Future of Engineering Summit™ / 28 May 2025

Savills Middle East has appointed Harry Ransom as the Head of Commercial Agency in Abu Dhabi. The appointment solidifies the company’s commitment to delivering commercial advisory and leasing services in the UAE capital, and strengthens its regional presence and addresses the growing demand for professional real estate solutions across the emirate, the firm said.

In his new role, Ransom will oversee Savills’ commercial agency operations in Abu Dhabi, and will lead initiatives across landlord and tenant representation, leasing, and strategic advisory. He will also collaborate closely with the firm’s regional leadership to expand Savills’ integrated service offering and strengthen relationships with landlords, developers, and corporate occupiers.

The company’s recent research report highlights the continued strength of Abu Dhabi’s commercial real estate sector. The sector is experiencing robust leasing and investment activity, driven by solid economic fundamentals, an expanding non-oil economy, and sustained demand from international occupiers, the firm noted.

Key business districts like Al Maryah Island, Al Reem Island, and Capital Centre maintain high prime office occupancy levels. New supply is being quickly absorbed in these areas. The banking, financial services, consulting, and technology sectors continue to drive growth, reflecting Abu Dhabi’s position as a hub for business and investment in the region, it added.

Ransom joined Savills in 2021 as part of the Global Occupier Services (GOS) team in London. In this role, he advised multinational corporations across EMEA on strategic leasing, acquisitions, and workplace solutions. His experience spans the entire property lifecycle, from portfolio strategy and tenant advisory to workplace planning and transactional execution.

“It’s a privilege to lead Savills commercial agency business in Abu Dhabi at such a pivotal time for the market. The city’s continued growth and diversification are creating exceptional opportunities for landlords and occupiers alike. I look forward to working closely with our clients to deliver tailored, value-driven real estate solutions that support their long-term goals,” Ransom said.

Ransom holds a First-Class Honours degree in Business Management with Law and a Master’s in Real Estate Finance and Investment, graduating with distinction. He is also a Member of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (MRICS). He has represented Savills in the National Surveyor Sevens tournament for four consecutive years, contributing to the team’s championship victories in 2023 and 2025, the statement concluded.

The post Savills Middle East expands in Abu Dhabi appeared first on Middle East Construction News.

Source: MEConstructionNews

HRE Development has announced a partnership with Mitsubishi Corporation that aims to create sustainable and future ready communities that harmonise Japanese innovation with nature inspired design.

The signing of the agreement took place at Mitsubishi Corporation’s headquarters in Tokyo, in the presence of senior representatives from both organisations. The collaboration will be brought to life through Sakura Garden, an upcoming development that embodies luxury, sustainability, and thoughtful design, said a statement from the developer.

As part of the partnership, Mitsubishi Corporation will provide advanced elevator systems engineered to meet the highest international safety standards. These systems will enhance operational efficiency and ensure long-term reliability, elevating the overall living experience for residents and supporting a modern, sustainable lifestyle.

Furthermore, the agreement includes landscaping inspired by traditional Japanese garden aesthetics. This approach creates spaces that reflect balance, harmony, and a deep connection with nature, reinforcing the project’s identity as a sanctuary of luxury and sustainability. By incorporating these elements, the project aims to enhance the quality of life for its residents.

“This partnership marks a significant milestone in our journey to deliver world-class, sustainable developments,” said Wissam Breidy, CEO of HRE Development. “By combining Mitsubishi Corporation’s engineering excellence with our vision for purposeful design, Sakura Garden will set a new benchmark for modern living in the region.”

HRE Development says it is committed to sustainability and social impact, and notes that it has made significant contributions to the community, including donations to Dubai Cares.

The post HRE Development announces partnership with Mitsubishi Corporation appeared first on Middle East Construction News.

Source: MEConstructionNews

The Chalhoub Group and Yellow Door Energy have entered into a solar lease agreement, which aims to bring clean electricity to Chalhoub Group’s fulfillment hub in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

The 848 kilowatt-peak (kWp) solar project will feature a rooftop solar power plant that will operate entirely off-grid, eliminating the company’s reliance on the local utility’s grid. Over 1,380 solar panels will be installed, generating 1.2m kWh of clean energy in its first year of operation. This significant amount of clean energy will help reduce carbon emissions by 460 metric tons.

Mohammed Aldabbagh, KSA Managing Director at Chalhoub Group said, “At Chalhoub Group, sustainability is at the heart of everything we do: it is embedded in our purpose and business model, not an add-on. Our solar lease with Yellow Door Energy is a tangible step in bringing our ESG commitments to life, reflecting our dedication to the planet, our people, and our partners.”

“Through initiatives like this, we aim to reduce our environmental footprint, foster inclusive and empowering workplaces, and work collaboratively with our partners to drive meaningful change. Projects such as this allow us to contribute positively to Saudi Arabia’s sustainability ambitions while continuing to inspire and delight our customers,” he added.

Khaled Chebaro, Country Director KSA at Yellow Door Energy continued, “We are honored to partner with Chalhoub Group, an iconic luxury retailer that has been adorning the Middle East since 1955. Through the solar lease, significant cost savings and carbon emissions reductions will be achieved, demonstrating that what is good for the planet is also good for business. The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia continues to lead the region in its sustainability stewardship. This solar lease reinforces that leadership and supports the Kingdom’s Net Zero by 2060 target.”

Construction on the solar project has already commenced, and it is anticipated to be completed by early 2026. Under the solar lease agreement, Yellow Door Energy will assume the responsibility of financing, designing, constructing, commissioning, operating, and maintaining the solar power plant.

By adopting the solar lease model, Chalhoub Group can harness the benefits of clean energy without incurring operational risks, which allows the company to concentrate on its core business while advancing its sustainability objectives.

The post Chalhoub Group and Yellow Door Energy sign solar lease appeared first on Middle East Construction News.

Source: MEConstructionNews

Developer MERED has appointed NSCC International as the contractor responsible for the enabling works phase of Riviera Residences, its waterfront development designed by Herzog & de Meuron on Al Reem Island in Abu Dhabi.

NSCC International, a marine contractor founded in Abu Dhabi in 1968, has grown into a multi-disciplinary in-ground engineering firm. During the project’s enabling works phase, NSCC will lead all piling and shoring activities, a statement from MERED said.

Michael Belton, CEO of MERED said, “Partnering with NSCC International represents our continued commitment to delivering Riviera Residences with the highest standards of precision and quality. NSCC’s deep technical expertise and reputation for excellence across the region make them an ideal partner for a project of this scale and architectural ambition. Together, we are shaping a residential community that reflects both the innovation and natural beauty of Abu Dhabi’s coastline.”

Khalil N. Khouri, Group CEO of NSCC International added, “Riviera Residences embodies world-class design and engineering, and our team is proud to contribute to its foundation. With our decades of experience and commitment to safety and technical excellence, we look forward to setting the groundwork for what will become one of Abu Dhabi’s most distinctive residential destinations.”

Riviera Residences, located on Al Reem Island within the Abu Dhabi Global Market, will offer residents a waterfront living experience. This area is also home to international schools, offices, advanced healthcare facilities, and a variety of leisure amenities. They continue to attract strong investor interest, with off-plan property prices experiencing a remarkable 38% year-on-year increase during Q2 2025, the statement outlined.

Riviera Residences boasts over 400 designed apartments and 12 exclusive villas, including sky villas, ocean villas, and a penthouse. The project blends contemporary architecture with Abu Dhabi’s rich pearl-diving heritage, evident in its mother-of-pearl façades that capture the essence of natural light. The interiors, amenities, and lobby exude elegance, functionality, and attention to detail. Residents of Riviera Residences will have access to a range of amenities – four swimming pools, a fitness centre, wellness spaces, indoor and outdoor yoga decks, padel and table tennis courts, and dedicated areas for families and social gatherings, it added.

The project also features a premium waterfront lined with cafés, boutique retail, and fine dining establishments, offering panoramic views of the Azure Lagoon, Al Reem skyline, and Saadiyat Island. Riviera Residences will provide easy access to the island’s beaches, the developer confirmed..

The enabling works for Riviera Residences are currently underway, with the main construction phase expected to commence soon. Once completed, the project will stand as an architectural landmark, combining sustainable design, refined living, and a strong sense of place on Abu Dhabi’s evolving waterfront.

The post MERED appoints NSCC International as the contractor for Riviera Residences appeared first on Middle East Construction News.

Source: MEConstructionNews

Cleanco has said it has achieved a significant milestone by increasing its waste treatment capacity. The milestone is said to underscore its pivotal role in advancing the UAE’s Net Zero 2050 Strategic initiative and the Abu Dhabi Waste Diversion Target 2030.

The company’s latest accomplishment is said to be a testament to its commitment for investing in advanced technologies. One such technology is its Rotary Kiln Incineration (RKI) technology, which has been recognised as the European Union’s Best Available Techniques (BAT).

The company said it operates two RKI facilities in the Al Dhafra and Al Ain Regions. These facilities are designed, constructed, and operated in strict compliance with EU Directive 2000/76/EC and UAE Emission Standards, as outlined in UAE laws. The RKI technology enables 90 to 95% volume reduction, safely converting waste into ashes that can be disposed of using a secured Class I Hazardous Waste Engineered Cell.

Cleanco said it is collaborating with strategic partners to explore innovative fly ash recovery and conversion solutions. These efforts align with the UAE’s circular economy goals, contributing to a more sustainable and environmentally friendly future. Currently, the company supports around 3,000 healthcare facilities, commercial establishments, and other industries, ensuring safe, compliant, and environmentally responsible waste management.

Jamal Abdulla Lootah, Group CEO and President of MEFMA stated, “As one of the largest and most trusted ESPs in the region, a daily cumulative treatment capacity of around 60t is an achievement that underscores the importance of what we do every day to protect businesses, communities, and the environment. In my opinion, it is a powerful statement about what responsible waste management can truly accomplish. At Cleanco, we are committed to shaping a greener future by providing innovative solutions and comprehensive support to help our clients adopt sustainable, long-term waste management practices.”

With the UAE the biomedical waste management sector is expected to reach US $67mn in 2025, while the hazardous waste sector is to reach $235.8mn by 2030, Cleanco’s extended services and improved capacity perfectly align with national sustainability goals, it said.

Dr. Jayesh Panchal, General Manager, Cleanco Waste Treatment said, “Our technologies and compliance standards are critical, but our impact on communities is what makes us truly unique. Every ton of waste we manage contributes to cleaner cities, safer hospitals, and a better environment for coming generations. As a result, we are proud to have expanded into the industrial waste segment while also sustaining our investments in technologies that promote the conversion and reuse of waste in various forms, ensuring that sustainability can be achieved through innovation and collaboration.”

The company said that it guarantees effective and secure waste logistics throughout the region by overseeing a fleet of around 25 specialised collection and transportation vehicles.

The post Cleanco achieves a milestone in medical and hazardous waste management appeared first on Middle East Construction News.

Source: MEConstructionNews

Alpago Design & Build, a luxury real estate company within the Alpago Group, has unveiled its latest beachfront villa, the Curve DiLusso, which is located on the Palm Jumeirah in Dubai.

The ultra-luxury property is said to embody the Alpago Group’s commitment to delivering exquisite craftsmanship in one of Dubai’s iconic districts.

At the villa lies a defining feature, a marble wall – this three level marvel is crafted with hundreds of aligned and placed handcrafted pieces, showcasing Alpago Design & Build’s commitment to quality and craftsmanship. The interiors complement the marble wall with porcelain tiles, Oak Chevron Parquet flooring, sculpted stone elements, and textured accents, create a palette that evokes warmth, tranquility, and refined sophistication, said a statement.

Syed Azeem Mehroz, Group CEO and CFO at Alpago Group said, “Curve DiLusso embodies the group’s philosophy of luxury with intention, where perfection is a norm and it translates into exceptional projects. This villa is not simply a residence; it is a sculpture designed for living, celebrating detail, precision, and the enduring beauty of timeless design.”

Spanning 7,496sqft across three levels, the villa features a ‘super master bedroom’ that covers the second floor, two master bedrooms and guest suites, a private cinema, gym, and designed living & dining areas that blend in with the outdoor areas. At the centre is a grand spiral staircase to all levels, while the floor-to-ceiling windows offer natural light and views of the beach. The outdoors includes a beautifully landscaped terrace with an infinity pool, creating a reclusive oasis overlooking the Palm Jumeirah skyline, the firm explained.

Curve DiLusso joins Alpago Build & Design’s growing portfolio of architectural landmarks in Dubai, reinforcing the group’s vision to deliver residences that elevate the standards of luxury living in the UAE and worldwide. Some of the iconic projects Alpago Design & Build has worked on include Sole Mare, Vivid Walls Apartment, The Curved Mansion, Ethereal Enclave, and more, it added.

Alpago Design & Build said that it operates through an integrated model that ensures efficiency at every stage of the project. From the initial architectural concept to the final delivery and beyond, the company integrates design, construction, and fit-out services. This integrated approach guarantees consistency, efficiency, and unparalleled quality in every aspect of the project, the statement concluded.

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Source: MEConstructionNews

The Accor hospitality group has entered into an agreement with Select Group that will see the inaugural introduction of the Mövenpick brand to the United Kingdom.

Following an extensive renovation, the 194 room resort is expected to open its doors in late 2027, bringing the brand’s distinctive and welcoming hospitality to the Old Thorns Estate, said a statement.

Set across over 300ac in the Hampshire countryside, the Mövenpick Hampshire Old Thorns will boast a championship level golf course, in addition to 2,500sqm of conference and meeting space. The resort will also have four restaurants, each offering a different culinary experience. Other amenities include a spa and a ballroom that can accommodate over 500 event guests, making the resort an ideal venue weddings, corporate events, and other special occasions, it added.

The partnership is said to represent a pivotal moment in the brand’s expansion strategy across Europe. Accor’s commitment to the region continues with recent first entries in Poland, Greece, and Italy, and more additions are on the horizon.

With the addition of Mövenpick Hampshire Old Thorns, Accor’s portfolio of over 200 hotels in the UK and Ireland expands, solidifying its global presence and encompassing more than 5,700 properties worldwide.

Graham Dodd, VP Development for UK & Ireland, Premium, Midscale & Economy brands at Accor said, “Bringing Mövenpick to the UK marks an important step in strengthening our premium brand portfolio and reinforcing our growth commitment for this important market. Mövenpick is a world-renowned brand that is recognised for its culinary excellence and environmental responsibility, which align perfectly with the expectations of UK guests. The Old Thorns estate provides an exceptional backdrop to introduce the brand in this incredibly important destination for Accor.”

Mövenpick Hampshire – Old Thorns is a conversion of an estate, which will be fully renovated over the next two years. The renovation will focus on the hotel’s guestrooms, expanding wellness and leisure offerings, dining concepts with the inventive culinary spirit to strengthen the resort’s position in southern England’s destinations. The new hotel will be managed and operated by Accor under an agreement with Select Group, the statement explained.

Israr Liaqat, Group CEO, Select Group commented, “This property stands as a landmark of character and opportunity. Its celebrated history aligns seamlessly with Mövenpick’s commitment to authentic experiences and Swiss-inspired hospitality. Together with our trusted and established partner, Accor, we will elevate this iconic property into a world-class resort destination, blending heritage with the sophistication of the Mövenpick brand.”

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Source: MEConstructionNews

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Al Rabwa Real Estate, a newly established sister company of Ellington Properties, has launched in the UAE with its inaugural development, Al Qasimia Future 6. This master-planned industrial land community is situated in Industrial Area 6, Al Qasimia City, Sharjah.

Al Qasimia Future 6 is said to be designed for investors and operators seeking well located and connected industrial land. It offers structured planning, defined zoning, competitive entry points, and long-term ownership certainty within one of Sharjah’s most in-demand industrial corridors. One of the unique features of Al Qasimia Future 6 is its ready-to-build advantage, which allows investors to begin construction after completing 50% of the payments, accelerating setup and asset growth, said a statement.

The launch of Al Rabwa signifies Ellington’s expansion into the industrial and logistics development sector. By leveraging its planning expertise, Ellington aims to deliver efficient, scalable land communities tailored to real world operational demands.

Salim Al Khayyal, Chairman of Al Rabwa Real Estate said, “Al Rabwa was created with a clear mandate to develop industrial communities that offer clarity, certainty, and connectivity. With Al Qasimia Future 6, investors gain access to the fundamentals that truly drive value; strategic location, well-defined land use, and a fast pathway from acquisition to activation.”

Kareem Mekawy, CEO of Al Rabwa Real Estate said, “This development is structured for long-term operators seeking reliability and speed. With a price of US $38.1 per sqft during the launch event, a two-year payment plan and freehold ownership for all nationalities, Al Qasimia Future 6 provides an efficient framework for business expansion and asset growth.”

Al Qasimia Future 6, spanning across 9,137,781sqft, comprises 1,028 freehold plots divided into two distinct zones. The Grey Zone, designated for commercial spaces, showrooms, offices, industrial uses, and workers’ housing, accommodates 130 plots.

Industrial plots are permitted to reach a height of G+1, while commercial developments can reach G+2. The Bronze Zone, on the other hand, is allocated for 898 plots, including industrial warehouses, offices, and workers’ housing. All plots in this zone are permitted to reach a height of G+1. These diverse land-use frameworks collectively support a connected and scalable business ecosystem.

Nestled in Industrial Area 6, Al Qasimia Future 6 will offer direct access to Sharjah’s key roads and transport networks, facilitating logistics and supporting business expansion across the northern emirates and beyond the UAE.

With its launch, Al Rabwa Real Estate sets a clear intention to develop high-quality industrial and commercial land communities that empower business growth and align with the UAE’s broader vision for resilient, future-ready economic infrastructure, the statement concluded.

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Source: MEConstructionNews

Prestige One Developments is looking to set a new standard for premium real estate with the launch of Hilton Residences Dubai Maritime City – billed as the world’s first Hilton-branded standalone waterfront residential development.

The launch, held at Atlantis The Royal, is said to have attracted a diverse group of VIPs, future homeowners, global investors, channel partners, and industry leaders. Guests were greeted with an immersive arrival experience as the corridors of Atlantis The Royal transformed into a showcase of Prestige One’s development portfolio. This gallery-style exhibit showcased the company’s architectural prowess and set the stage for an evening centered on innovation, hospitality excellence, and Dubai’s continued transformation into a global luxury hub, said a statement.

A defining moment of the night came with the dramatic unveiling of the model, led by Diana Saifi, Vice Chairperson, alongside senior executives from Prestige One and Hilton. This event introduced Hilton Residences Dubai Maritime City, a project designed to redefine coastal living with sea views, amenities, and Hilton’s signature standards of hospitality into every aspect, it added.

Ajmal Saifi, CEO of Prestige One Developments, reflected on the company’s rapid ascent and its commitment to elevating Dubai’s residential offerings. He underscored the strategic significance of Dubai Maritime City, one of the emirate’s most promising emerging waterfront districts and emphasised how introducing a Hilton-branded residence represents a defining milestone for both brands.

Daniel Wakeling, Vice President, Development, Luxury & Residential, EMEA, Hilton, spoke about Hilton’s global vision and its confidence in Dubai’s trajectory as a world-leading destination. He praised the partnership with Prestige One as a natural alignment of shared values: innovation, excellence, and a commitment to shaping next-generation living experiences.

Eric Hokanson, Principal Design Director at AE7, took centre stage with an in-depth presentation, delving into the design philosophy behind the project. He walked attendees through the architectural intent, which aimed to strike a balance between contemporary and craftsmanship, while maximising the natural beauty of Dubai’s coastline.

The post Prestige One unveils Hilton Residences Dubai Maritime City appeared first on Middle East Construction News.

Source: MEConstructionNews

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