Khatib & Alami (K&A) is investing in its project management consultancy (PMC) and facilities management (FM) capabilities following the appointment of Dany Ghandour as Vice President.

Ghandour brings more than 25 years of experience to the role, including 2-decades previously spent at K&A. He has held senior leadership positions on complex, multi-billion-dollar programs – predominantly in Saudi Arabia – and has led the delivery of major project management and FM services contracts for a wide range of public and private sector clients in the region.

He rejoins K&A following 4-years at KEO, where he drove strategic growth as General Manager – KSA and MD of the company’s FM practice.

Dr Najib Khatib, Chairman and CEO of K&A said, “Our clients are increasingly focused not just on delivering assets, but on how those assets perform over the long term. Aligning our PMC and FM capabilities allows us to move seamlessly from delivery into operations, preserving design intent, managing risk and protecting value well beyond handover. Dany’s return strengthens our leadership in this area and supports our continued investment in both disciplines.”

Ghandour added, “K&A has shaped much of my career, so coming back after 4-years away feels both personal and natural. The industry has evolved, and clients now expect partners who can think beyond handover and focus on how assets perform over time. Bringing PMC and FM under one leadership enables exactly that – a more joined-up way of delivering and sustaining value. I’m pleased to return at a moment when the business is making such a clear and strategic investment in its future.”

Source: MEConstructionNews

Chedi Hospitality has partnered with Rawasi Development to explore a new destination in Jabal Bausher, Oman. The agreement represents a considered step in the company’s continued expansion within the Sultanate, building on a legacy shaped by The Chedi Muscat.

Located at the foothills of Jabal Bausher, the proposed development is envisioned as a vertically integrated mountain destination responding directly to the site’s natural elevation and terrain.

Early concepts explore a layered approach to planning, where hospitality, residences, and community elements are organised across distinct tiers, each defined by its relationship to privacy, access, and perspective.

The development is conceived not as a singular destination, but as a gradual progression through landscape, where movement across elevation reveals shifting perspectives, and each layer offers a distinct experience of place, said a statement.

Rather than imposing a singular architectural statement, the project seeks to work in dialogue with the mountain, allowing the landscape itself to inform the experience, from elevated vantage points and panoramic views to quieter, more secluded residential enclaves, it said.

Stephan Schupbach, President and Group CEO of Chedi Hospitality commented, “Oman has long held a special place within our portfolio. With The Chedi Muscat, we established a presence that resonated globally, recognised among others as the number one resort in the Middle East, and helped shape how the destination is experienced. Jabal Bausher presents a different opportunity, one that invites a more nuanced response to landscape and elevation. Together with Rawasi Development, we are exploring how a destination can be shaped with restraint, where the setting defines the experience rather than the other way around.”

Khaled Ahmed Al Marooqi, CEO of Rawasi Development added, “This collaboration reflects a shared ambition to create something that is both contextually grounded and forward-looking. Mount Jabal Bausher offers a unique natural setting, and our vision is to develop it in a way that enhances its character while contributing meaningfully to Oman’s evolving hospitality landscape. Chedi’s legacy in the Sultanate and their enduring brand essence, A Voyage Unbound, make them a natural partner for this journey.”

While still in its early stages, the development under consideration will include a hotel positioned as a vantage point within the masterplan, alongside private residences and complementary lifestyle components, each carefully integrated to respect the scale and character of the mountain, it said.

Source: MEConstructionNews

Developer Aldar has announced partnership with Abu Dhabi’s Department of Municipalities and Transport (DMT), which aims to develop 2-integrated communities in Mohamed Bin Zayed City (MBZ City) and Baniyas. These communities will collectively provide 9,000 value housing rental units within the emirate.

The projects are part of the Value Housing Programme, an initiative spearheaded by DMT to expand access to quality, affordable housing throughout the emirate, aligning with Abu Dhabi’s long-term urban development goals. In this partnership, Aldar will be responsible for the development, leasing, and management of the communities, while DMT will provide long-term leasing rights over the land.

Aldar’s develop-to-hold pipeline, which now boasts a gross development value of US $5.47bn, will be further enriched by the new projects, each with a gross development value of $762mn. These projects encompass a diverse range of assets, including the recently announced residential rental projects slated for development on Yas Island and Al Shamkha.

The partnership establishes a solid foundation for expanded collaboration between the involved parties, in line with Abu Dhabi’s commitment to providing a diverse range of high-quality housing options across various segments and price points, as mentioned by the developer.

Ahmed Fadhel Almehairbi, the Director General of Abu Dhabi Municipality and Jassem Saleh Busaibe, Chief Executive Officer of Aldar Investment, signed the agreement in the presence of Nasser Saleh Farah, Director General of Financial Affairs at the DMT.

Strategically situated in Baniyas, along the Abu Dhabi–Al Ain (E22) highway, the first development will consist of over 30 residential buildings. These buildings will offer a mixed-use lifestyle, featuring residential units, retail spaces, recreational amenities, and open green areas.

The second project, located in MBZ City, will create a mixed-use residential community. This development will combine single-occupancy accommodation and multi-tenant apartments. It will also include on-site amenities and ancillary retail spaces to cater to residents’ daily needs.

Jassem Saleh Busaibe, Chief Executive Officer, Aldar Investment said, “With Abu Dhabi’s population continuing to grow, there is a significant need for new homes to be delivered that cater to a broad range of demographics residing in the emirate. Our collaboration with DMT will ensure thousands of quality rental homes come to the market in well-connected and amenity rich communities, ensuring a fully affordable lifestyle for residents.”

Almehairbi said the partnership with Aldar underscores the DMT’s shared commitment to advancing the objectives of the Value Housing Programme by delivering high-quality, affordable homes that meet the needs of families and individuals alike and enrich community living.

Due for completion in 2029, the 2-communities will offer a diverse unit mix, and are designed to prioritise accessibility and convenience, with direct connections to public transport and major road networks.  Residents will benefit from professionally managed communities featuring amenities, green spaces, and direct access to retail and other essential services.

Source: MEConstructionNews

The Dubai Metro Gold Line has been approved by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai. The project will be built at an investment of US $9.2bn and will extend over 42km and 18 stations, and will be Dubai’s first fully underground metro line.

The Gold Line will connect to both the Red and Green Lines, while integrating with Etihad Rail, effectively linking Dubai to the UAE’s comprehensive national transportation network, said a statement.

His Highness Sheikh Mohammed’s approval of the project marks a strategic milestone, reflecting the robustness of Dubai’s economy and its accelerating pace of development as the Government of Dubai continues to deliver ambitious infrastructure projects that boost economic growth and enhance quality of life, further elevating the emirate’s global competitiveness, it stated.

Sheikh Mohammed is said to have directed the immediate commencement of the project, with the inauguration scheduled for 9 September 2032 – reflecting a delivery timeframe that is 30% faster than Dubai Metro’s Blue Line.

“Dear brothers and sisters, today we announce Dubai’s largest transport project; a new Dubai Metro line spanning 42km, at a depth of 40m underground. This new route will connect 15 strategic locations in Dubai, serving 1.5m people and supporting mobility across 55 mega development projects currently under construction. The $9.2bn Gold Line project will expand the Dubai Metro network by 35%, with completion scheduled for 9 September 2032.”

He added, “Our major projects to build the world’s best city to live in are ongoing. Our future projects will not stop; rather, they will gather pace. Our mission is to build a better future for millions – for we are a people who say what we do and do what we say.”

Set to serve as a comprehensive urban artery, the Gold Line will bridges Dubai’s historic centre with its future districts. The route will span 15 strategic locations, originating in Al Ghubaiba and crossing several developments, including Mina Rashid, City Walk, Business Bay, Mohammed Bin Rashid City, Nad Al Sheba, Mohammed bin Rashid Gardens, Meydan, Al Barsha South, Jumeirah Village Circle (JVC), and culminating at Jumeirah Golf Estates. The Gold Line significantly enhances urban integration and streamlines mobility across the emirate’s vital economic and residential centres, the statement highlighted.

The Gold Line will connect with the Red Line at 2- locations; Business Bay and Jumeirah Golf Estates, and to the Green Line at Al Ghubaiba. It also links with Etihad Rail at Meydan and Jumeirah Golf Estates, it added.

The new route will serve over 55 development projects and is projected to benefit over 1.5m people by 2040. With daily passenger numbers expected to reach 465,000 people beyond 2040, the Gold Line is set to solidify Dubai Metro’s role as the backbone of the emirate’s mobility ecosystem and the preferred choice for both residents and visitors, the statement explained.

The Gold Line will expand the Dubai Metro network from the current 120km, factoring in the Blue Line, to 162km, a 35% increase. The number of stations will increase from 67 (including the Blue Line) to a total of 85 stations, it added.

His Excellency Mattar Al Tayer, Director General and Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) stated: “The Dubai Metro Gold Line marks a strategic milestone in the evolution of Dubai’s public transport network, reflecting the leadership’s vision to develop integrated, sustainable infrastructure that fuels economic growth and enhances quality of life. The project facilitates integration of multi-modal transportation, links Dubai’s key urban hubs and addresses the demands of urban and demographic expansion in line with the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan.”

He added, “The Gold Line embodies the RTA’s commitment to adopting international best practices in executing major projects. Led by national talent, the project reaffirms the leadership’s confidence in Emirati cadres and their pivotal role in driving development by delivering landmark achievements that mirror Dubai’s future aspirations.”

Al Tayer said that the Gold Line represents a strategic investment projected to achieve a 430% cumulative economic return over 20-years of operation, driven by savings in time and fuel, as well as reductions in road accident fatality rates and carbon emissions. He also noted that such benefits underscore the critical role of infrastructure projects in fulfilling the goals of the Dubai Economic Agenda, D33, by stimulating the economy, driving sustainable growth, and boosting the value of property and real estate near metro stations by up to 20%, further enhancing the appeal of areas it serves.

“By connecting with the Red Line in 2-locations and with the Green Line in 1-area, the Gold Line is set to drive the integration and sustainability of Dubai’s public transport system, further improving the efficiency of the current network and facilitating mobility across the emirate for both residents and visitors,” he remarked.

Al Tayer explained that the Gold Line will alleviate congestion on the Red Line between BurJuman and ONPASSIVE stations by 23%, and will strengthen Dubai’s connectivity with the other emirates by integrating with Etihad Rail at 2-locations, further advancing the concept of multimodal transportation.

The Gold Line will introduce loops, enhancing seamless mobility across short and long distances in key areas, and will further strengthen the integration and sustainability of the mass transit network, the statement outlined.

Additionally, Al Tayer said the Gold Line will significantly ease congestion across major roads, by bringing about a reduction of over 40m journeys annually, which will improve traffic flow, enhance quality of life and advance environmental sustainability.

Al Tayer said the Gold Line represents an advanced engineering milestone, as it will utilise the latest tunnel boring machine technology for an entirely underground execution, ensuring minimal disruption to residents and existing urban developments.

He added that the project will adhere to the highest international standards of quality and safety, as well as speed of delivery – with plans to complete the Gold Line 30% faster than the Blue Line, reaffirming Dubai’s leadership in executing large-scale projects.

The project is scheduled for tender issuance in 2026, with contract awards to follow in 2027. Construction will subsequently begin, leading to its inauguration on 9 September 2032. This comprehensive timeline underscores Dubai’s commitment to executing strategic projects with maximum efficiency and the highest global standards of quality and excellence, the statement explained.

Source: MEConstructionNews

Arada has unveiled Jenna, a new upscale residential complex situated in the US $9.53bn Aljada mega community in Sharjah.

Based in Aljada’s West Boulevard, the complex’s initial 100 apartments are now available to purchase as part of Jenna 1, with the construction of all 631 homes scheduled to be completed by the end of the first quarter of 2029.

Located near Aljada’s main entrance, Jenna boasts fresh, stylish and contemporary architecture. The 6-building development includes a selection of 1-3 bedroom residences, all of which come with smart home features and high-end appliances as standard.

Jenna is in close proximity to a broad range of premium amenities, including Raffles World Academy Sharjah, which will open in September; Aljada’s sports complex, which be finished by the end of 2026; and Madar Mall, a new family entertainment destination that is on track to be completed by the end of 2028.

The complex is also situated on Aljada’s West Boulevard, which is home to a wealth of shopping and dining experiences, while Jenna residents will also benefit from exclusive access to the buildings’ gyms and swimming pools.

Ahmed Alkhoshaibi, Group CEO of Arada said, “We continue to see impressive resilience in the Sharjah real estate market, which has a well-earned reputation for stability backed by the kind of transformational communities that developers such as Arada are delivering. Offering easy access to a host of world-class amenities as part of one of the region’s top master-planned communities, homes at Jenna are perfectly designed for those who wish to live happier, healthier and more meaningful lives.”

The launch of Jenna comes amid sustained property demand across Aljada and the wider emirate. According to data released by the Sharjah Real Estate Registration Department, total trading value reached US $5bn in the first quarter of 2026, compared to US $3.6bn during the corresponding period of 2025 – a 40.7% year-on-year increase.

Source: MEConstructionNews

Nakheel has awarded contracts worth over US $953mn to Ginco General Contracting and United Engineering Construction (UNEC) for the construction of 544 villas on Palm Jebel Ali. This milestone marks a significant achievement in the delivery of one of Dubai’s key waterfront developments.

Under the awarded contracts, Ginco will construct 354 villas across Fronds A to D, while UNEC will deliver 190 villas on Fronds E and F. Construction is scheduled to commence this quarter, with completion targeted for Q4 2028.

Khalid Al Malik, Chief Executive Officer of Dubai Holding Real Estate said, “The awarding of these contracts signals tangible progress in the delivery of Palm Jebel Ali, with construction now progressing across multiple fronds. As momentum continues to build, Palm Jebel Ali represents one of the most significant expansions of Dubai’s urban coastline in a generation and will play a key role in supporting the emirate’s long-term growth, further strengthening its global appeal as a great place to live, invest and visit.”

Gheyath Mohammad Gheyath, Founder and Chairman of Ginco General Contracting added, “We are delighted to continue our successful journey in construction and development with Nakheel. This ongoing partnership is a testament to the strength of our relationship and our strong performance. We pledge to complete this project to the highest standards, and we remain committed to contributing to the realisation of our shared vision for this vibrant city.”

Eng. Abdul Halim Muwahid, Chairman of United Engineering Construction (UNEC) said, “Palm Jebel Ali is a remarkable project that stands as a testament to our shared vision and collaboration. Together, we are not just building communities, we are building tomorrow’s legacy, today. We deeply value our partnership with Nakheel and remain committed to sustaining and strengthening this relationship as we move forward toward continued success.”

Palm Jebel Ali plays a crucial role in Dubai’s urban expansion. It contributes to the transformation of the emirate’s southern coastline and reinforces its long-term vision for sustainable, high-quality waterfront communities, said a statement.

The awarded villas are part of a broader collection of 10 architectural styles. These styles are designed to maximise waterfront positioning and sea views while incorporating smart-home features and sustainability-focused design principles, it added.

The latest contract awards build on the progress made at Palm Jebel Ali and align with the goals of the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan and the Dubai Economic Agenda D33. These goals support Dubai’s ambition to establish itself as a global leader in premium waterfront living.

Source: MEConstructionNews

Qatar General Electricity and Water Corporation (Kahramaa) has invited bids for a major 2026 expansion of the country’s power transmission system.

The tender covers an engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) contract for new substations across multiple voltage levels, including 400/132/11kV, 132/11kV and 66/11kV facilities, as well as the installation of 400kV extra-high voltage cables, said Kahramaa said in a statement.

The project forms part of the utility’s broader strategy to expand its transmission network and improve reliability and operational efficiency.

The work has been divided into several packages, including the construction of new 132/11kV and 66/11kV substations, the development of a 400/220/132kV substation, upgrades to existing substations, and the installation of 400kV power cables, said the statement.

The deadline for submitting the bids has been set at May 14.

Source: MEConstructionNews

Dahbashi Engineering has announced its transition to on-grid solar power at its headquarters in Dubai Industrial City. The initiative underscores the company’s commitment to sustainable growth and regional energy efficiency goals.

The newly-implemented solar system at Dahbashi Engineering is designed to provide approximately 50% of the facility’s annual electricity consumption, said a statement from the company.

By leveraging the Shams Dubai net-metering framework, the project allows for any surplus power generated to be fed back into the grid, further supporting Dubai’s clean energy infrastructure, it stated.

The move comes at a pivotal time for the UAE’s renewable energy sector. According to recent industry research from Mordor Intelligence, the UAE solar energy market size is expected to grow to 48.85GW by 2030, representing a significant CAGR of 35.48%.

This rapid expansion is increasingly driven by commercial and industrial (C&I) demand, which is projected to grow at a 10.3% CAGR through 2031 as businesses seek to decouple from traditional gas-dominated power, it continued.

Co-founder and CEO Saleem Ahmed said, “Our transition to on-grid solar is a practical, long-term decision rooted in both environmental responsibility and operational stability. Integrating renewable energy is a core requirement for a resilient industrial ecosystem. This project allows us to significantly reduce our footprint while securing a predictable and efficient energy supply for decades to come.”

The initiative is estimated to deliver a 30% reduction in electricity-related operational costs. It also reflects a broader shift in the UAE power market, where behind-the-metre solar installations are becoming increasingly attractive as they can deliver tariffs significantly below standard grid rates.

“While current regulations limit the maximum allowable solar capacity at the Dubai Industrial City site to 450kW based on the total connected load, Dahbashi Engineering intends to use this project as a blueprint for potential renewable energy integrations across its wider GCC and Indian subcontinent network,” he added.

Source: MEConstructionNews

SSH has secured the design and supervision contract for Expo Valley Views, the upcoming chapter in Expo City Dubai’s sustainable living narrative. The development boasts over 800 planned 1-,2- and 3-bedroom apartments complemented by 10 retail units, creating a neighbourhood ecosystem, said a statement.

Featuring contemporary homes inspired by the natural rhythm of the valley, the community brings architecture, landscape and light into effortless balance, forming part of a sustainable, human-centric neighbourhood aligned with Net Zero 2050 ambitions, SSH noted.

Under the contract, SSH will provide lead design consultancy services in various fields, including architecture and interior design, structural, mechanical, electrical, and civil engineering, roads and infrastructure, and public realm and landscape design. Additionally, SSH will offer construction supervision services.

Expo Valley Views is said to be more than just a residential development; it embodies the city’s vision of creating climate conscious communities centred around comfort, nature, and connectivity. It prioritises well-being and fosters social interaction, aligning with Dubai’s forward-thinking urban vision, the statement explained.

The project blends contemporary and mid-century design and architecture, drawing inspiration from mountain landscapes. Shaded courtyards and sculpted podiums coexist with elegantly proportioned residential towers, while low-rise buildings of varying heights form a terraced skyline, the statement outlined.

Residents will have access to a range of amenities, including horse trails, multiple pools, fitness facilities, yoga terraces, an indoor kids’ club, children’s play areas, games rooms, a multi-purpose community hall, BBQ and outdoor dining spaces, an events lawn, and a central community plaza for social gatherings.

Source: MEConstructionNews

Dar Global has appointed Al Dahlawi Company for Contracting as the contractor responsible for delivering works at Amaya, its flagship masterplan development in Jeddah. This appointment signifies a significant milestone in the progress of the integrated urban district, which occupies 1m sqm in one of the city’s strategic location.

The scope of work encompasses the delivery of crucial phases of the masterplan, which will support the development of residential neighborhoods, commercial destinations, and community amenities within Amaya, in accordance with the project’s development timeline.

Amaya, billed as a live-work-play destination, integrates residential communities, business opportunities, retail destinations, and lifestyle amenities within a planned urban environment. Positioned as the Beverly Hills of Jeddah, it establishes a new benchmark for elevated living, exclusivity, in the city.

The appointment of the main contractor underscores Dar Global’s commitment to delivering its developments on time and in accordance with established timelines. This commitment aligns with Dar Global’s vision of transforming Jeddah into a global destination for investment, business, and modern urban living.

Amaya is a key component of Dar Global’s expanding portfolio of large-scale developments in Saudi Arabia. This development reinforces Dar Global’s strategy of creating integrated communities that prioritise connectivity, lifestyle, and long-term investment value.

The masterplan will also house Trump Plaza Jeddah, a mixed-use destination that will serve as the commercial and lifestyle hub of the development.

Source: MEConstructionNews