Keturah has announced the completion of infrastructure works at Keturah Reserve, its luxury residential development in Meydan. Following a rigorous vetting process, the project’s main contractor will be appointed to start work on the development, which is scheduled for completion by Q3 2027.

The project will feature 93 townhouses, 90 villas, and 533 units across six apartment block buildings. The project is the first residential development in the Middle East to immerse residents in nature through Bio Living to improve the physical, mental and emotional well-being of its occupants, the statement said.

Bio Living at Keturah Reserve creates the perfect synergy between the interior design, architecture and landscape, in complete respect of the surrounding ecosystem, it added.

“We are thrilled to announce the completion of infrastructure works and eagerly anticipate appointing the main works contractor to bring this project to life. Keturah Reserve embodies the highest standards of luxury living and introduces the region’s first Bio Living concept. This project is created to elevate and enrich the lives of all generations of our residents, and we are confident it will set a new benchmark for the regional real estate sector,” said Mo Moghrabi, Chief Development Officer at Keturah.

Keturah Reserve exemplifies planning in its design, harmonising the flow of air, light, color, space, texture, and material. Homes feature double volume interior spaces that naturally enhance air flow, complemented by VRF (Variable Refrigerant Flow) technology, which reduces energy costs, improves comfort, and maintains consistent temperatures across different zones. The architecture optimises natural daylight without its heat or glare, and as daylight fades, architectural lighting enhances the body’s circadian system, improving mood, comfort, alertness, and sleep quality, the statement concluded.

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Dubai-based PlusX Electric is advocating for the use of ‘more eco-friendly, non-super-fast chargers for electric vehicles (EV)’, stating that there are substantial environmental benefits of slower, more energy-efficient charging stations.

The firm notes that while ultra-fast charging stations offer rapid charging, they come with significant energy demands that can strain local grids, and go against the sustainability goals most owners have as a reason for driving EVs.

Although the firm offers a VIP service to collect and drop off EV owners’ cars taking vehicles to super-fast charging stations, it is actively calling for EV users to be mindful of the implications and frequency of using super-fast charges as a charging solution.

Ultra-fast EV chargers, such as Level 3 (DC Fast Charging) stations, are designed to minimise wait times, allowing EV owners to charge their vehicles in 15- to 30-minutes. These chargers deliver between 150- and 350-kilowatts (kW) of power – essentially the energy consumption of a small neighbourhood, the firm highlighted.

Providing context for those energy draw figures, it said: a central air conditioning unit for a large home uses two to five kW; a standard electric water heater consumes around five kW, and a multi-story apartment building with 30 residential units consumes roughly 38kW at peak times.

“A single ultra-fast charger can demand more power than an entire apartment building. This level of energy use puts enormous strain on local energy grids, causing power surges that require expensive infrastructure upgrades and additional carbon-emitting power generation to meet peak demand,” the statement cautioned.

The statement continued, “Non-super-fast chargers, including Level 1 and Level 2 stations, provide a more sustainable approach to EV charging by using much less power. These chargers are ideal for everyday use at home, work, or public parking areas where time is not as much of a constraint. There is also the added benefit of having said charging pods delivered to your car.”

Level 1 chargers, which operate at 120 volts, require only 1.44kW of power. A full charge for an EV with a 50kWh battery takes about 35 hours. Though slower, these chargers use the same power as an ordinary home appliance, such as a microwave oven or refrigerator, and your vehicle can be charged overnight or to 80% capacity which takes less time. Level 2 chargers, using a 240-volt power source, offer a maximum output of 19.2kW, reducing the charging time to approximately 2.5 hours. This is equivalent to running a few air conditioners or electric ovens simultaneously, the firm explained.

Taking this into account, the company is promoting Level 2 chargers with the aim of reducing both the peak power demand and the total energy consumption associated with EV charging. The company said the benefits include:

• Reduced grid strain: While ultra-fast chargers can cause sudden spikes in electricity demand (200kW or more), Level 2 chargers spread the load more evenly over several hours, requiring only 19.2kW per charging session. This reduces the likelihood of power surges and blackouts, lowering the need for costly grid reinforcements
• Lower carbon footprint: Slower charging reduces the amount of energy drawn from non-renewable sources during peak times. If powered during off-peak hours, especially with renewable energy, non-super-fast charging can help cities achieve carbon reduction targets more efficiently
• Economic viability: Ultra-fast charging stations consume about 30,000kWh of electricity per month – three times the energy usage of a typical gas station with a convenience store. In contrast, a well-distributed network of slower chargers can meet EV drivers’ needs with just a fraction of that energy consumption, lowering overall infrastructure costs and reducing energy waste

PlusX Electric encourages EV owners, businesses, and municipalities to make the switch to non-super-fast charging stations as part of their commitment to sustainability. By embracing slower chargers, drivers can reduce their carbon footprint, help stabilise local power grids and contribute to a cleaner environment, the statement said.

We also call upon real estate developers, shopping malls, and corporate campuses to install Level 2 chargers as a standard amenity, providing eco-friendly charging options to employees and customers alike. Offering sustainable charging solutions not only enhances environmental credentials but also positions these organizations as leaders in the transition to green energy, it added.

“Our mission at PlusX Electric goes beyond providing clean energy solutions—we aim to make a positive impact on the world. By enabling energy-efficient charging for all, we are driving both environmental and social progress,” stated Chintan Sareen, CEO at PlusX Electric.

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Dar Global has concluded the sale of the redeveloped residence No. 149 Old Park Lane in London, in partnership with Leconfield, a London-based property developer specialised in the central London luxury market. The transaction is said to underscore Dar Global’s expertise in executing high-value deals in some of the world’s key real estate markets, further solidifying its position as a leading luxury property developer committed to growth and excellence.

CEO of Dar Global, Ziad El Chaar said: “With a strong foundation steeped in legacy we excel in crafting bespoke luxury homes for today’s global citizen. Propelled by a driving ambition to become one of the top ten real estate developers in the world within the next 10 years, our team of talented visionaries are committed to delivering exceptional living spaces that serve as an investment opportunity as well as offer up a sophisticated lifestyle in some of the world’s most sought-after locations.”

“The sale of No. 149 Old Park Lane, part of Dar Global’s exclusive 1of1 portfolio, represents a significant milestone in the company’s global positioning and its expansion into the European market. Our 1of1 portfolio includes distinctive, independent estates that offer lifetime opportunities for ownership, designed to be passed down through generations,” added El Chaar.

Located on Piccadilly Street overlooking Green Park, No. 149 Old Park Lane retains many classical and Art Nouveau features, with high ceilings, spacious corridors, and grand furnishings adding to its allure. The property boasts three bedrooms with a master bedroom, a formal dining room, and a reception hall with stunning views of Green Park, the statement said.

Dar Global operates across nine markets, comprising the UAE, Saudi, Oman, Qatar, Greece, China, Spain, Maldives, and the UK, with plans for further international expansion. Among its notable projects are the Urban Oasis tower by Missoni and DaVinci tower by Pagani in Dubai, Les Vagues residences by Elie Saab in Doha, SIDRA residences in Bosnia, and the AIDA master development in Oman, featuring a Trump-branded luxury resort and exclusive residences. Recently, Dar Global announced the appointment of Rothschild & Co. to explore opportunities for acquisitions and joint ventures in London and Saudi Arabia, as part of a strategic effort to expand its presence in these key markets.

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Jumeirah Beach Hotel introduced its newly renovated Al Bahar Villas, offering a blend of elegance and luxury within the surroundings of the iconic family destination, said a statement.

Available in one-, two-, and three-bedroom configurations, each of the 19 private villas are said to feature generous living spaces and stylish modern interiors with elegant Arabesque finishes, designed by Sahar Al Yaseer of Dubai-born La Bottega UAE.

“With a name inspired by the Arabic word for Sea, the new Al Bahar Villas are the true embodiment of beachfront luxury and exclusivity. The collection of villas was first introduced with the opening of the hotel in 1997 and has long served as a secluded retreat for generations of guests staying at our hotel. Their new iteration promises to further elevate the experience, where moments of joy become memories to last a lifetime,” said Rene Egle, General Manager of Jumeirah Beach Hotel.

Combining earthy tones and organic textures with large glass doors and high ceilings, the re-imagined villas provide airy, spacious rooms with laid-back, nomadic elegance and a sense of authentic warmth. The villas’ verdant surroundings create a sense of cosy comfort, with private outdoor terraces and plunge pools offering striking views of the iconic Jumeirah Burj Al Arab, the statement outlined.

Each villa will also benefit from a private beach cabana, where guests will be attended to by their personal butlers, adding an extra touch to every family holiday. Guests looking to further elevate their experience can choose from a wide selection of exclusive villa services, such as private BBQs, romantic beach dinners, or in-villa spa treatments, the statement added.

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Danube Properties has announced that it has handed over its Gemz residential project five months ahead of schedule. The US $95.2mn project was launched in June 2022 and Danube says that early handovers have become a tradition for its projects.

On 14 November, a ceremony was held in Al Furjan at Gemz by Danube to start the handover of keys to homeowners. The ceremony was attended by Mohamed Al-Bidwawi, CEO of RERA on behalf of His Excellency Eng. Marwan bin Ghalita, Director General of Dubai Land Department, as well as senior leaders of Danube Group, in addition to industry executives and residents.

“Danube Properties is proud to be a pioneer in a number of initiatives in the Dubai real estate market such as a 1% payment plan, 40-plus amenities and the highest capital appreciation and rental incomes to buyers. We have also set the trend of delivering projects ahead of schedule, a remarkable feat that other industry players also want to emulate,” said Rizwan Sajan, Founder and Chairman of Danube Group, the parent company of Danube Properties.

With a built-up area of 530,000sqft, Gemz is developed on a plot of 101,000 sqft. The G+P+14-storeyed project houses 270 apartments, including 24 Studios, 74 one-, 114 two- and 42 three-bedroom apartments, while 16 apartments are duplexes. The project features over 30 amenities that cater to the wide-ranging needs of residents. Gemz also features unique convertible layouts that allow a one bedroom unit to be made into a two bed-room unit, and a two bedroom unit into a three bedroom unit, said the statement.

Buyers who booked and paid their initial deposit on the day of the launch of Gemz had their homes fully furnished by Danube Home – a one-stop solution for all furniture, home décor, furnishing and sanitaryware. The statement added.

He added, “We consider our commitment with utmost sincerity. Delivering projects ahead of time is fundamental to Danube Properties’ principles and values. Handing over projects well ahead of time saves end-users from monthly rental costs, while investors earn extra income by leasing their properties.”

Danube has successfully delivered numerous projects in Dubai, including Jewelz, Wavez, Elz, Lawnz, Bayz, Miraclz, Glamz, Starz, Glitz 1, Glitz 2, Glitz 3, Dreamz, Resortz, Pearlz and Olivz, the statement concluded.

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Emaar Development says it maintained strong momentum during the third quarter of 2024. Property sales rose by 66% to US $13.1bn during the first nine months of 2024, compared to US $7.9bn for the same period in 2023. The success of 50 projects launches across all the masterplans during first nine months of 2024 underscored Emaar’s market leadership and positions the company for sustained future growth, said a statement from the firm.

During the third quarter of 2024, Emaar introduced ‘Lavita’ at The Oasis, its first community of luxury mansions. Set within a waterfront landscape, the collection of 43 six- and seven-bedroom homes is said to blend modern comfort and elegance. Each mansion reflects one of four architectural styles to the unique character of its residents, said Emaar Development. Part of The Oasis, a 100m sqft master-planned community, Lavita integrates wellness centres, boutique shops, and walking trails, with energy-efficient systems and eco-friendly materials.

In the first nine months of 2024 (January to September), Emaar Development reported revenue of $3.4bn and an EBITDA of $1.6bn, 69% and 35% higher than first nine months of 2023, respectively. With a continued uptrend in sales, Emaar’s sales backlog has reached $22.8bn, 47% higher than December 2023, to be recognised as revenue in the coming years, it said.

Mohamed Alabbar, Founder of Emaar, commented, “Our performance this quarter reflects the confidence and trust that our customers place in Emaar’s vision. By continuing to innovate and stay ahead of market trends, we create experiences that resonate with evolving lifestyles. Our strategy is centred on adding sustainable value for both our customers and shareholders, driving growth that aligns with Dubai’s ambitions.”

With the city’s population nearing 3.8m and continuing to rise, demand for housing, infrastructure, and services is expanding at an unprecedented pace. This growth is also driven by emerging sectors such as technology, renewable energy, healthcare, and education, attracting a diverse community of skilled professionals. Emaar Development’s strong sales in the first nine months of 2024 reflect the region’s ability to accommodate this population surge while sustaining high levels of investment and economic growth.

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Al Seeb Developers has announced the launch of Royal Regency Suites, a residential development in Dubai’s Business Bay area that aims to establish new benchmarks in both residential quality and investor returns.

The developer said that it has collaborated with industry partners to ensure seamless project execution, delivering quality across construction, design, and management. Every detail of Royal Regency Suites has been curated to reflect Al Seeb Developers’ high standards, with Italian-made entrance doors, fully fitted kitchens with premium appliances, and advanced home automation systems available in select units.

The residential project includes a lobby lounge area offering panoramic views, a café on the ground floor and a fine dining restaurant on the first floor. Health and wellness facilities such as a state-of-the-art gym with an acoustic system, a temperature-controlled swimming pool, a Jacuzzi, and gender-specific steam rooms and saunas will be featured, said a statement from the developer.

In addition, it includes sustainable and convenient features like dedicated EV charging stations, a service lift, and access and intercom systems. It will also have landscaped recreational areas that will enhance residents’ lifestyle with serene outdoor spaces and premium interiors with smart home automation options in select units, bifold doors in three bedroom apartments, and Jacuzzis in balcony layouts.

“Royal Regency Suites is an embodiment of our vision to redefine the standards of luxury living in Dubai. This project not only represents a prime investment opportunity but also aligns with our commitment to delivering exceptional value, design, and sustainability to home buyers. We are confident that Royal Regency Suites will set a new benchmark in the vibrant Dubai real estate market offering an equally attractive product to investors as well as end users,” said J P Kalwani, Founder Chairman & CEO, Al Seeb Developers.

Set for completion on 31 March 2027, Royal Regency Suites will offer investors and residents a blend of luxury, convenience, and return on investment. The project will expand Al Seeb Developers’ footprint within Dubai, in delivering value, investor-centric, quality developments that align with the UAE’s progressive real estate vision, the statement concluded.

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HIVE, Rafal Real Estate Development Company and FIM Partners announced their intent to establish a fund of US $150mn. The fund will be managed by FIM Partners, which will support the development of six to eight new co-living projects in Riyadh, aimed at meeting the rising demand for modern, adaptable living and working spaces. The announcement was made at Cityscape Global Riyadh.

The partnership marks an important milestone in Saudi Arabia’s real estate market evolution under Vision 2030. By focusing on innovative co-living developments, it offers investors a valuable entry point into an underserved, high-growth sector while addressing the Kingdom’s growing demand for flexible and affordable housing solutions, said a statement.

“With our first co-living development in Riyadh already announced earlier this year, we are excited to expand our portfolio alongside FIM Partners and Rafal. HIVE’s modern, flexible living solutions will cater to the evolving needs of urban residents, delivering convenience and community in a forward-thinking environment,” said Bass Ackermann, Founder of HIVE.

Elias Abousamra, CEO of Rafal Real Estate Development Company added, “Riyadh is ready for growth in the co-living sector, and this initiative allows us to scale up developments to meet this demand. We are committed to creating communities that offer a combination of modern living solutions and a strong sense of community, aligning with Saudi Arabia’s long-term vision for the housing market.”

The investment strategy aims to create high-quality living environments with long-term value for investors. By capitalising on the demand for modern and affordable co-living spaces, this partnership is well-positioned to offer attractive returns, helping meet both the Kingdom’s housing needs and investor expectations, the statement explained.

Fares Bou Atme, Director of Real Estate at FIM Partners stated, “Saudi Arabia’s real estate sector is undergoing rapid transformation, with co-living playing an essential role, given the substantial need for such an asset class in the market. This partnership will provide investors early access to a promising segment of the market, ensuring substantial returns as the sector matures.”

The co-living strategy targets Riyadh’s growing population of professionals, expatriates, digital nomads, and entrepreneurs, addressing the rising demand for adaptable, community-oriented living and working solutions. With a diverse and mobile workforce driving the demand for such spaces, this initiative offers a unique opportunity for investors to engage with a high-growth market primed for sustained growth, the statement said.

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Source: MEConstructionNews

Abu Dhabi Future Energy Company (Masdar) and Korporata Elektroenergjitike Shqiptare (KESH) – Albania Power Corporation – have signed a joint venture (JV) term sheet agreement to explore the development of gigawatt-scale renewable projects in Albania. The signing ceremony took place in Baku, Azerbaijan on the sidelines of COP29.

The JV term sheet agreement aims to develop, construct, and operate renewable energy projects utilising a range of renewable technologies, including solar PV, wind, and hybrid solutions, with potential integration of battery storage. The energy produced is expected to be supplied to the Albanian market and exported to neighboring countries.

Dr. Sultan Al Jaber, UAE Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology, COP28 President and Chairman of Masdar said, “This agreement is a testament to the UAE’s unwavering commitment to pioneering clean energy solutions on a global scale. By leveraging the UAE’s world-class expertise in renewable energy and Albania’s abundant natural resources, our purpose-built, future-ready infrastructure will deliver more energy with fewer emissions to more people than ever before. Agreements like these will help realise the ambitious goals of the historic UAE Consensus, aimed at tripling renewable energy capacity by 2030, and driving low-carbon socio economic progress.”

Belinda Balluku, Deputy Prime Minister & Minister of infrastructure and Energy, commented, “The partnership between KESH and Masdar is a significant moment not only for Albania’s journey towards a sustainable and secure energy sector, but also embodies the spirit of the strategic partnership between Albania and the United Arab Emirates and underscores the importance of international cooperation in achieving a green, sustainable future. By combining Albania’s rich renewable energy potential with Masdar’s global expertise, we are not only advancing our domestic energy goals but also positioning Albania as a key player in the European energy market, while enhancing our energy security, creating new economic opportunities, and contributing to our efforts to meet global climate goals.”

The partnership aims to leverage KESH’s position as Albania’s energy producer and Masdar’s global expertise in renewable energy development to accelerate Albania’s clean energy transition. A landmark in the development of renewable energy capacity in Albania, the potential joint venture will benefit from Masdar’s relationships with technology providers and financial institutions, as well as its operational expertise, while capitalizing on KESH’s local market knowledge and existing infrastructure. Through this collaboration, Masdar and KESH are advancing Albania’s decarbonisation initiatives and contributing to the broader European energy market, said a statement.

Mohamed Jameel Al Ramahi, Chief Executive Officer of Masdar commented, “The joint venture term sheet with KESH will mark a significant milestone in Masdar’s expansion into the Balkans and Southeast Europe. By combining our expertise in large-scale renewable projects with KESH’s deep understanding of the Albanian energy market, we are poised to make a substantial contribution to Albania’s clean energy transition. As Masdar targets 100GW by 2030, this joint venture with our partner KESH exemplifies the scale and ambition needed to advance the global energy transition and we look forward to further collaborations in Albania and the Eastern Balkans.”

Erald Elezi, Chief Executive Officer of KESH added, “This joint venture with Masdar is a pivotal advancement in Albania’s renewable energy journey, underscoring KESH’s commitment to sustainable development and energy diversification. Although Albania already benefits from a predominantly green energy mix, this partnership will enhance our energy resilience, improve stability, and open avenues for clean energy exports to the region. By working with a global leader like Masdar, we are poised to bring innovative renewable technologies to Albania, supporting our role as a clean energy leader in the Balkans and strengthening the country’s position within the broader European energy landscape.”

The joint venture is a component of the broader strategic partnership between the UAE and Albania. It will play a vital role in increasing Albania’s renewable energy capacity, meeting local demand while supporting its energy export capabilities to neighboring countries, and contributing to the region’s energy security and sustainability goals.

Masdar strengthened its presence in Southeast Europe with its proposed acquisition of TERNA ENERGY, the developer and investor in renewable energy projects in Greece with a target capacity of 6GW by 2029. In addition, Masdar increased its investment in the Balkans with the recently announced financial close on the 154MW Čibuk 2 project in Serbia, adding to its existing 158MW Čibuk 1 wind farm and bringing its total capacity in the country to over 300MW.

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Source: MEConstructionNews