114 townhouses and semi-detached villas in the Sarab 2 garden villa community at Aljada are being handover by developer Arada. The developer said that the contract to build Sarab 2 was awarded to Dubai-based RAQ Contracting in October 2021.

The two Sarab communities feature the only villas and townhouses in the Aljada master plan and are designed to make the most of green parks, natural light and ventilation. All homes at Sarab come with smart home features as standard and a cooker, hood and washing machine/drier installed, the developer noted in a statement.

Although both Sarab communities are located in peaceful and secluded parts of Aljada, they are both just a few minutes’ walk away from Madar, a 1.9m sqft complex designed by Zaha Hadid Architects that is the fastest-growing leisure and entertainment space in the UAE, the developer stated.

In mid February 2023, Arada said it successfully closed a $50mn second tap of sukuk and, in late March 2023, the developer launched the penultimate phase of the Masaar residential community.

“The timely delivery of the high-quality homes in Sarab 2 allows homeowners to enjoy an exceptional lifestyle in nature-inspired homes in one of the most desirable locations at the fast-growing Aljada community.  We are currently stepping up the pace of construction at Aljada, with the aim of delivering high-quality homes in this outstanding destination as quickly as possible,” said Ahmed Alkhoshaibi, Group CEO of Arada.

The completion of the Sarab 2 villa community raises the number of completed homes at Aljada to over 5,500, following the completion in December of 2,473 units at the premium student housing complex Nest, and another 1,600 homes in the East Village district of the city, Arada explained.

The developer noted that it will begin handing over another 600 units in The Boulevard residential complex at Aljada in the coming weeks. Around 3,200 homes are currently under construction at the Aljada site, where 25,000 units are scheduled to be built in total, the statement concluded.

In mid April 2023, Arada inked a deal to bring sustainable water treatment tech to the UAE.

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Source: ME Construction News

The Big Project Middle East editorial team has confirmed that the Dubai Supreme Council of Energy (DSCE) is joining its forthcoming 2023 Energy & Sustainability (E&S) Summit. A member of the council will deliver a keynote address and participate in the event’s panel discussions, the editorial team said.

The DSCE is the governing body tasked with policy development, planning and coordinating with concerned authorities & energy bodies to deliver new energy sources, while employing a balanced approach to protecting the environment, in alignment with the Dubai Integrated Energy Strategy 2030 (DIES). The strategy was launched under the visionary guidance of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE, and Ruler of Dubai.

The E&S Summit will bring together professionals from government, developers, operators, consultants, contractors and suppliers, to discuss a variety of key topics, in line with a region wide drive towards sustainable development and clean energy. Registration is complementary but mandatory for industry professionals.

“The DSCE’s vision and mission is central to Dubai’s future economic and sustainable energy growth, so we are proud and humbled to have the council’s participation at our second Energy & Sustainability Summit. As part of his keynote, Majd Fayyad, DSM Strategy & Policy Lead at the DSCE will share a global perspective on Net Zero; Dubai’s drive to achieving Net Zero; Dubai’s Green Mobility Strategy and more, and will also bring his valued thoughts and opinions to our highly anticipated COP28 panel discussion,” said Jason Saundalkar, Head of Content of Big Project Middle East.

Majd Fayyad, DSM Strategy & Policy Lead, Dubai Supreme Council of Energy

The council’s mission is to support Dubai’s economic growth through secure energy supply & efficient energy use, while meeting the following environmental & sustainability objectives: effective planning of energy sector; develop an integrated approach to securing energy supply and employing efficient energy practices for the sustainable growth of Dubai; ensure sustainability of energy supply while preserving environment; rationalise the use of energy and ensure environmental sustainability; plan and facilitate the execution of the strategic initiatives, demand management and supply options with view of diversifying energy sources, and set a governance framework to streamline existing energy practices across the DSCE entities to optimise synergy and energy efficiency.

According to the editorial team, the event’s agenda will include several panel discussions and presentations, each tying into topics such as: COP28 expectations and opportunities; the future of energy, green hydrogen and energy transition in the GCC; Net Zero developments and performance focused approaches to benchmarking buildings; smart and sustainable city mobility and more. Keep up with updates to event’s agenda by clicking here.

To discuss participating at the event as a speaker, contact conference producer Jason Saundalkar on Jason.s@cpitrademedia.com. Sponsorship inquires can be addressed to Raed Kaedbey (raed.kaedbey@cpitrademedia.com) and Madeleine Martin (madeleine.martin@cpitrademedia.com).

To learn more about the 2023 Energy & Sustainability Summit, click here.

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Source: ME Construction News

The post Construction Machinery ME – March – April 2023 appeared first on Middle East Construction News.

Source: ME Construction News

The global construction equipment rental market is forecast to be worth US $225bn annually by 2032, with a projected CAGR of 4% for the period 2023-2032, according to a report by Global Market Insights.

The market growth is mainly driven by the rising demand for tech innovations in construction equipment, implementing the latest smart technologies such as the Internet of Things (IoT) compatibility, artificial intelligence and machine learning, and the growth of telematics and remote operating.

Typically, rental specialists in this industry lease out or rent construction equipment such as cranes, scaffolding, crane lorries, MEWPs, graders, bulldozers and excavators to carry out a host of building activities. Moreover, the market’s key providers are more frequently engaging in strategic initiatives such as partnerships, mergers and acquisitions, R&D investments, and new product launches to gain a competitive edge in the industry.

In December 2022, Magna Tyres introduced three new mining sizes and in mid March 2023, it was revealed that excavators are in high demand ahead of a Ritchie Bros. auction in Dubai.

For instance, in January 2023, Al Faris Group recently extended its portfolio with addition of 24 Liebherr heavy-duty mobile cranes to its fleet, said the report. The delivery includes a range of models with lifting capacities from 110 to 700 tonnes, including four LTM 1500-8.1s with a lifting capacity of 500 tonnes.

Overall, the construction equipment rental market is very much segmented in terms of product and region. Based on product, the concrete equipment segment, for example, is expected to achieve over 5% CAGR between 2023-2032. This growth is being driven by changing production requirements in the sector: modern concrete producers are using cutting-edge technologies to eliminate raw material waste and reduce the need for costly storage space.

Moreover, a rising preference for high-capacity, innovative batching plants – taking advantage of incremental scale – will also drive demand, the report outlined.

In late March 2023, Construction Machinery Middle East said the spotlight would be on sub-contractors at its 2023 awards.

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Source: ME Construction News

Benoy has unveiled the design for ‘Konoz’, which is billed as a cutting-edge entertainment city being developed by Saudi-based Abdullah Al Othaim Investment Company in the heart of Riyadh. The project is being developed at a total investment value of US $1.86bn.

A leading shopping mall operator in the Kingdom, Abdullah Al Othaim Investment Company said Konoz (which means ‘Box of Jewels’ in Arabic) will boast an entertainment city, a luxury hotel and premium residential offering in addition to commercial, F&B and retail outlets.

The project’s name reflects the visual and architectural representation of gemstones as a design theme across its various zones. Konoz was first announced by the Abdullah Al Othaim Investment Company in late February 2023.

In mid February 2023, the Saudi Crown Prince launched the New Murabba Development Company to develop the world’s largest modern downtown area in Riyadh.

According to Benoy, the new scheme works as part of the wider ‘Vision 2030’, positioning Riyadh as a 24-hour destination to live, work, and shop. Konoz will include 50,000sqm of state-of-the-art commercial office space and a 20,000sqm entertainment city aimed at supporting Riyadh’s thriving tourism and entertainment industry.

Jamie Webb, Head of EMEA, Benoy, commented, “Our design concept centres around creating an attractive, walk-able district and neighbourhood, where people will be able to enjoy a variety of cultural and leisure activities. Bringing together cues from contemporary and historic Riyadh, with four key districts reflecting the different experiences of Riyadh.”

In addition to its commercial spaces, Konoz is to feature 15,000sqm of green areas, parking for 5,500 vehicles, a 120,000sqm commercial centre, a world-class a luxury hotel with 250 rooms, 120 serviced residential apartments, and an additional apartment complex that includes 700 apartments.

In late March 2023, Roshn inked $2.1bn in agreements with construction firms for the development of infrastructure and facilities.

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Source: ME Construction News

The second edition of Big Project Middle East’s (BPME) Energy & Sustainability Summit (E&S Summit) will take place on 23 May at the Habtoor Grand Resort in JBR, Dubai.

Several high-profile speakers have already been confirmed from regional construction specialists, developers and operators, as well as government and industry organisations, and technology firms including: the Dubai Supreme Council of Energy; KEO; EGIS; Jacobs; AECOM; Green Energy Solutions & Sustainability; Ecosquare; Towers & Hamlins; JLL and Thinkproject.

According to the editorial team, the event’s agenda will include several panel discussions and presentations, each tying into topics such as: COP28 expectations and opportunities; the future of energy, green hydrogen and energy transition in the GCC; Net Zero developments and performance focused approaches to benchmarking buildings; smart and sustainable city mobility and more. Keep up with updates to event’s agenda by clicking here.

The summit will bring together professionals from government, operators, consultants, contractors and suppliers, to discuss a variety of key regional topics, in line with a region wide drive towards sustainable development and clean energy. Registration is complementary but mandatory for industry professionals.

“It’s been an exciting and productive few weeks putting this event together – we’ve been able to confirm several high profile speakers from government organisations, the built environment, academia, developers and operators. The agenda and topics have been very well received, and we expect to confirm additional speakers in the coming weeks, as we build up to the event on 23 May,” said Jason Saundalkar, Head of Content of Big Project Middle East.

He added, “The agenda will be added to the website in the coming days and we encourage you to check in regularly to discover the latest updates with regards to panel and presentation content, and speakers.”

To discuss participating at the event as a speaker, contact conference producer Jason Saundalkar on Jason.s@cpitrademedia.com. Sponsorship inquires can be addressed to Raed Kaedbey (raed.kaedbey@cpitrademedia.com) and Madeleine Martin (madeleine.martin@cpitrademedia.com).

The 2023 edition of the E&S Summit is supported by:

Gold Sponsor: Atkins, KEO International Consultants
Silver Sponsor: AECOM, ECC
Bronze Sponsor: ThinkProject
Supporting Partner: Climatize, Egis Group, JLL
Knowledge Partner: Heriot Watt University

The first edition of the E&S Summit saw over 190 people in attendance, as well as the participation of experts from regional developers, consultants, contractors, industry bodies and academia.

To learn more about the 2023 Energy & Sustainability Summit, click here.

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Source: ME Construction News

UAE-based Azizi Developments has announced that steady progress is being made on its Park Avenue II project in Dubai, with nearly 81% of the work already completed. The residential community is due for completion in Q2.

Located in MBR City, Park Avenue is billed as a vibrant and well-connected residential community featuring 372 homes and 29 retail units, with each building having its own fully equipped gym and swimming pool.

Work is progressing rapidly, with Park Avenue II’s structure, blockwork, and internal plaster all being 100% complete. Tiling, HVAC and MEP now stand at 89%, 84%, and 77% respectively, while external works are 40% complete, the developer explained.

In early January 2023, Azizi said it would develop a $5.4bn Dubai South project and, in early March 2023, the developer said it had extended its partnership with Kludi.

Other work-in-progress statistics include a 47% completion on the swimming pool and surrounding areas, while the facade is 95% finalised.

Commenting on the project’s work-to-date, CEO Farhad Azizi said, “We are delighted with Park Avenue II’s swift progress and look forward to its completion in Q2 2023. Procuring only the best quality of building materials and appointing the most reliable contractors, we’ve ramped up the construction, exceeding the expectations of our valued investors and end-users.”

He concluded, “Built around the concept of connected serenity, Azizi’s Park Avenue project is the epitome of a strategic, easily accessible and convenient location, which provides a little ‘getaway’ within the city. Park Avenue grants residents a truly unique lifestyle. We are excited to welcome hundreds of happy families to their new homes in the coming months.”

In early April 2023, Azizi Developments launched Azizi Grand in Dubai Sports City.

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Source: ME Construction News

The Abu Dhabi Executive Council has approved the disbursement of housing benefits worth a total of US $746mn to 1,800 Emirati citizens in the UAE capital.

The move follows the directives of President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, and was approved by Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Executive Council.

The housing benefits include the exemption of low-income retirees and families of deceased mortgagors from loan repayments; the benefits will apply across a number of regions, including Abu Dhabi, Al Ain and Al Dhafra.

In late November 2022, Saudi-based Roshn began the handover of villas and townhouses ahead of schedule and, in early January 2023, Bahrain invited developers to bid for the construction of 700 residential units.

Loans for housing include the following categories of work: construction, demolition and reconstruction, as well as maintenance and expansion.

Mohammed Ali Al Shorafa, Chairman of the Department of Municipalities and Transport (DMT) and Chairman of Abu Dhabi Housing Authority said the first housing package of 2023, which coincides with Eid Al Fitr celebrations, reflects the leadership’s commitment to ensuring social stability and enabling citizens to raise strong, stable families that will benefit the future of the UAE.

He emphasised Abu Dhabi Housing Authority’s commitment to developing a modern and sustainable housing system in the emirate, which both achieves the leadership’s vision and meets the needs of citizens and their families.

In late February 2023, 8,500 housing plots were awarded to UAE nationals.

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Source: ME Construction News

Cupix has added its CupixWorks solution to Bentley’s ‘powered by iTwin programme’. CupixWorks is a 3D digital twin platform that enables decision-making and collaboration through all stages of a building’s life cycle, the firm said.

The solution also enables project managers, general contractors, architects, and owners to remotely view, track and manage on-site progress via 3D spatial contexts and life-like 3D navigation.

By leveraging the Bentley iTwin Platform, CupixWorks can synchronise and visualise 3D, 360° capture data (along with BIM models plus customised data) and use geo-referencing to place the capture in the site’s physical location, a statement from the firm explained.

“We are excited to add CupixWorks to Bentley’s powered by iTwin program. The iTwin Platform’s visualisation and synchronisation capabilities help CupixWorks to deliver life-like 3D navigation that feels like you’re actually on site. This improves collaboration for stakeholders – wherever they are – based on what’s actually happening at the site,” said Cupix CEO, Simon Bae.

In late December 2022, Omnix and IMSCAD inked a deal to bring VDI environments to AEC firms and, in late January 2023, the Dubai Municipality launched a 3D underground scanning project.

The addition is said to mark another step in Cupix’s efforts to democratise 3D digital twin adoption across the built-world industry. Last year, the company announced the release of their CupixWorks X 3D Digital Twin Platform, which is powered by the Gamma Engine (3rd generation) AI engine. The platform launch included enhancements to spatial contexts, progress tracking and analytics, and image fidelity in 360° virtual walkthroughs.

Adam Klatzkin, Vice President for the iTwin Platform at Bentley Systems added, “We are very pleased to have Cupix add their CupixWorks solution to the powered by iTwin programme. In doing so, the company joins a growing ecosystem of developers building powerful digital twin solutions on the iTwin Platform.”

He concluded, “CupixWorks is a great example of how 3D reality capture data and BIM can be synchronised for virtual site navigation and progress tracking of complex construction projects.”

In mid March 2023, Dar Group acquired a Canada-based building analytics solutions provider.

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Source: ME Construction News

Ravi Menon has been announced as Co-Chairman of Sobha Realty. In his new role, he will be responsible for overseeing the operations of the several companies under the Sobha group, alongside his father, PNC Menon, Founder and Chairman of Sobha Realty.

Following a 20-year stint at Sobha India, Menon join’s the firm in a leadership role in Dubai, with an aim to boost the ongoing developments of the company.

“Dubai is primed for significant growth in the real estate sector, and it gives me great pleasure to be appointed as the Co-Chairman of Sobha Realty during this new era of development. The real estate market in Dubai is proving to be a key attraction for investors from across the globe, and we are certain that we can continue to transform the sector by setting higher benchmarks in the premium real estate segment. At a time when the real estate is witnessing an exponential growth, I am committed to advancing the company’s growth trajectory, and will be dedicated to upholding the core values of Sobha Realty,” said Menon.

In late November 2022, Sobha Realty unveiled a new interconnected tower development in Dubai and, in late February 2023, it launched Verde by Sobha in Dubai’s JLT district.

According to the developer, Menon is a Civil Engineering graduate from Purdue University in the United States and joined Sobha India as Director in June 2004. Since then, he has contributed to the development of the organisation and defining its success path. After his initial stint, he was appointed Vice Chairman of Sobha India in January 2006, following which he was appointed Chairman of Sobha India in 2012.

He has been in the leadership team of Sobha India for nearly 20 years, and during the time, he has enabled the business to diversify its product lines and expand its horizons. Under his direction, the organisation has strengthened its reputation for on-time delivery and achieving high global quality standards, a statement from the developer said.

Ravi Menon shares the same commitment for community development as his father. He aims to take Sobha Realty to greater heights of sustainable real estate development and is committed to ensuring that the organisation actively contributes time and resources to the inclusive growth of society, the statement concluded.

In early March 2023, the developer said it had completed its Waves tower project.

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Source: ME Construction News