National Properties has announced that 97% of the work has been completed on its residential and retail development 399 Hills Park, located within Dubai Hills Estate, bringing the project into its final phase ahead of handover.

This milestone comes amid sustained demand for quality residential developments in Dubai, as the emirate continues to strengthen its position as a global destination for premium living and long-term real estate investment.

Comprising 399 residential units across 2 towers with a value in excess of US $272.2mn, the project has been designed to deliver lifestyle-driven living within a landscaped, community-focused environment.

The development has recorded strong market demand, with one tower designated for sale fully sold, underscoring sustained investor confidence and end-user appeal for well-located, high-quality residential offerings, said a statement.

In line with its long-term investment strategy, National Properties said it will retain the second tower as an income-generating asset, reinforcing its approach to building a resilient portfolio of premium residential properties that deliver stable, recurring returns for the Mudaraba portfolio.

Group CEO Mohammed Qasim Al Ali said, “Dubai’s real estate fundamentals have never been stronger, driven by sustained demand for high-quality developments across both residential and commercial sectors. Dubai’s residential real estate market achieved record performance in 2025, supported by strong growth in both sales value and transaction activity.”

He added, “Total sales exceeded US $157bn, representing an annual increase of around 25%, while transaction volumes surpassed 200,000, up around 18% compared to 2024. More than 70% of transactions were driven by the off-plan segment, underscoring sustained investor confidence and continued appetite for new launches.”

National Properties said residents will benefit from a curated selection of lifestyle and wellness amenities, including swimming pools, sauna facilities, steam rooms, paddle court, fully equipped gyms, club lounges, children’s splash area, and indoor and outdoor play zones, roof BBQ terraces.

Landscaped recreational spaces further enhance the overall living experience, supporting a vibrant and family-oriented community, it explained.

“This reinforces our conviction in developing and retaining high-quality residential communities such as 399 Hills Park, which is designed to meet evolving lifestyle expectations while delivering long-term value for investors,” he noted.

National Bonds will be launching several real estate projects soon supporting the growing demand for high quality residential and commercial assets, he concluded.

Source: MEConstructionNews

The construction sector in Ajman experienced substantial growth during the first quarter of the year, with the total value of building contracts reaching US $1.055bn.

This growth is reflected in the issuance of 1,162 building permits during the same period, showcasing the emirate’s commitment to urban and economic development in alignment with the Ajman Vision 2030, said a report.

Dr. Eng. Mohammed Ahmed bin Omair Al Muhairi, Executive Director, Infrastructure Development Sector, Municipality and Planning Department said, “The results demonstrate increasing confidence among residents, investors, and developers. He attributed the growth to strategic policies aimed at ensuring balanced and sustainable urban expansion.”

The department is also enhancing its digital capabilities through the Building Information Modelling (BIM) project. This initiative employs integrated 3D modeling and comprehensive databases to enhance engineering accuracy, minimise errors, and expedite the permit approval process.

Additionally, efforts are underway to update building and planning regulations to align with international standards, thereby further bolstering the emirate’s attractiveness as an investment destination and its overall quality of life.

Source: MEConstructionNews

Saudi Arabia has announced the launch of its largest private sector residential development – Jawharat Al Arous (Arabic for Jewel of the Bride) – which is being set up at an investment of US $2.1bn.

Spanning over a 107m sqm area, the premium development located in the north of Jeddah will boast 18 residential neighborhoods that will cater to more than 700,000 citizens. It will also include 41 government plans and more than 80,000 residential and commercial plots, in addition to service and government facilities.

The inauguration ceremony was held under the patronage of the Governor of Makkah Region Prince Khalid Al Faisal, in partnership with Jeddah Municipality, and with the guidance and follow-up of the Governor of Jeddah, Prince Saud bin Abdullah bin Jalawi, and the Mayor of Jeddah, Saleh Al Turki. The Deputy Governor of Makkah Region, Prince Saud bin Mishaal bin Abdulaziz, also attended.

The Deputy Governor of the Makkah Region was later briefed on the details of the project and its advanced technical and environmental services that ensure quality of life and future development in Jeddah Governorate. The Jawharat Al Arous masterplan has a model infrastructure and vast 1,344km road network.

Source: MEConstructionNews

Azizi Developments has announced that construction at Beach Oasis II – its  mixed-use community in Dubai Studio City – has reached 43% completion.

The structure is now 99% complete, with blockwork and internal plastering at 64% and 37%, respectively. Additionally, HVAC and MEP are now 21% and 31% complete, said the developer in a statement.

Comprising 452 studios, 209 1-bedroom and 33 2-bedroom residences, Beach Oasis II will be a modern low-rise residential community that features an array of amenities, including a large beach-like swimming pool – the highlight of the project’s central courtyard – fully equipped gymnasiums, landscaped gardens, children’s play areas, and a central square with retail options for the convenience of its residents, it added.

Giving a project update, Group CEO Farhad Azizi said, “With 43% of construction now complete, Beach Oasis II is moving through its build at pace – on schedule, on standard, and with clear momentum. Dubai Studio City’s newest luxury community is rising exactly as envisioned, delivering on the promise of refined, modern living.”

Situated on Hessa Street near Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road, Studio City is a strategic location with excellent accessibility. Residents benefit from a wide range of nearby amenities, including schools and colleges, medical facilities, sports and leisure attractions, and much more, stated Azizi.

Major attractions in proximity include Dubai Autodrome, the Els Club, Dubai Polo & Equestrian Club, Dubai International Stadium, Football Academy Dubai, Sports Park, ICC Academy, and Miracle Garden, among many others, he concluded.

Source: MEConstructionNews

The 19th GCC Consultative Meeting, chaired by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in Jeddah, concluded with a directive to expedite the implementation of strategic regional infrastructure projects across various sectors, including transport, energy, and utilities.

In a press statement, GCC Secretary General Jasem Mohamed Albudaiwi emphasised that the leaders underscored the urgency of fulfilling all necessary requirements to execute common Gulf projects.

According to the statement issued last Tuesday, the leaders underlined the importance of the existing GCC electricity interconnection project – which is currently undergoing an expansion – and directed the Secretariat to accelerate the implementation of the GCC railway project, initiate steps towards establishing oil and gas, and water pipeline interconnections, and move forward with a study to establish the GCC strategic reserve.

Leaders of the Council countries emphasised the significance of strengthening military cooperation among their member states and expediting the completion of the early warning system project aimed at detecting ballistic missiles, as stated in the document.

Source: MEConstructionNews

The Dubai Integrated Economic Zones Authority (DIEZ) has announced the signing of a joint venture agreement with Volt UAE, the regional platform established by Dutch data centre and AI factory developer Volt.

The partnership will see the development of an advanced, AI-ready data centre spanning up to 60,000sqm in Dubai Silicon Oasis (DSO), DIEZ’s specialised economic zone for knowledge and innovation, further strengthening Dubai’s position as a global hub for the digital economy. The data centre project aligns with DSO’s expansion plans, particularly the US $3bn District IO project.

Under the agreement, DIEZ will provide land and core infrastructure, while Volt UAE will develop, finance, and lead construction of the data centre facilities, as well as oversee design, execution, leasing, and operations in line with agreed requirements. The facility will feature high-performance infrastructure engineered for exceptional resilience, uninterrupted operations, and long-term security under all conditions.

Designed with reinforced architecture, redundant systems, and hardened infrastructure, it ensures continuous availability even in the most demanding environments. It will support advanced computing and artificial intelligence applications, strengthening the emirate’s rapidly expanding digital ecosystem while setting a new benchmark for robustness and reliability in critical digital infrastructure.

The announcement was made during an official signing ceremony at DIEZ headquarters in the presence of Dr. Mohammed Al Zarooni, Executive Chairman of DIEZ; Han de Groot, CEO of Volt; Koenraad Crooijmans, Head of Capital Markets at Volt; and Amel Chadli, President, Gulf Cluster at Schneider Electric.

As part of the project, DIEZ and Volt UAE will collaborate with Schneider Electric, headquartered in Dubai Silicon Oasis, to deliver advanced electrical systems, power distribution, and smart data centre infrastructure to enhance efficiency, reliability, and sustainability.

The strategic DIEZ-Volt UAE partnership aligns with DIEZ’s continued efforts to enhance its digital infrastructure readiness and attract strategic investments in future-focused sectors across its economic zones. It also reflects Dubai’s broader vision to consolidate its position as a global hub for the digital economy.

The project will be developed within the integrated ecosystem of Dubai Silicon Oasis, supporting the growth of the data centre sector and addressing increasing demand for advanced computing solutions. It is being implemented in two phases: an initial 29MW readily available capacity, followed by an additional 100MW of committed power.

Dr Al Zarooni said, “This strategic partnership comes at a pivotal time amid rapid global shifts, reaffirming the resilience of Dubai’s economic model and its strong investment appeal in future-focused sectors. It also reflects the value of leveraging specialised expertise in the development and operation of data centres. This step underscores the confidence of global investors in Dubai’s advanced business environment, supported by world-class digital infrastructure and agile economic policies.”

Commenting on the deal, de Groot noted, “This partnership with DIEZ marks a significant strategic milestone in advancing our international expansion. Dubai offers world-class infrastructure, positioning it as a natural hub for the next wave of digital and AI-infrastructure driven growth. We are seeing an unprecedented acceleration in artificial intelligence, with the compute aspect becoming a critical production factor for economies. Volt addresses this with a full-stack AI compute platform designed to support sovereign AI capabilities, enabling nations and organisations to develop, train, and deploy AI securely, and at scale.”

He continued, “This project is therefore more than a data centre: it is designed as a potential AI factory, a facility where energy is transformed into intelligence, supporting advanced AI applications and digital workloads for the region. At the same time, the infrastructure will be engineered for exceptional resilience, ultra-secure operations, and continuous availability, setting a new benchmark for mission-critical digital infrastructure.”

“We are confident this project will add substantial long-term value to Dubai’s digital ecosystem, supported by an integrated and forward-looking business environment that fosters innovation and aligns with the rapidly evolving global AI-driven economy,” he explained.

Speaking on the occasion, Chadli remarked, “What we are witnessing at DSO is nothing short of a defining moment for the UAE’s digital future. DIEZ embodies a bold national vision, a testament to the UAE’s unwavering commitment to leading the world’s AI economy. And at the heart of that vision stands this landmark AI-ready data centre, the foundation upon which tomorrow’s smart city will be built. At Schneider Electric, we are proud to be part of this transformational journey with DIEZ and Volt as their preferred energy technology partner.”

“We deliver the industry’s most comprehensive end-to-end infrastructure solution for AI-ready data centres, from Grid to Chip and from Chip to Chiller, combining power systems, liquid cooling, monitoring and management software, and services to help customers deploy high-density AI infrastructure faster, more efficiently, sustainably, and with lower risk,” she concluded.

Source: MEConstructionNews

India-based developer Casagrand has commenced construction work on Casagrand HERMINA at Dubai Islands.

The move marks a significant milestone in the delivery of its inaugural residential development in the UAE, a clear transition from vision to tangible progress on the ground. The project is currently on track for completion in Q2 2028, said a statement.

Luthfullah K, Director, Dubai, Casagrand said, “The commencement of construction at Casagrand HERMINA is a defining milestone for us in Dubai. It marks the moment where intent becomes reality, with visible progress now taking shape on the ground. What makes this phase especially exciting is the strength of investor confidence behind it. We are seeing clear conviction in both the asset and the market, with decisions being driven by quality, location, and developer credibility. The rise in bulk acquisitions and repeat participation reflects that confidence in a very tangible way.”

The developer has over 2-decades of experience and 160 completed developments across India, and is now venturing into its first project in Dubai. The endeavor extends the legacy of Casagrand’s people-first design, disciplined execution, and on-time delivery into a new market, solidifying its reputation for reliability at scale, the statement outlined.

The commencement of construction in Dubai signifies strong and sustained momentum behind the project. The project continues to attract investor interest, with participation from high-net-worth individuals and investors who prioritise capital appreciation and portfolio quality over short-term gains.

Additionally, a growing number of international buyers from the US, Canada, Europe, and Russia are expressing confidence in Dubai’s residential market, contributing to the overall demand for the property. A clear trend emerging is the rise in bulk acquisitions, with investors securing multiple units as part of long-term portfolio strategies, reflecting confidence in both the asset and Dubai’s fundamentals, the statement continued.

The development is designed as a lifestyle-led residential community, offering a mix of amenities including landscaped outdoor areas, swimming pools, spa and relaxation zones, sky cinema, meditation spaces, and family-focused leisure facilities. Fully furnished layouts and designed interiors.

Source: MEConstructionNews

TBH has appointed Kieren Hunt to its senior leadership team as part of its efforts to strengthen its planning and major program delivery service offering.

As a Director at TBH, Hunt will be based in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia at the TBH Riyadh office, further strengthening TBH’s capability in major program delivery and enhancing the client experience. He will also provide additional on-the-ground support, guidance and leadership to the TBH KSA team, the firm said.

“I have had the pleasure of working with TBH since 2013 on a number of projects over the years. As a client, I valued TBH as a trusted partner, as their advice was always objective, transparent and aligned with the client’s best interests. I am pleased to be joining the team and look forward to contributing to its continued success in the region. TBH’s values and positive, can-do approach align with my own,” Hunt explained.

Christopher Nicolas, TBH Middle East Director added, “Saudi Arabia and the Middle East remain a key market for TBH and we are committed to continuing to build and strengthen our team to best support our clients. Kieren brings significant depth of experience, and we are delighted to have him onboard. His expertise in planning and project controls on major programs will be invaluable in helping drive our clients’ projects forward. In addition, his role within our senior leadership team will support the growth of our team by providing guidance and mentorship for our colleagues in Riyadh.”

Hunt joins TBH following the successful conclusion of a 3-year contract with NEOM, where he oversaw planning, cost and risk management across a large and complex portfolio of regional infrastructure projects, the statement from TBH said.

With over 25 years’ international experience across contractors, client-side roles and consultancies, Hunt has worked on major building and infrastructure projects throughout the Middle East, UK, Ireland and Australia. He brings a depth of experience that enables him to integrate program strategy, commercial objectives, and cost and risk considerations with project execution. He has a strong track record of leading large planning teams and establishing robust project controls and governance frameworks across complex developments, it added.

TBH Managing Director, Jonathan Jacobs continued, “TBH has over 60 years’ experience in delivering large-scale infrastructure projects globally, and Kieren’s background and expertise in giga infrastructure projects aligns strongly with our specialist skillset. We are proud to continue supporting the delivery of several high-profile projects in the Middle East, most notably in Saudi Arabia in support of Vision 2030. Kieren’s appointment will further build on our capability to make a meaningful contribution to client projects.”

Source: MEConstructionNews

Abu Dhabi-based asset management company, ALAIN, has broken ground on Vida Residences Saadiyat Island. The project serves as the introduction of the first Vida-branded residences in the UAE capital. Vida Hotels & Resorts, a lifestyle hospitality brand managed by the Emaar Hospitality Group, is behind this project, the statement outlined.

Vida Residences Saadiyat Island is scheduled for completion by the end of 2027 and will feature 121 fully furnished 1-, 2- and 3-bedroom residences. The development is designed to cater to a new generation of entrepreneurs, creatives, and global residents who are seeking inspiring spaces and services, it stated.

The groundbreaking ceremony, held on-site at Saadiyat Island, was attended by senior leadership from ALAIN and Emaar Hospitality Group, along with key consultants and project partners. This marks the commencement of construction, signifying the transition from concept to delivery and showcasing tangible progress on one of Saadiyat Island’s most eagerly awaited branded residential projects, said the statement.

The project is said to have garnered market demand, indicating investor confidence in both ALAIN’s visionary approach and disciplined delivery, as well as Emaar Hospitality Group’s capability to deliver a distinctive lifestyle and service quality, according to a senior official at the groundbreaking ceremony, it added.

The statement said that the project’s sell-out further solidifies the enduring strength of Abu Dhabi’s premium residential market and the demand for unique, amenity-rich developments on Saadiyat Island. Residents will benefit from immediate access to cultural landmarks, including the Louvre Abu Dhabi, Zayed National Museum and the upcoming Guggenheim Abu Dhabi.

Khaled Al Khoori, Managing Director of ALAIN said, “Breaking ground on Vida Residences Saadiyat Island represents an important milestone for ALAIN and reflects our commitment to delivering distinctive residential destinations shaped by design, community and experience.”

He added, “Vida’s vibrant, contemporary identity complements Saadiyat Island’s continued evolution and we are proud to introduce a development that blends creativity, connectivity and hospitality within one of Abu Dhabi’s most sought-after locations.”

Nicolas Bellaton, Head of Hospitality at Emaar Hospitality Group added, “Vida Residences Saadiyat Island marks an exciting milestone for the Vida brand as we introduce our first branded residences in Abu Dhabi. The development reflects Vida’s modern, community-driven ethos and reinforces our commitment to creating design-led residential experiences that resonate with a new generation of global residents.”

The development will create a lifestyle-driven environment centred around a curated plaza featuring retail and dining outlets, indoor and outdoor social spaces, and designed communal areas that foster connection and community interaction, he explained.

As a pet-friendly community, Vida Residences Saadiyat Island will include a dog park, along with family-oriented facilities like children’s splash pads and play areas. Residents will also enjoy 24-hour concierge and security, doorman and porter services, housekeeping and laundry coordination, grocery delivery assistance, and on-site property management and maintenance.

Saadiyat Island continues to solidify its reputation as one of the UAE’s most sought-after residential and lifestyle destinations, for its  cultural institutions, natural beauty, and hospitality experiences. The commencement of construction at Vida Residences Saadiyat Island signifies the ongoing momentum of development across the island and reflects the strong confidence in Abu Dhabi’s real estate sector, the developer explained.

Through projects like Vida Residences Saadiyat Island, ALAIN said it is committed to advancing its strategy of partnering with globally recognised lifestyle and hospitality brands to deliver thoughtfully curated residential communities that generate long-term value and contribute to Abu Dhabi’s evolving urban landscape.

Source: MEConstructionNews

Ellington Properties has launched a limited-time summer initiative across a selected range of its developments. This initiative guarantees rental returns of 35% over 5-years in Dubai and 28% over 4-years in Ras Al Khaimah. The framework aims to provide early-stage income visibility while aligning with the developer’s commitment to design quality, consistency, and delivery.

Dubai’s property market is experiencing sustained activity alongside this trend. In Q1 2026, the market recorded US $48.1bn in sales across nearly 48,000 transactions. Notably, March saw over 10,300 off-plan deals worth $8.5bn, indicating continued investor appetite while also reflecting more selective decision-making.

Investors are now paying more attention to rental yields, holding periods, and the reliability of returns, especially those seeking to strike a balance between long-term appreciation and near-term income. Consequently, investment opportunities are being structured with greater emphasis on clearly defining performance expectations at the outset.

Elie Naaman, CEO and Co-Founder, Ellington Properties said, “The conversation around real estate investment has become more focused on what happens beyond the transaction. That places greater accountability on developers like us to ensure projects are positioned to perform in a real market environment over time, supported by consistent execution and long-term quality. We remain confident in the long-term stability of the UAE market and its ability to recover and continue its growth. At the same time, we are equally confident in our developments and the value they are designed to deliver over the long term.”

The UAE’s real estate sector has shown remarkable resilience, bolstered by strong leadership, solid fundamentals, and sustained international demand. Concurrently, buyers are becoming more discerning in their asset selection, leading to a more structured investment landscape.

As these expectations evolve, presenting a clear and credible investment framework has become crucial. Ellington’s summer initiative, aligns with this shift, providing greater clarity and bolstering long-term confidence in an increasingly discerning market. Investor expectations in the UAE real estate market are becoming clearer, with buyers now placing greater emphasis on the performance of assets during the initial years of ownership, the statement concluded.

Source: MEConstructionNews