Kier has appointed Stuart Togwell as its new Chief Executive. Togwell will assume the role on 1 November 2025, following the retirement of Andrew Davies. Currently, Togwell serves as Kier’s Executive Director and Group Managing Director of Kier Construction.

“I would like to thank Andrew for his exceptional leadership over the last six years, which has transformed Kier. We proudly remain one of the UK’s leading infrastructure services, construction and property groups. Under Andrew’s leadership the group has increased its resilience, strengthened its financial position and currently has a record order book of over US $14.8bn. Furthermore, during his tenure, Kier returned to the FTSE250 and recommenced dividend payments and has built a culture based on safety, delivery, discipline and performance excellence. On behalf of the board and all his colleagues, I wish him the very best in everything he does,” said Kier Group’s Board Chairman Matthew Lester.

He added, “Andrew and his management team set out a clear strategy, purpose and vision for the group, initially to deliver its medium-term value creation plan and latterly to deliver long-term sustainable growth and with invigorated and motivated colleagues, Kier is realising this ambition. Although Togwell was always the inside man, Lester said he was not the only candidate considered. Following a thorough internal and external selection process, the board is delighted to appoint Stuart Togwell as its new Chief Executive. Stuart has played a pivotal role in Kier’s transformation and the board is confident that his skill set is ideally suited to leading Kier through the next chapter of its development and to deliver long-term sustainable growth.”

Davies commented, “It has been an absolute privilege to lead Kier and to transform the group into a strong and sustainable business that benefits all stakeholders. I want to thank all the colleagues for their support, hard work and commitment over the last six years in building the foundations to ensure Kier remains a leading infrastructure services, construction and property company that is vital to the UK and is better placed than ever to succeed.”

Togwell remarked, “I am honoured to be appointed as the next Chief Executive and look forward to working with Kier’s exceptional teams to drive success and growth and deliver for our customers, our communities and this industry that I am so passionate about.”

Togwell, a chartered surveyor, commenced his career as an apprentice surveyor with Wates Group, where he remained for 32 years until 2019. He joined Kier as the Group Commercial Director, in December 2022, and was appointed as the Managing Director of Kier Construction in October 2024. He joined the group main board, alongside Davies and Chief Financial Officer Simon Kesterton.

The post Kier Group’s Chief Executive Andrew Davies announced retirement appeared first on Middle East Construction News.

Source: MEConstructionNews

fäm Properties has been appointed as the exclusive Master Agency for Phase One of the US $16.34bn Keturah Ardh master development, which is billed as Dubai’s inaugural heritage-wellness integrated luxury community. Phase One presents an opportunity for investors and end-users to acquire residential plots with permits to construct luxury townhouses, an asset in Dubai’s luxury market, said a statement.

Nestled in the Al Rowaiyah First District, the project is led by master developer MAG Group and integrates traditional Arabic architectural principles with modern wellness innovation. Comprising 93 designed clusters and 558 luxury townhouse plots, fäm Properties will officially launches the project to brokers at an exclusive briefing event at the Madinat Jumeirah Johara Ballroom.

The broader master plan envisions a novel concept for luxury living, Arabic heritage to create a self-contained lifestyle community. The name ‘Ardh’ is derived from the Arabic word meaning ‘earth’ or ‘land’, and signifies a deep connection to culture and nature. The townhouses will have plot sizes ranging from 1,534 to 4,555 sqft.

Firas Al Msaddi, CEO of fäm Properties said, “We’re excited to team up with MAG Group on such a distinctive project. Keturah Ardh is a great fit for our expertise in off-plan sales, land advisory, and creating flexible payment solutions that meet the needs of today’s buyers.”

“This isn’t a typical real estate launch, and it isn’t a typical product. We’re introducing Dubai’s most exclusive heritage-wellness opportunity: freehold plots with luxury townhouse permits, ready for those who want to build, design, and invest in generational value while honouring authentic Arabic cultural heritage.”

“Genuine heritage-wellness integration is limited, and plots for luxury townhouses in such communities are by far the most in-demand, hardest-to-find asset in the market today. For the last four years, this segment has been leading in both performance and investor interest,” he concluded.

The Keturah Ardh project embodies MAG Group’s legacy with a strong emphasis on Arabic design and premium wellness amenities. These amenities include a spa and sauna, yoga and pilates classes, running and cycling tracks, and green areas. The community boasts mature landscaping featuring trees from Italy, Spain, Thailand, and Africa, all within planned community.

Construction is scheduled to commence in Q4 2026 and is expected to be completed by 2030, with infrastructure delivery anticipated in Q1 2026. This project marks the fourth endeavor in Keturah’s portfolio, following the success of Keturah Reserve, Keturah Resort, and Keturah Bahar. Together, these projects have solidified Keturah’s position as luxury real estate brand.

The post fäm Properties appointed as exclusive master agency for Keturah Ardh master development appeared first on Middle East Construction News.

Source: MEConstructionNews

ACCIONA Living & Culture has announced the appointment of Yannic Leveque as Vice President for the Middle East. The appointment marks a significant milestone in the company’s strategic expansion across the region, particularly in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the firm said.

With over 20 years of international experience in architecture, construction, and cultural destination development, and 10 years in the GCC, Yannic brings a wealth of expertise to the role. Her portfolio includes projects in the Middle East, such as the Guggenheim Museum Abu Dhabi, Uptown Tower and Atlantis The Royal in Dubai, Clinique La Prairie and Jayasom hotels in Amaala, and Laheq Island under The Red Sea Global Projects. Additionally, she has worked on projects in Europe, including the Building Vacláv Havel for the European Parliament.

Yannic’s appointment comes at a pivotal moment as ACCIONA Living & Culture continues to support the realisation of ambitious cultural and hospitality initiatives across Saudi Arabia and the GCC. Her leadership will further solidify the company’s position as a trusted partner for projects that prioritise culture as the cornerstone of entertainment and economic growth, aligning with the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030, said a statement from the firm.

“I am thrilled to join ACCIONA Living & Culture at such a pivotal moment for the region. With over 50 projects delivered at Expo 2020 Dubai and landmark cultural works like the 3-2-1 Qatar Olympic and Sports Museum, the Shindagha Museums, and major hospitality developments across Saudi Arabia, ACCIONA Living & Culture has demonstrated an unparalleled ability to deliver high-impact cultural and experiential experiences. The Middle East is redefining the global cultural landscape, and I look forward to building on this impressive legacy by leading innovative projects that connect communities and contribute meaningfully to the region’s transformation,” said Leveque.

As Middle East Vice President, Yannic will spearhead efforts to expand ACCIONA Living and Culture’s presence in the cultural, experiential, and luxury tourism sectors. Her background in designing and executing large-scale, high-profile developments makes her an ideal candidate for this role.

Yannic’s passion for collaborating with diverse and talented teams, coupled with her record of delivering results in challenging environments, makes her a valuable asset to ACCIONA Living & Culture’s growth strategy in the region, the firm concluded.

The post Acciona Living & Culture appoints Yannic Leveque as VP for the Middle East appeared first on Middle East Construction News.

Source: MEConstructionNews

CRC Group has unveiled its ultra-luxury experiential residential development, The PERIDONA. Nestled within the Jaypee Greens Golf Course in Greater Noida, the project is being developed at a cost of US $180mn (excluding land costs). CRC said the move signifies its aspiration to elevate its portfolio into the ultra-premium segment.

The PERIDONA project boasts an accomplished gamut of firms including Killa Design, known for its work on Dubai’s Museum of the Future, and Rockwell Group, a New York-based interior design firm, which will bring its expertise to the project to create a luxurious ambiance, said a statement.

Gensler Architects will ensure the project’s architectural vision, while SWA Group, experts in sustainable landscape architecture, will contribute to the project’s green features. Lastly, MACE, specialising in precision project management and execution, will oversee the project’s execution, the statement added.

Kunal Bhalla, Founder & CEO, CRC Group commented, “The PERIDONA marks our strategic entry into India’s ultra-luxury residential space. Supported by world-class design and architecture, this development reflects our clear ambition to set a new benchmark for premium living in the NCR. The project is envisioned to establish an international standard in luxury condominiums, with a strong focus on sustainable, high-quality living.”

“We have carefully selected best-in-class materials and curated exceptional amenities many being introduced in India for the first time to deliver a truly exalted lifestyle. The core philosophy driving the project is simple yet powerful: ‘Live More’, with abundant amenities that define a luxurious way of life,” he explained.

Salil Kumar, Director (Marketing & Business Management), CRC Group remarked, “This project is a testimony to our commitment to global standards. The PERIDONA also enjoys a distinct locational advantage with expansive green surroundings, enhancing both aesthetics and liveability. With just one apartment per floor, the project offers an unmatched level of privacy – an essential attribute in modern luxury living.”

Construction is slated to commence next month. With the upcoming Noida International Airport, set to become the world’s fourth-largest – just a 20-minute drive away, this proximity not only enhances the project’s connectivity and prestige but also positions it as a high-potential asset for long-term value appreciation and strong return on investment, the firm concluded.

The post CRC Group unveils The PERIDONA in Greater Noida appeared first on Middle East Construction News.

Source: MEConstructionNews

Mubadala Investment Company (Mubadala) has commenced the Al Maryah Waterfront enhancement project. The development aims to transform Al Maryah Island’s lifestyle offerings and experiences.

The groundbreaking ceremony was officiated by Waleed Al Mokarrab Al Muhairi, Mubadala’s Deputy Group CEO, in collaboration with Bakheet Al Katheeri, CEO of UAE Investments, to mark the beginning of this project. The project promises to deliver features and amenities designed to elevate the guest experience and unlock new opportunities for lifestyle, entertainment, and engagement.

At the heart of the project is a 30m-tall luminous sphere, enveloped in flowing water and set within the bay, surrounded by over a 1000 AI-powered jets of water soaring more than 75m skyward in dazzling choreography to music by acclaimed composer Ramin Djawadi. These features are designed by WET, the premier water design firm in the world, the statement said.

Beyond the centerpiece, the development also includes a sea boardwalk extension that provides guests with direct access to the water’s edge. Additionally, a shaded outdoor cooling system is being installed to enhance comfort during the hot season. New food and beverage zones and event-ready public spaces for guest experiences are also part of the project, the firm noted.

“The Al Maryah Waterfront enhancement project is a strategic investment in the future of Al Maryah Island,” said Dr. Bakheet Al Katheeri, CEO of UAE Investments, Mubadala. “This project will deliver iconic elements that elevate the quality of life and offer a diverse experience for visitors, while reinforcing the island’s position as a premier lifestyle destination.”

Once completed, the Al Maryah Waterfront will serve as a dynamic backdrop for public life designed to attract global visitors, support the capital’s tourism ambitions, and provide opportunities for leisure, culture, and commercial activation. This project is part of Mubadala’s broader commitment to enabling the emirate’s long-term vision of a sustainable, globally competitive, and future-ready urban landscape, the statement concluded.

The post Mubadala commences Al Maryah Waterfront enhancement project appeared first on Middle East Construction News.

Source: MEConstructionNews

As the Middle East intensifies its efforts to address water scarcity, enhance infrastructure resilience, and meet sustainability targets, the Water Efficiency Middle East Alliance (WEMA), supported by the Danish Trade Council, has concluded a high-level technical visit to Denmark in collaboration with TAQA Water Solutions.

The delegation, comprising senior executives from TAQA Water Solutions and Danish water sector leaders, engaged in practical and scalable discussions on wastewater reuse, circular economy models, and energy-efficient infrastructure. The visit also builds on a longstanding relationship between WEMA and TAQA Water Solutions. Since 2021, they have engaged in a series of joint workshops, feasibility studies, and knowledge exchange activities.

Denmark’s visit comes at a critical juncture as countries in the GCC intensify their investments in sustainable water strategies aligned with national mandates like the UAE Water Security Strategy 2036, Net Zero 2050, and Saudi Vision 2030. Denmark provides practical expertise in areas such as wastewater reuse, stormwater resilience, and utility optimisation, which are increasingly relevant to the Middle East. In light of the pressure on utilities to do more with less, this cross-border knowledge exchange underscores a growing commitment to integrating innovation, efficiency, and resilience across regional water networks, the statement said.

“This delegation was more than a visit, it was a strategic exchange of ideas, technology, and shared ambition,” said Astrid SC Nielsen, the Danish Trade Council, Dubai. “TAQA Water Solutions’ commitment to innovation, coupled with Denmark’s decades of water expertise, are the seeds for impactful, long-term collaboration.”

The delegation engaged in discussions with Danish utilities, water tech companies, and research institutions, including site visits and roundtable discussions with prominent WEMA members like AguaGreen, Alfa Laval, Aquaterra, Grundfos, AVK, Danfoss, DHI, NIRAS, Sulfilogger, Watopi, and Aarhus Vand.

Key themes explored include advanced wastewater reuse and sludge handling, energy-efficient pumping and treatment, data-driven smart water infrastructure, and innovative resource recovery and circular economy models. A dedicated session at BIOFOS Utility and Aarhus Water Utility shared practical case studies on sustainable operations and customer-centric water services.

The visit showed potential for future technical cooperation and project development between TAQA Water Solutions and WEMA member companies. Key areas for follow-up collaboration included feasibility assessments for Danish technologies and joint exploration of impactful projects. TAQA Water Solutions highlighted operational focus areas like energy efficiency, sludge handling, large-scale pumping, and odor and infiltration management, presenting opportunities for targeted collaboration and innovation with WEMA member companies, the statement outlined.

“At TAQA Water Solutions, we have experienced firsthand how innovation profoundly drives comprehensive sustainability. It extends far beyond merely securing vital water and energy systems; it is the fundamental cornerstone reinforcing a resilient circular economy. This strategic imperative ensures that every precious drop is meticulously collected, expertly treated, and purposefully reused, thereby setting new benchmarks for responsible resource management and ensuring a water-secure future,” said Ahmed Al Shamsi, CEO of TAQA Water Solutions.

He added, “As part of TAQA Group’s commitment to providing energy and water to communities worldwide, TAQA Water Solutions drives sustainable development and secures global water resources through strategic investments and collaborative partnerships in markets of growth. This visit exemplifies this mission, evolving beyond a technical exchange, profoundly deepening our shared commitment to advancing sustainable water solutions globally. We are grateful for the generous knowledge-sharing and the invaluable opportunity to learn from a community that has integrated sustainability into its daily life, underscoring our belief that innovation truly thrives through reciprocal collaboration.”

WEMA’s ongoing role is to bridge Danish expertise with regional priorities, ensuring that proven solutions are tailored to support local policy frameworks, operational needs, and sustainability goals. This visit marked a significant milestone in the deepening relations between TAQA Water Solutions and WEMA. It followed a high-level meeting in Abu Dhabi earlier this year, where opportunities for deeper collaboration were identified.

The post WEMA and TAQA conclude technical visit to Denmark appeared first on Middle East Construction News.

Source: MEConstructionNews

The post Big Project ME – June / July 2025 appeared first on Middle East Construction News.

Source: MEConstructionNews

Gensler has announced that Todd Pilgreen has been appointed Co-Managing Director of Gensler’s Middle East offices, replacing Tim Martin and joining current Co-Managing Director, Tariq Shaikh.

The announcement is said to mark the beginning of a new chapter for Gensler in the region. With deep roots in global design leadership and a profound understanding of regional context, the new leadership duo will guide the firm into its next phase of growth, innovation, and impact, the statement confirmed.

The move marks the departure of Tim Martin, who led Gensler’s Middle East operations for the past six years. Under Martin’s leadership, the firm solidified its regional reputation for quality, innovation, and client-centric design, the firm stated.

“We want to express our heartfelt gratitude to Tim Martin for his leadership and commitment over the past six years. His legacy of excellence and collaboration has left a strong foundation for our Middle East practice. We are thrilled to see Todd step into this new role, and we are confident that, with Tariq, he will continue to drive innovation and strengthen our regional impact,” said Theresa Sheils and David Calkins, Co-Regional Managing Principals, Asia Pacific Middle East.

Pilgreen brings more than 30 years of international design and leadership experience to the role. Since relocating to Dubai last year, he has led the Asia Pacific Middle East region’s Mixed Use & Retail Centres and Retail & Consumer Experience Practice Areas. Prior to his Middle East tenure, he served as Co-Managing Director of Gensler’s Shanghai office for six years, building a legacy of collaboration, strategic client engagement, and transformative built environments across Asia, the firm outlined.

According to Gensler, Pilgreen will co-lead with Tariq Shaikh, who has led the Middle East operations as Co-Managing Director since transitioning from Gensler’s Birmingham office to Riyadh. Known for his client-focused approach and leadership on complex, large-scale projects, Shaikh has played a key role in expanding the firm’s impact across Saudi Arabia and the broader GCC. Together, the complementary experience and vision of the new leadership team are set to elevate Gensler’s presence in the region’s evolving architectural and urban landscapes.

The firm said its new leadership will focus on fostering regional talent, deepening client partnerships, and driving design excellence with purpose and impact, particularly in support of fast-transforming economies like the GCC.

The announcement is said to underscore Gensler’s ongoing investment in the Middle East, and its commitment to shaping cities, communities, and experiences that respond to the region’s bold visions for the future.

The post Gensler appoints Todd Pilgreen as Co-Managing Director for Middle East business appeared first on Middle East Construction News.

Source: MEConstructionNews

The American University of Sharjah (AUS) has forged a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Abu Dhabi Projects and Infrastructure Centre (ADPIC), a government entity responsible for ensuring the quality, safety, and sustainable delivery of projects in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi.

The agreement was signed by Mohamed El-Tarhuni, Interim Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs and Provost at AUS, and Maysarah Mahmoud Eid, Director General of ADPIC, and paves the way for future collaboration in research, student development, and capital project planning.

The partners outlined several broad areas of cooperation between AUS and ADPIC, including joint research, internship opportunities, student career events, and the integration of capital project management topics into selected academic courses at AUS. This collaboration directly supports ADPIC’s long-term roadmap to advance infrastructure innovation, and develop a skilled national workforce. Additionally, AUS and ADPIC officials agreed on a draft framework for future information exchange and the development of project-specific agreements.

“We are delighted to be partnering with ADPIC on this important initiative,” said Tod A. Laursen, Chancellor of AUS. “This partnership creates exciting new avenues for our students to engage with real-world infrastructure challenges, while highlighting AUS’ ongoing strong commitment to supporting the UAE’s strategic development goals through our academic and research expertise.”

Maysarah Mahmoud Eid, Director General of ADPIC explained, “This MoU with AUS is a strategic imperative for Abu Dhabi’s future. Our infrastructure ambitions demand a pipeline of highly skilled, innovative talent, and this partnership directly cultivates that by creating an integrated ecosystem where cutting-edge research meets practical application. By bridging academia with real-world capital projects, we are building physical assets, while investing in intellectual capital that will drive the next generation of urban development across the UAE.”

As the entity responsible for overseeing and coordinating all capital projects in the emirate, ADPIC plays a crucial role in shaping Abu Dhabi’s infrastructure priorities. This collaboration opens up opportunities for students across various disciplines, including engineering, architecture, business, and public policy. It also reinforces the vital role of higher education in shaping the future of the UAE’s infrastructure landscape, the statement noted.

The MoU, which will remain in effect for two years, also promotes the inclusion of ADPIC expertise in student seminars and workshops, also exploring future employment and training opportunities for Australian graduates. This agreement represents a significant step forward for both institutions, and facilitates the integration of academic and research expertise with national development priorities.

The post AUS has signed a MoU with ADPIC to collaborate on new avenues for students appeared first on Middle East Construction News.

Source: MEConstructionNews

Sobha Realty has unveiled its Sobha Privy Collection brand, which is said to encompass a new era of ultra-luxury living that embodies the design philosophy – The Art of Sublime. Sobha Privy Collection is characterised by seven fundamental principles – expansive living spaces, iconic addresses, unparalleled finesse, exceptional service, exclusive amenities, extraordinary privacy, and a distinct quality that elevates each home above the rest, said a statement.

Marking the launch of the new brand, the developer has unveiled a new ultra-luxury development, ‘The S’ at Sobha Hartland II. According to the firm, this architectural landmark, the final and tallest reveal within the masterplan, is inspired by the ‘The S’ on Sheikh Zayed Road. The new tower is envisioned as an equilateral triangle sculpted at the apex of the district’s canal arc, providing breathtaking 270-degree panoramic views across Downtown Dubai, the central lagoon, and beyond, the firm said in a statement.

Ravi Menon, Chairman of Sobha Group said, “Sobha Privy Collection reflects our pursuit of purity in design and perfection in detail. With ‘The S’ at Sobha Hartland II, we are presenting residences that speak the language of grandeur, stillness, elegance, and enduring value for those who resonate with the extraordinary.”

Loai Al Fakir, CEO of Provident Real Estate added, “‘The S’ wasn’t just another development; it was a project that demanded attention. From the design to the delivery, Sobha Realty brought something truly refined to the table, and we knew right away it was worth backing. Being part of its success wasn’t just exciting; it reaffirmed why we do what we do.”

Extending beyond a single address, Sobha Privy Collection comprises a selection of residences across the developer’s projects, including the mansions and villas at Sobha Hartland II Estates, duplexes and Penthouses at SeaHaven, The S – Sheikh Zayed Road, and now, ‘The S’ at Sobha Hartland II. Each home is shaped with layouts, locations, personalised details, and a quiet focus on privacy, coming together to reflect the care and craft that define the Sobha way, the developer explained.

Huimin Wang, Managing Director of Fastway Real Estate commented, “When Sobha Realty introduced The S on Sheikh Zayed Road, it represented a bold vision of luxury; brought to life with unmatched precision and craftsmanship. Now, as it reaches completion, it stands as a testament to that promise and to everyone who believed in it from the very beginning.”

Residences begin from the eighth floor upward, preserving uninterrupted vistas and heightened privacy. The S is a 71-storey tower with just two expansive, villa-scale residences per floor. The design features a floor-to-floor height of four metres with a clear unobstructed glazing expanse, intuitive spatial separation, panoramic master suites, private terraces, and spa-inspired bathrooms bathed in natural light, the statement outlined.

At The S, residents experience luxury from the moment they arrive, with a stunning triple-height grand lobby, and concierge and valet services. Every element is shaped by Sobha’s hallmark: an obsessive attention to detail refined over decades of craftsmanship. Designed for the global connoisseur, Sobha Privy Collection presents homes as rare and considered, as the lives they are meant to reflect, it added.

The S, the final chapter in the Sobha Hartland II story, pays homage to Sobha’s legacy while forging a new path. Offering experience of space, tranquility, and refined living. With future additions planned across waterfronts, islands, and skyline-defining destinations, Sobha Privy Collection continues to redefine the modern concept of prestige, rooted in timeless principles of clarity, craftsmanship, and The Art of Sublime, it concluded.

The post Sobha Realty announces the Sobha Privy Collection and launches ‘The S’ appeared first on Middle East Construction News.

Source: MEConstructionNews