BobcatS550_1000x600-1.jpg

February 13, 2023 foasummit0

Doosan Bobcat has said it will provide construction equipment for relief and recovery activities in the earthquake-stricken areas of Turkey.

On 6 February 2023, two powerful earthquakes struck Turkey and Syria, measuring 7.8 and 7.5 respectively on the magnitude scale. The aftermath of the earthquakes have seen more than 20,000 people killed and thousands of buildings collapse, with victims trapped beneath the rubble and critical infrastructure destroyed.

In a statement, the company said that US $1mn worth of equipment would be promptly delivered through its dealer network, so as to be of practical help in lifesaving activities in affected areas, and to help restore critical infrastructure such as collapsed buildings and roads.

In late March 2022, Bobcat said it had completed its loader range for the Middle East and, in late June 2022, it showcased its new technology and products at its Demo Days event.

The equipment being supplied includes skid-steer loaders and excavators to remove and clean debris, while portable generators and lighting towers will be used at sites with power supply issues, it added.

The donation of the equipment will be financed in cooperation with Doosan Bobcat’s mother company, Doosan Group, which has supported previous major disasters with equipment and donations, including hurricanes and earthquakes in the US, China, Haiti, Japan, and Nepal, over the last 20 years.

The company stated that by providing equipment that can be used immediately for relief and recovery efforts, it hopes to help residents of the affected areas in Turkey, so as to help them begin to recover their daily lives as soon as possible.

In early November 2022, the firm said it had rolled out ground maintenance equipment in the Middle East.

The post Doosan Bobcat to provide $1mn worth of equipment to help earthquake relief efforts appeared first on Middle East Construction News.


Source: ME Construction News


Aerial-View-Tilal-Al-Ghaf-1.jpg

February 13, 2023 foasummit0

Metropolitan Premium Properties (MPP) has closed the biggest single unit transaction in its history – a US $24.6mn sale of a prime property in Tilal Al Ghaf. The deal is also said to be the most expensive in the up-and-coming popular destination.

Oybek Shamsiddinov, Sales Manager at MPP closed the deal earlier this month for an Indian family who are regular investors in the Dubai property market. Shamsiddinov stated, “I’ve worked with this family for the past three years and have invested in several communities across Dubai for them. They were looking for a property to use themselves and after convincing them to see the villa on 31 January, they bought it the next day.”

“They really liked the community project, villa layout and the finishing, which is done to an extremely high standard, so the villa represented exceptionally good value. The same villa on Palm Jumeirah would be worth a minimum $68mn,” he added.

The uber-luxury 30,200+ sqft villa will be handed over in Q1 2027; it is being designed by award-winning architectural firm, SAOTA, and its interior design is by Kelly Hoppen.

In late March 2022, Majid Al Futtaim Communities announced the launch of the Elysian Mansions at Tilal Al Ghaf.

Oybek Shamsiddinov, Sales Manager at MPP

The eight-bedroom villa has three floors – basement, ground and first with roof-top access and features three swimming pools, a gym, a reception area, dedicated 24×7 security and a separate guest villa, the statement from MPP noted.

“This is a significant milestone for us, and we are proud to be associated with this deal, especially as we were recently recognised as the number one real estate agency for Tilal Al Ghaf,” remarked Nikita Kuznetsov, CEO of Metropolitan Premium Properties.

“The sale of this prime property is a testament to Tilal Al Ghaf’s appeal and the increasing demand for high-quality Dubai homes from UHNWI. Waterfront properties are extremely popular with investors right now and there are very limited units available further contributing to its growing popularity amongst end users and investors,” he continued.

Lanai Island is one of two private islands at Tilal Al Ghaf, consisting of 13 luxury mansions, of which nine are ‘shore mansions’ and four are ‘edge mansions’, located along a 1.2km crystal lagoon.

In late October 2022, Majid Al Futtaim Properties said it had deployed solar hybrid power at Tilal Al Ghaf.

Nikita Kuznetsov, CEO at MPP

In addition to MPP in Dubai, Metropolitan Group also includes Metropolitan Homes, a one-stop real estate agency providing the full cycle of specialist brokerage services to Dubai’s secondary property market sellers and buyers and Metropolitan Capital Real Estate in Abu Dhabi.

The Group also includes Luxury Immobilien GmbH, a real estate agency in Vienna and Metropolitan Consulting FZE, providing personal and business legal services in the UAE.

In late October 2022, Majid Al Futtaim Communities launched an ultra-luxury concept in Tilal Al Ghaf.

The post Metropolitan Premium Properties closes sale of $24.6mn Tilal Al Ghaf villa appeared first on Middle East Construction News.


Source: ME Construction News


Energy_1000x600-1.jpg

February 10, 2023 foasummit0

Masdar has opened an office in Baku, Azerbaijan. The firm says the move showcases its support for developing the country’s renewable energy sector, and notes it will work closely with the government and other stakeholders, as the country strives to meet its clean energy targets and transition to a low-carbon future.

The inauguration event for the office, located in Port Baku Tower, was attended by Mohammed Murad Al Blooshi, UAE Ambassador to the Republic of Azerbaijan, and Javid Abdullayev, Director of Azerbaijan Renewable Energy Agency under the Ministry of Energy, along with a delegation from Masdar, led by its CEO, Mohamed Jameel Al Ramahi.

According to a statement from Masdar, Azerbaijan plans to increase its installed power capacity to 30% from renewable sources by 2030, to diversify its economy and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The government said it has also targeted developing renewable energy sources as a strategic priority for the country’s development, and is looking to establish Azerbaijan as a green energy producer and exporter.

Al Ramahi stated, “The opening of our new office in Baku is a testament to Azerbaijan’s increasing focus on renewable energy and Masdar’s growing global portfolio, which we have pledged will reach 100GW by 2030. We look forward to working with our partners in Azerbaijan to continue to deliver world-class projects in support of the country and its renewable energy goals.”

In late September 2022, Masdar and RWE joined forces in the global wind-power markets.

Al Blooshi added, “The opening of Masdar’s office in Azerbaijan is a testament to the shared ambition of the UAE and Azerbaijan toward renewables and sustainability. Our two nations are committed to working together to create a sustainable future, and the new office will play a critical role in supporting this important work.”

Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber, UAE Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology, COP28 President-Designate, and Chairman of Masdar commented, “The UAE and Azerbaijan both recognise the importance of investing in renewable energy to advance economic diversification, stability, and growth. Masdar’s increasing scope of work in Azerbaijan, evidenced by its new Baku office, demonstrates the UAE’s commitment to supporting decarbonisation and sustainable development around the world.”

Azerbaijan’s President, Ilham Aliyev, delivered a keynote address at Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week 2023 (ADSW), where he reiterated the country’s clean energy objectives, and highlighted how its partnership with Masdar will help in achieving them.

At ADSW, Masdar signed joint development agreements for onshore wind and solar projects, and integrated offshore wind and green hydrogen projects, with a total combined capacity of 4GW. The projects are said to be part of a larger agreement with Azerbaijan’s Ministry of Energy to develop a renewable energy program on a bilateral basis, with a total capacity of 10GW across multiple technologies, one of the largest such signings in Azerbaijan’s history.

Masdar is also developing the 230MW Garadagh Solar PV Plant in Azerbaijan, which will generate half a billion kilowatt-hours of electricity annually, enough to meet the needs of more than 110,000 homes, and will reduce emissions by more than 200,000t a year, while also creating valuable jobs. Masdar announced financial close on the plant in August 2022, the statement noted.

Abdullayev concluded, “Developing our ample renewable energy potential is a strategic priority for Azerbaijan, and we believe that working with partners like Masdar will help us achieve our goals and create a brighter, more sustainable future for our people. The agreements we have signed with Masdar will play a critical role in our green growth journey and we look forward to further collaborations.”

In early August 2022, Masdar backed an Azerbaijan solar project with $21.4m financing.

The post Masdar opens office in Baku in support of Azerbaijan’s renewable energy sector appeared first on Middle East Construction News.


Source: ME Construction News


Solar-PV_1000x600-1.jpg

February 10, 2023 foasummit0

A consultancy contract for pre-development studies of three multiple gigawatt solar PV parks has been awarded to ILF Consulting Engineers Saudi Arabia. Once commissioned, the projects would constitute what’s billed as the world’s largest renewable energy project by installed capacity.

Discussing the energy projects, ILF said these are part of the most ambitious and prestigious developments globally in terms of sustainability, innovation, and technological vanguard, and a key piece of the puzzle in Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 strategy to be a world champion in renewable energies by 2030.

The scope of work for ILF involves the provision of engineering services for the parks to reach a development maturity ready for tendering on an IPP basis. The pre-development studies also include: preliminary site assessment; master plan; environmental baseline surveys; permitting; energy yield assessment; technology selection and CAPEX/OPEX estimate, as well as the advanced design of the park, said ILF Consulting Engineers.

In December 2022, Dubai’s AMEA Power awarded 120MW Solar Project in South Africa and in late January 2023, EWEC launched bids for an Abu Dhabi solar plant.

In addition, the work scope also covers environmental and social impact assessment (ESIA); studies with regard to geotechnical, hydrological, glint/glare and corrosion.

The project is a perfect match with ILF’s commitment to climate protection and its vision statement of ‘improving quality of life’, it concluded.

In late January 2023, the Al Ghazala Energy Company said it had begun construction of a 300MW solar PV project.

The post ILF awarded consultancy contract for three solar PV projects in Saudi Arabia appeared first on Middle East Construction News.


Source: ME Construction News


Darren-Shrives_1000x600-1.jpg

February 10, 2023 foasummit0

GHD has announced the appointment of Darren Shrives as regional general manager – UAE. The firm said that Shrives, who has previously led the company’s Philippines business, will take on the role at a time when the company will be helping the UAE develop its National Hydrogen Strategy.

According to a statement, Shrives comes with more than 25 years of experience in the planning and leadership of multidisciplinary projects in Australia, the UK, and the Philippines.

“This is a very exciting time to be leading our UAE business. The COP28 summit in Dubai will be symbolic of the vast transition underway in the UAE and the GCC more broadly as these economies transition from oil and gas towards a low carbon future. We look forward to supporting our clients in solving the world’s biggest challenges in water, energy and urbanisation,” Shrives said.

Operating continuously in the UAE since 2001, GHD employs about 200 people across its offices in Abu Dhabi and Dubai, a statement from the firm noted.

In early February 2020, GHD discussed its role in developing Modon Properties’ Jubail Mangrove Park.

“GHD is at the forefront of helping the UAE build sustainable resilience for its economy, maintain the country’s market share of the global energy market, and in delivering its ambitious social infrastructure and tourism programmes. It is exciting to see the live potential that exists for our Future of Energy, Future Communities and Future of Water offerings,” said Simon Light, GHD’s CEO – EMEA.

In September last year, the UAE’s Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure (MoEI) signed an agreement with GHD Group, in partnership with Germany-based Fraunhofer–Gesellschaft, to develop its National Hydrogen Strategy.

As part of the UAE’s Hydrogen Roadmap and the ongoing commitment to decarbonisation and energy transition, the National Hydrogen Strategy will help establish the UAE’s hydrogen vision and inform its policy decisions as one of its energy-mix diversification strategies and Net Zero targets by 2050.

Suhail bin Mohammed Al Mazrouei, Minister of Energy and Infrastructure, said at the time: “We remain focused on our goal of capturing 25% of the most important hydrogen market. Our ambition is to see the UAE become a world-leading authority on the role of hydrogen in the energy transition.”

In late December 2020, GHD said it had completed works on the Hudayriyat Leisure and Entertainment District.

He concluded, “GHD had initially collaborated with the MoEI to assess the critical elements necessary to establish a hydrogen strategy in the UAE. GHD’s scope for developing and implementing the National Hydrogen Strategy is expected to set the direction for a hydrogen economy across the UAE.”

In early June 2021, GHD’s David Kinniburgh told Big Project Middle East that the Australian construction firm is committed to making the region’s developments more sustainable, resilient and community-focused.

 

The post GHD appoints Darren Shrives as regional GM for UAE appeared first on Middle East Construction News.


Source: ME Construction News


DAMAC-Data-Centre1_1000x600-1.jpg

February 9, 2023 foasummit0

DAMAC Data Centres said that its facilities in Riyadh and Dammam will go live before the end of 2023.

Speaking at LEAP 2023, the company said that a further 35MW of IT capacity will be built, in addition to the 20MW already under construction in the Kingdom. It stated that each facility will launch with 5MW of IT capacity in Q4 2023, followed by a further 5MW in Q1 2024.

Both facilities will deliver a full 55MW of IT capacity by 2025, it asserted, adding that the investment in KSA of circa US $600mn is part of its $1bn data centre development strategy.

“KSA holds a unique position in the MENA region. Its borders touch more countries than almost any other and it is an ideal jumping off point for connecting across Africa and the GCC. Our facilities in Dammam and Riyadh offer local diversity as well as rapid access to subsea cable systems that serve regional and global needs,” said Hussain Sajwani, Chairman of DAMAC Group.

In late April 2022, DAMAC Group said it would make a $100mn investment into a metaverse push.

“KSA has a young, digitally savvy population and a lot to offer in terms of digital innovation and smart cities. We look forward to supporting the growth of its digital economy.”

He added that DAMAC has accelerated its data centre rollouts due to local and international customer demand. Customers are finalising agreements to secure all available capacity within these facilities with deals closing before the end of 2023.

The Dammam and Riyadh facilities are Uptime Institute certified Tier 3 classification and provide highly connected hubs in one of the regions fastest developing digital economies, Sajwani highlighted.

Saudi Arabia is one of the most locally and globally connected regions in the GCC with 14 in-service subsea cables, 11 of which land in Jeddah. The KSA national fibre network offers terrestrial connectivity to all major Gulf markets and acts as a gateway to key regional submarine cable landing stations.

In late June 2022, Ali Sajwani, General Manager – Operations at DAMAC and CEO of D-Labs shares his thoughts on how the UAE is future-proofing by being a metaverse champion.

DAMAC’s facilities support Saudi Vision 2030 and its strategy for accelerating development and growth locally, the company said.

“We are selecting locations for data centre facilities based on local demographics, the state of digital adoption, and opportunities to support long-term economic growth. Every site location we choose must meet strict criteria based on future demand rather than who needs rack space today. Our Dammam and Riyadh sites more than meet these criteria and these will be two of several facilities that we are planning in the KSA. We’re excited to ramp up our builds and deliver data centre facilities that serve local market needs,” said Sajwani.

He added that the DAMAC Data Centre team has grown rapidly over the last 12 months to support customer demand and new facilities going live. Its globally experienced management team is working with third party suppliers and delivering operational capabilities to serve world-leading businesses.

In late September 2022, DAMAC Properties’ GM said that Web3 is transforming the UAE real estate landscape.

The post DAMAC Data Centres’ KSA facilities to go live before end of 2023 appeared first on Middle East Construction News.


Source: ME Construction News


Stephen-Degenhart2_1000x600-1.jpg

February 9, 2023 foasummit0

In an exclusive interview with Middle East Construction News (MECN), Stephan Degenhart, Associate Partner of Drees & Sommer and Managing Director of Middle East & Asia Pacific says that the infrastructure, healthcare and hospitality sectors will be the main drivers of the GCC construction sector in 2023, especially in Saudi Arabia.

He explains, “These sectors are expected to see a major boost in investment in the next few years, and this will lead to increased demand for construction services. The opportunities in these sectors come from the potential for large-scale projects, as well as from the potential for specialised services.”

He is also to quick to point that there will be challenges to contend with, stating, “The challenge, however, lies in the need to provide high-quality construction services that can meet the demands of the sector. In addition, companies will need to be aware of the ever-changing regulatory and economic environment in the region, and continually innovate in order to remain competitive.”

Degenhart also tells MECN that he is, on the whole, “incredibly optimistic” about the built environment in 2023.

In late January 2023, Degenhart said that “COP28 has the potential to have a significant impact on the built environment in the region”.

“The region has long been known for its advancements in innovation through technology, and I expect this trend to continue as the region makes further investments in smart cities and green building initiatives. I anticipate that we will see an increase in technology-driven solutions for smart cities, such as digital infrastructure, renewable energy sources, and smart transportation systems.”

He elaborates, “We will also likely see an increase in the use of green building materials and construction techniques, such as energy-efficient facades. Additionally, I believe that sustainability and improved energy efficiency will be major focuses in the built environment in the coming years, as well as reducing the use of non-renewable resources and minimising waste. Overall, I am excited to see what the GCC will bring to the built environment in the next few years, and I am confident that the region will remain a leader in innovation and technology-driven solutions.”

Discussing how Drees & Sommer fared in the GCC in 2022, he notes that the year was positive stating, “We saw some major projects come to fruition and some impressive achievements from many of our teams. Some of the key achievements include developing innovative technologies and systems to streamline processes, increasing safety and efficiency on the job site, and utilizing sustainable materials for our projects.”

Highlighting some of the firm’s major project deliveries last year, he states, “Notable projects delivered during the year included developing the office design of the future for Nokia in Riyadh, completing M-Square, a multidisciplinary location containing retail space, hospitality and residential buildings, as well as renovation a major hotel in Dubai. We are proud of all that we have accomplished in the region, and we look forward to continuing to build upon our successes in the coming years.”

In late January 2023, Abu Dhabi’s DMT inked a MoU to promote the use of low-carbon hydrogen in public transportation.

Asked about the firm’s key goals and objectives in 2023, he responds, “We are eager to continue to support our international clients across the GCC, while focusing on customer satisfaction and stability. We aim to remain flexible and competitive in the region and continue to develop innovative solutions to meet our client’s needs.”

He concludes, “We will have a main focus on the UAE and Saudi Arabia in the GCC. By focusing on these markets, we can better serve our clients and gain access to more resources, talent and opportunities for growth. We are also looking to strengthen our relationships with regional partners to ensure that our clients have access to the best services and products available.”

In early February 2023, the Al Khobar 2 desalination plant was ramped to full production according to ACCIONA.

The post Infrastructure, healthcare and hospitality to drive GCC construction in 2023 says Drees & Sommer’s Stephan Degenhart appeared first on Middle East Construction News.


Source: ME Construction News


Yas-Seaworld-Research-and-Rescue1_1000x600-1.jpg

February 9, 2023 foasummit0

Miral announced the opening of what’s billed as the first dedicated marine research, rescue, rehabilitation and return centre on Abu Dhabi’s Yas Island. The 8,602sqm facility, Yas SeaWorld Research & Rescue, is expected to be a key contributor to marine-life conservation in the UAE and the wider region by conducting integrated research, rescue, rehabilitation, return and education programmes.

According to Miral, the centre will have over 25 rescue pools, from large pools for marine mammals to smaller pools for fish, invertebrates and marine reptiles.

Yas SeaWorld Research & Rescue aims to rescue sick, injured and orphaned marine animals in the Arabian Gulf, and to provide life-saving rehabilitation with the goal of returning healthy animals back to their natural habitats. To facilitate this goal, the centre will have a fleet of rescue vehicles that includes two custom-made rescue boats and a state-of-the art veterinary hospital for triage of animals in critical condition, the statement noted.

The launch event was held in the presence of Mariam bint Mohammed Almheiri, Minister of Climate Change and the Environment, and Chairman of Miral Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, and other senior representatives from SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment.

In mid September 2022, Miral said that the SeaWorld Abu Dhabi facility will open in 2023.

“This is a cornerstone in the emirate’s journey of education and conservation, inspiring the next generation of marine scientists to learn more about Abu Dhabi’s impactful long-term vision of protecting our marine wildlife and their habitats. Together with SeaWorld, we will be pushing the limits of science and conservation to become the foremost knowledge hub for marine scientists, not only in the UAE, but also in the wider region,” said Al Mubarak.

Discussing the centre’s larger pools, Miral said two are equipped with lifting floors, which will make access for treatment easier and less disruptive for the animals. An on-site lab at the centre is also said to be equipped with advanced rescue and rehabilitation capabilities including the ability to conduct in-house pathology analysis for wildlife.

The centre will also focus on applied research studies for marine ecosystem restoration with aquaculture-based projects including fish propagation, seagrass cultivation, coral reproduction as well as field projects focusing on critical habitats of Arabian Gulf waters such as seagrass, mangroves, oyster beds and coral reefs, Miral explained.

This research will only be made possible through some of the best subject matter researchers and scientists and by utilising the state-of-the-art laboratories and infrastructure of the centre, including three dry laboratories, a wet laboratory, and a 345cu/m aquaculture facility which includes live feed culture rooms, brood stock pools and larvae culture pools. The centre’s research team will conduct most of these studies by use of its 12.5m research vessel decked with the latest field equipment, the statement added.

In early November 2022, Miral and Warner Bros. Discovery said they would bring Harry Potter themed land to Yas Island.

The centre aims to improve the public’s knowledge and commitment to the conservation of the region’s marine wildlife, habitats, and ecosystems, leveraging the experience and knowledge gained from SeaWorld’s nearly 60 years of marine animal care, rescue, rehabilitation and conservation to the region, Miral pointed out.

SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment Chairman Scott Ross expressed delight at its partnership with Miral in bringing this first-of-its-kind centre to the UAE.

He stated, “For nearly 60 years, SeaWorld has maintained its unwavering mission and steadfast commitment to protecting marine animals and their ecosystems and inspiring others to act and care for marine life. Extending this legacy here in the UAE is important for global conservation and is consistent with the UAE and wider region’s tradition of honouring the importance of the sea.”

In addition to a joint SeaWorld Abu Dhabi team of educators, the centre has a dry classroom and a wet classroom that is fully equipped for scientific experimental activities, as well as a high-tech auditorium which can seat 160 people.

In early February 2023, Bahrain said it would create a world-class aquatics sports complex.

The centre will conduct workshops and lectures, both on its premises and in schools, offering learning and training opportunities for students as well as educators in the areas of marine life science and conservation, the statement concluded.

The post Miral opens Yas SeaWorld Research & Rescue facility appeared first on Middle East Construction News.


Source: ME Construction News


Snow-Oman1_1000x600-1.jpg

February 9, 2023 foasummit0

Majid Al Futtaim Entertainment has announced the official opening of Snow Oman, which is billed as the largest indoor snow park in the MENA region and the first and only indoor snow destination in the Sultanate.

In a statement, Majid Al Futtaim Entertainment said that the park is its third in the region, following Ski Dubai, and Ski Egypt. It added that the project underlines its commitment to delivering innovative experiences for guests across the region, and that it was a major milestone in its investment strategy in Oman.

Located in Mall of Oman and covering an area of 14,830sqm, Snow Oman features more than 20 family-friendly rides and attractions including a 430m ice rink, as well as a penguinarium, which is home to a colony of king and gen-too penguins.

Storytelling is integrated into the experience, which has a ‘Desert Blizzard’ theme and resembles an imaginary world where Oman’s cityscapes and sand dunes are covered in real snow, whilst still reflecting the local culture and heritage.

In late October 2022, Majid Al Futtaim Communities launched an ultra-luxury concept in Tilal Al Ghaf.

The destination’s launch was celebrated with an opening ceremony featuring an array of entertainment, including ice skating performances. It was attended by Ignace Lahoud, Chief Executive Officer, Majid Al Futtaim Entertainment, Mark D. Haak Wegmann, Managing Director, Leisure & Entertainment, Majid Al Futtaim Entertainment, and Mohammad El Etri, Vice President, Global Snow, Majid Al Futtaim Entertainment.

“We are proud to welcome the newest addition to our ever-expanding portfolio, Snow Oman. Entertainment plays an important role in the growth of the local economies, and the opening of Snow Oman marks another major milestone in our investment strategy in the Sultanate, as well as demonstrating our ongoing commitment to deliver innovative experiences for guests across the region. Entertainment not only impacts the local economy but provides us with a much-needed sense of community, and Snow Oman delivers a unique and immersive way for families to spend quality time together,” said Lahoud.

In 2005, Majid Al Futtaim Entertainment launched the Middle East’s first indoor ski resort, Ski Dubai. Just over 10 years later, the company expanded its footprint with the opening of Ski Egypt, which was the first-of-its-kind attraction on the African continent.

In 2017, the company established Global Snow, which is a major international brand for designing, consulting on, managing, and opening indoor snow entertainment facilities, the firm added.

In early December 2022, Majid Al Futtaim said it secured a sustainability-linked loan for $1.25bn.

The company said that it will continue the expansion of its portfolio with the launch of Snow Abu Dhabi in Reem Mall. The destination is scheduled to open in Q2 2023.

In mid January 2023, Ahmed Galal Ismail was named new CEO of Majid Al Futtaim Holding.

The post Majid Al Futtaim Entertainment opens Snow Oman appeared first on Middle East Construction News.


Source: ME Construction News


KAFD-2-1.jpg

February 9, 2023 foasummit0

Saudi-based investment company, SEDCO Holding, has announced plans to open a new office in the King Abdullah Financial District (KAFD) in Riyadh.

In a statement, SEDCO said that the new offices will be located in the SOM-designed 70,000sqm ‘muqarnas-inspired’ tower, which is adjacent to the Wadi and the Financial Plaza in KAFD. The tower’s façade takes its inspiration from the three-dimensional ‘muqarnas’ decorative device used in Islamic architecture.

This will help create distinctive office spaces with enhanced shade and protection from the sun, the statement said. Furthermore, the architecture and energy requirements of the building take into consideration the surrounding climate and environment, with sun control and shading devices installed to improve the utilisation of daylight within offices, while minimising glare and controlling the amount of sunlight and heat gain attained.

Rayyan Nagadi, SEDCO Holding CEO said, “We are excited to join the KAFD community. Over our long track record at SEDCO Holding, we played a pioneering role in sustainable development and currently we are an active investor guided by the goals of the Saudi Vision 2030. Our move to KAFD situates us in a vibrant business nexus that amplifies our ability to access more investment and FDI streams. We look forward to growing our contribution to the nation, in a hub designed for outreach, networking and access to more opportunities.”

In late July 2022, Arabian Centres Company said it would invest up to $346mn into a new mall in Saudi’s Eastern Province and, in late October 2022, Alstom opened a new regional office in Riyadh.

With almost five decades of empowering Saudi-based businesses and communities, SEDCO Holding supports the Kingdom’s economic diversification by investing in operating companies that scale to become leaders in strategically important sectors. The Shariah-compliant investment group continues to actively seek investment opportunities that spur real economic growth and social development in full alignment with the Kingdom’s Vision 2030, the statement noted.

Welcoming the SEDCO Holding move, Gautam Sashittal, CEO of KAFD DMC stated, “KAFD is an ideal location for businesses in the financial services and investment sectors. The Islamic finance industry has expanded rapidly over the past decade, growing at 10-12% annually, and SEDCO’s decision to be a part of the wider KAFD family will bring them into closer contact with prospective partners.”

“We look forward to supporting SEDCO in its investment and wealth generation efforts in line with our mutual interest in growing the Kingdom’s economy and increasing its prosperity,” he concluded.

In early December 2022, Time Out Market Riyadh said it would open in Diriyah Square by 2027.

 

The post SEDCO to open new office in SOM-designed tower in Riyadh’s KAFD appeared first on Middle East Construction News.


Source: ME Construction News