Arada has acquired the New South Wales arm of Roberts Co, an Australian tier-one commercial construction company known for executing intricate projects across diverse sectors. The strategic move aligns with Arada’s expansion plans in Australia, as the UAE-based master developer accelerates its growth in the Australian market.

The developer said it secured the immediate US $20mn recapitalisation of Roberts Co (NSW), which will provide essential stability to another 600 employees across the construction supply chain in Sydney. This move also ensures the jobs of 120 direct employees. Arada said it is on track to launch sales and construction at its first projects in Australia by the end of 2025.

The acquisition empowers Arada to greater control over the development of its future projects in Australia. Moreover, it paves the way for Roberts Co’s eventual expansion into new international markets, including the UAE. Arada said that is prepared to invest up to $100mn in Roberts Co’s expansion into new sectors and geographies. The ultimate objective is to establish a global presence and achieve annual revenues of $1bn by 2028.

Ahmed Alkhoshaibi, Group CEO of Arada said, “This acquisition reflects our strong belief in Roberts Co’s people, projects, and performance, and will help us to deliver our future projects in Australia with greater control and cost efficiencies, as well as reduced risk. We will now invest significantly into the company in order to bring it to new markets and sectors, including the UAE, and look forward to delivering on our shared vision for high-quality, community-focused development.”

Ridwaan Jadwat, Australia’s Ambassador to the UAE added, “This acquisition highlights the growing depth of the Australia-UAE relationship, underpinned by the recently signed Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement. It is a strong example of how closer ties between our two nations are delivering tangible benefits to our communities, supporting sustainable development and fostering long-term economic growth.”

Dr Fahad Obaid Altaffag, UAE Ambassador to Australia said, “The acquisition of Roberts Co’s New South Wales business by Arada demonstrates the UAE’s commitment to strengthening economic ties with Australia, which aligns with the opportunities created through the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement. This strategic move not only reinforces the strong economic partnership between our countries but also reflects our shared vision for enhancing people-to-people ties as well as for innovation. We look forward to seeing the positive impact this collaboration will have on local infrastructure, jobs, and the broader Australian economy.”

The acquisition ensures uninterrupted progress across four major construction projects in Sydney,  two schools, a residential project, and a children’s hospital. These projects are crucial to the state’s infrastructure. As part of the transition, key members of the Roberts Co leadership team, including Executive Chairman George Kostas, who previously served as CEO of Majid Al Futtaim Properties, will remain in their roles to maintain continuity and stability after the transaction, the statement explained.

Founded in 2017 with a mission to ‘build a better way’, Roberts Co has delivered some of New South Wales’ most important recent construction projects and has experience across the health, education, commercial, residential, hospitality, industrial, life sciences and defence sectors.

Arada, a company that established its first international office in Sydney in 2024, has announced plans for a $2.5bn development project in Australia. This project aims to create major new communities in Sydney’s inner-west, southwest, and Hills Shire suburbs. Together, these communities will provide 2,500 much needed homes to the Sydney market.

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Fakhruddin Properties unveiled its “innovative 90:90 Waste Management Initiative” at Trafalgar Central in Dubai International City. The system aims to divert up to 90% of building waste from landfills, marking a milestone in the UAE’s environmental journey. The initiative introduces the city’s first in-building composting and sorting facilities in a residential development, showcasing the UAE’s commitment to sustainability, said a statement from the firm.

The initiative, focused on sustainable innovation, presents an end-to-end framework for high rise buildings. It offers source segregation, reporting, and zero-cost implementation for residents. This model redefines waste handling within residential and commercial complexes and aligns with the UAE’s Net Zero 2050 agenda, Dubai Municipality’s plan to close landfills by 2027, and the Circular Economy Policy 2021–2031.

Residents will be empowered with color coded garbage bags, one for organic waste and another for general waste. This initiative will be reinforced through ongoing educational campaigns and visual signage. The on site segregation system ensures efficient and clean collection, resulting in only 10% of waste reaching landfills. This resident centric approach eliminates any additional operational or infrastructure costs for tenants or homeowners, the firm explained.

Yousuf Fakhruddin, CEO and Managing Partner of Fakhruddin Properties stated, “Our objective was clear to create an adaptable, scalable, and zero-cost waste management model that has measurable environmental, social, and economic impact. With this initiative, we are demonstrating that sustainability is not an afterthought, but an essential aspect how modern cities must evolve.”

“Our in-building composting solution proves that advanced waste infrastructure can be integrated into residential life without disrupting it. In fact, it enhances it by improving air quality, promoting responsible living, and contributing to a greener economy. We are not merely managing waste; we are redefining what it means to live sustainably in Dubai,” he added.

As part of the launch, attendees witnessed live demonstrations of the system’s full lifecycle from waste disposal by residents to compost generation. The event also featured discussions led by urban sustainability experts, exploring how cities can adopt similar plug and play models to meet climate targets and reduce environmental harm.

Dr. Samiullah Khan, Chief Sustainability Officer of Fakhruddin Holdings said, “The 90:90 standard represents a paradigm shift in how we tackle waste no longer as a liability, but as a resource. Our commitment goes far beyond compliance; it’s a moral obligation to future generations. We have created a blueprint that integrates sustainability into the core fabric of urban living, scalable across the real estate sector. This is not a pilot; it is the future. We connect citizen participation, cutting-edge technology, and transparent governance to drive real-time impact and build climate-resilient cities.”

With the growing regional and global urgency to re evaluate environmental strategies, Fakhruddin Properties’ initiative emerges as a timely and transformative solution. The 90:90 Waste Management Initiative seeks to become a benchmark in urban sustainability, paving the way for the development of greener, cleaner, and more intelligent communities across Dubai and beyond, the statement concluded.

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DMCC has appointed Ali & Sons Contracting Company to oversee the second phase of Uptown Dubai’s development. As a regional urban development contractor, Ali & Sons Contracting has been awarded the primary construction contract for this next phase, following the completion of the enabling works, a statement explained.

Connected to Uptown Tower by a new link bridge, the development will see two new commercial towers offering a combined 62,000sqm of Grade A commercial and retail space, delivering amenities and accessibility in line with DMCC’s dynamic urban destination. The new towers will showcase architectural design, as per LEED Gold standards for both structures. This commitment to energy efficiency ensures the use of environmentally responsible materials and technologies, aligning with Dubai’s sustainability agenda and DMCC’s dedication to sustainable urban development.

Ahmed Bin Sulayem, Executive Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, DMCC said, “The next phase of Uptown Dubai marks a defining moment in the district’s evolution. With 62,000sqm of premium Grade A office and retail space across two landmark towers, we are responding proactively to the growing demand from global businesses seeking a world-class destination in Dubai.”

“Seamlessly connected by a new link bridge and elevated by exceptional F&B and retail offerings, this development will deliver an integrated, future-ready environment for work, leisure, and lifestyle. Our collaboration with Ali & Sons Contracting underscores DMCC’s unwavering commitment to excellence, innovation, and sustainable urban development setting a new benchmark not only for Dubai, but for the region as a whole,” he added.

Shamis Ali bin Khalfan Al Dhaheri, Vice Chairman and Group Managing Director, Ali & Sons Holding commented, “We are proud to have been awarded the contract for the next phase of Uptown Dubai, a landmark development that is shaping the future of urban living in the region. This partnership with DMCC reflects a shared commitment to excellence and innovation. We look forward to bringing our expertise to this ambitious project, delivering on DMCC’s vision and creating a world-class destination.”

Ali & Sons Contracting will deliver the project adhering to industry standards for health, safety, and well-being. They will utilise technology and innovation, such as drone surveying, off-site prefabrication, and 3D planning software, to ensure the quality of construction.

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EMSTEEL has announced the launch of its inaugural Green Finance Framework, which aims to align the company’s financial strategy with its long-term sustainability and decarbonisation objectives.

The framework enables EMSTEEL and its subsidiaries to issue a diverse range of green finance instruments, including green bonds, loans, commercial papers, and medium-term notes (MTNs), across multiple currencies. The proceeds generated from these instruments will be exclusively allocated to finance or refinance eligible green projects that follow stringent environmental criteria, said a statement.

These projects encompass different initiatives, such as, production of low carbon steel and cement, installation of renewable energy systems like solar photovoltaic systems, the adoption of energy efficient technologies, and innovative solutions that drive decarbonisation.

Saeed Ghumran Al Remeithi, Group CEO of EMSTEEL said, “Our Green Finance Framework is more than a financial tool,  it is a strategic lever to accelerate our transition towards a low-carbon future. It reflects our commitment to aligning our fund raising activities with internationally recognised market standards for green financing and channeling funds toward environmentally responsible projects. Through this initiative, we aim to support the decarbonisation of our operations, foster innovation in low-carbon steelmaking and create long-term value for our shareholders, society, and the planet.”

Mark Tonkens, Group Chief Financial Officer added, “The launch of our Green Finance Framework marks a pivotal step in reinforcing EMSTEEL’s commitment to sustainability. Aligning our financial strategy with global green finance standards enables us to secure funding for high-impact projects and positions us as a leader in the region’s transition to a low-carbon economy.”

Developed in accordance with internationally recognised best practices, the framework ensures transparent approach to the issuance, management, and reporting of green finance instruments. Moody’s Ratings has provided a Second Party Opinion (SPO), awarding the Framework a Sustainability Quality Score of SQS2 (Very Good), enhancing investor confidence in EMSTEEL’s sustainability-focused capital strategy.

The framework’s development was supported by key partners, including ING as the Lead Sustainability Structuring Bank and First Abu Dhabi Bank (FAB) as the Sustainability Structuring Bank. This collaboration underscores the regional commitment to advancing sustainable finance. The Green Finance Framework is an important component of EMSTEEL’s Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) strategy. It supports ambitious targets aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 40% in steel production and 30% in cement production by 2030.

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DAMAC Properties has unveiled Chelsea Residences, a residential development that has emerged from its global partnership with Chelsea F.C.

Situated in Dubai Maritime City, Chelsea Residences boasts a prime location on one of the last remaining waterfront corner plots. This location offers residents 270-degree views of the Arabian Gulf and the Dubai skyline, the developer explained.

The development comprises six towering structures, each reaching a height of 130m, and boasts over 1,400 designed apartments. Each apartment is inspired by the tranquility of the sea and the passion of Chelsea F.C. The launch of this project in Dubai was attended by Amira Sajwani, Managing Director of DAMAC, and Todd Kline, President, Commercial, Chelsea F.C.

“This is more than a residence – it’s the beginning of something extraordinary. Chelsea Residences by DAMAC represents a convergence of two global powerhouses, redefining what it means to live like a champion,” said Amira Sajwani. “Every detail of this development embodies the spirit, discipline and pride of Chelsea F.C., from its design language to its world-class facilities.”

The project includes Chelsea F.C. branded fitness and wellness facilities, an outdoor rooftop football pitch, while an Aquarium Lounge in Chelsea blue offers opportunities for entertainment and relaxation. Whether enjoying a game in the private Cinema, training in the Chelsea Athlete Performance Centre or relaxing in the Rain Therapy Room, residents can live with the rhythm of champions, the statement explained.

Chelsea Residences also offers health and fitness experiences. These include a cryotherapy centre, forest relaxation pods, a kneipp parkour therapy path, and a starlit wellness centre. The project also features an infinity pool, aerial yoga studio, Chelsea Sports Bar, powerhouse lounge, a resort style mancave with live football screenings, boxing, darts and more.

Dining takes a wellness first and experience rich approach. Highlights include Dubai’s first healthy mono-diet café, a private chef’s table experience, and the show stopping Captain’s Table, a resident exclusive event series hosted by Chelsea F.C., the statement outlined.

The development’s one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments are designed with biophilic principles in mind. They feature floor-to-ceiling windows that offer views of the sea, interiors inspired by London’s cool elegance and Dubai’s modern vibrancy, and sustainable water filtration systems throughout.

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Arada has launched Nest Hotel, the master developer’s first homegrown hospitality brand. Nest Hotel will be managed by Arada Hospitality, with the first hotel taking shape in the Aljada megaproject in Sharjah. It is to be the first completed property in Arada’s 1,031 key hotel and serviced apartment district.

Nest Hotel Aljada serves the demand from MICE and the leisure tourism sectors in Sharjah, the hotel also meets demand from within the Aljada community itself. It will provide rooms for guests from Sharjah’s events and academic sectors, and offer accommodation for visiting faculty, parents and professionals attending functions at the nearby Al Jawaher Reception and Convention Centre.

Ahmed Alkhoshaibi, Group CEO of Arada said, “Nest Hotel embodies Arada’s dedication to creating quality and value-driven destinations that put people first. We’re launching this hospitality brand to ensure a guest experience that fosters a sense of community and wellbeing, starting with Aljada, Sharjah’s most exciting urban destination.”

Amit Arora, Chief Operating Officer of Arada, said, “Designed with insights from Nest Campus residents and the wider Aljada community, Nest Hotel is designed for travellers and visitors who expect more from their stay, more convenience, energy and connection to the surrounding districts. It’s a next-generation hotel that offers both comfort and relevance to the modern guest, right in the heart of a thriving community. Smart hospitality is at the core of the Nest Hotel experience, encompassing features such as mobile check-in, digital room access, energy-efficient systems, co-working lounges, a guest pool, and all-day dining.”

Set to open in October, Nest Hotel Aljada will welcome guests to 431 rooms across two buildings, and is located adjacent to the Nest Campus student housing cluster, opposite Arada Central Business District. Sharjah’s new commercial hub, and five minutes’ walk from the Madar Mall.

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OMNIYAT has awarded the main construction contract for its landmark properties, VELA and VELA Viento, to Arabian Construction Company (ACC Group).

The two projects are said to be key developments within OMNIYAT’s vision of transforming Marasi Bay into Dubai’s most prestigious waterfront destination, blending residential, commercial, and leisure experiences across a walkable, ultra-luxury district, the developer said.

Once completed, the destination will feature high-end hotels, signature residences, retail experiences, premium workspaces, and wellness-centric public spaces, all connected by a landscaped promenade and marina. Further landmark properties to be delivered in the district are ENARA by OMNIYAT, a prestigious commercial development designed to redefine the corporate environment with world-class amenities, sustainable design, and an exclusive lifestyle experience, set for completion in Q4 2027, it added.

“We are excited to work with one of the best-in-class contractors in the region on VELA and VELA Viento in Marasi Bay.The appointment of ACC Group is a critical milestone on our journey to redefine luxury living and further cement Marasi Bay’s position as the region’s most prestigious address. Aligned with our legacy of collaborating with partners who are committed to our vision, we trust in ACC’s expertise and experience in bringing these exceptional developments to life,” said Peter Stephenson, Co-Managing Director of OMNIYAT.

Main works on both projects are now in full swing, with site mobilisation and early construction milestones completed. The anticipated handover is scheduled for 2027, with VELA set for Q2 and VELA Viento in Q3 – adding to a growing constellation of OMNIYAT’s luxury assets in the district, which also includes The Lana and The Lana Residences, managed by Dorchester Collection, the developer explained.

Designed in collaboration with Foster + Partners and Gilles & Boissier, VELA and VELA Viento aim to offer refined living experiences for the global elite. Managed by Dorchester Collection, the properties boast bespoke residences with expansive terraces, private pools, and floor-to-ceiling windows framing panoramic views of the Dubai Canal, Burj Khalifa, and Downtown skyline. Residents of both projects will enjoy seamless access to The Lana Hotel, and The Lana Residences, the statement explained.

At VELA, the first of the two projects to launch, core structural work is advancing steadily, with nearly 50% of the raft reinforcement complete, and MEP and façade contractors mobilised on-site.

Rasheed Mikati, Executive Director at ACC Group added, “OMNIYAT has always delivered projects that speak to Dubai’s evolution as a global beacon of design and ambition. With nearly six decades of expertise in creating world-class landmarks and critical infrastructure, we are committed to delivering VELA and VELA Viento to the highest global standards.”

VELA Viento is set to push the boundaries of design with architectural features such as three duplex residences featuring ‘hanging’ dining rooms connecting its twin towers – a concept unique to the property. VELA Viento will also feature two crowning penthouses, and lifestyle amenities perched 100m high, including an infinity pool, sun deck, yoga studio, and a double-height gym, the developer explained.

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BurJuman Mall has unveiled its new Smart Parking system, which aims to revolutionise the arrival experience at the mall by providing hassle-free, efficient parking options.

The mall said it is transforming its customer convenience by introducing a new ticketless paid parking system and user-friendly navigation upgrades. These enhancements are now live across the mall’s parking facilities, aiming to decongest parking, improve car flow, and make parking easier for customers. This commitment to customer satisfaction is evident in BurJuman Mall’s efforts to enhance the overall shopping experience, said a statement.

BurJuman’s Smart Parking, enabled by advanced ANPR (Automatic Number Plate Recognition), provides paperless and touchless entry and exit. Guests can enjoy free parking for the first three hours daily, and VOX Cinema guests receive an additional three hour grace period free of charge upon validation. Parking is also free on Sundays and public holidays. Guests can make payments via card or cash at Parking Payment Kiosks, with card only payment available at exit points, the statement outlined.

Enhanced wayfinding signage simplifies navigation within the parking facility, while designated areas ensure accessibility for individuals with disabilities and families. BurJuman Mall prioritises convenience from the very first touchpoint, ensuring visitors have a smoother and smarter shopping, dining, and entertainment experience.

BurJuman Mall said that introducing Smart Parking is part of its ongoing commitment to listening to its community and evolving its offerings to provide a modern and convenient lifestyle destination. This upgrade aligns with Dubai’s efforts to promote smart infrastructure and customer-centric retail innovation.

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