American University of Sharjah (AUS) and Mapei have formalised a collaboration within the AUS Engineering Al Nukhba Program. The partnership aims to develop industry ready engineers by aligning academic learning with market requirements. Through internships, applied research, and regular expert exchanges, the partners will strengthen clear pathways from the classroom to the workplace.

The Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) establishes a connection between AUS’ coursework and professional practice. Mapei will host AUS students annually in structured internships that immerse learners in active teams and laboratories. When feasible, AUS faculty and Mapei specialists will co-supervise selected capstone and research projects, sharing technical knowledge essential for emerging engineers, said a statement.

Additionally, the partners will organise field visits to laboratories, manufacturing facilities, and project sites, allowing students to engage with current methods, quality systems, and safety standards. Furthermore, they will pursue joint research and development projects that address sector priorities in the UAE.

“This collaboration is designed for outcomes you can measure in skill, in confidence and in employability,” said Dr. Fadi Aloul, Dean of the AUS College of Engineering. “By connecting our students to Mapei’s teams, facilities and project environments, we are creating an applied learning loop that starts with a question on campus and ends with a solution on site.”

Giuseppe Castelli, Corporate HR and Organisation Director at Mapei added, “We believe that investing in young people means investing in the future of the region and the local community. The collaboration with AUS represents an important step in fostering the professional and personal growth of new talents, creating a bridge between university and business.”

The agreement aligns with the objectives of the AUS Engineering Al Nukhba Program, which aims to establish targeted partnerships with prominent firms across various sectors. These partnerships empower students with practical skills essential in a rapidly changing job market. Currently, the program boasts a network of 18 partners, which is expanding, fostering industry collaboration and providing students and faculty with meaningful opportunities.

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Gensler has been appointed as the lead consultant for Miraf District, a mixed-use development project spearheaded by Real Estate Investment & Development (Refad). Nestled along King Faisal Road in the district of Al Khobar, Miraf District promises to be a hub of activity, where retail, hospitality, residential, and commercial life converge into an integrated urban experience.

The firm’s engagement on the project commenced in February 2024, and it has been providing comprehensive expertise across various disciplines, including architecture, interior design, landscape architecture, signage, and wayfinding. Gensler’s scope of work extends from conceptual design to construction documentation.

“Miraf District is not just a project; it is the embodiment of our ambition at Refad Real Estate Investment & Development to elevate Al Khobar to the ranks of modern cities that place the human experience at their core,” said Abdulhadi Al Qahtani, Managing Director of Refad. “The pioneering project will redefine the entire city experience, creating an integrated, vibrant destination that strengthens community bonds and respects the environment.”

Raj Patel, Architecture Design Director and Principal at Gensler added, “Rooted in the vision of the next evolution of mixed-use design in the Eastern Province, Gensler draws inspiration from Khobar’s heritage of trade, pearl diving, and family gatherings transforming the site into a gateway to the sea. The development is designed to promote synergy between its components: retail, hospitality, and workplace fronting King Faisal Road for accessibility and visibility, while residential and wellness zones are oriented toward the waterfront for privacy and views. Flexible outdoor areas and public spaces encourage year-round social interaction, events, and well-being. The design celebrates Al Khobar’s coastal identity, with architecture and materials inspired by the dialogue between land and sea.”

Miraf District is said to be a blend of indoor and outdoor retail spaces connected by an inviting promenade. This inviting promenade is complemented by an IHG hotel, two residential towers, and a Grade A office building. The development’s 2,150,000sqft master plan, conceived by Refad, aims to create a destination that celebrates the modern Saudi lifestyle while fostering community and connection.

Sustainability is said to be deeply ingrained in the project’s approach; the design incorporates locally sourced materials and adheres to local environmental and regulatory standards, ensuring a responsible and long-term contribution to the region’s development.

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Developer ATARA Development has unveiled its latest project – Kaia Villa. This US $16.34mn, six-bedroom villa is located on Pearl Jumeirah Island and marks the first launch under the developer’s Terra Collection. The villa is said to be designed for families seeking beachfront living.

With five villas already completed and delivered to residents, Kaia Villa stands as a significant milestone in ATARA’s growing portfolio. Currently, 10 additional residences are under construction across Dubai’s communities, the developer said.

The completion of Kaia Villa underscores ATARA’s expansion in Dubai’s luxury residential segment. This expansion follows the developer’s recent partnership with Marriott International, which resulted in the introduction of the GCC’s first Sheraton-branded residences on Al Marjan Island.

“The completion  of Kaia Villa marks another important step in our journey as a growing developer in the Emirates real estate market,” said Umid Bazarov, Chief Operating Officer of ATARA Development. “Kaia Villa represents our vision to create homes that offer more than architecture, residences that reflect individuality, innovation, and a refined approach to modern living.”

Set within the gated enclave of Pearl Jumeirah Island, the residence embodies ATARA’s philosophy, Design, Detail, Distinction. Spanning four levels, basement, ground, first, and rooftop, the villa blends spatial harmony with a contemporary aesthetic, offering residents a sanctuary of privacy, comfort, and sophistication, the developer said.

Every space within the home has been curated to enhance functionality and experience. The fully-furnished six-bedroom villa features en-suite bathrooms and walk in closets, complemented by a study, private cinema, spa, gym, yoga area, a rooftop terrace with a BBQ zone, and a ground-floor pool with deck. Behind its façade lies an integration of smart home technologies, including automated lighting, climate control, motorised curtains, smart mirrors, motion sensors, home theatre automation, and integrated security systems.

The villa’s wellness facilities include a fully equipped fitness studio, private steam and sauna rooms, and dedicated shower spaces. A three-car garage, private lift, and dual front of house and back of house kitchens further demonstrate ATARA’s attention to both comfort and convenience.

With an expanding pipeline of upcoming developments, ATARA Development continues to establish its presence in Dubai’s high-end real estate landscape, creating exclusive homes that balance design, craftsmanship, and lifestyle distinction.

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Modon Hospitality has unveiled the launch of a luxurious active lifestyle resort, the Olympia Resort Abu Dhabi. The new sports and wellness destination is said to redefine healthy living and performance based hospitality on Abu Dhabi’s Hudayriyat Island.

This resort, owned and developed by Modon Holding, offers a range of activities, including active stays, recovery, movement, holistic wellness, healthy cuisine, leisure, and relaxation. It boasts wellness facilities, such as Reboot Recovery Lounge, which provides guests with access to features such as altitude training, which is traditionally used by elite athletes. Now accessible to all guests, the lounge features compression technology, next-generation biohacking tools, and tailored treatments that aid recovery, boost circulation, and optimise overall performance.

Olympia Resort Abu Dhabi’s design includes unique features like inter-connecting family rooms, spa and wellness facilities, and a variety of organic, nutrition focused dining options. Selected guest rooms also feature hypoxic technology to support athletic recovery and performance.

Guests can also experience the unique benefits of the Olympia Recovery Mattress, crafted to support muscle repair, enhance circulation, and promote deep, restorative sleep. Its advanced foams, pocket springs, and cooling fabric work together to facilitate the body’s recovery overnight, leaving guests feeling refreshed, balanced, and ready to embrace a deeper, more rejuvenating sleep.

The Olympia Resort Abu Dhabi will play a role in transforming Hudayriyat Island into a global destination known for sports, recreational, and wellness offerings. The resort integrates performance with leisure, providing elite training facilities catering to guests of all skill levels, the statement said.

Bill O’Regan, Group CEO at Modon Holding said, “We take pride in creating iconic destinations that redefine how people live, work and connect. Hudayriyat Island is emerging as one of Abu Dhabi’s most distinctive landmarks an integrated urban experience setting a new benchmark for community, lifestyle and wellbeing. With the Olympia Resort Abu Dhabi, we’re building on that vision, bringing together sport, wellness and family recreation within a setting designed for active, connected living.”

Marc Dardenne, CEO of Modon Hospitality added, “The Olympia Resort Abu Dhabi signifies a new category of hospitality where performance and lifestyle meet. The resort offers first-class facilities that encourage people to move, train, and recharge in an environment designed for balance and wellbeing. We have designed a space for those who thrive on movement, balance, and discovery, built around an active lifestyle that reflects Abu Dhabi’s vision to create destinations that inspire healthier, more active communities while inviting the world to experience everything Abu Dhabi has to offer.”

“The Olympia Resort Abu Dhabi is a key part of our next chapter of growth and expansion. As the specialist hospitality arm of Modon Holding, we are continuing to design and deliver experiences with purpose, precision, and passion. We already operate a local, regional, and global portfolio of 28 hotels across five markets, and this is the latest asset to be part of our ever-expanding offering. We are proud that our portfolio reflects our international outlook and DNA, our versatility and our world-class expertise,” added Dardenne.

Olympia Resort Abu Dhabi, a standalone Modon Hospitality concept, is planned to open in early 2026. This resort, designed to blend local identity with global appeal, aims to contribute to Abu Dhabi’s growing reputation as a sports tourism and active living hub.

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The King Abdullah Financial District Development and Management Company (KAFD DMC) has entered into a Hotel Management Agreement (HMA) with Hilton to operate a 450 key hotel in King Abdullah Financial District (KAFD).

The milestone was marked by the signing of an agreement at the ninth edition of the Future Investment Initiative (FII) in Riyadh. The agreement aligns with KAFD DMC’s hospitality strategy, which aims to attract brands to the district and solidify KAFD’s position as the destination for business and leisure travelers.

Saad Abdulaziz Alkroud, Chairman of the Board at KAFD DMC said, “We are excited to partner with Hilton to enhance KAFD’s hospitality offering and firmly establish the district as a major destination for both business and leisure travelers. KAFD’s growing hospitality offering demonstrates our commitment to enabling Vision 2030 by developing world-class infrastructure to drive the growth of tourism in the Kingdom.”

John Pagano, Managing Director of KAFD DMC added, “This agreement with Hilton is a key step in expanding KAFD’s hospitality offering, supporting the district’s role as a hub for business, investment, and international conferences. The hotel will complement KAFD’s integrated ecosystem of offices, residences, retail, and event venues, providing seamless convenience for visitors and residents. With Hilton joining KAFD, we are advancing the district’s long-term strategy to create a connected, dynamic environment where business and lifestyle converge.”

Chris Nassetta, President & CEO, Hilton continued, “Hilton Riyadh King Abdullah Financial District represents an exciting step for Hilton in Saudi Arabia. Our growth in the Kingdom has accelerated significantly in recent years, and with over 100 hotels trading and in the pipeline, we remain confident in the country’s inspiring future. We are thrilled to be working alongside KAFD DMC to bring our signature Hilton hospitality to the heart of Riyadh’s financial centre and create unforgettable stays for all our guests.”

Hilton Hotels & Resorts, the flagship brand of Hilton, is bringing its presence to Riyadh’s business district. Located next to KAFD’s conference centre, Hilton Riyadh King Abdullah Financial District offers direct access to the district’s business and cultural ecosystem through a network of climate controlled skywalks. This location also connects to the upcoming monorail system, providing access to the Riyadh Metro and the wider city, said the statement.

The hotel boasts 450 modern and comfortable guest rooms and suites, blending Hilton’s service with a distinctly local experience. Guests can indulge in a diverse range of dining options, including a lobby café, an all-day dining establishment, and specialty restaurants. A poolside terrace, while a fully equipped fitness center and health club ensure guests stay fit and healthy during their stay, it added.

Designed to cater to large corporate events and social gatherings, Hilton Riyadh King Abdullah Financial District provides 900sqm of meeting and event space. This includes boardrooms and an executive lounge, making it an ideal venue for business meetings and conferences. The hotel expands KAFD’s hospitality offerings by introducing a selection of brands that cater to Riyadh’s discerning business, leisure, and conference travelers.

KAFD continues to solidify its position as Riyadh’s business and lifestyle district. The district integrates offices, residences, retail, and event venues, creating a fully integrated environment. With over 140 office tenants, 19 regional headquarters, and residential communities, KAFD has an expanding portfolio of luxury hotels, dining, and lifestyle options.

Hilton’s commitment to supporting Vision 2030 is evident through its presence. With 21 hotels across the Kingdom and 83 more in the pipeline, Hilton is expanding its footprint and delivering hospitality throughout Saudi Arabia. This latest signing further reinforces Hilton’s long-term dedication to contributing to the country’s economic growth and development, the statement concluded.

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Dubai Investments has announced the commencement of construction for the second production line of its wholly owned subsidiary, Emirates Float Glass (EFG), within its facility in the Khalifa Economic Zones Abu Dhabi (KEZAD).

The inauguration ceremony was attended by Khalid Bin Kalban, Vice Chairman and CEO of Dubai Investments, Mohammed Ghareeb, Chief Experience Officer of KEZAD Group, and other senior officials from Dubai Investments, as well as government authorities. The representatives from key technology, civil works, and contract management partners underscored the collaborative effort behind this milestone, said a statement.

“The second float line marks a transformative milestone for the UAE’s industrial manufacturing landscape. With dual float lines and the introduction of Ultra Clear Glass, the group is expanding capacity, enhancing product offerings and providing customers with a complete range of high-performance glass solutions under one roof. This project underscores Dubai Investments’ commitment to industrial innovation, sustainable growth and economic diversification,” said Khalid Bin Kalban.

Emirates Float Glass (EFG) is expanding its operations, with an additional investment of over US $163.35mn. This expansion will establish EFG as the sole glass manufacturer in the region operating dual float lines, significantly enhancing its production capabilities.

A key aspect of this expansion is the introduction of the Ultra Clear Glass production line, a groundbreaking capability in the GCC and the Middle East. In conjunction with EFG’s magnetron sputtering coater, this new line will provide a comprehensive range of high-transmission, low-emissivity coatings, catering to the growing demand for premium architectural, solar, and industrial glass applications, the firm said.

By integrating this new line with EFG’s other glass subsidiaries, Emirates Glass and Saudi American Glass, customers will gain a single point of contact for all their glass requirements, from standard float glass to advanced, coated specialty products.

EFG’s commitment to local value creation, sustainable practices, and quality operations is further evidenced by its ICV certification and inclusion in the Abu Dhabi Economic Department’s Golden List. This recognition underscores dedication to contributing to the region’s economic growth and environmental responsibility, the statement explained.

Construction on the expansion project is currently underway, with the second float line expected to be fully operational by late 2027 or early 2028. Once operational, Emirates Float Glass will solidify its position in float-glass manufacturing, offering production capacity, technological innovation, and a comprehensive product range that will cater to the diverse needs of customers across the GCC and beyond, it concluded.

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Majid Al Futtaim has announced Maravelle at Ghaf Woods, which is billed as an ultra-premium wellness-led destination that will be anchored by a world-class lifestyle and wellness facility.

The master plan of Ghaf Woods serves as a foundation for Maravelle to create a new standard of sophisticated forest residential experience, which combines natural elements with sustainable design and complete health benefits. Located in the inner circle of Ghaf Woods, Maravelle has been conceived as a lifestyle retreat first, and a residential enclave second. The design process includes deliberate choices that support wellbeing through the combination of architectural elements, natural environments, and the luxury of space, the developer said in its statement.

Spanning 25,000sqm, Maravelle provides only 96 residences across four boutique buildings. This design creates a sense of private living, with each building featuring four homes per floor. A single elevator serves two units per level, ensuring exclusive access. The development offers a range of apartments, including two- and three-bedroom units, as well as four-bedroom duplexes, all with views and direct access to the forest, it added.

Wellness is said to be deeply ingrained in the design philosophy of Maravelle. Homes are equipped with advanced ventilation systems, low emission building materials, and circadian lighting technology that mimics natural daylight, enhancing visual comfort and well-being. Outdoor lighting is also designed to reduce glare, maintaining a calm and restorative ambiance.

In addition, the residences at Maravelle feature natural stone, marble worktops, timber flooring, and porcelain slabs, creating tangible connections to nature. The duplexes boast private pools and terraces, providing residents with personal spaces to unwind in the serene surroundings of nature, the developer explained.

Ahmed El Shamy, Chief Executive Officer, Majid Al Futtaim Development said, “Maravelle at Ghaf Woods represents a new approach to real estate value creation, as it goes beyond traditional measurements of space and interior design to emphasise health benefits, environmental stewardship, and people-focused design. Our developments attract more people because they seek equilibrium, while building meaningful connections with their surroundings.”

“With Maravelle, we are setting a new benchmark for wellness-centred living; One that demonstrates how design, nature, and community can work together to create long-term impact, both for residents and for the future of sustainable urban development in Dubai,” he added.

The construction stages of Ghaf Woods is progressing, and its full completion is anticipated by 2032. This development will offer over 5,000 premium homes, along with 8km of walking paths, 3.5km of cycling routes, family gardens, and wellness pavilions. The design process selects elements that support well-being, combining architectural elements, natural environments, and the luxury of spacious living, the statement concluded.

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Developer Main Realty has marked a significant milestone by breaking ground and unveiling its flagship project in Dubai – Flow Residences by Main. This coastal living community offers 50 designed apartments and is slated for completion in the fourth quarter of 2027.

This second venture from Main Realty solidifies the developer’s commitment to serving a discerning market segment. By bringing its signature Miami vibe to Dubai Islands, Flow Residences aims to cater to the preferences of luxury-seeking individuals. The project boasts a diverse range of luxury accommodations, including one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments, as well as townhouses, said a statement from the developer.

The developer also emphasised the project’s unique cruise ship shaped architecture, which serves as a direct nod to its core concept. This design integrates Miami’s vibrant, coastal lifestyle with the standards of Dubai, creating an unparalleled living experience. By limiting the project to just 50 units, Main Realty ensures an exclusive and exceptional living environment for its residents.

“Our strategy is not about volume; it’s about creating niche, boutique developments. We aren’t just building residences; we are importing a lifestyle for a select few,” said Mohammed Aamir Siddiq, CEO and Founder of Main Realty. “Flow Residences is the perfect synthesis of Miami’s energetic, 5-star resort feel and Dubai’s unmatched standard for luxury. Dubai Islands is the next hub for waterfront investment, but we are catering to a specific gap in the market. With investments here reportedly topping $1.634bn in the first half of the year, it’s clear global investors want unique lifestyles. We are here to add that distinct Miami vibe to the Dubai bling.”

Flow Residences is the second project for Main Realty, which expanded from its Miami base in 2023. Its first project, Primero Residences by Main at Al Furjan, is said to be on track for 2027 completion. Flow Residences will offer 25 one-bedroom units, 21 two-bedroom units with a private pool, and four three-bedroom units.

The new project is taking shape on a 25,000sqft plot and will offer five-star resort style amenities that channel the South Beach experience, including a DJ Booth, a pool bar & seating zone, a sunbathing area, and a sandy outdoor seating area. These are complemented by an infinity pool, kids play area, yoga area, indoor and outdoor gyms, and sauna & steam rooms, the statement concluded.

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Al Ain Mills and Ethmar International Holding (EIH) have partnered with Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO) to develop a new milling facility in Abu Dhabi.

This collaboration aligns with the UAE’s food security policy commitments and supports Abu Dhabi’s strategic vision to establish the emirate as a regional hub for sustainable food production and processing, said a statement.

Al Ain Mills and EIH share a commitment to advancing the UAE’s food security agenda and supporting Abu Dhabi’s strategic vision. The new facility will expand Al Ain Mills’ commercial footprint in Abu Dhabi, increasing the company’s production capacity and enhancing the UAE’s national food processing capabilities.

Ethmar International Holding (EIH), an Abu Dhabi-based investment holding company with a diversified portfolio across several sectors, leads this initiative. EIH focuses on driving strategic investments that contribute to the UAE’s sustainable economic growth and align with the nation’s long-term vision for economic prosperity and resilience, said the statement.

This strategic collaboration is said to reflect the shared ambition of all parties to strengthen the UAE’s global position as a leader in food innovation, self-sufficiency, and long-term sustainability. It also contributes to a resilient, competitive, and sustainable food ecosystem for the UAE and the wider MENA region.

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Nakheel has unveiled Palm Central Private Residences, which is billed as a new landmark in resort-style residential living on the Palm Jebel Ali. Located along the island’s central spine between Frond M and N, the development introduces a refined concept of community-oriented living to one of Dubai’s most renowned destinations. It extends Palm Jebel Ali’s lifestyle offerings beyond beachfront villas, said the developer.

Designed with well-being, comfort, and connection in mind, Palm Central Private Residences boasts 212 residences across three mid-rise buildings. Each building offers panoramic views of the sea and skyline, featuring a diverse range of one- to five-bedroom apartments and signature penthouses with private pools.

The development’s landscaped courtyards, wellness zones, and social lounges create a lifestyle that balances privacy and shared connection. Palm Central Private Residences sets a new standard for resort-inspired family living in Dubai, offering a unique and enriching experience for its residents, the developer outlined.

Khalid Al Malik, Chief Executive Officer of Dubai Holding Real Estate said, “Palm Jebel Ali advances Dubai’s vision for people-centred waterfront living. With Palm Central Private Residences, we bring resort living into the everyday, creating a central neighbourhood where homes, wellness, learning, retail and worship sit within a short walk. This residential model complements our beachfront villas, broadens the island’s residential mix and supports a more inclusive and connected community that is calm, contemporary and distinctly Dubai.”

Enhancing the island’s infrastructure, Palm Jebel Ali will boast a 9,000sqm retail centre and a mosque designed by Skidmore, Owings & Merrill (SOM). The mosque will accommodate up to 1,000 worshippers, and will reimagine traditional Islamic architecture through sculptural forms that invite light and reflection, the developer explained.

Stretching 13.4km and encompassing seven interconnected islands, Palm Jebel Ali boasts 16 fronds and over 90km of beachfront. The master plan aligns with the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan and Dubai Economic Agenda D33. It integrates smart design principles, sustainable infrastructure, and walkable public spaces to shape a future-focused, mixed-use community that embodies Dubai’s continued growth and ambition.

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Source: MEConstructionNews