Architecture – Page 90 – Energy & Sustainability Summit | 23 May 2023

The Minister of Public Works, Noura Al Mashaan, has signed a design contract with Turkish company Proyapi for the first phase of its GCC railway network to initiate the design of the initial phase of the Kuwait-to-Gulf countries railway project. The scope of work includes study, detailed design, and tender document preparation.

The consultancy contract was awarded to Proyapi in January for US $8.1mn, with the advisory period set to last about a year. The Kuwaiti part of the project is scheduled to be completed by 2030. The Kuwaiti segment of this project will feature a 111km track running from Shadadiya (site of the main Kuwait Railway Station on a two million sqm plot) to Nuwaiseeb.

This strategic project aligns with the GCC vision to establish a 2,177km transnational railway network connecting all member states from Kuwait to Oman. The six Gulf Cooperation Council countries agreed to build the rail network in 2009 and construction has started on railways in the UAE, Oman and Saudi Arabia.

Ahmed Al-Saleh, Assistant Undersecretary for Planning and Development and Official Spokesperson for the Ministry of Public Works, said, “The project has great social and economic importance for the smooth transport of passengers and goods, it is being implemented in line with the desire of the leaders of the Gulf Cooperation Council countries”.

“The signing ceremony marked the commencement of the project in Kuwait. Once you sign the design contract, you’ve started and placed the wheels on the right track, it was not possible to determine the final cost of the Kuwaiti part of the project until the final design is completed,” he added.

Construction is already underway in the UAE, Oman, and Saudi Arabia, and the project aims to boost regional trade, travel, and tourism. Once completed, the network will provide both passenger and freight transportation services across the region. The agreement encompasses design and engineering studies, soil testing, route mapping, and the preparation of tender documents for the subsequent construction phase. Once the design work is finalised, Kuwait will move forward with inviting bids for the actual construction.

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SEE Holding has unveiled its new development, The Sustainable City 2.0 (TSC 2.0). This development incorporates Net Zero and human-centric features, setting a new standard for sustainable urban development, the developer said.

In this city driven by artificial intelligence (AI), waste is transformed into a valuable resource, it is repurposed, recycled, or converted into energy to prevent it from accumulating in landfills. As a result, the developer says it can prevent landfills from accumulating waste and foster a resilient circular economy. Additionally, passive and active design elements, such as evaporative cooling and micro wind turbines will help maintain a cooler microclimate.

Mobility is planned to be fully electric and autonomous, featuring shared e-cars and e-bikes, self-driving shuttles, and every home will be equipped to support contactless delivery through last-mile delivery robots and drone pads, said the statement from SEE Holding. Every element is designed to offer residents more time, stronger connections, and a better quality of life in a forward-thinking, sustainable community.

Faris Saeed, the Chairman and CEO of SEE Holding said, “This is not a vision of the distant future. It is a model we are building today, driven by AI, achieving Net Zero, and designed around people. Building on years of experience and success with pioneering sustainable communities, we are now introducing a revolutionary urban model that is designed not just for today – but for generations to come. The Sustainable City 2.0 is the culmination of everything we’ve learned, enhanced by the power of intelligent systems and built around a clear purpose: to ensure people remain at the centre of progress in a rapidly evolving, AI-driven world.”

Neighbourhoods are designed to be pedestrian-friendly and surrounded by nature. They also have wellness infrastructure, including motion-activated running tracks, solar-heated pools, and energy-efficient gyms. Learning is vast and future-oriented, with next-generation classrooms and future labs that facilitate the realisation of ideas. Healthcare is proactive, supported by digital monitoring systems that track well-being and enable early intervention.

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Oman’s Nama Power & Water Procurement Company (NPWPC) said it attracted significant global and regional interest for two of its most important upcoming energy projects – the Misfah Integrated Power Project (IPP) in the Muscat Governorate and the Duqm IPP in the Al Wusta region.

The projects are part of NPWPC’s long-term strategy to ensure the availability of sufficient electricity generation capacity at the lowest possible cost, in line with the growing energy needs driven by urbanisation and industrial development.

A total of twelve major utility developers have submitted their Statements of Qualifications (SOQs) for consideration including: Samsung C&T Corporation, Korea Western Power, Marubeni Corporation, Sumitomo, Reliance Power, Sembcorp Utilities, and Shenzhen Energy Group. These firms bring experience in developing large-scale power infrastructure and represent a strong vote of confidence in Oman’s energy sector.

Key regional companies that have entered the race include Acwa Power Company, Nebras Power, Al Ghanim International, Etihad Water and Electricity Company (EtihadWE), and Al Jomaih Energy & Water Company—highlighting the strategic importance of these projects within the GCC.

According to NPWPC, the combined scope of the projects includes the development of two combined cycle gas turbine (CCGT) power plants, with a total installed capacity of 2,400MW. Both plants will be developed under Oman’s Independent Power Project (IPP) model, which promotes private sector participation through competitive procurement and long-term power purchase agreements.

The Misfah IPP is expected to support the high energy demands of the capital region, while the Duqm IPP is aligned with the government’s broader plan to transform the Duqm Special Economic Zone into a major industrial and logistical hub. With the submission phase completed, Nama will proceed with the evaluation and shortlisting of qualified bidders, moving toward the next phase of project development and eventual financial close.

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AVENEW Development and Al Tamayoz Contracting have signed a partnership to develop Rena, a beachfront residential project on Dubai Islands. The deal is said to be a milestone for AVENEW Development as it moves to redefine modern living through design communities.

The project will offer sea views, private beach access, and a coastal lifestyle for its residents. Rena is said to feature designed apartments, Dubai’s first sea-level townhouses, and a penthouse, crafted to maximise natural light and ocean views.

Residents will enjoy a selection of amenities, including a rooftop infinity pool, fitness centre, landscaped gardens, and a private beachfront lounge. The design philosophy of Rena is rooted in eco-conscious materials to create a living environment that is both sophisticated and responsible, said a statement.

“We are thrilled to partner with Al Tamayoz Contracting Co for the next phase of Rena’s development. Their expertise and commitment to excellence align perfectly with our vision to deliver a world-class exceptional living environment,” said Rasha Hassan, Managing Partner of AVENEW Development.

“We are proud to collaborate with AVENEW Development on Rena, a project that embodies sophistication and innovation. Our team is dedicated to executing this vision with precision, ensuring that every detail meets the highest standards of quality and craftsmanship,” said Samer Roushdy Mousa, Managing Partner of Al Tamayoz Contracting.

Rena offers range of apartments, including one-, two-, and three-bedroom units, as well as a penthouse. These apartments boast open layouts, premium finishes, and floor-to-ceiling windows that flood the spaces with the beauty of the sea. Additionally, the development offers private townhouses directly on the beach, offering homeowners the privilege of immediate access to sand and views of the ocean, said the statement.

Beyond its architecture, Rena benefits from prime location within Dubai Islands, offering connectivity to destinations such as Downtown Dubai, Dubai International Airport, as well as a multitude of dining, retail, and entertainment options.

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The Saudi Water Partnership Company (SWPC) has announced that its US $257mn utility project – Madinah 3 Wastewater plant has commenced commercial operations. The facility boasts a 200,000cu/m per day capacity which is expandable to 375,000cu/m per day in emergency situations.

The company said that it will also build 23km of recycled water collectors for irrigation, three storage tanks and their respective pumping stations. The treatment plant will have a collection well and pumping station, pre-treatment, biological reactor, sludge line, and recycled water pumping station.

The key project was developed by a Spanish infrastructure major ACCIONA with local firms – International Water Distribution Company (Tawzea) and Tamasuk as partners. SWPC said the project has been implemented on a build, own, operate and transfer (BOOT) model. One of the three new WWTP build by ACCIONA in Saudi Arabia.

As per the purchase deal with the consortium, ACCIONA will be responsible for the facility’s development, design, financing, construction, operation and maintenance over a 25-year period from the date of commercial operations.

The Madinah plant is said to have treated more than five million cu/m of wastewater during Ramadan and converted it into water suitable for industrial and agricultural use, thus contributing to reducing the environmental impact and improving the quality of life for its residents, said a statement from SWPC.

Last year ACCIONA celebrated it key safety milestone at the Madinah 3 project site clocking two million man-hours without Lost-Time Injuries. Hassan Allam Construction was responsible for the civil works of the plant. The waste treatment plant has a collection well and pumping station, pre-treatment installation, biological reactor, sludge line, and recycled water pumping station, it stated.

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WEG announced its support for Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC)’s 300km crude oil pipeline project, along with pumping and booster stations in the UAE capital to maintain flow efficiency. The project is being set up at an investment of US $3bn and will carry around 1.5m barrels of crude oil per day.

The company aims to deliver the drive packages by September; its scope of work involves supply of integrated drive package, including flameproof electric motors, variable speed drives (VSDs) and transformers to help maximise the efficiency, reliability and safety of the horizontal centrifugal pumps underpinning the infrastructure.

According to the group, 20 medium-voltage flameproof motors will be core for this project. These motors include nine W22Xdb 3.3kV, 50Hz units in frame sizes 500-560, with power rating between 850kW and 990kW, and eleven 900-frame 6.6kV M-Line motors with power rating between 6,710kW and 6,980kW. Other benefits include high energy efficiency and customisable configurations, with multiple mounting options and terminal box designs, ideal for applications demanding flexible installation like oil pipelines, it stated.

Designed to withstand the harsh environmental conditions of the Arabian desert, these motors can handle extreme temperatures of up to 55-degrees Celsius and are certified IP55 against dust and water. WEG’s solutions will drive multiple horizontal centrifugal pumps designed for heavy-duty industrial applications. The W22Xdb flameproof motors prioritise safety and efficiency in hazardous environments, adhering to global standards like Atex and IECEx. These motors boast robust construction using cast iron or welded steel frames, complemented by advanced cooling options and thermal and vibration monitoring for optimal reliability.

“This $3bn billion infrastructure project will boost the UAE’s energy export and security, transporting crude oil from Jebel Dhanna in Abu Dhabi to the Fujairah oil terminal on the eastern coast,” said a company spokesman.

Kiran Kumar, the HVS Development Sales Manager for HVS Motors & Drives said, “The fact the OEM supplying the centrifugal pumps for this critical pipeline project turned to us is a testament to WEG’s reputation for highly reliable customised drive solutions designed to minimise downtime and costs. Our integrated solution team worked closely with all stakeholders to meet the stringent requirements of this demanding application, including flame and arc resistance. Our ability to design an integrated drive package promptly was instrumental in enabling us to secure this important $22mn project,” he added.

The WEG M-Line (Master Line) comprises versatile and customisable three-phase induction motors designed for the demanding industrial applications. The motor’s optimal design and materials minimise losses while maximising efficiency. In addition, the motor’s structur provides low vibration levels, enhancing durability and reliability.

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Burtville Developments has announced the launch of its first luxury hotel-branded residential development, Bab Al Qasr Resort Residence 18 & 19, at Masdar City in Abu Dhabi. The project spans over an area of 240,000sqft and a built-up area of 915,000sqft and consists of two buildings – one with six floors and the other with nine floors – and surrounded by green spaces that account for 60% of the total land area.

Construction of the 483-unit residential project began construction earlier this year and is set for completion in Q3 2028.

Designed with a focus on Emirati-style architecture, the project will offer a diverse range of housing units, including one to five-bedroom options, as well as layouts such as simplex apartments, duplexes, ground floor villas, and sky villas all of which include a maid’s room and laundry room. Each unit will be fully furnished.

The fifth project of Burtville in Abu Dhabi, the Bab Al Qasr Resort Residence 18 & 19 will have a total built-up area of more than 915,000sqft. Residents will have amenities like indoor and outdoor swimming pools, including a lake and two sandy beach pools, as well as covered pools to ensure year-round access.

Its other amenities include a 600m bicycle track, indoor and outdoor lounges for entertainment residents and guests, Arabic tents for outdoor events and gatherings, modern sports clubs, sports fields and community gardens with designated plots for all residents to grow their own vegetables.

The Emirati developer also reported significant progress across its other Abu Dhabi projects – including 58% completion of Ville 11, 10% progress on Ville 12 in Masdar City, as well as progress on Bab Al Qasr Residence 25 (12%) and Bab Al Qasr Residence 31 (8%) in Yas Bay on Yas Island.

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Miral partnered with Abu Dhabi Municipality (ADM) and ALEC to plant 300 trees at Al Masar Park in Khalifa City. This initiative concludes Miral’s ‘Planting Roots for a Sustainable Future’ campaign, as part of its Group CSR Strategy, which focuses on environmental protection.

This initiative aligns with the ‘Year of Community’ initiative, bringing together over 200 attendees, including employees from Miral and ALEC, and 80 school students from Yasmina British Academy and Yas American Academy.

As part of this initiative, participants engaged in a tree-planting activity, planting 200 Ghaf trees, 50 Delonix regia (Flame trees), and 50 Azadirachta indica (Neem tree/Indian lilac). Through this they not only raised awareness about environmental conservation but also contributed to creating a greener future. They gained insights into the ecological and cultural significance of Ghaf trees. These trees hold importance in sustaining the region’s ecosystem, playing a crucial role in environmental preservation, said a statement.

“Our vision is to shape world-class destinations that not only redefine experiences but also contribute meaningfully to a sustainable future for our community,” said Taghrid AlSaeed, Executive Director of Marketing, Communications & Events at Miral. “Planting these trees including the Ghaf trees, a symbol of resilience and heritage in the UAE, represents our long-term commitment to environmental protection and creating a greener future. By partnering with Abu Dhabi Municipality (ADM) and ALEC, we hope to inspire upcoming generations to become champions of sustainability and environmental care, fostering a sense of collective ownership in creating a healthier and vibrant environment for all.”

Salma Al Mansouri, Director of Al Tawajud Al Baladi – Khalifa, reaffirmed Abu Dhabi Municipality’s commitment to support events and initiatives that contribute to improving the quality of life for individuals in the UAE. She shed light on how the initiative aligns with the objectives of the ‘Plant the Emirates’ National Programme that was launched by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister of the UAE, and Ruler of Dubai, which aims to enhance agricultural development, increase national food security, and expand green spaces. Al Mansouri emphasised Abu Dhabi Municipality’s keenness to collaborate with the private sector to support efforts in environmental protection and the sustainability of green areas in the emirate.

“At ALEC, sustainability isn’t just a principle – it’s part of how we build. Partnering with Miral and Abu Dhabi Municipality on the ‘Planting Roots for a Sustainable Future’ initiative is a meaningful way for us to give back to the communities we help shape. Planting resilient tree species like the Ghaf—a symbol of endurance and heritage in the UAE—reflects our commitment to nurturing ecosystems and creating a lasting environmental legacy. Together, we’re not just planting trees; we’re fostering a culture of sustainability that will inspire future generations and help ensure a greener, more vibrant Abu Dhabi for years to come,” commented Dewald Smith, Senior Project Manager at ALEC.

The Ghaf tree was recognised as the national tree of the UAE in 2008, showcasing resilience, endurance, and adaptability. Miral’s ‘Planting Roots for a Sustainable Future’ initiative reflects its commitment to creating long-term value for the UAE, while prioritising economic growth, environmental responsibility, and community well-being within its CSR strategy.

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Jebel Ali Free Zone (JAFZA) has invested approximately US $25mn in Phase 2 of its Logistics Park. Adding 360,000sqft of Grade-A facilities, the expansion aligns with the UAE’s push to grow its logistics sector to $54.5bn annually in the next seven years and cements Dubai’s role in international trade.

The second phase delivers infrastructure, including modern offices, customisable units, temperature-controlled warehouses, loading docks, and power capacity to support diverse industries. The Park, designed with sustainability in mind, incorporates precast concrete and off-site construction techniques to minimise its environmental impact. Additionally, it features skylights that maximise natural daylight, reducing energy consumption.

Abdulla Al Hashmi, Chief Operating Officer, Parks & Zones, DP World GCC said, “The expansion of JAFZA Logistics Park reflects our commitment to helping businesses compete globally and simultaneously drive foreign investment into Dubai. Phase 1 was fully leased before completion, highlighting strong demand for quality logistics and warehousing, Phase 2 takes this a step further offering flexible, high-quality solutions to support growth in multiple sectors. This brings the total area of Jafza Logistics Park to over 922,000sqft as we continue to grow our infrastructure.”

With the Middle East and Africa’s logistics market set to hit $235.8bn by 2031, demand for advanced warehousing is increasing, including in Dubai, where sectors like manufacturing, logistics, construction, and e-commerce are driving unprecedented growth. The park provides services such as packaging, labeling, and quality control, by real-time inventory tracking. Enables re-exports, domestic fulfillments, and import-export operations.

The newly expanded park bridges this gap by providing market access, enhancing connectivity with Jebel Ali Port, offering storage and handling solutions. These solutions encompass contract logistics, freight forwarding, and freight management, catering to a diverse range of industries, including tech and automotive parts, fashion, and packaged food.

The logistics hub currently houses 10,890 companies from 150 countries. These companies collectively support over 160,000 jobs and contribute $168.82bn annually to the global economy. Phase 1 of JAFZA’s expansion, completed in November 2023, spans across 562,507sqft. This phase boasts Grade-A dry and pharmaceutical storage units, temperature-controlled warehouses, and office spaces.

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ALEC Holdings said that during the holy month of Ramadan it donated dry food and hygiene care packages worth US $43,567 to laborers and low-income families in both the UAE and Saudi Arabia as part of their community outreach efforts. These essential items were distributed to the beneficiaries through their partners, Emirates Red Crescent, SmartLife (a non-profit organisation), and the Charity Association in Riyadh.

Over 1,800 ALEC employees, including some of ALEC’s subcontractor and other partners across nine projects across UAE & KSA as well as the company’s head offices and factories donated these items. 64 ALEC employees volunteered to package the dry food and hygiene products into care hampers, alongside SmartLife volunteers, participated in distributing these at a labour camp in Dubai.

ALEC matched this employee in-kind donation and donated $25,865 towards Emirates Red Crescent’s Tarahum — for Gaza (UAE Relief Campaign to People Affected by War in Gaza) and King Salman Humanitarian Aid & Relief Center’s The Public Relief Campaign for Palestine People in Gaza projects.

Another $17,700 was donated to SmartLife (NPO/NGO)’s Smart Medic program, focussed on providing critical treatments and surgeries, setting up tele medicine kiosks, and providing medicines, not covered by existing medical insurance, for labourers in the UAE, the firm said.

“At ALEC, we believe true success goes beyond financial performance — it’s about the meaningful impact we make in the communities we serve. Our commitment to positive change is embedded in everything we do, from our operations to our values. This spirit is reflected across our entire team, and we’re incredibly proud to match the generous contributions our employees have made to support these vital humanitarian efforts,” said Barry Lewis, CEO of ALEC.

Drawing attention to the need for such corporate-led action, Abhijeet Oak, Vice President, at SmartLife (NPO/NGO) said, “We are thankful to ALEC for its continued support and contributions as it enables SmartLife to implement some key year-round projects for the blue-collar community. This engagement serves as a role model for sustainable community work championed by the team at ALEC.”

In addition to this employee donation matching initiative, ALEC also distributed 3,563 care packages to subcontracted labourer across 15 ALEC, ALEMCO, ALEC FITOUT, ALEC Energy, LINQ, ALEC DIC sites in UAE.

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