasion. As a regionally founded firm that has successfully expanded its operations globally, AESG embodies the entrepreneurial and ambitious spirit of the Middle East and I am proud to join this celebrated team of industry pioneers.

The post AESG appoints new head of Environmental Division appeared first on Middle East Construction News.

Source: ME Construction News

DMT GmbH & Co. KG, a general planner and contractor for deep geothermal energy, has been assigned by Stadtwerke Münster GmbH to explore the geothermal potential in Münster as part of its Strategy 2030. The deal is said to be a milestone that will help to promote heat transition and decarbonisation in the region.

The large-scale 3D seismic survey campaign will be completed in winter 2024/25 and will explore the geothermal potential in and around Münster, DMT said in a statement.

Dr Maik Tiedemann, Chairman of the Board of Management / CEO DMT GmbH & Co. KG and CEO of the TÜV NORD GROUP Business Unit Energy & Resources stated, “Deep geothermal energy could currently cover 25% of Germany’s heating demand in the long term, sustainably and in a CO2-neutral manner. The first steps towards accelerating the heat transition with the help of deep geothermal energy have been made. The task now is to consistently utilise and roll out instruments such as exploration loans or insurances, national and international subsidies, and accelerated approval procedures. This will enable projects like the one in Münster to soon be implemented throughout Germany.”

The upcoming seismic surveys, which DMT will be conducting on behalf of Stadtwerke Münster, will explore the deep underground between 1,400 and 7,000m and cover the entire city of Münster. Stadtwerke Münster considers deep geothermal energy to be one of the lead technologies within the scope of its Strategy 2030. As a partner in seismic exploration, DMT is supporting Stadtwerke Münster in the implementation of its Strategy 2030 and will contribute to the heating sector and the energy transition.

Thorsten Müller, Head of Business Entity Exploration Seismic at DMT remarked, “The upcoming surveys in the deep underground around Münster will provide valuable 2 / 2 information to shape the agenda on the use of deep geothermal energy in Münsterland and define a roadmap for this project. With our latest acquisition of high-quality, state-of-the-art measuring instruments, we are also well equipped for the expected increase in assignments.”

DMT said it is providing important cornerstones for the energy transition beyond the Münster region and is involved in many other geothermal energy projects that will be carried out throughout Germany in 2024, such as for Stadtwerke Parchim, IGE Fraunhofer Bochum and the Geological Survey of North Rhine Westphalia. Further projects are currently in the pipeline throughout Germany and Europe, it added.

The post DMT assigned with 3D seismic survey campaign appeared first on Middle East Construction News.

Source: ME Construction News

DELTA Coatings released plans for the construction of a new headquarters and manufacturing plant. The eco-friendly facility will be powered in part by renewable energy, including an extensive solar energy farm on the facility’s roof, driving the firm towards its sustainability and decarbonisation goals. The firm said it aims to move to the new facility in the first half of 2025.

“Our new global headquarters and manufacturing plant in Dubai represents a positive step forward for our company. Our new facility will enable us to demonstrate the numerous benefits of polyurea-based liquid coating, lining and membrane solutions, as well as waterproofing systems, to our customers and even more applicators. It will also provide a fitting and inspirational home for our growing team of local and international experts as part of DELTA Coating’s five-year strategic growth plans. Since its inception over 20 years ago, this development marks a significant milestone in DELTA Coatings’ history, underpinned by growing awareness and more widespread acceptance of polyurea-based protective coating products and waterproofing solutions globally. It’s an exciting time for DELTA Coatings and our entire industry,” stated DELTA Coatings’ General Manager, Belvin Marx.

According to Marx, facility highlights include a range of new features, including modern open-plan office facilities to support the firm’s growing international team of experts and partners. Visiting customers can expect the new headquarters space to be one of innovation and discovery, showcasing the power of polyurea and dynamic benefits of polyurea-based linings, membranes, and coating solutions, as well as waterproofing systems.

Located in Dubai Industrial City, the facility is located a 45-minute drive from Abu Dhabi and 20 minutes from the new Dubai World Central airport and Expo City Dubai.

The post DELTA Coatings plans new headquarters and manufacturing plant appeared first on Middle East Construction News.

Source: ME Construction News

The Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO) awarded KUnnected Living – a multinational consortium led by Plenary Group, BESIX, and Mazrui International, a project to develop student accommodation facilities in Abu Dhabi. The project has reached commercial close and will support local suppliers and manufacturers by drawing local content and products from the national supply chain for the purposes of development and operation.

The project is the largest student accommodation project in the GCC region to be developed under a public-private partnership model, and includes a 23-year concession to design, build, finance and maintain 3,260 student rooms and communal facilities located across Khalifa University’s Main Campus and its Sas Al Nakhl (SAN) Campus.

The project is being implemented through Abu Dhabi’s Public Private Partnership Programme, which seeks to expand the role of the private sector in delivering major public sector infrastructure and services. ADIO is the central Abu Dhabi government authority responsible for the facilitation, development and procurement of all infrastructure projects delivered through this PPP framework.

Yaser Al Nuaimi, Acting Head – Infrastructure Partnerships at ADIO said, “In Abu Dhabi, we are committed to ensuring that the private sector can play a significant role in strategic infrastructure projects that will create impact and value across the emirate. The Khalifa University Accommodation project is a leading example of this; it demonstrates efficient PPP delivery through an effective commercial partnership that supports the development of premier facilities for students choosing to pursue their studies and research in our top-ranked educational facilities.”

Dr. Ebrahim Al-Hajri, President of Khalifa University added, “We are delighted to collaborate with the Abu Dhabi Investment Office to award the Student Accommodation public-private partnership contract to the consortium comprising BESIX, Plenary Group, and Mazrui International. This initiative is part of our strategy to provide improved campus facilities and accommodation for an enhanced student living experience, and it seeks to enhance our reputation as one of the leading universities in the region with high quality infrastructure megaprojects in the education sector.”

David Lamming, CEO at Plenary Group noted, “The KUnnected Living consortium is honoured to be selected to deliver the largest on-campus student accommodation developments in the GCC region. We commend the Abu Dhabi Government on its impressive, continued program of infrastructure development and look forward to working in partnership with ADIO and Khalifa University of Science and Technology to deliver this world-class integrated precinct.”

The project underpins Khalifa University’s commitment to provide accommodation solutions that promote a vibrant on-campus student living experience, alongside a social environment for local and international students alike. Designed to meet practices with the new facilities will offer technology-enabled ensuite rooms for undergraduates and ensuite studios for post-graduate students, as well as expansive communal spaces that include support services, central study areas, and commercial and retail areas.

The post ADIO awards contract for student accommodation facilities appeared first on Middle East Construction News.

Source: ME Construction News

Kuwait’s Public Authority for Housing Welfare (PAHW) has announced its award of the tender for comprehensive works on the South Sabah Al Ahmad City project. Project itineraries include construction of road works and infrastructure networks, covering a total of 6,568 housing units across four residential suburbs.

The US $294mn contract was won by China-based Avic International Holding Corporation, which submitted the lowest bid among the eight companies in the race.

The scope of work includes the implementation of infrastructure within the suburbs N1, N2, N3, N11 in the South Sabah Al Ahmad City project, as well as covering the rain, sewage, irrigation, treated water, and freshwater networks.

Announcing the tender award, Amina Abdul Karim Al Awadhi, the Deputy Director General for Control and Information Systems Affairs at PAHW, said the tender includes implementation of the first, second, and third surface asphalt layers for secondary and collector roads in residential suburbs, in addition to implementing the necessary traffic works for the project.

She explained, “The tender also contains provisions for implementing civil works for telephone networks, road lighting, electrical cable crossings, irrigation tank buildings, and electrical substations.”

The works covered in the tender are scheduled for completion by end of Q4 2026.

The post Avic International wins US $294mn Kuwait tender appeared first on Middle East Construction News.

Source: ME Construction News