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December 12, 2025 foasummit0

Developer Union Properties has officially commenced construction on its US $544.6mn flagship project, Mirdad, in Dubai Motor City. The milestone is said to mark Union Properties’ commitment to innovative master planning, architectural excellence, and wellness-driven urban living.

Mirdad is a four-tower complex that embodies Union Properties’ vision for modern, connected, and sustainable living. The project aims to foster a strong sense of community and belonging among its residents, the firm said.

The groundbreaking ceremony was attended by Mohamed Fardan Ali Al Fardan, Chairman, Abdul Wahab Al Halabi, Vice Chairman, Eng. Amer Khansaheb, CEO and Board Member, and Union Properties Board Members. Their shared commitment underscores the development’s goal of creating harmonious community spaces that inspire residents and elevate their daily lives.

Spanning across 356,931sqft, Mirdad will feature 1,087 units. These units include a limited number of lofts and elegantly styled apartments that boast natural light, panoramic views, and smart design features.

Additionally, residents will have access to over 26 indoor and outdoor amenities. The development incorporates smart building technologies, green spaces, and EV charging stations. Out of the 1,294 parking spaces, 647 are equipped with chargers, and the project features energy-efficient facades and materials.

The enabling works for the Mirdad project will involve excavating 446,000cu/m of soil and construct a 716m-long shoring boundary. These preparations will pave the way for the next phase of construction.

Strategically located in Motor City, amidst retail and leisure destinations, and two upcoming public park projects, Mirdad offers urban convenience, lifestyle appeal, and long term returns to residents and investors. Moreover, its location between Al Maktoum International Airport and Dubai International Airport makes it an ideal choice for those seeking convenience and accessibility, the developer explained.

Guided by a philosophy of architectural excellence and sustainable design, Mirdad is set to be completed in Q4 2028, the statement concluded.

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Source: ME Construction News


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December 11, 2025 foasummit0

Under the patronage of His Excellency Mr. Bandar bin Ibrahim Al-Khorayef, Minister of Industry & Mineral Resources, the Heavy Equipment Connect Forum & Expo (HEC 2026) will take place at the Dhahran International Exhibitions Centre (DIEC) in Dammam from 2 to 4 February 2026, bringing together leaders from government, industry, and investment to accelerate the Kingdom’s heavy-equipment and machinery sector in line with Vision 2030.

HEC 2026 stands as a strategic pillar of Vision 2030, supporting Saudi Arabia’s drive to strengthen national capabilities, advance industrial localisation, and attract global investment into high-growth equipment and machinery verticals. By uniting government, industry, and investors, the event will serve as a catalyst for partnerships that drive the Kingdom’s next generation of infrastructure and manufacturing capacity.

Khalid Al-Homoud, Executive Vice President (EVP), National Industrial Development Center (NIDC) commented: “The Heavy Equipment Connect Forum & Expo is more than an industry gathering, it is a platform for action that supports the Kingdom’s industrial strategy. Under the guidance of Vision 2030, we are creating the ecosystem that enables Saudi-made equipment, components and technologies to compete globally. By connecting policy, innovation and investment, HEC 2026 will help strengthen national capabilities and accelerate the localisation of high-value manufacturing across the machinery and equipment sectors.” Hosted by the National Industrial Development Center (NIDC) and the Co-hosted by Ministry of Industry and Mineral Resources (MIM), HEC 2026 is designed to position Saudi Arabia as a regional hub for machinery excellence, industrial innovation, and cross-border collaboration.

A visionary forum: Building the Kingdom’s industrial future

The HEC Forum will feature two days of high-level sessions led by senior government officials, OEM executives, and private-sector leaders. The programme will explore Saudi Arabia’s investment landscape, government support & Programs, capital projects, supply chain development, human capital, sector innovations, and the growing rental and leasing market for heavy equipment.

The HEC exhibition will feature more than 100 exhibitors from leading global and regional OEMs, suppliers, and service providers. A 30,000 m² outdoor display zone, 10,000 m² indoor exhibition area, and 5,000 m² live demonstration area will showcase next-generation construction and lifting machinery, power systems, and smart equipment solutions.

Why attend

HEC 2026 offers direct access to the decision-makers shaping Saudi Arabia’s machinery and equipment future. Attendees will gain insight into upcoming giga-projects, localisation

opportunities, and investment frameworks — and connect directly with government entities, contractors, rental companies, and manufacturers from across the region.

About Heavy Equipment Connect Forum & Expo (HEC)

HEC is Saudi Arabia’s only dedicated exhibition and conference for the heavy-equipment and construction-machinery ecosystem. Designed to promote localisation, innovation, and investment, the event supports the Kingdom’s strategic industrial agenda while connecting global expertise with national opportunity.

Venue: Dhahran International Exhibitions Centre (DIEC), Dammam, Saudi Arabia Dates: February 2–4, 2026 For more information and registration, visit www.hecfe.com.

Media Contacts: Hassan Al-Shehri – Senior Manager, Machinery & Equipment, Industrial Centre T +966 54 279 5953 | Email: hecfe@ic.gov.sa

Noman Aslam – Event Director, CPI Trade Media T + 971 4 375 5478 | ✉ noman.aslam@cpitrademedia.com

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Source: ME Construction News


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December 10, 2025 foasummit0

The 2025 edition of the annual Middle East Consultant Awards (MEC Awards) took place yesterday evening at the Ritz Carlton, JBR, Dubai and recognised excellence across 21 distinct categories split across ‘Individuals’, ‘Projects’ and ‘Companies’.

For the first time in the event’s history, the Middle East Consultant team also recognised ‘Honourable Achievement’ winners in several categories. In total, 21 trophies were awarded, along with 17 plaques to Honourable Achievement recipients. Over 200 people from the built environment were in attendance, including firms from the UAE, Saudi Arabia and Qatar.

Check out all the images from the evening by clicking here.

Judges for the MEC Awards included:

  • Alicia Dauth, Water Assurance Technical Lead, Water Security Collective
  • Allison Wicks, Quality Integration Specialist, Qualitaz & Chair, CIOB Dubai Hub Committee
  • Dragana Linden, Executive Board Member, Alliance Investment Holding Group
  • Siddharta Banerji, Managing Director & Co-Founder, LUXE Developers
  • Tarek Emara, QA/QC Director, China State Construction Engineering Corporation
  • William Craig Garrett, Digital Construction Manager, ALEC
  • Jason Saundalkar, Head of Content at Middle East Consultant
  • Priyanka Raina, Associate Editor, Middle East Consultant

“For the 2025 edition of the Middle East we executed a number of new things based on feedback we’ve received from clients, and a desire to keep the event fresh as the region’s only consultant consultant-focused awards program. Feedback from attendees has been brilliant so far, particularly with honouring a second achievement in certain categories, and our use of two MCs to keep energy off the charts through the evening. We look forward to building on this success in 2026,” said Jason Saundalkar, Head of Content at Middle East Consultant.

Outstanding Debut Award

  • Almudena Berzosa, Corpolgia Consulting
  • Marissa Ramos, North 51 Consulting
  • Salama Alketbi, AECOM

Winner: Salama Alketbi, AECOM
Honourable Achievement: Almudena Berzosa, Corpolgia Consulting

Under 30 Champion of the Year – Female

  • Jihane Marroun, B8 Architecture
  • Hiba Irshaid, Omnium Resolve
  • Rosine Nabaa, TBH

Winner: Hiba Irshaid, Omnium Resolve
Honourable Achievement:
Rosine Nabaa, TBH

Under 30 Champion of the Year – Male

  • Bassel Abuamro, AESG
  • Matthew Redding, CSQ Project Development Consultants
  • Suthan Sivaraj, 9E Global Engineering Consultants
  • Tabish Hasan, Consistent Engineering Consultants
  • Tony Pheloups, B8 Architecture
  • Vineeth Bonthala, GHD Global

Winner: Bassel Abuamro, AESG
Honourable Achievement:
Tabish Hasan, Consistent Engineering Consultants

Executive of the Year – Female

  • Alyaa Al Wahab, Rider Levett Bucknall
  • Carole Akoury, JT + Partners
  • Celeste Tai, Omnium International
  • Cheryl Cairns, Trowers & Hamlins
  • Engi Jaber, Climatize, part of +impact
  • Kristina Bråteng, B8 Architecture
  • Sandra Woodall, TangramMENA

Winner: Engi Jaber, Climatize, part of +impact
Honourable Achievement:
Cheryl Cairns, Trowers & Hamlins

Executive of the Year – Male

  • Ali Cornejo, B8 Architecture
  • Christopher Nicolas, TBH
  • Eng. Ibrahim Saad, James Cubitt Middle East & North Africa
  • Hakim Ezzahouany, North 51 Consulting
  • Kola Ojeyomi, HKR
  • Murali Guruvappan, 9E Global Engineering Consultants
  • Prasanth Chakkingal, PNC Architects – Sobha Realty
  • Sanu Mathew, SEED Engineering Consultants

Winner: Christopher Nicolas, TBH
Honourable Achievement:
Sanu Mathew, SEED Engineering Consultants

Project of the Year – Public Facilities

  • GEMS Founder’s School, Consistent Engineering Consultants
  • Green Hub, Trust Engineering Consultancy
  • Muharraq Ring Road, Manama, Bahrain, AECOM
  • Salata Business Park, Trust Engineering Consultancy
  • Sheikh Zayed Biosphere, Dubai, TangramMENA

Winner: Muharraq Ring Road, Manama, Bahrain, AECOM
Honourable Achievement:
Salata Business Park, Trust Engineering Consultancy

Project of the Year – Hospitality & Tourism

  • Entertainment City, Trust Engineering Consultancy
  • Hilton Marjan Island Beach Resort & Spa, JT + Partners
  • Mixed Use Development Libya, Trust Engineering Consultancy
  • NH Collection Hotel, Marjan Island, B8 Architecture
  • The Soudah Development, Soudah Development & AtkinsRealis
  • Tattu Dubai, Compass Project Consulting
  • teamLab Phenomena Abu Dhabi, AECOM and Miral

Winner: The Soudah Development, Soudah Development & AtkinsRéalis
Honourable Achievement:
Hilton Marjan Island Beach Resort & Spa, JT + Partners

Project of the Year – Commercial

  • Al Maryah Tower, CSQ Project Development Consultants
  • DMCC Uptown Tower Business Centre, SAY Studio
  • Façade Reimagined – Proposed Façade Design & Addition of Phase 2 Expansion, Freeline Engineering Consultants
  • Nad Al Sheba Mall, Gensler Middle East
  • Palm Jumeirah Mall Expansion, Compass Project Consulting
  • The Link, Climatize, part of +impact
  • The Office Vortex, B8 Architecture

Winner: The Office Vortex, B8 Architecture
Honourable Achievement:
Palm Jumeirah Mall Expansion, Compass Project Consulting

Project of the Year – Residential

  • Address Residences Zabeel, Mirage
  • Anantara Mina Residences, JT + Partners
  • DAMAC Lagoons, Climatize, part of +impact
  • Giardino Village Townhouses, Trust Engineering Consultancy
  • Masaar by Arada, Dewan Architects + Engineers
  • Rivera Essence – Classic Villa, B8 Architecture
  • Grove Project – Plot P09 Louvre Residence, AtkinsRéalis
  • The St. Regis Branded Residences, SEED Engineering Consultants
  • Yas Acres – Magnolias and Dahlias, AECOM
  • ZāZEN Gardens – Al Furjan, Dubai, Consistent Engineering Consultants

Winner (Dubai): DAMAC Lagoons – Climatize, part of +impact
Honourable Achievement (Abu Dhabi):
Grove Project – Plot P09 Louvre Residence, AtkinsRéalis
Honourable Achievement (Sharjah): Masaar by Arada, Dewan Architects + Engineers

Company of the Year

  • AESG
  • AtkinsRéalis
  • B8 Architecture
  • Compass Project Consulting
  • Euroart
  • JT+Partners
  • KEO International Consultants
  • Omnium International
  • Trust Engineering Consultancy

Winner: Omnium International
Honourable Achievement:
AtkinsRéalis

Architectural Company of the Year

  • B8 Architecture
  • Dewan Architects + Engineers
  • Freeline Engineering Consultants
  • Gensler Middle East
  • Trust Engineering Consultancy

Winner: Gensler Middle East
Honourable Achievement:
B8 Architecture

Interior Design Company of the Year

  • SAY Studio
  • Trust Engineering Consultancy

Winner: SAY Studio

Urban Planning Company of the Year

Judges did not choose other companies for the shortlist

Winner: Prior + Partners

Cost Consulting Company of the Year

  • Compass Project Consulting
  • C-Quest
  • CSQ Project Development Consultants
  • Omnium International

Winner: Omnium International
Honourable Achievement:
C-Quest

Dispute Resolution & Claims Specialist of the Year

  • HKA
  • Inshield International Consultancy
  • Omnium Resolve
  • Secretariat
  • TBH
  • Trowers & Hamlins

Winner: HKA
Honourable Achievement:
Inshield International Consultancy

Fire Safety Consultant of the Year

  • AESG
  • Joule Group

Winner: Joule Group

Specialist Consulting Company of the Year

  • DSP Consultants
  • STONEX Consulting
  • TBH

Winner: TBH

MEP Engineering Company of the Year

  • AESG
  • Consistent Engineering Consultants
  • Mirage
  • MEP Design Studio – PNC Architects – SOBHA Realty
  • SEED Engineering Consultants

Winner: AESG
Honourable Achievement:
MEP Design Studio – PNC Architects – SOBHA Realty

Project Management Company of the Year

  • AESG
  • Accurex Plus for Project Management Services Co
  • Compass Project Consulting
  • CSQ Project Development Consultants
  • North 51 Consulting

Winner: Compass Project Consulting
Honourable Achievement:
CSQ Project Development Consultants

Sustainable Consultancy of the Year

  • AECOM
  • AESG
  • Climatize, part of +impact

Winner: AECOM

Multidiscipline Consulting Company of the Year

  • 9E Global Engineering Consultants
  • AECOM
  • AESG
  • CSQ Project Development Consultants
  • Freeline Engineering Consultants
  • KEO International Consultants

Winner:  KEO International Consultants
Honourable Achievement:
AECOM

Read more about the Middle East Consultant Awards by clicking here.

The post 2025 Middle East Consultant Awards recognises excellence across 21 categories appeared first on Middle East Construction News.

Source: ME Construction News


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December 9, 2025 foasummit0

Samsung Electronics MENA has unveiled its AI Home Experience in Dubai, a living embodiment of how artificial intelligence can transform homes. Over three days, guests are said to have immersed themselves in a fully re-imagined residence, showcasing Samsung’s vision of Future Living, Now.

The guests explored how technology can elevate ordinary moments into experiences, the firm said.

AI Home was designed as a narrative journey, rather than a static showcase. Visitors experienced how Samsung’s unified ecosystem of Bespoke AI, Vision AI, Galaxy AI, and SmartThings work together to create a learning, anticipating, and supportive space for modern life. Samsung said it welcomed influential creators, key opinion leaders, gamers, and regional partners during the event, providing them with a firsthand look at how AI Home integrates design, technology, and lifestyle to enhance comfort, creativity, well-being, and entertainment.

At the core of this transformation lies Samsung’s AI-powered innovations. Bespoke AI redefines home appliances by anticipating needs and optimising efficiency. Vision AI enhances entertainment and connectivity, making every interaction intuitive and personalised, the firm said in its statement.

Galaxy AI, integrated across devices, empowers users with smarter tools for productivity, creativity, and wellness, it added.

Omar Saheb, Vice President of Marketing & Online Business, Samsung Electronics MENA said, “The AI Home Experience in Dubai is more than a showcase of technology; it’s also a celebration of the region’s vibrant creativity and innovation. Over these three days, we’ve brought together the region’s top creators, key opinion leaders, and strategic partners to explore how the era of intelligent homes is no longer a distant concept; it is unfolding today. This event aligns Samsung’s vision to fostering collaboration and driving meaningful advancements in connected living, tailored to the unique needs and aspirations of a modern homes. Together, we are shaping a future where homes are not just smart but deeply personalised, sustainable, and inspiring.”

Samsung’s three-day event took attendees on a captivating journey through five uniquely designed spaces, each showcasing how the company’s AI-driven innovations seamlessly adapt to modern lifestyles. In the living room, Vision AI transformed entertainment into a personalised spectacle, while the redroom became a sanctuary of relaxation optimised for restful sleep with SmartThings and Galaxy AI.

The home gym offered a tailored fitness experience powered by Galaxy AI’s coaching capabilities, and the kitchen showcased Bespoke AI’s ability to turn everyday tasks into effortless routines. The gaming room thrilled enthusiasts with cutting-edge displays and devices, delivering unparalleled immersion. Together, these spaces painted a vivid picture of a future where technology enhances every aspect of life.

Samsung said its vision of intelligent living prioritises accessibility, aiming to empower more households across the region with AI-driven convenience and innovation. Samsung remains dedicated to expanding its ecosystem, fostering deeper partner collaborations, and continually reshaping the way people live, create, relax, and connect in the homes of tomorrow.

The post Samsung Electronics MENA unveiled its AI Home Experience in Dubai appeared first on Middle East Construction News.

Source: ME Construction News


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December 9, 2025 foasummit0

After more than 15 years delivering projects across the GCC, I’ve sat through countless developer presentations to investors. The financial models are polished. The architectural renders are stunning.  The location analysis is thorough. But when the conversation turns to project management consultancy selection, I watch something interesting happen: developers treat it as a procurement decision, while investors read it as a risk signal.

Here’s what most developers miss: your PMC partner choice is one of the clearest indicators investors use to assess your sophistication and their exposure. And in Saudi Arabia’s current development landscape, where the private sector share has surged from 31% to 47% in just two years, getting this signal right matters more than ever.

What your PMC choice signals

When a developer tells me they’ve selected a ‘top-tier global PMC firm’ for their project, I know exactly what they think they’re communicating: credibility and capability. What I’ve learned from working with clients and institutional investors in Qatar is that they’re reading something quite different.

Brand-name PMC selection often signals “I chose the defensible option” rather than “I chose the optimal partner for this project”. It tells investors you’re optimising for cover; if things don’t go as planned, you can point to the prestigious name, rather than optimising for execution intelligence specific to your project and investor expectations.

Contrast this with developers who can articulate why their PMC partner’s regional experience or senior team accessibility makes them the right fit. That signals a developer who understands that a project’s success extends beyond completing construction – it’s about delivering an asset that meets the investment thesis.

Questions investors really ask

In my experience while helping our clients evaluate development opportunities, they end up asking questions about PMC partnerships that most developers never anticipate.

“Will we actually work with the people we’re meeting, or is this the sales team?” Investors understand the importance of consistent leadership. They’ve learned to distinguish between senior partners who pitch and the teams who execute. When a developer can clearly identify which specific individuals will manage their project, investors hear: “We’ve thought through execution accountability.” When that answer is vague, it raises questions about oversight.

“Does this PMC understand our exit strategy, or just the construction schedule?” Sophisticated investors measure success by achieving targeted returns within their fund timelines, with certificate of completion dates as just one milestone. A PMC partner who thinks in terms of project economics and investor timelines demonstrates that the developer shares this perspective. This alignment on what defines success creates confidence in execution decisions.

“How does this PMC navigate regional relationship dynamics?” This question is particularly relevant in the Saudi market. International investors have learned that approvals and stakeholder management require cultural fluency that credentials alone do not provide. When developers can explain their PMC’s regional track record, it materially reduces how investors see execution risk.

Strategy matters more than price

The most effective developers I work with approach PMC selection as a strategic decision rather than a procurement exercise. They recognise that different project types require different expertise, and that matching PMC capabilities to project needs creates better outcomes.

Large institutional PMCs excel at delivering standardised solutions designed for scale. This makes perfect sense for government mega-projects or large-scale residential developments. But for boutique mixed-use projects or luxury hospitality assets – where Saudi’s private capital is increasingly flowing – bespoke thinking becomes the differentiator.

I’ve seen projects where execution excellence meant understanding how specification decisions impact market positioning and how phasing strategy affects absorption rates. The construction was delivered on schedule, and the asset performed to plan because execution was optimised for the investment thesis.

From an investor’s perspective, PMC fees typically represent 3-5% of total project cost. When that PMC’s regional navigation expertise can compress approval timelines by six months, the value creation through reduced holding costs significantly exceeds any fee differential. Yet the conversation often focuses on fee competition rather than execution intelligence.

Regional expertise as competitive edge

Saudi Arabia’s development landscape presents a specific opportunity right now. With Expo 2030 driving Riyadh concentration, private sector capital is flowing in, and timeline expectations demand precision. The premium on regional execution intelligence has become a competitive advantage.

Developers who understand this opportunity are asking evolved questions during PMC selection. They want to know about recent Riyadh delivery experiences and how relationship navigation actually worked on those projects. They’re interested in how regional experience translates to efficient approvals and timeline certainty that protects investor schedules. They’re focused on whether senior leadership will be accessible for decisions that affect investment returns.

When direct access matters most

Here’s what I’ve learned from Qatar that directly applies to Saudi’s current opportunity: Investors increasingly value PMC partners where accountability is personal and proven systems are robust.

When a client invests in a development, they value direct access to the people managing their interests.  They appreciate being able to reach decision-makers who understand their specific risk tolerance. This direct relationship builds confidence that execution decisions will consider investor priorities.

This approach particularly benefits mid-tier developers executing sophisticated projects, whether branded residences or boutique mixed-use developments. These projects benefit from senior attention and tailored thinking, where economic models allow for personalised service backed by proven systems.

The developers attracting sophisticated capital can articulate how their PMC partnership provides both accountability and capability. Their investors understand who they’ll be working with and why those individuals’ experience matters specifically for this project type. They see how the PMC’s regional intelligence translates to better execution outcomes.

What 2026 will reward

As Saudi Arabia’s private development market matures and Expo 2030 timelines accelerate, I expect to see an evolution in PMC selection approaches.

Forward-thinking developers are treating PMC selection as a strategic advantage, focusing on regional expertise and senior leadership accessibility. They’re attracting capital from sophisticated investors who understand that the right PMC partnership enhances project outcomes and signals developer quality.

The opportunity every developer raising capital in 2026 should consider: what signal does your PMC partnership send about how you think about investor returns?

When your next investor asks about your project management approach, the answer they’re really listening for is whether you understand that their success and yours are inseparable.  And whether you’ve chosen partners who think the same way.

The post Investors invest in people, not ideas appeared first on Middle East Construction News.

Source: ME Construction News


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December 8, 2025 foasummit0

ALEC Holdings used its Innovation Day 2025 to showcase how it has evolved into a ‘Platform for Global Innovation Solutions’, where solutions shaping the future of construction are ideated, nurtured and scaled across the wider industry.

15 external partners showcased their technologies at last week’s Innovation Day, which is said to reinforce the company’s position as a platform for global innovation solutions. These companies used ALEC as a launch-pad, working with the company’s specialists to mature their solutions, apply them to real-world projects, and build viable commercial models that enable industry-wide value creation.

Among the most notable examples were TENDERD, the AI-powered equipment management platform that recently secured a US $30mn Series A round, and SOLUT, whose workforce productivity analytics technology has helped increase labour efficiency by around 30% across multiple pilot sites.

“The credibility afforded by ALEC’s validation has been transformative for us,” said Aleksander Belousov, Founder of SOLUT, which received recognition for innovation during the event. “Since collaborating with ALEC, we have seen increased engagement from developers and contractors, as well as from customers in other industries, who now have the confidence to adopt and support our solutions. It has significantly shortened our time to market and accelerated our ability to refine and scale our technology.”

ALEC said that as the GCC construction market is projected to reach US $2.7tn by 2033, the sector is under growing pressure to build faster, safer, and more sustainably.

“The region is a fertile ground for innovation, but this cannot thrive in isolation,” said Imad Itani, Head of Innovation at ALEC. “It needs an ecosystem, which allows promising technologies to be applied to the most ambitious undertakings, investors to access vetted solutions, and innovators to secure fast-track funding. At ALEC, we have made a clear and concerted effort to become that ecosystem. Today we are the epicentre of construction innovation, identifying, implementing, and scaling technologies that can transform how the region builds.”

ALEC noted that its own transformation is driven by a culture that actively encourages experimentation. It has cultivated champions across departments who are eager to test, refine, and scale new ideas, while many of ALEC’s business units now regularly bring their own innovative products and services to market.

The Innovation Day also underscored ALEC’s commitment to subcontractors, who the company believes play a growing role in shaping the future of the sector.

“Subcontractors play a vital role in ALEC’s project delivery, which makes their involvement in our innovation journey essential. This year marks the first time we have expanded our innovation initiatives to include select subcontractors, and we intend to broaden this across the entire supply chain in the future. By creating opportunities for shared learning and collaboration, we are building a collaboration framework that will enhance capabilities across the ecosystem and drive collective progress,” added Itani.

At this edition of Innovation Day, ALEC also introduced a new set of Collaboration Awards, recognising the partners who are helping elevate innovation across ALEC’s ecosystem. The awards celebrated excellence in four key areas: Innovative Subcontractor of the Year, Technology Collaboration of the Year, Start-up Engagement of the Year, and Client Collaboration of the Year. Each category is said to reflect ALEC’s commitment to fostering stronger partnerships and driving meaningful, industry-wide progress.

The post ALEC grows focus on becoming epicentre of construction innovation appeared first on Middle East Construction News.

Source: ME Construction News


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December 8, 2025 foasummit0

EMSTEEL has said it played a significant role in the development of the Zayed National Museum in Abu Dhabi’s Saadiyat Cultural District. The museum, officially inaugurated by the UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, was graced by the presence of  the Supreme Council Members and Rulers of the Emirates.

The inauguration ceremony was held as part of the UAE’s celebrations marking the 54th Eid Al Etihad. The museum stands as a grand cultural landmark, honoring the legacy of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan and celebrating the UAE’s unity, heritage, and remarkable journey of progress, the statement outlined.

During the construction phase, EMSTEEL provided the essential structural backbone of the museum, delivering 24,000t of rebar, up to 25,000 direct block units, and around 100,000t of bulk cement over a period of three years. These materials were instrumental in the completion of the museum, enabling the creation of a landmark that will inspire generations to come, the firm stated.

Eng. Saeed Ghumran Al Remeithi, Group CEO of EMSTEEL said, “The opening of the Zayed National Museum on the 54th Eid Al Etihad is a defining moment for our nation. It reflects the vision of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan and the unity that shaped the UAE’s extraordinary journey of progress. As a national industrial champion, we are honoured that our steel and building materials contributed to a landmark of such cultural and historic significance. This project reflects our role in supporting the UAE’s long-term development and our commitment to fostering an industrial sector that continues to strengthen the nation’s future.”

EMSTEEL said that by supplying steel and building materials for numerous cultural projects, it has contributed to the UAE’s heritage, ambition, and global cultural presence. It also said its role in enabling these projects has solidified its position as a trusted partner in national development.

The company said that it remains committed to advancing sustainability through reliable local supply, promoting low-carbon manufacturing, and strengthening the industrial capabilities that support the UAE’s long-term progress.

The post EMSTEEL supplies steel and building materials for construction of Zayed National Museum appeared first on Middle East Construction News.

Source: ME Construction News


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December 8, 2025 foasummit0

Meraas has announced the launch of Phase 11 of Nad Al Sheba Gardens, the final phase of the master community. The new phase introduces 210 villas and townhouses, along with a school, further enhancing the appeal of one of Dubai’s most established residential destinations, said the developer in a statement.

Nad Al Sheba Gardens is known for its contemporary design, open green spaces, and community centric lifestyle. The latest phase represents another significant milestone in its evolution, it is designed to cater to the needs of modern families. The new release features three-bedroom townhouses and four- and five-bedroom villas crafted in Meraas’ signature architectural language, characterised by refined simplicity and blend of nature, it added.

Khalid Al Malik, Chief Executive Officer of Dubai Holding Real Estate said, “Nad Al Sheba Gardens embodies Meraas’ vision of creating exceptional neighbourhoods that contribute to Dubai’s urban growth and quality of life. Through every new phase, we continue to advance our wider masterplan for sustainable, design-led communities that bring people together and reflect Dubai Holding Real Estate’s commitment to shaping the city’s future.”

Each home in Nad Al Sheba Gardens boasts interiors, private outdoor courtyards, and floor-to-ceiling glazing that connects residents with the surrounding landscape. Select villas are positioned along landscaped parks and open spaces, providing residents with expansive views and direct access to community amenities, the developer explained.

To cater to the growing number of families who have made Nad Al Sheba Gardens their home, a new school has been established at the northwest corner of the development. This school has been planned with a dedicated access route, ensuring smooth traffic flow and preserving the community’s ambiance.

Residents will continue to enjoy a network of shaded walkways, cycle paths, yoga lawns, and multi-sport courts. Nad Al Sheba Gardens Mall offers retail, dining, and leisure experiences, making everyday life more convenient and connected. Phase 11 solidifies Meraas’ vision of creating connected, design-led communities, delivering timeless value to residents and investors alike, the statement concluded.

The post Meraas launches final phase of Nad Al Sheba Gardens appeared first on Middle East Construction News.

Source: ME Construction News


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December 5, 2025 foasummit0

Finnish concrete element technology firm Elematic Oyj has acquired the precast concrete business of Germany-based Vollert Anlagenbau as part of its strategy to expand its international construction presence. The newly formed entity, Vollert Precast Solutions, will continue its operations in Germany as part of the Elematic Group.

The acquisition merges two industries combining Finnish and German concrete element technology and engineering expertise. The combined team offers a comprehensive range of services, including design, automation, software, production, and complete factory lifecycle management. This unique combination enables the companies to provide customers with solutions that optimise efficiency, enhance safety, and contribute to a reduction in carbon emissions in the construction industry. Elematic has traditionally been strong in the Nordic countries, the Middle East, and India, while Vollert has been active and impactful across the Central European countries, said a statement.

“Elematic’s global position and comprehensive product range are complemented by Vollert’s strong expertise in automation, software, and circulation lines. Together we are a stronger catalyst to drive change in the construction value chain on a global scale,” shares Teppo Voutilainen, CEO of Elematic.

Voutilainen continues, “Together, we move forward with ambition, curiosity, and close cooperation with our customers. Our goal is simple: to help our customers succeed in their business and to transform construction together. I am looking forward to connecting with our newly joined employees and serving our expanded customer base. We are stronger together!”

“This partnership brings out the best in both companies,” says Hans-Jörg Vollert, CEO of Vollert Anlagenbau GmbH. “Our organisations share the same customer-first mindset, focusing on quality and high engineering standards. Elematic is the best company to carry the 100-year legacy of Vollert’s precast solutions forward.”

According to the statement, Elematic’s expertise in hollow core slab technology, production planning software, structural design services, and equipment maintenance with digital services is complemented by Vollert’s expertise in circulation line systems, railway sleeper production, and automation solutions.

The combined technology portfolios offer customers a wider range of options, depending on their production capacity needs, local building regulations, and the resource-intensive nature of their production processes. Additionally, the combined capabilities provide superior solutions for seismic and tall-building environments.

With the strengthened talent pool, customers gain access to world-leading expertise, enabling Elematic to craft turnkey solutions tailored to their construction project requirements. Automation and digitalisation address the growing labor shortage in the construction industry, leading to faster and more efficient construction processes. Elematic and Vollert’s combined automation and robotics solutions streamline the construction value chain, reducing labor requirements, ensuring consistent and faster production, and resulting in a lower cost structure and increased material efficiency, the statement explained.

Furthermore, software solutions for automation and digitalisation cover the entire value chain, from production planning and control to automation system management. These solutions drive transparency, quality, and productivity through operations. The acquisition of Vollert India shares as part of the overall transaction further enhances Elematic Group’s capabilities and capacity in the rapidly growing Indian market, it concluded.

The post Elematic acquires Vollert’s precast concrete technology business appeared first on Middle East Construction News.

Source: ME Construction News