Qatar says it is now planning to roll out more than 188 projects and initiatives between 2024 and 2030 to accelerate growth in trade and investment, according to a report by Qatar Television. The country says that it has been steadily strengthening its position as a regional trade and investment hub, backed by long-term economic planning and infrastructure development under its national vision strategy.

The initiatives, led by the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, form part of broader efforts to make trade a central pillar of Qatar National Vision 2030. Trade resilience and food security remain central priorities, with ongoing efforts to secure supply chains and expand storage capacity to ensure long-term market stability.

As part of the strategy, Qatar is working to diversify supply routes and expand trade gateways, including strengthening land transport links and regional connectivity. These measures are aimed at improving the flexibility and efficiency of goods movement across borders.

Officials say the initiatives have already contributed to stronger supply chain performance, enabling the country to better respond to both domestic and global market demands, while reinforcing its role as a regional trade hub. Recent figures highlight this momentum, with Qatar recording a merchandise trade surplus of around US $3.32bn in January 2026. China emerged as Qatar’s largest trading partner during this period, with trade valued at $1.43bn.

The broader plan is built around economic diversification, increased competitiveness, and greater openness to international markets. It aims to drive sustainable growth in non-oil sectors at an average annual rate of approximately 3.4% through 2030.

More than half of the planned projects fall under entities affiliated directly with the ministry, while the rest are spread across industrial, trade, and logistics sectors reflecting a coordinated and integrated development approach. Qatar is also targeting up to $100 billion in foreign direct investment inflows by 2030, while continuing to strengthen domestic investments, which have already exceeded $89.55bn.

A key part of the strategy includes the development of free zones and logistics hubs covering around 50sqkm, designed to enhance trade flows and capitalise on Qatar’s strategic geographic position connecting major global markets.

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Saudi-based Al Ramz Real Estate Company made an announcement regarding the acquisition of a prime 8,600sqm plot of land in the Al Malqa district of the capital city, Riyadh. This land will be used to develop a residential project that includes 135-apartments, along with premium amenities.

Al Ramz Real Estate stated in its filing to the Saudi bourse Tadawul that the new residential project will be constructed to the highest quality standards and will align with the company’s strategy to develop integrated residential projects.

The US $25.1mn deal was finalised with Mohammed Abdulaziz Mohammed Al Majed and Mohammed Ibrahim Saeed Al Khalifa, as per the statement.

This transaction aligns with the company’s strategy to expand its presence in prime locations. The project is situated in an area with high demand and limited supply, which significantly boosts the project’s chances of success and the achievement of its targeted returns.

Al Ramz Real Estate said that this transaction will be financed using the company’s internal resources. The Saudi company anticipates that this deal will contribute to enhancing the company’s financial performance during the years 2026 to 2028.

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Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank has reaffirmed its role as a key enabler of large-scale real estate development through its partnership with Jubail Investment Company.

The Jubail Island project, solely financed by ADIB from inception through to completion, reflects the bank’s integrated approach to supporting landmark developments across the UAE, it said.

The partnership reinforces ADIB’s capability to provide end-to-end financing solutions, combining corporate banking expertise with a market-leading retail home finance proposition. From initial project structuring finance and funding to facilitating home ownership for end buyers, ADIB has acted as a one-stop financial partner, supporting the successful progress and delivery of Jubail Island.

Building on this long‑standing collaboration, ADIB and Jubail Investment Company have signed a MoU to further enhance financial services available to customers financing properties within Jubail Island developments in the UAE.

Under the MoU, ADIB will provide a comprehensive range of Shari’a‑compliant finance including home financing, personal finance, and tailored banking services for JIC customers. In addition, ADIB’s property management arm, MPM Properties, will provide property management services for the Jubail Island project. The collaboration also provides for coordinated customer engagement and joint marketing initiatives.

Mohamed Abdelbary, Group Chief Executive Officer of ADIB said, “Our partnership with Jubail Investment Company reflects ADIB’s ability to support transformative real estate developments through a fully integrated banking model. By supporting this project from inception through to delivery, we have reinforced our integrated banking model combining corporate financing with home finance, banking solutions, and property management capabilities to support customers and partners across the full real estate lifecycle.”

Mounir Haidar, Managing Director and Board Member for JIC added, “Jubail Island was envisioned as more than a residential development, it is a strategic contribution to Abu Dhabi’s long-term vision of building sustainable, future-ready communities that enhance quality of life while preserving the emirate’s natural heritage. Our partnership with ADIB aligns visionary master planning with integrated, Sharia-compliant financial solutions. Together, we are enabling a development that supports economic diversification, attracts investment and reinforces Abu Dhabi’s position as a global destination for refined, nature-led living.”

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Abu Dhabi’s Department of Municipalities and Transport (DMT) announced the issuance of a package of administrative decisions to implement Law No. (3) of 2015 (as amended by Law 2 of 2025) related to the regulation of the emirate’s real estate sector.

The decisions enhance the effective implementation of the law, further strengthening transparency and governance within the emirate’s real estate market. These are aimed at establishing a more flexible and clearly defined legislative framework that aligns with international best practices. In addition, the decisions respond to the sector’s rapid growth ensuring the law is applied in accordance with well-defined regulatory requirements, DMT noted.

The package comprises 4 administrative decisions addressing key stages across the development, regulation and management cycle of real estate development projects in the emirate. The decisions include: regulating the mechanism and controls for disbursement from real estate project escrow accounts prior to 20% project completion; regulating property ownership rights and the management of jointly owned properties and common facilities; approving the bylaws governing owners’ committees; defining compensation ratios, refund periods, and procedures for purchasers of cancelled units which are resold in accordance with Article (3/17) of Law No. (3) of 2015 (as amended by Law 2 of 2025) concerning the Regulation of the Real Estate Sector in Abu Dhabi.

These decisions form part of Abu Dhabi’s ongoing efforts to strengthen its position as an international investment hub in the real estate sector, by developing a flexible legislative environment that supports real estate developers, protects investors’ rights, and is in line with future growth requirements. This approach ensures effective market governance and safeguards investors’ interests in parallel, reinforcing the markets’ competitiveness at both the regional and international levels.

The decisions enhance the legal and contractual relationships among the various stakeholders in the real estate market by providing a comprehensive regulatory framework that ensures a balanced alignment of interests between developers, investors, and owners. It defines the roles and responsibilities of developers, property management companies, and owners’ committees, contributing to the establishment of an integrated and collaborative relationship among the parties that supports the sustainability of real estate projects – particularly with respect to the management of common facilities and the role of Owners’ Committees.

In addition, the decisions enable real estate developers to implement projects, while protecting buyers’ rights and safeguarding their funds. The decisions further introduce a flexible and efficient mechanism aimed at reducing disputes between developers and unit purchasers, enhancing the efficiency and diversity of the real estate market.

Decision No. (24) of 2025 on the mechanism and controls for disbursements from real estate project escrow accounts prior to achieving 20% project completion, focuses on regulating withdrawals from escrow accounts before the completion threshold stipulated under the Real Estate Sector Regulation Law. This is achieved by introducing clear controls linked to the submission of bank guarantees and approved cost estimates, with the aim of safeguarding purchasers’ funds and preventing any unregulated use of monies deposited in project escrow accounts.

While Decision No. (25) of 2025 addresses the regulation of jointly owned property by establishing a comprehensive regulatory framework for the management of real estate assets, common parts and shared facilities. The decision defines the respective roles and responsibilities of owners, developers, and property management companies.

Rashed Al Omaira, DG of ADREC said, “The issuance of this package of executive and regulatory decisions represents an important step in advancing the mechanisms for implementing Law No. (3) of 2015 (as amended by Law 2 of 2025) governing the real estate sector through the adoption of flexible executive tools that can be adapted to market dynamics.”

“These decisions enhance the efficiency of sector regulation and reinforce the principles of transparency and governance, supporting investor confidence and strengthening Abu Dhabi’s position as a leading real estate destination,” he stated.

He added, “They establish a clear executive framework ensuring balanced contractual relationships, strengthening the protection of all parties’ rights, and supporting the speed and efficiency of procedures applied across the market.”

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Muzinich & Co has opened an office in ADGM marking the next step in its investment journey in the Middle East. The office will be led by Filomena Cocco, Managing Director, Global Business Development.

Justin Muzinich, CEO, Muzinich & Co commented, “Our presence in the ADGM reflects our belief in the region’s long-term future. As a privately-owned firm, we are committed to building lasting partnerships and see a natural alignment with the UAE’s vision for growth. We are proud to be part of the ADGM’s continued development and the broader evolution of the region.”

Arvind Ramamurthy, Chief Market Development Officer, ADGM said, “We are pleased to welcome Muzinich & Co. to ADGM. Their decision to establish a presence here reflects the depth, maturity and global connectivity of ADGM’s financial ecosystem, underpinned by a robust regulatory framework and a strong community of global financial institutions. Muzinich’s expansion also reinforces Abu Dhabi’s position as a leading international hub for capital and long‑term investment, offering global firms a stable and well‑connected platform to serve regional and international markets.”

Filomena Cocco, Managing Director, Global Business Development remarked, “We have been consistently impressed by the vision and entrepreneurial spirit of investors in the region. There is a strong willingness to think ahead and back innovation particularly in areas such as AI where vision and long-term ambition are key.”

Muzinich has been active in the region for several years, building relationships across the Gulf Cooperation Council. The ADGM office formalises this presence and reflects its established approach of working alongside local partners and developing its network within a region’s financial ecosystem. The new office positions Muzinich to support investors increasing allocations to fixed income and private credit.

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Nesma Infrastructure & Technology has announced that it has secured a new contract from Saudi Energy for the construction of a 132/33 kV substation in the central region of Saudi Arabia.

The project work involves modernisation of the existing substation mainly designed to enhance network reliability and support the growing power demand in the region.

As per the contract worth US $34.6mn, Nesma will provide engineering, procurement and construction services as well commissioning of the new substation.

The entirety of the work will be completed within a  2 year period, it added.

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Following seasonal rainfall in the UAE, LEAD Development showcased its advanced water management system at Jubail Island. The system is said to demonstrate how thoughtfully designed infrastructure can transform natural conditions into long-term environmental and community value.

The island’s integrated water system, designed as part of LEAD’s commitment to sustainable and future-ready development, works closely with its natural environment. Instead of relying solely on traditional drainage networks, the system captures rainwater through strategically placed retention ponds throughout the landscape.

These ponds, thoughtfully incorporated into parks and public spaces, collect runoff during heavy rain. This helps minimise surface flooding and reduces strain on conventional drainage systems. Over time, the stored water gradually seeps into the ground, aiding groundwater recharge and supporting the growth of native vegetation across the island, the firm said.

This approach reflects a broader shift in Abu Dhabi’s development strategy. Infrastructure is increasingly being designed to enhance environmental resilience, while improving quality of life. At Jubail Island, this vision translates into a nature-led lifestyle. Residents are closely connected to their surroundings and experience the environment as a living ecosystem, it added.

Beyond its role in flood management, the system offers tangible environmental advantages. By reducing dependence on treated water for irrigation and supporting the island’s mangrove habitats, it promotes resource efficiency and ecological conservation. Additionally, the integration of water features into public spaces enhances the visual appeal and overall experience of the community.

The water system is said to be a crucial component of Jubail Island’s comprehensive sustainability framework. This framework encompasses low-density planning, the preservation of natural habitats, and wellness-oriented design principles. These elements collectively establish a harmonious and resilient living environment.

As climate-conscious development gains prominence in the real estate sector, Jubail Island emerges as a remarkable example of how infrastructure can be re-imagined to provide immediate functionality, while ensuring long-term sustainability. This aligns with LEAD Development’s vision of constructing communities that are designed to thrive for generations.

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Acciona said that it has conducted a test of a next-generation reverse osmosis (RO) configuration as part of the European innovation project LIFE INDESAL.

The pilot system underwent nearly 2-years of demonstration at the Leading Experimental Accelerator in Desalination (LEAD) facility, situated at the San Pedro del Pinatar desalination plant in Spain. The trials demonstrated stable and efficient performance, producing high-quality permeate water with total dissolved solids (TDS) levels below 200 mg/L, according to the company.

The project’s results indicate that the new configuration significantly reduces the energy consumption of RO processes compared to conventional systems. This improvement is primarily attributed to the implementation of low-pressure multistage RO, which utilises shorter pressure vessels to enhance flux distribution.

Additionally, this configuration allows for more customised membrane-cleaning strategies to address fouling issues, thereby optimising plant performance while maintaining high water quality, as stated by the company. As water scarcity emerges as an increasingly urgent global challenge, improving the efficiency and sustainability of desalination technologies has become a crucial priority for many water-stressed regions worldwide.

Beyond energy savings, the project delved into innovative methods to enhance the circularity of desalination plants by utilising brine streams generated during the process. During the demonstration phase, the system harnessed renewable energy from brine, producing 0.1kWh per cubic metre of brine through reverse electrodialysis. Additionally, it produced chemical reagents on-site from the same stream using electrodialysis with bipolar membranes.

This approach has the potential to enable desalination facilities to directly generate the cleaning chemicals required for membrane maintenance within the plant. This could lead to increased operational self-sufficiency and reduced reliance on external chemical supplies, as stated by Acciona.

Although the solution is currently in the pilot stage, the configuration developed within the LIFE INDESAL project has the potential to be scaled for use in future seawater desalination plants or integrated into existing facilities through partial retrofits, according to the company.

The LIFE INDESAL project, coordinated by Acciona, has a total budget of US $3.58mn and brings together several European partners, including the Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering at the University of Cantabria, APRIA Systems, REDstack and REVOLVE.

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Nominations for the 2026 Digital Construction Awards are now open, the Big Project Middle East (BPME) team has confirmed. The awards program features several different groups of categories focusing on: people, companies, specialists and projects. 21 Awards are up for grabs in the 2026 edition, the BPME team highlighted.

For 2026, the BPME team noted that the awards program has grown and now features several new categories including: AI & Drone Champion of the Year; Modular Construction Champion of the Year; Precast Concrete Specialist of the Year, and several others. The nomination deadline is 15 May. Read about all the categories by clicking here.

The awards gala will take place on 24 June at a 5-star venue in Dubai, a venue will be confirmed soon, the BPME team said.

Companies across the built environment supply chain are welcome to participate by submitting nominations in categories that are of interest including: developers, consultants, contractors, technology companies and other suppliers, and facilities management firms.

“Since its inception in 2023, the Digital Construction Awards has grown steadily to become a significant regional platform to recognise innovation and the growing role of construction in the built environment from project inception through to handover and use. The inaugural event featured 12 categories and following strong participation and suggestions from players in the industry, we’ve added categories steadily to give companies and individuals a powerful platform to demonstrate excellence. We’ll be recognising excellence across 21 distinct categories in 2026 – the biggest program yet,” said Jason Saundalkar, Editorial Director, Built Environment and Heavy Industry Divisions at CPI Trade Media.

“In addition to new categories, we’ve completely changed our website and the process of nominations. With the latter, participants can now submit multiple nominations (up to 5 at a time), and have the ability to view the entire nomination form in advance. For 2026, there is a nominal fee (with a discount structure for multiple nominations) to submit nominations, however this fee is then credited towards your attendance at the awards gala, so there’s no increase in costs to attend the gala evening,” Saundalkar confirmed.

As before, an independent panel of judges will work with the BPME team to judge every nomination, and the results of the voting will enable the BPME team to create a shortlist and pick winners. The BPME team said it expects to announce the shortlist 2 weeks ahead of the gala event.

Read more about the 2026 Digital Construction Awards by clicking here.

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