Procter and Gamble (P&G) has partnered with Yellow Door Energy to commission a solar carport power plant. The official commissioning ceremony was held at P&G UAE Head Office – senior representatives from P&G, Yellow Door Energy, and Value Addition – the EPC contractor – were present.

The 500 kilowatt-peak (kWp) solar carport, now fully operational at P&G UAE’s headquarters in Jebel Ali Freezone Authority (JAFZA), will generate a substantial amount of clean electricity. In its first year, it is projected to produce 816,500 kilowatt-hours (kWh), which will supply more than 50% of the building’s annual electricity needs.

This solar carport comprises over 870 high-efficiency bifacial solar panels. These panels will not only maximise on-site renewable energy generation but also provide shade to 144 parking spaces. The project’s impact extends beyond electricity generation, as it is expected to reduce carbon emissions by 330,000kg annually. This aligns with P&G’s Net Zero by 2040 goal and supports the UAE’s Net Zero by 2050 Clean Energy Strategy, said a statement.

Sonali Dhawan, General Manager for P&G Gulf said, “At P&G, environmental sustainability is embedded in how we do business. The solar lease with Yellow Door Energy demonstrates our commitment to sustainability by integrating solar power into our Dubai office. Commissioning this solar carport is a tangible step towards reducing our environmental footprint at our UAE head office whilst advancing our global climate goals. This aligns with our company’s sustainability ambitions of Net Zero by 2040.”

Jeremy Crane, Group CEO of Yellow Door Energy commented, “We are proud to commission this solar carport with P&G, delivering clean electricity that will power more than 50% of the company’s UAE head office and contribute to the UAE Energy Strategy. With over 1.1 billion kilowatt-hours of clean electricity generated across seven countries, Yellow Door Energy continues to earn the trust of leading multinational corporations as their preferred sustainable energy partner.”

Yellow Door Energy said it is responsible for financing, designing, constructing, commissioning, operating, and maintaining the solar plant throughout its lease term. Solar leasing allows businesses to reduce their energy costs without any upfront investment or operational risks, enabling them to focus on their core operations while enjoying the benefits of clean energy.

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JLL has appointed Mouhammad Takieddin as its new Regional Head and CEO for the Middle East and Africa (MEA) region. This appointment reinforces the company’s commitment to the region and strengthens its leadership in the region’s dynamic real estate market, said a statement from JLL.

Based in Riyadh, Takieddin’s appointment aligns with JLL’s strategic objectives for emerging market opportunities and accelerates business line development in critical areas such as data centres, facilities management, and AI-driven technology platforms.

His leadership experience and presence in the Saudi capital will further elevate the company’s market visibility, underscoring the firm’s commitment to its clients, people, and business operations within the Kingdom and beyond. He will work alongside James Allan who oversees the UAE, Egypt and Africa markets, and Saud Alsulaimani who oversees Saudi Arabia, to expand business lines across the wider region.

Neil Murray, CEO, Real Estate Management Services, JLL said, “Saudi Arabia remains central to our long-term growth strategy in the Middle East and Africa, and Mouhammad Takieddin’s appointment reaffirms our commitment to continued investment in the Kingdom’s future growth. Mouhammad’s deep industry knowledge will enable us to enhance our growth focus in AI, data centres and facilities management in the Saudi and wider market. His international expertise will be crucial in driving operational excellence and accelerating regional service delivery and client expansion across different markets in the region.”

Takieddin joins JLL from Procter & Gamble (P&G), where he spent the last 25 years, and for the last 5 years served as Vice President of Global Real Estate and Facilities, leading its portfolio of offices, research and development centres, manufacturing plants and distribution centres across AMER, EMEA and APAC. During his time at P&G, he also drove large-scale real estate projects, portfolio optimisation, workplace and FM transformation, digital enablement and real estate-led sustainability initiatives aligned with the company’s 2030 Sustainability Ambition, the statement outlined.

In his role at JLL, Takieddin’s expertise in digital transformation will be instrumental in establishing new regional specialisation in data centres and facilities management. He will also be responsible for scaling the latest digital technologies, including AI, within real estate services to enhance efficiency, the firm confirmed.

Takieddin commented, “I am excited to join JLL and lead its exceptional team of professionals across the Middle East and Africa to build on emerging market opportunities and strengthen JLL’s position in the region. I look forward to collaborating with James Allan and Saud Alsulaimani, drawing on their expertise and knowledge of the region to further our strategic growth. We are firmly focused on solidifying our market leadership and prioritising long-term value creation for clients. This will be achieved by leveraging JLL’s global expertise, scaled platforms, cutting-edge AI solutions, and integrated service offerings across all asset classes to drive growth in the region’s rapidly evolving real estate sector.”

Takieddin’s appointment complements JLL’s existing Public Investment Fund of Saudi Arabia (PIF) relationship through the Saudi Facilities Management Company (FMTECH) ownership stake, and aligns with the firm’s goals of growing its facilities management presence in key industry segments like data centres and AI-driven technology platforms.

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AD Ports Group has signed a 30-year concession agreement with Aqaba Development Corporation (ADC) to manage and operate the Aqaba Multipurpose Port. Jordan’s sole and exclusive general cargo and multipurpose seaport, will benefit from the group’s investments in the coastal city’s logistics infrastructure, said a statement.

The agreement establishes a joint venture (JV) between AD Ports Group and ADC. AD Ports Group will hold 70% ownership, while ADC will retain the remaining 30%. In addition to the ownership stake, AD Ports Group will invest a substantial US $38.4mn in the JV. The group will also bring its extensive port development and operational expertise to the transaction. AD Ports Group said that it anticipates formally assuming operations of the port in August of this year.

The signing ceremony took place at the headquarters of the Aqaba Special Economic Zone Authority (ASEZA) in Aqaba. The event was attended by Counselor Hamad Al Matrooshi, Chargé d’Affaires of the UAE Embassy in Amman; H.E. Shadi Majali, Chief Commissioner of the Aqaba Special Economic Zone Authority; and Captain Mohamed Juma Al Shamisi, Managing Director & Group CEO of AD Ports Group. The agreement was signed by H.E. Hussein Safadi, CEO of Aqaba Development Corporation, and Ahmed Al Mutawa, Regional Chief Executive Officer of AD Ports Group.

Al Shamisi noted, “Today’s signing represents a continuation of the strong and enduring economic cooperation between the two countries, including the development initiatives implemented by AD Ports Group in Aqaba City. This aligns with the directives of our wise leadership to strengthen cooperation with the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan and to support the Kingdom’s vision of transforming the Port of Aqaba into a leading commercial gateway in the Red Sea region.”

“This agreement further strengthens AD Ports Group to drive long-term, transformative economic impact in the region, enabling further business growth in support of the aspirations of our partners in Jordan. We extend our appreciation to our partners at the Aqaba Development Corporation for their confidence in AD Ports Group as a strategic partner in driving growth in Aqaba City and contributing to the advancement of its economic ecosystem. We look forward to further strengthening our long-term partnership, founded on collaboration to achieve shared interests and mutual benefits,” he added.

Shadi Majali, Chief Commissioner of the Aqaba Special Economic Zone Authority (ASEZA) commented, “This strategic partnership represents a key milestone in advancing Aqaba’s role as a competitive and integrated economic zone. The development of the Aqaba Multi-Purpose Port, in collaboration with AD Ports Group, reinforces ASEZA’s mandate to create an enabling regulatory and investment environment that supports efficient trade, high-value logistics services, and sustainable economic growth.”

“This project will enhance Aqaba’s attractiveness as a regional logistics, industrial, and tourism hub, while strengthening connectivity with regional and international markets. It also reflects the effectiveness of close coordination between national institutions, the private sector, and international partners in delivering transformative projects that generate employment, stimulate investment, and contribute to long-term economic resilience. ASEZA remains fully committed to facilitating this project through streamlined procedures, investor-friendly policies, and continuous support, ensuring that Aqaba continues to serve as a strategic gateway for Jordan and the wider region,” he added.

Safadi stated, “We look forward to working with AD Ports Group, ADC’s strategic partner, to further develop and position Aqaba Multi-Purpose Port as a central trade and transport hub in the upper Red Sea region. Leveraging AD Ports Group’s expertise, global connectivity, digital trade solutions, and its expanding regional ports and maritime network, Aqaba is set to continue its rapid evolution into a world-class logistics and trade hub that generates sustainable economic growth.”

“This collaboration strengthens Aqaba’s ecosystem across logistics, tourism and port services, we are pleased to welcome this important step forward with AD Ports Group. We are confident that this partnership will play a pivotal role in driving sustainable economic growth for Aqaba and the Kingdom as a whole, and we are pleased to welcome this important milestone with AD Ports Group as we move forward together in delivering a world-class logistics and trade hub,” he said.

The Port of Aqaba is located at the intersection of 3 continents, and serves as Jordan’s primary gateway for international trade. It handles 80% of the country’s exports and 65% of its imports. Additionally, Aqaba acts as a crucial transit point for the trade of neighboring countries, including Saudi Arabia and Iraq.

The Aqaba Multipurpose Port represents AD Ports Group’s most significant infrastructure investment in Jordan to date. Since 2021, the group has collaborated closely with ADC to develop various infrastructure projects in Aqaba, including tourism, transport, logistics, and digital trade. These initiatives include the development and operation of the Aqaba Cruise Terminal, which enhances the city’s connectivity as a regional cruise destination. Furthermore, the Maqta Ayla Joint Venture is constructing a digital Port Community System (PCS) to streamline cargo processing, the firm said.

In January 2025, AD Ports Group appointed MAG Group Holding to spearhead the initial phase of development for Marsa Zayed. This project aims to transform Marsa Zayed into a 3.2m sqm beachfront tourism and business community in Aqaba. The vision is to elevate Aqaba as a regional tourism hub and a gateway to the Red Sea, the statement concluded.

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The RTA has signed a cooperation agreement with Glydways, a player in automated transit networks (ATN). The agreement marks the launch of the first automated programme for an automated transit network, introducing a new model of smart and sustainable mobility in Dubai. The initiative supports the public transport ecosystem and provides effective solutions for first- and last-mile journeys.

H.E. Mattar Al Tayer, DG, Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors at the RTA, signed the agreement on behalf of RTA, while Mark Seeger, Co-Founder and CEO of Glydways, signed on behalf of Glydways, on the sidelines of the World Governments Summit 2025.

Glydways’ ATN is said to represent a new mode of transport based on autonomous electric vehicles supported by AI technologies. The system operates independently of road traffic and runs on compact, narrow guideways, using lightweight guiding structures that can be elevated or deployed at ground level. This design minimises impact on existing roads and utility networks.

The system offers an urban mobility solution that provides on-demand, personal vehicle services around the clock, enabling direct point-to-point travel without stops, shorter journey times, and the ability to customise climate control and entertainment systems. It delivers zero local emissions, while achieving safety and availability standards comparable to mass transit systems, said the statement.

The system enables virtual platooning of more than 10 vehicles, operating with a 1-second headway. Each vehicle has a capacity of 4-to-6 passengers and an operating speed of up to 50kmph. The vehicles are equipped with 20 high-resolution LiDAR sensors, as well as advanced radar systems and high-definition cameras.

The agreement also provides for the study of several proposed initial routes, including a pilot route linking National Paints Metro Station to Bluewaters Island, with a total length of 2.8km. Additional routes will connect Dubai Metro stations to key destinations such as Madinat Jumeirah, Alserkal Avenue, Times Square Centre, and Dubai Festival City, with the aim of strengthening integration with the Dubai Metro network.

Al Tayer said, “The agreement comes in line with the leadership’s directives to strengthen Dubai’s global leadership in adopting smart and sustainable mobility solutions and expanding the implementation of innovative transport modes. This supports quality of life, enhances the efficiency of the public transport system, and reinforces its integration with future mobility modes. The RTA is keen to collaborate with leading global companies and innovative start-ups to explore high-impact solutions that facilitate the movement of residents and visitors, and provide flexible and safe options for first- and last-mile journeys, in line with the urban and economic growth witnessed by Dubai.”

Al Tayer further noted that the system features high operational capacity, enabling the transport of more than 20,000 passengers per hour in both directions, in addition to capital cost savings of up to 90% and operational cost reductions of up to 70% compared to other transport modes, significantly enhancing the efficiency of investment in sustainable transport projects.

He added, “The project will be implemented under a Public–Private Partnership (PPP) model, ensuring the application of global best practices in delivery and operation, and leveraging advanced expertise in the fields of autonomous vehicles and artificial intelligence.”

Mark Seeger, Founder and Co-CEO of Glydways noted, “This collaboration underscores Dubai’s global standing as an open laboratory for testing future mobility solutions and a leading environment for the deployment of smart and sustainable transport solutions. Glydways represents a new form of mobility designed to support seamless movement between neighbourhoods. Launching the system in Dubai marks a milestone in the company’s journey, and Bluewaters Island provides the ideal environment to showcase our network’s ability to deliver high-capacity, on-demand transport at lower cost and with an enhanced passenger experience. This project demonstrates how cities can scale sustainable and financially viable transport solutions.”

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Developer Mira Developments has officially launched Mira Business FM, which is billed as a digital business radio platform. This platform broadcasts live from a newly unveiled studio located at Dubai’s Art of Living Mall.

Mira Business FM is designed to cater to today’s always-connected audience. It offers a fully digital channel that delivers business conversations, expert analysis, and industry insights. By prioritising online and streaming platforms, the channel ensures instant accessibility to listeners worldwide, regardless of their devices, borders, or time zones, the statement said.

“Mira Business FM provides a platform for key industry leaders and insightful information that is shaping today’s economy. We are breaking away from traditional media constraints to offer live, impactful conversations that matter to those within the industry and beyond,” said Timur Mamaikhanov, Co-Founder & CEO of Mira Developments.

The launch of Mira Business FM signifies a strategic expansion of the Mira Group ecosystem. It positions the platform as a future-forward media platform that aligns with the evolving way business leaders consume information. Mira Business FM covers every sector and scale of the economy, focusing on meaningful topics such as real estate, trade and economy, corporate affairs, AI, finance, technology, entertainment, and sport, said a statement.

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The RTA has signed a partnership agreement with US-based ‘The Boring Company’, a specialist in advanced tunnel systems and innovative passenger transport solutions, to commence the implementation of a passenger transport tunnel project in Dubai, branded the Dubai Loop.

The project will deploy advanced technologies designed to transform Dubai’s mobility ecosystem, while enhancing transport efficiency and ensuring smoother traffic movement in high-density urban areas. The agreement was signed by His Excellency Mattar Al Tayer, Director General, Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of the RTA, and James Fitzgerald, Global VP of Business Development at The Boring Company, in the presence of senior officials from both companies.

Under the agreement, implementation of the first phase of the project will commence with the construction of a 6.4km pilot route, comprising 4 stations and linking the Dubai International Financial Centre and Dubai Mall. This phase will pave the way for expansion into the full project alignment, which will extend up to 22.2km and include 19 stations, connecting Dubai World Trade Centre and the financial district with Business Bay.

The Dubai Loop project involves the construction of tunnels with a diameter of 3.6m, dedicated to vehicle transport. The tunnels will be developed using advanced tunnelling technologies that enable faster delivery, lower construction costs, and reduced impact on existing roads and utilities compared with conventional transport systems.

The cost of implementing the first phase of the route is estimated at approximately US $154mn, with an anticipated delivery period of around 1-year following the completion of design works and required preparations. The total cost of the full route is estimated at approximately $540mn, with an expected implementation period of around 3 years.

Al Tayer stated, “The project represents a qualitative addition to Dubai’s transport ecosystem, as it enhances integration between different mobility modes and provides flexible and efficient first- and last-mile solutions. Studies have demonstrated the project’s efficiency in terms of capacity and operating costs, with the pilot route expected to serve around 13,000 passengers per day, while the full route is projected to have a total capacity of approximately 30,000 passengers per day.”

He added, “The signing of the agreement is in line with the directives of the wise leadership to strengthen strategic partnerships with leading global companies in the fields of innovation and advanced technologies. The agreement supports efforts to further cement Dubai’s position among the world’s leading cities in the deployment of future mobility solutions and the adoption of advanced technologies that contribute to enhancing the quality of life and facilitating the movement of residents and visitors across the emirate, while keeping pace with its rapid urban and economic growth.”

Steve Davis, President of The Boring Company added, “We are proud to partner with the RTA, one of the world’s leading entities in adopting innovative solutions in the transport sector. Through this partnership, we look forward to delivering advanced, safe, and highly efficient tunnelling solutions that support Dubai’s vision for sustainable and future mobility.”

During last year’s World Governments Summit, the RTA signed an agreement with The Boring Company to study the implementation of the project in Dubai. As part of the study phase, the RTA provided the company with geotechnical data, information on utilities and structures, environmental risk assessments, as well as the specifications and standards adopted for transport systems in Dubai.

In turn, the company was responsible for submitting technical studies, safety information, and development details related to the system and the proposed alignments, in collaboration with leading international consultancies and under the supervision of financial and legal advisers, with the aim of identifying the optimal partnership model for the project.

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As Dubai’s real estate market continues to experience unprecedented activity, women are emerging as significant contributors to both market participation and sector transformation, according to Banke International Properties. This shift is paving the way for broader leadership opportunities and thought leadership across the industry, it added.

In the first half of 2025, Dubai’s real estate sector witnessed a surge recording 125,538 transactions valued at US $117.3bn. This performance can be attributed to strong investor confidence and sustained demand across various segments. Notably, the transaction value and volume experienced a substantial 25–26% increase year-on-year, solidifying Dubai’s position as a global property hub.

In the first half of 2025, 30,487 female investors were actively participating in the market, completing 34,792 transactions valued at $19.9bn. This increase in women’s involvement in real estate investment reflects growing confidence and participation among women in the sector. Women now constitute 34% of the total real estate investors in Dubai, indicating a growing trend towards long-term, stable investment strategies, the firm said.

These trends signify broader structural shifts in Dubai’s real estate landscape. The sector is evolving from transactional growth to leadership, strategic decision-making, and long-term engagement. As the sector progresses toward maturity, there is a shift in focus from transactional growth to talent development, leadership pipelines, and inclusive participation. These efforts will shape the future performance and resilience of the sector, it stated.

The UAE’s national agenda actively supports and amplifies this evolution. The UAE Gender Balance Council’s Strategy 2026 outlines commitments to enhancing women’s representation in leadership and decision-making positions and promoting gender balance across various sectors, including the private sector.

Aditi Jhunjhunwala, Head of Operations, Banke International Properties said, “Dubai’s real estate story has entered a new chapter where breadth of participation is now evolving into depth of leadership. Women today are not only significant investors in the market, but they are also shaping conversations around strategy, growth and long-term sustainability. Strengthening the path for women to grow into leadership and operational roles is essential for the sector’s continued momentum and long-term value creation.”

As real estate activity expands in volume and complexity, thought leaders and industry players are increasingly recognising the importance of talent, autonomy, education, and leadership development, especially for women, as key drivers of inclusive growth. Given women’s significant role in investment and market sentiment, efforts that support leadership pathways and capacity building are becoming central to the sector’s future narrative.

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Paris Saint-Germain has announced a global partnership with UAE-based developer BEYOND Developments.

The multi-year agreement solidifies BEYOND’s status as Paris Saint-Germain’s Premium Sleeve Partner until 2029. The partnership brings together two brands that are aiming to shape the future of sport, design, and contemporary lifestyle, said the statement.

Richard Heaselgrave, Chief Revenue Officer at Paris Saint-Germain commented, “This partnership with BEYOND Developments represents a powerful alignment between two brands that redefine excellence in their respective fields, with a shared belief that sport and design both have the power to inspire and elevate everyday life. BEYOND’s approach to creating meaningful spaces mirrors our own ambition to connect with people through passion, creativity, and emotion.”

Paris Saint-Germain and BEYOND Developments share a common belief in the transformative power of culture. Both companies operate beyond their core industries, engaging global audiences through identity, creativity, and a clear sense of purpose. They occupy a space where sport, lifestyle, and expression naturally intersect, the statement outlined.

Adil Taqi, CEO of BEYOND Developments added, “As we begin 2026, this partnership with Paris Saint-Germain sets a meaningful tone for the year ahead. It reflects our belief that great design and great sport share the same power. Both move people, shape culture, and create moments that stay with us. At BEYOND, we design destinations that evoke emotion and inspire connection. Paris Saint-Germain brings that same energy to a global stage. This collaboration allows us to engage audiences through a shared vision of creativity, performance, and modern living, while extending our presence to new communities around the world.”

For BEYOND, this partnership serves as a natural extension of Dubai’s creative energy and global cultural influence. It further solidifies the brand’s presence while providing opportunities to engage diverse audiences across Europe, Asia, and the Middle East, the statement concluded.

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Developer Richmind has announced the complete sell-out of Phase 1 of its flagship development, Oystra, situated on Al Marjan Island. This achievement follows an unprecedented response from buyers and investors, prompting the developer to launch Phase 2, which is now open for sale, said a statement.

Designed by Zaha Hadid Architects (ZHA), Oystra by Richmind marks the firm’s inaugural residential development on Al Marjan Island. The project has garnered demand from international markets, particularly Europe, where over 50% of buyers originate. This underscores Oystra’s appeal to global investors, the firm said.

Significant interest has also been recorded from key markets such as the USA, Canada, China, Australia, and Turkey. As part of Phase 2, Richmind has unveiled the upcoming release of limited edition ultra-luxury penthouses.

Mohammad Rafiee, CEO, Richmind said, “The sell-out of Phase 1 is a resounding validation of our vision to bring art into living. Oystra has resonated deeply with the international community, particularly those in Europe who value the fusion of iconic Zaha Hadid architecture with functional luxury – at an ever-growing lifestyle destination like Al Marjan Island.”

“Our Phase 2 launch will see even more exclusivity, premium offerings and limited edition homes, setting this new standard of UAE living to the world. The interest from global investors to buy property in the UAE is a trend we will continue to cater to. Our recent expansion into China with a sales office in Shanghai and our collaboration with Harrods in London in February are strategic steps to be closer to our global clientele.”

Christos Passas, Director of Design, Zaha Hadid Architects added, “With Phase 2, we continue the narrative of fluid elegance. The architecture of Oystra is designed to engage with the elements, the sea, the wind, and the light. We are thrilled to see how well the design has been received globally. It confirms that there is a universal language for beauty and innovation, and we look forward to seeing this second phase come to life, offering residents a spatial experience that is both grounding and limitless.”

Richmind is introducing Oystra directly to European investors through a series of high-profile roadshows, which will include stops in Manchester, Hamburg, and an exclusive showcase at Harrods in London, the statement said.

The development offers residents access to over 50 amenities. These include a 150m crystal clear lagoon, a branded Luxe European spa, yoga pavilions, and golf simulator. These amenities are collectively designed to enhance the living experience. Richmind said it will also announce a collaboration with a luxury hospitality brand this year, which will bring curated serviced residences and exclusive high-end F&B offerings to the community.

The crown jewel of the development’s leisure offerings is Ras Al Khaimah’s first and only 360-degree infinity pool. This pool offers views on Al Marjan Island. It is complemented by a Beach Club and a dedicated 24-hour, 5-star concierge service. These features ensure that all residents enjoy a hotel-standard lifestyle.

As construction progresses toward the 2029 handover, Oystra continues to embody Richmind’s vision for design-led, artful living. This vision enhances the UAE’s coastal landscape while delivering lasting value for residents and investors, the statement concluded.

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