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Etihad Rail Freight, a subsidiary of Etihad Rail has signed a Haulage Services Agreement with Trojan General Contracting. The partnership is said to reinforce Etihad Rail Freight’s commitment to enhancing connectivity and providing end-to-end supply chain solutions for efficiency and reliability across the UAE.
The company will provide first and last-mile services to transport aggregates from Trojan’s quarries in Ras Al Khaimah and Fujairah via its Al Ghail Dry Port rail terminal in RAK to the Industrial City of Abu Dhabi (ICAD) and Dubai Industrial City (DIC). Furthermore, Etihad Rail Freight will also offer secure storage services for Trojan General Contracting’s products at its Al Ghail Dry Port terminal in RAK, as well as at its terminals in ICAD and DIC.
Gunther J. Ferk, CEO of Etihad Rail Freight said, “Building on the momentum of our freight operations, we are focused on enhancing our service offerings to clients by integrating seamlessly with existing providers to deliver comprehensive end-to-end solutions. This partnership aligns with our commitment to strengthening the UAE’s logistics infrastructure, while prioritising sustainability and safety.”
“By leveraging our National Rail Network and connecting key industrial hubs, we are reducing the reliance on road transport, removing trucks from the roads, and helping in minimising the environmental footprint. In doing so, we provide our clients with streamlined, efficient, and reliable transportation options, reinforcing Etihad Rail Freight’s role as a key facilitator of economic growth and connectivity within the UAE,” Ferk added.
Commenting on the partnership, Mohamed Mahmoud, CEO of Trojan General Contracting said: “This agreement marks a significant milestone in Trojan’s journey to enhance operational efficiency and create value for our partners. Now, we can streamline our logistics operations, ensuring more effective use of time, resources, and assets.”
Both parties have committed to the UAE’s Net Zero by 2050 strategy by adopting integrated logistics solutions, with rail as a key component for driving increased volumes of goods in an efficient, reliable, and sustainable way. The UAE National Rail Network aim to reduce reliance on road transport and decreases CO2 emissions in the country’s road transport sector by 21% annually by 2050, which is equivalent to removing 8.2m tonnes of CO2 annually.
Since launching operations, Etihad Rail Freight has become an integral part of the UAE’s logistics sector, attracting customer base that recognises the power of rail transportation, said a statement.
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Taraf and Marriott International hotel group have announced W Residences Abu Dhabi – Al Maryah Island. The collaboration will mark the first branded residences of the W Hotels brand in Abu Dhabi and is said to represent an exciting milestone for both stakeholders, with Taraf expanding its lineup of luxury property developments, and Marriott adding this project to its W Residences portfolio.
The Residences will be located in Al Maryah Island, Abu Dhabi’s premium address and home to the international financial centre. Recognised and celebrated for its dynamic community, visionary development, luxury retail and dining options, and an exciting project pipeline, Al Maryah is rapidly becoming the destination of choice for the world’s leading brands, said a statement from Taraf.
The project’s design will not only add to Abu Dhabi’s skyline but will also feature cutting-edge interiors, world-class amenities, and the signature W hotels Whatever/Whenever concierge service, providing residence owners their personal oasis to retreat, relax and feel energised, it added.
Low Ping, Group CEO, Yas Holding commented, “The branded residence market continues to grow, internationally and locally, with Abu Dhabi’s real estate market a particular hotspot. Our collaboration with Marriott International aligns not only with our prime goal of continued growth within the UAE’s luxury real estate market, but also our commitment to partnering with top global luxury brands. W Residences Abu Dhabi – Al Maryah Island will also complement Taraf’s portfolio which also includes high-profile developments across Dubai, showcasing our commitment to excellence and innovation.”
Jaidev Menezes, Regional VP – Mixed-Use Development EMEA, Marriott International added, “We are delighted to collaborate with Taraf Holding to launch W Residences Abu Dhabi – Al Maryah Island, our very first residential development under the W Hotels brand in Abu Dhabi. We are witnessing unparalleled growth in Abu Dhabi’s residential real estate market, and the UAE’s capital continues to draw global and local interest for its luxury lifestyle advantages. This project will deliver the audacious W design, offer impeccable services for its Residence Owners, and bring a playful and refined energy to the stunning Al Maryah Island.”
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Shamal Holding has unveiled details of the UAE’s first Baccarat Hotel, and said it is on course to redefine hospitality in the city. The 145-key property promises unparalleled architecture, interiors and dining experiences alongside quality amenities and services.
The hotel aims to offer visitors luxury accommodation, reflective of the brand’s craftsmanship and attention to detail. The Classic King, Queen and Suite rooms will have a modern luxury ambience, furnished with refined comforts with marble finishings and original artworks, Shamal Holding said in its statement.
Occupying the floors above the hotel are ultra-exclusive branded residences, which are intended to give occupants the ‘Everyday Baccarat’ experience through the same inspirational design as the hotel.
Baccarat Hotel is being developed in collaboration with H&H Development, a Dubai-based real estate investor, developer and asset manager as well as SH Hotels & Resorts, the company behind the Baccarat Hotels & Resorts brand, who will operate the property. The project’s architectural design is by Studio Libeskind, with interiors by 1508 London.
“This remarkable and industry-defining project will set a new standard of ultra-luxury hospitality in the city. We have collaborated with our esteemed partners at Shamal Holding to bring this iconic new masterpiece to the Downtown Dubai skyline and we very much look forward to seeing it come to life,” said Miltos Bossinis, Chief Executive Officer, H&H Development.
Raul Leal, CEO, SH Hotels and Resorts added, “Baccarat Hotel Dubai marks a new chapter in the brand’s legacy, bringing its unparalleled craftsmanship and artistry to a remarkable city. The meticulously crafted spaces embody the Baccarat spirit, where comfort meets sophistication, offering guests and residents access to unforgettable opulence, with every detail designed to reimagine the art of living.”
Commenting on the debut Abdulla Binhabtoor, Chief Executive Officer, Shamal Holding said, “We are immensely proud to bring the first Baccarat Hotel to the UAE, offering discerning guests an opportunity to experience a brand that has set the global standard in luxury for over 250 years. Rooted in artistry and unparalleled craftsmanship.”
“The property draws inspiration from Baccarat’s iconic crystal heritage, while the breathtaking setting in Downtown Dubai will complement its regal elegance. This development represents our commitment to offering extraordinary, bespoke experiences, and is perfectly timed to coincide with the global increase in demand for ultra-luxury tourism,” Binhabtoor concluded.
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Serco has launched what’s billed as a unique international advisory business – +impact is said to bring together expert advice and proven delivery experience.
With a commitment to only advise where Serco has operational expertise, +impact will provide practical, sustainable and user-centric solutions designed to support customers from the initial phases of a project right through to implementation and operations, Serco said in a statement.
By combining hands-on knowledge from Serco’s breadth of operational expertise with state-of-the-art technology and global insights, +impact will go beyond the traditional consultancy model, developing solutions that are based on real world experience and the ability to execute them, the statement added.
+impact will be led by Phil Malem, who will also retain his role as the CEO of Serco Middle East. Malem recently oversaw the growth of Serco’s Middle East advisory business unit, which was launched last year. His teams have been supporting Vision 2030 through its work with multiple giga-projects and local government initiatives.
Earlier this year Serco acquired Climatize, solidifying its commitment to delivering sustainability and environmental services. These services are said to form part of the +impact offering.
Phil Malem, CEO of +impact said: “For decades, Serco has brought together the right people, the right technology and the right partners to deliver solutions to some of the world’s most urgent and critical challenges. We manage services delivered to millions of citizens and residents everyday as well as design, operate and maintain critical national infrastructure including passenger experience programmes for some of the world’s busiest airports.”
“It was a logical next step for us to bring this deep international experience together with world class advisory services. Put simply, we know what we are advising our customers about – because we have done it,” he added.
Mark Irwin, Group CEO of Serco remarked, “We are proud to bring this transformational offering to our partnership with government customers as well as businesses delivering essential services to citizens and residents. We hope +impact will help our customers confront the challenges of today with innovative yet practical solutions to impact a better future.”
Malem will now lead the expansion of this advisory capability to a broader international customer base through +impact, the statement concluded.
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Meraas has awarded a US $231.42mn contract to Dutco Construction Co. for the construction of the Bulgari Lighthouse, Jumeirah Bay Island.
With marine works now completed on this section of Jumeirah Bay Island, construction will soon commence on the 27-storey luxury residential tower. Bulgari Lighthouse is designed by architecture firm Antonio Citterio Patricia Viel, and will aim to be one of the island’s most exquisite highlights, the developer stated.
Bulgari Lighthouse comprises four and five-bedroom luxury penthouses. There will also be a one-of-a-kind eight-bedroom Sky Villa crowning the top three levels, surrounded by expansive private rooftop gardens, outdoor living spaces and a private pool.
Scheduled for completion by Q2 2027, the Bulgari Lighthouse is Bulgari’s third collaboration with Meraas.
Khalid Al Malik, Chief Executive Officer of Dubai Holding Real Estate said, “Meraas remains steadfast in its commitment to creating and delivering some of Dubai’s most distinctive and luxurious residential offerings, and the Bulgari Lighthouse will soon become a part of this exceptional portfolio. Our partnership with Dutco Construction marks a significant milestone as we advance towards realising this landmark project. Reflecting Bulgari’s values of unrivalled craftsmanship and timeless elegance, our most exclusive new address is set to elevate the standard for luxury beachfront living at Jumeirah Bay Island and maintain Dubai as a destination of choice.”
Offering uninterrupted views of the Arabian Gulf and the city’s skyline, the Bulgari Lighthouse features a façade inspired by the gentle movement of marine coral, creating a maze of light patterns.
As part of the Bulgari experience, residents will enjoy unlimited access to the exclusive facilities of the neighbouring Bulgari Resort Dubai, complemented by the brand’s well-known standards of impeccable service, it added.
Shaped like a seahorse, Jumeirah Bay Island by Meraas is not only home to Bulgari Resort Dubai, but also serves as a refined and exclusive destination for both residents and visitors to enjoy. The island boasts private beaches, fine dining options and peaceful boulevards that lead to some of the world’s most sought-after residences.
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The Omniyat Group has launched BEYOND, a development company focused on the wider luxury real estate market. As part of this initiative, the group has unveiled an 11m sqft strategic project on the Jumeirah coastline, of which 8m sqft will be dedicated to BEYOND.
The development will create a breathtaking living experience, blending the beauty of verdant landscapes with cutting-edge luxury, set against the stunning backdrop of Dubai’s waterfront, the developer noted.
BEYOND will leverage the company’s extensive network of global talent to drive transformative change in urban living. BEYOND’s goal is to create a community where luxury, nature, and urban living seamlessly coexist, bringing thoughtful design together with exceptional quality and on-time delivery to offer an unparalleled experience to its residents. This approach reflects the evolving demands of today’s affluent buyers, who seek more than just financial returns from their investments, they desire homes that align with their personal values and enhance their quality of life. BEYOND will focus on the wider luxury real estate market, ensuring modern lifestyles are catered to with excellence and innovation, said a statement from Omniyat Group.
The development will combine world-class amenities with interactive technologies aimed at creating a seamless personalisation experience for new property owners. Strategically located on the serene Jumeirah coastline, the master development will showcase an innovative approach to urban planning, where natural beauty and contemporary elegance coexist in perfect harmony, the developer said.
With its carefully curated design, the project will feature extensive lush green spaces complemented by world-class hospitality and high-level amenities. This integration of nature with top-tier services ensures that every convenience and comfort is at the residents’ doorstep, enriching their daily lives and promoting well-being, it explained.
Mahdi Amjad, Founder and Executive Chairman of Omniyat Group noted, “Omniyat Group is proud to partner with Dubai Maritime City to bring this visionary development to life. This collaboration has enabled us to create an unparalleled destination within the wider master plan of Maritime City, providing the perfect foundation for us to deliver something truly unique and transformative. With BEYOND leading the way in the wider luxury real estate market, this development will set a new standard for urban living where nature, luxury, and innovation seamlessly come together.”
“BEYOND embodies the OMNIYAT GROUP’s relentless pursuit of excellence and our vision of being best-in-class, in every class. By extending our commitment to creating exceptional living experiences in the wider luxury real estate segment, BEYOND strives to raise standards and curate environments that make life better, making exceptional living more accessible,” added Amjad.
Ahmed Al Hammadi, Chief Operating Officer, Dubai Maritime City commented: “We are proud to announce a new milestone within the Maritime City development, working closely with real estate pioneers to deliver a re-imagined master plan. Omniyat Group’s visionary destination within Maritime City represents the pinnacle of this transformation. Our collaboration with Omniyat has resulted in a unique and remarkable project that will set a new standard for Dubai’s waterfront development.”
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Developer Amaal, which is powered by Ayana Holding, said it had broken ground on its debut development project, Amaal 8, within the Meydan Horizon community. The 48-level mixed-use residential tower is said to combine modern design with sustainability and ultimate comfort.
Amaal 8 is said to offer panoramic views of the Flamingo Sanctuary and green surroundings, and residents will be able to enjoy a peaceful retreat with all the conveniences of city life. Designed with a focus on sustainability, the tower also incorporates eco-friendly technologies to minimise environmental impact while ensuring comfort and elegance, the firm said in a statement.
“We are proud to announce the groundbreaking of our inaugural development project, Amaal 8 – an urban residential tower that embodies our dedication to redefining the real estate market with properties that are distinguished by their innovation, elegance, and enduring value,” said Abdulla Lahej, Chairman of Amaal.
“In partnership with H.E. Dhahi Khalfan Tamim, we are set to deliver an iconic residential tower that epitomises Dubai’s reputation for innovation and excellence. Amaal 8 is envisioned as more than just a development—it’s a destination crafted to foster a harmonious ecosystem where comfort and functionality seamlessly blend. It underscores our commitment to create homes that enhance the well-being of our residents and cultivate environments that reflect the pinnacle of excellence and well-being,” Lahej added.
Lieutenant-General Dhahi Khalfan Tamim said, “Partnering with Abdulla Lahej and Amaal on this project is an exciting endeavour that will establish a new benchmark for elevated residential standards in Dubai. Abdulla’s leadership and Ayana Holding’s extensive capabilities are pivotal in propelling this project to set new paradigms in residential living. Together, we look forward to delivering an iconic tower that will not only enhance Dubai’s architectural landscape but also offer residents a premier lifestyle.”
Amaal 8 features amenities like fitness centres, swimming pools, children’s play areas, and landscaped gardens, along with retail outlets, entertainment, and dining options. With its commitment to innovative design and sustainability, its set to become the developer’s vision for a thriving for eco-friendly community, the developer noted.
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Saudi Arabia’s substantial investments in infrastructure developments and giga projects continue to drive growth and resilience in the Kingdom’s real estate market, with 27,500 residential units delivered in Riyadh and Jeddah in H1. This increases the total stock to approximately 1.46m units in the capital and 891,000 units in Jeddah. Around 16,000 units each will be added to the stock in the two cities later this year.
JLL’s latest KSA Real Estate Market Dynamics Report states that the residential and hospitality sectors stood out for their strong performance in H1 2024, supported by the government’s efforts to boost home ownership and the introduction of tourist visas, the expansion of entertainment offerings, and the promotion of sports and new experiences to position the Kingdom as a global leisure destination.
Residential sale prices experienced a noteworthy 10% year-on-year increase in H1 in Riyadh and average rents grew by 9% annually. In Jeddah, the pace of growth was slightly slower, with sale prices rising by 5% and rents increasing by 4% year-on-year during the same period. Despite the rising construction costs and other challenges impacting the development of this sector, KSA’s residential market is on a positive trajectory toward further expansion and development, the firm said.
Residential development in the Dammam Metropolitan Area (DMA) is shifting towards inland locations, with Khobar witnessing the majority of activity. Average sale prices have remained stable, while rents have seen a modest annual increase of 4%.
As Saudi Arabia prepares to welcome 150m visitors in 2030, the hospitality sector also witnessed impressive growth in H1 2024. Year-on-year in the year to date to June 2024, Saudi Arabia’s average occupancy rate increased by one percentage point and its average daily rate (ADR) increased by 7% – which resulted in its revenue per available room (RevPAR) increasing by 8%.
In the Holy Cities of Makkah and Medina, KPIs have largely trended up year-on-year in the year to June 2024, where RevPARs increased by 4% and 15%, respectively. Over the same period, in Riyadh, due to the centering of corporate events in the capital, there has been an ADR increase of 25%.
Based on insights gathered from industry sources and experts, JLL’s H1 2024 KSA report reveals that the office market remains competitive with landlords driving rental negotiations and new entrants establishing their presence in the kingdom, while existing tenants expand or upgrade their space.
Approximately 52,000sqm of office space was added in the capital city in H1 2024, resulting in a total existing supply of 5.2m sqm, while Jeddah maintained a stable total stock of 1.21m sqm. Significant new supply, around 249,000sqm in Riyadh and 48,000sqm in Jeddah, is expected in the latter half of the year. Office demand in the DMA is primarily being driven by government-related entities, leading to an increase of 10% in average Grade A rents in the year to Q2 2024.
The demand for quality institutional grade properties soared, especially in the northern region of Riyadh, which is less affected by traffic congestion issues, is easily accessible, and has high-quality office options.
Accordingly, average Grade A rents rose by 19% y-o-y to $557 per sqm per annum in the capital, while in Jeddah, an 11% annual increase saw average Grade A rents touch $355 per sqm per annum.
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Saudi Arabia’s Roads General Authority (RGA) has announced that the Kingdom’s roads are equipped to handle all loads, regardless of weight and dimensions.
It explained that the roads infrastructure is now commensurate with the needs of the nation’s ‘new generation’ projects, which regularly necessitate the transport of exceptionally large or heavy construction components and materials.
The RGA clarifies that while it has set official standards for acceptable dimensions and weights in the regulatory briefing known as Article 23, indivisible loads can nonetheless be transported by obtaining ‘load permit exceptions. These can be applied for, at suitable advanced notice periods, via the RGA’s website.
The RGA stated that these permits enable vital sectors to transport exceptionally large or heavy loads as single items, and therefore help support tourism, commerce and logistics.
Saudi Arabia has the region’s largest road network, which ranks highly in globally listings of infrastructure connectivity. The RGA emphasised that this network will play a crucial role supporting the nation’s comprehensive renaissance under Saudi Vision 2030.
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