The Middle East Consultant (MEC) editorial team has made the decision to extend the nomination deadline for the 2025 Middle East Consultant Awards (2025 MEC Awards). The MEC Awards website will continue to accept nominations until 5pm on 31 October, the MEC editorial team confirmed.

The MEC team said the decision to extend the deadline was made in response to numerous requests for additional time, taking into account the traditionally busy period for the industry in Q4. The MEC team confirmed that 31 October is the final deadline, and no further extensions will be offered beyond this date.

“Once nominations close at 5pm on 31 October, the MEC team and I will get busy with the two-stage judging process. As always, the identity of the judges will be kept confidential until the night of the MEC Awards to ensure they’re able to study nominations and vote on the strongest – and weakest – without any external influences. The judges’ meeting is scheduled to take place in mid-November, following which the shortlist will be announced on www.meconstructionnews.com,” said Jason Saundalkar, Head of Content at MEC.

The MEC team confirmed that over 100 nominations have already been received across existing and new categories, which covers companies, individuals and projects. Read about all the categories here.

Saundalkar added, “The response so far has been fantastic and with dozens of companies still yet to nominate, competition is going to be intense, which means the judges really do have their work cut out for them. For those yet to submit their nominations, I highly recommend checking out the nomination guidelines and category information, so you can put in a strong entry that stands out from other nominations in the category.”

To read more about the MEC Awards, click here.

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Source: ME Construction News

The Royal Commission for Riyadh City (RCRC) and King Abdullah Financial District Development and Management Company (KAFD DMC) have signed an agreement to launch the first phase of the Riyadh Creative District (RCD) in KAFD.

The agreement is said to reflect the RCRC’s dedication to launching initiatives that empower talent and cultural institutions, solidifying Riyadh’s position as a global hub for creativity, media, and cultural innovation.

The partnership was signed during a gathering organised by RCRC, which brought together companies specialising in media, culture, and media technology, as well as several entities from innovative industries. The purpose of this gathering was to create an environment conducive to knowledge exchange and collaboration.

The event witnessed the signing of several new agreements between the RCD and various local, regional, and international companies. These agreements establish the companies’ headquarters at KAFD, which has provided three buildings offering flexible spaces and integrated services. This ecosystem is designed to foster creativity and innovation.

Launched in February 2025 by the Board of Directors of RCRC, the RCD aims to bring together leading local, regional, and international companies. The primary objectives of the RCD are to produce compelling content, promote cultural exchange, and strengthen the creative economy. By achieving these goals, the RCD contributes to the Kingdom’s economic transformation.

Eng. Mazen Ahmed Tammar, Acting Vice President of City Marketing and Investment Promotion at RCRC said, “Hosting the first phase of the Riyadh Creative District within KAFD reflects our shared vision of building Riyadh into a world-class destination for creativity and innovation. By anchoring this initiative in one of the capital’s most iconic districts, we are laying the groundwork for a dynamic ecosystem that will empower the creative community, nurture local creative talent, attract global partners, and advance Riyadh’s role as a cultural and economic hub, in line with Saudi Vision 2030.”

Mohammed Alsudairy, Acting Chief Executive Officer at KAFD DMC added, “This agreement with RCRC to establish the Riyadh Creative District’s first phase highlights KAFD’s commitment to shaping the industries of tomorrow. By bringing together creative thinkers, business leaders, and cultural institutions in a single destination, we are opening doors for emerging talent and advancing Riyadh’s status as a global hub for creative and cultural innovation. The establishment of RCD within KAFD demonstrates our joint dedication to fostering a dynamic environment where culture and business flourish side by side, in line with the goals of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 growth agenda.”

KAFD has attracted global investment, talent, and business to the Kingdom. Currently, it houses 19 regional headquarters and over 140 commercial tenants, solidifying its position as one of the prominent creative and business ecosystems in the Kingdom. This role plays a crucial part in shaping a more diverse and prosperous economic future for Saudi Arabia, the statement concluded.

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Source: ME Construction News

Permasteelisa Group has significantly expanded its FaçadeCare business, which is dedicated to extending the lifespan of façades on buildings across the Middle East. In the past year alone, the FaçadeCare business has experienced 33% growth, the company said.

The FaçadeCare team is a specialised group of professionals who excel in maintaining, protecting, and enhancing façades. Their primary objective is to preserve the value of façades, reduce associated costs, and enhance the environmental performance of buildings. Permasteelisa Group’s FaçadeCare is also offered to customers in London, as well as in other European countries.

The services offered by the FaçadeCare team include comprehensive inspections, planned and preventative maintenance, façade cleaning, glass replacement, and emergency call-outs. These inspections are supported by advanced diagnostic techniques such as thermal imaging and water leakage tests, enabling the team to identify and address hidden issues promptly, preventing them from escalating into more significant problems.

Alessio De Mitri, Executive General Manager in the region, comments, “For decades, Permasteelisa Group has been trusted to preserve the façades we design and build. In response to a growing demand for specialist aftercare, FaçadeCare allows us to offer our technical expertise, resources and experience to all building owners and managers in the Middle East. A façade represents up to 30% of a building’s total construction cost, so extending its lifespan is crucial. Without regular care and attention, it will age rapidly, which can compromise the property’s energy efficiency, safety and aesthetics.”

“In the Middle East, this risk is heightened by extreme heat, strong winds, sandstorms, and temperature fluctuations. In addition, many of the buildings constructed over the last couple of decades have not been properly maintained or are suffering from poor workmanship, which is accelerating façade degradation. Drawing on Pemasteelisa Group’s expertise and resources, FaçadeCare addresses these issues through specialist maintenance services and preventative treatments. Working with designers, engineers and suppliers, our aim is to preserve façades for as long as possible, ensuring buildings remain safe, visually striking and sustainable,” De Mitri added.

Given the extreme climate conditions prevalent in the Middle East, the FaçadeCare team’s maintenance offerings are tailored to address the specific challenges posed by these conditions. Their focus is on ensuring water tightness, structural integrity, and areas most susceptible to wind load and thermal stress.

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Source: ME Construction News

Developer MERED has appointed Dar Al-Handasah Consultants (Shair and Partners) – Dar – as the lead design consultant for its waterfront development on Al Reem Island.

The project, which was designed by a architectural firm recognised with the Pritzker Prize and RIBA Royal Gold Medal, will feature high-end apartments, sky villas, and ocean villas, complemented by premium amenities and landscaped oasis gardens. It promises to bring a striking presence to Reem Island’s skyline while offering a vibrant coastal lifestyle for residents, said a statement from the developer.

According to MERED, Dar provides design, planning, engineering, sustainability consulting, project management, facilities management, and digital solutions across critical sectors including buildings, cities, transportation, civil infrastructure, water, and the environment. Dar is also the founder of Sidara, a global collaborative consistently ranked among the top 10 international design firms by Engineering News-Record for over 15 years. With a global portfolio of over 4,500 projects valued at more than $500 billion across the Middle East, Africa, Asia, and Europe, Dar brings unmatched expertise to the Al Reem Island project.

Michael Belton, CEO of MERED said, “Working with Dar will guarantee the project delivers on the promise of quality, integrity, and long-term value. Al Reem Island continues to be one of the region’s most dynamic growth areas, with off-plan property values rising 38% year-on-year in Q2 2025, and our focus is on creating a waterfront destination that will truly stand the test of time and contribute meaningfully to the community.”

Dar’s Sabah Haidar, Partner, Director of Operations for UAE commented, “MERED’s vision for this waterfront development is bold, and our role as lead design consultant is to ensure it is delivered to the highest standards of quality and architectural excellence. Through rigorous design oversight and close collaboration, we are committed to creating a project that enhances Reem Island’s identity and reinforces Abu Dhabi’s standing as a hub of world-class architecture.”

Ibrahim Salah, the Director of Dar’s Dubai Design Studio added, “We’re honored to be partnering with a developer as visionary as MERED to deliver a new landmark for Abu Dhabi. From sky and ocean villas to breathtaking gardens, excellence in architecture, design, and engineering will be the determining factor in delivering a new development that captures hearts and minds and sets the stage for a community that thrives.”

Phase 1 of the development is scheduled to be launched by the end of 2025. This project aims to reshape Al Reem Island’s waterfront, introducing architectural style that will elevate the city’s skyline and urban fabric. MERED’s primary objective is to create enduring value for both residents and investors. MERED seeks to further strengthen Abu Dhabi’s reputation as a premier waterfront destination, the developer noted.

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Source: ME Construction News

Developer TownX Real Estate Development has said that it has completed its Luma Park Views project nine months ahead of schedule. This marks a significant milestone in their mission to deliver developments in record time.

The developer said it will commence the handover of 600 residential units in Jumeirah Village Circle. The project boasts one, two, and three bedroom luxury apartments that offer views of the park.

Haider Abduljabbar, Executive Director of TownX said, “Completing Luma Park Views nine months ahead of schedule underscores our relentless drive for excellence and efficiency. We are dedicated to pushing boundaries and setting new standards in real estate, ensuring that every project we deliver creates lasting value for our residents and investors.”

Luma Park Views is said to offer a blend of technology, luxury amenities, and community-oriented design. Residents can enjoy two sky pools, two Technogym-equipped gyms, internal garden spanning 32,000sqft, and a suite of smart home systems. The development also features advanced security systems, including face recognition technology in the lifts, as well as smart door locks, EV charging points, and temperature-controlled pools.

Equipped with Siemens appliances and smart home systems, each apartment at Luma Park Views offers a modern living experience designed for comfort, convenience, and sustainability. The development’s energy-efficient design, combined with spacious interiors and premium finishes, makes it an ideal choice for families and professionals alike, the developer stated.

TownX said it has focused on delivering projects ahead of schedule with exceptional attention to detail. With over 967 units delivered and 1,774 apartments currently under development, the company continues to expand its footprint in Dubai’s real estate market. Key developments delivered by TownX include Easy18, Easy19, Luma21 and Luma22 in JVC, while ongoing projects include 11 Hills Park at Dubai Science Park and Ashley Hills in Arjan.

With a focus on family-oriented communities, TownX said that it designs spaces that cater to all generations, prioritising high end finishes, energy-efficient designs and spacious interiors. Above all, the company said that it is committed to enhancing the daily lives of its residents through exceptional user experiences.

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Source: ME Construction News

Law firm Gibson Dunn said it advised the Investment Corporation of Dubai and ALEC in connection with the initial public offering (IPO) and listing of ALEC on the Dubai Financial Market, which is said to be the UAE’s largest construction sector IPO ever by both valuation and size.

This is the second year running that Gibson Dunn was issuer’s counsel on the largest sector IPO in the UAE, following last year’s largest technology sector US $2bn talabat IPO.

The IPO, which raised $381mn, resulted in an implied market capitalisation of around $1.91bn. It also signifies the first construction sector IPO in the UAE in over 15 years.

ALEC, a diversified engineering and construction group, operates in the UAE and Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The company builds and provides construction solutions that consistently set industry benchmarks for innovation, quality, reliability, and operational excellence.

The Gibson Dunn team, comprising partners Marwan Elaraby, Ibrahim Soumrany, and Jade Chu, along with associates Omar Morsy, Krishna Parikh, Rachel Treasure, Vlad Zinovyev, and Anthony Forde, provided legal support throughout the process.

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Source: ME Construction News

Etihad Water and Electricity (EtihadWE) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Fujairah Geographical Information Systems Centre. This agreement aims to foster innovation and digital transformation in geospatial systems and data management.

The signing ceremony took place during GITEX 2025 in Dubai, and was attended by Eng. Mohammed bin Hamad bin Saif Al Sharqi, Director General of Fujairah Digital Government.

The MoU focuses on enhancing institutional integration and facilitating data and expertise exchange in GIS. This collaboration will improve urban planning efficiency, infrastructure development, and support digital services across Fujairah. It also aims to strengthen electronic connectivity between the two entities to optimise technological resources for digital transformation.

This partnership empowers EtihadWE to enhance network management, streamline field operations, and expedite decision-making speed and accuracy in its projects. This agreement marks a significant milestone in promoting innovation within geospatial systems in Fujairah. It underscores both parties’ dedication to achieving digital transformation goals, while contributing positively to the region’s development.

Dr. Ahmed Hassan Al Murshidi, Director General of the Fujairah GIS Centre, emphasised, “This partnership is a strategic step towards developing Fujairah’s geospatial data infrastructure. It enables secure and systematic data sharing among entities, supporting sustainable development and improving quality of life across the emirate.”

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Source: ME Construction News

Developer AMIS Development has unveiled Derby Heights, a residential project nestled in District 11, Meydan, Dubai. This development, slated for handover in Q4 2027, was launched at the AMIS sales centre on Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai.

Derby Heights introduces a refined vision of elevated living through a spatial edit by Casamia — a design narrative that brings together curated materials, tactile finishes, and refined aesthetics across the project’s shared and social spaces. The development reflects a commitment to thoughtful materiality and spatial harmony, creating an environment where design enhances everyday living, said a statement.

The project is said to be a pioneer in the emerging trend of locally branded residences in Dubai. It sets a new standard for urban living, seamlessly combining luxury, design, and comfort in every corner of the development, the statement continued.

The development will offer a range of exclusive units, including one-bedroom and two-bedroom apartments, each designed to provide a modern living experience. Located just 15 minutes from Downtown Dubai, five minutes from the Meydan Racecourse, and 20 minutes from Dubai International Airport, Derby Heights provides the perfect blend of privacy and proximity to key lifestyle destinations in the city, the developer said.

The development will feature an array of amenities including a state-of-the-art gym, a rooftop infinity pool, an outdoor cinema, a grand reception area, and an outdoor kids play area – all designed to offer a refined living experience for individuals and families.

Neeraj Mishra, Founder and CEO of AMIS Development said, “We are thrilled to introduce Derby Heights to the market. This project reflects our commitment to creating spaces that redefine urban living. Through this development, we’re able to offer a unique concept with ‘a spatial edit by Casamia’, bringing a sophisticated touch to every shared space. We believe this development will set a new benchmark for luxury living in Dubai, providing a sanctuary that is both serene and conveniently located.”

Mohib Mithani, Co-Founder of Casamia said, “We’re proud to see Casamia’s material and design sensibility represented within Derby Heights. Through A Spatial Edit by Casamia, this project brings an exquisite material philosophy to life, where every detail contributes to an atmosphere of refined comfort.”

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Source: ME Construction News

Developer Arada has awarded a construction contract worth US $108.1mn to build the Rove Aljada hotel cluster within the Sharjah megaproject. The cluster comprises four blocks, featuring the Rove Aljada hotel and Rove Home Aljada branded residences. These buildings are located next to the upcoming commercial district, Arada CBD, and Madar Mall.

Modern Building Contracting Company (MBCC) has been awarded the contract and will commence construction immediately. The project is expected to be completed by December 2027. The Rove Aljada hotel will boast 192 hotel rooms, a rooftop swimming pool, co-working spaces, a 24-hour gym, and all-day dining restaurant, among other amenities.

Ahmed Alkhoshaibi, Group CEO of Arada said, “We are absolutely committed to delivering world-class amenities to support the growth of this transformational new destination and this contract award is further evidence of that. With the introduction of Rove’s fresh and dynamic hospitality concept, we are responding to rising demand from both business and leisure travelers seeking smart, connected and design-led experiences in Sharjah.”

The Rove Aljada contract award is said to mark a milestone in the development of the master community. Construction is underway on Arada CBD, a 40-building commercial district, both the mall and the business park are conveniently located adjacent to Rove Aljada.

Rove Aljada will enhance the hospitality options available in the community. Nest Hotel, Arada’s innovative hospitality brand is expected to open before the end of this year, while the four-building Vida Aljada complex is scheduled to open in the first quarter of 2026. Both Vida Aljada and the upcoming The Address Aljada will be owned by Arada and operated by the Emaar Hospitality Group.

Aljada, already home to 20,000 residents, boasts over 25,000 homes and extensive retail, entertainment, sports, education, wellness, hospitality, and commercial assets. With access to Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Road, Al Dhaid Road, Sharjah International Airport, and the upcoming Etihad Rail station, Aljada is transforming Sharjah’s urban landscape, the statement concluded.

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Source: ME Construction News