In response to traffic challenges in Dubai, the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has launched a survey for feedback from motorists.

The RTA said the comprehensive survey is aimed at private sector employees and seeks to gather insights into traffic movement patterns, specifically exploring the potential impact of flexible work hours and remote working arrangements.

In a post on X (formerly Twitter), the RTA said: “In its effort to manage traffic flow and address congestion, #RTA, in cooperation with other relevant entities in the Emirate of Dubai, is conducting a survey that takes about 10 minutes to complete, to understand the current situation in the private sector in relation to ‘flexible work hours’ and ‘remote working’.”

The survey can be taken at this link.

On the survey site the RTA clarified the following:

• Flexible work hours represent practices that provide flexibility in working hours and include the “flexible work start window“, which is the time window during which employees are allowed to start work  (for example, the flexible work  start window from 7 to 9 AM means that the employee can start work at any time between 7 and 9 AM and accordingly the departure time will depend on the time they start work and the required number of working hours.
• Remote work represents any form of work that does NOT require the employee to attend to the workplace (working from home or from any place other than the workplace).

The RTA also stated that participants in the study will be entered into a draw for various prizes, and remarked that the “collected data will be treated confidentially and will be utilized only for the purpose of the study”.

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Source: ME Construction News

Al Ain City Municipality has announced it has completed 47% of the work on Phase 1 of the extensive Infrastructure and Road Upgrade Project in the Al Amerah area. Project construction began in the third quarter of 2023, at a total budget of US $35.3mn.

The three-phase project – part of a comprehensive plan to develop roads and sustainable infrastructure in Al Ain’s residential neighborhoods – aims to provide the best services for the well-being and convenience of citizens and residents alike.

It is also the largest single upgrade to the district’s roads network in the modern history of Al Ain Municipality and is part of a larger, ongoing civic enterprise concerned with improving the region’s accessibility and access, said a report.

Al Ain City Municipality explained that the project works cover numerous ley operations, including: road reconstruction; the creation of ample parking lots; storm drainage network improvement; laying down new sidewalks and walkways; resurfacing; fresh lane demarcation; lighting network upgrade; and speed bump installation. Work is currently proceeding fully on schedule.

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Saudi Arabia’s National Housing Company (NHC) has awarded a contract to China Machinery Engineering Corporation (CMEC) for the construction of 20,000 residential units. These will be built for key community projects throughout the Kingdom.

According to NHC, this agreement is one of several with major international construction companies. It will entail building different facilities, including medical care establishments, schools, and retail stores. The concept throughout is to create vibrant regional hubs with a full range of lifestyle amenities for residents.

The agreement was signed by National Housing Company CEO Mohammad Albuty, in the presence of Majid bin Abdullah Al Hogail, Minister of Municipal, Rural Affairs & Housing and Chairman of the Housing Program Committee, during his recent visit to Beijing, China.

The deal is part of NHC’s contribution to achieving the objectives of the Housing Program, envisaged in the Kingdom’s Vision 2030. The aim is to create a raft of partnerships with leading companies worldwide, in order to attract international investments in the highly-important real estate sector.

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The inaugural Critical Infrastructure Summit took place on 8 May at the Two Seasons Hotel in Dubai, and recorded over 120 professionals in attendance, the Big Project Middle East (BPME) team confirmed. The event was officially endorsed by The Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB) and Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS).

The event focused on a variety of topics relating to regional airports, advanced aerial mobility (AAM), data centres, seaports, and urban mobility, and explored how cities and infrastructure can be engineered to become more resilient to extreme weather events.

Delegates and speakers included industry bodies, developers & operators, as well as construction and engineering stakeholders, the editorial team said.

The event was opened by Jason Saundalkar, Head of Content at Big Project Middle East, following which the first session of the day took place. The ‘Data Centres – The Backbone of a Digital World’ panel discussion was moderated by Engi Jaber, CEO/Managing Director at Climatize, while panelists included Hassan Younes, Co – CEO & Founder at grfn, Lewis Wright, Project Director at PMKConsult, Qusay Abu-Abed, Regional Sales Manager, MENA & Data Center in-Charge at Danfoss Turkey Middle East and Africa, Suhail Arfath, CEO at Hloov, and Tinboat Arslanouk, Senior Director Partner Strategy and Growth at Khazna Data Centers.

The first presentation of the day saw Chandra Dake, Group CEO at Dake Group Limited give a presentation on harnessing the principles of sponge cities, to create urban landscapes that can not only withstand new climate realities but also thrive within them.

The second panel discussion ‘Resilient connections: Airports & Seaports in Focus’ was moderated by Katarina Uherova Hasbani, Partner and Global Director of Strategy and Advisory at AESG. Her panelists included: Dr. Rana El-Dabaa, Assistant Professor of Architecture at Heriot-Watt University Dubai, Dr. Talia Sherrard, Regional Director Strategic Sales & Marketing, MEI at Fugro, Fabien Jean Pierre Loy, Associate Engineer at Buro Happold, Laith Haboubi, Vice President – Middle East Region at Vector Corrosion Middle East Services, and Rhona Hunter, Managing Director at Hunter Horizon Consulting.

That session was followed by the second presentation on the development of Dubai’s commercial AAM network. Daniel O’Neill, Regional Manager – Middle East at Skyports Infrastructure took delegates through milestones that have been achieved from an operational, regulatory and development perspective, and outlined what the next 18 months of effort would entail ahead of the network’s 2026 launch goal.

The third panel discussion ‘Developing state of the art urban mobility in the GCC’ was moderated by Samya Ghosh, Practice Director, Strategic Planning & Advisory at AECOM. His panelists included: Mohammad Shamlouli, Geographic Information Systems Manager at Insite, Nadeem Shakir, Regional Director – Transport & Mobility Planning at Zutari Engineering International PTY Limited – Dubai Branch, Shane Mitchell, Director, Advisory EMEA at Parsons, Steven Velegrinis, Design Director and Regional Head of Cities Practice at Gensler, and Stuart Watts, Senior Transportation Engineer at KEO International Consultants.

“Following months of planning for the Critical Infrastructure Summit, it was immensely satisfying to be on the ground, and hear the brilliant insights shared by all our speakers. I couldn’t be happier with the discussions and presentations that took place through the day, and it was great to see that we retained the majority of our audience right through to the end of the day. Infrastructure is a hugely important topic, and I look forward to covering works done on existing and new projects in the coming months. Thanks to our sponsors, valued speakers and delegates for making yesterday a success,” said Saundalkar.

The event was supported by:

Gold Sponsor: KEO International Consultants
Strategic Content Partner: ALEC
Silver Sponsor: AECOM

Read more about the Critical Infrastructure Summit by clicking here.

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NEOM has now unveiled the latest element in its ongoing raft of civic and hospitality developments – Jaumur. Billed as an upscale, cosmopolitan community on the Gulf of Aqaba coastline, it will be home to more than 6,000 residents.

Jaumur will feature 500 marina apartments and nearly 700 luxury villas, all with waterfront access and private mooring. There will also be two distinctive destination hotels offering 350 rooms and suites.

Located at the heart of Jaumur, the marina serves as the focal point of the development. A 1.5km-long aerofoil will rise above the largest of the yacht berths, providing year-round protection for yacht owners, while the landscaped surroundings aim to provide a peaceful haven for the marina’s residents and guests, the statement noted.

The marina also has sufficient depth to welcome the world’s largest superyachts and there is a host of facilities for committed yachting enthusiasts. The marina promenade will also feature entertainment, leisure and cultural events, complemented by signature retail stores and dining options.

The development will also feature a deep-sea research centre dedicated to deep-sea exploration, with established in-house experts and ambitious pioneers set to champion marine discovery, knowledge and conservation.

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Turner & Townsend, a leading global professional services company in the construction industry, has released its 2024 UAE market intelligence report, based on a survey of construction professionals, that shows the industry must adopt strategic initiatives, including integrating cutting-edge technologies and embedding sustainability practices, across the supply chain to counteract labour shortages and shrinking contractor pools. These factors will support growth and innovation in the sector, according to the company’s survey.

Digital transformation is set to play a pivotal role in the industry’s advancement in the region, with 97% of survey respondents integrating digital tools into their projects, albeit some at a moderate level. This trend is set to continue with technologies like Building Information Modelling (BIM), now a standard practice in projects demanding high precision and efficiency.

Sustainability also remains a key focus, with 75% of industry professionals reporting that their companies have outlined strategies to achieve Net Zero emissions. The strategic adaptation of procurement methods highlighted in the survey, where 44% of respondents experienced single-stage procurement routes, reflects the industry’s responsiveness to market dynamics.

Drawing insights from across the UAE construction industry, the report also highlights the resilient nature of the UAE market, which continues to thrive and attract investment, despite challenges including ongoing supply chain constraints.

The report further predicts growth for the UAE construction market, emphasising sustainability and innovation-led projects. Public-private partnerships are highlighted as crucial, particularly in significant infrastructural developments and housing projects that align with the government’s vision for economic diversification and sustainable urban development.

Commenting on the report, Adam Ralph, Country Manager – Dubai, UAE, Turner & Townsend, said: “With the UAE positioned as a top emerging market with its economic plan to attract investors, there’s optimism for increased market activity. Despite facing challenges like labour shortages, shrinking contractor pools, and ongoing supply chain constraints, the industry remains resilient and is on a trajectory of growth and innovation.

“In-country construction is rebounding strongly, with a promising pipeline of projects and public-private partnerships addressing affordable housing needs.

“Yet, while some of our survey respondents expressed optimism, others showed caution, highlighting the importance of adaptive strategies. Strategic adaptation, sustainability and digital transformation will be vital for ensuring long-term success and resilience in this dynamic market.”

The report is available here: https://marketintelligence.turnerandtownsend.com/uae-mi-2024/

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Aeon & Trisl is celebrating back-to-back success after the real estate broker secured two major awards in Dubai.

Aeon & Trisl Real Estate followed up securing the prestigious number 1 Position award at the Emaar Properties’ Annual Broker Awards held at Armani Hotel in March with a second award from Aldar.

The UK operations of Aeon & Trisl, operating under the name Aeon & Trisl Investments UK, achieved the milestone for the group at the Aldar Honours Awards ceremony held at the Ritz Carlton Hotel in Abu Dhabi, UAE.

The recognition is particularly important for Hasnain Bayar, Head of Sales at the London operation after he took the reins at Aeon & Trisl Investments as a partner in early 2023.

Following the strategic direction of Group CEO, Saleem Karsaz, Bayar has led the company to an outstanding achievement securing the top position, surpassing all expectations, said the firm in a statement. Its recent successes in the market include, Shakir Chohan, representative of the K&S Team from Aeon & Trisl Dubai office, closing one of the highest valued luxury mansions at Lanai Islands – Tilal Al Ghaf on Hessa Street.

Aeon & Trisl has also unveiled its  the newly renovated headquarters in Dubai, a testament to their dedication to providing exceptional service: “Thanks to the innovative designs by YOCA Interiors and the flawless execution by Pro-Active Star Technical Services, their office now boasts a fresh, modern look that reflects their commitment to excellence. Anchored by unwavering principles of integrity, professionalism, and dedication to customer satisfaction, the company stands as a beacon of excellence in the real estate arena. These remarkable milestones underscore the combined dedication and support of our partners and global sales team.”

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Arada and Minor Hotels have officially launched off-plan sales for Anantara Sharjah Residences, a new destination for luxury seaside living.

Each of the 128 branded residences is housed within the grounds of the Anantara Sharjah Resort, a five-star hotel complex that is set to represent the ultimate in high-end beachfront hospitality.

Owned and developed by Arada and operated by Minor Hotels, the Anantara Sharjah Residences and Anantara Sharjah Resort will feature striking architecture including a signature gateway that is designed to show the path of the sun. The complex is located on the north-eastern edge of Al Heerah Beach, a popular tourist destination in its own right with 3.5 kilometres of beachfront containing jogging and cycling tracks and a wide variety of dining options.

Owners at Anantara Sharjah Residences will be able to enjoy incredible amenities and services including the stunning beachfront and pier, landscaped pools and water features, and outdoor café. They will also be able to benefit from the facilities on offer at the adjoining 110-key Anantara Sharjah Resort, which will include an expansive infinity pool, five distinctive restaurants including the brand’s signature Mekong restaurant, an Anantara Spa with world-class male and female wellness amenities, a state-of-the-art gym, a kids club, and a 400 square-metre meeting and events space, explained Arada.

Construction of the Anantara Sharjah Resort and Anantara Sharjah Residences is set to commence next year and will be completed by late 2027.

HRH Prince Khaled bin Alwaleed bin Talal, Vice Chairman of Arada, said: “Anantara is one of the most distinguished luxury hotel brands in the world and it is a privilege to bring this brand to Sharjah for the first time. Our partnership with Minor Hotels will provide buyers with the quality and delivery associated with Arada, combined with the harmony, culture, heritage and services they have come to expect from the Anantara brand.”

Dillip Rajakarier, CEO of Minor Hotels and Group CEO of parent company Minor International, said: “The expansion of the Anantara brand into Sharjah is an opportunity to deliver our unmatched lifestyle offerings to a new audience. We look forward to working with Arada to bring this new resort and residences development to market and ensuring its leadership position as one of Sharjah’s finest addresses.”

Ranging from one-bedroom apartments to four-bedroom penthouses, each fully furnished residence is marked by high-end design, signature touches and finishes in line with the Anantara brand. Design features include high-quality flooring, stylish work surfaces, premium white goods, generous living spaces and floor-to-ceiling windows, which lead to balconies furnished with impressive views. The duplex penthouses incorporate generous rooftop spaces and private swimming pools, offering panoramic views of the Arabian Gulf.

Owners may also choose to adopt the Anantara rental management scheme, which enables them to maximise return on investment by allowing the unit to be leased out using Anantara’s global sales network when they are not resident.

Anantara Sharjah Residences will be Anantara’s second branded residences project in the country.

Anantara Sharjah Residences marks Arada’s sixth project in the UAE and its fourth in Sharjah, following Aljada, Masaar and Nasma Residences. Since its foundation in 2017, Arada has launched projects valued at AED60 billion and has delivered over 9,000 homes.

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